Tag: Psalm 119:105

The Anchored Soul – Day 19 – An Unopened Letter from Home

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Do You Read It or “Return to Sender”?

Psalm 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

We’ve all experienced looking through the mail and secretly hoping there’s a letter from a special person in your life. As you go through the local flyers, grocery coupons, and monthly bills, every now and then a specific envelope catches your eye. It has your name written by hand. You immediately recognize the handwriting and the return address!! It’s from someone who loves you deeply. You wouldn’t dream of throwing it in the recycling bin. You wouldn’t leave it gathering dust on the kitchen counter for months, either. You tear it open right then and there because you want to know what they have to say.

Yet, many of us do exactly that with the most important piece of mail we will ever receive. The Bible is, quite literally, God’s letter to His children. Within its pages, the Creator of the universe shares His heart, offers comforting guidance, and reminds us of His unchanging promises. It is a deeply personal message addressed directly to you: not to your neighbor, but just for you!

But how do we treat it? Sometimes, by leaving it sitting neatly on a shelf, we are effectively writing “Return to Sender” across the envelope. We don’t say it out loud, but our actions are a reflection that we are too busy, too distracted, or simply uninterested in what our Heavenly Father has spoken. We choose to navigate the mountains and valleys of life on our own, ignoring the very light He provided to guide us.

When we leave the letter unopened, we miss out on the profound truths meant to sustain us. We forget that:

Matthew 4:4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

God didn’t give us His Word to be a historical textbook or a heavy rule book. He gave it to us as a literal lifeline! The next time you see your Bible, picture it as a sealed envelope from a loving Father who is eagerly waiting to spend time with you. Don’t send it back unopened. Open it, read it, and let His words fill your heart today.

Take five minutes today to sit quietly with God’s letter. Turn off the notifications on your phone, open the pages, and ask a simple question before you read: “Father, what do you want to say to me today?”

Light in the Last Days – Day 59

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The “super-sign” of the end times has always been the nation of Israel. While the world revolves around politics and power, God’s prophecy revolves around His chosen people and their Messiah. After a long period of exile and spiritual wandering, Israel’s return to her land on May 14, 1948, serves as the ultimate starting gun for the final lap of human history. The “prophetic clock” is no longer dormant; it is ticking loudly toward the return of Christ. Here is how we know the hour is late:

Isaiah 11:11-12  And it shall come to pass in that day, that the Lord shall set his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria, and from Egypt, and from Pathros, and from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea.  (12)  And he shall set up an ensign for the nations, and shall assemble the outcasts of Israel, and gather together the dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth.

Ezekiel 20:33-38  As I live, saith the Lord GOD, surely with a mighty hand, and with a stretched out arm, and with fury poured out, will I rule over you:  (34)  And I will bring you out from the people, and will gather you out of the countries wherein ye are scattered, with a mighty hand, and with a stretched out arm, and with fury poured out.  (35)  And I will bring you into the wilderness of the people, and there will I plead with you face to face.  (36)  Like as I pleaded with your fathers in the wilderness of the land of Egypt, so will I plead with you, saith the Lord GOD.  (37)  And I will cause you to pass under the rod, and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant:  (38)  And I will purge out from among you the rebels, and them that transgress against me: I will bring them forth out of the country where they sojourn, and they shall not enter into the land of Israel: and ye shall know that I am the LORD.

There is an abundance of scripture regarding Israel’s return to the land, but these two passages clearly illustrate the point: the prophetic clock is ticking. This miracle serves as our “finish line” marker, signaling that the end times are here. Paul and Peter acted as watchmen, describing exactly what society would look like in this era. Their warnings are more relevant now than ever—just take a look at these verses:

1 Timothy 4:1-3  Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;  (2)  Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;  (3)  Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

2 Timothy 3:1-5  This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.  (2)  For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,  (3)  Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,  (4)  Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;  (5)  Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

2 Timothy 4:3-4  For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;  (4)  And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

2 Peter 3:3-5  Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,  (4)  And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.  (5)  For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water:

It is undeniable that our world has reached this sobering threshold. Today, we see “churches”—to use the term loosely—brazenly preaching that homosexuality and other forms of sexual immorality are acceptable to God. At the same time, other congregations have become so entangled in man-made traditions that they’ve abandoned the Word of God as their final authority. These institutions often clutter the beautiful simplicity of the Gospel with extra requirements. Yet, God made the path to salvation so clear and accessible that even a child can grasp it!

Matthew 19:14  But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

Romans 8:16-17  The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:  (17)  And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.

There is only one sure way to Heaven, and that way is through Jesus Christ alone. Salvation is not found in a denomination, it isn’t hidden in the dreams of a self-proclaimed prophet, and it cannot be reached through “enlightenment” or gods who promise a higher plane of existence. Jesus didn’t just point to the truth; He is the Truth. Any other path is a distraction from the only Name under heaven by which we must be saved.

John 14:6  Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

God didn’t want us lost in a maze of conflicting opinions or shifting directions. He made His path straight and narrow so there would be no mistaking it. Choosing this road often means walking against the crowd, as many choose not to follow. However, for those who do, the way is always clear because God’s Word acts as a constant, steady light for every step.

Psalm 119:105  NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Oh friend, you must be born again in order to participate in the Rapture, 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!

Light in the Last Days – Day 1

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1 Thessalonians 4:13-18  But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.  (14)  For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.  (15)  For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.  (16)  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:  (17)  Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.  (18)  Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

Could this be the day that the Rapture will occur? If you’re new to this blog and have never heard of this Rapture I write of, we’ll be taking a closer look at its meaning and what it represents to the born-again Christian. It is a message of hope and excitement to all believers who are awaiting the Lord’s return in the clouds for His bride, an exciting moment filled with anticipation and joy. The idea of the Rapture offers the believer with comfort, reminding us that we are not alone in our faith, and that a glorious reunion with our Savior awaits us!! As we dive deeper into the Scriptures, read through today’s Bible verses, and meditate on the significance, we’ll take a few days to explain and prove this event can occur at any moment, and emphasizing the urgency and importance of being spiritually prepared. Today, however, we will just cover what the word means and where it is found in the Scriptures, illuminating the biblical foundation upon which this hope stands firm.

We are seeing a great divide in Christian circles about the pre-tribulational Rapture. The topic is being ridiculed by believers, who dismiss it as a fanciful notion that could never align with reality. They are calling it a “secret” Rapture or escapism, decrying those who believe it will happen before the Tribulation as simply seeking a way to avoid the hardships that may come. I always thought that those who scoffed at Christians would be unbelievers, rejecting faith and mocking its beliefs. However, it makes perfect sense that it comes from within the Church itself, where differing interpretations of Scripture have led to intense debates and even divisions among congregations. This internal conflict in the Church not only highlights the varying beliefs within Christianity but also raises questions about the unity of faith. There is even a singer who has risen in popularity because of his song dealing with Christians going through the Tribulation. He even mocks the Pre-Tribulation Rapture viewpoint. So we see this mocking coming from within the Church!

2 Peter 3:3-4  Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,  (4)  And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.

The fact that these scoffers are referring to the “fathers,” tells us that they are religious. This reference implies a connection to traditional beliefs and teachings that have been established over centuries. Is it any wonder that people are not turning to the Church in these end times? In an era where skepticism is rampant and individual experiences often trump faith, many are searching for answers beyond the confines of “established religions.” The disconnection between modern society and traditional practices may lead us to question the methods and messages delivered by the Church. So let’s get down to business and examine the reasons behind this growing detachment from faith and the blessed hope that Paul speaks of in Titus 2:13.

It amazes me that the English Bible is picked apart when it comes to the Rapture. However, no one picks apart Hebrew words used in the Old Testament. It is only words concerning this very topic of the Rapture. Although the word “rapture” doesn’t appear in the English translation of the Bible, it’s a term that describes the removing of born-again believers from the earth. The Latin word “raptum or rapturo” is where our English word comes from. The Greek word is “harpazo.” The term “caught up” in verse 17 is elsewhere translated “pluck” (John 10:28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.) We see another reference to it when Philip was snatched away after he witnessed to the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:39  And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.) We are living in a time where the stage is being set for the antichrist to come into power. It is a time that no born-again believer will go through and a time that you do not want to experience if you are not born again. Prior to the revealing of the antichrist, the great catching away, the Rapture, will occur: it can happen at any moment: it is imminent and you do not want to be caught unaware.

The New Testament was written in Greek and, therefore, we will see what the Greek language has to say about the word “rapture.” Strong’s Concordance states this:

G726
ἁρπάζω
harpazō
Total KJV Occurrences: 18
caught, 5: Act_8:39, 2Co_12:2, 2Co_12:4, 1Th_4:17, Rev_12:5
force, 3: Mat_11:12, Joh_6:15, Act_23:10
take, 3: Mat_11:12, Joh_6:15, Act_23:10
away, 2: Mat_13:19, Act_8:39
catcheth, 2: Mat_13:19, Joh_10:12
pluck, 2: Joh_10:28-29 (2)
pulling, 1: Jud_1:23

Take a moment and look up each verse represented above. The Rapture represents being caught up, taken by force, taken away, plucked, and pulled away from this earth. While the word “rapture” itself isn’t explicitly found in the Bible, it is essential to recognize that terminology evolves; for instance, friend, the term “Bible” as we understand it today is similarly absent, as is “Trinity,” yet the principles they represent are in the Scriptures. The absence of specific words does not negate the truths they hold. In fact, the concept of the Rapture is indeed present within the Scriptures, often interpreted through various passages that suggest a sudden gathering of believers. As you explore these verses, you will uncover the theological significance that conveys the idea of being joyfully taken up to meet with the Lord, an event that many Christians eagerly anticipate and find comfort in as it speaks to their faith and hope for the future.

So the issue now becomes when will the Rapture occur? If you are a born-again Christian, you may have heard of the various beliefs surrounding this significant event in Christian eschatology. There are three popular schools of thought regarding the timing of the Rapture: the pre-tribulation, mid-tribulation, and post-tribulation views. Pre-tribulation is defined as occurring before the tribulation, with proponents believing that believers will be taken up to heaven to avoid the impending suffering on Earth. On the other hand, mid-tribulation is defined as occurring in the middle of the tribulation, suggesting that Christians will endure part of the trials before being raptured. And finally, the post-tribulation view is defined as occurring after the tribulation, which asserts that the faithful will face the trials and challenges alongside the rest of the world before being rewarded with their ascension. Each of these perspectives has its own scriptural backing and interpretations, leading to much debate and differing opinions within the Christian community.

The latter two beliefs claim that the pre-tribulation rapture was only recently “invented” by John Darby in the 1800’s, which suggests that this concept is a modern interpretation rather than one rooted in early Christian history. However, there is substantial historical proof demonstrating that this was indeed the belief of the Christians as early as the third century AD, a time when many foundational doctrines were being shaped and debated. Church fathers and early theologians discussed the end times and the notion of a rapture-like event, indicating a continuity of thought that predates Darby by centuries. Some of the Church fathers studied under one of the Apostles and had first-hand information! This understanding was reflected in various writings and teachings of that era, highlighting a much anticipated view of Christ’s return that captures the pre-tribulation perspective. This is only one example of the writings of that day:

All the saints and elect of God are gathered together before the tribulation, which is to come, and are taken to the Lord, in order that they may not see at any time the confusion which overwhelms the world because of our sins.

