.

.

Today’s Devotional – August 3rd

.

.

.

.

“Happy, Happy, Happy!”

.

.

.

.

A certain man was explaining to his neighbor, who was from the Far East, the ways in which he could find more happiness and fulfillment in life. And afterward, the neighbor retorted… “Happy, Happy, Happy! You Americans are always about, ‘Happy, Happy, Happy!'” Of course this reaction brought the whole conversation to a swift end, no doubt!

.

.

.

.

A very popular preacher has a You-Tube video sermon on the subject of “Christian joy”. And he made a very compelling plea to his audience, that they should be, “rejoicing in the Lord always”!

.

Of course he never once mentioned what Peter says, “…you…Who are kept by the power of God…Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:” 1st Peter 1:4-6

.

No, this You-Tube video never mentioned this above verse, nor the many other similar passages in the Bible, which speak of sadness and sorrow.

.

Audience hands – cropped & altered – Wikimedia – Universal Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

“Though ye be in heaviness…”

.

What this preacher did not realize is, that more than at any time in history, God is now sending His people through manifold trials and temptations!

.

God is preparing His people to stand in a day when the world will be falling! And as Peter puts it, “Though ye be in heaviness, through manifold temptations.”

.

Girl Praying – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S HEDONISTIC SOCIETY!

.

We live in a very opulent, decadent, hedonistic, lots-of-laughs, lots-of excitement culture!

.

And we Christians get bombarded 24/7/365, with the world’s version of what happiness is supposed to be all about! And it rubs off on us, doesn’t it?

.

We look at the TV, and it’s so often about, “Happy, Happy, Happy”, for the most part, isn’t it?

.

And those in the Church, who are “at ease in Zion”, laugh and joke along with the world! They are not at all “grieved for the affliction of Joseph!” Amos 6:6 (Joseph here being a figure of our suffering Lord, and His afflicted people)

.

Hands Toasting Drinks – Cheers! – cropped image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution 2.0

.

.

.

.

.

 

WE MUST WALK, EVEN AS JESUS WALKED!

.

What this You-Tuber does not consider is what John says… “He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.” 1st John 2:6.  

.

I cannot claim to have an abiding walk with Jesus, and then walk as the world walks! No, but I must walk as Jesus walked! And that includes my Christ-like conduct in all my thoughts, words, and deeds!

.

And let’s face it! Christ was called… “a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief…Surely He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows…But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:3-5.

.

Carrying the Cross on our behalf was not always “happy, happy, happy!” No, Christ shed many tears on our behalf. Oh yes, He had an inner peace and joy and hope: and they shone out from Him, like beams of light through a veil of tears!

.

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

.

.

.

.

.

A TIME TO MOURN, AND A TIME TO DANCE!

.

Was Jeremiah’s message a happy message? Well just read Jeremiah, and put the word, “churches” in place of the word “Jerusalem”, or “Judah”, etc., and see what Jeremiah’s message would sound like today! And there were false teachers back in Jeremiah’s day, who were preaching this same, “Happy, Happy, Happy” message, as many preach today!

.

They just didn’t understand this verse… “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven…A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance…a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing…a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.” Ecclesiastes 3:1, 3-8.

.

As this reveals, Christianity is not always a place of happiness and celebration! There are times when God’s people must go through heavy trials, and possibly even be cast down for a time, from the Lord, because of our sins and world-loving ways!

.

Cry of prophet Jeremiah on the Ruins of Jerusalem – Wikiart – US Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

“…But the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.”

Ecclesiastes 7:4 

.

And we must remember that “the god of this world”, Lucifer, now called Satan, is also “that spirit which now works in the children of disobedience” (2nd Corinthians 4:4 & Ephesians 2:2).

.

And so we should not be surprised that his Antichrist spirit is now working in the lives of unbelievers (and “make-believers”), to give a little polish and shine to this rebellious world.

.

And thus filled with the spirit of the world, unbelievers are often seen laughing and joking and partying, and back-slapping, and seemingly having a really good time!

.

Little do they know that their laughter and gaiety is, as the Wise Man put it, “as the crackling of thorns under a pot, so is the laughter of the fool: this also is vanity (worthless).” Ecclesiastes 7:6 

.

Yes, God, through Solomon, is trying to make us realize that this world is laughing as they go on their way, only to one day soon, wake up before the judgment throne of God!   

.

Hands Toasting Drinks – Cheers! – cropped image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution 2.0

Laughing – (cropped and color added) – Fotothek df roe neg – Wikimedia – Share-alike License

.

.

.

.

.

NOT AN EARTHLY JOY

.

Yes, O trembling child of God! We can have joy, even amidst those heavy trials we are presently going through.

.

But as Paul puts it… “…as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing;” 2nd Corinthians 6:9, 10. 

.

Here Paul is explaining the great paradox of the Christian life: “As sorrowful, yet always rejoicing!”

.

Munch – Det Syke Barn – 1896 – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

DYING TO SELF

.

And so, this You-Tuber is seeing one part of Scripture, but he is not properly balancing all that the Bible has to say on the subject (perhaps he balances these things properly in other of his videos).

.

His appeal to his mostly You-Tube audience is actually an appeal to the carnal heart! Because, the carnal heart seeks worldly happiness, prosperity, health, and political peace and security!

.

But the carnal heart doesn’t understand that Christ wants us to put the Old Man (our carnal nature) to a complete and utter death, so that the New Man, Christ, can live out His life through us!

.

Braet von Überfeldt – Woman with Bible – 1866 – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

SHALL DOUBTLESS COME AGAIN REJOICING!

.

But, in all this negativity, there is a hopeful message in which to rejoice!

.

The Lord is still calling us to, “Go and sell that ye have, and give to the poor, and ye shall have treasure in Heaven, and Come, follow Me!” Luke 18:22.

.

And though the upward pathway to Heaven is often a “trail of tears”, yet we have this promise… “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” Psalm 126:5, 6

.

Jesus Discourses with His Disciples – James Tissot – by Brooklyn Museum – by Wikipedia – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

 

TO READ PART 2, GO HERE…

August 4th (Happy, Happy, Happy! Part 2)

Laughing – (cropped and color added) – Fotothek df roe neg – Wikimedia – Share-alike License

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to become Christ-like in every way. Keep me from mingling the sacred with the common. Let all the world see the fullness of Christ within me… 

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “Ark of the Covenant Constellation, Pt. 2: How To Enter The Most Holy Place” or you can also read… “March 1st (A Designer Jesus!)“

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)

 

.

.

.

.

ORION, THE GOOD SHEPHERD

.

.

This star-chart from Wikipedia, has Orion sketched in by the editor of this website. With the addition of a single star, Theta Geminorum (the left hand of the Castor twin of Gemini), the sickle in Orion, the Reaper’s hand (sketch to left), now extends the blade, thus transforming that sickle into the hook of a shepherd’s rod and staff. And so now this little Gemini star becomes the tip of Orion’s Shepherd’s rod & staff. Thus with this additional star, Orion the Reaper Constellation now becomes the 5th personality of Orion: The Good Shepherd (sketch below right). Theta Geminorum is a class A3, 4th magnitude star, which means it is much fainter than either of the stars, Castor or Pollux. But faint as This little star may be, it nevertheless presents a giant concept, turning Orion’s sickle into a shepherd’s rod. And this is a very wonderful and beautiful Bible truth: namely, that Jesus is the Good Shepherd, as is written…

.

.

“As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out My sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day.” Ezekiel 34:12 

.

And so God has placed this Starry Shepherd in the winter-night heavens to remind us of His great love for a planet which has wandered away: just like sheep that wandered to where the grass looked greener.

.

Orion the reaper – Wikipedia star-chart (with the Reaper drawn over by this website)

ABOVE WIKIPEDIA STAR-CHART – winter – Orion the Good Shepherd (Orion Constellation and rod made of Gemini stars) – www.signsofheaven.org

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “Orion, The Good Shepherd” 

.

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

“August 4th (Happy, Happy, Happy! Part 2)”

Laughing – (cropped and color added) – Fotothek df roe neg – Wikimedia – Share-alike License

.

 

.

.

.

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

.

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

.

THIS IS STUDY #213 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

.

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 – August 2nd

.

.

.

.

The War On The KJV,

.

Part 2

To read Part 1, click here… August 1st (The War Against The KJV) .

.

.

.

.

.

The comic book character, Superman, one time, had to spin the entire world in reverse, making time go backwards, in order to save his girlfriend. 

.

Well, that’s not so unthinkable.

.

After all, God made the earth stand still an entire day, in order to save His Bride-to-be, the Church! (see Joshua 10:12)

.

Joshua Commands Sun To Stand Still – J. Martin – Wikipedia – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

SATAN’S WAR COUNCILS 

.

Fortunately, Satan is not so powerful as God. He can’t make the world stand still. But Satan has done the next best thing to the King James Bible. 

.

So, you are probably asking yourself, “What in the world is this guy talking about!?!” 

.

Well, just think about it! The King James Bible has stood unmovable for over 400 years. And Satan cannot change the words of that version, no matter how hard he undoubtedly tried over the centuries.

.

But Satan has done the next best thing! He and his vast army have changed the English language, so as to make the KJV as obsolete as he possibly can! Just think about it! Satan and his fellow “workers-of-iniquity” have introduced new meanings to old words, so as to make that version seem crazy, laughable, obscene, and as confusing as possible!

.

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

.

.

.

.

.

SOME PERVERTED NAMES

.

Take, for instance, the word for donkey, “Ass”. Satan has perverted that word, so that it’s a present-day vulgarity! And now, a person with a young or immature mind cannot read the many verses with the word, “Ass” without giggling!

.

And that’s not the only example! There are many others!

.

Take the names, “Jesus” and “God”. Those two names have become the curse words, used in anger, for most of the English-speaking cultures!

.

Or how about the name for restraints, “Thongs”. Listen to the book of Acts… “And as they bound him with THONGS, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned?” Acts 22:25. Nowadays that verse is considered a lewd joke, or causing young people to go saucer-eyed upon hearing it!

.

Mocking Bird Argument – cropped photo – Wikimedia – Share-alike License

.

.

.

.

.

BIBLE WARNS ABOUT THESE THINGS!

.

Well, there are many other similar perversions of the English language, but too many undesirable ideas have already been mentioned in this expose´!

.

But as you study your KJV, you will see some of these words and names which Satan has morphed over the centuries! After all, the Bible warns us about these things…

.

Listen… “The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood:” Proverbs 12:6

.

Yes, the words are reinvented by Satan, so as to trip people up!

.

You see, Satan fully understands that the King James Version has been a veritable-unmovable-rock, for 400 years, now! It has been the standard for most all other versions to be measured by! And so, if Satan can finally shake the Christian-world’s confidence in that version, then all we end up with is, hundreds of poor-to-mediocre versions of the Bible, which say a whole lot of different things! There will be no more rock-solid standard, as the King James Version has been!

.

ABOVE PICTURE: Holy Bible – cropped image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Lic.

.

.

.

.

TO READ PART 3, CLICK HERE…

August 14th (The War on the KJV, Part 3)

King James Bible – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to understand the King James Version. Help me to find a nice study Bible, with a section that interprets all those Old English words…

Prayer-for-USA-Wikimedia–300×192

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “March 13th (Planet Earth: Devil’s Island!)”, or you can also read… “July 22nd (Pocket Bible Witnessing!)”

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)

 

.

.

.

 FLOOD WATERS…

.

No matter where this constellation is in the night sky, this wave of water is always going towards the path of the Woman of Revelation 12 (Flees to the Wilderness). This wave of water is made of the Auriga Constellation plus two fainter stars closer to the Dragon’s mouth. Let’s see what Scripture has to say about flood waters.  

.

“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 12:12. 

.

 

So what do these flood waters represent?  

.

Does the Bible have anything to say about Satan’s flood-waters?         

 .

ABOVE PICTURE: The Revelation 12 Dragon Constellation – winter – Signs Of Heaven.org

.

.

.

.

.

LOCATING THE DRAGON

.

The tip of the Dragon’s tail is composed of that star-cluster known as The Pleiades. The Pleiades is actually in the shape of a lion’s furry tassel tip of his tail. The sketch below shows this Pleiades as the tail tip.

.

Now with aid of a dark starry night, you may begin to connect this mouth and the tail with a very long body in an oval shape. The front and back legs are very well-defined with stars. The front legs are made partially of Taurus. The back legs and rear fin are made of the Cetus Constellation. But the long oval-shaped body has relatively few stars, but can been seen, howbeit with a dark starry night. The four stars of the front fins are made partially of Taurus. This Dragon constellation appears in the eastern horizon about mid-summer in the pre-dawn hours, spewing his flood-waters northward toward the Woman of Revelation 12 (Woman in Travail). The Wave of Water is primarily composed of the Constellation Auriga. The are two more less bright stars which are closest to the Dragon’s mouth. These two dimmer stars are also part of this Wave of Water.

.

ABOVE PICTURE: The Revelation 12 Dragon Constellation – winter – Signs Of Heaven.org

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “Flood Waters of Satan-Introduction” 

.

.

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

“August 3rd (Happy, Happy, Happy!)”

Laughing – (cropped and color added) – Fotothek df roe neg – 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 #212 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 – August 1st

.

.

.

.

The War Against The KJV

.

.

.

.

.

“I just can’t understand all the KJV’s archaic language!” 

.

Isn’t this the mantra which commonly echoes throughout the hallowed halls of today’s Christianity?

.

Yes, for the vast majority of churchgoers, the King James Version of the Bible is a bar-set-too-high! The “Thee’s” and Thou’s” and words that end with “th”, instead of “s” are just a bridge-too-far!

.

King James Bible – cropped image – Wikimedia Commons – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

NEW TRANSLATIONS = MORE PROFITS!

.

And of course, this is good news for Bible publishers! Because it means more profits from the publishing of many new translations. And so, every year it seems, some new translation which promises to be easier to read is churned out, and frustrated Bible readers scramble to lay hold on that new version, in hopes that it will clear up the confusion.

.

This dilemma reminds us of that verse from Isaiah… “…the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver to one that is learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I cannot; for it is sealed: And the book is delivered to him that is not learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I am not learned.” Isaiah 29:12

.

Christian Bookstore – Appleton Wisconsin – cropped image – Wikimedia – Share-alike License

.

.

.

.

.

CONFUSION IS IN THE MIND!

.

But the fact is, a good part of the confusion is in our minds! Not in the version!

.

That’s right, there are far too many churchgoers who have not yet become true disciples of Jesus, simply because we are trying to serve God one day per week, while attempting to hold on to our weekday gods, too! And such a divided heart will not enjoy the fellowship of the Spirit. 

.

Listen… “For let not that (double-minded) man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.” James 1:7, 8

.

No, the double-minded man cannot expect to understand God’s Word. And so, very many such, try to skirt around this problem by getting some new version of the Bible, or buying some new book about the Bible, in hopes of finally clearing away the fog of confusion which hangs over us.

.

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

.

.

.

.

.

“GOOD NEWS FROM A FAR COUNTRY!”

Proverbs 25:25

.

But the very Good News is, that God is a merciful God! And those of us who are still being assaulted by Satan’s attacks can fall to the ground (spiritually, not literally), and plead for God to give us an undivided heart! Yes, the life of a true-worshipper of God is an ongoing life of repentance and the humbling of the heart! And none of us can hold our head up high!

.

Especially in this day of great apostasy, there is none who can ignore such passages as this… “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 4:8-10

.

And then, with hearts aglow by God’s indwelling Spirit, the child of God can begin to spend an hour or two per day, doing his or her necessary daily study. And gradually, that Bible student will begin to understand more and more verses and passages which once seemed impossible!

.

David’s sorrow – Wikigallery – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

TO READ PART 2, CLICK HERE…

August 2nd (The War On The KJV, Part 2)

King James Bible – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to have an undivided heart. Give me the gift of wisdom, true Bible wisdom. Give me such a love for Bible study, that I literally spend much time each day, studying Thy wonderful Word…

USMC prayer before study Wikimedia Public-Domain

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “December 30  (A Supernatural Book!)“ or you can also read… “June 28th (The Lost Keys of Heaven!)”

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 WISE VIRGINS STARS

(WIKIPEDIA STAR-CHART)

.

 

This constellation was identified on May 22nd, 2014. It is simply five stars, two from the Serpens Constellation, and three from the Hercules Constellation. 

.

What gives this constellation impetus and significance is that it appears as five evenly positioned stars, in a slight oval pattern, as if they were sitting in a meeting, listening, or perhaps watching someone.

.

Second, they appear to be gathered in front of The Crown of Revelation 12 Constellation. (just below Corona Borealis in this Wikipedia star-chart, in which the editor of this site sketched in these two constellations)

.

ABOVE STAR-CHART – Summer constellation – Five Wise Virgins Stars & The Glorious Crown – Corona Borealis – signsofheaven.org – Not for profit uses! – Wikipedia Star chart with constellations drawn in by this website.

.

.

.

.

.

GATHERED AROUND THE GLORIOUS CROWN!

.

The position of these stars is significant in a number of ways. The first, being that these Five Wise Virgins are gathered around the 12-star Crown of Revelation 12. And the obvious message here is, that these wise virgins represent the faithful portion of God’s Church. And as wise virgins, they understand the importance of winning the glorious crown of victory, which Jesus promised.

.

Listen… “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.” 1st Corinthians 9:24, 25. 

.

And so, God is showing us the difference between the wise and the foolish in His Church. While the wise are gathered around this crown of victory, the foolish are nowhere to be found. This is because the foolish in the Church are much more concerned about the world, with all its pleasures and pursuits. They have little or no time to devote themselves to the pursuit of the treasures of Heaven! They pride themselves into believing that their industrious work-ethics have God’s approval. But God merely sees them only as workers of iniquity.

.

Listen… “An high look, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sin.” Proverbs 21:4

.

Corona Borealis/Bootes & Five Wise Virgins – Wikimedia

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

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

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

“August 2nd (The War On The KJV, Part 2)”

King James Bible – 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 #211 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 – July 31st

.

.

.

.

Most Misquoted Bible Verse Award!

.

.

.

.

.

Every year, the movie industry presents awards for the best movies produced that year. This has been going on since 1929. And in these awards, various aspects of movie production are also given awards. 

.

Now this gala event gets plenty of promotion and publicity, so that it is a highly anticipated event!

.

Of course, like so much of what Mankind attempts to do, rumor has it that there is a great deal of politics, personal prejudices, and political correctness mingled into these awards, thus giving them a somewhat tarnished reputation. 

.

Academy Awards Ceremony – cropped image – Wikipedia – GNU Limited Use License.

.

.

.

.

.

MOST MIS-QUOTED BIBLE VERSE AWARD!

.

But this is not the reason for bringing up this subject. No, the reason for even mentioning this, is to suggest that perhaps an award presentation should be given to various Bible productions.

.

Yes, and one of the awards might be for the following category: “The Most Mis-quoted Bible Verse.”

.

So, what verse would you nominate, as the most mis-quoted Bible verse?

.

Book of Isaiah – cropped image – Wikimedia – C.C. Share-alike License

.

.

.

.

.

THE WINNER! 2nd CORINTHIANS 5:8!

.

How about this verse, a statement by Paul… “To be absent from the body, is to be present with the Lord”? Yes, this verse is perhaps the most mis-quoted of all Bible verses! Have you ever heard this verse accurately quoted by a Bible teacher?

.

Actually, the correct quote is… “We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” 2nd Corinthians 5:8

.

Yes, this verse is almost always misquoted by Bible teachers! But why? Why do they always seem to mis-quote this verse?

.

Paul the Apostle – Artist – Valentin de Boulogne or Nicolas Tournier – circa 1500s – Wikipedia – public domain

.

.

.

.

.

PUSHING CHURCH DOCTRINES

.

The answer is simple! It is because the correct Bible verse quote does not confirm the long-held traditional church-doctrine that current Bible teachers are trying to hold on to. Yes, the great traditional understanding in Christendom is, that when a Christian dies, he or she goes immediately to Heaven, and is in a conscious state-of-being up there!

.

But the problem is, there is no verse in the Bible which makes that exact statement. And so, Bible teachers take this verse from 2nd Corinthians, and purposely mis-quote it, so that they can have a stronger verse to make an irrefutable confirmation regarding the traditionally held church doctrine, that Christians go straight to a conscious existence in Heaven, the moment they die!

.

.

.

.

.

2nd Corinthians 5:8 NOT PROOF OF INSTANT CONSCIOUSNESS IN HEAVEN

.

Now, you can hardly blame these modern-day teachers for mis-quoting this verse to support their church-doctrine. They instinctively understand that this verse does not definitevely prove of an, “instant, conscious existence in Heaven” upon the moment of the death of a Believer. For example, the following statement, “I would rather be absent from the South Pole, and present in Hawaii”, does not necessarily prove that absence from the South Pole necessitates being in Hawaii. No, it simply means you’d rather be out of one place and present in another place, even if it takes time to get to that new place. 

.

As a matter of fact, Green’s Interlinear Greek/English New Testament translates this verse something like this: “we are fully assured, then, and are pleased rather to go away from home out of the body, and to come home to the Lord.”.

.

And so, according to Green’s Interlinear Greek/English New Testament, this verse actually demands an intermittent traveling time between one place into the other place! 

.

ABOVE PICTURE: Holy Bible – cropped image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Lic.

.

.

.

.

.

HONESTY MORE IMPORTANT THAN DOCTRINE

.

Now this daily devotional is not so concerned as to whether or not Christians actually go straight to a conscious existence in Heaven when they die. And yes, there are a number of verses which seem to suggest that Christians do go straight to a conscious existence in Heaven, the moment of death.

.

But on the other hand, there are far more verses that seem to suggest that Christians remain in an UN-conscious state of being, until they are resurrected on the Last Day!

.

And so, the real point of today’s devotional is not to prove one school of thought or the other, concerning this question. But the point of today’s devotional is to ask the questions, “Why not just quote this verse correctly? Why is it so important to prove one’s own personal interpretation? Why not just quote this verse correctly, and “let the chips fall where they may”, as the saying goes?”

.

Second Coming – by Jan Luyken – Wikipedia – Public domain

.

.

.

.

.

WRESTLING WITH SCRIPTURE

.

“As also in all (Paul’s) epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.” 2nd Peter 3:16

.

God has purposely made some things hard to be understood, as this above passage reveals! God has purposely written the Bible as a test for us. And so, it is far more important to be totally honest and forthright, than it is to convince others of my own personal viewpoint on what the Bible says! 

.

The fact is, there are many Bible truths which God has not made clear! And this is one of those! Yes, God has written about this in such a way, that it is not perfectly clear. There are just far too many verses which seem to confirm that Christians sleep in the dust of the earth until Christ returns. But theologians try too hard to wrestle with the Bible in attempt to prove their own personal biased viewpoint!

.

.

.

.

.

.

POLITICS & PERSONAL PREJUDICE

.

But really, why get so dogmatic about it? Why not just say, “I don’t know”? or to say, “There are two schools of thought on this topic”.

.

And what does it matter anyway, exactly how and when Christians are to be resurrected? Either way, it will seem like we close our eyes in death, and open them up, in the twinkling of an eye! Even if a person spent a thousand years in the grave, he or she wouldn’t be conscious that any time had passed, till they opened their eyes in the resurrection!

.

Yes, the Academy Awards is not the only presentation corrupted by politics and prejudices! Bible teaching presentations are also quite often tainted by the same politics and personal prejudices!

.

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

.

.

.

.

.

EXERCISING STRICT INTEGRITY

.

And so, the real critically important thing is, that we exercise total integrity, when teaching Bible doctrines! And instead of saying, “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord”, it would be far safer to merely quote the verse correctly. Just say, “We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” 2nd Corinthians 5:8. 

.

Paul here, is merely trying to convey his preference between the two choices of where he would like to be! And so, we just cannot let our politics and personal prejudices, or even age-old Church traditions cause us to set aside strict integrity, when teaching others!

.

Or perhaps you might simply say, “In my opinion, the Bible seems to suggest…this idea or that idea.”  Whenever the Bible is unclear, and has verses that seem to contradict each other, we need to make that perfectly clear to our listeners. The best and most honest thing to do, would be to present all the related verses, and simply let the hearers make up their own minds!

.

USMC prayer before study Wikimedia Public-Domain

.

.

.

.

.

JUDGMENT DAY

.

Yes, just quote this verse correctly, and let people make up their own minds, as to just what God is trying to tell us!

.

And then we won’t have to hang our heads in shame on Judgment Day, when God calls us to account for our integrity in these matters! And He will!

.

“My brethren, be not many masters (teachers), knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.” James 3:1  

.

Global Warning – cropped image – Judgment – Christ Coming by Julian Osley – Wikimedia – Share Alike License

.

.

.

.

.

“GOOD NEWS FROM A FAR COUNTRY!”

Proverbs 25:25

.

The very good news is, that God is graciously granting us the opportunity to make any necessary changes in the way we teach others!

.

And so, we all just need to back up, and ask God to help us correct these errors, while we’re still in the Day of Grace! 

.

“Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in Thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my Redeemer.” Psalm 19:14 

.

David’s sorrow – Wikigallery – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

.

“Marvel not at this:

for the hour is coming,

in the which all that are in the graves

shall hear His voice,

 And shall come forth;

they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life;

and they that have done evil,

unto the resurrection of damnation.

John 5:28. 29 

.

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Give me a love for truth. Keep me from all dishonesty. Let me be faithful in the least of matters…

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

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “April 2nd (Add Thou Not!)”, or you can also read… “November 22 – (The Greatest Jig-saw Puzzle Ever!)“

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 SIGN OF THE SON OF MAN IN HEAVEN”

.

“And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” Matthew 24:30 

.

When God promised that “there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars;” Luke 21:25, we didn’t remember that, “the works were finished from the foundation of the world.” Hebrews 4: The Signs Of Heaven were already created from the foundation of the world. But as we have learned in the past, God often works in ways we aren’t expecting, or looking for. For instance, at the first Advent, Jesus came in a way that nobody was expecting. There was a general consensus amongst the theologians in those days, that the Messiah would come with conquering armies to overtake the enemies of the Jews. And of course, the quiet and gentle manner in which Jesus did actually come took everyone by surprise.

.

.

.

.

.

LOOSING THE BANDS OF ORION 

.

God spoke several times of Orion, in Scripture. His question to Job was a very mystifying question, to say the least… “Canst thou…loose the bands of Orion?” Job 38:31. Such a strange question, indeed! How could a constellation have its bands loosed, much less, even have bands? Puzzling, puzzling!

.

But now, He is revealing this bright and beautiful constellation in a way that has never before been seen. God Himself is loosing Orion’s bands, as He is just now unraveling this age-old mystery. And we are beginning to understand that this most infamous of all constellations is nothing less than a remarkable metaphor concerning Jesus.   

.

ABOVE PICTURE – winter constellations – Orion & Revelation 12 Dragon (Hyades, Pleiades, etc…) seen at Eagle Ridge – Signs Of Heaven.org – Not for profit use!

.

.

.

.

.

THE 5 OFFICES OF ORION

.

But like most of the other Signs which this website reveals, Orion too, has much more to say as he changes his position in the sky.

.

And this Soldier in the Heavens puts on different garb, as he presents the five awesome aspects of his various offices. From ‘Orion the Soldier’, and ‘Orion the Reaper’, and ‘Orion the Archer’, and ‘The Cross of Orion’, and last but certainly not least, “Orion, The Good Shepherd”. This amazing constellation presents a very complex revelation of the God’s magnificent love for a fallen planet.

.

ABOVE PICTURE – winter – Orion the Good Shepherd – www.signsofheaven.org

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “The Orion Phenomena”

.

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

“August 1st (The War Against The KJV)”

King James Bible – 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 #210 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 names, details, and tags, and all other necessary info 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 – July 30th

.

.

.

.

A HEAVENLY HOBBY

.

.

.

.

“Lift up your eyes on high,

and behold Who hath created these things;

that brings out their host by number:

He calls them all by names

by the greatness of His might,

for that He is strong in power;

not one faileth.”

Isaiah 40:26

.

.

.

.

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

.

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

.

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

.

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

.

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

.

.

.

.

.

“AND WHEN YE SEE THESE THINGS…

.

LOOK UP, LIFT UP YOUR HEAD!!!”

.

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

.

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

.

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

.

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

.

Thus will the Christian be able to share this message with others. And there are perhaps many nuances and hidden biblical truths to these signs which have yet to be discovered.

.

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

.

.

.

.

.

.

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

.

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

.

.

.

.

.

FIRST FIND ORION & 7 STARS

.

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

.

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

.

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

.

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

.

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

.

ABOVE PICTURE – winter constellations – Orion & Revelation 12 Dragon (Hyades, Pleiades, etc…) seen at Eagle Ridge – Signs Of Heaven.org – Not for profit use!

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

.

.

.

.

.

ANOTHER HEAVENLY HOBBY: PRAYER-WALKS

.

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

.

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

.

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

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Give a desire to engage in a daily prayer regimen. And give me strength to go for walks, even if I have to use a wheelchair. And give me a desire to study the heavens, and to see these heavenly signs, if only in my mind’s eye… 

Prayer-for-USA-Wikimedia–300×192

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “Signs Of Heaven – home page” or you can also read… “Site Overview”

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 TWO TURTLE-DOVES CONSTELLATION…

 

(THE SUMMER CONSTELLATIONS)

 

.

 

.

 

.

 

And is it just a coincidence that the Ark of the Covenant Constellation also appears as two birds, which two birds (turtle-doves) were used in the Old Testament sacrifices.

.

Listen… “And if he be not able to bring a lamb, then he shall bring for his trespass, which he hath committed, two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, unto the LORD; one for a sin offering, and the other for a burnt offering.” Leviticus 5:7.  So two birds, being used as a sacrifice goes very well with this Ark Constellation. Just a coincidence?

 

.

.

.

. 

.

THE TWO TURTLE-DOVES ALSO FOLLOW ARCTURUS… 

(THE SUMMER CONSTELLATIONS)

. 

Is it just dumb luck that these two birds appear to fly forward instead of backward, as they travel east to west? Just something to consider.

.

And how could it be that the Two Turtle-doves Constellation just happens to be flying in the same direction as Arcturus is traveling? So these Turtle-Doves also seem to represent the sons of Arcturus. They too are following Arcturus.

.

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

.

.

.

.

.

 

.

Now normally, the birds would be killed, as a sacrifice in the Old Testament sacrificial system. But both these two birds are flying, following Arcturus. This seems to speak of God’s mercy. Christ took our sins upon himself. Just like these Two Turtle-Doves being set free, so are we likewise set free from the wages of sin… “and the truth shall make you free.” John 8: 32 

 

.

 

 

 

TURTLE-DOVES APPEAR IN SPRING

 

(THE SUMMER CONSTELLATIONS)

 

.

How is it that these two constellations concerning Nature (the Two Turtle-Doves and the Flower of the Field) just happen to show up in spring through fall; the very time when birds and flowers appear in the northern hemisphere. Coincidence? 

 

.

 

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “Signs proofs” 

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

” July 31st (Most Misquoted Bible Verse Award!) “

Moe Epsilon’s blue ribbon – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported 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 #209 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 names, details, and tags, and all other necessary info 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 – July 29th

.

.

.

.

The Chrysalis Christian,

.

Part 3:

“Afflictions” 

TO READ PART 1, JUST CLICK HERE… ” January 7th (The Chrysalis Christian!)”

.

.

.

.

.

.

In Part 1 (click here to read), the butterfly was presented as a perfect illustration of the “Born Again” experience. It was seen that just like the caterpillar that eats the green herbs of the earth, so too, unconverted humans consume the things of this world, as their time on earth passes by. 

.

Shargacucullia scrophulariae caterpillar – cropped image – James Lindsey at Ecology of Commanster – share-alike license

.

.

.

.

.

THE CHRYSALIS STAGE

.

But the caterpillar finally reaches that time, when it finishes its days on earth. And so, it ceases from its pursuit of earthly food, and begins to form a chrysalis, a type of shell-like encasement.

.

And this too, compares to the person who is finished with this selfish world. And that person begins to surround himself with a total devotion to prayer and study of God’s Word. All this, of course, is actually the work of the Holy Spirit, upon that person’s heart.

.

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

.

.

.

.

.

THE DYING STAGE

.

Now the caterpillar goes into a metamorphosis-stage. It actually turns into liquid, within the chrysalis! It completely dies!  

.

And so too, the Christian goes through a process of dying to self and dying to this selfish world. And this is greatly accomplished by the many trials which come upon him (or her). And God quite often allows the Devil to bring afflictions upon the Christian, via friends, family or even work-related trials. But God also works through natural events as well. Physical illness can also be used by God to cause the suffering Christian to wrestle in prayer.

.

So, whether by physical infirmities, or by spiritual warfare brought on by the Devil, God works through all these many afflictions to cause the Christian to fully cease from trying to bring about good, by his own strength. And thus, the Christian, more and more, dies to his self-will. And more and more, the Christian leans on God’s precious promises!

.

Munch – Det Syke Barn – 1896 – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

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

.

.

.

.

THE WRESTLING

.

The caterpillar fully transforms into an entirely new creation within that chrysalis! And now begins a struggle to break free of that Chrysalis.

.

And of course, this reminds us of the story of Jacob, as he wrestled all night with an unknown assailant. And Jacob wrestled until the break of day. And as he beheld his attacker, he realized that it was none other than the angel of the Lord, with whom he struggled all night! And in those morning hours of the rising of the Sun, Jacob received the ultimate blessing of God! No longer would he be known as Jacob the Deceiver. But the Angel pronounced his new name: Israel, The Prince Who Prevailed With God!

.

Jacob Wrestling with the Angel – Wikipedia – public domain

.

.

.

.

.

THE NEW CREATION

.

Finally, after some days or weeks of this total transformation, the once-caterpillar breaks free from its chrysalis, and emerges as a beautiful butterfly! And it now has wings and departs from its former earthly estate.

.

And now, its sole purpose is to seek the sweet nectar from every correct flower! And in this process, the butterfly unknowingly cross-pollinates all the flowers, as it travels back and forth through the air, and from flower-to-flower.

.

South American Butterfly – cropped image – Wikipedia – Share-Alike License 

.

.

.

.

.

LIVING THE CHRIST-LIKE LIFE!

.

 So too, after the Christian fully crucifies the Old Man within, with all his affections and earthly lusts, that new creation by God is ready to live out the rest of his, or her life for the glory of God!

.

And unbeknownst to that Born-Again Christian is a constant witness to the world! Whether at work, or at home, or at recreation with spouse and children, the Christian is spiritually pollinating all those around, with the great Agape Love and Purity and Holiness of Christ.

.

Yes, that New Creation of God, is now changed into the likeness of the holy Christ!

.

And the rest of that Christian’s life, there is an ongoing ascension on the upward pathway to Heaven!

.

ABOVE PICTURE: Winter – Revelation 12 Woman with Eagle Wings

.

.

.

.

.

TAKE HEART DEAR CHILD OF GOD!

.

And so, dear child of God, we must not become discouraged by trials, afflictions, or illnesses, knowing that God can and will work through all these unhappy circumstances, for our ultimate good.

.

Listen to Paul… “Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” 2nd Corinthians 12:10

.

Munch – Det Syke Barn – 1896 – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

.

TO READ PART 4, CLICK HERE…

September 27th (The Chrysalis Christian, Part 4: “From Sinner Into Virgin!”)

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

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to endure the many trials and afflictions which are coming upon me! Let me not be discouraged, but strengthen me to remain faithful, even unto death, that I may live eternally with Thee…

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “The Crown of Revelation 12: What Is “The Time of Jacob’s Trouble”?” or you can also read… “July 20th (Vaccinated Christians!)”

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)

 

.

.

.

SUMMER CONSTELLATIONS = “COME FOLLOW ME”

.

This whole scenario paints the portrait of just what it means to become a disciple of Jesus. We are all called to “go and sell all you have, and give to the poor…and come follow Me”.  And so the new Christian begins his or her heavenly sojourn. Oh yes, we’re still here on Earth. But we now begin a spiritual pilgrimage, as we follow Jesus in our hearts, and learn of Him. The Woman Constellation giving birth to the Christ-child typifies the Church (all true worshippers) as we struggle to rightly present Christ to the world. “My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you.” Galatians 4:19. So Paul was using this idea of child-birth as way of illustrating how a Believer is in spiritual labor pains, waiting for Christ to be formed within.

 .

.

Remember the parable of ‘the Sower who went forth sowing seed’ (Matthew 13:3-9)? Hopefully our hearts are made of good soil into which the gospel seed can be sown. The Gospel is only planted as a little seed. The seed must grow. But if we are true worshippers, then our desire is to be co-laborers together with Christ, to purify our lives, in order that the world can look at us, and see Christ in us. “And every man who has this hope in Him purifies himself, even as He (Christ) is pure.” John 3:3. Such a condition would be what the Bible speaks of, as seed planted on good soil.

.

.

.

.

.

TIME OF JACOB’S TROUBLE

. 

RECEIVING THE CROWN… We have now arrived at that day, which the Bible refers to as The Time of Jacob’s Trouble (see Jeremiah 30:7). Like this woman, we too are grasping for the Cross/Scepter. And just like that crown not yet on her head, we have yet to receive that crown of life.

 .

.

 “Blessed is the man that endures temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord has promised to them that love him.” James 1:12 

 .

But the sins of the Church are great. God’s people are ashamed at how un-Christ-like we are before the onlooking world. We pray that Christ would be formed within us, that we might glorify Him in all that we do. But we fail so often. With family. With friends. With seemingly everyone! Prayers seem unanswered. Characters still roughly hewn. We can certainly say along with Paul… “O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” Romans 7:24. 

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “Woman of Revelation 12 (Woman in Travail)” 

.

.

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

“July 30th (A Heavenly Hobby!)”

Starry Night at La Silla – 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 #208 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 names, details, and tags, and all other necessary info 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 – July 27th

.

.

.

Satan’s Number “8”,

.

Part 2:

“Spider’s 8 Legs”

For the first devotion, click here…July 26th (Satan’s Number “8”)

.

.

.

.

In yesterday’s devotional (click here), the eight arms of the Octopus were discussed, and how they symbolized Satan. And it was discussed how the number, “8”, is the number of the eight kings of the Antichrist Beast.

.

But spiders also have eight legs, while most insects only have six. And spiders also symbolize Satan, as he weaves his deadly web of sin and deceit for the human race, but especially the Church!

.

Yes, some spiders even wrap their victims in their silken cords, and inject a deadly paralyzing poison into the fly, which turns that bug into a pulpy liquid. Spiders are indeed a worthy comparison to Satan!

.

Jumping Spider Eyes – cropped image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons License

.

.

.

.

.

WEB: AN OPTICAL ILLUSION!

.

And of course, it has already been presented in past devotionals, how the spider’s web is an optical illusion, looking like a three-dimensional tunnel.

.

And it has been discussed that the poor fly thinks it’s flying through that tunnel, only to discover that it wasn’t a tunnel after all, but a deadly trap.

.

And of course, this also reminds of all the many ideologies in the world, which seem like a journey to a better place, but only prove to be a deadly trap, just like the spider’s web. And by the time the human victim realizes his or her error, Satan has already paralyzed that human with his indwelling “antichrist…spirit of error”! (see 1st John 4:3, 6 for “antichrist” and “spirit of error” reference) 

.

And it was also discussed in yesterday’s devotional (click here), that the eight tentacles of the Octopus represent the spirit of Antichrist, which is comprised of eight symbolic spirits: seven of which represent false religion, and the eighth representing Satan himself (see Matthew 12:43-45).

.

Spider Web – Wikipedia – Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

QUALITIES OF MANKIND

.

But there is another aspect to all this, which wasn’t discussed in yesterday’s devotional. And that is what will be lightly dealt with today.

.

You see, the Bible speaks of the Antichrist in a number of places.

.

Listen to this… “These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: 1. A proud look, 2. a lying tongue, and 3. hands that shed innocent blood, 4. An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, 5. feet that be swift in running to mischief. 6. A false witness that speaketh lies, and 7. he that soweth discord among brethren” Proverbs 6:16-19.

.

This description almost sounds like your typical Hollywood movie, doesn’t it? And to a great degree, these are the same qualities which govern the people of this world. Do we even need to explore these qualities?

.

For instance, is there any doubt that this world loves pride? Pride of dress. Pride of houses and cars, and careers and credentials? Yes, pride is a very important quality of this world. And that’s just the first quality mentioned here!

.

But the other 6 qualities are also very prevalent in society. Lust, violence, greed, immorality, indifference, hatred, etc., are the sins which, not only the people of the world possess, but also the majority of the people of the church world.

.

ABOVE DRAWING: TV, The Image That Speaks – copyrighted by signsofheaven.org

.

.

.

.

.

“SEVEN” = GOD’S NUMBER…

.

“These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: 1. A proud look, 2. a lying tongue, and 3. hands that shed innocent blood, 4. An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, 5. feet that be swift in running to mischief. 6. A false witness that speaketh lies, and 7. he that soweth discord among brethren” Proverbs 6:16-19.

.

So it sounds as if we’re simply talking here, about a worldly-minded person.

.

But when God says “SIX things doth Lord hate: yea SEVEN are an abomination unto Him”, God appears to be hinting, by using the number “seven”, that He is speaking of an unconverted person WITHIN the Church!

.

This is because the phrase “Six things doth the Lord hate” is pointing to Mankind whose number is “six” (“So God created man…And the evening and the morning were the SIXTH DAY.” Genenis 1:27, 31).

.

But when God says “yea SEVEN are an abomination unto Him”, then we’re talking of “Rest”…hence the number “seven”… “And God blessed the SEVENTH DAY, and sanctified it: because that in it He had rested from all His work which God created and made.” Genesis 2:3. 

.

And as a further evidence, just look at what is the 7th thing mentioned… “he that soweth discord among brethren”. Right here, God has hidden the key to the understanding of just what is the Abomination of Desolation: “he that soweth discord among brethren”. This is the 7th thing that God hates. And of course, it’s dealing with “among brethren”. And so, this 7th Abomination has to do with sowing discord “among brethren”. 

.

It is those wolves in sheep’s clothing who have entered God’s sheepfold, and are “among brethren”, leading these unsuspecting brethren astray. 

.

81st_Academy_Awards_Ceremony – cropped image – Wikipedia – share-alike-license.jpg

.

.

.

.

.

THE ANTICHRIST BEAST!

.

And so, to put it concisely, this counterfeit religious system of the Antichrist Beast is merely the spirit of the world, with all its ungodly traits, being brought into the Church. These are the seven heads (kings) of the Antichrist Beast. And of course, the eighth king is Satan himself!

.

Now these seven heads could be defined even more precisely! But that will have to be for a later discussion.

.

But to sum up today’s devotional, let it be said that this information gives us a greater understanding of how “the god of this world”, Lucifer (now called “Satan”, “The Devil”, and “The Dragon”) works in this, his antichrist world-system. 

.

.

.

.

.

TO READ PART 3, CLICK HERE…

April 9 (Satan’s Number 8, Part 3: “Caught in Satan’s Web”)

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to get rid of these ungodly traits out of my heart. Let me become purified into the likeness of Jesus…

Marine Praying – Wikimedia – USMC Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

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… “November 16 (Look For The light At The End of the Tunnel!)“

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)

 

.

.

.

LOCATING THE DRAGON

.

THIS DRAGON IS NOT DRACO!

.

.

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

.

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

.

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

.

.

THE DRAGON OF REVELATION 12 CONSTELLATION. The star-charts below (below, right) are from Wikipedia and are combined into one chart to show these three constellations, which the editor has sketched over with these three constellations, as they appear when in the west. Hopefully, this will be an assist in locating these constellations in the night-sky.

.

.

.

LOCATION…

.

The Revelation 12 Dragon Constellation can be located by finding Orion in winter months. The Dragon is to Orion’s left, and the Dragon’s mouth is right next to Orion’s shield. This Dragon’s mouth is the V-like constellation The Hyades Cluster, which is also known as the head of Taurus the Bull. The Dragon’s tail-tip is Pleiades and the lower shaft of his tail is partly of Aries  and Pisces. 

.

Then with aid of a dark and starry night, you may begin to connect the mouth and the tail with a very long body in an oval shape. The front and back legs are made of a few stars: the front legs partially of stars from Taurus . The back legs and rear fin are made of 6 stars from the Cetus Constellation.

.

BODY HARD TO SEE

.

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

.

.

.

FIRST APPEARS IN MID-SUMMER

.

This Dragon constellation appears in the eastern horizon about mid-summer in the pre-dawn hours, spewing his flood-waters northward toward the Revelation 12 Woman in Travail (not pictured in this chart).

.

The Wave of Water is primarily composed of the Constellation Auriga. There are two dimmer stars (#’s 1 & 2) which are closest to the Dragon’s mouth. These two dimmer stars are also part of this Wave of Water, but are not part of the Auriga Constellation.

.

THE ZODIAC NAMES

It is not the purpose, nor the desire of www.theheavensdeclare.net to give any validity or recognition to the Zodiac or any pagan deities. But unfortunately, the common names of many constellations (such as Scorpio or Sagittarius, etc.), must be given, solely for the purpose of locating them on star-charts.

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “The Dragon of Revelation 12 Constellation” 

.

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

“July 28th (Enduring Trials!)”

Christian and Apollyon – Pilgrim’s Progress – 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 #206 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 names, details, and tags, and all other necessary info 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 – July 28th

.

.

.

.

Enduring Trials!

.

.

.

.

.

When you were young, did a family member ever put a string around your loose tooth, and tie the other end to the doorknob? And then they slammed the door shut, and your tooth went flying? Well, afterward, it was quite a relief! And anyway, you knew a new one would grow back! So it wasn’t so bad, was it?

.

But when you get older and lose a tooth, or two teeth, or three, or even a half dozen or more? Then life can get downright miserable, can’t it?

.

Aching tooth statue from a dentist’s – cropped image – Wikipedia – Share-alike License

.

.

.

.

.

OTHER  MALADIES OF LIFE

.

Or what if you lose a toe to diabetes? Or a foot? Or what if you get a crippling disease, or get paralyzed in an accident?

.

For those who are Believers, these losses can become a great test of faith, can’t they? Because you have asked God to protect you, and these things happen in spite of your prayers for His protection! And could not God have answered your prayers to live a healthier life?

.

After all, you’ve been praying for years, for help to eat better, and live healthier, haven’t you?

.

Lady in sling – Photo by Liz Roll – FEMA – Elderly cared for in Louisiana – cropped image – Wikimedia – US Govt. Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

DEVIL WHISPERS IN EAR!

.

Well, there are many who can relate to these questions.

.

Yes, there are many who have been praying for God to help them and protect them, and these things seem to happen anyway!

.

And it’s a real test of faith, especially when the Devil whispers in your ear, “God has let you down! He’s unfair!”.

.

.

.

.

.

JOB’S TRIAL

.

For some reason, the Book of Job just hasn’t got the attention that so many other books of the Bible have gotten. And yet the book of Job is an extremely vital part of the sacred Scriptures!

.

For one thing, Job had an experience which so many of us can relate to, more of less. Job had lived a charmed life, for so many years! But one day, this man of God, who had comforted and encouraged so many others throughout his life, was now the victim of a brutal and nearly total devastation, rained down on him by, “the enemy of souls”!

.

Job – Wikipedia – US public-domain

.

.

.

.

.

3 MISERABLE COMFORTERS

.

And if that wasn’t enough, Satan brought three “friends”, who began to point the finger at Job, and tell him he was only getting what he deserved.

.

Job’s pent up, inner pride then began to surface! Job actually thought he was righteous! He thought that his outward goodness was his own goodness, and not the gift of God!

.

Job rebuked by his friends – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

GOD QUESTIONS JOB

.

Well finally, after Job’s three friends (plus Elihu, the 4th man) ceased from trying to convince Job of his sins, God Himself entered into the discourse, asking Job about 80 questions (some say, 77 questions): questions far beyond Job’s comprehension!

.

But though the questions were more than Job could ever answer, Job understood the big point that God was trying to make with him.

.

And the point that God was trying to make was, that God is much greater than Man. And God’s ways are eternal.

.

Listen… “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:9

.

And so, God does many things which we cannot understand. And God often does many things which even seem somewhat cruel! But we just can’t comprehend God’s eternal plan! We just cannot see down through the corridors of time, like God does!

.

Job – Wikipedia – US public-domain

.

.

.

.

.

JOB WAS ULTIMATELY VICTORIOUS!

.

But the Good News for Job was, that all through his trial, Job did not curse God! No, Job kept himself from “letting God have it, with both barrels!” And so, technically, God won His bet with the Devil.

.

And yet, in the process, Job’s hidden sins of pride and judging and rebellion, were all exposed. And in the end, Job realized that he was just as big a sinner as anybody else! And Job was ultimately humbled and realized he needed a Savior, as badly as everyone else! And Job finally confessed, saying… “I have heard of Thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth Thee. Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.” Job 42:5, 6

.

Carl Heinrich Bloch – Jesus Tempted – Wikimedia – US public domain

.

.

.

.

.

YE SHALL HAVE TRIBULATION!

.

And so, trials may come our way, and they will! Oh yes, if we are a true disciple of Jesus, we can expect many trials, both small and big, to come our way! Even many loses, such as losing teeth, or a limb, or two limbs! Or a deadly disease! Or the death of a loved one! Or loss of employment!

.

But whatever trials may come our way, we must remember this: God has allowed trials to come our way for His own reasons. But one great reason is, that He wants us to trust in good times, but also in the bad times. He’s already had one rebellion in Heaven, and He’s going to make sure that there won’t be another!

.

Munch Det Syke Barn – 1896 – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

GET ACQUAINTED WITH GOD!

.

And so, let’s be like Job, and keep ourselves from giving in to Satan’s temptation to shake our fist in anger at God!

.

And if we really want to find out just what God is up to, we can always go to the book of Job and read those 80 or so, questions, and answer each one. And then we’ll know exactly what God is up to, won’t we? Of course, we won’t be able to answer all those questions. But as we study the Bible more and more, we will eventually understand God a lot more than we now do!

.

Listen… “Acquaint now thyself with Him, and be at peace: thereby good shall come unto thee.” Job 22:21

.

Chaplain reads Bible – Wikimedia – US Govt. Public Domain

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Give me the faith and the knowledge of Thee, so that when trials come, I will handle them faithfully…

Prayer-for-USA-Wikimedia

.

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “February 1st (In Every Thing Give Thanks!?!)“ or you can also read… “April 17th (To Know Thee More!)”

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)

 

.

.

.

“A SIGN…OF THE LORD…IN THE HEIGHT ABOVE”

Isaiah 7:11

.

“Ask thee a sign of the LORD…in the height above…Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel…And there appeared a great sign in heaven; a woman… And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne. And the woman fled into the wilderness,” Isaiah 7:11, 14 & Rev. 12:1, 5, 6

.

Long ago, God made a promise in the Book of Isaiah, Ch. 7… “Ask thee a sign of the LORD thy God; ask it either in the depth, or in the height above.” Now just what sign could this be, that was either in the depth or in the height above? Well, Isaiah continues… “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” Oh, OK. So we know this sign was fulfilled in the depth, with the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. But God also spoke of a sign in the “height above”. So where is the fulfillment of this sign, in the “height above”?

.

ABOVE STAR-CHART – Summer Constellations with Two Turtledoves (Sagittarius) & Flower of the Field (aka: Scorpio) & The 12-Star Crown (aka: Corona Borealis) & The Cross-Scepter (aka: Ophiochus & Serpens) & Revelation 12 Woman (Ursa Major) & Arcturus Star – www.theheavensdeclare.net

.

.

.

.

A SIGN IN HEAVEN

.

“And there appeared a great wonder (sign) in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:” Revelation 12:1

.

You see, God has placed in the heavens, the symbol of His bride, the Church-Faithful. In the summer night-sky, she appears as the woman-in-travail. This is the constellation, Ursa Major. And this article will introduce you to this amazing sign of Heaven, and what it means to you and to me.

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “Woman of Revelation 12 (Woman in Travail)” 

.

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW:

” July 29th (The Chrysalis Christian, Part 2: Afflictions)”

Christian and Apollyon – Pilgrim’s Progress – 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 #207 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 names, details, and tags, and all other necessary info 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 – July 26th

.

.

.

.

Satan’s Number “8”

.

.

.

.

.

Most insects have six legs. And for those who have curious minds, the question comes down: “Why do most insects have six legs?”

.

Well, scientists might attempt to give some scientific explanation for why.

.

But the question might also be asked: “Why does the spider have eight legs?”

.

And again, scientists may have a complicated answer for that question too!

.

Fly – illustration – Wikipedia – Public Domain

Spider – Wikipedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.5 Generic license

.

.

.

.

SIX: THE NUMBER OF MAN

.

But for the Creationist, the answer is simple. The number six is the number of Man.

.

And the number eight is the number of Satan.

.

And so, that is why spiders catch little bugs in their nets, and not the other way around. Because the spider web is a perfect illustration of Satan’s snares, which he uses to catch the souls of men.

.

Mark of the beast – pub. dom. – Wikipedia

Web- Spider – Signs Of Heaven

.

.

.

.

.

THE OCTOPUS

.

Now, there are a few other creatures which have eight limbs.

.

The Octopus immediately comes to mind. Could God have given the Octopus ten tentacles? Of course He could have! But God again wants to give us an illustration of Satan, and how he works. 

.

Just look at how the Octopus’ limbs have suction cups! This amazing phenomenon is an awesome illustration of how Satan’s various ways of deception can grip tightly upon his victims! And of course, both the Octopus and Satan poison their victim. 

.

Another allegorical aspect to an Octopus, is the way it will shoot a jet of black ink, in order to escape from a pursuer.

.

Does not Satan use a cloak of darkness to erase himself out of existence?

.

And for centuries, Satan has used ink and paper to deceive the world with false ideologies! Yes, the deceptive ideologies which men have written down in innumerable books, magazines, etc., have greatly obscured Satan’s existence, misdirecting humans from the true nature of this satanic world!

.

Satan, “the god of this world” has literally erased himself from the minds of men, via world’s deceptive literature! (see 2nd Corinthians 4:4)

.

Octopus – Vulgaris – Wikimedia – Share-Alike License

.

.

.

.

.

THE BEAST & THE DRAGON

.

Now, just look at the Bible, and you will see this number eight being used to describe Satan. 

.

Listen… “And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads (of the Antichrist beast) are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth. And there are seven kings: five are fallen, and one is, and the other is not yet come; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space. And the beast that was, and is not, even he is THE EIGHTH, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition.” Revelation 17:9-11 

.

So here is the Antichrist Beast. And his seven heads represent seven mountains, and seven kings. But the Beast himself is the eighth.

.

And of course, this beast is made in image of the Revelation 12 Dragon. And so, the Beast and the Dragon are made in the same image!

.

Whore – Babylon – Burgkmair – 1523 AD – Wikimedia – US Public Domain.

.

.

.

.

.

JESUS EXPLAINS THE NUMBER, “8”

.

Okay, so what is the significance of the number eight? Just what spiritual truth does the number eight represent?

.

Perhaps a parabolic truth which Jesus told the Pharisees will make these things more clear.

.

Listen… “When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walks through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out. And when he comes, he finds it swept and garnished. Then goes he, and takes to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first.” Luke 11:24-26

.

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

.

.

.

.

.

NUMBER “7”, A RELIGIOUS NUMBER

.

So this little illustration presents a great big truth. Yes, Jesus was telling the Pharisees this account, so as to illustrate how Satan can take some secular person and turn him into a far more evil person.

.

And this story was given to the Pharisees to illustrate their very own condition! When a person is merely an abject unbeliever, he only has one evil spirit: an unclean spirit at that! But should that same man become religious, but with no true conversion, then Satan moves back in, bringing seven more religious devils with him! And now the man was far worse off than when he was merely a worldling!

.

Now he is a religious man, symbolized by the addition of “7 more devils” (he doesn’t literally have 7 more devils, but merely figuratively).

.

Oh yes, he is still unconverted! But Satan has now given him a form of godliness, but with merely a counterfeit “holy spirit”!

.

And so, this is the big point of the number eight. It is 7 + 1. Satan plus his counterfeit religiosity, represented by God’s number of spiritual rest, “7”.

.

Highbrow drunkard – cropped image – Wikimedia – Share-Alike License

.

.

.

.

Now there is much more to all this. The Dragon and the Beast both have 7 heads (plus 1 more).

.

And each of those heads represent aspects to Satan’s character.

.

And that will have to be a discussion for another day!

.

Whore – Babylon – Burgkmair – 1523 AD – Wikimedia – US Public Domain.

.

.

.

.

.

 

TO READ PART 2. CLICK HERE…

July 27th (Satan’s Number “8”, Part 2: Spider’s 8 Legs).

Spider – Wikipedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.5 Generic license

.

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to understand the true workings of this very deceiving world! Help me to become so savvy as to what is going on all around me, that I no more am deceived…

Pray for Our Nation sign – Wikimedia – Share-alike-lic.

.

.

.

.

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… ” March 23rd (1st Beast of Revelation 13)”

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)

 

.

.

.

 

SEVEN HEADS of the DRAGON

.

“And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.” Revelation 12 

.

.

This Dragon Constellation does not have 7 heads and 10 horns and 7 crowns, as this above verse speaks of. But the wave of water coming out of the Dragon’s mouth has these numbers, 7 and 10, according to the brightness of the stars which comprise the wave of water. That is, this wave of water has 10 basic stars (#1 thru #10). But the main body is comprised of 7 stars, leaving three lesser stars at the tip of the wave (#’s 8, 9, 10). So we have a 7/3 division in the star-count on this wave of water. You can somewhat see this in the sketch to the right. Just notice that the main body of this wave has 7 stars (#1 thru #7). But the very tip of the curl has 3 little stars (#’s 8, 9, 10). (there are actually 7 more very faint stars in a long string, just under the curl as well, stars: a, b, c, d, e, f, g, which brings the total number of stars to 17.)

.

So God has created this wave of water to give us much insight into just what those heads and horns and crowns all represent on the Revelation 13 Beast.

.

For details on this phenomenon of the wave, just go to “Flood Waters of Satan” article.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read… “The Dragon of Revelation 12 Constellation” 

.

.

.

.

.

 

TOMORROW: 

July 27th (Satan’s Number “8”, Part 2: Spider’s 8 Legs).

Spider – Wikipedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.5 Generic 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 #205 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 names, details, and tags, and all other necessary info 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 – July 24th

.

.

.

.

Gulls Along the Shoreline

.

.

.

.

 

.

“But ask now the beasts, and they shall teach thee; and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell thee: Or speak to the earth, and it shall teach thee: and the fishes of the sea shall declare unto thee. Who knoweth not in all these that the hand of the LORD hath wrought this? In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind.” Job 12:7-10

.

USA – Oregon – Newport – Yaquina Head Light – Seagull – cropped and altered image – Wikipedia – GNU Free Documentation License

.

.

.

.

If you’ve ever been to the ocean, you’ve probably heard the sound of gulls, as they fly back and forth along the shoreline.

.

Many people enjoy the sounds of the ocean and the gulls together. And it is no accident that the Creator has combined these two sounds, the crashing waves, with the gulls. It has a timeless serenity about it.

.

And many have resorted to the healing properties which the ocean seems to have, to heal from some tragedy or loss in their life.

.

To walk along, and stop and sit on a large driftwood, and hear the gulls and the crashing waves, just seems to bring tranquility to the wounded soul.

.

USA – Oregon – Newport – Yaquina Head Light – Seagull – cropped and altered image – Wikipedia – GNU Free Documentation License

.

.

.

.

.

GULLS: LITTLE TEACHERS OF TRUTHS

.

And beside the sheer serene beauty of the ocean and the ever-present gulls, these birds can be wonderful teachers of spiritual truth!

.

Yes, the Bible says we have… “ten thousand instructors in Christ” 1st Corinthians 4:15. And gulls are just one example of those ten thousand teachers which Paul spoke of.

.

This is because gulls, like every other work of God’s wisdom, have aspects about them, which makes them living parables, confirming what the Bible already says!

.

Sunset at Huntington Beach – cropped image – Wikimedia – share-alike-license

.

.

.

.

.

HUMAN RACE FIGHTS FOR OUR FOOD!

.

And because gulls are what the Bible calls “unclean beasts”, these gulls also have some negative aspects about them!

.

To see the gulls in a frenzy, as they fight for some food, is perhaps somewhat comical. And yet it is an amazing scenario of the human race, as we ourselves, so often, also go greedily after the things of the world!

.

Those who work in large corporations can attest to all the pushing, shoving, back-stabbing and ambitious stepping on the backs of others, merely to get ahead! And to watch an aggressive and dominating seagull begin to peck at the other gulls, until they all tuck their heads in submission, reminds us the pride and self-dominance which humans so often exert over others.

.

Lesser Black-backed Gulls – Wikipedia – Share-Alike 3.0 license

.

.

.

.

.

THE SEASHORE: WONDERFUL PLACE TO REFLECT!

.

Well, the ocean and the gulls can be a wonderful place for a person to make up their mind to get out of this rat-race which this self-seeking world so often is, and begin to journey upon that upward pathway which Jesus has provided!

.

And to walk along the shoreline, as the gulls make their never-ending search for morsels of food, has provided the perfect backdrop for those who might be hungering after God’s love, and for His eternal life and everlasting rest!

.

New Jersey Beach at Sunrise – cropped image -Wikipedia – Creative Commons Attribution 2.5

.

.

.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to disengage from all the selfish grabbing for things that so often occurs in this world! Help me to be like Jesus, who laid His life down, to give to others…

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

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

To explore deeper into this subject, please read a little chapter from the e-book, Judgment Day: RX7… “Ch. 13 “Silent Night”…  ” , or you can also read… ““Vanity Fair” & The False Prophet”

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)

.

.

.

WAVE OF WATER CONSTELLATION

.

“When the waves of death compassed me…THE FLOODS OF UNGODLY MEN made me afraid. The sorrows of Hell compassed me about;” 2nd Samuel 22:5.

.

.

So this passage (and many others too) equates flood waters with the sorrows of Hell, with ungodly men, and with waves of death. And so then, by comparing Scriptures dealing with flood waters, we begin to see just what this Woman of Revelation 12 is fleeing from. Listen to Revelation, Chapter 12… “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 12:15. As  you can see in this sketch to the left, this woman is fleeing from the water which the Dragon is spewing, exactly as it says in Revelation 12. And so, by looking at various related Scriptures, we begin to understand just what this wave of water represents. This Woman of Revelation 12 is fleeing from ‘waves of death’, from ‘sorrows of Hell’, and from ‘floods of ungodly men’, as stated in Psalm 18:4.

.

.

.

.

DRAGON CONSTELLATION’S WAVE OF WATER

.

.

In Revelation, the Dragon of Revelation 12 is described as having seven heads, ten horns, and seven crowns. However, the Dragon of Revelation 12 Constellation  up in the night sky does not. But God has faithfully created this wave of water, in such a way, as to illustrate this same concept of the seven heads, ten horns, and seven crowns. Because this wave of water is basically comprised of ten stars. The main body of the wave has seven stars (#’s 1 thru 7, in the sketch), and the tip of the crest of the wave has the other three stars, (#’s 8, 9, 10). So in this wave, we see the same 7/10 numbering found in the Revelation description of the heads/horns/crowns of the Dragon. And this gives us a great clue, as to where in the Bible we should look, to find out the riddle as to just what or who do these 7 heads, 10 crowns, and 7 horns represent. Because, the Bible speaks very much about floods and waters as being associated with Satan (the Dragon). Listen again… “When the waves of death compassed me…THE FLOODS OF UNGODLY MEN made me afraid. The sorrows of Hell compassed me about;” 2nd Samuel 22:5.

.

.

.

.

.

READ MORE…

Flood Waters of Satan-Introduction

.

.

.

.

.

TOMORROW 

July 25th (Look For the Light, Part 2: Conservative Gospels)

Audience hands – cropped & altered – Wikimedia – Universal 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 #203 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 names, details, and tags, and all other necessary info 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.