Christ Is Not Popular, or…

 ... a Democrat, Republican; Left or Right; or even an American. 

This post is going to be a little bit rant-y, and all over the place. Bear with me.

I was watching a video by a Christian movie maker. I'd not heard of this man until a couple of nights ago. Not even 10 minutes into an hour+ long video, I had to stop and leave a comment. The comment was not directed at the presenter. I don't know what his views are - except that he is Christian - but his channel seems to reach a lot of people. So, I guess my comment was for them and other Christians in general:

"One of the biggest problems today (just my opinion) is that so many of us Christians have such polarized views of "good" and "evil". One blatant example is Left = evil and Right = good.  Early in this video, 2 guys are discussing Netflix and buyouts. I notice the view that Trump being friends with Ellison was positive while the Obamas were shown as negative. Trump, Obama - none of them are on the side of good. They are all in it for money & wealth and promoting worldly principles. We Christians have to be careful against subtle manipulation. The Obamas don't even try that hard to pretend to be Christians, not even a little bit. Meanwhile, Trump surrounds himself with people who wear crosses and have "ministries". All the while NONE of them are promoting Christ - not by their actions or regular behaviors. I've had non-Christians upset with me for not accepting worldly ("leftist") agenda & Christians calling me leftist because I don't accept so many of the behaviors of those on the political Right. Jesus' kingdom is not of this world - and certainly not of America. We all need to remember that."

That's something I feel like I need to say so often these days.  I feel that one of the biggest manipulations we Christians need to watch out for is that of our national pride. Our traditional pride in our country is something citizens elsewhere notice. Some are surprised by it; others are envious of it and others are maybe just amused. I saw a remark online once that they can recognize an American tourist by how loud they speak and by their clothing - usually something imprinted with our flag or a slogan about our American pride. That is funny (and probably true).

What is not funny but very true is that we are often a victim to that pride. We take our politics personally - much like citizens in some other countries do - but we don't often take it seriously enough to study. Citizens of other countries often make fun of Americans for not knowing world geography or knowing much of about anything outside of America. We are the butt of a lot of jokes about our lack of education.

None of that has bothered me as much as it does these days. It is more important now because our lack of knowledge is allowing us to be manipulated by politicians (and politics).

If we understood our political system better, we wouldn't rely on media to provide an opinion. Or, at least, we would recognize when we were being ill-informed.

We have become fans of the people on televised news. Most major news media outlets count on our liking (or not) of the presenters. Newspeople have stopped pursuing journalism and began focusing on entertainment.

I almost never count on the mainstream news outlets anymore. Instead, I look to smaller news sources. I keep up with a lot of "citizen journalists". I don't care how much a newsperson agrees or disagrees with my personal views; I just want them to present the news so I can be informed. I don't want antics or "personality"; I want information. Period.

Have you noticed how people who are popular for presenting and analyzing data have become so performative? Harrey Enten immediately comes to mind. 

Okay. It seems the steam has run out in my rant-o-machine. 

Seriously, I just want people to pay more attention to everything around them. Are you being informed, entertained, programmed, or distracted? Do you know the difference?

Peace

--Free

Power Behind the Thrones

The mess we (America and the rest of the world) are in is not because of what so many of us may think. 

It's not because of politics being Red or Blue or people being black or white. Where we are is where we've always been headed - toward the conclusion of a war that's been raging ever since Lucifer fell.

For a long time - since 2008 when Obama was elected to 2024 when Trump won a second election - I believed in the Red/Blue, black/white reasons. First, I was elated at having a first black man in the White House - a building constructed in large part by black slaves. Then I was deflated as I realized that Obama was just another politician and not a "magical Negro" who was going to be America's hero. Then I was resigned to the fact that politics is a game and all the players in power are a gang. They may not all be friends, but they are a gang that protects its members.

When Christian nationalism surged here in the U.S., I began to come to my senses. I remembered that I am a Christian and our Lord's kingdom is not here on this earth. America is nothing but one in a long line of national powers beguiled by its own current standing. 

How many other powerful "empires" came before and are no more? Rome is the most memorable to Americans, but there were others. The Persians and Germans, and - here's the biggie - Babylon. I've forgotten much of the history I was taught in school, so I had to refresh my memory of the largest powerhouses of politics and royalty.  

I am ashamed to admit that it took me too long to really come to my full senses and see what is so clear: America is no better than her people and leaders. And we are currently a hot mess. But, as a Christian, that should never have been a surprise to me.

Understand that when I say I am a "Christian", I'm not speaking of a denomination or political alliance. I am saying that I believe Jesus died for me. I am saying that I believe what the Holy Bible teaches. I am saying the I am a Christian - a follower of Christ, the Son of God. 

SOURCE

What is happening now - in America and the rest of the world - is not new. It is shocking to those of us living through a time when our government is in turmoil. I am only just now becoming jaded to having a sitting president behave as ours does.

I believe what the Bible teaches about "power behind the throne". Every person operates under the influence of something. Christians should operate under the influence of the Holy Spirit and live as Jesus instructs us. Everyone believes something and their beliefs dictate their doings.

Anyone after earthly power, wealth, fame, and glory (and willing to do anything for that) is operating under an influence. That influence is the power behind their "throne". There is a present ruler of this world - and it's not Christ - and there are people who serve him, whether or not they realize it yet.

The other night I heard part of a "Christian" podcast. The speaker was saying which political leader he supports and explained the reason. He said he wanted to support a "man of God" who supports Israel and good, moral causes. Let's break that down...

As Christians, we don't put out faith in men (see how the Apostle Peter shows this), we worship God only. Men are fallible - some are so fallible that they should come with flashing warning lights! 

As Christians, we are to support Israel and pray for the peace of Jerusalem. We are even told that we will be blessed or cursed based on how we treat Israel. 

However... If you check the linked resources above, you will see that it speaks on separating people from politics and discusses issues of right and wrong. So, we are not to blindly support people, principles or politics. And that is where some modern Christians get things twisted.

I will say that it's a good idea (in my opinion) to do pay more attention to what the Bible has to say and less about what our politicians post and speak on. Instead of being frustrated with those who have different political beliefs, we should focus on praying for people to find Christ. We should pray for Christ's return.

There's that advice "Don't watch what they say, watch what they do". When I say "they", I mean your fellow Christians. Are they doing Christ-like things? Are they praying? Are they trying to spread the gospel? 

As for the people in power, try to guess the power behind their "thrones". How are they using their power? Who are they helping with that power? 

We have to be so careful not to be so impressed (or repulsed, angered, surprised, etc.) by anything that we take our eyes off of God.

Peace

--Free

P.S.: I am planning to check out the source for the Cultural/Bible image. It looks very interesting. 

 

All This "Maxxing"

As a Boomer, I am late to hearing about this trend called "looksmaxxing" (the process of maximizing one’s own physical attractiveness). After seeing a few videos (like this one about this guy) of some of the faces of this trend, I have not been able to get over the idea. I keep thinking how empty people must feel in their hearts to look for such ways to find joy and meaning.

 That people are trying to find ways to max out their physical looks is not new; it just feels so extreme to me. I want to think that people like this are ridiculous, but I feel so bad for them though I'm not sure why.

There is nothing new under the sun but, these days, it seems that everything is being taken to new levels. For some people, it's not enough to be healthy, they have to be uber healthy. There are folks like the one rich guy who has gone to new extremes with anti-aging measures. And the guy (recently in the news for other things) who built a career on the idea of achieving longevity.

Look the best, live the longest, make more money, have more, bigger and better things. The secular world is out here life-maxxing like mad. Meanwhile, I have to remind myself to spend more time with the Bible every day. I struggle sometimes to be more kind and caring to others. Sometimes, my first instinct is to laugh at the people I've mentioned - until I realize I should be praying for them. 

I have been thinking that if Christians put an nth of the effort into Bible study, prayer, witnessing, being caring and charitable, etc. as the "life-maxxing" folks do... Wow. Imagine the effect. 

So, I am going to be thinking about this whole maxxing thing. I'm going to be applying that to some of the areas of my life. And I'm going be to hoping that the people out there so desperate to feel whole, find Jesus.

Peace

--Free

Revelation 1:3 and Me

Somehow, the other week, Revelation 1:3 got on my radar. 

I had never focused on the part about reading the prophecy aloud seemed new to me. Some long time ago, I first heard that it's good to read the Bible aloud and that it helps retention and understanding.

Anyway, I decided to read Revelation. Out loud. It has been beneficial. For one thing, while reading aloud, I am more focused on checking commentaries as I go through the verses. Thankfully, I have several Bible translations and a variety of commentaries because of the amazing eSword. 

BTW eSword is right up there in my favorite resources along with Got Questions, Blue Letter Bible, and BibleRef. And ALL of them are FREE...

It has been a blessing to read Revelation out loud. I am now intending to do the same whenever I read or study any part of the Bible. 

Here's a weird thing I have noticed. There is such a cloud of noise and other distractions around us that it's hard to think clearly. I feel sometimes as if I am wading through a tunnel of "news and information", social media posts, chattering neighbors, and so much other stimuli that I don't get a chance to think clearly and deeply about anything real. Deep breath!

There is so much unorganized noise around us that it's hard (at least for me) to have an organized train of thought.

Reading the Bible aloud made me realize this. When I read the words aloud, I am focused on those words. I am focused on what they mean and how they apply to life.  Most of the other "noise" in my life - social media, entertainment media, etc. - is all like a diet of drugs and dessert, filling my up without fulfilling me.

I won't go on a rant about how I - like a lot of people - spend too much time dealing with my phone and consuming the "junk food" of media. I will say reading Revelation aloud truly has been a blessing to me. I'm going to try to focus on having a healthier diet of what I let into my mind and heart.

Peace

--Free

The Biggest Distraction

Everyone is aware that the world seems to be more in turmoil lately. Maybe because the worst turmoil is in a place that was once the icon of Western stability - the USA. Initially, I wanted to blame politics and its bad actors, but now I'm thinking we are all to blame. Everything has become so performative. That was only mildly annoying when it was to do with social media - you know, with everyone become an 'influencer' of some sort. I thought it was just another social/cultural phase when people went from simple YouTubing - being serious, being too sharing, being outrageous, being silly, etc. - to making it a lifestyle. Everyone was suddenly a 'content creator'. There were parents putting their family life (for better or for worse) on display. Every day it seemed there was a new family of some specific number in a house, van, or on the road. It wasn't enough to showcase details of the latest mystery or gossip or story, but some people decided to do it all while applying makeup or doing their hair.

I was only annoyed when all the creating and influencing and showboating was to do with meaningless media, but then the shift came for the news. Not that I ever fully trusted the news to be unbiased or untainted by hidden manipulation, but when it became so obviously and purposefully performative...

Every newsperson (I don't know what else to call them) became their own media character. You had your left-wingers, right-wingers, and swing-wingers. There was the highly educated and the questionably educated and so on. I am pretty sure that whoever it is that does manipulate society has a casting department. When the networks need a Rachel Maddow, Greg Gutfeld, or Don Lemon, I imagine a meeting of shadowy people who send out a request to other shadowy people. Suddenly, *we the people/viewers* have a new face to focus on; someone relatable to represent all our frustrations and energy.

What I wonder is if there really are any significant numbers of people left who know their way around the information minefield that is the "news". Does anyone still think critically enough to know that there is really no longer "news" but instead just "approved propaganda"?

The thing is, that this is happening doesn't bother me in the way someone might think. I know that this is what it was all coming down to. Man has been playing to his own destruction since Adam and Eve messed up in the Garden. 

Everything - from the beginning - has been a war. "We the people" have always been the prize. We were never in control of society or culture. The only control we've ever had is over our personal choices.  Everything outside of that is part of the many battles in this war. The only way to win - and we can only win or lose for ourselves - is the make the right choice.

Every struggle and triumph in a person's life are just cobblestones in their whole walk, and everyone will influence that all-important choice. In the end of it all, it's not going to matter how wealthy or poor, healthy or not; no matter what you look like or what talent you have or don't have; what friends and connections you do or don't have. All that is going to matter is the choices you made that led to the most important choice.

There won't be anyone counting their money in Heaven or Hell. No one is going to care that you did or didn't achieve whatever success in your mortal life. Your mortal self won't matter in your immortal eternity. 

So, all this worldly, human STUFF is just distraction to keep your eye from seeing what the shadowy manipulators are doing. They don't want you to see your way to Jesus. They know that if you see the Messiah, he will be your way to God. 

Don't be distracted. Don't let the good or the bad of this world keep you away from eternal salvation.

Peace

--Free

"The more I study science, the more I believe in God." — Albert Einstein

So Much in Vain

The other night, YouTube plopped an old video of the Jacksons in my feed. As a tweenager, I was Jackson 5 mad! As a teenager, I was Michael Jackson mad. As an adult, I had fond memories of being a fanatic for the musical Jacksons. Then I discovered Jesus.

So. When this video popped up, I could almost picture my fourteen-year-old self, daydreaming and practicing my signature as "Mrs. M. Jackson". I went ahead and took a look at the video. It was a reunion of sorts of the all the Jacksons- 6 of them counting their baby brother. As adults they still wore the dazzlingly bright outfits, a lot of silver and sheen. They still had the harmony and the synchronized moves. I listened to a medley of hits from their past. I was shocked and ashamed that I still knew all the words! If I had as many Bible verses as memorized, I'd be grateful.

When the video was over, I sat there having thoughts about talent, fame, worldly glory and... the worthlessness of it all.

The video also showed the audience. People were losing their minds to the joy of seeing a famous group perform. I even saw a little kid who was so excited I think he may have been overwhelmed. It was all very "wow".

And what does it matter to the ones who are no longer here? 

Of course, I can't help but think of Ecclesiastes 1.

I don't know where Michael or any other deceased artists are, but all that dancing, singing, or playing of instruments - none of it matters now. At one point in the video, I had watched as the famous brothers made some of the well-known dance moves - pivoting in sync and turning left to point fingers. On beat the jutted their heads forward to follow the pointing hands. Very slick and it took who knows how much practice. And not only does it no longer matter, but it actually seems silly.

I'm not picking on the famous because we all are proud of things that one day will no longer matter. Having a spectacular talent, intellectual abilities, stellar attractiveness, and on and on. We need to focus more on the things of eternity.

One good thing that came out of seeing that "blast from the past" is that it prodded me to re-focus. I need to be spending more time learning the Bible. I should know it better than I know the lyrics to someone's songs. Amen?

Peace

-- Free

Easy Encouragement

For those of us who don't use social media constantly, it can be hard sometimes to keep in touch with people. I wanted to share something I started doing a few months ago.

In one of my little circles, I have my sisters-in-law and some nieces. I put them in a group in my phone contacts list. Once a week, I share a short message or verse from my own Bible study. It's nothing fancy and it doesn't take a lot of time (now that I know how to dictate my texts by voice!).

The first message I shared was that: 

Matthew & John are written for believers - Matthew for new ones & John for mature ones. Mark & Luke primarily for unbelievers. Mark with news about Jesus & to have faith in him. Luke - the only Gentile - is concerned that fellow Gentiles should know Christ.

That was a little tidbit from Unlocking the Bible by David Pawson (he covers the Old & New Testaments). As soon as it came up in my study, I knew it was perfect for sharing. The latest message I sent was from Chuck Missler's Learn the Bible in 24 Hours (Old & New Testaments). It was very helpful to me when the very first time I saw it:

• You have been saved from the penalty of sin (Justification Eph. 2:8,9 & Rom 5:18)
• You are being saved from the power of the flesh (Rom. 7:24–25), the world (1 John 5:4), and the devil (James 4:7) - (Sanctification)
• You shall be saved from the presence of sin (Redemption /Glorification of our body Rom. 8:23)

The ladies really loved that one!

So, yeah, this is such a simple and quick way to encourage and uplift loved ones. And it hasn't hurt me to reiterate those messages in my own heart.

Peace

--Free 

Are You Discouraged or Encouraged?

I just want to share a short message with you. I was about to take another look at the news before going to bed, but I decided not to. Sometimes, I can really see that the news is not so much to inform us but to inflame us. I can do without that nonsense tonight.

A lot of friends and neighbors have been feeling the weight of all this national turmoil. Of course, we Americans tend to think we are the center of the universe. If things get bad here, we assume it's a sign of the end of all times. Well, we are not the center of the universe, but I do believe that this world is creeping into end times chaos.

It is hard not to get discouraged when so much of the secular media is pushing doom and a lot of Christian news is putting man at the forefront - forgetting that our hope is to be in Christ alone. But we must not forget that.

I try to remind myself that the more chaotic this world gets, the closer we are to the return of Jesus. That should be our focus. We need to stop wringing our hands over what politicians are (or not) doing and start warning people to be ready for the Lord.

Recently, I started a text group with the women in my family. Every week, I share something I learned in my Bible study. Of course, I have mentioned the blackboard I hang outside my door. I share some verse or verses of encouragement. These are little things, but they matter.

So, keep praying and keep living for the Lord. 

Peace

--Free

Are You Okay? Do You Know That You Matter?

My younger brother is one of those people who has no problem bringing up his faith with strangers. He will be having one of those brief interactions with someone in a grocery store and somehow manage to bring up why he puts his trust in Jesus. I've tried to emulate his methods and end up working myself into a state of anxiety about it.

I have found one way to spread the gospel - in a very passive way. I bought a large blackboard to hang outside my apartment door. Every few days I will write out a Bible passage for people to see as they pass by. For the first several weeks I wondered if anyone took time to notice, then neighbors started to comment (positively) about it. One day, I stepped out and caught the building's cleaning lady taking a snapshot of the board. She explained that since she didn't have time to write down the messages, she always took a snap. (By the way, I have since learned that some neighbors do take time to write down the chapter and verse to read later!)

So, while I have found a way to share some of the Bible with a limited amount of people, I do want to start being more Christlike in my interactions with more people. I have found one way to do this - even though I get some anxiety about it! 

The idea came to me after I recently attended a family wedding. One of my young relatives seemed to be struggling with thoughts of his life mistakes as he watched the new couple celebrate. To strangers, he looked like any other guest at the event - happy and enjoying the festivities. I felt that he seemed to be a little melancholy, and I know that he has separated from his own wife after just a few years. I've been there: having to watch other couples so happy when your own relationship has faltered.

I didn't get a chance to say anything about all this at the time but, when I got home, I did send this person a message. I simply let him know that I saw his pain and that I could relate. I let him know I'm here if he needs me. He sent me a heart and kiss back. At least he knows now that his pain is recognized.

Not sure where I am going with all this. I guess I just wanted to encourage everyone to be Christlike in their interactions. Not all of us are as bold as my brother, but we can all be loving and kind in other ways.

If you see someone who needs to be checked on, check on them. It doesn't take a lot to let someone feel "seen". Everyone wants to matter. 

Peace

--Free

Music - Listening or Hearing

When I was growing up and listening to a lot of music, my friends would tease me because I always misheard lyrics. There is a name for that now: mondegreens. Huh.

I looked up and found a list of common examples of misheard lyrics:

"I Can See Clearly Now"

by Johnny Nash: Some listeners hear "I can see clearly now Lorraine is gone" instead of the correct lyric "I can see clearly now the rain is gone". 

"I'm a Believer"

by The Monkees: The lyric "Then I saw her face, now I'm a believer" is sometimes misheard as "Then I saw her face, now I'm gonna leave her". 

"Losing My Religion"

by R.E.M.: The line "That's me in the corner, that's me in the spotlight" is often misheard as "Let's pee in the corner, let's pee in the spotlight". 

"Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)"

by Eurythmics: The title lyric is sometimes misheard as "Sweet dreams are made of cheese". 

"Blowin' in the Wind"

by Bob Dylan: The lyric "The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind" is sometimes misheard as "These ants are my friends, they're blowin' in the wind".

 

"Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap"

by AC/DC: The title is often misheard as "Dirty deeds and the thunder chief" or "Dirty deeds and they're done with sheep". 

Kind of silly, right? But I'm sure we can all relate. Misheard lyrics are one thing. At least we are paying attention to what we think is being said. What bothers me is when we don't apply discernment to what we hear.

I think it was the pastors Joe Schimmel and G. Craige Lewis that first prompted me to pay attention to lyrics and meanings.  One song we've probably all heard at least once is "I Write the Songs" sung by Barry Manilow, but written by Beach Boy Bruce Johnston.

On the surface of my mind, I always heard the song as a lovely melodious tribute to the creativity. Then, as I said, I was prompted to get out of my social emotions and pay attention to what was being conveyed. 

Here are the lyrics and, as you read them, think about who is speaking and what the message is. I boldfaced some of the words:

I've been alive forever

And I wrote the very first song

I put the words and the melodies together

I am music, and I write the songs

I write the songs that make the whole world sing

I write the songs of love and special things

I write the songs that make the young girls cry

I write the songs, I write the songs

My home lies deep within you

And I've got my own place in your soul

Now when I look out through your eyes

I'm young again, even though I'm very old

I write the songs that make the whole world sing

I write the songs of love and special things

I write the songs that make the young girls cry

I write the songs, I write the songs

Oh, my music makes you dance

And gives your spirit to take a chance

And I wrote some rock 'n' roll, so you can move

Music fills your heart, well, that's a real fine place to start

It's from me, it's for you

It's from you, it's from me

It's a worldwide symphony

I write the songs that make the whole world sing

I write the songs of love and special things

I write the songs that make the young girls cry

I write the songs, I write the songs

I write the songs that make the whole world sing

I write the songs of love and special things

I write the songs that make the young girls cry

I write the songs, I write the songs

I am music (music), and I write the songs. 

People might say that the song is from the viewpoint of God - I read that's what Johnston claimed. But would God want to make anyone cry? Would God want your spirit to take a chance?

G. Craige Lewis once pointed out that Lucifer was created with "tabrets" and "pipes," built into him. Some people think of Lucifer as having been a chief musician in Heaven. That's debatable,  but it's how many people think of him.

My point is that we (okay, me) often hear without listening. Even I have thought a lot of innocent-sounding songs have deeper and darker meanings buried in them.  Mainly, I chose these because something in them just felt wrong in my spirit. You might some debatable but here is a list:

• "Stairway to Heaven" Led Zeppelin
• "Sympathy for the Devil" The Rolling Stones
• "Hotel California" The Eagles
• "Riders on the Storm" The Doors

Actually, I didn't like anything by The Doors because the lead singer creeped my out for some reason...

Here are a couple of videos showing more songs. I noticed I already had some on my list.

And don't think that so-called "gospel" and "Christian worship" songs are any better. So many people striving to be "stars" are doing anything to get there. Anyway, people, be more discerning in your every day life, as I will be.

Peace

--Free

Watching Signs Unfold

 Jesus warned that we are not to date-set. He taught that the timing of the end times is known only to God the Father, not even the Son Himself or the angels know the exact day or hour. 

He said that we could watch for signs of the end being near.  In Matthew 24 and Luke 21, Jesus described various events that would precede his return, including:

• wars,
• rumors of wars,
• famines, 
• earthquakes, 
• and increased wickedness. 

These were not to be confused with false signs and wonders. 

Lately, it seems the signs are unfolding all around the world. In Matthew 24:32, Jesus warns his followers to observe signs in the sky, specifically related to the time of his return. He says, 

"When the fig tree's branches become tender and bear leaves, you know that summer is near. So, when you see these signs in the sky, you know that the Son of Man is near, at the very door." 

I was reading the news this morning and could only shake my head because so much is happening every day that reads like it came right out of the pages of the Bible.

"And there will be signs in the sun, moon, and stars, and upon the earth distress of nations in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves."

"Men fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken." 

"So also, when you see these things taking place, know that the kingdom of God is near."

"You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times."

Jesus gave us a heads-up. Let me ask you if any of these sound like every day things:

• He described a time when people would love themselves and their money, be boastful and proud, and disobedient to God. 
• Jesus spoke of a time when love would wane, with people prioritizing pleasure over God. 
• He foretold a period of intense suffering, such as the world had never seen before, and would not see again. 

Now, those are things that anyone, regardless of their faith (or lack of) can relate to. Christians, can see these things happening.

•  2 Timothy 3:5 condemns having "a form of godliness but denying its power".  I can't count how many people that I hear talking about "higher powers" and being "spiritual". And so many people within the Christian churches look no different from people in covens and cults and Atheistic gatherings. 
• False teachers are more prominent it seems that true carriers of the Gospel. I see people putting the word "Pastor" before their names as if they bought the letters off a shady website. They are living for wealth and beauty and fashion and fame harder than any Hollywood hustler. Most of them look like they belong on reality shows.
• People compromising their faith to please human sensitivities. I don't deny anyone the choice to be or believe whatever they want. However, I will not be bullied into being okay with sinful choices and/or lifestyles.
• People even in the USA can be forced to act against their Christian beliefs under the threat of losing a job. Not so much is anyone forcing people to suppress their sinful behavior to fit in. I don't mind not wearing a cross to a job. Why should someone else mind not using odd pronouns or wearing certain attire to a job?
• What was once considered wrong is now considered right and vice versa. In no many situations.

So, as I go through the days, I can almost feel the time of the Lord coming.

Please, get past you stubbornness or willfulness and just consider the fact that the Bible is true. Ask yourself what you are betting your eternity on. 

Peace

--Free

Books For New (or non-) Christians

It's always such a joyful thing when someone accepts Christ into their heart. I get really excited when this happens to a family member or one of our friends. Of course, my impulse is to inundate them with Bible studies and reading plans. I think it's natural to want to shower our new Christian siblings with Bible teaching and more information, but it's also often just too overwhelming for them.

I have learned over the years to be more patient in sharing things with the newbie Christian. There are several books that I usually end up recommending - not just to them, but to anyone showing an interest. Here are some of them. (NOTE: I am only using Amazon links for the ease, but you can find most or all of these on many sites, including Christianbook.com.)

Non-Fiction

• The Readable Bible - Of course, the Christian needs a Bible. I always recommend that they get a parallel with the KJV. A lot of Christians (or younger people) can be intimidated by the KJV, but the language is beautiful. I usually suggest that a 2nd Bible be something more readable to the user (depending on their age and eyesight). The Readable Bible is one of my favorites to read for leisure.
• Learn the Bible in 24 Hours: An Overview of the Whole Bible from Chuck Missler- This is the best Bible study I've done. It covers the main points of each book in the Bible and leads the student to further study. The bonus for me is that there are YouTube videos on the Koinonia House ministry channel available for those that cannot afford to buy a set of DVDs. I was able to spend a bit of time on a daily basis and go through the study solo. Next time, I plan to include my local family. (There is also a handbook and a guide available.)
• Pagan Christianity?: Exploring the Roots of Our Church Practices (by Frand Viola)- That's a provocative title, and it probably even more so for the new Christian. I found it to be a wonderful look into the history behind the why of what we do in churches and worship. It was eye-opening, and I learned things such as how Sunday school came about and why certain clergy dress as they do. After reading this one, I began to think more carefully about what it means to be a Christian - regardless of denomination, region, and culture.  (And, no, Christianity is not pagan, but some of the things we practice might be.)
• The Story of Reality: How the World Began, How It Ends, and Everything Important that Happens in Between (Gregory Koukl) - This was a very enjoyable read of looking at and thinking about reality from a Christian worldview. As Christians, we know (or learn) about God and our place in this world, but this book helps clarify things. (This is one of the books that I like recommending to non-believers.)
• Unparalleled: How Christianity's Uniqueness Makes It Compelling  (Jared C. Wilson) - The title sums it up. Christianity is not like any other religion because it is not a "religion". This book really helps show why anyone has to look at Christianity as truth and not simply "religion" or blind tradition.

Fiction:

• The Screwtape Lettters by. C.S. Lewis is a series of correspondence between a senior and a junior demon. Senior is trying to train Junior in the ways of tempting and winning over souls to Hell. Seniors lessons remind us humans of what we are taught in 1 Peter 5:8 (that "Satan roams about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour".  Interesting that the two demons think of their potential human prey as meals...). I don't agree with all of Lewis' theology, but I like the way he gets a lot of points across
•  Richard Platt's "As One Devil To Another" - is an updated play on Lewis's book. Different demons and same temptations in a modern setting. 
•  Randy Alcorn's "Lord Foulgrin's Letters" is in the same vein as Screwtape and One Devil.
• Chronicles of the Host  by D Brian Shafer - This is probably the most awesome to read set of books on the battle between good and evil, told from an angelic viewpoint. (There are other similar series, such as Wendy Alec's Chronicles of Brothers and Donovan M. Neal's The Third Heaven.)
• Wars of the Realm by Chuck Black - this series is one that I like suggesting for the young crowd (anyone from about 10 and up, or younger even). The dramatized audiobook is especially awesome. The fantasy story is about the adventure of a young person going into battle with angels of the light against evil.

I will have to update this list when I have more time. There are many other books I want to include but I want to be able to do so when my head is clear. For now, I hope this is a good start!

Peace

Free

Disclaimers: 

I was not/am not compensated in any way for anything in this post.

I do not endorse or agree with everything represented in the mentioned books. I did not find anything overtly objectionable in them. 

Always be prayerful and use discernment when reading or studying anything to do with your faith.

When We Are Tested (and We Will Be Tested)

 As Christians, we know that we will be tested. When we are tested, we have to hold on strongly to everything we believe about our Father. That He is with us in everything. That He has not left us orphaned. We need to know that this world is not our reward, our home, or our final place. 

We are dealing with illness in my family. The situation is testing us all. I was thinking that we are always so thankful for the blessing we see as being positive. What this situation is teaching me, as have other situations, is that we are to be thankful even in suffering. Blessings come in many forms, and not those that we always see as being blessings.

Whenever I am in the center of a storm of troubles, I feel like Peter when he walked with Jesus on the water. I start strong and end up faltering at a point. However, once I come through something, it is always with a little more love for my Lord and a little more faith. Right now, I still feel like I'm floundering. I was trying to remember the lyrics to a beautiful song, "I Know the Master of the Wind".

My boat of life sails on a troubled sea
Ever there's a wind in my sail
But I have a friend who watches over me
When the breeze turns into a gale

I know the master of the wind (ooooh)
I know the maker of the rain
He can calm the storm
And make the sun shine again
I know the master of the wind

Sometimes I soar like an Eagle to the sky
Among the peaks my soul can be found
An unexpected storm may drive me from the heights
May bring me low but it cannot bring me down

He has never left me in my troubles, but sometimes I find myself looking for Him in my feelings. I don't always feel safe. I don't always feel calm. But mine is not a God of emotions. He is God, the I Am. So, I have been trying to keep in mind the last verse of that song:

Let Jesus calm your storm
And make the sun shine again
He is the master of the wind

Yes, He is. I hope this helps you hold up when you go through troubles of your own.

Peace

--Free

Master of the Wind was written by Joel Hemphill

Christians and "Christians"

 As a Christian, I don't put my faith in politics and worldly power. However, I do realize we live as citizens under government rule. I know that, one day, the world will be tested by a satanic government. For much of my life, I wondered how on earth Christians would be fooled by that demonic ruler. 

Let me stop here and say that I don't view the current U.S. White House administration as the Antichrist. In my lifetime, I don't think there have been any W.H. administrations that were Christ-focused. As Jesus taught, this world is not his kingdom. What I do notice with the current administration is that citizens are being tested on how far they will let a rogue leader go. I'm not surprised by the W.H. Chief Resident (that's as far as I will go in giving him a title) being egged on by his faithful followers. I am surprised by how many Christians are either silent or complicit in this social experiment (and, yes, that is what I think it is).

When rich people target the poor, sick, hungry, young and elderly and least empowered, Christians should not be gleeful. When laws and rules are ignored, Christians should not be okay with that. When a powerful leader uses his position to cause undue chaos, Christians should not be cheering him on.

Where is common decency? Have we forgotten about all the manners and rules that we teach our children to follow? 

I believe that a lot of Christians believe the politicians who say that they will do away with legalized sinful behavior. And a lot of politicians will say that to get elected - while they themselves are participating in those same sins! 

I don't agree with sinful behavior being legalized or normalized. I don't support gay rights, abortion or drug use. I don't support sin of any kind, but I believe that people are free to sin. I do pray that they will repent, and I pray for their struggles. I am not sinless, but I am not happily and unrepentantly sinful. Sin is a struggle for all of us, so I am not pointing a self-righteous finger at anyone.

It's so difficult to watch people who call themselves "Christian" while they let hate motivate their actions. I recently saw one person wearing a shirt with anti-Semitic slogans at the same time they were proclaiming to be Christian. I don't know if some people realize that the Christ of Christianity was born a Jew.

It's hard for me to understand a well-fed Christian hating any hungry person. I can't understand a Christian who is poor hating another poor person. I really cannot understand a Christian fanatically supporting anyone, let alone a very obviously non-Christian. 

My heart breaks when I see "Christians" proclaiming that their faith is a man - be he their pastor, teacher, or government leader. Our faith is to be in Christ alone. Our actions are not to be based on our feelings or biases but on the teachings of Christ.

If I see a hungry, sick, hurting, or frightened person, I don't care whether they are gay, Atheist, black, white or whatever. I am going to feed them or help not because of my personal feelings, but because that is what my faith calls me to do. How can I proclaim Christ to someone when I won't approach them with the love of Christ? 

How can I call myself a Christian when I won't love the way that Christ did? And loving someone doesn't mean that I am okay with their sin or that I will tell them that I am okay with it. Loving someone means loving them and hating their sin. Maybe they will want to know where I got this love from.

Back to where this started. I know now how the Antichrist will win over some "Christians". He will speak to their hate and ego. He will tell them how they can be in power on this earth. He will make them feel like their kingdom has come.

Christians, we need to pray for each other, We need to pray for our leaders (yes, even the one currently in power), and we need to reach people for Christ with love and honesty, not with our personal power and strength. Pray that God puts the right words in your mouth to reach people. Pray that we can hold out until His kingdom comes.

Peace

--Free

Just Going to Sit This Here & Walk Away

 Feeling so blessed to be with family and friends yesterday to celebrate Thanksgiving, I skipped reading any news. This morning, I made the mistake of catching up on the news. 

One of the first things I noticed were the holiday wishes coming from prominent figures and personalities. On the social media sites, I saw two very different messages from two very different men. 

This is from the outgoing President Biden. The one message was part of a video he posted. The other (which I only partially captured) is part of another message that included a Thanksgiving card image.

That's a pretty standard presidential type of message to citizens - from an outgoing president who was not popular in the last few years.

This is the message from the former (45th) and future (47th) president:

I watched a YouTuber speak about the two messages and mention how few people - in the news and among the MAGA-verse - had anything to say about the tone of this unhinged message. The YouTuber wondered what reactions would have been had the word "Left" been with "Right" (or MAGA, which has taken over the Right)? 

This is the comment I left on that video, and it's pretty much what I have been wondering for a few years now:

It's more discouraging for me that many people who call themselves Christian support this man, despite the behavior. I'm Christian and I believe character, behavior, intentions, and morals & common decency matter. Of course, there is much about the Left I disagree with, but we are beyond parties at this point. When people wonder how the Antichrist will get the support of so many "good" people, this is the blueprint. (For Christians who disagree with me - and there are many I personally know - I just ask that you look beyond party alliance and deep into your hearts and study on this.)

I'm going to probably wonder the same thing for the next four years.

Peace

--Free 

Popular Christian Nonsense?

 I have bookmarked several news sites but I mostly only check 3 or 4 of them every morning. One is The Christian Post. For some reason, I never paid much attention to the "Group of Brands" listed at the bottom of the site's homepage.

Interesting. How silly that I never scrolled that far down the page to notice this before.

The first site I checked was Good News Line. I not only checked it but I went ahead a created an account when prompted. Big mistake. When checking the "Bible" link from the dropdown menu, my eye skipped past "Churches" and went right to "Pastors". And that is where I realized my mistake because the first "Pastor" I saw was Rick Warren.

Of course, I will not visit the site again. I have some problems with some pastors/teachers but I have many with certain others, including Rick Warren.

As I scrolled through the other "pastors" on GNL, I kept seeing more and more evidence to avoid the site: Sarah Jakes Roberts, Bill Johnson,  Joel Osteen, Tony Evans... There were several pastors who do adhere to Bible doctrine and teaching - Voddie Baucham, John MacArthur, and Paul Washer. What concerns me is the fact that so many false teachers are included. 

If some new or less discerning Christians saw that list on a site associated with "The Christian Post, they might think that all the listed pastors are biblical. I am not a new Christian and had to do a double-take.

I saw all this to say that we have to be careful not to look at the cover of a thing but to pay attention to its contents - and intent. 

Peace

--Free

Speaking in Tongues (or Babbling in Nonsense?)

When I was young, our family attended a "Holiness" (or Church of God In Christ) Church. People called us "Holy Rollers". 

For most of her life, my mother attended this denomination. However, my mother never participated in much of what made "Holy Rollers" Holy Rollers. She did not "shout" (dance around "in the Spirit"); she did not speak in tongues; and she did not claim to "hear from God". (Like many Christians, she believed that the way to hear from God was to read the Bible.)

My mother prayed all the time and she was steadfast in her faith. I never heard her mock the people who did all that shouting and speaking in tongues.  I remember her always sitting quietly and just watching as this kind of thing went on.

I realized something about Mama after she was gone and I was growing stronger in my own faith. She didn't attend the COGIC church because she believed in everything they did. She attended because it was the church that was around when she was growing up. My mother believed in "fellowshipping" but she was discerning about people and beliefs.

As a more mature Christian myself, I don't hold with a lot of what many Pentecostal churches do. I don't believe in forced tithing (or tithing as a mindless habit).  I don't believe in babbling in tongues that no one is able to interpret. I don't believe in all the jumping and shouting. I believe in God.

One thing I noticed about people in the church I grew up in (specifically the 2 locations my mother was associated with) was that people were a lot more Christian inside the building than they were outside it.

But the speaking in tongues thing did baffle me for a while. I wondered if there might be something to it. I didn't want to believe that so many people were just babbling nonsense - which would be a sort of mockery. What convinced me was realizing that no one was ever interpreting what was said. Also, there would be several people "speaking" at the same time. No one had a clear message to share; people were just, I almost hate to keep saying it, babbling.

There are some prominent names in "ministry" who make a habit of this kind of nonsense. 

They give people a reason to laugh at sincere Christians... We know that we would be hated by the world but to be made a target by other so-called "Christians" is really sad.

Here is one video about speaking in tongues. 

Finally, I have realized that "charismatic" worship is not for me. My faith is not a faith of feelings or experiences.  Please read your Bible for yourself. Pray and ask God for discernment. Your pastor is not your "father" and you need to hold him to biblical standards.

I can know now that while my mother was faithful in her churchgoing (unlike me), she remained discerning and did not "follow every spirit". 

Peace

--Free

You Must Take a Look at This

 As a Christian, I know that I have to constantly be on the lookout for dangerous doctrines. What surprises me is how many such dangerous things are hidden in every day situations.

This is a video from Melissa Dougherty. I love how she thinks (and teaches) in such a way that it what I call "every day relatable".  

Of course, I know to watch out for New Age teachings and pitfalls. What I didn't know much about was New Thought ideas. The Enemy is sneaky. 

I hope that anyone watching this video gets something from it to help with your discernment.

I will be going now so that I can do more Bible study and prayer about this.

Peace

--Free

Life, Death & Reality

(I wanted to post this as soon as I could. I think that the subject of Death needs to be pondered by all of us.)

I was reading a news story recently about a group of people who died on a yacht. I feel so bad for their families and loved ones. I am sure that many of us can relate to being blindsided by events that change everything. 

These people - and others we read about who die suddenly, unexpectedly, and tragically - were just living life and expecting to live another day. We do that, don't we? Take this moment and the next for granted, as if it belongs to us.

Whenever I hear of a story like the one I read, I always lament that the people might not have been ready. Not that I think anyone can be ready for an "unexpected" death. But, dying is a guarantee (for most) and some of us are prepared.  Note that I didn't say that some of us are "ready". I don't know if I will be ready when my time to die comes but I am prepared. All Christians should be.

Death is both a finality - where this mortal life is completely over - and a beginning - when the next eternal existence begins. 

One thing is certain, whether some of us believe it or not: Death is and Death will be.

Do you have Jesus? You are going to die whether you do or don't. Are you poor and downtrodden? Are you wealthy? Unattractive? Beautiful? Are you "fortunate" (by worldly standards) or not? None of that matters to Death.

Once, when a family friend died and his loved ones were trying to decide on a coffin and what type of service they would have in his memory, we all felt sorry for their ordeal. In a private conversation within our family, my mother said something that I thought (at the time) was unkind. My mother was not an unkind woman so I was shocked - at the time. During the conversation about the widow and the children stressing themselves over funeral details - especially the coffin - Mama said something along the lines of "'Henry' doesn't care what box they choose. All he can do in it is be dead."

As an adult, I now understand my mother's remarks. I thought about them when I read that news story. The people who perished were on a yacht. They were, of course, wealthy and, by worldly standards, "fortunate". Now they are dead.  How they died, where they died, and what their status was when they died doesn't change the fact that they are dead.

I'm not thinking about the status, wealth, or lifestyle of these people. All I can think about is whether or not they were prepared. 

I'm pretty sure they all had some worldly preparations made: wills, estate planning, etc. But I pray that they were prepared for eternity. I pray that in whatever moments they had left on this earth, they came to the Lord. Nothing else matters to them now.

I pray now that anyone reading this is prepared. No matter what you believe, you better be ready to believe it to death - literally. Please examine your hearts. Please think carefully about what comes after this.

Peace

--Free

A New (to me) Resource

 If you look to the right side of the page, about halfway down, you will see a list of resources. I find them useful for Bible reading and study. Today, while doing my reading, I found a new resource - Bibles.net. It is a large source of various kinds of helpful things for the Christian. It covers Bible reading plans, study, Q & As, and the list goes on and on.  This is a glance at the Menu of resources:

I actually came across the site from a link posted on another resource: questionsGod.com. If it were not so late at night, I'd still be over on both sites, browsing. I wanted to share it and I cannot believe this is the first time I am seeing it myself!

I hope that the resources I list on this blog are helpful to you. The Bible is such a marvelous and comprehensive book that I never tire of reading it and learning from it. Resources like those on the Bibles.net site encourage me to always go deeper in my studies.

Since I am just learning about both sites, I like to pray for discernment so that I don't get any unbiblical information in my head. I ask that you guys always do the same - when using any resource. 

Peace

--Free