Daily Devotional – January 12 (The Evil-Eyed Pharisee Scorner, Part 4: “Dealing With Anger”)

By admin On January 11th, 2014

.

Daily Devotional – January 12

.

The Evil-Eyed Pharisee Scorner,

.

Part 4:

“Dealing With Anger”

To read Part 1, click here…November 3rd (The Evil-Eyed Pharisee Scorner!)

.

“Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry:

for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.”

Ecclesiastes 7:9

.

Do you have a temper like a firecracker, always quick to fire off at someone?

.

Are you like a semi-dormant volcano, ready to burst forth molten lava, when someone doesn’t perform like you want them to? Does your temper often flash like lightning bolts at your children and spouse?

.

And after you calm down, do you feel remorseful, wishing you could have more control over such unchristlike behavior? And even though you repent of your out-of-control temper, the very next day you do it all over again?

.

Well, there is a solution to your problem. And there is great hope in Christ, for your intemperate bursts of anger!

.

Mocking Bird Argument – Wikimedia – Share-alike License

.

PRIDE BEGETS ANGER

.

One thing that must be understood about anger, is that it finds its root in pride. Yes, anger seems to go hand-in-hand with a proud heart!

.

Listen… “Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.” Proverbs 21:24

Anger, or wrath is the product of pride.

.

Hans Thoma – Jupiter – Wikipedia – Public Domain

.

THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

.

Well, just how do we get rid of our uncontrollable anger?

.

The only true way to get rid of anger is to be filled with the Spirit….“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” Galatians 5:22, 23

.

**As you can clearly see from this above passage from Galatians, the fruit of the Spirit are the very opposite of those attributes which produce “proud wrath”.**

.

STOP THINKING I KNOW MORE THAN GOD

.

Now, an entire book could be written on this subject. But this devotional will only focus on one very important aspect concerning overcoming anger.

.

And to illustrate that one aspect, maybe it’s best to quote Proverbs 3:5, 7…“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding…Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.”

.

If a person given to anger could just live by this one passage, then there might be a great victory over angry outbursts. Because, so much of anger is caused by the mindset that, “I know what is best! And if you don’t perform according to my expectations, then my wrath will be kindled against you!”

.

Yes, this mindset is perhaps the biggest contributing factor in those who are constantly losing their temper.

.

Anger during a protest – by David Shankbone – CROPPED IMAGE – Wikimedia – Share-alike-License

.

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

.

So if a church-goer can begin to study God’s Word with the intent of following Jesus, and no longer trusting in their own self-will, then that angry person might cease from thinking that he or she knows better than everyone else.

.

**And the more that we know about God’s will, as revealed in Scripture, the less we will insist upon our own way (see 1st Corinthians 13, 4, 5, ESV Version)…**

.

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

“But He knoweth the way that I take: when He hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold”

Job 23:10

One very important ingredient to overcoming is to allow God to purify us through fiery trials, that we may ultimately become humble, patient, and trusting with childlike faith.

.

Yes, God compares Himself to a goldsmith who purifies gold (and silver) by sending it through the fire, which eventually separates the dross until the gold is fully purified.

.

And so, we must not murmur when we go through fiery trials, knowing that God is bringing us through each and every trial out of His great love for our soul!

.

And then, when we have been purified, we can say along with Job…“But He knoweth the way that I take: when He hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold” Job 23:10

Job (oil on canvas) by Bonnat, Leon Joseph Florentin (1833-1922) – Wikimedia – Public Domain

Goldkey (logo removed) – cropped photo – Wikipedia – Public Domain

.

GOOD NEWS! TIME TO CHANGE!

.

Now the Good News is, that the true God of Heaven is willing to purify us from our love of pride and anger! Yes, and the Day which is just before us, has been designed for that very purpose…

.

Listen…“Enter into the Rock, and hide thee in the dust, for fear of the LORD, and for the glory of His majesty. The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day. For the Day of the LORD of hosts shall be upon every one that is proud and lofty, and upon every one that is lifted up; and he shall be brought low:” Isaiah 2:10-12

.

And so, this and other similar passages reveal just who it is that will be the recipients of God’s righteous anger in the soon-coming Day of the Lord!

.

And those of us who are given to these pernicious qualities, will be humbled and brought low in that Day!

.

WORK WHILE IT IS DAY

.

And those who do finally find meekness and lowliness of heart will naturally react to disappointing and upsetting circumstances much differently than they once did, when they were yet proud in heart.

.

So while there is still a little time left, let’s use our allotted hours wisely in trying to overcome our proud anger, before, “the night comes when no man can work.” John 9:4

.

Chaplain reads Bible – Wikimedia – US Govt. Public Domain

.

“He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty;

and he that ruleth his spirit

than he that taketh a city.”

Proverbs 16:32

.

TO READ PART 5, GO HERE…

May 3 (The Evil-Eyed Pharisee Scorner, Part 5: “Cause & Effect Christianity”)

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Drive out all my foolish proud anger! Purify my heart. Give me the mind of Christ, so that I too can become meek and lowly on heart…

Marines at Prayer by Alex Raymond – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

“THE SCORNER (THE PHARISEE)”

“For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, AN EVIL EYE, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.” Mark 7:18-23

Please tilt your head to the left. Do you see a man with a very long pointed nose. (Obviously, the sketch to the right is just an exaggeration in order to help you find the face in the photo to the left.)

Do you see an angry look? His right eye-brow is raised as if he is judging.

This second face in the Moon appears to be that of a combination of a man as well as a fox. Or maybe a wolf. Doesn’t he have a long narrow nose like a wolf or fox? Maybe even a dog. Nevertheless, the expression on his face, as he appears to look down upon the Earth, is that of scorn. Unlike the first Moon-man’s sad shock and awe; this ‘man/fox/wolf/dog’ appears to be that of anger and scorn. As if he is disgusted at the sinful planet below.

.

He is very moral, you see!

.

Moon – 2nd face Scorner – highlighted photo – Blue moon of 31.08.2012 – by Cezar Popescu – Wikimedia – Creative-Commons – CC0-1.0-Universal-Public-Domain-Dedication

.

TOMORROW…

January 13 (Arcturus, The Star That Wise Men Follow “Following The Stars!?”)

.

22 MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH

.

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded truth-seekers) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS IS STUDY #12 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING, FORMER CEO OF FAMILY RADIO…

.

Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.com – Public Domain

.

ABOVE STAR-CHART – Summer Constellations w/ark (aka: Sagittarius) & Revelation 12 Woman (aka: Ursa Major, including The Big Dipper) – Flower of the Field (aka Scorpio, etc…) – Cross-Scepter ( stars from Ophiuchus and Serpens) – 12-Star Crown (Corona Borealis plus several other stars) Arcturus Star – www.theheavensdeclare.net

.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Today’s Devotional – January 11th (Noble Bereans? (Introduction TO 60+Articles): Are You A Wise Man?)

By admin On January 10th, 2014

.

Today’s Devotional – January 11th

.

Noble Bereans?

.

“Are You A Wise Man?”

This is an introductory article to a long series of “Noble Berans?” articles

.

“there shall come a Star out of Jacob”…

Numbers 24:17

.

“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem…

behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying,

Where is He that is born King of the Jews?

for we have seen His star in the east,

and are come to worship Him.”

Matthew 2:1, 2

.

So, in this little series, the subject of those noble Bereans will be introduced.

.

Let’s review the key Bible passage concerning “Noble Bereans”… “And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming there, went into the synagogue of the Jews. THESE WERE MORE NOBLE than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” Acts 17:10, 11

.

St Paul Preaching (Raphael, 1515) – Wikipedia – US public domain

.

AN OPEN-MINDED SPIRIT IN BEREA

.

**Okay, so those in Berea were “more noble”, because they:**

.

1. “Received the Word with all readiness of mind.”

.

2. “And searched the Scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”

.

And because of this excellent, open-minded Spirit, the Bereans were ready to receive new teachings, which no doubt, conflicted with the supposed, “orthodox” teachings of that day.

.

Thus there was an open-minded love for truth which permeated their hearts, and a willingness to search the Scriptures daily, in hopes that these seemingly new teachings were indeed true!

.

La Bible, Notre-Dame – cropped – Wikimedia – Share-Alike License

.

“Wise men still seek Him”

.

Have you seen one of those bumper-stickers which says… “WISE MEN STILL SEEK HIM”?

.

Well, maybe they’re not so popular anymore. But every now and then, a car passes by with that saying.

.

And it’s a good saying! Because, that was the spiritual meaning to that Bible account, found in Matthew.

.

Brooklyn Museum – The Magi Journeying – James Tissot – US Public Domain

.

ARCTURUS AND HIS SONS

.

There exists a lot of intrigue regarding just what star did the Magi from the East follow, which led them to the First Advent of our Savior.

.

The Bible speaks of Arcturus as a possibility.

.

Listen… “canst thou guide Arcturus with his sons?” Job 38:33.

.

There’s nothing that is impossible for God! Arcturus may very well have been that star. Nobody knows for sure.

.

And Arcturus is that brilliant star (3rd brightest in our heavens) which leads these Gospel constellations, Summer, Fall, and Winter Constellations, to present a picture story, a heavenly allegory of sorts.

.

RE-ENACTMENT OF WISE-MEN OF OLD

But there is a much greater question that confronts Mankind today.

