But we didn't know Lord!

John 1:6-14
There came a man who was sent from God; his name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.

The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.  

He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 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

John 16:2-11
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. 

"Now I am going to him who sent me, yet none of you asks me, 'Where are you going?' Because I have said these things, you are filled with grief. 

But I tell you the truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. 

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

Jer 1:4-19

The word of the LORD came to me, saying,

"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart;I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."

"Ah, Sovereign LORD," I said, "I do not know how to speak; I am only a child."

But the LORD said to me, "Do not say, 'I am only a child.' You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. 8 Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD.

Then the LORD reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, "Now, I have put my words in your mouth. See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant."

The word of the LORD came to me: "What do you see, Jeremiah?"
"I see the branch of an almond tree," I replied.

The LORD said to me, "You have seen correctly, for I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled."

The word of the LORD came to me again: "What do you see?"
"I see a boiling pot, tilting away from the north," I answered.

The LORD said to me, "From the north disaster will be poured out on all who live in the land.

I am about to summon all the peoples of the northern kingdoms," declares the LORD.
"Their kings will come and set up their thrones in the entrance of the gates of Jerusalem;they will come against all her surrounding walls and against all the towns of Judah.

I will pronounce my judgments on my people because of their wickedness in forsaking me,in burning incense to other gods and in worshiping what their hands have made.

"Get yourself ready! Stand up and say to them whatever I command you. Do not be terrified by them, or I will terrify you before them.

Today I have made you a fortified city, an iron pillar and a bronze wall to stand against the whole land — against the kings of Judah, its officials, its priests and the people of the land.

They will fight against you but will not overcome you, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD.
NIV

Luke 19:39-44
Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples!"

"I tell you," he replied, "if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out ."  

As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, "If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace — but now it is hidden from your eyes. 

The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side. 

They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God's coming to you."  
NIV

Alienated

Is your eternal salvation held secure only by what you choose to believe also to be "True"?

The question the spirit of God has been asking all men since his fall in the Garden is, "Who told You"?

Have you found it difficult to understand the collective word(s) of "God" as if what you assume you do know has been based upon what man has taught you?

What can a man teach about a "Person" as if the Love of God unless he too has encountered the Love that is also of God?

Even then is that man's ability to translate his own encounter the exact thing which limits the more complete explanation and commentary concerning the Lord (God)?

In terms of an even more accurate depiction of God what has ANY person assumed they can teach you as it pertains to the Son of God?

The same Son of GOD said "Christianity" has been trying to "Represent" for several centuries?

If the primary task as if placed upon the individual and the collective church were in question, what would that task be if not "Believing"? Yet what does that involve if not everything that we claim to be?

In terms of failure, how would one know IF Christianity is failing or falling short in the attempts made as if the Church (physical body OF Christ) which goes about the daily affairs as if the continuance of the daily business carried out on behalf of the Son of GOD?

Couldn't the simple test be, does the collective church look and or perform like the Son of God yet on a larger and MORE wide spread scale? Are the same qualities found at the same address where He (Jesus) has said he will also be in their midst in terms of believers?

Are there recorded reports of thousands at a time being converted as was after Christ was crucified? As though we're still reading the history of the body of Christ in the making?

Just how difficult is it to hear different teachings that conflict with each other? Those which fail to come into agreement with the remainder of what's being presented as if on God's behalf?

More often all that's accomplished is ones own frustration when conflict (strife) rears its head. Once this takes place 'Pride" steps in and has its way with you which then leads you right back to where you were before you were while being "Introduced" to the word "GOD" which stands in order to represents his person.

Why does most teaching about God and His Son find conflict whenever the original design of everything God also created has been painted as the perfect picture which was intended to represent His person?

The same God who created ALL things great and small to include everything that enjoys breath and life?

Have you ever heard it said in terms of God being confusing, "It requires someone other than God to complicate what God has otherwise gone to great lengths to make plain to man"?

I believe that whatever it is that's being taught that goes against what God has otherwise explained through ALL that He's created is a lie.

As if someone that's just beginning to step out and discover who God is what could you conclude about God if all you were to first read is the following words ABOUT God? recorded words as if God spoke them to mankind so that He could share those words with his fellow man?

What would you consider to be missing?

Could it be "Belief"? That to mean believing what has been said about GOD is also True?

Ps 146:9
The LORD watches over the alien and sustains the fatherless and the widow, but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.
NIV

Prov 22:12
The eyes of the LORD keep watch over knowledge, but he frustrates the words of the unfaithful.
NIV

Just for the record, what God has created includes His son Jesus the Christ who God also purposed as the savior of man!

Let NO man say to you and you then believe what's been said as if about GOD, if that same voice includes the inference "I don't know God or There is NO God"! That's no more factual in terms of stating the truth than is someone that says there is a GOD who sent His Son some two thousand years AGO.

Especially when neither can be seen without first "Believing" what's been said ABOUT any type of a GOD for that matter.

Is there any difference between some one who denies the truth and someone who looks to "Suppress" the truth" so that person won't be forced to accept what's said as IF it is the "Truth"?

When the said truth of a matter eventually does show up, does that always mean everyone involved automatically accepts "Truth" as if absolute?

Is there truly anything "Worse" than someone who thinks they only suppress knowledge?

Now, a question aimed at those who do believe in Jesus the Christ and Son of God, "Is there anything worse than the person or voice who finds personal comfort by way of suppressing what is TRUE concerning God or Christ Jesus?

If "NO", who then makes the determination concerning what is true among any said "Group" of believers? Who ultimately decides what is true and what is false if NOT that same group (congregation) as IF one opinion that gets expressed?

If that be true how does each sitting member then cast their personal ballot (Lot) concerning not only what is corporately being taught, but more importantly 'What is true that is Being Taught" which then gets taxed with expectations which are then placed upon what Christ is WILLING to do on behalf of WHO He is?

Not to dwell there, but it is food for thought.

The higher point is, what should those same congregates (members) then expect the Lord to manifest as if what they say they believe is NOT true concerning His person?

Who then among that same group gets to enjoy the intimacy of a TRUE relationship with Christ while in the midst of such things? Just how much of a struggle comes along when an individual chooses to think otherwise concerning who Christ Is AND all that He is WILLING to do and why?

There is no accuracy in corporate prayer unless everyone believes the same thing. Accuracy to mean who did Jesus respond to in terms of ones Faith, belief and absolute confidence in Him (Christ). How so?

It's too easy for one person to then come along and explain away how or what Jesus is being accredited for.

Those that Represent God were NOT intended to be or become politicians. The despised "World already has enough of those".

You truly want to find out who are the righteous people are in ANY congregation?

The "First" issue you'll need to flesh out is "What qualifies a righteous man in God sight"!

Where would you find such qualifications?

In the very Book you're claiming you consider to also be Holy!

Playing with the words of God historically has always proven fatal when given ENOUGH time, yet same can only be seen when each event has been truthfully examined and pieced together according to ALL that is True.

Some still enjoy playing with words AND time simply because God is merciful and has NOT struck them dead on the spot and yes it is proving to be fatal within the body of those who say they believe what Jesus said.

We do have an enemy and his MO is to kill, steal and destroy what might otherwise have proven to be the manifest truth God's word was intended to produce.

It's easy to explain away what's not being heard, yet it's proves to be much harder to try and explain the unexplainable.

What is Faith and what Is does the word Believe" truly mean? Even more what is the end result?

Has God's word(s) become "Old news" or just news that keeps getting older and fading away OR is it still your daily bread?

Occasionally God will give you enough bread that last for two days, yet the real strengthening comes day to day in our dependence upon everything God's word supplies daily and in accordance with what we perceive to be our NEED.

Heb 11:1-2
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. 
NIV

To be continued.....

Amazed and taken

"Amazed' is a powerful word when it's found flowing in the veins of commentary, yet today it seems to have little influence in the absence of miracles as such that Only God can perform. sw

I hope to set the tone for this blog entry by introducing the thought that Jesus was and is the ULTIMATE believer! Believer in what some might ask?

That He was the SON of God All mighty who actually DOES maintain and from everlasting to everlasting sustains all power and authority in Heaven AND on earth.

The question for humanity still remains open for most in that, "Who do we say that we are"? And that in relation to Christ"?

The next question should be, "Have we taken ownership of that response as Jesus also had to do whenever we try to consider what God has asked of us as believers in HIM"?

The word says that those that have ears to hear will only be those who are are also raised unto life eternal. I think it a good question that needs consideration today primarily among those stating they follow Christ.

I'm not talking about hearing your preacher, your father or mother, I'm speaking about distinctly hearing the voice of the Spirit of Christ as Your God and then responding? What does He tell YOU to do from one day or moment to the next?

Does the distinct sound of His voice break through the noise of this world? Have you trained your ears to hear His voice as opposed to the voice of your own soul?

Can you or have you heard the voice of God and with clarity enough that you can say with the utmost confidence you're being lead by His spirit in your daily affairs here on earth?

If "Yes", what if you also knew that declaration were going to be placed on trial at some point in your life?

We can say we know who Christ is, and we can say we belong to Christ but can we say in all truth we KNOW what eternal life is as if the same way we know Christ?

If we can accept the following at face value, what could we as said believers conclude we need to fine tune our spiritual ears to?

John 17:3
Now this is eternal life : that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.
NIV

Is that food for thought, or the kind of food you haven't acquired a taste for "Yet"?

Who is this man in this story and what was he NOT willing to believe prior to the arrival of a greater need than he'd previously perceived?

The salvation of all men will always pertain to what Love is willing to and all that Love can do

John 4:47-50
When this man heard that Jesus had arrived in Galilee from Judea, he went to him and begged him to come and heal his son, who was close to death. 

"Unless you people see miraculous signs and wonders," Jesus told him, "you will never believe ."  

The royal official said, "Sir, come down before my child dies." 

Jesus replied, "You may go. Your son will live." NIV

The man took Jesus at his word and departed. NIV


Matt 11:23
If the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Sodom , it would have remained to this day. NIV

Acts 13:12

When the proconsul saw what had happened, he believed, for he was amazed at the teaching about the Lord. NIV

If Christianity were only understood to be about faith "In Christ", should a unbeliever be amazed when they don't expect to see the evidence of the person being preached?

It was recorded of Pilate that he was "Amazed" yet it is NOT recorded that Pilate also believed in Christ.

Mark 15:4-5
So again Pilate asked him, "Aren't you going to answer? See how many things they are accusing you of."

But Jesus still made no reply, and Pilate was amazed . NIV

A person can be amazed as well perplexed at what they see, yet still not believe in the person of Christ Jesus. Believing in what if not for all that He is capable of ? Capable as though the full vested power of God almighty does rest on Him as God's Son. Did Pilate fail to acknowledge such power actually did rest on Jesus as did all others that failed to believe in Him up to that point?

Such divine power that was given to Him to dispense at His discretion yet He did not always find opportunity to use that same power at all times.

If the reader of the account(s) of Jesus were to take what was written about such instances WITHOUT additional commentary, what would You conclude prevented Him from performing as is the GOD you've only heard about and are being asked to believe in?

He had at both at His discretion not only because he had been given all power and authority, but also because He has been entrusted to act as does His heavenly Father and within the same limitations.

Many seem to enjoy talking about why He didn't do many more miracles and healing's than He did yet even fewer will express "WHY" He did do as much as He did as if they "Know" him, yet when a prayer doesn't get answered Nobody seems to know much about God all the sudden.

It's just to easy to say, His ways are higher than ours and we just can't Know why He does what He does. How does that square with a father and son or husband and wife imagery Jesus constantly uses as the metaphor of an intimate relationship?

I believe much of what people DON'T seem to want to Know about Christ can be found in those same cracks that seem to continually prevent is from having a intimate relationship.

I personally believe that as a good and thorough of a teacher that Jesus IS, the essence of the very things that continue to plague most marital and parent/child relationships will prove to be an exact fit as to everything that prevents man from KNOWING his God better than he presently does.

We're not where we are by accident and without reason, yet what do we know right? I mean we're all imperfect or at least that's what our default claim to fame is, yet what does that say about victory that can only come through Christ? That is unless we can do what we need to do on our own in order to be considered righteous?

I believe God has not left anyone with a relational problem that is WITHOUT a solution IF and When He is heard the way He needs to be heard.

I believe every single relational issue a family has the cure for whatever that ails it can be found somewhere in Holy scripture, whether between the husband and wife, father and son, mother and daughter or any mixture of all the above.

Jesus set these godly relational metaphors before all humanity as if "Prime" example's yet man still chooses to throw out the guidelines that cause those examples to manifest in his own life. He continually looks to rewrite the script that defines Godliness.

When the words of God become flesh and dwell among us, guess whose flesh those words have chosen to wear?

In terms of teaching and or making disciples, how can a man explain to another that God can be trusted when all other earthly explanations do nothing more than try to prove that God is as unpredictable and unapproachable as man is?

Years ago I had a man ask me, "How do I know your God is the real God as compared to the God the Muslims and Buddhist try to tell me about"? He went on to suggest that my God was nothing more than words and stories as is the God(s) they worship and go into detail about.

Needless to expound it caused great pause within me....

What separates Jesus from all other God's? The fact that Jesus was real? The fact He IS real? The undeniable evidence He does have the authority to re-present God here in the earth?

If "Yes" then what would cause man to assume that Jesus would tell those that believe in Him to go and DO much more if they too didn't go with that same authority as if wearing the Signet Of "THE KING" as living proof?

People of God, "In exact and clear terms WHAT have we believed"?

What could frustrate such a suggestion though? The doctrines, traditions and opinions of men or being task with believing, given a commission to share that same Gospel without the power to go and do likewise?

Why would the mind oppose such a consideration? Because we know ourselves better than God? Because we've listened to what the "Man" has told us so that he too won't have this same expectation grinding on his soul?

Is the challenge what man can do or is what God can and is Willing to do when we find ourselves willing to go?

How can a man serve God unless God arrives at that location (address) first?

John 12:26
Whoever serves me must follow me ; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me. NIV

Surely Jesus fed thousand's yet did those thousands believe in Him to deliver them unto their eternal salvation because He fed them bread and fish or was this act of kindness simply the personage of Jesus on any given day? The act of kindness clearly understood as though able to attract the one common interest of hunger found within all mankind unto to Himself? Sound like a man feeding hungry pigeons?

If life after death is an eternal matter, how does feeding someone cause them to believe in Jesus for their eternal life as their only means for existing once their bellies are full? Hungry pigeons see no relevance beyond being fed in the moment do they?

Many say they teach about the Lord through giving, yet how amazed are those listening once they've received what has been freely given? What CAN be freely given that can NOT be duplicated and counterfeited that also has "Eternal value"?

Where is the economy today where something of this type of value can also be redeemed and realized here and now?

Are said believers in their deity of choice today only teaching that their God and Lord is impotent or that their God of choice only responds when He or She is in the mood to respond to ones prayers?

Could it be that what  man believes concerning His chosen God is only capable of performing equal to all that same man is willing to believe to be true about that same God?

What if believing in the One true God proves to be more than saying "I Believe"? What if all that is wanting to be considered to be found full of truth also has to prove that truth has value?

What if believing In the one true God requires the full investment of everything that a man is?

What if that full requirement is met only by way of believing in the One that same God sent so that he (man) could accurately address and believe in the One and only true God?

That to include what a man thinks, says and Acts upon as compared to all that God says is real though presently unseen. True yet said to be false at nearly every turn and everlasting only because Jesus as his savior is the only one that can deliver the reward contained in any promise made as one that's been kept?

What if man has not been placed in the judgment seat of his own earnest state of mind in his pursuit of God? What if God does know when a man is fully invested in his pursuit? What if when wrestling with God, he knows when a man has exerted his full potential strength?

What if the refiner does test the purity of such a substance? It being weighed as such which should be found to be more precious than gold, rubies and riches of this world? What could prove the value of such a substance and how could it be established? Could it be ones faith which heralds, "I believe"?

The state of mind of a man which then shows forth as if the end results of his own thoughts? Such a man whose efforts are compelled by the desires of God? Those same desires being defined Only by the very words of God which actually gives those desires shape & form as if substance which exist?

Thoughts that have nothing but respect for the unrelenting pursuit of God (seeking) as though Jacob wrestling with the angel of God? That same type of man that is unwilling to let go until he'd received his blessing from God?

Unless God renames any of us who say we believe, what have we truly become unless that same name we all share also be "Israel"?

(Israel means he struggles with God) NIV

Gen 33:19-20
There he set up an altar and called it El Elohe Israel .  NIV

(El Elohe Israel can mean God, the God of Israel or mighty is the God of Israel) (NIV)

Gen 32:26-28

But Jacob replied, "I will not let you go unless you bless me."

The man asked him, "What is your name?"

"Jacob," he answered.

Then the man said, "Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with men and have overcome."
NIV

As though the Glory of God that is being used in the tug-a-war between the opinions of men and the everlasting effects of words of God.

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

The basis of our mutual struggle with sin is nothing new to this day regardless of any other justification that would have you to believe to the contrary.

Gen 4:7
If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door ; it desires to have you, but you must master it."
NIV

Instead man aided by the false testimony concerning God continues to try and reinvent the rules of engagement. A venue where man finds himself engaged in his own efforts of trying to find himself reconciled unto God (rejoined with God).

Where's the doorway back to God?

Accept the truth that if it were NOT for the mercy of God being extended towards him, mankind could have never found his way back to God because He is Holy and righteous. Why? Because God is all in!

Your creator and savior (Christ Jesus) has spoken it and has placed His word above all else that can be said about Him...

With that said, are you truly wrestling with God and what He says or are your still wrestling with what mere men assume they have to say about God?

I know you do!

Acts 26:27-29
King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do."

Then Agrippa said to Paul, "Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?"

Paul replied, "Short time or long — I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains."
NIV
There are many words that manage their way into the boardroom of our understanding, yet very few that agree with the intentions of the Lord.

Some will say, "God is a mystery" or "God works in mysterious ways", yet what's truly been stated when you later hear that same voice trying to explain God to you?

A distant God is a mystery yet a  familiar God is Family.

Just because a person can find someone that says they believe what's being said, that in itself does not justify who God is within the one that says they're listening.

Being able to relate to God also requires knowing beyond doubt that He knows You better than you know yourself yet at the same time He wants You to Know Him.

How much of what God does know about you then also affects how you relate to Him?

Where is a mans reasoning voice within a dream if not asleep? Is man then also asleep if the voice of God is not able to reason with him?

Gen 20:6-7
Then God said to him in the dream, "Yes, I know you did this with a clear conscience, and so I have kept you from sinning against me. That is why I did not let you touch her.

Now return the man's wife, for he is a prophet, and he will pray for you and you will live.
NIV

Eph 5:8-17
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.

Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.

For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said:

"Wake up , O sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you."

Be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.

Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.
NIV

When you pray, don't pray like YOU mean it, instead pray like God embodies what He said to then take His Joy as your strength.
Ps 141:1-2
O LORD, I call to you; come quickly to me.
Hear my voice when I call to you.
May my prayer be set before you like incense.
may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice.
NIV
John 10:25-30
 Jesus answered, "I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I do in my Father's name speak for me, but you do not believe because you are not my sheep .

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.

My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one." 
NIV

Still don't believe in miracles?

Then consider what is imperfect that now holds out in the hope of being considered righteous In Gods sight as someone that also now shares that same good news AND with confidence to others...

Without faith it is impossible to please God.

If that same faith is NOT in the righteousness that ONLY Jesus can provide before God, then WHAT are you so confident of as though YOU do have something that's is also true to then give it away?

Forgiveness requires participation

Failure is not realizing a weakness held in common as opportunity for Gods Glory. sw

Many songs have been written and thousands of sermons preached, yet until you’ve reached the full depth of forgiveness have you truly touched the heart of God. sw

1 Cor 1:25

For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.

Your interpretation of love is the only thing that will put limits on the Love of God. Sw

Luke 7:47
Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven — for she loved much . But he who has been forgiven little loves little."

Once you’ve tasted true forgiveness the mercy of God is the only thing that can satisfy your inner hunger and thirst for more.  sw

Mark 2:17

"It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous , but sinners."

Divine wisdom is only able to teach those in need when it’s willing to share. Sw

Prov 9:10-12

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom , and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

For through me your days will be many, and years will be added to your life. If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you; if you are a mocker, you alone will suffer." 

1 John 4:17-21

There is no fear in love. 

But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. 

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

How can a man obey the Gospel when he forgets who it was intended to reach. Sw

1 Peter 4:17-19

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 ?"  

So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.

NIV

The only real cure for dead and dried bones is living water. sw

Luke 6:32-36

"If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you?

Even 'sinners' love those who love them.

And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you?

Even 'sinners' do that.  

And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' lend to 'sinners,' expecting to be repaid in full.

But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back.

Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.

Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

NIV

True forgiveness is the best reward a man can give himself. Sw

Eph 5:28

He who loves his wife loves himself .

Accept the truth that Jesus Loved himself, yet with one exception not the way the fallen world could easily understand. sw


Luke 7:46-47

Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven — for she loved much . But he who has been forgiven little loves little."

The best “State” to live in is one that is willing to forgive. sw

Master of what we don't know

As a believer in Christ Jesus "As your savior" it's important to not only know what many refer to as the "Facts", but also "Know" Jesus as a "Person".

This could also be said about anyone you also place absolute trust in. What is absolute trust though?

Some might suggest as the ultimate expression of trust, "I would trust this or that "Person" with my life" yet in the big (true) picture how could you prove that statement of resolve to be true in the mind of someone you're hoping to covey such a notion?

Many might suggest that taking a fatal bullet for someone else is the greatest expression of "Love" someone could show forth, yet is that truly a sacrifice for the sake of Love without the other person knowing beyond doubt "Why" (what compelled you) you were willing to begin with?

When can anybody know to the point of death to trust another's vow of love to be True? How is it possible to prove love or the simple vow made to be true and faithful "To the End"?

Especially in light of a world full of historically proven liars?

A world where total dependency upon the potential for true relationships has been shredded by divorce, abandonment and adultery? Undermined by networks of neatly compartmentalized little "White lies" that have been birthed from even smaller fibs?

Supposedly neatly stashed secrets and partial truths which invite doubt.

Doubts assumed hidden well enough to where the results then manifest as insult which then challenge our otherwise intuitive ability to discern ones sincere (true) integral character.

A world where we're surrounded by breached contracts of all sorts, marital affairs, emotional robbery (cheating) while dating, scheming and chaffing little secrets between friends all of which chisel away at the absolute hope of being able to trust in another while widening the chasm between two souls.

It's easy to speak of (confess) a love for God, yet whose testimony is to be believed especially when it comes to finding yourself "Believable" at all times?

Yes, our dependency as believers is surely founded upon the faithfulness of Christ, yet when we truly acknowledge the transforming work being done within ourselves day by day, only then can we be developed and then incorporated into the person of Christ.

The placed where we find ourselves able to believe that not only our confession actually did reach the ears of God  but also the redeeming work beyond that confession being observed. A work which now manifest itself as the direct result of Christ doing that same work within our combined being (spirit-soul-body).

The pure confession filed yet under the label of a, "Faith filled" work in progress because of what Christ leads us towards in His triumphant and righteous procession.

2 Cor 7:9-10
Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
NIV

Many love to say they see Jesus as their mediator between themselves and God, yet is it not the testimony of Jesus about YOU that you're depending upon?

Jesus spoke of His knowing the Father as though "One" yet where or maybe how do we exclude ourselves often times when we reflect on what we truthfully can't see taking place within our personage that's been assigned a name here in the earth?

A name which has been conditioned to respond to the surrounding world?

It's easy to superimpose what we hear or read as if about "Someone else", yet what about when such includes ourselves as if part of that same "One"?

John 5:46-47
If you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote about me . But since you do not believe what he wrote, ----> how are you going to believe what I say?" 
NIV

What can one truly know about a person unless they've spent time with them? Meaning more than just sound bites or small traces of kindness sprinkled among a whole "Lot" of ugliness?

Acts 22:17-18
"When I returned to Jerusalem and was praying at the temple, I fell into a trance and saw the Lord speaking. 'Quick!' he said to me. 'Leave Jerusalem immediately, because they will not accept your testimony about me .' NIV

Jesus said of himself and those that are willing to lay down their life and follow Him, "My sheep hear my voice".

How important is the testimony of someone other than your self when trying to define where your priorities and loyalty lies?

It's easy to say "I've obeyed" to then have our own ears receive such a statement with joy, yet how easy is it to hear "You have not obeyed"?

How often do we continually keep putting Christ BACK on the cross in our own lives instead of placing Him at the right hand of God in our understanding? High and exalted and that as our understanding concerning Him that's since become "EFFECTUAL" as He now leads?

Many think that reading about Jesus is the work, yet what we "SEE" being done within and through us should beckon the thought concerning God Glory being witnessed by the world around as if a part of God's New Creation.

Allowing God to teach the more precise version as to "How" all things He's also created actually do put on display His goodness so that men are truly "Without Excuse" in terms of denying having been exposed to the things (creation) God also created?

I think of God's creation as a never ending reminder. All men have the need set before them to choose to participate as created beings. In so much that such things as a blade of grass, a tree or a rock should never put a believer to shame as though found to be found out performing the spirit He's (God) personally chosen be placed within a "Man".

It's easy to laugh at a man made version of the enchanted Forest, yet we'll skim right over the truth that a not only did a mule and a burning bush once spoke to a man, but also that God has made himself know by way of all that he's created. Surely then all creation to include "Man" has a voice, but what does it have to say concerning it's creator?

We easily dismiss as though a mysterious metaphor mined from antiquity that a little bird might carry the spoken words to the King. Today such a suggestive metaphor gets mock when asked "How do you know about a matter", as we respond in jest that "A little bird told me"!

How would discounting the voice of creation as well the creator affect the otherwise potential where someone trying listen and hear (discern) between the voice of the Holy Spirit as if in competition with all the other voices that take delight in broadcasting their message?

Eccl 10:20

Do not revile the king even in your thoughts, or curse the rich in your bedroom,
because a bird of the air may carry your words, and a bird on the wing may report what you say.
NIV

Luke 19:39-40
Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples!"

"I tell you," he replied, "if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."
NIV

Acts 5:29-32
Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than men!

The God of our fathers raised Jesus from the dead — whom you had killed by hanging him on a tree.

God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel.

We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him." 
NIV

What if a person is not physically around (present) so you can get to know them?

We're all looking for reasons why, yet when we "IGNORE" all of the words that trail behind the word "Because" when we do read, in the light of truth "What have we failed to believe"?

Not only do we want to receive Gods grace but many are even more addicted to trying to redefine God's grace and as such that waivers equal the the multitude of opinions available.

The grace of God meets and communes with His children that are also about His business here in the earth.

God causes the rain to fall and the sun to shine on both the unrighteous and the righteous, so in all reality we all enjoy many of the same things while in this world.

What do we do when we don't find the evidence of "Favor" when we ask for proof enough that we might Know Him more than the day before? What have we discovered in terms of "Knowing" God?

Enough that we can at least know beyond doubt that His hand is upon ALL of our affairs here in the earth?

Just how much and how many conclusions reached get laid to the charge of God as if He "Made me do it" when in truth God had no "Direct" influence in the matter outside of creating all the participants?

That to include those willing and those that are NOT willing?

If you believe that God is sovereign as if to say "In absolute control OVER ALL things at all times" that take place here in the earth, then how CAN you find yourself able to disagree with what I write?

If God controls ALL things then stick with your convictions because I would NOT be able to write what I do UNLESS God made me do it?

My point is we have choice and we have a mind and a will, yet how do they get applied within the realm we now find ourselves in?

The governance of the standing principles of the kingdom of God do NOT shift like the sand we stand on. No, the operating principles of the Kingdom of God ALL function harmoniously together.

Just because the breeze blows and moves the leaves that same potential does not also move the rock lying next to the leaf.

Divine operating principles are NEVER in conflict with each other nor are all the attributes of Gods spirit that are always in agreement with each other.

There's more that needs to be preached concerning all the "Why Not's" if we can accept that in Christ it's always "Yes'.

Questions like, "Are you willing Lord? Yet do we hear "Yes"! Are you able Lord? do we hear the "Yes"!

Do I believe Lord?............is there silence or just more doubt and confusion piled on to everything else we don't know or refuse to accept as true about Jesus Our Christ?

2 Cor 1:20-22
For no matter how many promises God has made, they are "Yes " in Christ. And so through him the "Amen " is spoken by us to the glory of God.

Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.
NIV

Does the words "Is to come" only suggest "After this world has passed away"? Or does what IS to come include by way of our (one and the same) faith in Him which also includes the things AFTER this world passes away?

Is our faith everyday faith in Christ we're relying on to somehow meet with Gods ability (Power) to raise us from the dead is it not the same faith we are to be exercising today as today is the Day he Lord has made?

Rom 8:13-14
For if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live, because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. NIV

James 4:1-3
What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you?

(Stop and camp there for a while and truthfully inquire. I trust that MOST of what said believers fail first to "See" and to then to receive from God as their answer as to the why many of the sol called "WHY NOT's" can be found here)

 You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God.

When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.
NIV

Disagree if it suits your justification, yet Truth does not paint with a broad brush

I've never met Ghandi, yet I have read "About" him.  I've read of him, yet know little about what compelled him to do the things he did. I can read between the lines or try to, yet is that enough to then know the man and what compelled him?

I've never personally met any president of this great nation, yet I've listened to many speak. I've been "Introduced" to many different people, yet I personally have never manage myself well enough to get to know them beyond a hand shake and peaceable smile.

Once again, what do I know beyond doubt about them?

There are times when certain types of commentary usually only get mentioned with the intent to make us "feel" better about ourselves within our present circumstances, yet how will all such commentary serve us in another day and that of "Eternal" proportions?

Comments such as, "What's done is done" are truly nothing more than a shield or verbal defense against the assumed accusation being presented.

Certain bible translations interpret the word "Satan" as "Accuser" while others will agree and have interpreted the character of satan to mean "Accuser of the brethren".

I personally see such a suggestion easily joining hands with the teaching of the Apostles which states that as brethren, "Our battle is NOT against flesh and blood".

Eph 6:10-18
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers , against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.

In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.

Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
NIV

In the hope of bringing clarity, have you ever read the word satan and then applied the meaning of the word "blame"?  Or when you read "The accuser" to then use the application "The one who blames the brethren"?

I would like to pose the question, "Just how often do we find this to be merely meaningless commentary"?

I personally would consider a person who died of thirst a tragedy. The greater tragedy should be the rest of the story which "Goes On" to tell the rest of that persons story as to how they died unaware that an ample water supply was just around the next corner.

There are times when "What we don't know can hurt us".

Such times include the thought(s) concerning the need of a savior are taken too lightly and secondly because of  the "Why" believers in Christ should take just as seriously. The truth as it pertains to the "Why"

Is it the simple matter of under estimating the enemy OR is it under estimating our vulnerability because of the fact we are "Known" more thoroughly than we seem to know ourselves?

One of the lies man has believed is that we are all unique.

Surely we're unique in appearance and in the attitude's of our minds as we each taste and sample the things of this world yet how does one process the net results of each day with clarity as though beyond having doubts?

All of the above under the supremacy in knowing, One God, One Spirit, One Christ and One Baptism into which we are all endowed by the same mercy and Grace which then causes us to succeed in the things for which God has sent his word (truth) forth into this earth in order to accomplish such an awesome undertaking which can only find its fulfillment by way the expressions of His WISDOM. Amen.

I believe there is wisdom and then there is 'WISDOM".

God's word does NOT say, "Lean not on your own wisdom" yet instead it says, "Lean not on your own understanding".

Far too often the kind of Wisdom, Knowledge and Understanding God refer's to when He's teaching is not the same substance the world uses. More often those three get tossed in one and the same container which usually ends up being that elusive "Box" many are always talking about stepping out of.

Suffering

There are times when "What" we pursue is gauged or measured by "What" we think we need, what we think we know and how well those things have worked for others.

How often though does the need for counsel (Advice) supersede the pursuit of such things? Who do we then ask IF we somehow arrive at the conclusion we do need counsel?

What about those decisions we make where we tell ourselves, "This one's obviously a no brainer" only later to discover there was more at stake than we had previously assumed?

Even the essence of the word 'Advice" attempts to speak to some of the things we downplay when the evidence can otherwise be "Observed" within our lives.

Those hushed ugly's better known as a "Vice" most of which are assumed to be lived only in the likely "Hood" where smoking, dipping, chewing, cussing, drugging, fornication, prostitution, pornography or being seen with those that do precedes all other accepetable explanations concerning the behavior of this person(s).

Based on the verbatim definition generously provided by Merriam Webster all the above are simply the outward signs of the inward failing. Naturally most will choose to go with webster's option "C" under the guise of such things being "Trivial'.

The commonly accepted cure or short term remedy for most of the above usually ends up being simply "Don't get Caught" or wear a condom if you do so the evidence will not be found.

Many of those things that only later down the road "Prove" they were at the root of what affected (infected) many different area's of our lives.

Full Definition of VICE

1

a :  moral depravity or corruption :  wickedness

b :  a moral fault or failing

c :  a habitual and usually trivial defect or shortcoming : foible <suffered from the vice of curiosity>

Things that we ourselves have either drug into the "Living Room" of our lives or have allowed others to bring them along as if "Their" innocent carry on baggage? That is until the storm hits!

What if we daily asked ourselves "So what's next"?

Do we then find ourselves second guessing our own decisions OR now blaming everything and everyone else as if the root of the original mistake made?

Some might term this denial, yet does giving IT a new or different name then solve the problem?

That to mean does simply admitting you made a mistake then magically cause us to turn and make the "Right" decision or do we more truthfully stand the same risk of turning "around" once more and make yet another wrong decision?

What is it that causes anyone to ignore not only the need and early warning of "Good" advice but also to follow that same advice simply because it has been judged as though "Good" advice?

Ask any child and I can promise that because they ARE a child they'll always answer with "I don't know why"!

A person can despise the definition of something, yet they'll despise it even more when the definition describes the very thing they personally despise.

If you can allow it, what causes you to cast off or maybe reject advice? Is it the voice of the "Child in you"?

What if you were to think of "Good Advice" as though something that can only come from the person who has also historically proved themselves not only able to follow their own advice, but followed it to such a degree that it proves them to be worthy enough to listen to (heed) their advice?

Have you ever asked yourself and or those that surround you, what causes both to be considered imperfect?

It's easy to claim or say "I'm not perfect" or that "No one is perfect" after the facts that get revealed are NOT favorable, but what are we truly confessing?

What are we comparing ourselves to when we do find ourselves in need to suggest that we're excusably "Imperfect"? Do we compare ourselves to each other or are we comparing ourselves to someone that is perfect?

Maybe that we're poor listener's? Hard headed? Stubborn or ignorant? Don't those all sound like softened blows?

How about Rebellious, Lawless, Wicked or Sinful?

I know, they all sound too harsh, so instead we'll rename them or clump them under the category of Back sliding which has a much easier to swallow texture as does a "Smoothie".

What is that would cause anyone to not be considered "Imperfect" in the grand scheme of this mutual experience we're addressing as "Life"?

If NOT perfect, exactly what is it that causes Jesus to be considered perfect?

I can hear some saying, "That's an easy answer in that Jesus was God in the flesh"?

Now add to that thought are all those you've allowed to offer you counsel also considered to be "righteous"?

Was it you that qualified them as righteous or has someone else qualified them?

Wouldn't that totally depend upon what causes a person to be considered not only as "righteous" but also the utmost qualifier as though "Righteous in God's eyes"?

How would you even know if your response to that question is right?

If you can believe the words God offers to all that are willing to believe them to be "true" and that only because those words were inspired by God, complied, delivered by way of His Holy spirit and then written about Jesus, what do they say?

Do they say He was simply perfect from the womb or was He (Jesus) made perfect?

Heb 5:7-10
Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered and, once made perfect , he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him and was designated by God to be high priest in the order of Melchizedek.
NIV

The word does not say Jesus could NOT sin. The word does NOT say Jesus was exempt from temptation. Nor does the word spoken about Him say that Jesus was NOT exposed to and or subjected to anything LESS than all mankind.

Wouldn't man feel cheated if Jesus did receive such a special treatment from God OUR father to where we as mere men also DON"T receive the same things? The weaponry needed? The authority needed? The ability from within (Holy Spirit) that's needed?

Such a special treatment which would then somehow exclude or maybe distance you and I in our attempts made to somehow "Find" ourselves able to "Relate" to the importance of the things Jesus did suffer? Those results then placed on "Full" display?

In so much that this perfect picture now has an image all its own?

Some might suggest that the power hungry man pursues "Power", yet what if you were to substitute the word power with the word "Righteous"?

This "Righteousness" (as though power) to then to interpret as if something to follow and that because it appears to lead to "Success" or maybe the "Ultimate Victory"?

What causes you to reject the person who attempts to present good advice? What would cause man to lean on His own understanding in his approach to this "Thing" presently being understood that we're labeling as "Life"?

Is it that You do not know how to discern (decide) what is truly "Good" advice OR do you find more often you're simply rejecting the history of  the person that tries to present "Good " advice?

It's easy to say we don't "Trust" someone outside of ourselves, yet I hope to further investigate why mankind fails to "Easily" trust a specific "Personage'.

How does "Counsel" (advice) manifest in your life and who's in control over that process?

Is it fair to say that God would be unjust if God placed an expectation upon any of us IF God did not also provide the :"How To" go about meeting that same expectation?

It's easily suggested that only the fool says, "I want to make my Own mistakes", yet why?

Is it because those mistakes often end up "Owning" portions (segments) of your life?

What if man stopped focusing on what "Causes" him (suggest to him) to consider himself as "Imperfect" and instead he (man) began to focus on how he (man) is able to "See" himself as though equipped and capable of being made perfect?

Think about how man has been historically programmed to think by way of his surroundings? The world we live in IS seems to exist on a "Performance" based grading curve. Does the world Give you the tools needed for the same success it all but requires from you in the form of expectation(s)?

Nearly everything in this world tells him (man) he's a loser when he "Doesn't" do or accomplish "Whatever" may be being emphasized as important at any given moment.

Stop and think just for a moment and if you already have STOP for another moment!

What if the present explanation that we've "Accepted" to date as the thing we are calling "Life", is only a part of a larger existence yet to be encountered? Why would you need to be changed to simply walk on streets made of Gold?

Is there something more that God is preparing us for or is it only for our personal enjoyment that He's also created man?

Ps 147:10-11

His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of a man;
the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.
NIV

Maybe only for a short while you might say, yet that also depends upon how long it takes before you go in search of the same counsel which could have prevented the "Unwanted" episodes to begin with?

Let this question settle in the debating room that has been strategically positioned between your spirit and soul.

Do you esteem Christ enough to where you want to Be like Him? Do you see Him as the "FIRST" of the beloved of God?

If yes, who are you observing while in this world as though your guide to such a place?

What of this kingdom of Priest God tells man about? What of this "Order" of a priest "Hood" whom Christ is the great High Priest over and for what purpose?

Even the adopted child once they've embraced (adopted) their status in their Fathers house, don't they too desire to be Like their father in order find themselves as Loved?

You can defend against what you read below because it was addressed and written to the status (office) of an elder. Only when you Don't find OR hope to see yourself  as maturing is it easy to take the way of the child, yet is that the desire Of God's heart that you remain a child?

1 Cor 13:9-12
For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears.

When I was a child, I talked like a child , I thought like a child , I reasoned like a child . When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.

Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
NIV

1 Peter 5:1-12
To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ's sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed:

Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers — not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.

And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.


Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,
"God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."
 
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you
.
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 


And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.

To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.

With the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God.

Stand fast in it.
NIV