Light in the Last Days – Day 55

We live in a time where sin is not just present—it is rampant. One only needs to look at the world’s current state through the lens of God’s Law to see how far we have wandered. This raises a heavy question for every soul: what is the final cost of un-repented sin? Today’s scriptures reveal the sobering truth of what lies ahead. This is exactly why end-times preaching is so prominent today; it serves as a final, urgent plea for the world to turn back to God before the clock runs out.

Despite the constant warning of end-times preaching, has there been a true change in men’s hearts? On the contrary, it seems that sin has only abounded. We see this hardening clearly in modern ‘pride’ parades, where public indecency occurs even in the presence of children. Many have grown so spiritually cold that they now reject any higher truth, consumed entirely by the lusts of the flesh. Perhaps most tragic is the state of many mothers’ hearts; they have grown so indifferent to God’s standards that they intentionally bring their innocent children into the midst of such blatant sin.

Judgment is coming upon those in rebellion and upon the world they inhabit. Make no mistake: there is no ‘party’ in Hell, only the eternal torment of an unquenchable fire. This sobering truth should compel us to take the message of salvation to the world. We are called to start right where we are, reaching out to our loved ones, our social circles, and anyone God puts in our path. Stay alert and be prepared to give an account!

Perhaps you’re waiting for someone to ask about your faith, but is your life lived in a way that sparks that curiosity? We have been given the incredible promise of the Rapture—Christ coming to claim His Bride. If looking for His return isn’t a part of your everyday mindset, it’s a sign that your heart is fixed on the wrong priorities.

We must have a heart for the lost, or something is fundamentally wrong with our spiritual walk. You are likely the only bridge to the Gospel for those in your immediate circle. Think clearly about what their eternity will look like: forever apart from God, enduring the fire of judgment. If this truth doesn’t stir you, you are focusing on the wrong things. Don’t let fear keep you silent, only to realize too late that their blood is on your hands because you refused to speak.

Countless people around us are struggling to fill an empty space in their souls, chasing a peace the world simply cannot provide. They will never experience true rest until they find it in Christ. Since you have experienced God’s peace firsthand, what is stopping you from offering that same hope to those who are still searching?

What a blessing it is to have God’s peace as we watch the world today—it is news too good to keep to yourself! But this hope is only for those who have been born again. If that isn’t you, believe that today is your divine appointment for salvation. God has placed this before you right now so that you don’t have to miss out. Don’t you want the joy of joining the Church in that glorious moment when we are raptured to meet the Lord? (1 Thessalonians 4:17) Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

A Book Without Errors!

2 Peter 1:4  Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

Today’s hymn is probably one of the most sung hymns in my church life; it resonates deeply within. God’s promises cannot be broken; unlike those made by many and broken daily, His word remains steadfast through all life’s circumstances. It is impossible for God to break a promise made to His children, as He is a faithful Father who cares for us unconditionally. That is why we can count on Him to fulfill what He has promised to do. This provides us with hope in these end times, and turning our worries into joy. Each verse of this hymn serves as a reminder of His unwavering commitment to us, encouraging our hearts to trust in His plan as outlined in Scripture.

Numbers 23:19  God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

Isn’t it wonderful that we can count on God? People miss out on this marvelous blessing because of their lack of faith. They would rather believe in science than to believe in God. It takes more faith to believe in the big bang theory or the theory of evolution. Something coming from nothing takes more faith to believe than the fact that God created everything! God’s faithfulness is a source of strength and hope for all of us. All of the promises He made with Israel will be fulfilled! This assurance speaks to the goodness of His Word and the depth of His love for His people. Since that is the case, we can be fully confident and assured that the promises to keep us (His Church) until we meet Him in Heaven at our death or at the Rapture will undoubtedly come to pass. Embracing this allows us to find peace in the middle of life’s uncertainties, knowing that we are under His divine protection and that our eternal future is secure in Him.

Joshua 23:14  And, behold, this day I am going the way of all the earth: and ye know in all your hearts and in all your souls, that not one thing hath failed of all the good things which the LORD your God spake concerning you; all are come to pass unto you, and not one thing hath failed thereof.

Standing on the Promises of God – By Russell Kelso Carter (1886)

1 Standing on the promises of Christ, my King!
Through eternal ages let His praises ring.
“Glory in the highest!” I will shout and sing,
standing on the promises of God.

Refrain:
Standing, standing,
standing on the promises of God, my Savior;
standing, standing,
I’m standing on the promises of God.

2 Standing on the promises that cannot fail!
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
by the living Word of God I shall prevail,
standing on the promises of God. [Refrain]

3 Standing on the promises, I now can see
perfect, present cleansing in the blood for me;
standing in the liberty where Christ makes free,
standing on the promises of God. [Refrain]

4 Standing on the promises of Christ, the Lord,
bound to Him eternally by love’s strong cord,
overcoming daily with the Spirit’s Sword,
standing on the promises of God. [Refrain]

5 Standing on the promises I cannot fall,
list’ning ev’ry moment to the Spirit’s call,
resting in my Savior as my all in all,
standing on the promises of God. [Refrain]

Friend, if you happened upon this page, I pray that you have the peace of God which surpasses all understanding! Philippians 4:7  And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. If you don’t have that peace, please visit this link and read the Bible verses that will draw you to the Lord Jesus Christ!

What About Tomorrow?

Sometimes things happen in life that we have absolutely no control over, leaving us feeling helpless and overwhelmed by our circumstances. For instance, what happens when you are stricken with cancer, a disease that not only affects your physical health but also challenges your emotional and mental well-being? In such desperate situations, can you write a letter of complaint to express your frustrations and seek assistance? If so, who would you send it to—your healthcare provider, a hospital administrator, or perhaps a cancer support organization? Additionally, what do you do when you face family issues that seem insurmountable, leaving you at a loss for solutions? These conflicts can be deeply distressing, but where do you go to file a grievance?

There is a place that you can go that will produce answers to every issue in life. You don’t have to leave home. You don’t need an Internet connection. You don’t even need anyone else to go with you. In fact, you can go to this place at any time, in your bed or in your den; on your knees or sitting in your chair. There aren’t even any formal requirements! The only requirement is that you are a born-again, blood-bought child of God and you are coming to Him with a humble heart.

Isaiah 55:8-9  For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.  (9)  For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

I Know Who Holds Tomorrow – by Ira F. Stanphill

1 I don’t know about tomorrow,
I just live from day to day.
I don’t borrow from its sunshine,
For its skies may turn to gray.
I don’t worry o’er the future,
For I know what Jesus said,
And today I’ll walk beside Him,
For He knows what is ahead.

Refrain:
Many things about tomorrow,
I don’t seem to understand;
But I know who holds tomorrow,
And I know who holds my hand.

2 Every step is getting brighter,
As the golden stairs I climb;
Every burden’s getting lighter;
Every cloud is silver lined.
There the sun is always shining,
There no tear will dim the eye,
At the ending of the rainbow,
Where the mountains touch the sky. [Refrain]

3 I don’t know about tomorrow,
It may bring me poverty;
But the one who feeds the sparrow,
Is the one who stands by me.
And the path that be my portion,
May be through the flame or flood,
But His presence goes before me,
And I’m covered with His blood. [Refrain]

Habakkuk 3:18-19  Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.  (19)  The LORD God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds’ feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places. To the chief singer on my stringed instruments.

Worrying is natural, but our Heavenly Father is a perfect Father. He invites us to share our troubles with Him. He knows what will happen tomorrow and can provide the strength needed for each day!

Here are a few more verses to encourage your heart:

Deuteronomy 31:8  And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.

Psalm 73:26  My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.

Psalm 23:1  A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

Philippians 4:7  And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

If you do not have God’s peace in your heart, you can get it, no matter how troubled your life may seem. This peace is not simply the absence of turmoil; rather, it is a profound sense of calm and assurance that goes beyond all understanding. To receive this gift, you must be born again, accepting the love and grace that comes from a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. It is through salvation in Jesus Christ that you are transformed and enabled to experience a relationship with God. Please follow this link so you, too, can find peace in the midst of trouble.

