(04/20/2021) "100% Gold and Marble"

 

For many Christian believers the most difficult elements of transformation away from relying on secular and worldly knowledge center on practicing godly and sacred operations that require consecrated substance rather than lavish display, money, ownership of possessions, the distribution of property, and accumulating wealth. Just as the character and nature of divinity is made visible to mankind on the earth through Jesus Christ, things are to appear within the church Christ has created that are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the things that appear in heaven. Correctly understood, what created beings and living creatures are to regard as the precious things of the earth have been provided to communicate such features as the abundance, authority, balance, dominion, humility, perfection, and wisdom of divinity. Sacred law delivers sanctions to the living that condemn covetousness, envy, idolatry, lust, possessiveness, exaggerated pride, and selfishness. It is written: James 4: 1-3, King James Version (KJV): 1 From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? 2 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. 3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data shared) posted the following:

Why is the bishop’s church in my diocese 100% gold and marble when he closed down my church for lack of funding?

Hey, so I’ll burn in hell for all eternity for not having a church to go to but at least he can be ensconced in gold and platinum every Sunday.

Updated 1 hour ago:

Actually, I guess it’s a new bishop. The bishop who closed down my church in 2019 was replaced in early 2020. But still

THE GOLDEN ARROW: John 14: 1-3, KJV: 1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2 In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Device of Inheritance (12/01/2020); On Giving and Tithing (11/05/2020); Why So Many Churches? (10/17/2020); The Inheritance From GOD (08/26/2020); Power To Get Wealth (01/15/2020); The Love Of Money (10/27/2019); Giving, A Divine Discipline? (10/09/2017); A $1,000 Dollar Seed? (11/02/2015); Some Points on Tithing (03/19/2015)

“Anonymous”, aspects of acknowledgment, glorification, praise, sacrifice, submission, and worship are involved. The use of gold, marble, and platinum that we see displayed among the various congregations sharing Christian belief is not intended to establish a base for political conflict and division, exalt hierarchy with worldly social standing and preference based on wealth, or represent the authority and power of any individual on the earth. Believers are to apprehend and discern the material presence of invisible divinity through the properties of consecrated and sanctified devices, tools, and utensils. Included are balance, beauty, completeness, purity, eternal purpose, simplicity, and transcendence projected through the carpeting, cloths, flowers, and other adornments of the altar, communion-ware, the font or baptism pool, the pews, prayer stalls, and other fixtures. The bishop may reside and regularly serve a broad area that includes diverse cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. Correctly understood, the “headquarters” church (often a cathedral) is a shared inheritance for the full community that has been increased, maintained, managed, and preserved through the work of many generations. Developing believers often err responding to divine displays as though they are selfish expressions from disbelievers and skeptics rather than unselfish offerings by those in commitment and conviction. While the church endures as a single sacred body by practicing a division of labor and oneness without sameness, it is not unreasonable that every discrete congregation must continue by its own members accepting requirements for accountability, duty, effort, and manifesting Christian maturity. Through the earthly treasures of the church believers are encouraged that the goals of their faith and practice can be achieved within their own life-process as those belonging to GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Exodus 25: 1-9, King James Version (KJV): 1 And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, 2 Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering. 3 And this is the offering which ye shall take of them; gold, and silver, and brass, 4 And blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goats’ hair, 5 And rams’ skins dyed red, and badgers’ skins, and shittim wood, 6 Oil for the light, spices for anointing oil, and for sweet incense, 7 Onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod, and in the breastplate. 8 And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them. 9 According to all that I shew thee, after the pattern of the tabernacle, and the pattern of all the instruments thereof, even so shall ye make it.

