(12/01/2020) The Device of Inheritance

 

Inheritance as a sacred device is in view, today, for inheritance speaks to more than the lawful transfer to the living of material goods and wealth from those who are deceased. Properly understood, the inheritance for mankind from divinity includes words of comfort, exhortation, proclamations, promises, prophecies, and sacred practices. On the earth, there may be many heirs who all are to receive a portion of what may be a small estate. Even so, the primary heir is to receive a double portion above others. Where a firstborn child is to be acknowledged as a primary heir, he or she is to serve as the duly appointed agent who will continue and fulfill duties that have not been completed, repair the reputation of the deceased, or maintain the obligations and responsibilities of dynasty. Among Christians, inheritance is not another man-made legal process to manage debt, resolve claims and counter claims among family members, or settle disputes among those claiming authority and succession. Sinners who become “born again” are granted benefits, possibilities, and spirit-substance from the makeup of divinity that establish the very continuity, purposes, and relationships we describe as rebirth, resurrection, and eternal life. It is written: Revelation 5: 9-14, King James Version (KJV): 9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; 10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. 11 And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands; 12 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. 13 And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever. 14 And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Christians! What good is it being God's heirs if God will never die?

"Now if we are children, then we are heirs--heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ..." -- Romans 8:17

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. (Ephesians 2: 19-22, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Explaining The Earlier Covenants (11/22/2020); The Inheritance From GOD (08/26/2020); He Commanded Our Fathers (08/09/2020); The Sons Of GOD? (07/19/2020); They Which Are Called (04/09/2020); A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020); Grace Abounds Much More (04/02/2020)

“Anonymous”, inheritance as a sacred tool used by divinity is not connected to death, dying, and receiving material goods and wealth from someone who has deceased so much as it is a connection between heaven and earth to establish eternal life. Through Jesus Christ, the operations and substance of inheritance are expressions of sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Inheritance as a sacred device and practice further establishes continuity, duration, grace, and multiple aspects of relationship (e.g., accountability; communication through confession, praise and prayer; forbearance; forgiveness; gratitude; lovingkindness; oneness without sameness; stability). Sinners who become “born again” by turning to GOD must “grow up again” and undergo permanent changes whereby they receive fresh endowments of the life essence (breath; spirit; word) that was imparted to Adam from the character and makeup of GOD. As vessels containing divine DNA (so to speak), sinners become offspring of GOD, the children of GOD, and those on the earth who are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ in their lifestyles and daily routines. Included are inseparable features such as commitment, discernment, faith, holiness, humility, longsuffering, mercy for those found guilty in judgment, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) 1^st Corinthians 6: 9-11, King James Version (KJV): 9 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, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.

(2.) 1^st Corinthians 15: 45-43, KJV: 45 And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. 46 Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. 47 The first man is of the earth, earthy; the second man is the Lord from heaven. 48 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. 51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.

(3.) Ephesians 5: 1-6, KJV: 1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; 2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour. 3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; 4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Romans 8: 5-9, KJV: 5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. 8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 2:45 AM, December 01, 2020 @ http://hethathasanear.com/images/dove-priests.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/09/2020) He Commanded Our Fathers

Today, reply is on how Jesus Christ has accomplished a saving relationship with those who were not yet conceived, born, or even imagined during his lifetime on the earth. Divinity communicates, exchanges, and interacts with mankind using the broad range of human social associations including family, inheritance, tribe, dynasty, and nation. It is written: John 17: 13-21, King James Version (KJV): 13 And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. 14 I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 15 I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. 16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. 18 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. 19 And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. 20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; 21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “sdadsad” (Level 1 with 156 points) posted the following:

How did Jesus die for my sins if I wasn't even born or existed when he was alive?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: O LORD, there is none like thee, neither is there any God beside thee, according to all that we have heard with our ears. And what one nation in the earth is like thy people Israel, whom God went to redeem to be his own people, to make thee a name of greatness and terribleness, by driving out nations from before thy people whom thou hast redeemed out of Egypt? For thy people Israel didst thou make thine own people for ever; and thou, LORD, becamest their God. Therefore now, LORD, let the thing that thou hast spoken concerning thy servant and concerning his house be established for ever, and do as thou hast said. Let it even be established, that thy name may be magnified for ever, saying, The LORD of hosts is the God of Israel, even a God to Israel: and let the house of David thy servant be established before thee. For thou, O my God, hast told thy servant that thou wilt build him an house: therefore thy servant hath found in his heart to pray before thee. And now, LORD, thou art God, and hast promised this goodness unto thy servant: Now therefore let it please thee to bless the house of thy servant, that it may be before thee for ever: for thou blessest, O LORD, and it shall be blessed for ever. (1^st Chronicles 17: 20-27, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Sons Of GOD? (07/19/2020); They Which Are Called (04/09/2020); Acknowledging Christ as Son (03/08/2020); Aspects Defining Human Life? (03/02/2020); Spirit Process and Substance (02/27/2020); Not Impossible With GOD (01/06/2020); From Purpose and Substance (12/27/2019)

“sdadsad”, here, we have to think and speak in terms of sacred proclamations, promises, prophecy, and the revelation from GOD. While the process of divine fullness (we say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) to establish existence and life for mankind has included multiple levels of natural and secular operations that display mechanical patterns and sequences, natural laws, carnal reason, and material substance, the universe is a product of divine self-expression through sacred law, divine order, supreme prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. The frameworks of time and space do not interfere with or limit divine fullness who may appear using human form and life process (we say the Incarnation as Jesus Christ), yet also appears and is manifest as Spirit without fixed form having the capacity of both measureless contraction and expansion. Long before their birth, a fetus becomes a child and a newborn within the understanding of a mother. The child becomes an object of her affection, a focus for her feelings, thoughts and possibilities, an aspect of continuity for her heritage and inheritance, and may even foster her prayers, sanctification, and thanksgivings to GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Psalms 78: 5-8, King James Version (KJV): 5 For he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to their children: 6 That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children: 7 That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments: 8 And might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not stedfast with God.

(2.) 1^st Chronicles 17: 16-18, KJV: 16 And David the king came and sat before the LORD, and said, Who am I, O LORD God, and what is mine house, that thou hast brought me hitherto? 17 And yet this was a small thing in thine eyes, O God; for thou hast also spoken of thy servant’s house for a great while to come, and hast regarded me according to the estate of a man of high degree, O LORD God. 18 What can David speak more to thee for the honour of thy servant? for thou knowest thy servant.

(3.) Romans 9: 8-16, KJV: 8 That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed. 9 For this is the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sarah shall have a son. 10 And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; 11 (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;) 12 It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. 13 As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. 14 What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid. 15 For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. 16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) The Mind of Christ, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5nRwGMFo2s.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 3:21 PM, August 08, 2020 @ https://dailyverses.net/images/en/niv/xl/john-14-23-2.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/29/2020) The Ones Called "Sheep"

Today, reply is on the character and properties among sheep that promote their use by divinity to provide atonement for sin, to further communication and covenant relationship for created beings and living creatures on the earth, and to fulfill revelation to mankind. Sheep often are used to depict and represent an ideal pastoral condition within the church of Jesus Christ. As creatures that stay together in small family groups, yet also are communal for their survival, sheep may be gathered in large groups without conflict, competition, defying authority, rebellion, and violence against one another. Christ who is head of the church is also the lamb of GOD who takes away the sin of the world. Mankind has existence and life within both the Creation and the Creator. The kinship of mankind to divinity first appears and is manifest through divine content, sacred law, mystery, prophecy, spirit process, and other sacred elements that can reside within human consciousness and self-will. Those who become born again are to exist on the earth displaying the image of GOD, and demonstrating divine guidance, sacred knowledge, resurrection life, and their own fresh endowment of inseparable spirit imparted from the makeup of GOD. Included are balance, commitment, faith, holiness, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The sacrifice provided by divinity on behalf of mankind includes sacred blood and substance for atonement, propitiation, and reconciliation. It is written: Psalms 100: 3, King James Version (KJV): 3 Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. The fighter who uses the ID “Alex” (Level 3 with 1,120 points) in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality posted the following:

Why are "most" religious people such sheep? And if Jesus talks about peace why do these hypocrites feel the need to bash other people?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device. And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead. (Acts 17: 29-31, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020); TWO Kinds of People? (02/21/2020); Do Animals Have “Souls”? (01/19/2020); Fully Communicating Human Potential? (09/30/2019); Divine Spirit Within Animals? (09/05/2019); To Be Jesus’ Sheep (06/10/2019); My Sheep Hear My Voice (11/16/2016)

“Alex”, the ones you call “sheep” exist as those who are in personal relationship with the Creator through obedience, reverence, and trust. The sheep patiently and quietly respond to such elements as authority, grace, sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Because divinity is immortal, incorruptible, and invisible, the process and substance of GOD first were made known to mankind using finite figures and operations that have meaning and value at the level of human consciousness and self-will. Where there has been spiritual growth and maturity, divine fullness (i.e., divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) may be discerned through fresh endowments of the life essence imparted at Creation to mankind from the makeup of GOD and that are now available through the ministries of Jesus Christ. Inseparable aspects of what/who we know as GOD are being bestowed on mankind that include balance, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Such divine operations must appear as atonement, edification, judgment, prophecy, redemption, revelation, salvation, and unselfish service. The transgression of sacred law committed by the first pair (i.e., the fall of Adam) disrupted divine order and continuing existence on multiple levels throughout the universe. In the same way sleep (death) was used to preserve the male when his rib was removed to create the female, divinity has been using the death, the blood of Jesus Christ, and his resurrection from the dead to further fashion the character, nature and quality of mankind. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Ezekiel 34: 11-17, King James Version (KJV): 11 For thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out. 12 As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day. 13 And I will bring them out from the people, and gather them from the countries, and will bring them to their own land, and feed them upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in all the inhabited places of the country. 14 I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel. 15 I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord GOD. 16 I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment. 17 And as for you, O my flock, thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the he goats.

(2.) Ezekiel 34: 30-31, KJV: 30 Thus shall they know that I the LORD their God am with them, and that they, even the house of Israel, are my people, saith the Lord GOD. 31 And ye my flock, the flock of my pasture, are men, and I am your God, saith the Lord GOD.

(3.) John 10: 7-17, KJV: 7 Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. 9 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. 10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. 12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. 13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. 15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. 17 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PMd4o8HoH10&list=FLD-fEmPQDdXFIv9qj8rBJVA&index=12&t=0s.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 3:00 AM, May 29, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/cf/e2/2a/cfe22a0ae04f5542fc5efd212a324691.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/17/2020) Believers Are To Forgive

With the photo see Matthew 5: 23-24, King James Version (KJV)

Today, reply is on forgiveness, reconciliation, and the loss of material and spiritual gifts. Where we endure times of boredom, depression, and loneliness, things of the flesh and material goods often lift our emotions and feelings such that we experience some forms of freedom, release, and relief. Even so, the deeper levels of our spirit remain unanswered and untouched. Young people and developing Christian believers are encouraged to acknowledge forgiveness as a sacred operation that continues human growth and relationship along with a connection as the children and offspring of GOD. Gifts from divinity that are provided as a fresh endowment of spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD are intended to cleanse, heal, and nourish the image of GOD that should appear within created beings and living creatures on the earth. Mature Christians are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. It is written: James 1: 16-20, King James Version (KJV): 16 Do not err, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. 18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. 19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: 20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

I used the "F word" at my dad after he destroyed my Hillsong Cd's and books....will Jesus ever forgive me?

Should I forgive my dad for destroying my Hillsong music CD's? [removed]

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2: 8-10, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Spiritual Integrity and Maturity (05/12/2020); Divine Protection Against Covid-19? (04/26/2020); While We Are Growing (03/09/2020); Accountable For Spreading Disbelief? (02/02/2020); Pray For Your Enemies? (01/03/2020); The Many Divine Gifts (12/03/2019); Comfort Through New Life (08/22/2019)

“Anonymous”, Christians forgive knowing it is what GOD wants them to do. Along with our parents and others on the earth, forgiveness pertains to sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose and continuing an ongoing relationship with divinity. Young people and developing Christian believers are encouraged to understand that forgiveness can express compassion, maturity, sacrifice, unselfishness, and the mercy shown in final judgment against those found guilty of transgression. “Forgive and forget” does not restore or return conditions to what they once were, and forgiveness does not fully change another person’s character or nature that is sinful. Yet, as expressions of rebirth, redemption, and salvation, forgiveness makes possible the healthy continuation of any further relationship. Without forgiveness there can only be anger, bitterness, complaining, quarreling, and the bearing of a grudge. Properly understood, there is no man-made or material object that has more value than our spirit connection as family, friends, co-workers, and partners who, together, create and produce the products and tools that generate and maintain our lives. Where you received Hillsong as a welcome spiritual gift and a blessing from divinity, “the world did not give it, and the world can not take it away.” The sacred process and substance of music ministry is prophecy (i.e., comfort; edification; exhortation). Inseparable aspects of divine fullness are shared that include balance, faith, gratitude, hope, joy, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. It might take you a while, however, it is possible to replace the CDs with free and premium online music services such as Pandora and Spotify. It will not be possible to replace your father. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Ephesians 4: 25-32, King James Version (KJV): 25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. 26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: 27 Neither give place to the devil. 28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. 29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. 30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: 32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

(2.) Matthew 6: 9-15, KJV: 9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10 Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. 14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: 15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJ-iXt14nrg.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 4:58 PM, May 17, 2020 @ https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01BJXrQs7f_5C-OgwxQlsGIi_aKtA9f29Tp8lXqB3Ch9MYMauuqYbmmk668tZDAbZcuOap5U6HbDl6oFZ1N7ZOHn2EuWms6eBQ6QOwstLTR3D-ZOftBjpovi7sFYp3l6h-T4GMKHXpA00/w1200-h630-p-k-no-nu/1016871_468650233274429_8007967004198134101_n.jpg

AN AFTERTHOUGHT: In addition to anger and resentment, forms of unwillingness to forgive include betrayal, bitterness, distancing, forswearing promise, harboring a grudge, neglect, and unfaithfulness. As an act or expression of renewed trust, forgiveness must appear between parties in dispute for there to be a continuing relationship of mutual respect and shared purpose.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/09/2020) While We Are Growing

Today, reply is on the process of GOD for recovering and restoring mankind from the fall of Adam as including the humility, forgiveness, obedience, respect and self-restraint of children as sacred tools for reaching their parents and other adults, rather than angry outbursts, deceit, defiance, disrespect, rebellion, unkindness, and violence. More than obedience to the Ten Commandment law is required of children also. Thus, children are given to adults as a gift from divinity to activate and expand their caretaker’s capacity for accountability, compassion, and unselfishness. For a child to despise, begrudge, and hate their own parents provides no benefit from GOD, and is an obstacle to their own contentment as full persons. It is written: Galatians 2: 16-17, King James Version (KJV): 16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. 17 But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Since I hate my Dad am I breaking the 10 commandments?

I hate him but it is for good reason.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man. For thou art my hope, O Lord GOD: thou art my trust from my youth. By thee have I been holden up from the womb: thou art he that took me out of my mother’s bowels: my praise shall be continually of thee. I am as a wonder unto many; but thou art my strong refuge. Let my mouth be filled with thy praise and with thy honour all the day. Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth. For mine enemies speak against me; and they that lay wait for my soul take counsel together, Saying, God hath forsaken him: persecute and take him; for there is none to deliver him. O God, be not far from me: O my God, make haste for my help. (Psalms 71: 4-12, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Pray For Your Enemies? (01/03/2020); Violating Commandments On Love? (10/13/2019); Anger Against Our Parents? (01/10/2019); Honoring Our Own Parents (04/09/2018); What Young People Need? (06/26/2017); Who Deserves Divine Love? (06/23/2017); In Her father’s House? (02/08/2017)

“Anonymous”, in the kingdom of GOD, parents and children are to nourish one another. The process of GOD on the earth among mankind now is one of edification (growth of ones spirit), granting grace, and the revealing of sacred things that would be otherwise unseen. Even though it has become acceptable and popular for young people to boast, complain, and murmur against their parents, Christian believers continue to endorse showing a spirit and process of forgiveness, love, and unselfish sacrifice that are intended to please GOD—and by pleasing divinity, to please oneself. The operations of sin may devastate communication within families, and their day-to-day exchanges and interactions. For youth, it is natural to be grounded in elements that appear to adults as foolish, impractical, temporal (do not last), unprofitable, and wasteful. Young people must encounter intense emotional and psychological challenges, and shifts while they are growing—not merely after they are grown. Such features as desires, dreams, emotions, goals, and hopes must be given attention and weight in their decision-making and their ongoing lifestyle. The benefits and privileges granted by GOD to those who are his offspring through commitment, sacred law, unselfish service, and fellowship among those sanctified (set apart) as being in covenant relationship include freedom from fear, peace of mind concerning divine judgment, stability, certainty for fulfillment of divine promises and prophecies, and confidence that, while on the earth, they will receive the godly guidance and wisdom required to become mature. GOD does not foster or promote the operations of sin, nor does divinity impart or justify human bitterness, despair, hatred, rage, and self-destructiveness. Consider again the following that uses language form the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Christine Wyrtzen:

(1.) 2^nd Timothy 1: 7, King James Version (KJV): 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

(2.) Ephesians 6: 1-3, KJV: 1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. 2 Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; 3 That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.

(3.) Proverbs 6: 20-23, KJV: 20 My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother: 21 Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck. 22 When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee. 23 For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, consider the following from the music ministry of Christine Wyrtzen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRbZKJXeIRI). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:30 PM, March 08, 2020 @ https://biblepic.com/53/14296.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/16/2020) Joseph Received Divine Spirit

The image depicts Joseph son of Jacob who ruled over the Egyptians as a vizier and second in command to Pharaoh.

Today, reply is on the response by Joseph to his wicked brothers who had sold him into slavery. Joseph expressed no anger or bitterness, no desire for revenge, and no self-pity as an innocent victim of hatred and malice. Instead of denying them, forcing them to endure imprisonment for more than ten years as he had done, or even refusing to provide food to them and their families, Joseph behaved as their deliverer, and a truly wise ruler. It is written: Genesis 50: 14-21, King James Version (KJV): 14 And Joseph returned into Egypt, he, and his brethren, and all that went up with him to bury his father, after he had buried his father. 15 And when Joseph’s brethren saw that their father was dead, they said, Joseph will peradventure hate us, and will certainly requite us all the evil which we did unto him. 16 And they sent a messenger unto Joseph, saying, Thy father did command before he died, saying, 17 So shall ye say unto Joseph, Forgive, I pray thee now, the trespass of thy brethren, and their sin; for they did unto thee evil: and now, we pray thee, forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of thy father. And Joseph wept when they spake unto him. 18 And his brethren also went and fell down before his face; and they said, Behold, we be thy servants. 19 And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God? 20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive. 21 Now therefore fear ye not: I will nourish you, and your little ones. And he comforted them, and spake kindly unto them. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Annie” (Level 2 with 620 points) posted the following:

If you were Joseph and you became a powerful official in Egypt, would you forgive your brothers for selling you to slavery or execute them?

I saw the film Prince of Egypt and was puzzled how Joseph would forgive his brothers after they hurt him so much.

Selling your own sibling to slavery is just unthinkable. I wouldn't be so forgiving, but why was he?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And Joseph said unto his brethren, Come near to me, I pray you. And they came near. And he said, I am Joseph your brother, whom ye sold into Egypt. Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life. For these two years hath the famine been in the land: and yet there are five years, in the which there shall neither be earing nor harvest. And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance. So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt. Haste ye, and go up to my father, and say unto him, Thus saith thy son Joseph, God hath made me lord of all Egypt: come down unto me, tarry not: And thou shalt dwell in the land of Goshen, and thou shalt be near unto me, thou, and thy children, and thy children’s children, and thy flocks, and thy herds, and all that thou hast: And there will I nourish thee; for yet there are five years of famine; lest thou, and thy household, and all that thou hast, come to poverty. (Genesis 45: 4-11, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Pray For Your Enemies? (01/03/2020); Presuming To Judge Others? (12/16/2019); Violating Commandments On Love? (10/13/2019); Willingness To Forgive Others? (05/24/2019); Sacred Characters, Not Fictional (12/12/2018); Kingdom and One-world Empire (09/08/2016); Slaves to Sin? (04/13/2015)

“Annie”, Joseph was an instrument and a living tool used by GOD to provide divine grace. Many mature Christian believers, who practice discernment and the careful recognition of spirit substance appearing within events, themselves, and other persons, willingly acknowledge that Joseph was a prophet and spokesperson prepared and sent by divinity. As the son of Jacob, and heir to Adam, Abraham and Isaac, Joseph demonstrates divine government by Messiah/the Christ; and he serves in multiple sacred roles. Included are that of a judge; a high priest; a primary heir among the tribes of Jacob (who was not determined by law or tradition promoting the firstborn and birth order); a living sacrifice; a savior to the then known world; the father to 2 new tribes in Jacob (Ephraim and Manasseh); and a father to those who left Egypt to form Israel as a new nation under GOD, in place of Pharaoh.

Like those called to be Christian believers, today, Joseph was to display authentic humanity made in the image of GOD; and to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. In addition to forgiveness for those who have practiced betrayal and transgression of sacred law (we say, sin), Joseph demonstrated mercy in judgment toward those clearly guilty. Moreover, rather than condemn his brothers following the death of Jacob, while they were still mourning their father, Joseph was a source of comfort, healing and lovingkindness. Joseph practiced sacred redemption, and affirmed the device of perpetual covenant between divinity and mankind that appears through family, kinship, and blood relation.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, during the years of famine, the Egyptian people sold their livestock, their land, and themselves as slaves to Pharaoh; the Hebrews continued to acknowledge the dominion of I AM. In all Egypt, earthly inheritance existed only for the Pharaoh. The eternal kingdom of GOD, spiritual inheritance, and sovereign rule through sacred law are contrasted against that of a one world empire having rule generated from the extremes of the flesh (e.g., anger, covetousness, imbalance, pride). Joseph also represents divine grace, the fulfillment of promise, freedom, and manifesting the righteousness within the law, rather than idolatry, poverty, strict obedience, and relying on the letter of the law.) Even so, I trust this fragment that includes a selection from the music ministry of Shirley Caesar (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HV9TqW-_fkU) will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 9:35 PM, January 15, 2020 @ https://mattsbibleblog.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/joseph-of-egypt.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/05/2019) In Fear To GOD?

Today, reply is on the awe, respect, and reverence Christian believers express in their relationships with divinity. Because they fear the physical strength of an abusive partner, many women and children continue in homes that are destructive and toxic as victims of domestic violence. Fear of the Lord that should be expressed within relationships to divinity is very different than the emotional, psychological, and spiritual cruelty that occurs within dysfunctional families. Christian believers are encouraged to willingly be in an ongoing relationship with divinity that features discovery, gradual growth, sacred practices, study, and unselfish service. The overwhelming authority, knowledge, and power of GOD are expressed in multiple sacred operations whereby believers may resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and nature of Jesus Christ. As the most complete belief system on the earth, Christianity provides focus, intelligence, integrity, and maturity. There will be increased acknowledgment of accountability, commitment, and the practice of discernment. None are to experience the coercion, confusion, intimidation, threats, and violence that appear when pursuing self-destruction, the supernatural, superstition, and the occult. It is written: Matthew 11: 28-30, King James Version (KJV): 28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data appears) posted the following:

Should I bow down in fear to God because of his enormous supernatural powers?

The miracle of life is incredible.

It's also frightening to think of the power behind it.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. (1^st John 1: 5-7, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Better Safe Than Sorry (10/21/2019); Divinity’s Threat to Humanity (05/21/2019); Awe Through Sacred Revelation (12/05/2018); Fear of the Unknown (03/29/2018); No Fear In Love? (05/17/2017); Fear That Acknowledges GOD? (07/15/2016); Correct Awe and Respect (02/04/2016)

“Anonymous”, mankind is being drawn to GOD through multiple sacred operations that make otherwise invisible and unseen aspects of divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) alive and present within the consciousness and self-will (willpower) of the living. Included are atonement, forgiveness, and reconciliation to mankind regarding sin; comfort and lovingkindness to relieve bereavement, mourning, and suffering; the provision of mercy to those guilty in judgment; using human form to appear on the earth as Jesus Christ (we say, the Incarnation); the use of covenant relationships grounded in sacred law and divine promises as well as multiple opportunities and possibilities for healthy fellowship within assemblies and communities of faith. Awe, respect, and reverence to GOD is very different from the “fear” that many have faced in relationships displaying domestic violence, where a spouse is forced to remain in submission by use of beatings; destruction of property in the home; death threats against herself and the children; displays of exaggerated jealousy, possessiveness, and temper; unresponsiveness to reasoned appeals; and continuous verbal aggression. While GOD displays wrath against sin in divine judgment, what Christians express as “fear of the Lord” is their correct acknowledgment of GOD as the origin of existence and life, and the caretaker for all Creation. GOD is an immortal, incorruptible spirit, who has put forth created beings and living creatures, their spheres of life (i.e., heaven and earth), and the conditions for their duration. GOD appears to the living through displays of authority, dominion, personhood, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and sovereign majesty. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a special music presentation from Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sarah Brightman, Paul Miles-Kingston - Pie Jesu:

(1.) 2^nd Timothy 1: 7, King James Version (KJV): 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

(2.) Luke 12: 4-6, KJV: 4 And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5 But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended (for example, (3.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31oAcmBz044.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 7:50 AM, December 05, 2019 @ https://ldsblogs.com/files/2011/08/WhomshouldIfear-300x300.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/13/2019) Unprofitable and Vain Questions

Today, reply is on using genealogy and secular knowledge to argue and debate concerning Jesus Christ as Messiah. GOD has used family as a major tool to establish existence and life. Can the high levels of acceptance, accountability, commitment, discipline, love, respect, and trust that should appear within human families also appear within the family of GOD? In the same way Adam and the device of family were used by GOD as a sacred tool to populate the entire earth, the family and household of Abraham were chosen as a tool to transform the earth, and a single family, that of Jacob, was selected to exist among the nations as a kingdom in covenant with GOD. Even so, those focusing on carnal, material, practical, and social things often become overwhelmed by misinformation and spiritual confusion. Through operations of divinity, Christian believers acknowledge Jesus Christ as the Son of GOD and the promised primary heir to divinity who is granted the double portion of the full inheritance to complete the “unfinished business” left by the benefactor. Even during the life of Jesus on earth under the government of Rome, the goal of restoring united Israel with a return to the “golden age” led by King David continued as an imperative within the culture. The law was believed to favor those promoting themselves as a Jew (i.e., one whose origin was Jerusalem; one from the tribes of Benjamin, Judah, or Levi; those having identity as Hellenized Jews, and legally a Greek or Roman citizen). Family background was carefully examined for those released from captivity and exile imposed first by the Assyrians, then, by the Babylonians, Persians, Medes, etc. Renewal of the Levitical priesthood required proof of ones lineage to the point that marriage contracts made with Gentiles were annulled, children from “mixed” marriages were disinherited, and there were exhaustive efforts to trace property ownership. It is written: 1^st Timothy 6: 17-21, KJV: 17 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; 18 That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; 19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. 20 O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called: 21 Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen. One of the many fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

Titus 3:9 But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.?

Is this a confession that Christianity has failed to prove Jesus had any lineage to be the Jewish Messiah?

How are they "unprofitable and worthless"?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. (Romans 8: 5-9, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divinity Embodied In Flesh (12/30/2018); A Descendant of David? (03/18/2018); The First Common Ancestor? (05/24/2017); A Curse Removed (12/26/2013); Intercession (12/27/2013); The Bible and Genealogy (09/10/2013); Why GOD Does Not Tell All (09/11/2013)

“Anonymous”, the authentic humanity and divinity of Jesus Christ are known and correctly acknowledged only through operations by the Holy Spirit, and by believers receiving a fresh endowment of life essence (we say, breath; spirit; divine substance; word). Using finite tools of human intellect, logic, and willpower, there can only be well-meaning conversations and discussions that rely on carnal reason, history, philosophy, politics, science, and secular knowledge that do not respond to the multiple streams of sacred truth. There are many subtleties (barely visible differences; hidden and sudden shifts in meaning and value) that contribute to spiritual confusion including tracing inheritance, property ownership, and transfers of wealth. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Wintley Phipps:

1. Exodus 4: 22-24, King James Version (KJV): 22 And thou shalt say unto Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD, Israel is my son, even my firstborn: 23 And I say unto thee, Let my son go, that he may serve me: and if thou refuse to let him go, behold, I will slay thy son, even thy firstborn.

2. In the plan of GOD for ancient Israel, there were to be no disputes about property ownership and the transfer of wealth. The economy of their nation was to be stable, and every family received an allotment of land and resources that were to be maintained in perpetuity by sacred law that included provisions for assistance to the poor as well as for sale and recovery of the land (redemption; jubilee).

3. The lawful inheritance of Jesus Christ as a son of man included the provision of a “promised land” established through promises to Abraham, acknowledgment by divinity as a son of GOD by the proclamation of GOD through Moses, and the covenant to continue dynasty and rule over the people of GOD as a nation on the earth through one from the house of David.

4. Hebrews 8: 7-12, KJV: 7 For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second. 8 For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah: 9 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord. 10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: 11 And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. 12 For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.

5. Isaiah 63: 16, KJV: 16 Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not: thou, O LORD, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 6. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1chIw0lq3qc.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 2:05 PM, November 12, 2019 @ www.homesteadessentials.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/8e26a607badda9d70853fc8c1cb6b15a-bible-verses-quotes-scriptures.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/23/2019) The Confusions of Halloween

Today, reply is on Christian beliefs, spiritual confusion, and the celebration of Halloween. Christianity is to appear among mankind as correct expression of accountability, maturity, sacred knowledge, and spirit content imparted from the makeup of GOD. The observance of Halloween and other holiday celebrations have been examined by Christian adults, and are now increasingly challenged regarding their value for sinners coming to Christ by repentance, and for the gradual growth and development of youth receiving Christ as their inheritance. In addition to promoting conflict and division among believers, holidays, celebrations, customs, and cultural traditions promoting parties and social behavior also encourage compromise, disbelief, hedonism, and skepticism. It is written: Luke 14: 25-27, King James Version (KJV): 25 And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them, 26 If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. 27 And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Ember (Level 1 with 78 points, a member since October 16, 2019) posted the following:

How do I tell my parents I don't celebrate Halloween when I'm the only Christian in that household? My family are pagan and I'm not.?

I have told them I converted before but they took it as if I was being disrespectful and they've been mean, and my mom didn't take it well. They didn't take me telling them I converted well.. . Idk what to do

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first. (Matthew 19: 27-28, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Heathen and Pagan Ways (09/01/2019); Jesus In This Environment? (04/30/2019); Anger Against Our Parents? (01/10/2019); Why Paul Observed Tradition (07/10/2018); Sacred Ministry or Parenting? (05/10/2018); The Joy of Christmas (01/05/2017); The Meaning of Christmas? (12/22/2016); A Day For Forgiveness? (12/25/2015)

“Ember”, the meaning and value of holidays during our stages of childhood must change as we develop and grow. Even so, for many Christian families the occasions for public celebration and the observance of holidays are increasingly becoming recognized as toxic for the home and within the community of faith. Like welcoming a wolf in sheep’s clothing, acknowledging things from the popular culture, customs, family law, and traditions of the world always entails great risk disguised as affirming and bonding community, child-like innocence, play, and recreation. Rather than proclaiming the things of redemption and salvation through Jesus Christ, often those who embrace Halloween further the expression of things carnal, material, and demonic along with the occult, sorcery, the supernatural, and superstition. A use and focus on graphic images, icons, and symbols are promoted that contend against balance, faith, godliness, and maturity. Death, destruction, division, fear, and accepting the operations of sin unknowingly are endorsed and promoted. The recognition of such events as anniversaries, birthdays, and the completion of harvest also have become tainted by elements promoting depression, excess, gluttony, and imbalance. Major feasts such as dia de los Muertos, Saint Patrick’s day, Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter are in danger of losing all piety, righteousness, and their saintly spirit character. While you are in the home of your parents, you must respect their right to freely express their own beliefs and values without having to answer continual condemnation, criticism, or disrespect from their children and other members of the household. You are to “win them over” by acknowledging and displaying such aspects of sacred spirit as faith, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, and wisdom. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of John Michael Talbot:

(1.) 1^st Corinthians 13: 11-12, King James Version (KJV): 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

(2.) Galatians 2: 16, KJV: 16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

(3.) Galatians 5: 16-23, KJV: 16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmwRnDa-iXM&list=PLN-HWgUQXbLMTSzGiuTABz_u7Lqbc7AF8&index=5&t=0s.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 2:50 PM, October 23, 2019 @ https://www.nationalgeographic.com.au/people/why-do-we-celebrate-halloween.aspx

AN AFTERTHOUGHT: For most Christians, the benefits and rejoicing through sacred and secular celebrations are not the same. Christmas should not be compared against Kwanzaa; family reunion should not be compared to Resurrection Sunday; Sabbath should not be compared with Sunday. Anniversaries and memorials of sacred events (we often say, miracles) should acknowledge acts of GOD and mysteries from the past, yet also invoke and call forth (1) the same benefits, blessings, duties, and gifts provided earlier, (2) completion, fulfillment, or repetition of the original works, (3) re-dedication and revival as of ones assembly and the full church as well as (4) renewal of each believer’s own relationship with divinity. Commanded expectations (hope) and sacred purpose are reignited and reinvigorated; and those who labor preparing the harvest to be taken up at the coming of Jesus Christ as Lord receive needed rest and refreshing.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC