(10/21/2020) Prayer and Mental Health?

 The image depicts David playing the harp and providing music therapy to King Saul who experienced episodes of madness caused by unclean spirits.

Today, points are shared on the use of prayer to regain emotional and mental health. The things from GOD to provide balance, hope, joy, order, and security in our lives are numberless, even so, believers do not experience change as magic and overnight success. There must be discovery, gradual growth, learning, patience, persistence, and hard work that demonstrates faith. Fasting, prayer, and other sacred practices can not be used to influence or manipulate divinity. Healing of body, mind, or spirit must be understood in accord with sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. It is written: Mark 12: 29-31, King James Version (KJV): 29 And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: 30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. 31 And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Can you pray away a mental illness?

I've been on medication I've prayed I went to multiple therapists for years and years what am I doing wrong????

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

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Acknowledging And Confessing Sin (06/21/2020); Spiritual Integrity and Maturity (05/12/2020); Getting Help From Church? (02/09/2020); He Healed Them All (10/20/2019); Should Medicine Endorse Healing? (02/10/2019); Hezekiah Called For Judgment (12/09/2018); Saul Different From David? (12/04/2017)

“Anonymous”, here are some points you may find helpful that address prayer among mature Christian believers:

1. Prayer should be understood as a sacred discipline and practice to establish and maintain regular communication, exchange, and interaction with GOD who may be known as divinity, the Godhead, or the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Properly understood, those offering prayer are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the same spirit presence and process that was in Jesus Christ while he was on the earth using human form and life-process.

2. Prayer is a sacred event wherein a person gives expression to their own divine content imparted as “life essence” (breath; spirit; word) from the makeup of GOD, received as a fresh endowment of spirit substance in rebirth, or carried out in ones lifestyle and daily routine as resurrection-life from Jesus Christ.

3. Christian believers use many different displays and gestures when presenting their prayers to divinity such as females covering/males uncovering the head; making the sign of the cross; and speaking in tongues, speaking aloud, or speaking silently through thought. In addition to asking for help and material resources from GOD, confession and truth-speaking should always be primary goals during prayer.

4. Prayer is provided by divinity to address spiritual needs, and should be practiced in balance with other sacred practices (e.g., praise; unselfish service; worship). The material and social patterns identified as immaturity; behavioral, emotional, mental, and psychological illness; insanity; exaggerated pride; the operations of sin; and temporary confusion often are best regarded as expressions of the flesh rather than as defining expressions of a person’s integrity and spiritual fullness from GOD.

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

Image downloaded 12:30 PM, October 20, 2020 @ http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7062/1323/1600/David%20plays%20the%20harp%20for%20Saul.2.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/26/2020) Divine Protection Against Covid-19?

Jesus Christ, impressed by a demonstration of faith, reveals his authority to forgive sins by healing a paralytic.

Today, reply is on the divine use of the present global health crisis and covid-19 for divinity to become further acknowledged by mankind. Properly understood, GOD has exalted authority and sovereignty over Creation through both the easy and difficult aspects of life that men will encounter. Divinity is not seeking a new name, or broader reputation as the creator or the destroyer of corona virus. Mature Christian believers will hold that GOD is not required to demonstrate his divinity and dominion over mankind by responding to every condition, or instance of trouble and human circumstance. Consider again Daniel 3: 13-21, King James Version (KJV): 13 Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Then they brought these men before the king. 14 Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up? 15 Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands? 16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. 17 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. 18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Why won't Jesus protect everyone in church from Corona virus?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Again there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan came also among them to present himself before the LORD. And the LORD said unto Satan, From whence comest thou? And Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it. And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? and still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause. And Satan answered the LORD, and said, Skin for skin, yea, all that a man hath will he give for his life. But put forth thine hand now, and touch his bone and his flesh, and he will curse thee to thy face. And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, he is in thine hand; but save his life. So went Satan forth from the presence of the LORD, and smote Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown. And he took him a potsherd to scrape himself withal; and he sat down among the ashes. Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine integrity? curse God, and die. But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips. (Job 2: 1-10, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Testing That Nourishes Growth (04/21/2020); They Which Are Called (04/09/2020); The Place Of Meeting (04/08/2020); A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020); Endure Trials Through Faith (03/31/2020); On Behalf Of Others (03/26/2020); The Challenge of Covid-19 (03/22/2020)

“Anonymous”, it is not a new thing that mankind has to exist enduring the threat of death; and, given the possibilities of rebirth and resurrection from the dead, it is not necessary that everyone escape having to conclude their mortality by death. The operations of death, divine law, self-will, and sin have not been eliminated from the earth by GOD; and they continue to serve as sacred devices that make visible spirit substance and process that are inseparable aspects of divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Divinity even has appeared on the earth using human flesh and life process as an anointed evangelist and healer (Jesus Christ) to clarify the multiple expressions of dominion, personhood, power, eternal purpose, and sovereign will that are being put forth by GOD. Included are focus on the duration of existence among humanity, the joining of mankind within the oneness without sameness that is shared among the Godhead, the fulfillment of divine Creation through sacred law and judgment, and the manifesting of otherwise hidden aspects of divinity through prophecy and Revelation. Divinity may exist and reside within the consciousness and self-will (willpower) of Created beings and living creatures. Also, the living may be directed and guided through fresh endowments of spirit matter imparted from the makeup of GOD. Believers are granted opportunities to undergo permanent change where they rely on sacred knowledge rather than secular knowledge, and they become transformed using divine tools, rather than finite human tools such as intellect, logic, philosophy, and science. The focus for believers must go beyond good and bad behavior, sin, and the flesh. We are to exist as companions to immortal, incorruptible, GOD who will remain immutable and invisible. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible and a selection from the music ministry of Dr. Charles G. Hayes & Warriors:

(1.) Mark 2: 1-12, King James Version (KJV): 1 And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house. 2 And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the word unto them. 3 And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four. 4 And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay. 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee. 6 But there was certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts, 7 Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only? 8 And immediately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that they so reasoned within themselves, he said unto them, Why reason ye these things in your hearts? 9 Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk? 10 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,) 10 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,) 11 I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (2.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FRoe3iExVjU. Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 1:50 AM, April 26, 2020 @ catholicharboroffaithandmorals.com/Childrens%20Sermon%2018th%20Sunday%20After%20Pentecost.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/05/2020) A Habitation of Spirit

Today—Palm Sunday 2020 when the usual distribution of palm branches will not occur as part of our regular memorials to Jesus Christ—the reply is on the church founded by Jesus Christ continuing to be essential for spiritual cleansing, healing, and nourishment at a time when the world system is demanding practices that include social distancing to endure a global health crisis. Because the blessings for those within the body of Christ (the church) are spirit in their process and substance, they are not for everyone who is in the world. It is important for committed believers to attend public gatherings in locations that have been consecrated and set apart by praise, prayer, sacrifice, and suffering. Divinity is not restricted by the frameworks of time and space, and may be invited and welcomed to appear in the midst of sacred gatherings. GOD, who is immortal, incorruptible, and invisible must be received through spiritual operations (e.g., confession of sin; healing; hearing the word of GOD; rebirth following the death and burial of ones inborn spirit; the embodiment and expression of divinity within the clergy and other believers). Mature Christians maintain membership within focused and stable congregations that provide the body with multiple sacred gifts and tools that otherwise are unavailable within their own households, within their local communities, and within the world as a man-made system for survival. It is written: 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. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who used the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data appeared) posted the following:

Since most Christians are ok with churches being non-essential, are they admitting that there is nothing supernatural about their faith?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. (John 17: 14-17, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Endure Trials Through Faith (03/31/2020); On Behalf Of Others (03/26/2020); The Challenge of Covid-19 (03/22/2020); Leadership By The Church (03/18/2020); “Because You Are Believers” (03/17/2020); Justified By Church Attendance? (06/21/2019); Commitment To Jesus Christ (03/07/2019)

“Anonymous”, among those who understand that the church provided by Jesus Christ is more than another social setting, and exists as more than another man-made institution or organization, the church itself continues to be essential, yet, its form and operations are in transition. Church attendance may be understood as a work of the flesh. The process of the church must be spiritual, rather than interpersonal. Divinity appeared on the earth using human flesh and life process to accomplish expressions of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. In addition to addressing the elimination of sin, and establishing mankind in redemption, Christ ministered atonement, forgiveness, reconciliation, rebirth, and fresh endowments of spirit substance from the makeup of divinity to renew mankind’s relationship as offspring and heirs of GOD. The savior’s focus was not the creation of community centers to provide academic instruction, amusements, family counseling, secular knowledge, political activism, or works of community service and social welfare. The living are to acknowledge that GOD is to exist within the consciousness and self-will (willpower) of all created beings and living creatures. Inseparable aspects of divine fullness are imparted to those who become “born again” that include balance, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. There is great diversity among believers; and the divine process to “grow up again” requires accepting accountability, commitment, communication, discovery, exchange, interdependence, interaction, practice of sacraments, study of the holy writings, unselfish service, and suffering. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) 2^nd Corinthians 4: 17-18, King James Version (KJV): 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

(2.) Matthew 18: 19-20, KJV: 19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

(3.) Ephesians 2: 18-22, KJV: 18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. 19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

(4.) Luke 17: 20-21, KJV: 20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: 21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6kp9893Pjg.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 2:55 AM, April 05, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/b9/1b/7b/b91b7bcaf65a2b700ad78486fcd671f7.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/10/2019) Should Medicine Endorse Healing?

Today, thoughts are shared on how medicine must be an instrument and tool from the divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit), rather than an obstacle to the belief of those being called to serve through Jesus Christ. Last year around this time, I saw an eye doctor (ophthalmologist) on staff within a university hospital here in Washington, DC, the Nation’s Capital. I was given a prescription for eyeglasses, and scheduled for a follow-up session later this month. I have been rendered nearly blind for the last three weeks, however, and thought to arrange for an earlier appointment. When I arrived for examination, I was told I would have to be admitted to the hospital, and stay indefinitely; that I must submit to multiple extractions of blood; and that, based on CRT and MRI scans, my treatment would also address an inherited condition that (to my knowledge) has never appeared in me or others in my family (one of the University areas of expertise). Thus, readers are asked to consider the following:

Why would a Christian go to a doctor when there is a problem in his flesh that requires healing?

The Bible plainly states that the confidence, security, and well-being of a believer comes by the workings of spiritual process, and the use of spirit instruments and tools that include confession, fasting, forgiveness, importuning, praise, and prayer.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s. (1^st Corinthians 6: 19-20, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divine Dominion Over Nature (02/04/2019); Hezekiah Called For Judgment (12/09/2018); Nehushtan, The Brass Serpent (10/26/2018); Doctrine, Dropsy, and Sin (09/07/2018); Sacred Operations By GOD (04/12/2018); Demonstrations of Spirit Truth (02/28/2018); Another Form of Blindness (07/23/2017)

Healing is a restoration of full functioning and the operating of the flesh in accordance with mechanical, natural and spiritual law that occurs through interactions of faith and the many other inseparable aspects of spirit substance imparted to mankind that reside within the makeup of divinity (e.g., forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, wrath against sin). There must be acceptance and acknowledgment of healing by medical science with its practices and strategies that address health care and well-being, for the medical practitioner will be held accountable by GOD for their correct application and use of sacred knowledge, and what they account as their own legitimate authority.

Because suffering that appears through carnal, material, and social events also is a divine tool to authenticate, challenge, exercise, and strengthen ones endowment of faith and the uninterrupted expression of hope, many medical practitioners argue that: (1) Spiritual things are self-contradictory; (2) have value only as expressions of emotion, psychological phenomena, and superstition; (3) should be restricted to spiritual rather than physical things (e.g., broken-hearts; ones own past; family and marital relationships; world peace); are neither scientifically reliable nor valid; and should be avoided. The clarity, precision, and simplicity of academic and secular knowledge, science, and technology should be preferred.

Just as doctors and surgeons can not foretell future events, nor consistently mandate the outcomes of their own actions, Christian ministers and their followers can not predict the future, nor command that the outcome of events be the expression of their own desire and self-will. At best, there can be the recognition and application of tried and tested patterns that become familiar through experience, practice, and study. Thus, knowing ABC is followed by EFG, one may correctly state, XYZ is coming. For developing Christians, the cause and origin for various actions and events within their life are to be discerned and acknowledged on the basis of their agreement with what has been recorded as divine prerogative, grace, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. The workings of devils (we say, deception, lies, slander) will repeatedly negate and oppose the pronouncements from God, in effect, declaring once more, thou shalt not surely die for sin and transgression of the expressed will of GOD that is sacred law).

The testimony and witness from those who have experienced healing is not be dismissed as chance, coincidence, foolishness, and hypocrisy. Thus, I bear a cicatrix on my right arm over the blood vessel that did not gush forth when I was slashed to the bone by someone using a straight-razor. It also is the truth when I speak of being diagnosed decades ago by different doctors who agreed that I had migratory arthritis, that it could not be cured, and that it would randomly and suddenly change the location of severe pain throughout my entire body. A new drug, (Motrin) was prescribed, and I was told, I would have to rely on the drug for the rest of my life. Rather than yield, I continued insisting on the things of my belief as a Christian.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, it is plain sense that doctors and all the others in the practice of medicine are not to be ignorant regarding healing and its place in the life of those they offer to serve. Before wasting the time of those seeking health solutions, or offering a false hope, those in the medical profession—wh0 are part of the man-made system for survival and understanding that is called the World—are to acknowledge the limitations of their professions, and are to avoid complaining against, condemning, and opposing divinity. The effectiveness and value of professional health care also rests on a platform of mutual respect and other intangibles. There must be a profound level of sound judgment on the part of every healthcare professional (e.g., hospital administrators; custodians; orderlies; nurses; doctors; surgeons). There must be communication, exchange, and sharing of insights and information among medical workers and with the intended beneficiaries (e.g., clients, families, patients, the general public) of the healthcare system. Most importantly, there must be multiple relationships marked by the approval, endorsement and validation of others as well as the extension of trust to things assumed, elements from other belief systems that impact the practice of medicine along with things otherwise unknown and unseen that may require recognition and creative responses.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/11/2019) Biblical Replies On Forgiveness?

Today, reply is on the practice, principles and substance of forgiveness. In modern society, many rely on exposing and sharing hidden emotions and feelings as one of the highest forms of honesty in relationship, and the most sincere act they may perform to show the depth of their love. These continue the error that expressions from our organs and tissues (we say, the brain; the flesh; the mind) are more vital to human survival and living together as families and groups than the acknowledgment and application of imparted spirit content from the makeup of divinity. The flesh ages and decays continually; is temporal; is ever-changing through growth, injuries, and variations in weight; is centered on its own process (e.g., appetite; elimination; reproduction; sensation); and the flesh contributes to imbalance, irrational behavior, and spiritual confusion in the same way as dependency on the workings of finite human willpower. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

In practical terms, what does it mean to forgive those who trespass against us?

Is it enough that I am not acutely angry at anyone, that I'd welcome reconciliation? Or am I required to root out any and all resentment I hold and apply forgiveness to each thing I can remember? Honestly, I can forgive people more easily than I can forgive the things they've done.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloak forbid not to take thy coat also. Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again. And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise. For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye? for sinners also love those that love them. And if ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? for sinners also do even the same. And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: (Luke 6: 28-38, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divine Forgiveness and Justice (01/01/2019); Applying The Divine Standards (10/02/2018); Divine Forgiveness Not Enough? (09/22/2017); Balance, Forgiveness and Justice (08/08/2017); The Practice of Love (07/27/2017); Salvation Goes Beyond Forgiveness (06/30/2017); Forgiveness, Grace and Merit (06/22/2017)

“Anonymous”, because forgiveness is a spirit substance that exists within the full makeup of divinity, forgiveness is inseparable from other aspects of divine fullness such as forbearance, holiness, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Christian believers are to acknowledge that the active presence and power of forgiveness are most properly discerned where there is the clear sorrowing for sins, and the open expression of gratitude and love. The practical behavior and conduct to bestow forgiveness always will be spiritual in its character and nature; and forgiveness will be received only through operations of faith. Therefore, among Christians, the following that uses language from the Bible are relied on for correction and guidance:

1. Luke 7: 40-50, King James Version (KJV): 40 And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on. 41 There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. 42 And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most? 43 Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged. 44 And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. 45 Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. 46 My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. 47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. 48 And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. 49 And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also? 50 And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.

2. Mark 11: 22-26, KJV: 22 And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. 23 For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. 24 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. 25 And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. 26 But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. Colossians 3: 12-17, KJV:  12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. 15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/09/2018) Hezekiah Called For Judgment

Today, reply is on the character and content of prayer requesting life when one is approaching the time of their own death. To pray for the health of ones own body, mind, and spirit becomes selfish by having its origin in exaggerated desires for pleasure, idolatry, excessive pride, and lawlessness. Many of us have had to pray to GOD for strength to endure congenital sickness in our offspring, the incurable illness of a parent or spouse, and a diagnosis foretelling our own death. It is not an offense to GOD that men affirm the divine purpose and putting forth of life; however, throughout our being in relationship with GOD by the death of his son Jesus Christ, there must be correct recognition that obedience to sacred law is not sufficient either to justify or provide all our needs from GOD; that there must be willing submission to the sentence of divine law that rebukes and warns against sin; and there must be the firm, unshakable acknowledgment of resurrection, final judgment, and the second death. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “MeMe MeMe tikle” (Level 7 with 50,810 points, a member since July 31, 2012) posted the following:

Is it wrong to pray for God to extend someone's life like Hezekiah did?

Update: God knows what is best for us and we must accept His will concerning the length of our lives?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms. Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. (James 5: 13-18, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Believers Must Receive Gifts (09/30/2018); Christian Beliefs Are Forward-looking (09/23/2018); Doctrine, Dropsy, and Sin (09/07/2018); Sacred Operations By GOD (04/12/2018); Conditions Set By Covenant? (09/13/2017); Holy Writings and Spirit? (12/16/2016); The Forms of Prophecy? (04/26/2016); About The End Of The World (08/30/2015)

“MeMe MeMe tikle” among mature Christian believers, prayer may communicate and give expression to the divine spirit within a collective body (e.g., a congregation; a family; a nation), or provide intimate expression from a single individual. Only divinity may lawfully assess or assign (judge) the content, meaning, and value of praise and prayer, for those appeals, expressions, and petitions must be directed exclusively to GOD. Hezekiah did not fast, pray for, and receive the blessing poured forth at Pentecost. Hezekiah acted in response to a fresh prophetic exhortation, Get your house in order; yet, the sentence that mankind should be mortal already had been spoken and was in effect against the living on earth since the time of Adam. Acknowledging the prayer of Solomon in the dedication of the first Temple, Hezekiah turned to pray toward Jerusalem and the Temple wall. Hezekiah did not appear before GOD “empty-handed” having no offering of (1) acknowledgment of the Spirit of Prophecy (we also say, the Comforter; the Holy Ghost; the Holy Spirit; the Spirit of Truth); (2) acknowledgment that Isaiah was a true prophet and spokesperson sent from GOD; (3) fervor (some would say, passion; tears; heartfelt truth); and (4) works of obedience to sacred law. Even so, Hezekiah acted in ignorance not understanding the distinction that healing is not the same as a sacred event (we say, miracle); and the dying king required a sign that would authenticate the integrity of the prophet’s words. Hezekiah’s prayer was heard and answered, however, the divine response should be seen as more than duration, longsuffering, more time, and one man’s survival. Hezekiah could obtain compassion from those of the kingdom, favor, and respect as GOD’s anointed without entering into final judgment; however, it is in sacred judgment that mercy toward those who are guilty and lacking appears most clearly as divine prerogative, eternal purpose, righteousness, and the sovereign will of GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. 2^nd Kings 20: 1-3, King James Version (KJV): 1 In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live. 2 Then he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, saying, 3 I beseech thee, O LORD, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore.

2. 2^nd Kings 20: 8-11, KJV: 8 And Hezekiah said unto Isaiah, What shall be the sign that the LORD will heal me, and that I shall go up into the house of the LORD the third day? 9 And Isaiah said, This sign shalt thou have of the LORD, that the LORD will do the thing that he hath spoken: shall the shadow go forward ten degrees, or go back ten degrees? 10 And Hezekiah answered, It is a light thing for the shadow to go down ten degrees: nay, but let the shadow return backward ten degrees. 11 And Isaiah the prophet cried unto the LORD: and he brought the shadow ten degrees backward, by which it had gone down in the dial of Ahaz.

3. Romans 8: 22-27, KJV: 22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. 23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. 24 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? 25 But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. 26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Romans 8: 3-9, KJV: 3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. 8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/07/2017) Thoughts on Sexual Relationships

 

Today, thoughts are shared on Christian belief, sacred practice, and human sexuality.  Popular culture now seeks to legitimate and normalize as civil rights many behaviors and patterns of association long thought to be destructive of family and the home as life-giving institutions.  It remains, fruitful and productive relationships that can produce a holy seed acceptable to GOD are characterized by accountability, commitment, fidelity, mutuality, restraint, stability, and trust.  The “holiness” that may describe a marriage union appears only through the presence and working of the imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD through Jesus Christ.  For those who come into the world as infants who have no standing as “offspring of GOD,” to become sons and daughters of the Most High and joint heirs with Jesus Christ, they must become born again and receive adoption through the Holy Spirit.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers (Malaysia)” using the ID “?” (Level 1 with 177 points, a member since May 06, 2014) posted the following:

 

Your thoughts on people who call themselves Christian yet still cohabitate with a lover?

Update: Shouldn't someone who says they believe in God try to follow what the Bible says instead of purposefully sinning?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Art thou bound unto a wife? seek not to be loosed. Art thou loosed from a wife? seek not a wife.  But and if thou marry, thou hast not sinned; and if a virgin marry, she hath not sinned. Nevertheless such shall have trouble in the flesh:  but I spare you.  But this I say, brethren, the time is short:  it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none;  And they that weep, as though they wept not; and they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and they that buy, as though they possessed not;  And they that use this world, as not abusing it:  for the fashion of this world passeth away.  But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord:  But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife.  There is difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit:  but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband.  And this I speak for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction.  (1st Corinthians 7:  27-35, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  In Her father’s House? (02/08/2017); Why Is Lust Condemned? (07/20/2016); Flesh Against the Spirit? (06/19/2016); Gender, Sex and Christian Beliefs? (05/18/2016); The Wife of Your Youth? (12/22/2015); Strong Families? (11/10/2015); Scandal and Sin Among Believers? (06/05/2015) 

 

“?”, we have to be careful attempting to judge others.  Becoming spiritually mature as one “born again” through Jesus Christ may take many years, and requires “growing up again” by acquiring sacred knowledge, continuing sacred practices (we say, sacraments), participating in fellowship with mature believers as well as performing unselfish service to GOD.  Similarly, humans on the earth must become sexually mature, however, more than age and physical development are involved.  All who are born as the offspring of Adam inherit a longing for meaningful companionship and sexual appetite that, like hunger or thirst, operates in terms of carnal reason, sensation (e.g., hearing, feeling hot and cold, seeing, touching), and laws that may regulate only an animal nature or mechanical processes.  Just as one should not drink or eat anything and everything they may see, sexual expression should not be with anybody and everybody, doing anything and everything.  Balance, discernment, discipline, good judgment, and restraint must be acquired to safely engage in healthy sexual activity.  Sexual joining occurs on multiple levels and is—all at the same time—emotional, mental, physical, psychological, and spiritual.  Intimate relationships intended to provide sexual satisfaction always are complex, and must include continuous communication, exchange, and interaction that present subtleties (barely visible differences; hidden shifts in meaning and value).  Genuine mutual trust must be in place instead of betrayal, deceit, and lies that characterize immaturity, infatuation, and “puppy love.”  Fornication is the defilement of ones inborn spirit content from parents, and the spiritual confusion that results by joining oneself to a person physically present and their previous sexual partners who are not physically present.  The primary relationship provided by divinity for freely expressing ones body, mind, and Spirit demonstrates exclusive devotion and fidelity toward GOD—holy matrimony.  Pre-, extra- and multiple-marital relationships (e.g., polyandry and polygamy) do not allow the most godly and lasting expressions of love.  Thus, the counsel from GOD to sinners who choose to follow Jesus Christ include the following:

(1.)  Galatians 5:  16-17, King James Version (KJV):  16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.  17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh:  and these are contrary the one to the other:  so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

(2.)  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.

(3.)  Malachi 2:  13-16, KJV:  13 And this have ye done again, covering the altar of the LORD with tears, with weeping, and with crying out, insomuch that he regardeth not the offering any more, or receiveth it with good will at your hand.  14 Yet ye say, Wherefore? Because the LORD hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously:  yet is she thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant.  15 And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth.  16 For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away:  for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts:  therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  1st Timothy 4:  1-3, KJV:  1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;  2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;  3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(02/23/2015) Deliverance A Benefit Of Salvation?

Today, points are shared showing that the removal of bad habits, self-destructive behavior and uncleanness also are necessary aspects of salvation.  Many Christian believers continue to be challenged by health problems associated with diet, food, and poverty; and the many divine operations for our salvation along with our transformation to continue with Christ as immortal and incorruptible are not yet completed and fully in place.  The sacred gifts that have been received include those that equip believers to abide and persevere (e.g., forgiveness, joy, longsuffering, patience).  Presently, those who are born again have only an earnest of the Spirit, (we say, a good-faith deposit; a down-payment; an installment; an initial portion) of what we are to receive that establishes eternal life.  Even so, believers are given enough to continue in such ongoing process for permanent change as acquiring spiritual knowledge, fellowship among the elect, practice of sacraments, praise, and prayer.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using “quaz” as their ID (Level 7 with 66,639 points, a member since February 26, 2010) attacked using the following errors:


Why do christians have the notion that giving up some harmful activity is the same as salvation?  

true they have the experience. but god's activity of saving has nothing to do with our experience.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For we are saved by hope:  but hope that is seen is not hope:  for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?  But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.  Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities:  for we know not what we should pray for as we ought:  but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.  And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.  And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.  For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.  Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called:  and whom he called, them he also justified:  and whom he justified, them he also glorified.  What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?  He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?  Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth.  Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.  (Romans 8:  24-34, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Masturbation and Religion? (02/01/2015); Life Choices (12/14/2013); That Mortal Children Die? (12/15/2013); Salvation is Conditional? (01/30/2014); Lower-case or Capital? (01/31/2014); What Salvation Is (01/25/2014); Bible Justice? (01/26/2014); GOD Intervenes? (07/01/2013); Lot and the Angels (05/04/2014); Expulsion from Eden (05/05/2014); Jericho Justified? (07/02/2013); When Jesus Comes Back? (04/19/2013); What’s The Way Out? (04/20/2013)


“quaz”, here are a few points to consider based upon the platforms for stable Christian belief that appear in the holy writings.  All believers are called to perform service and work that require soundness of body, mind and spirit:

(1.)  From Mark 12:  26-27, KJV (26 And as touching the dead, that they rise:  have ye not read in the book of Moses, how in the bush God spake unto him, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob?  27 He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living:  ye therefore do greatly err.)  The many eternal purposes of divinity for created beings and living creatures are understood as agreeing in a putting forth of existence, life, active presence, and unique person.

(2.)  From Mark 12:  29-31, KJV (29 And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord:  30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength:  this is the first commandment.  31 And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.)  Continuing relationship is to appear through covenant, exchange, interaction, and sharing made possible by the living serving as vessels of spirit content from the makeup of Deity.  Included are such aspects of divinity as faith, forgiveness, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

(3.)  From 1st Corinthians 6:  12-13, KJV (12 All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient:  all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.  13 Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats:  but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body.)  Addictions, extremes of appetite, and unclean habits result from bondage to sin that opposes acknowledgment of divine law, the Law Giver, the processes of health and wholeness for the living, the processes for praise and worship, and the continued existence of a universe maintained through divine order.

(4.)  From 1st Corinthians 6:  18-20, KJV (18 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.  19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?  20 For ye are bought with a price:  therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.)  Sexual joining is always on multiple levels such as the emotional, the physical, the psychological, and the spiritual.  For this reason, ones inborn spirit may become confounded and defiled through the unseen spirits within a sex partner.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  From 1st Corinthians 3:  16-17, KJV (16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?  17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.)  Believers must acknowledge the uninterrupted presence of GOD within.  Granting deliverance and life more abundantly, Christ also is known as “the Chainbreaker” having authority and power to release the spirit within believers from all conflicting and destroying influences.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith and spiritual maturity.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(02/20/2015) Keeping Divine Law Impossible?

Divine intent, eternal purpose and sacred law come into view, today.  Divine law existed before the creation of earth, heaven and mankind, and will continue long after the end of mortality and final judgment.  There will never be condemnation of the holy writings (some say, the Scriptures), holy law, or the imparted, indwelling Spirit that appears as faith.  Even so, authoritative statements from the New Testament also explain the divine provision of the new covenant through the blood of Jesus Christ on the basis of limitations and shortcomings discovered through earlier presentations of sacred law as well as on the basis of salvation through faith for the heathen who were outside the covenants and law known among the Hebrews.  For example see Acts 7:  52-54, 2nd Corinthians 3:  4-14, Galatians 3:  7-14, Hebrews 7:  11-19, Hebrews 11:  6, Romans 7:  14-25 and Romans 8:  1-9, King James Version.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Ser” (Level 1 with 4 points, a member since August 19, 2014) attacked using the following:


Question to Christians: If it was "impossible" to keep God's Laws, then, why would God give us Laws that were impossible to keep?



Update : Does Deuteronomy 30:11
say: 11Now what I am commanding you today is not too difficult for you or beyond your reach.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.  But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.  This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.  For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh:  and these are contrary the one to the other:  so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.  But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.  Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,  Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,  Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like:  of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,  Meekness, temperance:  against such there is no law.  And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.  If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.  (Galatians 5:  14-25, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  No Mystery in Lawful Judgment (07/28/2014); Divine Law for Mankind? (07/29/2014); Divine Law Speaks of Spirit? (07/30/2014); Grace is Not Against Law (07/23/2014); Cruel and Offensive (07/24/2014); Newness of Spirit? (01/04/2013); Two Different Testaments? (01/05/2013); The Place for Eternal Life? (01/06/2013)


“Ser”, here are a few points shared among Christian believers whereby many discern the proper place of divine law within the kingdom ruled by the Lord:

(1.)  Covenant relationship through divine law and promise have been proclaimed and provided both as the clear revelation that GOD, who is spirit, is active and present upon the earth, and as the assurance that various spiritual benefits from divinity will continually be supplied to created beings and living creatures.

(2.)  Sin is an artifact of Creation (perhaps a residue) and has no spirit content from GOD.  Yet, sin has direction, effect, and presence that may dominate awareness and self-will within created beings and living creatures.  Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and the universe ordered and maintained through sacred law.  Because sin “appears” as a natural, normal, and continuing aspect of ones own independent being, many fail to recognize the operation of sin as foreign and hostile to their own existence and purpose.  Sin generates death, and separates the living from their source who is divinity.

(3.)  Not all divine law (the expressed will of GOD) should be spoken of as “impossible to keep;” and the law has appeared throughout human history in various forms.  The law for Adam (the divine name for both male and female) was not the code supplied to those who accompanied Moses from Egypt.  The law for us today, is not the same as for Abraham or David.  Even so, in the same way it is impossible to maintain ones health without a basic knowledge of the danger and safety provided by various life conditions and settings, a common sense understanding of diet and food, discipline for ones appetite when aroused with hunger, and mature self-control to resist everything poisonous, it is impossible for those who are partners in covenant with divinity to correctly carry out divine law without sacred knowledge and an inner nature that responds to the active presence and person of divinity.  Such finite tools as intellect, logic, mathematics, philosophy, politics, secular knowledge, and science have not been sufficient to correctly detect, eliminate, remove, and resist sin.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Without the fresh endowment of spirit content provided through the ministry of Jesus Christ, created beings and living creatures experience the law as a barrier and a stumbling block, rather than a tool for expression, order and structure that provides the stable foundation for eternal life.   Rightly understood, there are multiple expressions for life within the law.  Included are atonement, balance, completeness, consolation, correction, forgiveness, justice, mercy, purification, and sanctification.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith and spiritual maturity.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC