Christian Church Step Up In Charity

 Once again, the church must step in where the government fails on localized help and commnity  charity.  Just as church organizations filled the hunger and caring gap not covered by FEMA during hurricanes, floods, and tornados in the last few years - it must fill the food and care gap left by SNAP during a government shutdown in feeding those who need it.  Don't forget the families of military and other employees who are still supporting the country working without pay until the political shutdown is reversed.  Just as the Church held food drives and distribution for those left unemployed by the disaster of COVID handling, the body of Christ should once again help those in need.  Churches and food banks always provide Thanksgiving and Christmas meals in America, now it is time to provide for daily bread on a regular basis - not just holiday feasts.  Also find ways to help those needing rent to make arrangements with landlords, help those with other bills find a way to make payments, and especially help those needing work find a job.  Even if the evil ones relent and vote the shutdown over, churches and individual Christians need to continue to show God's love, extend charity outreach, and push for revival! 

Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, 

for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.- Hebrews 13:16 (ESV)

Can the church do a better job than government in handling charity?  Most churches have a better understanding of their communities and local people's need better than the city or county govenerment.  Both churches and governments experience fraud, but the church has more knowledge and discernment when it comes to people in their towns.  The church does not require mounds of paperwork and excessive regulations to determine those truly in need.  The church shows God's love through prayer and practicality, someone in the body will know the needs and through discernment the Christisn body or individuals within it will provide in the best way to meet thse needs. 

Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, 

and he will repay him for his deed. - Proverbs 19:17 (ESV)

Who should the church help and why should the church become more involved in helping the needy? Jesus instructed Christain to help others, a few examples of how can be found in the Church and Charity ministry lesson on SimplyBible website. Where do the people of God start with charitable work and how do they get involved?  Some ideas are presented in CrossTalk post Faith in Action: Will the Church Step Up Where the Government Steps Back? 

To the Unwise and the Wicked, Learn!

With all the contempt and anger in the world, the inexerinced can easily be led astray.  Many people (of faith and without it) wonder are these people really this stupid or is someone paying them to act this way?  Evil is always willing to do what is necesseary to lead people away from God and goodness; even to the point of pretending to be better, feigning a new liberal awareness, and disguiding their true nature.  The evil one(s) lies and will try to make things appear grey that are clearly black and white; evil paints wrong as right.  Can these unwise people headed for their own destruction be re-taught?  Can those willingly led astray by the wicked learn what is right?  Will they set aside their scorn and sinfulness to seek the truth?

"How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? 

and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge? 

Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, 

I will make known my words unto you." - Proverbs 1:22-23 (KJV+ MORE)

Those who really want to know the truth, merely need to turn to God for forgiveness and direction.  He will show them the wisdom of His ways through His word.  He will lead them  from wrong to learn the promises and truth that the evil one(s) have tried to keep hidden from them.  If they only listen to God, they will trun from evil and win themselves a new life on this earth and a wonderful one in eternity.  They will feel His love and understand what is good as well as how to do REAL good - not to fallow falshoods that lead to their pain and the pain of others.  They can learn and feel freedom, if they choose to be saved.  God is the greatest educator.  God's people need to help provide that eduation through example, through open conversations, and in actions.

Why Attack Now? Terrorism is NOT Religion of God!

    

"The violence of the wicked 
will drag them away,
for they refuse to do what is right."
- Proverbs 21:7 (NIV) 

After years of peace, people are wondering why did international terrorist attack Israel/Jews now?  Back on 9/11/2001 in America and long afterwards, people wondered the same thing about so-called religious extremist and domestic terrorism.  How can one group of people hate another group so much they advocate murder?  How can anyone kill others in the name of religion or claim violence as social justice? After the truth of the holocaust came out after World War II, people wondered that  same thing.  Now we add, how can so many people march in support of or as part of terrorist groups?  The secular answer is that we no longer teach truth about history.  There may be some truth in that, however it may be more that we no longer teach morality and respect for others.  There should be no doubt that  terrorist organizations are evil, no matter what propaganda phrase they adopt to convince us otherwise.

"For you are not a God who is pleased with wickedness; 
with you, evil people are not welcome. 
The arrogant cannot stand in your presence. 
You hate all who do wrong;  you destroy those who tell lies. 
The bloodthirsty and deceitful you, Lord, detest." - Psalm 5:4-6 (NIV)

Now, it seems to be all about loving oneself and doing whatever you desire including inciting hate for others.  Sexual perversion is not really rampant among everyone, but we are told it must be allowed for the brainwashed mentally-ill few.  Most people want law and order, but we are told that infringes on the rights of the criminals who choose to embrace violence or take from others who are weaker than themselves.  The Bible warned this would happen as people of faith no longer raise their children in God's ways but instead allow schools and others to lead, thus allowing the devil to begin convincing new generations that evil is good through indoctrination masquerading as eduction.

"The wicked become a ransom for the righteous, 
and the unfaithful for the upright." - Proverbs 21:18 (NIV) 

So what happened to the no bullying and anti-racism programs that have now become more guided by selective or political persecution?  Is the golden rule no longer relevant in society today? We have gone too far, it is now time to choose a side.  Whose side are you on?  What attitude will you adopt? Which path will you choose?  Pick the right way, instead of continuing down the wrong path.  

"Not a word from their mouth can be trusted; their heart is filled with malice. 

Their throat is an open grave; with their tongues they tell lies. 
Declare them guilty, O God! Let their intrigues be their downfall. 
Banish them for their many sins, for they have rebelled against you." 
Pslams 5:9-10 (NIV)

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Terrorim is not a religion based on a loving God, instead it actually is a tool of the devil to spread fear and division.  For more on Islam and what it means, view free full video at https://www.prageru.com/dearinfidels.  See trailer below.

Too Many People Are Going to Hell

Too many people are going to hell of their own free will!  So many people are experiencing hell on earth right now and too many of them are also headed towards eternal hell.  Can anything be done about this?

Some people are involved in violence.  A few want the violence for personal, profitable, or political reasons.  Others are part of the violence for pay, to loot, enjoy villainy, or want unmerited fame;  while others are just going along.  Violence is usually the product of hate, crime, or emotionally-driven unrest. Who is leading the way for violence?   It is a favorite tactic of the devil to destroy both those guilty of participating in violence and the innocent who fear the results of violence. Who can stop the violence?

"For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and 

hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us"  

- Ephesians 2:14 (KJV)

Some people are lonely or depressed.  For some, depression can come from actual circumstances, things going on around them, words wrongfully spoken, or deceptive thoughts and personal perceptions.  Why has depression increased?  What can be done to help overcome the depression?  Others  have no one to talk with, while another may have people they can turn to but do not feel they can do so.  Then loneliness creeps into their lives. often soon followed by depression.  When will the lonesomeness end?

"Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, 

that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost." 

- Romans 15:13 (KJV)

As a Christian, what are you doing about the people you know are headed for hell?  When you see wrong, are you retaliating and screaming back physically or are you fighting spiritually?  Are you telling people about Jesus and leading them in the prayer of salvation.  As a Church body, how is your group helping to: alleviate the pain of others, lead people to Christ, stop crime in your neighborhood, and fight falsehoods and the increasing evil in society?  Is your church bringing in sinners in to be saved from hell?  Or does it allow the sins to stay just to fill a seat or is it too quickly jumping on a social or worldly fads to mollify the ungodly? Pray through Christ for Godly direction to lead more away from hell and toward heaven.

Opportunity to Share the Light

In the scripture below, Jesus is letting His disciples know He must do the work of God while He can.  Day and night are metaphors for His life and death.  His mission from His father God to heal both physically and spiritually needed to be done while He was living (day) and walking in the world.  His light was the message He must share before His death (night) with not only His disciples but everyone He meets or hears of Him.  At the same time, Jesus is letting His disciples know they should do the same in the future when they are on their own missions to all those they will come into contact with.  This may be why some Bible translations replace "I" with "we" in verse 4 in order to incorporate His speaking of future missions.  Just as Jesus Christ let the light shine in His lifetime, His followers are to continue to shine His light throughout the world.  

"I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: 

the night cometh, when no man can work. 

As long as I am in the world,  

I am the light of the world.”- John 9:4-5 (KJV) 

Just as the original disciples took jesus' words to heart and most likely personalized them to their owns missions, Christians now should also do the same.  Since none of of has that much time on this earth, think of the words day and night as your personal  opportunities given to you by Jesus.  Are you presented with opportunities to share the light of Jesus that shines in your life with others?  Do you take advantage of the time you have (symbolic day) or do you let the opportunity slip by and pass into the darkness (night symbol) of failure and regret?  Are you living in the light and shining brightly for Jesus? Or are you letting the darkness come and hide the light that Jesus has shared with you?  Please do not waste your opportunity.  Be His light in this world!

Evangelizing with Gospel Tracts

Previously, an idea of Ministering and Witnessing via Bookmarks was shared on this blog as a technique to spread the message of Christ to others.  Now, with the growing need for more people to know about God, as well as both freedom of speech and religion being suppressed on the internet, it is time to reconsider the use of paper-based gospel tracts.  Tracts may contain short stories, faith Bible verses, illustrations, or poetry.

"And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, 

How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, 

and bring glad tidings of good things!" - Romans 10:15 (KJV)

It may seem like an old-fashioned idea, using printed tracts to spread the gospel and witness to people.  However, it is an easy and inexpensive method for those less confident about talking to others.  Tracts  provide something real for the person receiving it to hold onto and review multiple times at their convenience.  It is still a relevant evangelistic tool for churches and individuals to spread the gospel of Christ.  Let us bring back the Gospel tracts!

Below are a some websites where you may obtain Christian tracts:

• Lifeway Store and Article Blog
• ChristianBook Store 
• Gospel-Tracts Features Combo Packages
• TractPlanet Sore
• Reaching the World Designers and Distributors
• Moments with the Book Design and Store
• Crossway Store
• Page Ministries Store or FREE Downloads 
• Living Waters Store 
• Liberty Gospel Tracts and FREE Resources

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Restore Strength, Eagle Wings

Every Christian will at some time grows weary.  This weariness may be physical tiredness or emotional strain.  When this happens, it is important to take time to replenish the soul before continuing the effort to do God's work.  The Bible often refers to this time as "waiting upon the Lord" as a way to restore one's purpose and dedication.  Taking time for a daily devotional of Bible reading and prayer increases the ability to hear God's direction, grow faith, obtain enlightenment, and build strength to continue the spiritual battle in God's service.  This spirit-building time keeps the Christian from getting discouraged, worn down, or burnt out.  

"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; 

they shall mount up with wings as eagles; 

they shall run, and not be weary; 

and they shall walk, and not faint." - Isaiah 40:31 (KJV) 

Time spent with the Lord motivates continuing His work and provides protection through it.  It builds spiritual excitement and emotional encouragement for accomplishing the mission as God leads. If a Christian tries to do the righteous work on his/her own, they will quickly grow weary.  Submitting oneself to time with God builds strength and character to accomplish physical tasks, overcome mental challenges, and win spiritual battles.  If Christians take the time to rest in God and trust His power, He will provide the strength and perseverance necessary to carry on.

Having Done All, Stand

As a Christian, you are called to be a soldier for the God and His truth.  You must never forget that you are part of a great army for His work.  Christians offer so much good to other people through various Church missions, ministries, and community outreaches.  So it is not surprising that you might  wonder why people seem to be against the God's goodness.  Who could be behind this anger at God and His people?  Why would anyone want to make trouble rather than endorse the good works?  

"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.  Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;  And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;  Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.  And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;" - Ephesians 6:10-18 (KJV) 

The Bible tells of both physical and spiritual wars that have been and will come.  Christian soldiers are told how to prepare for spiritual battle in Ephesians.  You are encouraged to pray, prepare, and put on the full armour of God.  In doing so you will be able to stand firm in your convictions and purpose.

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Seven Motivational Spiritual Gifts

Motivational spiritual gifts are very action-oriented and are how Christ moves through us in word and deed.  These gifts will be distributed throughout the Church body. Many of these action gifts are to: edify the Church, grow the flock through spoken and unspoken witness, and make new members comfortable.  

You may have multiples versions of these gifts (or subsets such as those listed as AKA), though you may excel in a particular one.  These gifts reflect the personality of Jesus through you, therefore you should seek to use these gifts wisely and as often as possible.

"Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, 
whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; 
Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; 
Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity;
he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness." 
- Romans 12:6-8 (KJV) 

Below is some information on the 7 spiritual gifts of motivational actions:  

• Giving (aka Hospitality/Hosting, Sharing) people are excited to share generously what they have with the Church and other people.  They do so cheerfully and without expecting recognition or reward.   They take pleasure in making people feel welcome and cared about.  They also encourage other to give of what resources  and blessings that they may have.  They have a special place in their heart for the needy and lonely.  They are selfless, seek ways to help ,and typically are hospitable towards others.
• Exhorting (aka Exhortation, Encouragement/Encouraging) means to console, support, comfort, strengthen, and counsel others in their Christian growth so they can become all that God wants them to be.  People with this gift may encourage, challenge, or rebuke those whose faith is wavering or to help them continue their growth in the Lord. They desire to buildup the body of Christ for the glorification of God.  
• Mercy spiritual gift allows people to easily sense the emotions of others, be sensitive to their feelings and needs, as well as help them through their burdens.  They are good listeners, empathetic, loving, meek, sympathetic, patient, and communicative with a desire to end suffering and see others healed.  Although the mercy spiritual gift is emotionally sensitive, those with it look for practical ways and compassionate deeds to help those they see suffering physically, emotionally, or spiritually.  They will stay with whomever they are helping through the process of healing.  
• Ministering (aka Service/Serving, Helping) should not be confused with the ministry roles, but in the motivational sense it is that of helper or servant.  People with this spiritual gift desire to meet the needs of the Church and individuals.  When they see a necessary task, they commit to getting it done, either by doing it or by assisting others in the job.  They often work behind the scene filling in gaps around the Church.  People with the ministering gift support the ministry by doing various errands  or jobs in order to free up others for ministry roles aimed at growing the Church.
• Prophesy spiritual gift provides insight or foresight into God's will or plan for the Church body.  They may warn of sin or reveal it which makes the prophet's role seem judgmental, but they are merely dedicated to Gods truth.  This divine message from God is a blessing to the Church, however it must be tested and measured against scripture.  
• Teaching is a foundational gift and it requires dedication to study, research, prayer, lesson planning, and possibly writing.  Whether the gift is to be a Sunday School teacher, youth program, or study group leader; it still requires great responsibility to carry out the role. Those in the teacher's role are typically good speakers or willing group facilitators.  
• Ruling (aka Administration/Administer, Organization/Organize, Leadership/Leading) is the ability to see the "big picture," set long-term goals, guide others to achieve the goals, and find ways to get work done.  People with this spiritual gift typically have leadership skills in planning, organization, and supervision.  This gift includes protecting the Church and often manifests itself in multiple roles and jobs within the Church body.   

A great way to think of the motivational gifts is how they help the Church body to be whole.  For example think of each spiritual gift as a physical body part of Christ: giving is the arms, exhorting the mouth, mercy is the heart, ministering the hands, prophecy the eyes, teaching the mind, and ruling the head. From this example you can see that all the motivational gifts are valuable, each is important to the Church body.

If you feel you have a listed motivational gift, pray that God will direct you in how to use it effectively.  Your pastor may be able to help you in directing your gift towards the best way of working for the Church. 

Your Presents from God: Spiritual Gifts

We often think of our physical blessings as our gifts from God.  While He does meet our needs and some of our wants in the form of blessings, He has and even better present in store for you.  Part of being a Christian is finding and using your spiritual gifts for the glorification of God and the service of your Church.   By His grace, God has appointed each of His believers one or more gifts - this includes you.  He wants you to:  know what your gift is, develop the gift, and use the gift for His glory. 

Your gift(s) may stem form a natural talent you already have or it may be a skill or attribute you need to cultivate.  If you are not sure what you gift is, you should pray for endowment and revelation from God.  You may choose to take one of the many assessments for determining your spiritual gift(s).  You may try doing various functions within the Church-body to find your joy.  

"One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.  

But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. 

Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, 

and gave gifts unto men." - Ephesians 4:6-8 (KJV) 

Find joy?  Yes, using the gift(s) God gave you should result in personal joy, as well as the reward of selflessness.  If you are doing what God meant you to do, you will be more blessed and happy.  Just waiting or observing does not help you grow in the Lord.  Sitting still does not increase your blessings and it does not bring lots of joy.  Yes, you do get some joy in praying. learning, singing, worshiping, and seeking the Lord.  Just imagine how much much more joy there can be in serving Him with your spiritually endowed gifts!

There are several spiritual gifts.  These gifts are typically divided into three categories by modern theology.  Together, we will explore them in additional posts using three M's (3M) method.  The 3M categories are Manifestation, Ministry, and Motivational.  

God Has a Plan!

"For I know the plans that I have for you,’ 

declares the Lord, ‘plans for well-being, 

and not for calamity, in order to 

give you a future and a hope.

When you call out to me and come and pray to me,

I’ll hear you." - Jeremiah 29:10-12 (ISV) 

God has a plan.  He has a plan for you personally.  He has a plan for His Church.  He has a plan for government.  He has a plan for this nation.  He has a plan for the entire world!  God is the creator of the universe, so He is in control no matter what you may think or feel is going on.  The devil has no chance of overthrowing the Great Creator!

"Trust in the Lord and do good. Dwell in the land and feed on faithfulness.

Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Commit your way to the Lord; Trust him, and he will act. 

He will bring forth your righteousness as a light, 

and your justice as the noonday sun." - Psalms 37:3-6 (ISV)

God has a plan and He expects you to be an active part of it..  Do not sit silently waiting for His will to be done.  Have a daily devotional time where you pray for guidance, read the Bible, and then follow through with action as He leads you.

Jesus the Entertainer?

What did he crowds of people want when they followed Jesus?  Did they want to see His miracles or wished to see a magic show?  Did they want to hear His excellent sermons and parables, or were they just expecting a great motivational speaker and orator of the times?  Did they want to be fed spiritual food for their souls or to satisfy physical hunger?  Jesus the Entertainer, NOT!  Instead they found teacher, healer, savior - the Son of God.

"And the people saw them departing,
and many knew him, 

and ran afoot thither out of all cities,
and outwent them, and came together unto him. 

And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, 

and was moved with compassion toward them, 

because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: 

and he began to teach them many things." - Mark 6:33-34 

Are preachers taking the pulpit for Biblical ad spiritual learning to meet entertainment standards.   Are worship leaders getting everyone to grow closer to God and learn scripture by singing along, or are they just giving a concert?  Are church congregations becoming audience members rather than active followers of Jesus and anointed by the Holy Spirit to do God's work?    

"And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, 

he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, 

and gave them to his disciples to set before them; 

and the two fishes divided he among them all.  

And they did all eat, and were filled." - Mark 6:41-42

Remember the acronym WWJD: What would Jesus do?  If you study the Bible, you know what Jesus did ad you learn what he expects you to do too.  It is time to go back to the purpose of the church and the mission of discipleship.  Time to feed the hungry - body and soul.  Focus on John 3:16 and tell everyone about Jesus and what God did for them through Jesus Christ.    It is time for real REVIVAL!

"And whithersoever he entered, into villages, or cities, or country, 

they laid the sick in the streets, and besought him 

that they might touch if it were but the border of his garment: 

and as many as touched him were made whole." - Mark 6:56

Spirit of Blessings and Growth for Believers in Christ

A few religious leaders concentrate on the physical blessings of God to His people.  Christians need to understand that they have spiritual blessings and duties too.  The Church (body of Christ) need to understand Ephesians 1, which explains God wants to bless His people and He also gives them a mission of growth.  Too many Christians choose to: bask in their current blessings, not understand who they are in Christ,  and not grow themselves or the Church.  God wants a spiritual growth and connection in all of His people.  Christians should use what He gave them to grow and expand the role of the Church to bring the unsaved unto salvation through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.

Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: 

and whom he called, them he also justified: 

and whom he justified, them he also glorified. - Romans 8:30 (KJV)

As a Christian, you must:

• Recognize and accept your spiritual blessings 
• Know who you are in Christ (redeemed from past sins, adopted child with full inheritance, LOVED)
• Grow in your spiritual knowledge of God (devote time to daily pray and study the Bible)
• Share your knowledge and blessings with others 

Praying for Leaders

As a Christian, it is your duty to pray for those in a leadership role.  Pray for your church leaders, your employers, and other leaders in your life.  According to the Bible, you are to pray for everyone who has an authority over you.  It does not matter if you like them, you should pray for their health, that they make good decisions, and follow God's will in their lives and responsibilities.   

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"I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession 
and thanksgiving be made for all people - for kings and all those in authority,
that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved
and to come to a knowledge of the truth." - 1 Timothy 2:1–4 (NIV)

No matter what political party you associate with or who you voted for, you should be praying for government leaders at local, county, state, and national levels.  Pray right now for current leaders' health, their families, and God's guidance for them in fulfilling their duties of office.  When you do have the opportunity to vote for new or returning leaders, pray before you vote that you make the right choice.  Again, it does not matter which party you normally associate with or the past of the politician, what matters is the leaders' current platform and if their issues and policies align with how God is leading you and what the Bible says is right or wrong.  As a Christian, you do not vote personalities, you should be voting God's will for good and NOT evil.  If you are not praying before you vote or not voting because you do not care for either candidate,  you are choosing to NOT help fulfill God's will and opening the door for satan to try to take  control.

Who Can Be Against Us and Why?

Christian churches have always worked to help others in their community.  Christians take on ministries to feed the poor and help the sick.  Christian missionaries not only spread the gospel to other cities and countries, they continue the ministries as well.  The purpose of Christian living is to show God's love in this ungodly world.  Who can be against the sharing of God's love and plan of salvation?

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, 

who have been called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:28 (NIV)

So how can a people who show love be targeted by hated by some in this world?   Are you wondering why churches and Christianity are being attacked and lied about?  Could it be the devil is running scared of what the joint voices and prayers of the Church following Jesus Christ can do?  Is satan and his demon forces working hard to stop the Church from their mission?  YES, they are!

"What, then, shall we say in response to these things? 

If God is for us, who can be against us?" - Romans 8:31 (NIV)

What should Christians do now?  God does not tell us to be meek and wait for persecution to come.  Instead we are to stand against evil and be a beacon of the Light in this dark age.  God has equipped  Christians to win the war. over evil  We need to Pray, Praise, and  Put on the full armor of God and get ready for battle.

"In all these things we are more than conquerors 

through him who loved us." - Romans 8:37 (NIV)

Evil Wants to Overshadow the Truth

"An evil-doer giveth heed to wicked lips; 

And a liar giveth ear to a mischievous tongue."

- Proverbs 17:4 (ASV)

Satan is the biggest liar, the evil father of lies, and behind every lie told to and by humans in a n attempt to spread evil even more.  Remember that evil can hide behind a good cause.  Evil takes advantage of blind followers.  The devil seeks to divide people and destroy what they have built. Evil  blots out the truth of history.  Criminals and deviants reign while honesty and purity are scoffed at.  Evil removes your sense of safety.  Terror and fear become the legacy of evil.  Evil is a hidden terrorist waiting to exploit those who do not seek the truth before they act.  Evil can hide behind words, will distort truth, incite anarchy, and always seeks destruction.  Evil breeds anger and hate.  NO good comes from evil.

But evil men and impostors shall wax worse and worse, 

deceiving and being deceived.

But abide thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of,

knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a babe thou hast known

the sacred writings which are able to make thee wise unto salvation

through faith which is in Christ Jesus." - 2 Timothy 3:13-15 (ASV)

Do not let evil in!  Before you know it, good intentions and wrong ideas cost you your freedom.  Be NOT afraid of words. lies, and twisted versions of what is real.  Do not let the  loud screams of a few hide the voices of the majority.  Fight evil! Stand up to evil!  Fight misdeeds and the goals of the devil.  Pray that God rains down his righteousness before it is too late.  We shall overcome with God's help.  Pray and keep praying for a breakthrough.

"Beware of false prophets, 
who come to you in sheep’s clothing, 

but inwardly are ravening wolves. 
By their fruits ye shall know them. 

Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 

Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; 
but the corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit." 
- Matthew 7:15-17 (ASV)

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Two Wrongs Do Not Make a Right

How many of you will agree that satan is evil?  The devil is the father of lies. Satan enjoys spreading hate.  He jumps for joy when he sees mankind is struggling or in conflict.  The devil knows if he can get people to react without thinking or praying, he can then lead them to do wrong.  Any wrong can lead to several other wrongs and can pull people further away from God's plan for them.

Can you recognize when satan is the instiagater of a situation?  Your mother may have told you "Two wrongs don't make a right."  There is Biblical truth in that statement.  If you see evil building through revenge or anger, then you know that the devil must have been at the root of it.  He continues to fan the flames with lies, hate, and misinformation.

"Make sure that no one pays back evil for evil. Instead, 

always pursue what is good for each other and for everyone else."

 - 1 Thessalonians 5:15 (ISV)

So how do you make sure you do not increase the wrong and help satan with his plans?  You look for what good can you do for others.  You choose not to slander others or help spread lies.  You pursue the right attitude to improve the situation while not escalating the problem.  If you are not sure what to do, the best thing is to pray for God's guidance.  Ask God, not a person as he/she may be easily fooled by satan.

Taking the time to pray and talk with God can heal hearts.  Healed hearts can lead to understanding each other better and improving communication with one another.  Good intentions of mankind are not enough to improve things.  However, God's love and your understanding can change the situation.

Christian Goal Setting

Have you heard about setting SMART goals in the past?  Did you wonder if you need to set some goals or just "let go and let God" run your life?  While the Bible teaches you to let God into your live and let Him lead you, it also teaches you not use that as an excuse to do nothing.

If God has a path for you, do you need a map to know the direction?  Setting Christian goals is more than just making yearly resolutions that you may or may not keep.  God gives everyone a purpose in this life - for you to know that purpose you must pray.  If you are to fulfill that purpose, you must plan.  This is where goal-setting comes in.  Christian goals may be personal, spiritual, or social.   Your goals may also be related to your: character, health, charity, family, vocation (business/career/job), church, finances, or community.

"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, 

and he will establish your plans." 

- Proverbs 16:3 (NIV)

We need to make sure your goals align with God's purpose, so think about what you wold like to achieve and then pray about it.  If God does not lead you away from your desired goals, then you should set realistic expectations, write down your goals so you can track progress, and make a step-by-step plan for achieving them.  Once you have your plan, pray about that too; ask God to help you on your journey and to lead you His way.

Once you feel your plan has been blessed, you will feel more motivated to stay focused and follow it through to fulfillment.  However, do not be discouraged or surprised if God changes your plan or path along the way, after all you want to stay in His will and He knows what is best for you.

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