Imagine a block of salt placed into water. At first it remains intact, but soon little by little the salt dissolves. You might not notice it at first, but the very fact it’s in the water allows the breaking down of the salt.

We might think that being in the water, the saltiness will spread and affect the water — give it flavor. It might for awhile, but the more diluted, and the more water that’s added, the salt will lose its saltiness.

If we apply this to our lives, I believe we can see the analogy — and the danger we are warned about by the Word of the Lord.

We will lose our saltiness — instead of salting the world, instead we will be diluted and “good for nothing.”

Here is what the Word of God says about the danger and the consequences of placing ourselves in the world, and allowing ourselves to be enthralled and allured by the desires of our flesh.

“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.” (1 John 2:15-17)

Not only do we lose our saltiness — the Lord says we become at enmity, and enemies of Him. He likens it to adultery.

“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)

We were chosen “out of the world.”

“If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.” (John 15:19)

When Jesus prayed for us, He wasn’t praying for “the world” — He was praying for those of us who He has called “out of the world.”

“I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which Thou hast given Me; for they are Thine.” (John 17:9)

How can we be “in the world”, and not “of the world?”

“And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world.” (John 17:11)

“I pray not that Thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that Thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.” (John 17:15-16)

His Word is the vessel we remain in — in the midst of the world.

“Sanctify them through Thy Truth: Thy Word is Truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.” (John 17:17-18)

We are to be set apart. A city on a hill — or a beacon on an island in the midst of the sea. We are to be a lighthouse.

When we become like the world — we lose our saltiness and our testimony.

I want to address something that weighs heavily on my heart right now. That is tolerating what the LORD says is evil, in the name of love — and often in the Name of Jesus Christ.

The world says we must be tolerant to show love. Tolerance and acceptance of all is the way to show love.

But the Word disagrees. One example of many is the church at Thyatira. This church was rebuked by Jesus for tolerating sin.

Jesus said this to them, “I have this against you, that you tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess and is teaching and seducing my servants to practice sexual immorality and to eat food sacrificed to idols.” (Revelation 2:20)

When we say we are Christians, yet live lives of tolerance, we bring confusion to those watching us. More importantly, we grieve the LORD.

How can we light the darkness around us if we too are dark? We are to be His lights — His salt in the midst of the darkness of this world — not blend in with it, or become like it and diluted.

“That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the Word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.” (Philippians 2:15-16)

As we look around us today at the church — those who are called by His Name (CHRISTians) what do we see but so much mixture — so much confusion, and — so much darkness.

Beloved, it should not be so. The LORD is not a God of confusion.

“For God is not the author of confusion.” (1 Corinthians 14:33)

We celebrate celebrities and leaders who claim to be Christians, yet support the LGBTQ and transgender community, even lauding homosexual marriage as a good thing — because “love is love.”

Does it grieve your heart to see this moral ambiguity and compromise — and conformity to the world like it does mine? Like it does the LORD’s?

The LORD through James, tells us that pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father, is to keep ourselves unspotted from the world. (James 1:27)

But you say, “look at all the good works these people are doing, or did.”

Beloved, we can do many good works in His Name, but if our lives are lived in compromise to His Word, and conformity to the standards of this world, we are walking in direct opposition to the LORD.

Many will say they did good works in His Name on the day of judgment, but they will be turned away by the LORD, who requires purity of heart and obedience to His commands.

“Many will say to Me in that day, LORD, LORD, have we not prophesied in Thy Name? and in Thy Name have cast out devils? and in Thy Name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from Me, ye that work iniquity.” (Matthew 7:22-23)

Jesus said the way to show your love for Him is by keeping His Word.

“If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” (John 14:15)

There is confusion brought on by those claiming to love God, but walking in disobedience to His Word.

We are not to tolerate sin, and we certainly aren’t to continue in our sin. Tolerance does not equal love — tolerating sin and not warning of its consequences is really the most hate-filled thing we can do.

It is also disobedience to God’s Word and will bring severe consequences for both us and the one whose sin we are tolerating.

Read the Words of the LORD through His prophet, Ezekiel.

“When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Yet if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.

Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand.

Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous man, that the righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also thou hast delivered thy soul.” (Ezekiel 3:18-21)

Are we judging these people? After all, we don’t know a person’s heart, do we? Only the LORD knows that.

But, we are told to judge by the fruits in a person’s life. Calling out rotten fruit is not hate — it is love, and it is obedience to the LORD, even as we face attacks by those who would tell us tolerance is the way of love — the way of God.

Yes, God forgives sinners, and we are in need of His forgiveness too, but He always tells us, “Go and sin no more.”

If we don’t sound a clarion call — who will? We are told to speak His truth — whether or not they listen. We are doing so because we love God and we love others.

We can’t send mixed messages that don’t align with the Word of God.

“For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?” (1 Corinthians 14:7-8)

Beloved, have you lost your saltiness — your light in this world? Have you become “good for nothing?”

Father, Thank You for the clear warning from Your Word about the danger of losing our saltiness — of becoming diluted by friendship with the world and tolerance of what You call sin.

LORD, use this message to awaken Your people. Stir hearts that have grown comfortable with compromise. Convict those who have blended in with the darkness instead of shining as lights. Help many to examine themselves and ask honestly whether they have lost their saltiness.

Give courage to those who read this to speak truth in love, to warn the wicked, and to refuse the false “love” that tolerates what grieves You.

Let pure religion — keeping ourselves unspotted from the world — be restored among those who call themselves by Your Name.

Keep us all set apart, Father. Sanctify us through Your Truth. Keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, and let us remain good for something — useful in Your Kingdom until Jesus returns, in Jesus Name. Amen.

“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

(Philippians 4:6-8)

“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.”

(Corinthians 10:3-5)

#EyesOnHim

Are you anxious or fearful of anything in your life — or of things to come?

Fix your heart and put your trust in the LORD!

I needed this reminder today, beloved, and I’m certain I’m not alone in that.

Read these Words over and over. Faith comes by hearing His Words — not the words of doctors, or economists, or philosophers, or any other words of man — God’s Words!

“Praise ye the LORD. Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD, that delighteth greatly in His commandments.

His seed shall be mighty upon earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed.

Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever.

Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous. A good man sheweth favour, and lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion.

Surely he shall not be moved for ever: the righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance. He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the LORD. His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies.

He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth for ever; his horn shall be exalted with honour. The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: the desire of the wicked shall perish.” (Psalm 112:1-10)

Father, thank You that when our hearts are fixed on You, and our trust is in You, no weapon the enemy forms against us will prosper. You provide our every need. Even each hair on our head is numbered by You.

Thank You that our children and grandchildren will be mighty warriors for You on this earth, and blessed in every way.

You bring light into every dark place we walk. You see everything to do with us, both in the past, now, and the things to come. Nothing catches You off guard, or by surprise.

We praise You that You hold us in Your hands, and by our hand, as we walk through this life together. Help us to look up to You — always keeping You as our focus — looking ahead to the joy set before us, just as Jesus did. We love You, LORD — we delight in Your Words in Jesus’ Name.

#EyesOnHim

Yet, in order to approach the throne of God and live with Him in eternity — His Word tells us that’s what we are required to have.

“Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in His holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.” (Psalm 24:3-5)

Our hearts are deceitful and wicked, but we still hear so many people say, “Trust your heart” or “Just follow your heart.”

Our hearts are not to be trusted. The Word of the LORD says this — “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” (Jeremiah 17:9)

But thanks be to God, through our LORD Jesus Christ — He can make our hearts pure and our hands clean — no matter how wicked we have been — when we turn to Him in faith for cleansing.

“Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” (Isaiah 1:18)

When we “put on” Christ — we are clothed with the robe of righteousness!“

For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” (Galatians 3:26-27)

“I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.” (Isaiah 61:10)

Isaiah spoke those inspired Words, because he knew how it felt to come before the throne of God and feel his own unworthiness and uncleanness. Below, he recounts his encounter with the holiness of the LORD.

“In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the LORD sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and His train filled the temple. Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of Hosts.” (Isaiah 6:1,5)

Beloved, have you recognized your uncleanness and your need for His cleansing? We must each come to the place we see our need for a Savior, and turn to Him in repentance. We must each have our own “Woe is me!” moment.

Not one of us is good enough in ourselves to attain unto righteousness.

“The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God. They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that doeth good, no, not one.” (Psalm 14:2-3)

Again Isaiah speaks about this, “But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.” (Isaiah 64:6)

When we do “come to our senses” and recognize our need — turning to Him to be clothed in His righteousness — He cleanses us from all our sin and gives us His righteousness.

“For He hath made Him to be sin for us, Who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.” (2 Corinthians 5:21)

I love the passage below, because it shows us how the LORD views a person who has been born again through faith in Jesus Christ.

“The LORD rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands hath He recompensed me. Therefore hath the LORD recompensed me according to my righteousness, according to the cleanness of my hands in His eyesight.” (Psalm 18:20,24)

When we are “in Christ” — the LORD sees His sacrifice for our sins. He sees His righteousness covering us.

If you are like me, your own heart will still condemn you at times. Though we are made righteous in Him — in reality we know we still sin. But we also have a way out — a way to an unbroken fellowship with our Father — confession of our sin to Him.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)

David was called by the LORD, “A man after Mine own heart, which shall fulfil all My will.” (Acts 13:22) Yet David still sinned.

He even had to be confronted by the prophet Nathan about his sin. “Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.” (Psalm 51:2-3)

But like David, when we are convicted by the Spirit of God about sin in our lives, and we acknowledge our sin, confess it, and turn away from it, we too will experience the restoration of what David called the “joy of Thy salvation.”

“Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation.” (Psalm 51:12)

Let each of us pray as David did, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24)

Father, Thank You for this reminder that none of us can stand before You in our own righteousness, and that only through the cleansing blood and robe of righteousness provided by Jesus can we approach Your holy throne.

LORD, use this message to stir hearts. Bring many to their own “Woe is me!” moment of recognizing their need for a Savior. Draw the lost to repentance and faith in Christ.

For those who already know You, restore the joy of Your salvation wherever sin has dimmed their fellowship with You.

Search our hearts today, Father. Show us any wicked way in us, cleanse us, and lead us in the way everlasting. Clothe us afresh in the righteousness of Your Son. In His holy Name we pray. Amen

#EyesOnHim

Have you ever asked the LORD, “Why are you taking me down this rocky path when the path over there is so smooth and clear?”

Do we really trust our Shepherd to lead us on the path that He knows works His purposes in our lives?

We might say, “LORD, look how easily those others are walking down that smooth path, can’t we go that way too?”

Beloved, we must trust that our Shepherd knows what the things are ahead on the path that appears so smooth, that would be harmful to us — turning us from His purposes.

The rocky path is often the only way to His eternal purposes for us.

Sometimes He leads us beside still waters — but more often He calms the raging waves and storms we encounter.

These trials and obstacles are working something far more important for us. Paul said it this way, “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.” (2 Corinthians 4:17)

We can’t see ahead — but our Shepherd can. He knows what is best for us.

Our flesh wants ease and comfort. We don’t enjoy conflicts and trials. We look at what is happening right now, and the pain we feel, instead of seeing this as part of His purpose for us.

We need to say, “LORD, give me Your perspective on this. Use this trial to work Your eternal purposes in my life, and in the lives of those I’ve entrusted to You.”

Paul goes on to say this, “While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:18)

The LORD is my Shepherd! I can trust my life and the lives of those I bring to Him in prayer into His hands. He will provide all we need. “The LORD is my Shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1)

Sometimes the path will be lovely and green with beautiful babbling brooks that bring calm and rest to our souls, “He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters.” (Psalm 23:2)

But often the road will be filled with obstacles and hardships — things that will keep us dependent on the LORD, and faithful to Him. “

David knew that afflictions were used by the LORD, to turn him back to the righteous path — walking with his Shepherd leading the way, not his own fleshly desires for the temporary pleasure of sin. “Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy Word.” (Psalm 119:67)

Our Shepherd will lead us through the afflictions and deliver us safely into His kingdom. “Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.” (Psalm 34:19)

My Mom told me once that her favorite Bible passage was, “It came to pass.” She would go on to say — “It didn’t come to stay.” Her point was that though we will encounter trials in this life — we will make it through them with our Shepherd’s help.

As the scripture above tells us, “The LORD delivereth him out of them all.”

Beloved, are you on a rocky path right now? Are you wondering if the path ahead will ever be smooth again?

I’ve heard it said, “you’re either in a storm, just walked through one, or are about to encounter one.” Sometimes we’re in the calm before or after the storm.

In every case, we must look ahead to our Shepherd — Eyes on Him. We must trust Him to lead you through to the other side. Our Shepherd does not just watch us from a distance — He walks with us through every twist and turn along the way.

Make these Words, inspired by the Holy Spirit, your words, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4)

Take comfort in His Word today and know without a shadow of doubt that it is He Who leads you and you can rest — even on the road filled with rocks and thorns, and dangers on every side — knowing He will lead you safely Home. “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the House of the LORD for ever.” (Psalm 23:6)

Father, Thank You for this reminder that You are our Shepherd — the One who leads us, even when the path is rocky, painful, and hard to understand.

LORD, we bring before You the heaviness many are carrying today, caused by the storms along our path, deep sadness we are experiencing because of sickness, or separation from a loved one, and the many trials that have marked the road of our lives.

You see every tear. You know every ache in our hearts. Father, give us Your perspective in this season. Help us to trust that You are leading us on the path that works Your eternal purposes — even when it feels rocky and long.

Remind us that the afflictions of this life are light and momentary compared to the eternal weight of glory You are preparing.

Strengthen us, LORD, to keep our eyes on You, our Shepherd. Walk with us through every valley. Comfort us with Your rod and staff. Let us know that You are not watching from a distance — You are right there with us, step by step.

For the prodigals in our lives, we pray again that you bring them to the end of themselves. Cause them to come to their senses and return home — to You and to their families. Do whatever it takes, LORD, to make their hearts, and ours, completely Yours.

Help us to rest in the truth that You will deliver us out of all our afflictions, and that goodness and mercy shall follow us all the days of our lives. Lead us safely Home.

Thank You that we are not alone. Encourage our hearts today. Let us feel Your nearness and Your peace that passes all understanding, in the Name of Jesus Christ our Shepherd. Amen.

#EyesOnHim

“If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.” (Matthew 17:20)

He also said with that tiny amount of faith you could speak to a tree and tell it to go plant itself in the sea.

Jesus was talking to His disciples about forgiveness, and how they and we must forgive no matter how many times a person sins against us. In response to His Words they said, “Increase our faith.” (Luke 17:5)

He replied, “If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.” (Luke 17:6)

So tiny a seed — but most will never have even that amount, but we have enough to believe — and it should always be our prayer too, “LORD, increase our faith!”

How big is a mustard seed? Not very big at all — only 1/32 of an inch across.

Jesus in another parable said this about the size of a mustard seed, “Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof.” (Matthew 13:32)

Do you have faith? We must have faith to please God. Our salvation began with faith. We had to believe that there is a God, and that seeking Him we find the gift of salvation.

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.”(Hebrews 11:6)

His Word assures us — Enough faith is given to us by His grace to believe.

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)

As we walk with the LORD and see His hand in our lives, our faith will grow — but I don’t believe many if any will ever attain to even a tiny mustard seed of faith. Should we stop asking for more? No — we should spend a lifetime of building up our faith.

Our faith grows as we pray in the Spirit and spend time with the LORD — “hearing His Word.”

“But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost.” (Jude 1:20)

“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.” (Romans 10:17)

Faith is not seeing — then believing. Faith is believing before we see. When we pray we must believe that God will answer our prayer.

“(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)” (2 Corinthians 5:7)

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1)

Substance is something tangible that we can hold onto. So faith is the tangible knowledge that God is; God is able; God hears, and God answers. We don’t have to see the answer to know it’s coming, or to have assurance of the answer.

Beloved, I don’t have a mustard seed of faith — but I have enough. What about you? Do you believe? Have you received the gift of God for salvation?

The disciples of Jesus were afraid because a storm arose as they were on the sea. Jesus was asleep, so they awakened Him.

He said, “Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then He arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.”(Matthew 8:26)

He commanded the seas to stand still! His disciples marveled at His power and authority.

Jesus said they had “little faith.”

The Word above tells us that we must believe that the LORD is a Just Rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

Are you seeking Him today beloved? Seeking to grow more and more in your faith each day?

The LORD through His prophet Habakkuk tells us, “The just shall live by his faith.” (Habakkuk 2:4)

Those justified by the blood of Jesus Christ will live by faith in God and will be faithful to Him.

This scripture has inspired so many Christians. Paul quotes it here, “For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.” (Romans 1:17) and here, “But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.” (Galatians 3:11)

The writer of Hebrews quotes it just before the famous chapter on faith, “For yet a little while, and He that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.” (Hebrews 10:37-39)

It is helpful to us to know this when we walk through difficult times without seeing signs of relief. We must trust that the LORD is allowing and directing all things according to His purposes.

The LORD allows trials in our lives, His Word is clear on this. The trials perfect us in His love, and they can increase our faith, as we turn to Him for strength and help in our time of need.

The trials work His purposes in our life, and they not only increase our faith, but will be used to increase the faith of others who see us walking through the trial in His strength and power. In short, they’re not only for our benefit.

Paul explains this to us when he says, “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our LORD Jesus Christ: By Whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” (Romans 5:1-5)

Here Paul tells us how the trial of our faith will increase the faith of others.

“Blessed be God, even the Father of our LORD Jesus Christ, the Father of Mercies, and the God of all Comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation.” (2 Corinthians 1:3-7)

Beloved, the Words of Peter tell us that “the trial of our faith” is more precious than gold — “Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love; in Whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.” (1 Peter 1:5-9)

We exercise our faith in order to “do the works of Jesus” as we are told to do. To go into all the world and preach the gospel, to heal the sick, and to cast out devils.

There is faith exercised by His children in doing His works, and as in the story of the blind men — there is faith exercised in believing the Word of the LORD.

“And when He was come into the house, the blind men came to Him: and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that I am able to do this? They said unto him, Yea, LORD. Then touched He their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you.” (Matthew 9:28-29)

The “end” of our faith — the goal — is not to have faith for the sake of getting whatever we desire, or even having the ability to move mountains, or command trees to replant themselves elsewhere.

As Peter tells us above — the end goal is our salvation, “Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.”

“But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.” (1 Timothy 6:11-12)

Father, increase our faith. Thank You that though we haven’t moved any mountains — You’ve given us enough faith to believe You. May our faith grow more and more until the day Jesus returns. For those walking through trials, remind us that the testing of our faith is more precious than gold. Use our difficulties to deepen our trust in You and to encourage others. Help us all to live by faith, not by sight, and to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus — the Author and Finisher of our faith. Thank You that the end of our faith is the salvation of our souls. In Jesus’ holy Name we pray. Amen.

#EyesOnHim

So many believers today ignore the model Jesus gave. Instead of coming to the Father humbly, in Jesus’ Name, recognizing their need — often, their prayers sound more like demands.

When we approach the throne of God with our requests, first we acknowledge Who He is. We come with reverence. Jesus began — “Hallowed be Thy Name.”

The Name of the LORD is to be hallowed. That means we recognize that He is holy, greatly respected, revered, and honored.

We come knowing that our human knowledge is limited. We don’t know what is the best thing for us or for the situations we bring to Him, but He does — so we pray, “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.” (Luke 11:2)

This is an attitude of humility that acknowledges what Jesus taught elsewhere, “Without Me ye can do nothing.” (John 15:5)

We come recognizing our dependence upon the LORD for every single thing we need each day. Ours is to be a daily walk with Him. So Jesus taught to ask the Father to, “Give us day by day our daily bread.” (Luke 11:3)

Of this daily walk Jesus said this, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” (Luke 9:23)

We are to ask for forgiveness and to forgive others as we have been forgiven. We must always remember where we’ve been, and who we once were, but for the grace of God. There is no room for pride when we come before our Father.

So Jesus taught them to pray, “Forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us.” (Luke 11:4)

Jesus said this, “If ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:15)

Beloved, we so needed the forgiveness of the LORD. We must remember this as we pray. We will continue to need His forgiveness, that’s why we are told, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)

David prayed that the LORD would search His heart. I believe this is an important thing for us to do as well, when we come to our Father in prayer.

David said this, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24)

Jesus continued teaching the disciples how to pray. He told them to pray, “Lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil (the evil one).” (Luke 11:4)

This doesn’t mean that the LORD leads us into the temptation to sin, we know that our flesh and the enemy do that. We are asking our Father to give us the strength to overcome the temptations to sin we will encounter as we walk through this life.

The Word tells us, “We have not an High Priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” (Hebrews 4:15)

Jesus was in “all points” tempted, but did not give in to the temptations. We too will be given, “a way of escape” when tempted — if we go to the Father for strength.

“There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13)

So as the writer of the letter to the Hebrew believers told them, “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)

So, beloved, recognition of Who our Father is — Omnipotent Creator, all powerful LORD — we come standing in awe of His majesty, and knowing that nothing we bring to Him — no need we will ever encounter is beyond His ability to supply.

I think of Jeremiah crying out to the LORD, “Ah LORD GOD! behold, Thou hast made the heaven and the earth by Thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for Thee.” (Jeremiah 32:17)

The vision Isaiah had also comes to my mind. This is what he said when he saw the LORD sitting on His throne, “Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of Hosts.” (Isaiah 6:5)

That’s the place of humility I’m talking about. Knowing that we are nothing without His power. Again the Words of Jesus come to mind, “Without Me, you can do nothing.”

“I am the Vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do nothing.” (John 15:5)

Jesus goes on to teach that we must be persistent in praying and asking the Father. He says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” (Luke 11:9)

This implies — Keep on asking, keep on seeking, keep on knocking. Jesus explains, “Because of his persistence He will rise and give him as many as he needeth.” (Luke 11:8)

The result of our persistence is this — “For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” (Luke 11:10)

Jesus further told His disciples to ask “in His Name.”“And whatsoever ye shall ask in My Name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” (John 14:13)

In the Garden before His crucifixion, Jesus prayed to His Father, “O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me: nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt.” (Matthew 26:39)

When we pray, “Thy will be done, LORD”, we don’t have to try to tell the LORD what we think is the best way for Him to handle the situation or the person we are bringing to Him.

We can confidently trust that He will do what is best in any given situation. That’s why we can pray, “LORD, do whatever it takes in our lives, and in the lives of those we bring to You, to make our hearts completely Yours.”

Jesus explains it this way, “If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?” (Luke 11:11-13)

We are not to pray in a way that our prayers glorify us. Again, humility is very important to the LORD. We come to our Father to speak to Him and adore, and glorify Him — not so others hear or see us.

Jesus told the disciples this — “When thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.” (Matthew 6:5)

Prayer is an intimate conversation with our Father. “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.” (Matthew 6:6)

We are not to use “vain repetitions.” Our prayers are a conversation between us and our Father in heaven.

“But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask Him.” (Matthew 6:7-8)

Our Father does know what we need before we ask, but as Jesus taught above — He still tells us to ask.

James tells us that asking is important and our motivation for asking is important as well. “Ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.” (James 4:2-3)

So beloved, how are you praying? Are you praying? Do you recognize your deep need for your Father? Do you know that without Him you can do nothing? Are you praying “after this manner” as Jesus taught, or are you coming to Him demanding what you desire to be done, even if it’s apart from His will?

Let’s each ask the LORD to search our hearts today as we come to Him in prayer.

Father, our Omnipotent LORD — You are worthy to be praised, for You have created all things. We come before Your throne with awe and reverence, recognizing Who You are. Thank You for reminding us how to come before You with reverence, humility, dependence, and persistence. Search our hearts today, LORD, show us if there is anything there that shouldn’t be. May Your will be done in our lives Father, and in this world. We trust that Your ways are higher than our ways. Forgive us for the times we have prayed with wrong motives or demanded our own way. Give us the things we need today LORD. Provide each of our needs. Help us to walk in Your love, forgiveness and mercy towards others, as You are so loving, forgiving, and merciful to us. Give us the strength of Your Holy Spirit in us to overcome each temptation we face today, and deliver us from the evil one. May this message stir fresh hunger for prayer in Your people — that we may come boldly to the throne of grace to obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Teach us to pray without ceasing, with thanksgiving, and with full dependence on You. Thank You that we can call You Father. Thank You that You know what we need before we ask. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever, Father. In the mighty, holy, and precious Name of Jesus Christ our LORD, Amen.

#EyesOnHim

Was she just being superstitious? Was she afraid that if she said “goodbye” that might mean we’d never see one another or speak to one another again?

There was probably a little of that in their reasoning, passed down from generation to generation. To this day, I don’t say, “bye, or goodbye” either. I always say, “see you.”

But from a Biblical standpoint this is true. No matter if we never see someone again in this life — if we are Christians, we will see them again.

David knew once his son died, that he could stop mourning and begging the LORD to heal him.

When his servants enquired as to why he was no longer grieving his son once he died, he said this, “While the child was yet alive, I fasted and wept: for I said, Who can tell whether GOD will be gracious to me, that the child may live? But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.” (2 Samuel 12:22-23)

You see, beloved? He knew he would see his son again. He was in essence not saying, “goodbye” or just hanging his head in despair — he was saying like my Mamaw, and Mom, and myself, “see you.”

I remember when my Mamaw passed away I said a few words at her funeral. My words ended with, “see you, Mamaw!” Those words echoed through the crowd of those gathered to remember her life.

I remember my cousin, Margaret, especially calling out, “see you Mamaw.” This scene was brought to my memory yesterday, because like my Mamaw, my Mom, and other loved ones who have departed this life — Margaret too went HOME a few days ago.

But, we like David, don’t grieve as those with no hope! We say, “see you, Margaret”, we will join you one day soon.

The Word of God says this, “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.” (1 Corinthians 15:19-20)

Are you grieving a loss today? It’s natural that the death of a loved one would bring sadness. We will be temporarily separated from their fellowship. But, beloved, don’t grieve without hope! We will meet again.

Instead of a final farewell or goodbye — “see you” until we meet again.

Father, Thank You for this reminder that for those who know You, there is no final “goodbye” — only “see you” until we meet again in Your presence.

LORD, use this message to bring hope and comfort to everyone who is grieving the loss of a loved one.

Let them know that death is not the end for those who belong to You. Comfort every aching heart. Wipe away every tear. Remind them that we will see our loved ones again because Jesus conquered death and rose again.

For those who are not yet sure of their salvation, stir their hearts to call upon Your Name today. Let them know that they too can have this blessed hope.

Thank You that we do not grieve as those who have no hope. We come to You in the mighty, victorious, and comforting Name of Jesus Christ our risen LORD.

#EyesOnHim

“For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the LORD so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.” (1 Thessalonians 5:2-3)

Last night I had a dream. I was outside in the evening with someone. I don’t know who the person was. It began to be very stormy and suddenly to the east you could see very dark clouds. I soon realized a huge wedge tornado was headed our way.

I told whomever was with me that we must find shelter because where we were we had none. The person wasn’t too concerned about the situation despite my warning. After all we had never had a tornado in the area we were in. I implored them that we must find shelter and go inside the house to a safe place.

Then suddenly time had run out — it was too late to seek shelter as the tornado descended upon us. That’s all I remember of my dream.

As I thought about the dream this morning, I asked the LORD if there was something He was showing me that He would have me share. The scriptures below came to my mind.

“Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the Master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: Lest coming suddenly He find you sleeping. And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.” (Mark 13:35-37)

Would you be ready, beloved, if the LORD were to return right now? His sudden appearance will catch many unprepared for eternity.

So many today are like the person in my dream — they’ve heard the LORD’s return is near for so long — they scoff when you tell them, “He’s coming soon!”

Peter tells us there will be many “scoffers” in the last days before Jesus’ return. They don’t believe sudden destruction will come — or that their time will run out. They are caught up in the pleasures of this world — walking after “their own lusts.”

“Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, And saying, Where is the promise of His coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.” (2 Peter 3:3-4)

He goes on to warn of the importance of seeking our shelter in the LORD, and being prepared for His sudden return. He also tells us why the LORD is waiting to return — so the unsaved have time to seek shelter in His salvation, through repentance, and forgiveness of their sins.

“The LORD is not slack concerning His promise (to return), as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance…”

“…But the day of the LORD will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up…”

How then should we be living as we wait?

“…Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?” (2 Peter 3:9-12)

How do we ensure that we are ready? If you haven’t called upon the Name of Jesus for salvation — you won’t be ready.

You must call upon His Name, repent of your sins, and walk in obedience to His Word.

Philip gives us a perfect example of what must be done. The LORD told him to go up to the chariot of an Ethiopian eunuch who was reading the book of Isaiah, and join him. Let’s read the account together.

“Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? 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. The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth…”

“…And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus…”

“…And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God…”

“…And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the LORD caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.” (Acts 8:29-39)

The person in the dream with me could represent any unsaved person in our lives. Are we telling those around us that Jesus is coming soon? Are we sharing with them where to go for Shelter?

Jesus is our Shelter from the storm. We must be in Him to be saved. There is salvation from none other.

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other Name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

If you’re reading this today and you haven’t called upon the Name of the LORD, it’s not too late — yet.

Beloved — call upon His Name! The storm is coming and one day soon the door will be shut. Today is the day of salvation — your day. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

“For whosoever shall call upon the Name of the LORD shall be saved. 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?…”

To those in the Shelter — be the one with “beautiful feet” preaching the good news of salvation while you wait.

“…And how shall they hear without a preacher? 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!”

Father, please use this message to awaken many hearts. Let those who are living as if they have all the time in the world hear the urgency. Stir believers to be ready for Your sudden return. Convict the unsaved to call upon Your Name while there is still time.

Help us all to live with the awareness that the day of the LORD will come like a thief in the night. May we not be found sleeping, but watching and waiting with lamps trimmed and burning.

For those who are scoffing or walking after their own lusts, have mercy and open their eyes. Draw many into the Shelter that is found only in Jesus Christ before the door is shut.

May this message bring conviction, repentance, and readiness in the hearts of all who read it — to the glory of Your Name. In the mighty, holy, and soon-returning Name of Jesus Christ our LORD, Amen and Amen.

#EyesOnHim

We are told we have the “mind of Christ” when we are born again. His Spirit dwells in us and will guide our thoughts — if we don’t ignore and quench Him.

For who hath known the mind of the LORD, that he may instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 2:16)

“Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-19)

Paul tells us not to worry about anything — but to pray about everything. He tells us to be thankful to the LORD that He is working on all the things that fill our hearts and minds with anxiety, doubt, and fear.

“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)

Then he tells us about our thinking and how important it is. He gives us a list of positive things and says, “think on these things.”

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.” (Philippians 4:8-9)

When our eyes are on our blessings, and the good, and pure things — the things that are worthy of praise and thanksgiving, we will have a different perspective.

It is said that the mind is the workshop of the devil, and it is true. He will bombard our minds with a million different things that we should worry about and fear.

But beloved, we can shut him out by allowing the Spirit in us, and the Word of God to place a guard over our minds. We can shut the door to his lies and imaginations by “thinking on these things.”

“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:3-5)

I have a dear friend who often refers to herself as a “Pollyanna.” She chooses to find the good in things around her.

Today, this often carries a negative connotation. A Pollyanna is said to have an unwaveringly cheerful and positive outlook on life, often to the point of ignoring or dismissing harsh realities, adversity, or negative emotions. But that’s not how it started. The term originated from a 1913 novel.

Pollyanna Whittier, was an orphan who coped with her difficult life by playing the “Glad Game,” a philosophy of finding something to be glad about in every situation, no matter how bleak.

Isn’t that what Paul is telling us to do in his letter above?

We’re not ignoring that evil exists, or that there are bad things happening in the world. It doesn’t mean we don’t have hurts, or that we don’t speak out against evil and seek truth.

Christian hope is not believing everything will be okay in a worldly sense, but knowing that God is present and victorious even when things are not okay.

It means we choose to see everything from God’s perspective. He is in control and orchestrating His plan as Psalm 2 tells us. He sees all that’s going on and laughs. Not because His heart isn’t grieved, but because He knows evil will not win in the end.

The very first thing Paul lists to think on is “whatever is true.” Biblical positivity cannot be based on a lie or a delusion.

If a situation is tragic, pretending it isn’t violates the command to think on what is true.

Paul wrote these words while imprisoned, and facing potential death. He wasn’t advocating a “Pollyanna” denial of his suffering; rather, he was choosing to focus on God’s goodness in the midst of his suffering.

Paul tells us in this same letter, “Rejoice in the LORD always: and again I say, Rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4)

Always means always! No matter what’s happening. Like Jospeh we can say, “But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good.” (Genesis 50:20)

Changing your perspective.

I’m sure you’ve heard the hymn, “Count Your Blessings.” There’s so much truth in its words.

‘When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed; When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost; Count your many blessings, name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the LORD hath done.

Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your blessings, see what God hath done; Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.’

What are you thinking on today, beloved. If you’re allowing the enemy to control your mind you will be miserable. Think on the things that are above — the true, and good, and pure things. Count your blessings. Look up — Eyes on Him!

“Set your affection (mind) on things above, not on things on the earth.” (Colossians 3:2)

#EyesOnHim

Prayer: Father, Thank You for reminding us how powerful our thoughts are and how much they shape our outlook and our walk with You. LORD, help Your children to guard our minds. Help us to cast down every imagination and every thought that exalts itself against the knowledge of God. Teach us to think on what is true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. Let Your peace that passes all understanding guard our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. For those who are overwhelmed with worry, fear, or negative thinking, replace those thoughts with Your truth. Help us to count our blessings, rejoice in You always, and fix our minds on things above. Let the enemy’s lies be silenced as we bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. Thank You that we have the mind of Christ. Thank You that Your Spirit lives in us to guide and strengthen us, in Jesus’ Name.

Years spent nurturing and teaching them the Word of God are abandoned for the temporary pleasures of sin.

The father in the story in Luke knew such grief. His son went to a far country and wasted everything he’d been given. Seeking pleasure — he eventually ended up wishing to have some of the food that he was given to feed the pigs. Even that was denied him.

Here is the heartbreaking story Jesus told:

“And He said, A certain man had two sons: And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want. And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.”

I think about the prayer I pray for my children — “Lord, do whatever it takes in my children, and in my grandchildren to make their hearts completely Yours.” We have to step back and trust God enough to let the pigpen do its work.

The answer to that prayer is often experienced in hardships. Just like in our own lives, sometimes we don’t come to the place of full brokenness and repentance until tragedy strikes, difficulties come, or we end up in the pigpen.

The Lord uses these things for His purposes, even when they come due to our own sin.

Our prayer is that they too will “come to their senses” as this son did. Let’s continue reading the story because though it was tragic — it ended in repentance and remorse from the son, and joy for his father.

“And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose, and came to his father.”

His father was always watching and I’m sure praying for his son’s return. Sometimes a parent must let go of their wayward child who goes to their own “foreign country” — but a Godly, loving parent will never stop watching and praying for their return.

“But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.” (Luke 15:11-24)

We are told that in the culture of Jesus’ listeners, the younger son’s request would have been extremely offensive. Because estates were never distributed until a father’s death, much like in our culture. The son might as well have said, “I wish you were already dead so that I could do what I want with your possessions.” It was a direct, ungrateful stab at the very people who had cared for, loved, and nurtured him since infancy.

Yet, notice what the father did not do. He did not chase his son into the distant country. He did not send him care packages, fund his lifestyle, or text him excuses. He did not step in to soften the blow when the money ran out and the famine hit.

This is the agonizing reality of Biblical withdrawal. It is the most painful form of love imaginable, because everything inside a parent or grandparent wants to rescue, to fix, and to maintain a comfortable connection. It is excruciating to choose the pain of separation over the comfort of tolerance. But true love refuses to subsidize spiritual destruction. True love knows that if we protect our children from the consequences of their sin, we are keeping them from the very rock-bottom they need to see clearly.

Though this father had every reason to be angry at what his son had done, he was ready to forgive when he saw his son returning home, beaten down by the consequences of his own sin yet broken and repentant.

Beloved, do you have a prodigal in your life? Keep praying. Keep looking out on the horizon for their return home to the Lord, and to you. It is okay to weep, and it is also okay, and necessary to stand firm in your boundaries.

Father, I lift up every parent and grandparent who is watching a beloved child walk away from You. Comfort their aching hearts. Give them wisdom to know when to stand firm and when to show mercy. Help them trust You enough to let the “pigpen” do its work when necessary.

Bring their prodigals to the end of themselves. Cause them to “come to their senses” and return home — to You and to their family. Run to them with open arms, restore what was lost, and turn their mourning into joy.

Strengthen those who wait. Remind them daily that You are watching the horizon with them. We trust You with every wayward child. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

#EyesOnHim

Generic versions of the abortion pill were approved by Trump’s FDA twice

Generic versions of the abortion pill mifepristone were approved by the FDA during both of Trump’s administrations: first in April 2019 (1st term) and a second generic in early October 2025 (2nd term).

Medication abortions (mainly the pill regimen) now make up the large majority of U.S. abortions. They accounted for 63% of clinician-provided abortions in 2023 (some estimates put it around 65%), totaling roughly 648,500 medication abortions that year.

Let these numbers sink in!

National totals have increased post — Roe v Wade.

Abortions:

1.03 million in 2023

1.12 — 1.14 million in 2024

1.126 million in 2025

These increases are at over 1.1 million clinician-provided abortions per year, driven by Trump’s administration giving easy access to the pills.

Platform and Policy Shifts

The 2024 GOP platform removed longstanding calls for a federal ban or Human Life Amendment. It now emphasizes states’ rights and opposition only to late-term abortions (only — 1% of cases).

President Trump even inserts his opinion into State laws, saying, “Some state laws are too tough, and should be redone.” He has also moved away from a national ban, stating he would no longer sign a ban into law, “You have to win elections.”

Rhetoric v Reality

These points show the gap between President Trump and his supporters claim that he is the “most pro-life President” rhetoric and real life (or for babies — death) outcomes.

He could significantly lower this genocide — potentially impacting the lives of 63 — 65% of babies killed by this evil pill — by pursuing stricter federal policies, including enforcing existing laws more aggressively or signing a federal ban, yet he doesn’t.

Instead, approvals continued and the platform softened. His claim rests mainly on appointing justices who overturned Roe, returning the issue to states — yet nationally, pill-driven abortions remain dominant and totals have not dropped.

Now tell me — do you still think he’s really pro-life — these facts alone say he’s not!

Yet God declares that He will defend Jerusalem, fight for His people, and fulfill every covenant and prophecy.

Zechariah 12: “I will make Jerusalem a cup of trembling unto all the people round about… In that day will I make the governors of Judah like a hearth of fire among the wood… and they shall devour all the people round about, on the right hand and on the left.”

Ezekiel 38–39 and Joel 3 further warn of the nations assembling against Israel — only for the LORD Himself to intervene dramatically on her behalf.

Nothing happening now — not shifting politics, not even perceived turns by the Trump administration, JD Vance, or any other leaders — surprises God or thwarts His plan. He reigns supreme over Israel. His ancient promises stand.

Those who oppose His purposes for the Jewish people and the land fight not merely against a nation, but against the God who scattered them and is now regathering them.

Will you stand with what God has declared. His Word will not return void. He is the Keeper of Israel.

“Behold, He that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.” (Psalm 121:4)

“For he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of His eye.” (Zechariah 2:8)

A big thank you to 40Head for the extensive time and energy spent researching and writing the powerful piece below. Though we haven’t always agreed on everything, we stand together on this vital truth: God is in control of Israel, and His Word will not return void. Stand with what God has declared.

Please take the time to read what he’s written. Below is a quote from his piece titled, “Approaching Israel: While studying, understanding, and believing God’s Word.”

“The Jews have an absolute, God given right to call Israel their home. If ANYBODY contests that right, they’re not just going to be fighting the nation of Israel... They’re going to be fighting against God and His 2500+ year old prophecies...”

Link: https://open.substack.com/pub/40head/p/approaching-israel-while-studying?r=qxa8a&utm_medium=ios

#EyesOnHim

Beloved child of God — we mustn’t go by our feelings to find the answer to our question. We mustn’t go by what our eyes see. Our only true answer comes from His Word.

We are told to set our hearts on His Word — teach His Words to our children (which includes our grandchildren) and walk in obedience to all of His commands, and teach them to do so as well.

His promise to us is our days will be prolonged, and our labor won’t be in vain.

“And he said unto them, Set your hearts unto all the Words which I testify among you this day, which ye shall command your children to observe to do, all the Words of this law. For it is not a vain thing for you; because it is your life: and through this thing ye shall prolong your days in the land, whither ye go over Jordan to possess it.” (Deuteronomy 32:46-47)

I don’t know about you — but my experience is that often the Words of God are not well received — at least they don’t seem to be.

It’s at these times we must remember that His Word also tells us to keep on speaking (training) because His Words are having, and will continue to have a lasting impact.

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6)

The LORD through Malachi tells us that the people of God had become disillusioned in their walk. They were saying this, “It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept His ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the LORD of Hosts?And now we call the proud happy (blessed); yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered.” (Malachi 3:14-15)

It ‘felt’ to them like all their obedience had been in vain. The wicked were walking in blessings, even as they continued in their wickedness.

It was in this context that these beautiful Words were written.

“Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon His Name. And they shall be Mine, saith the LORD of Hosts, in that day when I make up My jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.” (Malachi 3:16-17)

Beloved, our reward will be in our salvation — enjoying eternity with our Father in His Kingdom. We are His jewels. And He is listening, and pleased by those who speak Words of Faith about Him.

So, keep walking in obedience to His Word until you cross the finish line. Keep teaching your children and others. Your faith and your labor is not in vain.

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the LORD, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the LORD.” (1 Corinthians 15:58)

Keep shining your light, and letting it shine in this present darkness.

“That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the Word of Life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.” (Philippians 2:15-16)

#EyesOnHim

There will be times in our lives that feelings of despair, fear, defeat, and hopelessness creep into our hearts. We are human.

It is at times such as these that we are held by our loving Father. He knows our weakness and He knows our heart. His grace will carry us when we can’t walk — or even crawl.

Habakkuk said this about going through trials to come with hope and joy. Keep in mind as you read his words — joy is a gift of the Holy Spirit — it isn’t dependent upon our circumstances.

“Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls: Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The LORD God is my strength, and He will make my feet like hinds’ feet, and He will make me to walk upon mine high places. To the chief singer on my stringed instruments.” (Habakkuk 3:17-19)

David was not a stranger to depression and hopelessness, though he was called a man after God’s own heart. In the Psalm below he speaks about his despair. He encourages his own soul to “hope thou in God.”

“Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance.” (Psalm 42:5)

David reminded the LORD that he was hoping in His Word as his comfort in affliction.

“Remember the Word unto Thy servant, upon which Thou hast caused me to hope. This is my comfort in my affliction: for Thy Word hath quickened (given me life) me.” (Psalm 119:49-50)

When our prayers aren’t answered in the way we desired or hoped for, it’s easy to become discouraged, and not believe that when we pray for other things or other people our prayers won’t also go unanswered.

We may feel like the LORD wasn’t faithful to His Word when we prayed — so how can we have confidence He will answer our other prayers.

Beloved, we must still trust in His Word — no matter how our previous prayers were answered — or seemed to go unanswered.

Hope in His Word. If He hasn’t answered the way we thought best, then we know His higher purposes are at work.

“Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in Thy Word. [116] Uphold me according unto Thy Word, that I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope.” (Psalm 119:114,116)

Waiting isn’t easy is it? But when we are trusting the LORD with a situation — waiting is almost always a necessary part of our trust and faith in the LORD.

Keep hoping in His Word while you wait. Thank Him that He has your need — the thing or person you’ve brought to Him in His hand. He is at work to do what is best — even when it doesn’t seem like He is.

“I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in His Word do I hope.” (Psalm 130:5)

The LORD is pleased when He sees His child trusting in Him no matter what He allows in their lives.

“The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear Him, in those that hope in His mercy.” (Psalm 147:11)

“Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.” (Jeremiah 17:7)

Jeremiah knew so much sorrow and had suffered so much. When he remembered all he’d been through in his life, he could have lost hope. But he remembered that for every single thing he had faced or would face — the LORD was enough. He was his portion.

“The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in Him.” (Lamentations 3:24)

We need look no further than Job to know the LORD allows adversity. When his wife told him “curse God, and die.” He replied — “What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil (adversity)?” (Job 2:9-10)

The Word is clear — those whom the LORD loves will suffer trials and tribulations in their lives. God is purposeful in allowing these. We probably won’t know the why this side of eternity — but we know He loves us and would not allow it unless it had purpose for us or others — or perhaps it’s for His glory.

“And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” (Romans 5:3-5)

The song below captures something of this hope and trust in our lives in the face of unanswered prayers and trials — some that seem unbearable.

Even If — “It’s easy to sing when there’s nothing to bring me down. But what will I say when I’m held to the flame like I am right now?

I know You’re able and I know You can, save through the fire with Your mighty hand, but even if You don’t, my hope is You alone.

They say it only takes a little faith to move a mountain, well good thing, a little faith is all I have right now.

But God, when You choose to leave mountains unmovable, Oh give me the strength to be able to sing — it is well with my soul.

I know the sorrow, and I know the hurt, would all go away if You’d just say the Word. But even if You don’t, my hope is You alone.

You’ve been faithful, You’ve been good all of my days. Jesus, I will cling to You, come what may.

‘Cause I know You’re able, I know You can, save through the fire with Your mighty hand. But even if You don’t, my hope is You alone.

It is well with my soul. It is well, it is well with my soul.”

Sometimes in our human weakness, we will need the LORD to implant hope in our hearts. He implants or engrafts His Word in our hearts through His Holy Spirit.

“Receive with meekness the engrafted Word, which is able to save your souls.” (James 1:21)

Many years ago now I had a friend who was suffering great mental anguish, to the point she was hospitalized. Every day I prayed for her. One specific prayer I prayed was that God would implant His hope in her — as she had none. I didn’t tell her what I was praying, just that I was praying. One day I was talking to her on the phone and I asked her how she was feeling. She replied, “I don’t understand it —I still feel terrible — but I have hope!”

You see beloved — her circumstances hadn’t changed at all — but the LORD in His mercy caused hope to arise in her despite her circumstances.

I think of this scripture — “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.” (Romans 15:13)

No matter what you’re facing today — or will face in the days to come — may His hope be implanted and rise up in your heart in Jesus Name — to the glory of our Father.

May we say with confidence as Habakkuk did, “Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.”

#EyesOnHim

When Mary Magdalene, Jesus’ mother Mary, Salome, and the other women came to the tomb where Jesus’ body was laid to anoint Him with spices — He was not there!

An angel asked them why they were looking for the Living — Jesus — among the dead: “Why seek ye the living among the dead?” (Luke 24:5)

Beloved, we serve a risen Savior — alive and powerful — yet we often live as if we have no hope.

Instead of seeking His power on our behalf and utilizing it ourselves in His Name — we seek our hope and our answers among those with no true power.

We place our hope and trust in man instead of in the LORD. Much like the woman Jesus met at the well — when we could have Living Water — we seek mere water.

Hear Jesus’ Words to this woman: “Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of Him, and He would have given thee living water.” (John 4:10-15)

If God had not raised Jesus — our faith and hope would be vain — but He did! We have hope not only for the things we face in this life — but a future hope awaiting us in eternity.

“And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins... But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.” (1 Corinthians 15:17-22)

David knew that he served a living LORD. He spoke of Jesus — our Rock of salvation — before God sent Him to die for our sins.

“And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.” (1 Corinthians 10:4)

Here are the words David wrote: “The LORD liveth; and blessed be my Rock; and exalted be the God of the Rock of my salvation.” (2 Samuel 22:47)

“The LORD liveth; and blessed be my Rock; and let the God of my salvation be exalted.” (Psalm 18:46)

The LORD through Jeremiah cried out then — and His words cry out even today — for the people of God to stop seeking life from among those who are dead.

“My people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.” (Jeremiah 2:13)

“O LORD, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed... because they have forsaken the LORD, the fountain of living waters.” (Jeremiah 17:13)

Beloved — God isn’t dead! He is on His throne orchestrating all His purposes — and He has given those who believe in Him and call upon His Son Jesus Christ for salvation the same power of the Holy Spirit that raised Jesus’ dead body from the grave. He lives in us.

“But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.” (Romans 8:11)

What are you facing today? Do you feel hopeless or helpless? Do you feel like you don’t have the strength or even the desire to continue? Are you like Jesus’ disciples — seeking the Living among the dead?

Look up! Jesus is with you — His power is in you. You have hope because He lives!

Alfred Ackley wrote the hymn “He Lives” that was first published in 1933.

“A young Jewish man had asked Ackley this question, “Why should I worship a dead Jew?” Ackley replied — “But Jesus lives! He lives! I tell you. He is not dead, but lives here and now. Jesus Christ is more alive today than ever before.”

“Ackley’s forthright, emphatic answer, together with his subsequent triumphant effort to win the man for Christ, flowered forth into song and crystallized into a convincing sermon on ‘He lives’. The scriptural evidence, his own heart, and the testimony of history matched the glorious experience of an innumerable cloud of witnesses that — “He lives” — so he sat down at the piano and voiced that conclusion in song.”

Let’s close with the lyrics to this hymn.

‘I serve a risen Savior — He’s in the world today. I know that He is living, whatever men may say. I see His hand of mercy; I hear His voice of cheer; and just the time I need Him — He’s always near.’

‘In all the world around me — I see His loving care, and though my heart grows weary, I never will despair; I know that He is leading, through all the stormy blast; the day of His appearing will come at last.’

‘Rejoice, rejoice, O Christian, lift up your voice and sing — Eternal hallelujahs to Jesus Christ the King! The Hope of all who seek Him — the Help of all who find, None other is so loving, so good and kind.’

Chorus:

‘He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today! He walks with me and talks with me along life’s narrow way. He lives, He lives, salvation to impart! You ask me how I know He lives? He lives within my heart.’

#EyesOnHim

The Word tells us this, “For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew Himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him.” (2 Chronicles 16:9)

The LORD is watching to see whose heart is perfect, or loyal to Him.

Who are you loyal to beloved — a person — or the LORD?

In Ezekiel we’re told that the LORD takes special note of those who cry out to Him and mourn for the sin they see around them. He places a mark upon them to spare them from His judgement.

“And the LORD said unto him, Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midst thereof.” (Ezekiel 9:4)

Ezekiel’s account continues as he tells us what will happen to those unmarked by the LORD.

“Slay utterly old and young, both maids, and little children, and women: but come not near any man upon whom is the mark; and begin at My sanctuary.⁠” (Ezekiel 9:6)

Pay special attention here. He says — “Begin at My sanctuary.” There are many who may outwardly appear to be His people — but they are operating under false pretenses. They are only giving lip service to the LORD.

“This people draweth nigh unto Me with their mouth, and honoureth Me with their lips; but their heart is far from Me. But in vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” (Matthew 15:8-9)

Beloved, you can’t hide your heart from the LORD. His eyes penetrate deep into your soul. Nothing is hidden from Him.

We see this when the LORD takes Ezekiel by the hair of his head and shows Him all the abominations being done in the temple of God — even those done in “the chambers of their imagery” — those hidden places for idols.

“Then said He unto me, Son of man, hast thou seen what the ancients of the house of Israel do in the dark, every man in the chambers of his imagery? for they say, The LORD seeth us not; the LORD hath forsaken the earth.” (Ezekiel 8:12)

We should often ask the LORD to show us if we have set up secret places of idolatry in our hearts. David prayed this “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24)

He’s watching and He’s listening too. One of my favorite passages is from Malachi. He tells us that the LORD takes special note, as His eyes search the earth, of those who speak about Him.

“Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon His Name. And they shall be Mine, saith the LORD of Hosts, in that day when I make up My jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.” (Malachi 3:16-17)

There’s a beautiful hymn written in 1905 about the LORD’s watchful care over His creation — especially those whose hearts are completely His — it’s titled — ‘His eye is on the sparrow’. These are the lyrics to the chorus — “His eye is on the sparrow, And I know He watches me.”

“Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.” (Matthew 10:29-31)

Knowing that He’s watching can be frightening or comforting. May we be found with pure hearts and motives when He searches the earth.

Father, thank You that Your eyes are always upon us. Search our hearts today. Show us any hidden idols or areas where our loyalty is divided. Give us hearts that are perfect toward You — loyal, pure, and fully surrendered. Help us to live with the awareness that You see everything, and that one day we will stand before You. May we be found faithful, walking in truth and obedience all the days of our lives. In Jesus’ precious Name, Amen.

#EyesOnHim

Paul was so concerned about this he wrote one of many letters to the churches.

“For I am jealous over you with Godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one Husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.” (2 Corinthians 11:2-4)

As we look around us today we see all sorts of perversions of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Word tells us Jesus is God — a part of the triune Godhead, that is the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit — but many who say they are “Christians” have decided that Jesus is something different than this. They may preach about Jesus — but He’s not the Jesus the Word tells us about. He’s what Paul calls — “another Jesus.”

Others have added “another gospel” or “testament” as some cults (yes, cults) call it. Their books have titles like this one — “Another Testament of Jesus Christ.” They don’t even hide it. They have been “beguiled” by the “subtilty of the serpent” — Satan.

In his first letter to Timothy, Paul addressed this. The church was paying attention to all sorts of perversions of and distractions from the “simplicity of the gospel”. He tells Timothy this — “That thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine, Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do…From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling…and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine; According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.” (1 Timothy 1:3-4,6, 10-11)

We must look to the Word of God — not any other source to know what is the — “simplicity” of the gospel.

The gospel of Jesus Christ, simply put, is this — Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and was raised on the third day for our salvation.

“Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the scriptures:” (1 Corinthians 15:1-4)

There is no salvation or righteousness from any other than Jesus — there is no other Name given by which mankind can be saved. This is true for all people. We are all sinners in need of a Savior.

“Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time His righteousness: that He might be just, and the Justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.” (Romans 3:22-26)

There aren’t many paths to heaven as some assert. There is only One Way — through faith in Jesus Christ. To tell people there are many ways and their way is fine — is both unbiblical, disobedient, uncaring, and unloving. We would be essentially damning that person to eternal separation from God in hell — and we would be held accountable for our negligence to preach the “simplicity of the gospel” — salvation through Jesus Christ alone.

“Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, Whom ye crucified, Whom God raised from the dead, even by Him doth this man stand here before you whole. This is the Stone which was set at nought of you builders, Which is become the Head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other Name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” (Acts 4:10-12)

We deserved death — but because of the Gift of God in giving His Son, Jesus Christ, we can have eternal life with Him.

“But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our LORD.” (Romans 6:22-23)

Beloved, child of God, before Jesus left this earth He reaffirmed our mission here — “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” (Mark 16:15-16)

The serpent is still trying to get people to doubt God’s Word. We can trust the Word of God is complete — Nothing has been hidden from us — don’t believe that lie.

And further — we are not to take away from or add to the Word of God. Take heed to the Warning of Jesus —“And if any man shall take away from the Words of the Book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the Book of Life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this Book.” (Revelation 22:19)

“Ye shall not add unto the Word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the

Commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.” (Deuteronomy 4:2)

Jesus and the disciples consistently pointed to Scripture as the final authority. The Words — “It is written” appear 63 times in the New Testament alone, and 80 in both the Old and New Testaments.

Paul emphasized this to Timothy when he wrote these Words to him — “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” (2 Timothy 3:13-17)

Let’s examine ourselves today and ask — “Have I strayed from the simplicity of the gospel?”

#EyesOnHim

Father, We lift up this message. Thank You for warning us and lovingly calling us back to the pure, simple truth of salvation through Jesus Christ alone.

LORD, we ask that You would breathe Your Holy Spirit upon every word. Let it cut through the confusion, the additions, the “other Jesuses,” and the “other gospels” that are so common today.

Open eyes that have been blinded by deception and subtlety of the serpent. Convict hearts that have strayed from the simplicity that is in Christ.

Remind Your people that there is only one way of salvation — through faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ: His death, burial, and resurrection.

Let this message expose any teaching that adds to or takes away from Your Word. Stir believers to return to the authority of Scripture and to the pure gospel.

May this message bring clarity, conviction, repentance, and a return to first love for many who read it. May it glorify Your Name and draw souls to the true Jesus of the Bible. In the mighty, holy, and precious Name of Jesus Christ our LORD,Amen and Amen.

Over ten years ago, in prayer, I believed the Lord showed me Donald Trump would win and expose evil. I poured countless hours into promoting him — often neglecting my family — convinced this was God’s plan. I saw Q drops mixed with Bible verses as confirmation. The “hidden knowledge,” the “plan,” the awakened versus the sleeping… it felt like spiritual warfare unfolding in real time.

What troubles me deeply now is that President Trump has not only validated Q, but his validation has escalated. His official White House and personal accounts have posted things such as “Trust the plan,” “Sit back and relax it will all work out in the end,” and “Patriots in control” — phrases long associated with the Q movement. Many see these as “Q proofs.”

I now see the Q movement as a sophisticated distraction and psychological operation that pulled many Christians’ eyes away from Scripture and onto a man and “the plan.”

This movement carries dangerous echoes of ancient Gnosticism — a heresy the early Church strongly rejected. Gnostics taught that salvation came through secret knowledge (gnosis) available only to the enlightened few. Q-style thinking offers a modern version: the elites hide the real truth; only the “researching” awakened can see behind the matrix; cryptic drops and insider “intel” will save the day. This breeds pride, division, and misplaced trust.

Scripture warns us strongly against this:

• Colossians 2:8 – “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.”

• 1 Corinthians 8:1 – “Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.”

• Jesus warned of false signs, itching ears for new revelations, and deceivers (Matthew 24:23-26; 2 Timothy 4:3-4).

Our hope is not in any “plan,” political figure, or mass awakening — but in the finished work of Jesus Christ, openly proclaimed in Scripture. No man saves nations. God alone raises up and removes leaders (Daniel 2:21).

Real evil exists and must be opposed, but when a movement shifts our focus from the Bible to anonymous sources, produces failed expectations, distracts from the Great Commission, or causes us to compromise on clear Biblical issues like the sanctity of life and God’s design for marriage, it becomes a dangerous snare.

I lived it. It cost me time, relationships, and focus I can never get back. When I began speaking out, many in my circle turned on me. But I cannot stay silent.

The true awakening we desperately need is repentance, fixing our eyes fully on Christ, and standing uncompromisingly on His Word. “If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (Psalm 11:3).

Let’s test everything against Scripture (1 Thessalonians 5:21) and love one another in truth.

#EyesOnHim

It wasn’t enough for him that he dwelt in heaven with the LORD God as the anointed cherub.

We read an allegory in Ezekiel of Lucifer’s fall in a story about the literal king of Tyre, who fell as well.

“Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty…Thou art the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee so: thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire. Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee…Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness…” (Ezekiel 28:12;14-15,17)

Pride and envy began to fill his heart — he wanted to be worshipped like God was. So, he led a rebellion against God. He convinced one third of the angels in heaven to follow him.

“How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.” (Isaiah 14:12-15)

“And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth…And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.” (Revelation 12:4,9)

God created the heavens and the earth and everything we read about in the account in Genesis — the crown of His creation was man.

“…Thou hast crowned him (man) with glory and honour.” (Psalm 8:5)

God created Adam, then from Adam, Eve. They dwelt in perfect harmony with the LORD God, until the serpent — Satan, who had been cast down from heaven and stripped of his title Lucifer because of his rebellion — deceived Eve in the Garden of Eden.

“And the LORD God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.” (Genesis 3:13)

We know that sin entered after this and grew greater and greater. So wicked did mankind become that the LORD God was grieved in His heart and regretted ever creating man.

“And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And it repented the LORD that He had made man on the earth, and it grieved Him at his heart.” (Genesis 6:5-6)

God sent the flood and destroyed everything — only Noah and his family were spared.

But, the sin did not stop — it grew and wickedness was again in the earth. The LORD had promised never to destroy the entire earth again, though He did destroy Sodom and Gomorrah for their sin. He knew after the fall of Adam and Eve — “the imagination of man’s heart is evil from his youth.” (Genesis 8:21)

Because only the sinless will dwell in eternity with God — our only hope was someone who could pay the penalty for our sin.

God sent His Son, Jesus to die for our sins — He sent a Savior!

“That whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved.” (John 3:15-17)

God is merciful — but He won’t hold back His wrath forever. Right now the Holy Spirit is restraining the evil — but there will be a day where the Restrainer will be removed.

“For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only He who now letteth ( restraineth) will let, until He be taken out of the way.” (2 Thessalonians 2:7)

As we look around us we wonder, “how bad will it have to get before the Father sends Jesus?”

Every sort of wickedness fills the earth — the murder of millions of innocent babies through abortion, violence, homosexuality, incest, pedophilia, beastiality, adultery, fornication — and so much more. Such evil and depravity.

Mankind, even those who say they believe in God and are followers of Jesus Christ, have become apathetic and morally ambiguous to what they see around them. They either tolerate sin, remain silent about it, or celebrate it.

Instead of following God’s Word as their authority — they adapt to the societal lie that God doesn’t really condemn the sin. They say, “God is a God of love — He wouldn’t send me to hell for my sin.”

Some followers of Christ even say, “Your sin is all covered in Jesus — go ahead and sin.” If they don’t say this — they live as if it’s true. We are not to continue in sin.

“For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end.” (Hebrews 3:14)

Beloved child of God — nothing is new under the sun — but evil will grow worse and one day the Father will send Jesus to judge the world. This earth will be destroyed this time by fire.

“But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.” (2 Timothy 3:13)

“But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same Word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.” (2 Peter 3:7)

Father, We know that You are merciful and long suffering towards us. We thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus to die for our sins. We see the evil around us grow worse every day. We see the apathy of even those who say they love You. They are busy doing everything but crying out to You for a revival of repentance for themselves and for Your church. Many have become caught up in the things of this world and have cast Your Word aside. We know what Your Word tells us is coming — the wrath of God against all unrighteousness”, yet we sit mostly silent. Wake up Your church, LORD — may we shake off the things that have distracted and entangled us and rise as Your lights in this world covered by gross darkness. May our lives be pleasing to You — may they draw others to You. In Jesus’ Name.

#EyesOnHim