Sacred findings of the Snag

When does a person truly know the one they've chosen to spend the rest of their life with?

It's taken many years to pull away from the historical practice where the parents were the ones to hand pick their child's mate for life.

Somewhere within man's wisdom this practice was over turned to then allow the child to hand pick their own mate.

What does that wisdom look like when arguments take on the shape they do within marriages today?

How much external influence plays a role in defiling what was once agreed upon through the vow of a sacred marriage?

What if marriage were thought of as the chosen venue where a man and woman collectively make the discovery as to what little they each assumed they "Knew" about Love?

It's easy to allow yourself to fall in Love with the idea that God lead you to the one that YOU eventually exchange vows with.

That said, where does that same insightful leading go the day the choice is made to fight against your previous persuasion as Gods choice for you?

Is it before pain comes that one second guesses their hand picked mate?

Where did wisdom run to that was once thought to be at the alter when vows were made?

Has the covenant of marriage changed or has wisdom simply out smarted the ones that have made changes to it's origins?

What if marriage were viewed as is God in that He does not change nor does His oversight concerning marriage?

Has marriage become the arena where immaturity meets its match within the strategic game of give and take?

Finding the exact strand to pull which can unravel the whole garment is not a science to be pursued anymore than allowing one snag to accomplish the same thing.

Have you ever purchased a sweater yet only after you get home you discover it has a serious snag in a highly visible area? What's your first reaction?

Do you take it back and insist that the snag was there before you purchased the sweater? Was the package sealed or had it been opened and handled by others before you purchased it?

How many snags were in your marriage before you took notice of them making the life purchase? Were those snags highly visible or were they hidden beneath a fold?

There is wisdom to be found within the counsel given in the years of youth.

Mal 2:13-16
Another thing you do: You flood the LORD's altar with tears. You weep and wail because he no longer pays attention to your offerings or accepts them with pleasure from your hands. You ask, "Why?" It is because the LORD is acting as the witness between you and the wife of your youth , because you have broken faith with her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant.

Has not [the LORD] made them one? In flesh and spirit they are his. And why one? Because he was seeking godly offspring. So guard yourself in your spirit, and do not break faith with the wife of your youth .

"I hate divorce," says the LORD God of Israel, "and I hate a man's covering himself with violence as well as with his garment," says the LORD Almighty.
NIV

It's too easy to simply say. "I just woke up one day and it was all undone"! It's even easier to just blame the one that was supposedly the only one that has changed since the marriages took place.

Many don't stop to think concerning their own aptitude to hold their own formal investigation of their chosen mate. Too many fail the entrance exam concerning the basics as to the Full expectations of Love.

Who has wandered outside the kingdom of Faith to find their companion which will one day provide the reflection of your own inability to follow wise counsel?

How easy is it to say, "I was duped after the fact" instead of insisting the voice that has lead you to where you are now doesn't also refresh the memories of your original choice made at the alter?

Is this is true, then who duped who? Did the counsel of Love drag you away from the covenant of your own intentions?

Choosing Life is the continual choice of true Life in the Lord. The Lord which has entrusted you with the breath of Life as His spirit.

If He's entrusted you with Godly offspring, never forget the obligation as such a care giver in the vineyard of the Lord.

If you loose sight of Life's reward consider how the fruits of your labor were then consumed.

Jer 3:24-25
From our youth shameful gods have consumed the fruits of our fathers' labor — their flocks and herds,
their sons and daughters.

Let us lie down in our shame,and let our disgrace cover us.

We have sinned against the LORD our God, both we and our fathers; from our youth till this day
we have not obeyed the LORD our God."
NIV


True Freedom as the form of mercy shown is the opportunity to find Grace as the Wisdom of the Lord expressed as His Love through Jesus the Christ.

Wisdom is the chief principle. It's more than simply what works for only a short season and brings comfort as these things can change.

Change doesn't come without notice given. Unaware is having ignored the early warning.

Wisdom will always be proved right. There's always the "Right" way when circumstances surround any question at hand enough that doubt is removed as the dominate voice.

If wisdom has not promoted the question at hand, wisdom in turn will prove the motivation for opposition to be in error.

In terms of God holding the essence of wisdom in hand, scripture states with respect to the Lord's counsel, "Let God be true and every man a liar".

Somewhere else it says, "So that He may be proved righteous when He speaks".

Having assumed you also knew what you were looking for in a mate, did you simply miscalculate once again or was it just another series of misreads on your part having misjudged a persons character?


Is it easier to believe the person you chose has changed instead of realizing your own change which occurs also has to accommodate the one you could otherwise grow to despise?


James 1:17-18
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.
NIV

God is really among you

The weight of the Lords words sent in advance should bring a man to his knee's within the present freedom as His mercy was shown.

If not then surely the weight of His majestic presence will upon His return.

