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W
WHY
Chapter One
Why Do I Question A Power Above The Human Race?
We all want to know our origin, how the world and universe hang suspended in space, all about life and death and what or who is responsible. Is there a God who created us or did we come from the big bang theory? These two theories are at war with each other. We have many questions to ask.
Did the world and what is in it evolve by the core of the earth blowing up? How can man come from a piece of molten lava or a rock? How can something blow up but yet stay one solid mass? We would have no brains or breath in us if that was the case. If man came from the big bang, where is the historical proof of the millions and millions of years evolution teaches? Where did the matter come from for the big bang? Scientists have always said the big bang started from nothing.
Top archeological scientists at several world wide universities gathered together on the Giza plateau in the early 1990s to discuss the age of the earth. They estimated the earth to be around 6,000 years old based on their discoveries from their digs. The scientists on these digs were there to prove the evolution theory. They admitted the results of the study surprised them. Some stated after the testing of samples they were converted to creation. This information is printed in books and has been on the discovery channel.
The panspermia hypothesis is defined as seeds everywhere. The belief of inorganic matter turning into life has evolutionists rethinking their position. At the present time, evidence has proven evolution has no basis. Information discovered over this last decade has evolutionists pondering the true age of our planet.
This recent information certainly presents a quandary for evolutionists. I prefer to think there is a reason for our existence. Facts prove the big bang theory doesn’t follow world history. We have history books dating back to the early B.C. years. History is found on pyramid walls, recorded on rocks, in caves and many more places. I find it very interesting the world revolves around B.C. (before Christ) and A.D. (anno Domini - the year of the Lord, a time division falling within the Christian era). Our dates don’t have B.B. (Big Bang), E.T. (Evolution Theory) or C.D. (Charles Darwin) following the numbers. Remember, evolutionists don’t believe in God. Sadly, children’s textbooks in our public schools now use B.C.E. (Before Common Era).
Creation versus evolution is a topic that evolutionists are currently having a difficult time defending. People who know history and what the Bible states hold a power over evolutionists that will always prove evolution has no basis. I am thankful we are created in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-27). Satan calls God a liar in Genesis 3:5. He tells Adam and Eve they won’t die but will become gods knowing right and wrong. Isaiah 14:13-14 explains how Satan wants to be God.
Job 38, 39 and 41 prove God’s majestic power. The power of God’s voice is awesome to behold (Psalm 29). His infinite wisdom is far from our simple understanding (Job 38-41, Jeremiah 10:12). As you read these chapters you will be awed. Isaiah 40:22 talks about God sitting on the circle of the earth. If man had believed the Bible centuries ago, he would have known the shape of the world is round. The Bible says the earth will get old like worn clothing (Isaiah 51:6, Hebrews 1:10-11). If evolution is responsible for the earth getting old and dying, will the big bang theory have to start all over again? God has promised us a new heaven and a new earth (Isaiah 65:17-25, Matthew 19:28, 2 Peter 3:10). God is in control of all things (Hebrews 1:3).
If we spend time in nature, we will be in awe. The story of conception and birth is a wondrous miracle. Whether it be animals or humans, we have God inscribed all over us. Humans were made in God’s image and given the breath of life (Genesis 2:7). Animals were made for man to tend with love, care and kindness (Proverbs 12:10). Man is not superior above the animals (Ecclesiastes 3:19). Have you ever studied colors in nature? The fur coat of an animal is full of the hues in the spectrum of the rainbow. The feathers of fowl are intricately and precisionly made. The brilliant colors in feathers are beautiful and gracefully designed. Are you a rockhound? The colors and patterns in rocks and stones are beyond our understanding and are breathtakingly beautiful. The trees and flowers are full of hues and shades not found anywhere else on earth. The sky in the Rocky Mountains is the deepest blue you will ever be privileged to view here on earth. Venus and Uranus spin backwards in space. God created interesting elements in the universe. Two things stop x-rays. They are concrete and water. God put a ring of frozen water in space for our protection. God has control over everything He has created (Hebrews 1:3).
All through the ages God has sent His angels to us to protect, guide and direct our paths. Angels saved many peoples lives in Bible times and are still doing their chores for us today. There truly is a God out there who takes wonderful care of us. There are many good books on angels. One you may want to consider purchasing is Angels by Billy Graham. It is the most fascinating book I have ever read regarding angels and their duties. Angels are ministering spirits of God sent to encourage His chosen people (Hebrews 1:14).
If you question whether there is a power above man, as you read the Bible and attain knowledge and wisdom you will realize there is an answer to your every question written within it’s pages.
Chapter Two
Why Do I Question The Inspiration Of The Holy Bible?
The history of the world moves through time in correlation with dates in the Bible. Do we have proof dates in the Bible coincide with history? Absolutely! Do some research using an encyclopedia set or ancient history books. Go back to 4,000 B.C. when the Italic Peoples and Etruscans (which became the Roman empire) were ruling the world and down through history follow the existing nations through their eras. Follow the dates, times and events recorded in the history books and when you compare Biblical dates and events you will discover they match.
The Bible states that all Scripture is given by inspiration from God. Jesus said in Matthew 24:35 “my words shall not pass away”. Through history kingdoms have tried to destroy the Bible and rid their countries of Christianity but always failed. The Bible would have been destroyed years ago by Satan without God’s intervention. The Word of God will stand forever (Isaiah 40:8).
The story of Christ’s birth is fascinating. History tells the story of King Herod killing all the boys in Bethlehem two years old and under. Dates and times follow together in world and Bible history. The old testament writers prophesied the birth of Christ many years before the birth was a reality or recorded in the new testament (Isaiah 7:14, Isaiah 9:1-7, Micah 5:2).
Jeremiah 29:13 states you will seek me and find me. We get close to God by studying His Word and through continual sessions of prayer.
2 Timothy 3:16 says the scriptures are given by inspiration of God. Whatever is bound in heaven is bound on earth and whatever is bound on earth is bound in heaven (Matthew 18:18-20). There are many things written in the Bible about the life of Christ. John 21:25 says the world itself could not contain the books if they had written about everything He did while on earth.
If the Bible wasn’t inspired, how did the old testament prophets write about events in the new testament? The new testament wasn’t yet written during the life of Christ. There are a large number of prophecies in the old testament that were fulfilled in the new testament. When you put facts together and study them out, you will discover the Majesty and Wisdom of God. 2 Peter 1:19-20 says no prophecy of the Scripture is stated by man’s own interpretation. Jeremiah 1:9 says God put words in the prophet’s mouth. Psalm 119:105 says the Bible is for lighting the path for our feet so we can safely move through life’s journey. John 17:17 explains how the Bible teaches only truth. We are comforted by God’s Word giving us peace (Ecclesiastes 3:8, Isaiah 9:6, John 14:27, Romans 14:17, 1 Corinthians 14:33, Philippians 4:4-8, Hebrews 12:14).
The reason we question the inspiration of the Holy Scriptures is because it is written by the Holy Spirit through men and Satan wants us to doubt mans ability. Satan’s hope is we will get discouraged and give up on God. The frightening truth is that many people want to come to God but they give up because Satan has put so many obstacles in their path. God has promised to be faithful (Deuteronomy 7:9, Isaiah 49:7, 1 Corinthians 10:13, 1 Thessalonians 5:24, 2 Thessalonians 3:3, Hebrews 10:28, Hebrews 11:11, Revelation 19:11). If God has promised us He will be faithful, He can’t deny us what He has promised because He can’t deny Himself (2 Timothy 2:13). Praise our wonderful and awesome God!
There are several books on the Bible codes that prove the Bible contains scientific, archaeological and historical information that could not have been produced by human beings unless God dictated their writing. In light of the fascinating evidence written in these books, every one of us needs to carefully consider the implications certain beliefs have on our future. The powerful evidence in God’s Book proves the Bible is truly the Word of God. The Bible is full of mathematical designs and codes which no human can explain. This is a phenomenon not produced by man. God exclusively has the ability to produce such a profound Book of wisdom. The Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in 1947 by an Arab shepherd boy. It is considered the greatest archaeological find in history. Scholars discovered authoritative Hebrew text to be identical to the Dead Sea Scrolls. The only difference found was a very small number of spelling variations, but not one word was altered from the original scrolls found in the caves.
Don't hold the agnostic or atheistic position that Bible authors wrote to the best of their language and memory limitations. If you have never believed in God or His Holy Bible because of your religion, pray for God to give you an insatiable craving for His Word. He will give you wisdom, knowledge and understanding when you ask. 1 Timothy 6:15-16 says God has immortality. Constantly say to yourself, “God’s righteousness is in me”. Within the pages of the Holy Bible, you will find peace, safety and eternal life. People are hungry for the Word of God. After you have a sample, you want more, you become ravenous. We need our lives to be so intermingled with God that we are eager to have a moment to commune with Him.
When you stand before Jesus Christ on the Judgement Day, what reason will you give Him for your belief? Have you influenced others with your belief that might affect their salvation? There are only two sides from which to choose. James 4:14 says our life is a vapor and then it vanishes. The time we have to make our choice isn't long!
Ask yourself the following simple questions: 1) Do I love Jesus? 2) Did Jesus die for me? 3) Does Jesus love me? 4) Is Jesus coming to take me to heaven? If your answer is yes to these four simple questions and you doubt the Bible is inspired, you need to rethink your position. John 1:14 says the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us. Jesus Christ loves us and wants us to realize His Word is powerful and endures forever (Hebrews 4:12-13, 1 Peter 1:25).
Chapter Three
Why Do People Die Before Their Time Should Be Up?
The Bible states our days were numbered before we were formed (Psalm 39:4, Jeremiah 1:5, Acts 17:26, Ephesians 1:11). If our days were measured before we were made, then God must have each and every death planned out for a very serious, profound reason.
If you talk with people who have lost loved ones you will often discover it brought them closer to God or turned them completely away from Him. The Bible states the body turns back to the dust it was created from (Genesis 3:19, Psalm 104:29, Ecclesiastes 3:20). The soul and spirit return to God who gave it to us in the beginning (2 Corinthians 5:8, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17, Revelation 20:4). When we look at death from the Biblical point of view, to die is to be at home with the Lord. The soul and spirit go upward and we are forever with God. Even though death is an unknown, God has given us enough information to give us peace. When the body dies the soul and spirit return to God (Psalms 146:3-4, Ecclesiastes 12:7, James 5:25-26).
Our family was devastated when 24 year old Michael died. His disease was absolute hell on earth. Morphine could not rid his body of the torment from pain. Frequent hallucinations put his painful body in terror. This young man was brilliant. He was a joy to be around. Why did God allow him to be taken at a tender, young age? Why did he have to go through a horrible, agonizing death? Why did God take him, the only child, from his loving, doting, adoring parents?
God has explained many things in the Bible. We need to constantly go to God with our questions. If we trust Him, He will lead us to the answers. My mother died in 1995. She was 67 years old. She, an author of Christian books, was an ambassador for God and I have to say it shook the foundation of my faith when she died. I thought she should have had many more years to witness for God.
I asked many questions regarding death to anyone who would listen. The answers were disappointing and vague. I took my quest to God and He answered my questions through a process of in-depth search and constant Bible study.
The Bible says in Psalm 39:4 we have a measured number of days. Psalm 139:13-16 says our bodies were planned ahead before they were formed in our mother’s womb. Romans 8:29-30 tells how we were predestined to be made in God’s image. God has predestined all of us according to His plan and purpose. Ephesians 1:5 explains we are His children and He planned us before we were made.
The Bible tells us in Romans 6:23 the wages of sin is death. God explained to Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:19 the consequences of their sin. He explained they came from dust and would return to dust at death.
In Daniel 12:13 God is telling Daniel he would rest then receive his allotted inheritance. The Lord sent an angel to get the body of Moses in Jude :9. James 2:26 says the body without the spirit is dead. It takes a combination of body, spirit and soul to be a live, breathing creature. Luke 24:36-43 says the spirit doesn’t have flesh and bones. God wanted Moses to be complete so he sent Michael, the archangel, after the body (Jude :9).
2 Kings 2:1-11 says Elijah went to heaven in a whirlwind. Genesis 5:24 and Hebrews 11:5 say Enoch was translated so he wouldn’t have to face death. When the meeting in the clouds takes place, our bodies will be changed in the twinkling of an eye (1 Corinthians 15:52, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Philippians 3:21 says our vile bodies will be made like God’s perfect body.
Paul was stoned and left for dead in 46 A.D. (Acts 14:19-20). In 2 Corinthians 12:1-10, in 70 A.D., Paul describes how he went to heaven after being left for dead from being stoned. He describes how he talked with Jesus and He told Paul “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness”. Paul decided his work on earth wasn’t finished and made the choice to come back to earth. He would like to have been able to stay with Christ but he wanted to help the people learn more about Jesus. He heard and saw things in heaven termed as “unspeakable” that man is not permitted to tell. Because Paul decided to come back to earth, God had to keep conceit and arrogance from him due to all he had seen and heard in heaven. God made a messenger of Satan be attached to Paul constantly so he would have to fight evil the same as anyone else. This was called a thorn in his side. This kept Paul humble and always praising God. We, as Paul, are strongest when we are weak because then we call on God for help (Philippians 1:21-25). We must learn to rely on God so we can be strong all the time.
We most likely won’t be translated like Enoch and Elijah. We will die the first death which God calls “sleeping” (Matthew 9:23-25, Mark 5:39, Psalm 17:15, Acts 7:60). If Jesus calls us to meet Him in the clouds before we die the first death, we are the very privileged generation (Matthew 24:34, Mark 13:30, Luke 21:32). The second death is eternal (Matthew 25:41, Revelation 2:11, Revelation 20:6, Revelation 20:14, Revelation 21:8). We don’t want to be without Christ in our life. The first death assures us to be at home with Christ if we die in Him. Funerals are sad and very painful and meant only for the living. At death we see what is left, the body. To the dead, death means to be at home with God (2 Corinthians 5:8).
In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17, Paul says not to be sad because when Jesus comes, He will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep in Christ. He says if we believe Jesus died and rose again, we should believe the same for those who have fallen asleep in Jesus.
We should be excited learning what God says in His word. It is exhilarating to be one with Christ. If we ever question death we must remember our days were numbered before our bodies were formed. Psalm 147:3 says He heals us when our hearts are broken. What an awesome God we have.
Chapter Four
Why Are People So Critical?
Humans will always be critical of each other because they want someone else to be more miserable than they feel. People criticize others to make themselves feel and appear powerful and in control. Sin entered the world and evil forces have been attacking man ever since in hope of causing him to lose eternal life. If man refuses to believe in God he will be destroyed (Psalm 1:6, Psalm 14:1, John 3:36, Hebrews 12:14-15, 2 Timothy 2:12). When we sow evil thoughts, plots, schemes, devices or unrighteous acts against each other, the devil is leading us, not Jesus Christ. Proverbs 18:21 says the power of the tongue holds life or death. “But the tongue no man can tame, it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison” (James 3:8). Proverbs 17:5 says people who are happy about the misfortunes and problems of others will be punished. Proverbs 19:9 explains if you lie, you die. Galatians 6:7-8 and 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10 explains how evil doers will be punished by God.
We are told in Galatians 6:7-8 and Job 4:8 those who cause problems will have the same thing happen to them. You know the quote, “what goes around comes around.” We truly reap what we sow. 1 John 3:10 points out that we aren’t living in righteousness if we treat others unkindly. We must learn to have empathy and to respect everyone and every living creature. Treat other people the very same way you want them to treat you (Matthew 12:7). This includes our children! Respect your children and give them the love and attention they need and deserve. 1 John 5:17 lets us know without a doubt there is right and wrong. There are no gray areas. Don’t lie to each other or ourselves (Colossians 3:8, Ephesians 4:25).
God expects us to give attention to our children. The developmental years of a child are the most important soul cost effective of his entire life. We, as parents, are responsible for the physical, emotional, spiritual and intellectual growth of our children. We don’t have a choice in this matter. God tells us to teach a child the way he should live and he’ll never forget these basic teachings (Proverbs 20:7, Proverbs 20:11, Proverbs 22:6, Proverbs 22:15, Proverbs 29:15). He tells us to love our children (Proverbs 23:13, Proverbs 19:18, Titus 2:4). Children need love, attention, guidance, encouragement and most of all taught the love of Jesus Christ. They have to be taught morals so they will grow up to be happy people. They have to be directed and guided when they are young. A child taught from birth right and wrong will always know in his heart the answer to questions he or she might otherwise have to struggle over.
The Bible gives us many texts explaining rules for good living. These rules are to make us happy and to enjoy a good life (2 Chronicles 20:12, Proverbs 15:1, Proverbs 28:18, Romans 13:13, Ephesians 4:2-32, Philippians 2:1-18, Colossians 3:1-15, Colossians 4:6, 1 Timothy 3, James 1:19, James 4:1-17, 2 Peter 1:1-21, 1 John 3:18, 3 John :11, Jude :22-23).
We are instructed to love everyone. Luke 6:27 says to love our enemies. Jesus instructed us to love each other in John 15:12-17. 1 John 2:10 states if we love each other we have Christ’s love in our hearts. Galatians 6:2 explains if we help each other we will be fulfilling God’s commands. If we bear the fruit of righteousness our reward will be peace (James 3:18). We need to keep peace in our heart. If we have the love of God in us, we will truly have peace. We have to realize there will always be people around us who will let the evil forces lead them. They will not have peace from God. Following God is the only path we can take to attain peace. God is the author of peace and He wants us to have peace in our lives (Isaiah 9:6, John 14:27, Romans 5:1, Romans 14:27, Philippians 4:4-8). He wants everyone to have peace, not confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33). As Christians, we are to put on righteousness and show the world how the love of God shows no favoritism. He loves everyone the same (Romans 2:11).
Our priority is to keep the love of God in our heart, soul and spirit. We must daily commit our life to Him. When we learn to put our trust in God we will find peace. God said to put our trust in Him, not each other (Psalm 118:8). Do you have someone in your life who is critical and/or controlling? Someone who enjoys hurting you doesn’t love you or have the love of God in their heart. When people fire questions at you that are meant to cause strife and malice, don’t answer! We want to focus on having God’s love in our life. He is waiting for us to give up trying on our own and surrender to Him. He will take over and work out His plan for our life. He will show us how to put the past behind us and live for the future (Philippians 3:13).
God says anger will destroy our life and to stay away from people who have no control over their temper (Proverbs 15:1, Proverbs 22:24, Proverbs 25:23, Proverbs 29:22, Ecclesiastes 7:9, Titus 1:7). Anger causes discouragement for those on the receiving end whether child or adult (Colossians 3:21). We can learn to control our anger against those who treat us unfairly (Proverbs 16:32). We need to know all anger is not sin. When we are angry because we don’t like someone or someone rubs us the wrong way, it is a sin. If we have a reason to be angry with someone, God will show us what to do (Matthew 5:22). When we have reason to be angry with someone it is because they have damaged our reputation or character. We have to confront them and tell them to stop their aggression toward us. Tell them you don’t want adversity between you. We have to listen to God and let Him be in control. We have to be close to Him to be able to forgive and forget (Jeremiah 31:34, Luke 6:37). Some people just don’t want to put the past behind them (Philippians 3:13-14). We, as new creations in Christ, will ask that He put in us a loving heart (2 Corinthians 5:17). In my own experiences in life, when I allowed God to take over, my life was happy again. God has promised us He will deliver us when adversity strikes (Deuteronomy 31:8, Isaiah 63:9, Psalm 94:17-19, Proverbs 18:10, 2 Thessalonians 3:3, Hebrews 13:5-6, Jude :24-25). Problems won’t be so devastating when we are close to Jesus Christ. They will actually help us grow (Romans 5:2-5). The more we know and understand the Bible the more we understand Him. Put the anger and bitterness in your heart away. Let go of all that binds you and let God completely run your life (Proverbs 3:5-6, Matthew 6:25-34).
We have to ask God for a forgiving and a loving heart. Satan plants bitterness in us to destroy our well being. As bitterness grows we become unhappy. We forget all about our love and respect for God and others. Our life becomes ugly with hatred. Our health is affected. Personal relationships fall apart. Satan is very effective in his plans to thwart our lives. We get so critical our friends don’t want to be around us. Finally, unhappiness brings us to our knees asking God to intervene and take over our life. We want God’s Spirit in us so we can help others rebuild their lives. We must be vigilant at all times (1 Peter 5:8-9). We need the oil of joy and the garment of praise because we want beauty for ashes (Isaiah 61:1-3).
I enjoy sitting in my chair relaxing and thinking. I close my eyes and visualize Christ’s face above me. There is a perfect, full, teardrop shape tear rear running down His cheek. The eyes glisten, welling with tears. My heart all of the sudden lurches and my arms instinctively reach up to Him. Suddenly the tear drop falls down to me. I try to catch it in my hands but it is too large and it breaks over my hands and arms. The face vanishes and a scene of a single parent family appears before me. People are bustling around in a kitchen cleaning up after a meal. Some are busy at the table getting out homework from school. I can’t help but wonder where God fits into their lives. Do they spend time throughout the day talking to Him, praising Him, taking their problems to Him? Will their thoughts concentrate on how He blesses them daily though they have little? We can’t be bitter or angry about our circumstances. Those who can need to help those who have a struggle in life. It is our responsibility to help the needy. People who help others will be given the water of life (Proverbs 11:24-25).
Confusion, rebellion, pride, envy, hate and bitterness will be our destruction. Satan doesn’t want us to have a good life. He wants us to hate God and blame Him for all the negative events in our life. He wants us to die never having hope or thinking about eternal life. We have to show the world how to live happy and be full of joy in Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit is in us until Jesus calls us home to be with Him or the meeting in the clouds takes place with Him to live where He dwells through eternity. He has promised He will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5-6). The Holy Spirit will be in us until He takes us to Heaven before the antichrist is revealed when the Christians and Holy Spirit are taken out of the world (2 Thessalonians 2:7-8).
Chapter Five
Why Is Life A Difficult Struggle?
God told Adam and Eve life would be difficult and everything would be earned by the sweat of their brow and pain would be part of the life cycle (Genesis 3:17-19). That must have been frightening for them to hear. They had known only peace and joy in God. Once they sinned, life became the choice of good and evil. Satan has ruled over man’s life on earth since that very sad moment in history making it full of pain and suffering. Read all of Genesis 3.
All through history man has had triumphs and defeats. Nations have collapsed. The personal lives of prominent people have suffered devastation. We all have personal triumphs and tragedies day by day throughout our lives. God knows our sorrows and our needs and our unspoken requests. He answers before we call and knows the end result before we have begun. Will today be just another mundane uneventful moment of our history or will we make it a day to rejoice in and record as special in the journal of our life? We all feel the ever tightening grip of Satan on our lives.
Sometimes we feel as if there is no hope. We try to get through one day at a time struggling over everything we do. We struggle to pay the bills, keep our jobs, keep the family happy, have daily Bible study, spend time with our children and so on. We feel as though the company we work for wants to own us. It takes two incomes per household to be able to own a home, pay the bills, and have vehicles you can trust to get you home.
We will be under the curse of sin until Jesus calls us to heaven. We can attain a happy life through Jesus Christ. If we die to sin and accept Jesus as our personal Saviour we are the winners in life (Isaiah 12:2, John 14:6, Acts 4:12). People need to witness Christ in the daily living of Christians (Psalms 126:2). Proverbs 15:15 says a happy person will always be feasting. We will have joy in our lives because Jesus is the center of our existence making us complete. If we ask God to give us a positive attitude and we do everything in our power to be positive and happy, God will bless us with everlasting joy. We have to want to be happy. Scientists say the brain releases a healing chemical into our body every time we laugh. Proverbs 17:22 says a merry heart does good like a medicine.
Instead of letting the devil oppress us, let’s be happy and let our bodies heal. Jesus went around healing everyone the devil had oppressed (Acts 10:38).
1 John 5:19 tells us the entire world is wicked. We have to develop faith to get through the tough times in life. We must put on the breastplate of righteousness to ward off the evil arrows of the demons (Ephesians 6:17).
Our lives on this earth will always be full of pain. The fall of man paved the road to our destruction. Satan and his demons will always be trying to make our lives as miserable as possible. The Bible says Satan prowls the earth looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8). When we realize how powerful the evil forces of our planet are, we will not be surprised by the sadness, hurt and oppression we are under. Satan is called a liar and he is the master of all evil (1 John 2:22).
Because Jesus died on the cross 2,000 years ago, the world has a blessed hope. We know that He is coming back soon to take us to paradise to live with Him throughout all eternity (Revelation 2:7). He has promised us eternal life through the blood of Jesus and when God makes a creed with us, that covenant will never be broken.
It is difficult to imagine what life in heaven is like. He has promised us that it is far beyond man’s imagination (1 Corinthians 2:9). What is prepared for us is a life of abundant happiness and joy and an eternity with Christ (Revelation 21:4-5, Revelation 22:3-5).
As long as we lead a life with morals following God’s Word, we will find peace. When we are living a Christian life, Satan tries to mess us up any way he can. When we submit ourselves to God, we will have peace and joy.
As long as we are on this earth, Satan will constantly be discouraging us so we will lose faith and confidence in God. There is a real being named Satan out there with real demons on his force. He has demons who help him (Mark 3:22, Luke 11:15). We have to get understanding because it is the fountain of life (Proverbs 16:22). When we lose self and find faith, trust and confidence in God, we will be reaping the joy of the Lord (Romans 15:13). Daniel 8:23 says Satan is a master at what he does. What he does is reaps where he hasn’t sown (Luke 8:1-15). He tries to take every thing we have from us. He wants us so discouraged we will give up on God. Satan’s way is discouragement which leads to depression turning into oppression. He wants you to think there is no help for your problems. He wants to steal your happiness. He wants you to be a quitter. The Bible says never to give up walking a life in Christ (Proverbs 28:18, Romans 13:13, Ephesians 5:1-20).
We think the harder we try to follow Jesus, the worse things get. We say in our heart, “Why doesn’t God care what happens to me?” He does care! It is a fact that Satan digs his claws in deeper when we get close to Christ (2 Corinthians 4:4, Ephesians 2:2, James 3:14-15, 1 Peter 5:8). Satan wants us so discouraged we question everything about God (Mark 4:14-15). When we finally realize we have had all we can take and cry out to God to save us and pull us out of despair, He absolutely will. Why didn’t we ask sooner? Do we always have to start sinking or hit bottom before we think to call on Him? It totally depends on our relationship with Christ. Satan is going to find the weak link in our life. Whether it is possessions, drugs, relationships, our mind or our soul, Satan’s goal is to control us one way or another. He doesn’t care how it is accomplished. The use of those closest to us will affect us the most. We think we can trust them, but when Satan enters into them making our life miserable, he thinks he is winning (Philippians 3:3). Our life is like a bowling game to him. He wants to see how many pins he can knock down before the owner comes and says it’s time to go home. The Lord will always be our confidence (Proverbs 3:26).
I have two beautiful Seal Point Himalayan cats. They are litter mates and are extremely devoted to one another. They are very sensitive and loving animals. I call them the “little girls” in conversation even though their names are Calvin and Hobbes. This started because we have two beautiful daughters we call the “big girls”. The “little girls” came to live in our home when they were about seven weeks old. They have blessed our lives so much through the years we have had them. We love them more every day it seems. They have taught us so much about God’s love for us.
When something tramatic happens in our household they become very upset. They will actually get tears in their eyes and cry for two or three days at a time. During this time they are consoled and given more attention than normal from us to help get them through the difficult times. The amazing love between these two is demonstrated most during these stressful periods.
One will mournfully call and the other one will come and give the other one a kiss then put an arm around the neck and just rub the others head during this moment of consoling. We had the mother, Susie, of these two kittens for a year before she died. Hobbes loved her mother dearly and they got along wonderfully. When Susie died from a blood clot, she was at the vets office. We took her in her carrier and when the empty carrier came home it sat by the closet door in our daughter’s bedroom. During the first three days Hobbes brought different toys that were Susie’s favorites to the front of the carrier and would drop them in front of the closed door. Then she would lie down by the toys she brought and would make little talking sounds to the carrier. Hobbes mourned her for weeks. She quit bringing toys to the carrier door but she would lie there and talk to the carrier. If God has put this kind of love between His little creatures, think what He feels for us. He will always have His arm around us when we need Him most. He will always be there to talk to us in the hard times.
God is the potter and we are His clay (Job 10:9, Job 33:6, Psalm 2:9, Isaiah 64:8, Lamentations 4:2, Romans 9:21). God is constantly molding us. He will get our attention when He wants to talk with us. When a weakness is detected, He adds more clay to reinforce and strengthen us. He is our strength (Psalm 3:3-5, Psalm 27:1, Psalm 55:22, Psalm 73:26).
Chapter Six
Why Is The Church Rude And Hypocritical?
Churches are filled with people who are filled with self interest. People who attend church but are hypocritical and rude do not know Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour. They are perfect in their own eyes (Proverbs 21:2, Proverbs 30:12, Luke 18:9-14, Romans 10:3, Revelation 3:17).
There was a man who discouraged people from coming to church by his rude, thoughtless behavior. If people weren’t dressed in suits and ties or nice dresses, he made it his business to tell them they weren’t dressed appropriately for attending church. This self-righteous member of the church body was not representing Christ. People make up their own rules and live a life that injures other people’s prospects of becoming Christians. We can’t measure anyone by anyone here on earth (2 Corinthians 10:12). We can only read the Scriptures and learn what Jesus said regarding different moral issues (Matthew 5:1-48, 2 Timothy 2:23-24).
We will never reach perfection in this life (Ecclesiastes 7:20). People have no respect for others because they are too full of themselves. We have to learn to respect everyone. Arrogance has knocked humility off our shoulder. Psalm 130:3 explains where we would be if sins were not forgiven. None of us would be able to go to heaven. Who can say they are perfect? Not one of us! There is not a just man on the face of this earth (Ecclesiastes 7:20). We are each responsible for our own salvation. We have to make the decision to follow Christ and give our life to others (Matthew 6:1-4, Galatians 2:10, 1 Timothy 5:3-5, 1 Timothy 6:17-19, Hebrews 13:2). We can make that decision for no one else (Ezekiel 14:14). Sometimes decisions are difficult to make. Do we always reflect our deeds honestly? Proverbs 12:15 says the way of a fool seems right in his own eyes.
God is always there to help us when we are in trouble. Follow Him and we won’t be wondering how we always get ourselves into trouble. There are no perceptions of right or wrong. There is only God’s way. We need morals in our lives. Our actions should always express appropriate behavior for every situation. People say a white lie is alright. We live in a society that is anti-moralistic and proud of the fact. A partial lie is a lie. There is no half truth. Either you tell the truth or you tell a lie. 1 John 2:22 says Satan is a liar. James 2:19 states the devils believe in God, just as we do, and they tremble! They know exactly why we believe in God. He is supreme and powerful and there is no other God (Isaiah 45:5).
As the church of Jesus, we need to remember He is the way, the truth and eternal life (John 14:6). We need to come boldly to the throne of grace and be filled with unspeakable glory (Hebrews 4:14-16, 1 Peter 1:8-9). We need the love of Jesus. When the church body gets critical, who gets hurt? The members of the body, of course. Until the church realizes God is the only judge, there will be no peace in the church body. The people hurt are those who never get to know God’s love because we have chased them away from entering the open door. By example the church needs to show the world what integrity means. Christ gave us a commandment to love one another (John 13:34). Stop gossiping and telling lies about each other. It destroys people and relationships. When we lie, gossip or spread vicious rumors about anyone, we can be confident God will deal with us severely!
When we pronounce judgement on others, we are claiming to be God (Genesis 3:15, Matthew 23:12, Luke 14:11, Luke 18:14). We have to respect others. We need to pray asking God to take over in our lives and lead us to Him. God says He alone is the judge (John 5:30, Acts 10:42-43, 2 Timothy 4:8, Hebrews 10:30-31). Before we think about judging others we need to remember who truly is the Judge. God shows love, mercy and justice in His court system. James 4:11-12 says there is only one Judge. Jesus teaches us in Luke 6:37 our judgement will be measured by our life and our treatment of others. God’s love and kindness leads us to repentance (Ephesians 3:16-19, Philippians 4:4-8, Hebrews 9:22, 2 John :3, Jude :24-25).
We must ask Him daily to cleanse us and give us a loving heart. He expects us to be devoted to Him constantly after we give our heart to Him and accept His saving grace. We must be careful not to lose Him.
Chapter Seven
Why Don’t People Have Faith?
The subject of faith is difficult for everyone. Faith is something we can’t see (Hebrews 11:1). There are a lot of Bible texts explaining faith. We have to simplify our faith and learn to lean on God for understanding, knowledge and wisdom concerning faith. The Bible says faith comes by reading the Word of God (Romans 10:17). Faith is developed as we walk hand in hand with God. God questions if He will find faith on the earth when He returns (Luke 18:8).
How do we get faith? Do we want faith? Do we want it enough to change our life style? God guarantees us it will be a life of happiness and praise (Mark 9:23). Spiritual riches are rewarding and far outweigh earthly riches (John 3:15, 1 Peter 1:8-9). We need to ask God to forgive our sins and He will forgive our sins (1 John 1:8-9). Amplitude of the sin isn’t an issue with God, only our willingness to ask Him to forgive us (1 John 1:9). He loved each of us so much he died a cruel death on the cross so we could live through eternity with Him (Isaiah 53:5-6, John 1:29, Galatians 3:13, Hebrews 2:14-15, 1 John 3:16). Christ’s sacrifice sealed Satan’s fate and his plan for ruling the world. Instead, Satan soon faces death (Matthew 25:42, Hebrews 2:14-15).
Faith comes when we diligently study the scriptures (Romans 10:17). It is our daily study that brings us closer to God. When we study and search the scriptures for answers to our questions, we find ourselves craving more and more. We actually get addicted to God and our soul demands a constant incoming flow of His Holy Word. When we yearn for God’s word, we are growing in faith. We live by faith because we have the reassurance from God’s word in our hearts (Proverbs 3:5, Romans 1:17, 2 Corinthians 5:7, Hebrews 10:38-39). We know the sun, moon, stars and seasons come and go in a continual cycle (Genesis 1:14). We see with our eyes the perfect timing of the seasons and days corresponding with the calendar. We have no doubt what day or month or season is next. We have to ask without doubting and God will give us wisdom (James 1:2-8).
We listen to ministers telling us to pay our offerings and tithes because God will bless us with monetary riches. They lead us to believe we will become wealthy if we pay our tithes and offerings. Don’t believe it! The most treasured gift we could possibly receive is eternal life. If we follow Him, He will bestow on us eternal life. These ministers just want our money. We must pay tithes and offerings as we normally do but don’t let anyone brainwash us into sending money to their cause and not to the one we think is better suited for us personally. God will bless us if we support His work. But don’t be lead to believe you have to send it to any one certain place because that is not true. God blesses us when we ask Him for common sense. He will impress us and lead us to the right choices paying our tithes and offerings. He will open the windows of heaven with blessings untold (Proverbs 3:9-10, Malachi 3:8-10, Matthew 23:23, Luke 6:38, 2 Corinthians 9:6-8, Galatians 6:6). He will meet our needs (Philippians 4:15-19). He has instructed us to pay one tenth of our income to Him and we must follow His Word. We can’t get our sights set on riches because God sends blessings that will help us in the spiritual, emotional, physical and mental realm that far outweigh the riches of this world. Should we be blessed in the financial realm, praise Him for such a tremendous gift.
God wants our faith to grow bold. He wants us to know and grow so we won’t doubt. We have to know where our faith is coming from. Hebrews 10:23 promises us that God is faithful and He can’t go back on His promises. He is going to keep His promises to us (1 Corinthians 1:9, 1 Peter 4:19). Hebrews 6:18 tells us it is impossible for God to lie. We have established two important elements of teaching. God is faithful and God can’t lie.
Satan wants us full of doubt and fear. Doubt to the point of giving up and questioning God’s authority over events on earth. Doubting to the point of thinking God doesn’t care about our problems. Doubting everything to the point of being afraid of our circumstances and their effect on our lives. When we get so close to giving up on God we are allowing ourselves to enter a dangerous zone. The more resolute we become with these convictions, the further we distance ourselves from God. The more we distance ourselves from God, the unhappier we become. What we don’t realize all the time this is happening, Satan is rejoicing over our spiritual demise.
Our confidence in God must exist in a realm of complete trust. Is it difficult to imagine our life entrusted to a God we can’t see? No! As we continue to study God’s Word we learn we have freedom in truth (John 8:31-32). Confidence in God is essential in our lives. When we have problems, we have to go to God. We are human and we make mistakes. We have to learn from our mistakes by not repeating them. We must prove our faith, never wavering. When we walk by faith believing God is faithful, He will reward us with everlasting life (Proverbs 3:5, John 6:47-48, 2 Corinthians 5:7, James 1:1-8, 1 Peter 1:8-9, 1 John 5:1-12). We have to walk in faith and be on a high for God. We have to be on fire for God! Get radical!
Do you often wish you could fly? I have wished many time I could fly. To be free of man’s inventions would be to soar through the air with arms stretched out yearning to go upward. Flying upward through the heavens toward the emerald rainbow encircling His throne should be our ultimate desire. Moving higher and higher, faster and faster watching our universe disappear as we move toward our new home. The sense of euphoria and closeness to God is tangible. You listen and He speaks. The voice is entrancing and you hear nothing else. He says, “It isn’t quite time yet, just a little longer”. You then realize the moment is yet to come. You crash back to reality knowing your faith will one day keep you face to face with Him forever in His kingdom.
God is constantly searching the world for those who love Him so He can give them strength (Deuteronomy 11:2, 2 Chronicles 16:9, Psalms 34:15). We have the power of faith so let’s use it and live by it (Hebrews 10:38-39). Take the shield of faith and quench all the fiery darts of Satan (Ephesians 6:17). Let God turn our problems into triumphs.
We can’t be angry with God and distance ourselves from Him because then we put ourselves in the devil’s arena. This is a very dangerous position. There is no gray area, only good versus evil. Our faith has to remain steadfast never wavering. If circumstances lead us to be angry, let it be with ourselves.
We go through many levels of correction from God. This is the way we mature and find restoration through grace. There is no middle ground for us to take. We are on God’s side or Satan’s side. Don’t be mislead by anyone regarding the attitude you harbor towards God. God never lets go of our heart. We fail when we try to get through life by ourselves. To have joy in Christ, we can never let go of the promises He has given us. Our faith must remain steadfast no matter what.
We want Him to find faith on the earth when He returns.
Chapter Eight
Why Doesn’t Prayer Reap Results?
The Bible states we are to pray without giving up. We should give thanks in everything. God wants us to commune with Him constantly. Our prayers are to be full of kindness, grace, thankfulness, reverence and always spoken in love. God is love and our communion with Him is as important to Him as it is to us (Psalm 36:5, Psalm 94:17-19, Isaiah 65:24, John 3:16, John 15:9-13, 1 Peter 3:12).
God always keeps the communication line open. He is always ready for our prayers with His ears open (1 Peter 3:12). God wants us to pray never giving up (Luke 11:1-13, Luke 18:1, Colossians 4:2). He says He will answer our prayers before we pray and He will hear while we are still praying (Isaiah 65:24). We are to give God thanks for the food we eat (Romans 14:6). 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says to rejoice in everything for this is God’s will concerning you. We aren’t to be distressed about anything (Matthew 6:25-34). God wants us to have a peaceful heart. We are to take our requests to God by prayer and petition with a Spirit of thanksgiving and reverence (Philippians 4:6, Colossians 3:17, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17). We have to realize faith and prayer work together. The Spirit of God lives in us making us God’s temple (1 Corinthians 3:16-17). God expects us to take care of ourselves by not defiling our bodies with the temptations of this world (1 Corinthians 6:19, 1 Peter 5:8, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Proverbs 31:6).
Have you ever searched for a quiet, secret place? A place where you are surrounded with an unseen peace and tranquility. This is a utopia you say? Close your eyes and picture a beautiful rose garden surrounded with a protective hedge. The birds are singing and the sun is shining. In the middle of this garden is a glowing, shimmering, grassy spot. It beckons to you and slowly you walk toward it. The wind is blowing through your hair. The closer you get the stronger the pull to keep moving toward it. Your soul feels airy and peaceful and the light warms your entire being. You move toward the circle, your arms stretched out, reaching toward heaven. You talk to God and He talks to you. The peace and joy is so overwhelming tears well up in your eyes. You no longer hear the sweet melody of the birds. You praise God and converse with Him. God understands you and you understand Him. You are over-flowing and bursting with a peace that transcends all understanding. Your heart is singing. You want to spend a lifetime there and never leave the moment. You share every thought with Him and listen to every word He speaks. Your heart wants to sing and praise Him, but you hang on every word spoken. His voice is the only sound you hear. It is the sound of music and waterfalls blending into a symphony of humanity mixed with divinity. For a brief moment you are in ecstacy never thinking of leaving. You praise Him and sing to Him and talk to Him. Then the birds singing fills your soul once again. The wind blows softly through your hair. You realize you are saying goodbye to Him. The light fades on the warm grassy spot and your arms come down to your sides. You realize for this moment it is over and you must go once again about the duties of life here on earth. You leave your imaginary garden promising Him you will return very soon.
James 5:16 says the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective and availeth much. Webster’s Dictionary describes avail as the following: 1) to be of worth 2) advantage toward attainment of a goal or purpose <effort was little> 3) to be of use or advantage.
When we take advantage of what is there for us to use supplied by God, we are fulfilling His purpose. We should always serve God with reverence and awe (Hebrews 12:28). Do you have a prayer and praise history that resembles a graph of the 1929 stock market crash? We need to be praying and talking to God constantly.
Instinctively, our heart knows there is something we are always searching for in life. Life is a puzzle and we never find that last piece. We are continually searching for it in every nook and cranny, but always come up empty handed.
We discuss different possibilities of what we might do in the future. Whatever we decide on never quite feels right. God sends revealing, exciting messages to us but because they seem improbable and definitely impossible, we shrug them off thinking they are our own unattainable ideas.
Every spare moment needs to find us communicating with Him. When we are in the house, car, office, in the field, on the ferry, on the plane or train, when we are walking or jogging, waiting, wherever we are, we need to be in silent thought or audible discussion talking to Him. We have to keep the communications on-going or we will lose the closeness with Him. Praying only in times of distress and disaster will not fill our needs. It is the one and only constant in our lives that will be keep us balanced. It is our responsibility to retain this close relationship with God. I can’t remember the last time a day went by that I didn’t talk and pray to God all through the day whenever the opportunity presented itself. It would be a devastating moment in my life to lose that relationship. When we listen, He speaks to us. When God speaks, you will know. He speaks to everyone in a different way. We have to take time to be still and listen to Him.
We teach young children to pray through repetition. When they learn to repeat the prayer, coaching is no longer necessary. As they grow older and understanding comes to them, they need to learn to pray from their heart, soul and spirit. As we mature and grow spiritually, God expects us to listen to what we are saying while we pray. We aren’t a tape recorder. Our prayers must come from our hearts. If we want God to listen, we will learn to pray as though we are in earnest conversation with Him.
When we seek God in prayer, He expects us to believe and have the faith required to have results to our prayers (Luke 18:1-8, Colossians 4:6, Philippians 4:4-8, Hebrews 12:28). When we humble ourselves before the throne of God asking forgiveness for our sins, He will lift us up and forgive us our sins (James 4:10, 1 John 1:8-9). God is our sun and shield. He won’t withhold any good thing from us when we live a Christian life (Psalm 84:11).
We can’t hate someone and expect God’s forgiveness. We have to live a pure life letting God lead us to eternal life and a close relationship with Him. 2 Chronicles 20:12 shows God’s rightful place with us depending on Him and listening for His guiding Word. We are to be imitators of God. Just as a child mirrors his or her guardian’s actions, we are to try our best to be like Christ (Ephesians 5:1-20). Read the Ten Commandments if you aren’t familiar with their content (Exodus 20). Once we are living a Christ like life, we will want to be in constant touch with Him thus understanding how our prayers reap results. God will do a mighty work in our lives when we pray about spiritual things.
We have heard people say that their prayers don’t go any higher than the ceiling. We have all had that experience in our lives. What is it and what does it mean? When we find ourselves in bitterness, shame, hurt or fear we sometimes want to blame God. We say if God cared this or that wouldn’t happen. We forget we live in a world filled with sin. Satan and his demons are working very hard to destroy our faith so we will be too discouraged to keep in communication with God. If we are feeling sorry for ourselves we lose sight of God. The Bible says in Proverbs 23:23 to buy the truth and sell it not. We purchase items then a few years later we sell these things. Buying the truth is the same idea as purchasing something we think we can’t do without. God says not to sell the truth. We can’t want something so much we are willing to get God out of our life so we can have our desire. When we purchase something we really want, we make sacrifices in other areas so we can own this special something. When it comes to making sacrifices for God, we sometimes falter. We cannot sell God out of our life because a temptation is too great. The choices we make aren’t always easy. When it comes to God or Satan, we had better know which to choose.
We are blessed if we stand up under temptation (James 1:12-16). Remember how much God loves us and keep in constant communication with Him. He’s only a prayer or thought away. How truly awesome He is!
