Grace

Grace provides justification for sins. (3:21 – 5:21)

1. Grace as justification for sin is by faith in Jesus Christ (3:21-31)
2. Grace has now been fully revealed to us through Jesus Christ. (3:21-23)
3. Sinners are justified by the blood of Jesus Christ (3:24-26)
4. Sinners are justified apart from works of the Law (3:27-28)
5. Grace is available to all people (3:29-30)
6. Law is upheld by the proper working of grace (3:31)

If you look carefully at these points, you easily see that Paul has made an interesting argument that grace provides us justification for our sins by faith in Jesus Christ.

// The Day Jesus Died - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

// The Day Jesus Died - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

// Twenty-One Signs of Doomsday (Update XXXI -- The Image of the Beast) - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

// Twenty-One Signs of Doomsday (Update XXXI -- The Image of the Beast) - GODSAIDMAhttps://www.godsaidmansaid.com/topic3.asp?Cat2=256&ItemID=1481&fbclid=IwAR2o7IKi-VPmrA1X2vTEJ8P36NxOGVS8egyTwAD44XxA2cMFwob6uR9hDmoNSAID.COM

// Twenty-One Signs of Doomsday (Update XXVIII -- Word Changing and 666 Are Ready for Prime Time) - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

// Twenty-One Signs of Doomsday (Update XXVIII -- Word Changing and 666 Are Ready for Prime Time) - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

 I asked a friend who has crossed 70 & is heading towards 80 what sort of changes he is feeling in himself? He sent me the following:

1 After loving my parents, my siblings, my spouse, my children and my friends, I have now started loving myself.

2 I have realized that I am not “Atlas”. The world does not rest on my shoulders.

3 I have stopped bargaining with vegetable & fruit vendors. A few pennies more is not going to break me, but it might help the poor fellow save for his daughter’s school fees.

4 I leave my waitress a big tip. The extra money might bring a smile to her face. She is toiling much harder for a living than I am.

5 I stopped telling the elderly that they've already narrated that story many times. The story makes them walk down memory lane & relive their past.

6 I have learned not to correct people even when I know they are wrong. The onus of making everyone perfect is not on me. Peace is more precious than perfection.

7 I give compliments freely & generously. Compliments are a mood enhancer not only for the recipient, but also for me. And a small tip for the recipient of a compliment, never, NEVER turn it down, just say "Thank You.”

8 I have learned not to bother about a crease or a spot on my shirt. Personality speaks louder than appearances.

9 I walk away from people who don't value me. They might not know my worth, but I do.

10 I remain cool when someone plays dirty to outrun me in the rat race. I am not a rat & neither am I in any race.

11 I am learning not to be embarrassed by my emotions. It’s my emotions that make me human.

12 I have learned that it's better to drop the ego than to break a relationship. My ego will keep me aloof, whereas with relationships, I will never be alone.

13 I have learned to live each day as if it's the last. After all, it might be the last.

14 I am doing what makes me happy. I am responsible for my happiness, and I owe it to myself. Happiness is a choice. You can be happy at any time, just choose to be!

I

 Question: What about our country USA by helping our own people and so we can bring God back and then help others around the world as a nation to help our own country because as its deteriorating?

Profile: Male, North America, 36—45

Answered by: Matt Hilgeman, who has been a volunteer with us since August, 2019.

Answer: Thank you for your question. It is very timely as our country seems to be suffering more and more every day. Though it may seem difficult at times, Christians are called to submit to the government of their country. Romans 13:1 tells us, "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God." Not only are we called to submit, but we are also called to pray for our leaders. 1 Timothy 2:1–4 states, "Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth." Probably the most important thing you can do for your country and your leaders is to pray for them. Pray that they have a saving relationship with Jesus, and that they lead the country by His principles.

An interesting correlation could be made with 2 Chronicles 7:14 which states, "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 will forgive their sin and heal their land." This promise was made by God to His chosen people, the Israelites, through their king Solomon. It is important to recognize that the United States does not have a covenant relationship with God as Israel does, but this is a perfect reminder that God can hear our prayers, and He is the only One with the power to heal our land. This should give us Christians confidence to "come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16).

As our nation nears a very important election, it is so important for us to realize that God is ultimately in control, not man. He will give us the leader we need at the appointed time. Though we have an obligation as Christians and citizens to go out and vote for biblical principles, the results are up to God alone. Try to not get overwhelmed with the negative images and rhetoric that comes at us through every medium available. As Christians, we serve a God who is good, loving, and merciful. We not only need to be confident that God will ultimately win, but we also need to have boldness to share God’s love with those who don’t know Him. These desperate times should give us new resolve to help sinners find their Savior.

Therefore, pray for our leaders, pray for wisdom on how to vote, and pray for those who don’t know Jesus. Always remember that "Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. "The Lord is my portion", says my soul, "Therefore I have hope in Him!" (Lamentations 3:22–24). God has already secured the victory, and no matter what happens to our nation as a whole, Jesus reminds us that "My Father, who has given them to Me is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. I and My Father are one." (John 10:29–30). Finally, Paul the Apostle tells us plainly, "For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38–39). Hold on to these promises and don’t fear in the midst of our nation’s trials. God is on the throne, and He will sustain us. May God bless you as you seek to serve Him!

 

Politics

 Filipino politics. And also defines the filipino psyche

Duterte, while campaigning, I will eliminate corruption. Or kill me.

A few years into his rule, and covering up his buddies, including the department of tourism secretary who openly said She won't return the 60 million peso plus the stuff she took home ... And customs chief caught with his hands in the cookie jar (rewarded by a transfer), and the massive Phil health scam (no corruption per boss)

Duterte "it's hard to eliminate corruption"

Voters: especially those paid trolls "yeah, we understand"

Case 2. 2 politicians strike an agreement, guy 1 will be speaker for half term, guy 2 will take over next

Come guy 1s term expiry, guy 1s supporters "we won't let go of this term as guy 2 is not good, he tried to dislodge guy 1. So guy 1 will continue".

Wrong you say ? I have had pinay GFs like that. Like "I will not honour my word because you looked like you didn't respect me for something trivial"

Harvest

 There will be a full moon October 1 on Thursday at 5:05 pm. This is the Harvest Moon. Our country and world are truly ready for a spiritual harvest. Sin is rampant and even approved by people, but God has never approved of sin. God calls all of us to repent, turn from sin, and trust Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. There will be no debate in Heaven as God knows the truth about our spiritual condition.

The Real War Daddy - Destroyed 12 Tanks and 258 Armoured Vehicles in 81 Days

The Real War Daddy - Destroyed 12 Tanks and 258 Armoured Vehicles in 81 Days

It is well

 Did you know, the song "It Is Well With My Soul" was written by a successful Christian lawyer Heratio Spafford. His only son died at age 4 in 1871. In 1872, the great Chicago fire wiped out his vast estate, made from a successful legal career. In 1873 he sent his wife and four daughters over to Europe on a summer trip on the ill fated SS Ville du Havre. Since he had a lot of work to do, he planned to follow them later. The ship sank and he lost his four daughters with the wife being the only survivor. She sent him a famous telegram which simply read, "SAVED ALONE......" On his return home, his Law firm was burned down and the insurance company refused to pay him. They said, iIt's an act of God." He had no money to pay for his house and no work, he also lost his house. Then while sitting and thinking what's happening to him, being a spiritual person, he wrote a song - "Whatever, my Lord, You have taught me to say - It is well, it is well with my soul." My dear friend, a good attitude will determine your altitude. When you look at your life, career, job or family life, what do you say? Do you praise God? Do you blame the devil? A good attitude towards God makes Him move on your behalf. Just sit down and say, "Today, God, it is well with my soul, I am thankful I had a peaceful sleep, I am thankful I am alive with possibilities, I am thankful I have a roof over me, I am thankful I have a job, I am thankful that I have family and friends. Above all, I am thankful that I have the Lord Jesus Christ on my side." Be blessed and don't be envious or shocked when others are prospering because you don't know what they have been through to get there (test, trials and tribulation) so thank God for what you have. "Little is much when God is in it. It is well With my soul!" Touch someone's life with this message. If God is for us, who can be against us? God bless y'all

Trust

Trust is foundational to human relationship, but not all people are trustworthy. So how can we know whom to trust and with what? The Bible gives us advice. 

We must first acknowledge that all humans are sinful (Romans 3:23). More than likely our trust will be broken at some point in several relationships. Perhaps even more sobering to realize, we will hurt others in our relationships and prove ourselves unworthy of their complete trust. But this is not a reason to avoid relationship or decide to never trust. Rather, this understanding helps us reset our expectations. Sometimes we feel betrayed or as if our trust is broken simply because we expected the other person to be and do what only God is and does. Any time we put our trust in another human to be our God, we will be disappointed, and rightly so. At the same time, we may expect another person to be honest or to act with integrity or to fulfill a promise and still find our trust broken. But, again, the answer is not to avoid relationship all together. Rather, we must rely on God first and put our trust ultimately in Him. 

Psalm 118:8–9 says, "It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man. It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes." Proverbs 3:5–6 says, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." When our trust is first in God—not in others or in ourselves—we are free to trust others. An understanding that God is sovereign and that He works on behalf of His children (Romans 8:28–29) removes much of our fear in relating to others. We know that even if we are betrayed, God will never forsake us. Hebrews 13 gives some instructions for Christian living. In part, it reminds followers of Jesus that God has said, "'I will never leave you nor forsake you.' So we can confidently say, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?'" (Hebrews 13:5–6). 

That our trust is ultimately in God instead of others does not mean that we blindly trust everyone with everything. Jesus warned His disciples, "Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves" (Matthew 10:16). It is good to recognize that not all people have pure motives and to temper our trust accordingly. Proverbs 13:20 says, "Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm." First Corinthians 15:33 says, "Do not be deceived: 'Bad company ruins good morals.'" Proverbs 22:24–25 says, "Make no friendship with a man given to anger, nor go with a wrathful man, lest you learn his ways and entangle yourself in a snare." Second Corinthians 6:14 cautions believers from being unequally yoked with other believers in close relationships such as marriage. We must be discerning about our relationships and the people to whom we give our trust. 

Equally important is discernment about the institutions or societal influencers we trust. First John 4:1 says, "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world." Just because a particular teaching appears to have authority or popular acceptance does not mean it is biblically sound. While we should submit to our leaders (Romans 13:1–7), we cannot blindly trust everything we hear from sources of supposed authority. We should be especially skeptical of institutions with worldly motives. 

While caution is advised in giving trust, engaging in trusting relationships with others is rewarding and biblical. Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 talks about the ways in which "two are better than one." Proverbs 27:17 says, "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another." Proverbs 27:5–6 says, "Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy." Hebrews 10:24–25 talks about the importance of believers gathering together and stirring one another up to love and good works. Ephesians 4:15 talks about speaking truth to one another in love. Real trust includes willingness to be honest with one another, even if that honesty feels awkward or potentially painful. There is no substitute for faithful friends and vibrant Christian community. When we can live in trusting relationships with one another, we edify and encourage one another. 

One practical way to go about learning to trust others is to focus on being trustworthy yourself. Being a person others can trust involves honesty and integrity. It means keeping your word, not belittling others, admitting when you are wrong, seeking forgiveness, being willing to forgive as you have been forgiven in Christ, and having the courage to share the truths of God's Word and to strive to live them out. 

Psalm 1 declares that the man who delights in the law of the Lord is blessed. When we seek God's kingdom and His ways first, we will draw closer to Him and our trust in Him will increase. We will also learn to be trustworthy people ourselves. As we do these things, we can learn to more freely trust others. We can ask God for discernment in whom to trust and with what things, and ultimately trust Him with the results. 

TLP Inspiration: 2/10/20 | TLP

TLP Inspiration: 2/10/20 | TLP

Rock Apes: The Yetis That Plagued GI's in The Vietnam War

Rock Apes: The Yetis That Plagued GI's in The Vietnam War

Archaeology bombshell: Shipwreck's 'chest of gold' find could solve 16th-century mystery | World | News | Express.co.uk

Archaeology bombshell: Shipwreck's 'chest of gold' find could solve 16th-century mystery | World | News | Express.co.uk

Ancient Babylonian Astronomical Records Confirm Slowing Of Earth's Spin | Ancient Pages

Ancient Babylonian Astronomical Records Confirm Slowing Of Earth's Spin | Ancient Pages

The Gargoyle that Welcomes Airport Visitors to "Illuminati Headquarters"

The Gargoyle that Welcomes Airport Visitors to "Illuminati Headquarters"

A Young Stanley Kubrick's Stunning Black and White Photos of 1940s Chicago

A Young Stanley Kubrick's Stunning Black and White Photos of 1940s Chicago

// Twenty-One Signs of Doomsday (Update XXXV)—Figs and Wormwood - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

// Twenty-One Signs of Doomsday (Update XXXV)—Figs and Wormwood - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

// Wicked Thoughts and How to Deal with Them - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

// Wicked Thoughts and How to Deal with Them - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

The world’s largest cave wasn’t found until 2009 & contains a jungle & its own weather system

The world’s largest cave wasn’t found until 2009 & contains a jungle & its own weather system

Football training for TDM

PLAYER TRAINING GUIDE
The following is a guide for drafting the right players and how to train them. It will help your team immensely putting your player on the right course

PRIORITY: Each player, regardless of position should be maxed at the following skills first
SPEED
STAMINA
TOUGHNESS
CARRY (OFFENSE)
HIT POWER (DEFENSE)

Recruit Players with High Training Speeds (try to recruit players with high energy recovery as well)
Draft players as young as possible. I generally avoid drafting players over 24 if possible. That being said, if your team needs an older player, by all means get em. Just don’t overpay for them
140%-160% = GOOD
160%-175& = REALLY GOOD
175%-190% = EXCELLENT
190% & UP=PREMIUM

INDIVIDUAL SKILL POINT ASSIGNMENT
PRIMARY: TRY TO MAX THESE
SECONDAY: TRY TO MAINTAIN THESE SKILLS AT 75% MAX

QB:
Primary: Pass Accuracy, Pass Strength, Pass distance accuracy, Carry
Secondary: Juke, Attack Acceleration, Blocking
RB:
Primary: Carry, Attack Acceleration, Penetration, Juke, Receiving
Secondary: Reception Range, Blocking, Strength
WR:
Primary: Carry, Reception, Reception Rang, Attack Acceleration
Secondary: Juke, Penetration, Blocking, Strength
TE:
Primary: Carry, Reception, Reception Rang, Blocking
Secondary: Juke, Penetration, Attack Acceleration, Strength
C:
Primary: Blocking, Pass Accuracy, Penetration, Anti-Juke
Secondary: Pass Strength, Strength, Attack Acceleration, Carry
OL:
Primary: Blocking, Penetration, Anti-juke, Strength
Secondary: Attack Acceleration, Carry
DL:
Primary: Blocking, Hit Power, Tackle, Juke, Penetration
Secondary: Strength, Defense Acceleration, Reception, Anti-juke
LB:
Primary: Hit Power, Tackle, Strength, Defense Acceleration
Secondary: Anti-juke, Reception, Penetration, Blocking
CB/S:
Primary: Hip Power, Tackle, Receiving, Reception Range, Defense Acceleration
Secondary: Strength, Anti-Juke, Penetration
K:
Primary: Kick Accuracy, Kick Power, Tackle, Blocking, Attack Acceleration,
Secondary: Anti-juke, Penetration, Strength, Kick Return, Kick Return Range
KR:
Primary: Kick Return, Kick Return Range, Tackle, Blocking, Attack Acceleration
Secondary: Juke, Anti-Juke, Penetration, Strength

Whenever you recruit a player, they will need 1-2 seasons to become starter quality, and 3-4 seasons to get your starters maxed as shown above.

What happens if the presidential election is still contested on Inauguration Day?

What happens if the presidential election is still contested on Inauguration Day?: Is it possible the election will be up in the air and we won’t have a president on Inauguration Day: Jan. 20, 2021?

// Geologists Say Yes To Crucifixion - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

// Geologists Say Yes To Crucifixion - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

// Kill Stress Now! You Can Do It! - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

// Kill Stress Now! You Can Do It! - GODS
AIDMANSAID.COM

// Science and Life After Death - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

// Science and Life After Death - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

“Holy Grail” Was Discovered in 2015 with $17 Billion Cargo

“Holy Grail” Was Discovered in 2015 with $17 Billion Cargo

// Complaining Turns Brain to Mush - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

// Complaining Turns Brain to Mush - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

Scientists Discover “Vantablack” Deep-Sea Creatures

Scientists Discover “Vantablack” Deep-Sea Creatures

Jesus, Galilee, Matthew 11: 1-30

 Jesus was preaching and teaching in Galilee. The Jewish historian Josephus claims there were 204 villages that made up Galilee. The rest of the area was Jewish. South of Galilee was Samaria. Samaria was a mixed population of people that came to be from political transfers of population. There was also in Galilee ten Greek towns called the Decapolis. The disciples were sent out by Jesus to minister in the Jewish towns in and around Galilee (Matthew 10:5-6).

Matthew 11:30 “For my yoke [is] easy and my burden is light.”

In the Mosaic law, there were over 600 laws The Jews had to follow. On, top of those laws the Pharisees and Sadducees more that made the law even harder to follow. Matthew 23:15 and Acts 15:5 describes the Pharisees. They exalted themselves above others. They made life more difficult for people. Jesus called them hypocrites and vipers. 

Share this:

Biden lied for years about the accident that killed his wife & daughter

Biden lied for years about the accident that killed his wife & daughter

Salary in Philippines among the lowest in 100 countries - study | Philippines Lifestyle News

Salary in Philippines among the lowest in 100 countries - study | Philippines Lifestyle News

Prayer

Gracious Lord, You are merciful, kind, humble, gentle, patient, and never think evil. I wish that I could say that I was the same, but as You know, merciful Father, I am weak and have trespassed against You and my fellow man. I ask Your forgiveness for my sins and implore You to aid me in my path to righteousness. I shall devote my energy to committing acts of kindness and humility, and do them in honor of my service to You and Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

// Twenty-One Signs of Doomsday (Update XXIX) -- Four Blood Moons - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

// Twenty-One Signs of Doomsday (Update XXIX) -- Four Blood Moons - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

Arctic Rivers Turn red After 20,000 Tons of Oil Leaked From a Russian Power Station

Arctic Rivers Turn red After 20,000 Tons of Oil Leaked From a Russian Power Station

Faces of Evil: Female Concentration Camp Guards

Faces of Evil: Female Concentration Camp Guards

Texas Rangers: Formed to Deal With Raids on Settlers by the Comanche

Texas Rangers: Formed to Deal With Raids on Settlers by the Comanche

// Twenty-One Signs of Doomsday (Update II) — All the Nations Gather - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

// Twenty-One Signs of Doomsday (Update II) — All the Nations Gather - GODSAIDMANSAID.COM

Sin

James 1:15 says “Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin when it is finished, bringeth forth death.”

Sin is not a spontaneous act, but the result of a process. The Greek words for “hath conceived” and “bringeth forth sin” liken the process to physical conception and birth. James shows that temptation can follow a similar sequence and produce sin. While sin does not result in spiritual death for the believer, it can lead to physical death (1 Corinthians 11:30;1 JOHN 5:16). 

The wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). Christians do not have to pay those wages because Jesus paid them for us. In James 1:15 “conceived” means to catch, help, or take. Then when lust takes hold, that person sins. We need to get our flesh under control.   

Share this:

• Press This
• Twitter
• Facebook

Customize buttons

 steve byrd  Sin Leave a comment  August 25, 2020 1 MinuteEdit"Sin"

Was Jesus poor

Jesus was neither rich nor poor. He did not seek earthly possessions (Matthew 6: 19-21) but he did not lack the necessities of life (Matthew 6: 31-33).
This idea that Jesus lived in poverty occurred in the fourth century through misinformation and most of the incompetent monastic and ascetics who believed that poverty was a virtue and the idea persists today. The Bible does not teach that poverty or wealth is a virtue. In Proverbs 30: 8-9 Agur does not pray for wealth or poverty. He feared that he would deny God if he prayed for riches and feared that if he lived in poverty, he would steal and take God’s name in vain. Jesus was a rabbi. He would be known as having a job and a livelihood. Jesus was a carpenter (Matthew 13:55; Mark 6: 3). John 4: 8, says that the disciples went to the town to buy food. This means there is cash flow. Jesus and the twelve had money boxes to buy food and give to the poor (John 12: 13:29). They are financially supported by women. Six to eight are mentioned in the record of the crucifixion, but Luke 8: 3 says “many more” contributed. At the crucifixion, the Roman soldiers did not tear his robe , but they cast lots for it, meaning that it was of high quality (John 19: 23-24). The Bible does not say, nor does it mean, that Jesus lived in the desert as a hermit, in those days.
Jesus did not have to be a poor man without a home to care for and love the poor, and the homeless

Share this:

• Press This
• Twitter
• Facebook

Customize buttons

 steve byrd  Uncategorized Leave a comment  August 19, 2020 1 MinuteEdit"Was Jesus poor"

Gods promise

Galatians 3:16 tells us, “Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to the seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed which is in Christ.”                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             In Christ, both Jew and Gentile inherit the promises. 

Galatians 3:29 says, “And if ye [be] Christs, then ye are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”   

We need not take any thought of what we are to say. God will fill us with what we should say, as we need it. He is with us and in us.

Colossians 1:27 says, “To whom God would make known what [is] the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which Christ is in you, the hope of glory:”

Share this:

• Press This
• Twitter
• Facebook

Customize buttons

 steve byrd  God Leave a comment  August 17, 2020 1 MinuteEdit"Gods promise"

Wisdom,knowledge and understanding

Wisdom is the ability to have good judgment based on knowledge. Knowledge is the information, skills, and facts gained by someone through life experience or education. Understanding is the ability to decide. Understanding is knowledge put into action. 

If knowledge is power, and wisdom is your choice to use that power, then understanding would be the ability to execute your choice to use that power.

Knowledge, wisdom, and understanding are all noble qualities to have and all humans should seek to possess them. 

Share this:

• Press This
• Twitter
• Facebook

Customize buttons

 steve byrd  Uncategorized Leave a comment  August 13, 2020 1 MinuteEdit"Wisdom,knowledge and understanding"

Religion

“The English word “religion” is etymologically derived from the Latin word religo, meaning to “bind up.” Religion binds people up in rules and regulations or in ritualistic patterns of devotion.

Christianity was never meant to be a religion. Christianity is the dynamic spiritual life of the risen Lord Jesus indwelling the spirit of man so as to create functional behavior to the glory of God. Granted, men have attempted to force Christianity into the molds and forms of religion. That is evident by all the steeples and sanctuaries and ecclesiastical programs that dot the landscape of our society……It is the propensity of man to formulate religion ­ to take that which is of the invisible God and attempt to make it visible, tangible and controllable. Man-made religion! The apostle Paul refers to it as “self-made religion” (Colossians 2:23), and goes on to indicate that it is of no value against fleshly indulgence. In essence, Paul is saying that “religion is of no value against man’s sinfulness.” In fact, religion is a co-dependent enabler of the sins of mankind. It is itself an addiction.

Religion is essentially idolatry. Men worship their man-made formations and structures their ideological idols formed in the concrete of inflexible minds. When the apostle Paul came to Athens (Acts 17:22), he observed their idols and exclaimed, “Men of Athens, I observe that you are very religious in all respects.” The Greek word that Paul used for “religious” literally means “to have great respect for demons.”

Share this:

• Press This
• Twitter
• Facebook

Customize buttons

 steve byrd  Uncategorized Leave a comment  August 6, 2020 1 MinuteEdit"Religion"

Dealing with difficult people

What does the Bible say about dealing with difficult people?

Difficult people are everywhere. Hostile, rude, mean, selfish, impatient, uncaring, and worse (Romans 1:29–31; 2 Timothy 3:1–4; Galatians 5:19–21; 1 Corinthians 6:9–11). What may be shocking to many of us is that we have and can act the same as these people. Are we always hostile, rude, mean, selfish, impatient, and uncaring? No, but we all have the seeds of all such attitudes in our hearts (Matthew 15:19; Jeremiah 17:9). Therefore, the first step in helping us deal with difficult people is understanding that we are not better than such people by nature (Ephesians 2:1–3). We live in a fallen world filled with sinful people. We must remind ourselves of this fact so that we are not surprised when we encounter difficult people, or when we find ourselves being a difficult person. If we have received Jesus Christ, then we are forgiven for these sinful attitudes and behaviors. When we find ourselves displaying such attitudes and behaviors, we confess to God and trust that He has already forgiven us and will cleanse us (1 John 1:8–9). We make amends when possible and seek to live differently. God’s forgiveness of our difficultness/sinfulness is the basis for how we are to respond to difficult people, which is with grace. As believers in Christ our mandate is not to get even or return evil for evil but to return evil with good (Romans 12:19–21). We are called to love our enemies and to pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:43–45). This may seem impossible, and in our own power it is impossible. However, with God working in us it is possible (Matthew 19:26). To return evil with good may chafe at our sense of justice, and sometimes rightly so. However, we must remember that it is God’s role to mete out justice. We are to leave the matter in God’s hands and trust that He will judge justly (Romans 12:19). Most importantly, we must realize that we have not received what we deserve from God but have received mercy and unmerited favor instead. While we were hostile and at enmity with God, He sent His Son to die for our sins (Romans 5:6–8; Ephesians 2:1–10). Jesus, even while He was being persecuted, prayed for His tormentors (Luke 23:34). As a point of clarity, it is not wrong to involve legal authorities. Criminal behavior is not what we are referring to when we talk about “difficult people.” Social authorities have been put in place by God to uphold the law, and it is not wrong to use them (Romans 13:1–7). However, we are not to seek societal justice out of vengeance. Similarly, depending on the difficult behavior, it is not wrong to involve church authorities. Matthew 18:15–20 outlines the proper procedure for addressing grievances among church members. Again, the intent is not to seek vengeance, but to bring about peace. As believers in Christ we are indwelt by the Spirit of God who produces the attitudes of love, joy, peace, longsuffering (patience, forbearance), kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23). Therefore, we are to pray to be filled with the Spirit and to keep in step with the Spirit, and not grieve Him (Ephesians 4:30; 5:18; Galatians 5:25). If we are to respond to difficult people with grace and love, we must depend upon and draw upon the power of God’s Spirit. When we become angry and return evil with evil, we must quickly confess our sin and ask God for the grace to imitate Jesus Christ and show ourselves to be sons and daughters of our merciful Father (Luke 6:36). If we refuse to love our enemies then we are imitating not our Heavenly Father, but the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:21–35). It is in our eternal best interest to imitate the former and not the latter. How can we who have received such grace and forgiveness from God refuse to show the same to others? Often it is simple to know how we should act toward difficult people, but it can be quite a challenge to do so in our daily lives. The Proverbs have some excellent practical advice. For example, Proverbs 15:1 says, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” We can memorize this verse and, when confronted by a difficult person, attempt to respond with gentleness. You might be surprised how the situation de-escalates. Proverbs 12:16 says, “The vexation of a fool is known at once, but the prudent ignores an insult.” Rather than take insults personally and respond with immediate offense, we can learn to simply ignore them. Proverbs 20:3 says, “It is an honor for a man to keep aloof from strife, but every fool will be quarreling.” Titus 3:9 has similar encouragement to “avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.” Proverbs 17:14 similarly encourages ending quarrels before they begin. We can remind ourselves of the things that really matter and remember that some quarrels are simply pointless. There is no use getting entangled with a difficult person when the end result is “unprofitable and worthless.” In some situations, it is best to try to avoid certain difficult people altogether. Proverbs 22:24–25 says, “Make no friendship with a man given to anger, nor go with a wrathful man, lest you learn his ways and entangle yourself in a snare.” First Corinthians 15:33 says, “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals.'” As much as we are able, we should make friendships with those who are seeking to honor God the same way we are. We are also called to live peaceably with others as far as we are able (Romans 12:18; Hebrews 12:14). We can be proactive in dealing with difficult people by reading and even memorizing God’s Word to give us the right perspective on life. His Word tells us that all people are made in His image (Genesis 1:26). When we view others as image-bearers, we may find it easier to bear with them. We can also recognize that dealing with difficult people is a trial that God can use to produce good things in us. For example, see how Romans 5:3–5 and James 1:2–5 address trials and hardships. Dealing with difficult people becomes easier when we seek to exhibit empathy for others. We know that we ourselves can be difficult, particularly when tired or stressed or hungry. How would we want to be treated in such situations? Matthew 7:12 talks about doing unto others as we want them to do unto us. James 2:8 talks about loving others as we love ourselves. First Peter 4:8 says, “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins” (see also Proverbs 10:12). As we proactively seek to love one another, we will be more able to forgive offenses and deal with difficulties in a way that honors God. Difficult people are often difficult as a result of their own pain. Seeing difficult people as those who are hurting and in need of Christ’s touch can encourage us to forgive them. We can also pray for their healing. Perhaps in showing them kindness their hearts will be softened to Christ. At times we will need to confront a difficult person or point out challenging inter-personal behaviors. This will hopefully help them stop inflicting damage on others around them as well as aid them in their own spiritual growth. Christians are called to speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). This means that we speak truth because we love and also do so from a heart of love. Truth can sometimes be hard to share and hard to receive, but we speak it with grace out of love for others. If the difficult person in our life is an unbeliever, we share the truth of the gospel with them as well. Dealing with difficult people requires prayer and the power of God. When we know we are going to encounter a difficult person, we should pray beforehand. Ask for God’s wisdom and His strength to respond well. Pray for the person and for God’s work in his or her life. Remind yourself of some of the biblical truths shared here. Then seek to love as best as you can. Take any frustrations or emotional pain from your interaction with the difficult person straight to God and seek His healing and comfort.  An article from Compelling Truth magazine.

Share this:

• Press This
• Twitter
• Facebook

Customize buttons

 steve byrd  Bible Leave a comment  August 2, 2020 6 MinutesEdit"Dealing with difficult people"

Heaven and Hell

Most people believe they will go to Heaven or Hell based on how good or bad they were on earth. While most people think it will be close, they believe that they’ll make it to Heaven. Unfortunately, the opposite is true. “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him” (Hebrews 9:27-28).In Romans 3-7 Paul shows us how all have sinned and are guilty. In Romans 1-2 Paul shows us why good men and women aren’t good enough for God’s heaven. Good people need forgiveness for their sins, just like everyone else. Christians have their sins forgiven at the cross. Because of God’s grace and mercy, Christians will never face their sins again. Not so with those who died without a Savior.

Share this:

• Press This
• Twitter
• Facebook

Customize buttons

 steve byrd  Heaven, Hell Leave a comment  July 31, 2020 1 MinuteEdit"Heaven and Hell"

Holy fear

Holy fear is the kind of fear inspired by love. A fear based on respect for someone we love. When we genuinely love another person we will live inside a healthy anxiety, a worry that our actions should never disappoint, disrespect or violate the other person. We live in Holy fear when we are not anxious to betray, or disrespect someone. This differs from being afraid of something though. God does not intimidate you.God revealed Hell to us for a purpose. That purpose is to warn us about how awful it will be there (scare us) so that we would want to avoid it. God then leads us to the solution (Jesus) so we can avoid going there (hell).Hell is a scary place. I believe it is alright to scare people about things that are truly scary. A father and mother must warn their children about sex, drugs, crime, about being dishonest, and they should warn them about hell also. If telling them the truth about those things scares them away from them and steers them toward God then scaring them would be a good thing.

Share this:

• Press This
• Twitter
• Facebook

Customize buttons

 steve byrd  Holy Leave a comment  July 26, 2020 1 MinuteEdit"Holy fear"

Bible Stats

Books of the Bible and Authors
1) Genesis: Moses
2) Exodus: Moses
3) Leviticus: Moses
4) Numbers: Moses
5) Deuteronomy: Moses
6) Joshua: Joshua
7) Judges: Samuel
8) Ruth: Samuel
9) 1 Samuel: Samuel; Gad; Nathan
10) 2 Samuel: Gad; Nathan
11) 1 Kings: Jeremiah
12) 2 Kings: Jeremiah
13) 1 Chronicles: Ezra
14) 2 Chronicles: Ezra
15) Ezra: Ezra
16) Nehemiah: Nehemiah
17) Esther: Mordecai
18) Job: Moses
19) Psalms: David and others
20) Proverbs: Solomon; Agur; Lemuel
21) Ecclesiastes: Solomon
22) Songs of Solomon: Solomon
23) Isaiah: Isaiah
24) Jeremiah: Jeremiah
25) Lamentations: Jeremiah
26) Ezekiel: Ezekiel
27) Daniel: Daniel
28) Hosea: Hosea
29) Joel: Joel
30) Amos: Amos
31) Obadiah: Obadiah
32) Jonah: Jonah
33) Micah: Micah
34) Nahum: Nahum
35) Habakkuk: Habakkuk
36) Zephaniah: Zephaniah
37) Haggai: Haggai
38) Zechariah: Zechariah
39) Malachi: Malachi
40) Matthew: Matthew
41) Mark: Mark
42) Luke: Luke
43) John: Apostle John
44) Acts: Luke
45) Romans: Paul
46) 1 Corinthians: Paul
47) 2 Corinthians: Paul
48) Galatians: Paul
49) Ephesians: Paul
50) Philippians: Paul
51) Colossians: Paul
52) 1 Thessalonians: Paul
53) 2 Thessalonians: Paul
54) 1 Timothy: Paul
55) 2 Timothy: Paul
56) Titus: Paul
57) Philemon: Paul
58) Hebrews: Unknown
59) James: James (Jesus’ brother)
60) 1 Peter: Peter
61) 2 Peter: Peter
62) 1 John: Apostle John
63) 2 John: Apostle John
64) 3 John: Apostle John
65) Jude: Jude (Jesus’ brother)
66) Revelation: Apostle John*BIBLE STATISTICS**Amazing Bible Facts And Statistics*
👉🏼 Number of Books in the Bible: *66*
👉🏼 Chapters: 1,189
👉🏼 Verses: 31,101
👉🏼 Words: 783,137
👉🏼 Letters: 3,566,480
👉🏼 Number of Promises given in the Bible: 1,260
👉🏼 Commands: 6,468
👉🏼 Predictions: over 8,000
👉🏼 Fulfilled Prophecy: 3,268 verses
👉🏼 Unfulfilled Prophecy: 3,140
👉🏼 Number of Questions: 3,294
👉🏼Longest Name: Mahershalalhashbaz (Isaiah 8:1)
👉🏼 Longest Verse: Esther 8:9 (78 words)
👉🏼 Shortest Verse: John 11:35 (2 words: “Jesus wept” .
👉🏼 Middle Books: Micah and Nahum
👉🏼 Middle Chapter: Psalm 117
👉🏼 Shortest Chapter (by number of words): Psalm 117 (by number of words)
👉🏼 Longest Book: Psalms (150 Chapters)
👉🏼 Shortest Book (by number of words): 3 John
👉🏼 Longest Chapter: Psalm 119 (176 verses)
👉🏼 Number of times the word *”God”* appears: 3,358
👉🏼 Number of times the word *”Lord”* appears: 7,736
👉🏼 Number of different authors: 40
👉🏼 Number of languages the Bible has been translated into: over 1,200*OLD TESTAMENT STATISTICS:*
👉🏼 Number of Books: 39
👉🏼 Chapters: 929
👉🏼 Verses: 23,114
👉🏼 Words: 602,585
👉🏼 Letters: 2,278,100
👉🏼 Middle Book: Proverbs
👉🏼 Middle Chapter: Job 20
👉🏼 Middle Verses: 2 Chronicles 20:17,18
👉🏼 Smallest Book: Obadiah
👉🏼 Shortest Verse: 1 Chronicles 1:25
👉🏼 Longest Verse: Esther 8:9 (78 words)
👉🏼 Longest Chapter: Psalms 119*NEW TESTAMENT STATISTICS:*
👉🏼 Number of Books: 27
👉🏼 Number of Chapters: 260
👉🏼 Number of Verses: 7,957
👉🏼 Words: 180,552
👉🏼 Letters: 838,380
👉🏼 Middle Book: 2 Thessalonians
👉🏼 Middle Chapters: Romans 8, 9
👉🏼 Middle Verse: Acts 27:17
👉🏼 Smallest Book: 3 John
👉🏼 Shortest Verse: John 11:35
👉🏼 Longest Verse: Revelation 20:4 (68 words)
👉🏼Longest Chapter: Luke 1There are 8,674 different Hebrew words in the Bible, 5,624 different
Greek words, and 12,143 different English words in the King James Version.• Bible Written by Approximately 40 Authors
• Written over a period of 1,600 years
• Written over 40 generations
• Written in three languages: Hebrew, Greek and Aramaic
• Written on three continents: Europe, Asia and Africa
• Written in different locations: wilderness, dungeon, palace, prison, in exile, at home
• Written by men from all occupations: kings, peasants, doctors, fishermen, tax collectors, scholars, etc.
• Written in different times: war, peace, poverty, prosperity, freedom and slavery
• Written in different moods: heights of joy to the depths of despair
• Written in harmonious agreement on a widely diverse range of subjects and doctrines.*10 Longest Books in the Bible*1) Psalm – 150 Chapters, 2,461 verses, 43,743 words
2) Jeremiah – 52 chapters, 1,364 verses, 42,659 words
3) Ezekiel – 48 chapters, 1,273 verses, 39,407 words
4) Genesis – 50 chapters, 1,533 verses, 38,267 words
5) Isaiah – 66 chapters, 1,292 verses, 37,044 words
6) Numbers – 36 chapters, 1,288 verses, 32,902 words
7) Exodus – 40 chapters, 1,213 verses, 32.602 words
8) Deuteronomy – 34 chapters, 959 verses, 28,461 words
9) 2 Chronicles – 36 chapters, 822 verses, 26,074 words
10) Luke – 24 chapters, 1,151 verses, 25,944 words*10 Shortest Books in the Bible*
1) 3 John – 1 chapter, 14 verses, 299 words
2) 2 John – 1 chapter, 13 verses, 303 words
3) Philemon – 1 chapter,bb 25 verses, 445 words
4) Jude – 1 chapter, 25 verses, 613 words
5) Obadiah – 1 chapter, 21 verses, 670 words
6) Titus – 3 chapters, 46 verses, 921 words
7) 2 Thessalonians – 3 chapters, 47 verses, 1,042 words
8) Haggai – 2 chapters, 38 verses, 1,131 words
9) Nahum – 3 chapters, 47 verses, 1,285 words
10) Jonah – 4 chapters, 48 verses, 1,321.

Share this:

• Press This
• Twitter
• Facebook

Customize buttons

 steve byrd  Bible Leave a comment  July 25, 2020 2 MinutesEdit"Bible Stats"

Acknowledge God

God wants us to acknowledge Him. Psalm 46:10 says “Be still and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth”. When we acknowledge God, there will be a confession of sin (Proverbs 28:13), a confession of salvation (Romans 10:10), a confession of the Savior (John 4:15). We must admit our own weakness in the flesh, our inability to help ourselves and our total dependence on Jesus Christ. Jesus said “without me, ye can do nothing” John 15:5. Paul said, ” I can do all things through Christ which strengthen me” (Philippians 4:13). We are to commit our ways to Him (Proverbs 3:6), we are to commit our lives to Him (Philippians 1:21), and we are to commit our will to Him (Luke 22:42).  God wants our allegiance. Jesus commanded, ” And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:27). We give our allegiance to many things, political parties, employers, family and friends and many other things, but God wants us to give Him our allegiance first. We will make time for what is most important in our lives. Colossians 3:2 says “Set your affections on things above, not on things of the earth”. God wants us to be available to Him. We need God. Many time’s people think God needs them. People who think this have, an over-inflated ego. Nothing could be further from the truth. Romans 12:3 says, “For I say through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think…….. The Lord wants to use us but He can and will use someone else if we are not willing to be obedient to Him. 

Share this:

• Press This
• Twitter
• Facebook

Customize buttons

 steve byrd  Bible, God Leave a comment  July 23, 2020 1 MinuteEdit"Acknowledge God"

Bible Topics