(11/10/2019) Patriotic Songs To Worship?

This Sunday, as the observance of Veterans Day approaches in America, November 11, 2019, reply is on the use of patriotic songs during Christian worship. The Spirit imparted to make divinity present and knowable is different from a man or woman’s fighting spirit, esprit de corps, pride, the sense of brotherhood, and the special camaraderie among soldiers and others who together are the defenders of homes, communities, and states (we say, emergency first responders, militia, police). It is not an error or transgression of sacred law that men unite as a geopolitical nation or sovereign state appealing to GOD for benefits, blessings, deliverance, and privilege. Also, achievements, hardship, mourning, suffering, and victory all are to be celebrated and lifted up to GOD by united peoples. Even so, the church of Jesus Christ is to operate on earth as ambassadors from the kingdom of heaven. Men, women, and children are to become filled with spirit substance from the makeup of GOD. As though they had no other country of origin, or place of birth other than heaven, sinners will be set apart to exist as life companions to divinity by their repentance and acceptance of permanent change. As those “born again”, sanctified and vessels of divine fullness, developing Christian believers will be acknowledged as “peculiar” because of their godly lifestyle and daily routines, rather than for their business, family, political, or social affiliation. It is written: 2^nd Acts 17: 24-31, King James Version (KJV): 24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; 25 Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; 26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; 27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: 28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. 29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device. 30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: 31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

At Mass, should we Really be singing patriotic songs instead of worshiping God?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For the grace of God that bringer salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. (Titus 2: 11-14, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Kings, Popes, Priests, Prophets? (09/22/2019); Messiah Already Has Come (04/14/2019); Being A Holy Nation (02/20/2018); Eternal Praise and Worship? (01/30/2018); Righteousness Exalts A Nation (07/04/2017); Politics and The Kingdom? (05/31/2017); Beliefs, Customs and Racism? (09/24/2014); GOD Speaking Through Song? (11/01/2013); Why Not One Bible? (11/02/2013)

“Anonymous”, among Christians, activities and gatherings for worship must address a broad range of needs within the community of believers, and are intended to provide encouragement, guidance, and nourishment to those having multiple levels of commitment, maturity, need, and understanding. The up-tempo music of the marching band, patriotic songs, and sermons to rouse the elan and shared national spirit are often used in church services with the intent of crystallizing and expressing gratitude, hope (i.e., an expected end; the fulfillment of divine promise), joy, and all the other inseparable aspects of spirit endowment from the makeup of GOD. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

In Christian gatherings for sacred acknowledgment and praise, there should be no effort by worship leaders to influence politics and social platforms, or to identify and make thrusts against other ethnic and racial groups, other nations, or those having different national origins. Rather than a focus on carnal reasoning, material objects and social behavior, the primary focus is to fellowship with and through Jesus Christ. Sinners who return to GOD through the salvation offered by his Son are not approved on the basis of their nationality, tribe, skin color, employment, poverty, wealth, or their status as citizens and immigrants. Born-again believers are granted fresh endowments of life essence and are to exist as the new creation. Developing believers are to receive Christ-likeness, eternal purpose, mercy in judgment, justification, and glorification through an ongoing relationship that will continue even despite the occurrence of death. Prayer that includes confession of errors, faith, and material needs should appear along with prophecy (i.e., comfort, edification, and exhortation). Thanksgiving may be made and memorials for specific events in ones collective and public life as well as ones personal and private life. Consider the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) 1^st Chronicles 16: 8-12, King James Version (KJV): 8 Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people. 9 Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him, talk ye of all his wondrous works. 10 Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD. 11 Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually. 12 Remember his marvellous works that he hath done, his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;

(2) 1^st John 1: 1-10, KJV: 1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; 2 (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) 3 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. 4 And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. 5 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. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 7 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. 8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

(3.) Hebrews 10: 23-27, KJV: 23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) 24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: 25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. 26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, 27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D02LsAp8xow.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 7:40 AM, November 10, 2019 @ https://2012patriot.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/one-nation-under-god.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/03/2019) Christian Celebration And Rejoicing

Returning Home with Victory, Washington Nationals 1^st Baseman, Ryan Zimmerman displays the 2019 World Series Trophy

Today, reply is on authentic Christian celebration. Many Christians will not celebrate Halloween and popular holidays that appear to continue fear, gluttony, idolatry, misery, rebellion, wickedness, and willfulness. Even so, Christians are committed to celebrating liberty, life, and prosperity. To acknowledge the home team winning the 2019 World Series baseball championship, the Nation’s Capitol, Washington, D. C., held a public sports rally on a Saturday (Sabbath) afternoon that was attended by thousands. Among the followers of Jesus Christ, rejoicing does not have to appear as colorful and loud social gatherings that feature eating, drinking, excitement, and carnal pleasure. Because joy is an aspect of divine fullness, where genuine joy appears, divinity always is present; and joy that also is invisible may be discerned by balance, modesty, quiet, restraint, silence, and rest. Divinely provided joy is inseparable from faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Joy will appear as the expression of gratitude and reverence to divinity through actions such as affirming accord and agreement; confessing ones own accountability, commitment, limits, needs, and infirmities; declaring the name (accomplishments; reputation), personhood, and works of divinity; displaying humility; bestowing gifts, offerings, praise, sacrifice, and worship on behalf of divinity; and yielding to GOD for reconciliation, resolution of conflict, and the settlement of disputes and quarrels. It is written: Psalms 45: 6-8, King James Version (KJV): 1 My heart is inditing a good matter: I speak of the things which I have made touching the king: my tongue is the pen of a ready writer. 2 Thou art fairer than the children of men: grace is poured into thy lips: therefore God hath blessed thee for ever. 3 Gird thy sword upon thy thigh, O most mighty, with thy glory and thy majesty. 4 And in thy majesty ride prosperously because of truth and meekness and righteousness; and thy right hand shall teach thee terrible things. 5 Thine arrows are sharp in the heart of the king’s enemies; whereby the people fall under thee. 6 Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a right sceptre. 7 Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows. 8 All thy garments smell of myrrh, and aloes, and cassia, out of the ivory palaces, whereby they have made thee glad.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. (1^st Peter 4: 12-14, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divine Anger at Harvest? (05/26/2019); Sabbath Acknowledges Divine Personhood? (05/14/2018); Chocolate Bunnies! Easter Eggs! (04/18/2017); Why An Easter Season? (04/19/2017); On Wearing Sports Jerseys? (11/20/2015); Spring-training (04/11/2014); Kill the Blog Writer! (04/12/2014); Will GOD Bless My Team? (12/31/2012); Put Every Man His Sword By His Side (01/01/2013)

While Christian belief is to be firm, grave, and sober, believers are not to be dark, depressing, morbid, and scary. It is no sin, and it is not wrong to work hard, to become excellent, to be pleased with your own performance, and to seek fair and meaningful incentives, payment and wages along with correct measures of respect and support. However, many, today, pursue goals of becoming outstanding, prominent, and special on the basis of covetousness, deceit, envy, and exaggerated pride. The greater part of their lifestyle and daily routines may be devoted to accomplishing objectives, and measuring up to standards that are not shared by family, friends, and others, and that they may experience as attacks, unfair criticism, judging others, and thrusts against themselves. Ones determination, focus on personal goals, practice that results in growth, and adhering to self-discipline should provide great satisfaction, yet, lasting joy, happiness, and success will continue to be elusive. The working of appetite, desire, lust, passion, and sensuousness come and go, so to speak, and emerge as displays from ones flesh that can only be brief and episodic. Genuine joy abides, is organic (part of what and who you are), and is unending; even so, joy, may be denied, dismissed, ignored, neglected and unseen. There must be a correct acknowledgment of divinity as the origin and source of joy through endowments and operations of spirit content imparted from divine fullness. Joy shared within the Godhead may appear among men as cheerfulness; comfort during bereavement; dancing; discovery; ecstasy; forgiveness; healing of depression and melancholy; inebriation; jumping for joy; laughter; newness; receiving and speaking truth; remembering; recovery; restoration; music and song. Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Psalms 100: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. 2 Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. 3 Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. 5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

(2.) Nehemiah 8: 8-11, KJV: 8 So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading. 9 And Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day is holy unto the LORD your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law. 10 Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength. 11 So the Levites stilled all the people, saying, Hold your peace, for the day is holy; neither be ye grieved.

(3.) Psalms 150: 1-6, KJV: 1 Praise ye the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power. 2 Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness. 3 Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp. 4 Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs. 5 Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals. 6 Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, a selection from the music ministry of Donnie McClurkin (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXmOK8MpaeU.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:45 PM, October 31, 2019 @ https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EIPaGHtWkAAsqV0.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/19/2018) Points On Spiritual Warfare

Today, points are shared on the process of spiritual warfare to establish and maintain divine dominion within mankind, and over the earth.  Deliverance and salvation for the living must go beyond material objects and our physical pains.  Many confuse spirit warfare with clashes and conflicts that occur among their own feelings, desires, and thoughts, and that others perhaps will see as anxiety, depression, indecision, lack of self-control, rage, or sorrow.  Spirit warfare pertains to the operations of GOD (e.g., anointing, election, judgment, repentance, sanctification) that are exchanges and interactions of the inseparable spirit substances within the divine makeup.  Included are balance, completeness, faith, holiness, immortality, incorruption, mercy, personhood, potency, and wisdom.  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:


Are we fighting a spiritual warfare?

praise jesus!


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do?  And he answered, Fear not:  for they that be with us are more than they that be with them.  And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see.  And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw:  and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.  (2nd Kings 6:  15-17, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  What Do Christians Expect? (01/09/2018); Driving Away the Enemy? (09/15/2017); Judgment, Peace and Warfare? (03/26/2017); The Cross Proclaims Victory (05/12/2016); A Note On Spirit Warfare (01/06/2016); The Greatest Weapon? (12/17/2015); Holy Wars? (11/06/2014); Crimes Christ Crucified For? (11/07/2014); War and Peace? (07/17/2014); Prince of Peace? (07/18/2014) 


“Anonymous”, praise Faithful and True!  Here are some points you may find useful as you continue to share regarding the Christian pursuit of spirit warfare for dominion within mankind and over the earth:


1.  All Have Sinned.  Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Lawgiver, and the fundamental order of the universe.  Even so, sin may dominate awareness and self-will in created beings and living creatures.  To successfully turn away from sin requires more than a changed attitude, academic or secular knowledge, and the sinner’s own self-will (willpower).  While sin does not exist as a material object or spirit substance having measurable dimension (e.g., height, size, weight), sin nevertheless has direction, effect, and presence that are exposed and made “visible” only by such streams of truth as divine law, sacred knowledge, praise, prayer, unselfish service, and sanctified worship.  Because sin is carnal and not an intellectual process of the mind, we acknowledge that sin is irrational and self-destructive; however, we fail to recognize that sin is contrary to divine and human nature.  Expressing our potential to also display an animal nature, men repeatedly own sinful desires, thoughts and behavior as natural, normal, and ordinary.

2.  You Must Be Born Again.  In effect, the sinner must become “slain in spirit” and “raised from the dead.”  Through repentance that comes from ones indwelling spirit and gifts from GOD.  Saying this another way:  There must be the death, burial, and resurrection from the dead of ones inborn spirit, and they must become vessels of spirit content from the makeup of GOD.  Once born again, the sinner must grow up again and become by enduring the same disappointments, “growing pains,” life challenges, hardships, and sufferings as others on the earth.  mature displaying the character, makeup, and substance of a divine offspring (son or daughter of GOD).

3.  The Spirit from GOD.  It is the fresh endowment of spirit substance from the fullness of divinity (we say, the GODhead; the Trinity; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) that provides the battle armor and weapons for spirit combat.  Included are discernment (ability to recognize and respond to divine spirit substance appearing within events, oneself, other persons, prophecy, holy writings, etc.), faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, restraint, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  The sovereign will of GOD that can not be overcome by the operations of sin must be established within the divine warrior along with many inseparable aspects of godly consciousness, sacred knowledge, and eternal purpose.

4.  The Battle Is the Lord’s.  In the same way, a recruit joining the army may not choose his own uniform, he may not choose the commanding officers, the other recruits, or the enemy.  Developing believers who come to GOD through Jesus Christ become a new creation who do not have victory by their own strivings.  Size, muscular prowess, and gun violence can not accomplish divine goals and eternal purpose.  Triumph comes by joining to the oneness without sameness that Christ shares with the other persons of the GODhead.  Accounts of victory for the people of GOD appearing in the Scriptures also report that GOD often defends and protects his people by turning the soldiers in an enemy army against each other.  Consider again, therefore, the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  2nd Chronicles 20:  17, King James Version (KJV):  17 Ye shall not need to fight in this battle:  set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of the LORD with you, O Judah and Jerusalem:  fear not, nor be dismayed; to morrow go out against them:  for the LORD will be with you.

(2.)  2nd Kings 19:  32-36, KJV:  32 Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning the king of Assyria, He shall not come into this city, nor shoot an arrow there, nor come before it with shield, nor cast a bank against it.  33 By the way that he came, by the same shall he return, and shall not come into this city, saith the LORD.  34 For I will defend this city, to save it, for mine own sake, and for my servant David’s sake.  35 And it came to pass that night, that the angel of the LORD went out, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians an hundred fourscore and five thousand:  and when they arose early in the morning, behold, they were all dead corpses.  36 So Sennacherib king of Assyria departed, and went and returned, and dwelt at Nineveh.

(3.)  Galatians 2:  20, KJV:  20 I am crucified with Christ:  nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me:  and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

(4.)  Ephesians 6:  11-17, KJV:  11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.  13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.  14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;  15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;  16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.  17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

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

THE BLACK PHOENIXWashington, DC

(12/14/2017) Heritage of the Servants?

Today, the reply addresses judgment against divinity by created beings and living creatures.  What many take to be Bible accounts of GOD punishing mankind, in fact, are sacred testimonies that report demonstrations of the divine commitment to mankind—even to the extreme of overturning death through atonement, Incarnation, forgiveness, reconciliation, resurrection, and the imparting of divine spirit content from the makeup of Deity.  Those grounded in Christ are to remain vigilant against unbelievers who seek to destroy salvation from the Lord by making accusations and appeals against GOD on the basis of family feeling, kinship, and love, or human error, indignation and outrage.  The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Donald Michael Vicks Dog” (Level 6 with 11,065 points, a member since June 06, 2015) posted the following:

Isn't the christian god great? He will let his arch enemy murder your whole family in a bet?

And give you a replacement family as a reward for not complaining?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him.  Thou meetest him that rejoiceth and worketh righteousness, those that remember thee in thy ways:  behold, thou art wroth; for we have sinned:  in those is continuance, and we shall be saved.  But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.  And there is none that calleth upon thy name, that stirreth up himself to take hold of thee:  for thou hast hid thy face from us, and hast consumed us, because of our iniquities.  But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.  Be not wroth very sore, O LORD, neither remember iniquity for ever:  behold, see, we beseech thee, we are all thy people.  (Isaiah 64:  4-9, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Heaven Denied to Mankind? (12/08/2017); A Lawless, Violent GOD? (11/16/2017); GOD Is Imparting Truth (10/30/2017); Divine Wrath Against Sin? (10/17/2017); “Occupy Till I Come” (08/30/2017); Discernment, Focus and Meekness? (07/07/2017); Divine Inheritance and Resurrection? (07/06/2016); An Eternal Inheritance? (06/26/2016); Called To Be Servants? (11/25/2015)

“Donald Michael Vicks Dog”, just as the sacred process of judgment by divinity must address many subtleties (i.e., points of truth that display barely visible differences as well as hidden shifts in meaning, quality and value), and so may only be accomplished by an impartial, righteous, and thorough GOD, judgment against GOD requires a breadth and depth of sacred knowledge instead of secular knowledge, a comprehensive awareness of eternal purpose that generates divine action and serves as the context and focus for examining consequences and results from active presence, and the correct discernment and recognition of spirit substances (and their products) that may only be imparted through the operations of Deity.  Included are awe, boldness, faith, gratitude, holiness, and wrath against sin.

The judgment of those in flesh repeatedly expresses bias, presumption, and exaggerated sentiment.  Sinners who become “born again” through baptism (death, burial and resurrection of their inborn spirit) are to exist having divine DNA, so to speak, and, therefore, receive a fresh endowment of life essence (breath, spirit, Word) from the makeup of GOD.  As children and offspring of GOD, developing believers share a “divine point of view” that allows them to discover, see, and more correctly display the balance, completeness, integrity, lovingkindness, restraint, and wisdom of the Creator. 

Mature Christian believers (who have “mellowed” and outgrown their arrogance, defiance, and “self-righteous indignation”) immediately recognize there is no victory over GOD by the Adversary recorded in the account of Job.  For the account to provide authentic revelation regarding the character, makeup, and substance of divinity, Job must display the absolute dependence on GOD by all living that is not merely for life and death; it is also for access to Deity, for  duration, for expectation (we say, hope), for existence, for possibilities, for unchanging value, and more.  Divine grace, ownership, prerogative, and sovereign will may not be dismissed, or ignored.  See with new eyes:  Throughout the holy writings, it is the victory of GOD that mankind can not be overwhelmed and removed from the earth by such devices as betrayal, corruption, death, decay, hardship, lies, persecution, and tribulation.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Jeremiah 18:  3-12, King James Version (KJV):  3 Then I went down to the potter’s house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels.  4 And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter:  so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it.  5 Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying,  6 O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the LORD. Behold, as the clay is in the potter’s hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel.  7 At what instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to pluck up, and to pull down, and to destroy it;  8 If that nation, against whom I have pronounced, turn from their evil, I will repent of the evil that I thought to do unto them.  9 And at what instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to build and to plant it;  10 If it do evil in my sight, that it obey not my voice, then I will repent of the good, wherewith I said I would benefit them.  11 Now therefore go to, speak to the men of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, saying, Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I frame evil against you, and devise a device against you:  return ye now every one from his evil way, and make your ways and your doings good.  12 And they said, There is no hope:  but we will walk after our own devices, and we will every one do the imagination of his evil heart.

(2.)  Isaiah 29:  16, KJV:  16 Surely your turning of things upside down shall be esteemed as the potter's clay:  for shall the work say of him that made it, He made me not? or shall the thing framed say of him that framed it, He had no understanding?

(3.)  Romans 9:  14-24, KJV:  14 What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid.  15 For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.  16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.  17 For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.  18 Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth.  19 Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?  20 Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?  21 Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?  22 What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction:  23 And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory,  24 Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and made a part of our own developing belief.  (For example, (4.)  Psalms 149:  4-9, KJV:  4 For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people:  he will beautify the meek with salvation.  5 Let the saints be joyful in glory:  let them sing aloud upon their beds.  6 Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a two-edged sword in their hand;  7 To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punishments upon the people;  8 To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron;  9 To execute upon them the judgment written:  this honour have all his saints. Praise ye the LORD.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/15/2017) Driving Away the Enemy?

Today reply is on GOD allowing the wicked to have authority over saved persons.  Properly understood, the process of salvation is one wherein divinity enables a sinner to remain free from the wicked forever.  Sin has not been eliminated from the earth, yet, sinners can be permanently changed through rebirth, and equipped to recognize, reject, and resist sin.  Believers gradually achieve maturity and the full spiritual blessing of eternal life after completing mortality, enduring hardship and suffering, and overcoming challenges, persecution, and loss.  One of the fighters using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

What when God allow the wicked act over a saved person?


Without reaction.I though that saved persons would have the power to make the wicked go away.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;  Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.  And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.  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.  Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:  Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.  (1st Peter 5:  2-7, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Sacred Baptism, Divine Resurrection? (09/14/2017); Fear, Revelation and Desire (05/22/2017); Herein Is True Love (10/21/2016); A Note On Spirit Warfare (01/06/2016); Forgiving Enemies a Condition for Salvation? (05/11/2015); Struggling? (05/11/2013); Through Much Tribulation (05/12/2013)


“Anonymous”, the process of receiving salvation among  Christian believers is one of discovering sacred knowledge and things from GOD, experiencing gradual growth, maintaining focus on the character and makeup of Jesus, and putting to work all that you learn.  The devil, sinners, and the wickedness found in the world will go away for a while, and seek to come back when a believer seems confused, double-minded, and open to attack.  For this reason, believers are taught to think of their new life in Jesus Christ as a “fight of faith” and spiritual warfare where we must stay alert, where we may become injured or wounded, and where we even may lose our natural lives.

Believers must rely on the authority and power of divinity to drive away and limit the influence of evil, yet, must cooperate with GOD by their own commitment to Christ in what they say and do, in their discipline and self-government, and in their not giving up (we say, perseverance).  As sinners who become “born again,” developing believers also must “grow up again” and become ripe (mature) for harvesting by the Lord at his coming (we say, Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  In addition to inseparable aspects of spirit content from the makeup of GOD (e.g., faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, wrath against sin), the mature believer will display such features as balance, completeness, humility, divine purpose, sobriety, and stability.

Given GOD is on their side, Christian believers can not lose.  Even so, in the same way every soldier in an army might not have the same duty, knowledge, rank, skills, and weapons as others who are on the same side as he, there is great diversity among Christians.  We do not all have the same knowledge of the holy writings, the same level of spiritual maturity, and the same personal strength.  Believers, therefore, come together as a church and community of faith to share comfort, communication, encouragement and support.  Believers are to provide one another whatever the other may lack.  Thus, in our battles against lying, lust, sin, and ungodliness, it is right that we turn to each other as the Lord’s people for help, protection, and victory.  Believers are not indestructible, yet, having the promises of GOD, we become fearless and unbeatable.  Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)   James 4:  4-10, King James Version (KJV):  4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.  5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?  6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.  7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.  8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.  9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep:  let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.  10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

(2.)  1st Peter 5:  8-9, KJV:  8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:  9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

(3.)  Revelation 2:  10, KJV:  10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days:  be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  1st Timothy 6:  12-16, KJV:  12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.  13 I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;  14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:  15 Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;  16 Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see:  to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.)  I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.



THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/25/2017) The Nature of Death

…he beheld the city, and wept over it,  Luke 19:  41

Today, Jesus dying on the cross, and the temporal nature of death are considered.  While death has effect and presence, death appears as a condition (i.e., state of being) and mechanical life process that exists without person or self-will.  There is no conflict of flesh against divinity involved in the sacrificial observance where the Lamb of GOD is slain for the sin of the world.  The truth that GOD has always existed, and is without cause and origin requires acceptance that divinity may not be described as a result of specific purposes beyond those of being and existing, or manifesting as active presence.  The flow of carnal reason and finite mind are disrupted by this enigma of GOD.  Similarly, the character and properties for things that are material and social,  including mankind, must be known and spoken of using frameworks of time and space that permit concepts of duration, elimination, and termination.  GOD is not subject to death; death does not die of itself; however, death is subject to GOD, and may only continue through sacred law (the expressed will of GOD) and divine prerogative.  One of the many fighters at “Yahoo! Answers (Philippines)” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:


How would've God DIED on the cross if he's ETERNAL?

Update:  One dying defeats the purpose of being eternal.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.  Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,  In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump:  for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.  For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.  So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.  O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?  The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.  But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.  (1st Corinthians 15:  50-57, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Redemption Through Ordinary Flesh? (04/20/2017); Dead While We Live? (02/02/2017); Divine Appearances Using Form? (12/20/2016); Divine Inheritance and Resurrection? (07/06/2016); The Dimensions of Death? (04/24/2016); The Cross a Human Sacrifice? (04/18/2016); GOD Known By Action Not Form? (03/18/2015)


“Anonymous”, life is GOD’s intent, death is GOD’s tool.  The revelation of GOD (i.e., the acts and deeds whereby divinity makes himself knowable, known and visible) includes appearing in carnal form (we say, flesh and blood; Incarnation), becoming an embodiment of sin that can be destroyed on the cross, putting forth cause for new hope, showing the extent of human potential for relationship with Deity as well as providing correct sacred knowledge of the character, nature, and substance of death.  Apart from the operations, processes, and eternal purposes of GOD, Death is not to be regarded as “almighty”, divine, or eternal.  Just as the holy angels are temporal (i.e., endure for a limited time), and exist as neither mortal nor immortal, Death is temporal, is neither mortal nor divine, and is not to be obeyed as though having higher divine authority than the true and living GOD.  As a function of Creation, death is to promote life, and serves as a condition of “sleep” that may be terminated through resurrection.  As a function of Salvation, death promotes new life through rebirth, and serves as a condition of release from sin.  Only as a function of correction that fulfills final Judgment is death a condition of annihilation, elimination or irreversible destruction (we say, the second death).  The operations of death at the cross may be understood as having been in accordance with the authority of natural law.  The operations of death at the tomb where Christ had been laid should be seen as in accordance with the authority of divine grace that oversees such features as being, healing, forgiving, imparting spirit content, resurrection, and translation.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Romans 4:  13-17, King James Version (KJV):  13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.  14 For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect:  15 Because the law worketh wrath:  for where no law is, there is no transgression.  16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,  17 (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were.

(2.)  Romans 5:  17-21, KJV:  17 For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)  18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.  19 For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.  20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:  21 That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

(3.)  Revelation 20:  12-15, KJV:  12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.  13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them:  and they were judged every man according to their works.  14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.  15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Isaiah 25:  8-9, KJV:  8 He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth:  for the LORD hath spoken it.  9 And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us:  this is the LORD; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/25/2016) About Revelation not Punishment?

Detail from Jan van Eyck diptych panel the Last Judgment (circa 1430)

The sacred processes of GOD to make divinity knowable, known, and memorable are in view, today.  Included are forgiveness, incarnation, inheritance, judgment, resurrection, and sanctification.  Consider again the holy writings:  9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.  10 For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.  11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one:  for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, (Hebrews 2:  9-11, King James Version, KJV).  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers (UK & Ireland)” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

If Jesus took the punishment for sin, why is he not burning in hell?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:  Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.  Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.  For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.  And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:  In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:  Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.  And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;  Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;  And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.  (Colossians 2:  6-15, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Eternal Life From GOD (10/24/2016); Law, Vengeance, and Punishment? (09/30/2016); Must GOD Hate Sinners? (09/01/2016); Eternal Mysteries and Revelation (08/31/2016); In Order To Believe (08/12/2016);  Punishment To Show Love? (11/29/2015); The Death Penalty for Sins? (11/30/2014); A Dispensation To Benefit (12/01/2014)

“Anonymous”, for mature Christian believers, sacred knowledge shared through Jesus Christ centers upon the active appearance of authority and power we call “the GODhead.”  The many operations of salvation from GOD are directed to the full revelation of divinity, and the focus of sinners has to be shifted away from sin.  While sin is no spirit or thing created by GOD, the operations of sin in created beings and living creatures may dominate awareness as desire and will power (we say, self-will) in such forms as covetousness, disobedience of the divine law, and lust.  Christ has shown that life is the divine intent, and death (also called sleep) with resurrection one of the tools to accomplish that specific eternal purpose.  Through the ministry of Jesus Christ having carnal form and dying on the cross, unseen and otherwise “secret” aspects of divine judgment have been carried out; and many beauties of divine judgment have been placed into view including impartiality, mercy, righteousness, thoroughness, and truth.  What is called the second death has been reserved for the absolute removal of those things that are no longer in the will of GOD, or contain the necessary endowment of sacred substance from the divine makeup (e.g., faith, gratitude, holiness, joy, longsuffering, wisdom, wrath against sin).  Carefully consider and ask GOD to supply everything you need to comprehend the following:

(1.)  Romans 6:  23, King James Version (KJV):  23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

(2.)  Hebrews 2:  14-18, KJV:  14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;  15 And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.  16 For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham.  17 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.  18 For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  1st Corinthians 15:  51-57, KJV:  51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,  52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump:  for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.  53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.  54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.  55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?  56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.  57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(1.)  Romans 13:  1-5, King James Version (KJV):  1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God:  the powers that be are ordained of God.  2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God:  and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.  3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:  4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain:  for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.  5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.

(2.)  Romans 13:  7-10, KJV:  7 Render therefore to all their dues:  tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.  8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another:  for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.  9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.  10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour:  therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.

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

There is far more to be said, carefully examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  James 1:  5-8, KJV:  5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.  6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.  7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.  8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC