Today, I share some points on divine pleasure in judgment, prophecy, and punishment of children. Also, there is more on traditional marriage. A writer at “Yahoo! Answers Malaysia” using the ID “The Supreme Llama” (Level 7 with 26,685 points, a member since February 20, 2008) posted the following originally asked at Yahoo Answers Canada:
Does God enjoy watching children be torn to bits by wild bears?
Elisha left Jericho to go to Bethel and on the way some boys came out of a town and made fun of him. “Get out of here, Baldy!” they shouted.Elisha turned around, glared at them, and cursed them in the name of the Lord. Then two she-bears came out of the woods and tore forty-two of the boys to pieces.”
2 Kings 2:23-24
THE BATTLE AXE: Traditional Marriage? (12/18/2013)—(5.) As a tool of the world, marriage is a legal contract to establish common property for couples who agree to cohabit as well as to divide and dispose of property at their separation. Arranged marriages are found only among those having long-term presence through land and property ownership, having financial security, and having wealth. Additionally, marriage provides for the receipt and disposition of property as ones inheritance from ones parents, and other deceased persons. For this reason, bastards, those born out of wedlock, and those born in poverty receive little or no instruction regarding marriage; and these often do not marry, preferring to cohabit in temporary relationships (e.g., common-law marriage, living or moving-in together, or shacking up), where there is less emphasis upon duties for legacies and property rights. More than this, the poor and undereducated often do not regard marriage as a divinely provided opportunity to create wealth, initiate an inheritance, or to provide memorial to their own living deeds. (6.) Using understandings generated by the world, many now hold that marriage has always been only for purposes of fulfilling and “legitimating” the animal aspects of human existence: ones emotions, lusts, passions, carnal desires, and sexual appetite. It is foolish, they say, “to put all of ones eggs in one basket” (that is, exclusively to hope, rely upon or trust a single person or relationship for regular and continuing support). With this in view, many alternatives to marriage now appear; and are promoted as “more honest;” more correctly accountable; a more necessary and realistic display of ones inner feelings and genuine integrity; and, more productive of lasting happiness and sexual freedom as well as true love. (7.) As a tool of GOD marriage is a sacrament, or sacred practice that expresses, maintains and nourishes spirit content from divine person, and continues relationship to GOD through Jesus Christ. Spiritual joining in marriage is not merely by intercourse and sexual intimacy; it is by operations of the Holy Spirit. Marriage may begin with a young man proposing to a woman—not asking her permission, rather, asking her acceptance, her commitment. He will ask permission of his own and her parents only where he realizes and understands that the joining of their person also is the joining of their families. Together they will ask permission from GOD only where they understand themselves in relationship through Christ as agents and representatives of his sacred community, the church, who serve as evangelizers, parents, teachers, spokespersons, stewards and vessels for the imparted, indwelling Spirit of GOD. Surely, the miracle of water to wine in the wedding at Cana is also the transformation of spirit for marriage from that of the earth to that from heaven. (8.) Along with invisible, spirit substance from GOD, marriage is also widely respected as a device to address invisible, secular substance from mankind. Through marriage society addresses, maintains and promotes various intangible aspects of human relationships such as chance, chastity, compatibility, dignity, feelings, family history, honor, jealousy, maternal instinct, reputation, respect, romance, tradition, trust, and virginity.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: O ye seed of Abraham his servant, ye children of Jacob his chosen. He is the LORD our God: his judgments are in all the earth. He hath remembered his covenant for ever, the word which he commanded to a thousand generations. Which covenant he made with Abraham, and his oath unto Isaac; And confirmed the same unto Jacob for a law, and to Israel for an everlasting covenant: Saying, Unto thee will I give the land of Canaan, the lot of your inheritance: When they were but a few men in number; yea, very few, and strangers in it. When they went from one nation to another, from one kingdom to another people; He suffered no man to do them wrong: yea, he reproved kings for their sakes; Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm. (Psalms 105: 6-15, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Barren Tree? (12/06/2013); Fruits From a Barren Tree? (12/07/2013); GOD Angry With Us? (12/08/2013); So We Could Have Life? (12/09/2013); Destroying Justice? (07/18/2013); GOD the X? (07/19/2013); When Does Judgment Begin? (06/27/2013); Our Present Comfort (06/28/2013); Must We Really Die? (05/13/2013); Can GOD Die? (05/14/2013); Mockers in the Last Days (11/14/2012); Thoughts Upon A Warrior’s Fall (11/15/2012)
“The Supreme Llama”, GOD enjoys giving meaningful answers to those showing right respect to divine love and sacred truth. Here are a few points readers should consider that are regularly shared among mature Christian believers:
(1.) GOD is a spirit who must be known and made visible through operations, processes, and purposes that are displayed through created beings and living creatures.
(2.) The living must rely upon their own endowment of divine substance from the person of GOD to recognize (we say, discern) the divine aspects of objects and events presented in their experience. Included are such inseparable features as awareness, faith, holiness, longsuffering, will, wisdom, and wrath against sin.
(3.) Sin is an artifact of separation from GOD, is contrary to all existence and life, and is no living thing. Sin is not a material or physical object, has no spirit content, and is not created by GOD. Yet, sin has direction, effect, and presence; and may dominate and influence awareness and self-will in created beings and living creatures. Without the array of divine operations and provisions, sin can not be detected as contrary to ones own being and person, or recognized as a foreign and strange element that is not truly part of oneself. Repeatedly, the living operate under sin regarding it as “child’s play,” innocence, natural, and normal.
(4.) The presence that is sin may become known through actions and words; and all behavior and conduct among children and adult humans does not show sin as defiance, disrespect, and irreverence. However, all behavior and conduct generated under the influence of sin does oppose the continued existence of divine law, divine person, and all Creation. Given that sin is no created or godly “thing”, and the created can not eliminate and eradicate sin, there must be a sweeping renewal of all Creation to remove all sin.
There is far more to be said, correctly shared, and spiritually understood. (For example, (5.) Before anyone may fully understand the threat to the universe posed by a roaming gang of cruel, disobedient boys attacking a prophet (who is outnumbered 40 to 1), they would have to have a broader, deeper understanding of judgment, justice, mercy, and salvation. Where GOD intervenes, surely, it is to carry out those tasks that may only be completed through divine power and presence, such as protecting those not present, those unborn, and others unseen.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you (Philippians 4: 8-9, KJV).
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
General Petraeus, issues of leadership, and standards for sound government are considered, today. Also, there is more on mockers and scoffers. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Joe Sch” (Level 1 with 231 points, a member since July 17, 2011) posted the following:
Who cares that General Petraeus had an affair...why is that news?
I get that cheating on one's spouse is bad, but why is it big news and why did he resign? It happens every day by a large portion of our society. I'm not making light of adultery, only asking why it is relevant to his position and why it is of public interest.
And no, I don't believe that the type of character necessary to remain faithful to a spouse is necessary to be a government or military official.
THE BATTLE AXE: Mockers in the Last Days (11/14/2012)—Many regard the increased appearance of mockers and scoffers as more than continued human error. They realize an indication that the world is exhausting its opportunity for recovery by GOD that was granted through the birth, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ. While the prophecies of mockers contained within the holy writings address challenges to Jesus as Messiah, the many proclamations of the gospel, and his sacred work of salvation, the scriptures also describe a widespread condition of open cynicism, distrust, skepticism, and unbelief. The scriptures and every basis for knowledge from GOD are opposed, including what may be regarded as the final and ultimate gift, the active presence and operation of the imparted, indwelling spirit from GOD, the Holy Ghost.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.
(Proverbs 25: 28, King James Version)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Marriage and Civil Law (08/14/2012); Apostasy Forgiven? (08/15/2012); Jesus Our “Advocate” (08/16/2012); Wrong To Love (08/17/2012); A Sin To Question? (02/17/2012); Why Religion, Anyhow? (02/18/2012); Dispatch 11: Peace (Hand in Hand) 08/19/2011; Conspiracy? (12/08/2010)
The issues that must be addressed by those in government always include the maintenance of sound definitions and standards for balance, continuity, consistency, decision-making, efficiency, leadership, vision, and trust. Among the elements that introduce weakness and that promote instability that results in collapse are such “natural” realities as ambition, anger, appetite, eccentricity, dishonor, fear, guilt, immaturity, injustice, violence, and lies.
Only through fundamental agreements and consensus put forth as law may any truly diverse population accomplish a minimal order that displays solidarity and unity. Many incorrectly describe law as impersonal, inflexible and unfeeling. However, law must be impartial, righteous, unimpeachable, and universal.
Just as those who lead must acknowledge those by whom they are led, those who govern must acknowledge whereby they themselves are governed. In societies that foster an illusion of equality, rejection of leadership is usually rife and widespread. Defiance and rebellion against hierarchy are counted as vital to individuality and maturity. True anarchy is an ideal that entails the perfection of mankind whereby conflict never occurs, or is instantly and agreeably removed. In cultures where celebrities, elected officials, public figures and prominent persons repeatedly come under the scrutiny of those who lack talent, are undereducated, are unskilled, and “out of the loop,” there is also an illusion of oneself being invulnerable to slander, irreproachable, safe, secure, and untouchable.
There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the enduring accomplishments of leaders demand discipline, focus, sacrifice and self-denial. Opposition encountered by those who lead often include aspects of their own personality. Included are envy, pride, secrecy, and stubbornness. For leaders and those in positions of trust, a self-destructive pattern of behavior and conduct that contradicts their most solemn word, and overturns their private lives, indicates a level of massive internal break-down. They are become erratic, unpredictable, unreliable and whipped.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Adam and Eve, arranged marriages, and the world system are topics, today. Also, there is more on being good stewards. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Anon” (Level 5 with 6,115 points, a member since March 7, 2013) posted the following:
Why don't Christians practice traditional marriage as God intended?
Traditional marriage = arranged marriage. Did God give Adam a choice between Eve and other women? No, he did not.
Additional Details
And he certainly did not require Adam to get down on one knee and ask for Eve's permission.
THE BATTLE AXE: On Being Good Stewards (12/17/2013)—(6.) Stewardship pertains to all the resources for life from GOD, and not merely to money and finances. Our abilities, intellect, skills, and talents come to us as investments from GOD, and should provide a return to GOD in such aspects as honor, glory, obedience, reverence, thanksgiving, and worship. Believers in Jesus are to provide leadership as stewards in the home, the community, and the workplace. (7.) The work of a sacred steward is the ministry of a prophet and spokesperson from GOD, for the steward is an agent and mediator specially appointed to regulate and distribute from the divine supply. Because believers receive from godly abundance, and are commanded to serve all who are needy, we are often shocked and shaken (as were the apostles of Jesus) to find that we ourselves do not have enough for all. On the one hand, we know whatever we give, or spend in our work as stewards, is to be understood as “on loan” to GOD, and the Almighty will repay. On the other hand, renewing our supply may not be done immediately, and according to any human payment schedule. Thus, in addition to giving over material goods and resources to the needy, the steward must continuously practice and provide to GOD acknowledgment, attention to detail, dutifulness, faithfulness, gratitude, humility, longsuffering, patience, praise, truthfulness, and worship. Believers are correct to challenge themselves, push themselves, and so far as possible answer every request. Yet, believers are to avoid “beating themselves up,” and “charging GOD foolishly.” Where we find ourselves with only five loaves and two fishes, and are unable to multiply and share with a multitude of thousands, our readiness to serve and act with faith is not to be reduced or weakened. The miracles of feeding five and then seven thousand began with an act of creation to establish divine order (seating everyone in groups of fifty). Just as when we began, our focus is to continue uninterrupted upon the spiritual gifts, and upon the eternal and unseen things. We must not forget that, in the process of GOD, by giving to just one, a blessing may come upon all (see 2nd Corinthians 5: 14-17 and Romans 5: 12-17, KJV). Also, see Proverbs 19: 17, James 1: 27, James 2: 15-18, Matthew 16: 9-11, Luke 6: 1-15 and 25-41, 1st John 3: 16-18, 2nd Corinthians 4: 15-18, King James Version.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause? And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away? He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so. And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery. His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry. But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given. (Matthew 19: 3-11, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Bible and Genealogy (09/10/2013); Why GOD Does Not Tell All (09/11/2013); Desire for Love? (07/05/2013); Errors of King Solomon? (06/13/2013); Salvation for Atheists (06/14/2013); The Church as a Bride? (05/15/2013); How Do I Repent? (05/16/2013); Family and Romance (10/13/2012); Why Courage? (10/14/2012)
“Anon”, here are a few points that have been useful for understanding of marriage among many Christian believers:
(1.) Marriage as a social institution is defined and structured by the “world,” and is distinct from marriage and holy matrimony that conform to divine law, and sacred presence in relationship. Mankind has created and developed the world as a system of interconnected beliefs and practices that make contact and exchange easier, permit communication, and promote survival.
(2.) GOD, who is spirit, has created and put forth mankind as well as the material sphere for human existence (i.e., the earth), while mankind, not GOD, generates and puts forth the world. Although many of the patterns, rules and standards that make up the world speak of GOD and spirit, they do so using the frameworks of time, space and finite awareness.
(3.) What the world calls the “marriage” of the male, Adam, to the female, Adam (as she was called by GOD), can not be properly understood using only the tools of the world—and the same may be said for family, incest, love, parenting and populating the earth. Thinking after the world, many fail to realize that both marriage and divorce are emblems of divine authority (what GOD has joined together, etc.). The world defines good/bad, real/unreal, right/wrong, true/false and many other aspects of its own existence centering only upon flesh (i.e., appetite such as hunger, thirst, sexual craving; sense such as hearing, tasting, touching; and mental activity such as desire, imagination, reasoning, recall).
There is far more to be said, correctly shared, and spiritually understood. ( For example, (4.) Eve—the name given by the male to the female—means “mother of all living.” While Eve gave birth to her own kind, and first accomplished human reproduction in the earth, Eve was to be a “caretaker” of all, not the one to give birth to every species and kind upon the earth. In fulfillment of divine purpose, Eve was to be a “life companion” to Adam, that would not separate Adam from GOD.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Charitable and holiday giving, and our roles or service as godly stewards are topics, today. Also there is more on attending ministry events unaccompanied. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “angelica” (Level since December 16, 2013) posted the following that was originally asked on Yahoo Answers Philippines:
God creates us to be stewards.. How could we be a good stewards?
HIII.... yeah i know god created us to be stewards but how could we be good at it?......
PLEASE someone answer this... This is so Hard .... PLEASE PLEASE i am begging you :'(
Thank you in advance if you answered seriously :D
THE BATTLE AXE: Going It Alone? (12/16/2013)—The disciples of Jesus were trained to go out in pairs. This is in line with legal requirements for testimony in judgment and determinations of truth (in the mouth of two or three let every word be established as in Deuteronomy 17: 6 and 19: 15; Matthew 18: 16; 2nd Corinthians 13: 1, KJV). Using pairs promotes teaching through demonstration and dialogue. Additionally, wisdom dictates the use of large groups and assemblies when making decisions that would have long-term and widespread impact. Government and rule will best prosper through collective strategies (see Proverbs 11: 14, Proverbs 15: 22 and Proverbs 24: 6, KJV). Also, there are Scriptures that promote teams of two as having needed advantage, while teams of three are stronger and more difficult to divide or separate (see Ecclesiastes 4: 8-12, KJV). A pair along with Jesus or his agent, the Holy Spirit, is able to function in dialog and council. Such teams are mechanisms for individual members to receive added information and guidance, correction, encouragement, and immediate response to concerns. With their unique contributions, team members are equipped to respond against unanticipated, unintended, and unplanned for challenges, events, and setbacks (see Isaiah 9: 6, John 8: 12-19 and 28-32, KJV).
THE GOLDEN ARROW: And when it was evening, his disciples came to him, saying, This is a desert place, and the time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves victuals. But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat. And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes. He said, Bring them hither to me. And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full. And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children. (Matthew 14: 15-21, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Sacrificial Relationship? (10/23/2013); Relationship by Unselfish Giving? (10/24/2013); GOD Bless America? (09/12/2013); Law, Slavery and Redemption (09/13/2013); The True Miracle (12/23/2012); About the Star (12/24/2012); Prosperity Destroys Fools (09/25/2012); Life and Death (09/26/2012)
“angelica”, I have been having a tough time responding to the “Christmas spirit” of the Black Friday and Cyber Monday holiday selling along with choosing a gift for my sisters upcoming 50th Anniversary, and the many end-of-year fund raising letters and requests from school alumni organizations and charities that I try to monitor and assist. At the moment, I feel paralyzed, frozen, and unable to give anything, to anybody, or encourage the holiday season at all. Even so, here are a few points you might find helpful:
(1.) Where the duty of a steward is to oversee household finances, the flow of money and necessary supplies, the keys to success are called “discipline,” “advanced planning,” “staying on budget” and “sticking to ones plan.” When you reach your limit, you plain have to accept it.
(2.) Success when serving GOD always requires we be alert to opportunities that call forth and apply divine gifts. So to speak, “When you got ’em, take ’em out and smoke ’em.”
(3.) Even when you may not give or share materially, you should continue to participate spiritually. Rejoice; keep a positive attitude; speak comfort and encouragement. Exhort to correct action. Acknowledge the giving and works of others.
(4.) Often, the Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. Similarly, the Spirit is willing, but the wallet is weak. We cannot personally answer every homeless person we may encounter on the streets; and we may have to be satisfied by our gifts to organizations and volunteers who maintain that as their ministry. Instead of weeping at what we may not do, we are to rejoice in what others are accomplishing.
There is far more to be said, correctly shared, and spiritually understood. For example, (5.) The poor are always with us, however, not to depress us, send us on guilt trips, or shame us. They are to touch our hearts in an experience of divine love from within ourselves. They are to call forth compassion, pity and respect from the deep wells of our inmost person that otherwise would not be stirred. They are to challenge us to continue mature and unselfish efforts in support of life. They are to further connect us to GOD in praise and prayer.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Today, a collegian asks about attending church functions unaccompanied; and there is more on how divine love continues despite the death of children. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Pat Robertson” (Level 2 with 477 points, since December 4, 2013) posted the following:
Is it weird to go to church by yourself?
Especially if your a college student. Theres this college ministry tonight and I dont know anyone there but I want to go. I have aspergers and o dont know if I should go because idk what it will be like.
THE BATTLE AXE: That Mortal Children Die? (12/15/2013)—The operations of flesh are material and mechanical in nature, and substance; and mortality requires completion with a “coming into harmony” necessary to eternal demands and imperatives. The tool of death has been shown to fulfill divine intent, and, so is not contrary to sovereign authority, divine love and sacred purpose. Those who are experiencing the heart of GOD, and are covered within the depths of GOD’s love through Jesus Christ, know as a certain and inarguable truth that GOD is hurt by the death of the just, and those that are innocents. Because of his majesty and power, the Almighty endures a great burden and sense of loss for all who die. Even so, duty and responsibility require continued divine restraint, separation, and the outworking of things already begun from the foundation of the earth and the heavens. (See again Ezekiel 18: 31-32 and 33: 11-20, 2nd Timothy 1: 7-10, Romans 5: 1-21 and Hebrews 2: 14-15, KJV.)
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes! Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments. I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not utterly. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes. (Psalms 119: 4-12, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Never Taught It? (10/13/2013); Without Pointing A Finger? (10/14/2013); A Relationship not Just Knowledge? (06/25/2013); Lost Without GOD? (06/26/2013); Struggling? (05/11/2013); Through Much Tribulation (05/12/2013); Jesus Lives! (05/04/2013); Experience Is Not Evidence? (05/05/2013); Church Mandatory? (05/06/2013); A GOD of Love? (05/07/2013); Life Given By Knowledge? (04/03/2013); A Spirit Church? (04/04/2013)
“Pat Robertson”, may I share a few thoughts based upon my college experience, and life as a Christian believer since a minor child of eight?
(1.) All of your own personal goals and purposes at this stage in your life require that you change by learning, growing, and developing necessary strength to fearlessly and independently make sound adult decisions. Because you are already anchored in meaningful beliefs and understandings, you do not have to shrink from new challenges and new situations. Like Christopher Columbus, you may go forward and sail on a broad sea as an explorer charting and mapping the way for others; yet, only as you continue to acknowledge the guiding stars that are the life line connecting you with your home port.
(2.) You are not at fault for needing confirmation and information, for simply being curios, or for wanting companionship with other believers. However, a person should be called “remiss” and in error when they fail to grasp that they have a duty as a follower and disciple of Jesus Christ to comfort other believers with the things from GOD they are receiving; build up the body of believers; encourage others to take decisive and godly action (we say, exhort); to make unselfish sacrifices (we say, love); and to proclaim the Gospel (we say, spread the good news).
There is far more to be said, correctly shared, and spiritually understood. For example, (3.) Believers are only without joy that comes from GOD (or “by themselves”) when they fail to “see” that it actually is present. Ones attention and gaze can be directed away to such elements as fears, needs, problems, sensations, and wounds. The evidences that you are not alone, and that you continue in the divine presence are bestowed upon believers through baptism and confirmation, and reside within you as the imparted, indwelling Spirit of GOD. This evidence does not “come and go,” however, our awareness of their action and operation may. Thus, believers hold to promises and truths from GOD that serve as anchors that express abiding faith.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Death, divine love, and the consequences of life choices are topics, today. A writer at “Yahoo! 7 Answers” (Australia) using the ID “Just wondering” (Level 6 with 14,287 points, 11 June 2009) posted the following:
1 year ago 20 innocent children died in Newtown Ct. Where was a loving god to protect them?
Newtown is but 1 example that demonstrates that such a god does not exist.
Additional Details
Perhaps you are correct Amanda and I apologize to the families should they read this.
THE BATTLE AXE: Life Choices (12/14/2013)—Rightly understood, a believer’s decision to follow Christ as a disciple, and to serve as one who proclaims his teaching through their daily living is a choice to willingly continue within a relationship based upon trust and truth, not upon temporal circumstances, conditions, and events that change over time. Many would not dare to show certain attitudes and behavior in front of their children, their parents, or their spouse. However, they fail to realize they often display cheap, crude, offensive, tasteless, and wasteful behavior before GOD. For this reason, in addition to transgression and violation of divine law, sin must come to be understood as the violation of ones commitment and covenant, of ones conscience, of ones integrity, and of ones own word of promise. Where you truly believe your conduct and habits are acceptable, and make possible the highest expressions of love and respect to GOD, there is no need for you to seek change. Where you truly believe you can learn more, do more, share more, seek change and blessing from GOD by increased fellowship with other believers, by prayer for endowments of the Holy Spirit, and by continued study of the holy writings. (See Job 5: 17-24, 1st Corinthians 11: 32-33, 1st John 3: 19-21 and Romans 14: 22, KJV.)
THE GOLDEN ARROW: There were present at that season some that told him of the Galilaeans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. And Jesus answering said unto them, Suppose ye that these Galilaeans were sinners above all the Galilaeans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. (Luke 13: 1-5, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Power of Death? (10/01/2013); Divine Love Revealed? (10/02/2013); Feeling Loved By GOD? (06/16/2013); To Find A True Christian (06/17/2013); Must We Really Die? (05/13/2013); Can GOD Die? (05/14/2013); Death Has Been Transformed (05/09/2013); Loving the Enemy? (05/10/2013); Emotional Appeal? (04/02/2013); Life Given by Knowledge (04/03/2013); A Slaughter of Innocents (12/15/2012); Signs of Messianic Belief (12/16/2012)
“Just wondering”, here are a few points of understanding you appear to lack that are widely held among committed Christian believers:
(1.) The existence of corruption and death among mortal beings do not derive from divine substance, sacred operations, and eternal purpose apart from other truths that proclaim and reveal divine love. Death can not stop GOD from receiving those children and adults who love him.
(2.) GOD is a spirit who, in the earth realm, appears in carnal and material person (we say, flesh—through people like me and you) within the created beings and living creatures generated from himself.
(3.) The operations of nonmaterial, non-spirit sin make it that all life in the earth is “at risk.” Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, of Divine Person, and of all that has been created of GOD. Yet, sin may dominate awareness and self-will in the living. Where sin does not appear as contrary and strange to a person’s nature, sin appears as acceptable and normal, and so there is no resistance to sin.
(4.) The spirit from GOD provided in the ministry of Jesus Christ, establishes a new nature within believers that recognizes and responds to divine love. GOD must be within you, love must be within us, and others like us, before we can accept the duty and privilege of protecting the innocent, being strong for the poor, being righteous and truthful to all.
There is far more to be said, correctly shared, and spiritually understood. For example, (5.) In a sense, until a sinner confesses a need for the permanent changes that GOD provides for their life, the sinner does not exist. GOD will exist without him, his belief, his respect. The sinner will not exist as part of the church, the family of GOD, the kingdom of GOD. Believers in Christ are also the proof for that, and an evidence of sacred things unseen to those who disbelieve.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith. Jesus is coming.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Divine acceptance, our life choices, and who is good among us are topics, today. Also, there is more on “should I speak”. A “Yahoo! 7 Answers” (Australia) using the ID “Me” (Level 1 with 142 points, a member since 22 March 2013) posted the following originally asked at Yahoo Answers Canada:
I'm a good Christian man wondering about his life choices. Does God think it's ok to have?
I'm a good Christian man wondering about his life choices. Does God think it's ok to have the indulgences we We do? Notflix ands such. Jesus our savior never had tv or even anything like that for himself or others. Sad but necessary for god
THE BATTLE AXE: Should I Speak? (12/13/2013)—(6.) More than ones title as bachelor, doctor, laureate, professor, or emeritus, the respect you show to others indicates the respect you are due. As young collegians, many of us have peculiar experiences of bereavement, failed relationships, growing up, sexual initiation, and life in the harsher aspects of the world. Given that our standing up to speak at church is a show of love (acting to unselfishly benefit others), and is intended to encourage and strengthen others in their struggles, what we say should focus on how Christ is helping us to continue our spiritual commitment despite challenges, distractions, enticements, and trials. Our “message” begins and flows forward once we realize that we have overcome, and recognize our triumph and victory through GOD. To share this, we don’t have to preach an exhaustive sermon. A little goes a long way. Your being there with gratitude, humility and respect to offer a smile, a friendly hand shake, or an embrace can be “testimony without words” that all will be able to take away with them. To avoid speaking of yourself, describe incidents from the lives of Bible figures, and how they were able to endure when swallowed up by the “great fish” of life experience and the World. Share the single Scripture passage that has most helped you, or that speaks most clearly to the point you want to make. Proclaim the promises of GOD that may serve as anchors to our highest hopes. Remember you are not alone in the process of coming to maturity and perfection. The seeds you sow will only take root and flourish as they convey the divine substance that you, in fact, continue to contain. GOD will be working with you, and through you; and you need only make a reasonable effort for Christ to use you to demonstrate and manifest his glory. See 1st Samuel 30: 1-6, 1st John 4: 8-10, 1st Peter 1: 3-16 and 2nd Peter 1: 2-11, King James Version.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD. And the people answered and said, God forbid that we should forsake the LORD, to serve other gods; For the LORD our God, he it is that brought us up and our fathers out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage, and which did those great signs in our sight, and preserved us in all the way wherein we went, and among all the people through whom we passed: And the LORD drave out from before us all the people, even the Amorites which dwelt in the land: therefore will we also serve the LORD; for he is our God. And Joshua said unto the people, Ye cannot serve the LORD: for he is an holy God; he is a jealous God; he will not forgive your transgressions nor your sins. If ye forsake the LORD, and serve strange gods, then he will turn and do you hurt, and consume you, after that he hath done you good. And the people said unto Joshua, Nay; but we will serve the LORD. And Joshua said unto the people, Ye are witnesses against yourselves that ye have chosen you the LORD, to serve him. And they said, We are witnesses. Now therefore put away, said he, the strange gods which are among you, and incline your heart unto the LORD God of Israel. And the people said unto Joshua, The LORD our God will we serve, and his voice will we obey. (Joshua 24: 14-24, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Need for A New Holy Spirit? (06/03/2013); Faith for Facing Tragedy? (06/04/2013); Struggling? (05/11/2013); Through Much Tribulation (05/12/2013); A Golden Ticket? (11/30/2012); And This Was Good News (12/01/2012)
“Me”, there are many things in Christian belief that one must internalize, or take into their inner being as a clear and full aspect of their day to day awareness. While it is true, believers escape divine condemnation through the provisions of Jesus Christ, when on earth, the Lord endorsed the teachings that declare there is none good but GOD (see Psalm 14: 1-4, Jeremiah 4: 22 and Matthew 19: 16-30, KJV). Truths describing human nature outside the salvation of GOD, further clarify the need for GOD that resides in created beings and living creatures. Through Christ, GOD is making permanent changes to, re-creating, and transforming all existence.
Just as our choices should express and demonstrate to others our beliefs and commitments, they will also indicate the level of our certainty, our growth, or our desire for more of GOD and Christ. Our choices will expose our confusions, our ignorance, what we may be lacking, how much further we may have to go, and what are our weaknesses. Even so, we submit ourselves to Christ for continuing correction. Just as Adam had “no say” in his own Creation, we today have little say in Salvation and Judgment. We operate in trust and with the understanding “GOD is not through with me, yet.”
There is far more to be said, correctly shared, and spiritually understood. For example, many fail to recognize and properly resist sin, because sin is not material. Sin has influence upon awareness and self-will that is most visible through behavior and conduct. Sin appears as an acceptable aspect of ones own makeup, and does not appear contrary to ones normal way of functioning. It is in this sense that sin “deceives”, and is exalted through aspects of our humanity that are part of what we are from birth to death: appetite (hunger, thirst, sexual cravings), sensation (hearing, seeing, tasting) and mind (imagination, recall). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith. Jesus is coming.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
