6 FALSE TEACHINGS BRINGS DECEPTIVE DARKNESS INTO THE CHURCH - CHARISMA MAGAZINE

Nevertheless, if we want to be faithful followers of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in this day and age, we must be alert and ready to boldly stand against the spirit of the age. (Public Domain)

Since that very moment in the Garden of Eden when a single bite shattered the harmony of the world, man has tried to make his own way, be his own master, and set up his own kingdom. It's nothing new.

Nevertheless, if we want to be faithful followers of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in this day and age, we must be alert and ready to boldly stand against the spirit of the age that seeks to modify the message of Christ, undermine His power to set us free from sin, repaint Christ's picture to make Him more acceptable to a wayward generation and rewrite the gospel to remove the offense of the cross.

For the last 2,000 years, the church has been plagued with heresy after heresy seeking to tame the gospel, and today is no different. Here are just a few of the popular beliefs in our current culture that threaten to infiltrate the church:

1. Universalism: the belief that all people will be saved or that all ways lead to God and eternal life. Many who subscribe to this theology claim that, for instance, Christians and Muslim worship the same God.
2. The Prosperity Gospel: the belief that God's primary concern is for believers to be healthy and wealthy. If Christians are sick, suffering or poor, it is because of sin or a lack of faith.
3. The New Age Movement: a belief system of Eastern influence that emphasizes universal tolerance and doing what feels good (moral relativism). It contends that man is divine and can create his own reality and identity. 
4. Legalism: the improper use of the law described in Scripture to try to attain or maintain salvation. Legalism also fosters judgment of fellow Christians for not adhering to one's own ideas of holiness rather than encouraging them to imitate Christ, obeying God's standards as explicitly outlined in Scripture.
5. Hyper-grace: the overreaction to legalism, resulting in abuse of God's grace. Believers find themselves drawn to the modern hyper-grace movement because they are looking for freedom not just from legalism, but also from God's standards.
6. The Emerging Church: a movement that claims to be Christian but employs culturally sensitive methods to make the gospel more palatable to a postmodern culture. Jesus' life is treated more as an allegory or narrative rather than a true event. Of particular concern is the inclusive approach to various belief systems, an emphasis on emotions over absolute truth and the notion that there is no hell, judgment or need for forgiveness. The Emerging Church movement also glorifies honesty and confession, but without repentance.

Behind all these false ideologies is the belief that Scripture is not infallible and truth simply changes with the times. A 2014 Gallup poll revealed that:

• 22 percent of Americans believe the Bible is the actual Word of God and should be taken literally
• 28 percent believe it is the actual Word of God, but with multiple possible interpretations
• 28 percent believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God but should not be taken literally
• 18 percent believe it is an ancient book of legends, history and moral precepts written by man

How do we respond to such false teachings as they arise within the church? We preach Christ. We reinforce biblical doctrine, clinging to the highest authority—the Word of God. For "The god of this world has blinded the minds of those who do not believe, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them. For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord" (2 Cor. 4:4-5a). 

We preach Christ who was promised by God back in Genesis. We preach Christ, who was born of a virgin. We preach Christ, who healed the sick, raised the dead, made the lame to walk and set the captives free. We preach Christ, who chose to die a criminal's death on the cross in order to set us free from sin. We preach Christ, who rose victoriously from the grave, never to die again, thus assuring everyone who places their trust in Him of eternal life with Him in heaven. We preach Christ, who will come again to judge the living and the dead.

So we can say:

1. To the universalists: No one will be saved apart from Jesus Christ. Only those who choose to repent and call on the name of Jesus will have eternal life (see Acts 4:12, Matt. 25:46, Heb. 9:27, John 14:6). 
2. To heralds of the prosperity gospel: Jesus promised us that we will suffer, but that He is with us and has overcome the world (see John 16:33, Rom. 5:3-5, 2 Tim. 3:12, Luke 14:27).
3. To the new agers: There is only one sovereign God, Creator of all things (see Is. 55:8-9, Job 12:10, Heb. 2:5-10).
4. To legalists: If righteousness were attainable through the law, Christ would not have had to die (see Matt. 7:22-23; Gal.2:21; Rom. 3:10-12, 28; James 2:10). We are justified by faith in Jesus Christ's singular work on the cross, and even this faith is a gift from God not achieved by our own efforts (see Rom. 4:5, Eph. 2:8). And we are not to judge our brothers and sisters in Christ on debatable issues (see Rom. 14:1-12).
5. To proponents of hyper-grace: God's grace has freed us from the bondage of sin, but we should not receive His sacrifice in vain (see Rom. 6:23, Heb. 10:26-29). We must repent and seek to live under the lordship of Christ, seeking holiness through the power of the Holy Spirit (see 1 Pet. 1:13-16, 2:11-12, 16; Rom. 5:20-6:18).
6. To the emerging church: If we dilute the gospel, then we no longer have Good News to share (see Gal. 1:8-9, 1 Cor. 15:1-4, Ex. 20:3-6, John 8:24). Only Christ can break the chains of sin, set the captives free and conform us to His image (see 1 John 5:3-5, Phil. 3:7-9, Gal. 5:16).

Brothers and sisters in Christ, arm yourselves with the Word of God. Know your Bible and speak the truth in love. In this way, may we remain faithful by the power of the Holy Spirit. 

This article originally appeared on Leading The Way. 

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PROPHECY UNCOVERED - INTERESTING COMMENTARY

BY BRENDA ALEXANDER (EXCEPT FOR VIDEO AND PICTURES
My words or this post has been freely given; freel give.  You need no permission

I listened to this and while I'm not sure if he is right but COULD he have a very valid point? I like open and honest dialogues but unless we're willing to look at other's thoughts and get out of our doctrinal boxes, stop being so dogmatic you miss something major but...mostly risking to step out in faith.  Otherwise I fear false teachings can be spread or just as bad, truth can be overlooked. I am not endorsing him but nor am I dismissing his point of view (POV) either.  We must be good Bereans and search the scriptures to see if these things are true but to do that, we MUST hear what is being taught.  We can't remain ignorant.

The Bible foretold that in the end times, there would be an explosion of knowledge. I feel quite confident that the internet was at least the very beginning but it not only means "secular" or "worldly" knowledge but Spiritual knowledge and previously misinterpreted or unclear prophecies would no doubt become obvious.

What IS prophecy? Is it a crystal ball we look into to see the future? Yes, in many cases it obviously is, especially Daniel and and NT books such Matthew, Luke, most of Paul's books and, of course the big one...Revelation.  We must admit some are vague and can apply to many historic books.  I either heard a sermon or read a very informative article on what is, and what is NOT, prophecy really given for.  Rarely do I find YHWH does something for just one reason.  It said that it is given for one reason so that each generation will see fulfillment of prophecy and thus prove the infallibility and accuracy of God's word.  That makes sense.  But, of course, especially in Daniel, we are told to seal up the book, that until this prophecy is starting, we are blinded to it.  Now that is just an opinion and God wants us to seek His Word and to watch.  The closer we come, the more insights we will be given.  John used words only he knew how to use.  He could not imagine the U.S.A., nuclear weapons, airplanes, rockets, helicopters, the evils of the world, maybe even chemical warfare.  He used the word "like" many times.  

I am going to be sharing many Bible studies from Bible.org on Revelation and when you link the 4 horsemen of the Apocolypse, read OT prophecy, it will bring on a very clear, concise and amazing POV and true knowledge of what John is saying.  What it does not do is link it to world events of today.  It simply tells you what the horses and their colors signify.  You are then free to look at today's world and see what you believe.  Each day we're closer.

Also, I watched a great secular/faith combined video, very positive for a change even though it was political, he said something that instantly made clear a verse I'd struggled with and that's when the veil of the temple was torn into at the death of Jesus.  I didn't get it.  Nor did I spend much time thinking about but God knows our needs.  

I also was told to listen for "prophetic slips" in videos of all kinds.  I don't know if it was intentional but I'm hearing these said a lot, even and especially in worldly or secular videos, especially in news, including the far left lying and deceptive media.  Pay attention.  It's quite amazing to hear.  It's especially awesome in worldview videos because God is making His Word known and unblinding as many as will.  Many Christians feel we shouldn't get into the political world and it's nasty but the Second Advent has everything to do with politics and powers, kingdoms and oppressive governments.  If you ignore what is going on, you are going to be overtaken by the "thief in the night."

Listen, see if you think he may be on to something or can we prove by scripture he is wrong so that false teachers are exposed and no one is lead astray.  We will hear things and others will hear something different.  We MUST come together.  Stay grounded in God's Word, learn to discern and we be ready and our lamps full of oil.  Be blessed and listen.  It's only about 18 minutes long.  We gotta be in the know and ready at all times.  Comments are welcome.  

SPREAD THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION BY YESHUA AH MESSIACH

First Corinthians 15:1-11

John 3:16-17

Ephesians 2:8-9

Romans 3:23 and 6:23

ISAIAH 53 - SHOULD BE A 5TH GOSPEL

Be full of God's love and grace forever until forever!

THE ADVOCATE - OUR DAILY BREAD DAILY DEVOTIONAL

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If anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.—1 John 2:1

From a Florida prison cell in June 1962, Clarence Earl Gideon wrote a note asking the United States Supreme Court to review his conviction for a crime he said he didn’t commit. He added that he didn’t have the means to hire a lawyer.

One year later, in the historic case of Gideon v. Wainright, the Supreme Court ruled that people who cannot afford the cost of their own defense must be given a public defender—an advocate—provided by the state. With this decision, and with the help of a court-appointed lawyer, Clarence Gideon was retried and acquitted.

But what if we are not innocent? According to the apostle Paul, we are all guilty. But the court of heaven provides an Advocate who, at God’s expense, offers to defend and care for our soul (1 John 2:2). On behalf of His Father, Jesus comes to us offering a freedom that even prison inmates have described as better than anything they’ve experienced on the outside. It is a freedom of heart and mind.

Whether suffering for wrongs done by us or to us, we all can be represented by Jesus. By the highest of authority He responds to every request for mercy, forgiveness, and comfort.

Jesus, our Advocate, can turn a prison of lost hope, fear, or regret into the place of His presence. —Mart DeHaan

Father in heaven, please help us to know what it means to have the freedom of Your love and presence. May we experience this freedom even in places that we have only seen as our confinement!

The one who died as our substitute now lives as our advocate.

INSIGHT: John encourages us to be honest about ourselves. Actually, his words are more of a warning than they are encouragement. Writing to a struggling church, John reminds his readers that we all struggle with sin and the claim that we don’t struggle has several drastic consequences: We deceive ourselves, the truth is not in us (1 John 1:8), we make God out to be a liar, and His word is not in us (v. 10). But John’s point is not a downer. Those warnings surround a very familiar promise. Our sins do not keep us from God—because when we acknowledge (confess) them, we are forgiven for them (v. 9). What do you need to confess as sin and then trust that God has forgiven? J.R. Hudberg

Share your thoughts on today’s devotional on Facebook or odb.org.

JUST GOD OR YWVY

Should we say God or YWVY?

In today's world, I hear God being used by many different religions.  First, I don't view being a Christian as being "religious" in any way.  So when we say "God," the world (unbelievers) don't have much of an issue with this because God's name is thrown around like, well, the word "like."  Muslims call their god God.  Should we, as Christians, use the word God when talking about the Most High?  I use to and in my home I do but more and more I find myself using the Name of God as YWVY and Jesus Christ as Yeshua ah Messiach.  I doubt seriously it matters to Him but as for me, I have found using His Name draws me closer to Him.  I also like others knowing to whom I am referring.  I want to be "set apart."

Now I realize that Jehovah's Witnesses will say I'm only to use the name "Jehovah" but there is a major problem with that name.  To my knowledge, there is no "J" sound in any form of Hebrew or Aramaic, the most ancient form of Hebrew which was spoken by Yeshua,  Jehovah is a combination of Elohim and Adenoi OR it is just another spelling of Yah or Yahwey (which we really do not know exactly how to pronounce) which is actually spelled YWVY OR YWYW.  So by that should we even use the American name "Jesus" with a "J" sound?  

I'm not a Jehovah's Witness nor align myself with either the Sacred Name or Hebrew Roots Movements.  This is a dark world with the vast majority of it being secular or atheists.  I'm seeing things today that sure seem to be fulfilling prophecy.  2016 was the first year in history where Christians were the most martyred group of people.  That doesn't include the tortured, imprisoned or persecuted but only those killed.  

Is this dangerous?  It could be, I won't lie but I do believe in today's world we should be very specific on Who we stand for.  So as for me and my house, I will serve YWVY!  May He bless all as salvation is for everyone, not limited to sex, race, creed or national origin.  Everyone on earth can be saved by trusting and belief that Yeshua ah Messiach (Jesus Christ) is Lord and our God and Messiah.  BTW, Yeshua means "salvation."

Let the earth declare His glory!

PLEASE READ

YWVY bless you all.  I hope you're having a blessed weekend and safe.  Be full of grace and show mercy and compassion.

I've worked very hard on my blog but in December, I began to doubt that I was being of any use to anyone.  It feels as if I'm doing this in vain.  No one ever makes comments nor is it ever shared.  I stopped because I needed a break from the computer for Spiritual and personal reasons.  It had nothing to do with me falling away but more to grow closer to Jesus Christ one-on-one without man.  I am happy to say it has worked out well for me but I'm not sure if I should continue doing this blog if it's not helping anyone.  I want to spread the Gospel to the world or at least to as many as will receive it and also to have some fun and to support and encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus.  I also, of course, like to have fun and laugh.  Laughter is a good gift from God I fear today we have few chances to use.  So, do you guys want me to continue my blog?  Are you willing to share it or to put a link to mine on yours or your website; recommend it on other social media sites or to people looking for answers or a place to enjoy and learn?  If not, then maybe I should find another way.  I love doing it but if it's just for my own edification, no.  

If you want me to do it and are willing to help me spread it cos I cannot do it without you, then comment or say yes but don't just 1+ it.  I need to hear from you that you are reading it.  Also, I'm more than willing to post your writings on here if you want me to as long as they are Biblical and go by the Gospel of Grace and GRACE alone.  It must line up with the Gospel According to Christ Jesus in First Corinthians 15:1-11.  This is not nor will ever be a "works oriented" blog ("For ye are saved by GRACE and not of yourselves.  It is a gift of God.  Not of WORKS NOR DEEDS lest any man should boast - Eph. 2:8-9).  Now this is not to say I do not encourage and believe in good works cos I do, very much so.  I also encourage people to get baptized as it IS an act of OBEDIENCE but not for salvation.  

If you preach a different Gospel, you are not teaching the RIGHT Gospel and if your Gospel includes you must speak in tongues, I fear you may be turning people away.  I've heard this from many who have gone to these churches, seen people running around, convulsing in the floor and have left, saying they won't no part of that.  

Here is my belief...lead people to Jesus Christ and then let the Holy Spirit do what He does best and lead that person on their journey.  If given any gift of the Spirit, they will know it.  I also believe that if the gift of tongue is needed, it will be given but only if needed as the Gospel and languages are learned today.  It was given so that the Gospel could go out but today, we have that ability.  If gifts are given, maybe they're given to each as needed at various times in their life as the Holy Spirit gives.  Besides, it's not us that has the ability to heal, prophecy, perform miracles, it is the Holy Spirit.  

I want to continue my blog but I'd rather do something to edify the Church and bring honor and glory to YWVY and Christ Jesus than for it to be for my enjoyment.  It is up to you.  If I get no responses to this post, I have my answer.  I hope and pray I get many.  

Much love to all in Yeshua Ah Messiach!

JESUS IN EVERY BOOK FROM GENESIS TO REVELATION -- AWESOME LITTLE BOY!!!

We should all have this passion for Jesus Christ!  Be blessed and watch.  Prepare to be amazed at this little boy.  And a little child shall lead them......

CLICK HERE - JESUS IN EVERY BOOK OF THE BIBLE

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO FEAR GOD? - BY GOT QUESTIONS?

Question: "What does it mean to have the fear of God?"

Answer: For the unbeliever, the fear of God is the fear of the judgment of God and eternal death, which is eternal separation from God (Luke 12:5; Hebrews 10:31). For the believer, the fear of God is something much different. The believer's fear is reverence of God. Hebrews 12:28-29 is a good description of this: “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our ’God is a consuming fire.’” This reverence and awe is exactly what the fear of God means for Christians. This is the motivating factor for us to surrender to the Creator of the Universe.

Proverbs 1:7 declares, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge.” Until we understand who God is and develop a reverential fear of Him, we cannot have true wisdom. True wisdom comes only from understanding who God is and that He is holy, just, and righteous. Deuteronomy 10:12, 20-21 records, “And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul. Fear the LORD your God and serve him. Hold fast to him and take your oaths in his name. He is your praise; he is your God, who performed for you those great and awesome wonders you saw with your own eyes.” The fear of God is the basis for our walking in His ways, serving Him, and, yes, loving Him.

Some redefine the fear of God for believers to “respecting” Him. While respect is definitely included in the concept of fearing God, there is more to it than that. A biblical fear of God, for the believer, includes understanding how much God hates sin and fearing His judgment on sin—even in the life of a believer. Hebrews 12:5-11 describes God’s discipline of the believer. While it is done in love (Hebrews 12:6), it is still a fearful thing. As children, the fear of discipline from our parents no doubt prevented some evil actions. The same should be true in our relationship with God. We should fear His discipline, and therefore seek to live our lives in such a way that pleases Him.

Believers are not to be scared of God. We have no reason to be scared of Him. We have His promise that nothing can separate us from His love (Romans 8:38-39). We have His promise that He will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). Fearing God means having such a reverence for Him that it has a great impact on the way we live our lives. The fear of God is respecting Him, obeying Him, submitting to His discipline, and worshipping Him in awe.

Recommended Resource: Knowing God by J.I. Packer

THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION AND THE HOLY SPIRIT - FIRST CORINTHIANS 15:1-11

Just wanted to say a quick hello and tell you all I hope you have a happy, safe and blessed weekend.  I'm working on a special project for next week that is taking up a lot of my time but I'm hoping will be a blessing and helpful to you.  It's going to take up a lot of time reading, listening, asking questions and getting real and true answers so that I can be more effective in spreading the Gospel and help by supporting you who are able to get out there and do the hard work.  Right now I am in more of a "supportive-type" situation but am a warrior for the Gospel-in-training situation too.  I am going to get out there and really spread God's Word by learning, praying and crocheting scarves and blankets for the homeless and those who are in need.  Today, we are all in need, be it physical, mental or Spiritual. 

So, while I may not seem very active, I am even more active than before.  I plan to start writing my own articles, finding and sharing awesome videos and also just simply honoring Jesus Christ in every single thing I do and say.  I will be addressing what some issues and you may not always agree on my position and that is fine!  We don't have to agree on the rapture, how God created the earth, and so many of the things that are dividing the one TRUE church, the Body of Christ.  For instance, is baptism NECESSARY for salvation?  No but should you be?  I would definitely do it again and I may, I haven't decided yet.  It's not necessary to be saved but it is an act of obedience and it's just my personal opinion that if you're not willing (notice I did not say unable) to do this simple commandment that is so safe and an awesome experience, then you may not be as willing to obey the harder ones.  However, the Gospel of Christ Jesus in First Corinthians 15:1-11 specifically says (and upheld in Ephesians 2:8-9) that all that one must do is believe and trust that Jesus Christ is God, that He died for us, was buried, resurrected and rose again.  He ascended into Heaven and we were given the "Comforter" which is better known as "the Holy Spirit" on the Day of Pentacost, a one-time event, never to have occurred again.  

Also, another doctrine that claim one must speak in tongues to prove you've received the Holy Spirit is also another misinterpreted and misunderstood part of scripture.  The Holy Bible tells you that the gift of the Holy Spirit is free and given upon salvation.  Baptism would mean you have to "do" something or "work" to receive a free gift.  Then it could not ever be considered free but earned and that's where Ephesians 2:8-9 should clear that up nicely.

You must understand how to rightfully divide the Word of God and understand that the Book of Acts is a transitional book and so full of information, confusion,change and finally agreement when Peter is given the vision that it was time for the Gospel to be spread to the Gentiles and when Jesus Christ Himself chose Paul to Apostleship.  Peter was the main minister to the Jews, whereas Paul was the main minister to the Gentiles.  One MUST understand when either are talking to Jews or Gentiles.  Many of the signs were for the Jews only, such as speaking in tongues, signs and wonders, the other Spiritual gifts given to those on that day, including healing.

I am a cessationalist and believe that in First Corinthians 13:10 it is clear that the Spiritual gifts will cease when the Holy Scripture was written when John wrote Revelation.  Paul refers to it as an 'IT" rather than "HE" so Paul is not speaking of a person or, as some believe, the return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  That does not mean I don't believe that the Spiritual gifts are never given, as I do believe that if needed, the are given but may not always be present.  I may be given the gift of healing through prayer by the Holy Spirit on a certain day but does not mean I can heal anyone.  It is as God chooses to use to show His presence and power to this really unbelieving generation.  

However, if you believe in your heart you have the gift of speaking in a secret language, who am I to say you are wrong?  I've said a few words I didn't understand but did I speak in tongues?  Only God knows and if I was found worthy for Him to show Himself to me in that way, I am truly blessed.  However, I do not have that gift.  I have a discerning spirit though but it sort of comes and goes but the more I pray for strength in that gift, the greater it becomes.  I've made statements I thought "where did that come from" that happened but am I a prophet?  No.  Did God give me this information?  I would not ever say that.  I also know I am not what some call "psychic."  I have never and never will dabble with the occult.  Maybe at various times, when needed, the Holy Spirit gives us the Spiritual gifts as He sees need.  

My point is, why part of this gospel is not true, it does contain the entire Gospel of salvation but adds to it.  The Gospel is simply that you trust and believe that Jesus Christ is God and He DID IT ALL.  IT IS FINISHED.  You are saved if you believe this.  Do good works, speak in tongues if you feel you have that gift, get baptized, do whatever you want to do but just rely only on Jesus Christ for your salvation and realize there is nothing you can do, say, feel or think of yourself that will ever "save" you.  Only our Messiah, Jesus/Yeshua, can do that.  However, the worst thing we can do to another person is to add to that.  Lead them to the Cross and let go and LET GOD.  He is the author and finisher of our salvation.  

I've talked to many people who have been to Pentacostal churches and loved the fire, the Spirit and love the people exhibit BUT when they feel confused, scared and think if they get saved they'll convulse on the floor, talk incoherently, and even some bark like dogs, it turns them away.  IF God chooses to give them that gift, they will get it.  He gives as He gives utterance.  Speaking in tongues is the least of the Spiritual gifts so you are to pray for the better gift and as Paul says in First Corinthians 13, LOVE IS THE GREATEST GIFT.  Lead them to the Cross and Jesus Christ takes over.  Your job is done!  You are saved because we are saved by grace!!!  Let us never again be divided or turn others away from the love of the One and Only Living God...Father, Son and Holy Spirit!

Be blessed and FULL OF GRACE!

TO A FRIEND...GOD BLESS YOU AND HAPPY ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR (A STORY OF OVERCOMING

I must apologize once again.  I am so full of excuses that I fear you are starting to think I'm lying.  I was finally all set to go tonight to start back working on my blogs, visiting my communities by sharing and posting (especially reading your posts), even going to my F/B Christian pages and posting comments on a reasonable and normal basis.  Let me be honest, the main reason I have not been on here since early December is because for about a year or more, I devoted almost every waking moment to the internet.  It was as Christ-centered as possible but I also got drawn into what I hate most and that's politics.  I never before cared as I figured one was as good/bad as the other.  I voted some and sometimes I didn't.  I knew nothing about them and cared even less.  For a long time, that was fine but as we've seen, apathy breeds immorality and evil.  We fell asleep and didn't keep watch and look at what we have today.  I am speaking ONLY of the "gay marriage law" here BUT not in the way one may think as this is to honor 2 amazing people I know and one of overcoming physical lusts and being right with God.  

One, we are not of this world even though we live in it.  In the Bible, "the world" is referring to unbelievers and not the true "Church" or the Body of Christ.  We are not forced by this law to marry our own gender.  Should we "celebrate" it, I don't believe it's a simple yes or no.  However, the world is trying to force us into celebrating, condoning it and even performing the ceremony.  I believe they are 100% wrong in deliberately targeting Christians because it is persecution of the Church, nothing more/nothing less and it's that simple except in a very few cases (see Kim Davies and Google search other targeting of Christian bakers, florists, etc.).  However, I know a gay man whose love for God and Christ Jesus was much more important to him to him than his "lusts" for other men.  One of the BEST and most Christian female friend I ever had was in love with him.  He was determined to do whatever it took to overcome what he knew to be an "abomination unto God," as he put it.  

Looking back, I want to kick my own rear end.  I was always a believer but I sure lived like the world.  I begged her to leave him alone and go find someone who would love her back.  She was awesome.  She loved my kids as much as I did and she had my full permission to override ME if she felt I was too strict or lenient.  She could discipline my kids however she saw fit (and she popped their rear end a few times and hands but her discipline was always appropriate and righteous).  Not many mothers would ever allow a young baby to call another woman another form of "mommy" and be okay with it but they did and I told them to call her that.  At times, they'd prefer her for comfort although they always knew who MOMMY was.  She lived with my husband and I and she asked only for $30/week IF we had it.  Of course we paid all of her expenses and I always gave her money beyond that $30 whenever she needed it.  She liked different foods than we did, we made sure we bought them for her.  She liked German food, we didn't but boy could she cook.  She was my only support.  I plan to find her this week and reconnect.  I'm tired of missing her but I walked away because of shame on my part.

Onn.K. (her initials then), I miss you.  Thank God you listened to Him and not me.  I am so sorry for any pain I caused you when I did laugh at your "stupidity" in loving a gay man behind your back.  I did it to your face and you knew I said it to others.  I said nothing behind your back I didn't say to your face but that is my only saving grace.  By the way, I'm not sure what day your anniversary will be or how many 10+ years you guys will have been married but...HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!  IT IS A GOD-BLESSED MARRIAGE.  I pray you have many, many more years.

You both are an inspiration to many of us.  Love is...patient, kind, enduring, never boastful, not proud, love endures all things.  Love wins.  You were patient, kind, persevered, you ran the race and won it.  You married the man you loved, who loved YOU more than many because he first loved God and Christ Jesus.  I don't know or care if he slipped, I know he overcame and if not for God's call first and your willingness to obey Him and stand by your love on earth but you saved him from a life of guilt, shame, and sin.  There is no shame in needing human help.  That's why we're here, we ARE our brother's keepers.  I think you and he should write a book to inspire other young men and women who have these feelings but yet want to be right with God.  Overcoming is not ever easy and rarely do we not slip but it's the determination and willingness to sacrifice your "wants and needs" to be right with Him.  I think of you often, I pray for you but not sure you need my prayers but rather me needing yours.  If by any chance you see this, my email is WorthyistheLamb737@aol.com or yahoo.com.  Same first part.  Email me and I'll send you my phone number.  I cannot remember your new last name.

Yahwey God bless you both and anyone who is gay and needs help, I know this couple very well and if you contact me, I bet they'll help you.  Now on to Part Two.

+ + + GOSPEL OF SALVATION BY CHRIST JESUS + + +

First Corinthians 15:1-11

THE BEAUTY OF GOD IN NYC DURING AN EVIL AND UNGODLY ACT - 9/11/01

FYI,

I have been told by many I should learn to become a writer.  I have zero self-confidence and even though I love to write, I am not a wordsmith and my grammar is, well, not very good.  I don't know fancy words but then I thought about it and who wants to read an article or book where they need a dictionary to understand it?  I sure don't.  I don't have the money to go to school so guess what, I'm going to learn to write and you are going to be my readers, lol.  So you know, I am very open to CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM.  Oh, and no sandwiches either.  A "criticism sandwich" is when you first say something GOOD, then you tell them what you see wrong, and then you either end there with something good OR turn it into a "criticism CLUB sandwich," in which then I will "club" you over the head with it, lol.  I will be using my sense of humor a lot, scripture and my own personal opinions and experiences.  I don't need coddling and if you see something wrong, tell me.  Also realize I'm new and one at a time, please.  Also, you have to learn my "style" of writing as it is more casual than formal and more conversational.  I am not aspiring to rewrite War and Peace or the next best-seller.  I enjoy writing both fictional stories, faith-based articles and songs/poetry.  I don't want accolades or praise, nor do I plan to write for money, although I do hope to write something of value worthy to be published for the glory of God.  I have never dreamed of wealth and to be honest, it feels like it would be more of a curse to me than a blessing.  I want enough with extra to give but I have never been high maintenance.  I love thrift stores, Dollar stores and Dollar Generals.  I really love flea markets and yard sales.  Okay, here goes...

The Beauty of God in NYC in a Very Evil and UnGodly Act (9/11/2001 NYC)
Written by:  Brenda Alexander
January 21, 2017

I am a 56 year old Christian woman, married to David for 28 years now.  Oh, the first years were both good and bad.  We had a very rough spot in the middle that, to be honest, tear 95% of marriages apart.  It wasn't about the big 3...money, cheating or sex.  It was about loss of children in a custody battle, not death but separation of thousands of miles and basically having your heart ripped out.  To say I was mad at God was an understatement but without Him, I'd never have made it through.  However, I was also blessed and I learned that family has nothing to do with blood.  Family is all about love.  There's a saying that goes "friends are better than family because you get to choose your friends."  Well, I have to say that I have found many times over that this is more true than you may realize.  While I love my blood family dearly, I am actually much closer to my friends than my family.  I was always the "odd man out."  I was so sure I was adopted that one day I went hunting down my birth certificate to PROVE I did not belong to "those people."  I am polar opposite of every singe one of them except my grandmother.  I never belonged and I don't today.  I am fine with that.  Family can be very toxic and sometimes God may call you to get away from them.  He did that to me and today, although for 2 1/2 years I have never understood why He brought me to this horrible place where I was so miserable but today, I thank Him repeatedly for it.  His ways are infinitely better than mine.  I am glad to be away from those crazy people, lol.  All kidding aside, I do love them but truth be told, we have not a thing in common.  Not one thing but my friends, ah we have so much fun and yes, we disagree all the time but they build me up, support me and even tell me the truth.  How novel!   They do not coddle me or sooth my feelings.  One comes right out and tells me I've lost my mind if I think to highly of my own thoughts!  I love my hand-picked family as much as my blood one.

After our loss but during the custody battle, God blessed us with our marriage going from not speaking to being unable to keep our hands off each other.  He got a new job and we traveled to 37 or 38 states.  I've been to every state on the east coast and as far west as Arizona, to Fargo of all places but 2 of the most memorable were one, I was in NYC 4 days after 9/11.  I'd been there 4 years earlier, loved it but very emotionally cold and distant.  I saw the worst of man and the beauty of God that day.  People were hugging, crying, praying and doing whatever they possibly could to bring comfort.  Strangers were reaching out to everyone.  Flowers and candles were everywhere.  People came to me with pictures asking me if I'd seen this person and to have to say no, I was just visiting was THE hardest thing I've ever had to say.  I literally wanted to scream.  Yes, literally.  I don't like saying no ever but to say it then was pure, unadulterated hell on earth.  To see this flash of hope for a second to see it go away in a flash would bring the hardest of hearts to its knees.  Yet still, His beauty shined through.  I was not living for Him yet I have never felt His presence in quite the same way.  I begged the people guarding the area to let me go dig but nothing I said worked.  That's all I wanted to do but they wouldn't risk my life because it was so unstable.  I felt unworthy, helpless and in total despair.

So much evil.  The smoke could be seen hundreds of miles away.  There was a layer of dust an inch deep 8 to 10 blocks away.  Yet the sun shined.  God was there.  I saw ordinary men and women who became extraordinary.  I saw a broken, heartless city turn into a city of LOVE in less than 10 minutes.  Race, creed, sexual orientation or national origin did not matter that day.  It wasn't a Muslim attack that day.  It wasn't a conspiracy theory and there was mass confusion and chaos but for a short time, that fled away and love, grace, mercy, compassion, empathy, sympathy, kindness, humility, and while the absolute worst of humanity could be seen forever, the overwhelming presence of our Creator,our Father Yahwey in Heaven and Christ Jesus outshone it all.  I saw tears, fears, hope and love.  

Nine-Eleven changed the world in very profound ways.  I don't know the truth but I don't think we've been told the truth.  I have some thoughts and all are based on what is clearly seen, not guesses.  However, no matter what satan attempted to do, he didn't win.  He never will and if you choose his side, he'll take you down with him.  He doesn't love you.  God does.  His yoke is easy and His burden is light.  Sin weighs you down and kills you.  Choose life!   Choose to believe and trust that Jesus Christ is Lord and your Savior to be saved.  That's all.  It's that hard and that easy.  The battle is over and it's been won on Calvary!

YOU ARE FOREVER REMEMBERED!

GOD BLESS ALL FAMILIES AND REST IN BLESSED PEACE!

God bless you all and much love in Christ Jesus,
Brenda Alexander
WorthyistheLamb737@aol.com

MY PRAYER

Dear Yahwey, my Father in Heaven,

In all that I say and do, I pray I bring glory and honor to your most Holiest Name.  You sustain me, You love me and sometimes You chasten me.  Most times You bless me even though I don't deserve it but that's because You raise me up to be the best I can be.

I pray for forgiveness and I pray for the grace to forgive anyone who hurts me.  I pray for those who hate me for Your Name that they may be unblinded to the Truth of Jesus Christ, my Lord, my Savior, my reason to breathe.

Today I witnessed Your grace first-hand.  My prayers were heard and answered.  To my knowledge, no one was killed today because of the horrors and shame of the last year.  I feel as if You extended grace back to America even though we went against Israel.  I pray that our allegiance to Israel has been finally restored.  I also pray Your Name will be honored in our public square once again.

Your grace is amazing, Your love is something no human words can describe.  If tomorrow everything falls away, Your Word stands forever and I got to witness Your love in action today once again.  In Jesus Christ's Name I pray to you, my Father, who art in Heaven!

HEBREW WORD OF THE DAY

Traffic Light...

Stop and pray

Slow down and be patient

Go spread the Gospel of Salvation - First Corinthians 15:1-11

God Bless and Shalom

BEST INSPIRATIONAL VIDEO IN A LONG, LONG TIME - MUST SEE!!!!

One of the best, most inspirational videos I've ever seen.  Go grab tissues, toilet paper or hubby/wife's sleeve cos if you have a heart, you're gonna need it.  It's about 10 minutes long but you MUST watch every single second.  God is alive and well!  We knew that but....

NOW THE WORLD WILL.  BE BLESSED, SAVE AND HAPPY!

INSPIRATIONAL, HEARTWARMING AND MUST SEE VIDEO

EPHESIANS 2:8-9 = GRACE!

"For ye are SAVED by GRACE through Faith and NOT of YOURSELF.  It is a GIFT OF GOD.  NOT of works (nor deeds) lest ANY man should BOAST."

IF there be any verse in the Bible I love more than the others, this one (along with Romans 8:28) has got to be my favorite.  Here is why...

We all sin and fall short of the glory of God.  That's Romans 3:28, btw.  We serve a righteous and HOLY God Yahwey.  I know that there is nothing I can do, say, think or feel that would ever meet HIS standards of righteousness.  I'd go to hell as fast as a speeding bullet, even if I obeyed every singe law written 99.99999% of the time.  I'd pretty much have to live in total isolation but I'm positive I'd still sin.  My own standards of righteousness, which aren't very high to be honest (I tend to have loopholes in mine, lol but God does NOT), I am unable to even come close to them and I'm a human.  If I can't achieve my own "reasonable" degree of holiness and righteousness, I'll never meet Yahwey's.  It's that simple.  

See, right now I'm not real pleased with my attitude.  I am very much first and foremost a Christian, then a wife, mother of 5 grown kids, mommy to 3 pet babies, a very caring and giving person and can forgive anyone but myself.  Somewhere in that list I am also extremely conservative politically.  I also know what I am not.  I'm not a racist, bigot, homophobe, xenophobe, deplorable and I am certainly not unredeemable but even more important, I KNOW I am not nor ever will be on this side of Heaven, be perfect.  Paul said he was the "chief of sinners."  Well, Paul never met me, lol.  

It has been a very hard year.  The country, church, friends and family are so divided today.  I will be honest, it is extremely annoying to see these "young to old adults" throwing temper tantrums, wailing at the unfairness of it all, screaming for violence, DOING violent acts, etc.  It is driving me INSANE.  That's one reason I DID take time off the computer.  I had had enough.  It's OVER.  We have a new president, Donald J. Trump, and like it or not, there is nothing you can or should even attempt to do anything about.  If you are anti-Trump, God doesn't give up on you, don't judge Trump or look at what he may or may not have done in the past.  Remove the board out of your own eye first...remember???  The only thing that matters now is what he does and doesn't do starting today.  Do not fear, he will be THE most watched man in the world, lol.  We also have checks and balances; fail safes in case any POTUS tries to take over and go against our Constitution.  Many come close to crossing the line but never cross it.  Neither will Trump.  God is sovereign and not one thing will happen that He doesn't have planned but it won't always be what we want or think of as good either.  However, we are promised in Romans 8:28 that ALL things will work out, be they good OR bad.  Trust God, not Trump or any "man."

So I am fighting an ugly battle with self lately and my flesh.  I have this nasty little attitude of "We won, you lost, hahahaha.  Grow up and get over it.  I TOLD YOU SO."  That's what I'm thinking, feeling and saying and I don't like it.  Yet it gives me great pleasurable emotions when I do.  No, I am not happy with myself and I highly doubt Christ Jesus is overly thrilled with me either.  I want to feel empathy, compassion and grace towards this childish behavior but I don't.  It will go away soon but this is why Ephesians 2:8-9 means so much to me right now.  I am SAVED.  I am saved by GRACE and not because of what I do and say or don't do or so.  I am also forgiven for this character flaw I'm so guilty of tonight and it too will pass. I am so grateful though that when it is gone, I'll have learned something more valuable than gold.  If I wasn't saved, He wouldn't be convicting me.  I'm going to try to fix this attitude but in the end, I can't.  However, the One Who will, walks on water!

God bless you all.  Be safe and God won.  I noticed a theme over the last 24 hours and His name, the Bible or scripture was mentioned more times in the last 2 days than I've seen in the last 2 years!  God is GOOD!

GOSPEL OF SALVATION

+ + + FIRST CORINTHIANS 15:1-11 + + +

HAPPY INAUGURATION DAY!

I sure have missed you all, especially being on my Google communities.  Wow, it's been almost 2 months.  I am so sorry but I just had so much to do and I needed a HUGE dose of the Holy Spirit.  God is faithful.  Now that I've been ready, every single day something new...and exciting...has happened that's prevented me from jumping in.  From time with God all the way to finding an old friend, I've just been greatly blessed.  I've found so much I want to share and tell you all I've learned but something (sometimes just life stuff) has prevented it.  So.....

Today is THE day I've been looking forward to for a year.  While I have never been political a day in my life, I got pulled into this nightmare kicking and screaming all the way.  So yeah, that screaming you heard WASN'T IN YOUR MIND, LOL.  It was ME!  All kidding aside, since this nightmare will officially be over (I pray) as of noon tomorrow, it is my prayer that my life gets back to doing what I want and that is to love and worship Christ JePlasus.  I've lost most of my family, a few friends but reconnected with long lost friends who I have greatly missed and well, found YOU guys.  You've literally helped me stay sane this last year.  It was the worst for me being all alone in a new state, having no one and basically disowned by my ultra-liberal family.  There's a saying that goes...friends are better than family because you CHOOSE your friends.  I love my family but I've lost almost all respect for them.  They didn't respect me to begin with so what did I lose?  I feel I gained everything.  I am at peace, happy, and have some pretty awesome friends and serve THE only true living and AMAZING God!  

So, be happy, blessed and safe tomorrow.  Play the "I'm keeping my mouth shut" card as often as needed.  Tensions are high and this insane world is looking for a reason to justify violence.  DO NOT give them one.  Also, for your own safety, avoid wearing RED.  I'm not trying to be all paranoid or scare you, just be aware of your surroundings, avoid discussing politics around strangers or with them and pray, pray and then pray again.  Stay home tomorrow night as those who feel we "won," will be celebrating and getting drunk (some, not all) and those who "lost" will be getting drunk (some, not all) to drown their sorrows.  Judgment on both sides will fly out the window and drunk drivers don't discriminate.  My car is full of TRUMP stickers, it is not leaving the parking lot.  Pray for Spiritual guidance and always remember this...

No matter if someone's "emotions" are rational or make a lick of sense to you, they have a right to feel anything.  Some are really hurting and scared.  We aren't here to be their moral police or judge, we are called to a higher purpose.  Be a good example of Christ Jesus, especially tomorrow!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JEREMY.  I LOVE YOU.  (My son's b'day) and HAPPY INAUGURATION DAY TO ALL.  GOD YAHWEY BLESS YOU ALWAYS!

I promise by Monday I will be back to my blogs and my pages, unless God has better plans for me.  Love you all and miss you in Christ Jesus!