eternity

When They Say There Is No God

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King Solomon was the wisest man who ever lived. He wrote in the book of Ecclesiastes that God has put eternity in the hearts of mankind. This means that we all know that we will face eternity, whether we like it or not. Whether we admit it or not. We all will face death at some point. And we all will stand before God to be judged. 

We have a yearning for more than this life can give us. If we accomplish everything we set out to achieve, we will still be found wanting more. The more money we make, the more we want. The more we have, the more we want. We’re never satisfied. There is an unending thirst for something other than what we have. And that longing won’t be satisfied this side of heaven.

Some people search their entire life and never find fulfillment. We need direction in our lives, and it can’t be found by something material. We’re longing for something we can’t quite put our finger on. Our lives do have purpose, but it’s only discovered when we find fulfillment in Christ alone. Everything else. Every other accomplishment will leave us still grasping for thin air.

I once worked with a young woman who didn’t believe in an afterlife. Oh. She joked about it, but she did admit that it terrified her husband to think there is nothing for him after his last breath. I guess there must be something to fear if you think this life is all there is. Because if this life is it, then wouldn’t those who don’t believe in more want to live their best life now? After all, for believers, we know we’re just getting started with living and this life isn’t the best one. Our best life is awaiting us after we’ve breathed our last on this earth. I guess perspective is everything.

He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end. Ecclesiastes 3:11

But back to this young man who fears the nothing he believes awaits him. Maybe. Just maybe he knows there is more. And since he isn’t living wholeheartedly for God, he knows what his fate is. And that thought would be terrifying if he knew his eternity might be in hell. So why make life on earth hellish by living with the belief that there is nothing more ahead? Why not search for the truth and know for certain what lies ahead? What can it hurt? I bet he would sleep better at night and breathe a little easier during the day. Knowing your future is with God is a huge weight off a life already weighted down by daily burdens.

I wonder why atheists don’t have any confidence in truth. Have they never studied it? What caused them to turn their back on the One True God? I wonder what idols they unknowingly serve? What hardened their hearts? I wonder what spirits are leading them.

I am persuaded that men think there is no God because they wish there were none. They find it hard to believe in God, and to go on in sin, so they try to get an easy conscience by denying his existence.

Charles Spurgeon

During his period of suffering, Job asked many questions of God. He asked why God would allow so much suffering to come to him. But he never questioned God’s existence. He challenged God to answer his questions. But he never lost his trust in God. He held fast to his faith that God was the Almighty. He admitted that God could give and take away at his pleasure. 

Can papyrus reeds grow tall without a marsh? Can marsh grass flourish without water? While they are still flowering, not ready to be cut, they begin to wither more quickly than grass. The same happens to all who forget God. The hopes of the godless evaporate. Their confidence hangs by a thread. They are leaning on a spider’s web. Job 8:11-14

Picture someone leaning on a spider’s web. They would fall instantly, and the spider’s web would collapse under the weight. Although the web can hold a spider, it wasn’t built for human weight. When we place our trust in nothing, we will fall. We will have nothing to hold onto when life is unstable. One unstable thing does not have the strength to support another unstable thing. It’s not possible. 

I read that Christians do not just believe that God exists, they actually believe in God. There’s a difference in knowing there is a God and actually knowing him. It’s the same as me knowing my next door neighbor exists, but not knowing them personally. I see them most every day, but if I don’t spend time with them I don’t really know them. They’re just next door.

There’s nothing wrong with having questions about your faith. It’s important to know what you believe and why you believe it. Being able to clearly explain your beliefs and defend them is empowering. That knowledge and clarity can give much needed peace knowing your faith is firmly planted in Jesus Christ. 

Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

Business As Usual

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God promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations. From that moment forward, the Israelites had time to prepare for the coming Messiah. Oh. They believed he would arrive shortly, but they didn’t know when or how. And they literally had centuries to prepare for him. They just didn’t know it. And with each passing decade, the anticipation should have been mounting. The clock was ticking down to his arrival. They still believed the Messiah would arrive, but there wasn’t such a rush to prepare for him. After a while, they lost the sense of urgency. They didn’t realize the upheaval his presence would cause for them. They really didn’t know what to expect, so they lived their lives without preparing to make room for him. They lived as if they didn’t believe God’s promise.

When the Messiah actually arrived, most seemed to be caught off guard. He was a baby. And his so-called parents were ordinary people. How could a Messiah come from such a town as Nazareth? And who in Nazareth and the surrounding area would listen to him? Who would respect his message? They wanted a king. They wanted the whole royal setting with pomp and circumstance. And they got nothing like that. In fact. His coming and his life were in total opposition to the royal way of life. He was born in a space set up for barnyard animals. His family had to flee the country under cover of night because of death threats. He was a carpenter. He worked with his hands. He got dirty. He was poor. And he looked so ordinary.

We, too, have received a promise that the Son of God will take all his children home. He will return, and we should be faithfully preparing for that day. We’re waiting for what is known as the rapture. At a time known only to God, everyone who has surrendered their lives to him will be taken to be with their Lord for eternity. And by eternity, I mean forever. Life on this earth as we know it will be over.

For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the believers who have died will rise from their graves. Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. So encourage each other with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18

However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. And since you don’t know when that time will come, be on guard! Stay alert! Mark 13:32-33

But there is a problem. Many will be left behind. Many have not bowed their knee to the Savior of the world. Many are living as if their life is all that matters. They either don’t know, don’t care or don’t understand that their eternity is at stake. And once they’re in eternity, there’s no do over. And if they’re not in heaven, then they’re lost. Forever. Think about it.

We are living as if we have all the time in the world. We are living as if there will always be a tomorrow. We’re living as if there will always be time to make amends. To start doing the right thing. To repent. To become a Christian. But time is short. And the signs are all around us. We just aren’t paying attention. We aren’t looking beyond today, because today seems to be enough. We are too self-sufficient. Too self-reliant. Too selfish to think beyond our wants. We aren’t looking for a Savior. And because of that, many will be left behind to face the growing Satanic assault.

When the rapture happens, many will be caught unaware. People will be surprised and alarmed. Many will realize that they’ve bought into a lie that this day would never happen, and now there will be a price to pay. They will then know that they have squandered so much time. So much wasted time has been spent satisfying themselves rather than obeying God. And their life is about to get much more worse than they could ever imagine.

When God told Noah to build an ark because a flood was coming, Noah got to work immediately. He had no idea when the rains would start. He just knew they would. Others laughed at him. They thought he was crazy. But when the rains began, you can bet they were pounding on that boat hoping to be rescued. It was too late.

“When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day. In those days, the people enjoyed banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat and the flood came and destroyed them all. “And the world will be as it was in the days of Lot. People went about their daily business—eating and drinking, buying and selling, farming and building— until the morning Lot left Sodom. Then fire and burning sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all. Yes, it will be ‘business as usual’ right up to the day when the Son of Man is revealed. On that day a person out on the deck of a roof must not go down into the house to pack. A person out in the field must not return home. Remember what happened to Lot’s wife! If you cling to your life, you will lose it, and if you let your life go, you will save it. That night two people will be asleep in one bed; one will be taken, the other left. Two women will be grinding flour together at the mill; one will be taken, the other left. ” Luke 17:26-35

No one knows the day and hour that this life changing event will happen. But anyone who believes the Bible is true knows this to be a fact. Only God knows the appointed time for this earth shattering event to take place. Our job is to live prepared at all times. Sure. We can go about our business as usual, but our spiritual business must be kept in order. We must be fully surrendered and obedient to God’s call, because we never know when our name will be called. Be on guard! Stay alert! Be ready!

They Think They’re Winning

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There are those who believe they’re winning. They believe they’re moving the world to globalism. A one world government. They believe they can coerce people of all races and ages to accept anything they say. They believe that raising taxes will bring more stability to a shaky economy. They believe they’re influencing school administrators, counselors and teachers to trick students into accepting questionable ideologies. They believe the parents of those kids don’t need to know about their underhanded manipulation. They believe that women should be able to legally kill their unborn babies on demand. They believe that anyone at any time in their life can change their pronouns and suddenly become the opposite sex. And they think they’re winning.

There are others who believe they’re winning. They believe they’ve seen progress in the fight for their own children’s allegiance. They believe they’re gaining ground in making the family the center of everyday life. They believe they’re making progress in saving the lives of the unborn. They believe they’re making a difference in how schools are teaching their children. They believe they’re starting to reign in activists who would hurt the cause of families and children. They believe their voice is finally being heard as they fight to know what’s being taught in public schools. And they think they’re winning.

They all believe they’re winning the short game. But, in the long term, what’s really going to happen? Are they hiding the truth in plain sight? Shouldn’t we keep our eyes wide open and our ears pealed to hear what’s not being said? Shouldn’t we be diligent when it comes to standing up for our beliefs? Shouldn’t we stay in the fight?

Judgment will come because the ruler of this world has already been judged. John 16:11

There are always two sides to everything. One side wins. And the other loses. That’s how it seems. Even if it isn’t a fight or a game or a sport. Someone always loses. And someone always wins. Some would say “shhh, don’t tell them they’re not winning”. Because at the end of the day, there’s only one race that matters. Both sides will be losers unless each individual in the race submits their life to Jesus Christ. It doesn’t necessarily matter what we’re fighting for or fighting against. If we’re not fighting for our own eternity in heaven, then we’re all losers. But wait. The message of salvation is open to everyone. Why wouldn’t we want to tell those who are on the losing team how to win in the end?

Sure. It’s up to them to change the way they’re living their lives. It’s their call whether they repent of their sins and ask for God’s forgiveness. It’s on them to choose Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. So why would we keep quiet? Why would we who are Christians keep silent when we know the only way to eternal life? Why wouldn’t we share the Good News with others? Do we want them to rot in hell? Absolutely not.

Oh. We tell ourselves that what comes around goes around. Meaning. We all get our just desserts. One day we’re in the game. The next day we’re out. Some days we’re winning. Other days we’ve flat out lost. Life is unfair. But eternity is forever. Let that sink in.

Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. Philippians 2:15

Just the other day, I was driving to a dentist appointment and merged onto the three-lane freeway. It was an easy merge, because no other cars were in my lane. After a few minutes of driving, I looked in my rearview mirror. In one of the lanes, I saw a large box truck driving slowly causing all the cars behind it to slow down. No one was passing the slow truck. They just drove in one long slow line to their destination. I’m sure some of the drivers were very unhappy about driving so slowly, but they made no effort to go around the slow truck. And what they couldn’t or wouldn’t see was that all three lanes in front of the big truck were wide open. This big slow truck was the sole cause of their frustration. Yet they did nothing about it. Who was winning that game?

As I continued to drive, I came upon a big slow utility truck. It dawned on me, as I slowed down, that I could most likely be in the same predicament as all the other vehicles traveling very slowly behind the big box truck. So knowing what I assumed to be true, I moved into the left lane and passed the slow truck. Sure enough. He was the only reason for my slow down. The road ahead was wide open for me to resume speed. If I hadn’t just witnessed the long slow line behind me, I too would have most likely become frustrated by all the slow traffic. It was a simple fix. But I had to see for myself that there was a solution to my predicament. I had to get out of my lane in order to overcome the problem.

Every driver who stays behind the slow truck is the loser. They don’t move out of the slow lane to see that the road ahead is wide open. They have a choice to end their misery, but they do nothing about it. And some people do nothing about their misery, because they don’t know there’s a solution.

It goes without saying that if we listen to only one side of an argument and accept it without question, we only know one way of believing or doing something. But if we turn the page and read the other side of the story, we may find that history paints the picture in a totally different light. There are always two sides to every story. And the side we believe is winning may really be the loser in the long run. But because we’ve always just stayed in the lane where we’re comfortable, we don’t know the other side of the story even exists.

How sad it is to only know some of the information that’s available to us. How sad it is to not test out theories and ideas when we have the means. How sad it is that we don’t engage with those of a different belief to learn what they believe and why. How sad it is that we don’t share our Christian faith, knowing full well that Jesus Christ is the answer to the problems of this world. How sad it is that we don’t do our part to make sure everyone knows they too can be on the winning team.

There’s a far greater battle that’s going on in the spiritual realm. It’s an unseen battle, but it’s very real. And it is the cause of all the battles we’re facing. Satan and his army are fighting the heavenly armies of God Almighty. Oh. Satan may think he’s winning because we can see the headway he’s making in this world. Evil is running rampant. Morals and ethics are at an all-time low, while crime and corruption are at an all-time high. So yes. It appears that Satan is winning.

But he isn’t.

In the long game, Satan and all his followers are the losers. Big time losers. It will be the ultimate failure to be on Satan’s side when eternity calls your name. When your last breath is taken and you’re standing in God’s judgment, you want to be on God’s side of the battle. Because if you are, you’re in eternity with God. If you’re not, you’re in hell for eternity. We all have a choice of where we will spend eternity. Let’s choose wisely while there is still time.

But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. 1 John 1:9

Too Good for This World

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Some people are just too good to be true. I think we all might know one person who could have that said about them. And perhaps we’re just a little green with envy when we speak those words about that certain someone. Perhaps we would love to hear that phrase used to describe ourselves. But has it ever been said that you’re just too good to be true? And are you? Is anyone?

What exactly does that phrase even mean? Exactly what type of person is too good to be true? After all. We’re human. None of us. Not one of us is perfect. So how is it even possible for those five words to describe any of us? It’s not. And we know it. But we like to pretend.

Some people think they’re too good for others. They think they’re a notch above the crowd and can’t be bothered with the little people. They’re better than anyone else they meet. In their minds. And they’re not afraid to let others know it. Oh. They may not say those words. But their actions say it all. We all know at least one.

Some people believe the walk with God will bring health and wealth. If you’re not healthy and wealthy, then your faith isn’t strong enough. That’s what they say. But others know that the walk with God will more than likely lead to hardship and persecution. Which walk sounds easier? Which one sounds a life you would choose?

Everyone who has walked this earth has come face to face with evil. Sure. There are plenty of people who do evil and aren’t bothered by it. But there are some who recognize it and work to avoid it at all costs. Still others work to remove it. At all costs. Even to the cost of their lives or livelihoods. Their faith has sustained them in even the most trying of times. They have battled elements one could only imagine and some elements unimaginable.

How much more do I need to say? It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets. By faith these people overthrew kingdoms, ruled with justice, and received what God had promised them. They shut the mouths of lions, quenched the flames of fire, and escaped death by the edge of the sword. Their weakness was turned to strength. They became strong in battle and put whole armies to flight. Women received their loved ones back again from death. But others were tortured, refusing to turn from God in order to be set free. They placed their hope in a better life after the resurrection. Some were jeered at, and their backs were cut open with whips. Others were chained in prisons. Some died by stoning, some were sawed in half, and others were killed with the sword. Some went about wearing skins of sheep and goats, destitute and oppressed and mistreated. They were too good for this world, wandering over deserts and mountains, hiding in caves and holes in the ground. All these people earned a good reputation because of their faith, yet none of them received all that God had promised. For God had something better in mind for us, so that they would not reach perfection without us.
Hebrews 11:32‭-‬40

Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. Soldiers don’t get tied up in the affairs of civilian life, for then they cannot please the officer who enlisted them. And athletes cannot win the prize unless they follow the rules. And hardworking farmers should be the first to enjoy the fruit of their labor. Think about what I am saying. The Lord will help you understand all these things. 2 Timothy 2:3-7

There are those who didn’t abandon their faith when the world turned against them. When their world was turned upside down. When they faced life threatening circumstances, they stood strong in their faith. In the midst of turmoil and threats, their faith did not waver. They forged ahead with the work laid before them. They did not turn back or recant their faith. They faced the persecution head on and with their heads held high. When they were mistreated, they continued on. They refused to turn from God in order to lessen their persecution. The world was not worthy of them.

Some may think it’s awfully arrogant to say that there are those who are too good for this world.  But when you take a look at what they’ve endured in the name of Jesus Christ, what does this world have to offer them? What peace and contentment can this world give to those who have only eternity in mind? 

God has something far better in mind for those who suffer for him. And there are those in the midst of persecution and suffering who keep their eye on the prize. Regardless of their perspective on life, their faith stands strong.

There are many names mentioned in the Bible who stood strong in the face of persecution. Their faith could move mountains. Today, there are many who are facing insurmountable pressure to cave to the ways of the secular culture. There are those who have not turned their back on their faith even when it has cost them their livelihood. In the midst of the most horrific situations, young girls have stood their ground and not recanted their faith. Even when their future was bleak.

Jack Phillips has withstood multiple attempts to demolish his bakery business because of his stance on biblical issues. Barronelle Stutzman has fought the good fight when others of a different persuasion and belief have come against her business. Lorie Smith is also fighting for her business because of her biblical stand for freedom of speech. As a missionary to Turkey, Andrew Brunson was imprisoned for two years on false charges. Even young Christian girls in Nigeria stood strong in their faith when held captive for three years by a terrorist group.

Christians are under attack today in an attempt to stifle religious freedom and freedom of speech. We must stand together and hold fast to our biblical values. Satan will not stop fighting us. So we must not stop fighting him. Will we be counted among the faithful when our moment comes? Will we be noted on the list of those too good for this world? Oh. We may not feel worthy of heaven. Or of God’s forgiveness and love, but thankfully it’s not our feelings that matter. In the long run, it’s the running of the race that counts. Will we be found faithful?

Strangers In A Foreign Land

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We all come from somewhere. We are natives of one land or another. Our ancestors who came before us came from a distant land. Perhaps some of us are first generation immigrants. But most aren’t. Some can trace their heritage back for many generations. Some have learned interesting facts about some in their genealogy. And some of that information is humorous. Some is sad. But one fact that stands out for all of our ancestors is that they were fighters. They were survivors. They didn’t give up when the going got tough. They kept moving forward.

And here we are today. Whether we like it or not, we’re in this place at this time. And God has a purpose for us. Oh. We may not feel like this is the time for us. We may be wondering, especially with current events, why we were appointed for just this time and place. We must remind ourselves that God knows best. His purpose will be fulfilled. His plan is perfect. Who are we to thwart it? Oh. Some will try. And some will succeed. But God’s ways are higher than our ways. God’s thoughts are higher than our thoughts. Why not trust him?

Now. There were those in biblical times who did trust him. God made promises to these people. But they never saw those promises fulfilled in their lifetime. But they didn’t stop trusting him. They believed every word he spoke, and they stood firm in their trust. Oh. If only we would do the same.

This group of people who never saw God’s promises fulfilled knew something that we need to consider today. Because we’re in the same boat. They knew they were foreigners and nomads on this earth. They knew this earth wasn’t their home. So they lived for their next home. Oh. They had work to do while they were here. Families to raise. Work to do. Debts to pay. And they did all those things. They lived their lives. Just as we are doing today. But their hope was in the future. Their eyes were set on a distant place. These people. Let’s name them. Abel. Enoch. Noah. Abraham. Sarah. They claimed God’s promise as their own. And they held onto that promise.

All these people died still believing what God had promised them. They did not receive what was promised, but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it. They agreed that they were foreigners and nomads here on earth. Obviously people who say such things are looking forward to a country they can call their own. If they had longed for the country they came from, they could have gone back. But they were looking for a better place, a heavenly homeland. That is why God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. Hebrews 11:13-16

Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. Isaiah 55:6

We are called to do the same. This earth isn’t our home. Oh. Sure. We live here. It’s the only home we’ve known. But it’s not unusual to have a restless feeling come over us. Is it? A longing we can’t quite put our finger on. We find ourselves longing for more. Something sure. Something out of reach. Something final. And this isn’t it. We are called to leave this home. To leave our comforts and interests. To move beyond what we have. To live for more than just this moment. Because more awaits us. Something much bigger than this earth can give.

You see. We are foreigners. We are strangers. We don’t belong here. This isn’t the home we were made for. Our home awaits us. And it’s eternal. In ancient days, it was humiliating to be a foreigner in a country. Foreigners were treated with suspicion and contempt. They were outsiders. Outcasts. They had to pay a tax just to remain a member of their community. On the social scale, they were barely above a slave. They were unwanted and mistreated.

There are those of us who are believers in Jesus Christ and have bowed before him and confessed our sins. We are foreigners in this world. We know this world isn’t what we’re made for. But here we are. And we’re waiting and longing for the day that we cross over into eternity. We’re longing to be in heaven with our Creator, Lord and Savior. Because in this world, we will have trouble. And boy. Are we having trouble.

There will be wars and rumors of wars, but don’t panic. There will be famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world. But all this is only the first of the birth pains, with more to come. Matthew 24:6-8

We are not settled. We weren’t meant to be settled on this earth. Our eternal home awaits us. And we must prepare, because the day is coming soon for us to go to that long awaited home. While there is still time to choose, choose you this day whom you will serve. As for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. John 16:33

A Breath Away

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I read the news on social media. She lost her life today. I had worked with her in the past, and she was a kind person. She was soft spoken but firm. I remember the day she interviewed me. She was a tough interviewer. I walked away thinking I had lost the job before I was ever hired. But somehow I got the job. She became a friend. Not a close friend. But a friend.

I remember when I was later laid off from that job. She would text me to see how I was doing. She would send Bible verses to encourage me. She didn’t know how much I appreciated those texts. They were a source of strength during a tough time.

She was a believer. She loved Jesus. She is in heaven now with Him. She has seen Jesus face to face. She will be with him for eternity. She has run the race. She has finished the course. She has heard the words. Well done. Welcome home, my good and faithful servant.

But her family is still on this earth. They are grieving. They are at a huge loss. She was the family’s breadwinner. And she had recently lost her job. Her family will never see her walk through the front door again. She will never again cook dinner for them. She will never be the mother of the groom. She won’t witness her boys’ high school graduations. There is now a huge gap in her family.

Oh. She’s reunited with her mother in heaven. But her husband, sons, father and sister are mourning the fact that she is no longer with them. Their lives will be turned upside down for many months. Even years.

Three weeks ago, my coworker’s children lost their father. Unexpectedly. He was watching tv with his daughters on a Friday night, and he began experiencing erratic breathing. The girls watched as he struggled for each breath. The teenage daughter called for help. But he didn’t survive. Two girls are now without their father. Their single mother is now their sole provider. They are in the midst of grief and uncertainty. They feel like they’re walking on eggshells. They will struggle with grief for many months.

This man will never walk his girls down the aisle on their wedding day. He will never see them mature into women. He will never be able to teach them to drive. He will never again watch tv with them on a Friday night. He will never cheer them on at their softball games. This man is in eternity.

This family doesn’t have the certainty that he is in heaven. He may have never made the decision to follow Jesus as his Lord and Savior. He may have never repented of his sins. His soul may now be in hell for eternity. Let that sink in for a minute.

How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone. James 4:14

At some point in each of our lives, we will lose someone close to us. It may be expected, or it may come out of the blue. Life is uncertain. The number of days we live are determined by our Maker. He alone knows when our last breath will be taken. He knows the circumstances around that last breath. He allocates each day and the happenings from sunrise to sunset. He ordains every day of our life. From the moment of our first breath to the last fighting breath we take. God is in control.

We choose how we live our lives. We choose how we respond to each trial and incident that occurs. We make mistakes. We sometimes choose wisely. We walk into situations where we shouldn’t be involved. And we walk away from situations we should make efforts to heal. We want our way, and we’ll sometimes do anything it takes to get what we want.

But it isn’t ours to decide when our life ends. We didn’t choose the moment our life was conceived. And we should allow God to be the one to choose our end date. After all, he determines the course of our days. Let’s let him choose the length of our life. Long or short. Good or bad. Painful or pain free.

Our days are not our own. Oh. We like to think we’re in control. But God allows us freedom to choose how we live. It doesn’t mean that we make good choices. But we only have one life. Let’s choose to live under God’s leading. He knows best. His ways are perfect. And if we’re living for him, it doesn’t matter the length of our life on this earth. Because the day we breathe our last breath on this earth, as a forgiven child of God, is the day we enter heaven’s gates. It doesn’t get any better than that.

Heaven Stands

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These times are troubling. That’s for sure. Evil is real and is coming out of the woodwork. But really. That’s not new, because times have been evil ever since people started disobeying God.

Some thought 2020 was the worst year of their life. And others thought January 6th was the worst day ever. And things really aren’t looking up.

Just when we think things are worse than they’ve ever been, they start going even further downhill. And yet we wake up still breathing every day. We’re still here. Wondering what’s next. Wondering what else is going to happen. But we go about our days, doing the things we must do. We go to work. We raise children. We eat and sleep. We’re still going about our lives the best we can. But that doesn’t mean that we agree with what is happening in our world. That doesn’t mean we agree with decisions that are being made. But we just do the next thing that we must do.

This country is appalled and trembling at the events that are happening in another country. These events are very troubling, because they signal a shift in the strength of our country. It makes us question the ability of our elected leaders, if we weren’t already. Now our enemies and allies are watching, because they see weakness in our leadership. We see it, too.

The table is being set for evil to run even more rampant in the world. We must be on guard. We must be prepared spiritually to face persecution and very troubling times. We cannot begin to think that things will turn back to the way they used to be. No. Those days are long gone.

Oh. We can have hope. And we should have hope. But we know that with each passing day, we’re one day closer to eternity. We’re one day closer to Jesus coming to take all his followers to heaven. But before that day comes, things will worsen for those on this earth. So we must take heart. And we must prepare to meet Jesus. We must be ready for eternity.

I’ve read about the country now being wrecked by terrorists. Christians are being threatened and watched and killed. Some are in hiding. I’ve read that some Christians in that country know that they will most likely be meeting Jesus face to face within the next two weeks.

Imagine. Imagine that happening in our cities. What would we do? Would our faith stand?

When our world is shaking, heaven stands.

Lord, through all the generations you have been our home! Before the mountains were born, before you gave birth to the earth and the world, from beginning to end, you are God. Psalms 90:1-2

During Job’s difficult days, he didn’t lose faith. He didn’t run from God. He didn’t turn his back on the One who created him. Even during the worst time of his life, he knew that God was in control. He still trusted God. Perhaps Job didn’t know that he was really fighting Satan. Oh. He had questions for God all right.

Then God turned around and said he would answer Job’s questions, but first Job had to answer his questions. And God said he wanted answers. Here were God’s questions to Job.

Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell me, if you know so much. Who determined its dimensions and stretched out the surveying line? What supports its foundations, and who laid its cornerstone as the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy? Who kept the sea inside its boundaries as it burst from the womb, and as I clothed it with clouds and wrapped it in thick darkness? Have you ever commanded the morning to appear and caused the dawn to rise in the east? Have you made daylight spread to the ends of the earth, to bring an end to the night’s wickedness? Have you explored the springs from which the seas come? Have you explored their depths? Do you know where the gates of death are located? Have you seen the gates of utter gloom? Do you realize the extent of the earth? Tell me about it if you know! Where does light come from, and where does darkness go? Can you take each to its home? Do you know how to get there? But of course you know all this! For you were born before it was all created, and you are so very experienced! Have you visited the storehouses of the snow or seen the storehouses of hail? (I have reserved them as weapons for the time of trouble, for the day of battle and war.) Where is the path to the source of light? Where is the home of the east wind? Who created a channel for the torrents of rain? Who laid out the path for the lightning? Who makes the rain fall on barren land, in a desert where no one lives? Who sends rain to satisfy the parched ground and make the tender grass spring up? Does the rain have a father? Who gives birth to the dew? Who is the mother of the ice? Who gives birth to the frost from the heavens? Can you direct the movement of the stars— binding the cluster of the Pleiades or loosening the cords of Orion? Can you direct the constellations through the seasons or guide the Bear with her cubs across the heavens? Do you know the laws of the universe? Can you use them to regulate the earth? Can you shout to the clouds and make it rain? Can you make lightning appear and cause it to strike as you direct? Who gives intuition to the heart and instinct to the mind? Who is wise enough to count all the clouds? Who can tilt the water jars of heaven when the parched ground is dry and the soil has hardened into clods? Can you stalk prey for a lioness and satisfy the young lions’ appetites as they lie in their dens or crouch in the thicket? Who provides food for the ravens when their young cry out to God and wander about in hunger? Job 38:4-41

Oh. God could step in and right every wrong with one swoop of his hand. He could call ten thousand angels to deliver us from evil. He could thwart the plans of those intent on harming the innocent. He could make a way of escape for those trapped behind enemy lines. 

And we don’t know that he hasn’t done some of those things. We can’t see behind the scenes. We don’t know God’s plans. We only see what he allows.

But know this. God is in control. He has not forsaken his people. God’s word tells us that we will have trouble in this world. So we can’t live our lives as if trouble will never touch us. We aren’t exempt. The rain falls on the just and the unjust. We must ask ourselves if we believe that God is with us no matter what.

We cannot control the decisions of others. We can’t trust their decisions. We can’t control life. But God knows every heartbeat and every intention and every decision. He knows the how and why and when of all of life’s circumstances. He allows good and evil. We may be fearful. Times may be uncertain. But our certainty is in God and God alone.

God is in control. We may question the happenings on this earth. We may be bewildered by men’s decisions. We may lose everything. But if we follow God, we have all we need.

There’s only one foundation that is unshakeable, and that is the unchanging Word of God.

John Cooper

Made to Last

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

Mental illness. We either have it or we don’t. Right?

I recently came across a thought that perhaps everyone suffers from some form of mental illness. Then the very next week, I sat with a couple friends. And one of them said that very sentence. Everyone probably suffers from a mental illness.

I don’t know if it’s actually true or not. But I wouldn’t be surprised.

Physical illness. It’s a fact that everyone will suffer from a physical illness during their lifetime. That’s typically what ends most lives. So we must be aware that we most likely will endure pain and suffering, at least for a season.

Spiritual illness. Some don’t ever stop and consider that they must care for their soul. The one part of each person that will live forever. The soul will live for eternity. And each of us has a choice as to where our soul will spend eternity. Heaven or hell.

Let’s think about this.

God created our human bodies. He created us in his image. What does that mean? After all, he doesn’t have a human body. He can’t die. He is perfect. He has always lived and will always live. He created the entire universe and everything and everyone in it.

Being made in God’s image means that we are made to be like him. We were created to be a visible likeness of God. God is invisible, and we’re his visible representative. How well do we represent him?

In whose hand is the life of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind? Job 12:10

These human bodies that God created are finite. They won’t last. Oh. Some bodies have lasted over one hundred years. But that’s not so typical these days. Our bodies will break down. They will fail. Organs and limbs and parts slow down or stop working. Our five senses may become distorted.

These bodies were created to house our true self. Our soul. Our spirit. Our physical bodies are temporary shelters for the part of us that will live for eternity. It’s hard to grasp. We spend so much time maintaining this temporary shelter. We trim and we fatten. We color and we bleach. We strengthen and we weaken. We breathe in and we breathe out. We grow and we shrink. These physical bodies. We think they’re so special. But the special thing really is that they’re not meant to last forever.

Oh. These bodies are a work of art, all right. The Master of the Universe created these mortal bodies to serve him while we are on this earth. He didn’t plan for them to last forever. He has a permant body planned for each of us, if we surrender our lives to him. A new body will be given to us in the far future, when he creates the new heaven and the new earth. So for now, these bodies are the only ones we have. Let’s care for them.

These temporary shelters of our soul will fail. Our hearing will diminish. Our eyesight will dim. Our muscles will atrophy. Our steps will falter. Our minds will fail. But our soul will live on. Just as our physical bodies are mortal, our souls are immortal.

All the while this is happening, we must be strengthening our soul. I have to ask myself. Do I make sure I spend as much time strengthening my soul as I do strengthening my body? I feed this temporary body fruits and veggies, among other things. What do I feed my soul? Is my soul diet filled with junk food? What do I fill my heart and mind with? Do I ever trim the fat from my unhealthy soul? Do I exercise my soul? The part of me that will live forever. How healthy is my soul?

The soul of a human is the only part that is made to last for eternity. We feed our soul by building faith. We must guard our soul from Satan’s advances. He’s out to get our soul. We must fight for the health of our soul by digging deep into God’s Word. We must refuse to give ourselves over to Satan’s control. We must surrender to God and not give Satan a fighting chance. Oh. He’ll fight all right. But eternity is a long time to spend with someone who hates you. Jesus loves us. Spending eternity with him will be heaven on earth.

So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. Romans 10:17

Deathbed Wishes

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

Whether it’s true or not, it has been said that she spoke final wishes. She supposedly didn’t want her boss to name her replacement. Yet the fact is. She had been asked on many occasions in previous years to relinquish her post. She had said no. She wasn’t finished. So she waited. Biding her time. Hoping that luck was on her side. Well. Her luck ran out. And now the last thing she wanted was what she could have had long ago. It doesn’t make sense. But it’s too late, anyway. Her wish will not be granted. Things are out of her control.

It has been said that her progressive opinions have shaped modern American life. Her way of thinking paved the way for many who felt they had been left behind. She was a woman before her time. And her time has come.

Oh. She’ll be remembered. For a time. Her legacy will be noted in all the notable places. Her accomplishments have been documented for all of history. I’m sure there will be class lectures and assignments given in her name. In her honor, other women will tread a path not taken, hoping to make their own mark on history.

But at the end of the day. What does it matter?

Come two hundred years from now, her name will be on a long list of high achievers. Notables who have come and gone. Ones who have made their mark on history. Influencers in their day and age. But where are they now? Oh. They’re occasionally remembered. At times like this. When a new name is added to the list. But then they’re forgotten until the next name is added. And soon. Their name will be so far down the list, that there’s no longer a mention of their accomplishments.

In due season God will judge everyone, both good and bad, for all their deeds. Ecclesiastes 3:17

But just as those who have gone before her, she has now faced her Maker. She has had to give an account of all her days. Her deeds, good and bad, have been displayed in front of her as she faced God. Oh. She believed in God. But did she ever ask him to forgive her sins? Did she humble herself and bow to Him?

The judge has been judged. She has now stood as tall as she could in front of God Almighty. She has received her final judgment. What was her fate? But it isn’t fate. It is a choice she made. She has reached her final destination. There’s no turning back and there’s no going forward. She is in eternity.

I doubt that my name will go down in the history books for great accomplishments. Most people on the earth will live without knowing my name. I’m afraid my successes will never be listed in the annals of history. I will never be applauded by kings and queens and presidents. And I’m ok with that. Who knows how notable my life’s work will really be.

But what I do know is that I will stand before the One who knows my name. I too will give an account of all my thoughts and actions. I will be judged. My eternity will be determined on whether I asked for forgiveness and repented of my sins. I pray that I will not be found wanting. I pray that my life will be lived always in honor of the One who died for every last sin of mine.

It isn’t fate that will take me to my eternal destiny. I too have a choice. I pray that my deathbed wish is to be found as a good and faithful servant. I pray that I will be found worthy of entering heaven’s gates.

All In or Not

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I’ve been thinking lately about people who call themselves Christians. But they don’t read their Bible. They don’t attend church. Do they pray? Do they give a portion of their earnings to God? I’m not judging. I’m wondering.

I want everyone to know Christ in his fullness.  I want everyone to experience heaven.  To truly experience the gift of eternal life to its fullest. God invites us to spend eternity with him.  He wants to forgive our sins.  And it’s essential to have our sins forgiven — in order to see God.  But there is so much more to it than that.  Having our sins forgiven is just scratching the surface.  We need to build a close relationship with God.  We need to walk and talk with him. 

He loves us unconditionally. Nothing we can say or do will stop him from loving us. Can’t we return the favor?

Everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Philippians 3:8

 Suppose I commit a crime against a stranger and ask them to forgive me, but then never talk to them again.  Never learn anything more about them. And I learn that they are planning the party of the century. But it’s by invitation only.  Why would I expect an invitation from them? I’ve done them wrong. Oh. I’ve confessed, but I haven’t made an effort to show them I’ve made a change in my life. I haven’t spoken to them since the day I apologized. I’ve rarely thought of them, mostly in moments of guilt. So, why would they invite me to their party?  Why would I be allowed to go?

Why would I expect to be received as a welcome guest into their home when I haven’t taken the time to get to know them?  When I haven’t walked the path of suffering or gladness with them. When I haven’t made an attempt to study their lifestyle. Why would I think that I’m worthy to be chosen as a guest of honor in their home when I’ve never invited them into my home?

It’s the same idea for going to heaven. It is by invitation. And there’s a price. Everyone is invited. But have you paid the price? Have you given your life as a sacrificial gift to serving God? Or are you a member by name only? Have you done the work? Put in the time? Do you know what makes God tick? Do you know what he loves? What he hates? Can you feel his presence in your life? Have you seen him work in your life? Can you show proof of your allegiance to him?

If not, what are you waiting for?

Paul was one who persecuted Christians until he had a life-changing experience that led him straight to God. He knew that God had called him from a life of hunting Christians to becoming one of them. So he went all in. He gave his relationship with Christ everything he had. He wanted to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. Paul was willing to suffer with Christ, sharing in his death, so that one way or another he would experience the resurrection from the dead.

Can you say that? Are you willing to experience the mighty power of Christ, as well as suffer for him? It’s all or nothing. Walking the road to Calvary cost Jesus his life. If you choose to walk with him, nothing else matters.

Oh. You may not die a literal death for serving Christ. But you may. Paul did. But have you died to the things of life that seem so important, but are worthless in eternity?