(05/20/2020) 22 Years Spent Preparing

Christ and the Rich Young Ruler by Heinrich Hoffman (1824-1911)

Today, reply is to a developing believer who was asked to lead the women’s ministry program within a congregation where she faces challenges and testing despite that her parent is the pastor. In all things there must be gradual growth and learning. Properly understood, his daughter has spent all her life preparing—not for an opportunity to lead others—for an opportunity to follow by serving the Lord. Rather than academic credentials, professional experience, or special social skills, the fundamental requirements for those serving one another within the body of believers are that one resemble, reflect and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. Inseparable aspects of the divine fullness should be displayed including balance, commitment, decisiveness (the ability to make and hold to sound choices without showing stubbornness), faith, holiness, humility, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, perseverance, unselfishness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. It is written: Matthew 23: 11-13, King James Version (KJV): 11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. 13 But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Sparkles” (Level 1 with 109 points) posted the following:

If my dad (the pastor) thinks I am ready to lead the women's ministry...why are the other women at our church questioning my ability to lead?

My dad is the new pastor at our Fundamental Baptist Church, and he wants me to lead the women's ministry, even though I have no leadership skills whatsoever. I am only 22, and I am the youngest among the adults of our church. My dad also knows that I am not ready, and he only appointed me this role because I am his daughter, and he doesn't trust anyone else.

Updated 2 hours ago:

However, I will trust my father's judgment, and if he thinks I am ready...then I am ready.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. 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. 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. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways. (James 1: 2-8, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: On Behalf Of Others (03/26/2020); The Meaning Of “Persecution” (02/12/2020); Make Me A Servant (04/08/2019); Nothing Impossible For GOD? (04/07/2019); Those Apt To Teach? (06/20/2018); Women Ordained to Minister? (10/27/2012); Does Everyone Go To Heaven? (10/28/2012)

“Sparkles”, where we seek counsel from Jesus, it is often best first to turn to either the Scriptures or to our private prayer chamber. Many of the challenges and problems we face will be resolved by careful meditation and reflection during prayer and study. The Bible presents many excellent examples of women who also were challenged to serve; choose to portray one of them. Included are Mary the sister of Lazarus, Mary Madalene, Dorcas, and Lydia. Where others have the knowledge and skill you yourself lack, seek their advice, their service, and their support in the Lord. The following scriptures are from the epistle written by the Apostle Paul instructing Timothy to recruit and ordain officers for the early church. Rather than continue relying on evangelists, fugitives from persecution and itinerant preachers, a core of Bishops and deacons were to be ordained as part of a stable structure to carryout the tasks of ministry.

(1.) 1^st Timothy 4: 16, King James Version (KJV): 16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

(2.) 1^st Timothy 4: 6-7, KJV: 6 If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained. 7 But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.

(3.) 1^st Timothy 4: 12, KJV: 12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, from the music ministry of Pastor Donnie McClurkin, “I'll Trust You, Lord” (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VZotUuadtqs.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/06/2016) A Gift of Franchise?

Today, focus is upon Christian believers as voters, prayer, and response to a teen whose parents have agreed will decide their votes in the upcoming presidential election.  Politics and the electoral process are finite tools to determine the distribution of resources within the World system, and are intended to maintain balance, respect, survival, and unity.  Because there is emphasis upon things carnal, material and social, for many suffrage is practiced as competition, conflict, excess, idolatry, lust for power, and exaggerated pride.  Where citizens also continually acknowledge possibilities for the active presence of divinity within their own lives and that of their community, participation and self-government can crystallize and express a sense of freedom, maturity, shared goals, and fruitful standards.  One of the many fighters at “Yahoo! Answers (Philippines)” who uses the ID “Anonymous” (profile information not supplied) posted the following:

November 8 is my birthday and my parents say that one of my "presents" is my option to chose which candidate for them to vote for?

