(12/25/2020) Being Equal With GOD?

 

Christmas proclaims a profound gospel from GOD sharing points of truth, surprise, and good news from the Creator. It is the gift of GOD that mankind is neither to be inferior to one another nor to divinity; and Christians will be equal as to what they hunger for, and what will nourish them. Even so, few Christians account themselves the equal of Jesus Christ, and many mature Christian believers will shrink from acknowledging that they themselves are to become peers with divinity through operations of GOD. Christians celebrate the nativity of Jesus Christ as the one sent by GOD to deliver mankind from the operations of sin; however, the divine use of human flesh and life essence that we see in the Incarnation of Jesus Christ is a prelude to all mankind being made to exist as an immortal, incorruptible life-companion with GOD. Apostleship, witness, and revelation of the character and nature of divinity will be continued. There are to be mutual sacred commitments, eternal purpose, and shared vision. Where the restoration of paradise lost through the transgression of divine law once may have been strictly anchored in knowing and obeying sacred law, the present transactions of divinity with mankind focus on the provision of opportunities, possibilities, privileges, promises, and prophecies that are being fulfilled through operations of divine grace. Included are the imparting of deposits and endowments from the makeup and substance of GOD whereby men become known as children and offspring of the Creator. The living become perfected and transformed through sacred gifts, eternal life, everlasting inheritance, and divine rewards for godly service. It is written: Ephesians 2: 18-22, King James Version (KJV): 18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. 19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “David” (Level 1 with 102 points) posted the following:

Philippians 2:5-6 says to think like Jesus. Did he believe he was equal with God while he was in his form? Should we?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. (Isaiah 9: 6-7, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Both Existence and Life (12/11/2020); Why Are Sinners “saved?” (10/11/2020); Divine Process and Substance (06/24/2020); The Return of Yeshua (05/21/2020); The Place to Start (12/23/2019); The Persons Within Godhead (12/20/2019); Customs of the People (12/06/2019); On Diversity and Equality (05/22/2018)

Merry Christmas, “David”; I hope you find this to be Good News. Equality with GOD is not so much a matter of having the same celestial authority, dominion, glory, and power as it is a matter of having the same duty to manifest truth as well as the same accountability, benefits, opportunities, possibilities, and privileges. In addition to inseparable aspects of divine fullness (we say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) such as faith, holiness, immortality, incorruptibility, personhood, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, sovereign will, wisdom, and wrath against sin, divinity has revealed that through the operations of GOD, there may be oneness of substance without the sameness of sacred form and process. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Ephesians 2: 8-9, King James Version (KJV): 8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

(2.) Hebrews 2: 3-5, KJV: 3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; 4 God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will? 5 For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak.

(3.) 1^st Peter 4: 9-11, KJV: 9 Use hospitality one to another without grudging. 10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) John 14: 8-18, KJV: 8 Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. 9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? 10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. 11 Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works’ sake. 12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. 13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. 15 If ye love me, keep my commandments. 16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 1:05 PM, December 24, 2020 @ https://qph.fs.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-fa795283ad477622ec1c6e3c0159d682

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/19/2020) The Power We Receive

 The image depicts the appearing of Jesus Christ in glory (we say also say, the harvest, the Rapture, the Second Coming).

Today, reply is on the character, makeup, and nature of the sacred power Christian believers receive through baptism that establishes their new condition as the offspring of GOD having resurrection-life and existence as the new creation of Jesus Christ. The gifts men are to receive from GOD will transform them so they display authentic humanity, rather than behave as bosses, bullies, or supermen supplied with magic, strength, and unnatural abilities. Correctly understood, there must be the death, burial, and resurrection from the dead of ones inborn spirit; and there will be growth and ongoing works by divinity. In addition to divine law the holy writings provide a record of sacred judgments against sin along with divine proclamations, promises, and prophecies. While the focus and process of sacred law in the Scriptures opposes finite human self-will, imposes death and mortality, and concludes that all mankind is to exist under sin, there also are multiple promises and provisions for humanity so that the living have presence from the makeup of GOD as new life. It is written: 1^st John 3: 1-3, King James Version (KJV): 1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “God Hates You ATM; Prov 6:16-19” (Level 1 with 21 points) posted the following:

Re: John 1:12 Where is today's Christians' POWER received after Holy Spirit baptism (Acts 1:5;8) to become the sons of GOD?

Updated 8 mins ago:

@SIN

WHY AREN'T YOU OUT THERE THEN?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3: 22-28, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Appeals Directed to Spirit (11/08/2020); The Spirits Are Subject (10/28/2020); GOD Can Forgive Us (09/13/2020); Divine Character Must Appear (08/13/2020); Divine Process and Substance (06/24/2020); Acknowledging And Confessing Sin (06/21/2020); A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020)

“God Hates You ATM; Prov 6:16-19”, Christians do not receive power from GOD that may be used independently and self-managed as though one is apart and separated from divinity. Sinners and those continuing to express the inborn spirit that resides within the flesh and mind of mankind often approach divinity only because they covet (i.e., want to possess; make empty and void; use up) the authority, dominion, and power that belongs to GOD as the Creator, origin, and source for all that has existence and life. Such “believers” pursue selfish goals and vain hopes that cannot be realized by those on the earth for they rely on finite self-will; moreover, they lack the willpower required to carry out sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. The character, process and substance of power must be acknowledged as alive, incorruptible, unchanging, and invisible. Spirit continues as life essence (breath; spirit; word) in its form and function. Believers are to be vessels of inseparable aspects of consecrated fullness imparted from the makeup of GOD that include balance, commitment, faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, restraint, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The elements of divine power are not to be thought of as coercion, force, and violence so much as they are to be understood as compassion, discovery, forgiveness, gradual growth, grace, mercy for those found guilty in judgment, reconciliation, and sobriety. Those who become “born again” while existing on the earth must undergo permanent change through operations of the Holy Spirit whereby they “grow up again” to become mature/ripe for harvest by the Lord at his appearing. The transformation to become complete and perfected as life companions to divinity will occur at the Advent (Second Coming) as believers behold the redeemer and savior in glory. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible and a selection from the music ministry of the virtual youth choir at Villa Alegre Bible Baptist Church (Pinagbuhatan, Pasig City (Manila), Philippines):

(1.) John 3: 6-8, King James Version (KJV): 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. 8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.

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

(3.) Romans 8: 1-10, KJV: 1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 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. 10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Trust His Heart by Babbie Mason and Eddie Carswell @ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lSd-Wmd9Adc. ) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:15 AM, November 19, 2020 @ https://i.ytimg.com/vi/8J26FS9_0hY/maxresdefault.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/28/2020) The Spirits Are Subject

Today, a reply is made on whether men on the earth are to take pride in being children of GOD. To be an offspring of GOD, one must contain consecrated substance that has been imparted from the makeup of divine fullness (i.e., divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). For many, being set apart by their sacred content in order to serve divinity only means that you are blessed, favored, and gifted so that you excel and surpass others. However, rightly understood, sanctification is an aspect of the often difficult and painful transformation sinners must undergo from being offered as a living sacrifice to existing as immortal, incorruptible, perfected companions to GOD. It is written: Isaiah 11: 1-3, King James Version (KJV): 1 And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: 2 And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD; 3 And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears: A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Broly” (Level 2 with 674 points) posted the following:

Is it against the Bible to take pride in being a child of God?

Bonus question: Can a person call themselves a "soldier of God", I want to call myself that now instead of some dude from a DBZ movie.

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be:  but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.   (1^st John 3: 2, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Always Connected By Spirit (08/30/2020); The Sons Of GOD? (07/19/2020); Acknowledging And Confessing Sin (06/21/2020); “GOD, I Thank Thee...” (03/16/2020); Acknowledging Christ as Son (03/08/2020); Christian Teachings About Devils (08/21/2019); What Is A Spirit? (03/06/2018)

“Broly”, because they have exaggerated pride many covet the authority, dominion, and power of divinity. While acknowledging and affirming that mankind is to bear the image of GOD, and should display substance and value established by the Creator, created beings and living creatures are to manifest the same humility that exists as an inseparable aspect of divine fullness (we say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit). All who live are not accounted as the children of GOD, for the offspring of divinity must display the character, makeup, and nature of GOD (we say, divine DNA), and should resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. Within the new creation there has to be a fresh endowment of spirit imparted from the makeup of GOD. While living on the earth, men are to begin eternal life having balance, commitment, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin; while living in the earth made new, men are to receive immortality, incorruption, perfection, and righteousness. The inheritance and life-process for man that is received through the first pair (Adam) include conditions, limitations, and restrictions such as appetite, mortality, finite self-will (willpower), and an inclination to respond to the operations of sin. GOD is exalted as the origin and source for all that has existence and life; and sin is no thing created or put forth by divinity. Where the living will exist as companions to GOD they must undergo divine operations to continually express sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Sinners must become “born again” through operations of the Creator, and those who become reborn must also grow-up again and become mature/ripe for harvest from the earth by the Lord at his coming. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible and Peace, a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) 2^nd Kings 1: 9-15, King James Version (KJV): 9 Then the king sent unto him a captain of fifty with his fifty. And he went up to him:  and, behold, he sat on the top of an hill. And he spake unto him, Thou man of God, the king hath said, Come down. 10 And Elijah answered and said to the captain of fifty, If I be a man of God, then let fire come down from heaven, and consume thee and thy fifty. And there came down fire from heaven, and consumed him and his fifty. 11 Again also he sent unto him another captain of fifty with his fifty. And he answered and said unto him, O man of God, thus hath the king said, Come down quickly. 12 And Elijah answered and said unto them, If I be a man of God, let fire come down from heaven, and consume thee and thy fifty. And the fire of God came down from heaven, and consumed him and his fifty. 13 And he sent again a captain of the third fifty with his fifty. And the third captain of fifty went up, and came and fell on his knees before Elijah, and besought him, and said unto him, O man of God, I pray thee, let my life, and the life of these fifty thy servants, be precious in thy sight. 14 Behold, there came fire down from heaven, and burnt up the two captains of the former fifties with their fifties:  therefore let my life now be precious in thy sight. 15 And the angel of the LORD said unto Elijah, Go down with him: be not afraid of him. And he arose, and went down with him unto the king.

(2.) Luke 9: 51-56, KJV: 51 And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem, 52 And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. 53 And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem. 54 And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? 55 But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. 56 For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them. And they went to another village.

(3.) Luke 10: 16-24, KJV: 16 He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me. 17 And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name. 18 And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. 19 Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. 20 Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. 21 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight. 22 All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him. 23 And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see: 24 For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3o4y8zHWYnw.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 7:05 A, October 28, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/0d/43/97/0d439752c297715c43239bf7fa5418a8.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/21/2020) Acknowledging And Confessing Sin

Like newborn babes require continuous contact and nourishment from their caretakers and parents, Christians should desire an ongoing relationship with divinity.

Today, reply is that mankind’s need for fellowship and ongoing relationship with divinity through prayer and confession of sin is more correct and necessary than self-reflection. Many men seek to escape having to face divine judgment because the tribunals of GOD must be complete, exacting, impartial, and incontrovertible; and outcomes can not be influenced or manipulated by created beings and living creatures. Because the goals of self-evaluation and seeking to judge oneself often focus on a desired outcome of self-approval, bias, prejudice, and subjective assessments of behaviors and goals repeatedly appear that skewer and disqualify the results that emerge by carnal soul-searching. Subtlety (barely visible differences; hidden meanings and values) may be ignored and given far less weight than is appropriate. Pursuing a mature relationship with divinity (e.g., the Father; the Good Shepherd; the Judge; the Son; the Redeemer; the Savior) requires taking accountability, communicating in prayer, commitment, discernment, focus, humility, integrity, obedience, responding to guidance, and willingness to apprehend divine expressions of joy, meaning, purpose, and value. It is written: Romans 8: 14-17, King James Version (KJV): 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: 17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who used the ID “Regwash” (Level 7 with 131,994 points) posted the following:

Might critical self reflection be just as good as confessing sins to Jesus or whatever?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. (Galatians 4: 3-6, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Multiple Relationships With GOD (06/16/2020); Chances To Determine Outcomes (06/07/2020); Knowing The True Messiah (05/31/2020); A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020); The Purpose Of Worship (10//10/2019); Let Us Reason Together (08/07/2019); Reasoning Together With GOD? (03/11/2019)

“Regwash”, it is not only important to Christians that we acknowledge the authority, power, and sovereignty of GOD, there also must be an affirmation of his goodness, grace, mercy, and righteousness. Those who are willing to receive the guidance and instruction that all things that have existence and that have life were created and put forth by divine fullness (i.e., divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) also are challenged to understand that GOD is not an abstraction, a mechanical device, or another phenomena that occurs by chance within the natural world. To have a full and correct consciousness of divinity requires there be sacred knowledge that comes through regular contact, ongoing exchange, and meaningful interaction with GOD whose process and substance are immortal, incorruptible, invisible spirit. Self reflection is a product of such finite human tools as intellect, introspection, logic, philosophy, carnal reason, and science. The flesh is subject to the operations of sin that may dominate appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, sexual cravings), sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching), emotion/mind (e.g., anger, fear, recall), and self-will (willpower). At Creation mankind was endowed with life essence (breath; spirit; utterance; word) from the makeup of divinity. Similarly, through Jesus Christ, mankind is to receive a fresh endowment of the inseparable aspects of divinity. Included are balance, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Relationships allow affection, communication, discovery, gradual growth, learning, practice, and unselfish service. Relationships with divinity fosters and thrives by acknowledgments of error, forgiveness, sacred law, divine proclamations, promises, eternal purpose, repentance, suffering, and expressions of the sovereign will of GOD received as rebirth and the divine nature. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Jeremiah 9: 23-24, King James Version (KJV): 23 Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: 24 But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.

(2.) 1^st Peter 2: 1-3, KJV: 1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, 2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: 3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.

(3.) Ephesians 1: 3-11, KJV: 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. 7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; 8 Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; 9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: 10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: 11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:

(4.) Ephesians 1: 17-23, KJV: 17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: 22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5frx0hqWVqw.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 4:10 AM, June 21, 2020 @ https://kenyasleeth.files.wordpress.com/2016/10/img_0841.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/17/2020) Uniting In The Struggle

A photograph showing George Floyd in an arrest confrontation with a police officer, May 25, 2020, Minneapolis, MN.

Today, I share the comment I wanted to post at FACEBOOK responding to Bishop Elect Marvin L. Winans Statement Against Racism from Perfecting Church (Detroit, MI) posted June 10, 2020, 3:18 PM. Daily, Jesus Christ taught the law and the prophets; and Jesus did not present himself as an heroic military or political figure seeking to expand his territory through conquest and guile. Even so, the Zealots and many among the multitude who had been fed and healed by Christ were preparing to force Jesus to accept a crown ripped from Herod through insurrection and overthrow. These supporters became specially dismayed by the Lord’s lack of outrage at recent tragedies forced by Rome upon the Galileans comparing it to what befell others in Jerusalem by chance (except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish). Those who yearned for Jesus as a prince and an earthly ruler misunderstood the character and nature of the peace and prosperity then being offered by divinity. Believers now must exercise discernment and vigilance to avoid making the same mistakes seen at the Savior’s first appearing. The concluding paragraph of the Bishop’s post (following below) struck me with great power. The many broadcast news and other presentations of recent arrest confrontation deaths across the Nation repeatedly show a single, isolated, victim having no one to turn to, and nowhere to run. Surely, good counsel to black teens, young adults, and even those who are seniors at this time is GET YOU SOMEBODY! Where you see the pattern developing (ABCDEFG, xyz IS COMING). Hit the pause button; freeze the action. Call for immediate assistance before any further action takes place. The crisis is not later at the police station, or in the action that will occur within the courtroom. While yet on the street, there is a need for clear information on options and possibilities for a suspect that police repeatedly have shown they are unable to provide; there is a need for simple agreements (handshakes) and assurances to resolve conflict that police are not authorized to provide. There is a need for impartial decision-making; there is a need for respect; there is a need for trust; and there is a need for unbiased witness. It is written: Romans 13: 1-10, King James Version (KJV): 1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. 8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.

I believe we should unite in this struggle for racial equity and justice. One such step is to become involved in the political process. Not just voting for a President, but your local government as well. The judges, prosecutors, mayor, city council. These positions have a more direct bearing on reigning in the injustices we see at the local level and work on improving your schools and communities.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: There is one alone, and there is not a second; yea, he hath neither child nor brother: yet is there no end of all his labour; neither is his eye satisfied with riches; neither saith he, For whom do I labour, and bereave my soul of good? This is also vanity, yea, it is a sore travail. Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken. (Ecclesiastes 4: 8-12, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Law And The Prophets (06/10/2020); Elephant In The Room? (06/05/2020); The Nearness Of Kingdom (06/02/2020); Knowing The True Messiah (05/31/2020); Will There Be Diversity? (10/22/2017); Fulfillment of His Dream? (04/05/2017); Struggling? (05/11/2013); Through Much Tribulation (05/12/2013)

“Bishop Winans”, responding to your statement on racism recently published in the FACEBOOK public forum, sound counsel within the black community these days is don’t try to face challenges by the police alone, and when there are problems on the street, do not put yourself in the role of a fugitive. An important aspect of the arrest confrontation scenario has been the willingness of victims to operate while outnumbered, and as though they are unaware of the great danger they are being challenged to meet unassisted. For some, this is a matter of exaggerated pride; for some it is that they are guiltless; and for others, it is a misapplication and inaccurate understanding of the promises for civil freedom, free speech, etc. According to what has been displayed in multiple incidents, the police are not trained to “think on their feet.” Properly understood, guilt and innocence are not the primary focus of the police. (Unasked-for explanations are called “excuses” and “too much information.”) Also, the police are representations of the law, and the law will not be changed or altered during their actions on the street. (This is not the time, this is not the place.) The law embodied as the police lawfully can not be argued with, challenged, or quarreled against. (Tell it to the judge, to the legislatures, and to your elected officials.) In their confusion and humanity (that may express an animal, human or divine nature all at the same time), even after striking a victim multiple times with hands, fists or weapons, the police will operate with the idea that their victim does not feel pain until all movement and resistance are crushed. Unknowingly, they demand no complaint, moaning, groaning, cursing and swearing, or other sounds of distress; and their immediate goals for their victim become deny all escape or flight, paralysis, unconsciousness, or death.

With the goal that no one becomes injured through a police action, policies can be established that will allow both a suspect and an officer at the scene to avoid becoming a victim or an assailant by immediately notifying someone of their choice regarding their need for an intervention agent, be it family, friend, co-worker, police supervisor (e.g., desk sergeant, chief, sheriff), or an elected official (city counsel member, county executive, mayor). After exchanging information, a confrontation may be ended with a verbal pledge by the suspect to appear at the police station the next day, in night court, or some other venue. Terms of the pledge may include agreeing to be accountable as a full resident, and having to acknowledge that unwillingness to cooperate with the police implies a rejection of all privileges as a good neighbor granted by the community at large (e.g., driving, parking, trash collection). An attorney could be appointed as a one-time, emergency legal assistant to resolve the developing arrest confrontation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Hezekiah Walker:

(1.) Proverbs 11: 14, King James Version (KJV): 14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.

(2.) Proverbs 12: 15, KJV: 15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

(3.) Proverbs 20: 18, KJV: 18 Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.

(4.) James 1: 5-8, KJV: 5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. 6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. 7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. 8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LnaHTOUigJM.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 12:23 AM, June 17, 2020 @ https://reason.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/George-Floyd-arrest-5-25-20-cellphone-video-1200x630.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/16/2020) Multiple Relationships With GOD?

The image depicts the outpouring of the Holy Spirit to mankind that was received by the disciples of Jesus at Pentecost.

Today, reply is on the multiple relationships with divine fullness that are made possible through the revelation of divinity as Jesus Christ and as the imparted Spirit of GOD (we also say, the Comforter, the spirit of burning and judgment, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth). Promise and prophecy are recorded in Genesis assuring mankind that their sacred content and spirit substance lost through transgression by the first pair eventually would be restored through one of their offspring. It is written: Acts 2: 1-4, King James Version (KJV): 1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “E. L.” (Level 1 with 106 points) posted the following:

what is the meaning of romans 8:26-27? What is Paul teaching here?

I'm trying to learn the bible

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: Knowing The True Messiah (05/31/2020); The Ones Called “Sheep” (05/29/2020); The Return of Yeshua (05/21/2020); A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020); Spirit Process and Substance (02/27/2020); A Complete Divine Revelation (11/15/2019); The Spirit and Prophecy (01/04/2017)

“E. L.”, here are some points of understanding that mature believers are encouraged to share within the church founded by Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit is an inseparable aspect of the divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Ghost) that has appeared on the earth and has been made manifest to mankind. The primary sacred knowledge, process, and revelation for mankind to be in a continuous relationship with GOD derives from divine law, life essence (breath; spirit; utterance; word) imparted from the makeup of GOD, and the appearance of divinity using human form and life process as Jesus Christ. GOD is experienced as more than an abstraction, an origin, or a source; and becomes knowable, known, approachable and accessible through ongoing exchange and interaction with the living. Thus, men are not simply material “things” created by an invisible superior being. There are multiple agreements, covenants, and consecrated operations that make possible a number of diverse personal relationships with divinity. Included are adoption, anointing, atonement, birth, death, inheritance, justification, praise, promise, prophecy, rebirth, reconciliation, redemption, resurrection from the dead, servitude, and glorification. The aspects of divine fullness all display completeness, oneness without sameness, interdependence, integrity, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. GOD exists within created beings and living creatures as active presence, and may reside within their consciousness and self-will (willpower). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible and a selection from the music ministry of Carol Dennis:

(1.) Isaiah 55: 6-12, King James Version (KJV): 6 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. 8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. 10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: 11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. 12 For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.

(2.) Isaiah 11: 1-5, KJV: 1 And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: 2 And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD; 3 And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears: 4 But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth: with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked. 5 And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.

(3.) Zechariah 4: 1-6, KJV: 1 And the angel that talked with me came again, and waked me, as a man that is wakened out of his sleep. 2 And said unto me, What seest thou? And I said, I have looked, and behold a candlestick all of gold, with a bowl upon the top of it, and his seven lamps thereon, and seven pipes to the seven lamps, which are upon the top thereof: 3 And two olive trees by it, one upon the right side of the bowl, and the other upon the left side thereof. 4 So I answered and spake to the angel that talked with me, saying, What are these, my lord? 5 Then the angel that talked with me answered and said unto me, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my lord. 6 Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.

(4.) Romans 8: 26-27, KJV: 26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdYx7gx5vIE.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 2:00 AM, June 16, 2020 @ https://trinityandhumanity.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/pentecost_holy_spirit.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/12/2020) Spiritual Integrity and Maturity

Today, reply is on the widespread error among those outside the body of Christ in describing authentic Christian behavior as “weakness”. As sinners and those joined through secular knowledge, the world, and the flesh, men are unable to correctly discern the aspects of exalted majesty and power that appear within all sacred process and the spirit substance from GOD. While forbearance, mercy, and righteousness are continually displayed, they remain unseen because they are spirit and apprehended through faith. Born-again Christian believers must undergo many years meeting life challenges on the earth to arrive at full sacred development and edification. More than this, believers are fully transformed and perfected only following final judgment, and becoming joined to Christ as immortal. It is written: 1^st Corinthians 15: 50-58, King James Version (KJV): 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. 54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. The fighter in “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “shoeshopper3” (Level 3 with 1,412 points) posted the following:

