The first question is ... who set your boundaries? You? Circumstances? "Life"? Did you give this power and authority to someone else to make those determinations for/over you? Why? Did you simply stop because you didn't know? You can know and understand them... you don't need to walk in ignorance or error. Scripture has clearly outlined do's and don't's - given us our 'boundaries'.
I think that part of the issue is how we define our words. For one person, 'boundaries' mean restrictions - something one can't determine and have no control over. To another, it may mean a kind of security - knowing what one can do and what one shouldn't. Do either reflect your attitude on this? More importantly... do you know why? Interestingly enough, there are over 100 verses in scripture that talk about our boundaries. Evidently... this is a very important topic. And when it comes to personal boundaries... critical.
AGW says:
"A personal boundary, as most people use the term, is a defining line
that separates individuals from one another. There are areas in my
life that belong to me, and there are areas in your life that belong
to you. ...
This idea can be applied to all aspects of our lives, not just to physical
space and time. Your body, your thoughts, your relationships, your
beliefs, and so many other things that belong to you should have
personal boundaries set around them. Anything you have authority
over requires an intentional boundary be placed around it. In fact,
the Bible tells us our life will be a mess unless we put up personal
boundaries." (https://applygodsword.com/what-does-the-bible-say-
about-personal-boundaries/)
Some of the verses that speak to boundaries: 1 John 4: 1-3, Ephesians 4:13-14, 1 Timothy 4:16, Galatians 1:6-9. One of the reasons why we have boundaries and why it's up to us to follow them is seen in Proverbs 4:23
"Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your
life."
Guard may be the boundary but it is us who do this and the reason is indicated... and it's not just for some but for all of us. We have the action, the responsibility, the reason. Bottom line is that God's boundaries are there to help us, to guide us... not to limit us. They are there for safety but they are also there to help us understand who we are, what we can do, and how we should go about it. When you think about boundaries, they are the farthest we should go.
When I get into a rather petulant attitude not unlike a child stomping their foot I remember the story of the fall of man. God gave Adam and Eve the Garden of Eden with everything they could ever want and only one 'don't'
"...but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat,
for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.” (Genesis 2:17)
But Adam and Eve did eat. And I believe that we would have too, or at least the majority of us would have. Some of us for spite - not being told what we can and cannot do, and some because there's that wonder if what if we did... what would happen.
Before you point out that if we didn't go beyond boundaries we never would have discovered the cure for polio, or developed the internet, etc. This is NOT the going beyond the boundaries I'm discussing... this is going beyond what we know to create something even better. The thing about boundaries is that I think we know when we've gotten to the boundary and that continuing is not the best decision. I also think that we intuitively know it isn't good for us. But as always... it's always our decision.
Sunday, May 31, 2020
Thursday, May 28, 2020
Shoulda, coulda, oughta
Shoulda, coulda, oughta (s/c/o).. they Are important and that's one of the frustrations about them - we had the opportunity! What did we do? Well the words themselves tell us that we Didn't... but that's about all. What about the importance and value of the shoulda, coulda, oughta's? Are they really 'need to's'? Regardless, there are no do-overs, we can't live yesterday again. In so many ways, we really can't go back. So, how much time do we waste in thinking about what we didn't do?
Surprisingly, sometimes the s/c/o state is something you can 'fix'. Do you want to? Do you need to? Or...to throw in another trite phrase - should you 'let sleeping dogs lie'? If saving face is the sole reason for doing something, then you have no basis for doing anything. Your face really should be the last consideration. What you need to determine is: can/should something be done and are you the one to 'fix it'? Sometimes the hardest yet best action is to allow someone else to make whatever changes need to be made.
Why do we even go to those places of lost and/or wasted opportunities? If they can be a guide for us about how to react to similar situations in the future... then there's value. If all we look at is the 'missed' then we are wasting our energy. Learning and applying are our clues. When we take our misses or mistakes and allow them to guide us in similar situations... then we provide ourselves with understandings, new strategies, new coping - and that's never a waste. But have you ever asked yourself what you gain by only bemoaning the loss?
Personally, I don't tend to spend a great deal of time in the s/c/o mindset - I tend to be more proactive, which can also cause problems. If something's 'wrong' then correction has always been the logical action. Problem is... it really isn't always. However, knowing your own style gives you enough time and information to 'head yourself off at the pass'. Correction may be the next step and you may be the principle actor in it... but maybe not. Shoulda, Coulda, Oughta may be magnified in a too quick respond as easily as a too slow one.
A related area is 'what if's'. I've always loved what if's. If nothing else they are good mental gymnastics. For me, they are a teaching tool. Since I'm also an options planner, this kind of thinking gives me new and creative ways to look at (fill in the blank). And yes, we can overthink. Back to a context. Undoubtedly when we get into this context, we need to bring our motives, purposes and goals along. These will keep us in the right frame of reference... or point out our misplaced motives and goals.
Whether it's the s/c/o or the what if mindset/way of operating, how we utilize these concepts can aid us, or not. What we do with mis-steps and how we subsequently use that understanding makes all the difference.
Surprisingly, sometimes the s/c/o state is something you can 'fix'. Do you want to? Do you need to? Or...to throw in another trite phrase - should you 'let sleeping dogs lie'? If saving face is the sole reason for doing something, then you have no basis for doing anything. Your face really should be the last consideration. What you need to determine is: can/should something be done and are you the one to 'fix it'? Sometimes the hardest yet best action is to allow someone else to make whatever changes need to be made.
Why do we even go to those places of lost and/or wasted opportunities? If they can be a guide for us about how to react to similar situations in the future... then there's value. If all we look at is the 'missed' then we are wasting our energy. Learning and applying are our clues. When we take our misses or mistakes and allow them to guide us in similar situations... then we provide ourselves with understandings, new strategies, new coping - and that's never a waste. But have you ever asked yourself what you gain by only bemoaning the loss?
Personally, I don't tend to spend a great deal of time in the s/c/o mindset - I tend to be more proactive, which can also cause problems. If something's 'wrong' then correction has always been the logical action. Problem is... it really isn't always. However, knowing your own style gives you enough time and information to 'head yourself off at the pass'. Correction may be the next step and you may be the principle actor in it... but maybe not. Shoulda, Coulda, Oughta may be magnified in a too quick respond as easily as a too slow one.
A related area is 'what if's'. I've always loved what if's. If nothing else they are good mental gymnastics. For me, they are a teaching tool. Since I'm also an options planner, this kind of thinking gives me new and creative ways to look at (fill in the blank). And yes, we can overthink. Back to a context. Undoubtedly when we get into this context, we need to bring our motives, purposes and goals along. These will keep us in the right frame of reference... or point out our misplaced motives and goals.
Whether it's the s/c/o or the what if mindset/way of operating, how we utilize these concepts can aid us, or not. What we do with mis-steps and how we subsequently use that understanding makes all the difference.
Monday, May 25, 2020
Escape... Rescue... Refuge
Is this what you are seeking? Hunting for an escape from what is... or a rescue... or some refuge, even temporary? I would contend that this is the state all of us find ourselves in from time to time. So what answer for ourselves have we discovered? Or... do we try and stiff upper lip it and suffer through it until it's over? Question - what did you learn from this approach? Or maybe you've discovered another method to find your escape?
I'll never forget my initial reaction to a comment Paul made:
"Because of the surpassing greatness and extraordinary nature of
the revelations [which I received from God], for this reason, to
keep me from thinking of myself as important, a thorn in the flesh
was given to me, a messenger of Satan, to torment and harass
me—to keep me from exalting myself! Concerning this I pleaded
with the Lord three times that it might leave me; but He has said
to me, “My grace is sufficient for you [My lovingkindness and My
mercy are more than enough—always available—regardless of the
situation]; for [My] power is being perfected [and is completed and
shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness.” Therefore, I will
all the more gladly boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of
Christ [may completely enfold me and] may dwell in me."
(2 Corinthians 12: 7-9, AMP)
WHAT...!!! My eyes landed on a number of points: thorn in the flesh given, His grace is sufficient, perfected/shows most effectively in weakness. To be completely honest, I still wrestle with these verses. I've never believed that the Father put sickness on us to 'teach us' something. Totally incomprehensible! Granted I do believe that when we are sick that when we turn to the Lord He can teach us in the sickness... but to believe He put it on us in the first place really goes against everything I believe. Could I be wrong? Possibly... don't think so.
Thorn in the flesh... hmmm. If you read the verses you'll see that the Father never said that He wouldn't remove the thorn, only that His grace was sufficient. Different perspective. Different focus. He has said (1 Corinthians 10:13) that He will make a way through temptations for us. However, I read that to mean that we need to follow that way. On another note... do you feel you have a thorn in your flesh? Is there anything in your life related to this concept that provides you with a check?
Yet... I know we all need escape/rescue/refuge at times. Do we recognize when that rescue is occurring? Back to the initial context - are you seeking an escape... rescue... refuge? Do you need 'sanctuary'? Why? Or is the why irrelevant, the reality is that for some reason or another, you need to escape? And what are you going to do during that period of escape? I never said that your request was unimportant. I merely am trying to help you assess, as correctly and completely as possible, your need? want? And, what you will accomplish during that time because I really don't believe any rescue is 'ongoing'.
If you take nothing else away from this discussion, do realize Paul's ultimate response.
"... 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in
weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my
weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me "
Bottom line is that it's OUR attitude that makes the difference. The Lord is always with us, He will never leave us, He wants only the best for us. We need to believe in and trust this. (And... when we have those times of escape, that we effectively utilize that time.) You might also look to the reason for the thorn…. Paul had assessed the purpose.
I'll never forget my initial reaction to a comment Paul made:
"Because of the surpassing greatness and extraordinary nature of
the revelations [which I received from God], for this reason, to
keep me from thinking of myself as important, a thorn in the flesh
was given to me, a messenger of Satan, to torment and harass
me—to keep me from exalting myself! Concerning this I pleaded
with the Lord three times that it might leave me; but He has said
to me, “My grace is sufficient for you [My lovingkindness and My
mercy are more than enough—always available—regardless of the
situation]; for [My] power is being perfected [and is completed and
shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness.” Therefore, I will
all the more gladly boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of
Christ [may completely enfold me and] may dwell in me."
(2 Corinthians 12: 7-9, AMP)
WHAT...!!! My eyes landed on a number of points: thorn in the flesh given, His grace is sufficient, perfected/shows most effectively in weakness. To be completely honest, I still wrestle with these verses. I've never believed that the Father put sickness on us to 'teach us' something. Totally incomprehensible! Granted I do believe that when we are sick that when we turn to the Lord He can teach us in the sickness... but to believe He put it on us in the first place really goes against everything I believe. Could I be wrong? Possibly... don't think so.
Thorn in the flesh... hmmm. If you read the verses you'll see that the Father never said that He wouldn't remove the thorn, only that His grace was sufficient. Different perspective. Different focus. He has said (1 Corinthians 10:13) that He will make a way through temptations for us. However, I read that to mean that we need to follow that way. On another note... do you feel you have a thorn in your flesh? Is there anything in your life related to this concept that provides you with a check?
Yet... I know we all need escape/rescue/refuge at times. Do we recognize when that rescue is occurring? Back to the initial context - are you seeking an escape... rescue... refuge? Do you need 'sanctuary'? Why? Or is the why irrelevant, the reality is that for some reason or another, you need to escape? And what are you going to do during that period of escape? I never said that your request was unimportant. I merely am trying to help you assess, as correctly and completely as possible, your need? want? And, what you will accomplish during that time because I really don't believe any rescue is 'ongoing'.
If you take nothing else away from this discussion, do realize Paul's ultimate response.
"... 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in
weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my
weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me "
Bottom line is that it's OUR attitude that makes the difference. The Lord is always with us, He will never leave us, He wants only the best for us. We need to believe in and trust this. (And... when we have those times of escape, that we effectively utilize that time.) You might also look to the reason for the thorn…. Paul had assessed the purpose.
Friday, May 22, 2020
Finding 'Good'
What is ‘good’? Do you have a definition or is it 'intuitive'? How does 'good' feel? Does it inspire you? Is it only a feeling? Do you search for good? Or better? Or best? Do you try to be good? Scripture tells us that there is no one who is good, except the Father.
"There is none righteous [none that meets God’s standard], not even
one. There is none who understands, there is none who seeks for God.
All have turned aside, together they have become useless; there is
none who does good, no, not one.” (Romans 3:10-12, AMP)
Does this discourage or inspire you to try and be good? Not a defiance to ‘prove’ nor an indifference. However, this scripture provides a context for 'good' - righteous. And, it gives us clues as to what we need to do: seek God, understand. But we should remember that it is the Father who has made a way, who makes us righteous (2 Corinthians 5: 17-21). When we make Jesus our Lord, we become a new creation. AND a new creation can't respond, think, say, do with the old. We do the exchange in the sense that we must accept the new and eliminate our old.
While we are talking about 'good' - in what context? Good intentions, Good life, Good fruit, Good enough, etc. There are many layers and aspects of good. Is doing our own personal best sufficient? Should be. IF we are doing our best and if we still maintain an attitude of growing and applying what we learn. There are a lot of feelings and thoughts involved in our quest to find and be 'good'.
Or, in your world, is this a totally irrelevant discussion. It shouldn't be. Without definitions, operationalized, how do we know and assess what we do and how we go about it? Or is your plan to go mindlessly through this life? Harsh? Yes. Meant to be. Too much time is wasted on not taking the time to determine, assess, discover who we are, regardless of whether or not 'good' is part of our intentions and actions.
'Good' may not be attainable in the spiritual realm in this life... however, I believe it should be our goal, our intention. According to Easton's Bible Dictionary:
"Goodness in man is not a mere passive quality, but the deliberate
preference of right to wrong, the firm and persistent resistance of
all moral evil, and the choosing and following of all moral good."
Rather good foundation... don't you think?
"There is none righteous [none that meets God’s standard], not even
one. There is none who understands, there is none who seeks for God.
All have turned aside, together they have become useless; there is
none who does good, no, not one.” (Romans 3:10-12, AMP)
Does this discourage or inspire you to try and be good? Not a defiance to ‘prove’ nor an indifference. However, this scripture provides a context for 'good' - righteous. And, it gives us clues as to what we need to do: seek God, understand. But we should remember that it is the Father who has made a way, who makes us righteous (2 Corinthians 5: 17-21). When we make Jesus our Lord, we become a new creation. AND a new creation can't respond, think, say, do with the old. We do the exchange in the sense that we must accept the new and eliminate our old.
While we are talking about 'good' - in what context? Good intentions, Good life, Good fruit, Good enough, etc. There are many layers and aspects of good. Is doing our own personal best sufficient? Should be. IF we are doing our best and if we still maintain an attitude of growing and applying what we learn. There are a lot of feelings and thoughts involved in our quest to find and be 'good'.
Or, in your world, is this a totally irrelevant discussion. It shouldn't be. Without definitions, operationalized, how do we know and assess what we do and how we go about it? Or is your plan to go mindlessly through this life? Harsh? Yes. Meant to be. Too much time is wasted on not taking the time to determine, assess, discover who we are, regardless of whether or not 'good' is part of our intentions and actions.
'Good' may not be attainable in the spiritual realm in this life... however, I believe it should be our goal, our intention. According to Easton's Bible Dictionary:
"Goodness in man is not a mere passive quality, but the deliberate
preference of right to wrong, the firm and persistent resistance of
all moral evil, and the choosing and following of all moral good."
Rather good foundation... don't you think?
Tuesday, May 19, 2020
Love
Are you searching for love ... or searching to understand love? Not the same search. Perhaps your search is for your soulmate. Perhaps you're searching to know how to recognize Love. Or maybe how to act lovingly. For many of us, the important aspect that everyone needs is to know is how to accept love without squeezing the life out of it or making demands on it.
I haven't written that often about love, and yet, in many respects, every post, article, writing is infused with love. In so many ways the unspoken motivation in my writing is and has always been love. Part of the reason for my apparent slight is that I believe love is an action word as well as an articulation need. We 'see' love in actions, though admittedly it is a word - and we need to 'hear' love. Love is a feeling... it's a mindset... it's a quest... it's always a verb. But is it also individually defined? Do we assume that our definitions are the same for everyone and never check?
Have you noticed all of the words used to describe and define love? We are on safe ground when we look to scripture for our definitions and applications. Read again the chapter - 1 Corinthians 13, ESV. The descriptive words are:
"...Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not
arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable
or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the
truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things,
endures all things. Love never ends. (v.4-8) So now faith, hope, and
love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love." (v.13)
Notice too that control is not one of those definers. Neither are any of control's expressions - manipulation, passive aggressive behavior, and the over used phrase - 'it's for your own good'.
Paul's description of Love and its manifestations includes what it is not as well as what it is. Love is NOT envious, boastful, arrogant, rude, insisting on it's own way, irritable, resentful, not rejoicing at wrongdoing. So what IS Love? It is patient kind, rejoices with the truth, bears/believes/hopes/endures all things. Love never ends. And is the greatest among faith, hope and love. These descriptions give us the knowledge to identify in others and ourselves the words and acts of Love. Quite honestly, knowing what it isn't is valuable. We need to see and understand and practice what is and is not Love.
But how does this help us? Perhaps it helps to identify love, but how does it help us to BE loving? One way is by checking our own motivations. Are we acting in the best interest of someone else... or our own? And no, these are not necessarily mutually exclusive, but what's primary? (Do not use the old... 'what's good for me is good for you' - not necessarily.)
Actually, I think we do know a great deal about love, primarily intuitive, and when it isn't love. Our experiences are overflowing with this information. Do we use it? Fortunately scripture gives us many examples of love in action. And, it is the message that Jesus brought.
"But love covers and overwhelms all transgressions [forgiving and
overlooking another’s faults]." (Proverbs 10:12, AMP)
"Above all, have [a]fervent and unfailing love for one another, because
love covers a multitude of sins [it overlooks unkindness and unselfishly
seeks the best for others]." (1 Peter 4:8)
"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? ... For I am convinced
that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the
present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth,
nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the
love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:35-39)
"As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my
love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as
I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love."
(John 15:9-10)
I could go on because there are over 100 verses that talk about love, that demonstrate what love is, that provide words that touch our hearts. Love is the greatest and most positive force given man to direct their ways.
I haven't written that often about love, and yet, in many respects, every post, article, writing is infused with love. In so many ways the unspoken motivation in my writing is and has always been love. Part of the reason for my apparent slight is that I believe love is an action word as well as an articulation need. We 'see' love in actions, though admittedly it is a word - and we need to 'hear' love. Love is a feeling... it's a mindset... it's a quest... it's always a verb. But is it also individually defined? Do we assume that our definitions are the same for everyone and never check?
Have you noticed all of the words used to describe and define love? We are on safe ground when we look to scripture for our definitions and applications. Read again the chapter - 1 Corinthians 13, ESV. The descriptive words are:
"...Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not
arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable
or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the
truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things,
endures all things. Love never ends. (v.4-8) So now faith, hope, and
love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love." (v.13)
Notice too that control is not one of those definers. Neither are any of control's expressions - manipulation, passive aggressive behavior, and the over used phrase - 'it's for your own good'.
Paul's description of Love and its manifestations includes what it is not as well as what it is. Love is NOT envious, boastful, arrogant, rude, insisting on it's own way, irritable, resentful, not rejoicing at wrongdoing. So what IS Love? It is patient kind, rejoices with the truth, bears/believes/hopes/endures all things. Love never ends. And is the greatest among faith, hope and love. These descriptions give us the knowledge to identify in others and ourselves the words and acts of Love. Quite honestly, knowing what it isn't is valuable. We need to see and understand and practice what is and is not Love.
Actually, I think we do know a great deal about love, primarily intuitive, and when it isn't love. Our experiences are overflowing with this information. Do we use it? Fortunately scripture gives us many examples of love in action. And, it is the message that Jesus brought.
"But love covers and overwhelms all transgressions [forgiving and
overlooking another’s faults]." (Proverbs 10:12, AMP)
"Above all, have [a]fervent and unfailing love for one another, because
love covers a multitude of sins [it overlooks unkindness and unselfishly
seeks the best for others]." (1 Peter 4:8)
"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? ... For I am convinced
that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the
present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth,
nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the
love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:35-39)
"As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my
love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as
I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love."
(John 15:9-10)
I could go on because there are over 100 verses that talk about love, that demonstrate what love is, that provide words that touch our hearts. Love is the greatest and most positive force given man to direct their ways.
Saturday, May 16, 2020
Personal Foundation
Are you searching for your foundation? Are you seeking a standard that is your basis for what you do and say? Something to build on that the storms of life won't erode away? I have a suggestion. Consider Jesus. He won't leave you at the first hint of challenge, obstacle, or attack. And, as you build your relationship with Him, you'll discover so much more... especially about yourself.
What other idea, concept, philosophy, person took and takes your sins and trades that for a life of Fruitfulness and fulfillment? How else will invite you into His family to give you belonging and love? Who else has a good and bright future for you? And so much more - everything to give you an abundant life? And what does He ask of you? To come... just as you are. To accept Him for who He says He is and what He did. To follow Him.
There's a wonderful song by the Gaither's, 'Because He Lives', that can be a daily guide for us.
"God sent His son, they called Him Jesus; He came to love, heal and
forgive; He lived and died to buy my pardon, An empty grave is there
to prove my Savior lives!
How sweet to hold a newborn baby, And feel the pride and joy he
gives; But greater still the calm assurance: This child can face
uncertain days because He Lives!
And then one day, I'll cross the river, I'll fight life's final war with
pain; And then, as death gives way to victory, I'll see the lights of
glory and I'll know He lives!
Chorus
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives, all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living,
Just because He lives!"
These words can be a lifeline against all that seeks to be disruptive in our lives - from the small to the gargantuan.
Take a moment and look at what the words say and mean.
‘He came to love heal, and forgive. He lived and died to buy my
pardon. Calm assurance. I’ll see the lights of glory and I’ll know
He lives.’
What a strong platform to build a foundation upon!
When you make this your foundation... then you have the assurance that the One who does everything for us is there. If these words truly guide us then 'all fear is gone'! 'Because He Lives' - I can face tomorrow. Because I know He holds the future AND life is worth the living just because He Lives.
Your foundation needs to rest upon some basis that stands the test of time. I'm suggesting that there is no other than Jesus to be that. And yes, you do have other pillars that form the structure of your personal foundation. But... they need to be firm and solid and stand on what is the strongest platform. Jesus is truly the only choice. He tells us:
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever."
(Hebrews 13:8)
How can you not be sure of your foundation when you realize the truth of this sentence. Other platforms may seem solid, may seem to be what you can build upon... but they're not. I would argue that every one of the potential substitutes is lacking/missing in some way... the Lord does not.
What other idea, concept, philosophy, person took and takes your sins and trades that for a life of Fruitfulness and fulfillment? How else will invite you into His family to give you belonging and love? Who else has a good and bright future for you? And so much more - everything to give you an abundant life? And what does He ask of you? To come... just as you are. To accept Him for who He says He is and what He did. To follow Him.
There's a wonderful song by the Gaither's, 'Because He Lives', that can be a daily guide for us.
"God sent His son, they called Him Jesus; He came to love, heal and
forgive; He lived and died to buy my pardon, An empty grave is there
to prove my Savior lives!
How sweet to hold a newborn baby, And feel the pride and joy he
gives; But greater still the calm assurance: This child can face
uncertain days because He Lives!
And then one day, I'll cross the river, I'll fight life's final war with
pain; And then, as death gives way to victory, I'll see the lights of
glory and I'll know He lives!
Chorus
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives, all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living,
Just because He lives!"
These words can be a lifeline against all that seeks to be disruptive in our lives - from the small to the gargantuan.
Take a moment and look at what the words say and mean.
‘He came to love heal, and forgive. He lived and died to buy my
pardon. Calm assurance. I’ll see the lights of glory and I’ll know
He lives.’
What a strong platform to build a foundation upon!
When you make this your foundation... then you have the assurance that the One who does everything for us is there. If these words truly guide us then 'all fear is gone'! 'Because He Lives' - I can face tomorrow. Because I know He holds the future AND life is worth the living just because He Lives.
Your foundation needs to rest upon some basis that stands the test of time. I'm suggesting that there is no other than Jesus to be that. And yes, you do have other pillars that form the structure of your personal foundation. But... they need to be firm and solid and stand on what is the strongest platform. Jesus is truly the only choice. He tells us:
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever."
(Hebrews 13:8)
How can you not be sure of your foundation when you realize the truth of this sentence. Other platforms may seem solid, may seem to be what you can build upon... but they're not. I would argue that every one of the potential substitutes is lacking/missing in some way... the Lord does not.
Wednesday, May 13, 2020
Answered Prayer
Do you believe prayer IS answered? Yours? Was what you hoped for what happened? Was your prayer answered in the way (and time) you thought? Can you easily bring to mind your answered prayers? What did you do when the prayer was answered? Thank and Praise the Lord? Share your experience with others, especially those that you asked to stand in prayer with you?
Though I might get some loud disagreement, I believe a case can be made that how you define prayer and how you approach it says a great deal about who you are and the strength of your Christianity. Is prayer a natural and important part in your day? Do you only truly pray in crisis situations? Do you believe in answered prayer? Do you pray in a way that would provide you with a positive result? What is answered prayer?
Scripture speaks quite specifically regarding prayer, such as:
"You ask [God for something] and do not receive it, because you ask
with wrong motives [out of selfishness or with an unrighteous agenda],
so that [when you get what you want] you may spend it on your
[hedonistic] desires." (James 4:3, AMP)
Before you get agitated or feel accused, look at how you pray and what you pray for/about. Are you telling the Father what He should do? Do you come seeking His answer or look only to yours?
"Therefore, confess your sins to one another [your false steps, your
offenses], and pray for one another, that you may be healed and
restored. The heartfelt and persistent prayer of a righteous man
(believer) can accomplish much [when put into action and made
effective by God—it is dynamic and can have tremendous power]."
(James 5:16, AMP)
In this scripture, James is telling us, basically, that we need to come to the Lord with clean hands. Essentially this is the same 'state' that we find when we prepare for communion. 1 Corinthians 11:27-29, AMP gives us our pattern:
"So then whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in a
way that is unworthy [of Him] will be guilty of [profaning and
sinning against] the body and blood of the Lord. But a person must
[prayerfully] examine himself [and his relationship to Christ], and
only when he has done so should he eat of the bread and drink of
the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks [without solemn reverence
and heartfelt gratitude for the sacrifice of Christ], eats and drinks a
judgment on himself if he does not recognize the body [of Christ]."
Again, granted this is the attitude when we are receiving communion, but isn't this also a foundation about how we should view and come to prayer? If you remember how Jesus approached prayer, then you get a model of what we should do. His behavior says a great deal about how He valued the prayer time. And... He ended it with, "Not My will, but Yours be done." (Luke 22:42). When you bring your requests, your intercessions - do you end with this period - 'Your will'?
There are great promises about answered prayer:
"If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you
wish, and it will be done for you." (John 15:7)
"Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you
have received it, and it will be yours" (Mark 11:24)
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer
and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
(Philippians 4;6)
There are more scriptures that talk about prayer. I think the reason is that this is our primary way of communication with the Father. I believe He wants the very best for us and acts on that basis. When we align our thinking and acting according to His word, then we are able to ask for what truly is needed and important. Jesus tells us to Abide in Him ... we can do nothing to bear fruit apart from this. Our prayers need the same attention.
Though I might get some loud disagreement, I believe a case can be made that how you define prayer and how you approach it says a great deal about who you are and the strength of your Christianity. Is prayer a natural and important part in your day? Do you only truly pray in crisis situations? Do you believe in answered prayer? Do you pray in a way that would provide you with a positive result? What is answered prayer?
Scripture speaks quite specifically regarding prayer, such as:
"You ask [God for something] and do not receive it, because you ask
with wrong motives [out of selfishness or with an unrighteous agenda],
so that [when you get what you want] you may spend it on your
[hedonistic] desires." (James 4:3, AMP)
Before you get agitated or feel accused, look at how you pray and what you pray for/about. Are you telling the Father what He should do? Do you come seeking His answer or look only to yours?
"Therefore, confess your sins to one another [your false steps, your
offenses], and pray for one another, that you may be healed and
restored. The heartfelt and persistent prayer of a righteous man
(believer) can accomplish much [when put into action and made
effective by God—it is dynamic and can have tremendous power]."
(James 5:16, AMP)
In this scripture, James is telling us, basically, that we need to come to the Lord with clean hands. Essentially this is the same 'state' that we find when we prepare for communion. 1 Corinthians 11:27-29, AMP gives us our pattern:
"So then whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in a
way that is unworthy [of Him] will be guilty of [profaning and
sinning against] the body and blood of the Lord. But a person must
[prayerfully] examine himself [and his relationship to Christ], and
only when he has done so should he eat of the bread and drink of
the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks [without solemn reverence
and heartfelt gratitude for the sacrifice of Christ], eats and drinks a
judgment on himself if he does not recognize the body [of Christ]."
Again, granted this is the attitude when we are receiving communion, but isn't this also a foundation about how we should view and come to prayer? If you remember how Jesus approached prayer, then you get a model of what we should do. His behavior says a great deal about how He valued the prayer time. And... He ended it with, "Not My will, but Yours be done." (Luke 22:42). When you bring your requests, your intercessions - do you end with this period - 'Your will'?
There are great promises about answered prayer:
"If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you
wish, and it will be done for you." (John 15:7)
"Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you
have received it, and it will be yours" (Mark 11:24)
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer
and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
(Philippians 4;6)
There are more scriptures that talk about prayer. I think the reason is that this is our primary way of communication with the Father. I believe He wants the very best for us and acts on that basis. When we align our thinking and acting according to His word, then we are able to ask for what truly is needed and important. Jesus tells us to Abide in Him ... we can do nothing to bear fruit apart from this. Our prayers need the same attention.
Sunday, May 10, 2020
Have we learned...
Do we learn our lessons? Do we know HOW we can 'prove' that we have
learned? Two simple and observable ways: 1- do we apply what we learn and 2- do we repeat mistakes/sins? Do we truly 'see' ourselves?
With every learning there is an opportunity to refine ourselves... look us in our eye and say - 'what have you learned and what will you do with the new understanding?' (and if you don't talk to yourself... you should). You do appreciate, don't you, that the telling of the tale of 'learned' is application? Is there a change, an improvement, an application of learning? I think the point is to 'prove' to ourselves what we learn and how we demonstrate it. And no, it doesn't mean you have to have all the understanding of the 'attributes' of the lesson in place before you begin acting on what it is you do know.
I've said it multiples times that knowledge alone is never sufficient (nor can you unknow what you know). In the seeking of wisdom, knowledge begins the journey and understanding is the fullness.
"The beginning of wisdom is: Get [skillful and godly] wisdom [it is
preeminent]! And with all your acquiring, get understanding [actively
seek spiritual discernment, mature comprehension, and logical
interpretation]." (Proverbs 4:7, AMP)
Earlier in Proverbs (3:4-6, AMP) we read:
"So find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man. Trust
in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart, and do not
rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know
and acknowledge and recognize Him, and He will make your paths
straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].
Those few verses give us not only the foundation for know, understand, apply but the how's and the results. But it is our decision to follow these instructions or ignore them. We can't just acknowledge them in our minds as probably the best way to attain wisdom, it has to be a mindset, an action, a way of being in our lives. Also look at what we receive when we do follow this path: favor, high esteem, straight and smooth paths. Those should be highly sought after.
What do we need to do, how do we demonstrate what we learn? By seeking godly wisdom, spiritual discernment, mature comprehension, (the best 3 descriptions of understanding I've ever read) not relying on our own insight/understanding But in ALL our ways know and acknowledge and recognize the Lord. which is who we demonstrate what we learn. I would also argue that what we learn is never one and done, but that it forms our basis for further understanding.
Have we learned? Have we searched for meaning, understanding, and application? And once we have begun this approach and practice of learning... do we continue?
learned? Two simple and observable ways: 1- do we apply what we learn and 2- do we repeat mistakes/sins? Do we truly 'see' ourselves?
With every learning there is an opportunity to refine ourselves... look us in our eye and say - 'what have you learned and what will you do with the new understanding?' (and if you don't talk to yourself... you should). You do appreciate, don't you, that the telling of the tale of 'learned' is application? Is there a change, an improvement, an application of learning? I think the point is to 'prove' to ourselves what we learn and how we demonstrate it. And no, it doesn't mean you have to have all the understanding of the 'attributes' of the lesson in place before you begin acting on what it is you do know.
I've said it multiples times that knowledge alone is never sufficient (nor can you unknow what you know). In the seeking of wisdom, knowledge begins the journey and understanding is the fullness.
"The beginning of wisdom is: Get [skillful and godly] wisdom [it is
preeminent]! And with all your acquiring, get understanding [actively
seek spiritual discernment, mature comprehension, and logical
interpretation]." (Proverbs 4:7, AMP)
Earlier in Proverbs (3:4-6, AMP) we read:
"So find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man. Trust
in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart, and do not
rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know
and acknowledge and recognize Him, and He will make your paths
straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].
Those few verses give us not only the foundation for know, understand, apply but the how's and the results. But it is our decision to follow these instructions or ignore them. We can't just acknowledge them in our minds as probably the best way to attain wisdom, it has to be a mindset, an action, a way of being in our lives. Also look at what we receive when we do follow this path: favor, high esteem, straight and smooth paths. Those should be highly sought after.
What do we need to do, how do we demonstrate what we learn? By seeking godly wisdom, spiritual discernment, mature comprehension, (the best 3 descriptions of understanding I've ever read) not relying on our own insight/understanding But in ALL our ways know and acknowledge and recognize the Lord. which is who we demonstrate what we learn. I would also argue that what we learn is never one and done, but that it forms our basis for further understanding.
Have we learned? Have we searched for meaning, understanding, and application? And once we have begun this approach and practice of learning... do we continue?
Thursday, May 7, 2020
The funny side of life
When was the last time you had a body engaged belly laugh? If you can't remember then it's been way too long! The kind of humor I'm talking about isn't the 'mean, poke fun at, cruel' form (though how that can be termed 'humor' is an oxymoron). The humor I'm indicating is the child-like glee that can so easily get lost. How does humor affect/aid us? Why? What's it's importance? Much. Scripture tells us:
"A happy heart is good medicine and a joyful mind causes healing,
But a broken spirit dries up the bones." (Proverbs 17:22, AMP)
"Then our mouth was filled with laughter, And our tongue with
joyful shouting; then they said among the nations, 'The Lord
has done great things for them.'” (Psalms 126:2, AMP)
Happy heart and joyful mind - two important aids for us... especially during the difficult times. It's not a denial of what's happening. Humor and laughter lead to joyful shouting!
A more secular view is Google's definition:
"Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and
infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease.
Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-
good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and
can even temporarily relieve pain.
So even the carnal gets into the act related to the positive affects from laughter. Again, this is not the prat falls nor laughter at another's expense expression form of humor... this is the joyful laughter.
"Strength and dignity are her clothing and her position is strong and
secure; And she smiles at the future [knowing that she and her family
are prepared]." (Proverbs 31:25, AMP)
"For the despondent, every day brings trouble; for the happy heart,
life is a continual feast." (Proverbs 15:15)
What does the opposite accomplish? Do you feel, act better/more positive when you are sober or sorrowful or unbelieving? Granted there are times to be sober, more serious... but I can't find any scripture that are advocating sorrowful and unbelieving. Yes, those states are recognized but they aren't the path that leads to peace, joy, or fulfillment. Jesus came that we might have life, and life more abundantly! (John 10:10)
Besides... you have to admit there are times that are funny. Funny provokes laughter in a joyous abandonment. Simply an expression of joy.
"A happy heart is good medicine and a joyful mind causes healing,
But a broken spirit dries up the bones." (Proverbs 17:22, AMP)
"Then our mouth was filled with laughter, And our tongue with
joyful shouting; then they said among the nations, 'The Lord
has done great things for them.'” (Psalms 126:2, AMP)
Happy heart and joyful mind - two important aids for us... especially during the difficult times. It's not a denial of what's happening. Humor and laughter lead to joyful shouting!
A more secular view is Google's definition:
"Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and
infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease.
Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-
good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and
can even temporarily relieve pain.
"Strength and dignity are her clothing and her position is strong and
secure; And she smiles at the future [knowing that she and her family
are prepared]." (Proverbs 31:25, AMP)
"For the despondent, every day brings trouble; for the happy heart,
life is a continual feast." (Proverbs 15:15)
What does the opposite accomplish? Do you feel, act better/more positive when you are sober or sorrowful or unbelieving? Granted there are times to be sober, more serious... but I can't find any scripture that are advocating sorrowful and unbelieving. Yes, those states are recognized but they aren't the path that leads to peace, joy, or fulfillment. Jesus came that we might have life, and life more abundantly! (John 10:10)
Besides... you have to admit there are times that are funny. Funny provokes laughter in a joyous abandonment. Simply an expression of joy.
Monday, May 4, 2020
Success, Prosperity, Health and Soul
"Beloved, I pray that in every way you may succeed and prosper and
be in good health [physically], just as [I know] your soul prospers
[spiritually]." (3 John 2)
Gives one pause... for me it's the 'just as' phrase. This seems to imply a relationship. Success, Prosperity, Health - JUST AS. Just as your soul prospers. This seems, to me, that we need to attend to our soul (mind, will, emotions). So if we want to succeed/prosper/health, we need to look at each of those components in our soul and how they relate.
What does the word say about our mind?
"That part of the human being in which thought takes place and
perception and decisions to do good, evil, and the like come to
expression. ... The importance of this dimension of human
existence can be seen especially in its relation to God and His
revelation." (Baker's Evangelical Dictionary)
Does this give you an understanding? What is this telling us? The mind is something that is incredibly difficult to define, though we all believe we know. So what is it that we are supposed to do about/with our mind? Actually, there are a number of verses ...
"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast,
because they trust in You." (Isaiah 26:3)
"Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope
on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at
His coming." (1 Peter 1:13)
"We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up
against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought
to make it obedient to Christ." (2 Corinthians 10:5)
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of the world, but be
transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able
to test and approve what God's will is." (Romans 12:2)
"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble,
whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever
is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about
such things." (Philippians 4:8)
There are other scriptures that tell us to renew our minds and also what/how we need to replace the unhealthy thoughts, referring to Baker:
"Renewal of the Mind. Two passages indicate that the mind must be
renewed in order to conform to or apprehend the will of God. Romans
12:2 is the classic statement: Ephesians 4:23 ("be made new in the
attitude of your minds") is similar in thrust. In each case, the issue
is the discernment of God's will over and against an opposing and
imposing mind-set. Renewal, which is related to conversion and
regeneration by the Holy Spirit ( Romans 8:9-11 ; Colossians 3:10 ),
is the prerequisite for reaching an understanding of God's will."
Now we've touched the surface of the 'mind'... barely. We face similar issues in the defining of 'will'(ex Romans 9:16) and 'emotions' (ex Philippians 4:7). We are a complex creation and should never treat ourselves less than this. Does this mean we can't understand... ourselves? Sometimes, yes. But it also demonstrates how important these are in the development and growth of ... us. Renewal is the path.
Simplistically, we aren't to leave our soul to chance. From this we learn and act. But when we don't succeed, prosper, be healthy - shouldn't we look to what we are and aren't doing about our soul? Absolutely! One aspect we need to seriously consider is what we're feeding our soul. Are we starving it? Or only giving it 'treats' (ear tickling) which only builds fat not muscle?
Success. Prosperity. Health. Just as our Soul prospers.
be in good health [physically], just as [I know] your soul prospers
[spiritually]." (3 John 2)
Gives one pause... for me it's the 'just as' phrase. This seems to imply a relationship. Success, Prosperity, Health - JUST AS. Just as your soul prospers. This seems, to me, that we need to attend to our soul (mind, will, emotions). So if we want to succeed/prosper/health, we need to look at each of those components in our soul and how they relate.
What does the word say about our mind?
"That part of the human being in which thought takes place and
perception and decisions to do good, evil, and the like come to
expression. ... The importance of this dimension of human
existence can be seen especially in its relation to God and His
revelation." (Baker's Evangelical Dictionary)
Does this give you an understanding? What is this telling us? The mind is something that is incredibly difficult to define, though we all believe we know. So what is it that we are supposed to do about/with our mind? Actually, there are a number of verses ...
"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast,
because they trust in You." (Isaiah 26:3)
"Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope
on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at
His coming." (1 Peter 1:13)
"We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up
against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought
to make it obedient to Christ." (2 Corinthians 10:5)
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of the world, but be
transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able
to test and approve what God's will is." (Romans 12:2)
"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble,
whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever
is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about
such things." (Philippians 4:8)
There are other scriptures that tell us to renew our minds and also what/how we need to replace the unhealthy thoughts, referring to Baker:
"Renewal of the Mind. Two passages indicate that the mind must be
renewed in order to conform to or apprehend the will of God. Romans
12:2 is the classic statement: Ephesians 4:23 ("be made new in the
attitude of your minds") is similar in thrust. In each case, the issue
is the discernment of God's will over and against an opposing and
imposing mind-set. Renewal, which is related to conversion and
regeneration by the Holy Spirit ( Romans 8:9-11 ; Colossians 3:10 ),
is the prerequisite for reaching an understanding of God's will."
Now we've touched the surface of the 'mind'... barely. We face similar issues in the defining of 'will'(ex Romans 9:16) and 'emotions' (ex Philippians 4:7). We are a complex creation and should never treat ourselves less than this. Does this mean we can't understand... ourselves? Sometimes, yes. But it also demonstrates how important these are in the development and growth of ... us. Renewal is the path.
Simplistically, we aren't to leave our soul to chance. From this we learn and act. But when we don't succeed, prosper, be healthy - shouldn't we look to what we are and aren't doing about our soul? Absolutely! One aspect we need to seriously consider is what we're feeding our soul. Are we starving it? Or only giving it 'treats' (ear tickling) which only builds fat not muscle?
Success. Prosperity. Health. Just as our Soul prospers.
Friday, May 1, 2020
Destination
Life after death?! Absolutely! And WE can choose our destination!
Do you ever think about what happens after your life here on earth is finished? Do you believe in heaven and hell? More importantly, do you know where you are going? How? Why? Don't want to think about this? Don't believe in either heaven or hell? What is it that you believe happens to you once you die and cease to exist on this plain... that's all there is?
Perhaps fear of death frightens you to the point that you don't or won't consider what happens to you at death? If you haven't made your decision yet, why? What's stopping you? You have 2 choices, and only 2 - life will continue but not like we experience it now. Our choices are to be with the Father in heaven or living in the torments of hell. Because there really is a hell. And we can't arrive as Heaven as destination apart from Jesus.
"Since the children are made of flesh and blood, it’s logical that the
Savior took on flesh and blood in order to rescue them by His death.
By embracing death, taking it into Himself, He destroyed the Devil’s
hold on death and freed all who cower through life, scared to death
of death. It’s obvious, of course, that He didn’t go to all this trouble
for angels. It was for people like us, children of Abraham. That’s why
He had to enter into every detail of human life. Then, when He came
before God as high priest to get rid of the people’s sins, He would
have already experienced it all himself—all the pain, all the testing—
and would be able to help where help was needed." (Hebrews 2:14-18, MSG)
I realize that some people don't believe this or believe that if there really is a God, He would never consign His creation to hell. Scripture refutes those contentions. Matthew 25, AMP
"Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you blessed of My
Father [you favored of God, appointed to eternal salvation], inherit the
kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.(v. 34)
"Then He will say to those on His left, ‘Leave Me, you cursed ones, into
the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels
(demons);" (v. 41)
Not certain how much clearer the reality of heaven and hell can be expressed. They both are. Your decision is where you will spend eternity. Also, no one escapes the pending judgment. there IS a judgment awaiting ALL of us.
"But when the Son of Man comes in His glory and majesty and all the
angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. All the
nations will be gathered before Him [for judgment]; and He will
separate them from one another, as a shepherd separates his sheep
from the goats; and He will put the sheep on His right [the place of
honor], and the goats on His left [the place of rejection]."
(Matthew 25:31-33, AMP)
But there is also hope and confidence when Jesus is your Lord. You know where your eternity will be.
"Therefore there is now no condemnation [no guilty verdict, no
punishment] for those who are in Christ Jesus [who believe in
Him as personal Lord and Savior]. For the law of the Spirit of
life [which is] in Christ Jesus [the law of our new being] has set
you free from the law of sin and of death." (Romans 8:1-2, AMP)
It may seem that this is a gargantuan step but it truly isn't. It really is you who chooses though. In all the 'things' you believe, it is you who does the believing and makes the choice to believe or not. No one can believe for you. Even if you begin your choice of standing with the Lord, even if your cry is "I believe, help my unbelief." (Mark 9:24) you will start your journey with The Answer.
Do you ever think about what happens after your life here on earth is finished? Do you believe in heaven and hell? More importantly, do you know where you are going? How? Why? Don't want to think about this? Don't believe in either heaven or hell? What is it that you believe happens to you once you die and cease to exist on this plain... that's all there is?
Perhaps fear of death frightens you to the point that you don't or won't consider what happens to you at death? If you haven't made your decision yet, why? What's stopping you? You have 2 choices, and only 2 - life will continue but not like we experience it now. Our choices are to be with the Father in heaven or living in the torments of hell. Because there really is a hell. And we can't arrive as Heaven as destination apart from Jesus.
"Since the children are made of flesh and blood, it’s logical that the
Savior took on flesh and blood in order to rescue them by His death.
By embracing death, taking it into Himself, He destroyed the Devil’s
hold on death and freed all who cower through life, scared to death
of death. It’s obvious, of course, that He didn’t go to all this trouble
for angels. It was for people like us, children of Abraham. That’s why
He had to enter into every detail of human life. Then, when He came
before God as high priest to get rid of the people’s sins, He would
have already experienced it all himself—all the pain, all the testing—
and would be able to help where help was needed." (Hebrews 2:14-18, MSG)
"Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you blessed of My
Father [you favored of God, appointed to eternal salvation], inherit the
kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.(v. 34)
"Then He will say to those on His left, ‘Leave Me, you cursed ones, into
the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels
(demons);" (v. 41)
Not certain how much clearer the reality of heaven and hell can be expressed. They both are. Your decision is where you will spend eternity. Also, no one escapes the pending judgment. there IS a judgment awaiting ALL of us.
"But when the Son of Man comes in His glory and majesty and all the
angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. All the
nations will be gathered before Him [for judgment]; and He will
separate them from one another, as a shepherd separates his sheep
from the goats; and He will put the sheep on His right [the place of
honor], and the goats on His left [the place of rejection]."
(Matthew 25:31-33, AMP)
But there is also hope and confidence when Jesus is your Lord. You know where your eternity will be.
"Therefore there is now no condemnation [no guilty verdict, no
punishment] for those who are in Christ Jesus [who believe in
Him as personal Lord and Savior]. For the law of the Spirit of
life [which is] in Christ Jesus [the law of our new being] has set
you free from the law of sin and of death." (Romans 8:1-2, AMP)
It may seem that this is a gargantuan step but it truly isn't. It really is you who chooses though. In all the 'things' you believe, it is you who does the believing and makes the choice to believe or not. No one can believe for you. Even if you begin your choice of standing with the Lord, even if your cry is "I believe, help my unbelief." (Mark 9:24) you will start your journey with The Answer.
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