-Pseudo-Ephraem (c. 374-627)

We can see in this quote that the pre-tribulation rapture was not invented in the past two hundred plus years but much earlier! The Apostle Paul spoke a lot about this blessed reunion and we will cover those verses to bring it all together. No other Tribulation viewpoint can explain away these four verses:

Joh 14:1-4  Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.  (2)  In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.  (3)  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.  (4)  And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

After Jesus’ Second Coming, the Millennial Kingdom begins, ushering in a period of never before peace and righteousness on Earth. If the Rapture happens at the end of the Tribulation, one might wonder how the Church will ascend to Heaven, where Jesus has gone to prepare a place, and THEN transition into the Millennium. The question arises: will they never go to Heaven? This concept seems contradictory, as it raises doubts about the very promises made in Scripture. Jesus says in verse 2 that He was going to prepare a place for us, signifying His intention to create a dwelling for His followers in Heaven. Then, verse 3 reassures us that He will come again and receive us unto Himself so that where He is, we will be also! This shows Jesus is committed to us and that our relationship with Him continues. It means we will be with Him in Heaven before He eventually establishes His kingdom on Earth. Just as God protected Noah in the ark before He created a new earth after the flood, so will Jesus do for the Church! Thus, understanding this sequence is crucial for grasping the fullness of His promises and the nature of our journey with Christ.

If you are a born-again Christian and have never studied this out, I hope you are blessed by it and encouraged in your heart. If you are not born again, I urge you to settle the matter right now! Friend, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

The Light of Our Path

On By KateIn Devotionals, Thoughts and MeditationsLeave a comment

Pro 4:18  But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.

Those who trust in Christ as Saviour have such a beautiful advantage over those who do not. Many take the Bible for granted as they would any other book on their bookshelf. Oh how they lose out on the best self help Book that has ever been written!

The Bible is a light that points to Jesus Christ: from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21. Within its pages we learn about Him because He is the Light!

Joh 9:5  As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.

Within its pages we learn how to keep from stumbling.

Psa 119:105  NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Within its pages we learn about the Joel Osteen’s of the world and how to spot a false teacher.

Isa 8:20  To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.

Within its pages we the sure word of God given to us by over 40 different authors throughout a period of roughly 1,500-2,000 years. The light of God’s holy Word does not contain one contradiction. It is said that the Bible contains 63,779 cross references, which means verses that are referred to in another part of Scripture.

2 Pet 1:19-21  We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:  (20)  Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.  (21)  For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

All of the Bible is a tapestry which is intricately woven with threads hidden in the completed work. There are no hanging threads in the back. You can look at the front or the back and see a perfect product.

We are so blessed to have God’s Word, neatly knit together and never compromising or contradicting other portions. How blessed we are to have God’s light shine on every page to guide and direct us!!!

The Light of Our Path

On By KateIn Devotionals, Thoughts and MeditationsLeave a comment

Pro 4:18  But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.

Those who trust in Christ as Saviour have such a beautiful advantage over those who do not. Many take the Bible for granted as they would any other book on their bookshelf. Oh how they lose out on the best self help Book that has ever been written!

The Bible is a light that points to Jesus Christ: from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21. Within its pages we learn about Him because He is the Light!

Joh 9:5  As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.

Within its pages we learn how to keep from stumbling.

Psa 119:105  NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Within its pages we learn about the Joel Osteen’s of the world and how to spot a false teacher.

Isa 8:20  To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.

Within its pages we the sure word of God given to us by over 40 different authors throughout a period of roughly 1,500-2,000 years. The light of God’s holy Word does not contain one contradiction. It is said that the Bible contains 63,779 cross references, which means verses that are referred to in another part of Scripture.

2 Pet 1:19-21  We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:  (20)  Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.  (21)  For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

All of the Bible is a tapestry which is intricately woven with threads hidden in the completed work. There are no hanging threads in the back. You can look at the front or the back and see a perfect product.

We are so blessed to have God’s Word, neatly knit together and never compromising or contradicting other portions. How blessed we are to have God’s light shine on every page to guide and direct us!!!

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Any Day Now – Day 59

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How do we know that we are living in the end times? We know that all of prophecy revolves around Israel and her Messiah. Israel turned from God and God allowed them to lose their country. Then on May 15, 1948, Israel once again became a nation. This started the prophecy clock ticking moving forward with the end times. We know this because of:

Isa 11:11-12  And it shall come to pass in that day, that the Lord shall set his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria, and from Egypt, and from Pathros, and from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea.  (12)  And he shall set up an ensign for the nations, and shall assemble the outcasts of Israel, and gather together the dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth.

Eze 20:33-38  As I live, saith the Lord GOD, surely with a mighty hand, and with a stretched out arm, and with fury poured out, will I rule over you:  (34)  And I will bring you out from the people, and will gather you out of the countries wherein ye are scattered, with a mighty hand, and with a stretched out arm, and with fury poured out.  (35)  And I will bring you into the wilderness of the people, and there will I plead with you face to face.  (36)  Like as I pleaded with your fathers in the wilderness of the land of Egypt, so will I plead with you, saith the Lord GOD.  (37)  And I will cause you to pass under the rod, and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant:  (38)  And I will purge out from among you the rebels, and them that transgress against me: I will bring them forth out of the country where they sojourn, and they shall not enter into the land of Israel: and ye shall know that I am the LORD.

There are more verses revolving around Israel becoming a nation once again but for brevity’s sake, I’ll leave it with these two. As a result of this miracle, we know that the world entered into its last days. The Apostles Paul and and Peter warned us about the conditions of the world during these end times. Just take a look at the following verses:

1Ti 4:1-3  Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;  (2)  Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;  (3)  Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

2Ti 3:1-5  This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.  (2)  For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,  (3)  Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,  (4)  Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;  (5)  Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

2Ti 4:3-4  For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;  (4)  And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

2Pe 3:3-5  Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,  (4)  And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.  (5)  For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water:

We can see that the world we currently live in has reached this point. We have “churches” (and I use the term loosely) who preach that homosexuality and other sexual immorality is acceptable in God’s sight. On the other hand, we have churches that are hung up on man-made traditions rather than relying on the Word of God for instruction. These same churches add to the simplicity of the Gospel. God made salvation so easy to grasp that even a child can understand its meaning!

Mat 19:14  But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

Rom 8:16-17  The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:  (17)  And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.

There is only one sure way to Heaven and that is through Jesus Christ: not the church, not some prophet who had a dream, not some god with who takes you to a higher plane.

Joh 14:6  Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

The Lord did not want us confused – He didn’t want us to follow a path that led me one place and then another. No! His path is straight and narrow. There is no mistaking it. You proceed in one direction and not many go with you. But it is a clear path and is well lit by God’s Word:

Psa 119:105  NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Oh friend, you must be born again in order to participate in the Rapture, 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 – Lovers of Pleasures More Than Lovers of God

On By KateIn Devotionals, Peace Through Troubled TimesLeave a comment

2 Timothy 3:1-5  This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.  (2)  For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,  (3)  Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,  (4)  Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;  (5)  Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

Lovers of pleasures – is that not the type of person that the mainstream media wishes to capture? They try to attract your various senses in order to achieve the devil’s goals. What they are selling must “look” better, “sound” better, “smell” better, “handle” (touch) better, and “taste” better. The latest iPhone is $1,600! The sad thing is that Americans will stop at nothing in order to have the greatest and best.

A Google search revealed that low-income people spent their money on smartphones despite their lack of money. It is sad to think that the latest smartphone will take precedence over much-needed items for the home.

CellphoneSmartphone
College graduate98%93%
Less than $30,00097%76%
$30,000-$49,99997%83%
$50,000-$74,99997%85%

It isn’t wrong to want a smartphone. But, does it take priority over your love of God? To love things more than God is the issue in today’s Bible verses. It encompasses many areas. Do you love food more than God? Do you love nice clothes more than God? Whatever your heart is set on having, do you desire it more than you desire God? We see this prove out in church attendance.

In 2006, Gallup reported that the lowest rates of church attendance among the 48 contiguous states were in Nevada and the New England states of Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Maine.

How very sad to see my home State of Maine in this report, although it does not surprise me. Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God are quite prevalent in our world today.

Even “religion” is guilty in this area. It almost seems like an oxymoron, but is it? People will cling to their religious upbringing over God’s Word! The Pharisees of Jesus’ day were guilty of this. But before you get too harsh with them, look at the church you attend. Are you obeying teachings from the pulpit only because the preacher said to? Did you compare what he said with what the Bible says on the issue?

Acts 17:11  These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

Popular social platforms, such as abortion, should not even be considered in religious circles! What born-again Christian can support abortion? That’s truly a lover of pleasure over a lover of God. What pleasure, you may ask? It’s the pleasure of convenience. Killing an unborn child is convenient if it is not “a good time” to have a child.

You must ultimately decide your own “platform.” Will your platform be built on the pleasures of this world or on the pleasures of God? If you are born again, your ultimate guide is your Bible. If God speaks against something, you must be against it; and vice versa. It’s the Scriptures that will open your eyes to God’s desires for your life. His Word should be your platform! God’s Word is the measuring stick for everything. (Acts 17:11)

Psalm 119:105  NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

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!

Peace Through Troubled Times – Bad Habits

On By KateIn Devotionals, Peace Through Troubled TimesLeave a comment

Psalm 119:105  NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

You may be wondering what the above verse has to do with bad habits. Every year, people make New Year’s resolutions to break old habits and by the month of March, they discontinue their resolutions; they have given up.

People resolve to read through the Bible every year yet they give up in the middle of Leviticus. Why? If you met the woman or man of your dreams, you would want to know everything there is to know about that new love, wouldn’t you? It is no different with one’s relationship with God. You either love Him with every fiber of your being or you don’t.

Every page of our Bibles is filled with news and information about God and the Son He sent to die for us. If a total stranger saved your life, I would very well imagine that you would be indebted to that stranger forever. Jesus died for our sins and saved us from spending an eternity in the Lake of Fire! How much more indebted to Him should we be? Should we not anxiously look for letters from Him so we can learn everything we can about Him?

Friend, eternity is a long time and you will either spend it with Him or in the Lake of Fire. It is my desire that you will break your bad habit of going through life business as usual. There is no one who will love you more than Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour! First, get your relationship with Him settled. You can click on this link to learn how to be born again. Then once you are truly repentant and have accepted Jesus Christ as your Saviour, your desires will change (2 Corinthians 5:17). You will thirst after the Scriptures. THEN, God’s Word will open up and you will behold beautiful and wonderful truths. You will never go hungry; you will never thirst; you will be fed each time you open your Bible! It will be your shield for every bad habit you wish to break!

Psalm 91:4  He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

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!

Comfort During the End Times – Day 18

On By KateIn Comfort During the End Times, DevotionalsLeave a comment

Good morning! Spring has sprung and the temperatures are slowly warming up! This season has always been one that I love to compare with being born-again. The newness of the trees and budding flowers are always a spirit lifter! The Creator of all things “spoke” into being everything you and I look at every single day! Genesis 1:3 beings with “And God said,”!

Joh 1:1-5  In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  (2)  The same was in the beginning with God.  (3)  All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.  (4)  Joh 1:1-5  In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  (2)  The same was in the beginning with God.  (3)  All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.  (4)  In him was life; and the life was the light of men.  (5)  And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

Jesus has not left us empty-handed in this world. He gives us His Word to light our way. Have you ever looked at a lighthouse and thought about the Lord Jesus? I sure have! Without these lighthouses, ships would run ashore at night and crash. In this same light, think of your Bible as a lighthouse to your heart and soul!

(Psa 119:105)  NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

When I stay at a place I’ve never been to and get up in the middle of the night, I can be sure I’ll stub my toe on something I wasn’t accustomed to having in my path. Everything we go through in life can be compared to this analogy. We don’t know what to expect and so we proceed with caution. But what if you carried a lighthouse with you? I know it sounds silly but think about it for a moment. With its light shining, your path would be illuminated and you’d have a clear picture of which direction to go, amen?

It’s not any different with God’s Word, my friend. Psalm 119:105 is a beautiful picture of God desiring that His children have a “map” or a “lighthouse” to show the way. People need to know the way in order to know where they are going. Our Bible is a literal GPS for man. If we need to know how to be saved, the Bible point us to it. If we want to know about God, the Bible tells us. If we want to know what is going to happen in the end times, the Bible takes us there. It is a spiritual compass which directs us and teaches us. Even a child can learn as he reads the stories laid out in its pages!

Psa 119:130  The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.

Joh 8:12  Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

The Lord Jesus doesn’t want us to be in the dark … ever! He gives us clear direction in the Bible so that we can never be lost. His very nature is “light” and He will always point you in the right direction. As we are living in the end times, we are bombarded with the enemy’s efforts at corrupting our world. We are seeing less light and more darkness as the days draw nearer to the Tribulation period. The Bible has everything we need to prepare ourselves, my friend. The Bible repeatedly speaks to us how God doesn’t want us to be ignorant on important topics; one of those topics is Christ’s coming for His Bride, the Church, before the Tribulation begins.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18  But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.  (14)  For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.  (15)  For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.  (16)  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:  (17)  Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.  (18)  Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

When you read the Bible, read it with the intention that God is going to be shining and pointing to something that will help you. There is nothing in there that will harm you, friend! All of the Bible is there for our learning and for lighting our path. We are so blessed, especially in these end times! What book can you read where its prophecies all come true? It is not your local palm reader, but the words of the Living God. (John 1:1)

Friend, don’t be willfully ignorant of the end times. (2 Peter 3:5) If you are not born-again, confess your sins and repent of them. The time is coming when it will be too late for you to repent. You will remember each opportunity you were given by God to be saved; you will remember each time you laughed it off and ignored it. Please Reader, repent and accept Christ into your life. (Act 16:31, Rom 10:9) I want to be sure that anyone who reads the posts on this blog can know beyond a shadow of a doubt that they are going to Heaven. Have you received Christ as your Saviour? If no, your sins are not covered by His sacrificial offering of Himself. You have not been redeemed by His blood. 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 to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Comfort During the End Times – Day 14

On By KateIn Comfort During the End Times, DevotionalsLeave a comment

Good morning, Reader! What is pressing upon your heart this morning and frightening you? Is it the latest news on the war in the Ukraine? Is it the fact that America will suffer a food shortage in the next few months due to all the flooding in California? Or is it certain circumstances in your life? Whatever the reason may be, you must realize that God is well aware of it. Do you think God wants His child to be losing sleep over his financial problems or family issues? Friend, you are not alone. There are many who stay up worrying about what tomorrow will hold.

The key is to remember Who holds tomorrow!

These end times will bring turmoil on this earth that the world has never seen in the past. (Matthew 24:21) So what exactly does God’s Word say about worry and anxiety? Today’s verse says that the Lord is a God of knowledge and by him actions are weighed. If you want to learn to do something, you read an instruction manual or watch a YouTube video. Afterwards, it just takes practice until you get it right. Reading God’s Word is one thing but it’s what you do with what you read that is important. If you walk away and do nothing with what you have read, then you haven’t really gained anything, have you?

Psa 119:105  NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Don’t you think Satan wants you to be side tracked with worry? Oh YES, he does!

God says that His children need not be anxious about what’s going on in their lives. Whatever is making you anxious or worried can be discussed with God just as you would discuss a problem with your spouse or friend. God is not some impersonal being that lords over His creation. Not at all! In my mind’s eye, I picture God sitting in a chair next to me. I feel his presence and know that He hears me. Years of reading God’s Word has given me the foundation to stand on in my Christian faith and His Word leads and directs me in my life. It truly is a light unto my path.

Philippians 4:6  Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

The word careful in this verse is merimnaō in the Greek which means “anxious, take thought”! If a person doesn’t “take thought” or get anxious about what’s going on in his life, don’t you think that speaks volumes about how big his God is? Think about it for a moment and apply it to your life … right now … this very moment. What’s troubling you? Did you let God know about it during your prayer time? When you talk to God about it, you should know that the same God who parted the Red Sea is desiring you to talk to Him about it? He wants to handle that situation in your life! You may not see immediate answer to prayer but He is still working. He’s not asleep on the job! (Psalm 121:4)

I apply this to the goings on with the news revolving around the end times and the turmoil that our world is in. When I was first saved, I would have never thought that people would be confused about their gender! I would have never thought that babies would be murdered at the altar of convenience. Certain things were actually sacred back then!

Are you afraid that you will go through the Tribulation? If you answer yes, please go here to get the matter settled. The born-again believer will not go through the Tribulation period. A born-again believer is a member of the Church, the Bride of Christ, and will be raptured before that awful seven-year period occurs!

1 Corinthians 15:50-52  Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.  (51)  Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,  (52)  In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

1 Thessalonians 1:10  And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.

Matthew 24:39-42  And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.  (40)  Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.  (41)  Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left.  (42)  Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.

Friend, please, I beg you, if you are not saved, you will have to go through a period that NO ONE has EVER seen before! Don’t ignore the fear in your heart and settle the matter now before it’s too late.

Matthew 24:21  For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.

If you are a believer, release your fears to the Lord and share those fears with Him. He does not want you to be fearful of these end times. In fact, we should be looking up and excited that our Groom will receive the go ahead from the Father to come get His Bride!!! \o/ He does not want you to be fearful of anything in your life. You are a part of His Bride so just as you share your intimate feelings with God. He will listen because you are praying in the Lord Jesus’ name! God desires to give you peace, my friend.

John 14:27  Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Times are getting worse and Christians may have to go through worse times before the Rapture. But rest assured that we won’t be here for the worst of what’s to come during the Tribulation period. Baby Christians are looking to you as an example of how they are to act during these horrible times. The unsaved world is watching you. If they see a fretting Christian, what does that tell them? They won’t want what you have if it doesn’t solve their problems. Only Christ can solve their problems. Be a light … be a testimony for the Lord … be the only Bible they may ever see!

As believers, we have so much at our fingertips to pull from for encouragement. We can read our Bibles, search out songs to encourage our hearts, and bow before the Lord of lords and Kings of kings in prayer! We can have intimate fellowship with the Creator of the universe!! But to the person who is not born-again, he has only himself to turn to and there’s no comfort in one’s own heart. The unbeliever doesn’t have the comfort that the believer does; they may be able to access the resources but that comfort just isn’t there. Friend, don’t be willfully ignorant of the end times. (2 Peter 3:5) If you are not born-again, confess your sins and repent of them. The time is coming when it will be too late for you to repent. You will remember each opportunity you were given by God to be saved; you will remember each time you laughed it off and ignored it. Please Reader, repent and accept Christ into your life. (Act 16:31, Rom 10:9) I want to be sure that anyone who reads the posts on this blog can know beyond a shadow of a doubt that they are going to Heaven. Have you received Christ as your Saviour? If no, your sins are not covered by His sacrificial offering of Himself. You have not been redeemed by His blood. 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 to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!