What does it mean when read, Do not judge or you will be judged"?

Is that to say everything is acceptable to God that we do because we don't judge others? No, surely not!

Leave room for Him to judge.



Matt 7:1-2
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. NIV

Acts 4:19
But Peter and John replied, "Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God
NIV

Have we not already judged between the sinful nature and the Lord when we chose behavior considered as sinful?


Once again that would depend upon the Judge that does consider anything we do as sinful.


The benefit of words sent in advance of the Lords return were not intended for those that refuse to believe. They were intended for those which chose to believe.

If there be any real strength found in a freedom that's enjoyed, shouldn't it be understood as the opportunity to find the mercy being shown in that same freedom?

Every answer would depend upon believing whether or not your soul gets to enjoy an existance beyond this world once placed in a grave.

Matt 10:28
Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul . Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.NIV

Choosing to believe not only the words said to be from Him, but to believe and receive those words because of the One which authored and gave those words to you as the form of His Son Jesus the Christ (Savior made available to the world).


 John 1:11-14
He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
NIV

Believed so much that it becomes obvious to YOU, that is was His words (as counsel) which gave the strength to chose life in Him (which your soul will enjoy forever).

James 2:12-13
Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgement without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!
NIV

 James 5:9
Don't grumble against each other, brothers, or you will be judged . The Judge is standing at the door!
NIV

Is this to say that you have no say in your own life? You get to decide! What lead you to wherever you are now?

Is this to suggest that your decisions made have no bearing upon your future?

What does the word say to you personally in this next passage?

Luke 6:37
"Do not judge, and you will not be judged . Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
NIV

1 Cor 14:24-25
But if an unbeliever or someone who does not understand comes in while everybody is prophesying, he will be convinced by all that he is a sinner and will be judged by all, and the secrets of his heart will be laid bare. So he will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, "God is really among you!"
NIV

1 Peter 4:5-8
But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.
The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.  Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.
NIV

Subtle Betrayal

There is a common call among all men which speaks the truth in love.

 Prov 25:26
Like a muddied spring or a polluted well is a righteous man who gives way to the wicked.
NIV


Acts 3:26
When God raised up his servant, he sent him first to you to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways. - NIV

There are many ways people attempt to express "Facing the truth", but the reality will be the day when truth stares intently into your face concerning the things you've defended as if they've accurately represented the truth.

The image of a loved disciple seen leaning back against the physical presence of Jesus is not echoed below as the voice of one that "fell at His feet as though dead".

Rev 1:17-18
When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: "Do not be afraid".

I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.
NIV

John 21:20
Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is going to betray you?")
NIV

Heb 12:5-6
5 And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons:  "My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline,
and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son."  
NIV

How family are the words "discipline and disciple" which harbor their intentions?

There is a betrayal which will end in death and there are more subtle betrayal's which slowly lead others to their death having masked the truth.


1 Tim 4:6-8
If you point these things out to the brothers, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, brought up in the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.
NIV

2 Tim 2:19-21
Nevertheless, God's solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: "The Lord knows those who are his," and, "Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness ."

In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble. If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.
NIV

James 1:27
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
NIV

Matt 25:45-46
"He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'

"Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life." NIV

Love enough

One of the most confused and abused words used while in this corrupted world is the word Love.

In terms of sovereignty, what if the word Love were reserved and only mentioned whenever someone wishes to convey the supremacy of the same God it also defines?

What if all other instances where someone tries to associate the word Love to their own outward expressions and it does not match what the Lord has to say about Love?

1 John 4:16-17
God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like him.
NIV

1 John 4:19-21
We love because he first loved us. If anyone says, "I love God," yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother.
NIV

Does the God of Love ever discipline you through the ways He interacts with your life choices made?

Does the God of Love bring correction to your life at any time?

On the other side of seeming discipline, have you ever felt just as confused afterwards as you were before? If so, where does true learning and the essence of correction meet?

Does the God of Love allow you to make your own mistakes only later help you sort through the results of those choices made?

Is your God as the one you say that you love only available as your personal "Bail Out" God?

Enough that you find yourself repeatedly living through nearly the same results of the same basic poor choices being made?

Is your God that is Love the consistent God of Love that is aware of you before and after your choices made?

In terms of an assault or an offense against the Lord whom sits on High, can anyone truly bring harm to His person?

Can anyone truly change or alter all that the Lord is and will continue to be throughout eternity by their actions or words spoken while here on earth?

If thoughts of slander concerning all that Love is were ever to enter the picture, what physical appearance or verbal form would such slander assume?

What if the only damage that's done with regards to all that Love is and does can only be found within in the minds (perception) of others?

It's easy enough to declare "I am a Christian", yet what about the evidence that declares on its own that says "I love God"?

That is to say, "I love God" not only precedes your entering the room but also trails behind you as commentary about you once you leave the room?

What have you done in the name of Love?

What damage have you done with regards to someone else's perception of all that Love was intended to be in this earth?

Wouldn't your answer require knowing the absolute terms of engagement where Love performs?

Have you ever stood by an watched the life of another deteriorate and then pass on to the grave without ever having warned them that their life choices had them headed for something much more serious than the death of their mortal being?

What of the parent which cares for the daily needs of their own child that tells them "I Love You" every day, yet fails to inform that same child as to why those same words have any real meaning?

Are you the parent that feeds, clothes, schools, hugs and kisses their child every day that continually says "I love You", yet never counsels them concerning the savior of all mankind, Jesus the Christ?

Whose kind of Love have you truly introduced them to?

Have you somehow suppressed the "Truth" concerning all that Love is by never having shared with them the "Why" they too need to be introduced to this same source of Love that is supreme?

Are you somehow able to Love greater than the One which defines what love is and does here in the earth?

Rom 1:18-20
The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities — his eternal power and divine nature — have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.
NIV


1 John 4:9-10
This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.
NIV

The essence of all sin results from NOT having believed upon Christ Jesus enough that you not only understand what Love is, but also what Love does not do?

Could this be said because Jesus was NOT the Lord (dominate voice) over all of your choices made to date?

That is to say enough that mankind (to include your children) can see the choices that you now make have been the direct result of what Christ Jesus has also done through you!

John 3:16-21
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.

This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.

But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God NIV

An enemy of the world

If a man were to try to help someone that's unaware of their own need for help, what "Cause" would prove itself capable enough where help actually shows up?

Rom 5:7-8
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
NIV

How powerful is the word "Be-cause" in your life?

Gen 20:3
But God came to Abimelech in a dream one night and said to him, "You are as good as dead because of the woman you have taken; she is a married woman."
NIV

John 16:2-4
They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, a time is coming when anyone who kills you will think he is offering a service to God. They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me. I have told you this, so that when the time comes you will remember that I warned you. I did not tell you this at first because I was with you.
NIV

John 16:8-11
When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment: in regard to sin, because men do not believe in me; in regard to righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; and in regard to judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned.
NIV

Wouldn't it require the person which uses the word "Because" also need to be considered "Wise" as if  they are the one teaching and because they are now being honored as if they are able to "See" more than the student being taught?


How long can it take for the words which faithfully follow behind the word "Because" to soak into the thing many refer to as our "Gray Matter"?

A relative word which also needs to come into play together with the word "because" might be "reflection"?

Reflection of what though?

Something which needs to be seen as is not presently being seen?

1 Sam 9:19
"I am the seer ," Samuel replied.
NIV

1 Chron 21:9-10
The LORD said to Gad, David's seer , "Go and tell David, 'This is what the LORD says: I am giving you three options. Choose one of them for me to carry out against you.'"
NIV

When a parent wants teach their child a lesson, they try to make a matter transparent enough so the child can look into the same matter enough that they'll see the matter the way the teacher does.

Mic 7:9-10
Because I have sinned against him, I will bear the LORD's wrath,
until he pleads my case and establishes my right.

He will bring me out into the light ; I will see his righteousness.
Then my enemy will see it and will be covered with shame,
she who said to me,

"Where is the LORD your God?"
NIV

Eph 3:10-13
His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.

In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.

I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.
NIV

1 Peter 3:13-22
Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?

But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. "Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened."
  
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord.

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.  

It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.

He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit, through whom also he went and preached to the spirits in prison who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built.

In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also — not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God.

It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at God's right hand — with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him. NIV

Luke 18:19-20
Jesus answered. "No one is good — except God alone.
NIV

Spies or lives which live in the hope of telling the story?

Who is thought worthy to deliver something considered better than the reasoning which is presently at work?

Without hearing the truth as the wisdom of the Lords intent which He's sent forth as His only begotten Son, how could one have any hope as the eternal value of His words which have become flesh and dwelt among us?

A spiritually naked man is more concerned about the worth of his own respect than the full disclosure of the truth which desires to cover all man-kind as the Lords mercy shown.

Isa 1:18-20
"Come now, let us reason together ,"says the LORD.

"Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.

If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best from the land; but if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword."

For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.
NIV

Rev 2:16
Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.
NIV

How would that saying from antiquity look if it were completed in truth, "when good men keep silent because of fear, evil has just been given the opportunity to prevail in the moment"?


"A man must know which side of the gate he stands before he can conclude whether he's a free man or a prisoner"

John 18:37
Jesus answered, "You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth . Everyone on the side of truth listens to me." 
NIV

When imperfection speaks, should it expect to yield a return because of everything it has also pro-moted?

What damage should be considered done through the disguise of words which justify an evil act against a brother? 

Man can do nothing of real value with the embodiment of his own existence other than righteously re-present the true wisdom of words spoken concerning the living will of His Father in heaven.

Is a man deceived having set his own house on fire to then climbs into bed?

Who it is that truly offended having opened a wound in another with the sword of deception? 

James 5:16
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
NIV


Matt 10:41-42
Anyone who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet's reward, and anyone who receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man will receive a righteous man's reward.
NIV

If a man is not able to righteously consider he's been given anything, how can he then truthfully consider having been given to the care of another?


John 17:8-9
They knew with certainty that I came from you, and they believed that you sent me. I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours.
NIV

The wife which accepts with all of her heart haven been given in righteous marriage, also understands the value of whose care she's truly been given to.

"Do as I say not as I do" is rich counsel, yet a poor commentary in the future once faced with the mutual results of the unrighteous choice that's been made.

When the future hopes to remember in a time of need the voice that will speak to where they now find themselves, what will it say?

Gen 42:16
Send one of your number to get your brother; the rest of you will be kept in prison, so that your words may be tested to see if you are telling the truth . If you are not, then as surely as Pharaoh lives, you are spies!"
NIV

Luke 22:31-32
"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."  NIV


Matt 16:18-20
And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." NIV


Eph 3:10-13
His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. NIV

Whose purpose does any subject serve?

Titus 2:2-15
Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance.

Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.

Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled.

In everything set them an example by doing what is good.

In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.

Teach slaves to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive.

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.

It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope — the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you.
NIV

Man Please, stand up like a man and allow truth to confront you!

The foolishness of man is what he least understands having convinced himself of what limits him from every possible angle as perspective"

When man's made the best choice, he's chosen the wisdom from the Lord.

His continued pursuit of that same wisdom will causes him to be considered wise.

What prevents the invasion of true wisdom in any life?

Is it the simplicity of knowledge discovered within the mastery of things that have been created by the Lord?

And does it include the creation itself which truthfully acknowledges the reverence that's due the creator of ALL things?

A man will design a plane which can land on water after studying the duck make a sucessful landing.

He'll eventually manage the courage needed in order to harness the essence of the same lightning he's observed in the sky for centuries.

He'll watch ants accomplish great task, yet he can only employ such wisdom once wisdom visits as the need he hopes to overcome.

He can shape theory with all that he presently understands, yet his own consideration as the motivating purpose towards the mastery of anything limits his vision for its greater genius that remains available.

He can spend a life time attempting to fine tune what he's already observed under the sun, yet his ignorance of the original intent behind it's mastery becomes his own limitation.

He can insist his own body can do certain things, yet to his own hurt he follows the instructions of his own limitation having lost sight of the "Why" he chooses to make the investment of himself and his time.

He can try and cheat the limitations of all that which surrounds and has mastered him, yet his master knows the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

He's able to envision the finished product except for the obstacle which lacks the results of a trust through sharing what he now knows beyond doubt.

What such a man has grown weary of, is the absence of the importance as the original cause for having pursued what he has.

His personal fears evolve into names and faces as if to say "those which look to steal away his original intent", yet what gets stolen before the original intent of anything created gets brought to fruition?

The same clouds may pass over head, yet one man will see them as an inconvenience while pursuing a tan, while another one his needs getting met prior to harvest.

He can be surrounded by enemies, yet forget being surrounded by the same wisdom which created his enemies.

He can convince himself of the importance of accuracy, yet forget the additional decimal place one space to the right of his final calculation.

He can hold conventions together with the most admired of minds known to man, yet discount the mind of the one which made all things.

His underlying plight?

The consideration concerning himself in which he holds out in the hope that he can somehow rise above it all in the end as he weighs the benefit of all that his hands have done.

Who is this man and what exactly is his greatest limitation he's yet to truthfully consider?

Whose identity does this more accurately describe?

Isa 14:1-6

The LORD will have compassion on Jacob; once again he will choose Israel
and will settle them in their own land. Aliens will join them and unite with the house of Jacob.

Nations will take them and bring them to their own place.

And the house of Israel will possess the nations as menservants and maidservants in the LORD's land.

They will make captives of their captors and rule over their oppressors.

On the day the LORD gives you relief from suffering and turmoil and cruel bondage, you will take up this taunt against the king of Babylon:

How the oppressor has come to an end!

How his fury has ended!

The LORD has broken the rod of the wicked, the scepter of the rulers, which in anger struck down peoples with unceasing blows and in fury subdued nations with relentless aggression.

All the lands are at rest and at peace; they break into singing. Even the pine trees and the cedars of Lebanon exult over you and say, "Now that you have been laid low, no woodsman comes to cut us down."

The grave below is all astir to meet you at your coming; it rouses the spirits of the departed to greet you — all those who were leaders in the world; it makes them rise from their thrones — all those who were kings over the nations.