(2.) Exodus 36: 1-6, KJV: 1 Then wrought Bezaleel and Aholiab, and every wise hearted man, in whom the Lord put wisdom and understanding to know how to work all manner of work for the service of the sanctuary, according to all that the Lord had commanded. 2 And Moses called Bezaleel and Aholiab, and every wise hearted man, in whose heart the Lord had put wisdom, even every one whose heart stirred him up to come unto the work to do it: 3 And they received of Moses all the offering, which the children of Israel had brought for the work of the service of the sanctuary, to make it withal. And they brought yet unto him free offerings every morning. 4 And all the wise men, that wrought all the work of the sanctuary, came every man from his work which they made; 5 And they spake unto Moses, saying, The people bring much more than enough for the service of the work, which the Lord commanded to make. 6 And Moses gave commandment, and they caused it to be proclaimed throughout the camp, saying, Let neither man nor woman make any more work for the offering of the sanctuary. So the people were restrained from bringing. 7 For the stuff they had was sufficient for all the work to make it, and too much.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, eternal salvation with divinity is not determined by ones giving and financial behavior, their intellectual knowledge, their service, or their personal suffering so much as by their content of divine substance and their continuance under grace.). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 1:00 PM, April 18, 2021 @ https://i.pinimg.com/originals/3b/27/84/3b2784a14f6cb78680023c66ae9314a7.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/26/2020) The Inheritance From GOD

Every inheritance entails more than a transfer of goods and wealth. Accountability, acknowledgment, duty, renewal, and respect also should appear.

Today, reply is on mankind’s inheritance from the living GOD, and the duty of those abiding on the earth to perform divine service as chosen agents on behalf of the deceased. In addition to blessing, glory and revelation the inheritance from divinity to those on the earth includes covenant relationships, divine law, praise, prayer, promises, prophecy, rebirth, resurrection life through Jesus Christ, sacred events (miracles), sacraments (practices to sanctify believers), and the holy writings. Mankind is correct to confess and proclaim an inheritance from GOD as the heirs of Adam and the Patriarchs. Yet, many respond as did Jacob the son of Isaac, who connived and schemed to gain the benefits and privileges that were to be given his older brother. Jacob first saw the manifestations of the inheritance from GOD hours following the blessing of Isaac. Until then, despite having obtained the birthright of the firstborn from his brother Esau, Jacob experienced only an inheritance directed by and to the flesh. Jacob acknowledged that the vision of angels ascending and descending a ladder to heaven truly was sent by GOD, and he was able to receive the revelation that Christ is above, and is served by the angels. Even so, for Jacob, GOD continued to be only the GOD of Abraham and the GOD of Isaac, and not yet the GOD of Jacob. Properly understood, the living are to fulfill human potential as well as divine proclamation, promises, and prophecy. As agents of those departed, the living are to carry out such necessary tasks as forgiveness, praise, repentance, sacrifice, and thanksgiving. Where the Holy Spirit is present in the awareness and self-will of created beings and living creatures, inseparable aspects of divinity will appear as a fresh endowment of the same life essence that was imparted from GOD to Adam (i.e., breath; spirit; utterance; word). The Incarnation of divinity as Jesus Christ has been provided to further the transformation of mankind to exist as immortal and incorruptible. It is written: 1^st Peter 5: 2-4, King James Version (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 ensamples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. 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:

My father verbally promised money to his church before he passed away, but his written will didn't include any such gift?

The attorney followed the will and his church didn't get any money. Now the church is harassing me demanding I give them money.

Is there ever a sutuation where a written and recorded will can be successfully challenged based on a deathbed verbal promise when the person has dementia and is only occassionally lucid?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me. And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you? 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. (Luke 12: 13-15, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Sons Of GOD? (07/19/2020); Forgiveness A Sacred Practice (05/28/2020); The Will Of GOD (03/03/2020); Joseph Received Divine Spirit (01/16/2020); More Required Than Crucifixion? (12/10/2019); The Many Divine Gifts (12/03/2019); To Inherit Eternal Life (11/12/2019); Baptized For The Dead? (10/12/2018)

“Anonymous”, the living may not save the dead through apologies, baptism, and good works; yet, the deceased are to be “remembered”, rather than condemned, and the resurrection life of Jesus is to appear by the dead also. For Christian believers, the character, operations, and substance of inheritance are not to center only on public displays of affection; the transfer of material goods and wealth; the recognition and development of connection and relationship on the basis of shared physical skills, talents and traits (e.g., eye, hair or skin color, height, weight, etc.); or the lawfulness of mandates imposed on ones siblings, spouse, and extended family. There also should be an acknowledgment of personal relationship, and otherwise unseen things that include commitment, enlightenment, intent, and purpose. Rightly understood, inheritance pertains to delegation of sacred authority, dominion, judgment, and priesthood. Just as the outcomes of judgment are not by inheritance and the son is not punished for the sins of the father, forgiveness, repentance and grace are provided as gifts from divinity and expressions of divine prerogative. The primary heir is usually granted a double portion of an inheritance so the “unfinished business” of the deceased may be carried out (e.g., among 3 heirs there are 4 portions; among 6 heirs there are 7). The deceased, who may have been corrupt, wicked and vain, is to be presented to the community at large having a new image and a new name from GOD. Where possible, their remaining debts are to be paid; and benefits and privileges are to be provided in their name that heal, nourish and revitalize the community. The proof that we have truly known the deceased is not that we celebrate or indulge the same appetites and weaknesses they embraced through their lifetime. There will be an acknowledgment of who they could have become, and the affirmation of their hearts, their spirit needs, and their unspoken requests for the things in life that they found to be higher and out of reach. Focus is not on their failures and sins; eternal purpose and what they (and we) may yet accomplish through Christ are the agenda. Consider the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Isaiah 38: 18-20, King James Version (KJV): 18 For the grave cannot praise thee, death can not celebrate thee: they that go down into the pit cannot hope for thy truth. 19 The living, the living, he shall praise thee, as I do this day: the father to the children shall make known thy truth. 20 The LORD was ready to save me: therefore we will sing my songs to the stringed instruments all the days of our life in the house of the LORD.

(2.) John 11: 19-27, KJV: 19 And many of the Jews came to Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother. 20 Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary sat still in the house. 21 Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. 22 But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee. 23 Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. 24 Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. 25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: 26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? 27 She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.

(3.) 2^nd Corinthians 4: 11-16, KJV: 11 For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. 12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you. 13 We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; 14 Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. 15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. 16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ge1axMPsN-g.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 1:15, PM August 25, 2020 @ http://www.moneyloveandlegacy.com/images/HandsGivingCoins.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

(08/04/2019) Parable of a Fool

Today, reply is on mankind’s inheritance from GOD through Jesus Christ, covetousness, and the Parable of the Rich Fool. While, from the beginning, man was to exist having accountability and ownership over things carnal, material, and social, correct relationship to divinity also was to continue through exchange and interaction of spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD. Included were faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Dominion over the earth, and many of the gifts bestowed on mankind as an offspring of divine fullness (we also say, of divinity; of the Godhead; of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), were lost through human disobedience, distrust and self-will. Mankind has received a fresh endowment of life essence (i.e., breath; spirit; word) imparted from divinity through the ministries of Jesus Christ to replace the sacred inheritance and divine spirit substance lost by Adam through transgression. The writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Pawelk 1986” (Level 1 with no points shown, a member since March 23, 2009) posted the following:

How understand Luke 12:13-21 " The Parable of the Rich Fool"?

Hi Im Catholic from Poland today in my church ware two readings Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 from Old Testament and Luke 12:13-21 " The Parable of the Rich Fool" from New Testament.

I know that in Catholic Church in my church the are the same readings across the World..

I Attend church regularly but only in recent 5 or 6 years i start to read the Bible, to which priests, (Oblats (OMI) very good priests from my parish encourage parishioners

But i wonder what is about in that Passage someone ask Lord Jesus to ask his brother to share inheritance what is wrong with that?

Do we need to be poor to be good Christians, Catholics, Protestant, Orthodox whatever?

To not ask someone for our money?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. I have coveted no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel. Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. (Acts 20: 32-35, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Mysteries Of The Kingdom? (09/28/2018); What May We Request? (05/24/2018); Using Parables to Obscure the Gospel? (05/29/2015); When People Covet (12/22/2013); On Judging Preachers as “Fake” (12/23/2013); Why Jesus Used Parables (11/03/2013); Denying Baptism to Others (11/04/2013); Prosperity Destroys Fools (09/25/2012); Life and Death (09/26/2012)

“Pawelk 1986”, here are some points you may find useful. The operations of divinity to continue uninterrupted relationship with mankind in spite of death and mortality include dominion, dynasty, family, and inheritance where property and wealth are transferred in accordance with divine order, provisions and sanctions that appear within sacred law. Peace can not be achieved through war, and is only established through covenant agreement, and maintained through lawful judgment to resolve conflicts and settle disputes.

Many believed Jesus of Nazareth was the divine ruler promised from GOD within the holy writings (we say, Messiah); and they turned to Jesus as the son of King David, and heir to the throne of Israel as the United Kingdom, to make lawful judgments to settle their disputes over property as would a reigning king.

Jesus not only refused to be crowned as king or be officially recognized as a political figure, he presented himself as a rabbi, teacher, and spokesperson from divinity whose work was to fulfill proclamations, promises, and prophesies from GOD, and to prepare those who would be in a new covenant relationship where giving to GOD and receiving from GOD would be permanently changed for those granted gifts and outpourings of the Holy Spirit.

Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. James 4: 13-17, King James Version (KJV): 13 Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: 14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. 15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that. 16 But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil. 17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.

2. 1^st Timothy 6: 13-21, KJV: 13 I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession; 14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: 15 Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; 16 Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen. 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.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. 2^nd Corinthians 4: 6-7, KJV: 6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 10:10 AM, August 04, 2019 @ https://image.slidesharecdn.com/08heaven-141027120041-conversion-gate02/95/looking-forward-to-the-city-15-638.jpg?cb=1414411385

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/25/2019) No Respecter Of Persons

Today, reply is on the favor shown to Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, and behaving as a respecter of persons. There are two forms of “respecting persons” that appear within the holy writings: 1. judicial respect of persons is the transgression of sacred law that sees bias, influence and partiality in carrying out tribunals, applying sacred law to resolve conflicts and settle disputes, or in determining outcomes and sentences of trials; and 2. social respect of persons that sees undue favor and preference shown to someone on the basis of such features as their formal education, their ethnic background and national origin, their family connections, their office and position, their reputation, their status, or their wealth. Early Christian believers were commanded to maintain decorum, hierarchy and order among members within the church and the larger community by showing obedience, respect and reverence. Thus, Romans 13: 7-8 King James Version (KJV): 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. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Owner Of All Cosmos&Universes” (Level 1 with no points shown, a member since May 18, 2018) posted the following:

Luke 1:28 says that Mary is very favored, so how is God no respecter of persons(Rom 2:11)?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts? Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats? Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called? If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. (James 2: 1-10, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Virginity of Mary (01/14/2019); Chosen Through Sacred Process (09/06/2018); Divine Law Is Demanding (04/10/2018); A Descendant of David? (03/18/2018); The First To Help? (12/22/2017); Will There Be Diversity? (10/22/2017); Laws Favoring the Poor? (03/06/2017); The Respect of Persons? (10/14/2016)

“Owner Of All Cosmos&Universes”, there are multiple differences among created beings and living creatures, yet, GOD has authority to set apart (sanctify) individuals to himself, and to punish or reward according to the provisions of divine law. In the holy writings, divinity is revealed as the Creator and Maker who has put forth all existence, life, and duration. Divine fullness (we also say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) is known through active presence; by sacred operations and divine processes such as forgiveness, healing, judgment, praise, prayer, thanksgiving, sanctification, and worship; by such inseparable attributes as faith, forbearance, holiness, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, and wisdom as well as by being the embodiment of dominion, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and sovereign will. While the divine work of final judgment expresses the wrath of GOD against sin, all divine judgment is carried out with balance, impartiality, restraint, and righteousness. The spirit substance from the makeup of GOD that resides within the living is examined using the record of a person’s deeds appearing within the Book of Life. Influences that would result in errors of judgment are not indulged. Included are ethnic and racial bias; age discrimination; caste or class distinctions based on finances, poverty, and wealth; marital status; national origin; prejudice based on employment and vocation (e.g., sanitation workers); and ones sexual purity. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Deuteronomy 1: 15-18, King James Version (KJV): 15 So I took the chief of your tribes, wise men, and known, and made them heads over you, captains over thousands, and captains over hundreds, and captains over fifties, and captains over tens, and officers among your tribes. 16 And I charged your judges at that time, saying, Hear the causes between your brethren, and judge righteously between every man and his brother, and the stranger that is with him. 17 Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment is God’s: and the cause that is too hard for you, bring it unto me, and I will hear it. 18 And I commanded you at that time all the things which ye should do.

2. Psalms 4: 3, KJV: 3 But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him.

3. Psalms 7: 10-11, KJV: 10 My defence is of God, which saveth the upright in heart. 11 God judgeth the righteous, and God is angry with the wicked every day.

4. Ezekiel 16: 49-50, KJV: 49 Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. 50 And they were haughty, and committed abomination before me: therefore I took them away as I saw good.

5. Acts 10: 30-35, KJV: 30 And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, 31 And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee. 33 Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God. 34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 6. 1^st Peter 1: 16-21, KJV: 16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. 17 And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: 18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, 21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/13/2018) Diversity Within The Body

Today, a reply on diversity within the church is shared.  As a living entity that displays aspects from its social (the flesh) and spirit origins, diversity for the church appears through multiple characteristics, individual differences, and physical traits as well as aspects of divine content, makeup, and spirit substance.  Just as sacred knowledge, prophetic gifts, and skills for preaching and other aspects of pastoral ministry are not the same throughout the body, aspects of maturity (e.g., accountability, balance, commitment, completeness, faithfulness, resilience, stability, stamina) will vary from member to member.  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Breakthrough” (Level 6 with 15,614 points, a member since June 29, 2013) posted the following:



Are Christians supposed to avoid materialism and self-indulgent spending?

Sometimes I fantasize about riding first class to china and going on vacations and eating fancy restaurant foods and drinking lattes and going on trips to other countries.

At the same time I also want to live an ascetic lifestyle so that I can feel closer to God and to spend my whole life saving other people's lives

I guess according to Jesus you can't do both



THE GOLDEN ARROW:  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;  Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock.  And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.  (1st Peter 5:  2-4, King James Version, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Gift(s) From GOD (04/08/2018); Not A Financial Transaction (01/28/2018); Abundance, Plenty and Harvest! (11/23/2017); Will There Be Diversity? (10/22/2017); Diversity and Prophetic Gifts (11/22/2016); Laws Favoring the Poor? (03/06/2017); Money Is No Object? (10/14/2015); The Rich in Divine Relationship? (11/29/2013); We Are Still Sinning? (11/30/2013)



“Breakthrough”, while GOD has provided wealth to many whom he exalted as examples and leaders for mankind upon the earth (e.g., Abraham, Job, King David, King Solomon), their material goods and property continued to belong to divinity; and what they possessed, including their lives, were “on loan”, so to speak.  Resources in the earth must be turned to the sacred works and eternal purpose of GOD; even so, riches are fleeting and temporal.  More than this, the  demand that there be “new life,” rebirth, and regeneration due to the operations of sin, are answered by the new creation through Jesus Christ, the church.  As the body where Christ is the head, the church displays oneness without sameness, yet, there is great diversity among her members.  All do not have the same life experiences, and are not on the same level of maturity.  Believers differ emotionally, financially, intellectually, psychologically.   Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Ecclesiastes 2:  24, King James Version (KJV):  24 There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour.  This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God.

(2.)  Ecclesiastes 3:  9-14, KJV:  9 What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?  10 I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it.  11 He hath made every thing beautiful in his time:  also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.  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.

(3.)  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, (4.)  1st 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.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/28/2018) Not A Financial Transaction

Today, reply describes the sacred process of GOD for salvation as a transformation of ones spirit content that should not be compared to the buying and selling of material goods.  Those set apart as his “peculiar people” are held accountable as those who help each other meet all their human needs.  While it is true, the followers of Jesus are spoken of throughout the Bible using language that describes believers as an offering, a cash-crop ripening for harvest and sale, refined gold, servants, and sheep, men do not come to GOD as chattel and souls purchased using money as though slaves at auction.  He who owns and “possesses” the lives of men as their Creator also has “purchased” the lives of men through operations we speak of as atonement, rebirth, redemption, and sacrifice.  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:


I just sold my soul to Jesus, will he make me rich and successful as he promised?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For the LORD thy God blesseth thee, as he promised thee:  and thou shalt lend unto many nations, but thou shalt not borrow; and thou shalt reign over many nations, but they shall not reign over thee.  If there be among you a poor man of one of thy brethren within any of thy gates in thy land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thine heart, nor shut thine hand from thy poor brother:  But thou shalt open thine hand wide unto him, and shalt surely lend him sufficient for his need, in that which he wanteth.  Beware that there be not a thought in thy wicked heart, saying, The seventh year, the year of release, is at hand; and thine eye be evil against thy poor brother, and thou givest him nought; and he cry unto the LORD against thee, and it be sin unto thee.  Thou shalt surely give him, and thine heart shall not be grieved when thou givest unto him:  because that for this thing the LORD thy God shall bless thee in all thy works, and in all that thou puttest thine hand unto.  For the poor shall never cease out of the land:  therefore I command thee, saying, Thou shalt open thine hand wide unto thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy, in thy land.  (Deuteronomy 15:  6-11, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Giving, A Divine Discipline? (10/09/2017); The Mammon of Unrighteousness? (04/03/2017); Fundraising A Sacred Practice? (01/01/2017); Are All Debts Forgiven? (10/11/2016); To Him That Hath... (07/08/2016); Sacrificial Relationship? (10/23/2013); Relationship by Unselfish Giving? (10/24/2013)


“Anonymous”, be encouraged!  Those who belong to Jesus Christ enter into an organic, personal relation with divinity wherein divine fullness (we also say, the GODhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) is experienced as active and present.  Deity is no longer to be regarded as an abstraction, an academic concept, or another secular idea.  GOD is a spirit, and sinners seeking GOD must employ a new framework that accounts for the many inseparable aspects of spirit substance that includes faith, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. 

The holy writings collected as the Bible present the new language and “way of thinking” that should appear among Christians.  Sinners who become “born again” (i.e., experience the death, burial, and resurrection of their inborn spirit from GOD) receive divine DNA, so to speak.  As “offspring” of GOD, they  acquire “an inheritance” that further makes them fit to be known as the sons and daughters of GOD.  The Scriptures themselves contain and impart aspects of divine spirit, and therefore, will nourish godliness, growth and life experience within developing believers on the earth.   The Scripture instruct developing believers using much of the same sacred knowledge and principles of belief used by Christ and all his disciples.

The process of GOD for believers who are to appear as the new creation through Jesus Christ is one of discovery, edification, gradual growth, and learning.  Throughout the Bible expressions appear from finite human events that are intended to describe sacred covenant relationship and other possibilities for exchange, interaction, and joining to divinity in oneness without sameness.   However, the plain and simply worded things, there, also are profound (deep; having broad impact; far-reaching in their application).  Just as disbelievers often do, developing believers can  misapply or misunderstand the intent, meaning, and value of statements put forth as guidance, proclamation, promise, and prophecy.  Correctly understood, created beings and living creatures must rely upon GOD to complete the many operations, establish meanings, and supply all the sacred substance that must appear.  Language devices from poetry are used for beauty and elegance (such as consonance, metaphor, simile), however, they sometimes result in misapplications by those not yet mature in their studies of divine law, sacred history, and other truth from GOD.  Thus, readers must be careful to continue their focus on things of the spirit even when words are used like “poverty”, “riches”, and “wealth”.  Appetite and carnal needs may not be the primary feature being spoken of.  Consider the following from the Bible:

(1.)  Philippians 4:  19, King James Version (KJV):  19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

(2.)  Zechariah 13:  9, KJV:  9 And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried:  they shall call on my name, and I will hear them:  I will say, It is my people:  and they shall say, The LORD is my God.

(3.)  1st Peter 1:  3-8, KJV:  3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,  4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,  5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.  6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:  7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:  8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:

(4.)  Revelation 3:  17-19, KJV:  17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:  18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.  19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten:  be zealous therefore, and repent.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  John 4:  31-34, KJV:  31 In the mean while his disciples prayed him, saying, Master, eat.  32 But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of.  33 Therefore said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought him ought to eat?  34 Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/22/2017) The First To Help?

Today, thoughts are shared on almsgiving, charity, compassion, and unselfish service among Christian believers and the poor.  For most modern-day problems and troubles, money frequently turns out  to be a primary need; however, where careful and godly assessment are made, we also discover there should be humility, intercessory prayer, laying ones petitions before GOD, and displaying gratitude with giving of thanks.  Born again and developing Christian believers will be endowed with spirit substance from the makeup of GOD to enable their endurance of challenges, opposition, persecution, and suffering.  Even so, those living in distress and enduring hardship often practice bestowing respect, celebrating abundance and plenty, lending without interest or usury, sacrifice and demanding from oneself along with personal sharing as obligatory, precious, and indispensable.  Similarly, as those in covenant relationship with GOD through Jesus Christ and those joined to divinity as his sacred body on the earth, the church acknowledges a duty from GOD to supply its own members who are less fortunate.  Those having no income or savings generally include babies, minor children, the clergy, orphans, teenagers, the elderly, and widows, who in turn, make commitment to minister and serve others around them—even those outside the church—through personal outreach and sharing.  Creating, improvising, and finding new applications for old solutions become important, and further establish oneness without sameness.  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:


Spiritually why do those less fortunate become the first ones to help in times of troubles?

Hoping those who have the ability wake up and help those less fortunate in the world and stop being so selfish.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.  Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.  Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.  And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.  Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.  Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do:  and the God of peace shall be with you.  (Philippians 4:  4-9, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Not All Are Welcome (11/28/2017); Giving, A Divine Discipline? (10/09/2017); GOD Within Christian Believers (07/31/2016); GOD’s Way Not Equal? (07/17/2016); Put On Charity? (11/16/2015); A Christmas Message, 2014 (12/25/2014); Giving Forgiveness? (03/15/2014); Cleansing the Temple, and the Body (03/16/2014); Struggling? (05/11/2013); Through Much Tribulation (05/12/2013)


“Anonymous”, here are some points of explanation that came to my mind that might have to be examined by careful research and study before we could agree that they truly apply:

(1.)  Many among those less fortunate are quick to support others because their principles and values for survival tend to emphasize cooperation, protecting and sharing with one another, and unselfish giving.  By contrast, survival among the wealthy and well-to-do often demands and legitimizes aggression, competition, discipline, and self-promotion.

(2.)  The focus of those less successful tends to be present conditions, and any crisis at hand; while successful people have been described as those who focus on goals, what is possible, where they want to be, and what they actually want to achieve within a set time frame.

(3.)  The lifestyle and daily routines of Christian believers often generate less anxiety over carnal, material, secular, and social issues.  Those who maintain a healthy, regular prayer life, can express great freedom from anxiety and other emotional, psychological, and spiritual conditions that generate stress and worry

(4.)  Among the poor and less fortunate, strength and wisdom also are accepting what comes, and timely surrender without abandoning faith or hope.  Focus on need is used as a defense by those less fortunate to limit ambition, distraction, greed, and exaggerated pride.

Of course, there is far more that could be said.  (For example, consider again the testimony of the Apostle Paul who describes the lifestyle and mindset for those helping to prepare the harvest for Jesus at his Advent (we also say, his appearing, the Rapture, the Second Coming):  (5.)    Philippians 4:  11-13, King James Version (KJV):  11 Not that I speak in respect of want:  for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.  12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound:  every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.  13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/19/2017) The Answer From GOD

Today, reply is made on why communities of faith must maintain endowments of money and property.  The church is in an hostile environment upon the earth, and must maintain a peculiar independence and separation not merely for her financial, material, and physical survival.  Other belief systems compete against and threaten Christian belief with destruction and violence including Atheism, Islam, Judaism, LGBTQ, occultism, those committed to sorcery and witchcraft, and even geo-political States (governments, nations).  Critical emotional, psychological, and spiritual growth within the church continually requires there be immediate access and availability of resources and tools for communication, instruction, practice, and worship.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers (UK & Ireland)” who uses the ID “James” (Level 2 with 433 points, a member since December 04, 2014) posted the following:


Why can't Christianity act like Jesus for once and turn ALL their churches into homeless shelters and give away ALL their BILLIONS of $$$?

Update:  Nightwolf replies with his usual personal abuse. He is NOTHING like Jesus.

Update 2:  Ruth replies with her Christian personal abuse. She is NOTHING like Jesus.

Update 3:  Nightwolf is a tool of Satan ....abusive, aggressive, violent, hateful. "Real" Christians out there, please pray for him, he needs your help.

Update 4:  Fireball too replies with personal abuse. Where are the "real" Christians out there ..... the ones who follow the example of Jesus, the ones who don't hate? There must be some left.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  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;  Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.  And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.  (1st Peter 5:  2-4, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Quality of Life? (03/29/2017); Church Attendance and Inheritance (09/11/2016); Money Is No Object? (10/14/2015); Holy Garments? (09/24/2015); The Rich in Divine Relationship? (11/29/2013); We Are Still Sinning? (11/30/2013); Prosperity Destroys Fools (09/25/2012); Life and Death (09/26/2012)


“James”, the church is an expression of the sovereign will of our Creator; and is both “one of a kind,” and irreplaceable.  The “good works” we see through the church go beyond charitable-giving, philanthropy, and social work.  Correctly understood, the works that are to be performed by Christian assemblies and congregations convey and transmit spirit substance from the makeup of divinity, and do not center simply upon carnal, material, and social things.  Sinners who submit to the discipline and instruction shared among believers become immersed within a lifestyle, sacred practices, and daily routines that display the spirit substance we acknowledge as being from GOD.  Included are faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, hope, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

On the earth, the church typically exists within communities that promote competition, elitism, and the distribution of resources in accordance with processes and standards that are political.  The processes of “the flesh,” “the world,” and “the devil” continually generate meanings and values that undermine the integrity of the church.  Secular knowledge and information are exalted in such a way that many are unable to acquire the sacred knowledge needed to experience the lasting relationship with GOD that we speak of as “eternal life.”  Such work as pastoral counseling, evangelism, and missionary outreach only go forward as effective and fruitful where there are operations of the Holy Spirit to establish commitment, exclusive devotion to GOD, maturity, divine promise, prophecy, stability, and higher vision.  Communities of faith must be financially independent and solvent in order to operate with a minimum of contradiction, disruption, interference, opposition, reversal, and the ungodliness that exists outside the body, and often also exists among believers while they are in the process of permanent change and growth to serve as “born again” believers who must “grow up again” and become perfected

Those within the church are continuing as men, women and children having intimate relationship with GOD through Jesus Christ.  The church is to be received as an answer from GOD where believers are described as being in dependent relationships as adopted sons and daughters, covenant partners, heirs, and spouses, yet, not as beggars, debtors, and the homeless.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Isaiah 54:  4-10, King James Version (KJV):  4 Fear not; for thou shalt not be ashamed:  neither be thou confounded; for thou shalt not be put to shame:  for thou shalt forget the shame of thy youth, and shalt not remember the reproach of thy widowhood any more.  5 For thy Maker is thine husband; the LORD of hosts is his name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall he be called.  6 For the LORD hath called thee as a woman forsaken and grieved in spirit, and a wife of youth, when thou wast refused, saith thy God.  7 For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee.  8 In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer.  9 For this is as the waters of Noah unto me:  for as I have sworn that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth; so have I sworn that I would not be wroth with thee, nor rebuke thee.  10 For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee.

(2.)  2nd Corinthians 8:  9, KJV:  9 For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

(3.)  2nd Corinthians 8:  20-21, KJV:  20 Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us:  21 Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.) 

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, 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.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC