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

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

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

The miracle of life is incredible.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/19/2017) The Gift of Humility

 

Today, Scriptures on humility are shared.  Humility is not named among the gifts received by those in the Upper Room at Pentecost.  Even so, humility is crucial to acquiring sacred knowledge, appearing in judgment, displaying love, obeying, and performing unselfish service.  Humility also pertains to expressing awe, making sacrifice, showing respect, and suffering.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

 

What is a good scripture in the bible to learn about humility?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.  Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.  Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:  Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:  But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:  And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.  Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:  That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;  And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.  (Philippians 2:  3-11, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Humility and The Cross? (03/15/2016); The Ordinance of Humility? (08/12/2015); Awe? (08/09/2015); The Gift of Meekness (11/25/2014); Concerning Meekness (11/26/2014); Humility Needed for Salvation? (08/15/2014); False Angels of Light? (08/16/2014)

 

“Anonymous”, while many Scriptures counsel believers to display humility as an aspect of ongoing relationship with Christ and with those who are his church, there is little that describes how to acquire humility, or the origins of sacred humility.  Where we regard humility as an aspect of the full divine nature, we take it that humility is bestowed along with other spirit content such as faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness (we say, being teachable by the Holy Spirit), wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Humility and lowliness are the opposites to ambition, pretension, and exaggerated pride.  It is correct, therefore, to ask for and request humility by prayer as a gift from GOD.  Humility appears as an expression of awe (also called “fear of the Lord” and reverence).  Awe is the correct recognition at the same time of both ones own powerlessness and the surpassing authority and sovereignty of GOD.  For many sinners, humility only appears as the fruit and product of chastisement, rebuke, and wrath against sin.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Proverbs 15:  32-33, King James Version (KJV):  32 He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul:  but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.  33 The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.

(2.)  Matthew 18:  1-5, KJV:  1 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?  2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,  3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.  4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.  5 And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.

(3.)  Hebrews 12:  4-9, KJV:  4 Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.  5 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:  6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.  7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?  8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  1st Peter 5:  2-7, KJV:  2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;  3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock.  4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.  5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility:  for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.  6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:  7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/09/2016) The Mother of GOD?

The Icon from Lithuania known as Our Lady of Ostra Brama, Our Lady of the Dawn, Blessed Virgin Mary, Icon of the Mother of GOD, and
Icon of the Holy Mother of Mercy

Titles granted to Mary as the Mother of Jesus are in view, today.  In the holy writings, the law of Moses declares the tribes of Jacob sharing covenant with Jehovah to be the children of GOD.  As a descendant of King David, who in prayer acknowledged GOD as his Father, Jesus appeared on the earth as the Son of David, the Son of Adam, the Son of the Highest, the Firstborn Heir, and Son of GOD.  The Savior’s mortal mother compared to Jochabed, the mother of Moses, whose faith had to be so great she could endure putting her child into a homemade basket, and sacrificing him upon the River Nile as if it were an altar of incense that could lift her prayers—and her baby who later would be used in the divine work of deliverance—up to the heart of GOD.  On the one hand, then, it is no less than a common sense use of language to say that the mother of Jesus is also the “Mother of the Son of GOD.”  On the other hand, to acknowledge, respect, and show reverence to the Savior’s mother is a reasonable act of devotion and respect to her Son.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Comandjii” (Level 1 with 3 points, a member since January 12, 2013) posted the following:

How could Mary (a created vessel) be the mother of GOD?

Was she before GOD so she could be HIS mother?
Was GOD born that he should die?
Was the Christ used of GOD to allow sanctification so as believers in this HOLY sacrifice can be returned to GOD? Mary worship by catholicism is based upon this belief that Mary is the mother of God and therefore the Queen of Heaven.
was Isaac Abraham?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;  (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)  And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.  And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel:  and the Holy Ghost was upon him.  And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.  And he came by the Spirit into the temple:  and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,  Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,  Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:  For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,  Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;  A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.  And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.  And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;  (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.  (Luke 2:  22-35, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The First and Last? (11/11/2016); Word, Son, and Christ? (08/24/2016); In The Divine Household? (05/05/2016); Is Mary A Goddess? (08/25/2015); About Praying to Mary (08/21/2015); Mary (06/13/2014); The Estate of His Handmaiden (06/14/2014)

“Comandjii”, those who by choice are members in the household of GOD through faith in Jesus Christ accept that multiple streams of sacred knowledge must come together for sinners to have a complete understanding of divinity using flesh and blood, and appearing on the earth as Jesus of Nazareth (we say, Incarnation).  More than this, to correctly recognize and respond to spirit content in sacred and secular events, instructions, oneself, other persons, prophecy, Scriptures, etc., believers must direct and apply their own spirit content imparted from the makeup of GOD through the divine operations of rebirth.  Included are such inseparable aspects of the Creator as faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

There are many basic points of belief that must be in place.  For example, (1) GOD is a spirit who is not limited to the boundaries established for the duration and existence of carnal, material, and social objects; (2) Deity may use, yet, can not be restricted by the frameworks of time and space; and (3) the authority, knowledge, ownership of all, power, and sovereign rule of divinity make it that things impossible for created beings and living creatures are not impossible for GOD.

The holy writings teach that Jonah was thrown overboard during a storm at sea, and swallowed up by a “great fish” that had been prepared by GOD to receive him.  The period of the preparation does not matter (how many years, days, hours, etc.), and details of what was done in preparation are irrelevant.  What is central is that, by the operations of GOD through the same Spirit that formed heaven and earth, Jonah as a figure of every self-willed believer was placed in a setting to challenge his faith to the uttermost, even as the grave and the valley of the shadow of death.  Mary, her mother, her father, and even the Jewish people all were prepared for the divine events that resulted in the birth of Jesus Christ. 

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, beyond her condition as blameless and pure (i.e., forgiven and separated from all sin), believers are to focus upon the character and makeup of Mary as one who is humble, tenderhearted, yet, exalted by the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, for she has overcome sufferings through commitment, devotion, faith, and love.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/15/2016) The GOD Named "Jealous"

Today, reply is made to a fighter who is confusing the bitterness and exaggerated pride of human jealousy with the divine demands of our Creator for commitment and exclusive devotion within the sacred relationships with himself granted to created beings and living creatures.  So to speak, the “bottom line” is that GOD must be known through sacred deeds and divine operations that include things amazing, awesome, terrible, and wonderful.  The law of jealousies appears in Numbers 5:  12-31, King James Version (KJV), and describes the ceremonies, memorials, and rituals to be carried out by the priests to investigate, punish, or restore those in cases of suspected adultery and unfaithfulness.  Proclamation of the holy name (reputation) of GOD as Jealous appears elsewhere in Exodus, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Psalms, Ezekiel, 2nd Corinthians, and other sacred writings.  One of the many fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Christians why does your God say he is jealous? Is he insecure?  Why would anything worthy of the title "god" ever get jealous? They wouldn't?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And he said, Behold, I make a covenant:  before all thy people I will do marvels, such as have not been done in all the earth, nor in any nation:  and all the people among which thou art shall see the work of the LORD:  for it is a terrible thing that I will do with thee.  Observe thou that which I command thee this day:  behold, I drive out before thee the Amorite, and the Canaanite, and the Hittite, and the Perizzite, and the Hivite, and the Jebusite.  Take heed to thyself, lest thou make a covenant with the inhabitants of the land whither thou goest, lest it be for a snare in the midst of thee:  But ye shall destroy their altars, break their images, and cut down their groves:  For thou shalt worship no other god:  for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God:  Lest thou make a covenant with the inhabitants of the land, and they go a whoring after their gods, and do sacrifice unto their gods, and one call thee, and thou eat of his sacrifice;  And thou take of their daughters unto thy sons, and their daughters go a whoring after their gods, and make thy sons go a whoring after their gods.  (Exodus 34:  10-16, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Bible and Salvation (09/14/2016); Standards for Judging GOD? (08/22/2016); (About The Great Whore? 06/24/2016); We Call Him Jealous? (10/25/2015); Divine Jealousy? (09/11/2015); About Knowing the Name of GOD (09/21/2014); About Deluding Yourself? (09/22/2014)

“Anonymous”, many expressions that appear in the holy writings are included because of the ignorance, infirmity, and weakness of created beings and living creatures whereby they can not independently arrive at correct knowledge and thoughts regarding exalted and sovereign Deity.  (So to speak, men have to be told that GOD demands acceptance as the only true and living GOD; for GOD is spirit, not finite, not mortal, and is not bound and limited by frameworks of time and space, or rules that cause and determine the outcomes of emotional and psychological experiences, exchanges, and other interactions among and between either angels or human beings.)  Multiple sacred operations must go forward as revelation to make divinity knowable, known and visible.  Included are cleansing, forbearance, forgiveness, Incarnation, judgment, prayer, rebirth, and sanctification.  The character, nature, and substance of GOD may gradually become clearer to sinners who seek GOD through specific life experiences such as church attendance, disciplined Bible study, fellowship with mature believers, and continuous worship.  That GOD is Creator, possessor, and sovereign ruler over all that exists demands and requires acknowledgment, awe, fidelity, obedience, respect, and reverence.  Men who have mature understanding are expected to assist, guide and influence those who are simple (i.e., immature; naïve; underdeveloped) to develop their own responses to this truth.  Your god, probably demands something similar from you, and you may not have discovered this yet.  Be it unto you according to your faith, and the mercy your god may show.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/07/2016) Fearfully and Wonderfully Made

Today, focus is upon the benefits to mankind of having been fashioned by GOD.  Multiple aspects of existence and of being alive regularly carry men into experiences of awe, fear of the Lord, and genuine reverence toward divinity.  Included are abundance, calamity, desolation, healing, joy, justice against sin, natural wonders (e.g., constellations, geysers, rapids, meteor showers, tsunami, waterfalls, mountain vistas), peace, and suffering.  Not only may created beings and living creatures acquire spirit content and sacred knowledge that permits their productivity, prosperity, and survival upon the earth, they also may become prepared for transformation to exist as eternal companions of  Deity.  The possibilities granted to mankind for life experience include expressing identity that displays animal, human, and even divine qualities.  Communication, exchange and interaction with divinity regularly occurs for the living through activities and ongoing relationships that may include contemplation, covenant, forbearance, forgiveness, obedience to divine law, prayer, praise, and worship.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “SunshineDaydream” (Level 6 with 14,936 points, a member since September 09, 2009) posted the following:

Why is being fearfully made a good thing?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth.  He loveth righteousness and judgment:  the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.  By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.  He gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap:  he layeth up the depth in storehouses.  Let all the earth fear the LORD:  let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him.  For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.  The LORD bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought:  he maketh the devices of the people of none effect.  The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.  Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.  (Psalms 33:  4-12, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Correct Awe and Respect (02/04/2016); Fear That Acknowledges GOD? (07/15/2016); Awe? (08/09/2015); Why Believers Fear (09/09/2014); Freedom of Foul Speech? (09/10/2014); Fear & GOD? (12/30/2013); Continuously Tested (12/31/2013)

“SunshineDaydream” human beings upon the earth are physically independent and separate from GOD in heaven, yet, we should not doubt the divine love for us, or feel that we are “strangers”, unfamiliar, and unwanted by our Creator.  Mature Christian believers acknowledge that mankind is made in the image of GOD.  Humanity is to provide a clear presentation of the character, nature, and substance of Deity.  Life essence (we also say, breath, spirit, word) has been imparted to mankind from the makeup of GOD.  Included are inseparable aspects of the GODhead such as faith, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, and wrath against sin.  As finite creatures upon the earth attempting to communicate a knowledge of GOD, we mistakenly speak of these features as though they may be isolated for analysis, manipulated, and observed.  However, it is their perpetual exchange, interaction, and their self-driven reconfiguration that are apprehended as the active presence, existence, and person of the Holy.  To say that humans are “fearfully” made acknowledges the excellence, preeminence, and transcendent wisdom of GOD our Maker.  In addition to being understood as an appearance (incarnation) of divine substance, and a vessel for sacred content, mankind also should be recognized as a tool within the divine process of sacred revelation whereby the Creator makes divinity knowable, known, present, and “visible” through ongoing consciousness that is distinct from intellect, logic, and discursive thought.  Saying it with other words we say, humanity is “Incredible!” (but that means “Unbelievable!”), “Marvelous!”, “Wonderful!”, and perhaps most simply, we say “Awesome!”  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Psalms 139:  13-18, King James Version (KJV):  13 For thou hast possessed my reins:  thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb.  14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made:  marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.  15 My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.  16 Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.  17 How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!  18 If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand:  when I awake, I am still with thee.

(2.)  Romans 1:  18-22, KJV:  18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;  19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.  20 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:  21 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.  22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

(3.)  Job 25:  4-6, KJV:  4 How then can man be justified with God? or how can he be clean that is born of a woman?  5 Behold even to the moon, and it shineth not; yea, the stars are not pure in his sight.  6 How much less man, that is a worm? and the son of man, which is a worm?

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

(5.)  John 1:  10-14, KJV:  10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.  11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.  12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:  13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.  14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

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

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/09/2015) Awe?

Scripture points are shared, today, to clarify awe and fear of the Lord.  Divine love that goes beyond affection entails accountability, commitment, diligence, duty, obedience, obligation, respect, restraint, sacrifice, sobriety, suffering, and trust.  Love that pertains to the continued existence of spirit matter can not be fully understood by relying upon carnal knowledge, sexual experiences, and social encounters within a material world.  The love of GOD must be known through repeated intimate and unselfish contact with GOD.  Similarly, awe, fear, and right reverence toward divinity may only be correctly comprehended by depending upon divine order, sacred law, eternal process and spirit content provided exclusively by Deity through revelation.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “madbear” (Level 1 with 70 points, a member since June 24, 2007) posted the following:


Why would a loving god yet demand that his followers FEAR him?

That's even an oxymoron!How can you love someone that you're AFRAID of?Love is a POSITIVE emotion.Fear is NEGATIVE,in fact,the most negative of all!And Christians wonder why various tragedies seem to happen ESPECIALLY to them?It's because their religeon's so based on fear including their prayer method,they actually ATTRACT what they DON'T want!


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Praise ye the LORD. I will praise the LORD with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation.  The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.  His work is honourable and glorious:  and his righteousness endureth for ever.  He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered:  the LORD is gracious and full of compassion.  He hath given meat unto them that fear him:  he will ever be mindful of his covenant.  He hath shewed his people the power of his works, that he may give them the heritage of the heathen.  The works of his hands are verity and judgment; all his commandments are sure.  They stand fast for ever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness.  He sent redemption unto his people:  he hath commanded his covenant for ever:  holy and reverend is his name.  The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom:  a good understanding have all they that do his commandments:  his praise endureth for ever.  (Psalms 111:  1-10, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Why Believers Fear (09/09/2014); Freedom of Foul Speech? (09/10/2014); Fear & GOD? (12/30/2013); Continuously Tested (12/31/2013); A Need to Fear? (12/02/2012); On Seeing Jesus Serve the Poor (12/03/2012); The Fear of GOD (10/30/2012); Saved in Childbearing? (10/31/2012); Why Courage? (10/14/2012); Christian Modesty (10/15/2012)


“madbear”, correctly understanding the things about GOD that have actually been provided by GOD requires seeing things from a divine perspective, and godly point of view.  Thus, the Holy Bible is indispensable as the source of sacred knowledge, for it provides a record of divine operations upon the earth and in the heaven through thousands of events, within thousands of lives, and over the course of thousands of years.  In place of finite human tools such as intellect, logic, philosophy, rhetoric and science Christian believers are endowed with spirit content from the makeup of Deity.  Included are the inseparable aspects of divinity we call faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Ones accord, affinity, and agreement with GOD are permanently altered.  Believers do not experience the active presence of divinity by what you know as emotion and “fear”.  Instead believers are provided with divine revelation, the peculiar spirit content whereby their own inborn spirit responds to the surpassing authority, love, majesty, power, sovereignty, and will of the Creator.  Awe and “fear of the Lord” have to do with the correct recognition of ones own lowliness and status before exalted being, and the necessary conditions for access, communion, exchange, interaction and continuing relationship.  Here are a few points to consider from the holy writings that may help make this more clear:

(1.)  Proverbs 9:  9-11, King James Version (KJV):  9 Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser:  teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.  10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom:  and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.  11 For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased.

(2.)  Proverbs 1:  7, KJV:  7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge:  but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

(3.)  Psalms 2:  10-12, KJV:  10 Be wise now therefore, O ye kings:  be instructed, ye judges of the earth.  11 Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling.  12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.

(4.)  James 2:  18-20, KJV:  18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works:  shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.  19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well:  the devils also believe, and tremble.  20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  Luke 12:  4-6, KJV:  4 And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.  5 But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear:  Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.  6 Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith and willingness to receive answer from GOD.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/11/2015) For The Sake of The Created

Why worship is important to continuing right relationship with divinity is in view, today.   The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Love Unites” (Level 7 with 35,316 points, a member since May 08, 2013) posted the following:


Why would a god desire humans to bow to him? In what way does this benefit the god?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  A son honoureth his father, and a servant his master:  if then I be a father, where is mine honour? and if I be a master, where is my fear? saith the LORD of hosts unto you, O priests, that despise my name. And ye say, Wherein have we despised thy name?  Ye offer polluted bread upon mine altar; and ye say, Wherein have we polluted thee? In that ye say, The table of the LORD is contemptible.  And if ye offer the blind for sacrifice, is it not evil? and if ye offer the lame and sick, is it not evil? offer it now unto thy governor; will he be pleased with thee, or accept thy person? saith the LORD of hosts.  And now, I pray you, beseech God that he will be gracious unto us:  this hath been by your means:  will he regard your persons? saith the LORD of hosts.  Who is there even among you that would shut the doors for nought? neither do ye kindle fire on mine altar for nought. I have no pleasure in you, saith the LORD of hosts, neither will I accept an offering at your hand.  For from the rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same my name shall be great among the Gentiles; and in every place incense shall be offered unto my name, and a pure offering:  for my name shall be great among the heathen, saith the LORD of hosts.  But ye have profaned it, in that ye say, The table of the LORD is polluted; and the fruit thereof, even his meat, is contemptible.  Ye said also, Behold, what a weariness is it! and ye have snuffed at it, saith the LORD of hosts; and ye brought that which was torn, and the lame, and the sick; thus ye brought an offering:  should I accept this of your hand? saith the LORD.  But cursed be the deceiver, which hath in his flock a male, and voweth, and sacrificeth unto the LORD a corrupt thing:  for I am a great King, saith the LORD of hosts, and my name is dreadful among the heathen.  (Malachi 1:  6-14, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Awe? (08/09/2015); Prayer Behavior? (04/07/2015); The Meaning of Worship? (07/09/2014); Should Men Take Their Hats Off? (05/15/2014); The Issue Is Not Accuracy (05/16/2014); Fear & GOD? (12/30/2013); Continuously Tested (12/31/2013)


“Love Unites”, may I share some thoughts with you.  As a Christian believer, I can not give you an “easy” answer, here, for there are aspects of sacred knowledge involved.  No one having “a brow of brass and neck of iron” can comprehend the peculiar truths shared through the ministry of Jesus Christ without applying their own spirit content that must come from the makeup of GOD.  Given the principle that spiritual things (e.g., confession, sacred events (we say, miracles), forgiveness, incarnation, judgment, repentance, revelation, salvation, sanctification) are only recognized by using other spiritual things, Christians rely upon the holy writings as a major resource to understand the workings of divinity upon the earth, and through the living.  By faith, believers hold that GOD lacks no necessary element for eternal existence, sovereignty, and total supremacy.  Therefore, while divinity appears through divine law, sacred operations, and eternal purpose, GOD has no “desire”, lack, need, or want.  The fundamental imperatives (we sometimes say, basic demands for existence; the force of truth), and the standard operations for life (i.e., the cycles for continuous growth and maturation) require all created beings and living creatures be in communication, exchange, and interaction with their Creator and Maker, who is spirit.  Saying this another way, survival requires acknowledgement (respect, reverence, worship) like breathing in and out.  Consider the following:

(1.)  John 3:  6-12, King James Version (KJV):  6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.  8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth:  so is every one that is born of the Spirit.  9 Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?  10 Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?  11 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.  12 If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things?

(2.)  Isaiah 42:  5-8, KJV:  5 Thus saith God the LORD, he that created the heavens, and stretched them out; he that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; he that giveth breath unto the people upon it, and spirit to them that walk therein:  6 I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;  7 To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.   8 I am the LORD:  that is my name:  and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.

(3.)  Genesis 3:  17-19, KJV:  17 And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it:  cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life;  18 Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field;  19 In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken:  for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Exodus 34:  5-8, KJV:  5 And the LORD descended in the cloud, and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the LORD.  6 And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,  7 Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children’s children, unto the third and to the fourth generation.  8 And Moses made haste, and bowed his head toward the earth, and worshipped.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/07/2015) Prayer Behavior?

Today, points are shared on prayer as a sacred practice for Christian believers.  In addition to prayer by speaking aloud and silent prayer, believers correctly “enter the divine presence” for prayer with holy boldness and trembling, and using such varied postures as bowing, kneeling, sitting, standing, with their arms outstretched and uplifted, and with hands folded against one another (palm-to-palm) or joined (i.e., hand-in-hand).  In the same way tears may appear to express sorrow, weeping also may appear to express joy.  Prayers also may be distinguished by brevity, fervor, focus, importunity, inclusiveness, intensity, perseverance, and strength.  In Scripture, Moses, Aaron, Joshua and others even prostrate themselves (i.e., fall on their face; lay face down on ones stomach) fulfilling the word:  From dust thou art, to dust thou shalt return.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following sneak attack:


Why do Christians bow down when they pray to God when Jews do not and Christ never taught or bowed down when he prayed?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.  See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.  Rejoice evermore.  Pray without ceasing.  In every thing give thanks:  for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.  Quench not the Spirit.  Despise not prophesyings.  Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.  Abstain from all appearance of evil.  And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.  (1st Thessalonians 5:  14-24, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  A Prayer to Read? (03/25/2015); Cornelius, and Prayer By Sinners? (03/09/2015); Prayer in Public? (02/24/2015); The Power in Prayer? (08/22/2014); The Rosary and Other Prayers? (08/23/2014); Should Men Take Their Hats Off? (05/15/2014); The Issue Is Not Accuracy (05/16/2014); Intercession (12/27/2013); Jesus Is GOD’s Word (12/28/2013)


“Anonymous”, here are a few points on the purpose and substance of Christian prayer that release many from error and spiritual confusion:

(1.)  The offering of prayer occurs in the new life of a believer as both a group (we say, communal) and individual (we say, personal, private) practice.

(2.)  Prayer is no less a sacrament (we say, sacred practice) than baptism, confession, marriage, and ordination to serve within the priesthood.

(3.)  Prayer sanctifies (we say, cleanses and sets apart for exclusive service to GOD) the place where it is offered.  Thus, ones private place for prayer (we say, closet) is purified by the believer’s truth in the same manner (and by the same Spirit) as the sanctuary within a church building provided for the full assembly of believers.

(4.)  Ones emotional, physical, psychological and spiritual  postures all are to be in agreement or harmonized in prayer through humility, intent, motive, purpose, and truth.  Thus, there are both inner and outward displays of acceptance, awe, compliance, gratitude, obedience, respect, reverence, and submission.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  For example, (5.)  Flesh and spirit are united in prayer.  For divinity, there are further nourishment of life, provision of sacred knowledge, and continuing revelation.  For humanity, there are contact, exposure, and self-discovery.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  May your prayers ever be answered according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(07/09/2014) The Meaning of Worship?

Discernment, idolatry, reverence, and genuine Christian worship are topics, today.  Again, no BATTLE AXE appears.  The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Political Onlooker” (Level 1 with zero points, a member since May 12, 2014) posted the following:


What does it mean to worship the Beast in Revelation 13:8?


Revelation 13:8 - All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast – all whose names have not been written in the Lamb’s book of life, the Lamb who was slain from the creation of the world.

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Does it mean that humans are inclined to value worldly success, such as money, power, and sex etc, which are false gods; but by doing so, they tend to deny God, Jesus and the Bible?
So unless people turn to God they will be destroyed by fire at the last judgement. (Revelation 20:11-15, 21:8).

And is it true that some people are preordained to be destroyed on the great day of judgement?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,  Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;  Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high:  Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.  For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?  And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.  And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire.  But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever:  a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.  (Hebrews 1:  1-8, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Mary (06/13/2014); The Estate of His Handmaiden (06/14/2014); The Ruler Of the Earth? (05/01/2014); Parables About the Kingdom? (05/02/2014); What is Worship? (10/18/2010); No Free Will (10/19/2010)


“Political Onlooker”, here are a few points on worship among Christian believers that have been useful for avoiding spiritual confusion and error:

(1.)   Genuine worship is to correctly acknowledge, admire, be in awe of, and show reverence to divinity.

(2.)  Many engage in false or idolatrous worship, because they seek to detect and manipulate the active presence of divinity after being drawn or seduced through features that are counterfeits of consecrated authority, sacred events (we say, miracles), and eternal purpose. 

(3.)  Evil is correctly taken to be the result of divine operations; however, evil should not be confused with the effects and operations of wickedness or sin.  When any respond to evil that appears as calamity, catastrophe, chaos, upheaval or arbitrary, sudden and widespread change with submission and surrender to unseen causes and forces, their attitude, behavior and conduct may be driven by occult beliefs, emotion such as fear, or by deep seated beliefs about magical effects of their own actions (we say, superstition).

(4.)  For Christian believers worship results from interactions and shifts among the discrete aspects of spirit content received during baptism (death of ones inborn spirit, rebirth from divine DNA, so to speak).  Included are inseparable aspects (where one appears, all may be found) from the makeup of GOD such as faith, forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, love, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  While faith consists only of faith, and holiness is made up from only holiness, etc., there is unchanging (we say, immutable) eternal direction, order, and unity.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  For example, (5.)  Through the imparted, indwelling spirit (we say, the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth), believers acquire discernment (ability to use ones own spirit content to correctly detect, examine and respond to the spirit content in such life experiences as events, messages, objects, other persons, praise, prayer, prophecy, and the holy writings.  Proper worship is guided and shaped through discernment.  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to the operations of your faith from GOD.


Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.  Amen.   (Ephesians 3:  20-21, KJV)



THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/30/2013) Fear & GOD?

Awe and right respect for divinity are topics, today.  Also, there is more on “the Alpha and Omega” as a holy name and title for Jesus.  Readers now see a verse or passage out of the Scriptures appearing in italic type as a conclusion to each blog.  This signifies my personal “bottom line,” and signature to what appears above as genuine bible-based belief and understanding.  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Mr. Acyut” (Level 3 with 1,069 points, a member since June 07, 2012) posted the following originally asked on Yahoo Answers India:


What's the relation between Fear & God ?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Alpha and Omega (12/29/2013)—(4.)  Many mistakenly take this title “the beginning and the end” as a statement regarding the Savior’s immortality and divine authority over mortal life and death.  More correctly, believers are directed to the death of Jesus upon the cross, his burial, resurrection and ascension as one-time, sacred events.  Many other of the divine operations for the redemption and salvation of mankind are continuous, ongoing and eternal.  This allows us to say, many workings of GOD are without beginning, and without end.  Included are divine love, judgment, prayer, praise, and sanctification.  Language in the Scriptures that describe Christ as the “beginning and the end” when applied to the law, refers to his primacy and exalted place over all as well as his fulfillment of the divine goals, objectives and purposes of the law, not to any annulment, destruction, or termination of the law.  Consider again Romans 10:  1-4, Romans 14:  8-9 and 1st Thessalonians 3:  12-13, King James Version.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels,  To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,  And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.  See that ye refuse not him that speaketh.  For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven:  Whose voice then shook the earth:  but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven.  And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.  Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:  For our God is a consuming fire.  (Hebrews 12:  22-29, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  A Need to Fear? (12/02/2012); On Seeing Jesus Serve The Poor (12/03/2012); The Fear of GOD (10/30/2012); Saved in Childbearing? (10/31/2012); Why Courage? (10/14/2012); Christian Modesty (10/15/2012)


“Mr. Acyut”, here are a few points to consider that are usually helpful to Christian believers:

(1.)  To have or know “fear of the Lord” is to experience the awesome majesty and power of GOD, and to have a correct awareness that divinity cannot be bound or limited by the strength and will of created beings and living creatures.  Thus, fear of the Lord appears as humility, loving obedience, right respect, and reverence.

(2.)  Given that the correct way for guilty sinners to approach judgment is with humility, and a balanced response to the workings of law and justice, fear of the Lord also should appear.  Hope for acquittal, correction, discovery of hidden and missing truth, dismissal of charges, mercy in punishment, resolution of all conflict, and righteousness throughout the entire process and in the final determinations also may appear; and make it that fear of destruction and harsh sentencing is removed and softened—even to the point of accepting a verdict against oneself, and acknowledging the justice of the outcome.

There is far more to be said, properly shared, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (3.)  Believers in Jesus Christ are trusting that the awesome GOD, who has established all life and the material universe, continues to reign and rule over the processes of final judgment of mankind through Jesus, as Son of the Highest.  Thereby, judgment is a display and a revealing of GOD, particularly, divine love and sovereign righteousness.  All intimidation is put aside in the lowliness of Jesus, in that he has endured and suffered as one in flesh, even, unjust imprisonment, scourging, death, burial, resurrection, and ascension.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Grow in grace.


For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.  Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner:  but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;  (2nd Timothy 1:  7-8, KJV)


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC