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HopeSings · 2024-05-14T19:51:56-0500

In these last days, people hear what they want to hear. They heap up teachers to tell them what they want to hear. They heap up politicians as well for the same reason. We should reject teachers and politicians. We should follow Jesus and the apostles in scripture. 1 John 2:27 and 1 Corinthians chapter 4.

ImaginaryFiction · 2024-05-14T17:24:04-0500

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A Muslim explains why they all vote Democrat in America.

It's because they see democrats as not smart, and that they can't brainwash conservatives. They envision America's future is Muslim and they use democrats to get it because while democrats go out and follow dumb ideas like transgender, gay rights, and identity politics muslims slowly gain more and more control in America that they couldn't under a Republican based nation.

Lov4Christ · 2024-05-14T15:23:31-0500

I would appreciate PRAYERS for healing. I have a brain disorder that causes me to have very few thoughts and a very poor memory and I want to help others and be there for them but it is very difficult when I dont hardly have enough thoughts to even know were to start.

I know God may not heal me but I have not given up yet because I have so much desire to serve him, help others and learn so much more about him.

Many people say that I compare myself to others to much by saying you can't compare the amount of thoughts you have with how many someone else has. Not realizing they are comparing me to others by say things like “why do you do the odd things you do” or “if such and such can figure out all this out you can too”. Or “don't you ever listen to what people tell you!?”.....

I have no Idea what it is like to even have 1/2 the amount of thoughts that most people have in an hour mabe alot less than that idk. All I can go by is how even most little kids can figure out things that I couldn't even almost figure out and the amount of things they say…I dont have near that many thoughts, never have and probably never will

One of the hardest things is that MOST people treat me like I have the brain like the advarage man has. But I don't. I am living with my parents that love me very much but they think they can help me live on my own but I know and God knows that is IMPOSSIBLE the way I am. Life is scary for me, not having having many thoughts means not being able to figure out were to stand, how much to eat, how to avoid somone on a grocery ile, not having any Idea if I am doing to much( like work and such) and not being able to figure out how to have a conversation ect...

I would ask that you would not be quick to judge me for being scared. if you had a brain like mine you would understand the nightmare I have to fight through to survive to serve God( the best that I can) and help others.
Love you all-- Jay

tonychanyt · 2024-05-14T15:10:23-0500

The one true God is the creator of all things, visible and invisible (Colossians 1:16).

Do not make an image representing the true God to bow down to it (Exodus 20:4-5).

2 Chronicles 35:

20 After all this, when Josiah had prepared the temple,

Josiah was a good king of Judah. He repaired the temple.

Neco king of Egypt went up to fight at Carchemish on the Euphrates, and Josiah went out to meet him.

Neco was a gentile. By God, he tried to dissuade Josiah from fighting him.

21 But he sent envoys to him, saying, “What have we to do with each other, king of Judah? I am not coming against you this day, but against the house with which I am at war. And God has commanded me to hurry. Cease opposing God, who is with me,

i.e., elohim

lest he destroy you.” 22 Nevertheless, Josiah did not turn away from him, but disguised himself in order to fight with him. He did not listen to the words of Neco from the mouth of God, but came to fight in the plain of Megiddo.

A good king of Judah fought against a gentile king. God was with the gentile king. Josiah died as a result.

I am not even sure that Neco knew the name YWHW. Yet, it seems that the true God was with him.

Later, in Isaiah 45:

1 “This is what the Lord says to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I take hold of to subdue nations before him

The Lord (the true God) called Cyrus his anointed.

4 For the sake of Jacob my servant, of Israel my chosen, I summon you by name and bestow on you a title of honor, though you do not acknowledge me.

Even though Cyrus did not acknowledge the true God.

In the NT, Acts 17:

22 So Paul, standing in the midst of the Areopagus, said: “Men of Athens, I perceive that in every way you are very religious.

but they did not know the LORD personally

23 For as I passed along and observed the objects of your worship, I found also an altar with this inscription: ‘To the unknown god.’ What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you.

god is a multifaceted concept.

26 And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, 27 that they should seek God,

the one true God

and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us.

The Lord God accepted worship from Athenians who didn't know Him exactly. But then, who knows Him exactly?

Acts 17:

30 Although God overlooked the ignorance of earlier times, He now commands all people everywhere to repent.

God is gracious to everyone who repents, even if they don't know Him exactly. See What about people of other cultures?.

Do Buddhists, Muslims, and Christians worship the same God? Do Christians worship the same God?

Most Christians seem to worship the same God, the creator God with no idols/images. Buddhists and Christians worship different gods because of their heavy use of idols. Judaism, Christianity, and Islam worship more or less the same God: creator God and no idols. I spent four years working in Saudi Arabia. The longer I stayed there, the more I felt that they were worshiping the God of Abraham. I had joined their worship in their mosques. Notably, only Christians can be born of the Paraclete.

Laodicean60 · 2024-05-14T09:45:15-0500

For so many years I thought the Gog and Magog war was because countries hate Israel and it's true, especially the Arabs. I always wondered what the catalyst for these countries to come together and attack, could it be this war? What if Israel doesn't stop with Hama? I'd like to hear your thoughts, thank you.

discombobulated1 · 2024-05-14T12:43:39-0500

Did the elite democrats over-play their hand with these questionable Trump indictments?

Christsfreeservant · 2024-05-14T10:30:50-0500

“How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!

How vast is the sum of them!

If I would count them, they are more than the sand.

I awake, and I am still with you.

“Oh that you would slay the wicked, O God!

O men of blood, depart from me!

They speak against you with malicious intent;

your enemies take your name in vain.

Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord?

And do I not loathe those who rise up against you?

I hate them with complete hatred;

I count them my enemies.

“Search me, O God, and know my heart!

Try me and know my thoughts!

And see if there be any grievous way in me,

and lead me in the way everlasting!” (Psalms 139:17-24 ESV)

In America, which is where I live, we live in a culture where we can be strongly influenced, not only by other humans, but by artificial intelligence (AI), too. If we are not careful, we can get so dependent on other humans or on TV or on the internet or on AI to tell us what to think and what to believe, and to give us the answers to all of our questions, that we cease to think for ourselves and to test what we hear against the Scriptures to see if what we are hearing or reading lines up with what the Scriptures teach, or not.

For artificial intelligence (robots, basically) are answering our phone calls, and they are responding to our requests for information, and they are the ones feeding us with information, and now they are becoming very invasive and pushy, and in some cases we may be forced to use them when we have no other options available. For they are extending their reach, and AI is being pushed on us whether we like it or not, if we choose to use the internet or smartphones or even television. It is the world we now live in.

If you do any amount of writing or texting, they are always suggesting words or phrases for you to use as though they want to do your thinking for you, which I believe is the object. And they want to help us with our writing and with our thinking so that they take over in place of God, and in place of the Scriptures, in reality. They want to be “God” to us so that we go to them for our help and for the answers to all our questions, so that we no longer seek God for guidance and for direction. And that is a scary thought!

And I am not against us getting information and answers to some of our questions from the internet. I use Google much even to look up Bible verses when I can’t recall the address to the verses. And I utilize dictionaries and encyclopedias and on-line Bible helps. But they are never my primary source nor do they ever replace God and his word and his leading and direction in my life and in what to write and in what to say. Social media memes can also become short-cuts to reading the Scriptures for ourselves, and that can be dangerous if we are not testing what we hear/read against God’s word.

So, we all need to be discerning about these things and to be spiritually awake and alert to the dangers of AI and of any other means of influencing us in a particular direction via the internet or TV or movies or cartoons or song lyrics, etc. And the thoughts of the Lord, written down for us in the Scriptures, are to be what we go to, and what are precious to us. So we must guard our hearts and minds against all influences that might be outside the realm of God’s influences in our lives or that might replace his words.

And we must open our eyes to see all the evil, often subtle, influences there are out there on the internet, perhaps even on what are considered “Christian sites.” And we must not believe everything that we hear coming from a particular church denomination or theology or person of prominence or of importance. And we must not be persuaded by particular political parties nor by certain preachers nor by our government heads nor by the media, including the news media and social media, apart from God.

But for us to hate evil as God hates evil, and for us to reject all that is of malicious intent, even though disguised as though “for our good,” we must be people of God who are feeding on the Scriptures (IN CONTEXT), who are listening to the Lord, and who are following him in obedience to his commands. For if we are not, and if we are feeding on social media and the news media and on the words of people of prominence and influence, instead, then we will be ripe to be overtaken by AI and to be led astray.

So, since we live in this computerized world of communication, we as followers of Christ should spend some time with the Lord in prayer, asking him to search our minds and our hearts and to show us what influences are in our lives that are not of God, and that are contrary to the Lord and to the teachings of the Scriptures (in context), so that we don’t end up following after the lies and not after the truth. Ask him to show you the lies that you are believing and then to show you the truth of what is really going on.

And if you do this honestly and sincerely, truly seeking the Lord to show you the lies you are believing, you might be surprised to find that you are believing a lot of lies you had no idea were there because you had become so conditioned to believing certain people and whatever they told you. And please be cautious with regard to AI of any kind, and test what information you are receiving against the Scriptures, in their full context, so that you are not being led astray. But don’t let AI be your brain for you.

For Our Nation

An Original Work / September 11, 2012

Bombs are bursting. Night is falling.
Jesus Christ is gently calling
You to follow Him in all ways.
Trust Him with your life today.
Make Him your Lord and your Savior.
Turn from your sin. Follow Jesus.
He will forgive you of your sin;
Cleanse your heart, made new within.

Men betraying: Our trust fraying.
On our knees to God we’re praying,
Seeking God to give us answers
That are only found in Him.
God is sovereign over all things.
Nothing from His mind escaping.
He has all things under His command,
And will work all for good.

Jesus Christ is gently calling
You to follow Him in all ways.

Men deceiving: We’re believing
In our Lord, and interceding
For our nation and its people
To obey their God today.
He is our hope for our future.
For our wounds He offers suture.
He is all we need for this life.
Trust Him with your life today.

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Kiril · 2024-05-14T11:27:32-0500

Hello! I am considering various Christian denominations, it is important for me that they are conservative and traditional (one might say fundamentalist)

Are there any churches that are more conservative and fundamentalist? If yes, which ones?

Can you tell me more about this?

returntosender · 2024-05-14T08:18:16-0500

I think this is wonderful,.! Secular usually doesn't get involved in any thing like this. It's. Supposed to explain questions concerning creation. They were giving proof of the flood on this one i was watching

tonychanyt · 2024-05-14T08:24:28-0500

Jesus spoke in John 3:

16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life."

Jesus died for every person. Further, Jesus died to redeem the physical creation. Rom 8:

19 For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. 23 And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.

Both people and creation will be renewed on the last day.

1 Peter 3:

18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit,

1 John 2:

2 He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.

Hebrews 10:

10 And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

Romans 6:

10 For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God.

2 Corinthians 5:

15 And he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.

Jesus died for everyone but not everyone will believe. Mat 26:

26 Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” 27 And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you, 28for this is my blood of thec covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29 I tell you I will not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”

Only those who believe will participate in the communion and enter the kingdom of God.

HopeSings · 2024-05-14T09:11:06-0500

Is giving to rich politicians and preachers a sin?

Priverbs 22:16 One who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and one who gives gifts to the rich—both come to poverty.

QuestionQuest74 · 2024-05-14T07:07:36-0500

Some actors do it for comedy is that wrong? Reading deuteronomy it was a sin in the Old Testament but is it still wrong to do it now for theatrical purposes?

The Liturgist · 2024-05-14T01:13:08-0500

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This really disturbs me, and I think it would disturb most traditional Christians, to see a central part of the iconography of their tradition abused by Unitarian Universalists in order to make a statement about religious equivalence and syncretism.

I have half a mind to send them a letter of complaint and CC every Eastern Orthodox parish priest in Albuquerque, who might be unaware of it. Of course, they are also abusing all forms of the Cross insofar as the UUA as a denomination is almost entirely apostate, and is entirely heterodox, which is why Unitarian Universalists are not considered Christians on CF.com, very properly, I might add.

So naturally this sort of thing is extremely annoying.

Kiril · 2024-05-14T04:54:42-0500

Is it true that Evangelical Churches (for example, Baptist and Pentecostal) are becoming more conservative and fundamentalist due to the accession of conservatives to these Evangelical Churches, including from other Churches? While the mainstream Churches are becoming more liberal.

I myself would like to join some conservative and stable Church, so I ask.

Mr. M · Monday at 11:53 PM

Psalm 27:
1 The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
2 When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.
3 Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.
4 One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life,
to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple.
5 For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me;
he shall set me up upon a rock.
6 And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle
sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the Lord.

Psalm 56:11 In God I have put my trust;
I will not be afraid.
What can man do to me?

Psalm 118:
4 Let those who fear the Lord now say,
“His mercy endures forever.”
5 I called on the Lord in distress;
The Lord answered me and set me in a broad place.
6 The Lord is on my side;
I will not fear.
What can man do to me?
7 The Lord is for me among those who help me;
Therefore I shall see my desire on those who hate me.
8 It is better to trust in the Lord
Than to put confidence in man.

Romans 8:31 What shall we then say to these things?
If God be for us, who can be against us?

RabbiJames · Monday at 10:46 PM

Parasha: Kedoshim (Holy Ones) Leviticus 19:1-20:27

Chapter 19 starts with the words; “Ye shall be Holy for I am Holy”. When we look at the original Hebrew we read; “Amarta Aleichem Kadoshim ti’hiyu Ki Kadosh Ani” But there is something different in the two words; “Kadoshim” (ones who are holy) and Kadosh (Holy ONE). The word “Be ye Holy” in the original Hebrew has 5 letters, and the word “Kadosh” has 4 letters. The biggest difference is that the “o” in “Kadoshim” is not present, but it IS present in “Kadosh”. If we write these words in English, they would be “Kadshim” and “Kadosh” Why? There is a missing letter “Vav”

The “vav” is pronounced as either “v” “o” or “u”. It symbolizes the “nail”. Perfect Holiness without sin is only Adonai! He alone has the “vav” He took the “nail” for our sins. Our Holiness is lacking, we are not perfect as we have the sin nature, therefore, our Holiness can not carry the “Vav”

Some people have the wrong idea about the word "Holy" or "Holiness". Some might think it is to be almost sinless and perfect like God, yet only God is 100% Holy, as explained using the letter "Vav". Yet in reality, the word "Kadosh" or "Holy" is to be "separate". Separated from the lost world of perdition and set aside to do the work of God. God separated the people of Israel, as he has separated ALL believers, to do His work and to abide by HIS commandments. When we live a lifestyle based on His commandments, we are revealing a "Holy" lifestyle to those around us and thus we can be a good witnessing tool to the lost. We have been "saved" by faith to walk in "holiness. "

The first thing that is said is: "Honor your mother and father and keep my sabbaths" We see that God starts with family relationships, honoring those who have raised us, and to rest on the Sabbath. What a wonderful way to spend the Sabbath, being with our families and just enjoying the company of Mom and Dad (if they are still alive) and If not, with our siblings, brothers, sisters, and other family members.

Chapter 19 deals with quite a variety of commandments; “You shall not profane the name of the LORD thy YHVH; You shall love thy neighbor as thyself, I AM YHVH”. All of the 613 commandments of God have to do with honoring YHVH and our relationship with our fellow man. When we honor and love the LORD with all of our heart, we are honoring and not profaning the Name YHVH. When we honor and treat our fellow man well and try to establish a good relationship with him or her, we are, in a matter of sense, keeping the whole Torah, (in a general sense). When we are a bad witness before our fellow man, when we are an embarrassment because our sins are brought into the light, then, we are profaning the name of YHVH.

” You shall not curse the deaf nor put a stumbling block before the blind” (19:14) When one talks about another in a negative sense or spreads an “untruth” and the “other” cannot hear what is being said, it is as if that person is “deaf”. We need to be honest and truthful. If we have something we wish to discuss with a person, we need to do it face-to-face, and not behind the back.

When we misrepresent the Truth of God, teach or spread false teaching whether on purpose or by error, we are in a way a “stumbling block” before someone who does not know Yeshua “The blind” (spiritually).

“You shall not sow your field with mixed seed” (19:19) because each plant takes away from the soil nutrients, planting a mixture of crops will very soon deplete the soil of all of its nutrients, thus weakening the soil. Another example is plowing with an ox and a donkey, mixing fabrics (linen and wool) An ox is stronger than a donkey, and will make the donkey suffer under unneeded stress. The wool will shrink and pull away from the linen, thus ruining the fabric. We are talking about being "unequally yoked". The same can be said about a marriage, a business association, etc.

“You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor TATTOO any marks on you I AM YHVH! That is quite a statement. I am of the opinion that if God wanted us to have tattoos on our bodies, we would have been born with them. Why can’t people be happy with the bodies God gave them? Why do they have to alter them with drawings and markings? But such was the custom of the pagan cultures like the Canaanites, Moabites, etc., and it continues today. However, the blood of Yeshua covers, cleanses, and forgives ALL sin, even the sin of tattooing, yet tattooing is one sin that will leave its mark forever! (unless it is somehow removed)

” uncovering the nakedness of ….” This is another way of saying, “having sex” Chapter 20 takes up that topic again along with other topics. Adultery, under Torah's command, resulted in the death penalty, if this were effective today, how many couples would be true to each other? Perhaps many more than we imagine. It seems like sexuality is a serious issue with our creator. If it is serious with Him, it should be with us as well.

When we follow the Torah of Adonai and put his commandments into practice with all of our heart, we are consecrating ourselves to Him, as “Kedoshim and Tzadikim” (holy and righteous ones) however always remember, that “SALVATION” comes ONLY through FAITH IN YESHUA! It is our faith in HIM that makes us Holy and Righteous, and this relationship leads us to Holy and Righteous works, which are obedience to his mitzvoth (commandments)

HopeSings · 2024-05-14T02:22:27-0500

This was a post I made. I would like to ask everyone this question and get their opinion of my understanding.

Do we ever talk about Jobs family and friend's? Why do we always talk about Job instead? Why do we crush him into dust with our judgment? If your best friend gets sick and his family dies will you say it's because your friend sinned?

The church is blind because of its sin of division and worldly politics. They sleep and are sick as scripture says. God blinded the church like Israel because they followd the same path of folly that Israel did. They boasted against the branches but they didn't learn from Israel's example as Paul teaches us.

Michie · Monday at 12:21 PM

Pastor Perry Noble didn't mince words when he criticized ministry leaders who say women shouldn't preach.

During a question-and-answer session at a May 5 church service, a congregant asked the 52-year-old senior pastor of Second Chance Church in Anderson, South Carolina, about his thoughts on women pastors.

"Throughout the Bible, Jesus elevated women. However, there are parts of the Bible that specifically talk about the role of women as pastors," the congregant said. "Are women allowed to pastor, or are they only allowed to work with kids?"

Continued below.

Perry Noble says 'we wouldn't even know' Jesus is alive if not for women preachers

Former megachurch Pastor Perry Noble didn t mince words when he criticized ministry leaders who say women shouldn t preach during a sermon earlier this month

www.christianpost.com

Grip Docility · Monday at 4:21 PM

Let's keep this super duper simple....

Ezekiel 33:11 Say to them, As I live, declares the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live; turn back, turn back from your evil ways, for why will you die, O house of Israel?

2 Peter 3:9 The Lord does not delay His promise, as some understand delay, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance.

Peter got it right after all! All is now specified to the Wicked as it is obvious that Peter was "Drawing" from Ezekiel 33:11

Ezekiel has God swearing by His Name by saying "As I Live", then echoing 2 Peter 3:9 to the Wicked... and imploring them to Use God Blessed Self Sovereign Autonomy to turn back to Him.

Just incase there is disagreement, please refer to post 2 for ironclad cross reference.

Kokavkrystallos · Monday at 6:00 PM

This is just a little devotional by E.M. Bounds (1835-1913), but it's powerful, and I'll share some after it:

"Zeal is a contagious, but not a popular, element. Our fathers took their tea piping hot; we take ours iced. Iced Christianity is more popular and tasteful than iced tea. We can endure in our churches enough warmth to take the chill off, but more than this is offensive. We have added many good elements to our preaching, but these cannot make up for the loss of fervor. The average mind can only be moved to action by a flame. Some men may pull through to heaven on a cold collar, but they are the exception. A dwindling flame destroys the vital and aggressive forces in church life. God must be represented by a fiery church or he is not truly represented. God is all on fire, and his church, if it be like Him, must also be aflame with the great and eternal interests of religion. Zeal need not be fussy to be consuming and forceful. Christ was as far removed as possible from nervous excitability, the very opposite of intolerant or clamorous zeal, and yet the zeal of God's house consumed him.

The lack of ardor in Christian profession or action is a sure sign of the want of depth and intensity. The lack of fire is the sure sign of the lack of God's presence. To abate fervor is to retire God. God can tolerate many things in the way of infirmity or error. He can pardon much when one is repentant, but two things are intolerable to Him, insincerity and lukewarmness. Lack of heart and lack of heat are the things that He loathes. "I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth," is God's judgment on our lack of fire in the Church. Fire is the motor that moves the Christian life. Christian principles that are not aflame have neither force nor perfume. Flame is the wing by which faith ascends, and fervency is the soul of prayer. Love is kindled in a flame, and fire is the air that true religion breathes. It feeds on fire. Christianity can stand anything better than a feeble flame.

Christian character needs to be set on fire. Lack of heat makes more infidels than lack of faith. Not to be in fiery earnest about the things of heaven is not to be about them at all. The fiery souls are the ones that win in the heavenly fight. Nothing short of red hot can keep the glow of heaven in these chilly times. We must grasp the live coal and covet the consuming flame."

"If we truly cherish God's Word, we're going to want to listen to the weightiness that it has." - My Dad's Pastor.

What should we do when we feel as if that fire's gone out, or is quenched, going out, or that we have become lukewarm? Well, we can say try not to get to that place in the first place, but truth is, it happens. We need to rekindle that fire of holy zeal the moment we notice a little coolness.

When I go camping I'm almost always the fire keeper. Been that way since I was about 12. I don't let it go out, and I've been known to put too much wood on it for comfort. there would always be coals left in the morning, and sometimes even flame amongst the coals. For me personally I need to approach my spiritual walk with Jesus as a fire keeper, and not let that flame die: keep it fervent and hot.

When Bounds says "Christian character needs to be set on fire," I imagine that glow, that shine that graced Moses face, so much so that he had to wear a veil for the glory. I've at times been told I was glowing, but never to that degree. Moses was reflecting God's glory from direct encounter on the mountain. But we can still reflect God's glory as the light of Christ shines through us. Isn't He the same yesterday, today, and forever? Does the Word say the LORD changeth not? If so, then let's not let the cold quenching of this modern ice age put out the Holy Flame!

I have to return to E.M. Bounds works here, this from The Possibilities of Prayer, 1923, as this is part of the way to have that zeal and fire he speaks of in the first quote:
"In the fearful contest in this world between God and the devil, between good and evil, and between heaven and hell, prayer is the mighty force for overcoming Satan, giving dominion over sin, and defeating hell. Only praying leaders are to be counted on in this dreadful conflict. Praying men alone are to be put to the front. These are the only sort who are able to successfully contend with all the evil forces.

The prayers of all saints are a perpetual force against all the powers of darkness. These prayers are a mighty energy in overcoming the world, the flesh and the devil, and in shaping the destiny of God's movements, to overcome evil and get the victory over the devil and all his works. The character and energy of God's movements lie in prayer. Victory is to come at the end of praying.

The wonders of God's power are to be kept alive, made real and present, and repeated only by prayer. God is not now so evident in the world, so almighty in manifestation as of old, not because miracles have passed away, nor because God has ceased to work, but because prayer has been shorn of its simplicity, its majesty, and its power. God still lives, and miracles still live while God lives and acts, for miracles are God's ways of acting. Prayer is dwarfed, withered, and petrified when faith in God is staggered by doubts of lies ability, or through the shrinking caused by fear. When faith has a telescopic far-off vision of God, prayer works no miracles, and brings no marvels of deliverance. But when God is seen by faith's closest, fullest eye, prayer makes a history of wonders."

You know someone said recently you can't multitask. Really? I'm listening to a sermon from my Dads church, reading Bounds here, E.M. Bounds - The Possibilities of Prayer: 14: The Possibilities of Prayer: 14: Wonders of God Through Prayer and typing this message. My Dads Pastor is preaching on Repentance, and it's a fiery sermon. In other words, I'm heaping wood on the fire. No video games or TV. No unwholesome music: none of the things people spend hours, WASTE hours every single day doing, and I mean professing Christians do this! Then they wonder why they struggle with sin, why they don't have that fiery zeal, why they stumble and fall all the time, and you hear them cuss and swear, and get caught up in things they ought not do, and then complain and say "I'm trying." Well, you're not trying, or maybe the problem is you are trying on your own without Him, thinking you can assist God, when God has provided all things for your salvation, and for life and godliness! Get out of the way and let Him work, cuz His fire will burn hot and purge away all that ungodly and unwholesome stuff...

And above all, when Prayer life is slack, the Holy fervor, that most vehement flame, will not be so hot. I hear people say "I pray before meals." That's it? Well, that's good. I confess, I don't pray before every meal, but sometimes partway through it. But the point is, Prayer that is coming from a tradition is often empty words, done out of habit. When you give thanks for your food, are you truly thankful for this daily bread, or are your words out of habit? Prayer needs to be personal, heartfelt, direct between you and the LORD. Praise and Thanksgiving, and intercessory, and petitioning: all these kind of prayers must be practiced, and this along with feeding on God's Word daily, and getting good solid preaching and teaching all will feed the fire.

Make your relationship with God through Jesus Christ as this: "Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame." (Song of Solomon 8:6) That's the flame of Yahweh in Hebrew, "ShelhevetYah" - most vehement flame. The way the love and the jealousy there is described is how we need to be towards our saviour, and that is a good jealousy, to be jealous for the things of God, for He is jealous for His people, and wants us exclusively in our devotions, that no other god's come between. Amen

Kokavkrystallos · Monday at 5:10 PM

(Wars & Rumors of wars)

On Thursday, May 9th, the US Embassy in Guyana reported that two U.S. Navy aircraft, F/A-18F Super Hornets, embarked on USS George Washington, conducted a coordinated and approved flyover over Georgetown and its surrounding areas.

“The exercise builds upon our routine security cooperation and expanding bilateral defense partnership with Guyana.” the Embassy said in a release.

Furthermore, the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS George Washington and Carrier Strike Group Ten are in the region as part of a two-month transit to the Pacific.

In a statement, the Guyanese government confirmed the flyover, stating, “The Government of Guyana approved the flyover of two F/A-18F Super Hornets of the United States Navy in Georgetown (…) on May 9, 2024.” It was further explained that the exercise is part of the defense cooperation agreement between Guyana and the United States, aimed at enhancing security within the ongoing cooperation program between the two countries.

The flyover of the US aircraft comes amidst the ongoing territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela over the Essequibo region, which led both countries to present their arguments before the International Criminal Court (ICC) in April.

General Vladimir Padrino López, Defense Minister of the Nicolás Maduro regime, strongly denounced Thursday’s military exercise, stating, “The Bolivarian National Armed Forces vehemently reject these repeated provocations by the Southern Command, sponsored by the government of Guyana, which has assumed the role of a new American colony. Our Comprehensive Aerospace Defense System remains activated against any attempt to violate Venezuelan geographical space, including our Essequibo Territory. Alerts!” This sentiment was echoed by Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil, who asserted that the flyover threatened the “peace zone” agreed upon between Maduro and President Irfaan Ali.

In February of this year, the US government announced an increase in its urgent military aid to Guyana, as Venezuela threatens to seize a large part of the country’s territory claimed as its own. In this context, Washington pledged to assist Guyana in acquiring new aircraft, helicopters, a fleet of military drones, and, for the first time, radar technology.

US fighter jets over Guyana send clear message to Venezuela

On Thursday, May 9th, the US Embassy in Guyana reported that two U.S. Navy aircraft, F/A-18F Super Hornets, embarked on USS George Washington, conducted a coordinated and approved flyover over Georgetown and its surrounding areas. "The exercise builds upon our routine security cooperation and...

defence-blog.com

Michie · Monday at 3:52 PM

With recent shootings in public and in churches, the question of self-defense has been coming up lately. But first, let's be clear: What we are seeing today is not a gun problem; it’s a moral problem called sin.

Vengeance Is Not Self-Defense

One Scripture often used to support pacifism and banning weapons is found in Proverbs 20:22: “Do not say, ‘I will recompense evil’; wait for the Lord, and He will save you.” But this scripture deals with vigilantism, not self-defense. According to Romans 13:4, one purpose of the authorities is to “execute wrath on him who practices evil.” They are God’s avengers, but we can be defenders.

Seek Peace When Possible

As Christians, I believe that we are to seek peace at every turn and not drape the cross with the flag. But what about self-defense as a last resort and biblical mandates to protect? The Old Testament offers many examples, but what about the New Testament? It does as well. In Matthew 26:52 Jesus says to Peter, “Put your sword back into its place. For all who take the sword will perish by the sword.” Jesus didn’t denounce the sword but clarified its place. When we take premature emotionally charged action, it may cost us our life.

Buy a Sword

Later, Jesus adds, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me?” If He had been a thief and a robber, the clubs and swords would have been justified. In my opinion, these Scriptures imply that weapons do have a place in society, although we must be careful. Additionally, in Luke 22:36, Jesus said,

“But now let the one who has a moneybag take it, and likewise a knapsack. And let the one who has no sword sell his cloak and buy one.”

What is the context of this Scripture? First, again I would err on the side of peace, but this isn’t always an option. One thing is certain: A sword was for defense. Earlier, Jesus had sent them on a peaceful mission trip where they did not need these items, but now Jesus may be implying that self-defense might become necessary. He wants them to use wisdom and be prepared.

Love Your Enemies Doesn’t Mean Hate Your Family

Continued below.

What Every Christian Should Know about Self-Defense

With recent shootings in public and in churches, the question of self-defense has been coming up lately. But first, let's be clear: What we are seeing today is not a gun problem; it’s a moral problem called sin.

www.crosswalk.com

Mr. M · Monday at 2:44 PM

James 4:
13 Come now, you who say, Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city,
spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit.
(Planning for profit serves mammon,
and interferes with serving God}
14 whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life?
It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.
15 Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.”
16 But now you boast in your pride. All such boasting is evil.
17 Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.

Worldly success leads to pride, that results in evil boasting.

Luke 16:13 No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other,
or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.

Why does James conclude with the notion that failure to do good is sin?
The long range planning for profit that he is concerned with often involves
a commitment of resources. To hold back charity because of investments for profits
is the very same pursuit of wealth which Paul warns:
1 Timothy 6:
9 But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish
and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition.
10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from
the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

Do you find yourself talking about success in business?
"All such boasting is evil."

Kiril · Monday at 5:41 PM

How true are these words about the Evangelical Churches?

Baptists are followers of the radical reformation.

Theological Liberalism Takes Over Mainstream Churches.

Conservative Christians Flock to Evangelical Churches (including Baptist).

jayem · Monday at 2:52 PM

In 2021, Missouri passed the "Second Amendment Preservation Act" to make federal gun restrictions illegal in the state and bar officials from enforcing any law that would "infringe" upon the right to "bear arms." It also allows "any person" to sue state law-enforcement agencies who don't comply with state law.

The federal government sued, contending that the state law unconstitutionally usurped federal law and made it impossible for federal authorities in the state to carry out their enforcement duties.

Supreme Court leaves Missouri's 'Second Amendment Preservation Act' blocked and in limbo

Missouri's law was blocked by the 8th Circuit, and the state appealed to SCOTUS. Which, by an 8-1 margin, has just upheld the 8th Circuit ruling. Justice Thomas being the only vote in state's favor. SCOTUS is finally showing some sanity. And upholding Article VI, Clause 2 of the Constitution:

This Constitution, and the Laws of the United States which shall be made in Pursuance thereof; and all Treaties made, or which shall be made, under the Authority of the United States, shall be the supreme Law of the Land; and the Judges in every State shall be bound thereby, any Thing in the Constitution or Laws of any State to the Contrary notwithstanding.