True and Righteous Judgment

I am writing this in regard to the recent outcome of the Casey Anthony trial (Story Here). As many of you know, she was found not guilty other than of lying to a police officer in the death of her daughter.

Well, I wanted to share some perspective on this. Many have very heightened emotions about this and are outraged of the verdict. This is understandable. I would like to make a point though that I feel many are overlooking in this matter across the board.

If we keep a true Christian perspective in this situation, we will realize that what she has done is no more evil in God’s eyes than anything anyone else has done. Whether she murdered her daughter or just lied to the police, both are equal in God’s eyes and deserving of eternal judgment in hell.

If you have ever in your life told a lie, even one you may consider a “white lie”, you too are deserving of eternal hell in the same manner as one who has murdered their child. Unless there is true repentance and a faithful and continued commitment to follow Christ Jesus, then our fate will be the same.

Many, even those professing Christians want to jump on an emotional bandwagon crying out for justice, however I am reminded of a story told in Scriptures of a woman who committed adultery and the masses wanted to stone her to death, as was the law. When they brought her to Jesus to see what He would have them do though it seems it was more about them being justified by Him in their execution of justice. The Lord Jesus surprised them by His response.

The Lord responded that he who is without sin should cast the first stone.

This was showing those ready to execute righteous judgement upon this sinner that in God’s eyes, her sin is no more deserving of death than any of theirs.

We all have committed sins worthy of death and eternal judgment. Yet, the Lord is patient with us that we would come to repentance in Him and choose to follow Him so that His sacrifice would cover us.

I have seen many already write Casey off as being unsavable since a jury has found her not guilty and that she will never come to the understanding of her sins and have a repentant heart. We must not jump to such a conclusion for as long as she is alive, there is hope for her.

We as followers of Jesus should earnestly pray for her salvation and that the Lord God of all will be glorified in and through her. If she does not, then God will have the last Word and it will be sure, righteous and swift. If she does turn to Christ through repentance, imagine the impact she could make for the Lord.

Keep in mind that if the Lord and other believers gave up on you because you told a lie, stole something, killed someone, disobeyed your parents, etc. where would you be? Keep this in mind regarding all people.

Everyone must come to a full and truthful understanding of their sins, the weight of their sins, the judgment of their sins to be able to be repentant to salvation. The good news of the gospel is not that you are accepted in Christ but that Christ has made a way through Him for you despite your sins, the evil you have committed against Him and those around you.

Many have overlooked some sins because they continue to commit them… such as disobedience to the Lord. When you choose to disobey the Lord Jesus, you are continuing in sin willfully.

Hebrews 10:26-31 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

This is a good witnessing opportunity for those following Christ Jesus. With so many who are emotionally upset regarding this situation yet do not see themselves as justly deserving of the same punishment as they desire to inflict, this can open their eyes to their need for salvation just as Casey. Do not let this opportunity pass by as we will all be held to account for what we have done with all the Lord has given us for His glory in Christ Jesus.

A Compelling Date to Watch

I was doing some research on Israel’s Anniversaries and came across something that may be of significance. Now, before I go any further, please understand that I am NOT predicting ANYTHING… I am merely pointing out an interesting bit of research that I think is significant enough to share for your consideration.

Okay, here goes…

We know that Israel’s Independence Day by the Hebrew calendar correlates to our Gregorian calendar of May 9th – May 10th. Well, I was wondering when the anniversary was for their 6 Day War… This took more time to research than you can imagine but the results are quite interesting in this year of 2011.

What I found was that Israel’s 6 Day War Anniversary for 2011 is on June 3rd – June 4th (as they consider a day from sunset the day before to sunset of the calendar day, just as the Bible states).

Well here is the interesting thing to consider… Ascension Day, when the Lord Jesus went to Heaven as the disciples looked on and were told by the angle that He would return in the same way) lands this year on June 2nd – June 3rd.

So, in a way… they could be considered the same day as Israel considers days being that IF it were the rapture day… I did say IF!

That could mean that the Church’s ascension COULD BE in the morning of June 3rd and the 6 Day War anniversary be the same Gregorian calendar day of June 3rd but after sunset.

Remember that I am NOT predicting ANYTHING… I am just pointing out an interesting fact that could or may not be anything at this point. I just wanted to share this with you for your consideration.

Another point to ponder is that some believe Ascension Day to also be the separation of the end of the barley harvest and the beginning of the wheat harvest. This may be significant to those who believe the Church is the first fruits of the barley harvest and the 144,000 being the wheat harvest.

Again, this is just for you to ponder and consider… I am NOT predicting ANYTHING.

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Possible Prophetic Implications for May 2011

I was doing a study of my own while I came across a video one of my good friends posted a few days ago that goes along with some of my findings in a very powerful way. I will first post the video and then my very quick study below that.

Here is my quick study:

In May we begin the 2nd month on the Hebrew calendar which is also the same month that Noah entered the ark, the month of Iyyar.

Genesis 7:4 For yet seven days, and I will cause it to rain upon the earth forty days and forty nights; and every living substance that I have made will I destroy from off the face of the earth.

Genesis 7:9-11 There went in two and two unto Noah into the ark, the male and the female, as God had commanded Noah.And it came to pass after seven days, that the waters of the flood were upon the earth. In the six hundredth year of Noah’s life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month, the same day were all the fountains of the great deep broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened.

May 13th is the 10th day of the 2nd month which is from sunset May 12th to sunset May 13th. Seven days later is May 20th which is sunset May 19th to sunset May 20th.

It makes for a good watch date, especially since it is right before the May 15th day that the Muslims will be protesting in Israel that may cause the Damascus war.

An additional thought is that the planets that align for the Bethlehem star are May 11th to May 12th.

The Road To Hell Is Paved With Cookies

I know you are probably thinking, WHAT?! Let me explain.

Tonight, my husband and I went to the grocery store to pick up some last minute things. It was a little late, around 9’ish but we didn’t want to have to go tomorrow. So, while we were there, shopping for what we needed, we happened to notice that some of the store food items were expired. One of which was a container of cookies, hence the title of this post.

I know you are asking yourself, “So, what do cookies have to do with going to hell?”. Well, I am getting to that.

We decided to bring this to the attention of the on duty manager because this was not the first time we have come across expired food there. Well, after we checked out, we found the manager and proceeded to inform her of the cookies. She looked at us puzzled as though she wasn’t sure what we wanted her to do about it. So, she said, “Well, I can sell them to you for a discount.” To which we replied that she cannot “sell” expired food.

She then looked dazed and replied in a prolonged tone, “Ohhh-kaaay”. She then took the cookies and walked off.

Now, to the point.

Many times when things happen, I think about how others might think or how they might respond and I then evaluate what the Biblical way of handling a situation would be.

I thought about how some may say or think in that situation that it could be free food since they cannot sell it and then rationalize that we should just take them next time and just not say anything at all. Then I thought to myself, “Its not worth going to hell over a box of cookies”.

I know some may think that is a harsh statement or judgment against anyone who might actually go through with something like that about what seems to be a small matter, however the Bible tells us otherwise.

I would like to share some scriptures with you regarding this. I do hope that you can see that taking something without saying anything or paying for it is wrong and we call that stealing. When calling it what it is “stealing”, we know that it is illegal despite the details we would try to rationalize it with. The Bible calls that a seared conscious (1 Timothy 4:2).

Lets see what the Bible says about thieves:

1 Corinthians 6:9-10 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.

Now, you may say that once we “get saved” then everything is covered from beginning to end, however I would like to share a couple of verses with you regarding that.

Hebrews 10:26-27 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.

You may then wonder about the Bible saying that all who call upon the name of the Lord will be saved. Well, lets look at those verses in the right context as they are shared in the scriptures.

Romans 10:12-13 For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

As you can see, this verse is talking about both Jews and Gentiles can be saved rather than just the Jews or just the Gentiles and not just in general regarding salvation.

Well, here is another verse some may share but lets keep it in the right context as well.

Acts 2:19-21 And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come: And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.

As you can see in Acts, it is referring to the time of the second coming of Christ. When He comes back to the earth, things will be so much worse than anything you can imagine now, even with all that is happening today. This is not referring to the Church age.

We can see the Lord confirming this in the following verse:

Matthew 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Where does this leave you? We all must walk out our conversion in Christ which is not what gets us there but what is the evidence of our sanctification through Him. Which means that one cannot be saved by Him without being changed by Him. This is possible on a death bed situation but only if they are sincere and changed within themselves by Him in that moment. For the rest of us, we must walk it out as faithful witnesses by our works or as the Bible calls them “our fruit”.

So, the next time you come to a situation that may seem like a small thing… just remember what the Word says and choose the right path that leads to salvation and eternal life and turn from the wrong path that leads to death and eternal damnation.

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

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A Call Out Like No Other…

Almost Saved

A Pondering Thought

Here are just some thoughts to ponder on…

Many believe the Psalms are prophetic to the Gregorian years from the 20th century onward. If you study each Psalm, you will be able to line it up with the corresponding year from 1900 onward. You can do the research when you have time.

Based upon that belief, the following is quite interesting in light of the days we are in. Be encouraged.

One thing to keep in mind is that we understand that our “redemption” is the rapture of the Church to be with the Lord forever more.

Luke 21:28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your REDEMPTION draweth nigh.

Ephesians 4:30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of REDEMPTION.

When does this happen???

Psalm 111:9 He sent REDEMPTION unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend is his name.

Now, we know that the tribulation period lasts 7 years… so…. if this truly be the case that the Psalms line up prophetically with the Gregorian years as all the previous ones seem to indicate, that would mean that 7 Psalms after would line up with the Lord’s 2nd coming, right? So, if Psalm 111 corresponding to 2011 is the rapture year, then Psalm 118 corresponding to 2018 would be the 2nd coming. Lets see…

Matthew 23:39 For I say unto you, ye shall not see Me henceforth, till ye shall say, BLESSED IS HE THAT COMETH IN THE NAME OF THE LORD.

When does this happen???

Psalm 118:26 BLESSED BE HE THAT COMETH IN THE NAME OF THE LORD: we have blessed You out of the house of the Lord.

We will soon see how it all lines up as it plays out… but in the meantime, while we are still here… I hope this will encourage you as you continue to keep looking up.

A Lasting Witness

A good friend of mine wrote a post on his site titled ”
OPERATION Midnight Hour” that I would like to share with you.

In his post, you will see some very practical ideas in regards to what believers can do to share the prophecies that are still to come after the Rapture of the Church.

Now, we know that in 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 it reads “And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”

By this we know that those who outright rejected the Truth of the gospel will probably not turn to Christ through repentance during the tribulation… in fact, the Word is clear that through the judgments they will harden their hearts toward God and not repent of their deeds.

Revelation 9:20-21 And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood: which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk: Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts.

Revelation 16:10 And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the seat of the beast; and his kingdom was full of darkness; and they gnawed their tongues for pain, And blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and repented not of their deeds.

However, we also know that some during the tribulation will witness and make it into heaven but not without giving up their lives for the testimony of Christ.

Daniel 11:32-35 And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits. And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: yet they shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, many days. Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but many shall cleave to them with flatteries. And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is yet for a time appointed.

Revelation 20:4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshiped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.

We know that before the end comes, the gospel must be preached to all the earth.

Matthew 24:14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.

We also know that during the tribulation period, this is done by an angel and the only reason it would need to be done that way is because it was not completed by people and the time is too short to wait.

Revelation 14:6-7 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

So, regardless of the category or title tribulation saints may be called into, they will exist, they will give their lives for their testimony of Christ and they will make it to heaven because of that.

Daniel 12:10 Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.

So, leave a lasting witness for those who are left. Our time is short, lets not waste it. If the Lord uses your efforts, your rewards will be great. If He chooses to destroy those efforts in His judgment, your reward is still great because you were a faithful servant who did your best to provide a good and lasting witness to any who would hear.

Soon and very soon, we are going to see the King. Keep looking up my friends, He is coming.

A Word From the Lord

With all that is happening around the world today, many find themselves in a panic as to what may come. For those who regularly read the Word of God, we know that all that is happening and will happen is already predicted in God’s Word, the Bible.

Now, sometimes even those of us who know what is coming and have the blessed promises of hope for our salvation… even we can at times get caught up in the cares and concerns of this life and what is to come.

We must stay grounded in the Word of God and rely upon His promises for those who put their trust in Him, Jesus who is the Word made flesh.

John 1:14 “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.”

I was conversing with a sister in the faith the other day about her getting overwhelmed by the news and having fear of what is coming. I would like to share with you what I shared with her. Below, I am adding both of my letters to her. There are some specifics that pertain to direct questions that she had but for the most part, it can be taken generally in regards to this topic. I pray it will encourage you as well. Here is letter 1:

NEW INFORMATION: I now know of another feast day between now and Rosh Hashanah which occurs on the 15th of Av (July 26-27, 2010). You can read my previous post in regards to that HERE.

Do not let your heart be troubled by these things. Everything is already predicted in the Bible. It all has to happen. The Lord has promised us a blessed hope of salvation both eternal and from the wrath of God. Read Psalm 91 and be encouraged.

I didn’t hear him say anything about the West in the video. As far as nukes go… really, that is not what people (who do not trust in the Lord) should be worried about… its the weapons that they have not heard about yet.

Remember how the Lord protected Daniel in the Lion’s Den… also the three in the furnace. Jesus told us what the signs would be and to not be troubled about them because they must happen.

The Lord saved Noah and his family through the flood. He saved Lot and his daughters from the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. The only reason Lot’s wife was not spared is because she loved her life too much to give it up in her heart which caused her to look back. Those who look back are not fit/worthy.

Those who are left after the rapture that come to salvation will have serious troubles but no matter what… everything will be as it is suppose to be. God is in complete control of everything. There is nothing that can happen without His ok. Remember Job…? Satan had to get God’s permission to go after Job and even then God put limitations upon him (Satan).

Put all your trust in the Lord and lean not upon your own understanding. The Lord knows who are His and He will protect those who put their trust in Him. If it is God’s will for someone to die, they will die no matter what.

A person can get into a very horrible car accident and come out without a scratch… another person can slip and fall in snow and die from brain hemorrhage.

I know the rumors around the world are scary but they are not for you. Everything must begin beforehand to be ready when the time actually comes. Take notice of the Lord’s Feast days… you will notice that the world gets very intense leading up to each Feast day because the world knows that God will take us out of here on one of them and that is the green light to them. With each Feast day that passes and we remain here, the world calms before swelling in tension again for the next one.

The next date of watch is the 9th of Av which falls from sunset on July 19th to sunset July 20th. The one after that is Rosh Hashanah which falls from sunset on September 8th to sunset September 9th.

If we are still here after the 9th of Av, it will calm again. Then it will begin to swell up in tension towards Rosh Hashanah and so on.

When paying attention to the world events… always make sure to spend (more) time in God’s Word then news, etc. Never end your time focused on the world, always end it focused on God. Read Psalm 91 daily, memorize it and it will strengthen you during the rumors and events. Trust in Him and He will keep you safe. You are to be a light in this world of darkness which means you must have enough oil in your lamp of faith toward God to lead others to Him when they are totally freaked out.

I pray the Lord comfort your heart and give you His peace beyond reason. I pray the Lord will send His holy angels to you to minister to you without ceasing and to guard you and protect you in all your ways. I pray that the Lord will quicken you by His Holy Spirit to retain and recall His Words in every situation. I pray the Lord will give you boldness and the faith to trust in Him, His protection, His provision, His faithfulness to His Word toward you, in every area so that you will have all you need to glorify Him and lead others to Him through all He does for and through you. I pray He will be glorified in and through your life. I pray He will give you discernment to know what is real and what is not in this world and to understand without confusion, every part of His Holy Word. I pray He will speak to you throughout your days and even in the night through your dreams to encourage you and to build you up for these days. I pray He will comfort you with His promises for you in Christ Jesus. I pray all of this in the mighty and faithful name of Jesus our Lord and Savior. Amen.

Surround yourself with other believers who are strong in the Lord and in His Word. Be always around those who will encourage and comfort you in Him. Try not to pay too much attention to those who just cause fear and who have no hope. We are to warn others (unbelievers and those not right with the Lord) of the days we are in and what is coming… however, to those who put their trust in the Lord, we are to encourage and strengthen them in their hope of salvation that the Lord has promised to those who trust Him.

I hope this has encouraged you. If you ever need someone to talk to about all of this… just let me know. I will also keep you in prayer. Sometimes I get a bit freaked myself but that is when I take a break from the world info and find those who are strong in Him and I read His Words before going back to research, etc. We must stay balanced and focused on Jesus or we will get caught up in the cares and concerns of this life and be swept away with the rest in fear.

Here is letter 2:

For reference, she had asked what I thought about her leaving the area or even the country because of the news she was hearing.

Here is my suggestion… If the Lord God sends one of His holy angels to you directly and tells you to leave… leave. Otherwise, trust in the Lord that He has you right where He wants you to do a work that only you can, even if that work is just to be still and trust in His protection and provision… either way, He is receiving glory through you.

It is not always for the benefit of “people” around us that we are a “light” for but also angels. Angels desire to look into the things that God does in and through us. Remember that we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses?

Hebrews 12:1-2
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Know that if need be, with one word, the Lord would summon 10,000 angels to your side to protect you.

If you abide in Him, He will protect you.

**Psalm 91**

“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee. Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked. Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.”

Just remember that the judgments and wrath of God cannot come until He takes us out of here just as He did with Noah and Lot. He will rapture us up just in the nick of time.

1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.”

Notice in verse 17 where the words “caught up” are. The Greek word there is Harpazo which means to snatch by force. If you were to ask someone who knows Greek what it means literally he would tell you that it is like yanking by force a child out of harms way just in the nick of time. If there was a child playing in the street and a car was coming and about to hit the child. Just a moment before hand the child were snatched up by it’s hair and yanked out of the way as the car passed where the child was. The child would have escaped just in the nick of time by someone forcefully pulling the child out of harms way.

This is how it will happen. We may see so many things happening all around us that make us feel it is going to happen while we are still here because like birth pangs, it gets so intense and almost constant until the birth happens. Well, we will be here until the pushing begins. We will feel and see all that is leading up to the judgments but will be taken out just in the nick of time, maybe only a moment before destruction occurs.

Only with your eyes will you see the reward of the wicked… You will be protected. Jesus took on the wrath of God for you so you would not have to bare it. We are not appointed to wrath but to obtain salvation from Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:8-11 “But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.”

Notice it says whether we wake or sleep… this is talking about the rapture/resurrection. This is talking about our salvation from the wrath in the tribulation when we are gathered to Him in the air. It isn’t talking just about eternal salvation otherwise it wouldn’t include ‘wake’.

We are to keep our thoughts/minds on the hope of salvation from the wrath to come that is what is meant by the “helmet of salvation”.

No matter how bad it may look while we are here… it can NOT come to pass until we are gone. For those who are left it will be unbelievable but for us… we will be saved with Christ because He has already paid the price for us.

Ground yourself in the Word and the Blessed Hope of our Salvation from the Wrath to come. There are some who claim Christ yet do not believe His Words. This couldn’t be more contradictory because Christ IS the Word in the flesh.

John 1:14 “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.”

Now, if they deny the Word and the salvation of Christ from the wrath of God which He took upon Himself, they are denying Christ. Be leery of those who call themselves brothers in the faith yet hold to another gospel that does not include the power of the true gospel of salvation.

Christ’s work in us is a completion and we do not need to prove anything or be punished in place of what Christ has done for us by going through the wrath/tribulation of God upon the earth.

Some preach that Christians will be protected through the tribulation but not escape from it. This is false. The Bible clearly states that the “saints” those who believe in Christ during the tribulation will be overcome and even put to death by the Antichrist in the tribulation. Yet the Bible tells us to pray always that we will be accounted worthy to escape it.

Luke 21:36 “Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.”

Rest assured that the Lord is not slack concerning His promise toward us. When the time comes, it will happen quickly. However, He has a plan that is perfect in its timing and it won’t be rushed. We will be here to the very last moment and then just before it all comes to a head, we will be out of here.

When the US is judged, it will be in WWIII and it is part of the judgment/wrath. We see our liberties being taken but even though the laws are on the books, they cannot really enforce them until we are gone or they would have already.

Be comforted and encouraged. The Lord knows and planned everything for our good and His glory.

Again, this was a direct letter to a very dear and sweet sister in the faith. I know many are dealing with these issues of fear and uncertainty, which is only human. However… we as believers who are in the Light of Truth must reflect that Light and not put it under a bushel in the darkest time of the world’s history. This is where the wise and foolish virgins become known. When life happens as some may say to describe trials and tribulations, that is when we show what we are made of… or rather, who we have in us.

If we draw near to God, He will draw near to us. If we truly trust in Him and His Words, we will not fail. Remember, He MUST be faithful to His Word, Jesus. If we have Jesus, the True Jesus who IS the Word in us, then we have nothing to fear.

If death is our calling for Him, then He will equip us for that when the time comes. Though many may die for the Faith, there are still others in THIS generation who will not see death but rather be changed in the twinkling of an eye and raised up with those who have died to meet the Lord in the air, and forever be with Him.

I believe the Lord is calling and showing those who have this hope of salvation, that they are not to fear but rather to trust in Him because our salvation draweth nigh. Keep looking up, He is coming very soon.

Tu B’Av: A Romantic Celebration

I came across a post online after watching a video that mentioned this holiday. My interest was peaked with thoughts of the Rapture of the Church. Here is what I saw:

Tu B’Av – 15th of Av

Holiday of Romance and Love

Some History behind Tu B’Av

1. Tu B’Av marked the end of the “desert generation.”

The Torah relates that the entire generation of Israelites rescued from Egypt was sentenced to die while in the desert (Parashat Shelach). According to the Midrash Eichah Rabbah, every year until the fortieth year, on the eve of the Ninth of Av, Moses would command the people, “Go out and dig,” and the people would leave the camp, dig graves, and sleep in them overnight. The following morning a messenger would proclaim, “Let the living separate from the dead!” Fifteen thousand would die that very night, but the survivors would return to the camp for another year.

This occurred year after year, but in the fortieth year no one died. Since they thought they might have miscalculated the days, they slept in their graves an additional night. This went on for five nights until the fifteenth of Av, when they saw the full moon, realized that there calculations were correct, and rejoiced that no more of the first generation would die. They subsequently declared Tu B’Av a day of celebration. The “desert generation” had finally died off and the new generation was finally ready to enter the land!

The Talmud (Bava Batra 121b) also states that while the first generation was dying out, the LORD did not speak to Moses, except through the Urim and Thummim.

2. Tu B’Av marked the time when the tribes of Israel were permitted to intermarry.

The first generation of Israelites that entered the land to receive their portion of land were instructed to intermarry only within their own tribe, unless the woman to be married had at least one brother (Numbers 36:7-9). However, the Talmud (Bava Batra 121a) states that on Tu B’Av the next generation of women was granted permission to marry whomever they desired (within Israel), since the land had been allocated among the various tribes.

3. Tu B’Av marked the restoration of the tribe of Benjamin.

On Tu B’Av the leaders of Israel allowed the tribe of Benjamin to repopulate (after their civil war with the other tribes of Israel) by allowing the surviving 600 males to marry “daughters from Shiloh” (Judges 21:16-24). [Shiloh was the first capital of Israel.] After the war it was pledged that no one would willingly give his daughter to a Benjaminite, but the decision was made to “look the other way” should a Benjamite male ran off with a girl who was dancing in Shiloh. In this way the tribe of Benjamin was saved from extinction.

Later, the leaders of Israel repealed this ban and said that the pledge applied only to those men who had taken the oath, and intermarriage with Benjamin was permitted.

4. Tu B’Av became a time of great celebration in Jerusalem.

Just as Yom Kippur demonstrated the reconciliation of Israel to the LORD after the incident of the Golden Calf, Tu B’Av was celebrated as the time of reconciliation for the Sin of the 10 spies (Parashat Shelach). Therefore Tu B’Av became a joyous time celebrating our forgiveness and restoration to the LORD. The Talmud (Mishna Ta’anit 4:8) states “Israel had no holidays as joyous as Tu B’Av and Yom Kippur, when the young women of Jerusalem would go out and dance in the vineyards.”

Later, Tu B’Av became known as a time of summer dancing and a courtship celebration. In a sort of romantic masquerade, the girls would exchange white clothing with one another so that their prospects would not know who could afford expensive dresses and who was only borrowing them.

In recent years this practice has been revived and Jewish girls from Shiloh (located about 40 minutes north of Jerusalem) dance in the same vineyards, while Chassidic musical artists provide entertainment.
5. Tu B’Av marked the end of Jeroboam’s blockade against Jerusalem.

King Jeroboam son of Nebat (Yerovam ben Nevat) was a king of the Northern Kingdom of Israel (922-901 BC), an evil ruler who enticed Israel into idolatry and forbade worship at the Temple in Jerusalem. His roadblocks were in place until they were finally removed by Israel’s last king, Hoshea the son of Elah (732-722 BC), who declared free passage to Jerusalem (Ta’anit 30a). According to tradition, these roadblocks were removed on the 15th of Av.

6. Tu B’Av marked the time of “Breaking of the Hatchets.”

After the Babylonian exile, Ezra and Nehemiah came to rebuild the First Temple but found the land desolate and all the trees uprooted by the enemy. They needed wood for the altar offerings, and contributions of wood came to be known as “wood offerings.” These offerings were celebratory events, similar to firstfruit offerings.

Tu B’Av came to be known as the “Day of the breaking of hatchets” since after this date it was forbidden to cut down trees for use in the Temple fires (Ta’anit 31a). Wood used to fuel the altar had to be entirely dried out, but after Tu B’Av the days become shorter and there was not enough sunlight to dry out freshly cut logs. By this date, then, all the cutting of the wood for the altar was completed and the supply was replenished until the next summer.

7. Tu B’Av marked the end of the year for planting.

Tu B’Av was instituted (in the Second Temple period) to mark the beginning of the grape harvest, which ended on Yom Kippur. It was also the time when planting of trees and crops was to end for the year (trees planted after this date are considered to take root after Rosh Hashanah, and therefore belong to the following year for the purposes of the Sabbatical Year).

8. Tu B’Av marks the final Jewish Holiday of the year.

On the Jewish calendar, Tu B’Av occurs a week after Tishah B’Av – the culmination of the three weeks of sorrow – and traditionally marks the end of summer and all of the holidays of the Jewish year. Moreover, Tu B’Av acts as a sort of preface to the month of Elul when the cycle of holidays begins again with Rosh Hashanah. As such it marks the last celebration of the current Jewish year, and is a time of happiness and joy.

Since it falls on the fifteenth of the month, Tu B’Av is a night of the full moon. Since the ninth of Av (Tishah B’Av) recalls the history of Jewish tragedy, the full moon of Av is said to represent the transformation of tragedy into joy.

9. Tu B’Av marks a time of romance and love in modern Israel.

In modern day Israel it is customary to send a bouquet of red roses to the one you love on Tu B’Av. Romantic songs are played on the radio and parties are held in the evening throughout the country. In addition, Tu b’Av is a popular date for Jews to hold weddings (and they are not required to fast before the wedding on this day either).

10. Tu B’Av prophetically pictures the Marriage of the Lamb of God.

Since it is the “last” festival of the Jewish year, prophetically Tu B’Av pictures our marriage to the Lamb of God (Seh Elohim), the LORD Yeshua our beloved Mashiach:

Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude, like the roar of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder, crying out, “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready; it was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure” – for the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints. And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.” And he said to me, “These are the true words of God” (Revelation 19:6-9).

On a soon-coming day those who belong to the LORD and are faithful to follow His ways will be blessed with the unspeakable joy of consummating their relationship with Him. This is heaven itself – to be in the Presence of the LORD and to be His beloved. The analogy of a joyous Jewish marriage, with the sheva berachot (intimating the seven years of rapture before terrible the Day of the LORD at the end of the Great Tribulation), is our great and blessed hope (Titus 2:13).

source

Persecuted for Righteousness Sake

I know that many who stand for the Truth of God’s Words get persecuted for the sake of righteousness, being the Word. So, I just wanted to encourage all of you who experience this by reminding you of what our Lord says in the Word.

1 Peter 3:14-16 But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, niether be troubled; But sanctify the LORD God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.

Also,

Matthew 5:10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Now, I know that at times we may get flustered when defending the Word of God but remember that in the end it is the Lord’s battle, not ours.

2 Corinthians 2:10:3-6 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds; Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.

We must understand that the sin in man without Christ is very strong and works day and night to distort Truth in them. Jesus talks about seed in this manner in Matthew 13, Mark 4 and Luke 8. Lets take a closer look at those chapters to see what He has to say about it.

Lets begin with Matthew 13 beginning in verse 3.

And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow; And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.

Now lets look at Matthew 13 beginning in verse 7.

And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:

And also Matthew 13 verse 8.

But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.

So, we see the parable as related in Matthew. Lets see what the Lord has to say next.

Matthew 13:10-15 And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables? He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath. Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

Wow, did you catch all of that? Jesus spoke in parables so that those in attendance would NOT understand. However, to His disciples He says this…

Matthew 13:16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.

Check that out! We know that God has blinded the Jews, for a time, so that the Gentiles could be brought into the fold…

Romans 11:25 For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles be come in.

but… what about others?

So many may come to churches and even profess to be believers but it is possible that they are still blind. The problem is that too many people rely solely upon the words and traditions of men to lead them and not the Word of God.

Matthew 15:9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching [for] doctrines the commandments of men.

1 Timothy 4:1-2 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron

We see here in Hosea, the importance of knowing and accepting  the Word of God.

Hosea 4:6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee…

Ok, so far, we have not yet examined the meaning behind the parable. We will do that beginning in verse 18.

Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower. When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side. But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended. He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.

Notice how some, after they have heard the Word… yet when persecution comes because of the Word… he becomes offended. Why would he be offended? He is offended because he has no root. Well, what does it mean to have a root? Our root must be based in the Lord who is the Word of God.

John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.

So many these days are offended by the Word of the Lord. Many who call themselves Christians get very irate if you correct them with the Word of God because they are offended… not rooted in Christ.

Now, regarding those who let the cares of this world choke the Word and become unfruitful. The best example of this I believe would be the Laodicean church which is existing today. If you turn on your television to one of the many “christian” tv stations… you can find a lot of these “believers” who get caught up in the cares of this life and therefore produce no REAL fruit.

Many are told if they give money here or there… or if they do this or that, then God will hear them and give them whatever they want… A new car, a large home, the ability to loose 150 pounds in 5 minutes, gold teeth… whatever. It is all the same. They believe they are acting on Biblical faith to produce a fruitful gain, but in actuality, they are dead in their sins because no one is telling them to repent and get rooted in the vine, Christ.

As Jesus says in Matthew 7:22-23 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Jesus continues from Matthew 13 verse 24 trying to explain it from a different perspective… We can see this parable in its fullness today.

Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares? He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up? But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn.

The Lord has warned His church that we should be on guard because there are ravenous wolves waiting to tear into the flock.The Word also warns of men creeping in unaware to the sleeping church, just like the wheat and the tares for the purpose of driving them away after themselves.

Acts 20:29-30 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.

Jude 1:4-5 For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not.

For we know that the Lord has created vessels of honor (His elect/chosen) and vessels of dishonor (the enemy’s camp). 2 Timothy 2:19-21 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, [and] prepared unto every good work.

Notice how it states that the Lord knows who are His. Not all who call on Him will be saved… not all who profess believe are His.

Matthew 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Ok, so lets take a closer look at the parable of the tares and the wheat.

Lets begin with the tares in Matthew 13:36

Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house: and his disciples came unto him, saying, Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field. He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man; The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one; The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels. As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world. The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

But guess what!? In verse 43, we see His plan for His righteous.

Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.

I suggest you continue reading the parables beginning in Mark 4:8 and Luke 8:8 because sometimes the different books will add a word or two that sheds more light on the topic.

Remember that we have the Word of God for our direction and our mirror. Daily, we should be aligning ourselves with the Word of God to be pleasing to Him and obedient in our love for Him. When you are persecuted for the Word’s sake, remember this verse:

2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

And… remember that not all who profess Christ are His. We must judge them by their fruits.

Philippians 4:7-9 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

Galatians 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

Luke 21:28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.