Why does Christianity say that you have to let others treat like a doormat?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day is holy unto the LORD your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law. Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our LORD: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength. So the Levites stilled all the people, saying, Hold your peace, for the day is holy; neither be ye grieved. (Nehemiah 8: 9-11, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Testing That Nourishes Growth (04/21/2020); Demonstrating Dependence on GOD (04/20/2020); They Which Are Called (04/09/2020); A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020); “Because You Are Believers” (03/17/2020); Only Divine Resurrection Saves (12/24/2019); Spiritual Combat Against Sin (10/11/2019); Acknowledging GOD Displays Maturity (04/10/2019)

“shoeshopper3”, authentic and mature Christian believers practice “turning the other cheek” as a prophetic and spiritual work that makes present and visible the life essence (breath; spirit; utterance; word) from divinity (i.e., the divine fullness; the Godhead; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) that was imparted to mankind in Creation, is bestowed as rebirth that comes by fire and water baptisms, and can be recognized as the shared “resurrection life” of Jesus Christ. The follower of Christ is to provide more than just a social display of friendliness, nonviolence, patience, or tolerance. The integrity of mankind as an expression of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD is to be demonstrated and proclaimed. Those who are born again, and who exist as vessels containing inseparable aspects of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD, are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The sovereign will of Jesus Christ is to exist and have rule within the consciousness and self-will (willpower) of the believer. Thereby, forbearance, forgiveness, and mercy to those who are found guilty in divine judgment may appear. Born-again believers must “grow up again” while living on the earth to become mature/ripe for harvest by the Lord at his appearing (Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). There must be discovery, gradual growth, sacred practice (e.g., fasting, praise, prayer, worship), study of the holy writings, unselfish service, and the endurance of suffering. Only in maturity are accountability, balance, commitment, consistency, sobriety, stability (the immutability of GOD), and unselfishness regular fixtures within a believer’s lifestyle and daily routine. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of William Murphy:

(1.) Ephesians 4: 17-32, King James Version (KJV): 17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, 18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: 19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. 20 But ye have not so learned Christ; 21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. 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.) 2^nd Corinthians 13: 4-9, KJV: 4 For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you. 5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? 6 But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates. 7 Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates. 8 For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth. 9 For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, even your perfection.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ywl595L6m9Y.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 10:12 PM, May 11, 2020 @ https://kaiserswest.files.wordpress.com/2017/03/heart-luke.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/15/2020) Power To Get Wealth

A depiction of what some call “power”

Today, reply is on GOD allowing the living to get wealth, and to enjoy material things. The primary sphere of life for the existence of mankind has been and is to be the earth. It is no sin to admire things that display quality, or to acknowledge when a job has been “well done.” Divinity is not offended that men labor, rest, and are refreshed on the earth by material things, things that engage their mind, natural wonders, and things displaying diverse forms of beauty. Even so, the influence of man-made things should never overpower the correct fear (respect; reverence) of divinity through our observance of praise, prayer, unselfish service, sacred studies, sufferings, thanksgiving, and worship. It is written: Ecclesiastes 3: 12-14, King James Version (KJV): 12 I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life. 13 And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God. 14 I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “shoeshopper3” (Level 2 with 294 points) posted the following:

Do you ever think that even if you were a millionaire God still wouldn't want you to have anything nice or desirable?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Do not err, my beloved brethren. 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. (James 1: 17-18, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Love Of Money (10/27/2019); Parable of a Fool (08/04/2019); The Use of Money? (01/07/2019); You Will Receive Power? (12/28/2018); Anything We Ask For? (09/12/2018); The Mammon of Unrighteousness? (04/03/2017); Money Is No Object? (10/14/2015)

“shoeshopper3”, as those who now receive life through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, mature Christian believers are to be guided by admonition, comfort, correction and encouragement that appear in the holy writing such as the following:

(1.) 1^st Chronicles 29: 11-13, King James Version (KJV): 11 Thine, O LORD is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all. 12 Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. 13 Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name.

(2.) Luke 12: 13-15, KJV: 13 And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me. 14 And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you? 15 And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.

(3.) 1^st John 2: 15-16: KJV: 15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

(4.) Jeremiah 9: 23-24, KJV: 23 Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: 24 But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) 1^st Peter 5: 2-3, KJV: 2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; 3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 8:15 AM, January 15, 2020 @ https://growchurch.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/2.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC