Count the Cost

If you have had a house project, or even a school project there are things you must do.

- make a plan

- evaluate the cost

- gather tools/resources

- execute your plan

 Many people though, skip step two. Which is why so many people do not complete projects because they have no idea to what they have really committed to.

But what does it mean to count the cost? When it comes to our faith, to following Jesus, He told us Himself:

Luke 14:25-34 (NIV) - The Cost of Being a Disciple

25 Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: 26 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. 27 And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.

28 “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? 29 For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, 30 saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’

31 “Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Won’t he first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? 32 If he is not able, he will send a delegation while the other is still a long way off and will ask for terms of peace. 33 In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.

34 “Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again?

The parable of the seed reminds me of the 4 types of "Christians." I was raised, I was taught, that the parable of the seed is about all the earth, all the people of the earth. But after more study, instead of just accepting what I was taught, I realized that the parable is about the church, not the Church as in the Body of Christ. But when you look at a gathering of believers, usually in a "church" building - just because someone is there does not mean that they are truly following Jesus. Only 1 of the 4 (but do not think it is an even 25%) truly counted the cost and decided following JESUS was worth EVERYTHING.

What is the cost of following Jesus?

• You will be hated, mocked, and ignored.
• You could lose your home, your job, your family.
• You will be hunted.
• You will hate the things of the world.
• Your heart will hurt for the lost.
• The things that break God's heart will break yours.
• You will commit to knowing God's word, and obeying It.
• You will live with anticipation that His return is eminent. 
• You will hate your past but anticipate the future with Christ as your LORD.
• You will go/do where and what He says for you to do to spread the Gospel.

****At the end of this post find scriptures to back this up.****

How does this look in our lives? How does counting the cost and living for Christ look with your family, your work, your social media presence?

The past 18 months have been a whirlwind on a global level. Politics are divisive, more so than ever. The United States is divided and without God there will be no unification. Was this last election won fair and square, was there collusion, was the election stolen from the people. Only God knows, I am not sure we will know this side of heaven one way or the other.

Than there is the "V" - please note, I will not say the name of the "illness", nor will I say other "v" word associated with it (I will go with jab). I refuse to use either of those words so in order to not be censored at this time. And that is where I am going with my post.

I am of the belief that the "V" was man made, and purposely released by the Red Dragon country to destroy the USA, disrupt the good work that Donald Trump was doing ( I believe God was using him to move the world closer to the Rapture), and to push the globe into a population control scenario.

I believe the jab is not what we have been told. And many, many, many others are of the same mindset of me. Some are more vocal about it than others. But the fact is, the jab does not prevent you from getting the "V" nor does it prevent you from spreading it. So what is the point?

I know many who with in days, within weeks of getting the 2nd part they developed severe medical issues. Then there are the women who with healthy pregnancies miscarry for no reason. Or the women who are past menopause all of a sudden having cycles again. I do not judge anyone who received the jab, and I do not hold it against anyone who is holding out. We all have to do what we believe is right for us and for our families. 

My spirit is not well with what is going on in the world. This place is not my home, and what is going on is causing my heart to yearn for heaven even more. 

I saw the image to the side a few days ago and it stuck with me. Censorship is unchecked now. You speak out against the "V", the jab, the LGBTQ movement and "Pride" month, or against the current administration and you censored, put in FB jail, or your social media presence is erased. The party that calls the other side Nazi's for our beliefs is using all the tactics that Hitler put into place to rise to power. Ironical, to say the least. 

I don't want to be lukewarm. 

Revelation 3:14-22 New American Standard Bible

Message to Laodicea

14 “To the angel of the church in Laodicea write:

The Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Origin of the creation of God, says this:

15 ‘I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot. 16 So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will vomit you out of My mouth. 17 Because you say, “I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have no need of anything,” and you do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked, 18 I advise you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness will not be revealed; and eye salve to apply to your eyes so that you may see. 19 Those whom I love, I rebuke and discipline; therefore be zealous and repent. 20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me. 21 The one who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat with My Father on His throne. 22 The one who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’”

With those of like mindedness, I have spoken my thoughts on the "V", the jab, and all the crazy political upheaval. But not too much online. A "safe" post here or there, but nothing more. And I am convicted. I am afraid of what I would lose. And for that I am ashamed. Now is not the time to worry about what I will lose. Jesus is coming

Read that again.

JESUS IS COMING!!!

The last 18 months have conditioned people for the Great Tribulation and the Mark of the Beast system that will come after the Rapture. So many took the jab to "return" to normal, and that is what they will do during the 7 year time known as the Time of Jacob's Trouble. The stage is set. We must get people to Jesus. Because if you reject Him, you will pay a great cost.

Should you die prior to the Rapture...you will go to hell.

But, if you are here after the Rapture, you could become saved, and many will, but how sure of that are you? Why would you want to go through the pouring out of the Wrath of God on humanity? Plague, death, war, disease, famine - just to start.

I am going to share Jesus with people. I am going to share the articles about the healthy people dying immediately after receiving the jab. I am going to share the studies on the number of children who have such adverse reactions, on a jab that is not FDA approved but being pushed under Emergency use. I am going to share the information that the jab is to cause sterilization.

I will not be quiet, I will not be lukewarm.

But, I will not be pushy, I will not be yelling. I will do all this in love. People are confused right now. People are hurt. And Jesus loves everyone - He wants all to be saved. So many have lost so much - they don't need to be yelled out. They need compassion. 

John 13:35 - New American Standard Bible

35 By this all people will know that you are My disciples: if you have love for one another.”

I have read God's word. I know how this all ends. And I see the signs He told would happen, in greater occurrence right prior to His return to call his Bride (that's us Church!) to Heaven to be with Him.

They can block me, they can put me in FB jail. That is fine. When you squelch truth, try to stomp it out - you give it a bigger platform. You cause more people to pay attention to it. And my God, His word does not return void.

Isaiah 55:11 New American Standard Bible

11 So will My word be which goes out of My mouth;

It will not return to Me empty,

Without accomplishing what I desire,

And without succeeding in the purpose for which I sent it.

*** Scriptures on the cost of following Jesus****

Luke 9:23 ESV And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.

Colossians 3:1-25 ESV If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. ...

Matthew 24:44 ESV Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.

Luke 14:33 ESV So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple.

Matthew 8:18-22 ESV Now when Jesus saw a crowd around him, he gave orders to go over to the other side. And a scribe came up and said to him, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” Another of the disciples said to him, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” And Jesus said to him, “Follow me, and leave the dead to bury their own dead.”

Luke 10:3 ESV Go your way; behold, I am sending you out as lambs in the midst of wolves.

Titus 3:5 ESV He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,

Acts 20:35 ESV In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

Galatians 2:20 ESV I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Matthew 10:38 ESV And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.

2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

Luke 14:25-33 ESV Now great crowds accompanied him, and he turned and said to them, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, ...

James 4:4 ESV You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.

Matthew 8:20 ESV And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.”

John 8:24 ESV I told you that you would die in your sins, for unless you believe that I am he you will die in your sins.”

Ruth 1:16 ESV But Ruth said, “Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God.

Deuteronomy 4:2 ESV You shall not add to the word that I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the Lord your God that I command you.

Ephesians 3:14-21 ESV For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, ...

John 8:31-32 ESV So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

John 8:12 ESV Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

Luke 16:13 ESV No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”

Luke 9:57-62 ESV As they were going along the road, someone said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” To another he said, “Follow me.” But he said, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” And Jesus said to him, “Leave the dead to bury their own dead. But as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God.” Yet another said, “I will follow you, Lord, but let me first say farewell to those at my home.” ...

Matthew 19:21 ESV Jesus said to him, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.”

Matthew 10:34-37 ESV “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. And a person's enemies will be those of his own household. Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.

Deuteronomy 6:5 ESV You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.

1 Peter 2:21 ESV For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.

Titus 2:11-14 ESV For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.

1 Timothy 4:13 ESV Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching.

Colossians 3:17 ESV And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Ephesians 2:10 ESV For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

1 Corinthians 11:1 ESV Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.

Romans 8:1 ESV There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

Matthew 24:36 ESV “But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.

Matthew 11:28-30 ESV Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Matthew 10:37 ESV Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.

Matthew 8:18 ESV  Now when Jesus saw a crowd around him, he gave orders to go over to the other side.

Matthew 6:24 ESV “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.

2 Samuel 7:1-29 ESV Now when the king lived in his house and the Lord had given him rest from all his surrounding enemies, the king said to Nathan the prophet, “See now, I dwell in a house of cedar, but the ark of God dwells in a tent.” And Nathan said to the king, “Go, do all that is in your heart, for the Lord is with you.” But that same night the word of the Lord came to Nathan, “Go and tell my servant David, ‘Thus says the Lord: Would you build me a house to dwell in? ...

Joshua 24:15 ESV  And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

Romans 12:1-2 ESV I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Matthew 4:18-22 ESV While walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Immediately they left their nets and followed him. And going on from there he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and he called them. Immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.

Deuteronomy 6:1-25 ESV  “Now this is the commandment, the statutes and the rules that the Lord your God commanded me to teach you, that you may do them in the land to which you are going over, to possess it, that you may fear the Lord your God, you and your son and your son's son, by keeping all his statutes and his commandments, which I command you, all the days of your life, and that your days may be long. Hear therefore, O Israel, and be careful to do them, that it may go well with you, and that you may multiply greatly, as the Lord, the God of your fathers, has promised you, in a land flowing with milk and honey. “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. ...

Exodus 20:1-26 ESV And God spoke all these words, saying, “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. “You shall have no other gods before me. “You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and the fourth generation of those who hate me, ...

Philippians 3:20 ESV But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ,

Ephesians 5:25 ESV Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her,

Ephesians 5:2 ESV And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Ephesians 5:1-2 ESV  Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Acts 2:22 ESV “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know

John 3:17 ESV For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

Luke 14:26 ESV  “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.

Luke 9:60 ESV And Jesus said to him, “Leave the dead to bury their own dead. But as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God.”

Matthew 4:19 ESV And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

Proverbs 4:20-21 ESV My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart.

Make Time for Jesus

 "More time with Jesus." 

The collective answer that my former ladies Sunday school would answer in response to all the woes - how to make a decision, how to parent better, how to "wife" better, etc.

A sweet lady I have studied under for years quipped that statement a few years ago, and it stuck with many of us. And honestly, while simple, its deep. What does time with Jesus look like? It's prayer, it's scripture reading, scripture studying (there is a difference in reading and studying), its worshipping, its singing His praises, attending/listening to sermons that are biblically sound, fellowshipping with other believers.

Time with Jesus - based on the above, well its a lifestyle. It is not something you can flippantly partake in. If you are wanting time with our Lord and Savior, its a commitment, it takes dedication, it takes a mindset that is focused on the heavenly things.

But when you add the word "more" to the front of the phrase, it implies someone who is already dedicated and committed to their relationship and walk with the LORD. And that is beautiful. That someone who is not satisfied with a surface level encounter with Jesus.

This reminds me of the analogy given by my mentor L.M. regarding the study of the Bible in the Precept Style. This is how she described different Christians, the different levels of involvement that Christians have in their walk with Jesus. Precept in her opinion was scuba diving.

• On the beach, feet in the sand
• Christians who attend church on Easter, Christmas, for weddings, and for funerals
• Splashing toes in the water/waves
• attend Sunday School and one church Service a week
• Water up past the knees
• Serve at church, attend several times a month, involved in activities hosted by the church
• Snorkeling, face under the water
• All of the above, and attend events that are study-like, but said study's require very little from the individual at home in the way of study.
• Scuba Diving out in the water with land no where in sight
• This is where someone who does Precept Bible study is according to my former mentor. With Precept Bible Study, you are essentially taking a college course in Bible. In depth reading, a good 4 to 5 hours a week of study, using God's Bible to study God's Bible. So many beautiful cross-references. And a person who has studied God's word in this manner....they live a life transformed by Jesus. When you have seen the beautiful interweaving of God's narrative you serve, you worship, you participate at a different level.

I miss taking precept. Thanks to the global pandemic, the classes have been on hold. Last fall we did
move forward in our studies via online meetings, but something was missing and it was harder. Precept truly is a class meant for in-person instruction and conversation. I am hopeful that this upcoming fall the class will resume and I will be able to attend and study.

Obviously someone who has done Precept, or similar inductive Bible studies, they grasp, they live "More Time with Jesus." When I look at all that is going on in the world, I see a world though that isn't ready for "More" - I see a world that needs to "Make" Time for Jesus. 

More Time with Jesus vs Make Time for Jesus

My mind and heart are heavy as I move into this next section. I am saddened. I grew up and live in America. The land of the free to quote the Star Spangled Banner (1814). A country founded on Judeo-Christian beliefs, founded with the mindset of religious liberty and freedom. While many states in this United country have worked hard to keep people of faith from partaking in their God ordained right of worship, the past 13 months has shown the churches that will do anything to reach the lost. These churches, they remind me of Smyrna and Philadelphia -  the two churches who received no rebuke from our Lord Jesus Christ. So many churches initially closed due to wanting to honor Romans 13:1 - 

"Every person is to be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God." (New American Standard Bible)

But then that initial two weeks to "flatten the curve" never stopped. It kept be extended, the proverbial tin-can kept being kicked down the road. And in fact, our current residing President says states that have opened back up, that have given the right to its citizens to decide how to live, that they should shut back down (link). That these states are being "reckless." That type of rhetoric is fear mongering, and I serve a Lord who says, "Do not fear": link, link, link, link, link

I am thankful and grateful for all the churches who stood up, and said enough and opened back up. Not a one was rude, but they left it up to their congregations to attend in person if they felt comfortable. For the individuals or families who did not feel that in-person fellowship and study was for them, the online options were numerous. But when the Apostle Paul, divinely inspired by the Holy Spirit, said,

"Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." Hebrews 10:25 - King James Version

He was not talking about an online community. Think of it as a watch, and its components. If they pieces are just gathered together but not in the right functioning place, the watch doesn't work. Only when "assembled" does the watch work. That is the Church. We can gather online together, but we are not in a position to function and work as the Lord has called us to do. It is only when we are assembled together, in-person, that we are truly effective and able to be used by our God.

The Church needs to Make Time for Jesus. Many have fallen away - and the past 13 months have revealed an apostasy. I have heard different word studies on 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3 -

"The Great Apostasy"

Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, 2 not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. 3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, (New King James Version)

"The falling away" - a mass exodus from the faith, from the Church

Now the general consensus, which makes sense, is that people will leave the faith. But I have heard differently a few times in the past year a slightly different take. Its beyond just a great leaving -  that is evident, but it also ties into the Rapture, which these verse are linked and symbolic of. There will be a great leaving of/from the churches, but also the leaving of the true Church (which is the Rapture). Something to think on, in these days in which we live. I will say though, we are seeing the leaving of the faith now.

Poll: American Church Membership Drops Below 50% For First Time

One in Three Practicing Christians Has Stopped Attending Church During COVID-19

How Many Churches Will Close?

Fewer Than Half Of U.S. Adults Belong To A Religious Congregation, New Poll Show

American church attendance hits historic low, says Gallup survey

More Time with Jesus would solve many of the worlds woes, but unfortunately More isn't even something to consider currently. We are in a state of where people need to Make Time FOR JESUS.

When a society, country, culture goes away from Jesus, we see the horror of depravity that is truly man. His righteousness is what makes us right with God. Without Him, without Jesus, we are sinful, depraved, and disgusting.

So as we start our day this Friday, I am asking you to Make Time for Jesus. It's Good Friday, today we remember the crucifixion of Jesus and his death at Calvary. Some churches observed the Lord's Supper last night as apart of Maundy Thursday. Our church we attend will be having a service tonight to reflect on the sacrifice Christ made as He was nailed to the cross. And on Sunday - all of Christendom will celebrate the empty tomb, the fact that our LORD is RISEN!

Start now by making time for Jesus by settling to attend church this weekend. That is a  very good start.

THIRTY SIX PRE-TRIB RAPTURE POINTS...

This was shared to me and I feel compelled to share it. So many I know, who have hearts for Jesus, have confessed that they believe the Church goes through the Tribulation. That the Rapture happens at the end of the 7 years of Jacob's Trouble. This breaks my heart. Having studied God's word, I do firmly believe the Rapture happens first, then the Tribulation, followed by the Millennial Kingdom, and finally the New Heaven and the New Earth.

THIRTY SIX PRE-TRIB RAPTURE POINTS...

1. There are no passages in either the Old Testament or the New Testament that say the Church will go through the Tribulation Period.

2. The Tribulation Period is called the “Time of Jacob’s Trouble” [The time of unbelieving Israel’s Trouble], but it is never called the time of the Church’s Trouble (Jer. 30:7).

3. Gabriel told Daniel, “Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people [Daniel’s people are the Jews] and upon thy holy city” [The Holy City is Jerusalem] (Dan. 9:24). There is no mention of the Church.

4. The Church had no part in the first sixty-nine weeks and it will have no part in the seventieth week [the Tribulation Period] (Dan. 9:24).

5. In the Book of Revelation, John role models the Church when he is caught up in through the door in to heaven, in the Spirit. This shift from earth into heaven is a picture of the Rapture in Rev. 4:1 which is before the Tribulation Period described in Rev. 6:1-19:21 begins. In the sequence of events, the Rapture is before the seal, trumpet and bowl judgments.

6. The Church is mentioned 19 times in the first three chapters of Revelation, 5 times as the 7 Golden Candles sticks (19 + 5 = 24), but the Church is never mentioned in the description of the Tribulation Period between Rev. 4:1 and Rev. 19:1.

7. The Tribulation Period is called a Day of Wrath in the Bible (Zeph 1:15), but the Bible says, “God hath not appointed us [the Church] to Wrath” (I Thess. 5:9).

8. The Tribulation Period is called a Day of Wrath in the Bible (Zeph. 1:15), but the Bible says, Jesus has “delivered us from the Wrath to come” [delivered the Church from the Tribulation Period] (I Thess. 1:10).

9. The Tribulation Period is called the Day of the Lord in the Bible (Zeph. 1:14). The Bible says, “the day of the Lord [the Tribulation Period] so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they [the unbelievers] shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them [upon the unbelievers], as travail upon a woman with child; and they [the unbelievers] shall not escape” (I Thess. 5:2-3). It clearly teaches that the Tribulation Period will come upon unbelievers, but it does not include believers.

10. Concerning the Rapture, the Bible says, “Comfort one another with these words” (I Thess. 4:18). There’s no comfort in the teaching that the Church will go through part or all of the Tribulation Period. This not to be confused Christian persecution which occurs at all times before or after the Rapture.

11. Jesus told the Church at Philadelphia, “Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation [the Tribulation Period], which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth” (Rev. 3:10). God promised to keep the obedient Church members saved by grace out of the Tribulation Period which is a time of Wrath...

12. According to the Bible, the marriage of the Lamb will take place in heaven before Jesus comes back to fight the Battle of Armageddon at the end of the Tribulation Period (Rev. 19:7-21). This means the Church will go to heaven [be Raptured] for the marriage of the Lamb before the Second Coming.

13. The end of the age will be like the days of Noah (Matt. 24:37). Noah and his family were safely carried through Tribulation [got on the ark] before the flood. But interestingly, Enoch was signlessly caught up Pretribulationally, completely out of the World  ["Raptured" before the Tribulation flood Period began] (Gen. 7:23).

14. The end of the age will be like the days of Lot (Luke 17:28). Lot and his family were removed from Sodom before the judgment of God [before the fire and brimstone fell] (Gen. 19:16). Some believe this means that the Church will be removed from the earth before the judgment of God [Raptured before the Tribulation Period]. The righteous did not perish with the wicked.

15. Jesus was talking about the Tribulation Period when He said, “Pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass” (Luke 21:36). It seems unreasonable to believe Jesus would tell the Church to pray for something He is unwilling to grant.

16. The Bible says, “For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming” (2 Thess. 2:7-8). The most common interpretation of this is that the Antichrist can’t be revealed until the Restrainer [who most commentators say is both the Holy Spirit removing the Church] like Abraham's servant brought Rebekah to Isaac. If the Restrainer is the Bride, this means the Church will be removed before the Antichrist is revealed [that’s the Pre-Trib. Rapture]. But suppose the Restrainer is the Holy Spirit only so that the Holy Spirit is removed without the Church, this means believers will cease to be indwelt with the Holy Spirit. It also means the Church will be left behind to go through the worst time the earth has ever seen [the Tribulation Period] without the help of the Holy Spirit. This would contradict the teaching of Jesus when He said, “I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever” (John 14:16). And, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Heb. 13:5).

17. Isaiah wrote that God said, “Thy dead men shall live, together with my dead body shall they arise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust: for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead. Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast. For, behold, the LORD cometh out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain” (Isa. 26:19-21). Notice, that the dead rise first [that’s the Rapture], next God’s people are summoned to enter into His chambers for a short while until the indignation [a name of the Tribulation Period] is past. God will raise the dead and summon His people because He intends to punish the inhabitants of the earth [send the Tribulation Period].

18. Malachi wrote that God said, “They shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not” (Malachi 3:17-18). Pre-Tribulation teachers believe God is saying He will come for His Church [the Rapture] and then He will return with His Church [the Second Coming] to judge between the righteous and wicked.

19. In the Rapture, Jesus comes for His Church (I Thess. 4:16-17; John 14:3). When He comes at the end of the Tribulation Period, He will come with His Church (I Thess. 3:13; Rev. 19:14).

20. Concerning the Second Coming, Jesus said, “But of the day and the hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only” (Matt. 24:36). But if the Church goes through the Tribulation Period, some will know the day because it will be seven years from the signing of the seven-year covenant. Some will know the day because it will be 1260 days from the day the Antichrist defiles the Temple (Rev. 12:6).

21. Concerning the Antichrist, many scholars believe the Bible teaches he won’t be revealed until after the Church is gone (II Thess. 2:6-8), but if the Church goes through the Tribulation Period, some will know who he is because he will sign the seven-year covenant (Dan. 9:24-27), he will head up the world government (Rev. 13:1-10), he will try to force multitudes to worship him, and to receive his mark, receive his name or his number (Rev. 13:15-17). Many of those who are here and being forced to worship him and take his name or die will know who he is.

22. The Antichrist is not suppose to be revealed until after the Church is gone (2 Thess. 2:6-8), but if the Church goes through the Tribulation Period, the Church will know who the Antichrist is because he will put an idol of himself in the rebuilt Temple (Ezekiel 8, Dan. 11:31; Dan. 12:11; Matt. 24:15).

23. If the Church goes through the Tribulation Period, the Church will know who the Antichrist is because he will head up the world government and receive a deadly wound to his head that will be healed (Rev. 13:3). Some think he will be raised from the dead or at least fake the resurrection.

24. If the Church goes through the Tribulation Period, the Church will know who the Antichrist is because he will head up the world government and be supported by the head of the world's religion called the False Prophet (Rev. 13:11-18).

25. If the Church goes through the Tribulation Period, the Church will know who the Antichrist is because he’s the one that will kill the Two Witnesses (Rev. 11:7).

26. Many people don’t think the Church will go through the Tribulation Period because of verses of Scripture that say things like, “The Lord preserveth all them that love him: but all the wicked he will destroy” (Psa. 145:18-20). Many believe God will preserve the Church from the Tribulation Period or keep the Church out of the Tribulation Period not destroy the Church in the Tribulation Period.

27. There are verses of Scripture that say things like, “Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it” (Deut. 4:2; Prov. 30:5-6; Rev. 22:18-19). Some believe people have to throw away verses of Scripture to believe the Church will go through the Tribulation Period.

28. In the seven letters to the seven churches, Jesus said, “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches” seven times (Rev. 2:7,11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22). When we get to the Tribulation Period, Jesus said, “If any man have an ear, let him hear” (Rev. 13:9). He left out, “what the Spirit saith unto the churches” because there are no churches on earth to go through the Tribulation Period. The Church will be in heaven.

29. When the Rapture happens the Church goes up to meet Jesus in the air (I Thess. 4:13-18), but at the end of the Tribulation Period the Church will come down to the earth with Jesus to witness what He does at the Battle of Armageddon (Rev. 19:14-21).

30. The Pre-Tribulation Rapture is more consistent with God’s grace, love, mercy, compassion, etc. The Mid and Post-Tribulation Rapture is more consistent with God’s wrath.

31. If the Rapture takes place at the end of the Tribulation Period, and all the wicked are removed from the earth at that time (Matt. 13:24-30, 47-50; 25:41), no one will be left to re-populate the earth during the Millennium. If all of the saved are Raptured and all the lost are removed from the earth at the end of the Tribulation Period, no one will be left to re-populate the earth.

32. The Antichrist will prevail against the saints during the Tribulation Period, but the gates of hell won’t prevail against the Church (Rev. 13:7; Matt. 16:18). Therefore, the Church won’t go through the Tribulation Period.

33. The twenty-four elders [representatives of the Church] will be in heaven before the seven-sealed scroll is broken (Rev. 4:4; 6:1-17).

34. Jesus was talking about the Tribulation Period when He said, “Pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass” (Luke 21:36). He didn’t say, “Pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to endure some or all of these things that shall come to pass.”

35. There are no signs of the Rapture, but if the Rapture takes place during the Tribulation Period, it would have to be after the seven-year covenant is signed by the Antichrist, and perhaps after several other things depending upon what a person believes about Mid-Trib, Post-Trib, etc.

36. Jesus said, “When these things [the signs] begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads for your redemption draweth nigh” (Luke 21:28).

He didn’t say, “After all these things have happened your redemption draweth nigh.” He said, “When these things begin to come to pass it’s close.”

Written by Stephen Hyun

2021 - A New Day, A New Year

 

Good Morning my fellow sister's in the faith. (and brother's who browse my writings)

2021

We did it! Ha! We made it through the year 2020. I am sure many of us wondered if that would be accomplished at all. But by the grace of God we have been given a new year to accomplish more Kingdom Work. Praise be to God!

In all honesty, 2020 was rough for us. 

• personally
• professionally
• emotionally
• financially

But there were blessings. A stronger marriage, closer family unit, more cherished time together.

God saw us through. He is The Faithful One. So I will not be dismissive of 2020, but I will be thankful for being done with it. 

2021

A new day, a new year. If 2020 taught any of us anything it should be this: 

James 4:15 NASB

"Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that.”'

I think most of us got away from this scriptural truth. And in fact, James 4:15 will be my verse for the year. We can make our plans, we can make our goals, we can dream. But we need to remember, God is in control. And if we are to live lives submitted to Him, we must keep in mind, "If the Lord wills."

So today, this first day of a new 365 day page year, I will work on our financial goals, my personal goals, outline what I think we need to accomplish this year - but ultimately I am going to trust God to direct our steps.

The joke from many has been that a 2020 planner was a huge waste of everyone's time and money. None the less, I did buy a 2021 planner. I have put a few birthdates and anniversary's down, and I am going to think on a great year ahead. I know changes are coming, things happened in 2020 that will conclude in 2021. But I am not going to not plan just because so much is uncertain.

I will say, my family and friends were reminded this past week:

James 4:14 NASB

Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. For you are just a vapor that appears for a little while, and then vanishes away.

A dear family friend suddenly passed away, and it has been a hard event to process. But in all the tears and tragedy, I have seen something beautiful. I have seen the Church at work, I have seen the Church doing what Christ intended. Where one is able, one has done - and on many fronts. I am so thankful that I have around me, and my family, such an amazing community of believers. 2020 was hard, not one person can deny that. How each individual was impacted is different, but we all have had struggles from last year. And as we move on into 2021, let us heal, let us pray, let us serve, and let us draw closer to Jesus. A sweet friend gave me a beautiful prayer book, that I am already touched by. I want to make my walk with Jesus stronger. I want to make my walk with Him the forefront of my life. 

So, as I leave you for now, think on this. No matter how hard 2020 was, or how uncertain 2021 looks, we can hold onto this truth:

John 3:16 NASB

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life."

Joseph a Type of Christ and the Pre-Trib Rapture: Sermon and Resource

This is such an amazing cross reference on Joseph being a type of Christ and evidence of a Pre-Trib Rapture:

Joseph a Type of Christ and the Pre-Tribulation Rapture

And the sermon where Pastor Farag taught this: Bible Prophecy Update 12/06/20: The Great Set Up

Advent 2020

It's December!

The holiday season is my most favorite season of the year. Christmas is my favorite holiday. I have two nativity sets that I love putting out on display. We did downsize this year, and instead of my standard tree and my super tall tree (both full of decorations), we opted juts for my standard tree. And with 3 kids and a new dog - what I have up is more than enough.

With December starting 2 things are forefront on my mind.

1. My daughter's 8th birthday (very soon)
2. Advent

I did not grow up doing Advent. But I do recall when I moved to the Houston area in 2008, I started doing it then. And now being mom to three children, I strive to be disciplined every year so my children will understand the true meaning of Christmas.

ad·vent

/ˈadˌvent/

noun

the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event.

• the first season of the Christian church year, leading up to Christmas and including the four preceding Sundays.
• CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY - the coming or second coming of Christ. 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Starting December 1st, I read a chapter of the Book of Luke to my children, so Christmas Eve night we finish and hopefully some of God's wisdom has been imparted on my munchkins. To make it an easier time, I have found some great Advent chocolate calendars, and each kid (minus the toddler who would destroy the entire thing) gets to get their piece of chocolate out to enjoy while I read. I strongly encourage this tradition to anyone with young children.

Adding to my Advent routine this year, I am reading a new book (published October 2020). My brother-in-love actually wrote it, and I am so excited to be reading it this Christmastime. Here is about the book:

Beneath Bethlehem Skies: 26 Advent Meditations Upon the Miracle and Meaning of Jesus's Birth (link)

Advent is a season of remembrance and celebration of Jesus coming to earth. But as Christmas comes, we often find it challenging to be mindful of its miracle and meaning. In this daily devotional, Brandon Anthony Shuman offers twenty-six meditations that will prepare your heart for Advent. Comprised of scriptural interludes, contemplations from saints, past and present, and fifteen original compositions seasoned over the course of twelve Decembers, Beneath Bethlehem Skies: 26 Advent Meditations Upon the Miracle and Meaning of Jesus's Birth is a modern liturgy that awakens the soul to wonderful reality of Christmas. Lyrical and liturgical; simple, yet profound; rooted in scripture and rich in thought, these devotions linger, like Advent itself. Each meditation uniquely explores a paradoxical theme of Advent (exile, silence, justice, love, etc.) while exalting biblical truth with beautiful language. They wait in the aching tension of "already, but not yet" hope of redemption in a broken world. They recall what God has done. They anticipate the fulfillment of His promises. And they provoke our hearts to celebrate what Jesus is doing. The devotions of Beneath Bethlehem Skies are introduced by inspiring words from great saints - both ancient and modern - of the Christian faith. Their wisdom foreshadows the themes, lamentations, and joys to follow. Each meditation is complimented by the texts of classic Hymns of the Christmas season, allowing the reader to appreciate the rich and beautiful poetry expressed in their familiar refrains. Beneath Bethlehem Skies is more than a series quick words and pretty pictures wrapped with Bible verses. It is an invitation to be renewed by the miracle of Christmas and receive the gift of Jesus. Rediscover the wonder of Advent this season, Beneath Bethlehem Skies.

I hope that as this Christmas Season starts that you are readying your heart for Jesus. As His first Advent has come and gone, we as believers can eagerly await His second coming, The 2nd Advent.

Endure

 2020.

Every year 2019 and before, when someone mentioned 2020, it was in in regards to vision.

• Someone has 2020 vision (present tense)
• Hindsight is 202 (looking back).

But it has always been about bringing clarity. Well, almost 8 months done of 12 in 2020 and clarity is the last thing any of us have. 

• Fires - Australia and California
• COVID-19 - GLOBAL PANDEMIC
• Riots and Looting - Global again, mainly in the USA though
• BLM, ANTIFA - terrorist organizations on American soil
• Election 2020 - Biden vs. Trump
• Mask mandates
• Q, Anon, - Conspiracy theorist or truth?
• Hurricanes - Marco and Laura in the Gulf of Mexico at the same time. Laura was a category 4 hurricane, and got close to being a 5.

If 2020 has taught any of us anything, is that we have absolutely zero control over anything. As a Christian, I know this. But I am human, I have flesh, and this flesh has control issues. So this year has been stressful for me.

But, looking back (see what I did there), the last few years have been rough. Specifically the last three years have been hard, on a personal level. Job changes, hardships in my marriage, a miscarriage, fincial uncertainties. 

In my last post, I shared how we were bracing for Hurricane Laura. By the grace of God, we didn't even get a drop of rain. Louisiana on the other hand, devastated completely. The timing of it all, another God thing. Three years ago we braced for and dealt with Hurricane Harvey.  Seeing the memories on Facebook - it felt like the rain would never end, and it gave me a new and greater appreciation for Noah and his family on the ark. Speaking of timing...a pastor I listen to and study is J.D. Farag out of Hawaii. His mid week sermon yesterday was titled: In His Time (Sermon LINK) It's a great one! I highly encourage you to take an hour and listen, process, and take to heart what Pastor Farag has to say.

It was a great reminder that EVERYTHING is in God's time. To be honest, I am over "it". It being the chaos, the riots, the lectures, the shut downs, the mask mandates, the trying to explain to my children everything that is going. Thankfully, I have my faith. And by reading scriptures, listening to sermons, studying God's word - I am at peace that I do not understand everything. What I do know is this.

Matthew 24:13 (KJV)

13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

Jesus calls believers to endure to the end. To not give up. And what is the end? Death of the physical body, or rapture. And friends, I strongly believe that I will be raptured before this physical body of mine dies. Scripture tells us that we do not know the day or hour in which the trumpet shall sound (Scripture Link). But He did say there would be signs of the coming of the age (Luke 21:25-26). 

Thinking on everything that has occurred in the last three years, I ponder on all that the Church has gone through. The falling aways, the natural disasters, the financial and economic upheavals, the pure evil witnessed on a global level (beheading, child kidnappings, sexual slavery). And I am reminded about the plagues on Egypt from Exodus 7-12. I don't remember when I "found" this out, but I know I did not always know the following:

• 10 plagues
• The first 3, not only impacted the Egyptians, but also the Israelite's.
• The remaining 7 were on the Egyptians alone.

The first three plagues, were as Anne Graham Lotz said in series on Joel, were nuisance plagues. They made life uncomfortable. I just realized, it was 2015 when I started listening to Anne Graham Lotz when I learned this. And she is right. They got the Israelite's attention. The remaining plagues devastated every part of life for the Egyptians. 

Friends, I see the 10 plagues as an Old Testament picture of the Tribulation. Now, hear me out. 

Yes, the Tribulation is 7 years. And I believe each of the plagues that came upon Egypt represents the 7 years of sorrow on the nations that brings Israel back to their God. What about the first 3 plagues/ 3 years? Well, if 2020 is the year that the church is Raptured (I am not date setting - just thinking things out), then the last three years have been getting the attention of the Church. Pastor Farag here recently said he thinks that God is making everything so uncomfortable here on earth that we LOONG for His return in a way like we have never before. Friends, this is me. I love my family, my husband, my children, the life we have. But the world? The chaos? Uncertainty? The riots? Destruction? I am over it and want FAR AWAY from it. So much, that with each new story coming out, I look to Heaven and ask "when Lord?" 

What if the trumpet does not sound in 2020?

Hold tight friends. That means that things are going to get worse here on earth. That is why Jesus told us to endure to the end. He knew it would be hard, but for those of who do endure? Oh sweet reward! To hear:

Matthew 25:22-24 (NASB)

22 “Also the one who had received the two talents came up and said, ‘Master, you entrusted two talents to me. See, I have gained two more talents.’ 23 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’

There is no great reward for a believer in Christ than to hear our Lord and Savior say those words to us. So lets endure. Let's cling tight to our faith, study the Word, share the Gospel, and give what we are able to the brethen.

I want to end my post with sharing how to be saved if by chance anyone reading this post does not know Jesus.

This is from Pastor J.D. Farag's church website, but it explains saving salvation so well. ABC_Salvation

If you are unsure of your salvation, reach out to a Bible Believing and Teaching church, message me, find someone you know who saved. Do not delay. Remember, we do not know the day or hour, but the rapture will occur in the twinkling of an eye.

God and Government Authority

I heard an amazing sermon last week on God and Government Authority.

Pastor Nathan Cothen is the Pastor for Calvary Baptist Church in Beaumont, TX - just a short one hour drive from where I live. I listen to him most afternoons on my way home, local station 100.7 FM. He preaches God's word, and in unapologetic about it.  He is one of my favorite pastors to listen to these days.

Their Day in Court - Sermon Audio

If you are able, please listen to the sermon. Below are my notes that I took when I had a chance to re-listen. 

Their Day in Court

Acts 4:13-22

Trouble: Government says "No" and we say "Yes" to GOD

What are believers to do when the laws of the state are in conflict with the laws of God?

Acts 4:13-22 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

Threat and Release

13 Now as they observed the confidence of Peter and John and understood that they were uneducated and untrained men, they were amazed, and began to recognize them as having been with Jesus. 

14 And seeing the man who had been healed standing with them, they had nothing to say in reply. 

15 But when they had ordered them to leave the Council, they began to confer with one another, 

16 saying, “What shall we do with these men? For the fact that a noteworthy miracle has taken place through them is apparent to all who live in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it. 

17 But so that it will not spread any further among the people, let us warn them to speak no longer to any man in this name.” 

18 And when they had summoned them, they commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. 

19 But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to give heed to you rather than to God, you be the judge; 

20 for we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” 

21 When they had threatened them further, they let them go (finding no basis on which to punish them) on account of the people, because they were all glorifying God for what had happened; 

22 for the man was more than forty years old on whom this miracle of healing had been performed.

Guilty - Peter and John

• healing a cripple (a miracle)
• speaking truth

Charges not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus.

Jesus to Pilate, night before crucifixion - "You would have no authority over me if it were not given to you from above."

Natural Revelation - everyone deep in their heart knows there is a God (Romans 1).

Nobody who thinks he is a god wants to hear about sin.

Verdict - The Sanhedrin wanted to kill Peter and John but too many were watching. So for the time, told them to shut up.

PROBLEM - Sanhedrin told them to stop preaching about Jesus, and Jesus told them to preach Jesus no matter what!

Romans 13:1-7 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

Be Subject to Government

13 Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. 

2 Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.

3 For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same;

4 for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. 

5 Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience’ sake. 

6 For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. 

7 Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.

How do we deal with when God says one thing and man says another?

• Does God put in place irreligious governments? Yes. He uses even those who do not bow to Him, as agents of restraint and unregenerate men to keep some semblance of order in the world.

God & Government Authority

What ranks what place? Is the state above authority? No. GOD is!

3 Categories:

1.Agreement
        When everyone agrees.

        Even in non-Christian societies, have some general guidelines (Hindu, Communist, etc) they all say on "paper" - 

            - murder is wrong

            - rape is bad

            - lying is an offense (sworn in at court)

Remember - all truth is God's truth.

John 14:6 - "Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me."

On the BIG stuff, there is generally agreement, no problem, all on the same page.

2. Aggravation

        Not Morally or Biblically wrong, just irritate you.

            - IRS - take your money and do not ask you waht should be done with it.

                     - we may disagree with them and their policies - it is not immoral or Biblically wrong - so                         we all pay our taxes

            - Motor Cycle vs. Car

                    - in a motor cycle

                        no helmet

                        no doors

                        no seat belt

                    Perfectly Legal

                    - in a car - roughly 6,000 pounds can get a ticket for not wearing a seat-belt

3. Abomination

• God says one thing and government says another. 
• 2 sub types
• Gov. says "yes" & we (Christians) say "No"
• i.e. 1973 ROE v. Wade
• Prior to this God and Gov. said no to abortion.
• If there is any good news, when evil people are allowed to do evil things, and we says no, they cannot flog us, put us in jail, or kill us.

Where we run into trouble is when...

• Gov says "no" and we say "yes to God.
• God said to do it, not only did He say to do it, but we are under compulsion to do it.

What then?

3 answers

1. Obey God - Don't even need to pray it. When the two are in conflict, we are going to obey God.
2. Accept what comes (man up!) (don't organize an army)
1. Peter was in jail twice.
1. 1 time freed
2. 2nd time crucified

Why was it God's will to miraculously free him one time, an angel escorting him out of the city and next time he goes in, its God's will for him to be crucified?

What do both of these have in common?

Glorifying God

• Enhance the reputation of Jesus Christ
• and we as believers in Jesus Christ signed on the dotted line that we no longer live but die to ourselves and live for Jesus Christ.

Pastor Cothen -

"I don't mind dying for Christ, its the flogging. Dying for Christ is relatively easy, being in prison for heat speech, which is three (3) things away from happening in this country. Me being in prison, for hate crimes ir right around the corner. Hate speech . If you have any grit, you too."

Do what the original disciples did - we suffer.

    3. Watch

            Do you know what did Saul in? Holy Spirit was bringing a number of things against him. But, at the end of Chapter 7 of Acts, "stoning Stephen, to death, in total innocence, they laid their clothing at the feet of the man named Saul, who had told them to do it.

You know what breaks people inside? Watching innocent people suffer, unless you are a total mental case, it will break you watching innocent people suffer, because of your corruption. It is what turned the Roman Empires into the Christian world order. He'll do it again, but He has to have people ready to man up, and do what He says, which is obey Him and accept whatever comes and watch because what God chooses to do with it - that is His business.

Romans 8:28 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

When we follow "obey, accept, watch & know" we may be delivered on this side or in heaven. His will, will be accomplished and we will hear....

Matthew 25:23 New King James Version (NKJV)

23 His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’

And that is what it means to be a Christian.

Questions....

I have questions. Many, many, many questions.

Not about my faith, that is rock solid in Jesus, and this time has drawn me closer to Him, and yearning even more for the trumpet to call.

But this present world. This world where I am raising a family. I have so many questions about decisions that have been made, about what is to come, and is there something more going on.


Why can you go to Walmart but not Penny's?
Why the Dollar store and not a mom and pop shop?
Why can’t you have an elective surgery, but you can have an abortion, which is elective?
Why should you stay inside but yet heat and sunlight kill the virus?
What makes a person essential and another not?
Why have most other death rates dropped during the virus?
Why did world leaders meet in china in October 2019?
Why are the common people being controlled by the governments and no one is controlling the government?
Why are hospitals paid more for Covid 19 deaths?
Why does Sweden have some of the lowest cases but yet never locked down?
Why did Obama give the Wuhan lab $334 million dollars?
What does a computer geek have to do with a pandemic?
Why do they blame Trump for a world problem?
Why isn't there ever anything on the news but Trump or the virus?
Why did the CDC have a job posting for pandemic relief workers in November 2019?
Why did Dr. Fauci say in 2017 that the Trump administration would be faced with a " SURPRISE PANDEMIC " and now runs the pandemic team?
Why are they infringing on Christians religious freedoms, but yet Minneapolis MN is allowing muslims to install speakers in neighborhoods to do the call to prayer?
I don't care if you’re Republican or Democrat.
If you’re not asking these questions, you should.

Why are videos of doctors speaking out against Dr. Fauci being removed from all platforms? Why are pharmacist not filling prescriptions unless a doctor tells them the diagnosis (this is not normal)?

I have read too much scripture, overlaid it with world events, to not see more going on. These days we are in, are exactly like the days of Noah.

Matthew 24:37-39 (KJV)

37 But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.

38 For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark,

39 And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.

I see the technology being pushed for the mark of the beast. I do believe in a pre-tribulation rapture. But right now it is being proposed that people get a vaccine (once available), or carry proof of anti-bodies to go back to work/school/society. There is push back. Those Christians who have read scripture are warning that this will condition society to accept what will happen in the Tribulation. And so many have complied so easily with government overreach, I see how easily the mark of the beast will be implemented.

Friends, I have said for several years that conditions on earth are going to get worse. And honestly, on a personal level, we have been pretty comfortable for the last 2 months. We have had to food to eat, even if we what we normally buy has not been available. We have not missed a meal. As a family of 5, I keep toilet paper on hand, so we never went without that. I buy my cleaning/hygiene products online, and that company has done an amazing job of monitoring supplies so everyone can still buy the essentials.

The upheaval to our life has been financial, schedule based, and routine of life. Our gym has been closed for over 2 months.  My husband has found handy-man work, and done wood working. But the loss of revenue to our business more than likely will not be overcome.  My children never went back to school or daycare after Spring Break. We are finishing up their school work this week, at home. We have not been to an in person church service since Spring Break. I have worked half days, a few days a week.

We show signs of the stress here and there. Bickering, short tempers, etc.

It has not all been bad on our personal level. Plenty of family time, time outside, movie nights, easier day-to-day schedules, projects long put off finally done. We have grown closer, leaned more about each other, and tried new things.

Even with the changes, we have had a peace about all the going ons. And a healthy skepticism about the actions of those in authority.

But then I look at what is going on around the world. Drones are being used to monitor people. Protest in front of government buildings. Tornados destroying towns. Locust destroying crops. Government leaders pushing to help themselves and not those who elect them. Abuses of authority, disregard for the common man.

And all of these, the questions, the actions, the inactions....leave me with one more question:

When?

When will the LORD return? When will the Church hear the trumpt call to glory?

I believe soon. Very soon. Any second.
I wake up every day with the expectation that today will be the day. And I go to bed each night, thankful for the day I had, because the LORD tarrying means more hearts are being won for the kingdom of God. More people are not going to hell each day we the Church remain on earth. But time is short.

I believe God is using this virus as an altar call before the trumpet call. While church buildings have been closed, families have had a time to build each other up. Satan has first and foremost always attacked the family unit. And many families have probably fallen apart in this time. But other families are going to shine coming out of this. If you are still at home more than normal, use this time to build up your family. Make sure your foundation is solid, is in Christ. The days are only going to get longer and harder.

A Taste of What is to Come...

Psalm 34:8, "O taste and see that the Lord is good; How blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!"

God is good. God is merciful. God is just.

And to believers, He is our refuge during times of uncertainty and hardship. In the past weeks I have had many conversations with friends, fellow believers, about how people are dealing/coping with the current situation (COVID-19). We as believers are at peace, slightly irritated with the government overreaches, missing in-person fellowship, and thankful for technology allowing us to communicate with each other. Now, its not all cherry pie in the sky. Jobs have been lost, families are facing uncertainties about the future, but we realize everyone is. Our boat situation might be different, but we are all in this storm together.

We no longer trust what the media says due to conflicting stories and updated week in and week out, and do not get me started on the president's updates and how his words are twisted every single time.

As believers, we know we have hope, and we know this world is not our home. But we are concerned with those we know who are not saved. Those who do not know the LORD personally. That ways heavily on our hearts.

But, we are trusting God. His word is true. And roughly 26.8% of the Bible is prophecy. Think about that! A quarter of the book that is to guide is us while we are here on earth is about future events. Many, most of which, have come true.

There is one book, Revelation, that is yet to come to pass. But, friends, we are getting a glimpse of the seals, trumpets, and bowls right now in the year 2020.

I want to walk you through the days of Noah and how the days at the beginning of the Bible are completed in the last book of the Bible, and how right now we are getting a small taste of both.

Luke 17:25-27  (NASB)

25 But first He must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation. 26 And just as it happened in the days of Noah, so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man: 27 they were eating, they were drinking, they were marrying, they were being given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all.

Matthew 24:36-38  (NASB)

36 “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone. 37 For [a]the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah. 38 For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark,

Noah, the world had never seen rain, but he told them it would, and so much so that the world would flood. He might as well have been speaking a foreign language to them. He was the only one of his generation to have a relationship with God. And God told Noah to build an ark, bring on animals, his family and be ready to hunker down. The world was completely different after Noah and his family came off of the ark. That much time together, (it was more than 40 days by the way, that is how long it rained - then they had to wait for the waters to go down), him and his family were different. Not only that, they got to see a different world. They got to explore a different world when they came off the ark.

The world they left behind was ugly, was horrible. There was perversion, murder, corruption, godlessness, idol worship, people loved themselves and money. Folks, we are right back to where the world was when Noah put foot on the ark.

Jesus Himself told us that He will come back when the world is like it was when Noah was on earth. Friends, have your hearts ready. Now is not the time to do anything you will be ashamed to explain to Jesus. Honestly, you should live that way always.

2020 has been an interesting year. Fires in Australia, swarms of locusts across Africa, and the coronavirus (COVID-19).

People united over Australia (aide, prayer, resources).
Locusts, really has not gotten as much as attention even though it has destroyed so much.
COVID-19.

Countries have shutdown, gone into lock-down, for a virus that is highly contagious, but the death rate is extremely low. People have lost jobs/businesses, schools are shut down for the remainder of the school year, states are talking about not opening school until January 2021 (its April 2020).

When they shut our businesses down, we did it in unity, because we wanted to flatten the curve. When they told us to keep our kids home, school at home, not go to parks, we agreed. Keep our kids safe and healthy, yes, we will do it.

People still went crazy. Toilet paper shortage, egg/milk/bread shortages.

Then the stores started to limit not only how many of certain items you could buy, they limited how many people of your family could go shopping, then how many people could be in the store. They put markers on the floor to ensure 6 foot social distancing. Installed hand sanitizer dispensers. You cannot pick your own cart, they push it into the sore for you and tell you when you can go in.

And now, in my county, tomorrow morning a mandate goes into effect saying we have to wear a face mask when in public, anyone age 10 or older.

At the store today I saw the sign saying for entry, one must wear a mask to be in compliance with the new mandate.

God is giving us a glimpse of what will happen after the Church hears the trumpet call. Through this entire experience I have seen God's hand working moving. The very first establishment God created was the family. And through this God has given the family a chance to reset, recharge, and draw close to Him. Church buildings are closed, but families are spending more time together. Mother's are showing daughter's how to cook and sew. Dad's are doing wood-work, sons are watching. Kids are playing outside, using their imagination, families are sitting together watching church worship services.

Once the church is called home, in time God's wrath will be poured out on humanity with fire, disease, pestilence, and so many horror's people will make 1 of 2 decisions. Believe and accept God as their LORD, or mock Him, and turn their hearts to stone. And right now, here in 2020 we are getting a small taste of what is to come. I believe in a Pre-Trib Rapture, so I do not believe that the Christians will experience the wrath of God. But, just as Moses and the Israelite's experienced the first few plagues along with the Egyptians, Christians right now are getting a small taste of what will happen to humanity once they are no longer on earth. For Christians, this is a wake up call, share the GOSPEL! Tell people about Jesus. HE is coming soon, time is short.

While wearing a face mask is not a mark to buy or sell, governments already have the idea, and by the number of masks I saw people wearing in the store today, people will take the mark. People want life easy, and following Jesus is hard.

But it is worth it. Psalm 34:8, "O taste and see that the Lord is good; How blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!" He is good. He is giving us another chance before it is too late.

The day and age we are in...

Life has changed. It does not matter where you live, which of the 7 continents you live on, your life has changed in ways that many of never could have even imagined. Thoughts currently:

• If you had told me 2 weeks ago that churches in America would shut their doors to gathering, I would have laughed.
• If you would have told me 2 weeks ago that there would be lines outside grocery stores in an effort to curb mass hoarding, I would have laughed.
• If you would have told me that San Francisco would be in lock down, I would have reminded you that the homeless population is to great for it to work.
• If you would have told me 2 weeks ago that a majority of the schools in America would be closed, and teachers providing lessons from home, I would have told you that you are crazy.

Yet, here we are.

Church Cancellations

Houston Area School Closings

San Francisco Required to Stay Home

SF Gov: Stay Home

HEB and Walmart Change Hours

I remember in early January hearing about this virus in a part of China that I had never heard of. And if not for this virus, I probably never would have heard of Wuhan, or learn how to spell/pronounce it.

And even as the weeks went by, and seeing the virus spread to Europe, and seeing China lock down its society, I don't think I ever thought it would come to America. Even after it did hit the shores of America, I don't think I rationalized it spreading like it has, and as fast as it has. Add in the media parroting that it is just like the flu - I kept pondering why were people freaking out.

We all know China is communist, and if you have ever studied any history you know that:

Communism = No rights, No opinions, Much oppression

So seeing Communist China take draconian measures against their own people is not out of step with who they are as a country/government. It did prompt me to pray more for the people of China, as their already questionable quality of life was drastically changed even more. 

But then Italy....

Lock down of all citizens, their healthcare infrastructure crumbling from the burden, over 35,000 cases confirmed, with over 3,000 deaths. This made me realize that maybe something bigger is going on. In my regular shopping I picked up some extra rice, the next size up on toilet paper from what I usually buy, an extra box of my kids favorite snacks. I have been doing this now for a few weeks. And honestly, I live on the Gulf Coast of Texas, hurricane season is knocking at the door, so if nothing comes of the virus, I will be prepared a bit early...I thought to myself.

Then came Spring Break.

We stayed home, had a staycation, because we have been faithfully working to pay off debt. My kids knew no different, I sent them outside to play, we read, my daughter learned to use her rubber-band loom (and we are all now sporting some fabulous creations). Wednesday night we went to church, but that is when this virus started to change us in noticeable ways. Instead of meeting in our chapel, a more intimate setting for the smaller service we hold weekly, we met in our very large worship center. Doors were open so people didn't have to touch them. And notes were posted about stepped up cleaning practices, and please use the available hand sanitizer that is available.

The news media started informing us each state having confirmed cases, then the deaths.

The next day schools started talking about not being open the next week. Then it became action, many schools would close the week after Spring Break in hopes to stop the spread of CoVID-19. My own place of employment followed suit, and we had to implement distance learning. All while this is going on, cases of the virus hit every state but West Virginia, which 2 days ago confirmed its first case. 

Our church then announced no in person services, all church functions and events cancelled for the immediate future. Many churches have followed suit. I am thankful we live in the day and age we do, this past Sunday I was able to steam online and hear my Pastor preach out of Psalm 46.

Psalm 46  (NASB)

God the Refuge of His People.

For the choir director. A Psalm of the sons of Korah,set to Alamoth. A Song.

46 God is our refuge and strength,

A very present help in trouble.

2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change

And though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea;

3 Though its waters roar and foam,

Though the mountains quake at its swelling pride. Selah.

4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,

The holy dwelling places of the Most High.

5 God is in the midst of her, she will not be moved;

God will help her when morning dawns.

6 The nations made an uproar, the kingdoms tottered;

He raised His voice, the earth melted.

7 The Lord of hosts is with us;

The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah.

8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,

Who has wrought desolations in the earth.

9 He makes wars to cease to the end of the earth;

He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two;

He burns the chariots with fire.

10 “Cease striving and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”

11 The Lord of hosts is with us;

The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah.

And the closures are now beyond a week. Many schools are closing through April 10th. The governor of Texas just mandated all schools (public/private) to switch to remote learning through April 3. Restaurants/Bars - dine in closed, carry out/delivery only. Gyms (which my husband owns one) now must close.

I cannot even say month by month or week by week life is changing. These past few weeks show that by the hour your life can change. I referred 3 people this morning to my husband's gym, and now we are having to lock the door.

To say these are uncertain times would be the biggest understatement.

BUT

God is control. God has a plan. God has a way. God loves us.

None of this caught God unaware.

What all is going on, God is allowing. For many, many years He has been trying to get the attention of everyone:

• to the unbeliever, He wants them to believe
• to the believer, He wants to grow their faith
• to the leaders, follow Him
• to the husband, love his wife as Christ loves the church

Folks, lets be nice. Let's pray for each other. Check on your neighbors. Give each other a break, be supportive.

Maybe turn the news off. Be mindful of what you read/share online. It is in times like these that many false messages spread - they do more harm then good. As believers, just remember, we are in the hands of the Father, and we cannot be snatched from His hand. EVER!

I leave you with some scriptures from God's word:

Zephaniah 3:17 The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.

Matthew 6:34  Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you;my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

Psalm 55:22  Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved

2 Corinthians 4:16-18 So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.

Psalm 9:9-10 The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.

Psalm 34:10b Those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.