Challenge Of Faith Ministries

Sharing the Gospel

of Jesus Christ

Challenge Of Faith Ministries

Changing Seasons

"DISASTER AT BULL RUN!"

In the unforgettable days of the CIVIL WAR, the UNION'S first great loss was on the afternoon of JULY 21, 1861. How about that, it happened on the date of my Birthday, but of course, not the same year! It was a loss that hardly seemed credible to most Northerners, after all, Union Troops had better equipment, BUT, they lacked at that time "LEADERSHIP" "MOTIVATION" AND "TRAINING" all of which led to their disastrous "RETREAT" that day in History.

General-in-Chief Winfield Scott was, in retrospect, hasty in advancing on the South before adequately training his troops. Scott ordered General Irvin McDowell to advance on Confederate Troops stationed at Manassas Junction, Virginia. McDowell attacked on JULY 21, and was initially successful, but the introduction of Confederate reinforcements resulted in a Southern Victory and a "CHAOTIC RETREAT" toward Washington by Federal Troops. Union Forces lost 2,900 out of about 20,000 actually in the battle, while Confederates lost 2,000 out of about 17,000 engaged.

Walt Whitman once said that his two most memorable days during the Civil War were the Day Abraham Lincoln was assassinated and the Day New York got the NEWS of the Disaster at Bull Run. The loss of the First Great Battle led Northerners to plunge "TO THE DEPTHS OF GLOOM AND APPREHENSION." In his 1904 Memoirs, reporter Henry Villard attested "TO THE COCKINESS OF THE UNION LEADERS JUST BEFORE THE BATTLE."

If you are a True Believer in the CRUCIFIED, RISEN LORD JESUS CHRIST, you are in the ARMY OF THE LORD, and JESUS CHRIST is our Great and Mighty Commander in Chief. He has warned us that we must never be without HIS PROVIDED ARMOR, whether at Home or out in the World about us. There is no room for AN ATTITUDE OF COCKINESS OR SELF-SUFFICIENCY! We are warned, "LET HIM WHO THINKS HE STANDS, TAKE HEED LEST HE FALL!"! "For our battle is not against FLESH AND BLOOD, but against Principalities, against the Rulers, against the Authorities, against the Powers of the "DARK WORLD" and against the spiritual FORCES of "EVIL" in high places." Ephesians 6

Our Commander-in Chief, JESUS CHRIST, understood only too well the seriousness of the Battle His Followers would face, and in His Prayer before the Father, He prayed, "I have given them YOUR WORD and the World has hated them, for they are NOT OF THE WORLD, anymore than I am of the World. My Prayer is not that you take them out of the World, but that YOU PROTECT THEM FROM THE EVIL ONE."

Not one of us IN CHRIST, is adequate in OURSELVES to stand against the Wiles of the Devil. This one who "GOES ABOUT AS A ROARING LION SEEKING WHOM HE CAN DEVOUR!" But more than that, Satan, the GREAT DECEIVER, also "MASQUERADES HIMSELF AS AN ANGEL OF LIGHT." II Corinthians 11:14 That is why we MUST at all times have on the "WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD SO THAT WE CAN STAND AGAINST THE DEVIL'S SCHEMES." He does not want us to be effective Soldiers in the Lord's Army.

We can learn so much from Young David as he faced the Giant Goliath. When this Champion from Gath stepped out from the lines of the Philistine Army and shouted his defiant words, when they saw the man, "ALL RAN FROM HIM IN FEAR!" But David went to Saul and said, "Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine, your Servant will go and Fight him." King Saul tried to prevent this Young Boy from fighting Goliath, but finally, with David's persistence, he sent him to face the Giant.

When Goliath saw the Young Lad coming to do Battle with him, he Cursed David by his gods and said, "Come here, and I'll give your flesh to the birds of the air and the beasts of the field." David said to the Philistine, "You come against me with sword, and spear and javelin, BUT I COME IN THE NAME OF THE LORD ALMIGHTY, THE GOD OF THE ARMIES OF ISRAEL, whom you have defied. ALL those here will KNOW that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD SAVES, "FOR THE BATTLE IS THE LORD'S, AND HE WILL GIVE ALL OF YOU INTO OUR HANDS." I Samuel 17:32-47

There it is Friends, "THE BATTLE IS THE LORD'S!" We dare not trust the sweetest frame but wholly lean on JESUS NAME! "LET HIM WHO THINKS HE STANDS TAKE HEED LEST HE FALL." We can only War a Good Warfare against the Forces of Darkness, as we go to Battle IN THE STRENGTH OF THE LORD! "THANKS BE TO GOD WHO GIVES US THE VICTORY THROUGH OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST!" "WE ARE MORE THAN CONQUERORS THROUGH HIM WHO LOVED US."

There can be no DISASTERS, like that of Bull Run, for Believer's facing the Forces of Darkness, WHEN WE GO IN THE NAME OF THE LORD, WITH HIS STRENGTH AND HIS ALMIGHTY POWER, FOR IF GOD IS FOR US, WHO CAN BE AGAINST US." Romans 8:31

Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com

************************************************

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!"

On JULY 4, 1776 we claimed our "INDEPENDENCE" and "FREEDOM" from England, and "DEMOCRACY" was Born. Prior to this momentous Day, on March 20, 1775, the Second Virginia Convention convened at St. John's Church in Richmond to consider weighty matters concerning the Tyranny and Oppression of the Crown of England. Sitting in this meeting was a man with a great burden, who knew that what he was about to say would be Opposed by the Powerful and the Wealthy Loyalist. The risk of Patrick Henry was tremendous and one that could have resulted in the loss of his life.

As one wrote, "Mr. Henry feared not man that can destroy only the Body, but he feared God who can destroy both body and soul in hell." LIBERTY burned in his heart and flowed through his veins, and on March 23, 1775, Patrick Henry made his famous speech with this conclusion: "Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace - BUT THERE IS NO PEACE! THE WAR IS ACTUALLY BEGUN! The next gale that sweeps from the North will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our Brethren are already in the Field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that Gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is Life so Dear, or Peace so Sweet, as to be Purchased at the Price of Chains and Slavery? FORBID IT, ALMIGHTY GOD! I KNOW NOT WHAT COURSE OTHERS MAY TAKE; BUT AS FOR ME, GIVE ME "LIBERTY" OR GIVE ME "DEATH!"

Our Founding Father's looked beyond themselves to Almighty God for Wisdom and Guidance. They were Men of Honor, willing to put their lives on the line. Men who "HELD THESE TRUTHS TO BE SELF-EVIDENT, THAT "ALL" MEN ARE CREATED EQUAL, THAT THEY ARE ENDOWED BY THEIR CREATOR WITH CERTAIN UNALIENABLE RIGHTS, THAT AMONG THESE ARE LIFE, LIBERTY, AND THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS."

Patrick Henry, a key leader in the American Revolution and the First Governor of Virginia clearly stated the basis that under-girded the establishment of our great Nation and its "INDEPENDENCE" He said, "It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this Great Nation was Founded, not by religionists, but by CHRISTIANS; not on Religion, but on the GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST. For this very reason, people of other Faiths have been afforded Asylum, Prosperity, and Freedom of Worship here."

That these Founding Father's were men of Faith is clearly indicated by their statements of belief in God, and in His Holy and Infallible Word. When our First President, George Washington was sworn into Office, addressing the Congress he stated, "In obedience to the public summons, repaired to the present station, it would be peculiarly IMPROPER to omit this first Official Act, my fervent SUPPLICATIONS TO THAT ALMIGHTY BEING WHO RULES OVER THE UNIVERSE, WHO PRESIDES IN THE COUNCIL OF NATIONS, AND WHOSE PROVIDENTIAL AIDS CAN SUPPLY EVERY HUMAN DEFECT, THAT HIS BENEDICTION MAY CONSECRATE TO THE LIBERTIES AND HAPPINESS OF THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES.."

Writing to Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, the Second President of the United States stated: "The General Principles on which the Father's achieved "INDEPENDENCE" were the General Principles of CHRISTIANITY." And President Jefferson stated, "I hold the precepts of JESUS as delivered by HIMSELF, to be the most PURE, BENEVOLENT, SUBLIME WHICH HAVE EVER BEEN PREACHED TO MAN."

This marvelous testimony from the very beginning of our Nation's INDEPENDENCE, has been continued through the years to this very day among so many of our Great Leaders. During the Civil War, on March 30, 1863, Abraham Lincoln challenged Congress and the people with these words: "Whereas the Senate of the United States devoutly recognizing the Supreme Authority and Just Government of Almighty God in all the affairs of men and of Nations, has, by a resolution, requested the President to designate and set apart a day for National Prayer and Humiliation; And whereas, it is the Duty of Nations as well as of men to own their Dependence upon the Overruling Power of God, to Confess their Sins and Transgressions in Humble Sorrow, yet with assured Hope that Genuine Repentance will lead to Mercy and Pardon, and to recognize the Sublime Truth, announced in the "HOLY SCRIPTURES" and proven by all History, THAT THOSE NATIONS ARE BLESSED WHOSE GOD IS THE LORD!"

When Andrew Jackson replaced the assassinated President Lincoln, he said, "I DO BELIEVE IN ALMIGHTY GOD, AND I ALSO BELIEVE IN THE BIBLE!" And President Jimmy Carter gave a most challenging statement for every true believer in the Lord Jesus Christ when he said, "WE SHOULD LIVE OUR LIVES AS THOUGH CHRIST WERE COMING THIS AFTERNOON."

How thankful our Hearts must be that we have been given the wonderful privilege of being CITIZENS of this GREAT LAND OF THE FREE! But we must keep in mind, that our Earthly Citizenship will come to an end when we leave this Earthly Scene. That is why it is of utmost importance that we have established a HIGHER CITIZENSHIP, A CITIZENSHIP IN HEAVEN. All who have placed a Living Faith in the Living Lord Jesus Christ can say "Our CITIZENSHIP is in Heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the SAVIOR, THE LORD JESUS CHRIST; Who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to HIS glorious body, according to the working by which HE is able even to SUBDUE ALL THINGS TO HIMSELF." Philippians 3:20-21

Have you received the "FREEDOM" from the Guilt and Condemnation of Sin? You can possess this precious "GIFT OF LIFE" that God offers to everyone who will accept His Son, JESUS CHRIST AS LORD AND SAVIOR!

WILL YOU OPEN YOUR HEART TO HIM TODAY?

LET THE CELEBRATION BEGIN!!

Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com

**************************************************************************************************************

"SUCH AN IMPORTANT ROLE!"

In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge supported the idea of a "NATIONAL FATHER'S DAY" but it wasn't until 1966 that President Lyndon Johnson signed a Presidential Proclamation declaring the THIRD SUNDAY OF JUNE AS "FATHER'S DAY!"

Dr. Robert Webb, Pastor of the Central Church of Fairmont, West Virginia, is believed to have been the first to conduct a "FATHER'S DAY SERVICE" in the year 1908. However, Sonora Dodd of Washington conceived the idea while listening to her Pastor's "MOTHER'S DAY" Sermon. Mrs. Dodd wanted a Special Day to honor her Father, William Smart, who was a Civil War Veteran, and Widowed when his wife died while giving birth to their sixth Child. Mr. Smart was left to raise the Newborn and his other five Children by himself on a rural farm in the Eastern part of the State of Washington. After Sonora became an Adult, she realized the SELFLESSNESS her Father had shown in raising his family as a Single Parent. It was her Father who made all the Parental Sacrifices, and was in the eyes of his Daughter, a Courageous, Selfless, and Kind Father.

I too, thank God for Wonderful and Dedicated Parents. Our Mom was so SPECIAL that mere Words could never fully express the beautiful Mother she was to her Four Daughters and Two Sons. Since this is "FATHER'S DAY I want to Dedicate the Words of this Song to Our Father, Rev. Paul Bartkow, who joined Mom, Sister Vera and Brother Paul in Glory at the age of 93, along with a Host of others to whom he witnessed and led to the Fountain of Life, Jesus Christ, during his earthly Ministry for his Lord and Savior.

"His Back was Bent and Weary, His Voice was Tired and Low; His Sword was Worn from Battle, and His Steps had gotten Slow; But He used to Walk on Water, for it Seemed that Way to me, I know He Moved some Mountains, and Never left his Knees. He Faced the Winds of Sorrow, but His Heart knew no Retreat; He walked in Narrow Places, knowing Christ knew no Defeat; But now His Steps turned Homeward, so much Closer to the Prize; He sounded kinda Homesick, and there's a Longing in His Eyes. Strike up the Band, Assemble the Choir, Another Soldier has come Home. Another Warrior Hears the Call He's Waited for so Long. He'll Battle know more, for He Won His Wars, I know Heaven's Table has Room for at Least One More. SING A WELCOME SONG, ANOTHER SOLDIER HAS COME HOME!"

I understand fully that there is ONLY ONE PERFECT FATHER, and that is our HEAVENLY FATHER, and if you and I as FATHER'S would pattern our important FATHERLY ROLE after HIM, IT WOULD TRANSFORM OUR HOMES. It would be a huge step in stopping the rapid destruction of our Homes and Families by the demonic attacks of Satan. How great is the UNCONDITIONAL LOVE OF OUR HEAVENLY FATHER! "God proved His Love for us in that while we were yet Sinners, CHRIST DIED FOR US." Romans 5:8 "Nothing shall be able to separate us from the Love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord!" Romans 8:30

How about it DAD, do you tell your Sons and Daughters that you "LOVE" them? Do they really sense that your "LOVE" is for real, even when they stumble along the way? Do they know that wrong must be dealt with, but still feel SAFE AND SECURE knowing your LOVE is an UNCONDITIONAL LOVE? Again, our HEAVENLY FATHER is Longsuffering and Forgiving when we stumble and fall short of Abiding in His Love. "If we say that we have no Sin, we deceive ourselves and the Truth is not in us. But if we Confess our Sins, He is Faithful and Just to "FORGIVE" us our Sins, and to Cleanse us from "ALL" unrighteousness." I John 1:9 Now we know only too well, that there are times our Heavenly Father has to get our attention, and it can be with the ROD OF CORRECTION. "FOR WHOM THE LORD "LOVES" HE CORRECTS, EVEN AS A FATHER HIS SON IN WHOM HE DELIGHTS!" Hebrews 12

Further, our HEAVENLY FATHER constantly shows His Concern for us, especially when our lives are filled with the Burdensome Cares of Life. When Tests and Trials touch our lives, He is always there, for He said, "I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU NOR FORSAKE YOU!" Hebrews 13:5 And He calls us to "CAST ALL OUR CARES UPON HIM, FOR HE "CARES" FOR US!" I Peter 5:7 Remember DAD, this goes far beyond just being the Provider for the Family, and includes sharing and helping to find solutions for the problems and tough times that touch the lives of our Sons and Daughters. Taking the time to show how much we CARE!

And, in the LIKENESS of our HEAVENLY FATHER, help them to become more firmly established in their lives, and in their Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Setting a Solid Example of Faithfulness to Christ before their very eyes. Reaching out to them, as we are able, to help them meet their needs. Remember our Example and Pattern who assures us that: "OUR GOD SHALL SUPPLY ALL OUR NEEDS ACCORDING TO HIS RICHES IN GLORY BY CHRIST JESUS." Philippians 4:19

Christian DAD, the KEY in becoming the Successful "FATHER" every one of us should Want and Strive to be, is found in KEEPING our Eyes FOCUSED on our HEAVENLY FATHER, so that we by His Divine Grace, and the Empowering of the Indwelling Holy Spirit, might grow more and more into His Likeness, and BE THE FATHER'S HE INTENDS FOR US TO BE.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com

******************************************************

"A DAY OF REMEMBRANCE!"

One has written "THE MEMORIAL" in "MEMORIAL DAY" has been ignored by too many of us who are "BENEFICIARIES" of those who have given the "ULTIMATE SACRIFICE!" Often we do not Observe the Day as it should be, a Day when we actively Remember our "Ancestors, our "Family Members" our "Loved Ones" our "Neighbors and our Friends who have given the "ULTIMATE SACRIFICE!"

Several Communities claim to have originated "MEMORIAL DAY" but in 1966, the US Government proclaimed Waterloo, New York, as the Birthplace of this Remembrance Day. The People of Waterloo first observed "MEMORIAL DAY" on MAY 5, 1866, to Honor Soldiers killed in the American Civil War. Businesses Closed, and People Decorated Soldiers' Graves and Flew Flags at Half-Mast.

The following is a reported account of those who gave their lives in battle for our Country. American Revolutionary War - 4,435.......War of 1812 - 2,260.....Indian War - 1,000.....Mexican War - 1,733.....Civil War - Union 140,414 - Confederate - 74,524 World War I - 53,402.....World War II - 291,557.....Korean War - 33,686.....Vietnam War - 47,410.....Gulf War - 148, and the ever present Iraq & Afganistan battlefields.

We can show our GRATITUDE for the FREEDOM that we enjoy in this Great Land of America because of their Tremendous Sacrifice by: Visiting Cemeteries and Placing Flags or Flowers on the Graves of our Fallen Heroes. Flying the US Flag at Half-Mast until Noon. Renew a Pledge to Aid the Widows, Widowers, and Orphans of our Fallen Dead, and to Aid the "DISABLED VETERANS" to assure them that they too, HAVE NOT BEEN FORGOTTEN.

Friends, as Believers in JESUS CHRIST, THE ETERNAL SON OF GOD, we too are called to the TABLE OF REMEMBRANCE. Whenever we gather together around "THE LORD'S TABLE" we pause to Remember the Most Important Event of All Time. We "REMEMBER" THE "ULTIMATE SACRIFICE" made by JESUS CHRIST, when HE gave up HIS Life to Provide for "ALL" Mankind the Forgiveness of Sins, the Removal of Guilt and Condemnation, and the "GIFT" of the "BLESSED HOPE" to one Day be with CHRIST FOREVER! A Glorious Truth to Remember Every Day.

"And when JESUS had given Thanks, HE broke Bread and said, "Take, Eat, this is MY BODY which is Broken for you, THIS DO IN "REMEMBRANCE OF ME!" In the same manner HE took the Cup, saying, "This Cup is the New Covenant in MY BLOOD. This do as oft as you Drink it, IN REMEMBRANCE OF ME!" For as often as you Eat this Bread and Drink this Cup, YOU PROCLAIM THE LORD'S DEATH, TILL HE COMES!" I Corinthians 11:23-26

And what a Day that is going to be for the Redeemed Family of God. "For the Lord Himself will Descend from Heaven with a Shout, with the Voice of the Archangel, and with the Trumpet of God. And the Dead IN CHRIST will Rise First. Then we who are Alive and Remain shall be "CAUGHT UP" together with them in the Clouds to Meet the Lord in the Air. AND WE SHALL ALWAYS BE WITH THE LORD. THEREFORE COMFORT ONE ANOTHER WITH THESE WORDS." I Thessalonians 4:16-18

The Death and Resurrection of our LORD JESUS CHRIST assures every Believer that "There is therefore "NOW" No Condemnation to those who are IN CHRIST JESUS!" Romans 8:1 "Therefore, being JUSTIFIED BY FAITH, we have "PEACE WITH GOD" through our LORD JESUS CHRIST." Romans 5:1 Friend, if you want True and Lasting "PEACE" OPEN YOUR HEART TO JESUS!

GOD BLESS YOU ON THIS SPECIAL

"MEMORIAL DAY!"

***************************************************************************

"MAYDAY" - "MAYDAY!"

MAY 1, 2010 quickly brings to mind the very important word, "MAYDAY!" It is the International Cry for "HELP!" The word comes from the French "m'aidez" or HELP ME! In times of distress the cry "MAYDAY" has gone out by radio and by other means signaling there is an URGENT CALL FOR HELP. In the wars of the past and present when a Platoon of Soldiers has been pinned down by the enemy, "MAYDAY" has been shouted over the radio calling for "HELP!" Calling for Air Support or additional artillery or ground manpower to fight the enemy.

How many times has "MAYDAY" been radioed by small Craft at sea caught in a severe storm. Calling for the Coast Guard or Helicopters or anyone able to "HELP" to rescue those in danger of losing their lives at sea. We all know about the sad sinking of the supposed "UNSINKABLE TITANIC!" This beautiful new Luxury Ship on its very first voyage with an apparent goal to cross the Atlantic Ocean in record time, "IGNORED" the warnings of "ICEBERGS" that had been sighted. When the ship was struck, "MAYDAY" went out over the radio and bright "FLARES" lit up the sky calling for "HELP!" But even though there were ships somewhere near the sinking "TITANIC" that could have "HELPED" to save many lives, the "MAYDAY" CALL FOR HELP WAS "IGNORED!"

Dear Friend, there is one thing for "CERTAIN," when we lift our Eyes and Hearts toward Heaven and cry out "MAYDAY" there is an ETERNAL GOD in the Heavens who "HEARS" and who "CARES" and who is always ready to "HELP" us in our need. "Why are you cast down, O My Soul? And why are you disquieted within me? HOPE IN GOD! For I shall Praise Him, the "HELP" of my countenance, and My GOD." Psalm 42:11 "Our Soul waits for the LORD for He is our "HELP" AND "SHIELD!" For our Hearts shall rejoice in Him because we have "TRUSTED IN HIS HOLY NAME." Psalm 33:20

In love, JESUS CHRIST hearing the "MAYDAY CRY" of Mankind, left the Glories of Heaven and entered our world to "RESCUE" us from Satan's grip and the Darkness of Sin in which we "ALL" were found. "There is "NONE" Righteous, NO NOT ONE!" Romans 3:10 "For "ALL" have Sinned and come short of the Glory of GOD." Romans 3:23 Yes Friend, "WE HAVE ALL GONE ASTRAY!" Isaiah 53:6 But, through His Death, when He took the Judgment we Deserved and "PAID" the Supreme Price for our Sins, and then Rose Again from the Dead destroying the Sting and Fear of Death, He has Translated "ALL" who "BELIEVE" into His Glorious Kingdom of Light. "GOD has Delivered us from the Power of Darkness and Conveyed us into the Kingdom of the SON OF HIS LOVE. In Whom we have Redemption through His Blood, the Forgiveness of Sins." Colossians 1:13-14

Friend, Christ will "RESCUE" You if you have not as yet received Him as your Personal Lord and Savior. The invitation of Christ is clear, "IF YOU CONFESS WITH YOUR MOUTH "JESUS IS LORD" AND "BELIEVE" IN YOUR "HEART" THAT GOD HAS "RAISED HIM" FROM THE DEAD, YOU WILL BE "SAVED!" FOR IT IS WITH YOUR "HEART" THAT YOU "BELIEVE" AND ARE "JUSTIFIED," AND IT IS WITH YOUR "MOUTH" YOU "CONFESS" AND ARE "SAVED!" Romans 10:9-10 TRUST JESUS NOW!

FELLOW BELIEVER'S - A MESSAGE TO SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS.

Comments click here: djvb7777d@aol.com

***********************************************************************************************************************

"WE LOVE THOSE "APRIL" SHOWERS"

We all have at one time or another sung the words to "APRIL SHOWERS" in full or in part, for it reminds us of the importance of the graceful Showers that help to bring alive the beauties of Nature. Note the words: "Life is not a highway strewn with flowers, still it holds a goodly share of Bliss, when the Sun gives way to "APRIL SHOWERS" here is the point you should never miss.

Though "APRIL SHOWERS" may come your Way, they bring the Flowers that Bloom in May. So if it's "RAINING" have no Regrets, because it isn't Raining Rain, you know, it's Raining Violets. And where you see Clouds upon the Hills, you soon will see Crowds of Daffodils, So keep on looking for the Blue Bird, and list'ning for his Song, whenever "APRIL SHOWERS" COME ALONG."

What a wonderful treat it is to drive along the highways and byways to see the Trees blossoming and the Bushes alive with beautiful flowers, and the Bulbs that were planted springing up with Life and Beauty. Yes, all this Beauty springs forth because of the refreshing and much needed "APRIL SHOWERS!"

The Psalmist David wrote about the importance of those "HEAVENLY SHOWERS!" "YOU visit the Earth and Water it. YOU greatly Enrich it. The River of God is full of Water; YOU provide their Grain, for so YOU have prepared it. YOU Water its Ridges Abundantly, YOU Settle its Furrows, YOU MAKE IT SOFT WITH "SHOWERS" AND YOU BLESS ITS GROWTH. YOU Crown the year with YOUR Goodness, and YOUR Paths DRIP with Abundance. They DROP on the Pastures of the Wilderness, and the Little Hills Rejoice on every side. The Pastures are Clothed with Flocks and the Valleys also are covered with Grain. THEY SHOUT FOR JOY, THEY ALSO SING." Psalm 65:9-13

Is there ever a time when those wonderful soft "SHOWERS" are withheld from Enriching the Earth. O yes, Friend, there are times when God withholds such a needful Blessing. It happened in the days of the Prophet Jeremiah. "Lift up your eyes to the DESOLATE HEIGHTS and see....You have Polluted the Land with your Harlotries and your Wickedness. THEREFORE THE "SHOWERS" HAVE BEEN WITHHELD AND THERE HAS BEEN NO LATTER RAIN. You have had a Harlot's forehead and Refuse to be Ashamed" Jeremiah 3:3

Again we read "King Ahab did more to PROVOKE the Lord God of Israel to Anger than all the kings of Israel who were before him. And Elijah the Tishbite said to Ahab, "As the Lord God of Israel lives, before whom I stand, THERE SHALL BE NO "RAIN" NOR DEW THESE YEARS!" I Kings 16:33 & 17:1 Of this time in history, in the Epistle of James we read: "Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not RAIN, and it did not RAIN on the land for THREE YEARS AND SIX MONTHS. and he PRAYED again, and the HEAVEN GAVE RAIN, AND THE EARTH PRODUCED ITS FRUIT." James 5:17-18

There are times when the Lord has to teach us some very important lessons. "Behold, the Lord's Hand is not Shortened that it cannot Save, Nor His Ear Heavy that it cannot Hear, BUT YOUR INIQUITIES HAVE HIDDEN HIS FACE FROM YOU, SO THAT HE WILL NOT HEAR. SIN caused the RAINS to be WITHHELD! But, the Word of God assures us "If we Confess our Sins, He is Faithful and Just to Forgive us our Sins, and to Cleanse us from all UNRIGHTEOUSNESS." I John 1:9 When the People of Israel turned from their SIN in TRUE REPENTANCE, "THEN" the "RAINS" were Restored and it SOFTENED the Earth and it again Produced its Fruit.

"There shall be SHOWERS OF BLESSING this is the promise of Love; there shall be Seasons Refreshing, sent from the Savior above. There shall be SHOWERS OF BLESSING, Precious Reviving again; Over the Hills and the Valleys, sound of Abundance of Rain. There shall be SHOWERS OF BLESSING, Send them upon us O Lord; Grant to us now a Refreshing, Come, and now Honor Your Word. There shall be SHOWERS OF BLESSING, O that Today they might Fall; NOW AS TO GOD WE'RE CONFESSING, NOW AS ON JESUS WE CALL.

SHOWERS OF BLESSING SHOWERS OF BLESSING WE NEED. MERCY DROPS ROUND US ARE FALLING, BUT FOR THE SHOWERS WE PLEAD." Just as "APRIL" SHOWERS bring us such Beautiful Flowers, likewise, when we are right with our Lord, He will send those SHOWERS OF BLESSING, and from our lives with spring forth the Beauty of Christ and the Beauty of His Divine Cluster of Fruit!

Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com

***************************************************************************

APRIL 4, 2010

"EASTER"

ONE OF THREE UNFORGETTABLE DAYS!

PALM SUNDAY just observed, is the Day centered upon the Triumphal Entry of Jesus Christ into the City of Jerusalem. It was the Day when Jesus was hailed as the long awaited King of Israel. When He rode into the City on a Lowly Donkey, He was publicly proclaiming that He indeed was the Chosen Son of David possessing the Eternal Right to sit on David's Throne Forever. Do you remember what the Angel said to the Virgin Mary? "Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His Name Jesus.. He will be Great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord will give to Him the Throne of His Father David. He will REIGN OVER THE HOUSE OF ISRAEL FOREVER, AND OF HIS KINGDOM THERE SHALL BE NO END." Luke 1:31-33

The entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem on this Special Day was foretold by the Prophet Zechariah, approximately 480 years before the event took place. He wrote, "Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See your "KING" comes to you, RIGHTEOUS and having SALVATION, Gentle and Riding on a Donkey, on a Colt, the Foal; of a Donkey." Zechariah 9:9

The Donkey is an animal symbolic of HUMILITY! "The Son of God made Himself of no Reputation and took upon Himself the form of a Servant and was made in the likeness of men. And being found in the likeness of men, HE HUMBLED HIMSELF, and became obedient unto Death, even the Death of the Cross." Philippians 2:6-8 The Donkey is also a symbol of PEACE! "For His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, THE PRINCE OF "PEACE!" Isaiah 9:6 Yes Friend, "He made "PEACE" through the Blood of the Cross." Colossians 1:20 And in addition, the Donkey is a symbol of "DAVIDIC ROYALTY!" "Christ is the BLESSED and ONLY POTENTATE, THE KING of kings, AND LORD of lords." I Timothy 6:15

The Multitudes received Him with Great Joy, spreading their cloaks on the road, and waving their Palm Branches in a Celebration of Victory. "Those who walked ahead of Him and those who followed cried out, saying, "HOSANNA!" Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord! HOSANNA IN THE HIGHEST!" Mark 11:9-10 As always, Satan had his Troops there also, for the Pharisees who were present wanted to Rebuke the Crowd for calling Jesus by these words that acknowledged Him as their PROMISED MESSIAH, for HOSANNA, meant "GOD SAVE NOW!" Jesus said to them, "If they keep quiet, the STONES WILL CRY OUT!" Luke 19:40 What a Glorious Entrance of the "KING" into Jerusalem. Then came:

GOOD FRIDAY!

O YES! In just a few days, the shouts of Praise and Adoration changed to the shouts of "CRUCIFY HIM!" CRUCIFY HIM!" And even though Pilate had to acknowledge that he could FIND NO FAULT IN CHRIST, to appease the shouting crowd calling for His Death, he released a hardened Criminal, Barabbas, and gave up the Innocent Sinless Christ to be Crucified on that Day we call "GOOD FRIDAY!" What was so Good about this Friday that saw Three Men hanging and Suffering extreme anguish on Crosses. Two because they were so BAD, and One because HE WAS SO GOOD!

YOUR Love endured the Cross, despising all the Shame. That Afternoon when midnight fell, YOUR SUFFERING CLEARED MY NAME. And that Sin Swept Hill became an OPEN DOOR TO PARADISE, BECAUSE YOU PAID SO HIGH A PRICE. YOU paid much to High a Price for me, Your Tears, Your Blood, Your Pain; To have my Soul just Stirred at times YET NEVER TRULY CHANGED. YOU deserve a Fiery Love that won't ignore YOUR Sacrifice, because YOU paid much to High a Price. Friend, "We are not Redeemed with perishable things such as Silver and Gold, but with the PRECIOUS BLOOD OF CHRIST, AS OF A LAMB WITHOUT BLEMISH AND WITHOUT SPOT." I Peter 1:18-19

O, but wait one moment! How can we be sure Christ can truly cleanse us from all sin and give to us the GIFT OF ETERNAL LIFE? What a Glorious Answer to this Vital Question, for after the Darkness of that Heart Breaking CRUCIFIXION, came the SUNSHINE of that GLORIOUS EASTER SUNDAY! Do you recall the words of Jesus" He said, "Destroy this Temple, (speaking of His Body) and in THREE DAYS I WILL "RAISE" IT AGAIN." He said, "No man takes MY life, I have Power to lay it down, and Power to take it again. I give MY life for MY Sheep." John 10:27-28

"As the First Day of the Week began to Dawn, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the Tomb. But an Angel said to the Women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek JESUS who was Crucified. HE IS NOT HERE, FOR HE IS "RISEN" EVEN AS HE SAID. COME SEE THE PLACE WHERE HE LAY!" Matthew 28:1-6 I must remind each one of us, that EVERY RELIGIOUS SYSTEM you can name either has or will have a DEAD FOUNDER!

But the CHRISTIAN FAITH RESTS UPON AN EMPTY TOMB. It rests upon a DEATH CONQUERING LORD who divested Death of its Sting and brought to Light Immortality. BECAUSE HE LIVES, WE TOO WHO BELIEVE IN HIM SHALL LIVE WITH HIM ETERNALLY. What a Joy to be able to Sing, Because He Lives, All Fear is Gone, and we can Face Tomorrow, knowing He hold our Future in His Eternal Hands. NOW LIFE IS TRULY WORTH THE LIVING ALL BECAUSE CHRIST LIVES!

Do you know Him as your personal Lord and Savior. Friend, He loves you and want to give you LIFE, AND LIFE MORE ABUNDANT. TRUST HIM NOW!

Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com

********************************************

MARCH 28, 2010

"WHO IS THIS?"

On PALM SUNDAY, MARCH 28, 2010 in Churches all over the world, The Body of Christ will Celebrate the Glorious Entrance of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, riding on a Lowly Donkey. "Now when they drew near Jerusalem, and came to Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two Disciples, saying to them, "Go into the Village opposite you, and immediately you will find a Donkey and a Colt with her. Loose them and bring them to Me. And if anyone says anything to you, you will say, "The Lord has need of them, and immediately he will send them."

All this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Prophet, saying, "Tell the Daughter of Zion, behold your KING is coming to you, Lowly and Sitting on a Donkey, a Colt, the Foal of a Donkey." So the Disciples went and did as Jesus commanded them. They brought the Donkey and the Colt, laid their clothes on them and set Him on them. And a very Great Multitude spread their clothes on the road; Others cut down branches from the trees and spread them on the road.

Then the Multitudes who went before and those who followed cried out, saying "HOSANNA TO THE SON OF DAVID! BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD! HOSANNA IN THE HIGHEST!" And when He had come into JERUSALEM, all the City was moved, saying, “WHO IS THIS?” Matthew 21

Prior to this Glorious Presentation of Himself to the Nation, this question was raised again and again because of the Powerful Works Jesus performed before their very eyes. Nicodemus, one of the Rulers of the Jews, approached Jesus and pointedly and plainly said, "Rabbi, we know that You are a Teacher come from God, FOR NO ONE CAN DO THESE SIGNS THAT YOU DO UNLESS GOD IS WITH HIM." John 3:1-2 Nicodemus was absolutely correct, however, what this Ruler did not realize was that God was standing right there in his presence in the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ,

TRUE GOD AND TRUE MAN!

On another occasion, the Jews surrounded Jesus and said, "How long do You keep us in doubt? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly." Jesus answered them, "I TOLD YOU, AND YOU DO NOT BELIEVE. THE WORKS THAT I DO IN MY FATHER'S NAME, THEY BEAR WITNESS OF ME. BUT YOU DO NOT BELIEVE, BECAUSE YOU ARE NOT OF MY SHEEP. AS I SAID TO YOU, "MY SHEEP HEAR MY VOICE AND I KNOW THEM, AND THEY FOLLOW ME. AND I GIVE TO THEM ETERNAL LIFE AND THEY SHALL NEVER PERISH, NEITHER SHALL ANYONE SNATCH THEM OUT OF MY HAND. MY FATHER WHO HAS GIVEN THEM TO ME, IS GREATER THAN ALL; AND NO ONE CAN SNATCH THEM OUT OF MY FATHER'S HAND.

I AND MY FATHER ARE ONE!"

When they heard these words spoken by Jesus,

"THEY TOOK UP STONES AGAIN TO STONE HIM!" Jesus answered them, "Many good works I have shown you from My Father, for which of these do you stone Me? They answered, "For a good work we do not stone you, BUT FOR BLASPHEMY, AND BECAUSE YOU BEING A MAN, MAKE YOURSELF GOD!" John 10:22-33 There is no question that the Leaders of the Day understood only too well what Jesus was claiming for Himself. HE WAS CLEARLY CLAIMING FOR HIMSELF DEITY! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE GOD MANIFESTED IN FLESH" John 6:33-51

"IN BEGINNING WAS THE WORD, AND THE WORD WAS WITH GOD, AND THE WORD WAS GOD.....AND THE WORD BECAME FLESH AND DWELT AMONG US AND WE BEHELD HIS GLORY, AS OF THE ONLY BEGOTTEN OF THE FATHER, FULL OF GRACE AND TRUTH." John 1:1-14 Jesus said, "FOR I HAVE COME DOWN FROM HEAVEN, NOT TO DO MY OWN WILL, BUT THE WILL OF HIM WHO SENT ME.....I AM THE LIVING BREAD WHICH CAME DOWN FROM HEAVEN! I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE, HE WHO COMES TO ME SHALL NEVER HUNGER, AND HE WHO BELIEVES IN ME SHALL NEVER THIRST. FOR THE BREAD OF GOD IS HE WHO COMES DOWN FROM HEAVEN AND G IVES LIFE TO THE WORLD."

WHO IS THIS?

Who is this One Riding into Jerusalem on a lowly Donkey? The Apostle writes: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus. Who being in the form of God, POSSESSING THE VERY ESSENCE OF DEITY, did not consider it ROBBERY TO BE EQUAL WITH GOD, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a Bondservant, and coming in the likeness of Men. And being found in appearance as a Man, He humbled Himself and became obedient unto DEATH, EVER THE DEATH OF THE CROSS. Therefore God also has highly EXALTED HIM, and given Him a Name that is ABOVE every Name, THAT AT THE NAME OF JESUS EVERY KNEE SHALL BOW, AND EVERY TONGUE CONFESS THAT "JESUS CHRIST" IS "LORD" TO THE GLORY OF GOD THE FATHER." Philippians 2:5-11

Friend, He came to give YOU LIFE, AND LIFE MORE ABUNDANT! Have you accepted Him as your Lord and Savior. Open the Door of your Heart, and BID HIM ENTER WHILE YOU MAY! If you will humbly do that, you too will say, HOSANNA TO THE SON OF DAVID. BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD. HOSANNA IN THE HIGHEST. TRUE TO HIS NAME, HE WILL "SAVE YOU NOW!"

Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com

**************************************************

"IS "LENT" IMPORTANT TO YOU?"

What is "LENT" all about? For those who are Faithful in observing "LENT" it is a "40" Day period before Easter, and is a season of SOUL-SEARCHING and REPENTANCE. A season for Reflection and taking Stock of ones SPIRITUAL LIFE. Now understand, although "LENT" covers a period of "40" Days, "ALL" whose Faith rests in the Crucified, Buried and Risen Lord Jesus Christ should be taking Stock of their Spiritual Lives EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR, and not just for a brief "40" Day period.

Some have asked, "Why does "LENT" cover a "40" Day period? The answer often recited is that the number "40" is often found in the Word of God. Moses stayed on the Mountain of God "40" Days. (Exodus 24:18) When the 12 Spies were sent to check things out as the Israelites approached the Promised Land, they returned after "40" Days to give their report. (Numbers 13:25) Elijah traveled "40" Days before he reached the Cave where he had his great Vision. (I Kings 19:8) God sent Jonah to Nineveh and when he finally arrived, as we know with great difficulty, he gave them "40" Days to Repent. (Jonah 3:4)

BUT, most importantly, prior to undertaking His Ministry, JESUS spent "40" Days in the Wilderness, Praying and Fasting, as He was Tempted by Satan, who was soundly Defeated as JESUS answered each Temptation with the POWERFUL WORD OF GOD. O Yes, Satan learned, just as every one of us learned, "The Word of God is Living and Powerful, and Sharper than any Two-edged Sword, Piercing even to the Dividing of Soul and Spirit, and of Joints and Marrow, and is a "DISCERNER" OF THE "THOUGHTS" AND "INTENTS" OF THE HEART." Hebrews 4:12

If any one observes "LENT" it should not simply be denying yourself of something you habitually do, such as Smoking, or Drinking, or Excessive Eating of Certain Foods, or Shopping Sprees, or you name it, for "40" Days. Obviously, "some" of these should be done away with completely and others with greater control. If you want to "GIVE UP SOMETHING" give attention to what the Word of God exhorts us to do.

"This I say, therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you no longer "WALK" as the rest of the Gentiles Walk, in the Futility of their Mind, having their understanding darkened, being Alienated from the Life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart. BUT YOU BELIEVERS HAVE NOT SO LEARNED CHRIST. That you "PUT OFF" concerning your Former Conduct the "OLD MAN" the "OLD LIFE" which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts. And be "RENEWED" in the Spirit of your Mind. And that you put on the "NEW MAN" the "NEW LIFE" WHICH WAS CREATED ACCORDING TO GOD IN TRUE RIGHTEOUSNESS AND HOLINESS.

Therefore PUTTING AWAY "LYING!" Let each one of you speak "TRUTH" with his neighbor for we are members of one another. Do not be Angry, nor let the Sun go down on your Wrath, nor give place to the Devil. Let him who Stole Steal no more, but rather let him Labor, working with his Hands what is Good, that he may have something to give him who has Need. Let no "CORRUPT WORD" proceed out of your Mouth, but what is Good for necessary Edification, that it may Impart Grace to the Hearers. And do not GRIEVE THE HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD, by whom you were "SEALED" for the Day of Redemption. Let all Bitterness, Wrath, Anger, Clamor and Evil Speaking be "PUT AWAY" from you with all Malice, And be "KIND" to one another, TENDERHEARTED "FORGIVING" one another, EVEN AS GOD IN CHRIST HAS FORGIVEN YOU!" Ephesians 4:17-32

If such Truth were applied to each Life observing the "40" DAYS of "LENT" AND each day of the year, how different each Life would be. Yes, they would be Lives that Truly reveal that they are part of the "TRUE COLONY OF HEAVEN!" If you are observing these "40" DAYS of "LENT" then let these Days and each Day of the Year, be a time of Reflection on the Glorious Event of Palm Sunday when the King of kings humbly rode into the City of Jerusalem on a Donkey. A time to Reflect on "GOOD FRIDAY" when JESUS went to the Cross of Calvary to pay the Supreme Price for our Sins to set us Free from its Guilt and Condemnation, and to bring us into a NEW LIFE. The Day, He paid a DEBT He did not OWE, FOR US, who OWED a DEBT we could not pay. Reflect on Glorious EASTER DAY when JESUS robbed Death of its Victory and brought to light Immortality by His Resurrection from the Grave. UP FROM THE GRAVE HE AROSE, HALLELUJAH CHRIST AROSE.

"SEEK "FIRST" THE KINGDOM OF GOD AND HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS, AND ALL THESE "THINGS" SHALL BE ADDED UNTO YOU!" Matthew 6:33

Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com

********************************************************************************

Jesus said, "FOR I HAVE COME DOWN FROM HEAVEN, NOT TO DO MY OWN WILL, BUT THE WILL OF HIM WHO SENT ME.....I AM THE LIVING BREAD WHICH CAME DOWN FROM HEAVEN! I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE, HE WHO COMES TO ME SHALL NEVER HUNGER, AND HE WHO BELIEVES IN ME SHALL NEVER THIRST. FOR THE BREAD OF GOD IS HE WHO COMES DOWN FROM HEAVEN AND G IVES LIFE TO THE WORLD."

STAY VERY CLOSE TO HIM!

"CLOSER TO GOD I CANNOT BE FOR IN THE

PERSON OF HIS SON I AM JUST AS CLOSE AS HE."

FELLOW BELIEVER

THIS IS OUR ETERNAL POSITION THAT IS OURS

THROUGH FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST.

BUT

"HOW CLOSE IS OUR DAILY WALK AND FELLOWSHIP WITH HIM!"

Enthusiasm is CONTAGIOUS! When a person is really zealous about anything,

the FIRE of his BURNING conviction will ignite others into action for the same

cause. We all know the powerful effect of the words "MR. GORBACHEV, TEAR

DOWN THIS WALL" spoken by President Ronald Reagan years ago when

visiting in Germany, and the words of Dr. Martin Luther King. "I HAVE A DREAM"

and "WE SHALL OVERCOME!" They were words that IGNITED and INSPIRED

so many people across our land and around the world.

The early Apostles and the multitudes of followers of JESUS were transformed

from simple Fishermen, and Laborers, into Enthusiastic, Fervent Witnesses,

when they fully realized that JESUS was indeed the SON OF GOD, who had

literally "RISEN" from the "DEAD!" With excitement, the Apostle John wrote,

"That which was from the beginning, which we have "HEARD" which we have

"SEEN" with our "EYES" which we have "LOOKED UPON" and our HANDS have

"HANDLED" concerning the WORD OF LIFE." I John 1:1-2

The Apostle Peter wrote: "For we did not follow cunningly devised "FABLES"

when we made know to you the "POWER" and "COMING" of our

LORD JESUS CHRIST,

BUT WERE "EYEWITNESSES" OF HIS MAJESTY!"

When these Excited, Enthusiastic, Redeemed and Transformed Men began to

BOLDLY SPEAK OUT

for the CRUCIFIED, AND RISEN LORD, the Sanhedrin, the Ruling Body in

Jerusalem, "Seeing the BOLDNESS of Peter and John, and perceiving that

they were Unlearned Men, THEY MARVELED, AND THEY REALIZED THAT

THEY HAD BEEN WITH JESUS." Acts 4:13

What a TESTIMONY! Of course, the Leaders were not pleased with these Fiery

Witnesses, and they wanted to STOP them from spreading the Message that

JESUS CHRIST was indeed the long promised "MESSIAH" and that HE was

VICTORIOUS over DEATH! "SO THEY CALLED THEM AND COMMANDED

THEM "NOT" TO "SPEAK" AT ALL IN THE NAME OF JESUS."

Friend, when you have WALKED, and TALKED, and LISTENED to JESUS

CHRIST, the DEATH CONQUEROR, over a period of 40 days after HIS

RESURRECTION from the DEAD, there is only one answer you can give to the

COMMAND TO SPEAK "NO MORE" in the NAME OF JESUS: "PETER AND

JOHN ANSWERED AND SAID TO THEM, WHETHER IT IS RIGHT IN THE SIGHT

OF GOD TO LISTEN TO YOU MORE THAN TO GOD, YOU JUDGE, FOR

"WE CANNOT" BUT SPEAK THE THINGS WHICH

WE HAVE "SEEN" AND "HEARD." Acts 4:19-20

There it is Friend, the "POWERFUL" result of BEING WITH JESUS in a close

relationship. Today, the Body of Believer's here at home and around the World

are being faced with the same issue of "SPEAKING" and "WITNESSING" IN

THE NAME OF JESUS!

The World doesn't want to hear that JESUS "ALONE" IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH,

AND THE LIFE, THE ONLY WAY TO THE FATHER ABOVE!" John 14:6

They want every Religious System to have an "EQUAL STANDING" with NO

SYSTEM of belief considered better than the other. How will we ANSWER those

who do not want us to share the Good News of the Gospel? Will our answer be

"WE CANNOT?"

Or will our answer be

"WE CANNOT BUT "SPEAK" THE "TRUTH" WE HAVE RECEIVED FROM

THE CRUCIFIED, BURIED AND RISEN LORD JESUS CHRIST."

I AM CONFIDENT THIS INDEED WILL BE OUR ANSWER,

IF WE ARE DAILY WALKING CLOSE TO JESUS!

comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com

***********************************************************************************************************************************

LENT SEASON

***********************************************************************************************

In love, JESUS CHRIST hearing the "MAYDAY CRY" of Mankind, left the Glories of Heaven and entered our world to "RESCUE" us from Satan's grip and the Darkness of Sin in which we "ALL" were found. "There is "NONE" Righteous, NO NOT ONE!" Romans 3:10 "For "ALL" have Sinned and come short of the Glory of GOD." Romans 3:23 Yes Friend, "WE HAVE ALL GONE ASTRAY!" Isaiah 53:6 But, through His Death, when He took the Judgment we Deserved and "PAID" the Supreme Price for our Sins, and then Rose Again from the Dead destroying the Sting and Fear of Death, He has Translated "ALL" who "BELIEVE" into His Glorious Kingdom of Light. "GOD has Delivered us from the Power of Darkness and Conveyed us into the Kingdom of the SON OF HIS LOVE. In Whom we have Redemption through His Blood, the Forgiveness of Sins." Colossians 1:13-14 Friend, Christ will "RESCUE" You if you have not as yet received Him as your Personal Lord and Savior.

The invitation of Christ is clear, "IF YOU CONFESS WITH YOUR MOUTH "JESUS IS LORD" AND "BELIEVE" IN YOUR "HEART" THAT GOD HAS "RAISED HIM" FROM THE DEAD, YOU WILL BE "SAVED!" FOR IT IS WITH YOUR "HEART" THAT YOU "BELIEVE" AND ARE "JUSTIFIED," AND IT IS WITH YOUR "MOUTH" YOU "CONFESS" AND ARE "SAVED!" Romans 10:9-10 TRUST JESUS NOW!

*******************************************************************************

"THE IMPORTANCE OF TREES!"

The first "ARBOR DAY" took place on APRIL 10, 1872 in Nebraska. It was the brainchild of Julius Sterling Morton (1832-1902) Throughout his long and productive life, Morton worked to improve Agricultural Techniques in his adopted State, and throughout the United States when he served as President Grover Cleveland's Secretary of Agriculture. BUT HIS MOST IMPORTANT LEGACY IS "ARBOR DAY!"

Morton felt that Nebraska's Landscape and Economy would benefit from the wide-spread Planting of TREES! He set an Example himself, planting ORCHARDS, SHADE TREES, AND WIND BREAKS on his own Farm, and urged his neighbors to do the same. When he became a member of Nebraska's Board of Agriculture, he proposed that a Special Day be set aside DEDICATED TO TREE PLANTING and increasing awareness of the importance of TREES! Today, all 50 states celebrate ARBOR DAY!

Living here in Florida, our local Authorities announced that "TREES" could be purchased for just a few dollars during a specified period of time to replace the many "TREES" destroyed by the recent Hurricanes. Folks, "TREES" may be the most important and useful Plants on our Earth. They provide us with OXYGEN we need to Breathe; WATER that is vital to all living things; FOOD for both Animals and People; WOOD that we depend on for our Houses, Furniture, and Paper Products, NOT TO MENTION THE "OASIS OF SHADE" ON A STEAMY SUMMER DAY.

In the Word of God, we know only too well the SIGNIFICANCE OF TREES! From the very beginning, after creating our First Parents, "ADAM AND EVE" God gave an important charge to them. We read: "THEN THE LORD GOD TOOK THE MAN AND PUT HIM IN THE GARDEN OF EDEN TO TEND AND KEEP IT. AND THE LORD GOD COMMANDED THE MAN, SAYING, "OF EVERY "TREE" OF THE GARDEN YOU MAY FREELY EAT, "BUT" OF THE "TREE" OF THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOOD AND EVIL YOU SHALL "NOT EAT" FOR IN THE DAY THAT YOU EAT OF IT YOU SHALL SURELY DIE!" Genesis 2:15-17

O, but the Fruit of that particular TREE looked so good and ripe for FOOD; and it was pleasant to the EYES; a TREE desirable to make one WISE, SO EVE TOOK OF ITS FRUIT AND ATE, she also gave to her husband with her, and he ATE!" The result, "THEREFORE, JUST AS THROUGH ONE MAN "SIN" ENTERED THE WORLD, AND "DEATH" THROUGH "SIN" SO DEATH (Spiritual Death) SPREAD TO ALL Men FOR "ALL" HAVE SINNED." Romans 5:12 However, God GRACIOUSLY PROVIDED A COVERING FOR THEIR SHAME AND SIN BY THE SACRIFICE OF AN ANIMAL, CLOTHING THEM WITH ITS SKINS.

In the fullness of time, the Promised Messiah, the Promised Savior came into our World, that He might provide "A COVERING FOR OUR SHAME AND SIN." HE CAME TO PROVIDE THE FINAL AND COMPLETE SACRIFICE FOR THE SINS OF ALL MANKIND, WHEN HE DIED AS OUR SUBSTITUTE ON THE CROSS OF CALVARY, PAYING TO GOD A SIN DEBT HE DID NOT OWE TO SET US FREE FROM THE SIN DEBT WE COULD NEVER PAY. "WHO HIMSELF BORE OUR SINS IN HIS OWN BODY ON THE "TREE!" I Peter 2:24

"We are not REDEEMED with corruptible things like Silver and Gold, but with the PRECIOUS BLOOD OF CHRIST, AS OF A "LAMB" WITHOUT BLEMISH AND WITHOUT SPOT!" I Peter 1:18-19 "Jesus came into the world, not to CONDEMN the World, but that the World of Mankind through "HIM" might be SAVED." John 3:17

Friend, when you open your Heart to Jesus Christ, and accept Him as your personal Lord and Savior, He opens a brand new door of opportunity. He opens the door that leads to an ABUNDANT LIFE! "Blessed is the Man who Walks not in the Counsel of the UNGODLY; nor Stands in the Path of SINNERS; nor Sits in the Seat of the SCORNFUL; But his DELIGHT is in the Law of the Lord, and in His Law he Meditates, Day and Night.

HE SHALL BE A "TREE"

PLANTED BY THE RIVERS OF WATER, THAT BRINGS FORTH ITS "FRUIT" IN ITS SEASON, WHOSE LEAF ALSO SHALL NOT WITHER; AND WHATEVER HE DOES SHALL PROSPER." Psalm 1:1-3

Jesus said: "ABIDE IN ME AND I IN YOU. AS THE BRANCH CANNOT BEAR FRUIT OF ITSELF UNLESS IT "ABIDES" IN THE VINE, NEITHER CAN YOU, UNLESS YOU "ABIDE" IN ME. I AM THE VINE, YOU ARE THE BRANCHES. HE WHO "ABIDES" IN ME, AND I IN HIM, BEARS "MUCH FRUIT" FOR WITHOUT "ME" YOU CAN DO NOTHING!" John 15:4-5

"I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST, WHO STRENGTHENS ME!" Philippians 4:13 Christian Friend, GOD WANTS YOU TO PROSPER FOR HIS GLORY WHEREVER HE HAS PLANTED YOU!

When we are "TREES" that are flourishing Spiritually, and share "CHRIST" with a Dying World, we are giving to them the ONE who is the BREATH OF LIFE, for of JESUS it is written, "HE WHO BELIEVES IN THE SON, HAS EVERLASTING LIFE, AND HE WHO DOES NOT BELIEVE THE SON, SHALL NOT SEE LIFE, BUT THE WRATH OF GOD ABIDES UPON HIM." John 3:36

LET'S BE "SPIRITUAL FLOURISHING PRODUCTIVE TREES!"

Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com

*******************************************

"THE MOST IMPORTANT INVASION"

It was JUNE 6, 1944 when the "INVASION" of Europe took place. The "INVASION" was a Triumph of Intelligence, Coordination, and much Planning. This very BOLD attack was also a tremendous RISK, but ultimately Succeeded because of the Bravery of Thousands of our Armed Forces in Combat.

The "INVASION" began with a dangerous attack by American Paratroopers, who were dropped behind Enemy Lines to soften up the German Troops, and to secure needed targets. THESE BRAVE MEN KNEW IF THE ACCOMPANYING ATTACK FAILED ON THE BEACHES OF NORMANDY, THERE WOULD BE NO RESCUE. The Division of Paratroopers suffered great losses, and only one sixth of the men reached their destination points. THEY PAID THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE FOR THE CAUSE OF FREEDOM.

Over the years, many have asked "What was the meaning of the "D" IN "D DAY?" A variety of answers have been suggested. Some say it meant "DECISION DAY" others "DEPARTURE DAY" and still others said it meant "DISEMBARKATION DAY!" Well, whatever it was meant to convey, it was the DAY when 150,000 ALLIED SOLDIERS landed on the Shores of Normandy, and that without question was a DECISIVE EVENT, for it began the Advance of our Forces to "LIBERATE" all who were under the domination of the Nazi Machine. It has been reported that it was the FIRST TIME an Invading Army had crossed the Churning and Dangerous English Channel since 1688.

By the end of the First Day of the "INVASION" more than "9000" Allied Soldiers were Dead or Wounded, but more than 100.000 had made it to the Beach, and secured French Coastal Villages. Can you believe it, within a few weeks, SUPPLIES were unloaded at Utah and Omaha Beaches at the rate of 20,000 TONS PER DAY. That indeed was an Unbelievable, and Amazing Accomplishment! After many Months of very Difficult and Hard Fought Battles, Hitler's Nazi Regime was finally DEFEATED, and the People of Europe "LIBERATED!"

THE CHURCH OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST composed of all whose Faith rests "ALONE" in the Crucified, and Risen Savior, is also involved with THE MOST IMPORTANT "INVASION!" O YES, THE "INVASION" OF SATAN'S DOMAIN. It is not an "INVASION" of his Evil World System with Human Weapons of Warfare, for this Battle is against a High Ranking Hierarchy of DEMONIC AUTHORITY. It is a Battle against an Army of Invisible Wicked Spirits in High Places.

"We do not Wrestle or Battle against Flesh and Blood, but against Principalities, against Powers, against the Rulers of the "DARKNESS" of this Age, against spiritual hosts of Wickedness in High Places." Ephesians 6:12 Jesus Christ has Charged His Redeemed Children to "INVADE" Satan's Realm of Darkness, with the DYNAMITE OF THE GOSPEL! "GO INTO "ALL" THE WORLD AND PROCLAIM THE GOSPEL TO EVERY CREATURE." Mark 16:15 "I am not Ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the POWER OF GOD, THE DYNAMITE OF GOD to Salvation for Everyone who Believes." Romans 1:16

Just as Brave Men & Women put their lives on the line to "LIBERATE" the People of Europe from Satanic Nazism, SO likewise, Every Believer is called to take a Firm Stand for Christ, and become a Tool God can use to bring the "LIBERATING POWER OF THE GOSPEL" to People Enslaved by Sin and Satanic Darkness. "You therefore Must endure Hardship as a GOOD SOLDIER OF JESUS CHRIST! No one Engaged in Warfare Entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may PLEASE HIM who enlisted him as a SOLDIER." II Timothy 2:3-4

And remember, as you enter this Battleground for the Soul's of Men and Women, be sure you "PUT ON THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD THAT YOU MAY BE ABLE TO STAND AGAINST ALL THE WILES OF THE DEVIL. BE STRONG IN THE LORD AND IN THE POWER OF HIS MIGHT." Ephesians 6:10-11 Rest on His promise that "You shall receive "POWER" after that the HOLY SPIRIT is come upon you, and YOU shall be MY WITNESSES UNTO THE UTTERMOST PART OF THE EARTH." Acts 1:8

Take the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT WHICH IS THE WORD OF GOD, and SOW THE SEED OF THE GOSPEL AND THEN LEAVE THE RESULTS TO GOD, FOR HE IS THE ONE, ALONE, WHO BRINGS THE INCREASE.

Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com

"THE IMPORTANCE OF MOTHERHOOD!"

Webster's Dictionary simply defines "MOTHERHOOD" as a state of being a Mother Maternity; Mother's Collectively; or the Character or Qualities of a Mother. It seems that "MOTHERHOOD" has in recent years once again gained prominence, after too many years when "ABORTION," sad to say, was the prominent step taken by those who wanted no part of the tremendous responsibility of being a "MOTHER!" Unfortunately, many who "ABORTED" their Baby have openly testified of the painful price they have personally paid for their action!

Friend, LIFE IS PRECIOUS AND "MOTHERHOOD" IS A PRECIOUS GIFT FROM GOD, THE GIVER AND SUSTAINER OF ALL LIFE. Speaking to the People of Athens, the Apostle Paul declared, "God, who made the World, and Everything in it...GIVES TO ALL "LIFE" "BREATH" AND ALL THINGS..... FOR IN HIM WE "LIVE" AND "MOVE" AND HAVE OUR BEING." Acts 17:24-28

It is truly a Wonderful Day that has been established for the express purpose of Honoring our "MOTHER'S!" A special Day that originated with the action of Anna M. Jarvis, who along with others began a letter writing campaign to gain the support of Influential Minister's, Businessmen, and Congressmen in declaring a "NATIONAL MOTHER'S DAY!" The first observance was held on May 10, 1908 at a Church Service in Grafton, West Virginia, and in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The House of Representatives in May 1913 unanimously adopted a resolution requesting the President, his Cabinet, Members of Congress, and all Officials of the Federal Government to wear WHITE CARNATIONS on "MOTHER'S DAY!" On May 8, 1914, Congress passed another Joint Resolution designating the 2nd Sunday of May as "MOTHER'S DAY!"

Abraham Lincoln once stated, "NO ONE IS POOR WHO HAS A GODLY MOTHER!" Writing to Timothy, his spiritual son in the Faith, the Apostle wrote, "I am reminded of your Sincere Faith which First lived in your "GRANDMOTHER" LOIS and in your "MOTHER" EUNICE, and I am persuaded now lives in you." II Timothy 1:5 What a powerful Testimony of the Faithfulness of a Grandmother, and Mother in living and sharing the Word of Truth with Family!

Dedicated Christian "MOTHER'S" in the sight of God are of GREAT PRICE! Such "MOTHER'S" are commissioned by the Lord to "FAITHFULLY" Bring up and Teach their Children the True Way of Life. The story is told about William McKinley, a fine Lawyer, Congressman, Governor of Ohio, and finally President of our Great Country. He had a very close relationship with his "MOTHER" and either visited or sent her a message Every Day. When she became seriously ill, he arranged to have a special train standing by ready to take him to her bedside. Mrs. McKinley died December 12, 1897 in the arms of her 54 year old Son.

Her gentle Christian Virtues helped mold the President's Character. Four years later, President McKinley was gunned down in the City of Buffalo, New York by an Assassin to whom he showed no Bitterness. With a heart full of FORGIVENESS, and with Great Christian Compassion and Courage, he said, "GOD'S WILL BE DONE!" Before he died, he asked to hear once again one of the songs his "MOTHER" had taught him. It was "NEARER MY GOD TO THEE!" Once again, a marvelous testimony of the Faithfulness of a "MOTHER" who did not fail to "TRAIN UP HER CHILD IN THE WAY HE SHOULD GO, AND WHEN HE WAS OLDER, HE DID NOT DEPART FROM IT!" Proverbs 22:6

"HER CHILDREN ARISE AND CALL HER "BLESSED; HER HUSBAND ALSO, AND HE PRAISES HER!" Proverbs 31:28 A Christian "MOTHER" is one who has True Love in her Heart; Tenderness of Soul; with a Faith in Christ that Fortifies her for Every Trial in Life. She brings her Sons and Daughters before God's Throne daily, seeking to bring them to the place where they become VESSELS FOR GOD'S GLORY and a BLESSING TO OTHERS! Always willing to "SACRIFICE" much for the spiritual good of her Children.

How much we need to PRAY for our Nation, that such "MOTHER'S" in this Day of Spiritual Weakness may become the "RULE" and not the "EXCEPTION!" Laura V. Cline wrote: I stand beside the Ocean Blue and Think of all that's Good and True, and, Of all the Lovely Things God Made, There's One Above All Others. HE TOOK THE BEST FROM ALL OF THESE AND MADE THEM INTO "MOTHER'S!"

HAVE A HAPPY AND BLESSED MOTHER'S DAY!

********************************************

The First Draft and Printing of President Abraham Lincoln's "Emancipation Proclamation" was reviewed and discussed by his Cabinet. On JANUARY 1, 1883, when the Nation was approaching the Third Year of the Bloody and Costly Civil War, the Final Draft was signed by President Lincoln. The Proclamation declared that "ALL PERSONS HELD AS SLAVES WITHIN THE REBELLIOUS STATES ARE, AND HENCEFORWARD SHALL BE "FREE!"

Although the Emancipation Proclamation did not immediately "FREE" a single Slave, it did transform the Character of the War. After JANUARY 1. 1883, every advance of the Federal Troops expanded the DOMAIN OF FREEDOM. In addition, the Proclamation announced the acceptance of Black Men into the Union Army and Navy, enabling the "LIBERATED" to become "LIBERATORS!" By the end of the Civil War, approximately 200,000 Black Soldiers had fought for the Union and for "FREEDOM!"

We know only too well that a Costly Struggle and loss of Life followed for many years before the "FREEDOM" they sought to achieve finally saw some daylight, and one of the strong voices that accelerated the movement, was the voice of Martin Luther King Jr. The speech of this strong leader, "I HAVE A DREAM" will long be remembered, along with the song "WE SHALL OVERCOME!" January 16 of each year has been set aside to honor him, for the life he gave to proclaim "FREEDOM FOR ALL!"

Hundreds of years before President Lincoln and Dr. King, there was another Voice that was heard Proclaiming "FREEDOM!" It was the Voice of the SON OF GOD, JESUS CHRIST. The Holy Scriptures states, "So Jesus came to Nazareth where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the Synagogue on the Sabbath Day and stood up to read. He was handed the Book of the Prophet Isaiah, And when He had opened the Book, He found the place where it was written: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to Preach the "GOSPEL" to the Poor; He has sent Me to Heal the Brokenhearted; To Proclaim "LIBERTY" to the Captives; and Recovery of Sight to the Blind; TO SET AT "LIBERTY" THOSE WHO ARE OPPRESSED, TO PROCLAIM THE ACCEPTABLE YEAR OF THE LORD. Jesus then said to them, "TODAY THIS SCRIPTURE IS FULFILLED IN YOUR HEARING!" Luke 4:16-21

Jesus Christ proclaimed Himself as the "ONE" who would bring True and Eternal "FREEDOM" to "ALL" who would come to Him for Deliverance, for He said, "IF YOU HOLD TO MY TEACHING YOU SHALL KNOW THE "TRUTH" AND THE "TRUTH" WILL SET YOU "FREE!" All who were present when He spoke these words were stunned by what He said, and shouted, "HOW SHALL WE KNOW THAT WE SHALL BE SET "FREE?" Jesus answered, "IF THE "SON" SHALL SET YOU "FREE" YOU SHALL BE "FREE" INDEED!" John 8:31

O yes, Friends, the Eternal Son of God left the Glories of Heaven and entered our world to give up His Life on the Cross of Calvary to set us "FREE!" He said, "For I have Come Down from Heaven not to do My Will, but the Will of Him who sent Me. And this is the Will of Him who sent Me, that "EVERYONE" who sees the SON, and believes in Him may have Everlasting Life, and I will Raise him up at the Last Day. John 6:38-40 The Word of God further states: "Who Himself bore our Sins in His Own Body on the Tree!" I Peter 2:24 And again: "Know this, you were not Redeemed with perishable things such as Silver and Gold, but with the "PRECIOUS BLOOD OF CHRIST" AS OF A LAMB WITHOUT BLEMISH AND WITHOUT SPOT." I Peter 1:18-19

If Jesus Christ is your Personal Lord and Savior, "REJOICE" for you have been set "FREE" from the Guilt and Penalty of Sin. "There is therefore now, "NO CONDEMNATION" to those who are "IN CHRIST JESUS!" Romans 8:1 Further, "Nothing can separate Believers from the LOVE OF GOD WHICH IS IN CHRIST JESUS." Romans 8:39 We can Truly sing "FREE AT LAST BY THE GRACE OF GOD! And in addition, "WE ARE OVER-COMERS by the Power of the Indwelling Holy Spirit. Satan will work hard to Deceive and Defeat us, but "WE ARE MORE THAN CONQUERORS THROUGH HIM WHO LOVED US." "FOR GREATER IS HE "CHRIST" WHO IS IN US, THAN HE "SATAN" WHO IS IN THE WORLD!

NOW HEAR THIS: Having been "LIBERATED" we now have become "LIBERATORS!" The Word of God declares "Now then we are AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST, as though GOD were pleading through us, we implore you on Christ's behalf be "RECONCILED" to GOD. For He has made Him who knew no sin TO BE SIN FOR US, that we might become the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD IN HIM." II Corinthians 5:20-21

THE BELL
I KNOW WHO I AM
I am God's child (John 1:12)
I am Christ's friend (John 15:15 )
I am united with the Lord (1 Cor. 6:17)
I am bought with a price (1 Cor 6:19-20)
I am a saint (set apart for God). (Eph. 1:1)
I am a personal witness of Christ. (Acts 1:8)
I am the salt & light of the earth (Matt 5:13-14)
I am a member of the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:27)
I am free forever from condemnation ( Rom. 8: 1-2)
I am a citizen of Heaven. I am significant (Phil 3 :20)
I am free from any charge against me (Rom. 8:31 -34)
I am a minister of reconciliation for God (2 Cor 5:17-21)
I have access to God through the Holy Spirit (Eph. 2:18)
I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realms (Eph. 2:6)
I cannot be separated from the love of God (Rom 8:35-39)
I am established, anointed, sealed by God (2 Cor 1:21-22 )
I am assured all things work together for good (Rom. 8:28 )
I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit (John 15:16 )
I may approach God with freedom and confidence (Eph.. 3: 12 )
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Phil. 4:13 )
I am the branch of the true vine, a channel of His life (John 15: 1-5)
I am God's temple (1 Cor. 3:16). I am complete in Christ Jesus (Col. 2:10)
I am hidden with Christ in God (Col. 3:3). I have been justified (Romans 5:1)
I am God's co-worker (1 Cor. 3:9; 2 Cor 6:1). I am God's workmanship (Eph. 2:10)
I am confident that the good works God has begun in me will be perfected. (Phil. 1:5)
I have been redeemed and forgiven (Col 1:14).I have been adopted as God's child (Eph 1:5)
I belong to God!
Do you know
Who you are?

Keep this bell ringing . . . pass it on

'The LORD bless you and keep you;
The LORD make His face shine upon you
And be gracious to you;
The LORD turn His face toward you
And give you peace . . .'
(Numbers 6:24-26)

IT WAS BROUGHT TO MY ATTENTION SOME TIME AGO THAT ON DECEMBER 17 OF EACH YEAR, THIS SPECIAL DAY WOULD BE CALLED “UNDERDOG DAY!”

CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT? WE ALL KNOW THAT IN THE REALM OF SPORTS, WHEN TWO OPPONENTS PLAY AGAINST EACH OTHER, ALTHOUGH THERE ARE TIMES WHEN IT IS TOO TOUGH TO CALL WHO WILL WIN, USUALLY ONE OF THE TEAMS OR INDIVIDUALS PLAYING IN THE CONTEST IS CONSIDERED TO BE THE UNDERDOG.

I RECALL SO WELL THE YEAR THE NEW YORK YANKEES AND THE FLORIDA MARLINS WERE PLAYING IN THE “WORLD SERIES” FOR THE CHAMPIONSHIP! THE YANKEES, WITH THEIR POWERHOUSE HITTERS AND PITCHERS, WERE FAVORED TO SWEEP THE SERIES IN FOUR OR FIVE GAMES AT THE MOST. THE LOWLY FLORIDA MARLINS WERE CONSIDERED A MISFIT IN THE MINDS OF SO MANY FANS, AND THEY, WITHOUT QUESTION, WERE THE OBVIOUS “UNDERDOGS!” JUST IN CASE YOU ARE NOT AWARE OF WHAT HAPPENED IN THAT WORLD SERIES, THE LOWLY MARLINS TAUGHT THE HIGHLY TOUTED YANKEES A TREMENDOUS LESSON!

WELL, WHAT DOES THIS MATTER OF BEING AN “UNDERDOG” HAVE TO DO WITH THE THE MESSAGE WE HAVE IN THE SCRIPTURES, THE INFALLIBLE WORD OF GOD? TODAY, THERE IS A GIGANTIC MOVEMENT TAKING PLACE IN OUR WORLD TO CREATE A ONE WORLD GOVERNMENT WHICH SOON WILL COME TO PASS AS THE WORD OF GOD CLEARLY REVEALS. BUT, THERE IS ALSO A GREAT MOVEMENT IN RELIGIOUS CIRCLES TO BUILD A ONE WORLD CHURCH WHERE EVERYONE’S PERSONAL BELIEF WOULD BE ACCEPTED ON EQUAL TERMS WITH EVERYONE ELSE. IN PLAIN WORDS THEY ARE SAYING WHAT YOU BELIEVE IS NO BETTER THAN WHAT I BELIEVE. AFTER ALL, WE ARE ALL TRAVELING TO THE SAME PLACE, AND ALTHOUGH WE MAY BE TRAVELING DIFFERENT PATHS TO GET TO THE TOP OF THE MOUNTAIN, WE WILL ALL FINALLY REACH OUR HEAVENLY GOAL.

WHEN YOU CONSIDER THE “NUMBER” OF THOSE WHO ARE FOLLOWING MANY DIFFERENT RELIGIONS WHO ARE SEEKING TO BUILD THIS ONE WORLD CHURCH, IT WOULD SEEM TO SUGGEST THAT THE REDEEMED BODY OF CHRIST, THE TRUE CHURCH OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST LOOKS LIKE AN “UNDERDOG!”

IN FACT MANY VOICES ARE BEING RAISED CLEARLY STATING THAT THOSE WHO BELIEVE THERE IS NO OTHER WAY TO GET TO HEAVEN APART FROM JESUS CHRIST ALONE, MUST BE “ELIMINATED” FOR SUCH ARE HOLDING BACK PROGRESS TO CO-EXIST IN TRUE PEACE IN THE WORLD.

THE CHURCH OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST UNDERDOGS? NO, NEVER IN A MILLION YEARS. “FOR WE ARE MORE THAN CONQUERORS THROUGH HIM WHO LOVED US!” Romans 8:37 JESUS CHRIST IS “THE ONLY POTENTATE, THE KING OF kings, AND LORD OF lords, WHO “ALONE” HAS IMMORTALITY DWELLING IN UNAPPROACHABLE LIGHT.” I Timothy 6:15-16 “NOW TO HIM, WHO IS ABLE TO KEEP YOU FROM STUMBLING, AND TO PRESENT YOU FAULTLESS BEFORE THE PRESENCE OF HIS GLORY WITH EXCEEDING JOY, TO “GOD” OUR “SAVIOR” WHO “ALONE” IS WISE, BE GLORY AND MAJESTY, DOMINION AND POWER BOTH NOW AND FOREVER, AMEN. Jude 1 24-25

YES FRIENDS, JESUS CHRIST, THE KING OF kings, AND LORD OF lords, PLAINLY DECLARED THIS AMAZING TRUTH OF HISTORY SO THAT “ALL” PEOPLES OF THE WORLD MIGHT KNOW AND UNDERSTAND WHEN HE SAID, “I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE; NO ONE COMES TO THE FATHER EXCEPT BY “ME!” John 14:6 COULD JESUS HAVE SAID THAT ANY CLEARER?

ONE DAY JESUS SAID TO HIS FAITHFUL FOLLOWERS: “REJOICE, BECAUSE YOUR NAMES ARE RECORDED IN HEAVEN.” Luke 10:20 WHY REJOICE? WELL FRIEND, IT IS BECAUSE IT WILL BE A VERY SAD DAY FOR THOSE “WHOSE NAMES HAVE “NOT” BEEN RECORDED IN THE BOOK OF “LIFE” OF THE “LAMB” SLAIN FROM THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD.” Revelation 13:8

THE SCRIPTURES DECLARE “HE WHO BELIEVES IN THE SON “HAS” EVERLASTING LIFE, AND HE WHO DOES “NOT” BELIEVE THE “SON” SHALL NOT SEE LIFE, BUT THE WRATH OF GOD ABIDES ON HIM.” John 3:36

FOR THE REDEEMED BODY OF TRUE BELIEVERS, “VICTORY IS GUARANTEED! ALL ARE INVITED TO JOIN THE “VICTORIOUS” FAMILY OF GOD BY PLACING A “LIVING FAITH” IN THE CRUCIFIED, BURIED AND DEATH CONQUERING LORD JESUS CHRIST WHO WILL GIVE YOU A “LIVING HOPE!” YOU WILL NEVER BE AN “UNDERDOG” WHEN THE “VICTORIOUS CHRIST” IS YOUR LORD AND SAVIOR, FOR HE WILL HAVE THE "FINAL WORD" WHEN HE COMES WITH ALL THE REDEEMED OF THE AGES TO REIGN FOR A THOUSAND YEARS RIGHT HERE ON EARTH. WILL YOU BE ONE WHO WILL REIGN WITH HIM, OR WILL YOU HEAR JESUS SAY, "I NEVER KNEW YOU, DEPART FROM ME!"

"IF YOU WILL CONFESS WITH YOUR MOUTH THAT JESUS IS LORD, AND BELIEVE IN YOUR HEART THAT GOD RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD, YOU WILL BE SAVED. FOR WITH THE MOUTH YOU CONFESS AND ARE SAVED, AND WITH THE HEART YOU BELIEVE AND ARE JUSTIFIED." Romans 10:9-10

*********************************************************************************************************

These were the words spoken by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to the members of Congress and to the people of the United States, after the surprise attack by the Japanese at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Mitsuo Fuchida earned a place in World History as the leader of this surprise attack aimed at the U.S. Navy Ships based there for our protection. It was Fuchida who sent the famous radio message code words

This three word message assured his Superiors, Planner Minoru Genda, and Admirals Nagumo and Yamamoto that complete surprise had been achieved. It was an attack that occurred fifty-five minutes before there was even a Declaration of War against the United States by the Government of Japan. The goal of the attack was to sufficiently cripple the US Fleet so that Japan could then attack and capture the Philippines and Indo-China, and secure access to the raw materials needed to maintain its position as a Global and Economic Power.

Imperial Admiral Yamamoto, who conceived, designed and promoted the attack, cautioned against War with the United States. Having twice held Naval Attache Positions within the Japanese Embassy in the US Capital, he knew the industrial strength, material wealth, and temperment of the United States people. However, over ruled by his Superiors, he then dedicated his efforts to accomplish a successful attack. Upon completion of the attack, he is quoted to have said, "WE HAVE AWAKENED A SLEEPING GIANT AND HAVE INSTILLED IN HIM A TERRIBLE RESOLVE." HOW ACCURATE WERE HIS WORDS.

Approaching Pearl Harbor, Mitsuo Fuchida saw the rays of the early morning sun shining through the clouds, and he felt it was a good omen because it had the appearance of the Japanese Flag. However, the day would soon come when Fuchida would be serving under a different flag, "THE FLAG OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST!"

In 1960 I was in Germany on a Mission Trip visiting the Displaced Persons Center in West Berlin. The opportunity was given to share with so many who had fled from behind the Iron Curtain seeking Freedom and a New LIfe in the West. It was there that I had the privilege of meeting Mitsuo Fuchida! No longer was he a Pilot in the Japanese Navy, for he had become a Warrior for the cause of Jesus Christ. In 1949, hearing the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, he opened his heart to the Lord, and embraced Him as his personal Lord and Savior, and in 1952 became a "MISSIONARY" to his own people and traveled around the world sharing the message of Eternal Salvation.

What a "JOY" it was to meet this "DYNAMIC" fellow servant of Jesus Christ. That day on the platform there were two AMERICANS, a GERMAN, and a JAPANESE, all from countries that were engaged in World War II. However, on that special day, no longer enemies, for we were joined together under a New Banner, "THE BANNER OF THE CROSS OF JESUS CHRIST!" We were eternally tied together with a steadfast faith in the Crucified, Buried and Risen Savior, with one passion, TO LEAD PRECIOUS SOULS TO THE "ONLY" ONE WHO HAS THE WORDS OF ETERNAL LIFE - JESUS CHRIST!

Friends, the powerful Gospel Message has "NOT" and "NEVER" will lose its POWER. As the Apostle Paul wrote, "I AM NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST, FOR IT IS THE POWER OF GOD UNTO SALVATION TO "EVERYONE" WHO BELIEVES!" Romans 1:16 O yes, "THE MESSAGE OF THE CROSS TO THOSE WHO ARE "PERISHING" is "FOOLISHNESS" but unto us who are "SAVED" IT IS THE POWER OF GOD!" I Corinthians 1:18

The day is fast approaching when the LORD will return as He promised, and when we stand before the KING of kings, and LORD of lords, as faithful servants, we will hear our SUPERIOR, THE LORD OF CREATION AND SALVATION, say,