 They will all respond ,they will say to you, "You also have become weak, as we are; you have become like us." All your pomp has been brought down to the grave, along with the noise of your harps; maggots are spread out beneath you and worms cover you.

How you have fallen from heaven, O morning star, son of the dawn! You have been cast down to the earth, you who once laid low the nations!

You said in your heart, "I will ascend to heaven;I will raise my throne above the stars of God;

I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly,on the utmost heights of the sacred mountain. 

I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High."

But you are brought down to the grave, to the depths of the pit.

Those who see you stare at you, they ponder your fate: "Is this the man who shook the earth and made kingdoms tremble, the man who made the world a desert, who overthrew its cities and would not let his captives go home?"

All the kings of the nations lie in state, each in his own tomb. But you are cast out of your tomb like a rejected branch; you are covered with the slain, with those pierced by the sword,those who descend to the stones of the pit.

Like a corpse trampled underfoot, you will not join them in burial, for you have destroyed your land and killed your people.

The offspring of the wicked will never be mentioned again. Prepare a place to slaughter his sons for the sins of their forefathers; they are not to rise to inherit the land and cover the earth with their cities.

"I will rise up against them,"declares the LORD Almighty."I will cut off from Babylon her name and survivors,her offspring and descendants," declares the LORD.

"I will turn her into a place for owls and into swampland;I will sweep her with the broom of destruction,"declares the LORD Almighty.

The LORD Almighty has sworn, "Surely, as I have planned, so it will be, and as I have purposed, so it will stand.

I will crush the Assyrian in my land; on my mountains I will trample him down. His yoke will be taken from my people, and his burden removed from their shoulders."
 
This is the plan determined for the whole world; this is the hand stretched out over all nations. For the LORD Almighty has purposed, and who can thwart him?

His hand is stretched out, and who can turn it back?
NIV

Lord, who has believed our message?

If I were to compare myself to things in this present age I can only see so much, yet if I were to compare all that I can't see to Christ I can see so much more"

The intent of being transformed through the renewal of our mind is more than a psychological study that's followed by a pattern shift.

Its the willful adoption having accepted the way which leads to true life that's been authored by the righteous mind of Christ"

1 Cor 1:10
I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought.
NIV

The commentary of an independent thinker says, "You go first and I'll watch"

The common voice of the brethren says, "Let us go up to Zion and live"!

If the words of Christ were spoken through you as a living message, what would His testimony about you say?

Rom 10:16
For Isaiah says, "Lord, who has believed our message?
NIV

There being Only one Lord should also prove to be the evidence of Only one teacher.

1 Cor 1:12-15
Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ.

Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?

I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius;
Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name.
KJV

1 Cor 1:17
For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel — not with words of human wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.
NIV

1 Cor 1:18-19
For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

For it is written:
"I will destroy the wisdom of the wise;
the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate."
NIV

A common faith understands the common desires of One Lord that has dominion over a common household.

After the righteous introduction to this thought, there should be little confusion concerning where the battle front truly is.

Set the question in front of the Truth and consider why there are so few victories being attributed as the result of His glory.

Having overcome this world there should be no fear, lest we forget who it is that has gone before us.

What is it that so many resist, is it the process of being brought to maturity?

Eph 4:7-13
But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. This is why it says:

"When he ascended on high, he led captives in his train and gave gifts to men."
  
(What does "he ascended" mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions?

He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.)

It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
NIV

Knowing what you Need

Sitting in the seat of judgment is hardly advisable, yet called for when a man considers himself and then the consideration of righteousness in the eyes of Lord.

What need has been met that will convince a man he's able to enter into the presence of the Lord with supplication?

What confidence could possibly reside in the womb of any heart suggesting a man has access to the throne room of Grace?

What wisdom should man crave and cry out for except that cry be only for the manifold wisdom of the Lord poured out as Christ?

If a man fears in part should it not be the consideration of being double minded which hinders the way of the undecided?

James 1:4-8
Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.

But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.

That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.
NIV

James 2:21-22
Was not our ancestor Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did
NIV

What of the continual thoughts where faith is required, "The Lord Hears my plea of need"?

A man is blind that says he doesn't have a clue as to what his future holds and has been made blind by all that convinces him to ignore the truth.

It's one thing to have and hold as a life time commentary, "My enemy has knocked me down 7 times yet I will rise and taste victory because the Lord has instructed me to set my hand to this thing"!

Yet what if the summation as the life of Moses intended to work for the believer today were recorded as, "The Lord simply works in mysterious ways"!

How could that type of recorded speach serve you or anyone else observing as if it were a corporate (unified) effort to know the Lord?

Instead, here's the words of the request spoken by Moses:

Ex 33:13
If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you.
NIV

Where should the summation "God is a mystery" hope to end up which starts out in the opposite direction of the words below? Does it sound like the beginnig of an earnest request made such as the words from Moses?

John 17:3-4
Now this is eternal life: that they may know you , the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do.NIV


Heb 11:6
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. NIV


Instead, could it be seen as a lie to "self" that's just been confirmed by words which now are kept in ones breast pocket which read, "I never knew" and "The influences of the world around me made do it"?


1 John 4:4-6
You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them.

We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us.

This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood.
NIV

What evidence would prove to you the Lord is righteous because He has spoken?

Is it the simplicity of your own faith extended towards Him or His faith as the entirety of all that He's already accomplished through Christ reaching towards you?

What will you do with the thought, "Many years ago the Lord has already spoken and for the benefit of mankind"?

Who is it that has changed and what reasoning is now serving His purpose for having spoken?

If the question being asked were "Have you believed God" what could man examine in order to catch a glimpse of the answer?

Enough that is where there will be no suprises once the verdict mankind has already received is upheld in the end?

John 3:19-21
This is the verdict : Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.

Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.

But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God."   
NIV

Examine yourself by using the instrument of the verdict to know what shall be done at present.

What lies ahead in the annuls of eternity for those that have embraced the thought of having been purchased by the Lord?

How did He pay for your soul and who set the price?


Today when you examine yourself and inquire, "Who does this self examination serve"?

Think twice and answer slowly so you won't miss a word your own mouth confesses.

When you value the words which come from your lips above all else, understand the value and impact of what you've believed with all your heart, mind and soul.

For what you embrace concerning the wisdom you do serve, can also serve you the folly of everything that is not the will of the Lord.

His wisdom which is your hope has been sent forth and should labor for your eternal benefit through the exercise of faith in Christ Jesus the Lord.


2 Chron 19:4-7
Jehoshaphat lived in Jerusalem, and he went out again among the people from Beersheba to the hill country of Ephraim and turned them back to the LORD, the God of their fathers.

He appointed judges in the land, in each of the fortified cities of Judah.

He told them, "Consider carefully what you do, because you are not judging for man but for the LORD, who is with you whenever you give a verdict.

Now let the fear of the LORD be upon you. Judge carefully, for with the LORD our God there is no injustice or partiality or bribery."
NIV

Foreigners not welcome

Zeph 3:9
"Then will I purify the lips of the peoples, that all of them may call on the name of the LORD and serve him shoulder to shoulder.
NIV

A single scale on a fish loses its purpose without the overlay of many others.

Without scale, just how large is any body of water?

A man can say "I know of that mighty Mountain", yet to know the might of its height requires the will to continue to climb in order to look through its eyes.

A man doesn't have to know all things at all times in order to be full, yet dedicating the obsession of his time to know the one that does, requires his full attention.

Externally searching for something that's only found within is a mislead search party.

Luke 17:20-21
Jesus replied, "The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is within you."
NIV

Prov 23:9
Do not speak to a fool, for he will scorn the wisdom of your words.
NIV

If the word "Their" below were clearly set apart, it would be understood as the "wicked".

Ps 31:18
Let their lying lips be silenced, for with pride and contempt they speak arrogantly against the righteous.
NIV

Prov 4:24
Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips .
NIV

Prov 10:32
The lips of the righteous know what is fitting, but the mouth of the wicked only what is perverse.
NIV

Prov 14:3
A fool's talk brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise protect them.
NIV


1 Cor 14:20-21
Brothers, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults. In the Law it is written:

"Through men of strange tongues and through the lips of foreigners
I will speak to this people, but even then they will not listen to me,"
says the Lord.
NIV

Is it still any real wonder why foreigners are often despised and thought of as if they bring wickedness with them?

John 7:52
They replied, "Are you from Galilee, too? Look into it, and you will find that a prophet does not come out of Galilee."
NIV

1 Cor 1:27-31
But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.

He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things — and the things that are not — to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him.

It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God — that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.  

Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."  
NIV

I had a dream

Jer 23:25-40
"I have heard what the prophets say who prophesy lies in my name.

They say, 'I had a dream! I had a dream!'

How long will this continue in the hearts of these lying prophets, who prophesy the delusions of their own minds?

They think the dreams they tell one another will make my people forget my name, just as their fathers forgot my name through Baal worship.

Let the prophet who has a dream tell his dream, but let the one who has my word speak it faithfully.

For what has straw to do with grain?" declares the LORD.

"Is not my word like fire," declares the LORD, "and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?

"Therefore," declares the LORD, "I am against the prophets who steal from one another words supposedly from me.

Yes," declares the LORD, "I am against the prophets who wag their own tongues and yet declare, 'The LORD declares.'

Indeed, I am against those who prophesy false dreams," declares the LORD. "They tell them and lead my people astray with their reckless lies, yet I did not send or appoint them.

They do not benefit these people in the least," declares the LORD.

"When these people, or a prophet or a priest, ask you, 'What is the oracle of the LORD?' say to them, 'What oracle?

I will forsake you, declares the LORD.' If a prophet or a priest or anyone else claims, 'This is the oracle of the LORD,' I will punish that man and his household.

This is what each of you keeps on saying to his friend or relative: 'What is the LORD's answer?' or 'What has the LORD spoken?'

But you must not mention 'the oracle of the LORD' again, because every man's own word becomes his oracle and so you distort the words of the living God, the LORD Almighty, our God.

This is what you keep saying to a prophet: 'What is the LORD's answer to you?' or 'What has the LORD spoken?'

Although you claim, 'This is the oracle of the LORD,' this is what the LORD says: You used the words, 'This is the oracle of the LORD,' even though I told you that you must not claim, 'This is the oracle of the LORD.'

Therefore, I will surely forget you and cast you out of my presence along with the city I gave to you and your fathers. I will bring upon you everlasting disgrace — everlasting shame that will not be forgotten."
NIV

Convicted by what we "Say" we believe?

Recently I was asked the rhetorical question below and I now share my own thoughts as a response.

If you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?

I've heard this question many times and its strength remains the same each time.

I want to begin the thought with this, "It has everything to do with where you begin as it pertains to where you leave off and then end up".

I once thought in terms of the whole judicial process as to how "Evidence" hopes to satisfy the accusation or supportive claim made.

Consider the jury pool.

Once evidence gets presented (begins) within an orchestrated context and then gets placed into the hands of those being tasked with determining what that same evidence proves, what in fact does it prove?

Especially while considering its supportive nature as having been based upon its surrounding context which in turn hopes to somehow seduce what you're being asked to believe?

Maybe the word should be reshaped as the word Pro-text meaning "For" the benefit of?

Enough that is, that context now plays a role along side that same lie attempting to be "Pro-moted" to the position of "Truth"?

In my thinking, the devil doesn't need anymore advocates in this world to argue on his behalf. Wouldn't you agree?

It's often thought humerous when moving lips are considered to be lying lips that are attached to an attroney.

That is until the eternal context is drawn into the picture which represents the finality as to who the "Father" of all lies really is as well who his children really are?

Now consider a spiritual jury pool selection and then ask, who would recognise (righteous) evidence being presented for its absolute value as it was originally intended to prove?

What perspective could possibly be derived from truth that is capable (more than able) to give it strength as contrast?

Wouldn't one have to know of and be able to accept the truth of a matter in order to recognize the evidence that proves it?

The righteous answer to this should strengthen the question presented in scripture.


1 Peter 4:17-18
For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?

And,
"If it is hard for the righteous to be saved,
what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?"
NIV

It's as if the basest of men are supposed to be able to see through to the other side of the evidence as if an exactness of all that needs to be considered.

1 Cor 6:3-4
Do you not know that we will judge angels ? How much more the things of this life! Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, appoint as judges even men of little account in the church.
NIV

As I continued to meditate through this, the thought invaded my thinking that maybe the question needs to be rebuilt.

Could it be for the sake of the "Who" that causes Christianity to be considered ALL that was originally intended to be or become?

Just how broad is the claim made within Christianty as to the purety of everything that's presently being considered acceptable?

Maybe the question should be, "Was Jesus the Christ Lord over the Jury selection process that will Truthfully examine the evidence being presented?


Maybe it should be a two part question whose second part reads, "Where's the evidence of "Christ Alive and Active within"?

Heb 4:12-13
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
NIV

Somehow it leaves little wiggle room as to the one and only commonality of the faith?

Could it be all about the event as the result of what it is that we are examining as the Truth?

As an opinion, I think what gets vacated when considering "Is there evidence of Christ within", is that it's often forgotten as to the why Jesus said He did come, which was to "Destroy the works of Devil".

I also might add as if foundational, is that "If there be anything un-Holy, its the inability to often see those works within ourselves AND whom they represent.

Could it be the standard of Holy that's being missed or better yet mis-used?

What could possibly be strong enough evidence that points to THE divine standard of Holiness?

When worshipped in Spirit and in Truth, only Christ who is the "Word" and who was without sin is capable of being the accepted "Evidence" in the eyes of the Lord.

In light of "Be Holy for I am Holy", how could anyone have any hope without believing it's possible having followed instruction?

Should it not also be for those that have any real desire of being transformed through the renewal of their minds?

If scripture says, "We have the mind of Christ", where's the evidence?

If part of possessing the mind of Christ were to include at minimum the "capability" to be obedient, what would that say about what we then do otherwise?

Somehow the image of the mother lioness that knows the smell of her own gets conjured, even more the Lord when He considers the words He sent forth to accomplish as something we declare is "Alive and Active" within in us as believers.

2 Tim 2:19
Nevertheless, God's solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: "The Lord knows those who are his," and, "Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness."
NIV

Isa 55:11
So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void , but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
KJV

He (Christ as the evidence of Gods word) has a "Zero" failure rate when "Truthfully" applied.

My closing thoughts in the form of a question, "Then why do men consistantly lean upon the results of his own decisions while justifying such limited imperfection by saying, I'm not perfect each time"?

If it's not about limitations and instead about transformation, what has following ones self produced in truth?

The evidence of what we've followed?

Just food for thought!

The soul that truly loves the Lord will do more for the the Lord as a first nature, rather than one who feels as though he is being forced to.

Consider the spouse that truly loves their own if this presents tough questions that are hard to get a handle on!

Eph 5:31-33
"For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh."   This is a profound mystery — but I am talking about Christ and the church .

However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.
NIV

Praise the Lord for the full works wrought through forgiveness as we truthfully consider our failures in not having followed His instructions.

Even more while claiming to strain forward in the harness of obedience.

Being fully persuaded, the following of Christ works for the victory of  having overcome the world and inheriting a true and eternal life in Him as His kingdom!

Without the foundation of a kingdom being built upon the faith of a believer, could Christ do many works among us today?

Acts 19:8-9

Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God. But some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way.
NIV

Matt 16:15
"But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" 
NIV

SW


Ps 50

The Mighty One, God, the LORD, speaks and summons the earth
from the rising of the sun to the place where it sets.

From Zion, perfect in beauty, God shines forth.

Our God comes and will not be silent; a fire devours before him, and around him a tempest rages.

He summons the heavens above, and the earth, that he may judge his people:

"Gather to me my consecrated ones, who made a covenant with me by sacrifice." And the heavens proclaim his righteousness, for God himself is judge.  Selah
 
"Hear, O my people, and I will speak, O Israel, and I will testify against you

I am God, your God.

I do not rebuke you for your sacrifices or your burnt offerings, which are ever before me.

I have no need of a bull from your stall or of goats from your pens, for every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills.

I know every bird in the mountains, and the creatures of the field are mine.
 
If I were hungry I would not tell you, for the world is mine, and all that is in it.

Do I eat the flesh of bulls or drink the blood of goats?

Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me."

But to the wicked, God says:
"What right have you to recite my laws or take my covenant on your lips ?

You hate my instruction and cast my words behind you.

When you see a thief, you join with him; you throw in your lot with adulterers.

You use your mouth for evil and harness your tongue to deceit.

You speak continually against your brother and slander your own mother's son.

These things you have done and I kept silent; you thought I was altogether like you.

But I will rebuke you and accuse you to your face.

"Consider this, you who forget God, or I will tear you to pieces, with none to rescue: He who sacrifices thank offerings honors me, and he prepares the way so that I may show him the salvation of God."
NIV

The origins of frustration

Circumstances presented will always labor to test what you think you know beyond doubt.

Without the fundamental understanding as to what would cause anyone to be considered righteous, who wouldn't be frustrated?

Rom 4:3
What does the Scripture say? "Abraham believed God , and it was credited to him as righteousness.NIV


It's easy to say you believe someone, yet proof of it is what establishes the trust where the evidence is kept safely hidden under lock and key"

"The realized world through which one encounters their surrounding circumstances should hold out within the hope of a mind that's being renewed through Christ"

Rom 12:2
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will.
NIV

"The hardest thing for a rebellious mind to comprehend while peering through a corrupt world, is believing your heavenly Father as Lord actually wants children"

"An unexpected response will wrestle with the consideration of being understood and accepted"

"Doing nothing makes room for the results of indecision"

'Living vicariously through another includes the proper handling of righteous critique"

"What a man assumes he's sheltered from he eyes of the lord labors diligently to be his own deception"

Renewal of the mind comes by way of conceiving and then giving birth to the Truth as a life in Christ through which His desires can be expressed.

"The evidence of a mind that's being renewed by truth will foremost understand the other desires that require being starved out, yet suffering through their peaceful departure.

Goodness and mercy shall come even closer all the days of your life as you extend both at every opportunity that's been given to you.

Time alone is not able to thoroughly test a matter; the conclusion is the verdict that's already already been handed down on the other side of time.

John 3:19-21
This is the verdict : Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God."   
NIV

'The mind that doesn't acknowledge the conclusion of a matter also won't see it coming"

"Deception will always charge the hill once righteousness leaves its post"

If a person is deceived, do they presently know it?

Once they find out, will they voluntarily return to it?

"Being fitted with the word "Ignorance" doesn't mean it's a fatal wound that can't be healed"

Ignorance describes the essence of the habitual nature to continually ignore what is true"

Without the evidence of truth being alive and active, should one ever expect to find themselves free from the bonds of a fine tuned ability to "Ignore" a matter?

John 8:31-32
To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free ."  NIV