"...let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks...Redeeming the time, because the days are evil." -from Ephesians 5:3,4, & 16.
"Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving." -Colossians 4:2.
If there was ever a time for prayer, it is now. Keeping busy is easy to do, and is in no way a redemption of time by itself. We need to re-evaluate, re-prioritize our time management in ways that are pleasing to God.
"The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath." -Proverbs 15:24.
How is your prayer life? What do you commit to Him who is supposedly the LORD of your life? We can, of our own strength do nothing, and desperately need the Holy Spirit to do with us what we cannot (John 15:5)- that is why He was sent!
John Welch was a christian minister who lived at the end of the 16th, and early 17th century. He believed that any day was wasted, had he not spent 7-8 hours in prayer and scripture study! After his death it was said of him, "He was a type of Christ." Satan has made sure that we never have such time to give today, but really- where are you at? What priorities of time do you place above Christ? Why will you call Him Lord, if you do not the things that He says? See Luke 6:46.
"And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God." -Luke 6:12.
"And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint."
-Luke 18:1.
"Peter therefore was kept in prison; but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him." -Acts 12:5.
"Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord...continuing instant in prayer;"
-Romans 12:11,12.
"Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverence and supplication for all saints;" -Ephesians 6:18.
"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." -Philippians 4:6.
"...The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." -from James 5:16.
"But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer." -I Peter 4:7.
Our God is the provider of all our need (Philip. 4:19), the giver of every good gift, and every perfect gift (James 1:17); He has promised to "add all things" unto us, when we "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness." - from Matt. 6:33; please read whole passage, 6:24-34. By the way; the bold, underlined, and italicized type in the listed scriptures has been added for emphasis.
Only too many today live by the heretical maxim, "God helps those that help themselves." Nothing could be further from Biblical truth! God wants us to obey Him, yes- but that is not the same as "helping ourselves." If your professed "dependance" on God only goes so far as your own, or others' abilities, you have no faith! See Hebrews 11:1 for confirmation.
"He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man. The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy." -Psalms 147:10,11.
Many sterling efforts have been made by mankind, both the saved and the unsaved, but unless those works are truly founded upon Christ, those labors are vain (I Cor. 3:11).
Recently a woman named Diane Nyad, 61 years of age, attempted to swim from Cuba to Florida; a distance of 103 miles. She actually made 2 attempts, about a month or so apart. I pick on this only for an example, and not a particular bashing of her person. We live in a sports-obsessed society which values athletic prowess to an unholy degree.
What would she gain, had she succeeded? Worldly esteem? Self-satisfaction? Her name in a record book? The world, and all of its libraries will be burnt up (II Peter 3:10).
She said that this venture cost $650,000!! At the time I read this, she was still seeking funding for the last $500,000; she said that if she wound up with a $500,000 debt, it would be "worth it." Where are her priorities? Does she know that people are going hungry, and losing homes? Really, she was only feeding her own ego- her self-love (II Tim. 3:2). What does Jesus say to this?
"Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat...naked, and ye clothed me not...Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred,...or naked... and did not minister unto thee? Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment..." -from Matt. 25:41-46.
What we need to do, first and foremost, is to PRAY. Deny yourself, and your worldly priorities, and come apart to the Lord in fervent prayer. I honestly hope that your wake-up routine doesn't involve just barely getting out the door without devotions- really, if that is you, your eternal soul is in serious jeopardy!
Try commiting one hour per day to the Lord in prayer, for starters. Bible study should be in addition to this, and be certain to always begin your day with devotions. Take the brief Bible examples of 3X per day to pray, as found in Ps. 55:16,17 & Dan. 6:10. Remember that you are in the Lord's presence throughout the entire day! Is your behavior pleasing to God? Do you spend more time in front of the television, than before God in prayer? If you are loving your life too much here in this world, you will not be going to Heaven (John 12:25; Luke 14:26).
Remember also that GOD must be leading you, and not vice-versa. Our society values "keeping busy" above almost all else. God says that all of our righteousnesses are as filthy rags (Is. 64:6)! We need to ask the Lord to search our hearts (Ps. 139:23,24), that we may be continually renewed in sanctification. After this, we must wait for His lead (Is. 40:28-31); not moving forward until we are sure it is God's time. Much like the Israelites obeyed God through journeying only when the cloud had lifted from the tabernacle. Whether it would be 2 days, a month, or a year, they waited for Him (see Numbers 9:17-23).
Finish by joining with me in reciting part of a prayer by Moses, found in Exodus 33:15,16;
"And he (Moses) said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence. For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us?"
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Beware of "Another Gospel"
"I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you unto the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed." -Galatians 1:6-8; bold, italics, and underlining added for emphasis.
Recently I was reminded of this "another gospel" (a.g.) principle while reading through Numbers chapters 13 & 14. Upon arriving at the promised land, 12 men were sent to spy out what God had sent them to; this included assessing the inhabitants of the land already there, which they would have to fight. 10 of these men brought back an evil report to the children of Israel, overcome with fear by the apparent strength of the land's inhabitants. Israel listened to these 10, rather than to the faithful Joshua and Caleb, murmuring then against Moses, Aaron, and the Lord. The end result of this rebellion was that the 10 men died, and God determined that all of the rest (except Joshua & Caleb) from 20 years old and up would wander in the wilderness 40 years, and die there- never seeing the good land God had intended to give.
In response to this terrible pronouncement against them, the Israelites then decide that they will go up and fight, after all! But it was too late. For them now to go and assay to take the promised land was going against God's will.
Today we find mouth-professing believers everywhere serving a.g. They keep trying to please the Lord in their own strength and wisdom, rather than following what He has said. By adding or taking away from the words God has given us, they risk having their names blotted out of the Book of Life (Rev. 22:18,19).
The Christmas holiday is part of a.g. Even when a professed Christian finds out that 12/25 is from the pagan worship of the sun god, AND that nowhere in God's Word are we told to observe the arrival of Christ, and even that any "observance of days" (Gal. 4:9-11) is a sign of a.g., a spiritual corruption to be avoided, they still insist on observing lies and idolatry in xmas; rationalizing that they are "sincere", and God accepts them, and is blessed by their behavior.
Brethren, God does not lie, nor is He the author of confusion! God is honored by our obedience to Him, and nothing else. If God is really God to you, OBEY HIM!!! Do not trust any "warm feelings" that you might have, for the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked. All our righteousnesses are but filthy rags! This is why it is so important to have the standard of God's Word in the King James Bible and believe it. If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do? Apart from the solid testimony of God's written Word, all that we could go by are feelings, and the teachings of "learned" men.
Please take time to read I Cor. 1:18-31 right now in relation to this subject.
God's wisdom is foolishness to the learned of this world, and even to our own "natural man" of the flesh. At the time of His passion, Christ said that all would be offended because of Him that night, for it is written, 'I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.' But Peter denied this, saying that he himself would never deny his Lord! Peter's verbal response may seem to be a desireable one, but he was contradicting the written word of prophecy! See Mark 14:27-29 for the account.
On our website, I was fairly recently inspired to do an article, Green Bible Comments. The Green Bible was written in an attempt to reveal God's "true concern" for taking care of the Earth, and preserving it. Sounds like a noble goal, doesn't it? We should all have a certain concern for taking care of our natural resources, beyond doubt. But does God really tell us to save the Earth? No! We are told to preach the gospel to every creature, for God would that all men be saved, spiritually.
In the Bible, we find that God routinely destroys parts of the Earth and its environment when dealing with mankind. We also find well- accounted for that God will eventually destroy the Earth, and create a new one! The preaching of environmental care, as a Biblical mandate, is plainly a LIE! It is also a great example of what is another gospel.
Brethren, we need to wait for the Lord, and seek His direction- much like the Israelites were doing in Numbers 9:16-23. WAIT-WAIT-WAIT. See the difference God's timing makes by the example of the disciples' fishing in Luke 5:4-6, and John 21:3-6! Take the time, also, to search the Word for support in all of your actions. Without this as authority in your life, you are lost (John 12:48, Rom. 10:17, II Tim. 3:16,17). The differences between the real gospel and a.g.can be subtle, but the Lord will make your steps sure.
Take the time in prayer to examine your life- are you serving another gospel?
Recently I was reminded of this "another gospel" (a.g.) principle while reading through Numbers chapters 13 & 14. Upon arriving at the promised land, 12 men were sent to spy out what God had sent them to; this included assessing the inhabitants of the land already there, which they would have to fight. 10 of these men brought back an evil report to the children of Israel, overcome with fear by the apparent strength of the land's inhabitants. Israel listened to these 10, rather than to the faithful Joshua and Caleb, murmuring then against Moses, Aaron, and the Lord. The end result of this rebellion was that the 10 men died, and God determined that all of the rest (except Joshua & Caleb) from 20 years old and up would wander in the wilderness 40 years, and die there- never seeing the good land God had intended to give.
In response to this terrible pronouncement against them, the Israelites then decide that they will go up and fight, after all! But it was too late. For them now to go and assay to take the promised land was going against God's will.
Today we find mouth-professing believers everywhere serving a.g. They keep trying to please the Lord in their own strength and wisdom, rather than following what He has said. By adding or taking away from the words God has given us, they risk having their names blotted out of the Book of Life (Rev. 22:18,19).
The Christmas holiday is part of a.g. Even when a professed Christian finds out that 12/25 is from the pagan worship of the sun god, AND that nowhere in God's Word are we told to observe the arrival of Christ, and even that any "observance of days" (Gal. 4:9-11) is a sign of a.g., a spiritual corruption to be avoided, they still insist on observing lies and idolatry in xmas; rationalizing that they are "sincere", and God accepts them, and is blessed by their behavior.
Brethren, God does not lie, nor is He the author of confusion! God is honored by our obedience to Him, and nothing else. If God is really God to you, OBEY HIM!!! Do not trust any "warm feelings" that you might have, for the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked. All our righteousnesses are but filthy rags! This is why it is so important to have the standard of God's Word in the King James Bible and believe it. If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do? Apart from the solid testimony of God's written Word, all that we could go by are feelings, and the teachings of "learned" men.
Please take time to read I Cor. 1:18-31 right now in relation to this subject.
God's wisdom is foolishness to the learned of this world, and even to our own "natural man" of the flesh. At the time of His passion, Christ said that all would be offended because of Him that night, for it is written, 'I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.' But Peter denied this, saying that he himself would never deny his Lord! Peter's verbal response may seem to be a desireable one, but he was contradicting the written word of prophecy! See Mark 14:27-29 for the account.
On our website, I was fairly recently inspired to do an article, Green Bible Comments. The Green Bible was written in an attempt to reveal God's "true concern" for taking care of the Earth, and preserving it. Sounds like a noble goal, doesn't it? We should all have a certain concern for taking care of our natural resources, beyond doubt. But does God really tell us to save the Earth? No! We are told to preach the gospel to every creature, for God would that all men be saved, spiritually.
In the Bible, we find that God routinely destroys parts of the Earth and its environment when dealing with mankind. We also find well- accounted for that God will eventually destroy the Earth, and create a new one! The preaching of environmental care, as a Biblical mandate, is plainly a LIE! It is also a great example of what is another gospel.
Brethren, we need to wait for the Lord, and seek His direction- much like the Israelites were doing in Numbers 9:16-23. WAIT-WAIT-WAIT. See the difference God's timing makes by the example of the disciples' fishing in Luke 5:4-6, and John 21:3-6! Take the time, also, to search the Word for support in all of your actions. Without this as authority in your life, you are lost (John 12:48, Rom. 10:17, II Tim. 3:16,17). The differences between the real gospel and a.g.can be subtle, but the Lord will make your steps sure.
Take the time in prayer to examine your life- are you serving another gospel?
Monday, November 14, 2011
Challenging Christmas
In I Samuel chapter 15, King Saul of Israel was given direction from the Lord to attack Amalek; to attack and destroy every person that pertained to them, as well as all of their livestock. By doing so, Saul would be fulfilling the Lord’s prophetic desire, as He had revealed hundreds of years before (Deuteronomy 25:17-19).
Samuel also said unto Saul, The LORD sent me to anoint thee to be king over his people, over Israel: now therefore hearken thou unto the voice of the words of the LORD. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, I remember that which Amalek did to Israel, how he laid wait for him in the way, when he came up from Egypt. Now go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not; but slay both man and woman, infant and suckling, ox and sheep, camel and ass. I Samuel 15:1-3
Saul had a record of being a rebellious king, and this occasion became further evidence of that character flaw. As Saul begins to move forward with these plans, in apparent Godly obedience, he sees fit to somewhat alter the Lord’s directed course of action; thereby falling short of God’s perfect will. Because Saul had full knowledge of what God’s will actually was, he therefore sinned by not following God’s instructions to the letter.
And Saul smote the Amalekites from Havilah until thou comest to Shur, that is over against Egypt. And he took Agag the king of the Amalekites alive, and utterly destroyed all the people with the edge of the sword. But Saul and the people spared Agag, and the best of the sheep, and of the oxen, and of the fatlings, and the lambs, and all that was good, and would not utterly destroy them: but every thing that was vile and refuse, that they destroyed utterly. I Samuel 15:7-9
To those of us reading the account, we can plainly see what God’s instructions to Saul are, and his course of disobedience. Yet Saul was still fully aware of what the Lord had said! So why was it then, that he did not follow through as instructed? God’s Word will also show us how this disobedience transpired. Saul had rationalized that the lord would be even more honored by doing a religious sacrifice with the best of these animals. Wouldn’t merely destroying them be an incredible waste? Why not dedicate a religious sacrifice and feast to the Lord instead? In the end, the king also somewhat shifted blame to the people; he ended up cooperating with them in what they had desired, perhaps feeling that their “sincere intent” would bring an even greater blessing from the Lord, than by following his original instructions.
And Saul said, They have brought them from the Amalekites: for the people spared the best of the sheep and of the oxen, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God; and the rest we have utterly destroyed…But the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God in Gilgal. I Samuel 15:15…21
The type of sin which Saul had committed is running rampant among the professing church of Christ today. It is the rebellion of disobedience (I Samuel 15:23), being performed in the name of Godly service. God has called us to be a peculiar people (Deuteronomy 14:2; Titus 2:14); separated from the world (II Corinthians 6:17) and its evil ways- esteeming friendship with God far above any worldly relationships, and gladly bearing reproach for His name.
Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. James 4:4
By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. Hebrews 11:24-26
Thus we arrive at our first stumbling block in regard to Christmas; it is a powerful bond of agreement with an unsaved world. Why should such a supposedly “Christian” holiday be cherished among non-believers? This bond to a celebration of such great earthly affection should cause believers to reflect upon it soberly, and with prayer; earnestly seeking our Lord’s guidance for further discernment in this matter. Yet I am afraid that it is far more common to remain set in our own ways (I Corinthians 11:31), rationalizing that “We (believers) don’t celebrate Christmas like the world does.” So why does it then appear to be so similar (I Thessalonians 5:22)?
As followers of Christ, the Bible (KJV) is to be our final authority in all matters of faith and practice (II Timothy 3:16,17). The Bible has very much to say in regard to the Christmas holiday, and “how we hear” (Luke 8:18) is quite a testimony about the real condition of our relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.
God’s Word is truth (John 17:17). Jesus Christ is that Word incarnated (John 1:14), therefore He is truth (John14:6). Being truthful is an inseparable part of a believer’s life. We cannot, must not espouse lies in attempting to promote truth. God may save us in spite of our sins, but He never endorses sinful behavior to bring about His righteousness. A bad tree simply will not bring forth good fruit (Matthew 7:16-18).
But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. John 4:23,24
Therefore even a casual observation of Christmas traditions ought to set off many internal warning alarms for God’s people. Are you worshipping God in truth?
With regard to Christ’s earthly life, we have no Biblical directive for commemorating Jesus’ “birth.” We are also not directed to observe His resurrection (Easter)! Only Jesus’ death, the atoning work He did on the cross, is all that we are to commemorate; even this observance was not assigned to a particular day, but we were told to perform it, “As oft as ye will.” This is of course referring to the sacrament of communion.
People mostly reject that first point. They “feel” that they are being sincere, and honoring the Lord they profess to love. Didn’t Saul do that? Wasn’t his good intent in doing sacrifice to the Lord exactly the same thing? Yes, it is the same! Not only is the directive to observe Christmas not found in the Bible, but in the observance of it there is actually disobedience to other parts of God’s Word.
To bring the Christmas holiday under Christian guidelines, the thoughts of men must be added to God’s Word; which is strictly prohibited!
Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar. Proverbs 30:5,6
Did you remember that God’s people need to serve Him in truth? How is it then, that you would choose to become a liar, in danger of eternal damnation?
But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. Revelation 21:8
The observance of days is also spoken against throughout the New Testament. The book of Galatians was written to an early Christian church that was backsliding into a works and traditions based salvation. Commemorating specific days was a part of their corruption.
But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain. Galatians 4:9-11
As followers of Christ, we are compelled to obey every bit of His instructions. Our Lord has a word to speak regarding those who will continue to observe Christmas, in spite of His given instructions;
And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. Mark 7:9
He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. John 12:48
There are yet more lies that Christmas tradition espouses, point by point, year after year. One of the most common revolves around the presence of the wise men, which is recorded in Matthew chapter 2. These wise men were not present at the time of Christ’s “birth”, but rather had been following His star (Matthew 2:2) since Jesus was born. When the wise men finally arrived at Jerusalem, they had been travelling for almost 2 years. The exact time is speculated to have been approximately 18 months, based upon Herod’s edict to slay all the children in Bethlehem of age 2 years or younger.
Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men. Matthew 2:16
The Bible never says that there were only 3 wise men, but rather implies that they came in a large caravan. We find in Matthew 2:3 that all Jerusalem was troubled by them. Three mere men would not disturb so large a city, just by showing up!
Gift exchange is another lie; the wise men brought gifts for Jesus, as it was the Eastern custom to bring gifts to a new king (Matthew 2:11). These wise men did not exchange gifts with Joseph and Mary, or with each other; this tradition is not Biblical.
The time of year for celebrating Christ’s arrival on earth (Dec. 25th) is a HUGE lie. It is very well accounted for that Jesus came to earth in the beginning of October, and certainly within the first 2 weeks of that month. How is it so well known? 1) Shepherds were abiding in the fields (Luke 2:8). In Israel, the rainy season starts in late October, and the sheep are brought in from the fields not later than October 15th. 2) Caesar Augustus had called for a tax (Luke 2:1), which he would not have done in the winter. Travelling at that time was far too hazardous, and many would not have been able to comply with this decree. 3) The inn was full (Luke 2:7). This would not be likely at most ordinary times of the year, but near the beginning of October there are 2 Jewish holidays; Rosh Hashanah at the end of September, and Yom Kippur at about 1 week into October. The festivities accompanying these days would account for the extra visitors. 4) Christ’s death came on April 13th, after 3.5 years of earthly ministry. By tracing back 3.5 years brings us to the first half of October. 5) We know that John the Baptist preceded Jesus by 6 months (Luke 1:35,36). By tracing his time of conception, based upon his father Zacharias’ temple service (Luke 1:5,8,9), John would have been conceived in early July, and born in April; this would place Jesus’ birth in early October.
With all of this evidence concerning Jesus’ actual time of birth, shouldn’t we be asking, “Why then December 25th?” This brings us then to the core of the Christmas corruption; with yet more deceit, and disregard for scripture.
The December 25th holiday was initiated more than 2,000 years before Christ came to earth. Semiramis, the queen of Babylon, ordered the world to celebrate the birth of her son, Tammuz; he of course was the sun god Baal. She set December 25th for Baal’s birthday. She and her astrologers then told that people that on December 21st, Baal (the sun) dies. Then on the 24th of December (3 days; resurrected) he starts coming back to life, and the 25th is his birthday. Does this revelation shock you? We all should well know how God feels about Baal worship! My thanks to Chick Publications for this information, supplied in the comic, The Force; page 26.
Over the centuries, this pagan worship continued with only slight differences in the names of the sun god, and the holiday which is said to be his birthday. By the time it came to 4th century Rome, the holiday was called Saturnalia. It was late in this 4th century that the Catholic Church adopted Saturnalia, and it became the Christ-mass; also known as Christmas. Christ’s earthly mother Mary filled the role as the queen of heaven, and Jesus took the part traditionally held by the sun god. In this way, through this holiday, the Catholic Church has established another ecumenical foothold within the Protestant churches.
No matter how many years have passed since that first-founded December 25th holiday, and no matter your intended devotion to Christ, it is not possible to “convert” a pagan celebration into something holy. All of the lies, along with much more rotten spiritual fruit reveal the corruption that still thrives within the Christmas observance. We cannot “put Christ back into Christmas” when the day itself was established by Satan!
Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils. I Corinthians 10:21
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. II Corinthians 6:14-17
How did things get to this point of deception? In early America, right up into the 19th century, celebrating Christmas was actually illegal in parts of our country. Many well known pastors and teachers of the 19th century were still steadfastly opposed to the Christmas holiday; men like Charles Finney, and C. H. Spurgeon. Today however, it is safe to say that the great majority of the professing Christian laymen do not know the truth about Christmas, or have only the slightest exposure to it.
This corruption in the organized churches (nearly all of them) regarding Christmas begins and ends with the pastoral leadership. Nearly every pastor would certainly have been exposed to the pagan origins of this holiday. Yet as we have tried to show you, that even without an awareness of the Christmas origins, the Bible has plenty to say about it! Shouldn’t “Christian” pastors be leading their flocks into the knowledge of God’s Word, and obedience to it?
A young man that I worked with (age 23) is the son of a pastor, from a family line of pastors. We ended up speaking about Christmas one day, and he had no knowledge of these truths which I have presented in this article. I printed up something for him that night, giving it to him at our next meeting. Days later he came back to me, telling me that he had shown those papers to his father; his father declared to him that everything in the article was true! This 23 year old “preacher’s kid” had never been told the truth about Christmas! I’m sure that the pastor’s congregation fared no better.
So many pastors, corrupted by greed and the respect of men, have hidden away the truth about Christmas; therefore leading their congregations into apostasy from God! They have been deceived by Satan through the organizations they are subject to; having rationalized (like King Saul) that they don’t want to cause their “weak” congregation to stumble. They are doing the work of the Lord deceitfully (Jeremiah 48:10), and are cursed. They have become “blind leaders of the blind”, leading even God’s precious children into the ditch.
Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying? But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. Matthew 15:12-14
It takes real courage to stand up for Christ, and to go against “the flow.” Pastors will be continually influenced by the directives of their man-made organization; their jobs could be at stake! Sunday offerings would also suffer, due to the initially reduced congregation; many having left, offended over the rejection of Christmas. They would actually begin to suffer reproach for the name of Christ, as the Word declares; but would they “leap for joy” because of it?
Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets. But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation. Luke 6:22-24
Pastors have been taught, trained not to believe in God’s Word. Their institutes of “higher learning” have forthrightly declared to them that God’s true words have been lost! This they declare, despite the Lord’s declarations to the contrary.
The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever. Psalm 12:6,7
Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. Matthew 24:35
Without this faith in God’s Word, these “Christian” leaders have lost their authority to take a stand, and the conviction of conscience to carry it through. What will you do?
If you have sincerely given your life to Christ, and have devotedly observed Christmas in ignorance (John 9:41), rest assured that God is ready to accept your repentance and forgive you. Ours are lives of spiritual growth; no one shall achieve perfection while existing in the sinful flesh. Yet we must submit ourselves to the Holy Spirit’s leading, and not the lusts of the flesh.
So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. Romans 8:8
For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. Romans 8:13,14
For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. I Corinthians 13:9-11
Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12-14
Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Hebrews 6:1
Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. James 4:17
No matter what anyone else will do or say, and no matter the esteem they may have among men, God will hold each one of us accountable for the truth He has revealed in His Word. Is Jesus Christ actually the LORD of every area in your life? Do you deeply, truly love Him? Have you counted the cost of being His disciple?
And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? Luke 6:46
He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me. John 14:21-24
And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it. For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away? For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels. Luke 9:23-26
God cannot be both for Christmas, and against it. The Lord tolerates many things from us in our ignorance, but He expects us to hunger and thirst after righteousness, that we may be filled (Matthew 5:6). We need to separate from the observance of Christmas; those who continue to do so, proclaiming it to be good and holy, are wickedly serving another gospel (Galatians 1:8,9). Instructions for proper spiritual handling of this issue are readily found in Ephesians 5:11;
And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. Ephesians 5:11
Your own accountability in this matter ought now to be clear. Handling a potential confrontation with your pastor, however, deserves special attention. Upon discovering the truth behind the Christmas celebration, the lies that go with it, and the scriptures it violates, you may become very angry. Please try to remember that a man’s anger will not bring about God’s righteousness (James 1:20). The anger/frustration may have a scriptural basis to rest upon, but yielding to that anger is submitting to a work of the flesh (Galatians 5:20). If we know the truth, it is because God has mercifully opened our eyes; not because of any particular righteousness on our part. If you truly want to live a life pleasing to God, you must follow Him in everything; not merely in regard to Christmas. The Lord gives us guidelines for handling these types of circumstances which are sure to come about.
Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Matthew 18:15-17
Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses. Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear. I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. I Timothy 5:19-21
You are also admonished to undertake the preceding instructions only after considerable prayer and soul-searching (Psalm 139:23,24; Matthew 7:3-5). Only too often are we straining at a “gnat” in others, while we ourselves are swallowing a camel (Matthew 23:24)! Confrontation over the Christmas issue is deserved and necessary, but we need to proceed as the Lord Jesus would have us to in everything.
Determine within yourselves that you will follow the Lord at all costs, fully relying on His strength daily. In this day and age, the number of true believers is greatly dwindling; you may have to proceed with little or no visible support from men. Our path to follow is one of obedience to our Lord; these decisions will have an impact on us that will last eternally.
Ye shall not do after all the things that we do here this day, every man whatsoever is right in his own eyes. Deuteronomy 12:8
These things hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself: but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes. Now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver. Psalm 50:21,22
Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. James 1:21-25
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Be Jealous for the Truth
"God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth." -John 4:24.
"He that overcometh shall inherit all things... But the fearful, and unbelieving... and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone..." -from Rev. 21:7,8; bold type added for emphasis.
Several days ago, my wife mentioned seeing a news article whose headlines approximately stated; "Scientists discover a gas cloud that is relatively unchanged from the time just after the Big Bang." I think that upon hearing such an outlandish statement, I could literally split my sides with laughter; that is, if such proposterous lies weren't taken so seriously by multitudes of people.
Among other things, for someone to claim that they have knowledge of what a gas cloud was like some 15 billion years ago is simply ludicrous! Beyond that, the "Big Bang" theory is an outrageous fairy tale that violates the scientific Laws of Thermodynamics. Law #1; Matter can neither be created or destroyed. Law #2; sometimes called the Law of Entropy. This Law basically states that everything in the universe tends to break down, or deteriorate over time.
The "Big Bang" states that at one time, supposedly "billions" of years ago, there was no matter in the universe. Then, mysteriously, this nothingness contracted into a dense, very small spot (some say as small as a period at the end of a sentence!). This dot of nothingness then began spinning very fast, and exploded; casting off gases that eventually became solid, and ultimately formed, by sheer accident, this incredibly complex universe that we live in.
To me, such a theory is utterly fantastic; who could believe such a fairy tale? The answer is, those that desperately want to DENY the existance of God, and therefore our accountability to Him. The god of this world, Satan, has blinded their minds (II Cor. 4:4). This "theory" of evolution, and the very obvious fact of being created by God, are addressed in the prophecy found in Rom. 1:18-25.
The real problem is, that today, most professing Christians are also practicing liars. If that weren't bad enough, they also routinely accept the lies of many, without even a whisper of protest! It is an iniquity which they regard in their hearts (Ps. 66:18), and therefore most of their prayers cannot even reach God's ears
(Is. 59:1-4). Yes, the scripture states that all liars will have their part in the lake of fire! Let's look more closely at that...
First, let's define a lie as an intentional deception. Obviously, if we repeat something, believing it to be true, we have not lied. If we then find out our mistake, we need to correct it if possible.
Secondly, it is almost a certainty that everyone has told a lie at one time or another in their lives. The Bible in this verse, Rev. 21:8, is addressing those that engage in the practice of lying; not those that have lied, and repented, striving in the Spirit not to do so again.
Several years ago, I worked for a "Christian" boss in the construction contracting field (I am being vague to avoid any potential for injurious gossip). We met in the mornings to get our assignments for the day. When a customer called to get some service work done, this boss of mine had the person on the phone lie to the customer about the arrival time of the servicemen to his worksite. He told him to tell the customer that they would be there between 10-12; the exact same time he had just given them for another job, and one that he knew was complex enough to take them well beyond the 12 o'clock hour, even if all went well!
In another case, we were asked to be a part of a church worship rehearsal one night at 7p.m. I was tired from my job, and had to get up early, but we went anyway. The leader of this time, however, was 40 minutes late! Yes, it is possible that something unexpected came up, but no explanation or apology was ever offered to the group. Not only this, but it has become standard practice (and was so in this church) for mouth-professing Christians to lie to one another, or to casually break their verbal commitments to their fellow brethren in the Lord.
In contracting or service work, it is rather a common practice in America to LIE about scheduled times. Yet for a Christian, this should never be a practice at all! If you were doing unto others as you would that they do unto you, would lying be a part of that?
"Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor..." -from Eph. 4:25.
If you call yourself by the name of Christ, be honest! How often are you deliberately deceiving someone else? Do you lie to your spouse, or your children? Do you make time commitments to others, and then not follow through? We will give an account of every idle word that we speak (Matt. 12:36), and what we have done to even the least, we have done to Jesus! How can you come before God, and try to claim His promises to believers, when you routinely give and BREAK your word to others?
"...he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much." -from Luke 16:10.
Brethren in Christ, take this big step toward true holiness; STOP LYING!!!
"He that overcometh shall inherit all things... But the fearful, and unbelieving... and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone..." -from Rev. 21:7,8; bold type added for emphasis.
Several days ago, my wife mentioned seeing a news article whose headlines approximately stated; "Scientists discover a gas cloud that is relatively unchanged from the time just after the Big Bang." I think that upon hearing such an outlandish statement, I could literally split my sides with laughter; that is, if such proposterous lies weren't taken so seriously by multitudes of people.
Among other things, for someone to claim that they have knowledge of what a gas cloud was like some 15 billion years ago is simply ludicrous! Beyond that, the "Big Bang" theory is an outrageous fairy tale that violates the scientific Laws of Thermodynamics. Law #1; Matter can neither be created or destroyed. Law #2; sometimes called the Law of Entropy. This Law basically states that everything in the universe tends to break down, or deteriorate over time.
The "Big Bang" states that at one time, supposedly "billions" of years ago, there was no matter in the universe. Then, mysteriously, this nothingness contracted into a dense, very small spot (some say as small as a period at the end of a sentence!). This dot of nothingness then began spinning very fast, and exploded; casting off gases that eventually became solid, and ultimately formed, by sheer accident, this incredibly complex universe that we live in.
To me, such a theory is utterly fantastic; who could believe such a fairy tale? The answer is, those that desperately want to DENY the existance of God, and therefore our accountability to Him. The god of this world, Satan, has blinded their minds (II Cor. 4:4). This "theory" of evolution, and the very obvious fact of being created by God, are addressed in the prophecy found in Rom. 1:18-25.
The real problem is, that today, most professing Christians are also practicing liars. If that weren't bad enough, they also routinely accept the lies of many, without even a whisper of protest! It is an iniquity which they regard in their hearts (Ps. 66:18), and therefore most of their prayers cannot even reach God's ears
(Is. 59:1-4). Yes, the scripture states that all liars will have their part in the lake of fire! Let's look more closely at that...
First, let's define a lie as an intentional deception. Obviously, if we repeat something, believing it to be true, we have not lied. If we then find out our mistake, we need to correct it if possible.
Secondly, it is almost a certainty that everyone has told a lie at one time or another in their lives. The Bible in this verse, Rev. 21:8, is addressing those that engage in the practice of lying; not those that have lied, and repented, striving in the Spirit not to do so again.
Several years ago, I worked for a "Christian" boss in the construction contracting field (I am being vague to avoid any potential for injurious gossip). We met in the mornings to get our assignments for the day. When a customer called to get some service work done, this boss of mine had the person on the phone lie to the customer about the arrival time of the servicemen to his worksite. He told him to tell the customer that they would be there between 10-12; the exact same time he had just given them for another job, and one that he knew was complex enough to take them well beyond the 12 o'clock hour, even if all went well!
In another case, we were asked to be a part of a church worship rehearsal one night at 7p.m. I was tired from my job, and had to get up early, but we went anyway. The leader of this time, however, was 40 minutes late! Yes, it is possible that something unexpected came up, but no explanation or apology was ever offered to the group. Not only this, but it has become standard practice (and was so in this church) for mouth-professing Christians to lie to one another, or to casually break their verbal commitments to their fellow brethren in the Lord.
In contracting or service work, it is rather a common practice in America to LIE about scheduled times. Yet for a Christian, this should never be a practice at all! If you were doing unto others as you would that they do unto you, would lying be a part of that?
"Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor..." -from Eph. 4:25.
If you call yourself by the name of Christ, be honest! How often are you deliberately deceiving someone else? Do you lie to your spouse, or your children? Do you make time commitments to others, and then not follow through? We will give an account of every idle word that we speak (Matt. 12:36), and what we have done to even the least, we have done to Jesus! How can you come before God, and try to claim His promises to believers, when you routinely give and BREAK your word to others?
"...he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much." -from Luke 16:10.
Brethren in Christ, take this big step toward true holiness; STOP LYING!!!
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Misguided Affections: Affirming the End of the World
"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever." -I John 2:15-17; underlining, bold and italics added for emphasis.
Yesterday a sizeable asteroid passed fairly close to the Earth, causing mostly only concerned "talk" among many. I happened across a brief article regarding this on a website regularly visited by my wife & I, and it included a decent amount of comments along with it. Though not surprised, I was struck by the utter disregard that anything bad could happen; not only from this "close call", but there seemed to be little concern for ANY potential hazard- ever!
Unfortuneatly, this phenomenon is rampant also in the professing Christian Church. But if there ever was a group that ought to believe in the end of the world, it is Christians! The Bible which God has faithfully preserved for us gives frequent and consistent testimony to this certainty. Exactly when may not be known, but even under the best of circumstances, none of us are promised tomorrow (James 4:15).
Where are your affections (Col. 3:2)? The "end of the world" is an uncomfortable subject for most, but why should that be? Jesus said that those who hate their lives in this world will keep it unto life eternal (John 12:25). I have heard the excuses for not confronting it, and most of these are but a thin cover for attempting to hide a deep love for this world, which true Christians are NOT to possess!
Brethren, the hour is at hand to set our spiritual houses in order. The Lord tells us in His Word that this end time will not overtake us as a thief in the night, but that we will be watching, and know the time when it comes (I Thess. 5:4-6). I believe this is kind of a built-in "final warning" system for mouth professing believers, that they may finally get serious and live the committed lives of faith which they proclaim; God is merciful.
While there is still time, turn to the Lord in humility; asking Him to search our hearts, to see if there be any wicked ways hidden within, that they may yet be dealt with (Psalm 139:23,24). Our proper response to the world ending should not be of fear and/or disbelief, but of soberness with deep joy. Again I ask you to consider; where do your affections lie?
Yesterday a sizeable asteroid passed fairly close to the Earth, causing mostly only concerned "talk" among many. I happened across a brief article regarding this on a website regularly visited by my wife & I, and it included a decent amount of comments along with it. Though not surprised, I was struck by the utter disregard that anything bad could happen; not only from this "close call", but there seemed to be little concern for ANY potential hazard- ever!
Unfortuneatly, this phenomenon is rampant also in the professing Christian Church. But if there ever was a group that ought to believe in the end of the world, it is Christians! The Bible which God has faithfully preserved for us gives frequent and consistent testimony to this certainty. Exactly when may not be known, but even under the best of circumstances, none of us are promised tomorrow (James 4:15).
Where are your affections (Col. 3:2)? The "end of the world" is an uncomfortable subject for most, but why should that be? Jesus said that those who hate their lives in this world will keep it unto life eternal (John 12:25). I have heard the excuses for not confronting it, and most of these are but a thin cover for attempting to hide a deep love for this world, which true Christians are NOT to possess!
Brethren, the hour is at hand to set our spiritual houses in order. The Lord tells us in His Word that this end time will not overtake us as a thief in the night, but that we will be watching, and know the time when it comes (I Thess. 5:4-6). I believe this is kind of a built-in "final warning" system for mouth professing believers, that they may finally get serious and live the committed lives of faith which they proclaim; God is merciful.
While there is still time, turn to the Lord in humility; asking Him to search our hearts, to see if there be any wicked ways hidden within, that they may yet be dealt with (Psalm 139:23,24). Our proper response to the world ending should not be of fear and/or disbelief, but of soberness with deep joy. Again I ask you to consider; where do your affections lie?
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Evidence Not Seen: Finding True Faith
"...blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed." -from John 20:29.
The single key element missing from the professing Church of Christ in these last days is true faith. We serve the Living God, not merely a God that was active for only our dead ancestors. Yet that is precisely how many who claim Christ's name treat Him. That the only real value they can gain from being a Christian is the salvation of their souls; which will only happen after death.
Brethren, even the devils believe in God, and tremble (James 2:19): do you not know that a faith without works is dead (James 2:20)? Hebrews 11:6 tells us that we must not only believe that God exists, but that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. Mark 16:20 says that as the disciples went forth, the Lord worked with them: confirming the word with signs. Does your life confirm that the Lord's words are present in you (John 15:7)?
When God tells you that He will supply all your need in Philippians 4:19, do you believe it? Or will you only believe it if you have a job? God doesn't include this condition with the afore mentioned promise! In fact, if you will look at Matthew 6:24-34 (especially v.33), Jesus is directly showing us that employment is NOT a prerequisite to His provision. What we need, is to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness; then what we need will be provided. The Lord may lead you to a job, and bless you in it; but when the business goes under, will you then trust in the faithful God which provided the job, or merely in finding another job?
In Genesis chapter 1, we find that on the first day, God created light. But it was not until the fourth day that God created the Sun and Moon! Do you really trust the Lord? Or do you only trust in Him if you can see the possibilities? Brethren, that is not faith (II Cor. 5:7, Heb. 11:1). Almighty God created this entire universe without any material resources (Heb. 11: 3)! For more on this God-pleasing type of faith, see Reconsidering Our Faith on our website.
The major part of that faith comes from relying upon God's Word, and believing it to be true. We must not only believe in His promises, but also in His rebukes. Only too many people think that they have "really tried" prayer, and that it didn't work; so now they but trust in their own devices. They will never please God in this way! From such as this is derived the heresy, "God helps those that help themselves." Nothing could be further from the truth, just look at Psalm 147:10,11. We will be spued from Christ's mouth along with the other Laodiceans that say, "I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing." See Rev. 3:14-19. Brethren, if we choose to be rich in this world, we have already received our consolation (Luke 6:24).
What we need to do, and are just too proud for, is to humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God (I Peter 5:6). God is indeed kind even to the unthankful and to the evil. But there are often circumstances in our lives which prevent God from answering our prayers. Now, Jesus tells us that everyone that asks, receives; in both Matt. 7:8 and Luke 11:10. If we are therefore persistent with our requests, the Lord will lead us in a way that will qualify us to receive the answers. Through the 19th century saint George Mueller, I have come to think of these as the Conditions of prevailing prayer.
Be warned: this way of faith will naturally lead into trial. How else can faith be proven, except in active use? You will be led to the place of absolute dependance and trust in God, and then without His intervention, you would fall. Yes, you may have opportunity to "work things out" when the situation comes; but will it be faith in the unseen God, or trust in the arm of flesh (Jer. 17:5-8)? Either our God is real, alive, and true to His word, or He isn't! Faith that is strong, is faith which has been proven.
"But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly." -Matt. 6:6.
This way is not the easy way, brethren in Christ! But God has promised that, "them that honour me I will honour." Along with those sore trials, you will come to know your savior and creator more deeply than you could have imagined; and you will be blessed, far more deeply and often than you would have thought possible.
"And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee." -Psalm 9:10.
The single key element missing from the professing Church of Christ in these last days is true faith. We serve the Living God, not merely a God that was active for only our dead ancestors. Yet that is precisely how many who claim Christ's name treat Him. That the only real value they can gain from being a Christian is the salvation of their souls; which will only happen after death.
Brethren, even the devils believe in God, and tremble (James 2:19): do you not know that a faith without works is dead (James 2:20)? Hebrews 11:6 tells us that we must not only believe that God exists, but that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. Mark 16:20 says that as the disciples went forth, the Lord worked with them: confirming the word with signs. Does your life confirm that the Lord's words are present in you (John 15:7)?
When God tells you that He will supply all your need in Philippians 4:19, do you believe it? Or will you only believe it if you have a job? God doesn't include this condition with the afore mentioned promise! In fact, if you will look at Matthew 6:24-34 (especially v.33), Jesus is directly showing us that employment is NOT a prerequisite to His provision. What we need, is to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness; then what we need will be provided. The Lord may lead you to a job, and bless you in it; but when the business goes under, will you then trust in the faithful God which provided the job, or merely in finding another job?
In Genesis chapter 1, we find that on the first day, God created light. But it was not until the fourth day that God created the Sun and Moon! Do you really trust the Lord? Or do you only trust in Him if you can see the possibilities? Brethren, that is not faith (II Cor. 5:7, Heb. 11:1). Almighty God created this entire universe without any material resources (Heb. 11: 3)! For more on this God-pleasing type of faith, see Reconsidering Our Faith on our website.
The major part of that faith comes from relying upon God's Word, and believing it to be true. We must not only believe in His promises, but also in His rebukes. Only too many people think that they have "really tried" prayer, and that it didn't work; so now they but trust in their own devices. They will never please God in this way! From such as this is derived the heresy, "God helps those that help themselves." Nothing could be further from the truth, just look at Psalm 147:10,11. We will be spued from Christ's mouth along with the other Laodiceans that say, "I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing." See Rev. 3:14-19. Brethren, if we choose to be rich in this world, we have already received our consolation (Luke 6:24).
What we need to do, and are just too proud for, is to humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God (I Peter 5:6). God is indeed kind even to the unthankful and to the evil. But there are often circumstances in our lives which prevent God from answering our prayers. Now, Jesus tells us that everyone that asks, receives; in both Matt. 7:8 and Luke 11:10. If we are therefore persistent with our requests, the Lord will lead us in a way that will qualify us to receive the answers. Through the 19th century saint George Mueller, I have come to think of these as the Conditions of prevailing prayer.
Be warned: this way of faith will naturally lead into trial. How else can faith be proven, except in active use? You will be led to the place of absolute dependance and trust in God, and then without His intervention, you would fall. Yes, you may have opportunity to "work things out" when the situation comes; but will it be faith in the unseen God, or trust in the arm of flesh (Jer. 17:5-8)? Either our God is real, alive, and true to His word, or He isn't! Faith that is strong, is faith which has been proven.
"But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly." -Matt. 6:6.
This way is not the easy way, brethren in Christ! But God has promised that, "them that honour me I will honour." Along with those sore trials, you will come to know your savior and creator more deeply than you could have imagined; and you will be blessed, far more deeply and often than you would have thought possible.
"And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee." -Psalm 9:10.
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