.

.

Today’s Devotional – June 18th

.

.

.

.

Eternity Not A Puffy Cloud!

.

.

.

.

.

“Where there is no vision, the people perish”

Proverbs 29:18

.

.

.

.

.

In the beginning, God placed our first parents in a beautiful garden.

.

But as a result of sin, this world lost much of its beauty.

.

The curse has marred, to a great extent, the original pristine beauty and goodness of nature.

.

In spite of that, God has mercifully left enough beauty in nature for mankind to enjoy.

.

Eve in the Garden & The Whispering Serpent – www.signsofheaven.org

.

.

.

.

.

INFAMOUS SLANDEROUS CARTOON

.

But though this world retains much beauty, there are still many, who are under the impression, that God’s redeemed will spend all eternity sitting on a puffy little cloud, strumming a harp. Whoever is responsible for that infamous cartoon of a man with a harp, sitting on a little cloud, was unwittingly doing the Devil’s bidding.

. 

Lucifer would love nothing more, than for people to have the discouraging notion, that Heaven is just a puffy little cloud, with nothing going on, day after day, for all eternity. Nothing could be further from the truth!

.

Do we really imagine that the same God who created that incredible garden for our first parents, would then put us through all this sorrow and hardships, only to now stick us in some boring situation, for eternity? Such people don’t know God nearly well enough.

.

Sin and rebellion have marred the original beauty of this present world. But in spite of that, there still remains some of the beauty which this planet originally possessed. But marred as it is, still the beauty and innocent joys of this present world are just a faint reflection of what awaits all those who persevere on the upward pathway to that Celestial City of God.

.

.

.

.

. 

CATCH A VISION OF THAT PROMISED LAND!

.

“And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.” Revelation 21:1, 2

.

So, Signs Of Heaven encourages the reader to begin to get a vision of the New Heaven and New Earth, and begin to get excited about it. When we hear the cry of a new born baby, or the innocent laughter of little children. When we see a little forest creature having fun, or we sit around a roaring campfire, or behold the simple beauty of a little butterfly.

.

“Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered. ” Psalm 40:5.

.

These, and the many other joys of life were created by the One who has also gone to prepare an even more beautiful place for us to live. He knows our needs, and will provide a far more wonderful home than this sin-cursed Earth.

.

And when we finally cross that river, and we stand together on the shores of that world to come, we will look in amazement at what He has in store for us there!

.

And then we will know for certain, that “His mercy endures forever”,  because, “God is love”!

.

South American Butterfly – Wikipedia – Share-Alike License

The Pilgrim’s Progress – by Byam Shaw – Wikimedia Commons – US Public Domain 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

“Thou wilt shew me the path of life:

in thy presence is fulness of joy;

at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore…

And the ransomed of the LORD shall return,

and come to Zion with songs

and everlasting joy upon their heads:

they shall obtain joy and gladness,

and sorrow and sighing shall flee away”

Psalm 16:11 & Isaiah 35:10

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Give me a vision of the wonderful world to come! Take my eyes off this sad world, and keep my eyes fixed upward…

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

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read…“September 20th (Don’t Miss The Boat!)”, or you can also read…DECEMBER 31 (Come Out of Her, My People! Part 27: Into The Promised Land!)

Question book magnify svg – Wikimedia – GNU license

.

.

.

.

THE END

 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

 

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

 

 

.

.

7 STARS IMITATE ORION

.

LOCATING THESE TWO CONSTELLATIONS

.

This phenomenon begins in late October, in the pre-dawn hour. It then begins a little earlier each night.

.

This Wikipedia star-chart has this constellation sketched in. You must locate Orion, when it is mid-sky, between east and west. You’ll be facing southward most likely, unless you are far south. Try to imagine it as a Cross on a steep hill. The 3-star belt of Orion becomes the crest of the hill. The 3 very faint stars that make up Orion’s head become the very top of the Cross.

.

Next, locate the 7 Stars Constellation. This 7 Stars Constellation is seen by facing northward. It stands upright a little later in the night. Eventually, Orion will lay down and no longer be seen as an uplifted Cross! Beginning in November, the 7 Stars (AKA Big Dipper) can be seen as a Cross a little bit later in evening.

.

When you are comfortable in locating Orion & The 7 Stars Constellations, then show a friend. This can be a great witnessing tool!

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “The 7 Stars Imitate the Cross of Orion”

.

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

JUNE 19 (Who Are The 144,000? Part 4) 

Question book magnify svg – Wikimedia – GNU license

 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH 

.

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 STUDY #167 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

.

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

.

.

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo. Most tall, narrow photos have been cropped or reduced by this website to make them a better fit on phone screens.

.

 

 

.

.

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – JULY 13

.

.

.

.

The Bible, A Supernatural Book

.

.

.

.

“And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion,

that they should believe a lie:”

2nd Thessalonians 2:11.

.

.

.

.

.

God has written the Bible in such a way, that it reveals to each person whatever is the ruling force within each particular individual.

.

Listen to David… “With the merciful Thou wilt show Thyself merciful; with an upright man Thou wilt show Thyself upright; With the pure Thou wilt show Thyself pure; and with the froward Thou wilt show Thyself froward.” Psalm 18:25, 26.

.

As this above passage reveals, the Bible will be interpreted rightly by those whose heart is right, but wrongly by those whose heart is NOT right.

.

Holy bible cropped image – – Wikimedia – Creative Commons lic.

.

.

.

.

.

BIBLE TELLS ME WHAT I WANT TO HEAR

.

For instance, those who wish to prove the Bible is not the Word of God, they will have no trouble finding error within its pages.

.

For those who wish the “bad guys” to be someone else, the Bible will point the accusing finger at “the other guy”.

.

For those who want to deny the deity of Jesus Christ, they will find those certain verses which seemingly support such an idea.

.

For those who wish to find an excuse to sin, the Bible will supply excuses!

.

For those who wish to find a gospel of socialism, they definitely will find socialism in the Bible!

.

For those who don’t want to be bothered with Bible study, the Bible will give the necessary permission to be excused from Bible study.

.

For those who want to go after worldly enterprises, earthly riches, or amusements and pleasures, the Bible contains the necessary encouragements to do so.

.

And on and on and on it goes…

.

.

.

.

.

“A DISCERNER OF THE…HEART”

.

In other words, for those who wish to find the Jesus of their own making (for there are many Jesus’s, howbeit false ones), there are enough relevant passages in which to do so.

.

No it’s not that the Bible has lies in it. Every Word of God is true and pure. But God has written it in such a way, to judge each and every person, as to show just exactly what is in a person’s own heart.

.

Listen… “For the Word of God is (living), and powerful, and sharper than any sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12. Herein is revealed that the Bible is like a double-edged sword: either it cuts to save, or else, it cuts to destroy!

.

Sign of the Son of Man Constellation – made of the various constellations on this website

.

.

.

.

.

BIBLE TELLS TRUTH-SEEKERS TRUTH

.

And for those who seek to become a true Follower of Jesus, the Bible begins to open up to that Believer. At first, it may only be a few passages. But it is enough for that individual to begin that upward journey on the pathway of truth. And more and more, as time goes by, does that truth-seeker begin to comprehend further Bible passages.

.

And that pathway begins to shine brighter and brighter on the road to the Celestial City of God… “But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.” Proverbs 4:18, 19

.

ABOVE PICTURE: The True Upward Pathway www.signsofheaven.org

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Please keep me from allowing my own heart to deceive me. Help me to seek the true Jesus, and be willing to forsake all, so to follow Him…

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

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “Fleeing to the Mountains, Part 3: The Abomination in My Heart”

Question book magnify svg – Wikimedia – GNU license

.

.

.

.

THE END

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

.

.

.

“FLEE TO THE MOUNTAINS”

Matthew 24:15, 16

.

“When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains:” Matthew 24:15, 16

.

So the above verse is a warning to all those who are living over there in Palestine: “Flee to the mountains!”. And this photo of the mountains of Judea just might be a good place to flee to. But with today’s tracking devices, it probably wouldn’t be too long until they found you. But does this passage have a message for us Christians who are scattered elsewhere around the world? Listen once again…

.

.

“When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains:” Matthew 24:15, 16

.

Notice it says in the above verse, “whoso reads, let him understand”. So there needs to be an understanding of this complex issue. There needs not only to be an understanding of the Abomination of Desolation, but also an understanding of just what it means, “to flee”.

.

Judean Hills Panorama from beth meir – wikipedia – share-alike license

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “Woman of Revelation 12 (Flees to the Wilderness)”

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

JULY 14 (Sodom Rising, Part 9: Sensuality In, Sensuality Out!)

Woman applying make-up – Wikimedia – Share-alike License 2.0

 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH 

.

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 STUDY #559 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING, FORMER CEO OF FAMILY RADIO…

.

 

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

.

.

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo. Most tall, narrow photos have been cropped or reduced by this website to make them a better fit on phone screens.

.

 

.

.

Today’s Devotional – June 17th

.

.

.

.

.

“Internet Censorship:

.

Hate Speech or Love Speech?”

.

.

.

.

.

“And that no man might buy or sell,

save he that had the mark,

or the name of the beast,

or the number of his name.”

Revelation 13:17

.

ABOVE PICTURE: Mark of the beast – pub. dom. – Wikipedia

.

.

.

.

.

While mainstream Christianity would have us believe that this above prophecy from Revelation 13 will find its fulfillment in the future, the fact is, right this very moment in time is this verse being fulfilled!

.

ABOVE PICTURE: Mark of the beast – pub. dom. – Wikipedia

.

.

.

.

.

“BUY THE TRUTH AND SELL IT NOT!”

Proverbs 23:23

.

That’s right! In the name of “compassion”, Satan has raised up the Internet and high-tech devices for the very purpose of squelching all so-called “hate-speech” from ever seeing the light of day. It is the perfect assault weapon for the coming apocalyptic finale! Internet can marshal and weaponize the antichrist multitudes, but can also precisely custom-fit its assaults against each and every individual. It can decide who can buy or sell, or who cannot!

.

Listen…“Shall the throne of iniquity have fellowship with thee, which frames mischief by a law?” Psalm 94:20

.

Right now in our very day, Satan is busily working though political pressure groups, corporate-goliaths, and law-makers to outlaw freedom of speech, thought, and even freedom of mobility!

.

Internet giants are manipulating things in such a way that any website which dares to go against so-called, “political correctness” will discover itself harder and more difficult to find on the Internet. 

.

Censored stamp – Wikimedia –

.

.

.

.

.

“O LUCIFER…THAT OPENED NOT THE HOUSE OF HIS PRISONERS”

Isaiah 14:1, 17

.

For example, those Christian websites which dare to call homosexuality a sin will become black-listed by these Internet giants.

.

Of course, it’s not actually the people in control of those Internet goliaths who are master-minding this assault on free speech. No, these people are merely Satan’s jail-keepers, who are keeping his prisoners locked up in his prison-house of sin and ignorance.

.

And those websites which are truly attempting to help homosexuals to find deliverance from their bondage to their sin, are actually engaging in “love-speech”, not so-called, “hate-speech”. After all, to help a fellow human to find freedom and deliverance from any self-destructive, habitual sin, is truly an act of Christlike love.

.

Girl – Depression by Danielzanetti for Wikimedia – cropped image – C.C. Share-alike License 3.0

.

.

.

.

.

“THE DEVIL…IS A LIAR, AND THE FATHER OF IT!”

John 8:44 

.

But Satan relentlessly attempts to keep us locked into our sin, whatever our particular sin is.

.

And he has successfully created the false notion that homosexuality is not a sin, but merely an inbred physical genetic.

.

And he will pounce on anyone who dares to publicly expose this lie!

.

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

.

.

.

.

.

“GOOD NEWS FROM A FAR COUNTRY!”

Proverbs 25:25

.

Well, the Good News is, that while we have definitely entered into the long-anticipated time of trouble in which no man might buy or sell the truth of God’s Word, we can still access these websites via the smaller search engines.

.

And we can lovingly and prayerfully share those black-listed Christian websites with other Christians and even with non-Christians who might be searching for answers to their personal dilemma.

.

And let’s just keep in mind who is actually the chief of sinners: “ME!” Yes, I am the chief of sinners in God’s sight, not “that other guy” over there! 

.

Yes, we can become a modern-day “David”, battling against those Internet goliaths, by sharing these websites!

.

Mall witnessing, Panama City, Panama

.

.

.

.

.

 

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to prepare myself to stand in the coming evil months ahead. Help me to be fully armored…

Marines at Prayer by Alex Raymond – Wikimedia – Public Domai

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “Mark of the Beast & Seal of God” or you can also read… January 26th (Buying & Selling The Gospel)

Question book magnify svg – Wikimedia – GNU license

.

.

.

.

.

.

THE END

.

.

 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

 

.

.

.

SIGN OF THE SON OF MAN IN HEAVEN

.

AND THE FIVE WISE VIRGINS STARS

.

.

.

Now there is another extremely incredible aspect to this star-group! You see, if we could step back far enough (about several light-years backward) we would see this next constellation! It is called, “The Sign of the Son of Man Constellation”. As it now stands, it spans both the Summer and Winter skies, so that only half of it can be seen at a time.

.

It is more curved than this drawing. But you will notice that the Five Wise Virgins are gathered at the right foot of Jesus. This reminds us of the story of Mary and Martha, when Jesus came for supper.

.

ABOVE STAR-CHART (constellations found on Wikipedia and Bible constellations drawn in by this website) – Sign of the Son of Man – www.theheavensdeclare.net – Not for commercial uses

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “The Five Wise Virgins Stars“

.

.

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

“June 18th (Eternity Not A Puffy Cloud!)”

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH 

.

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 STUDY #166 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

.

 

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

.

.

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo. Most tall, narrow photos have been cropped or reduced by this website to make them a better fit on phone screens.

.

 

.

.

Today’s Devotional – June 16th

.

.

.

.

GOD’S ROYAL PRIESTHOOD TODAY!

THE FOLLOWING DEVOTIONAL IS MADE OF EXCERPTS FROM THE ARTICLE…

“Ark of the Covenant Constellation, Pt. 2: How To Enter The Most Holy Place”

.

. 

.

.

.

“One thing have I desired of the LORD,

that will I seek after;

that I may dwell in the house of the LORD

all the days of my life,

to behold the beauty of the LORD,

and to inquire in His temple. 

For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion:

in the secret of His tabernacle shall He hide me…”

Psalm 27:4, 5

.

David Playing Harp – www.thebiblerevival.com – US Public Domain

.

.

 

.

.

.

THE MOST HOLY PLACE

.

“LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?” Psalm 15:1

.

The above passage asks a very odd question: “…who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill?” Psalm 15:1.

.

Now why would God ask such a ridiculous question? After all, for most of the past 2,000 years, the temple lay in ruins. So how can a Christian abide in God’s tabernacle?

.

Holman The Tabernacle in the Wilderness wikipedia US public domain

.

.

.

.

.

THE ARK

.

The Ark of the Covenant was the centerpiece of the tabernacle sanctuary, during the years of the wilderness wanderings of the children of Israel, prior to their entering into the Promised Land. 

.

Temple items – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

.

“YE ARE…A ROYAL PRIESTHOOD”

.

“But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvellous light:” 1st Peter 2:9

.

We have been chosen to be, as Peter put it, a “Royal Priesthood”. Even the Book of Revelation testifies to this heavenly calling… “And (God) hast made us unto our God, kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.” Revelation 5:10.

.

Now as New Testament priests, there is no more brick-n-mortar temple. No, today’s New Testament priestly action takes place in our heart. We are now the Temple of the Lord…

.

Listen to this declaration regarding our body being the Holy Spirit’s temple…“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” 1st Corinthians 6:19, 20.

.

ABOVE PICTURE: Most Holy Place – Signs Of Heaven

Priesthood – the Holy of Holies – www.thebiblerevival.com – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

“PRAY WITHOUT CEASING”

.

God has called us to be priests together with Christ.

.

We are to be co-laborers with Christ, pleading for the people. Scripture commands us to… “Pray without ceasing.” 1st Thessalonians 5:17.

.

As a Christian goes about his or her day, they are constantly praying and thanking the Lord, and interceding for others.

.

Listen once again to this great encouragement… “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvellous light” 1st Peter 2:9.

.

USMC- prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – public domain

.

.

.

.

.

PRIESTHOOD, A HIGH AND HOLY CALLING…

“in the secret of His tabernacle shall He hide me…” Psalm 27:5

.

In Scripture, the priesthood was a very high and holy calling. It wasn’t to be taken lightly. It was a life-and-death matter!

.

An unconsecrated priest could actually be struck dead, should he enter into the Holy Place with unrepentant sin. And so, the thought of today’s Christian should be exactly like the faithful priest of long ago. He must have a trembling heart at God’s holiness. All presumptuousness and flippancy and worldliness must be banished out of the Christian’s heart.

.

No, today’s True-Worshiper will not literally be struck dead, like these two in this drawing. But those who enter into the life of a Christian, will never know the deep spiritual and holy things of God, until they enter into this most solemn priestly office, by faith… “And they (God’s priests) shall teach My people the difference between the holy and profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean.” Ezekiel 44:23.

.

Tissot – The Two Priests Are Destroyed – Wikipedia – Public Dom.

.

.

.

.

.

TEACHING HOLINESS BY EXAMPLE 

.

As God’s royal priesthood, we are to be an example to the Church.

.

And by example, we are to “teach My people the difference between the holy and profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean.” Ezekiel 44:23.

.

As priests, we have the high and holy calling to proclaim Jesus to the world, by our every thought, word, and action.

.

Now, being an example to the flock doesn’t give us the right to exercise a censuring lordship over the flock. But by our godly example and holy conversation (lifestyle), we are to lovingly exercise that quiet patience which Christ would exhibit to others, if He were standing in our place.

.

Paul the Apostle-Artist-Valentin de Boulogne or Nicolas Tournier- circa 1500s

.

.

.

.

.

POWER OF PRAYER

.

And so, this is where priestly prayers come into play. As a royal priesthood, we are to cry out to God for His erring people (and for our own sins too!).

.

We are to enter our chambers and secretly cry out for our families! For our friends! For the entire Christian community! This is how change is to be affected amongst God’s people. Never by lording our views in harsh words.

.

Listen again to Peter… “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.” 1st Peter 5:2, 3

.

Tissot_The_Two_Priests_Are_Destroyed – wikimedia – public dom.

Ebenezer_Newman_Downard_- Morning_prayer_- 1860 – wikipedia – public domain

.

.

.

.

TO READ PART 2, CLICK HERE…

SEPTEMBER 21 (God’s Royal Priesthood Today! Part 2: Sacrifices of Joy!)

ABOVE PICTURE: Most Holy Place within the heart – Signs Of Heaven

.

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Give me the grace to rise to the responsibilities of being a royal priest. Give me the grace to pray without ceasing, no matter where I am…

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “Ark of the Covenant Constellation, Pt. 2: How To Enter The Most Holy Place”

Question book magnify svg – Wikimedia – GNU license

.

.

.

.

THE END

.

.

 

.

.

. 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

. 

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

 

.

.

THE HOLY AND MOST HOLY PLACE

.

“And thou shalt put the Mercy Seat upon the Ark of the Testimony in the Most Holy Place.” Exodus 26:34

.

 

The Tabernacle in the wilderness was a picture of God. Just listen to Revelation… “And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.” Revelation 21:22.

.

So, instead of dwelling upon all the fine points of the earthly tabernacle, let it suffice to be said, this earthly tabernacle is merely a metaphor of God Himself. And the Most Holy Place is the heart of that temple, and upon the Ark, represents God’s throne, as is written…

.

“And David arose…to bring up from thence, the ark of God…the LORD of hosts that dwells between the cherubims.” 2nd Samuel 6:2.

.

So, if, as it states here, that God dwells “between the cherubims”, then this is speaking of the Mercy Seat over the Ark. But even though it speaks thus, we need to keep in mind that the temple itself, represents God Himself, as is written… “And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.” Revelation 21:22.   

.

Holy Place & Most Holy Place – wikipedia – public domain

.

.

.

.

ARK SEEN IN HEAVEN 

.

“And the temple of God was opened in Heaven, and there was seen in His temple the Ark of His Testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.”  Revelation 11:19

 

.

The above verse from Revelation, speaks of God’s Temple in Heaven being opened. But this great constellation, the  Sagittarius Constellation  is actually the constellation of the Ark of the Covenant. So these two events go hand in hand simultaneously. The Ark Constellation, as sketched into this Wikipedia star-chart, is a representation of the heavenly Ark, as God begins to open up the spiritual concepts of that true Ark to our minds.

.

Ark Constellation in Heaven – (aka Sagittarius) – Summer – Wikipedia Star-chart with ark drawn in by this website – Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported license

 

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “The Ark of the Covenant Constellation”

.

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

June 17th (“Internet Censorship: Hate Speech or Love Speech?”)

Duct Tape Mouth – Wikimedia – Share-alike license

.

.

.

.

.

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH 

.

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 STUDY #165 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

. 

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

.

.

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo. Most tall, narrow photos have been cropped or reduced by this website to make them a better fit on phone screens.

.

.

.

Today’s Devotional – June 15th

.

.

.

.

David’s Secret Strength: Prayer & Praise!

.

.

.

.

.

David was called by God, “a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfill all My will.”  Acts 13:22.

.

From boyhood, David had a rich relationship with the Lord.

.

David Playing Harp – www.thebiblerevival.com – US public domain

.

.

.

.

.

DAVID’S LOVE FOR GOD

.

From the green meadows of Israel, David’s voice could be heard echoing through the canyons, as he strummed his harp, singing his praises up to God…

.

“Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright. Praise the LORD with harp: sing unto Him with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings. Sing unto Him a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise.” Psalm 33:1-3

.

Yes, the Psalms are greatly centered around David’s love for the Lord.

.

And those Psalms reveal the essence of what a relationship with God is all about!

.

David Playing Harp – www.thebiblerevival.com – US public domain

.

.

.

.

.

SECRETS TO DAVID’S CLOSENESS TO GOD

.

There were, perhaps three, no four aspects to David’s life, which made him stand out from among others, in his relationship to God.

.

First was his contemplation of God’s Word.

.

“But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in His law (His Word) doth he meditate day and night.” Psalm 1:2

.

This very first Psalm 1, gives us a picture of what a full, 100% devotion to God, that David enjoyed in his everyday life! 

.

David Playing Harp – www.thebiblerevival.com – US public domain

.

.

.

.

.

#2 – DAVID’S WILLINGNESS TO BE CHASTENED

.

Second was his patient willingness to accept God’s hand of chastening.

.

“For day and night Thy hand was heavy upon me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Selah.  I acknowledged my sin unto Thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and Thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.” Psalm 32:4, 5 

.

David did not murmur nor shake his fist at God, during the times when God’s chastening hand was heavy on David! The word, “longsuffering”, aptly describes David’s willingness to endure a life of correction from his heavenly Father.  

.

David Playing Harp – www.thebiblerevival.com – US public domain

.

.

.

.

.

#3 – DAVID’S UNWAVERING TRUST

.

Third, David trusted God, implicitly!

.

“I cried unto the LORD with my voice; with my voice unto the LORD did I make my supplication. I poured out my complaint before Him; I showed before Him my trouble…I cried unto thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my refuge and my portion in the land of the living.” Psalm 142:1, 2, 5.

.

To David, his relationship with God was everything! David had no other desires in life, but to do the will of God. God was his Father, and David desired to be an obedient son! 

.

David Playing Harp – www.thebiblerevival.com – US public domain

.

.

.

.

.

#4 – DAVID’S CONSTANT COMMUNION

.

And last, but certainly not least, was David’s constant prayer to God, both in the times of peace, as well as in the times of need.

.

“As for me, I will call upon God; and the LORD shall save me. Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and He shall hear my voice.”  Psalm 55:16, 17

.

David Playing Harp – www.thebiblerevival.com – US public domain

.

.

.

.

.

DAVID SOUGHT THE LORD IN GOOD TIMES

.

The Book of Psalms shows the close relationship that David had with his Lord. Yes, David experienced many trials and tribulations, and he was constantly calling out to God for deliverance. But David sought the Lord in the good times as well! And perhaps, this was David’s great strength!

.

“Hearken unto the voice of my cry, my King, and my God: for unto Thee will I pray. My voice shalt Thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto Thee, and will look up.”  Psalm 5:2, 3.

.

David didn’t just cry out to God when in trouble. No, he sang praises to God when times were good!

.

David Playing Harp – www.thebiblerevival.com – US public domain

.

.

.

.

.

RETURNED TO GOD IN SORROW

.

No, David was far from perfect. But when God rebuked him for his sins, David turned to the Lord for forgiveness and restoration…

.

“Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of Thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.” Psalm 51:1-3

.

Yes, David committed a grievous sin against God. And yet he totally and thoroughly repented of that sin. But that was the only great sin of David’s life.

.

Oh yes, David sinned at other times too! But God was careful to keep His hand applied to David, and David accepted this frequent chastisement from his Lord! David knew such correction kept him close to God!

.

David’s sorrow – wikigallery – public domain

.

.

.

.

.

DAVID: A PICTURE OF CHRIST

.

David was a picture of Christ. In Psalm 22, for instance, David’s words are the very words that Jesus cried, when on the Cross.

.

Yes, David well-knew what suffering was, and his cries for deliverance echoed the very same cries that Jesus cried, when He was suffering.

.

“My God, my God, why hast Thou forsaken me? why art Thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring? O my God, I cry in the daytime, but Thou hearest not; and in the night season, and am not silent. But Thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.” Psalm 22:1-3

.

Cross of Jesus Christ – cropped – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.

 

.

.

.

.

.

FOLLOWING THE LAMB OF GOD!

.

The child of God can and should spend much time in that Book of Psalms! It is an integral part of becoming Christ-like.

.

“Yes, I need to forget about being me, and strive to allow Jesus to live out His life through me.”

.

This should be my daily mantra, because it is perhaps, the great secret to the life of victory in Christ. And constant communion with God is an intimate part of becoming Christ-like!

.

“Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. From the end of the earth will I cry unto Thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the Rock that is higher than I. For Thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy. I will abide in Thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of Thy wings. Selah. Psalm 61:1-4

.

Yes, the Psalms reveal the heart of God, but they also reveal the heart of every true child of God!

.

Black sheep – Wikipedia & Jesus Solana – share-alike license.

.

.

.

.

.

.

TO READ PART 2, CLICK HERE…

April 19 (David’s Secret Strength: Prayer! Part 2: “Begging & Pleading! Pleading & Begging!”)

David’s sorrow – Wikigallery – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Give me a strong desire to read and contemplate the Psalms. Let the closeness of David to Thee, also be my experience. Let my prayer come before Thee in good times, and in bad…

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… February 1st (In Every Thing Give Thanks!?!), or you can also read… “January 10th (Why Doesn’t My Christianity Work?)“

Question book magnify svg – Wikimedia – GNU license

.

.

.

.

THE END

 

.

.

.

.

.

.

 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

 

.

 

.

.

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

.

.

.

. 

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “The Five Foolish Virgins Stars” or you can also read… “Discovering Bible Constellations (Part 1…A personal timeline story) 1988”

 

.

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

” June 16th (God’s Royal Priesthood Today!)”

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH 

.

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 STUDY #164 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING, FORMER CEO OF FAMILY RADIO…

.

 

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

.

.

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo. Most tall, narrow photos have been cropped or reduced by this website to make them a better fit on phone screens.

.

.

.

Today’s Devotional – June 14th

.

.

.

.

The Straw-Man,

.

Part 3:

“Satan’s Straw-Man Ploy!”

TO READ PART 1, CLICK HERE…March 5th (The Straw Man: “Villains And Heroes”)

.

.

.

.

.

THOSE GROUPS OVER THERE!

.

There is a large percentage of churches who fall into the category of “prosperity gospels”. Most of these are rather flagrant in their violation of the most fundamental principles of God’s Word.

.

And because these false gospels are so obviously apostate, they become the object of a lot of criticism, by the more “conservative” gospels.

.

And maybe that is a great part of why Satan has raised these more flamboyant gospels up. Because the more “conservative” gospels have their own set of issues. But when compared to those “crazy groups”, the conservative groups don’t look nearly so bad. We actually look pretty good next to those so-called “health and wealth” gospels! And of course, when compared to the “cults”, we even look that much better! 

.

.

.

.

.

THE STRAW MAN PLOY

.

The Bible says concerning Satan… “we are not ignorant of his devices” 2nd Corinthians 2:11. And it is not hard to see that Satan employs this same strategy in the secular world.

.

It’s often referred to as a variation of the, “Straw Man Ploy”. Simply put, Satan creates a class of persons, who make most everyone else look good.

.

Just a quick look at society, and one can easily see that Satan has raised up a large class of frowned-upon groups of people: drug addicts, thieves, Satan worshippers, the morally perverse, the socially-abhorrent, and other similar-type groups. And when compared to these, the status-quo, working class feel pretty good about themselves.

.

“I’m a hard working, tax-paying, flag-waving, church-going citizen! I’m not a drug addict or a degenerate like those people over there! So don’t tell me I need a Savior! I’m a good, honest, decent and upstanding person!”

.

This seems to be one very great deception that Satan employs against the “normal” segment of society.

.

Straw man (or lady) – cropped – Wikipedia – share-alike or GNU Free Documentation license

.

.

.

.

.

AS IN SOCIETY, SO ALSO IN CHURCHES!

.

And so, why would we not assume that Satan employs this very same strategy within Christendom?

.

Yes, this Master-Deceiver, Satan, causes us to point our proud finger of indignation at those “whackos” over there, and at the same time, we are deceived into thinking that, compared to them, we are in pretty good standing with God! A very brilliant strategy by Satan, wouldn’t you agree?

.

Satan presiding at the Infernal Council – wikipedia – US public domain

 

.

.

.

.

.

THE DAY OF THE LORD IS UPON THE PROUD

.

And so, mainstream Christianity is quite confident that “We’re Rapture-ready!”, not knowing the following passage is referring to us…

.

Listen… “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…. And the loftiness of man shall be bowed down, and the haughtiness of men shall be made low: and the Lord alone shall be exalted in that day.” Isaiah 2:12-17

.

Yes, those who are proud and lofty will be the prime objects of God’s disapproval on that Day!

.

And while we are pointing our bony fingers at those “other groups”, we are not realizing that God’s finger is pointing down at us!

.

ABOVE PICTURE: the accusing finger – share-alike license – www.signsofheaven.org

.

.

.

.

.

.

SO WHAT’S THE ANSWER?

.

So what can we do about our situation? Well, this next section below tells us just where we ought to be…

.

Question Mark – at a loss – Wikimedia – Share-alike license

.

.

.

.

.

WEEPING MAY ENDURE FOR THE NIGHT…” 

.

Well, there is some Good News! Yes, dear Soul, there are just a few hours of grace left for both you and I to repent and begin to order our life aright before God…

.

Listen… “Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God…Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up!” James 4:4, 8-10

.

Yes, here is the time-tested remedy for our proud and deceived hearts. And we must employ this remedy until the day in which our Savior appears in the clouds of glory to bring us with back with Him.

.

Prayer – USMC – Wikimedia – US Govt. Public Domain

Girl Praying – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

. 

TO READ PART 4, GO HERE…

April 8 (The Straw-Man, Part 4: “Stigmatizing Christianity! Foolish Talk & Jesting”)

Straw man (or lady) – Wikipedia – Share-alike or GNU Free Documentation License

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to escape from this deadly deception by that Master-Deceiver, Satan! Let me not be a proud finger-pointer. But rather humble me and take away my foolish presumptuous pride…

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

 

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “Fleeing to the Mountains: The Abomination in the Church, Part 1” or you can also read… “Fleeing to the Mountains, Part 3: The Abomination in My Heart”

Question book magnify svg – Wikimedia – GNU license

.

.

.

.

THE END

 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

.

.

.

REVELATION 12 TAKES PLACE IN HEAVEN

.

“And there appeared a great wonder (sign) in heaven; a woman…And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered. And there appeared another wonder (sign) in heaven; and behold a great red dragon…And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth…And the woman fled into the wilderness…And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon…And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness…And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood…” Revelation 12: 1-4, 6, 7, 14, 15 (condensed)

.

This above passage is a very condensed version of Revelation, Ch. 12. (To read entire Chapter 12, click here)

.

From time to time, the Book of Revelation mentions stars. But when we get to Revelation Chapter 12, it speaks of two “great signs in heaven”. First, it speaks of the sign in heaven of a woman with child. Then it speaks of the sign in heaven of a great red dragon, with a tail that sweeps one-third of the stars and casts these stars down to the earth. So we get the sense that this phenomenon that the Apostle John was seeing, was closely intertwined with the starry host of the heavens. And these two signs in heaven, a woman, and a dragon, are a big part of this website, Signs Of Heaven.

.

And so this phenomenon that the Apostle John was seeing, was closely intertwined with the starry host of the heavens.

.

What really gives validity to this idea, is that God created the Universe in such a way, that if one looks at the major constellations, then this Revelation 12 scenario can be seen. So please read on. And if you really want to see this heavenly battle, you just might. It will take some real effort on your part. But through prayer, faith, and study of the site, God may just graciously open your eyes to see this amazing story written on the heavenly scroll above. But don’t wait! This heavenly scroll will soon be rolled up, just as it is written… “And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together;” Revelation 6:14

.

WINTER CONSTELLATIONS-SEEN IN FALL: This sketch to the right is how this constellation group appears in the eastern sky in fall. This is the four primary constellations of the Winter Constellations. They can be seen in this position, in the late fall above the eastern horizon. The Woman of Revelation 12 is commonly called Ursa Major or The Big Dipper and appears in the north. Orion the Soldier is the at the bottom is to the south of the Woman. The The Dragon of Revelation Constellation’s mouth isThe Hyades Cluster, and the tip of his tail is Pleiades, and his Wave of Water is primarily the  Auriga constellation. The Glorious Horse Constellation  head is of  Perseus Constellation and his rear end is Cassiopeia Constellation.

.

.

.

.

.

FLEEING WOMAN OF REVELATION 12…

.

“And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.  And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood.” Revelation 12:14, 15. So this Revelation 12 Woman Constellation gives a heavenly portrait of a woman fleeing from the Dragon, who is spewing water in her pathway.

.

The sketch to the right is “Valley of Decision” Constellation, the Woman of Revelation 12 Constellation, and the Dragon Constellation. This is a concept sketch. These three constellations are not in this position in the night sky. So please don’t try to find them together like this. All of the other sketches have the constellation in the correct position, unless otherwise noted. For locations of each of these Constellations, please go to the article for that particular constellation.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “Woman of Revelation 12 (Flees to the Wilderness)”

 

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

“June 15th (David’s Secret Strength: Prayer & Praise!)”

David the Shepherd Boy – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH 

.

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 STUDY #163 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING, FORMER CEO OF FAMILY RADIO…

.

 

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

.

.

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo. Most tall, narrow photos have been cropped or reduced by this website to make them a better fit on phone screens.

.

.

.

Today’s Devotional – June 13th

.

.

.

.

Power of Positive Thinking Gospels,

.

Part 4:

“This World!”

To read part 1, click here…June 9th (The Power of Positive-Thinking Gospels! Part 1)

.

.

.

.

.

Several nights ago, a very popular Christian speaker held a large convocation with a vast throng of tens of thousands of listeners.

.

And this evangelist gave a very high-energy presentation, with a very positive message. 

.

Well, the gist of what he said is, that we need to think positive, speak positive, and believe positively, that God has good things in store for us here on earth! Yes, this popular speaker continued to present a message about achieving our earthly dreams: earthly dreams for ourselves and for our families.

.

“But”, he added, “we need to take time out from our worldly-achievement-oriented lives to spend lots of time with our spouse and children!

.

Above picture not connected with this story – church service by Matt Malone for Wikimedia copyrighted

.

.

.

.

.

.

“SMOOTHER THAN BUTTER!”

.

“The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.” Psalm 55:21

.

This extravaganza was filled with short, but uplifting testimonies, a high-energy, upbeat rock band, attractive women, well-timed jokes, and smoother-than-butter preaching!

.

Well, needless to say, this presentation was received with no lack of enthusiasm!

.

The vast audience, thousands strong, seemed mesmerized, yet ecstatic about this uplifting and upbeat message! The night was a huge success!

.

Evangelist Preaching – Church – Audience hands – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

PRAISING LOST SOULS

.

But, as nice and uplifting as this message was, it nevertheless stood in stark disagreement with the Bible in a number of areas!

.

And one of these areas was how this evangelist looks at the world. This became evident when, at one point, he began to praise all the “good” people in the world: all the public servants, such as policemen, firemen, soldiers, school teachers, doctors, etc.. 

.

Now he didn’t mention lawyers and politicians in his praises. But he did lavish praise upon the teachers, firemen, etc.. And he definitely gave the impression that these were good people!

.

.

.

.

.

Good people!?! You mean to say that this world is filled with many good people!?!

.

Does the Bible support that idea?

.

Hardly!

.

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

.

.

.

.

.

.

WHOLE WORLD LIES IN WICKEDNESS

.

Listen to the Bible’s summation of the world… “And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness.” 1st John 5:19.

.

So this above passage from John’s Epistle reveals that “the WHOLE world lies in wickedness”. So does that include these categories of civil-servants which this evangelist put his seal of approval on? Oh yes! Only those who are “born of the Spirit”, can be excluded from the 1st John 5:19’s condemnation!

.

Paul persecuted by Pharisees & Sadducees – www.thebiblerevival.com – US Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

NONE RIGHTEOUS, NO, NOT ONE!

.

Listen again…

.

“…There is none righteous, no, not one: 

There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. 

They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable;

there is none that doeth good, no, not one.“

Romans 3:9-18

.

So this above passage really takes all the guesswork out of this question, as to just who is good and who is evil. “There is none that doeth good, no, not one!”

.

Well then, how about all those public servants which this evangelist pronounced his blessing upon? Don’t they do good?

.

.

.

.

.

THE HEART IS DESPERATELY WICKED!

.

Now there are other similar passages in the Bible, which only confirm this same truth! Jeremiah also addresses this same concept…

.

Listen… “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” Jeremiah 17:9, 10

.

Now Jeremiah here, is telling us just what is the condition of our heart: “desperately wicked and deceitful above all things!”

.

Jeremiah at the Potters House – Wikigallery – US-Public-Domain

.

.

.

.

.

NOTHING GOOD IN PAUL

.

Even the Apostle, Paul, made the following statement regarding himself… “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing:” Romans 7:18

.

Paul well understood that he too was desperately wicked! It was only the Spirit of God, dwelling in him, that gave him any goodness.

.

Paul the Apostle-Artist-Valentin de Boulogne or Nicolas Tournier- circa 1500s

.

.

.

.

.

HAVING A FORM OF GODLINESS

.

And so, knowing all these things, then the question must be asked… “Just why then, do the people of the world have a certain amount of goodness? Why are people so often, very friendly? Why do they volunteer for humanitarian causes?”

.

Well, we can surmise and speculate all day long regarding this question. But the only place one can find truth is the Bible. So let’s simply let the Bible speak….

.

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

.

.

.

.

.

SATAN, AN ANGEL OF LIGHT!

.

Listen… “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness;” 2nd Corinthians 11:13-15

.

So this above passage reveals that Satan can easily take on the form of a “good angel”. Yes, and even his ministers are transformed into “ministers of righteousness”. And so, it shouldn’t be any surprise, that this kingdom of evil in which we live has a “form of godliness, but denying the power thereof”. (2nd Timothy 3:5)

.

.

.

.

.

MINISTERS OF GOD

.

Now having said all this, it must be noted that God is ultimately in control of the world. And so, God’s abiding Holy Spirit keeps this world from becoming totally chaotic. Therefore, God places governments over Mankind, to keep a certain amount of peace and order…

.

Listen… “For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.” Romans 13:3, 4

.

So while we don’t want to begin praising lost souls, neither do we want to go to the other extreme and begin condemning them, because they are public servants! We are to give them the due honor that their position requires and often deserves.

.

Minneapolis Police 1959 traffic control – Wikipedia – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

GOOD NEWS!

.

The Good News in all this is that God is willing to save all those who call on Him out of a sincere heart! And even very misguided evangelists have the opportunity to repent and turn to the Lord.

.

None of us have anything to boast about! We are all very wicked and evil beings; prisoners of Satan and captives of our very own selfish desires. Even those of us who claim to abide in Jesus! If we still are servants of sin and the flesh, we need Salvation just as badly as that mistaken evangelist!

.

Marines at Prayer by Alex Raymond – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

TO READ PART 5, CLICK HERE…

July 6th (Power of Positive Thinking Gospels, Part 5: Conservative Gospels)

People praying – by Sergei Frolov – Wikipedia – Share-alike license

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Keep me from being deceived into thinking that there is goodness apart from God. Help me to understand that this world is the Devil’s kingdom. And help me to separate from all ungodly and deceitful influences…

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… ““Vanity Fair” & The False Prophet” or you can also read… “Floodwaters of the False Prophet: “Atheism & Psychology”, or  you might also wish to read…February 24 (And The Nations Were Angry! Part 4: “Planet Earth, An Experiment In Selfishness” CONTINUED)

Question book magnify svg – Wikimedia – GNU license

.

.

.

.

.

THE END

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

.

.

.

FIVE FOOLISH VIRGINS

.

.

Now as learned in the article, The Five Wise Virgins Stars, The Five Wise are in a semi-circle, as if gathered around the Glorious Crown of 12 Stars. This symbolizes, the importance of the Christian Race, and the Glorious Crown of Victory, which will be given to each and every one who finally overcomes the world.

.

Now just as the Five Wise are gathered around this Crown of Victory, the Five Foolish are turned away from the Crown, as if to say, “I’m not interested!” And isn’t so often that the vast majority of so-called Christians, have little interest in this crown! Quite often, they can be heard saying… “Oh, I got my crown when I got baptized. Jesus won the race for me!”

.

This kind of lie is easily believed, since it a lie, made partly of truth! Yes, Jesus did get the victory for us. But nevertheless, the evidence that I am a true-worshipper of God, is that I will ultimately gain the victory over my sinful flesh, with all its affections and lusts.

.

Listen… “And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” Galatians 5:24

.

.

.

.

.

.

AND THE THINGS OF THE WORLD

.

WILL GROW STRANGELY DIM

.

Yes, the Five Wise represent all those who “go on to perfection”. They are not satisfied to remain in the world. Oh yes, they realize that they cannot come out of this world altogether, as of yet. But though they cannot come completely out of the world, they can come a good way out! These have tasted of the good things to come, and for them, all the glittering tinsel-like treasures of this world have lost their meaning!

.

But the foolish have no desire to “die to self”. Their pastor tells them that they were “buried in baptism”, and they need not go any further! “Just live a nice moral life, and all will be well with your soul”, say these serpents in the pulpits of so many of today’s congregations.

.

And so, the foolish virgins simply raise their hands and praise the Lord, while still pursuing all the pleasures and dreams and ambitions that this opulent society encourages.

.

Francken, Hieronymus the Younger  – Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins – c 1616

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “The Five Foolish Virgins Stars” or you can also read… “The Five Wise Virgins Stars”

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

“June 14th (The Straw-Man, Part 3: Satan’s Straw-Man Ploy!)”

Straw man (or lady) – Wikipedia – Share-alike or GNU Free Documentation License

.

.

.

.

.

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH 

.

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 STUDY #162 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING, FORMER CEO OF FAMILY RADIO…

.

. 

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

.

.

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo. Most tall, narrow photos have been cropped or reduced by this website to make them a better fit on phone screens.

.

.

.

Today’s Devotional – June 12th

 

.

.

.

.

Jig-Saw Puzzle Jesus!

.

.

.

.

.

.

Have you ever put together a Jig-saw puzzle?

.

While it can be frustrating, yet it can be a lot of fun! Especially as one comes to the last moments of completion! Yes, finding those last pieces are very satisfying, indeed!

.

You then get to sit back and enjoy that completed picture!

.

jig-saw puzzle Defense gov News Photo wikimedia commons public domain

.

.

.

.

. 

THE BIBLE: A PUZZLE TO BE COMPLETED!

.

Well, the Bible is a type of jig-saw puzzle!

.

To a great degree, God has scrambled His truth in such a way, that it requires placing each piece of truth in its proper place.

.

Listen… “For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little…” Isaiah 28:10-12

.

As this above passage alludes, the truth of God must be searched out and placed in proper order, that we might understand just who is our God and Savior. Jesus is like a giant jig-saw puzzle, which must be completed, in order to fully understand His true nature and character and life.

.

Holy Bible – CROPPED IMAGE – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Lic.

.

.

.

.

.

“THAT I MAY KNOW HIM…”

Philippians 3:10

.

The fact is, Jesus Christ is a very complicated personage.

.

And though we think we understand who He is, the fact is, the more we study His Word, the more we discover that He is far different than we originally  believed!

.

Listen… “And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent.” John 17:3

.

Many things He did were enshrouded in mystery! But even those seemingly mysterious deeds, were also in harmony with His Law!

.

And of course, our partial knowledge of Christ greatly affects our witness to the world! And because we “know in part, and prophesy in part”, our representation of Christ is an incomplete representation.

.

But the more we dig deeper into God’s Word, the more will we begin to understand those more puzzling aspects to His life!

.

Transfiguration – bloch – wikimedia commons – US public domain

.

.

.

.

.

 

OUR TESTIMONY TO OTHERS!

.

And so, our great commission is to study His Word, day-by-day, month-by-month, so as to become more and more  knowledgeable of Christ Jesus.

.

And as we “grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ”, the more complete will our life and our testimony be.

.

And as we grow up into His glorious image, our witness to others will become more and more effective in our ability to turn others away from their hopeless existence!

.

Mall witnessing, Panama City, Panama

.

.

.

.

.

 

EVEN PAUL NEEDED MORE GROWTH!

.

Even the great Apostle, Paul, knew that he was still incomplete in his witness to the world. Listen… “That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death; Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3;10, 13, 14.

.

So just as Paul continued to seek after the Prize, so we also need to continue to piece together this grandest of all jig-saw puzzles. And we must pray continually for grace and desire, that God may continually reveal His majestic character to us, as we contemplate His Word throughout our day!

.

Paul persecuted by Pharisees & Sadducees – www.thebiblerevival.com – US Public Domain

 

.

.

.

.

.

UNTO THE STATURE OF THE FULLNESS OF CHRIST

.

And then, one of these days, the following prophecy will be fulfilled… “And He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:” Ephesians 4:11-13

.

Yes, the Bible has the words of all those apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers, which God has given us for our perfection, till we come to the fullness and perfection unto “a perfect man”! 

.

Holy bible – cropped image – wikimedia – creative commons lic.

 

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Give me the grace and desire to study Thy Word, and contemplate it through my day, that I may become fully transformed into His likeness…

Marine Praying – Wikimedia – USMC Public Domain

 

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “December 12 (Martha, the “Doer” & Mary, the “Hearer”)” or you can also read… “December 14(Many Wise Counsellors )“

Question book magnify svg – Wikimedia – GNU license

.

.

.

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

.

This newest Signs Of Heaven Constellation (Fall, 2013) is by far the faintest of constellations, but is a very incredible and awesome in a number of ways (which this article will explain).

.

It is primarily comprised of the Camelopardalis Constellation (head and upper back), plus about 5 stars from the Cassiopeia Constellation (his leg), plus some random stars. It appears as an outline of a rider. Only the back of his head is detailed. And his back and the back of his legs are also detailed. Both sides of his arm are visible, and his hand is gripping the horses mane, and that is detailed by three stars (which are also part of the horse’s mane). The rider is in a position vaguely similar to a race-horse jockey. The two brightest stars in this constellation, are from the Cassiopeia Constellation, and are part of his leg. All the rest of the stars are very faint, and must be viewed on a very starry night.

.

Since this constellation has just been revealed, there may be more to this constellation in the coming months. But if you can locate the Goodly Horse in Battle Constellation, then you shouldn’t have too much trouble locating this Rider Constellation.

 

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “The Holy-Ghost-Rider Constellation”

.

.

.

.

.

 

TOMORROW:

“June 13th (Power of Positive-Thinking Gospel & This Wicked World)” 

the book “The Power of Positive Thinking” – Wikipedia – cropped image – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license

.

.

.

.

.

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH 

.

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 STUDY #161 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING, FORMER CEO OF FAMILY RADIO…

.

 

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

.

.

.

Today’s Devotional – June 11th

.

.

.

.

 

Power of Positive Thinking Gospels

& Being Crucified

To read part 1, click here…June 9th (The Power of Positive-Thinking Gospels! Part 1)

.

.

.

.

.

Several nights ago, a very popular Christian speaker held a large convocation with a vast throng of tens of thousands of listeners.

.

And this evangelist gave a very high-energy presentation, with a very positive message. 

.

Well, the gist of what he said is, “we need to think positive, speak positive, and believe positively, that God has good things in store for us here on earth!”

.

Yes, this popular speaker continued to present a message about achieving our earthly dreams: earthly dreams for ourselves and for our families.

.

“But”, he added, “we need to take time out from our worldly-achievement-oriented lives to spend lots of time with our spouse and children!

.

church service (not connected with this story) by Matt Malone for Wikimedia – copyrighted

 

.

.

.

.

.

“SMOOTHER THAN BUTTER!”

.

“The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.” Psalm 55:21

.

This extravaganza was filled with short, but uplifting testimonies, a high-energy, upbeat rock band, attractive women, well-timed jokes, and “smoother-than-butter” preaching!

.

Well, needless to say, this presentation was received with no lack of enthusiasm!

.

The vast audience, 50,000 strong, seemed mesmerized, yet ecstatic about this uplifting and upbeat message! The night was a huge success!

.

Speaker and audience hands – Church – Audience hands – cropped and altered – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

. 

A NATION OF PRIEST & KINGS

.

One very big problem with the presentation is that, while it was a message which has a great appeal to the unconverted masses, yet it presented a gospel void of the true purpose for which Christ came: to raise up a spiritual nation of priests and kings, conformed to the image of Christ!

.

Listen…“But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people…” 1st Peter 2:9

.

So here we see what is our high calling of God: to become a nation of royal priests!

.

In other words, to merely live as good moral people of the world is not what the Gospel is about; to become upstanding and productive members of society, completely misses the point of why we are here.

.

the holy of holies-www.thebiblerevival.com-public domain

.

.

.

.

.

CRUCIFIED WITH CHRIST

.

One of those difficult truths of the Bible, is found in the words of 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.

.

This above verse presents a concept which transcends far beyond being merely a nice moral person: as far as Heaven is above the earth!

.

Cross of Jesus Christ – cropped – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.

.

.

.

.

.

 

PAUL LOST ALL 

.

But to merely preach a message about being a positive and upbeat individual, whose great purpose is to be successful (financially, morally, and socially), completely misses what Christ wants to do within the hearts of His Chosen vessels!

.

Listen to Paul’s further testimony… “Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, Philippians 3:8.

.

Does this sound like Paul was merely a good upstanding citizen?

.

Paul lost all earthly considerations, so that he might win Christ!

.

Paul Shipwrecked Acts 27:41-44-www.lavistachurchofchrist.org–public domain

.

.

.

.

. 

PAUL DESIRED TO DIE A DEEPER DEATH

.

Listen, as Paul continues… “That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.” Philippians 3:10, 11.

.

No, Paul was not satisfied with just a superficial relationship. His desire was to experience a deeper and deeper death-to-self, so that he might attain a greater and greater resurrected life!

.

Now granted, these ideas are not very pleasant for the natural mind to think about! But by the power of God’s Spirit of Holiness, the Believer willingly goes through a chastening process which continues through that Believer’s appointed time on earth. As the Believer grows in grace and in the knowledge of Jesus, God continues to chasten and purify the heart of that Christian.

.

And the end result is a life of joy and gratefulness to God for His mercy and grace upon that unworthy sinner!

.

Paul the Apostle-Artist-Valentin de Boulogne or Nicolas Tournier- circa 1500s

.

.

.

.

.

FAMILY VALUES, A SIDE-BENEFIT

.

Now, as far as family values, there is a side-benefit to this death-to-self crucifixion, which the Believer goes through.

.

Because, as the Believer becomes more and more in harmony with Christ, there will be an increasing servant-mentality within the heart of that child of God!

.

And of course, his or her family would naturally be the first to benefit from such a life of service. And because the Believer desires the Salvation of his or her family, that Christian will, more and more, lavish Christ’s love upon the various members of the family!

.

“Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in His ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table. Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the LORD.” Psalm 128: 1-4

.

This above passage is a wonderful promise, which every Believer can cling to!

.

Jesus the Carpenters Son-by-www.lavistachurchofchrist.org US public-domain.jpg

.

.

.

.

.

 

PAUL WORKED DAY AND NIGHT

.

But the Believer will no longer desire the attainment of earthly riches. And yet that Believer will desire to work hard at his job, so as to be a good witness to all! And that Christian will want to provide for all the needs of his family.

.

“And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you; That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.” 1st Thessalonians 4:11, 12  

.

This above passage presents the concept of living a no-nonsense life of industry and quietness.

.

Paul Tentmaking – cropped – La Vista Church of Christ – Creative Commons License

 

.

.

.

.

.

“EAT FOR STRENGTH” 

.

And of course, the Christian desires to become like Christ in every way. And so, that Believer will want to live as healthfully as possible, knowing that Jesus lived a life of health and strength.

.

Woe to thee, O land, when thy king is a child, and thy princes eat (feast) in the morning! Blessed art thou, O land, when thy king is the son of nobles, and thy princes eat in due season, for strength, and not for drunkenness!” Ecclesiastes 10:16, 17.

.

Yes, temperance is a vital part of Christianity, and is an outgrowth of one’s spirituality!  

.

Fruit Stall in Barcelona Market by Daderot – cropped – Wikipedia share-alike license

.

.

.

.

.

HALF-TRUTHS PREACHED

.

And so, this popular speaker was telling his audience much truth. Yes, his message of health, hard work and family values was correct, up to a certain point.

.

But his neglect to inform his audience of the death-to-self purification of the heart, will undoubtedly cause further destruction within the camp of God! And this popular speaker’s world-focused gospel will find its greatest appeal among those who desire to have Jesus, but still retain their earthly desires. 

.

Listen… “They (Antichrists) are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.” 1st John 4:5.

.

And such a double-minded gospel appeals to the world, who bring their world-loving ways into the Church.

.

Speaker & audience hands – Church – Audience hands – cropped/altered – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

“GOOD NEWS FROM A FAR COUNTRY!”

.

But there is some very good news! Yes, we still have opportunity to repent of our world-loving ways and turn to Him who is knocking at the door!

.

Listen… “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne.” Revelation 3:19-21.

.

This passage from Revelation has been especially written for God’s people who are living in these very times of church apostasy.

.

Prayer – Wikimedia – Public Domain

 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

TO READ PART 4, CLICK HERE…

June 13th (Power of Positive-Thinking Gospel, Part 4: This Wicked World)

Satan presiding at the Infernal Council – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

 .

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to fully understand what it means to be crucified with Christ. Let me not be drawn into a false gospel which is void of the “born again” experience…

Marine Praying – Wikimedia – USMC Public Domain

 

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “Fleeing to the Mountains, Part 3: The Abomination in My Heart” or you can also read… “November 25 – (How Narrow is the Narrow Gate?)“

Question book magnify svg – Wikimedia – GNU license

.

.

.

.

THE END

.

.

.

.

 

.

 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

 

 

.

.

.

THE HEEL OF JESUS FOOT

.

 

Now, as step back about several light-years, we can view the great “Son of Man Constellation”. And if we look at his right foot, it is revealed that this serpent is winding its way over the top of the heel of Jesus’ foot. Of course this reminds one of the very words of God, as He spoke to the serpent in the Garden… “And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed… And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise His heel.” Genesis 3:14, 15. Of course, this was a prophecy about Jesus, and how Satan would bruise His Heel.

.

And so it is no coincidence that God has arraigned the stars in such a way as to portray this concept, concerning the serpent bruising Christ’s heel.

 

.

.

.

WHERE IS THIS SERPENT GOING?

.

Now it appears as this snake/serpent and its passengers are on a mission. But where are they headed? Well the snake is travelling away from Christ’s heel, that is for sure. Well, if you go out at night and find this serpent Constellation, you will notice that the four stars which make its jaws are pointing in two directions.

.

In other words, if you were to draw a line from the two stars which compose its upper jaw, and a straight line from the two stars which compose its lower jaw, and extend those lines across the sky, one line would go to the Valley of Decision Constellation, while the other would go to the Broad Way to Hell Constellation (AKA Pisces).

 

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “The Five Wise Virgins Stars” or you can also read… “The Five Foolish Virgins Stars”

 

.

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

“June 12th (Jig-Saw Puzzle Jesus!)”

Jigsaw puzzle – Wikimedia Commons – public domain

 

.

.

.

.

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH 

.

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 STUDY #160 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

 

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

.

.

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo. Most tall, narrow photos have been cropped or reduced by this website to make them a better fit on phone screens.

.

.

.

Today’s Devotional – June 10th

.

.

.

. 

Power of Positive-Thinking Gospels,

.

Part 2

“Our Children!”

To read part 1, click here…June 9th (The Power of Positive-Thinking Gospels! Part 1)

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

“And He (Jesus) said unto them (Joseph & Mary),

How is it that ye sought Me?

Wist ye not that I must be about My Father’s business?”

Luke 2:49

Jesus the Carpenters Son by – www.lavistachurchofchrist.org US public-domain.jpg

.

.

.

.

.

.

 

Several nights ago, a very popular Christian speaker held a large convocation with a vast throng of tens of thousands of listeners.

.

And this evangelist gave a very high-energy presentation, with a very positive message. 

.

Well, the gist of what he said is, “We need to think positive, speak positive, and believe positively, that God has good things in store for us here on earth!” Yes, this popular speaker continued to present a message about achieving our earthly dreams: earthly dreams for ourselves and for our families.

.

Above picture not connected with this story – church service by Matt Malone for Wikimedia copyrighted

.

.

.

.

.

“SMOOTHER THAN BUTTER!”

.

“The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.” Psalm 55:21

.

This extravaganza was filled with short, but uplifting testimonies, a high-energy, upbeat rock band, attractive women, well-timed jokes, and smoother-than-butter preaching!

.

Well, needless to say, this presentation was received with no lack of enthusiasm!

.

The vast audience, thousands strong, seemed mesmerized, yet ecstatic about this uplifting and upbeat message! The night was a huge success!

.

ABOVE PHOTO: Speaker and Audience hands – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

FAMILY VALUES

.

Now, because one of the main focuses of that message was on good health, prosperity, but also about family values, today’s devotional will deal with the question of children, and how we raise them.

. 

There is a growing consensus that our society is fast becoming a veritable Sodom & Gomorrah! Decadence and perversion are rapidly becoming the order of the day!

.

And with the advent of modern high-tech devices, there doesn’t seem to be much hope for raising our children to love the Lord, and to escape the current wave of moral degeneracy, which is just now sweeping over the land like a giant tsunami!

.

And so, this question of family values becomes a very critical question! Just how do we raise our children to “escape all these things, and to stand before the Son of Man”? Luke 21:36

.

.

.

.

.

THE SINS OF SODOM

.

Well, one thing is for sure! We should not raise them to love the sins of Sodom!

.

Now there are many who do not understand just what the sins of Sodom were. But listen to what God has to say about this… “Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. And they were haughty, and committed abomination before Me: therefore I took them away as I saw good.” Ezekiel 16:49, 50

.

The fact is, the very first two sins mentioned were “pride”, and “fullness of bread”. And unfortunately, today’s churches do not understand that these two sins are exactly what we are teaching our children to love. Yes, when we encourage our children to go out and obtain a high-paying career, we are unknowingly encouraging them to go after the very same sins of opulence, which sins led to the downfall of Sodom, and ultimately led to her fiery destruction!

.

And sadly, this prosperity-driven gospel being embraced in the churches today, is giving our children exactly the wrong idea of what it means to be Christ-like!

.

 People on Times Square – cropped – Wikimedia Commons – Share-Alike License

.

.

.

.

.

CHRIST & PAUL: OUR ROLE-MODELS

.

Well, for one thing, the Christian should not be afraid to forsake the life of pleasure and proud pursuits, and order his or her life after the Divine Pattern of Jesus Christ. Well, that’s what Paul did!

.

Listen to Paul’s testimony… “Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,” Philippians 3:8

.

Yes, Paul became poor in the eyes of the world, all for the sake of winning Christ. Yes, Paul lost all earthly glory and all worldly possessions, in hopes that the world might see Christ in him; and this became the over-arching desire of Paul’s life.

.

And Paul encourages us by saying… “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” 1st Corinthians 11:1

.

Paul Shipwrecked Acts 27:41-44-www.lavistachurchofchrist.org–public domain

.

.

.

.

.

DEATH-TO-SELF BRINGS GOD’S BLESSINGS 

.

You see, we can try to give our children a Wonder-World Theme-Park existence, attempting to turn their life into one continuous round of picnics, parties, sports, vacations, amusements, and whatever else we think will make them happy and well-adjusted.

.

But that will not save their soul! No, true Salvation is the gift of God! And yet, God gives us hope, that by my own personal obedience, He will bless my children, as result!

.

Listen… “Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in His ways…Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table. Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the LORD. Yea, thou shalt see thy children’s children, and peace upon Israel.” Psalm 128:1, 3, 4, 6

.

As this above passage reveals, it is by walking in the way of Jesus, God will bless our family.

.

Castle of Disney – Wikipedia – Public dom.

.

.

.

.

. 

TRUE RICHES: EVERLASTING LIFE!

.

“In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made each one for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats; To go into the clefts of the ragged rocks, for fear of the LORD, and for the glory of His majesty, when He ariseth to shake terribly the earth.” Isaiah 2:20, 21

.

So just what day is this above prophecy speaking of?

.

Obviously, it is speaking of these last days!

.

Yes, this is very Good News! After all, it says here that God’s people will finally wake up and realize that we cannot please God, while seeking after earthly Mammon!

.

And it reveals that God’s people will finally realize that the Salvation of our children will only be accomplished when we finally decide to order our lives after the pattern of Christ!

.

And it reveals that God’s people will finally realize that Everlasting Life is worth everything, and that pursuing the gold of this world, is like seeking after Fool’s Gold!

.

.

Yes, Everlasting Life! Now that’s true riches!

.

Christ’s Return by Jan Luyken – Wikipedia – Public domain

.

.

.

.

.

.

Just listen to the serious-minded words of the young lad, Jesus (the role-model for us and our children)…

“And He (Jesus) said unto them (Joseph & Mary),

How is it that ye sought Me?

Wist ye not that I must be about My Father’s business?”

Luke 2:49

Jesus the Carpenters Son by – www.lavistachurchofchrist.org US public-domain.jpg

.

.

.

.

.

TO READ PART 3, CLICK HERE…

June 11th (Power of Positive Thinking Gospels, Part 3: Being Crucified )

Crucifixion of Peter – Caravaggio Martirio di San Pietro – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

 

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to love the idea of forsaking all, to follow Jesus. Help me to set a good example for my family, as I conform my life to the pattern and image of Jesus Christ…

.

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “November 23 – (The Two Spirits In The World)“ or you can also read… “November 25 – (How Narrow is the Narrow Gate?)“

Question book magnify svg – Wikimedia – GNU license

 

.

.

.

.

THE END

.

.

.

.

 

 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

 

.

.

.

 

THE NARROW WAY: THE PILGRIM’S PATHWAY

.

“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” Matthew 7:13-14 

.

That world-shaking allegory, Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan, picked up the theme of the Narrow Gate. The hero of the story was Christian, a man who was warned to flee from the City of Destruction (the world), and to embark on a journey to the Heavenly City. And along the way, Christian encountered many adventures and dangers. This first of its kind allegorical book absolutely rocked the western world, and became perhaps the first million seller book (along with the Bible).

.

But God has also given this same Narrow Way parable in the night heavens! Incredible? Yes, incredible…and amazing too! And though these two stars can hardly be considered a constellation, but when sitting next to the two stars which comprise the Broad Gate, well, it makes a powerful statement, for the people of God. 

.

So please come along on this journey and find out just why this pathway graces the night heavens, and perhaps you might find yourself embarking on your own pilgrimage up that very same Narrow pathway.

.

John Bunyan – Wikipedia – Public Domain

Pilgrim’s Progress Enters The Wicket Gate-Wikipedia public domain

.

.

.

 

LOCATION

.

This most amazing phenomenon is seen throughout the winter. Although it can be observed most of the winter, it is seen best when it is the western part of the sky, at winter’s end (The end of winter being the final scene of this heavenly Gospel story). Orion , the Dragon, and the Glorious White Horse are beginning to descend into the western horizon (sketch to right is Winter Constellations descending into western horizon. This can actually be seen as early as December, in the pre-dawn hours).

.

And at this point it is apparent that the Fleeing Woman of Revelation 12 Constellation  is veering toward the two bright stars, known as Castor and Pollux (sketch to left). But the Wide Gate Stars are composed of the two brightest stars of the Auriga Constellation, known as the star, Capella, and the star, Menkalinan. The two stars, Castor and Pollux, make up the concept of the Orion’s Narrow Gate Stars.

.

This can even be observed into June in the western sky (for a short time just after dark). While a dark night is best for seeing the Woman Constellation, the 4 stars which comprise the Narrow Gate/Wide Gate Stars can be seen even under mediocre conditions. It begins with the Fleeing Woman of Revelation 12 Constellation (AKA Ursa Major) going towards these two doors.

.

The sketch to left shows, the two doors are each composed of two bright stars. The two bright stars that comprise the Narrow Gate are the two brightest stars of the Orion the Reaper’s sickle. The two stars that comprise the ‘Wide Gate’ Stars are the two brightest stars of the wave of water that comes out of the Dragon Constellation’s mouth (for explanation of “Wave of Water”, just click here). The stars that make up the ‘Narrow Gate’ are about half the width of the Wide Gate (see sketch below left).

.

.

(For more information on Orion’s sickle, just click here,“Orion The Reaper”.)

.

Editor’s note: These sketches on this page are merely sketches. The stars are not in their exact place. However, they are close enough to find them in the night sky. But as with most stars, it takes persistence to finally locate them.

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “Revelation 12 Woman & The Narrow Gate Stars (Orion’s Gate to Heaven)” or you can also read… “Castor and Pollux & The Mystery Ship of Scripture”

 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

“June 11th (Power of Positive Thinking Gospels & Being Crucified )”

Crucifixion-darkness-Gustave-Dore-Wikipedia-US-Public-Domain

.

.

.

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH 

.

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 STUDY #159 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

 

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

.

.

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo. Most tall, narrow photos have been cropped or reduced by this website to make them a better fit on phone screens.

.