Thursday, April 30, 2020

04/30/20 LEGENDS IN THEIR OWN MIND

04/30/20 LEGENDS IN THEIR OWN MIND

Know it all folks are authorities about everything they know nothing about i.e. Medicine, Bible, Compassion, Salvation, Kindness.

I mention this because it is easy to be led astray by boisterous, authoritarian, haughtiness. It comes across as accomplishment, self confidence and wise counsel, but it is proud self assertiveness that rejects even God's revelation.

04/30/20 THE SON WILL COME AGAIN

04/30/20 THE SON WILL COME AGAIN

Better than Costner's song.
Christ died and rose a sacrifice for sin.
Though the world has grown dark, the Son will come again.


Kevin Costner does a really fine job of playing and singing a secular song, "The Sun Will Rise Again." He sent it out on FB to be an encouragement to folks in these dark and difficult days. I would love to see him realize that the SON has died and risen from the dead to set all of us free from our sins.

This is why I said that this "song" (actually just a few words of gospel truth) is better than his song.

Christ died once and rose from the dead, never to die again. He has ascended to heaven and will COME AGAIN in the future.

However, Jesus, the Son of God (aka the Sun of righteousness) will arise in the lives of those who turn to Him as their own personal Savior.
Malachi 4:2 KJV
2 But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall.

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04/30/20 RIGHT DIRECTION, WRONG MOTIVATION

04/30/20 RIGHT DIRECTION, WRONG MOTIVATION

It is a scandal that Christian parents refused to homeschool their children until the godless State told them to do it.

04/30/20 DEATH ON THE CROSS IS AN INDICATOR

04/30/20 DEATH ON THE CROSS IS AN INDICATOR

I can't imagine God's heartache when those He loves disrespect and disconnect from Him, His grace, His truth, His love, His family.

04/30/20 KNOW THE SCHEMES OF THE DEVIL

04/30/20 KNOW THE SCHEMES OF THE DEVIL

The devil does these things to keep people from coming to Christ:

keeps them busy,
keeps them in turmoil,
keeps them in chaos.

04/30/20 NOW YOU KNOW

04/30/20 NOW YOU KNOW

D'ya ever wonder how people could be so foolishly resistant to God in days of Noah (Ge. 6) & Moses (Ex. 7-11).
Now you know.

04/30/20 CHANGE FOR THE RIGHT REASON

04/30/20 CHANGE FOR THE RIGHT REASON

Our world changed drastically because of 9-11-01 and is changing because of COVID-19.
We need to change because of John 3:16.

04/30/20 DIFFERENT NAMES, SAME AGENDA

04/30/20 DIFFERENT NAMES, SAME AGENDA

I've watched live interviews, then watched blatant lying reports by Liberal media and politicians. God haters are not trustworthy.

If you question whether or not a Liberal is a God hater, you need to study the Origin, Objectives and Operations of Liberalism, Humanism, Naturalism, Scientism, Materialism, Socialism, Atheism (as usual, this is my outline, it is not the name of someone's book).

04/30/20 FILTER THROUGH TRUTH

04/30/20 FILTER THROUGH TRUTH

Honest people can be misled or be in error.
Their integrity doesn't insure sound judgement or accurate information.
Be Biblical.

04/30/20 DISCERNMENT MATTERS

04/30/20 DISCERNMENT MATTERS

Honest people are sometimes wrong.
Deceivers are sometimes right.
God is always true, always right.
Our Light and Lamp in darkness.

04/29/20 BAD CHANGES RAPIDLY COMING

04/29/20 BAD CHANGES RAPIDLY COMING

Our world continues to change, RAPIDLY and not for the better.

Jesus foretold this.
But JESUS never changes (He. 13:8).

Hebrews 13:8 KJV
8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.

04/29/20 A WHOLE LOT OF SHAKING

04/29/20 A WHOLE LOT OF SHAKING

God could make next week seem like 1950 (I don't think He will), but even so, our world is in for a shaking like it has never had.

04/29/20 THE BATTLE HEATS UP

04/29/20 THE BATTLE HEATS UP

As Satan and his allies see their doom coming they will unleash their full force of violence, chaos, corruption and destruction.

04/29/20 NURTURE YOUR NEW NATURE

04/29/20 NURTURE YOUR NEW NATURE

If you don't want your faith to falter or fail during times of trial, you need to feed and exercise it while you can.

04/29/20 JESUS IS THE PANACEA

04/29/20 JESUS IS THE PANACEA

The world is overrun with sickness, violence, upheaval, confusion, poverty, oppression, deception.
But JESUS NEVER FAILS.

04/29/20 AS WE MIGHT SAY

04/29/20 AS WE MIGHT SAY

It's get'n darker, young'rns, but I ain't afeared, cause Jesus is my Light; He leads, protects, comforts and He never leaves me.

The virus is just a small part of the darkness that is setting in on us, and it it is all lining up.

04/29/20 MY LORD KNOWS THE WAY...

04/29/20 MY LORD KNOWS THE WAY...

I don't always know what to do, where to go, what to think, but I know the One Who does and I know I can trust Him, always.

04/28/20 VIDEO FROM A YEAR AGO

04/28/20 VIDEO FROM A YEAR AGO

Checking my phone storage and found this video. You might find it enlightening, entertaining and maybe even edifying. Witnessing to a false Witness.


This was made March of 2018.

04/28/20 GOD'S SHEEP FOLLOW HIM

04/28/20 GOD'S SHEEP FOLLOW HIM
 
God's sheep know His voice and follow Him. If they don't follow Him, or if they follow another, they are not His sheep.

John 10:4-5 KJV
4 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
5 And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.

04/28/20 SPEAKING TRUTH IN LOVE

04/28/20 SPEAKING TRUTH IN LOVE

VERY IMPORTANT...
It is Christian to stand firm on God's truth.
It is not Christian to trample those held in deception.


THE JOB OF RECONCILIATION IS TO RECONCILE PEOPLE TO GOD.
(speak the truth in love)

Ephesians 4:11-16 KJV
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
* 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

04/28/20 JESUS IS THE WAY

04/28/20 JESUS IS THE WAY

Folks are in a hurry to do nothing and go nowhere.
Jesus, "went about doing good," while most folks just go about.


Acts 10:37-43 KJV
37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached;
* 38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing
good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:
40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.
42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.
43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.

1 Peter 2:21-23 KJV
* 21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:
23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:

Ephesians 2:10 KJV
* 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
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04/26/20 BASIC TRAINING FOR CHRISTIAN SOLDIERS

04/26/20 BASIC TRAINING FOR CHRISTIAN SOLDIERS

2 Timothy 2:4 is a fundamental principle of the Christian relationship to the concerns of this world.

2 Timothy 2:4 KJV
4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.

Saturday, April 25, 2020

04/25/20 AN ESSENTIAL TRUTH

04/25/20 AN ESSENTIAL TRUTH

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN TO YOU:
"MY OLD SELF IS CRUCIFIED,"
"I HAVE DIED TO SELF AND THE WORLD,"
"I AM CRUCIFIED WITH CHRIST?"


PASSAGES TO CONSIDER
Romans 6:6-14 KJV

6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.
7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.
8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him:
9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.
10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.
11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.
13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.
14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.

Galatians 2:20 KJV
20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

Galatians 5:22-25 KJV

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

Galatians 6:14 KJV
14 But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.

04/25/20 WE SHOULD KNOW THE DIFFERENCE

04/25/20 WE SHOULD KNOW THE DIFFERENCE

God's promises in Christ are "Yes," but God's answer to our prayers may be, YES, NO, or Wait.

Faith finds and follows His way.

04/25/20 OUR PRESENT LEAD TO OUR TOMORROWS

04/25/20 OUR PRESENT LEAD TO OUR TOMORROWS

If you want to survive in the difficult days ahead, you need to follow Jesus today.

We live by faith, not by sight.

04/25/20 WE CAN DEPEND ON GOD

04/25/20 WE CAN DEPEND ON GOD

The will of God includes providing for our families, without fretting.

Don't lean on self, but trust in God's leading and provision.

04/25/20 TRUSTING IN GOD

04/25/20 TRUSTING IN GOD

Sometimes following God means we WAIT, LISTEN, LEARN, ADJUST.

He has the knowledge, wisdom, answers, power, grace.

04/25/20 BEING AND KNOWING

04/25/20 BEING AND KNOWING

Being close to God makes us aware of the will of God.

Knowing the will of God guides our lives in this present evil world.

04/24/20 THE REASON TO MY RHYME

04/24/20 THE REASON TO MY RHYME

I want my postings to draw people to Christ and move them to live a life of faith, hope, love, joy, peace, righteousness and victory.

04/24/20 TIME TO PREPARE

04/24/20 TIME TO PREPARE

I have preached and taught that living in difficult times is easier in a loving, supportive, unified body of believers.

Prepare now.

04/24/20 KNOWING SHOULD LEAD TO GOING

04/24/20 KNOWING SHOULD LEAD TO GOING

It is not enough to know the future.

We must...
*abandon our past,
*walk with Him in the present,
*follow Him into the future.

04/24/20 IT IS NOT PESSIMISM

04/24/20 IT IS NOT PESSIMISM

I am not pessimistic but man's history, today's news and the signs of the times all agree with THE HOLY BIBLE, it's gonna get worse.


I am not pessimistic, because I believe God;
I believe God has a plan for His children;
I believe God's light shatters and scatters Satan's darkness;
I believe that greater is He (Christ) that is in me than he (Satan) that is in the world;
I believe that all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His (God's) purpose;
I believe that God causes Christians to always triumph in Christ.
I believe that Christians are more than conquerors over our enemies, through Christ Who loves us;
I believe the promises of God that we can be forgiven, conformed to the image of Jesus, transformed from light to light, empowered by the Holy Spirit, walk in truth and righteousness, be raised from the dead, spend eternity with God.

04/24/20 JUST KEEP WATCHING

04/24/20 JUST KEEP WATCHING

If someone (in February) had told you what life in USA would be today, you would have called them crazy.
STAY TUNED, IT'LL GET WORSE.

04/24/20 THE WORST IS YET TO COME

04/24/20 THE WORST IS YET TO COME

If you think things are different, chaotic and scary now... just wait.

"You ain't seen noth'n yet."

04/24/20 A CHANCE TO ESCAPE STUPIDITY

04/24/20 A CHANCE TO ESCAPE STUPIDITY

I've said for a very long time (even before I ever read anything on FB), "Sin makes you stupid."

Better seek God... NOW.

04/24/20 MONUMENTAL MOMENT

04/24/20 MONUMENTAL MOMENT

Whatever this moment is or isn't, it is God's greatest call to world repentance EVER and Christians are blind to it by controversy.

04/24/20 MY BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

04/24/20 MY BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

This is my bio on my blog. It is what it is. Maybe it will be interesting or helpful to someone who reads my posts.

MEET PASTOR DAVID
Overview of Pastor David’s life and his own personal testimony.


OVERVIEW
*1947… Born in Morehead City, N.C.

*1947-1965… I lived in Morehead City and Wilmington, North Carolina; Norfolk, Virgina; Hollywood Hills and Glendale, California; as well as Miami Beach, Florida. I visited England, Wales and Scotland, in the British Isles, Tiajuana and Juarez, Mexico, El Paso, Texas, San Francisco and San Diego, California, as well as Ontario, Canada.

I became a believer in Christ at the age of three, having heard Bible stories that made me realize Jesus loved me and would change me. As a youth, I served as president of my church’s youth group and in the leadership of our denominational sub-district youth group.

*1965… Graduated from West Carteret High School, Morehead City, N.C.

*1965-1969… Attended John Wesley Bible College, Greensboro, N.C, Graduated with a Th.B…held revivals, youth revivals, jail ministries, home Bible studies, street evangelism, Chaplain of the Student Body.

*1969… Married Martha and by 1979 I became father of David, Mark, Lydia and Joanna.

*1969-1973… Pastored in the North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church (One year with a two point charge, Midway/Bethlehem, near Swansboro, N.C. in the New Bern District and three years with a three point charge, Kinnakeet/Salvo/Rodanthe, on Cape Hatteras, N. C. in the Elizabeth City District).

Held revivals, youth retreats, church retreats. Visited Norway, Holland and England in evangelistic outreach, visited Ecuador and Colombia S.A. for missions tour.

*1973-1979… Pastored in the Evangelical Friends Church-Eastern Region. (One year at Emmanuel Friends Church in Eden, N. C. and five years at Willoughby Hills Friends Church, near Cleveland, Ohio.)

Held revivals, youth retreats, youth camps, missions conference speaker, church growth speaker, Vice President of denominational World Missions Board, Vice President of denominational Youth Board, led missions outreach to 1976 Montreal Olympics, visited Mexico City for missions, participated with Chinese Christian Church Ministry, regularly worked with City Mission Program of Cleveland, Ohio.

*1979-1987… Formed and pastored two nondenominational ministries in North Carolina; seven years in Morehead City and one year in Greensboro.

Founded and directed Christian Church School from 1st to 11th Grades, conducted radio ministry and local cable television ministry, ministered to homeless, performed jail and prison ministries, founded, directed and taught in a Ministry and Bible Institute.

*1987-1992… Pastored in Texas (three years in Alvarado, Texas.). Ministered to other churches, conducted radio program in Dallas, Texas.

*1992-2003… Formed and pastored nondenominational church in Tennessee. (The Church On Higher Ground for seven years). Created and hosted an informal retreat ministry and an internet ministry.

*2003-2005… Joined and became active part of the Tennessee District of the Wesleyan Church. Served as chaplain with “Transport For Christ” ministry to the trucking industry.

*2004… Transferred ordination to Tennessee District (having been previously ordained in the UMC and Recorded in the EFC-ER).

*2005-2015… Began an independent and nondenominational ministry in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. I led the adult Sunday School and Sunday morning and evening services. I led our midweek service of study and fellowship, as well as spoke to a home Bible study group. My street outreach included Myrtle Beach Bike Week (Harley Davidson) and Atlantic Beach (S.C.) Bike Week (sports bikes, also known as “Black Bike Week”) as well as personal work with tourists and resort workers along Ocean Boulevard. I spoke to a senior citizens group twice a month.

*2015-2019... Moved to Beaufort, North Carolina to begin new ministry. Being a house church, our "program" has been limited. I am blessed to have three of my children (and their families) living near one another. This makes it possible, for me as a pastor, to dedicate great attention to my eight grandchildren who live in the area. This includes teaching, recreational time (kayaking, fishing, exercising), youth meetings (sporadic). Each of these children and young people are saved and seeking a deeper walk with Jesus. We have people who work with the youth in music.

I have taken young people to visit other churches in the area (evening service, Bible study, revival services), in order for them to meet other Christians and experience different cultures and different ministry situations.

We met in my home from March of '16 to September of '19, as well as other venues for special services. Our church enjoyed visiting and worshiping with FGWC in Harkers Island on Sunday evenings. Pastor Clint was kind enough to invite me to preach to his wonderful congregation several times. Toward the end of 2019 we rented a storefront building in Beaufort, which we could use as a Ministry Center for preaching, teaching, fellowship and youth work. At this time we resumed Sunday Evening Services.

*2020 (the present time)... Our services were going well in our storefront when COVID-19 gripped our world. As pastor, I have always cared for the health of my people, and have often cancelled services. For the good of my congregation I started having ZOOM internet services, to minister to my own people and to reach out to other people.
Much of my preaching and teaching has focused on basic Biblical concepts and practical Christian living in an unChristian world.

I believe God is about to open new doors of opportunity for us to minister to a larger and more diverse group of people in our area.

TESTIMONY
Early Childhood
The biographical sketch tells you something of my education, ministry and travels, but it does not tell you about my relationship with Jesus. Therefore I would like to share a word of testimony with you.

I have no reason to believe that either of my parents were saved when I was born. My mother, being from Scotland, was raised Roman Catholic and my father was raised Methodist in North Carolina. Most if not all of my exposure to the gospel came from my father. It is not that he was so learned about the Bible, but he had been raised to have a respect for God, His Word and the Church. “Good Lord” is the name that Daddy preferred to use instead of “God.” He did not even say God’s name when we sang hymns, as in the first line of How Great Thou Art. He would sing, “O Lord my ____, when I in awesome wonder….” He also would not lay anything on top of the Bible because he saw that as being disrespectful. All of this concern from a man who did not have a personal relationship with Jesus.”

Conversion
When I say that I was UGLY, I am not referring to my outer appearance. UGLY was the way a two year old thought of the “sinful things” in his life. I knew that I had done things that disappointed Jesus and I knew that I thought things which did not make “the Good Lord” happy. Though it is hard for some people to believe, I asked Jesus to forgive me for being UGLY and I asked Him to come into my heart. AND HE DID. Daddy would tell me Bible stories as a little child and by God’s grace I came to accept Jesus into my heart and life at the tender age of three years. Though I was not guilty of any heinous crimes, I knew in my heart of hearts that I was “UGLY” because I had done “UGLY things.

My parents did not lead me into a personal relationship with Jesus. They not only did not have a living relationship with Christ at that time, they never came to an understanding of salvation until I was a ministry student in Bible college. I did not have enough Christian background to be “misled” into thinking I was a Christian. I WAS A CHRISTIAN AND I KNEW THAT I WAS BECAUSE I HAD A LIVING AND LIFE CHANGING RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS. I believe that God is not willing that any should perish and that included me at the tender age of two and three. God did not want me going into deep sin which would take a toll on my life and in His grace and mercy He saved me as a very young boy. Jesus Himself told the disciples to allow the children to come to Him and not to forbid them, for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven. I believe Jesus not only speaks English, Spanish, French, Urdu and all other human languages, I believe He can and does communicate clearly with children. I know He did with me. Not only did I know I was saved at that young age, I knew He had called me to be a preacher at the age of three. There were no ministry people in my family, we did not attend church and my parents friends were not Christian, therefore I was not being influenced by others. I was called and I knew that I was called. I always told everyone that Jesus wanted me to be a preacher and this somewhat fascinated my Daddy.

Though I had an hunger and desire for the Bible and Christian truths my family had very little to offer along those lines. My parents started taking me to churches and dropping me off for Sunday School, Worship service and other church activities. Eventually they started coming to services because of me and my commitment to Jesus. Since they had no understanding of spiritual realities, they didn’t really care to which church they carried me. I was taken to Methodist, Baptist and Presbyterian.

Though my parents did not have a personal relationship with Christ, they always did what they could to help me in my growth in the Lord. This too was the hand of God in my early life. If God could save me when I had no more human help than that, what can He do for children in families who follow Him. As far as the converting of the very young, we have not because we ask not.

By the time I was 10 years old, we had lived in two different parts of North Carolina as well as Miami Beach, Florida and the greater Los Angeles area. I had also spent several months of my very young life in Scotland with my mother when she went home to visit her family.

Later Childhood
We moved from California back to North Carolina when I was ten years old. I then settled into my Dad’s home church, a Methodist Church. During the 60’s the pastors of our church were mostly liberals. They not only did not have a relationship with Jesus, they did not even believe the Bible. Nonetheless, I knew Jesus and would not be led too far afield along those lines.

Without the support of a Christian family and a Bible believing pastor and church, I found the lure of adolescence too great for my shallow relationship with Jesus. I would sin and then He would convict me of my sins. I would repent and He would forgive me. But not knowing the purifying power of the Holy Spirit in my life, I was off and on for Jesus from the age of 12 to 18. There were times I would go to the alter during worship services and the “preacher” had no idea as to why I was there or what to do about me. But Jesus knew and that was all that mattered to me.

During this period of time I tried to get God to modify His calling on my life. Maybe I could be a Navy Chaplain or something, but please Lord, not a pastor. I really had no pull with God. He stayed true to His plan and would not allow me to change His mind. I am sad to say that my backsliding during those years did not glorify Him and it did not help me. However, God is good and His mercy endures forever. Though He could have cut me off, He never left me nor forsook me.

God in His goodness brought a Bible preacher to my home church during my senior year in high school. He took me to his alma mater with hopes that I would attend. Upon graduation from high school, I enrolled in the Bible college. I only intended to stay long enough to get my grades up so I could go to a “real college.” I had not taken schooling seriously and though I graduated from high school, it was more from my participation during class time rather than through my homework or personal studies.

Bible College
Bible college was a real eye-opener. I started to learn the Word and understand Christian principles as I never had before. I was a fairly worldly Christian and Bible college life was a total change. The doctrinal background of the Bible college held to the teaching that we can not only be forgiven of our sins, but delivered from the Old Man, the Carnal Mind, the Sinful Nature. The first six weeks of my college experience was one of great struggle and turmoil. I was hearing that God not only wanted me to be holy, He would make me holy if I would trust in the death and resurrection of Jesus for my total cleansing.

Total Surrender and Filling of the Holy Spirit
Though I was living for Jesus and trusting Him, I knew that I was not totally sold out. I knew that I had not turned loose of every area of my life. I still had a tendency to think and act in ways which not only were dishonoring to God and disruptive to others, but also destructive to myself. I did not want to turn everything over to God, but I saw that I would not only miss all that He had for me, I would destroy myself and others as well. Only when I surrendered and believed Him for Entire Sanctification did I find the peace and power I had sought in Him all those years.

From that point on I was determined to learn and obey everything Jesus had for me. I would not make the Bible fit my understanding, but I would make my understanding align with God’s eternal truths. I would be willing to change my beliefs and behavior in order to please Him. This has been my intent all these years.

I sought to use my gifts and calling every opportunity I could. I studied, prayed, witnessed, preached, taught and served God and others every way I knew how. God had blessed me in my evangelism and I thought that maybe I should enter into evangelistic ministry. However, it would be better for me to understand Church ministries before going on the circuit, therefore I planned to spend a few years in pastoral ministry. As a pastor I began to realize that evangelism along with all the other ministries of the Holy Spirit, is best performed in and through the local church. I would find more outlets for evangelism through the local church than I could have ever imagined. Also, the foundation for the new Christian is to be found in the local body, not some para-church ministry.

Pastoral Background
Upon graduation from Bible college I got married and entered into the pastoral ministry of the United Methodist Church. Though this denomination has a rich and glorious history and though there are still some great men of God who minister through the UMC, the fact stands that it has left it’s moorings and is adrift in a sea of liberalism and paganism.

In the UMC pastors are “appointed” to their churches by the Bishop and District Superintendents, some of which have no idea about Jesus, the Bible or salvation. In this system of church government Pastors are usually not free to be the leaders of the church since they will be re-appointed within just a few years, to another church. After serving God and the congregation faithfully, the “Conference” is likely to replace a Bible pastor with some liberal or pagan hireling. The hard work and effort given for a congregation is torn up in just a short time by this new pastor. I did not see this as being the best stewardship of my time and gifts. I had plenty of opportunity to reach and build up people in the Word, but then they were turned over to the devil to be destroyed. I asked God to lead me to a more stable situation.

Before I left the UMC, my wife and I went to Europe on an evangelistic outreach and I also went with some of my parishioners on a short mission tour to South America. Though I had always had a heart for foreign missions, these tours enriched me beyond description. I was shifted into a higher gear for the lost around the world, and given the advantage of first hand experience. I was witness to the needs of missionaries and mission programs. This fueled my zeal to see missions promoted among the churches and gave me more insight than I could have gotten in any missions class.

I pastored Evangelical Friends churches in North Carolina and Ohio. The switch from Methodist to Quakers was more a change in church governmental structure than in doctrine or belief system. Obviously, I would not change my beliefs to be part of any group. The beliefs must be Biblical.

Ministry Training Program Provided
I enjoyed the blessings of God on our ministry in the Friends church. We saw great growth in our own local ministry and in our outreach to the world. We had several young men and women prepare for missions and pastoral ministries. It was during this time we noticed that most of the education young people receive in preparation does not actually prepare them and that it cost so much that they are hobbled with indebtedness for many years. This caused me to design and provide a Bible and Ministry Training program through our local church. Our courses in Bible, Theology and other ministry studies were more in depth and effectual than that which can be obtained through any liberal arts college, whether Christian or secular. We also provided a more practical ministry training than can be found in most Bible colleges and Seminaries. Not only was it better, it took considerably less time and basically no money. I have always believed that the Church is a MINISTRY, not a COMMERCIAL VENTURE. This led us to operate a Bible and Ministry Institute from our local church ministry.

With the decay in our society and especially in the so-called public education arena, I saw the need for Christian education. Again, it should be provided as a ministry and not as a commercial venture. This resulted in a church school and eventually a home schooling program. This was done when it was not as popular as it is today.

All of these events and issues have helped me develop a Biblical view concerning the Church and It’s ministry to a world in trouble. All of the problems and opportunities which I have faced have only driven me to His Word and drawn me closer to His Spirit.

I enjoyed my time in the Tennessee District of the Wesleyan Church. I was honored when they made me director of Church Growth and Evangelism. God allowed me to contract West Nile Virus, which broke my health to the point of almost dying. Not only could I not perform my pastoral duties, I was dying slowly and surely. God delivered me by leading me to the coast of South Carolina. I only regret that my poor health during our last year and a half kept me from fulfilling my duties. I am enjoying a better health situation on the coast than I experienced in the mountains of Tennessee.

When I lived on the mountain in Tennessee, my theme phrase was, “Upward and Onward in Jesus.”
Since the time we moved to the coast of South Carolina and North Carolina, my theme phrase is, “Launch Out and Hold Fast.”

Pastor David L. Gould

04/24/20 WHAT DIFFERENCE WILL IT MAKE?

04/24/20 WHAT DIFFERENCE WILL IT MAKE?

When the "lock down" is over, will people turn and return to God 24/7 or just be bench warmers?
PLAN NOW. TELL FOLKS.

04/23/20 SOME DID NOT GET THE MEMO?

04/23/20 SOME DID NOT GET THE MEMO?

COVID-19 is supposedly a worldwide move to subject people to dictatorship.

Hmm?
Instead, North Koreans are demanding more Bibles.

Satan will either instigate or utilize any and all for the purposes of evil.
On the other hand, God will use all situations for His glory and for our good.
We, as individuals, choose to either open ourselves to Satan's purposes or God's purpose.

As Joseph said,
Genesis 50:20 KJV

20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.

Paul tells us,
Romans 8:28 KJV

28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

04/23/20 REMEMBER PHARAOH?

04/23/20 REMEMBER PHARAOH?

Will this worldwide wake-up call reach the godless men of our community or just harden their hearts, as in the days of Moses.

04/23/20 "IT'S JUST A MATTER OF TIME"

04/23/20 "IT'S JUST A MATTER OF TIME"

How long after people return to "church" will they fall back into their slothful, unfaithful, worldly ways?

04/23/20 "I CAN'T WAIT TO GET BACK"

04/23/20 "I CAN'T WAIT TO GET BACK"

Hey, after this subsides (notice my optimism) some folks will rush to "church." But will this include, Sunday AM, PM and Midweek?

04/23/20 I'M SORRY, WHAT DID YOU SAY

04/23/20 I'M SORRY, WHAT DID YOU SAY

What a shame.

One of the greatest worldwide wake up calls in all of history, and most American "Christians" are missing the meaning.

04/23/20 VIDEO FROM 2016

04/23/20 VIDEO FROM 2016

Four years ago I had moved to Beaufort to begin a new phase of my ministry, but some of my family still lived in M.B. This is one of the video messages I sent to them during this time.

FOLLOW THE PATH AND AVOID THE TRAPS
A short video to my grandchildren as they are meeting together at Myrtle Beach. God will lead us to victory and deliver us from the traps of life.

Friday, April 24, 2020

04/23/20 FROM 8 YEARS AGO

04/23/20 FROM 8 YEARS AGO

Still praising God for the privilege to share glorious truth with my grandchildren.
 

(MEMORY)
Okay, I have lots of little issues and problems and disappointments in my life, along with some VERY HEAVY burdens that I carry: BUT, I am blessed beyond anything you could ever imagine.

I get to pastor some of my grandchildren. I get to teach them, encourage them, challenge them, pray with them, sing with them, hear them when they praise God (as well as just spend fun time with them). I get to impart to them golden nuggets of divine, life changing truth and lead them in spiritual conquests.

At this age, I have even more to offer them than I was able to give my own children years ago, and I gave them all I had.

Dear Lord, help them to Launch Out and Hold Fast.

04/22/20 CHRISTIANS MARCH TO A DIFFERENT BEAT

04/22/20 CHRISTIANS MARCH TO A DIFFERENT BEAT

I understand social discord and civil upheaval by folks.

But Christians must obey the State, until it requires disobedience to God.

04/22/20 GOD'S LIFE COACHES

04/22/20 GOD'S LIFE COACHES
Pastors are God's "Life Coaches" for believers who want to please and glorify God in every area of life, all the time.

04/22/20 "SPIRITUAL" IS ALL INCLUSIVE

04/22/20 "SPIRITUAL" IS ALL INCLUSIVE

Spiritual success includes not only "spiritual" activity (Bible study, worship, prayer), but ALL of life (private and public).

04/22/20 DON'T SCORN GOD'S SHEPHERDS

04/22/20 DON'T SCORN GOD'S SHEPHERDS

No one should downplay the anointing, leading, power, gifting, training, authority, responsibility of obedient God-called pastors.

04/22/20 ASK AN EXPERT

04/22/20 ASK AN EXPERT

Improve health? Ask a doctor.
Tune-up car? Ask a mechanic.
Stay legal? Ask a lawyer.
Mature in Christ? Ask a pastor.

04/22/20 DON'T SLEEP YOUR LIFE AWAY

04/22/20 DON'T SLEEP YOUR LIFE AWAY

If church folks don't awaken to radical, extreme, Biblical discipleship now, then they will probably snooze their way to eternity.

04/22/20 A LOST OPPORTUNITY

04/22/20 A LOST OPPORTUNITY

In spite of today's world-changing upheaval it doesn't look like American "Christians" will be raised from their spiritual stupor.

04/22/20 NOT JUST POLITE PATTER

04/22/20 NOT JUST POLITE PATTER

Christian group discussions are important for personal change and growth but they require humility, trust, love and vulnerability.

04/22/20 NOT AN ADDITIVE

04/22/20 NOT AN ADDITIVE

Salvation is not a little something you sprinkle on your life to make it palatable.

It is Divine transformation and purification.

04/22/20 LIKE A MAELSTROM

04/22/20 LIKE A MAELSTROM

Don't forget: every step you take in the grip of darkness pulls your further from Divine light.

Turn now, while you can.

04/22/20 SIN SHOULD NOT BE COMFORTED

04/22/20 SIN SHOULD NOT BE COMFORTED

Churches should not comfort folks in their rebellion, carnality, divisiveness, slothfulness, harshness, selfishness, pride.

04/21/20 MORE THAN ENTERTAINMENT

04/21/20 MORE THAN ENTERTAINMENT

Your church life should be arming you for your present spiritual battle and equipping you for tomorrows missions.

04/21/20 NOTHING LESS WILL DO

04/21/20 NOTHING LESS WILL DO

I preach and teach extreme, radical (aka Biblical) salvation, discipleship, churchmanship.

All need it, few accept it.

04/21/20 TEST THE SPIRITS

04/21/20 TEST THE SPIRITS

Some folks read the Bible like others read Tea Leaves.

They either make up their own story or they believe another spirit.

04/21/20 BE HONEST WITH GOD

04/21/20 BE HONEST WITH GOD

God allows no one to sidestep, twist or interpret His word contrary to what He intended and clearly revealed in the Bible.

04/21/20 DON'T FIGHT A STRAW MAN

04/21/20 DON'T FIGHT A STRAW MAN

If you don't accept your pastor's teaching, at least sit down and listen to his reasons.

Have an open and honest Bible discussion.

04/21/20 SADLY, IT HAPPENS

04/21/20 SADLY, IT HAPPENS

How weird would it be for Christians to tell folks that terrible events are coming, then deny the events when they come?

04/21/20 THIS IS "FOR KEEPS"

04/21/20 THIS IS "FOR KEEPS"

We better know the ones who teach and lead us spiritually.
Our eternal souls depend on what we believe and others are following us.

04/21/20 EXPERTISE COUNTS

04/21/20 EXPERTISE COUNTS

Let me see, 55 years of intensive Bible study and ministry or someone's Bible dabbling: which is more trustworthy?

04/21/20 PATHWAY TO VICTORY

04/21/20 PATHWAY TO VICTORY

God's salvation transforms us, completely, fitting us for life, godliness and service.

We all need Divine transformation.

PATHWAY OF VICTORY

2 Peter 1:2-4 KJV

2 Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,
3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:
4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

2 Corinthians 5:17-20 KJV
17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;
19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.
20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

Romans 12:1-3 KJV
1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

04/21/20 LOVE AS GOD LOVES US

04/21/20 LOVE AS GOD LOVES US

REQUIRED:
Love God, spouse, children, parents, siblings, family, friends, neighbors, enemies with SELF DENYING LOVE.

04/21/20 THERE IS A CONDITION

04/21/20 THERE IS A CONDITION

You can't do the will of God if you don't obey the word of God.
He's coming back for those who cease from self and follow Him fully.

04/21/20 TIME TO GET SERIOUS

04/21/20 TIME TO GET SERIOUS

No more time to play games.
*You must be born again.
*You must die to self.
*You must walk in the light.

Thursday, April 23, 2020

04/20/20 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY DECEPTION

04/20/20 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY DECEPTION

Folks are living like there is no tomorrow and "Christians" are living like there is no Divine authority or human accountability.

04/20/20 STAND FIRM

04/20/20 STAND FIRM

The problem is, if you are not settled, established in perfect love, you will probably be tossed when a new trial or test arises.

04/20/20 THE MEETING OF THE MINDLESS

04/20/20 THE MEETING OF THE MINDLESS

It is absurd to say folks were not concerned about other flu epidemics.

Also absurd to deny C-19 is a killer.

I realize the flu danger every year. I know people die from the flu. I also know that this COVID19 is a killer and it is different in various ways from other types of flu. It should be a cause for concern. I don't tell other folks how or even whether they should be concerned, or get a shot or wear a mask. Do what you choose, but it is not loving to demean other folks who take health precautions, for themselves, their children, their parents or other loved ones.

Christians need to make sure they are not allowing either side of this debate to become their revealed word from God. This debate should never have created haughtiness and division in the body of Christ.

I have a right to be mistaken and you have a right to be mistaken, but we do not have a right to jeopardize our relationships with other believers because of this terrible event. If you don't think it is terrible, that is your choice, but those of us who do see this as a health threat should not be scorned or ridiculed for taking steps to help ourselves and others.

Actually, this is a post and comment that should not have to be made. LOVE would prevent hurtful words and actions. LOVE would cause us to humble ourselves and make ourselves servants to those, with whom we disagree, rather than laugh at them for being silly or mock them for being gullible.

LOVE always has been and is and will continue to be the panacea for relational breakdowns. But LOVE requires humility, mercy, kindness.

04/20/20 GOD'S LINE OF AUTHORITY

04/20/20 GOD'S LINE OF AUTHORITY

Make this a time of advancement. Get before God, read & heed Hebrews 13:7 & 17, then read Colossians 1:24-29. Don't miss your op.

GOD'S PLAN FOR PASTOR - PARISHIONER RELATIONSHIP

Hebrews 13:7 KJV
7 Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.

Hebrews 13:17 KJV
17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

Colossians 1:24-29 KJV (especially vss 28-29)
24 Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church:
25 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God;
26 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:
27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
* 28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
* 29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.

04/20/20 REJOICE IN YOUR TESTING

04/20/20 REJOICE IN YOUR TESTING

When God allows us to be tempted or tested, it is for the purpose of proving and/or perfecting us.

Sadly most folks fail the test.

04/20/20 WHAT IT IS, IS

04/20/20 WHAT IT IS, IS

There is so little unity in local churches because folks refuse to exchange their self rule for Biblical rule.

It is carnality.

04/20/20 IT TAKES TRUE COMMITMENT

04/20/20 IT TAKES TRUE COMMITMENT

Did you ever notice how little it takes to destroy the unity of a church (unless folks are committed to loving, submissive unity).

04/20/20 SUBMISSION, NOT DOMINATION

04/20/20 SUBMISSION, NOT DOMINATION

Christians will rule the world when Jesus returns, but until then, SUBMISSION, NOT DOMINATION is the order for the day.

04/20/20 LOVE SHOULD BE OUR FOCAL POINT

04/20/20 LOVE SHOULD BE OUR FOCAL POINT

As always, Satan's agenda is to divide the people of God.

This world wide attack is no exception.
Focus on LOVE and FAITH.

04/20/20 LOVE, NOT RIGHTS

04/20/20 LOVE, NOT RIGHTS

The Biblical revelation and the practical reality of the Christian life always comes back to the issue of LOVE, not RIGHTS.

04/19/20 THANK YOU

04/19/20 THANK YOU

Respiratory problems have often hindered and threatened my life. Those who now wear masks in order to keep me safe, thank you
.

Wearing a mask in public these days might keep you safe from who knows what, but even if you don't worry about yourself, at least be considerate of other, more susceptible people. You could bring something back to them which will cause them great distress, suffering, life long ailments or even death. Taking steps to help and to protect other people is the Christian thing to do. If you can't be Christian, at least be considerate

04/18/20 STAND STAND STAND

04/18/20 STAND STAND STAND
 
Jesus is the only Head of the Church. Make sure you are committed to Him & not your own views, preferences or agenda: then STAND.

STAND STAND STAND
Ephesians 6:10-14 KJV
10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
* 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
* 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
* 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

04/18/20 DON'T WAIT TILL IT IS TOO LATE

04/18/20 DON'T WAIT TILL IT IS TOO LATE

Now do you SEE, UNDERSTAND, BELIEVE what I have been telling you?

In the 1980s, the State FALLACIOUSLY targeted and labeled our church ministry as illegal, shut down our building and threatened our families, IN THE NAME OF HEALTH AND SAFETY. Eventually the building (from which we were removed) became a Mosque.

We have warned people for over 34 years. Some folks have deceptively said I was preaching "issues" rather than Jesus. Other folks thought I was being "alarmist." I have lost friends and family because they love this evil world more than they love God or they believe the lies of Satan more than they believe the word of God.

Christians actually are more concerned about "health and safety" than anyone, but God haters will use that argument as a smokescreen to cover their evil agenda against Christ, His word and His people.

It is a good idea to let the State make Christian ministry illegal (NOT), because then there is room for religious diversity. In the 1980s our church met in this building and provided FREE CHRISTIAN EDUCATION to the community. But of course, for every student enrolled in a private school (Christian or otherwise) the Public School loses thousands of dollars. As a result our church came under State oppression (attack). After our Christian ministry was gone, the building was occupied by an Islamic Mosque, and Unitarians (which often move into building facilities left by Christians). So, if you don't want a Bible preaching church near you, don't worry, there will be some group to step in and receive the blessing of the State as they lead your children away from Jesus Christ and Bible faith.

Greensboro Daily Photo
NORTH CAROLINA, USA

This is a comment I had added to this post.

(I am deliberately leaving out names). The Governor wanted to help but could not because of the way the State law was written. He did as much as he could do at the time (he was a Republican) and I appreciated him.

But you are right, we were refused help by four of the MOST influential Evangelical leaders in the nation (who actually stood with the false Christ, Sun Myung Moon), and a host of other pastors in our own area, as well as being abandoned by some of the leading, most well known "Christian" congressmen in the nation, along with the most famous Christian lawyer who defends against State oppression in the nation today (probably the world) and other Christian law offices across the country.

It isn't that our cause was unjust, but rather that it was too controversial and as I was told, "not winnable." At the very time we were being targeted by the State, there were other church groups in our vicinity, which were in violation of the SAME State codes, but they were not even approached by the State. In fact, County Officials, told us on TV news that some of the violations they were using to shut us down were not even applicable to our ministry, but they knew we were going to grow numerically. Even with this information, NO ONE STOOD WITH US.

This was in the mid 1980s. I preached and taught, and stood with other oppressed ministries. I addressed the very plague of sin that carpets our nation today. I was abandoned by friends, parishioners and family for doing and saying what had always been the norm in Christian ministry. But when oppression came, the fair weather sailors jumped ship.

The very truths I preached against have become the abominations that are flooding our nation today. FOLKS SHOULD HAVE LISTENED rather than run away. I want our nation to turn, but I think we have crossed the point of no return.

I am sorry that our nation (and our world) is rushing headlong to hell. But, it is not a shock for those who believe the Bible. However, the path we have traveled has prepared us to live in a Babylonian, Laodicean world. It takes more than yesterday's commitment to be faithful today. It takes more than the light from yesterday's saints to penetrate today's darkness. We either walk in God's light as we follow or we fall into darkness for not following. We better walk in today's light, in preparation for tomorrow's battles.

04/18/20 UNDER FALSE PRETENSES

04/18/20 UNDER FALSE PRETENSES

In 1980s the State falsely targeted our ministry, closed our facility and threatened our families IN THE NAME OF "HEALTH and SAFETY."

04/18/20 UNDERSTAND YOUR ROLE

04/18/20 UNDERSTAND YOUR ROLE

God did not promise that the Church would Christianize or convert the world to Christ. Clarify your understanding and vision.

04/18/20 THE ENEMY IS EVIDENT

04/18/20 THE ENEMY IS EVIDENT

Not a secret that Humanists, Liberal political parties and other groups want to eliminate Christ, Holy Bible, Christianity from USA.

04/18/20 ADDING EVIL TO EVIL

04/18/20 ADDING EVIL TO EVIL

In name of safety, State permission to kill the pre-born is evil and then prohibiting Christian anti-abortion intervention is evil.

In name of safety, State permission to keep liquor stores open is evil but then forcing "church closings" is evil.

In name of safety, State permission for shoppers to browse stores is evil, if it prohibits drive-in worship services.

The problem is that some politicians unfairly oppress Christians, churches and ministries. They use tragic situations to impose their prejudices. Health and Safety are weaponized against believers.


There are times with governments give waivers to allow secular or State activities to continue but use the same codes or regulations to suppress Christian activity.

It is encouraging that pastors and churches are finding ways to meet as we are dealing with COVID19.

Y'all have a great Lord's Day tomorrow.

04/17/20 KNOW WHAT PERSECUTION IS

04/17/20 KNOW WHAT PERSECUTION IS

Don't confuse disappointment, inconvenience, difficulty, change, hardship with persecution or oppression.

Persecution is the act of victimization. Christians are victimized in many ways (economic, political, social, academic, vocational). Sometimes the persecution results in death.

Christians must know what they believe, why they believe it and they must decide to what extent they will respond to the persecution. We do not have to die for every act of victimization and we do not have to resist every act of victimization. This is where the Christian chooses to be a faithful witness and chooses the Lordship of Christ over his own life.

Some issues are good and important, but they are not worth dying for. Some issues are of such importance that the believer must be willing to suffer and die, it that is the the only path available for the faithful follower.

No matter what the form of victimization, there is never a New Testament option for the Christian to be vindictive, vengeful or violent.

04/17/20 DON'T USE AN ELEPHANT GUN ON A NOSEEUM

04/17/20 DON'T USE AN ELEPHANT GUN ON A NOSEEUM

I can't believe the inconveniences that make folks think they are under persecution, oppression, dictatorship.

REFOCUS.

04/17/20 A FEW GUIDELINES

04/17/20 A FEW GUIDELINES

For whatever reason, this virus does require strange and extreme action. People will die if we don't take certain actions.

Unless a directive challenges the actual, Biblical Lordship of Christ, and unless that directive is either Christ, Bible or Christian specific, I would not treat directives as being a blatant, official attack on my faith and relationship with Christ. While it is true that God haters will use any and all opportunities to oppress and persecute Christians, they will also use non-opportunities and they will twist every issues to their own purposes. I don't have to have all my rights and I don't have to fight for all my rights and I don't have to defend all of my rights. That mentality makes us prone to fight for minor issues and therefore lose the battle in the major issues. Humility, tolerance, patience are Christian values. We should never compromise the Lordship of Christ or authority of the Bible but there are times that Christians should hold their peace and let God do what God wants to do. When faced with an attack on my beliefs and practice, I have found it helpful to ask myself the question, "Am I willing to die for this issue or am I willing to let my loved ones be attacked because of this issue." Some issues are worth dying for and some are not. We need to know God's view on issues in order to make our stand, otherwise we are fighting (spiritually) for something that God does not endorsed.

Staying at home for a while may be the best thing to do.
Missing work for a while may be the best thing to do.
Not gathering physically in large groups or possibly infected groups may be the best thing to do.

After all, reasonable people often follow those directives when they are given for our safety in medical, vocational, educational, community situations. There is a certain separation that God, common sense and Christian wisdom has required through the years. WHY NOT DURING A WORLD WIDE SICKNESS (regardless of where it came from)?

Restrictions on general society is not Christian persecution (though it may be used in that way).
Equal use of restrictions in society is not Christian persecution.
Short term and targeted areas of social restriction and isolation is not Christian persecution.

As a Christian, I want to do that which is best for myself, my family, my church, my neighbors.
In fact, I should not have to be told to take proactive steps in promoting community well being by my government.

When we are being moved into or forced into social restrictions (which may include religious meetings) we should draw closer to God and learn how to serve Him faithfully when actual persecution comes.

Just a few quick thoughts.

I ask if a particular restriction or requirement actually conflicts with the revealed and clear word of God.
I ask if the principles I am defending are in line with Christian standards and principles throughout history.
I ask if the principles I am defending are principles that other Christians in other parts of the world have or are presently defending.

For instance, studying the word of God is part of basic faith and practice for a Christian. However, 9:30 Sunday School (as important as it is) is not an essential to Christianity. As nice as meeting in a building, which is dedicated to worship, praise, study, fellowship, ministry, it is not essential to Christianity.

I also consider the New Testament response to oppression, persecution. There is no such thing in the New Testament as carnal retaliation or violent resistance to oppression or persecution. In fact, there is no such thing as anger, hatred, whining or being negative toward those who mistreat us. We are to love our enemies, do good to those who mistreat us.

The Christian response to being attacked is to show forth the love of Christ and to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. We must not let complainers and fault finders set our moral or attitudinal response to those who are doing us evil.
04/17/20 PACIFIC JUSTICE INSTITUTE VIDEO

This is a very good presentation concerning Christian response and responsibility during a time of quarantine and other legal issues. Some folks lean too far toward the State and some folks lean too far toward religious persecution sensationalism. Don't overreact or under react. If you are interested or curious about my view, I will try to let you know. Yes, oppression, dictatorship, persecution is prophesied for the last days, but some folks fallaciously are calling this an all out attack on the church.


I reformatted this video to safeyoutube because youtube was inserting inappropriate ads. Sorry if anything crude showed up. Please let me know if anything offensive is ever on my posts. I try to keep control, but internet changes are making it more difficult.

04/17/20 WHO DO YOU QUOTE?

04/17/20 WHO DO YOU QUOTE?

I was just talking to someone about this a couple of days ago. Learned writers, speakers are good resources and sometimes essential for accuracy, but to quote someone (hehehe), "the best commentary on the Bible is the Bible."

FROM 10 YEARS AGO (April 17, 2010)
Speakers load their messages with quotes from famous men. I am constantly challenged to read works by esteemed writers. However, the Bible is the Final Authority concerning God's Truth. The most acclaimed writers and apologists are wrong so often that time is better spent poring over the Bible than filtering through human errors. Most find it is easier to swallow human error than find Divine truth.

BASIC TRAINING...
This is not a call to ignorance and laziness or a rejection of theological and ministry training. It is a call to;
Learn the rules of Biblical interpretation;
Master the basics of Biblical studies;
Attain a comprehensive grasp of the History of Doctrine;
Use the tools of language, history, theology and culture in your study of Scripture;
Never stop learning;
Remain faithful to what the Bible actually says.

STEPS TO HIGHER LEARNING...
If you do not get this foundation from your home church and family as a child or young Christian...
Go to a Bible College for Basic Training as a Soldier of the Cross.
Then if you need training for some other field, (book keeping, medicine, etc.) go to a liberal arts school.
If you are needing deeper training for your ministry than Bible College, pursue Ministry Graduate Studies.
Spend a lifetime learning and growing in grace and knowledge of God's word.

BUT DO NOT BECOME ADDICTED TO THE WRITINGS OF MEN. THEY WILL STUPEFY YOU.

WORDS TO AND THROUGH A MAN OF RENOWNED WISDOM...
Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

9 And moreover, because the preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yea, he gave good heed, and sought out, and set in order many proverbs.
10 The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth.
11 The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd.
12 And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.
13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.

DLG notes (particulars in this passage that address this subject)...
vs 9... We need wise preachers (mentioned twice) who take the time to impart Biblical knowledge to their people rather than the writings of famous and popular writers. The preacher needs to be a man of disciplined and orderly thinking.
vs 10... The preacher needs to be gifted and committed to honing his communication skills and abilities; he needs to be a literate man and knowledgeable in many disciplines. He needs to be committed to holiness and truth.
vs. 11 The preacher should be a wise man, with a view to building (edifying) his hearers. The preacher should love his hearers as a shepherd loves his sheep.
vs. 12... The preacher needs to focus on God's word, because man's word can stupefy rather than edify.
vs. 13... The truth empowers us to obey God fully.
vs. 14... God will judge every thought of the heart, word of the mouth and deed in the body, whether good or evil.

04/17/20 IT WAS ABOUT TIME

04/17/20 IT WAS ABOUT TIME

It wasn't until the first three years of POTUS Trump that I ever knew what it was like to have a real President.

04/16/20 IT NEVER MADE SENSE

04/16/20 IT NEVER MADE SENSE

Many of us have always wondered how any US leadership ever thought that aligning with Communist China was a good idea.

04/16/20 TIME TO STAND

04/16/20 TIME TO STAND

Be bold in presenting and living for Christ.
Notice how brazenly sinners attack God, the Bible and Christians.
IT IS WAR.

04/16/20 CROSSED WIRES

04/16/20 CROSSED WIRES

Some "Christians" are offended by the "hard sayings" of Christ but readily accept the "soft soap" of Satan.

04/16/20 TURNED TABLES

04/16/20 TURNED TABLES

In spiritual warfare, "Christians" often act as cowering victims, while sinners are like a "Panzer Division."

04/16/20 EUPHEMISM MISDIRECTION

04/16/20 EUPHEMISM MISDIRECTION

Hmm? "Christians" use "tolerance" as an excuse for cowardice and "love" as an excuse for denying Christ.

04/16/20 IF IT IS A BLESSING, SHARE IT

04/16/20 IF IT IS A BLESSING, SHARE IT
 
If you think any of my posts may benefit any of your friends in any way, please SHARE. (you can always blame me).

04/16/20 TRUE BELIEVING IS DELIGHTING IN HIS WILL

04/16/20 TRUE BELIEVING IS DELIGHTING IN HIS WILL
 
I wrote this eight years ago, mostly quoting God who had it written thousands of years ago. No sinning religion here.

(April 14, 2012)
We can want what God wants us to want, but it takes the miracle of salvation, including; regeneration, justification, purification, partaking of the Holy Spirit, putting on the new man and putting off the old man. All these things happen, and more, when we believe on Christ. If these things are not happening, then we are not believing on Christ.

(April 16, 2012)
In the Bible we read that God Delights in Us (His family of faith) and We Delight in Him. Here are some of those verses. Those who are in the Spirit, and not in the flesh can live in the reality of these verses.

GOD DELIGHTS IN US...
Deuteronomy 10:12-21
(12) And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul,
(13) To keep the commandments of the LORD, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good?
(14) Behold, the heaven and the heaven of heavens is the LORD'S thy God, the earth also, with all that therein is.

* (15) Only the LORD had a delight in thy fathers to love them, and he chose their seed after them, even you above all people, as it is this day.

(16) Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no more stiffnecked.
(17) For the LORD your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward:
(18) He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment.
(19) Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt.
(20) Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name.
(21) He is thy praise, and he is thy God, that hath done for thee these great and terrible things, which thine eyes have seen.

1 Samuel 15:22
(22) And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.

Psalms 18:19
(19) He brought me forth also into a large place; he delivered me, because he delighted in me.

Psalms 147:10-11
* (10) He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man.
(11) The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.

Proverbs 3:12
(12) For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.

Proverbs 11:20
(20) They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the LORD: but such as are upright in their way are his delight.

Proverbs 12:22
(22) Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.

Proverbs 15:8-9
* (8) The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.
(9) The way of the wicked is an abomination unto the LORD: but he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.

Jeremiah 9:24
(24) But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.

WE DELIGHT IN GOD...
Psalms 1:2
(2) But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

Psalms 37:4
(4) Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

Psalms 37:23
(23) The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.

Psalms 112:1
(1) Praise ye the LORD. Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD, that delighteth greatly in his commandments.

Psalms 119:16

(16) I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.

Psalms 119:24
(24) Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellors.

Psalms 119:35
(35) Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight.

Psalms 119:47
(47) And I will delight myself in thy commandments, which I have loved.

Psalms 119:92
(92) Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction.

Isaiah 58:2
(2) Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God.

Romans 7:22
(22) For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:

Two things to remember.
1- Though all but one of these verses are Old Testament, the principles transcend the Testaments. Notice that many of these passages are reiterated in the New Testament.

Also, the focus is on spiritual truths, not Mosaic law. Obedience to God and keeping the moral law is not strictly an Old Testament concept. In fact, without the message and provisions of salvation found in the New Testament, there would not be anyone who could have obeyed God.

If the people of the Old Testament, who were anticipating the coming Messiah (Servant/King), could live in any form of spiritual victory, certainly those who live in the full disclosure of New Testament resurrection power can be more than conquerors and live triumphantly in Christ.

2- The fact that God delights in us (people of faith) and we delight in Him is not an idealistic hope, but an actual, livable reality that has been openly declared by God Himself.

Remember this too.
When we think that God is fortunate to have us, our love or our service, we have lost sight of the fact that He delights only in those who are humble and we have lost our awareness that the excellency is of God, and not of ourselves.
2 Corinthians 4:7
(7) But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

04/15/20 THERE IS A LESSON IN THIS

04/15/20 THERE IS A LESSON IN THIS

Sometimes you need to workout when you don't feel like it.

Why?
Because you will feel less like working out later.

04/15/20 WHAT A DIFFERENCE A MAN MAKES

04/15/20 WHAT A DIFFERENCE A MAN MAKES

If this disaster had happened in the previous administration, it would have sent Ten Trillion bucks to Iran and apologized to China.

04/15/20 FUNNY HOW THINGS GO SOMETIMES

04/15/20 FUNNY HOW THINGS GO SOMETIMES

Just wondering how many folks have whined and cried to get paid to stay home from work, then complained when it happened?

04/15/20 IT IS MOSTLY FOR SHOW

04/15/20 IT IS MOSTLY FOR SHOW

Most "Never Trumpers" aren't opposed to his economic success, National Security, America First policies.

They're just Virtue Signaling.

04/15/20 IT IS COMING, BE READY

04/15/20 IT IS COMING, BE READY

If you finally think things are lining up to oppress and persecute the US Church, I'm glad you woke up.

Now get serious about Jesus.

04/15/20 DON'T BE MANEUVERED

04/15/20 DON'T BE MANEUVERED

Be patient; State oppression and persecution is coming.
Don't overreact, stir things up or cause chaos.
Follow Christ instead.

04/15/20 BACK TO SQUARE ONE

04/15/20 BACK TO SQUARE ONE

Hopefully folks are learning not to waste money, run the roads, shrug God, hurt family, forget friends, mistreat anyone.

04/15/20 HOMESCHOOLING IS REAL EDUCATION

04/15/20 HOMESCHOOLING IS REAL EDUCATION

Don't confuse Homeschooling with a parent filling in for "real schooling."

Home Schooling is REAL EDUCATION by REAL TEACHERS.

04/15/20 INORDINATE SELF ESTEEM IS SIN

04/15/20 INORDINATE SELF ESTEEM IS SIN

Do not have Pride (INORDINATE self esteem) in Face, Place, Race, Lace, Grace.

It has always been sin, since found in Satan.

Wednesday, April 22, 2020

04/15/20 HOMESCHOOLING IS SACRED

04/15/20 HOMESCHOOLING IS SACRED

Home schooling is a sacred responsibility.

Don't take or treat it crudely.
The devil wants to undermine its Divine authority.

04/15/20 THE PROBLEM WITH PRIDE

04/15/20 THE PROBLEM WITH PRIDE

Pride is self oriented, self serving, self worshiping, self promoting, SELFISH.

What's wrong with that?
It is SELF DESTRUCTIVE.

04/15/20 REAL CONTENTMENT?

04/15/20 REAL CONTENTMENT?

"I've learned to be content in every situation, as long as I get what I want, when, where, how and with whom I want it."
REALLY???

04/15/20 COMFORT COMES WITH CONFIDENCE IN THE LORD

04/15/20 COMFORT COMES WITH CONFIDENCE IN THE LORD

The reason folks don't find comfort in the Bible is because they don't want to surrender, trust and follow Jesus.

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

04/14/20 THE SPRING MATCHES THE FOUNT

04/14/20 THE SPRING MATCHES THE FOUNT

Been thinking: Pride diminishes compassion, sensitivity, but humility fosters love and kindness.

04/14/20 THE TRUTH ABOUT CHRIST'S RESURRECTION

04/14/20 THE TRUTH ABOUT CHRIST'S RESURRECTION

I was actually thinking about this issue the past couple of days, so I was pleased for it to show up on my FB Memories.

CONTRARY TO...

Contrary to Islamic lies, JESUS DID DIE ON THE CROSS, and JESUS DID RISE AGAIN FROM THE DEAD.

Contrary to Roman Catholic lies, JESUS DIED ONLY ONCE, and ONLY JESUS IS OUR MEDIATOR, and ONLY JESUS DEATH AND RESURRECTION SAVES US FROM OUR SINS.

Contrary to Liberal lies, JESUS DID DIE AS A SACRIFICIAL ATONEMENT FOR THE SINS OF THE WORLD, AND ROSE AGAIN PHYSICALLY FROM THE DEAD.

Contrary to Mormons, LDS (Latter Day Saints), JESUS DEATH ON THE CROSS WAS NOT A PARTIAL SATISFACTION FOR SIN, which must include good works, law keeping and Mormon baptism.

Contrary to so-called Jehovah's Witnesses, JESUS DID RISE PHYSICALLY FROM THE DEAD, He did not "materialize" another body.

Contrary to the SDA (Seventh Day Adventists), JESUS TAKES OUR SINS AWAY THROUGH HIS DEATH AND RESURRECTION, rather than Satan taking them away as the scapegoat.

Contrary to sinning religion, JESUS DIED AND ROSE AGAIN FOR ALL MEN TO BE SAVED FROM ALL SIN, BY GRACE THROUGH FAITH.

Contrary to popular Christianity, JESUS DEATH AND RESURRECTION has nothing to do with fertility gods and goddesses, fertility emblems or pagan celebrations, as found in the history of "Easter" traditions. The glory and wonder is in THE SACRIFICIAL DEATH AND PHYSICAL RESURRECTION OF JESUS, not in the pagan oriented beliefs and practices.

04/14/20 USE IT WISELY

04/14/20 USE IT WISELY

Folks are reevaluating how they use their time.

Be sure that you use yours in ministry time (personal and local church).

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

04/14/20 FOLKS AREN'T READY

04/14/20 FOLKS AREN'T READY

The response of Western Christians to COVID19 shows they are not spiritually or Biblically equipped for end times hardships.

04/13/20 IMPORTANCE OF WORD OF GOD

04/13/20 IMPORTANCE OF WORD OF GOD

To be saved from sin and hell, folks need to...
1- Hear God's word,
2- Understand God's word,
3- Obey God's word.


GOD SAID...
1- MUST HEAR
Romans 10:13-17
KJV
13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?
17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

2- MUST UNDERSTAND
Acts 8:26-31 KJV

26 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.
27 And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship,
28 Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.
29 Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.
30 And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?
31 And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.

3- MUST OBEY
Obey The Truth.
Romans 2:6-11
KJV
6 Who will render to every man according to his deeds:
7 To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:
8 But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,
9 Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;
10 But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile:
11 For there is no respect of persons with God.

Galatians 3:1 KJV
1 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?

Galatians 5:4-7 KJV
4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.
5 For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.
6 For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.
7 Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?

Obey The Gospel
2 Thessalonians 1:6-9
KJV
6 Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;
7 And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,
8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:
9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;

1 Peter 4:17-19 KJV
17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.

Obey Jesus
Hebrews 5:8-9
KJV
8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;
9 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;

Obey God
Acts 5:29-33
KJV
29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree.
31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.
32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.
33 When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them.

Hebrews 11:8 KJV
8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.

Obey The Faith
Acts 6:7
KJV
7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.