Any Day Now – Day 55

(Joh 3:36)  He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

(Rom 1:18)  For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

(Eph 5:6)  Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.

(Col 3:6)  For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:

(Rev 6:16)  And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb:

(Rev 14:10)  The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb:

(Rev 14:19)  And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the wrath of God.

(Rev 15:1)  And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God.

(Rev 15:7)  And one of the four beasts gave unto the seven angels seven golden vials full of the wrath of God, who liveth for ever and ever.

(Rev 16:1)  And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels, Go your ways, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth.

Sin runs rampant in our world today. It is easy to spot as we compare the world’s condition to the Ten Commandments! What does one think will happen when sin is left un-repented? As you read through today’s verses, you can see what will happen. It is the whole purpose of the preaching one hears about the end times today!

However, has this preaching changed men’s hearts? It is as though sin has abounded. Men parading themselves naked in front of children at a “pride” parade is one example. Their hearts have grown so cold that they reject anything spiritual. They are consumed with the lust of the flesh. Worse yet, the hearts of women have grown cold. They literally have brought their innocent young children to that sinful parade to begin with.

God’s wrath is coming upon these children of disobedience, and upon the earth itself. There is no party awaiting them in Hell. Only eternal torment of burning flesh awaits them. It is our job to take the gospel out to the world around us. We are to start in our circle: our family, friends, and strangers. Be ready!

(1Pe 3:15)  But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

You may say that no one has asked you to share your testimony with them. Does your life reflect the hope that is in you? We have that blessed hope of Christ’s return for His Bride in the Rapture! If you are not looking for His return every day, you are not focusing on the right things!

(Tit 2:13)  Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

If you do not have a burden for lost souls, there’s something wrong. People in your circle may not hear about the Gospel from anyone else except through you! Do you not realize what their eternity will be like if they die without Christ. Does this not mean anything to you? Throughout eternity they will see and feel their flesh burning. They will be separated from Christ and what they could have had if you had shared the Gospel! Their blood will be on your hands because the fear of witnessing to them overcame you.

(Eze 3:18)  When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.

There are so many lost souls running around us. They have holes in their hearts that are empty and they are seeking peace but cannot find it. But they will never know the peace that God gives. You know that peace – why aren’t you sharing it?

(Php 4:7)  And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

(Col 3:15)  And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

This peace is good news and a wonderful blessing in these end times. Won’t you share it? Friend, you must be born again in order to participate, no matter what viewpoint you hold. Friend, if you are not born again, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved if you are not already. Don’t you want to be a part of the Church when she is raptured into the clouds to meet Jesus? (1 Thessalonians 4:17) Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Peace Through Troubled Times – Natural Disasters

(Psa 57:1-2)  To the chief Musician, Altaschith, Michtam of David, when he fled from Saul in the cave. Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast. (2)  I will cry unto God most high; unto God that performeth all things for me.

Although David wrote this Psalm while he was hiding from King Saul, the sinking feeling of helplessness is the same as going through a natural disaster where you have no control over the results. Amen? I feel for people who live in tornado alley, in the path of a volcano, or where hurricanes frequent the most. Disastrous occasions seem to bring people to their knees. Sometimes that reaction is short-lived. When I think of 9/11, I remember churches being full because of the fear that entered America’s hearts. But it was indeed short-lived. It wasn’t long before America stopped frequenting the churches and went back to their everyday lives. Are you counted amongst those, Reader?

Psa 46:1-2  To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  (2)  Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;

If you are amongst those who abandoned God after the possibility of being spiritually awakened, you may very well be telling God you are no longer interested in His appeals. How awful for anyone who has reached this point.

Isa 66:4  I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called, none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear: but they did evil before mine eyes, and chose that in which I delighted not.

For those who listened to God’s call and became born-again believers, God has countless promises in His Word for you! Born-again believers have an advantage over those who are not Christians. God promises peace and comfort when we dive into the Bible. It can be found within its pages, Christian. I especially love Psalms because David poured his heart out to God and penned those words. Those who love God’s Word reap its benefit to this day!

I have been through a natural disaster back in July of 1983 when I lived with my sister’s family in Baton Rouge, LA. A flood occurred when the drainage could not keep up and about three feet of water covered many streets. We were rescued by boat and brought to a safe place. It was three days before we could return to the house we were staying in and what a mess it was. I praise the Lord for strength of body to clean up and for the Red Cross to help with items that were lost. It was quite traumatic for me because my husband was in school several hours away. Although I had my sister and her family with me, it wasn’t the same as having my husband. But God’s peace surrounded me, and I was not afraid because I knew He would take care of the details. This was not of my own doing but totally God-given.

Psa 119:49-50  ZAIN. Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope.  (50)  This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me.

Dearest Reader, if you find yourself in the midst of a natural disaster, turn to the One who can give you comfort during the darkest hours. Granted, the verse below is referencing to the Apostle Paul’s petitions to God to remove a “thorn in the flesh.” However, God’s grace is sufficient for us during a natural disaster. His strength is revealed in how you handle that storm of life. People are watching you whether you know it or not. When they see your peace instead of fear, they will wonder why! (Philippians 4:7)

2 Corinthians 12:9  And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

If you are not truly born-again, you go through your trial alone. You do not have God by your side, helping you every step of the way. Reader, there is coming a time when it will be too late for you to repent and be saved. It is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved if you are not already. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Hymns 2.0 – Amazing Grace

Lyrics (click here to hear instrumental)

Amazing grace how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I’m found
Was blind but now I see

‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed

Through many dangers, toils, and snares
I have already come
This grace that brought me safe thus far
And grace will lead me home

When we’ve been here ten thousand years
Bright, shining as the sun
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we first begun

John Newton (written in 1772)

The History Behind the Hymn

This is probably the most famous hymn ever. The 250th anniversary of its writing was celebrated just this past January 2023! Its most popular usage is for funerals and it is played using bagpipes. But funerals were not the author’s original intent. When John Newton was part of the slave trading ship, The Greyhound, a tempestuous storm arose. His fear was so great that he cried out to God for help. He actually made a bargain with God that if He would spare his life, he would live the rest of his life working for the Lord. Ironically, Newton had not been raised in a religious home by his father and stepmother. However, his mother taught him the Scriptures before she passed away when he was six years old. He forgot about her teachings but there was “enough there” that God was his first thought when fear gripped his soul. The ship came close to total destruction but by a miracle, it made landfall with Newton with it. As a result, a few years later, he penned the lyrics to this beloved hymn.

A Lesson for Me

Gen 16:13  And she called the name of the LORD that spake unto her, Thou God seest me: for she said, Have I also here looked after him that seeth me?

The same God who reached down to John Newton during that fitful storm, reached down to me at the lowest point of my life. It was a time of discouragement, loneliness and a despair that reached deep into my soul. With no other way out in my mind, the only choice I thought I had was to end my life. Although unlike John Newton, I did not cry to God for help but yet He saw me, just as He saw Hagar. If you recall, Hagar suffered at the hand of Sarai (Sarah) after Sarai’s plan backfired. Hagar ran away into the wilderness to escape her harsh treatment. Out in that wilderness, God saw Hagar and told her that in her grief she would have a child, Ishmael. Like Hagar, God saw me in my grief! I didn’t know it at the time but He was working in the background – setting His plan in motion for my salvation. He sent my best childhood friend to tell me about His amazing grace! Because of her, I can sing:

Amazing grace how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I’m found
Was blind but now I see

Message for today

We are living in very disturbing times. It seems as though the world has gone mad! Are you in a place where you feel there is no other way to escape but to take drastic measures? You are not alone. God sees you just as He saw Hagar and me! He loves you and does not want you to despair!

John 3:16  For God so loved the world (insert your name), that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever (that’s you) believeth in him (insert your name) should not perish, but (insert your name) have everlasting life.

God will give you peace and rest when you come to Him.

Matt 11:28  Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Phil 4:7  And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Once you have known the peace that the Lord gives, you will never want to go back. You then can sing along with me:

When we’ve been here ten thousand years
Bright, shining as the sun
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we first begun

If you are not truly born-again, there is coming a time when it will be too late for you to repent and be saved. It is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved if you are not already. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab You Can Be Born Again and Know It!