One of my birthday presents is my choice for them to vote for Hillary or Trump. I don't know much about them latey, but I do know that they're both stupid retreads and unworthy of presidency. Parents told me ahead of time so I can make a choice on whom they can vote for. Both H and T fans, give my a reason why I should support Republican or Democrat. I'm 13 years old, so I'm not mature enough to know modern politics

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;  For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.  For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;  Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.  For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;  Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.  (1st Timothy 2:  1-6, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Cultural, Political, Spiritual Growth? (07/10/2016); A Learned Council of Elders? (05/10/2016); American Culture and Law? (07/13/2015); Jesus As America’s President? (05/20/2015); The American Covenant? (03/03/2015); Faith not Politics? (12/02/2014); Ye Are Not In The Flesh (12/03/2014)

“Anonymous”, maturity is not a matter of chronological age (how old you are) so much as attitude, confidence, focus, and preparation.  There have been many times in history when a child or young adult became head of their nation as king supported by guardians and chief ministers.  For mature Americans who are Christian believers, franchise and the freedom to vote in elections are a lawful duty and legal obligation that one earns by commitment, hard work, performing honorably and with integrity, personal investment, and sacrifice that becomes visible as their ongoing participation in the collective creation of a fruitful, stable commonwealth, (we say, community, municipality, nation, state, township).  Many mistakenly embrace the idea of having a “right” to vote as an entitlement granted by GOD along with existence, or that automatically comes by birth, by membership, or as ones family inheritance and legacy.  Franchise demands “due diligence,” the careful  work of becoming informed and evaluating secular information from multiple sources (e.g., endorsements, public debates, media reports, polls and survey data, authoritative recommendations).  Concerning politics that decide the operations and quality of government, GOD should not be approached for “victory” on the basis of divine favor (we say, unearned) and not in accordance with the demands of sacred standards the way some call for the success of their favorite sports teams.  Contrary to the many demonstrations of civil disobedience, Christians are commanded to respect those in authority and obey the common law.  In our Nation today, many still cast their votes (even when serving on a jury) only after prayer, and seeking counsel and input from GOD.  Truly born-again believers do not respond to life challenges relying only upon desires, sentiment and superstition.  There should be accountability and the application of divine standards as well as sober responses to outcomes and consequences.  Thus believers may petition GOD for balance, clarity of mind, courage, and discernment to characterize their own decision-making as surely as they may request, Thy will be done.  Consider again how some of this is stated using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Romans 13:  1-5, 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.

(2.)  Romans 13:  7-10, 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.  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.

(3.)  Jeremiah 29:  11-13, KJV:  11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.  12 Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.  13 And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.

There is far more to be said, carefully examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (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.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/08/2014) Suffering Circumcision?

Today, some points are shared on the age of accountability, circumcision, and adult participation in covenant.  Also, there is more on judgment and stoning in the Old Testament.  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “JT” (Level 3 with 1,411 points, a member since December 09, 2007) posted the following:


Is it child abuse to forcibly circumcise an unwilling teenager?

It recently happened to someone I know. The father was extremely adamant about having the boy (15) circumcised. They argued for weeks nonstop and the son tried to compromise with just a loose or partial cut, but the dad insisted on a complete circumcision that removed every bit of loose skin from the shaft. He was eventually snipped without any sort of anesthetics sometime last week. The boy is in agony, and the mother is very upset with his father as well.

Is this child abuse? I am horrified at what happened, but i also realize that it happens to infants all the time, and most people don't seem to care. At what age do you think a boy should be able to refuse such an operation against a parent(s) wishes?

Btw I am against infant circumcision.


THE BATTLE AXE:  Stoning in the OT? (06/07/2014)—(5.)  The duty and privilege of serving in judgment goes far beyond what most of us comprehend; and we are again cautioned not to lean upon our own understanding.  Stoning pertains to collective responsibility, social contract (i.e., agreement, mutual acceptance), and unity.  It is an error to say stoning was “uncivilized”.  Stoning in obedience to demands of covenant with GOD may be understood as no less rational than the  political behavior from Greek democracy of casting ones ballot using either a black or white stone; and without careful examination, stoning should not be dismissed as a civilized and intelligently chosen tool in social justice any more than use of the simple sling stone should be banned and mocked as an effective weapon for defense and warfare.  Stoning was doubly effective by burying offenders (from dust thou art, unto dust thou shalt return) in fulfillment of the divine word, at the same time raising a heap of memorial over them that would caution and warn the living.  Consider this:  As children, many of us are angered and feel put upon by parental demands that we faithfully carry out the chores of removing trash and garbage from the home.  Most parents do not submit a formal written request in triplicate, justify themselves and their demands, or offer such terms for their child’s obedience as “maybe,” “some times,” and “whenever you feel like it.”  Parents do not typically explain that leftover food and unwanted material draw insects, rodents, and other disease carriers into the home.  Should the child become sick, they will miss school, play and other activity with their friends—or even cause their friends to become sick also.  Should the parents be forced to miss days from work because of illness, the family would not receive money needed for medicine, groceries, and by not making payment might lose their home, their beds and their places to sleep!  By their obedience children are able to obtain various benefits that are not explained to them in detail.  Similarly, at first, covenant believers are not given a detailed explanation of the benefits that come by fellowship with GOD; yet, their needs are met through simple obedience.  All the consequences and damages from disobedience and sin are not detailed for created beings and living creatures.  Thus, death may be understood as a token that describes a broad range of  irreversible ill effects and losses that come by defiance of divine law, ignorance, lying, selfishness, ungodliness, and willfulness.  See Revelation 21:  6-8, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Behold, the heaven and the heaven of heavens is the LORD’s thy God, the earth also, with all that therein is.  Only the LORD had a delight in thy fathers to love them, and he chose their seed after them, even you above all people, as it is this day.  Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no more stiffnecked.  For the LORD your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward:  He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment.  Love ye therefore the stranger:  for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt.  Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name.  He is thy praise, and he is thy God, that hath done for thee these great and terrible things, which thine eyes have seen.  Thy fathers went down into Egypt with threescore and ten persons; and now the LORD thy God hath made thee as the stars of heaven for multitude.  (Deuteronomy 10:  14-22, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why the Gospel for Our Children (05/13/2014); Changing Times and Laws? (05/14/2014); “Prayer Death”? (02/21/2014); The 2nd Prayer Death (02/22/2014); Kicked Out By Parents? (11/27/2013); Before Getting Baptized? (11/28/2013); Circumcision and Promise? (07/16/2013); The Bible and Stupid People (07/17/2013); Accomplished in Christ? (01/16/2013); The Need to Purify Heaven (01/17/2013)


“JT”, here are a few points that may make clear why circumcision is more than a mere cutting of ones flesh:

(1.)  Covenant relationships to GOD are established through such mechanisms as blood (we say, atonement, the circulation of life essence within flesh), utterance (we say, breath, promise, spirit, word), through sacrifice (exchange of gifts, offerings, enduring loss or suffering), and through sanctification (cleansing, purification, washing and being set apart exclusively for service to GOD).

(2.)  Because minor children lack discernment (ability to correctly use ones own spirit content from GOD to recognize the spirit matter (we say, divinity) in events, objects and other persons), parents must be accountable for all decisions regarding the spiritual development of little ones, their future inheritance, and their ongoing participation as members both of a family unit and part of a living household.

(3.)  The age of accountability for baptism, confirmation, and first communion of minors within many congregations and faith communities varies from 8 years old to 20.  The idea of “bar mitzvah” at 12 to 14 is also maintained wherein youth observe a rite of passage to adult participation in their community by presenting a spiritual dissertation in public to the full adult congregation.  Therein they “prove” themselves and their individual beliefs worthy of acceptance and respect.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Where circumcision pertains to priesthood and service within a community of believers, often decisions must be in recognition of duty, things that must be done (like it, don’t like it) for the good of others, despite the cost or loss one must personally endure.  The physical “pain and suffering” of circumcision is temporary, and lasts no longer than that of brain and heart surgery.).  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that he may judge his people.  Gather my saints together unto me; those that have made a covenant with me by sacrifice.  And the heavens shall declare his righteousness:  for God is judge himself.  Selah.  (Psalms 50:  4-6, KJV)


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(07/19/2013) GOD the X?

Topics today include ongoing revelation, the Trinity, and the possibility of added persons being discovered within the GODhead.  Also, there is more on children and divine justice.  The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Chris C” (Level 3 with 1,810 points, a member since June 13, 2006) posted the following:


We talk about God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Could there be God the X as well?

We talk about the Trinity of God – father, son and holy spirit; is there any reason why there is not a Quadernary of God i.e God the X as well, where X just hasn’t been revealed yet. If you think there could be God the X, what do you think that X might be?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Destroying Justice? (07/18/2013)—The revelation of divinity through divine judgment may appear cruel, harsh and unkind for there are necessary displays of awe, terror, sovereign majesty, and wrath against sin.  The demand that law and judgment be impartial makes it that divine justice for children is not different than for adults.  There can be no lenience on the basis of age, and zero tolerance may be practiced.  At many points during the course of their development children are only consumers, and are correctly seen as prostitutes and whores who do not love, they manipulate.  Even so, righteousness demands that peculiar provisions be made for children in judgment, because generally they lack experience, farsightedness, income, perspective, and practical knowledge.  Only in the perfect judgment of GOD are all the extenuating circumstances, dilemmas, lapses, unfulfilled needs, quirks, and the broad range of subtle considerations describing the behavior of a child taken into full account.  Although children are taught to “face reality” in multiple aspects (e.g., carnal, emotional, mental, physical, psychological, social), during much of their childhood they do not rely upon common sense, logic and reason.  Impulse, animal instinct, and intuition often dominate.  Because of sin in the world, and their limitations as offspring of Adam, children cannot face the reality of right relationship with GOD through Jesus Christ unassisted by adult believers.  The endowment of divine spirit substance children contain from their birth begins to diminish and weaken as they grow.  Thus, children too experience rebirth from divine DNA in water baptism to acquire the endowments of sacred spirit that include faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Correctly understood, the heart (i.e., ones inner center where feeling and thought are associated as recognizable patterns; also, ones imagination) of a child is not spiritually perfect; and may be governed by deceptions, fantasies and foolishness (see Proverbs 20:  11, Proverbs 22:  15, Jeremiah 17:  9 and Hosea 5:  4, KJV).  Until disciplined (we say, trained), focused and polished, children may only express raw affection, and remain unable to communicate and respond to the demands of mutual love.  Through defiance of authority, ignorance, and willfulness, both children and adults become agents of destruction and ruin among mankind.  In the holy writings, sin is shown to establish challenges against order, and put conditions in place that persist for up to four generations (we say, 160 years).  As with practical jokes and pranks, sin is rarely harmless, innocent, or justified exclusively on the basis of ones intent to amuse, entertain, and share laughter.  Sin is not eliminated or removed from children simply by their aging; thus, the seriousness of sin in children is that it becomes sin in adults, who continue and nourish sin in their own offspring, and in coming generations.  There are many, even among Christian believers, who hold fantasies that children can do no wrong, and that childhood is a time of purity.  Some seek place as “children of GOD” thinking they will not have to assume adult duties and responsibilities, participate in the work of a holy priesthood, or suffer as innocents.  Instead of pursuing the goals of maturity, eternal life and righteousness, theirs is a lust for abandon (i.e., freedom from care, worry), fun, and unending youth.  Like the character in popular literature, Peter Pan, many feel they will never have to grow up, because they are under the blood of Christ.  However, “born again” believers must “grow up again;” a person’s rebellion against divine law and the Gospel can not be hidden by behavior that is either childlike, or childish.  Their complaining, denials, dismissal of spiritual consequences, immaturity, lack of humility, refusal of cautions and warnings, and rejections of sacred instruction are a clear declaration that Christ is not their good shepherd.  See Exodus 20:  4-6, 1st Corinthians 13:  11, Ezekiel 33:  30-33 and Luke 6:  46-49, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.  For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith:  as it is written, The just shall live by faith.  For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;  Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.  For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:  Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.  Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,  And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.  Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:  Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.  (Romans 1:  16-25, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Return in Glory? (07/04/2013); Desire for Love? (07/05/2013); Can GOD Die? (05/14/2013); Acknowledging Divinity? (03/30/2013); Before Abraham Was… (03/14/2013); How Was GOD Known Before Jesus? (10/06/2012); Why “Mysterious” (11/11/2012); Attending Church? (11/12/2012)


“Chris C”, here are some points shared among mature Christian believers that are usually helpful for avoiding spiritual confusion:

(1)  The ongoing revelation of divinity to finite created beings and living creatures occurs within frameworks of time, space, relationships, and personal capacity.  Various divine operations are employed that appear as goal directed, gradual, measured, and progressive.  Examples include birth, death, forgiveness, judgment, redemption, resurrection, salvation, and sanctification.  The material shared for knowledge of GOD also must be finite, fixed, ordered and unchanging, otherwise, believers could be repeatedly overwhelmed by unanticipated change, disorder, reversals, and uncertainty (we say, evil). 

(2)  The approved holy writings are set (we say, the canon is closed); and believers expect no new doctrines, proclamations of divine will, or portrayals of divine person that do not conform to the existing standard. 

(3)  It is our faith as Christian believers that GOD is a spirit, who must be known through ones own spirit content, and by spiritual discernment (i.e., comparing spiritual things to other spiritual things).  There is no such feature as blind faith, for the faith we speak of is tested truth that for many millennia has been carefully examined, demonstrated through selected actions and practices, detailed, documented, affirmed by sacred witnesses, and may be experienced also by believers, today.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  For example, (4)  While it is the intent and purpose of GOD that corruption and mortal being will cease to exist following judgment of the wicked from the earth, transformation for humans to immortality and incorruption (we say, everlasting life) will not also impart or lessen the authority, knowledge, duty, glory, majesty and sovereignty of Almighty GOD.  Discrete and separate being will continue; and the ancient rule will still apply (see Deuteronomy 29:  29, KJV).)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/26/2013) Not of Legal Age?

      Making contract with the devil to gain success in ones chosen career is the topic, today. Also there is more on maintaining the validity of ones belief system. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Dhruva” (Level 1 with 90 points, a member since April 13, 2013) posted the following:


How to make a deal with the devil in exchange for your soul?

well I play the drums and I want to be the greatest ever. like John Bonham and Keith moon and all. with my current skill set, I’m getting closer but it’s gonna take a while. so I read about this devil dealing and ****. found it pretty interesting. please gimme serious answers and no **** about goat sacrifices and all please. thanks


THE BATTLE AXE: Illusion? (04/25/2013)—(7.) Before becoming those who hold to Christian beliefs only, many who are now committed to Jesus explored and practiced using other systems, and ways of life. Included were such philosophies and religions as atheism, Buddhism, communism, cults, destiny, existentialism, fate, Hindu, idolatry, luck, occultism, prostitution, and superstition. Such converts continue as Christians because they, in fact, have found increased benefit, comfort, direction, and enrichment for their spirit life, and human experience. They set and attain various goals that engage their whole person (body, mind and spirit) in continuous and vigorous growth. Given these believers achieve higher and higher levels of spiritual insight, and sacred understanding they have no desire to return to the “weak and beggarly elements.” See Galatians 4: 8-9, Romans 6: 1-23, KJV. (8.) As a belief system, Christianity is not directed to acquiring property, amassing wealth, assuming authority over others, and attaining social celebrity, notoriety or popularity. The benefits from submission to GOD through Jesus Christ exclusively are for believers; and Christian belief absolutely guarantees there are to be no blessings to unrepentant sinners and those persisting in unbelief. Pride, self-justification and self-promotion oppose the integrity and soundness of the system. Christianity fosters such features as humility, industry, maturity, respect and sobriety, because believers are to serve as members of a holy priesthood, and to rule within a sacred community as righteous kings. See 2nd Timothy 2: 22-26 and Revelation 22: 11-15, KJV. (9.) Many who claim to be Christians continue in spiritual confusion because they do not insist on the purity of their own belief system. They are lost in a “no-mans-land” where their identity is that of a “mongrel”, and one whose substance is mixed and strange. At first, such persons appear as merely immature, or developing and learning slowly, when, in fact, they are not growing at all. By seeking to blend and integrate selected features from different beliefs; by compromise and tolerance of attacks, attackers and their contradictions; by clinging to and reviving the baggage of old associations with conflicting ideas; by “experimenting”; by “thinking outside the box;” and by relying upon incomplete knowledge, they resist the Holy Spirit and surrender their place as Christian believers to the World, the Flesh, or the Devil. See Romans 8: 8-10, Hebrews 11: 6, Deuteronomy 4: 27-31, Jeremiah 29: 11-13, 1st Corinthians 3: 11-15 and 2nd Timothy 3: 1-7, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. (Matthew 16: 24-27, King James Version)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: According to the Eternal Purpose (11/20/2012); Henceforth, Of This Fruit (11/21/2012); Unexceptional Beginnings (11/22/2012); Sin Unknown? (10/10/2012); When Prayer Works (10/11/2012); Aliens? (09/24/2012); Prosperity Destroys Fools (09/25/2012); Life and Death (09/26/2012); Girdle 17: Try The Spirits (12/02/2011)

    
     Dhruva, here are some serious points from a mature Christian believer that should be useful as you choose your spiritual path:

(1.) The devils have been stripped of all authority and power that would allow them to grant wishes in the earth realm. As the children of GOD in the earth realm, the offspring of Adam have “minor” status, and are not of “legal age” (so to speak), and may make no legally binding agreement with any devil. The devils not truly grasp the workings of divine law, and so, they continue to use such tools as ambition, fantasy, fear, ignorance, imagination, pride and sexual relationships to deceive, defile, entrap and victimize men. Saying this another way: Your contract would be automatically null and void.

(2.) No devil has foreknowledge, or may predict future events beyond what we also are granted as human awareness of the natural consequences, and usual course for various choices and events. As believers in Jesus Christ mankind is given foreknowledge through the sanctions declared in divine law, the proclamations and promises of GOD, sacred prophecy and ongoing sacred processes. Included are covenant, judgment, prosperity, rebirth, sanctification, and salvation.

(3.) True achievement comes by faith. Only the hard work of practice delivers the benefit of sure knowledge, confidence and genuine satisfaction. It is never how much you have, it’s only how much you enjoy what you have. To have billions without health, without love, is called misery and wretchedness. The poor live like kings by continually sharing the little as if it were a lot.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) The information you may have received encouraging you to sacrifice your humanity for earthly fame and fortune did not come from GOD as your maker and protector. The persons sharing such information are very likely false friends, are not themselves truly free, and are not wealthy enough to support your efforts to make it honestly. What does that tell you? The freedom to experience humanity—the good, the bad, and the ugly—is given only by GOD.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/07/2013) Outgrowing Childhood Prayers?

      Whether we should continue to use childhood prayers in high school and thereafter is the topic, today. Also, there is more on children’s church. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Catroina” (Level 1 with 123 points, a member since March 20, 2013) posted the following:


Am I getting to old for these prayers?

(Before Bed)
Now I lay me down to sleep,
I pray the Lord my soul to keep,
If I shall die before I wake,
I pray the Lord my soul to take. Amen.
God bless everybody in my family and make me a good little girl.
(Before Dinner)
God is Grace and God is Good,
Lord we thank you for our food,
Bow our heads, we must be feed,
Give us Lord, our daily bread. Amen.
I’m a freshman in high school. Am I getting to old for these prayers, or can you keep saying them forever? Just wondering.


THE BATTLE AXE: Issues for Children’s Church (04/06/2013)—(6.) The birth mother is the first teacher (i.e., human agent and spokesperson for GOD) to her own child, and divine instruction within the home is to be under the headship of the father. In addition to guidance that socializes a child to acknowledge others as responsible members of the congregation, young believers must have demonstrations that affirm that what was begun and continued within the home is harmonized with, increased by, and reconciled to gifts and ministries in heaven and upon earth, during time past, present and yet to come, throughout the full congregation as well as for created beings, living creatures, and those unseen throughout the universe of GOD. (7.) All teaching in the church is by the operation of the Holy Spirit. The same truth must go forth to all despite differences in age, ethnicity, gender and social standing; the same divine law and Gospel of salvation are to be imparted to all. Just as at Sinai—where every full grown man, woman, expectant mother and yet unborn child along with minors, teenagers and young adults, shared the experience of feeling and hearing the voice of GOD proclaim the terms of covenant—the sacred process that fosters comfort, edification and prophecy continues as both verbal and visceral. Divine substance must be conveyed including faith, fear of the Lord (i.e., reverence, right respect), holiness, joy, longsuffering, wisdom and wrath against sin. See Deuteronomy 4: 32-40, Isaiah 54: 13-15 and John 6: 45, King James Version. 
 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals. And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof? And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon. And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon. And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof. And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth. And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne. And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. (Revelation 5: 1-8, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Spirit Church? (04/04/2013); My Brother’s Keeper (04/05/2013); Eat His Body, Drink His Blood (03/21, 2013); Foolish For Not Believing? (03/22/2013); Grandchildren? (03/23/2011); A To Do List (03/24/2011)


      Catroina, many mature Christian believers trust that every acceptable prayer they have ever offered to GOD continues to be useful as a sincere expression of their innermost feelings and personal understandings, and an eternal link binding us to the Holy. While our practice of prayer as children begins with simple rhymes, and may appear as vain repetition, we quickly grasp that our attitude, our tone, and many other subtle elements infuse our prayers with beauty, power and sacred substance pleasing to GOD. What others may mock because of its simplicity, in fact, is deep and profound; and is usually not said often enough, and can not be spoken too many times, like heartfelt “thank you,” and “I love you.” 
 
      As we grow emotionally, physically, psychologically, and spiritually, the concerns we should share with GOD through our prayer relationship also change. In addition to the embrace of our day-to-day, real-world challenges, crises and emergencies, we should begin to unselfishly address a broad range of life duties, family issues, fears, goals, growing pains, and our sacred work of spreading the Gospel. As a gift and tool from GOD, our prayers should share, and show to GOD, who we really are through our private feelings and thoughts. However, prayer should never be a matter of “me, myself and I;” self promotion, and the demand to “have our own way.”

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, repeating the Lord’s Prayer, or the Rosary should be continued as part of ones prayer life, however, these should not be relied upon as the only communication offered in ones prayer life. Like the sacraments of confession and the Lord’s Supper, the practice of memorized prayers, or even prayers that quote verses from the Bible, should be recognized as works of faith that, of themselves, do not bestow salvation. Believers must accept that their salvation is only through grace, by faith in the work of GOD in the person of Jesus Christ, and through the Holy Spirit.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC