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What Can the Church Learn from Rush Limbaugh?

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Last week, America lost an iconic grass-roots, conservative, bold, and brave patriotic voice. As I listened to the glowing tributes for Rush Limbaugh, I learned many things about him I didn’t know, even though he and I were in the same generation. Hubby and I play Christian music in the car, and I need quiet to write, so I don’t listen to talk radio. I wasn’t a Rush follower, but I wish now that I had been.

I didn’t realize that he helped save AM radio with his widely successful talk-radio program that reached 20 million weekday listeners for over thirty years! People listened for three hours a day to Rush in their cars, work place, and homes.

His open and popular discussion of conservatism helped launch the concept of conservative TV news programs, which like Rush provided conservatives a recourse as mainstream media became increasingly liberal and partisan left leaning.

Rush was definitely controversial and sometimes brash and sarcastic and said some things he later needed to apologize for, but haven’t we all. In his later years, especially after his cancer diagnosis, he spoke more openly about his faith, attributed his gifts and talents to a “loan from God,” and thanked God for the blessings in his life: “God is a profound factor; Jesus Christ a profound factor. I have a personal relationship. I’ve not talked about it much publicly because I don’t proselytize these things,” he said.

Best-selling author and Evangelical leader Joel C. Rosenberg worked for Rush at one time and knew him personally. Rosenberg wrote a heartfelt tribute, “Rush Limbaugh gave his life to Jesus Christ a few years ago and it gave him tremendous hope as he faced his toughest fight.”

I haven’t read or listened to any of the vicious liberal attacks on Rush, but you know they’re always going to throw out “racist,” so I appreciated this article, “Bo Snerdley recalls Rush Limbaugh as a ‘second-generation Founding Father’ who ‘returned his talent to God.’” Bo’s real name is James Golden. He was the long-time friend and producer for the Rush Limbaugh Show, and just happens to be black. Bo said on the Hannity show, which I heard, “It burns me to my soul when people sully his reputation with falsehoods, calling him a racist. This man was just an incredible phenomenon — and we love you, Rush.”

“Rush Babies”

Whether or not you agreed with Rush Limbaugh or even liked him, as I listened to the tributes I noticed how Rush spoke to the generations like we strive so hard to do in the church. Limbaugh referred to his younger followers as “Rush Babies.” I was curious how he managed to bridge across the generations.

Several years ago, I noticed my daughter was becoming increasingly conservative in her opinions and conversation and to my surprise, she often quoted Rush Limbaugh. Kim has a Sign Making and Sign Party business and she spends a great deal of time working in her “She Shop.” While cutting wood, painting, and stenciling, she listens to talk radio programs and Rush was a daily favorite, especially this past year.

With Covid and the election, she wanted to keep informed and she found Rush a “very caring voice who loves the country and talked through the questions of the day.” When she listened to Rush on the radio in the car, her sixteen-year-old son asked, “Who is this? I like him and the way he talks.” Her fifteen-year-old daughter listened too.

And that’s how millions of “Rush Babies” came about! Parents played Rush’s radio program in the house or in the car while taking the kids to soccer practice, vacations, running errands, road trips. Thirty-four-year old Benny Johnson said on his NEWSMAX show The Benny Report that he was a Rush Baby as he interviewed his parents, avid Rush fans. Benny concluded, “Rush raised my generation. Maybe you were one he raised too!”

Thirty-seven-year old Rob Schmitt recalled on his NEWSMAX program, “As a kid, I remember riding around in the car listening to Rush with my dad. I had no idea what he was talking about, but I liked his voice and listening to him.”

Schmitt had country music star John Rich (47) as a guest who talked about also riding in the car with his dad and asked what a bumper sticker “Rush is Right” meant. Rich’s dad replied, “A lot of stuff he says is right on the money.”

The headline that really got my attention was from thirty-two year old Kayleigh McEnany: Rush Limbaugh inspired a generation of young conservatives! It was an article by President Trump’s former White House Press Secretary. Here are a few quotes:

“My journey to becoming White House press secretary began in a pickup truck, alongside my Dad, who played Rush Limbaugh religiously. Though I was in elementary school, there was something magnetic, alluring and just so passionate about the conservative radio host who had such conviction and assuredness. 

My rides in my dad’s trucks through Plant City, Fla., later turned into drives in my own car to my all-girls Catholic high school. My friends knew if they chose to ride with me, they would be listening to “Maha Rushie,” as he affectionately dubbed himself. 

Rush was a giant in the conservative movement for a reason: he exhibited unrelenting boldness for the truth. He never backed down. You knew where he stood. And he was never, ever afraid to speak truth to power and challenge the mainstream media. 

Rush had a word for people like me: a “Rush Baby.” 

You see, Rush inspired tens of thousands of young men and women all across the conservative movement. Though Rush has departed this life for the next, he leaves behind a generation that will catapult forward the movement he created.” 

Kayleigh’s dad said Rush was the best friend he never met.

Rush was a mentor to all ages of listeners he might never meet. But some he did meet like Charlie Kirk the founder of Turning Point USA, a nonprofit organization that educates students about the importance of conservative values: fiscal responsibility, free markets, and limited government. Charlie started listening to Rush in high school and was introduced to him several years ago. Rush took the time to befriend and mentor young Charlie (now 28) and spoke several times at Turning Point conferences. Charlie says of Rush, “He was a great mentor focused on building up the next generation of conservatives.”

I began to see a theme: Rush influenced conservative values and ideals to his generation who passed that down to their children who undoubtedly will pass it on to their children, and like my daughter, he was still reaching new audiences! Isn’t that what we want to do in the Church with Christianity?!

What Can the Church Learn from Rush?

1. Like Rush, The Church Should Never Back Down to Cultural Pressure or Ignore the Issues of the Day!

Too many churches today are more concerned with being culturally correct or canceled than with sharing the unabashed Truth of God’s Word to the culture. They’re letting Christ be canceled!

2021 years ago, the culture tried to silence and cancel Jesus, but we know how that turned out. Jesus arose from the grave so that He could live within the heart of every man and woman who believed in Him at any age.

Yes, the culture has been trying to cancel Jesus since before the Cross, but His influence only grows wider and stronger. Jesus passed the torch to His 12 disciples and that torch of truth will continue to pass on until His return as long as believers like you and me continue to carry His torch of light and Truth.

In the Woman to Woman Mentor Handbook, I challenge mentors: What if you mentored 12 women in your lifetime just as Jesus mentored 12 men? Then those 12 women mentor 12 more women. That would be 144 women in mentoring relationships If you take that out five more levels, do you have any idea what the number of women in mentoring relationships would be just from you starting it out? 2,985,984! You have no idea how many other lives will be touched besides those of you and your mentee.

The Church is about saving lives, not saving face.

2. Like Rush, The Church Should not become a Relic but Remain Relevant!

The Bible is timeless and doesn’t change with the changing world; it brings peace, hope, and calm in the midst of the change. Its purpose is to be the consistent guide for people’s lives. Believers can count on it. A pastor’s message should help people respond to the challenges they’re facing by familiarizing them with the Book and the One with all the answers.

Sermons are not motivational speeches based on the latest trend; they’re motivational Truths to live a life ready for the Lord’s return at any moment. Urgent. Bold. Real. Challenging.

Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 1 Thess. 5:1-2

3. The Church Could Learn How and Why Rush Reached the Generations!

Someone is always watching how the church responds to the times. Children are watching their parents. The next generation wants to see us live out what we say we believe without reservation. They don’t want us to waver. They need us to share the Truth with passion, caring, and love for Jesus and love for them.

A 70 year-old man still could capture and influence the audience of younger generations. He created a bond of trust. He was still relevant. He had no biological children, but he passed on a legacy to generations of patriots to pick up the torch and carry on.

I sign every Woman to Woman Training Leader’s Guide, “Teach what you’ve been taught.” So those they teach will go on and teach what you taught them. “Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” Heb. 13:7

Like Rush had “Rush Babies,” we want to have Jesus Babies. Followers of Jesus long after we’re gone who go on to share Jesus with others because we shared Jesus with them.

Our charge is to pass on the Torch of Truth of Jesus Christ to all generations! How focused is your church on reaching all generations?

Parents, teachers, mentors, the church, or anyone with a platform, must boldly, bravely, and with conviction speak up and stand up for living a life pleasing to Jesus and explaining what that means today. Never back down but always defend good vs evil, right vs wrong, moral vs immoral, even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient or unpopular.

Live your faith. Share your faith.

If your listeners choose to ignore you, that’s their fault. If you never tell them, that’s your fault!

15 Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. 16 But do this in a gentle and respectful way.[a] Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. 1 Peter 3:15-16 NLT

Picture used by permission Legal Insurrection at https://legalinsurrection.com/2021/02/branco-cartoon-on-loan-from-god/

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February 22, 2021
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4 Hope-Filled Promises From Jesus, Our First Love

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Yesterday, was Valentine’s Day where you might have celebrated with a special dinner, gifts, cards, flowers, or candy, but most importantly, time spent together with your loved one. Dave and I had a lovely dinner out on Sunday. Our church had a special dinner Saturday night, but we were snowed in and couldn’t attend!

While our focus and attention is rightfully on our earthly love on this annual universally recognized day of love, we know that we don’t just love the object of our affection one day a year, but every day.

We make promises to each other that we have great intentions of fulfilling, but can’t always honor. “I promise I’ll be home by 6:00!” Many unexpected things could prevent you from keeping that promise.

Other promises are a sincere commitment, but aren’t always honored, “I’ll love you for as long as I live!”

Jesus’ promises to us are sincere commitments that He always keeps! We can count on it. We can trust that Jesus will fulfill all His promises in the Bible.

Scripture delineates over 7000 promises of God that provide the answers to all our cries for help for things like our provision, problems, decisions, crises, spiritual questions, and just daily life.

You’ve probably sang worship songs in church with lyrics like “standing on the promises of God.” Have you ever wondered what those promises were and how you could stand firmly on them? Do we just take it for granted that God promises us everything we want or desire . . . or is He more specific about what He will and won’t do for us?

How Do I Know If Jesus Hears My Cry for Help?

Jesus always hears our cries and pleas, but sometimes he adds the qualifier “if” and asks us to do something first.

For example, Jesus promises forgiveness and salvation to everyone who asks and repents, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)

2 Chronicles 7:14 is a verse we’ve used a lot lately as we cry out for God to heal our land. It’s a promise from God, but there’s a big “If,” “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

God is saying that if we, His people—Christians—humbly pray and repent from our sins, then He will forgive us personally and heal our land. God wants us to live righteous and upright lives and He promises to help us be that kind of person . . . that kind of country.

We know it’s fair to say that the whole country isn’t going to repent and God isn’t expecting that, but God does expect His people will repent. That’s daunting. The pressure is on us to comply with His “If.”

How Do I Know If Jesus Will Help Me?

Like parents when their children ask for things, God answers and provides for us what He knows is best at the right time, not just for the moment, but also in the future.

‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’ Jer. 33:3

Rest assured that “my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:19).

Most of us can look back on our lives and know that Jesus was there helping us navigate through struggles, confusion, decision-making, hurts, and likewise, celebrating with us during triumphs, joys, accomplishments, and good times.

It’s easy to forget our victories with Jesus in the past, when we face a new problem. But if we take a moment to pray and ask God to help us remember how His presence intertwined through all our life experiences, we’ll have confidence that He will be there for us now. A testimony to His faithfulness to all generations.

God doesn’t promise a life of ease, but he does promise always to be with us in all circumstances. God’s character is unchanging and He cannot lie. He assures us, “The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm” (Ex. 14:14 NLT). Relax and count on it.

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. (Is. 41:10 NLT)

Here are four hope-filled promises for trials where Jesus can help you make it through.

1. Jesus Help Me Believe in You

It’s God’s desire that all would come to a saving grace by believing in his One and only Son, Jesus Christ: “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)

What an amazing promise! One that every believer cherishes.

You might think that you’ve done too many bad things in your life for God to ever forgive you, but the Apostle Paul had persecuted Christians before he became a believer and an avid evangelist.

“Even though I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people. But God had mercy on me because I did it in ignorance and unbelief. Oh, how generous and gracious our Lord was! He filled me with the faith and love that come from Christ Jesus.” (1 Tim. 13-14 NLT)

Notice that Paul admitted that he didn’t initially understand about the saving grace of Jesus. It wasn’t until he believed and had faith that Jesus was who he said he was that his eyes were open to receive the love and forgiveness of Jesus.

The Bible is the inspired Word of God. So to understand about Jesus we need to read the Bible. When you have questions talk to your pastor or a mentor who can help you understand how to change your life to adapt to the Bible not change the Bible to adapt to your life.

If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. (James 1:5 NLT)

And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. Acts 2:21

Jesus wants to have a relationship with you. It’s always two-way where you can talk to him through prayer and He talks to you through His Word, the Bible.

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! 1 John 3:1

2. Jesus Help Me Overcome My Doubts

Maybe you identify with the father who asked Jesus to help his son tormented by demons, but he added the qualifier, “Have mercy on us and help us, if you can.” (Mark 9:22 NLT)

Jesus replied with a promise, “What do you mean, ‘If I can’?” Jesus asked. “Anything is possible if a person believes.” (Mark 9:23 NLT)

The father instantly cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24 NLT)

It is possible to be a Christian but have moments of questioning when things don’t go the way we think they should or we’re not sure God can, or will, truly help us. In the case of the father, Jesus did give him a visible tangible miracle and healed his son. But what if we don’t get our miracle? How can we come through with our faith still intact?

Hebrews 11:1 reminds us, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

Faith requires believing in things we cannot see because we don’t see the whole picture like our Sovereign God does. There are things we must accept as believers because, “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Rom. 8:28)

For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ. (Heb. 3:14 NLT)

3. Jesus Help Me Overcome My Fear

Fears are a natural part of life. Fear is an honest, real emotion. Our heart races. We tremble. There’s a sinking fluttering sensation in our stomach. We’re terrified. Sometimes even frozen to the spot—we can’t move.

We’ve all experienced fear. Often, it’s a healthy reaction to a dangerous situation. Other times, it’s rooted in past or recent trauma or chronic worry. Letting Jesus help you conquer a fear can offer a world of new opportunities and accomplishments you might have previously avoided.

Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you. (Deut. 31:8 NLT)

In Everyday Brave, I remark that faith is the opposite of fear. So the antidote to fear, worry, and anxiety is to trust God. Don’t doubt Him. Realize and internalize the fact that God’s got this and He is way ahead of us.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Josh. 1:9)

When I’m encountering a particularly difficult time in my life, I recite the 23rd Psalm, especially the promise in verse 4:

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

4. Jesus Help Me When I’m Lonely

When asked to share a time when they were lonely, some responses were grief, living alone, singleness, misunderstood, moving, spiritual emptiness, illness, unemployment, financial loss, and you can probably think of more. Sometimes loneliness is short-lived and other times it is ongoing, even chronic.

We long for someone or something to fill the ache in our heart for companionship or relief from the feeling that no one understands us or has time for us. But God does!

God wants to be our everlasting friend, but this is another one of those “if” promises. “You are my friends if you do what I command” (John 15:14). And what was that command? “This is my command: Love each other” (John 15:17).

Jesus is saying that He wants us to reach out to others. Extend the hand of friendship or make an effort to take action to overcome the source of our loneliness knowing that Jesus will be right by our side giving us encouragement and confidence.

He promises that “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Heb. 13:5). Those were such comforting words to me when I lost my father at an early age, but accepted Jesus as my Heavenly Father. His promise proved true that He was, “A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling” (Ps. 68:5).

God’s promises provide the help we seek and an answer to all our needs and problems. We just need to find them in the Scriptures, pray over them, claim them, and rest in the assurance that God is always faithful, He is omnipresent in our lives, and He loves us with a never-ending love.

The destination will be worth the journey. Refuse to get discouraged!

But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Cor. 15:57)

A Prayer to Ask: Jesus, Help Me

A wonderful promise when we need help or are anxious about anything is when the Lord tells us to pray and He will bring upon our hearts and minds the peace that we so desperately seek.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4-6-7)

So let’s pray.

Lord Jesus, I’m crying out to You because I need Your help. Help that I cannot achieve on my own. I surrender to You all my attempts to try to solve my problems. I am so grateful for all the promises You give to me to personally claim and the solutions they offer. Help me to trust and obey the times You ask me to do my part in applying Your promises to my life. I know each one will improve and enhance my relationship with You and with others.

Lord, when I falter or forget Your faithfulness to me, please remind me that You’re only a prayer away! Amen

Parts of this blog appeared in my Crosswalk blog on 6/25/2020.

You might enjoy reading my recent Crosswalk article 5 Calming Prayers for Serenity During Stressful Times. We certainly are living in stressful times, but I read a great quote “Worry is a fruitless attempt to make things better. You must seek peace and pursue it by believing that I [God] hear and answer prayer.” Marsha Burns

A blog I wrote on February 9, 2015 has been trending on my website How to Have a Date With Jesus.

February 15, 2021
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The Power of the Spirit in Us is Mightier than the Power of the President’s Pen!

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The worship team at church knows that my favorite song is Jeremy Camp’s “The Same Power.” When I see the words come up on the screen, I can’t help myself from exclaiming “awesome” or “yeah!” While singing the lyrics expressing how the same power that rose Jesus from the grave lives in us, the church knows I’ll be clapping my hands even if I’m the only one.

Usually by the end of the song, I’m joined by the worship team and many in the church clapping with joy and remembrance of Acts: 1:8 “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

The President’s Pen Power

In the first week of Biden’s presidency, we’ve watched in horror as he signs Executive Orders that:

  • put thousands of people out of work
  • condemn to death babies around the world with American financial support
  • destroy women’s rights to privacy and protection in bathrooms and locker and changing rooms
  • endanger girl athletes and dash their dreams by having to compete with confused men in sports
  •  ruin our economy
  • eliminate energy independence
  • increase the price of fuel and energy
  • allow illegal aliens to flow indiscriminately across the border
  • halt the protection of building the border wall
  • enforce “equity” not equality

Just to name a few of the over forty EO’s signed in nine days.

All accomplished with the power of his pen and position!

All of the EO’s are liberal left-leaning policies when he promised to be a moderate President and unite the country.

These Executive Orders will not help the people of our country but only empower the people who want to reshape and remake our country into a government-controlled tyranny.

There’s been no opportunity for discussion or dissent about these Executive Orders, only what Biden in his own words calls the actions of a dictator.

We Have a Power No One Can Legislate Away from Us

It’s not surprising that many Conservatives and Christians feel frustrated and powerless.

You may be feeling powerless right now politically, but God wants us to remember we’re not powerless spiritually!

If you’re a Christian, you have the power of the Holy Spirit living inside you. The Counselor, the Comforter. Right now, our world needs to see us displaying the power of the Spirit of Truth in our sphere of influence. Jesus never cowered in defeat and neither should we.

When we watch the evil and lies being celebrated and endorsed in our world and government, it should empower us to speak out boldly to defend the Truth and to pray for those who are so terribly deceived.

Not to compromise, but to convict. Not to condemn, but not to condone.

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 5 They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. 6 We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood. 1 John 4:4-6

There is a world thirsting for power that wanes and fades; but we have a power that increases and brightens.

What the world and so many in government don’t realize is that the power they strive for will never fill the God-shaped hole in their heart. Only Jesus will satisfy.

“But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.” John 4:14 NLT

Presidents have political power for four or eight years, but we have spiritual power for a lifetime!

The problem arises when we forget the power within us and start looking for the world’s strength! The world needs to see God’s strength!

Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Eph. 3:30 NLT

Prayer is Our Hour of Power

Satan will never give up trying to destroy the church and duping Christians into thinking that they’re powerless in the struggle between good and evil. But when we pray, we unleash the power of Christ in us!

In my Quiet Time I pray, “Lord fill me with Your Holy Spirit.” Have you ever said, “I just feel empty today”? I sure have and my refilling comes from a morning time with the Lord. When the Bible talks about the living water that we sing so often about in church, that’s the Holy Spirit.

Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’” 39 (When he said “living water,” he was speaking of the Spirit, who would be given to everyone believing in him. But the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus had not yet entered into his glory.) John 7:38-39 NLT

During this time, I also pray daily the Armor of God in Ephesians 6:10-18. Verse 10 begins “be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” After payerfully putting on the pieces of spiritual armor, verse 18 concludes: “Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.”

Reading God’s Word and praying, I’m also asking, “Lord what do you want me to do today? What is my purpose? How can I best serve you?”

I’m asked often if I ever have writer’s block and my answer is, “Seldom.” Because I’m always listening and expecting a word from the Lord. Even on social media or the news, something will spark in my heart and mind that catches my attention to make a note or revisit when it’s time to write. My spiritual antenna is always up. (See the PS at the end of this blog)

You don’t have to be a writer to know God’s plans and purpose for you; you just need to consciously sense God’s presence through prayer and the Holy Spirit’s nudging and speaking to you.

The Holy Spirit is Our Advocate

When Jesus was getting ready to go to the cross, He told His disciples “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me. 27 And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning.” John 15:26-27

“If you love me, keep my commands. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. John 14:15-17

We each have within us the real power that could save the world! As frustrating as things seem right now, we have an Advocate. We just need to ask Him to give us opportunities and embolden us with the courage to use our power for God’s glory!

Remember: The same power that rose Jesus from the grave lives in you and me!!

Through the power of the Holy Spirit who lives within us, carefully guard the precious truth that has been entrusted to you. 2 Tim. 1:14 NLT

For the Kingdom of God is not just a lot of talk; it is living by God’s power. 1 Cor. 4:20 NLT

PS. I often say that the Lord confirms my topics. I felt led to write on the power of the Holy Spirit this week and had already scheduled my blog when I was scrolling on Facebook and saw the meme from MarioMurillo.org that I added to this blog! My pastor this Sunday morning spoke on the power of prayer! I hope you’ll seriously pray about how God wants to use this article in your life. It’s from Him, I’m just the vessel!

February 1, 2021
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Maybe the Election Was a Missed Promised Land Opportunity, Not a Red Sea Rescue

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If you follow my blogs, you know that I’m a Bible-believing Christian and politically and socially conservative. I believe that in the womb God creates every human being equal with the opportunity for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. He also instills in us the right to make choices and those choices influence the trajectory of our life.

As a Christian, I believe that God should guide our choices and actions through prayer, wise council, and studying His timeless Words to us in the Bible. I also believe that we make mistakes. Praise God, the foundation of the Gospel is the belief in Jesus Christ and His forgiveness of our sins when we ask, repent, and go and sin no more.

“God overlooked people’s ignorance about these things in earlier times, but now he commands everyone everywhere to repent of their sins and turn to him.” Acts 17:30 NLT

We shouldn’t base our actions and beliefs on the secular world’s latest whim or philosophy but on how God directs and leads us to live in His kingdom culture.

I know that many of you feel the same way. Some would call that “traditional” but I just call it being a Christian. “The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.” (Acts 11:26)

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. 1 John 2:15

There is rhetoric today about uniting our terribly divided country under a new President’s regime, but it’s clear that the unity they refer to is compliance with the secular liberal progressive left socialist agenda. Any decent is threatened with censor and silencing.

That’s not unity. It’s conformity.

Sadly, “the church” is fragmented as some churches and Christians think the Bible should be interpreted according to the “progressive liberal culture’s” beliefs, terms, and ways, which are in stark contrast to the Lord’s beliefs, terms, and ways.

For example, a headline last week read, “Progressive Christian author trips over herself to apologize for inaugural prayer thanking God for ‘giving us this,’ land.” Hatmaker retracted her prayer saying, “He didn’t give us this land. We took this land by force and trauma,” as she goes on to add by “white supremacy!”

Silvester Beaman of the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Delaware ended his inauguration benediction, “In the strong name of our collective faith, amen.” Many pastors pointed out that there is only one name above all names, Jesus Christ, not ‘collective faith.’

A prayer in Congress ended with “Amen and awomen!”

The new Senator from Georgia who pastors a church claims the Bible justifies abortion.

The New York Times said, “President Biden is perhaps the most religiously observant commander in chief in half a century. A different, more liberal Christianity grounds his life and his policies.”

Many “Christians” and Catholics like Biden and Pelosi have determined it’s less controversial, more expedient, and politically advantageous to create as the NYT explains “a different, more liberal Christianity,” that conforms with the world’s ways and values.

I’ve been shocked and disappointed myself to watch pastors and ministry leaders who I once admired, even followed, sounding more like the woke culture than the biblical Christian church.

There is no liberal, progressive, or conservative Christianity. There are no gradations of the absolute truth presented in the gospels. There is God’s word, period. Jesus didn’t tell us there were various political or social ways to reach the same truth, there is only one way.

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6

We Weren’t Ready for a Red Sea Rescue!

Whatever you may think of President Trump’s past life or his tweets or demeanor, in his four years in office he fought tirelessly for patriotic values particularly love of country, prolife, and religious freedom. I’ve often said I’ve never heard a President speak more about the gospel or reverently uplift the name of Jesus in their speeches than President Trump.

He persevered for everyday Americans, even against untold opposition, and for that reason many prophets and laymen were sure that God was going to perform an election miracle at the last minute just like He did with Moses at the Red Sea. American patriots would have another four years of reprieve.

I too wanted to believe that might be God’s plan, but we know now that it wasn’t. And why wasn’t it?

While listening to a Lance Wallnau Facebook Live commentary, I had one of those ‘aha’ moments I often speak about. I began to see clearly the Red Sea/Promised Land theory he discussed so I give Lance full credit for the concept I’m developing next. It makes so much sense to me. Following are my thoughts about it.

The church wasn’t ready to be rescued.

We weren’t united but the other side stood fiercely united. Almost every Democrat liberal left leader and constituent, as well as “progressive liberal Christians,” were against President Trump even if they weren’t for Biden. It was enough for them to get rid of Trump. When I asked several what they didn’t like about Trump’s policies, they could only resort to personal attacks on him.

Numerous liberal-leaning preachers, leaders, and evangelicals were so against Trump that they were willing to throw us to the evils of socialism. When we were so close to saving more babies lives, one Republican Trump-hater politician said we must set the abortion issue aside for the greater good. What? Set aside genocide?

By no means am I saying we should idolize Trump or overlook his faults, but I challenge anyone to find fault with what he was able to accomplish, even under constant duress, for patriotism, the Constitution, and the American way of life we cherish for our children and grandchildren.

We weren’t hearing about Christian bakers, florists, and photographers being sued or run out of business for sticking by their beliefs.

We didn’t fear ISIS.

Everyone was joyfully saying Merry Christmas again.

Women weren’t fearful of a man lurking in the women’s bathroom, changing or locker room.

Christians had an ally in the White House!

And that brings me to Wallnau’s Promised Land analogy!

Remember when Moses sent Caleb and Joshua along with ten other men to investigate the Promised Land to see if the Israelites should enter. Caleb and Joshua came back with a glowing report but the other men told of scary giants. The people argued amongst themselves and couldn’t agree to cross over into the land God had promised them. And we know the rest of the story. They wandered in the desert for 40 years and the skeptic generation never experienced the Promised Land.

They were not united. (Numbers 13-14)

Sounds a lot like the church today! Christians couldn’t agree that four more years of a conservative platform was better than a liberal/socialist platform that wants to “deprogram conservatives” and might now accomplish their goal to “change our country forever.”

Maybe we even could have overturned Roe vs Wade. Continued to honor women by preventing gender-confused men from competing in women’s sports and keep men out of women’s dressing rooms and locker rooms. Stop young children from gender mutilation. Stand firm for God’s creation of only two sexes: male and female. Pastors could continue preaching biblical truths about sin.

All those reversed with the flick of Biden’s pen on his first day in office!

We couldn’t stand united as one church against evil or even the definition of evil.

People were looking for a miracle; God was looking for unity among His people!

Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household [or God’s house] divided against itself will not stand. Matt 12:25

Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Eph. 4:3

In my January About His Work Ministries newsletter, my opening article is “Only God’s Truth Will Unify! I’m linking it here if you haven’t read it yet.

PS I’m also now on MeWe! If you’re on MeWe too please join me there.

January 25, 2021
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Dream A Little Dream With God

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You may be reading this blog a few days before Christmas as you’re hurrying to wrap the last presents, or maybe even buy them. But somewhere in the frantic last week, you’ll read the story of the birth of Jesus in the Books of Matthew and Luke. Or maybe you’ll hear a sermon where the pastor takes a particular event to focus on in his Christmas Eve sermon.

As I read the Christmas story this year, three words resonated with me, “in a dream.” God spoke uniquely and in miraculous ways to key people and the dreamers responded and acted on their dreams. Prophecy was fulfilled because some way, somehow, they each knew it was the Lord speaking to them.

Joseph’s Four Dreams

Dream #1

This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about[a]: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet[b] did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.

20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus,[c] because he will save his people from their sins.”

22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). Matt 1:18-23

Dream #2

13 When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.”

14 So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, 15 where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: “Out of Egypt I called my son. Matt. 2:13-15

Dream #3

After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt 20 and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child’s life are dead.”

21 So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. Matt. 2:19-21

Dream #4

 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, 23 and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets, that he would be called a Nazarene. Matt 2:22-23

The Wise Men’s Dream

After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route. Matt. 2:9-12

Does God Speak to Us In Dreams Today?

I don’t know about you, but reading about God fulfilling prophecy in the story of Jesus’s birth, gives my dreams a completely new perspective.

I do dream a lot, almost every night, and often they’re random or I don’t remember them. But often, I wake up in the morning knowing exactly what God wants me to do about an issue. Maybe it’s what I’m supposed to write about, an action to take, or a warning and I know it’s from the Lord.

God changed history through dreams: Abimelek, Jacob, Laban, Joseph, the cupbearer and the baker of the king of Egypt, Pharaoh, Nebuchadnezzar, Solomon, Job, Pilate’s wife, all had dreams.

God transmitted his plan for the birth and the protection of the Savior of the world in dreams. Joseph paid attention to his dreams and seemed to know it was God speaking to him. Even though it went against what he thought he should do about Mary being pregnant, he obeyed the angel of the Lord in his dream and the prophetic Scriptures were fulfilled of where and when Jesus would be born.

Later, he recognized God’s warning dreams and saved Jesus’ life while also fulfilling prophecy. We don’t know much about Joseph, but we do know he recognized the voice of God.

The Wise Men were wise enough to know they should not return to report to Herod the location of the baby and Jesus’ life was spared again.

What Might God Be Telling You In Your Dreams?

What life changing events might happen in our life if we spent more time paying attention to not only our dreams, but what God is telling us in our prayer time? Remember prayer is supernatural conversation with God and He’s talking to us. But are we listening?

Prayer is no different now than it was in biblical times so why should we think our dreams are different. Why would we not believe that God could use dreams to warn us or fulfill his plans for us, and perhaps for others, just like He did in the past?

God also speaks to us through His Word, the Bible. I knew He wanted me to write about dreams in the Christmas story because He made the word “dream” stand out to me as I read it. I wrestled with Him about whether that was really His intent, and He was very clear and adamant.

So whether you dream at night or even remember your dreams, God will give you visions. He will find a way to speak to you directly of how He wants you to live your life for Him!

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. John 10:27-28

 “A word was secretly brought to me, my ears caught a whisper of it. 13 Amid disquieting dreams in the night, when deep sleep falls on people. Job 4:12-13

For God does speak—now one way, now another— though no one perceives it. In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on people as they slumber in their beds, 16 he may speak in their ears and terrify them with warnings, 17 to turn them from wrongdoing and keep them from pride, 18 to preserve them from the pit, their lives from perishing by the sword. Job 33:14-18

In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Acts 2:17 from Joel 2:28

If you don’t receive my monthly newsletter, you might enjoy my opening article this month on how Christians can still, and should, rejoice in hard times. We rejoice in the birth, life, death, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior offering redemption and forgiveness to all who believe in Him.

I’m taking a pause for the next two weeks and will be back January 11.

Merry Blessed Christmas and Happy 2021 New Year!

*Opening picture courtesy of Mount Zion Ministries.

December 21, 2020
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5 Prayers to Experience Peace On Earth Goodwill Toward Men

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If you’ve been listening to Christmas music, which I recommended in last week’s blog, you’re probably familiar with the song “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.” Maybe you’ve even sang along. For copyright reasons, I can’t print all the lyrics, but I encourage you to read them here and listen to Casting Crowns sing them.

The inspiration for this song seems to be Luke 2:14 NKJV, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

“Peace on earth goodwill to men” is repeated throughout the song.

One stanza of the song laments:

And in despair I bowed my head
There is no peace on earth I said
For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men

With Covid still running rampant and the unsettling evidence of voter fraud in our elections while mainstream media spews propaganda, we might also cry out to God “How do You still expect that we can live in peace?” How can we have good will to those who spread lies, cheat, and have evil intent?

But later in the song, we’re reminded that God is not dead and He never sleeps. He sees everything and eventually “wrong shall fail and right prevail,” and that’s the truth we must keep in our hearts and prayers.

It’s important to look at the context of Luke 2:14. Who spoke it? To whom? What was it announcing?

8 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And [c]behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:

14 “Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill[e] toward men!” Luke 2:8-14

Those angels were announcing to the Shepherds that Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, was born! Hallelujah!!

Christmas is a time for us to remember this announcement also and open our hearts to hear and believe God’s proclamation. No matter how bleak our earthly circumstances appear, the joy of Jesus Christ must still reside in every believer’s heart.

In unsettling times, we find our peace in the presence of the Lord. He is the only One who can effectively prevent the contagious epidemic of fear and calm our frustrations.

Yet, we live in a fallen world that keeps us fearfully treading from one crisis to the next. It seems like every morning we wake up to a new peril: virus pandemics, new flu strains, recessions, earthquakes, tornadoes, tsunamis, floods, fires . . . even the threat of other countries attacking us.

Then there are our own financial, physical, relational, health, and personal crises that often catch us by surprise and strike terror into our heart. We feel helpless as events spin out of our control.

Fear is a powerful human emotion that can cause us to respond inappropriately or motivate us to take positive action.

Fear also has the ability to paralyze us from taking any action.

Fear can even stop us from turning to God, our Rescuer, who knows every personal and world disruption we will face. His timeless Word, the Bible, has all the answers and antidotes to help us remain calm, cool, and collected. He assures us, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

We want to trust God but there are times when peace and good will eludes us. We’re worried and anxious. We don’t want to be brave this time. Then God challenges, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

In Everyday Brave, I remind us that . . .

Here are five prayers to help us call on God and faithfully transcend from panic to peace.

1. Lay Your Worries Before the Lord

Lord, I know that Satan created the spirit of fear, anxiety, doubt, and worries to torture and entrap my mind and rob me of my joy, peace, and sleep. When what-ifs wake me in the dark of night, please help me to denounce Satan and remember 1 Peter 5:7 where you say internal peace is as simple as casting all my anxiety on you because you care for me. I am comforted that you see into the depths of my heart and the intricacies of my mind where unhealthy fears dwell.

You already know what’s troubling me, but you want to hear me share my concerns with you to release the stronghold grip they have on my thoughts and emotions. Father, I trust that you don’t want me to waste a moment of my life fretting. Please calm my racing heart and fill my troubled mind with hope and my spirit with peace. Assure me that no weapon formed against me will prosper and you have a plan and a purpose for me in this time of turmoil. Show me your ways Lord and grant me the courage to follow where you lead. Amen

You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Isaiah 26:3 NLT

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

2. Trust God’s Timing

Lord, it saddens me that many people don’t understand the power of prayer and even mock me for taking my worries to you in prayer. So I pray first for those who do not believe in you. Where is their hope? I’ll admit that sometimes you seem silent when I so desperately want to hear from you. It’s torture waiting on you and yet I will wait because I know my prayers are not in vain.

I don’t know if the latest crisis will affect my family or me, but you are omniscient Lord, so I pray that you will spare us. But if fallout touches any of my loved ones, please comfort them with your healing balm. Sometimes our own choices can put us at risk. So Lord, I pray that we would all be judicious in our actions and interactions. I can remain in perfect peace because I put my future in your capable hands. Amen

You came near when I called you, and you said, “Do not fear.” Lamentations 3:57

Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him. Psalm 91:1-2 (NLT)

3. Don’t Doubt God

Lord, as I pray with confidence and great expectation, I anticipate your gracious answers to my prayers. When I remember your faithfulness to all generations, excitement and eagerness replace concern and discouragement. Please help me to remember that doubt and faith can’t coexist in my heart. If I’m doubting or anxious, my shield of faith has slipped.

God I know that you’re looking at the big picture and I can only see a small glimpse distorted by my confusion and perspective. I realize that having faith doesn’t mean there won’t be setbacks or difficult times, but if I’m going to enlist your mighty powers, then I must prayerfully trust that your will is done on earth as it is in heaven. I pray for a miracle of your design.

Your answer isn’t always what I want to hear, or the option I was hoping for, but whatever it is I will give you the glory because regardless of the outcome, my eternity is with you. Thank you Lord for your Son Jesus Christ coming down to earth as a humble baby and then enduring the brutal cross for victory over our sins and sicknesses. I claim that victory in my life and for my loved ones. Amen

But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. James 1:6

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1

4. Seek Wisdom and Discernment

Lord, I want desperately to take your Word to heart, but a tsunami of negativity and fear engulf me. My thoughts wander to worse case scenarios. I need your insight to diligently untangle truthful facts from embellished hysteria. I ask the Holy Spirit to guide me in filtering out what I should avoid listening to or considering.

Infuse me Lord with discernment and wisdom. Give me clarity of mind and heart. Guard my mouth that I don’t spread gossip or hearsay to alarm others. Help me to exhibit love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control even to those who disparage me. Like the apostle Paul, may I learn the secret of being content in all circumstances, knowing that I can do all things through you who gives me strength to fulfill your desires. Praise you Lord, Amen

Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance. Proverbs 1:5

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. James 1:5

5. Impart Good Will to Others

Lord, we won’t live in a perfect world until we join you in heaven. This current situation won’t be the last crisis for the world or for me. I can’t outrun, outpace, outdo, outsmart, outlive . . . trouble. It has a way of popping up even in the good and prosperous seasons in the culture, my life, and the lives of those around me.

Lord, quiet my raging emotions so that I can be a beacon of healing love and peace to those in my sphere of influence who are overwhelmed by panic, fear, and discouragement. Please help me memorize John 14:1 to share with others who ask me where my peace comes from: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.” These are the words that your Son Jesus spoke to His disciples to comfort them and they also give me comfort when I don’t know how the story ends. Use me Lord as your disciple to bring healing to a hurting world. I love you Lord, Amen.

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. 1 John 4:18

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7

Peace Be With You!

Sensational media headlines keep us stressed, agitated, and fearful because fear-fueled news sells. Press-induced or politically motivated panic will stoke more pandemic fear and consequences than the source of the crisis. Stay current with pertinent news that might affect you personally, but don’t overwhelm yourself reading everything written on the internet or social media.

Taking recommended and reasonable steps to protect yourself and your loved ones will give you a sense of control that helps to manage uncertainties. Prudently, continue your normal activities this Christmas season that typically bring you joy. Healthy coping mechanisms like exercise, rest, eating properly, reading your Bible, staying connected to friends and family, and listening to praise music can help soothe frazzled nerves. If you have medical anxiety, contact your doctor.

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

Portions of this article first appeared in my Crosswalk article 5 Powerful Prayers for Peace Amidst Pandemic Fear.

December 14, 2020
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We Will NEVER Cancel Christmas!

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And Nehemiah continued, “Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!” Nehemiah 8:10 NLT

We’ve just experienced a Thanksgiving like no other. Mayors, Governors, and local authorities were threatening fines and even imprisonment if there were too many people gathered around dinner tables.

Some “dictators” gave tirades telling us to cancel a holiday that focused on giving thanks to God for the blessings we continue to enjoy, even while these tyrants are actively trying to restrict our freedoms.

I hope you found a way to enjoy Thanksgiving with the ones you love and care about, and most importantly, with the One who gave us life and provisions.

Now we see the next surge of politicians trying to get us to cancel Christmas!

Naught!

Please join me in agreeing that’s not going to happen on our watch!

No one can cancel Jesus. No one can eliminate the celebration of His birth. Many have tried, but none succeeded and they won’t this year either!

Maybe your Christmas will look a little different and you won’t have the usual parties or travel, but Christmas is going to happen on December 25!

We need to let the world know our Savior is having a birthday.

We must celebrate Christmas for the same reason it’s been celebrated for 2020 years . . .

 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 NLT

The government tried to mess with the birth of Jesus 2020 years ago too when Joseph and Mary had to leave home and travel to Bethlehem for a census. That must have been frustrating for Mary nine months pregnant. Then to have no place to sleep except in a smelly stable when her water broke and she knew her time had come.

Talk about inconvenient. Not your typical birth. Not what Mary planned or dreamed about, but no government edict could stop her baby boy from coming into this world just as God planned.

And no government edict is going to stop us from joyfully celebrating the birth of the Savior of the world, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

In fact, Christmas should have even more meaning to us this year as we realize how close we’ve come to losing something we’ve always taken for granted: worshipping Jesus in our church. I’m so happy to see pastors fighting back over this injustice and not giving up until they reach the Supreme Court, where last week there was a victory.

People need the joy of the Lord right now and Christians are the Lord’s ambassadors to a world that is trying with all its might to go dark. To deem good evil and evil good. To take away people’s free will and force them into bondage with threats of jail if they don’t submit and obey, even for simply leaving their home.

I’m going to make one rant point here—none of the people indiscriminately reeling these mandates are basing their rulings on science! The science does not substantiate them. They’re desperate and see a chance to grab power like they’ve never been able to lord over people before.

California is a perfect example. If the ridiculous forced lockdowns, closures of businesses, and mask mandates, rules, rules, rules were working, why are cases going up. Why would their Governor break all his own rules to eat in a small room in a pricey restaurant with no mask and no social distancing with a group of “health officials” if he (and they) thought the mandates were effective?

It’s not just hypocrisy, it’s power gone insanely out of control.

7 Ways to Experience a Joyful 2020 Christmas Season

Christians need to counter the insanity of the world right now with a vocal, joyful, and purposeful approach to Christmas this year.

Here are a few ways we’re keeping normalcy and focus in our Christmas, and please let me know what you’re doing.

1. Wish everyone you meet in person or on the phone a “Merry Christmas” or a “Blessed Christmas.”

2. Play Christian Christmas music in your home, phone, and car.

3. Put up decorations that signify the Christmas spirit to you even if you’re not having parties or guests. It brings normalcy to the season and your soul. If you have children or grandchildren, they need to know the scrooge of COVID or election fraud is not going to change Christmas at your house.

4. If you typically string lights outside, or inside, hang those lights. I love Christmas lights and hubby puts them on a timer so they’re on when I wake up in the morning and after I go to bed at night.

5. If you enjoy baking Christmas goodies, then by all means, fire up the oven and start baking.

6. Remember those who are living alone or elderly. Discover ways to brighten their lives.

7. Spend more time with Jesus. Start everyday reading the Christmas story from the Book of Matthew or Luke or in a Christmas devotional. It helps focus the day’s activities around the ONLY reason we celebrate Christmas. It reminds us that Jesus doesn’t want us stressed or in a frenzy.

Jesus came into the world for one reason, to offer those who believe in Him eternal life, not to add a burden to our life but to lighten our load: “Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. Isaiah 41:10 NLT

T’was the month of Christmas,
And all through the town,
People wore masks,
That covered their frown.


The frown had begun
Way back in the Spring,
When a global pandemic
Changed everything.

Airplanes were grounded,
Travel was banned.
Borders were closed
Across air, sea, and land.


As the world entered lockdown
To flatten the curve,
The economy halted,
And folks lost their nerve.


From March to July
We rode the first wave,
People stayed home,
They tried to behave.


When summer emerged
The lockdown was lifted.
But away from caution,
Many folks drifted.


Now it’s December
And cases are spiking,
Wave two has arrived,
Much to our disliking.


It’s true that this year
Has had sadness a plenty,
We’ll never forget
The year 2020.


And just ‘round the corner –
The holiday season,
But why be merry?
Is there even one reason?


To decorate the house
And put up the tree,
Who will see it,
No one but me.

But outside my window
The snow gently falls,
And I think to myself,
Let’s deck the halls!


So, I gather the ribbon,
The garland and bows,
As I play those old carols,
My happiness grows.


Christmas is not cancelled
And neither is hope.
If we lean on each other,
I know we can cope.

So open your Bible
And read the timeless story
Of a baby’s birth, so eventful,
When God came down to earth in humble glory!

(Adapted, edited, and enhanced from an Anonymous poem)

December 7, 2020
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What Does It Mean to Pray for Your Enemies?

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When I woke up Friday morning to the news that Donald and Melania Trump had tested positive for COVID-19, like many of you, I immediately started praying.

I heard President Trump in a phone interview with Sean Hannity late Thursday night and I commented to Dave that the President’s voice sounded tired, which is understandable since it was late and he had just spoken at an event. But looming in the interview was the knowledge that senior White House advisor Hope Hicks had been on Airforce One with the President and had just tested positive for COVID.

We prayed that night, “Lord please protect the President and First Lady.” But sadly, they both do have COVID along with some of their staff and Republican senators.

I knew instinctively what was going to happen next after their diagnosis. The vitriol on social media, mainstream media, and many liberals and Democrat politicians would start spewing from the abyss.

City Pages, an alternative weekly covering Minneapolis and St. Paul, published an article Friday headlined, “Let’s laugh at all these very good ‘Trump has COVID’ tweets.” Editor-in-chief Emily Cassel led the piece by writing, “So President Trump and the First Lady have COVID. Man, anyone else just in a really, inexplicably good mood this morning?”

We’re in a cancel, carnal, cruel culture so repulsive that people would wish death to their President and political opponent. Granted there were some politicians from the opposing party, including Biden, who declared a partisan truce and wished well to the president, at least for now.

I don’t know about you, but anticipating the evil attacks on our President and First Lady, I tried to stay off social media and just pray. I knew my friends and followers would be posting about praying, but others might want to post examples of the horrible things said by others. I didn’t want to taint my mind.

I wanted to “Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” Phil. 4:8 NLT

I needed to focus my thoughts on President and Melania Trump having a quick recovery and healing from this terrible plague and not let my mind be filled with the comments of insensitive and hideous people actually celebrating the possible demise of our President to this unseen enemy.

They wanted him to suffer. Die. Joking about a dreaded illness.

What kind of person does that?!

 “If you find yourself rooting for someone’s death—anyone’s death—it’s time to pause and take stock of how your own souls has rotted.”—Tucker Carlson.

 “If you gloat over other people’s afflictions, you are not worthy of being called a human” is another worthy quote I read.

I would not give this human depravity an audience.

My Personal Epiphany

Then the Lord asked me a question I had to address: How would you react if it was Biden who had contracted COVID?

I am praying that he doesn’t win the election. He and his liberal party represent everything I don’t want for our country, much of it I consider evil and ungodly.

So would I pray as earnestly for his recovery as I’m praying for President Trump?

Wow?!

How I respond would show what resides in my heart. Would I show Christian compassion? My husband says I would pray for Biden. I hope he’s right!

How a Christian reacts to other’s misfortune is telling of their spiritual maturity when someone they don’t like is in distress.

Then the Lord brought to mind the verses on loving and praying for our enemies. Those we don’t agree with or even those we fear or have done us wrong.

The Sermon on the Mount

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus first started with the Beatitudes (Mt. 5:3-11). Then he taught about being salt and light, (13-16). He taught about the Law (17-20), anger (21-26), adultery (27-30), divorce (31-32), vows (33-37), revenge (38-42), and he ended his sermon with the difficult admonition to love your enemies.

Jesus Teaching about Love and Prayer for Enemies

43 “You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. 44 But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! 45 In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike. 

46 If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. 47 If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. 48 But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect. Matthew 5:43-48 NLT

Are you convicted like I am when reading this teaching from Jesus? Even on the cross, He prayed for those who were putting Him, an innocent man, to a cruel death.

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34

Jesus wants us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us when something inside us tells us to not even like them!

It doesn’t mean we accept or agree with their actions, which for purposes of this article we’re talking about those who go against everything we believe spiritually, morally, and politically.

Jesus tells us to be like Him. We must pray for our enemies and be kind to them. I take that to mean we pray for their salvation and what greater “love” could we show for them than to pray they become believers.

Bill O’Reilly commented last week, “If you feel glad that Donald and Melania Trump are ill, then you have a sickness, too. And while most recover from Covid, the disease of enjoying the suffering of others is rarely defeated. That disease is called evil.”

O’Reilly is right that evil is a disease, but there is a cure for it: Jesus Christ.

I think that Matthew 5:45-48 is calling us to pray for those we hear and see vomiting hate and evil. We detest what they’re doing, so we pray that someway, somehow they find salvation in Jesus because He went to the cross for them just like He did for us.

Maybe some of them claim to be believers. Look at their actions and if they’re behaving according to the world or in a hurtful harmful way, we pray that they will return to God and His ways.

What we don’t do is match their behavior in our thoughts, words, or actions because Jesus warns us that then we’re no better than them.

I like this quote from Jim Daly, president of Focus on the Family: “I believe strongly in being conservative in my politics–but liberal in my fellowship and in my willingness to pray for others.”

The person I’ve seen in politics who does the best at responding to opposition as a Christian is Vice President Mike Pence. He lets you know when he doesn’t agree with someone, but he does it in a way that is never demeaning or disparaging. He tends to defend his position rather than attack the other person personally. I’m looking forward to his debate with Kamala Harris this week. And I’m praying for him and his health.

Let’s be sure during this very contested political season that our comments and posts reflect the mind and kindness of Christ. That we pray for the hearts and souls of those who persecute us, or persecute the ones we care about, or decry our values.

Pray for those who seem consumed with anger and animosity.

If you remember in last week’s blog, I said the Lord kept giving me a vision of a sudden outpouring of the Holy Spirit over all those who are doing evil in our cities and government. A miracle of mass salvation!

I see all the rioters and haters suddenly dropping their weapons of destruction and their tongues of vileness being stilled. The tyrannical government officials and those trying to tear down our country, having a reawakening about the goodness of God and the greatness of the country He blessed us with—The United States of America!

We have to look for things to praise, even when small, and focus on finding ways to “be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.”

Let’s keep our minds and hearts positive and loving as we pray for the recovery of our President and his beautiful wife, even if he isn’t your preferred candidate. Remember we haven’t reached perfection either.

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT

October 5, 2020
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The Riots are Not a “Myth” and Jesus is Not a Myth: The Bible is Real and We’re Watching It Come Alive!

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Last week, Jerry Nadler was questioned in a live interview about the violence and rioting taking place in Portland by ANTIFA and BLM. His response, “It’s a myth that’s only being spread in Washington DC!”

If you’ve watched any of the videos or news coverage of attempts to destroy and burn down the Federal Courthouse in Portland, or the rioting and destruction that’s been going on for months, it’s hard to imagine such a ludicrous comment. It’s as if Nadler actually thinks he can declare the carnage a myth and everyone will look the other way and ignore what we all see is happening every night in the streets of what once was a beautiful city.

It’s definitely not a myth. Here’s the reality Nadler can’t deny.

“Throughout the night some people in this crowd spent their time shaking the fence around the building, throwing rocks, bottles, and assorted debris over the fence, shining lasers through the fence, firing explosive fireworks into the area blocked by the fence, and using power tools to try to cut through the fence,” the bureau said in a statement.

“People wore gas masks, carried shields, hockey sticks, leaf blowers, flags, and umbrellas specifically to thwart police in crowd dispersal or attempt to conceal criminal acts. People against the fence sprayed unknown liquids through it toward the courthouse. People tied rope to the fence and attempted to pull it down,” the bureau said.

“At about 1:03 a.m. people in the crowd attached a chain to the fence and with many people pulling managed to pull a section of it down,” the bureau said, with protesters also lighting fires in the street.” [From the interview article above]

This past weekend, the rioters burned Bibles and the flag in the street! A satanic statement of who is at the center of the riots. There’s no denying evil motivation when you burn Bibles!

There was a satirical meme going around social media with Nadler sitting in Congress while the building was burning and everyone evacuating, but he was still in his chair proclaiming it’s all a myth. As I watched that meme, all I could think of is Armageddon when many will dig in their heels protesting that God, Jesus, and the Bible are all a myth while the world burns.

The Bible is Real and So Are Its Predictions

Dr. David Jeremiah writes in The Book of Signs, “Thus the nations do not believe that a time is coming when God’s judgement will inevitably descend. But be assured, He is storing up judgment against a day to come. The Bible is clear: one of these days God will have had enough, and His judgment will pour down like consuming fire against the world’s wicked nations.”

“They were seared by the intense heat and they cursed the name of God, who had control over these plagues, but they refused to repent and glorify him.” Revelation 16:9

Even as we watch today the birth pangs of the Bible’s predicted end times, many still do not believe the time could be short to turn their life over to Jesus. Instead, during the COVID pandemic, local governments, and even the Supreme Court, consider the church irrelevant and nonessential!

You can rest assured that it is NOT God closing the churches. Satan understands exactly how relevant and essential the church is, especially now, and I’ve written about this in The Rant, A Rave, and A Primal Scream and If God Is Pulling Back the Veil on Evil, How Should the Church Respond?

Jesus warns everyone to beware and be ready!

Jesus told them, “Don’t let anyone mislead you, 5 for many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah.’ They will deceive many. 6 And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won’t follow immediately. 7 Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world. 8 But all this is only the first of the birth pains, with more to come. Matt. 24:4-8 NLT

Luke 21:11 NLT adds that “There will be great earthquakes, and there will be famines and plagues in many lands, and there will be terrifying things and great miraculous signs from heaven.

Speaking to Christians, Jesus continues . . .

9 “Then you will be arrested, persecuted, and killed. You will be hated all over the world because you are my followers. 10 And many will turn away from me and betray and hate each other. 11 And many false prophets will appear and will deceive many people. 12 Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold. 13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved. 14 And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it; and then the end will come. Matthew 24:9-14 NLT

Who is going to endure the persecution by the state and preach the Good News throughout our country?

Many pastors still have the doors of their churches closed, but others are opening anyway, and most are sharing their messages virtually transmitted to all corners of the world. Worship leader, Sean Feucht, is sponsoring outdoor revivals drawing thousands. God knows no boundaries.

But you and I are also God’s disciples and ministers. What better way to dismiss the myths about Jesus then to share our testimony of how Jesus changed our life. We all know someone who needs to hear our story of what Jesus did for us!

Speak the Language of Hope!

Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29 NLT

If this pandemic inspires Americans to live better lives that would definitely be a positive outcome. But according to an article New Poll: Americans See The Hand Of God At Work In Current Events, surveys show that Americans are increasingly turning to drugs, alcohol and television during this pandemic, and a survey that was released just this week found that Bible reading in the United States dropped precipitously “between January and June!”

Oh dear friends, now more than ever we need to be in our Bibles daily meditating on God’s Word and applying it to our own emotions and concerns. Letting God speak to us, comfort us, and encourage us to live by faith not by sight. To live courageously not fearfully!

You are my refuge and my shield; your word is my source of hope. Ps. 119:114 NLT

The world needs us! Our families need us! God needs us to be a beacon of light in a dark and dreary world.

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22

Many today are living in fear because they have no hope. They don’t know where they’re going when they die.

It’s up to Christians to make Jesus real to them, but before they’re going to believe in Jesus, they need to believe that Jesus is in us!

They need to know we care about their life and their salvation.

They need to see the love of Jesus in our actions and words.

15 So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. 16 Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. 17 Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.  Ephesians 5:15-17 NLT

We must live like believers!

Live like we believe what the Bible says!

Live like we trust God!

Live like we are Everyday Brave!

Live like we have hope!

Live like Jesus is real in our life and is not a myth!

3 For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will reject the truth and chase after myths.

5 But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you. 2 Timothy 4:3-5 NLT

This is an exciting time to live because if ever the love, forgiveness, and hope of Jesus needs sharing with a worried, fearful, depressed, frustrated, and deceived world . . . it’s NOW!

We were born and reborn for such a time as this.

Don’t ever think you can’t make a difference.

Don’t give up no matter how ominous or discouraging the world looks.

Fight for truth! Stand for truth! Speak God’s truth!

We’re the ones who are expected to help Jesus light up this dark world, at least our world.

For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.

7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 2 Corinthians 4:6-7

“The language of hope is revolutionary in the way we see, the words we speak, and the lives we encourage and change . . . Real change begins one mouth at a time, one new vision voiced in the lives of those who need a fresh breath from God. It begins at street level with those who carry the culture of the Kingdom within them and know how to express it well. It begins with people like you!” Chris Tiegreen

And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, 13 while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed. 14 He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds. Titus 2:12-14

“All it takes is for good people to do something! Be activists in everything you do!” Charlie Kirk, Turning Point.

I hope I hear a resounding, “Amen!”

Note: When I finished writing this blog, a friend shared the YouTube of Charlie Kirk and Pastor Jack Hibbs at her church, Calvary Church Chino Hills. It’s so good. They start with Bible Prophecy and go on to cover a wide range of topics relevant to today’s events. Allow yourself an hour to listen. You’ll be blessed!

August 3, 2020
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If God Is Pulling Back the Veil on Evil, How Should the Church Respond?

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I recently commented to my husband that I had no idea there were so many people succumbing to the wiles of evil! I’m not naive about Satan being the active ruler of this world, but I am alarmed at how many deceived followers he has, especially in America.

Maybe evil is so prevalent today because during times of lawlessness, like we’re experiencing, evil goes unchecked by those in authority and in many cases is blatantly defended and encouraged. Never in my lifetime have I seen the display of evil actually bowed down to and elevated like in the Old Testament days when the people turned away from God and worshipped idols and other gods.

Would you have ever thought in America that . . .

Governors and mayors support and encourage the destruction of their own cities by anarchists and domestic terrorists.

Public and private property decimated and vandalized by cheering crowds and local officials do nothing to stop the mayhem, even telling the police to “stand down” while innocent citizens are terrorized? A congressional leader’s response, “People will do things.”

Vulgar and hateful words become graffiti covering city and government buildings.

Toddlers shot and murdered while sleeping in their beds and babies shot in their strollers or car seats.

Young innocent children playing outside, walking home, riding in a car, or getting out of a car shot dead and the local government does nothing.

Millions of unborn babies legally murdered by genocide in their mommy’s tummy. Or if born alive, they could still be left to die!

Police officers assaulted, disrespected, defunded, and restrained from protecting us.

Loss of our First Amendment and God-given right to attend church and worship together.

Guns confiscated from owners using them to protect their property from rioters who threaten to kill them and burn down their house. The victim homeowners are prosecuted but not the criminal rioting trespassers.

Criminals set free.

A Marxist organization that wants to disband the patriarchal family, eliminate the police, provide free abortions, support the LGBTQ agenda, and control America or burn it down, receive praise, money, followers, and is bowed down to and paid homage.

Sexual immorality runs rampant and few take notice, even in the church?

The Supreme Court allows tighter restrictions on churches than on casinos!

Craziness!

Anyone denouncing any of these anomalies is subjected to discrimination, slander, threats, hate, and told to let the carnage continue!

I could go on, but you see it all happening too. Most of this barely makes the mainstream media.

Evil and mayhem normalized.

What sorrow for those who say that evil is good and good is evil, that dark is light and light is dark, that bitter is sweet and sweet is bitter. Isaiah 5:20 NLT

Why Is God Letting This Happen?

I believe that God is exposing rampant evil because the church has forfeited its position in mainstream society. How many pastors have you seen publically respond to or denounce any of the issues I mentioned above? Yes, there are a few, but very few.

It’s a wakeup call. A line-in-the-sand moment.

If the church stays quiet and lets evil reign, Christianity will become irrelevant.

This is our deciding hour. Not to cower from Satan but to advance the name of Jesus Christ, the only hope and solution to the survival of America! Not to ignore evil but to confront it and boldly offer the only cure.

Much like God warns the Church in Sardis in Revelation 3:1-6 NLT:

Write this letter to the angel[a] of the church in Sardis. This is the message from the one who has the sevenfold Spirit[b] of God and the seven stars:

“I know all the things you do, and that you have a reputation for being alive—but you are dead. 2 Wake up! Strengthen what little remains, for even what is left is almost dead. I find that your actions do not meet the requirements of my God. 3 Go back to what you heard and believed at first; hold to it firmly. Repent and turn to me again. If you don’t wake up, I will come to you suddenly, as unexpected as a thief.

4 “Yet there are some in the church in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes with evil. They will walk with me in white, for they are worthy. 5 All who are victorious will be clothed in white. I will never erase their names from the Book of Life, but I will announce before my Father and his angels that they are mine.

6 “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches.

For the church or Christian who is trying to straddle between the world and the Word, God has a message to them also as He tells the church in Laodicea in Revelation 3:14-16, 19-21 NLT.

14 “Write this letter to the angel of the church in Laodicea. This is the message from the one who is the Amen—the faithful and true witness, the beginning[a] of God’s new creation:

15 “I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! 16 But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth! . . . 19 I correct and discipline everyone I love. So be diligent and turn from your indifference.

20 “Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends. 21 Those who are victorious will sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat with my Father on his throne.

Pastor John MacArthur, Grace Community Church, wrote an excellent response to the unjust closing of churches: Christ, Not Caesar, is the Head of the Church: A Biblical Case for the Church’s Duty to Remain Open. I came across his article as I was finishing my blog, and once again, God confirmed that I heard His voice clearly on what I was to write.

Here is a paragraph from Pastor MacArthur’s article, which I encourage you to read, especially if you question whether the church is to follow the local government or God. If your church is closed right now share it with your pastor.

As government policy moves further away from biblical principles, and as legal and political pressures against the church intensify, we must recognize that the Lord may be using these pressures as means of purging to reveal the true church. Succumbing to governmental overreach may cause churches to remain closed indefinitely. How can the true church of Jesus Christ distinguish herself in such a hostile climate? There is only one way: bold allegiance to the Lord Jesus Christ.
Our prayer is that every faithful congregation will stand with us in obedience to our Lord as Christians have done through the centuries.

Today in my church, our pastor preached on Acts 4:1-21 where Peter and John were arrested by the “temple police and the Sadducees” for publically teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ in the Temple where 5000 people were saved! Peter and John were ordered to leave and commanded not to teach or preach again in the name of Jesus.

But Peter and John replied, ‘Do you think God wants us to obey you rather than him? We cannot stop telling about everything we have seen and heard.’” (Acts 4:19 NLT)

How Long Will God Tarry?

Evil will not end until Jesus returns, but it doesn’t mean we surrender to it until then. No, we fight against Satan with every breath in us! We put on the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). Then together we take a bold, courageous, prayerful, vocal, and faith-filled stand against the schemes of the enemy.

Hebrews 5:13-14 reminds us of all the teaching and training we’ve had in the church—now is the hour to apply it!

“Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.”

Honestly, God has put this so heavy on my heart to share right now. I can’t ignore the moral and cultural decline we’re watching in our world today. I hope you can’t either!

The Bible tells us that no one knows when Jesus will return. Also, no one knows when he or she will take their last breath. My burden is that we all be found ready for both.

But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose  for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served . . . , or the gods of the Amorites, [today’s culture] in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15 (my additions in brackets)

Note: We need to be praying for all our police officers. Here is a prayer I wrote for them and their families: 4 Prayers In Honor of Police Officers.

If you haven’t read my past blogs, I share thoughts on Don’t Let COVID Divide the Church! We’re On the Same Team!
America’s Problem is Systemic Secularism NOT Systemic Racism!

July 27, 2020
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