How to Pray -- In GOD's ear Psa 31:2

Theme Scripture

 “Bow down thine ear to me; deliver me speedily: be thou my strong rock, for an house of defence to save me.” – Ps 31:2

Imagine. Can you? You, a human, seeking guidance from your FATHER. How small in stature must we be compared to the CREATOR of everything. Yet, HE is our FATHER in Heaven. So huge, right?

Now I say again, imagine. We’ve got HIS earàno, not to climb up inside because we are tiny, and HIS ear must be huge – for all of you out there who have vivid imaginations. Let’s just do this in human terms. We are small and GOD is big. King David, who was not big -- at least not as tall as his predecessor King Saul was -- in prayer to GOD wrote the words in Ps 31:2. If you are a fan of the collection of Psalms in the book of the Bible with the same title you know already how absolutely close King David was to his GOD. He poured out his heart, his mind, his spirit often in his many lyrical writings. But this one, it may be one we can relate to this expression or request of our Heavenly FATHER to bow down and listen. It appears it was an urgent request from King David. He needed a fast get away someplace strong to hide from the snares of those who secretly laid traps to try and trip up the King.

You may have experienced in your life some situation where someone wanted to trap you into saying or doing something you did not want to do but they did it in such a cunning way that you had to seek assistance to extricate yourself so as not to be considered part of the company of those responsible for the snare. Or, worse, they were laying in wait to cause some sort of hurt to you maybe cost you your job, try to interfere with your marriage, make false reports to your Church leadership about you. King David had lots of enemies and many of them worked as subordinates to him. Despite there best efforts they only succeeded in driving him closer to his GOD. And how exactly? Through prayer! His Psalms, worship hymns some of them, were his form of prayer in those times when he was most overwhelmed with gratitude for the many blessings he lived or the other end of the spectrum so overwhelmed with a rather morose sadness and needed the only ONE he knew he could count on to be just, loving, supportive and at times exhortingly.

Now that we have GOD’s ear, do we have a particular concern we need to share? Maybe a prayer of thanksgiving? Maybe just to be on bended knee blessing HIM? If you have a prayer of intercession or one of petition you may want HIS ear close by. In intercession often our hearts are weighed down on behalf of the person for whom we intercede. Or, if it is a petition, maybe our voice is so overweary by something or plight of someone very close to us and we just do not have the strength to speak with the voice of conviction but more the voice of exhaustion. Whatever the circumstance, our fallback is always to take it to GOD. We can certainly see the need to ask of our LORD to please come close with HIS ear to hear our weak or sad voice.

What of those times when we simply cannot formulate a prayer to cover what we are experiencing? What if another person has asked us to pray on their behalf? Or, we have a stirring in our spirit we do not understand but it is strong enough to grab our attention so exclusively we cannot think or do anything until we deal with it? We want the LORD’s help -- but we are literally dumbfounded! What then?

Then, our last but not least best prayer assistant, our very own resident Holy Spirit is AS ALWAYS there to help. Now, do not get me wrong, in every other manner of prayer the Holy Spirit provides our direct line of access. But all the more so when we are weak as Paul points out in Romans 8:26 –“Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.”

Is that not JUST AS AWESOME as asking GOD to bow down and listen to us? If you are a person who may feel inadequate with or in your prayer time/manner this should bring you so much hope and relief. No worries. GOD has got this too!

You may be feeling like a prayer right now but are at a loss for words. The LORD has that covered too. How? Two ways. First, in Matthew 6:5-7, HE tells us how and what NOT to do when we pray. Second, how to pray giving us a suggestion of the kinds of things we can include in our prayer. It is called the Model or LORD’s Prayer [Matt 6:9-3]. I just call it my ‘go to prayer’ for a jump start. What? Yes, within the framework of this example we have the following:

•  Our Father in heaven, ß Remember, we’ve asked our LORD to bow down and give us a listen so here we are reminded our FATHER is in Heaven – you are on earth. It is a good thing HE is so big as HE has a long way to bow down. I would fall over if I had to bow down very low. But, be that as it may…you see where I just went with just this first sentence. We may have no other thing in mind but when we read that first sentence it unleased a flood of thoughts all of which could be topic of our prayer and at this point the Model Prayer is no longer in play.
•      Hallowed be Your name. ß Do you know what Hallowed means? Words like ‘venerable’ ‘consecrate’ ‘purify’ come to mind. To separate from profane things. Musing over your day, just then in your prayer are there things you did or said that may have not separated GOD from profane things or in our world today, profanity? Also, of note, is the word GOD. According to Thayer’s Greek Lexicon, GOD is a name that was and is understood to allude to HIS divinity, divine majesty. As such, HE appeared to no one but GOD until HE commissioned Moses to appear before Pharaoh to demand he release the children of Israel. Think upon that as a matter of prayer. Or ask, how can you make GOD’s name hallowed?
•       ¹⁰ Your kingdom come. ßWhat is GOD’s Kingdom to you? Meditate in prayer on just that? And, remember, as you pray those words you are asking for whatever you think that Kingdom is to ‘come’. Are you ready? If you are not sure what it is perhaps prayer in determining what is GOD’s Kingdom … searching out the Bible for the answer along with your prayer.
•      Your will be done ß Like the Kingdom understanding GOD’s will can seem too much. Prayer makes it more manageable. You can always start here.
•      On earth as it is in heaven. ß HIS Will done ON EARTH as it is in Heaven. It relates back to the KINGDOM, what, when, who, where? All great things to study and pray about. Or just say with a completely convicted heart ‘Your Kingdom come, YOUR Will be done on earth as it is in heaven.’ That is a powerful prayer in and of itself.
•      ¹¹ Give us this day our daily bread. ßHere is a great topic. Think…most people immediately think in terms of edible bread and totally I believe that is what is intended here but our daily bread is also our relationship with Christ. HE is the bread of life, the bread HE broke represented HIS flesh. Do we often consider, in depth, what Jesus did in and with HIS flesh for us? Is your prayerful time to seek out Christ?
•      ¹² And forgive us our debts, ßOur debts. Need I say more? If you are a humble lover of GOD you know all too well what debt we have and Christ has in fact forgiven us our debt when we were born again. Yet, do we other debts? Do you need definition of your debts? Read your Bible; pray.
•      As we forgive our debtors. ß Is this all about money? It most certainly can mean that. However, sometimes it is not so much about money as it is about what we perceive someone may have withheld to us we feel they owed. Are we ready to forgive them?
•      ¹³ And do not lead us into temptation, ß No suggestions needed here except to say from time to time we might want to truly pray these words and mean them intensely.
•      But deliver us from the evil one. ßABSOLUTELY REQUIRED prayerful matter. Daily, we should request being yanked from the snare of the wicked one, delivered from Evil..from the evil one and from any evil we may have been influenced to have entertained or act upon. Please, do not let the day leave you without recognizing prayer to the ALMIGHTY GOD, our FATHER IN HEAVEN should be to keep us or deliver us from evil. But not just ourselves, our loved ones, our brothers and sisters in CHRIST, our friends. We should pray this too for our leadership in the Church, in the Country, at the top and all the way down to our municipalities. Just this topic could keep your mind busy and engaged in prayer.

Finally, remember we have two examples of prayer Jesus through the Holy Spirit made sure was recorded in the Bible and preserved through all the many centuries since HE said them for us today. Here are two:

•      But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” – Luke 22:32
•      “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” ⁴³ Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. ⁴⁴ And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. – Luke 22:42-44

We can surely see how our prayer life could get busy…the intersection at which our mind and spirit meet could get congested with thoughts, emotions, wonders, words. As we articulate our way to the prayer, we see what we can pray for; how we can pray, and why we should pray. Remember King David? If you did your homework and read the entire 31^st Psalm you can see King David was very troubled and at times feeling most inconsolable, yet after some 23 verses he concludes with these words:”

Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart,
All you who hope in the LORD

AMEN!

NOTICE: If you are feeling inclined or feeling led to want Jesus as your Savior, your leader, your King, your source of Peace and Joy but are feeling woefully inadequate, uninformed on how best to get to know HIM, or find yourself at wit’s end because you believe yourself trapped and in need of GOD, please know Jesus stands ready to welcome you with HIS Holy Spirit. Believe these words: “¹⁶ For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. “—John 3:16

^“Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, ²⁰ and that He may send ^[c]Jesus Christ, who was ^[d]preached to you before, ²¹ whom heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things, which God has spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since ^[e]the world began.” – Acts 3:19-20

“Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born [a]again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” – John 3:3-8

If you need help, please feel free to leave a comment and I will respond.  †

DISCLAIMER: The thoughts published on this blog, in total, are the opinions, thoughts and considerations of the writer/author of every post published. It is assumed that research by the reader will lead the reader to their own conclusions. It is not the writer’s intent to make a judgment of anyone but to allow GOD’s Word to do what it does. “For the word of GOD is alive 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. 13 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.” – Hebrews 4:12 [NIV]

>>>>>>All artwork contained on this blog entry as well as archived/historical entries belongs to ©Lightwritingmatters 2015<<< permission must be requested and approved by the author to reproduce in any format and for any reason.√† 

NOTE: Artwork not copyrighted by Lightwritingmatters 2015 stands with this statement: “no copyright infringement is intended” or is otherwise attributed.

©Lightwritingmatters 2015

What Kind of Faith?

©Lightwritingmatters 2015

Theme Scripture

Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart, 2 saying: “There was in a certain city a judge who did not fear God nor regard man. 3 Now there was a widow in that city; and she came to him, saying, ‘Get justice for me from my adversary.’ 4 And he would not for a while; but afterward he said within himself, ‘Though I do not fear God nor regard man, 5 yet because this widow troubles me I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.’ ”

6 Then the Lord said, “Hear what the unjust judge said. 7 And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them? 8 I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?”

Compare what Jesus said during his ministry here on earth [Luke 18:2-8] to the statements HE made to John in Revelation after HIS ascension to Heaven.

To the angel of the church of Ephesus write,

‘These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands: 2 “I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; 3 and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name’s sake and have not become weary. 

1.      First Negative comment about the Church in Ephesus: “4 Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love.” 

2.     The Remedy: “5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works,”

3.     What happens if they do not: “or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent.”

4.    Ends on a positive note: “6But this you have, that you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.” – Rev 2:1-6

And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write

‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: 

1.      They are blah. They expend no energy for the Lord. --15 “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot.” 

2.     “16 So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.” -- [One thought about the hot/cold comment is: Hot/Cold geographically/ what seems obvious hot vs cold/the idea that Jesus was hot in his Zeal – John 2:17 and refreshing as a cold beverage on a hot day to the oppressed or yoked and overloaded. Matt 11:28-29] But the consensus in HIS using this metaphor is because Laodicea is geographically located down hill from two water sources, cold water from about 10 miles away arriving warm; another source was natural hot springs about 6 miles away also arriving warm. Yet, another offers the political system as the reason the folks in Laodicea Church were lukewarm. The ruling Roman emperor demanded people worship from the people as their self-designated god and because it was a thriving business center the idea is that the people in the Church kept a low profile so as not to deal with harsh repercussions for the income from the emperor. Truly, no matter the reason it does go back to the question Jesus asked:  Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?”

3.      “17 Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked— 18 I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.” – Here Jesus gives a clear reason for his rebuke, his love for them.

4.    “20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. 21 To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.” – Rev 3:14-21 – They received clear and direct counsel from Jesus. He recognized their condition; he gave them their options and ends with encouragement to do overcome their current circumstances by giving heed to Jesus’ words.

 And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write

‘These things says He who is holy, He who is true, “He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens”: 

1.      8 “I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.” -- Recognizes their challenges and how they have lived within them.

9 “Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie—indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you. 10 Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. 11 Behold, I am coming quickly! -- He offers protection in the hour of trial coming and soon. Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown. 12 He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more.” – A reminder to be ever vigilant.

2.     “ I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name.” – Rev 3:7-12 -- The ultimate seal of approval

In conclusion, as we track the Christian faith of whole churches several decades after Jesus ascended to Heaven it appears, out of 7 Churches listed in Revelation chapters 2 and 3, only one Church, the one in Philadelphia, received accolades and encouragement without any weakness; only challenges.

So back to this: “Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth? When HE asked the question about faith, while on earth, what was HE asking?

If you read the previous chapter Luke 17, it is easy to discern the disciples were eager to understand when the things Jesus was speaking to them would take place. HE answered them with this statement: “And they answered and said unto him, Where, Lord? And he said unto them, Wheresoever the body is, thither will the eagles be gathered together.” – Luke 17:37 They may have understood the statement completely. But to elucidate further, read the the opening verse in Luke 18 where Jesus answered the question he asked in vs 8. In verse 1 HE said “…that men always ought to pray and not lose heart,”. But how does that answer this: Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?” The parable, or example of a widow who daily sought justice from the judge in the city where she lived. The implication of the resolution to the woman’s request for justice was not a one time request but continuously is the ‘thing’ Jesus said in vs 1 and wondered in vs 8. We ought to ALWAYS be in prayer [or continuously like the widow] and by so doing we will prove our fidelity in faith to Jesus who makes intercession for us. – Rom 8:33-35a

Again, will He really find faith on the earth: Faith [pistis in Greek] has a number of nuanced applications. Those who have opined about this application understand it to be regarding fidelity. Fidelity to whom? Jesus. Through out the Gospel accounts healings and other miracles were ‘faith’ based and the faith had to be in Jesus’ abilities to do the miracle they sought. While HE was on earth miracles were generally immediate and 100 percent. After HIS ascension the miracles were done by HIS apostles but always by faith in Jesus.

Because Jesus discussed HIS return at some point in the future HIS disciples wanted to know when. Though HE did not give them a date, there were signs that they were given to look for but between the time Jesus spoke of the time of HIS return and the end there would be a long many centuries; many faithful who came and went and situations in many countries that for a time looked like it was fulfilling those signs. But to date, we still await that return in the final days of the second decade of the twenty second millennia since Jesus’ death. Are we even now ‘vigilant’ and is our loyalty, allegiance, ardor and DEVOTION, our FIDELITY in prayer and patience as we await Jesus’ return for the Church?  

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” – Heb 11:1 -- Understood to be the Biblical definition of Faith.

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” – Heb 12-1,2

“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, 7 casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.”—1Pet 5:6-9

Your faith should be alive at least 98.6 degrees! It should beat in faith that you will be able to answer in the affirmative that YES! You have faith [fidelity] in your LORD, Jesus. If HE should ask again—

Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes,

will He really find faith on the earth?”

†

 NOTICE: If you are feeling inclined or feeling led to want Jesus as your Savior, your leader, your King, your source of Peace and Joy but are feeling woefully inadequate, uninformed on how best to get to know HIM, or find yourself at wit’s end because you believe yourself trapped and in need of GOD, please know Jesus stands ready to welcome you with HIS Holy Spirit. Believe these words: “¹⁶ For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. “—John 3:16

^“Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, ²⁰ and that He may send ^[c]Jesus Christ, who was ^[d]preached to you before, ²¹ whom heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things, which God has spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since ^[e]the world began.” – Acts 3:19-20

“Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born [a]again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” – John 3:3-8

If you need help, please feel free to leave a comment and I will respond.  

DISCLAIMER: The thoughts published on this blog, in total, are the opinions, thoughts and considerations of the writer/author of every post published. It is assumed that research by the reader will lead the reader to their own conclusions. It is not the writer’s intent to make a judgment of anyone but to allow GOD’s Word to do what it does. “For the word of GOD is alive 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. 13 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.” – Hebrews 4:12 [NIV]

>>>>>>All artwork contained on this blog entry as well as archived/historical entries belongs to ©Lightwritingmatters 2015<<< permission must be requested and approved by the author to reproduce in any format and for any reason.√† 

NOTE: Artwork not copyrighted by Lightwritingmatters 2015 stands with this statement: “no copyright infringement is intended” or is otherwise attributed.

©Lightwritingmatters 2015

Controversy: Christianity Today Article

©Lightwritingmatters 2015

Who should we follow Jesus Or Paul, the Apostle? 

Theme Scripture

 “For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:” – 1 Pet 2:21

Query:

 Who should Christians follow as the preeminent role model of Christianity? Jesus, who is Christ?  Or Paul, who was converted to “The Way” by Jesus?

When making this decision remember that if you are a born-again Christian the Holy Spirit in you is there at the behest of Jesus. 

The answer to that question is not what you might think. The answer will be in part 2 of this post.   

Today, in America, there is a controversy, contrived and promulgated with help from behind the scenes – in spiritual darkness [Eph 6:12; 2 Cor 11:14] due to a single article of opinion written in a publication entitled ‘Christianity Today’. The headline that gave birth to the opportunity to shine the light of exposure – or so it ‘seemed’ -- on the so called big divide of Christians, mainly those who identify as ‘evangelists’ vs those who do not. That headline?

“Trump Should Be Removed from Office”

Do you see anything in that title that should cause any Christian to take up battle of words with one another over a difference of opinion? That is all it is, the writer’s opinion printed in a Christian publication with wide distribution. Then there is this, another ‘opinion’ but look at the full text and determine whether some of what was said is not only personal opinion but also includes a judgment of Christians with whom he has a spiritual ‘difference of opinion’. However, it is not limited to disagreement with them but in part a personal/spiritual attack. 

https://www.facebook.com/249653248548055/posts/1382187861961249/

While what is said by the author [Steve Deace] of that post is mostly correct, when it comes to his counsel notice as he exhorts and judges, he doesn’t use Jesus as his authority; never refers to GOD as his authority, only once does he mention Lord in context as the ‘word of the Lord’. In his closing paragraph he actually states: “That if Christianity is declining in the West, I think he'd say it is the fault of weak shepherds who fell into cultural fads and idolatry. As this current debate actually proves. Indeed, nor do I think Paul would be invited to give this take on any of the cable news networks that provide you the affirmation you crave.” [Steve Deace on Facebook]

While it may satiate the followers who themselves crave Steve’s opinions might it have been better stated and more inline with gospel sharing to remind folks that some of what they are seeing play out is what Jesus included in HIS Signs of the end; or, even those Paul himself wrote of? Why would one Christian find the need to opine about what another wrote as opinion in such a way as to divide out Christians, one from the other? For instance: Mr. Galli, the Christian who penned the aforementioned article in Christianity Today?

To be clear, Mr. Galli did the same thing. He too castigated those who differed with this own opinion casting aspersions on those who support the President -- judging their Christianity too. Both have a right to write whatever they wish but both should also remember our GOD IS NOT PARTIAL. HE does not do a comparative analysis of one Christian to another. Does not designate Jew here, Gentile there; Rich man here, poor man there; Man here, woman there. Or, evangelist here, traditional believer there, conservative believer here, liberal believer there. We each have our own, our individual relationship with the Lord and should be concerned that we seek HIS Spirit, guidance and mercy without thought to Mr. Galli or Mr. Deace, or Ms Jones, Mrs. Smith; nobody but our own.

There is a time and a place to counsel a fellow Christian and Jesus points it out in Matt 18:15-17.

What is the key problem here? Too many Christians have been caught up in politics and instead of their world view being primarily through the lens of the Spirit it is through the lens of the flesh. How else could it be for the corruption inherent in the political system of this country is the leaven that has corrupted the spirit mind of those who would seek to exercise their tongue in carnal matters like politics. In fact, James spends the whole of chapter 3 discussing the tongue and how to identify what is demonic and what is wisdom from above. This is what he said about the tongue:” But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.” – James 3:8 [bolded by blogger]

Of course, this blogger [me] is no less guilty of sin and even sin against my brother/sister. It is not lost on this blogger that some may take this post as an opinion like that of the other two, and it would be a fair conclusion. Let me be clear, the point of this post is to try and remind readers, some of whom are Christians, that if we find the need to call out a fellow Christian, let us try to do it in love and with our Lord Jesus as the exemplar of our faith and the author of our speech. Jesus gave so much counsel in Matt chapters 5,6 and 7 about how to maneuver through life as a Christian, how to relate to one another, how to pray, how not to pray, how to be certain of blessings from GOD if we are afflicted for HIS sake and finally, that we not be quick to judge one another because how we judge we will be judged and really would you want GOD to use your example of judgment against you???? I sure don’t want to be held to my own standards especially when I fail to keep them daily! Lastly, Jesus alerts us to dual path in life; one leads to destruction, one to life. HE mentions that when it comes time there will be those who have spent their lives, or some significant portion of it doing things ‘for the Lord’ but when Jesus meets them, HE doesn’t know them. Others led by humility and who have done things from the Spirit are amazed that Jesus not only knows them but every act of charity they ever did.

Can we please stop providing guile filled fodder for the news folks and all those who are giddy over the ‘alleged’ divide among Christians, now segregated out into categories of identification – which has been the modus operandi for those engaged in ‘identity politics’. Our LORD spelled out what would happen in time;” …they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake. – Luke 21:12  

“Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. 10 And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. 11 Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. 12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.”—Matt 24:9-12

May we be ever vigilant not to provide those who look for ways to mock Christians the material they need to blow things up way beyond the truth -- in this instance, it is really one man with an opinion who commented about fellow Christians in an uncharitable way and instead of supporting his right to free expression other Christians decided to respond in kind and they all -- together -- did so over the Christmas holiday and THIS became the topic du jour.

My prayer is that there be a united effort for Mr. Galli and those Christians who have jumped on the article one way or another to remember this one thing: If you all sat together in a church for a service, seated right next to each other, would you be as disrespectful of each other’s exhibition of faith or would you see each as your brother/sister?

In First John the 4^th chapter you can read a beautifully articulated and reasonable explanation of the kind of love we should have for one another. In verse 4-6 we learn this: “You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. ⁵ They are of the world. Therefore they speak as of the world, and the world hears them. ⁶ We are of God. He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.” Lastly, this: “And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.” – 1John 4:21  †

NOTICE: If you are feeling inclined or feeling led to want Jesus as your Savior, your leader, your King, your source of Peace and Joy but are feeling woefully inadequate, uninformed on how best to get to know HIM, or find yourself at wit’s end because you believe yourself trapped and in need of GOD, please know Jesus stands ready to welcome you with HIS Holy Spirit. Believe these words: “¹⁶ For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. “—John 3:16

^“Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, ²⁰ and that He may send ^[c]Jesus Christ, who was ^[d]preached to you before, ²¹ whom heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things, which God has spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since ^[e]the world began.” – Acts 3:19-20

“Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born [a]again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” – John 3:3-8

If you need help, please feel free to leave a comment and I will respond.  †

  

DISCLAIMER: The thoughts published on this blog, in total, are the opinions, thoughts and considerations of the writer/author of every post published. It is assumed that research by the reader will lead the reader to their own conclusions. It is not the writer’s intent to make a judgment of anyone but to allow GOD’s Word to do what it does. “For the word of GOD is alive 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. 13 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.” – Hebrews 4:12 [NIV]

>>>>>>All artwork contained on this blog entry as well as archived/historical entries belongs to ©Lightwritingmatters 2015<<< permission must be requested and approved by the author to reproduce in any format and for any reason.√† 

NOTE: Artwork not copyrighted by Lightwritingmatters 2015 stands with this statement: “no copyright infringement is intended” or is otherwise attributed.

©Lightwritingmatters 2015

Jesus, EPICAL. Did you know?

©Lightwritingmatters 2015

“And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. 10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,

14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”” Luke 2:8-14

Let's just say it: JESUS is Monumental

The Monumental fact of the person of Jesus of Nazareth, Jesus the Christ, the Messiah, the Lord -- is everything about him! He enters the ‘New Testament’ with a birth announcement like no other; via a genealogy that was foretold from literally several millennia before the birth announcement.  The witness born to HIS birth is unequalled in Biblical history: Angelic notice to shepherds. Thereafter the arrival of the Magi with gifts for the child. [Gold – for HIS royalty; Frankincense for HIS High Priesthood; Myrrh for HIS death. Sometime after HIS birth HIS family is advised to relocate to Egypt to escape the death squads sent by the ruling political member of the Herod family to murder all male children of a certain age in Bethlehem and surrounding areas with the expectation such an order would catch the prophesied Messiah in the massacred babies.

In an awesome development we hear nothing about HIM except that the family was told they could repatriate to their home. Then at age 12, HE remains in Jerusalem at the Synagogue querying the Rabbi’s and astonishing the witnesses there with his understanding and responses while his family travels home only to find HE was not with the family. – Luke 2:46-48

Interestingly, though everything about this would be King, is of a monumental significance. What is less discussed is the absence of details of HIS life during the quiet 18 years between the Synagogue incident and when Jesus approaches HIS cousin John, for baptism. As back story, there is mention that Jesus was raised by HIS mother’s husband, Joseph, who was Jesus father though not biologically related. He was a carpenter and taught Jesus carpentry.

The whole baptism event for Jesus is covered in Matthew and Luke in chapter 3 of each Gospel account. There are baptisms mentioned in the Bible and some of them are specifically mentioned with detail for a reason. But Jesus? Again, Monumental both in presentation of HIMself to John, in an actual water baptism but perhaps more because of what happened when he was raised up out of the water:  a Dove descends and the VOICE from Heaven an acknowledgement from HIS Father. Thus begins the three and a half years of the most influential man of all time. – Luke 3:21-22

In an enduring fashion, after baptism, Jesus leaves immediately into a ‘wilderness’ area where he ate nothing for 40 days. Instead HE was being tempted repeatedly by the devil. Luke 4

The use of the word “Monumental’ is purposely used and not in a superfluous way. There is no human ever born that had so many events of their lives foretold from thousands of years before their birth as well as prophesies fulfilled through HIS life -- compressed into the 3.5 years from HIS baptism to death and resurrection. Nor, to have future events foretold about HIM from just under a thousand years before HIS birth but not yet filled some 2000 years after HIS birth. Yes, there is a collection of prophesies in the gospels and Revelation yet to happen.

Below is a collection [not every foretold event] of Biblical citations of specific events prophesied. There is an ‘Old Testament’ reference [prophesy] and at least one and in some cases, several ‘New Testament’ references to its fulfillment.  These references take us only to Jesus’ resurrection. HE gave a couple of commandments to HIS disciples before HIS ascension; 1] was to stay in Jerusalem until the Holy Spirit which Jesus was sending them arrives – which was fulfilled on Pentecost. Acts chapters 1 and 2. The other was a commission to go and make disciples the world over baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and continue doing so until the ‘end of world’. This is still being done in anticipation of the that end. More events foretold to happen are yet to come and no one knows the time of the first one [the Rapture 1 Thess 4: 13-18] but the rest will follow as written: 1]Tribulation; 2]Great Tribulation; 3]Jesus’ second coming; 4]Jesus setting up HIS government to reign 1000 years; 5]The absolute removal of the devil and all other wicked actors and deeds from the experience of any human in their incorruptible body forever; 6]The establishment of New Heaven and New Earth; 7] Eternity.

Prophecy Event Fulfillment
Gen 3:14-15	Enmity between Satan/Jesus – Jesus wins
Gen. 49:10, Matt. 1:2-16; Luke 3:23-33; Heb. 7:14	Born of the tribe of Judah
Ps. 132:11;  Matt. 1:1, 6-16; Isa. 9:7;  Mt 9:27; 15:22; Isa 11:1, 10 Mt 20:30, 31; Mt 21:9, 15; 22:42; Mark 10:47, 48; Luke 1:32; 2:4; Lu 3:23-32; Lu 18:38, 39; Acts 2:29-31; Ac 13:22, 23; Rom. 1:3; 15:8, 12	From the family of David the son of Jesse
Mic. 5:2, Luke 2:4-11; John 7:42	Born in Bethlehem
Isa. 7:14, Matt. 1:18-23; Luke 1:30-35	Born of a virgin
Jer. 31:15, Matt. 2:16-18	Babes killed after Jesus’ birth
Hos. 11:1, Matt. 2:15	Called out of Egypt
Mal. 3:1; 4:5; Matt. 3:1-3; 11:10-14; Isa. 40:3 Mt 17:10-13; Mark 1:2-4; Luke 1:17, 76; 3:3-6; Lu 7:27; John 1:20-23; 3:25-28; Acts 13:24; 19:4	Way Prepared before
Dan. 9:25, Luke 3:1,21,22	Appeared as Messiah Presented himself at end of 69 “weeks” for baptism and was anointed on schedule
Isa. 61:1, 2, Luke 4:18-21	Commissioned as anointed one
Isa. 9:1, 2, Matt. 4:13-16	Ministry caused people in Naphtali and Zebulun to see great light
Ps. 78:2, Matt. 13:11-13, 31-35	Spoke with illustrations
Isa. 53:4, Matt. 8:16, 17	Carried our sicknesses
Ps. 69:9, Matt. 21:12, 13; Mark 11:15-18; Luke 19:45, 46; John 2:13-17	Zealous for GOD’s house
Isa. 42:1-4, Matt. 12:14-21	As GOD’s servant would not wrangle in streets
Isa. 53:1, John 12:37, 38; Rom. 10:11, 16	Not believed in
Zech. 9:9; Matt. 21:1-9; Ps. 118:26; Mark 11:7-11; Luke 19:28-38; John 12:12-15	Entry into Jerusalem on colt of an ass hailed as king and the one coming in GOD’s name
Isa. 28:16; Matt. 21:42, 45, 46; Isa 53:3; Acts 3:14; 4:11; Ps. 69:8; 1 Pet. 2:7 Ps 118:22, 23	Rejected, but becomes chief cornerstone
Isa. 8:14, 15  Luke 20:17, 18;  Rom. 9:31-33; 1 Pet. 2:8	Becomes stone of stumbling
Ps. 41:9; 109:8, Matt. 26:47-50; John 13:18, 26-30;  John 17:12; 18:2-5; Acts 1:16-20; Zech. 11:12  30 Matt. 26:15; 27:3-10; Mark 14:10, 11	One apostle unfaithful; betrays Jesus Betrayed for 30 pieces of silver
Zech. 13:7, Matt. 26:31, 56; John 16:32	Disciples scatter
Ps. 2:1, 2, Matt. 27:1, 2; Mark 15:1, 15; Luke 23:10-12; Acts 4:25-28, Isa. 53:8, Matt. 26:57-68; Mt 27:1, 2, 11-26; John 18:12-14, Joh 18:19-24, 28-40; Joh 19:1-16	Roman powers and leaders of Israel act together against anointed of GOD tried and condemned
Ps. 27:12, Matt. 26:59-61; Mark 14:56-59	Use of false witnesses
Isa. 53:7, Matt. 27:12-14; Mark 14:61; 15:4, 5; Luke 23:9; John 19:9	Silent before accusers
Ps. 69:4, Luke 23:13-25; John 15:24, 25; 1 Pet. 2:22; Isa. 50:6; Matt. 26:67; 27:26, 30; Mic. 5:1 John 18:22; 19:3	Hated without cause; Struck, spit on
Ps. 22:16, Matt. 27:35; Mark 15:24, 25; Luke 23:33; John 19:18, 23; John 20:25, 27	Crucified
Ps. 22:18, Matt. 27:35; John 19:23, 24 Isa. 53:12, Matt. 26:55, 56; 27:38; Luke 22:37 Ps. 22:7, 8, Matt. 27:39-43; Mark 15:29-32	Lots cast for garments; Numbered with sinners; Reviled while on cross
Ps. 69:21, Matt. 27:34, 48; Mark 15:23, 36; Ps. 22:1; Matt. 27:46; Mark 15:34 Ps. 34:20; John 19:33, 36, Ex. 12:46 Isa. 53:5; Matt. 27:49; Zech. 12:10 John 19:34, 37; Rev. 1:7; Isa. 53:5, 8, Matt. 20:28; Isa 53:11, 12; John 1:29; Rom. 3:24; 4:25; 1 Cor. 15:3; Heb. 9:12-15; 1 Pet. 2:24; 1 John 2:2	Offered wine [vinegar]; Forsaken by God to enemies; No bones broken; pierced; Dies sacrificial death to carry away sins and open way to a righteous standing with God
Isa. 53:9, Matt. 27:57-60; John 19:38-42; Jonah 1:17; Matt. 12:39, 40; 16:21; Jon 2:10, Mt 17:23; 20:19; Mt 27:64; Mt 28:1-7; Acts 10:40; 1 Cor. 15:3-8; Ps. 16:8-11; Acts 2:25-31; 13:34-37	Buried with the rich; In grave for parts of days, then resurrected Raised before corruption
Ps. 2:7, Matt. 3:16, 17; Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21, 22; Acts 13:33; Rom. 1:4; Heb.  1:5; 5:5	GOD declares him His Son by spirit and resurrection

Contemplate the following items attributed via the Bible to Jesus. They are absolutely Monumental in deeds, but in many cases even to the individual receiving the blessing, the healing, etc.

1.      The many miracles HE performed from healing someone without deliberation [from bleeding] to healing without being present [Centurion’s servant] to healing dependent on the recipient’s own faith and of course the resurrection of HIS friend Lazarus.

2.     HIS authority over nature [calming the seas, walking on water – inviting Peter to do so]

3.     Making prophetic statements that would come to past posthumously [temple destroyed]

4.    Reaching out posthumously and making a believer out of Saul

5.     Giving John the Revelation of what was to happen millennia from the time it was uttered.

6.    Living through the most gruesome, undeserved horror of torture, mockery, death by Roman crucible ending with being nailed to wood and erected to die an excruciating death.

7.     Being resurrected

8.    Interacting with his followers for weeks before ascending to Heaven

9.    Letting them know they’d be joined by the Holy Spirit who would become the witnesses about the Gospel…and all those that believed from then until now.

Yet to come:

1.      Rapture

2.     Tribulation

3.     2^nd Coming of the Messiah

4.    A 1000 year rule under the Messiah on Earth

5.     The permanent removal of the Devil and sin.

6.    A new heaven and new earth

7.     Eternity

One monumental human, born a babe. Completed all miracles and His ministry leaving an immutable record for all time ALL compressed into 3 ½ years of time.  After HIS resurrection prophetic statements made within decades after HIS death to John have future fulfillment. Because we know HE fulfilled dozens of Messianic prophesies while alive we know those prophesies HE made will also come to pass.

Remember: “For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.” – 2 Cor 1:20  †

Bibles Designations

KJV – King James Version

NIV – New International Version

NWT – New World Translation

ASV -- American Standard Version

DISCLAIMER: The thoughts published on this blog, in total, are the opinions, thoughts and considerations of the writer/author of every post published. It is assumed that research by the reader will lead the reader to their own conclusions. It is not the writer’s intent to make a judgment of anyone but to allow GOD’s Word to do what it does. “For the word of GOD is alive 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. 13 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.” – Hebrews 4:12 [NIV]

>>>>>>All artwork contained on this blog entry as well as archived/historical entries belongs to ©Lightwritingmatters 2015<<< permission must be requested and approved by the author to reproduce in any format and for any reason.√† 

NOTE: Artwork not copyrighted by Lightwritingmatters 2015 stands with this statement: “no copyright infringement is intended” or is otherwise attributed.

©Lightwritingmatters 2015