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A Week to Remember

Have you ever had a week that started out good but went from bad, to worse, to horrific, to devastating, and then back to good? This is what Jesus experienced the week before His death on the cross. Christians call the week leading up to Easter/Resurrection Day, Holy Week or Passion Week. I call it Celebration Week. It is the Christian high holy season, a week of special Christian worship services and events to celebrate and commemorate Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection.

On the first day of the week, Jesus rode triumphantly into Jerusalem on a borrowed donkey as told in Matthew 21:1-11. This is representative of His Kingship. The crowds cut tree branches and shouted “Hosanna.” Christians now celebrate this event on Palm Sunday. This story reminds us to guard against superficial worship of the Lord as shown by the same crowd later that week crying out “crucify Him.”

The second day of the week, Jesus curses an unfruitful fig tree, teaches parables and on future events, condemns Jewish leaders, and the woman with the alabaster box anointed His feet for His burial. Also on this day, Judas agrees to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver, the price of a slave.

The Bible is silent about what took place on the third day of the week. Perhaps Jesus may have been in Bethany with His Apostles.

On the fourth day of the week, Jesus ate His last supper with the 12 Apostles and taught them servitude by washing their feet. In the Garden of Gethsemane, He prayed the prayer of consecration three times, teaching us that it is not about us but about the Father’s will for our lives. Jesus was also arrested. In the modern world, this day is Maundy Thursday.

The fifth day of the week was very eventful. Jesus was brought to Caiphas and Pilate, tried by Jewish and Roman authorities, disowned by Peter, and Judas kills himself. Jesus was beaten and crucified on the Cross at Calvary on Golgotha’s hill for mankind’s sin. Darkness veiled the earth for three hours and then He was buried in a borrowed tomb. We now call this day Good Friday.

Though Jesus was suffering, bleeding and dying on the cross, He was still serving and communicating. He uttered seven words or phrases. Firstly to His Father Jesus requested, “forgive them for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). Secondly to one of the thieves hanging next to Him, Jesus pronounced, “Today, shalt thy be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43). Thirdly to His mother and John, Jesus said, “Woman behold thy son…Behold thy mother” (John 19:26-27). Fourthly He inquired of His Father, “My God, my God why has thou forsaken me” (Mark 15:34)? Fifthly Jesus uttered to His perpetrators, “I thirst” so that they would later get the revelation that He was fully God and fully man (John 19:28). In His sixth word, Jesus declared, “It is finished” (John 19:30). I believe He was speaking to the Trinity. To God the Father, those words communicated His assignment was finished. To Himself, God the Son, those words expressed relief that He had fulfilled His purpose. To God the Holy Spirit, those words advised it was almost time for Him to descend. In His seventh word, Jesus proclaimed to His Father “into thy hands, I commend my spirit” (Luke 23:46).

On the sixth day of the week, Jesus lay in the tomb all day.

On the seventh day of the week, Jesus arose from the dead with all power in His hands. We celebrate Easter/Resurrection Sunday on this day.

Jesus began this week in triumph, was then tested, tried, experienced a tragic death, and buried in the tomb. Lastly, He arose triumphant over death and the grave.

We thank God for Jesus’ victory. The probability is slim that we will ever have a week like the one Jesus had.  But like Him, we, too, can endure life’s troubles, trials, and tragedies and arise in victory. Let’s decree and declare daily, “praise be unto God because He always causes us to triumph in Christ.”

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What Is Jesus Saying Today???

Today is March 27, 2020! The world is in crisis mode because of the pervasive global outbreak of the COVID-19 virus. In several countries, quarantines are in effect.

In America, many cities and states are quarantined or under a “Stay-at-Home” order to slow down its proliferation. Social distancing is the new catchphrase. Our attire may include protective accessories–gloves and a mask. The death rate from this virus has escalated. Hospitals are pushed to their physical and human resource limits.

There are closures of stores, schools, libraries, gyms, beauty salons, bars, restaurants (except for takeout), and other businesses except those deemed “essential”. Churches and all houses of worship are closed and many are now using the internet to broadcast their worship services and/or activities. Funeral homes are open but must operate very differently for the safety of their staff and patrons. Several who are incarcerated are being released.

Many people are in a panic posture–hoarding paper goods, water, supplies, and food! Numerous families have experienced loss of employment, income, and family members. Various types of employees are now working from home. A multitude of families are learning to cope with new dynamics–all family members being at home simultaneously, some working from home, homeschooling children, or being separated from extended family members. Most persons are worried, afraid, anxious, stressed out, angry, depressed because we are experiencing unprecedented challenges of all sorts.

In a relatively short time span, the world has literally changed to something no one has ever experienced! What should we be doing? How long will this outbreak last? When will a vaccine be available? How do we navigate this world of abnormal conditions? Who has the answers?

We have heard what everyone has said–some good stuff, some bad stuff. We have heard from the politicians, the media, 5-Fold Ministry gifts, medical professionals, scientists, philanthropists, entertainers, celebrities, our family, friends, neighbors, our enemies, etc!

Now it’s time to listen to what Jesus said!

#listenup

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God is Jehovah Nissi!

In Exodus 17 Joshua totally destroyed the Amalekites.  God instructed him to record this victory because He would perpetually defeat them in battle.  So in verse 15, Moses built an altar and called it, Jehovah Nissi.  This name means the Lord is our Banner.  Whenever the enemy comes against us mightily, God’s banner over us is love and protection.  Knowing God is Jehovah Nissi, allows Christians to depend on Him for victory.

I began to feel sick last week but kept up my normal busy pace.  Consequently, I developed a full blown upper respiratory illness that required me to seek medical attention. Thank God for my faithful prayer warrior princesses from across this nation who I texted from the ER and they covered me in prayer.  Sometimes we can be so sick, we don’t feel like praying so it is imperative to have prayer partners. Being weak in body, I stayed in bed for most of this week and had a steady diet of the media’s COVID-19 coverage.  The spirit of panic and fear tried to attack me to weaken my faith. We must be careful what we allow to come repeatedly through our ear and eye gates. Today was the first day, I felt better so I got out of bed, returned to my daily habit of spending quality time with God in the Word and in prayer.  I prayed specific prayer points and did spiritual warfare against this dreaded outbreak. Consequently, my faith has been strengthened and I now have peace that passes all understanding.

Rather than panic like the world, Christians must trust and remember that God, Jehovah Nissi, will again protect us as He has through other personal attacks, national tragedies, and world pandemics.  We must also use wisdom and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.  Let’s plead the blood of Jesus over our personage, property, and possessions and decree and declare God’s Word over ourselves, our family, neighbors, enemies, community, etc. Let’s acquire accurate information from reliable sources, protect ourselves and others by correctly washing our hands constantly, be intentional in not touching our face (an unconscious habit for most of us), and wearing a mask to protect others if we are sick, etc.  It is my hope that daily spiritual disciplines for Christians and hygienic practices become second nature for individuals and companies of the world going forward.

Let’s remember that God is Jehovah Nissi!  This world pandemic affords the Body of Christ opportunities to minister practically and spiritually to those who are either lost or weak in their faith or have not yet learned who God is.  Let’s offer prayer to those who are in a panic, have been positively diagnosed, and for families who are grieving a loss as a result of COVID-19.  Let’s lend our support to senior citizens.  Let’s show the world the love of God.  Let’s lead the lost in the following sinner’s prayer: 

Dear God, I ADMIT I was born with a sin nature and cannot save myself.  I BELIEVE Jesus is your Son who died on the cross for my sins, was buried, and arose from the dead.  I CONFESS Jesus as my Savior and Lord.  Thank you for saving me and filling me with your Spirit, in Jesus’ name, AMEN!

If you prayed that prayer sincerely from your heart, God has saved you just that fast.  Run tell someone you just got born again and saved from your sins.  I pray God will lead you to the Bible-believing and teaching Church of His choice where you can grow in the grace and knowledge of our Saviour an Lord.  Email me at info@belindarstokes.net to request information to help you in your new Christian journey or click on https://belindarstokes.net/prayer-requests-2/ to submit a prayer request.

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God is Jehovah Shalom!

The opposite of peace is distress, worry or discord.

Got peace??? Need peace??? Want peace???

News flash, God is Jehovah Shalom, the Lord Our Peace!

Click https://bit.ly/390cJuJ to hear “It Is Well with My Soul.” 

God is a Trinity - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit!
God the Father is the God of Peace. (Romans 15:33) 
God the Son is Our Peace. (Ephesians 2:14) 
God the Holy Spirit produces the fruit of peace. (Galatians 5:22)

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Love Has Everything to Do With It!

Today is February 14. America is celebrating Valentine’s Day, a day of love. It was named after one or more early Christian martyrs named Valentine. On this day, eros, romantic love is expressed in many ways and some couples get engaged or married. In recent times on this day, people also express their love to their children, parents, and friends.

What is love? Love is an action word, not a feeling. When you love someone, you want to help meet their needs—tangible and intangible. God is love and met mankind’s greatest need–salvation by sending His son Jesus to die for our sins.

One of my former pastors asked everyone at church the question “Who you love”? He wanted you to say you loved him. Who are we to love? In addition to loving God, we are to love…
• family members
• neighbors
• friends
• strangers
• enemies
• all people

Our love for one another must be real, without conditions, kind, tolerant, and sacrificial. Love can be hard work. Let’s give mercy and grace because no one but God is perfect. Let’s be good listeners when people talk so we can hear what they need and provide it even when it requires a sacrifice of our time, talent, and treasures. I heard someone say, “Love does not hurt.” Let’s not hurt those we love but instead be forgiving, compassionate, and kindhearted to them.

Walking in love creates a win-win situation. Our giving of love produces a harvest of met needs, blessings, happiness, relief, comfort, thanksgiving, and rejoicing for the recipient. As the giver of love, we feel blessed to be a blessing.

May our Lord Jesus Christ increase and flourish our love for one another!

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The Revelation of Who God Is (Part 1)

Have you ever heard the expression, “it’s not what you know but who you know”? Some may say this statement is no longer true because we now have 24/7 access to information through the internet.

News flash, I have a revelation for you!  Everything in our world is changing. Information, cultures, and people change constantly. Only God is unchanging and is the most important one for us to know!  I’m going to share three ways God reveals Himself.

God reveals Himself through His Creation.  God created the heavens and the earth.” Psalms 19:1 says “The heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament showeth His handywork.” If you live in a part of the world that has four seasons, you can greatly value the variety of God’s mastery. Have you noticed that every Fall, leaves appear on trees, no two are identical, and they subsequently fall to the ground?  I would venture to say that yearly you prepare for Winter climate by taking out your sweaters, coats, and boots. Spring brings balmy temperatures, Easter lilies, and other beautiful flowers. In the Summer, simmering weather affords opportunities to enjoy outside venues and activities–swimming, picnics, barbeques, camp grounds, and amusement parks.

God also revealed Himself through the Bible.  In Psalm 40:7 God says, “Lo, I come: in the volume of the book, it is written of me.” Genesis to Revelation reveals who God is–His names, words, character, attributes, acts, etc. Esther and Song of Solomon are the only two of the 66 books of the Bible where you won’t find the word “God.” Yet, His existence and presence are implied.

God has also revealed Himself through His son Jesus.  Has anyone ever said to you, “you act like your Father”? Jesus said in John 14:9, “he that hath seen me hath seen the Father.”  Apostle Paul told the Colossian church that Jesus is the image of the invisible God.  Jesus’ words, life, and works reveal God the Father to us.

Now that you know three of the ways God reveals Himself, I encourage you to pay closer attention to creation, to the Scriptures, and to Jesus to gain a greater knowledge of God. The more we learn about God, the more we will learn about who we are in God.

Stay tuned, next time we will talk about how to get to know God!

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POPULAR 2019 BLOG POSTS

As we begin 2020, let’s look at 3 posts from last year that tell us who “God Is”!

https://bit.ly/39xNP6s

https://bit.ly/2QehM3S

https://bit.ly/37sYbTi

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TIS THE SEASON TO CELEBRATE THE BIRTH OF JESUS!

Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus.  December 25 is not the day He was born but the date chosen to celebrate His birth. Jesus’ exact date of birth is unknown. Christmas is a Holy Day, not a holiday.  But when we look at how Christmas is celebrated, do we see many holy things or activities?

The symbols we see in abundance are Santa Claus, reindeer, snowmen, and Christmas trees.  Rarely can we find holy symbols of Jesus’ birth that remind us that Jesus is the reason for the season.

A popular activity in the Christmas season is attending multiple parties. Friends, family members, jobs, clubs, groups, and organizations you belong to host Christmas parties. Is Jesus the guest of honor at these parties?

Is the main activity of the season going to church or giving our talent, time, and treasures to those who really are in need?  No, it’s buying gifts for everyone we know—family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, clergy, the mailman, the garbage man, cat, dog, etc., mainly with credit cards, hoping for reciprocation. From Black Friday to Cyber Monday this year, billions were spent online. In today’s uncertain economic climate, does our discretionary income allow us to meet regular financial obligations and buy gifts for multiple people at the same time? New flash, if you buy items at a sale price but have to pay credit card interest on your purchases, you probably are not saving any any money!

Are we really celebrating the birth of Jesus?  Do we celebrate a loved one’s birthday by buying gifts for everyone we know and giving or attending several parties for them?  A loved one’s birthday is usually celebrated by giving that person a gift, taking them out, or giving or attending one birthday party in their honor!

There’s nothing wrong with giving. God is a great giver.  He gave us Jesus so that we can have eternal life.1 He gives us all that we need 2and when Jesus went back to heaven, He gave us the Holy Spirit.3 We were created in God’s image4, therefore, we, too, have the capacity to be great givers.

Since we are celebrating the birth of Jesus and freely giving out gifts, shouldn’t we give Jesus a gift? What will you give Jesus this Christmas?  We can give to Him by giving to one other.  God has given each of us talent, treasures and time, which He expects us to give and share.5

Everyone has something they can give and share with others.  God has given every believer at least one special ability. 6  We can use our God-given abilities to be a blessing to others. Some sing, some prophecy, some teach, some preach, some have a special ability to heal or help others, some to show mercy and compassion, and some to lead.7 God has also given us treasures, talents, and time to share with one other.8

How and to whom should we give?  The Bible declares we should give willingly9 and cheerfully 10 to those who are poor, 11 those who ask,12 those who cannot reciprocate,13 and to our enemies.  Giving to an enemy turns him into a friend! 14

Let’s put Christ back into our Christmas celebrations by giving to those who are in need. Let’s bring joy to those in institutions by visiting and singing Christmas carols!  Let’s teach the story of Jesus’ birth to children in our neighborhood!  Let’s give gifts to a homeless family! Let’s donate money to a charity instead of having a grab bag at work!  Let’s babysit for a single mother who cannot afford a sitter! Let’s take a senior citizen, handicapped, or an ill person shopping or to the doctor!  Let’s invite friends, neighbors, or co-workers to go to church with us!  Let’s invite a one-parent child to a show this Christmas season!

The Bible says we will be blessed when we give.15 God has promised we will receive when we give.16 When we give to the poor, God considers it a loan to Himself and He says He’ll repay the loan and will bless, deliver, and protect us.17

Since Christmas is the celebration of Jesus’ birth, what will you give Jesus to celebrate His birth?  The greatest gift you can give Him is your heart.  It’s easy as A, B, C.  If you have not accepted Jesus as Saviour and Lord, please pray the following prayer sincerely from your heart! 18

Dear God,

Thank you for loving me and giving me the greatest gift of all, your son Jesus.  I ADMIT that I am a sinner and need a Saviour. I BELIEVE Jesus died on the cross in my place for my sins.  I CONFESS Jesus as my Lord and Saviour.   Thank you Lord for saving me!

Welcome to the family of God!  I pray God will lead you to a Bible-believing, Bible-teaching church of His choice where you can fellowship with other Christians, grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and discover God’s purpose and plan for your life!

1 John 3:16 2 Phil. 4:19    3 John 14:16 4 Gen. 1:7 5 Luke 12:48b 6 Rom 12:6-8 7 Eph. 4:11-12 8 Luke 6:38   9 1Chron 29:9 10 2 Cor. 9:7 11 Deu. 5:11 12 Matt. 5:42 13 Luke 14:12-14 14 Prov. 25:21-22 15 Acts 20:35b 16 Prov. 11:25 17 Ps. 41:1-3 18 Rom.10:9-10

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God is Omni

The word “omni” means all. God is omniscient, omnipresence, and omnipotent.  These are His natural or absolute attributes.

God is omniscient.  This attribute means God knows all things—past, present, and future.  God is all knowing, has infinite knowledge, awareness, and understanding.  When God asks you a question, He is not looking for information because He already knows what you are going to say.

God is omnipresent.  This attribute means God is present everywhere at once.  He is always everywhere at the same time. In Jeremiah 23:23 He says, “…am I only a God nearby and not a God far away, can anyone hide in secret places so that I cannot see him.  Do I not fill heaven and earth”?  Adam, Eve, and Jonah in vain tried to hide from God.  God is in the window and sees everything.

God is omnipotent.  This is His attribute which describes Him as having all power.  He is all powerful, almighty, infinite in power, has unlimited power, and authority.  Jesus said in Matthew 18:18 “all power is given unto me in heaven and earth.” God has the power to do all things but fail.

God is all knowing, always present, and all powerful.  He knows everything about us and still loves us unconditionally, that’s agape.  God has the power to help us and fix anything that is wrong in our lives. God with us all the time and has promised to never leave nor forsake us regardless of what we have or have not done. 

As Christians in covenant relationship with God, let’s be intentional in getting to know who God is!  As we get to know who He is, we will also discover who we are in Him! 

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Thanksgiving is a Key Discipline for Christians!

Body of Christ, let’s remember that physically we are in the world but spiritually we are in the Kingdom of God.  Thanksgiving is a gigantic part of the Kingdom lifestyle.

Gratitude is a feeling but thanksgiving is an action. Thanksgiving is expressing to God the gratitude that is in our hearts. We express it to God through prayer, song, and bringing sacrificial gifts to Him. When we fail to express thanksgiving to God, we take God’s favor, grace, mercy, and blessings for granted.

Let’s remember to continually express the gratitude that is in our hearts to God for…

  • the body and blood of Jesus when we celebrate Communion
  • daily blessings (soteria, Greek word for salvation includes forgiveness of sin, healing, deliverance, guidance, provision, protection, and preservation)
  • the possibility of having the abundant life
  • grace, mercy, favor, and help
  • the Word of God
  • the local church
  • our spiritual gifts and the opportunity to serve Him and man
  • the privilege of prayer 24/7
  • the fact we will live eternally with God the Father and Jesus
  • the empowerment and leading of the Holy Spirit
  • the love and support of family and friends
  • all things and in all things

The season that the world calls “the Christmas holidays” begins the day after Thanksgiving. Let’s remember God commands us to overflow with thanksgiving to Him and that Jesus is the reason we celebrate Christmas.  As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let’s give thanksgiving to God for salvation, the greatest gift the world could ever receive made available through God’s Son Jesus!

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Every Day is a Day of Thanksgiving!

Annually, America celebrates Thanksgiving Day on the fourth Thursday of November. We gather with family and loved ones to thank God for all His blessings–past, present, and future–and to enjoy a sumptuous turkey feast complete with all its trimmings.

The word “thanksgiving” means to acknowledge God’s goodness by expressing thanks to God—in prayer, in song, or in giving a sacrificial offering. As Christians, we know that God is the source of all our rewards. We know He commands us to give thanks in all things and for all things. Since we know these things, why not consider everyday as a day of Thanksgiving!

Let’s daily thank God for what He has done for us. Because God loved the world so much, He sent Jesus, His Son, to die on the cross in our place for our sins. In addition to forgiveness of sin, deliverance, healing, guidance, provision, protection, and preservation are in the salvation package.

Let’s daily thank God for what He is doing for us. God, our spiritual Father, supplies our needs and give us the desires of our heart.

Let’s daily thank God for what He will do for us. God is going to send Jesus back to personally escort us to heaven to live and reign with Him forever.

Giving thanks to God changes our perspective from earth to heaven, from our problems to the problem solver, and gives us an attitude of gratitude.

Let’s practice the presence of God by living in a perpetual state of thinking about the blessings of God and giving Him thanks for them!

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CHRISTMAS IS THE CELEBRATION OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS!

The world has labeled this time of year as the “holiday season.” It is Veterans Day and already it has begun preparing for Christmas and New Years. Stores are decorated and full of items for gift giving and celebration. I even saw a roadside Christmas tree market the other day.

Body of Christ, let’s join them! Let’s not wait til December but let’s NOW begin our annual observance of Christmas, the celebration of the birth of Jesus! Let’s…
  • walk in love in greater measure
  • shine the light of Christ in our hearts brighter than ever
  • tell those we encounter that God loves them, sent Jesus to save them from their sins, offer them the gift of salvation, and lead them in the Sinner’s Prayer
  • embellish our dwellings with Christ-honoring decorations
  • maintain our Christian witness during this season
After you lead a person to jesus…
  • tell them that if they said the Sinner’s Prayer sincerely from their heart and in faith, God has saved them that fast
  • rejoice with the angels in heaven that they have been born again, are now a Kingdom Citizen, and a member of God’s family! Hallelujah!
  • encourage them to go tell someone they just got saved.
  • advise them that this Christmas season will hold new meaning for them as a Christian
  • suggest to them to include the greatest gift of all–salvation through Jesus the Christ in their gift giving
  • remind them that Jesus is not a baby, is not in the manger, but in heaven praying for them
  • pray for God to direct them to the bible-believing, bible-teaching Church of His choice so they can grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

Body of Christ, TODAY, let’s begin our celebration of the greatest gift of all!

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3 R’s in God’s Kingdom

Do you remember that when you were a child in elementary school, your teacher taught you the 3 Rs? They were reading, ‘riting, and ‘rithmetic.

Well, did you know that God has 3 Rs He wants to teach you? They are realize, remember, and raise.

  • Realize that as God’s child, He will always be with you because He promised to never leave nor forsake you.
  • Remember that God has a good plan for your life that includes hope and a future.
  • Raise your faith level by hearing God’s Word, the Bible, on a daily basis by reading it out loud or listening to it audibly.

It is my prayer that God will give His people a revelation of His 3 Rs.

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America, Let’s Honor God and One Another!

The current climate of division, dissension, and disrespect in America sends a message to the world that we are vulnerable because we are focused on internal strife.  Vile words and deeds also send a wrong message to our children.  As adults, we are responsible for leading and teaching them by precept and example.  They are watching, influenced by, and may emulate the behaviors exhibited by parents, teachers, politicians, celebrities, sports figures, the media, and other adults.

The Bible says “angry words stir up strife”.  It also says we are to “turn the other cheek” when someone does us harm.  Sadly, most people will not turn the other cheek.  If hate-filled words and actions continue to proliferate in our country, we could self destruct.  United we stand, divided we will destroy one another!

Let’s examine our history. God has faithfully brought America through many external and internal difficulties.  Since this country’s founding 243 years ago on the principles of religious freedom and tolerance, we have overcome wars, economic challenges, slavery, epidemics, terrorism, etc.  When we rallied together and showed the love of God for one another, we triumphed over the great depression, the Oklahoma City and New York City World Trade Center bombings, the September 11 terrorist attacks, Katrina, and other national tragedies.  We overcame adversity, destruction, pain, sickness, death, and deprivation and continued to survive and to thrive.  This is a testimony to the truth of scripture–righteousness exalts a nation.

America, let’s choose to honor God and one another and enjoy our freedom of religion and speech by walking in love not hate!  When we disagree, let’s choose to do so without being disagreeable!  

America, let’s show the world that we can’t be defeated because we are united as a country of love not hate!  Let’s do it!

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Is God’s Church Dying???

Unfortunately, someone started a myth that the Church is dying? Do you believe that to be true? Someone heard it, maybe even believed it, and repeated it. Now that lie is being spread across America. Negative thoughts don’t come from God but they come from our adversary, the devil who Apostle John describes as the father of lies in John 8:44!

On my television show, What Did Jesus Say, I did an episode to debunk that myth and lie. Click on the link below to view the episode, What Did Jesus Say about the Future of His Church. https://lnkd.in/eK2jwUE

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Let the Truth about the Celebration of Halloween Set You Free!

Celebrating Halloween is not innocent fun, is not of God but of the devil!

DID YOU KNOW?

The Druids hallowed out and carved a face on a large turnip representing the demonic spirit they depended upon for their power and knowledge.  Inside the turnip a lighted candle served as a lantern as they went from house to house. Pumpkins were substituted when this practice came to America in the 18th century and the name “Jock” which was the name of the spirit which inhabited the turnip was changed to “Jack” or “Jack-o-Lantern”.

DID YOU KNOW?

This practice entered the church when Constantine, a new zealous convert to Christianity became Emperor of Rome. He commanded that everyone had to become a Christian or face death. This resulted in the Church being flooded with pagans and their practices. The pagans demanded that the Festival of Samhains remain a part of their lives. To placate the people, the Pope declared a new celebration on November 1 called “All Saints Day” in honor of all martyred saints of the church and allowed the people to still have their festival on October 31 because November 1 was a holy day.

DID YOU KNOW?

In the British Isles, Scandinavia, and Western Europe a secret society of priests and pagans, the Druids, celebrated the eve of the Celtic new year in honor of their pagan god Samhain on 10/31. Traveling house to house, they demanded peculiar foods to offer to their “Lord Samhain” at the Festival of Death.  Refusal to give food incurred a spoken demonic curse over the home resulting in death within the year. Thus you have trick or treat!  This is still recognized today by all Satanists, occultists, and devil worshippers as the eve of the new year for witchcraft.

DID YOU KNOW?

The mass said on All Saints Day was “Allhallowmas” and through the years it’s name became Halloween. The Pope’s attempt to make “Allhallowmas” holy backfired and Halloween became recognized as a religious holiday.  Halloween is not a religious holiday as its origins are rooted in the occult, witchcraft, and Satanism.

DID YOU KNOW?

Apostle Paul in Ephesians 5:11 reminds the Church at Ephesus “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.”  Celebrating Halloween on 10/31 is celebrating the devil and all that is evil, dark, and dead–ghosts, witches, black cats, graveyard scenes, skeletons, monsters, bats, vandalism, and destruction of property.

DID YOU KNOW?

The Bible declares in 1 Corinthians 10:31 “whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God”.  Is Halloween a celebration of God who represents light, goodness, and life or a celebration of Satan who represents darkness, evil and death? 

Jesus said in John 8:32 ” And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

NOW THAT YOU KNOW THE TRUTH, OPEN yOUR MIND AND DECIDE TO GLORIFY GOD BY NOT CELEBRATING HALLOWEEN!

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A Spiritual Call to Action!

I was sickened, horrified, and stunned when I heard of the killing of another innocent victim, Atatiana Jefferson, as she played video games at home with her nephew.  My heart aches that a youngster witnessed a close loved one’s death.  I imagine that any human being with a heart that still beats felt similarly . Many people were emotive and expressed their outrage, anger, sadness, and pain about it in the media and on social media.  However, I noted that none of the commentary I read called for any action, solution, or protest. 

The landscape of every stratum of America society has changed drastically. Because of the rise of racism, mass shootings, domestic violence, children committing suicide, bullying in school, mental illness, substance abuse, and other social ills, and the overall state of America, I recently prayed and asked God to raise up a national leader like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  A few days later, I saw Bishop TD Jakes’ commentary and his declaration of a state of spiritual warfare in response to the killing of Atatiana Jefferson (See TD Jakes Ministries’ Facebook post on Oct, 14, 10:03 pm).  I was elated and rejoiced because I believed that God had answered my prayer.

I concur with Bishop Jakes’ spiritual warfare call to action, his list of specific things to pray for and his call for “a new level of spiritual measures.” It is high time for the Body of Christ to pray without ceasing as mandated by God in 1 Thessalonians 5:1.    When we examine the scriptures, we see the power of prayer illustrated throughout. Jesus said in Matthew 21:13 “My house shall be called the house of prayer.”  There are many ways to protest the status quo but the Lord wants prayer to be preeminent in His house.

Body of Christ, let’s refocus, recalibrate, and redirect our time to praying as Bishop Jakes has suggested.  Let’s be intentional in spending more time in prayer and spiritual warfare sessions than the other activities that may have been given greater precedence in God’s house.  We have the spiritual power to change things through prayer. Let’s pray increasingly, intentionally, and incessantly in God’s house and in our individual houses until Jesus returns!

Bishop Jakes also called for unity.  Jesus prayed five times in John 17 that His followers would be one.  We can accomplish more when we are on one accord.  Unity was a significant factor in rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem in 52 days under Nehemiah’s leadership. King Solomon, the wisest man next to Jesus, said in Ecclesiastes 4, “Two are better than one…For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow.”   All Americans must work together for the common good of our nation.

Additionally, as God’s co-labourers in His plan of redemption for mankind, let’s spend added time carrying out the Great Commission that Jesus gave before His return to Heaven. Jesus is still the only answer for the world today.  Our consistent Christian witness will result in the world inquiring about the reason for our hope.

Lastly, as Christians, let’s walk in love to all as Jesus modeled.  My mantra for the last few years has been “America come back to God, America come back to love.  United we stand, divided we will destroy one”! #atatianajefferson #prayerwithoutceasing #lovelikeJesus

PHOTO BY ARTIST NIKKOLAS SMITH. @nikkolas_smith (ig); @4nikkolas (twitter); http://www.nikkolas.com
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LET THE REDEEMED OF THE LORD SAY SO!

Saying you are a Christian indicates the following:

1)  your spiritual relationship  – you established a relationship with God through His Son Jesus; you are saved; you are a Christian.

2) your spiritual position–you have been delivered from the Kingdom of darkness into the Kingdom of Light.

Saying you are a Christian does not indicate your level of spiritual maturity.  You may be one of the following*:

1)   Baby Christian
2)  Carnal Christian
3)  Growing Christian
4)  Mature Christian

Let’s be intentional about growing spiritually by developing our relationship with God through daily praying and reading, studying, meditating, and applying the Bible, God’s Word, to our lives. 

*See my blog series “It’s Time for your Spiritual Checkup” for further study.

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It’s Time for your Spiritual Checkup – Part 7

The last diagnosis I want to teach you is being a mature Christian.  Just as a child desires to be a grownup; likewise, every Christian should have a goal of being a mature Christian.

A baby and a carnal Christian’s lives exemplify the Greek term “kata sarka” which means abnormal, out of harmony with their new identity.  As they grew spiritually, they put off the old man (practicing sin) and put on the new man (practicing righteousness).  In addition to Jesus being their Savior, He is now their Lord.  They are led by the Holy Spirit and have grown into a mature Christian. Now their lives exemplify the Greek term “kata pneuma”, normal and in harmony with their new identity. 

Mature Christians are “souled out” to God and have a vibrant, intimate relationship with Him.  They pray without ceasing as commanded in 1 Thessalonians 5:15 and have become prayer warriors.  Hebrews 5:14 says, “solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.” Because of a steady diet of the solid food of the Bible, they are able to operate in discernment.  In obedience to Joshua 1:8, they meditate and do God’s Word day and night resulting in a prosperous and successful life. 

Mature Christians are active church members.  They attend Christian Education classes, prayer meetings, and are cheerful givers and willing servants in the House of the Lord.  They know what God has anointed them to do and use their spiritual gifts to serve in God’s Kingdom.  They are “nevertheless Christians” and are working to fulfill God’s unique purpose for their life.  Mature Christians are living to hear God say to them one day “well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou has been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of the Lord.”

Mature Christians exude forgiveness and love for God and all people in their walk.  They exhibit an uncompromised lifestyle and are consistent faithful witnesses that glorify God.   Keep doing what you are doing so others will be inspired to continue to grow to spiritual maturity also. 

This concludes the It’s Time for your Spiritual Checkup series!  Its purpose was to help you truthfully reflect and examine yourself.  If you self-diagnosed yourself as a baby, carnal, or a maturing Christian, follow the treatment plans and prescriptions given for each diagnosis. As people get older in the natural, people may say “you look like your father or mother.”  It is my prayer that all Christians will grow into a mature Christian that resembles God, our spiritual Father.  God is willing and able to help all Christians grow as they seek, discover, and fulfill His unique purpose for their lives!

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It’s Time for your Spiritual Checkup – Part 6

Another possible diagnosis from a spiritual checkup is being a growing Christian. They have had a revelation of what it means to be a Christian. Developing their relationship with God is now important so they spend time with Him consistently in prayer and in His Word. As a result, their knowledge of who God is and who they are in Him is growing. Their belief and trust in God are also flourishing.

Because growing Christians have experienced some spiritual growth, a hunger and thirst for the Word and the things of God are being cultivated. They have established a daily time of devotion. Recurrent attendance at Christian Education classes has become their norm. Using their spiritual gifts and talents in willing service at church has caused them to seek God for their purpose.

Growing Christians have become a living epistle of 2 Thessalonians 1:3 (NIV), “your faith is growing more and more, and the love all of you have for one another is increasing.” It is evident to all that they have changed. Their concern for the salvation of their family members, friends, and others is ever-increasing. They are learning how to witness and share their faith with others and have begun to live a consecrated life unto the Lord.

If you are a growing Christian, it is my prayer that you will continue on your journey until you reach spiritual maturity!

stay tuned for part 7 of it’s time for your spiritual checkup for one more possible diagnosis!
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It’s Time for your Spiritual Checkup – Part 5

Another possible diagnosis one may receive from a spiritual checkup is being a carnal Christian.  A carnal Christian has accepted Jesus as their Savior but does not consume the Word regularly.  As a result, their mind is not being renewed and their faith is weak.  They are not doers of God’s Word. On the contrary, they are ruled by the standards set up by the dictates of their flesh and trust in the flesh and people more than in God.

1 Corinthians 3:3-4 gives a clear description of a carnal Christian.  Apostle Paul told the Corinthian church, “For are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men”?   Because they were envious and jealous of one another’s spiritual gifts, they were argumentative and divisive. He rebuked them for their prideful behavior.

A carnal Christian is a willing prisoner of thoughts, desires, and values that are opposite to God’s Word. They are led by their emotions, their flesh (five physical senses), and by satan instead of being led by the Holy Spirit. Lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life impact their choices.

The treatment plan or prescription to cure carnality is to desire, decide, and be devoted to developing one’s relationship with God by spending more time in prayer and reading, meditating and studying God’s Word and depending on Him to help you do it.

If you are a carnal Christian, I pray you will be sold out to righteousness and not to sin!

 

STAY TUNED FOR IT’S TIME FOR YOUR SPIRITUAL CHECKUP – PART 5 TO LEARN ANOTHER POSSIBLE DIAGNOSIS!

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It’s Time for your Spiritual Checkup – Part 4

The next possible diagnosis one may receive from a spiritual checkup is being a baby Christian.  This is someone who has accepted Jesus as their Savior but has not grown spiritually yet due to a lack of consistently eating God’s Word.  

Baby Christians are dull of hearing, immature spiritually, need someone to minister to them, and are not able to minister to others yet.  Because there is no spiritual growth, they are unable to stand on their own and must be carried spiritually.

All new Christians are baby Christians but it can also be those who has been saved for a time—1, 2 years, or longer but have not grown spiritually.    The Bible says in Hebrews 5:12, “For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.” One of Jesus’ disciples asked Him to teach them how to pray.  Baby Christians, too, must be taught how to pray.  They are not able to get a prayer through so others have to pray for them.

In the natural, mothers feed their new born babies breast milk or formula.  They cannot eat solid food yet as their bodies are not developed enough to do so.  Baby Christians, too, require spiritual milk, elementary truths of the Bible because they are not mature enough to digest the solid food of the Word of God. 

The treatment plan or prescription to grow beyond the baby Christian level is to eat God’s Word habitually.  1 Peter 2:2 proclaims that, “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.” 

I pray that you will desire to eat God’s Word daily so that you can grow spiritually!

Stay tuned for It’s Time for your Spiritual Checkup – Part 5 to learn the next possible diagnosis!
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It’s Time for your Spiritual Checkup – Part 3

Upon physical examination and reading of your tests results, your doctor will diagnose your physical condition and give you a treatment plan. We, too, must read the results of the spiritual tests that Apostle John administered to us in Part 2 and self-diagnose our current spiritual condition.

The first possible diagnosis may be that you are a sinner (sin-sick) and need salvation. The prescription for that spiritual condition is to accept Jesus as Savior.  If this is your diagnosis, please pray the following sinner’s prayer:

 “Dear God, I Acknowledge that I was born a sinner. I need your mercy, forgiveness, and grace.  I Believe Jesus is your son who died on the cross in my place for my sins, was buried, and arose rose from the dead. I Confess Jesus as my Saviour and Lord.  I invite you to take control of my life and to help me to know and obey you.  Thank you for saving me, giving me new life in Christ, and filling me with the Holy Spirit, in Jesus’ name, Amen”!

If you have prayed this prayer sincerely from your heart for the first time, you are now a Christian.  Just that quick, God performed spiritual surgery on you, took out your hard heart, and replaced it with a soft heart. Welcome to the Body of Christ!

I pray that God will lead you to the bible-believing, bible-teaching church of His choice so you can grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. In John 10:10 Jesus said, “…I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” Remember, the abundant life starts with faith in the finished work of Jesus on the cross!  Go, run, and tell someone that you just got saved!

Hallelujah! I am rejoicing along with the angels in heaven that you are now a Christian, a Kingdom citizen, and a child of God! You have just begun the most exciting journey that God has planned for you! Email us and we will send you information to help you in your new life in Christ!

Stay tuned for it’s time for your spiritual checkup – part 4! you will learn about another possible spiritual diagnosis.

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It’s Time for your Spiritual Checkup – Part 2

As part of an annual physical examination, your doctor will administer various tests to help diagnose your physical condition.  In the books of the Bible that Apostle John wrote, he gives eight tests to help us diagnose our current spiritual condition. There are no wrong answers. Think about your lifestyle and give your honest answers!

Belief test – 1 John 5:1 “Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God…”  Do you believe Jesus is God’s Son who died on the cross for your sins?

Sin test – 1 John 3:9 “No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God”.  Do you live a sinful lifestyle?

Obedience test – 1 John 2: “The man who says, I know Him, but does not do what He commands is a liar, and the truth is not in him. Do you obey God consistently?

Holy Spirit test – 1 John 4:13 “We know that we live in Him and He in us, because He has given us of his Spirit”.  Is the Holy Spirit operating in your life consistently?

Love test – 1 John 3:14-15 “We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love our brothers. Anyone who does not love remains in death.  Anyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life in him”.  Is there anyone you hate?

Answered Prayer test – 1 John 3:22 “and receive from Him anything we ask, because we obey His commands and do what pleases Him.  Is God answering your prayers?

Love of the World test – 1 John 2:15-16 – “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.  For everything in the world–the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes, and the boasting of what he has and does–comes not from the Father but from the world.” Who do you love–this world and its things or God and all people?

Persecution test – John 15:19 “If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.”  Does the world hate you because you are a Christian or does it love you because your lifestyle resembles its?

STAY TUNED! IN THE NEXT POST, YOU WILL DIAGNOSE YOUR SPIRITUAL CONDITION!

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It’s Time for your Spiritual Checkup – Part 1

When we go to our doctor for an annual physical examination, the doctor will listen to your heart.  The heart is a major organ that maintains circulation by pumping blood that delivers life-sustaining oxygen and nutrients to 3 trillion cells in our body.

As it is in the natural, so it is in the spiritual. Our heart needs to be examined.  Ezekiel 11:19-20 says ”…I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. Then they will follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. They will be my people, and I will be their God.”  When God saves us, He does a heart transplant.  He takes out the hard heart and replaces it with a soft heart enabling us to obey Him as His children.

The Word of God in 1 Corinthians 13:5 says “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you–unless, of course, you fail the test”.  This command is in the present imperative tense so it’s a command to do something in the future and involves continuous or repeated action.  We are to examine our spiritual lives, not once but periodically. Let’s check that…

  • we are saved for real
  • we are growing spiritual and consistently living out our faith
  • we are not in a back-slidden condition.
STAY TUNED FOR IT’S TIME FOR YOUR SPIRITUAL CHECKUP – PART 2; IT WILL HAVE TESTS TO CHECK YOUR CURRENT SPIRITUAL CONDITION!

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God is Elohim

There are many names of God listed in the Bible. Each of them reveals to us who God is. The Old Testament name Elohim is the plural name of God. In Genesis 1:26, God the Father said, “let us make man…” He was commissioning the other members of the Godhead–God the Son Jesus and God the Holy Spirit–to co-labour with Him in the Creation.

One of the benefits of staying in a hotel on the beach is the opportunity to view nature up close and personal. Early one morning in Myrtle Beach as the sun was rising, I ran down to commune with God and enjoy His creation. Its brilliance reflecting off the water captivated me. I was awestruck and captured the beauty of God’s creation in this article’s featured picture. Truly the heavens declare the glory of God!

Any one who knows me is well aware of my favorite color. I was compelled to snap a photo of this purple tree. It is yet another display of the magnificence of our God!

Look at this rare super moon I was excited to photograph a few years ago. Only God, Elohim, our Creator could do this!

Let’s treasure and be good stewards of all God’s creation that He made for us to enjoy!

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God Is…

One of the missions of “God Is” Ministries, LLC is to teach you who God is. As we get to know who God is, we begin to discover who we are in God.

There is only one true and living God and His name is Jehovah, which means eternal God. The Bible declares in John 4:24 that, “God is a spirit and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth.” God is an incorporeal being. God is Elohim, the maker and supreme ruler of heaven and earth. He created everything–the earth, the animals, fowls, fish, and mankind.

We become a Christian by establishing a relationship with God through His Son Jesus Christ. By faith, we accept the gift of salvation based on the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross. Once we establish this relationship, we must then develop this relationship by getting to know who God is.

Though we cannot expect to know everything about God, He has revealed Himself through general and special revelation. God reveals Himself through nature. Psalm 19:1 says, “the heavens declare the glory of God…” Look at the leaves on trees in the Fall with its variety of hues and shapes. Every year without fail, this abundance of leaves returns. How can we not realize that only God can do this!

God has also revealed Himself through His Word. The Lord said in Psalm 40:7, “Lo, I come in the volume of the book it is written of me.”

Additionally, God revealed Himself through His Son. Jesus said in John 14:9 “he that hath seen me hath seen the Father.”

Let’s look at some of the things God has revealed about Himself and what it means to His people:

  • God is a trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; I am a trinity: I am a spirit, I have a soul, and I live in a body.
  • God is a good Father. He meets my needs, protects, guides, and corrects me.
  • God is the source and the strength of my life, so since I’m made in His image I am strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
  • God is omnipresent. I’m never alone because He is always with me.
  • God is a giver of good things. Good things are coming to me and happening to me.
  • God is Alpha and Omega. He will continue to work in me until it is completed upon Jesus’ return.
  • God is gracious. He can give me the things I don’t deserve.
  • God is merciful. He can spare me from getting those things I do deserve.
  • God is omniscient. When I call on Him, He shows me great and mighty things that I don’t know.
  • God is love. His love is the greatest love I will ever experience.
  • God is faithful so I can trust Him when I can’t trace Him.
  • God is omnipotent. He has given me power over serpents, scorpions, and over all the power of  the enemy.
  • God is immutable. Because He does not change, I can believe all His promises.
  • God is infinite. There is no limit to what He can do for me and through me.
  • God is eternal; I’m His child and we will be together forever.
  • God is truth so I can stand firm on everything in His Word.
  • God is just, therefore, I always expect Him to do the right thing.
  • God is sovereign. I can rest in Him because He is large and in charge of everything.
  • God is perfect; therefore, I do not put Him on the same level as mankind.

Stay tuned for more teaching on who God is!

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It’s Time to Make a Choice!

I’m writing this post because like God, I desire that no one would perish but that all will come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. As I look around, I’m concerned because I see the world growing darker day by day with sin and lawlessness increasing everywhere. Therefore, I want to share some life-changing knowledge with you!

Every person’s life consists of four parts: birth, life, death, and eternity.

  • birth – No one has a choice in their birth details–who their parents will be, where, when, or how they will be born.
  • life – We all make continual choices from infancy throughout our lives. Have you ever seen a baby choose to refuse their bottle or choose to have a tantrum?
  • death – We don’t have the right to chose when or how we will die.
  • eternity – We have a choice as to where we will spend eternity.

Joshua 24:15 declares “Choose you this day whom ye will serve…but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” God does not want any robots serving Him. He is not a rapist; He will not force Himself on you. He is a gentlemen. He allows you to choose whether or not you will serve Him.

Jesus said in John 3:18 “He that believeth on Him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

I chose Jesus over 30 years ago and I have no regrets about being a child of God and being a citizen of the Kingdom of God, which is the Kingdom of Light. In fact, by experience I can tell you that things go better with Jesus! King Solomon, the wisest man besides Jesus, learned that life without God is meaningless!

Who did you choose? Not choosing is a choice!

To choose Jesus, please repeat the Sinner’s Prayer. Dear God, I ADMIT I was born a sinner. I BELIEVE Jesus is your Son who died on the cross for my sins, was buried, and arose from the dead. I CHOOSE Jesus and CONFESS Him as my Savior and Lord. Thank you Lord for saving me and filling me with your Spirit, in Jesus’ name, AMEN!

If you prayed this prayer sincerely from your heart for the first time, God has saved you just that quick. He has done spiritual surgery on you and has taken out your hard heart and replaced it with a soft heart. Go run tell someone you got saved, that you are now a child of God, that you are a Christian! Along with the angels in heaven, I am rejoicing that you have begun your new life in Christ!

It is my prayer that God will lead you to the Bible-believing, Bible-teaching Church of His choice. Email us at info@belindarstokes.net and we will send you information to help you in your new Christian journey!

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God loves you and has a purpose and plan for your life!

John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

Do you remember singing “yes, Jesus loves me” as a child in Sunday School? Whether you answered yes or no, I want to assure you that God has always loved you and will never stop loving you. God is omniscient (all-knowing) so He knows everything about you. God is omnipresent (everywhere at the same time) so He has seen everything you have ever done. Despite what He knows or has seen, His love for you is eternal and without any conditions.

John 10:10 declares, “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”

Please note Jesus used the word “might”. You might have abundant life or you might not have abundant life. It depends on whose plan for your life that you choose to follow.

The thief, the devil, has a plan to steal your blessings, kill your dreams and your body, and to destroy your life. God’s plan for your life contains prosperity, no harm, a hope, and a future.

I have given you the two plans for your life. By decision or by default, you will have one of these plans for your life. Do you want your life to be stolen, killed, and destroyed? Or do you want to have eternal and the abundant life?