.

Because, just as a single star guided those wise men to the coming Savior, so also, God is just now giving us many stars (which follow Arcturus), to guide us safely to the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior!

.

And so, these starry signs seem to be the re-fulfillment of those wise men following the star, 2,000 years ago!

.

ABOVE STAR-CHART – Summer Constellations with Two Turtledoves (Sagittarius) & Revelation 12 Woman (Ursa Major) – www.theheavensdeclare.net

.

GUIDE US TO HEAVEN’S GATE…

.

You see, these constellations, spring/summer, fall, and winter, together, tell of the incredible love of God.

.

And Arcturus, our Host Star, will lead to an understanding of God’s Word, which will, in turn, guide God’s people up a narrow pathway; onward and upward through Heaven’s Gate itself, and ultimately into the very heavenly City of God.

.

Oh, don’t doubt for a moment that God cannot or will not do this! For with God, all things are possible! Listen…“Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.” Mark 9:23

.

And Signs Of Heaven Website will direct the Reader to God’s Word in such a way as to bring out certain Bible truths not currently recognized or emphasized in most of the current Christian theological circles.

.

ABOVE STAR-CHART – Early Winter in the east – Orion, Revelation 12 Woman (AKA Ursa Major) – Revelation 12 Dragon (AKA Hyades, Pleiades, etc.) – Goodly Horse in Battle with Rider (Camelopardalis, Perseus, Cassiopeia, Andromeda, etc…) – www.signsofheaven.org – Not for profit use!

.

AN ARDUOUS TASK

.

We must keep in mind, that those wise men of old, after spending countless hours searching the Scriptures to see just exactly what and who those prophecies were pointing to, traveled through the deserts hundreds of miles to find the Messiah.

.

All told, those wise men no doubt spent several years on this quest to find the long-awaited Messiah, from the time they first began searching the Scriptures till the time they returned home from their quest to see the Messiah in person!

.

Brooklyn Museum – The Magi Journeying – James Tissot – US Public Domain

.

AM I A WISE MAN?

.

And so, am I willing to spend months praying and searching out this message, in light of God’s Word, to see if this message is the real thing?

.

In other words, are we truly the re-fulfillment of those wise-men of old? Are we willing to put out the same effort that those wise men of old put out, to discover the truth?

.

And with this message, we don’t even have to travel hundreds of miles! But to really understand this message, does take a great deal of effort.

.

But wise men don’t mind that!

.

After all, that’s the stuff that wise men are made of!

.

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

TO GO TO PART 1 OF THE 60+ ARTICLES CONCERNING NOBLE BEREANS, CLICK HERE…

September 2nd (Noble Bereans? Part 1)

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, please help me to be one of the modern-day “wise men”. Help me to read the Bible with the purpose of growing in faith, and in the knowledge of God…

Family Prayer Before Meal – Wikimedia – US-Govt. – Public-Domain

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

LOCATING ARCTURUS…

.

An easy way to find Arcturus is to follow the arc of the handle of the Big Dipper, in the spring through fall (these are the months in which Arcturus is visible).

.

SUMMER CONSTELLATIONS: (Sketch to right: constellations span the heavens (Ark in south, 7 Stars in north), and travel from east to west through the night.

.

This sketch is of the Summer Constellations as they appear when in the western half of the night sky. The box-like constellation is the The Ark of the Covenant (AKA Sagittarius) is in the south. To the right is both the Flower of the Field Constellation (AKA Scorpius) and the The Cross/Scepter Constellations. Further to the north is the Crown of Revelation Twelve (AKA Corona Borealis Constellation) and the star, Arcturus. Farthest to the north is the 7 Stars Constellation (AKA The Big Dipper )

.

ABOVE STAR-CHART – Summer Constellations – w/Ark & 7 Stars – www.theheavensdeclare.net

.

TOMORROW:

January 12 (The Evil-Eyed Pharisee Scorner, Part 4: “Dealing With Anger”)

ABOVE PICTURE – Moon – 2nd Face (exaggerated for clarity) – Pharisee Scorner

.

JEREMIAH AUDIO STUDY

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS IS STUDY #11 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING, FORMER CEO OF FAMILY RADIO…

.

Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.org – Public Domain

.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Today’s Devotional – January 9th (Forever is a Very Long Time!)

By admin On January 10th, 2014

Today’s Devotional – January 9th

.

Forever is a Very Long Time!

.

“Thou wilt show me the path of life:

in Thy presence is fulness of joy;

at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.”

Psalm 16:11

.

Here is something the Reader can do to impress upon his or her children, just how precious is the gift of Salvation.

.

First, obtain some sand, perhaps from the hardware store or an aquarium shop. Or better yet, plan a trip to the beach, if that’s possible!

.

Next, get a glass gallon container or gallon bucket, and fill it with sand.

.

Next take out the same number of grains of sand as your child’s age, and put them under a magnifying glass and have the children look at them.

.

Then ask them to guess how many grains of sand are in that gallon jar. (The answer is roughly 40 million grains of sand in a gallon jar.)

.

Sand Grains – Wikipedia – Share-alike license

.

ALL THE SAND IN THE WORLD

.

Next, show them a picture of a desert or a beach, and ask them, “how many grains of sand are on that beach or desert?”

.

Obviously nobody knows the answer.

.

Then ask them how many deserts and beaches are on the planet. Again, nobody really knows.

.

Then explain to them that if each grain of sand represented one year of life, then take all the grains of sand on all the beaches and all the deserts around the world, and it wouldn’t even begin to equal the number of years that a Believer will live throughout eternity future!

.

Maroc Sahara caravan – Wikimedia – Share-alike license

.

SAND ON ALL PLANETS!

.

As a matter of fact, if you took all the grains of sand on all the planets throughout the entire universe, it still wouldn’t begin to equal the number of years that Believers will live throughout eternity future!

.

Amazing? Yes, very amazing!

.

**And God says that in His right hand are “pleasures for evermore”! And “forevermore” is a very long time! (see Psalm 16:11).**

.

And this verse reveals that eternal life will be a very pleasurable and happy experience…FOR EVERMORE!

.

Now with this in mind, it is amazing that we humans are so near-sighted that we can hardly see beyond this little life on this dying planet!?

.

Starry Night at La Silla – cropped and altered image – Wikimedia – Share-alike license

.

REMINDER OF THE EVERLASTING PROMISED LAND!

.

P.S. – AFTER THIS EXPERIMENT IS FINISHED, YOU MIGHT WISH TO FIND A SPOT ON SOME TABLE OR SHELF TO LEAVE THIS SAND-FILLED JAR, TO BE AN ON-GOING REMINDER OF JUST HOW PRECIOUS AND WONDERFUL IS GOD’S GIFT OF EVERLASTING LIFE!

.

The River Of The Water Of Life by H. Melville – Wikisource – Public Domain

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to fully realize the meaninglessness of this life and to fully appreciate the infinite value of the world-to-come…

Prayer – Mother and Daughter – Wikipedia – (cropped image) the Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

VALLEY OF DECISION GROUP…

Look eastward in the early summer through fall. Find the Cassiopeia Constellation. Cassiopeia is the Mount of Blessing.

.

In the sketch, it is the farthest mountain to the left. In the sky, it is the northern-most of these three mountains when facing eastward. It resembles a pyramid. Then find the next pyramid to its right (south). Then go a little further south to the next third pyramid. The third snow-cap is the Destroying Mountain Constellation. These three pyramids are the snow-capped portion of these three mountains in this sketch. (of course, you won’t see the snow-caps in the sky. They are just an embellishment in this sketch to present a concept-EDITOR).

.

“Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.” Micah 4:1, 2

THE VALLEY OF DECISION CONSTELLATION GROUP. They appear in mid-summer in the eastern skies in pre-dawn hours.

.

These are made of Cassiopeia (mount on left), and various stars from the Andromeda Constellation (valley) Pegasus (Mount of Cursing (middle mount) & Destroying Mount (right)), and Pisces (Broad Way to Hell). The galaxy which appears to be climbing the Mountain of Blessing is the Andromeda Galaxy.

.

The above Wikipedia star-chart shows this amazing constellation group as it appears from June to fall, just prior to the winter constellation group. Actually, this Valley of Decision Constellations appear in early summer in the pre-dawn hours. (Editor of this website has sketched in this constellation group onto this above Wikipedia star-chart.)

.

TOMORROW:

January 10 . . . . Our Minimum Daily Requirements! “Part-timers Need Not Apply!”

Vitamin Display – by Mark Buckawichi – for Wikimedia – Universal Public Domain

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

.

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS IS STUDY #9 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.org – Public Domain

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Today’s Devotional, January 10th (Why Isn’t This Devotional Like Other Devotionals?)

By admin On January 9th, 2014

Daily Devotional – January 10

.

Why Isn’t This Devotional Like Other Devotionals?

.

“Correction is grievous unto him

that forsaketh the way:

and he that hateth reproof shall die…

but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.”

Proverbs 15:10 & 27:7

.

One reader complained that this devotional isn’t like other devotionals. “It’s just not as uplifting like devotionals are supposed to be!”

.

Well, that’s very true, and is a valid complaint!

.

Yes, there are countless devotionals which are beautifully and poetically written. And many devotionals from the 1800’s used very flowery language with many metaphorical and poetical analogies.

.

Thumbs down – cropped image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons 2.0 License

.

NICE UPLIFTING DEVOTIONALS

.

The problem with many of those devotionals is that they tried so hard to be cleverly written, that the message often got lost to a certain degree by all that complexity and linguistic filigree.

.

Not only so, but today’s church-world has become a veritable, “City of Confusion” by all the countless winds of doctrine blowing in every-which-direction.

.

Question Marks – At a loss – svg – Wikimedia Commons – Share-Alike License

.

“THE TRUTH SHALL MAKE YOU FREE!”

.

This devotional series attempts to cut through the thick fog of confusion which has settled heavy upon the Christian landscape, with bright beams of sunlight from Heaven.

.

And as far as being uplifting, there is nothing like truth to set one’s soul free…“If ye continue in My word, then are ye My disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:31, 32

.

Yes, it is the eye-salve of God’s plain truth that will remove our foggy vision and even our total blindness!

.

And because we have been so badly misled by the prosperity-driven gospels of our day, it is the plain words of God’s truth that will lead us out of our Babylonish captivity.

.

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

THE BIBLE HAS MANY HARD THINGS TO SAY

.

And so, the reader is encouraged to keep up with these daily devotionals, in spite of the negativity so often presented (And to be fair, most of these daily devotions end with a positive and uplifting encouragement.)

.

But let’s not be like the people of God back in Isaiah’s day which complained to the prophets…“Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits:” Isaiah 30:10

.

The people back in Isaiah’s day wanted nice and smooth teachings. They didn’t like Isaiah’s negativity. Nor did they like Jeremiah and the other Old Testament prophets.

.

The Prophet Isaiah (Bible Card from 1904) – Wikipedia – Public Domain

.

“MANY OF HIS DISCIPLES WENT BACK. AND WALKED NO MORE WITH HIM”

John 6:66

.

And for that matter, neither did they like what Jesus had to say…“Many therefore of His disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it? When Jesus knew in Himself that His disciples murmured at it, He said unto them, ‘Doth this offend you?’…From that time many of His disciples went back, and walked no more with Him.” John 6:60, 61, 66.

.

Yes, many professed followers and disciples of Jesus did not like those more difficult and negative things He was preaching, and actually turned away from following Him!

.

Brooklyn Museum – The Pharisees Question Jesus – James Tissot – US Public Domain – Wikimedia

.

“ANNOINT THINE EYES WITH EYE-SALVE, THAT THOU MAY SEE”

Revelation 3:18

.

Eye-salve is often painful, but is given to heal one’s eyes. So too, the Word of God has many hard things to say to us. But God has to be blunt so often, knowing that it is for our spiritual health and healing.

.

**And so, please know and understand that all of us (including this editor) are convicted of sin as we read these devotionals.**

.

This is because God does not want us to remain in our errors any longer. He’s trying to free us!

.

Christ and the blind Pauper (cropped photo) – Mironov – Wikipedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license.

.

““And, lo, thou art unto them as a very lovely song of one that hath a pleasant voice, and can play well on an instrument: for they hear thy words, but they do them not!”

“Ezekiel 33:32

.

And let’s face it! All those nice, flowery, and uplifting devotionals have not accomplished what they were intended to do.

.

All things considered, the Church has grown weaker and more worldly with each passing decade, in spite of all the devotionals now available!

.

And the apostasy continues to deepen and widen!

.

And indeed, things have gotten so bad that God is now calling His people to, “Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.” Revelation 18:4

.

Hallmark – Markville – Wikipedia – C.C. 1.0 Universal Public Domain

.

“SURELY THERE IS AN END; AND THINE EXPECTATION SHALL NOT BE CUT OFF”

Proverbs 23:18

.

And so, let’s rejoice that God hasn’t cast us away altogether! But in mercy and grace, He is giving us a message designed to cure us of our spiritual leprosy.

.

And as our heart becomes cleansed and our soul becomes healed, we will rejoice in the very truths which once caused us so much grief and discomfort!

.

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Give me a love for truth, so much so, that I begin to search the Bible for truth, no longer listening to these “feel-good” preachers of the prosperity-driven gospels…

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

“And there appeared a great wonder (“sign”) in Heaven;

.

a woman clothed with the sun,

.

and the moon under her feet,

.

and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:”

.

Revelation 12:1

.

ABOVE STAR-CHART – Summer Constellations w/ark & Rev. 12 Woman – www.theheavensdeclare.net

.

If you were to go out on a dark and starry night in the summer months, and lift up your head, you might just see this constellation group. Looking at this sketch, do you see this woman as she tries to take hold of that crown?

.

Well, this is a heavenly fulfillment of the above Bible verse (“And there appeared a great wonder (or “sign”) in Heaven; a woman…and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:” Revelation 12:1).

.

**And this woman is known as the Revelation 12 Woman, and that crown is known as the Revelation 12 Crown. You can see this constellation group in the summer months by looking in the western skies.**

.

ABOVE STAR-CHART – Summer Constellations w/ark & Rev. 12 Woman – www.theheavensdeclare.net

.

TOMORROW…

January 11th – Noble Bereans? (“Are You A Wise Man?”)

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

.

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS IS STUDY #10 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.com – Public Domain

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Today’s Devotional – January 8th (Was Blind, But Now I See!)

By admin On January 7th, 2014

Today’s Devotional, January 8th

.

Was Blind, But Now I See!

.

“Amazing grace, how sweet the sound!

That saved a wretch like me!

I once was lost, but now am found!

Was blind, but now I see!”

Amazing Grace

.

John Newton, born in 1725, received some Christian instruction from his mother.

.

And yet, he followed his father into the ship trade, eventually working on a slave ship, while still a young man.

.

But during a terrible storm while at sea, he remembered his Christian mother’s instruction, and prayed for deliverance. And his sinking ship corrected itself, seemingly miraculously!

.

And from that time forward, Newton’s Heavenward pilgrimage began…

.

John-Newton-courtesy – Wikipedia – Public-domain

.

A MIRACULOUS DELIVERY?

.

Listen to Wikipedia’s account of Newton’s conversion…

.

“During his 1748 voyage to England after his rescue, Newton had a spiritual conversion. The ship encountered a severe storm off the coast of Donegal, Ireland and almost sank. Newton awoke in the middle of the night and, as the ship filled with water, called out to God. The cargo shifted and stopped up the hole, and the ship drifted to safety. Newton marked this experience as the beginning of his conversion to evangelical Christianity.”

.

And so, Newton became a Christian, a minister, and finally left that slave-trading ship, and ultimately began to crusade against the hideous practice of carrying slaves to England.

.

And just a few days prior to his death, Newton lived just long enough to finally witness slave-trading abolished in England, his home country!

.

Ship & Lighthouse – Our day in the light of prophecy and providence – 1921 – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

.

AMAZING GRACE!

.

But Newton was not just a gifted minister of God!

.

And he was given the gift of music composition! And during his ministry, he wrote lyrics to a number of hymns.

.

And one hymn which came from his pen was the song, Amazing Grace!

.

Yes, that great hymn by that slave-ship-captain-turned-minister-of-Christ, Amazing Grace, has had countless converts singing those infamous words, “…Was blind, but now I see!”, for over two centuries now!

.

Amazing Grace – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

NEWTON NOT THE ONLY BLIND ONE!

.

Now, the great exclamation mark on John Newton’s life-story was that he came from being a merchant of human misery, but was ultimately given spiritual eyes to see Jesus!

.

Once he was blind, but now John Newton could finally see!

.

But even though most of us are appalled at that horrible practice of slave-trading, nevertheless we live in a world which has blinded our spiritual eyes!

.

Listen… “But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.” 2nd Corinthians 4:3, 4

.

**The fact is, the “god of this world” has blinded the minds of men. Yes, Satan has filled us with the spirit of Antichrist.**

.

And even though we would never dream of being such a merchant of human misery, as was Newton, yet we are every bit as blind as Newton was!

.

John-Newton-courtesy – Wikipedia – Public-domain

.

THE BOOK OF JOEL

.

But God, in His great mercy, has given His Son to die in our place, so that we who were once blind, but now can see the wonderful God and Savior, which gives us the gift of everlasting life!

.

Now the reason for bringing all this into today’s devotional, is to relate it to the Signs which are now being revealed in the Sun, Moon, and Stars!

.

The prophet Joel foretells in his fiery little book… “The earth shall quake before them; the heavens shall tremble: the sun and the moon shall be dark, and the stars shall withdraw their shining: And the LORD shall utter His voice before His army: for His camp is very great: for He is strong that executeth His word: for the day of the LORD is great and very terrible; and who can abide it?” Joel 2:10, 11

.

Joel the Prophet – www.wikipaintings.com – Public Domain

.

A DOUBLE FULFILLMENT!

.

Now that Book of Joel has been given especially for us, “upon whom the ends of the world are come.” 1st Corinthians 10:11.

.

And God reveals in Joel, that “the sun and the moon shall be dark, and the stars shall withdraw their shining:”

.

But though this passage speaks of the spiritual condition of the lost ones, it nevertheless explains that the Signs which God is just now revealing, cannot be seen by many!

.

Oh yes, there are many who would love to see these heavenly signs, and yet, cannot!

.

They are simply blinded from seeing these incredible signs!

.

ABOVE STAR-CHART – Early Winter in the east – Orion, Revelation 12 Woman (AKA Ursa Major) – Revelation 12 Dragon (AKA Hyades, Pleiades, etc.) – Goodly Horse in Battle with Rider (Camelopardelis, Perseus, Cassiopeia, Andromeda, etc…) – www.signsofheaven.org – Not for profit use!

.

SIGNS GIVEN TO BE WAYMARKS

.

But the fact is, there are many who cannot see these, for the simple reason that they do not have the desire to understand the spiritual truths connected with these heavenly waymarks!

.

The big problem is, that God does not give signs, merely to scratch our itching ears! These signs are given as signposts, to guide us safely up the Heavenward pathway, shining their light upon our trail!

.

But there are many who want to see a sign, for the mere sake of seeing some miracle of nature!

.

Something spectacular!

.

As if these signs are some 5-minute YouTube video, designed to make us tingle for a few minutes!

.

ENLIGHTEN OUR PATHWAY

.

But the Good News is, that God has given these signs and their accompanying messages, in hopes that all will turn and cry out for eyes to see, and a heart to understand those messages!

.

And so, dear-soul-for-whom-Christ-bled-and-died, please begin reading this wonderful message! And simply look for these signs in the heavens, as signposts given by God, to guide us safely into the Narrow Gate of Heaven!

.

And so, let each of us say, along with the Psalmist…

“Open Thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of Thy law.” Psalm 119:18

And as this website proclaims, God’s Law is indeed written in the heavens!

.

ABOVE PICTURE – The Narrow Gate & Wide Gate – Late winter – www.signsofheaven.org- non-profit sources may use with credit

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Open Thou mine eyes, that I may see these heaven signs, but also the truths that they point to…

Marine Praying – Wikimedia – USMC Public Domain

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

LOCATING THE DRAGON

.

(REVELATION 12 DRAGON IS NOT DRACO!)

.

First, let it be stated, that this Dragon Constellation is not the same constellation commonly referred to as “Draco” (photo to right is Draco).

.

This Revelation 12 Dragon from Signs Of Heaven, has not been previously recognized. But you will discover that it is a very intricate and complex constellation, once you are comfortable locating it (picture below, right).

.

Draco, (Picture right) Ursa Minor – Wikipedia – Share-alike license

.

REVELATION 12 DRAGON

.

The star-charts below (below, right) are from Wikipedia and are combined into one chart to show these three constellations, which the editor has sketched over with these three constellations, as they appear when in the west. Hopefully, this will be an assist in locating these constellations in the night-sky.

.

LOCATION…

.

The Revelation 12 Dragon Constellation can be located by finding Orion in winter months. The Dragon is to Orion’s left, and the Dragon’s mouth is right next to Orion’s shield. This Dragon’s mouth is the V-like constellation The Hyades Cluster, which is also known as the head of Taurus the Bull. The Dragon’s tail-tip is Pleiades and the lower shaft of his tail is partly of Aries and Pisces. Then with aid of a dark and starry night, you may begin to connect the mouth and the tail with a very long body in an oval shape. The front and back legs are made of a few stars: the front legs partially of stars from Taurus . The back legs and rear fin are made of 6 stars from the Cetus Constellation.

.

BODY HARD TO SEE

.

The long oval-shaped body has relatively few stars, but can been seen, howbeit with a dark, starry night. The four stars of the front fins are made partially of Taurus .

.

TOMORROW…

January 9th . . . . Forever is a Very Long Time!

sand – desert – Persistence of Memory – Salvador Dali – Wikigallery – Public Domain

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

.

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS IS STUDY #8 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.org – Public Domain

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Today’s Devotional – January 7th (The Chrysalis Christian!)

By admin On January 6th, 2014

Today’s Devotional – January 7th

.

The Chrysalis Christian!

.

“O LORD, how manifold are thy works!

in wisdom hast thou made them all:

the earth is full of thy riches.”

Psalm 104:24

.

THE CATERPILLAR

.

Just think about how the marvelous little butterfly is such a wonderful symbol of the Christian’s experience!

.

And this is because, for the butterfly to exist, it must be “born again”.

.

Behold the little caterpillar, who is stuck here on the ground (or on a plant or up in a tree), spending its life, eating the green herbs of the earth!

.

And so too, before a person becomes born again, we are like that little caterpillar, stuck down here, eating of the things of earth, things of the world! We have no wings!

Grasglucke Raupe – Wikipedia – Share-alike license

.

DESTINED TO LIVE AND DOOMED TO DIE!

.

And this is the condition of fallen humanity. Prisoners in Lucifer’s dungeon: this sad and dying world! Living by the flesh, with all its affections and lusts!

.

**All our lives, pushing ourselves along, going to-and-fro, hopelessly eating all those miserable pleasures of selfishness!**

.

Geometrid Moths Geometridae caterpillar – Wikimedia – the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license

.

TWO SETS OF LEGS

.

Now here is an interesting fact!

.

You see, normally many caterpillars have two sets of legs: one set of six, and another set of ten.

.

And thus it is with unsaved mankind. Man forever pushes himself along by his own strength, represented by those six legs (“six” being the number of “Man”, but “six” also being the number of “human works”).

But unsaved man tries to be moral at the same time. This is how we justify our lives, by thinking that whatever we do must be good and must be right!

.

And so, our morality is represented by those ten legs (“ten” symbolizing the Law and judgment).

.

But this also relates to the faithful churchgoer! When a person begins to attend church, he (or she) more often than not, attempts to keep the Law (symbolized by the ten legs). And in order to keep the the Ten Commandments, the Christian must do it by his own human works (symbolized by those six legs).

.

But the churchgoer still remains on earth.

.

He still clings to the things of this world, while trying to keep the Law too!

.

Chenille de Macaon – Caterpillar – Wikipedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license

.

TIME FOR A CHANGE

.

But of course, this is all futile!

.

Utterly hopeless, both for the worldling as well as for the churchgoer!

.

It is virtually impossible to attempt to obey God, while clinging to the world! And such a futile life of human works only multiplies his guilt and frustration!

.

And so then, after struggling along in this vain religion for much too long, there finally comes the moment of truth for the little caterpillar. The day finally arrives when he fully realizes that it’s time for a change!

.

And so, this little worm climbs up on a leaf, or a twig of a tree, and almost miraculously he creates a chrysalis! And then begins a struggle. And then begins a metamorphosis.

.

Yes, this little worm begins to literally die within this chrysalis, his secret little hiding-place. And thus is set in motion a miraculous phenomenon! This little caterpillar worm enters this death-stage.

.

But this is a death which will ultimately lead to life anew!

.

This is because that little worm completely changes into an entirely different creature!

.

Shargacucullia scrophulariae caterpillar – James Lindsey at Ecology of Commanster – Share-alike license

.

THE CHRISTIAN CHRYSALIS

.

Now, as already stated, this Chrysalis stage can easily be compared to the struggle in which the earth-bound human gets tired of trying to keep the Law by his own strength!

.

He realizes that all his good works and vain ministries were just a futile effort to earn “Heavenly brownie-points”!

.

He wants Heaven, but he realizes that he can’t have Heaven, while still clinging to earth, clinging to the world! And he finally sees that the Law cannot be kept by human strength. He realizes his need for a Lord to keep him…and for a Good Shepherd to guide him. He now understands that he needs to become “born again”, into the image of Christ. He knows that he needs Divine Strength to replace his human strength. Divine Wisdom to replace his human wisdom.

.

And so he begins to study his Bible, as he once did (legalistically), but now he begins to meditate on it too, throughout his day! That’s something he didn’t do before. He was just too busy eating the things of the earth, to really meditate on the Word!

.

But now he knows that his only hope is to hide that Word ever so deeply within his heart.

.

Chrysalis(Pupa) of a Common Crow Butterfly – cropped image – Wikimedia – Share-alike license

.

A FULL SURRENDER

.

Yes, he is finally finished with the world with all of its glittering tinsel-like attractions.

.

Now he only wants Heaven! Now he only desires the sweet nectar of God’s Word.

.

And so, he is finally determined to devote the rest of his earthly life to the Lord. Thus, he is resolved, whether at work, whether at rest, or whether serving his family, his life’s devotion will be to serve the Lord! He now is ready to endure anything, if that’s what it takes to win Christ!

.

And he begins to beg God to crucify that “old man” (self) who is slave to his lusts, so that the “new Man” (Christ) can live out His life through him.

.

But he also understands that Christ cannot live through him while the “old man” still reigns and rules over his life and over his heart!

.

There has to be a death to self!

.

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

THE BUTTERFLY

.

And then begins the struggle to die! This goes on for days.

.

This little worm starts to literally melt into liquid! And this process continues day-by-day, night-by-night! But finally comes the day when the caterpillar fully dies. But this death is not in vain! No, this death only brings life anew! This is because this little earth-clinging worm is now fully and miraculously changed into an entirely new creation! Thus ends the Chrysalis-stage.

.

Because after some days or weeks of this turmoil and metamorphosis, a butterfly is born! Now with two beautiful wings, this entirely new creation emerges and takes his winged flight, fully engaged in a search for the sweet nectar of every correct flower. No longer is he a creature of the earth! No longer does he need to inch his way through the grass, in search of earthly food!

.

His new home is in the sky, and through the air he wings his way to the next flower, in search of sweet heavenly nectar!

.

South American butterfly – cropped image – Wikipedia – Share-alike license

.

CHRIST, THE ‘NEW MAN’ WITHIN

.

And this is exactly what happens when a Christian finally dies-to-self.

.

Now the “new Man”, Christ, can fully live out His righteous and holy life through that Believer, who has crucified the “old man”.

.

Now that Christian can say with Paul… “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20.

.

And now this new creation can live out the righteousness and holiness and divine love of Christ, forever sipping on the ever-sweet nectar of God’s Word: all because it is Christ who now lives out His life through that truly “born again” Believer!

.

Prayer – USMC – Wikimedia – US Govt. Public Domain

.

TO READ PART 2, JUST CLICK HERE…

“July 16th (But I Am A Worm!)”

caterpillar – Papilio machaon caterpillar – cropped image – Wikipedia – Public Domain

.

YOU MAY WANT TO WATCH THIS AMAZING 4-MINUTE YOUTUBE VIDEO OF A MONARCH CATERPILLAR MORPHING INTO A BUTTERFLY BY TIME-LAPSE CAMERA…CLICK HERE

Chrysalis (Pupa) of a Common Crow Butterfly – Wikimedia – Share-Alike License

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to repent of trying to live this dual life: trying to live for Heaven, while trying to cling to this self-indulgent world at the same time. Help me to go into my hiding place and begin to wrestle with God, and not give up until God blesses me with Christ living through me…

The Christian Martyrs Last Prayer – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

VALLEY OF DECISION CONSTELLATION GROUP

.

SO WHERE ARE THE “MULTITUDES”?…

“And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD,” Isaiah 2:2, 3

So where are the multitudes in this constellation? Well if you look at this sketch to the right, carefully, you will see an ENTIRE GALAXY making a slow trek up the steep slope toward the summit of one of the mountains. It is the mountain which is to the north in this sketch. This is the galaxy commonly called Andromeda. It is estimated to have possibly a trillion stars! Is a trillion stars a big enough multitude? Oh yes! Listen to God talking to Abraham…

“And He (God) brought him (Abraham) forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be.” Genesis 15:5

But this mountain in which this multitude of stars is climbing represents a very awesome and wonderful Bible concept. This mountain in Scripture is known as Mount Zion. And it is also known as the Mount of Blessing. It represents that spiritual mountain which Believers must climb, in order to reach the City of God. Listen to Scripture…

“But ye are come unto mount Zion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem…To the…church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven…” Hebrews 12:22, 23. Well it sure seems that this verse is correct when it says the words… “which are written in heaven”! Because this galaxy in this constellation group is a wonderful picture of the Church as it makes it trek to the summit of this starry mountain; a picture of God’s Church…His faithful people…written in the heavens. These are the Signs of Heaven, promised long ago to be revealed before that “great and terrible Day of the Lord”…

“And I will show WONDERS IN THE HEAVENS and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the LORD come.”

(Joel 2:30, 31 Drawing of Abraham counting stars – Wikipedia – Public Domain. Click here for full size.

Andromeda Galaxy by Adam & Wikipedia – Share-alike license)

.

SECOND MOUNTAIN…CHOICE “B”…

“They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.” Isaiah 11:9

Now there are two mountains in this constellation group. One mountain is symbolic of Zion, but also of the Mount of Blessing. So what is the second mountain? It is the mount of cursing…the law. Scripture refers to the law as the “ministration of death and condemnation” 2nd Corinthians 3:7, 9. The law is that which shows the exceeding sinfulness of sin. Listen to Romans… “Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified…for by the law is the knowledge of sin.” Romans 3:20. This reminds us of those two mountains: Gerzim and Ebal…the Mount of Blessing and the Mount of Cursing.

.

TOMORROW…

January 8th . . . . Why Isn’t This Devotional Like Other Devotionals?

Thumbs down – Wikimedia – Creative Commons 2.0 License

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

.

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS IS STUDY #7 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

above picture: Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.org – Public Domain

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Today’s Devotional – January 6th (Baptism By Full Immersion!)

By admin On January 5th, 2014

Today’s Devotional – January 6th

.

Baptism By Full Immersion!

.

**Another hotly debated issue within the Christian community is about the nature of baptism, and exactly how it is to be performed.**

.

**Some believe in “sprinkling”! Some in, “immersion”!**

.

**Some believe that it should be done “in the name of Jesus”! Others insist that it must be done by saying, “In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit”!**

.

And concerning where baptism should be performed, some accept baptismal pools! Others insist that only a river will do! And even a few extremists might even insist that only the Jordan River will do!

.

**Now concerning a person’s qualification for baptism, there are also different opinions. Some require a baptismal class to learn the basic tenets of Christianity.**

.

Others require a person to have first quit smoking and drinking, etc.!

.

Still, others have absolutely no requirements!

.

Jordan River baptism – cropped image – Wikipedia – Share-alike License

.

**This website insists on “full immersion”!**

Exclamation Mark – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

“WASHING OF THE WATER OF THE WORD!”

.

Listen… “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it; That He might sanctify and cleanse it WITH THE WASHING OF THE WATER BY THE WORD, That He might present it to Himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.” Ephesians 5:25-27

.

So, here it is revealed in Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, that our true washing and cleansing comes from, “the washing of water by the Word”!

.

Paul the Apostle – Artist – Valentin de Boulogne or Nicolas Tournier – circa 1500s – Wikipedia – Public Domain

.

BAPTISM BY FIRE AND WATER

.

Listen again… “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but He that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:” Matthew 3:11

.

And so, by putting these two verses together, there begins to be seen a much greater fulfillment to the idea of baptism: “the washing of water by the Word”, and the baptism, “with the Holy Ghost and with fire”!

.

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

And so, can we then conclude that there are actually two baptisms and not merely one?

.

Question Marks – At a loss – svg – Wikimedia Commons – Share-Alike License

.

“ONE LORD, ONE FAITH, ONE BAPTISM”

.

Listen once again… “I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord…Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, ONE BAPTISM, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” Ephesians 4:1, 3-6

.

But it says here that there is one baptism!

.

**So which baptism is the real baptism? The literal water baptism? Or the baptism by the Holy Ghost which washes us by the cleansing of God’s Word?**

.

Holy Bible – cropped image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Lic.

.

HAVING FAITH IN MERE CEREMONIES!

.

The Old Testament people of God made the same mistake concerning circumcision.

.

They erroneously believed that becoming physically and literally circumcised was the key to Salvation.

.

Listen… “This is My covenant, which ye shall keep, between Me and you and thy seed after thee; Every man child among you shall be circumcised” Genesis 17:10

.

Now according to this verse, God’s covenant was based on literal and physical circumcision! And many still believe this to be true!

.

But listen to Paul… “In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: Buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead.” Colossians 2:11, 12.

.

**So, this passage ties this true circumcision together with baptism…*“ye are circumcised…without hands…Buried with Him in baptism”.***

.

But this baptism is a spiritual baptism in which we are raised with Christ, “through faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead.” Colossians 2:12

.

**Now this above passage raises a further understanding of baptism: that Christ’s death and resurrection was also a baptism!**

.

Baptized in the Jordan – cropped image – Wikimedia – Licensed

.

CHRIST BAPTISM OF DEATH & RESURRECTION

.

Listen to this further revelation concerning baptism… “But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” Matthew 20:22

.

Jesus asked this question to James and John, to which they answered… “They say unto Him, ‘We are able.'” Matthew 20:23

.

To this, Jesus replied… “Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized…” Matthew 20:23

.

**So, it begins to be seen that baptism now concerns the spiritual death and resurrection which a Believer experiences in Christ.**

.

ABOVE PICTURE – 7 Stars Constellation as the Cross (aka Big Dipper) – winter – signsofheaven.org – not for commercial uses

.

WASHING OF THE WORD!

.

**Now in today’s Christian world, there is an emphasis upon literal and physical baptism in a literal tank of water.**

.

**But as already seen, this is merely a ceremony which is a type and symbol of the true baptism!**

.

But just like the Old Testament people of God, who could not understand the true circumcision, we today are not able to discern the true baptism of the Holy Ghost: we’re just not able to fully understand a baptism which causes us to become fully immersed in God’s Word, and in the power of the new life we have in Christ, as God’s Spirit brings that new life to us!

.

And there is no shortage of Christians and Bible teachers who insist that we must perform the ceremony. But instead, they should have been urging us to fulfill the true baptism, by “the washing of the water of the Word”.

.

La Bible, Notre-Dame – cropped image – Wikimedia – Share-Alike License

.

MANY LOST SOULS BURIED ALIVE!

.

And the Bible finally reveals that there is no spiritual value in circumcision!

.

Listen… “As many as desire to make a fair show in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh.

.

“But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.” Galatians 6:12-15

.

Here is a revelation that the ceremony of literal circumcision has no spiritual value!

.

And today, there are millions of law-abiding, moral citizens, who become baptized in literal water, but who have never been baptized by the Holy Ghost!

.

And so, they are every bit as lost as the rest of the unsaved Mankind!

.

PS Krøyer – Hip hip hurra! – Kunstnerfest på Skagen – 1888 – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

DYING THIEF

.

And yet, the dying thief on the cross to the right of Jesus was told… “And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with Me in paradise.” Luke 23:43

.

This thief had obviously never been immersed in a tub of water!

.

And yet, because he had received the Holy Spirit’s baptism, he was ultimately saved!

.

ABOVE PICTURE – 7 Stars Constellation as the Cross (aka Big Dipper) – winter – signsofheaven.org – not for commercial uses

.

FULL IMMERSION IN GOD’S WORD!

.

Dear Soul, if I fully immerse myself in God’s Word, allowing that Word to wash me from my old worldly ways, and my old ways of thinking, then I have the true baptism of the Spirit.

.

And the evidence of my Salvation is that I begin to walk, even as Jesus walked, turning away from the vain and selfish pleasures of this sin-loving world! And now, I begin to cease from the vain and worldly conversation of the world and begin to live by every Word that proceeds forth from the mouth of God! Here is the true evidence of my baptism!

.

And so, I must not be concerned about whether or not I have performed that valueless ceremony, so that someone might feel good that, “they have saved me”! As a matter of fact, today’s churches are filled with many lost and starving souls, who went through the ceremony of water baptism, but have never received the baptism of the Holy Spirit!

.

So yes, this website endorses full immersion!

.

**That is, this website endorses full immersion in God’s Word, by the indwelling power of the Holy Ghost!**

.

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

“COME OUT OF HER [SPIRITUAL BABYLON] MY PEOPLE”

Revelation 18:4

.

**We have now entered the time in which God is calling His people to come out of the “city of confusion”, spiritual Babylon, “the mother of harlots”.**

.

God’s people must be able to stand, in the coming days, upon the solid Rock of God’s “exceeding great and precious promises”. Satan’s armies, both seen and unseen, will come against us, attempting to dissuade us from our faith-walk.

.

And therefore, it is imperative for each and every man, woman, and child to make sure to immerse themselves fully into God’s Word, hiding those soul-saving Words-of-Life in their hearts.

.

Thus, they will be able to stand in the evil day, being fully armored up and ready for battle.

.

They will no longer be able to lean upon the corporate churches and denominations. That day has already now passed. It will only be the Believers fully leaning on their Lord and only on the Lord! There will be no human support during the coming conflict.

.

But God has many promises to assure us complete victory!

Christian and Apollyon – Pilgrim’s Progress – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

***“Dear Lord,* *Help me to experience the true baptism in Thy Word, by the indwelling of Thy Spirit! Let me place no confidence in mere ceremonies…***

Prayer at Day’s End – Angelus by Jean-François Millet – Wikipedia – Public Domain

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

Then Job answered and said…but how should man be just with God?…Which alone spreads out the heavens…Which makes Arcturus, Orion, and Pleiades, and the chambers of the south. Which does great things past finding out; yea, and wonders without number…Can you bind the sweet influences of the Pleiades? Or loose the bands of Orion?” Job 9:2-10 & 38:31

.

The photo to the right is the Pleiades Cluster. Does it appear to you like an angel? Well, if it does, then you are encouraged to keep reading.

.

The above two verses concerning the Pleiades is what the Bible has to say about the Pleiades. But if you will read this article, you will discover that the Pleiades represents concepts which span much of the Bible. This is partly because Pleiades is a constellation within a constellation. And this double-entendre constellation presents perhaps, a picture of the greatest truth regarding the Church, found in the Bible. And The Heavens Declare.net will attempt to unravel this mysterious phenomenon in the night-sky, and will, hopefully, also interpret these two verses to show just what all this means, and how it might apply to our lives.

The Pleiades (Above constellation can be seen in colder months in mid sky, traveling east to west through the night. With the eyes alone, it would appear much smaller than this. But with binoculars, it would appear more like this photo). NASA photo by Robert Gendler

.

TWO WOMEN IN PLEIADES

Just who are these two women? And how can this be, that nobody has ever seen the Pleiades as a constellation of a woman? This article will discuss this great paradox of these two women, found in the Pleiades, and what it means scripturally to us: we who comprise the global community of Christians.

.

Because this constellation, or should we say Constellations, plural, have very much to do with us: those of us who are living right now on the threshold of eternity. And as you might expect, the Bible holds the key to understanding all this.

.

TOMORROW…

January 7th . . . . The Chrysalis Christian!

Chrysalis (Pupa) of a Common Crow Butterfly – Wikimedia – Share-Alike License

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

.

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS IS STUDY #6 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Today’s Devotional – January 5th (The City of Morality)

By admin On January 4th, 2014

Today’s Devotional – January 5th

.

The City of Morality

.

In John Bunyan’s earth-shaking tale, Pilgrim’s Progress, the main character, Christian, was on his way to the Celestial City, and to get that great Burden off his back (the burden of sin).

.

The_Pilgrim’s_Progress title page_third_edition_1679 – Wikimedia Commons – public domain

.

WORLDLY WISEMAN

.

But on the way, the pilgrim met up with a fellow named Worldly Wiseman, who informed Christian that such an arduous journey was not necessary.

.

He told Christian that all he needed was to go to the Village of Morality, to see a man there, named, Mr. Legality, or his son named, Civility.

.

Worldly Wiseman says to Christian: “Why in yonder Village (the village is named Morality) there dwells a gentleman, whose name is Legality, a very judicious man (and a man of a very good name) that has skill to help men off with such Burdens as thine is (the burden of sin & guilt), from their shoulders…

.

Worldly Wiseman – Pilgrim’s Progress, p34 – Mr Worldly Wiseman – Wikimedia – Public Domain

Christian in Pilgrim’s_Progress – wikimedia – pub dom.

.

VILLAGE OF MORALITY

.

And so, Christian was duped and deceived by Worldly Wiseman into going to the Village of Morality, instead of continuing on his way to the Celestial City.

.

There Christian could simply live a life of morality (including church-going).

.

And in so-doing, Christian could live in “peace and safety”, and in a look-alike lifestyle, very similar to true Christianity, yet without having to battle daily against sin and self and Satan!

.

Just living a moral life was all he needed!

.

Worldly Wiseman – Pilgrim’s Progress, p34 – Mr Worldly Wiseman – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

THE VILLAGE IS NOW A HUGE CITY!

.

And so it is today. Only that Village called Morality is now a full-grown metropolis!

.

Yes, a great portion of today’s Christendom has become just that: the City of Morality!

.

And there are many Christians who, like Bunyan’s pilgrim, have been duped by that old deceiver, Worldly Wiseman!

.

And the City of Morality is now a thriving metro-area, embracing all the good things of this deceitful world!

.

And there’s a whole lot of seemingly harmless, even good things in the world for all such deceived ones to enjoy!

.

New york times square – terabass – cropped image – Wikipedia – share-alike license

.

WORLDLY WISEMAN STILL AROUND!

.

And wouldn’t you know it! Worldly Wiseman is still around!

.

And he’s still busily misdirecting simple-minded Christians into going to the City of Morality instead of continuing onward and upward and into Zion, the City of God!

.

They have been told they could merely live a very moral lifestyle, instead of dying-to-self, allowing Christ to live out His holy life through them: a life of self-sacrificing love.

.

Audience hands – cropped and altered image – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

TRYING TO HOLD ON TO THIS WORLD…

AND HAVE HEAVEN TOO!

.

But such a religion of living a legalistic lifestyle will never, never, truly save a soul!

.

It only masks the burdens of sin, in a cloak of morality and civility.

.

And there are so many today, who try to maintain such a counterfeit Christianity, going to church, studying their Bible and trying to obey the best they can!

.

Hands – cropped image – Wikimedia – share-alike license

.

“YE CANNOT SERVE GOD AND MAMMON!”

Matthew 6:24 & Luke 16:9-14

And yet, these pretenders still enjoy the pleasures and pursuits of the world: television, secular radio & Internet, time-consuming-energy-sapping-careers, sports, entertainment, hobbies, travel, parties, social events, banquets, empire-building, novel-reading, social events, amassing-material-possessions, politics, intriguing mysteries, and even various “itching-ear” ministries, are just some of the earthly Mammon which together, absorb the thoughts and intents of their hearts.

.

Oh perhaps, just a little of a few of these things might be okay!

.

But the problem comes in when these things begin to grow and multiply (and they always do!), and eventually they begin to crowd out the Gospel until these earthly pursuits become the greater concern of that church-goer.

.

Listen… “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” Matthew 6:24.

.

ABOVE PICTURE: The False Prophet – signsofheaven.org – not for commercial uses

.

AS AN ANGEL of LIGHT

.

Yes, very simply put, the City of Morality is merely the attempt to have Jesus’ Salvation, while still holding on to this selfish world at the same time.

.

And just like this picture, Satan comes as an angel of light, with all his ministers of righteousness (Worldly Wisemen), bringing this look-alike gospel, offering the world and Heaven too!

.

And today, you can go into just about any church, large or small, and hear some form of this false-gospel of morality being preached. Oh yes, you may also hear much Bible truth, mingled in.

.

But the world-loving lifestyles and encouragements of those parishioners within, preach the loudest sermons by far!

.

ABOVE PICTURE: The False Prophet – signsofheaven.org – not for commercial uses

.

TOTAL APOSTASY FORETOLD

.

And the Bible foretold of this very time in the history of the Church… “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;” 2nd Timothy 4;3.

.

We have pretty much reached that day, haven’t we? Even the so-called conservatives in Christendom are pursuing the riches, cares, and pleasures of this cornucopian super-society, while maintaining a certain degree of religiosity.

.

But they don’t call it the “Name-It-And-Claim-It” gospel. Oh no, the conservative churches rather call their prosperity-driven gospel, “The Entrepreneurial Spirit”, or perhaps, “The American Dream”!

.

But whatever one wishes to call their prosperity-driven gospel, it all comes out the same: the desire for the pleasures and treasures of this selfish world, while attempting to please God!

(Oh yes, these prosperity ideologies may be fine for the lost people of the world to pursue, but the Christian’s great focus and chief desire is now to be Heavenward, seeking to be transformed into the image of Christ, while calling others to also come along.)

.

Audience hands – cropped and altered image – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

HEAVENLY ZION AWAITS…JUST BEYOND THAT RIVER!

.

Dear Stranger and Pilgrim of the Cross, don’t buy into this counterfeit Christianity.

.

Oh yes, it comes packaged in many forms! And yes, it is so close to the true, that it will “deceive, if possible even the very Elect!” Mark 13:22

.

But each and every one of us must choose this world or choose the world to come. You just can’t serve both!

.

And by choosing to follow Jesus, the Christian will be walking that Pilgrim’s way, just as Bunyan’s character, Christian.

.

And those who persevere on that pilgrimage, will one day soon, cross that Black River (just like Bunyan’s pilgrim finally did), to enter into the blessed Promised Land, and literally enter into that everlasting Heavenly Beulah Land!

.

Imagine! Forever in the Paradise of God!

.

And what earthly pleasure or treasure is too precious to trade away for everlasting life!?

.

The_Pilgrim’s_Progress_by_Byam_Shaw – Wikimedia Commons – US public domain

.

To read Part 2, click here…

“MARCH 21 (The City of Morality, Part 2: Raising Children CONTINUED) “

Mother Child face-to-face – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution 2.0

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Keep me from going to a moralistic, itching-ears gospel. Chastise me, so that I continue to fight the Good Fight of overcoming sin and self…

Woman Praying – cropped image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

The ‘Valley of Decision’ Constellation

.

SECOND MOUNTAIN…CHOICE “B”…

“They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.” Isaiah 11:9

Now there are two mountains in this constellation group. One mountain is symbolic of Zion, but also of the Mount of Blessing. So what is the second mountain? It is the mount of cursing…the law. Scripture refers to the law as the “ministration of death and condemnation” 2nd Corinthians 3:7, 9. The law is that which shows the exceeding sinfulness of sin. Listen to Romans… “Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified…for by the law is the knowledge of sin.” Romans 3:20. This reminds us of those two mountains: Gerzim and Ebal…the Mount of Blessing and the Mount of Cursing.

.

MOUNT OF CURSING: AN IMPOSSIBLE CLIMB…

“Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no [such] commandment: Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.” Acts 15:24, 10, 11

Valley of Decision Constellation

.

Notice that the Mount of Blessing begins rather steep…but then begins to become less steep as you ascend. But the Mount of Cursing begins a rather gentle slope but gets impossibly steep the higher you ascend. This is exactly like the law. At first it looks like just ten little rules to follow. But just try to keep those ten little rules! For instance, just try to keep the first commandment. At first it seems simple. But before long, one begins to realize that his or her life is literally teeming with idols: perhaps a car, or a TV show, or a certain foods, or money, or shopping, recreation, career, sports, or… whatever! We all have idols that we don’t even realize are idols! These are what Scripture calls “Mammon”. And this law against idolatry, is just the first commandment!

.

YE ARE FALLEN FROM GRACE…

“Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.” Galatians 5:3, 4

There are two oblong-shaped galaxies in this sketch, which appear to be falling down, down, down, to the Dragon Constellation. These seem to represent all those multitudes that attempt to gain Salvation by law-keeping and good works. Of course, most have been educated to claim Salvation by grace. Nevertheless there are many who try to get by only trying to be good…while still clinging to the world and its pleasures and pursuits. Such will ultimately become slaves of the Dragon (Satan) , and slaves to “self”.

.

TOMORROW…

January 6th . . . . Baptism By Full Immersion (Parts 1 & 2)!

Jordan river baptism – Wikipedia – Share-alike License

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH

.

**ALL NOBLE BEREANS (open-minded Bible truth-seekers) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.**

.

THIS IS STUDY #5 …

.

above picture: Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.org – Public Domain

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Today’s Devotional – January 4th (The Endless Phone Call!)

By admin On January 2nd, 2014

Today’s Devotional – January 4th

.

The Endless Phone Call!

.

**Have you noticed that the daily prayer section of these daily devotionals, quite often end with “…”.**

.

Yes, the prayer each day quite often simply ends with three dots, signifying that they continue on.

.

The reason for this is because the Bible says… “Pray Without Ceasing” 1st Thessalonians 5:17.

.

And so, as we go about our day, we must be, “continuing instant in prayer;” Romans 12:12.

.

In other words, our prayer never really ends!

.

Signature Princess Phone – Wikipedia – public domain

.

THE ENDLESS PHONE CALL

.

One person put the prayer-life of a Christian in a very interesting context.

The Phone Call wikimedia public domain

.

He said that prayer is like two teenagers who spend hours on the phone each day, to the point that there is silence for a while until somebody says something. And then they talk for a while longer. And then they are silent again for a while.

.

And this analogy of two teenagers talking on the phone for hours makes a lot of sense! After all, we love our Lord. And there is no greater privilege and pleasure than to talk with Him throughout our day. And so, it’s like we never hang up! We might even set the phone down, and then come back to it to talk some more!

.

**Another person said it like this: “Pray till you’re not even aware that you’re praying!” Have you ever done this?**

.

Have you prayed so much, while you go about your daily duties, to the point that you, at times, are not even conscious that you’re praying?

.

The Phone Call – Wikimedia – public domain

.

OUR COMMUNION MAY GROW SUPERNATURALLY

.

Now it’s impossible to say just how our prayer-life will change as our relationship will grow in the coming times, just ahead.

.

As the Church rises higher and higher in these last moments on earth, our prayer-life may climb to supernatural heights, beyond what we now understand! And so, to “pray without ceasing” may be fulfilled in ways we just cannot comprehend at this present hour.

.

But for now, this analogy about two teenagers having a seemingly endless phone call makes a whole lot of sense!

.

A Prayer for those at Sea by Frederick Daniel Hardy – Wikipedia – US public domain

.

OUR PRAYERS NOT AS TWO TEENS TALKING!

.

Needless to say, the content of our prayers is where this comparison ends!

.

That is, the things we say in prayer, are vastly different than this analogy of two teens talking!

.

No, our prayers are composed of pleadings for spiritual strength and help! And prayers of praise and thanksgiving! And prayers for help for our family, friends, and for the Church of God!

.

And so, the prayers of a Christian go far beyond the mundane conversations between humans!

.

Listen… “Be careful (worried) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” Philippians 4:6

.

And like this photo, when the Christian gets lost in prayer, crying out to the Lord, he or she might eventually feel closed-in with God, even as having entered into God’s very Throne Room in the Heavenlies!

.

Listen… “…the King hath brought me into His chambers: we will be glad and rejoice in Thee,” Song of Songs 1:4

.

Starry Night at La Silla – cropped and altered image – Wikimedia – share-alike license

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, I want to have a constant communication with you. Help me to love to talk with you all through my day…

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

THE HOLY-GHOST-RIDER CONSTELLATION

.

“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches;” Rev. 2:7, 11, 17, 29, 3:6, 13, 22

.

As you can easily see, this horse has some very big ears. Of course, this presents a very big concept. And since this Rider represents the Holy Spirit, it is obvious that He is leaning close, as if to whisper His words in the horse’s ears.

Holy Ghost Rider (above western horizon)

.

And so what is He (The Spirit) whispering in this horses ears? Well, primarily the messages to the 7 churches, found in Revelation Ch.’s, 2 & 3.

.

But not everyone has ears to hear. Listen to Ezekiel… “Son of man, thou dwellest in the midst of a rebellious house, which have eyes to see, and see not; they have ears to hear, and hear not: for they are a rebellious house.” Ezek. 12:2. Yes, the rebellion amongst God’s professing people was great, and they had all but closed their ears from hearing truth.

.

Well it’s the very same problem in the New Testament. Listen to Jesus… “If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.” Mark 7:16.

.

So this Rider whispering into this Horse’s ears is a heavenly picture of this concept… “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches;” Rev. 2:7, 11, 17, 29, 3:6, 13, 22.

.

Now the great lesson to be learned, is that there are certain truths, which those who are rebellious in God’s house, will not be able to hear. And these messages to the 7 churches are those very types of messages, that many “Christians” just do not like to hear.

.

And so, what is the bottom line. Well, it would be a very good idea, for each and every one of us to humble ourselves before God, and plead with Him to give us spiritual ears to hear these deeper truths which God is trying to tell us.

.

Tomorrow’s Devotional –

January 5th . . . . The City of Morality

New York Times Square – terabass – Wikipedia – Share-alike License

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

.

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS IS STUDY #4 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Daily Devotional, Year 1 – January 3rd (How Do I See These Signs Of Heaven? Part 7: “A DISCLAIMER ABOUT THE HUMAN EDITOR OF THIS SITE”)

By admin On January 2nd, 2014

.

Daily Devotional, Year 1 – January 3rd

.

(How Do I See These Signs Of Heaven?

.

Part 7:

“A DISCLAIMER ABOUT THE HUMAN EDITOR OF THIS SITE”)

To read Part 1, go here…JULY 31 (How Do I See These Signs of Heaven?)

.

Anticipating the future backlash against this website and the editor thereof, the following info must be shared.

.

Although the editor may be the human editor to write down these things, yet make no mistake! This site and the articles herein are not the inspiration of the editor.

.

Oh yes, these things were laid down by the editor, using much of the editor’s own words. And yet, the inspiration for these articles, and the information regarding these signs in the sun, moon, and stars have been inspired, hopefully 100% by Heaven! (And hopefully and prayerfully, Satan has been prevented from slipping any of his own lies into any of these articles.)

ABOVE PICTURE: Prayer – Wherefore He is able to save to the uttermost…” Hebrews 7:25

.

“But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world …”

1st Corinthians 1:27

.

Now, as far as these teachings and admonitions, let it be made very clear, that the editor is struggling against sin every bit as much as are the readers!

.

In other words, even though the editor has written down these truths, they have been given and presented, hopefully by Heaven alone! And though the editor strives to live by these truths, the editor has not as yet fully attained to all these proclaimed standards.

.

As a matter of fact, the editor is daily convicted in heart at the very high bar which has been set by this website, and struggles daily to overcome in all these areas of Christlike conduct!

.

He too, learns much and grows in grace and knowledge as he reads these articles!

.

ABOVE PICTURE: Prayer – Wherefore He is able to save to the uttermost…” Hebrews 7:25

.

“These (Bereans) were more noble…in that they received the Word with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily, whether those things were so”

.

And so, in conclusion, the editor warns each and every reader to do as those “Noble Bereans”, in which they “received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so”. Acts 17:11

.

In other words, while this website fully believes the information herein is biblical, it makes no guarantees, and leaves the responsibility with the readers to study, study, pray, and study some more to verify the things written herein!

.

And should the Lord bless the reader by revealing these signs written in the sun, moon, and stars, then the reader will know for a certainty that these starry messengers are sent from God.

.

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to become changed into the image of Christ, that His name may be honored by my behavior…

Marine Praying – cropped image – Wikimedia – USMC Public Domain

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

A HEAVENLY HOBBY

“Lift up your eyes on high, and behold Who hath created these things; that brings out their host by number: He calls them all by names by the greatness of His might, for that He is strong in power; not one faileth.” Isaiah 40:26

vermont night stargazing panorama – 2009 – wikipedia – share-alike lic.

The above verse is a plea from God to look up at the Heavens and behold Who has created these things.

.

In this busy work-a-day world, there are many very interesting things which can occupy one’s time and energy: hobbies, and careers, and entertainments and worries, and habits, to name just a few.

.

But as the child of God devotes his or her life to God, there should be a jealous guarding of one’s own heart… “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Proverbs 4:23.

.

The Christian wants nothing to get in the way of running that Christian Race.

.

New York Times Square – terabass – cropped image – Wikipedia – Share-alike License

.

“AND WHEN YE SEE THESE THINGS…

LOOK UP, LIFT UP YOUR HEAD”

.

**But having said this, there is one hobby which every ‘Noble Berean’ may take up, which only compliments the pursuit of the heavenly Prize.**

.

**Yes, Signs Of Heaven becomes a wonderfully rewarding hobby which, unlike many less meaningful hobbies, pays off with rich, heavenly rewards. Everlasting rewards!**

.

And unlike these people in this photo with equipment, all you need is fairly good vision, and a dark, starry night.

.

And once a person really gets to know these heavenly messengers, it will become very apparent that the message connected with these signs is truly a message to be heeded.

.

Astronomy Amateur – cropped image – Wikipedia – share-alike license

.

“And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;” Luke 21:25

.

FIRST FIND ORION & 7 STARS

The very first step in finding these many constellations, should be to find the two main constellations: Orion, and the 7 Stars (aka, The Big Dipper).

.

These two constellations represent Christ (Orion), and His Church (7 Stars).

.

And just as these are the easiest constellations to find, so too, the first place to begin studying the Bible is the Four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John).

.

These four books present Christ and His Church, when He walked the earth, just as Orion and the 7 Stars represent Christ and His Church, as seen up in the heavens.

.

Then, once you are comfortable finding these two constellations, you can begin to locate the next closest constellations, and so on.

.

ABOVE PICTURE: Orion the Soldier and the Revelation 12 Dragon (Hyades & Pleiades, etc. – winter constellations – www.signsofheaven.org – not for commercial use

ABOVE PICTURE – 7 Stars Constellation as the Cross (aka Big Dipper) – winter – signsofheaven.org – not for commercial uses

.

ANOTHER HEAVENLY HOBBY: PRAYER-WALKS

.

Now if you’re fortunate enough to be able to go on nightly walks, and you live in an area where you can safely view the stars, here is another Heavenly Hobby which Signs Of Heaven endorses…

.

Why not combine star-watching with prayer, as you walk? What a great way to draw closer to God!

.

It cannot be over-stressed, just how wonderful it is to walk under the dark canopy of Heaven, while lifting up one’s heart to our Heavenly Father! There is a closeness to God that cannot be described with words!

.

(And even if you cannot safely do this, you can always do such prayer-walks in the daytime, in a safe place, such as a mall, which is every bit as effective, prayer-wise.

.

And for those who are in confinement, one can view these starry signs on the Internet, or simply listen to Scripture on audio.

.

Either way, all such may enjoy God’s richest blessings at this very time in which God is pouring out all Heaven’s treasures upon anyone willing to forsake all, and follow Jesus!)

.

Starry Night at La Silla – cropped and altered image – Wikipedia – share-alike license

.

THRICE-DAILY PRAYERS

.

**Now of course, the Bible commands us to, “pray without ceasing“. The Christian is to constantly talk with our Heavenly Father throughout the day.**

.

But the Bible also holds up the godly life of Daniel, who, when captive in Babylon, still set aside three times daily, in which he knelt for special prayer.

.

And furthermore the Bible also says… “Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and He shall hear my voice.” Psalm 55:17.

.

Even those who are bed-fast or in a prison cell can begin to imitate Daniel in this way. And if one is fortunate to be able to walk, then this thrice-daily prayer regimen can be combined with three walks daily and even nightly.

.

Marines at Prayer by Alex Raymond – wikimedia – public domain

.

TOMORROW…

January 4th . . . . The Endless Phone Call!

The Phone Call – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

.

ALL NOBLE BEREAN TRUTH-SEEKERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS IS STUDY #3 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

Click on image credit links below each photo, for licensing names, details, and tags, etc.. Most Images cropped & reduced in size.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Devouring Fire.com

Daily Devotional – January 12 (The Evil-Eyed Pharisee Scorner, Part 4: “Dealing With Anger”)

.

.

Daily Devotional – January 12

.

.

.

.

The Evil-Eyed Pharisee Scorner,

.

Part 4:

“Dealing With Anger”

.

.

.

.

.

“Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry:

for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.”

.

.

.

.

Do you have a temper like a firecracker, always quick to fire off at someone?

.

Are you like a semi-dormant volcano, ready to burst forth molten lava, when someone doesn’t perform like you want them to? Does your temper often flash like lightning bolts at your children and spouse?

.

And after you calm down, do you feel remorseful, wishing you could have more control over such unchristlike behavior? And even though you repent of your out-of-control temper, the very next day you do it all over again?

.

Well, there is a solution to your problem. And there is great hope in Christ, for your intemperate bursts of anger!

.

.

.

.

.

PRIDE BEGETS ANGER

.

One thing that must be understood about anger, is that it finds its root in pride. Yes, anger seems to go hand-in-hand with a proud heart!

.

Listen… “Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.” Proverbs 21:24

Anger, or wrath is the product of pride.

.

.

.

.

.

.

THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

.

Well, just how do we get rid of our uncontrollable anger?

.

The only true way to get rid of anger is to be filled with the Spirit….“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” Galatians 5:22, 23

.

As you can clearly see from this above passage from Galatians, the fruit of the Spirit are the very opposite of those attributes which produce “proud wrath”.

.

.

.

.

.

STOP THINKING I KNOW MORE THAN GOD

.

Now, an entire book could be written on this subject. But this devotional will only focus on one very important aspect concerning overcoming anger.

.

And to illustrate that one aspect, maybe it’s best to quote Proverbs 3:5, 7…“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding…Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.”

.

.

Yes, this mindset is perhaps the biggest contributing factor in those who are constantly losing their temper.

.

.

.

.

.

.

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

.

So if a church-goer can begin to study God’s Word with the intent of following Jesus, and no longer trusting in their own self-will, then that angry person might cease from thinking that he or she knows better than everyone else.

.

And the more that we know about God’s will, as revealed in Scripture, the less we will insist upon our own way (see 1st Corinthians 13, 4, 5, ESV Version)…

.

**As you can clearly see from this above passage from Galatians, the fruit of the Spirit are the very opposite of those attributes which produce “proud wrath”.**

**And the more that we know about God’s will, as revealed in Scripture, the less we will insist upon our own way (see 1st Corinthians 13, 4, 5, ESV Version)…**