Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 21 (Apocalypse Now! Part 7: “Tormented With Fire!” Continued)

By admin On May 30th, 2024

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Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 21

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THE FOLLOWING DEVOTION IS AN EXCERPT FROM THE SIGNS OF HEAVEN ARTICLE… Mark of the Beast–“They Have No Rest, Day Nor Night”

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Apocalypse Now!

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Part 7:

“Tormented With Fire!”

(Continued)

To read Part 1, click here… AUGUST 3 (Apocalypse Now! Part 1: Silencing the Gospel!)

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“And the third angel followed them,

saying with a loud voice,

If any man worship the beast and his image,

and receive his mark in his forehead,

or in his hand,

The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God,

which is poured out without mixture

into the cup of his indignation;

and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone

in the presence of the holy angels,

and in the presence of the Lamb:”

Revelation 14:9, 10

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Mark of the beast – pub. dom. – Wikipedia

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REVELATION TO HAVE A DRAMATIC FINALE

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Though Revelation has been a book for Christians at any and every time, the Book of Revelation will have a dramatic climactic fulfillment in these last days. It does appear that there will be a Grand Finale to this great conflict of the ages between Michael and the Dragon.

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And though we must not forget the glorious but bloody history of the Church through the Dark Ages, we must also remember that the day is approaching (and even now already beginning), in which there will be a trial by fire for all those living on the earth: Judgment Day. Armageddon. The time of Jacob’s trouble. The Day of the Lord.

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Above Sketch not a star-chart. It is a concept picture. Constellations not correctly positioned here, in attempt to convey a concept of fleeing from the Babylon and the Dragon, Satan..

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THE TORMENT TO COME

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Now, we must not get the idea that the days ahead will be business as usual.

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Oh yes, for the people of the world, it may be business as usual. But for those Christians who have not yet overcome the world, the Day of Judgment will be intense and fiery!

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God will allow Satan to torment us with such fierce cruelty, that we will eventually cry out, “My God, my God, why hast Thou forsaken me?”

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

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A LIVING NIGHTMARE!

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Yes, the days ahead will intensify beyond anything that we can now imagine, or words can describe!

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At times it will seem like a living nightmare! Satan and his evil angels will come at Christians with every possible weapon in their vast arsenal! Family and friends and strangers alike will assail the Christian to the point that it will seem that they are merely devils in human bodies!

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And when they lie down, Satan will attack them with terrifying dreams…“When I say, My bed shall comfort me…Then Thou scarest me with dreams, and terrifiest me through visions: So that my soul chooses strangling, and death rather than my life.” Job 7:13-15

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DEMONS -wikipedia-US-public-domain

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THE TERRORS OF JUDGMENT DAY!

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The entire world will turn against God’s faithful remnant until they realize that their only hope is to cast all their trust upon God alone! They will have NO EARTHLY SUPPORT!

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This infamous painting by Munch seems like a very appropriate depiction of Judgment Day, because it portrays a man terrorized by unseen forces, while the people all around him have no cognizance of his torment! For them it is business as usual. For him it is being, “tormented by fire and brimstone and no rest, day nor night!”

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The Scream – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

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“I SHALL COME FORTH AS GOLD”

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But we must not forget that God never punishes for the mere sake of inflicting pain! No, it is God’s will that His people become purified as gold which is tried in the fire!

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These fiery trials are given to purify us from, “old man” of the flesh, within us, which must be crucified, because his very nature is antichrist! The “new man” within us, which is Christlike, must be freed from the oppressive nature of the “old man”.

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And so, the fiery trials before us are orchestrated to purify a people for God, who will learn to walk by faith, and by faith alone!

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**No more will God’s people lean on the arm of flesh. No more will they “halt between two opinions” (1st Kings 18:21). No longer will they be a poor reflection of Christ.**

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Because during the fiery trials just ahead, they will become so well-polished vessels of gold and silver, that the world will begin to see Christ’s image shining out from them!

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At last, they will finally lift up the Cross for all the onlooking world to behold!

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Gold bars – cropped image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license.

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THE LAST DAY!

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No longer will it be the Church-defeated! Finally, it will be the Church-victorious!

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They will be as one Man! They will walk even as Christ walks! God’s Salvation plan will be complete!

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And at long last, they finally will see their long-awaited and long-hoped-for Savior, Jesus, “coming in the clouds, with great power and glory!”, to redeem them forever from this sin-cursed earth!

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Triumph of Christianity by G. Dore www.christimages.org Limited use license – see their website for restrictions

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TO READ PART 8, CLICK HERE…

AUGUST 23 (Apocalypse Now! Part 8: “These Things in the Churches”)

Germany Bavarian church – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.

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TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Hide me from the fiery tempest which is now coming upon the earth. Help me to put away any worldly traits and affections and lusts which I may still be clinging to. Let me take refuge under the shadow of Thy wings…

Marine Praying – Wikimedia – USMC Public Domain

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THE END

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TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

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7 STARS IMITATE THE CROSS OF ORION

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This phenomenon begins in late October, in the pre-dawn hours. It then begins a little earlier each night, and lasts for several months, until they both appear to lie down once again.

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

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

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

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ABOVE CHART: The Cross of Orion Constellation star-chart – not for commercial use

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TOMORROW…

August 22 (Habakkuk Says “Run!”, Part 4: Flee Fornication!)

Picture – Lot Escapes – www.thebiblerevival.com offers free Bible clipart – Public Domain.

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20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

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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.

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THIS IS STUDY #598 PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

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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.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 9 (Apocalypse Now! Part 2: Tormented With Fire!)

By admin On May 30th, 2024

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Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 9

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Apocalypse Now!

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Part 2:

“Tormented With Fire”

To read Part 1, click here… “AUGUST 3 (Apocalypse Now! Part 1: Silencing the Gospel!)“

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“…and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone

in the presence of the holy angels,

and in the presence of the Lamb:

And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever:

and they have no rest day nor night,

who worship the beast and his image,

and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.”

Revelation 14:10, 11

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QUESTION: What good does it do to torment a human, and then afterward, to just send that person to Hell?

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ANSWER: It does absolutely no good whatsoever!

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At a loss by George Shucklin – wikimedia – share-alike license

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WHY TORMENT?

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So then, why does God say the following? Listen…“…and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.” Revelation 14:10, 11

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Now the general consensus in the Christian community is that this is the eternal punishment of all those who reject Jesus.

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And such an unlearned notion is built upon a misunderstanding of God and established upon a misinterpretation of God’s Word.

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THE DESTRUCTION OF THE FLESH

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Listen… “To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.” 1st Corinthians 5:5

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This above verse presents a great truth concerning how God works in the lives of Believers.

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You see, it is God’s desire to destroy the fleshly desires that hold His believing child in bondage to sin. And so, God allows purifying fires to burn away the dross of sin, so that the purified Believer may no more be a prisoner of his (or her) selfish and fleshly desires, but only to become free in Christ!

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USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

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PURIFIED AS GOLD!

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Now just how does God purify His people? Listen to Job… “But He knoweth the way that I take: when He hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” Job 23:10

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Job here is making a profound statement concerning not only himself, but on behalf of each and every true worshiper of God! Yes, just as gold is purified by fire, so too, the Believer is purified by fiery trials.

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

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‘OLD MAN’ – ‘NEW MAN’

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Now back to this passage from Revelation 14. It says… “…and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.” Revelation 14:10, 11

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Now how in the world could this be speaking of a true worshipper of God?

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It must be remembered that the Bible reveals that there are actually two men within a Believer. That is, there is the “New Man” who is in the image of Christ. But there is also the “Old Man” of the flesh, who is very much Antichrist…

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

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OUR FLESH IS ANTICHRIST!

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Listen to this revealing verse… “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.” Galatians 5:16, 17

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Now this all sounds so easy! Simply walk in the Spirit and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh!

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**The problem is, for most of us, it is all but impossible to walk in the Spirit, while our “Old Man” of the flesh continually clamors for the lusts and affections of the flesh!**

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‘OLD MAN’ CRUCIFIED BY FIRE

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So, what is the Believer to do? How can I crucify the “Old Man” within? It’s absolutely far beyond my ability to crucify him!

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Well, praise God, that He declares Himself to be a purifier of silver and gold…

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Listen… “And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and He shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness.” Malachi 3:3

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Yes, God Himself will sit as a purifier of His people (we are elected to be priests; thus we are spiritual “sons of Levi”)! And He will carefully and tenderly bring His people through the fiery trials until He can see His own reflection in us!

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Gold smelting – Public Domain – wn.com

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SATAN’S CHARACTER UPON OUR HEARTS

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Now of course, when our sin-loving, “Old Man”, is fully crucified, there will be no more mark of Satan’s character engraved upon our hearts!

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And this is the essence of what it means to have the Mark of the Beast!

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To have Satan’s character IS the essence of having the “Mark”!

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Mark of the beast – pub. dom. – Wikipedia

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SATAN’S COUNTER-ATTACK

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Now Satan will not sit idly by as this purification process continues. No, the Bible says… “And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.” Revelation 13:15-17

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As this above passage reveals, Satan makes it very difficult to thrive in this, the Devil’s world. This has always been the case, throughout the history of the Church. But in these last moments of earthly time, Satan will be permitted to intensify the persecution against God’s purified people.

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

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“THOU ART MY HIDING PLACE”

Psalm 32:7

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And these devilish assaults are an integral part of those fiery trials which will assail God’s people in the storm before us!

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Listen… “Come, My people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.” Isaiah 26:20

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The Bible speaks of Judgment Day as a storm which comes upon the whole world, to judge them! But God’s people are to hide away until this storm passes over.

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ABOVE PICTURE: Hide Thyself in thy Chambers – inspired by Tornado Over Kansas by Curry

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GOOD NEWS!

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Now there is some very Good News for those of us living at this fearful time in history! There is much we can do to lessen the torment that we go through!

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Yes, if only we would begin to put away all unchristlike folly, and instead, study and contemplate God’s Word through the hours of our day, we might find that our fiery trials will be far less painful!

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Listen…“Thou (God) will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed upon Thee!” Isaiah 26:3

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You see, those who keep Jesus and His Word in their moment-by-moment thoughts will find that, “peace which surpasses all understanding!” (see Philippians 4:7)

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USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

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EDITOR’S COMMENT:

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Now, this has been a short explanation of the Beast’s Mark. And in answer to those who insist that there will be a literal Mark on the right hand or the forehead, let it be said…“Whether or not there is a literal and visible Mark given in these last days, the underlying principle behind the Mark is just whose image has been engraved upon the tables of your’s and my heart: God’s or Satan’s: one or the other, and let there be no mingling of the two characters together!”

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

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TO READ PART 3, CLICK HERE…

AUGUST 11 (Apocalypse Now! Part 3: The Little Book)

Bible and Key Divination – Wikimedia – Share-alike license

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TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to endure the fiery trials which God brings upon me, to drive out and crucify the “Old Man” of sin out of my heart! Make my life an open book, for all to read the wonderful story of the Gospel of Jesus…

Prayer-for-USA-Wikimedia–300×192

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THE END

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TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

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7 STARS IMITATE THE CROSS OF ORION

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This phenomenon begins in late October, in the pre-dawn hours. It then begins a little earlier each night, and lasts for several months, until they both appear to lie down once again.

.

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

.

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

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

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ABOVE CHART: The Cross of Orion Constellation star-chart – not for commercial use

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TOMORROW…

August 10 (Keeping 1 Day Holy, Part 4, True Rest & Genuine Holiness)

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

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20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

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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 #586 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.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 8 (The Devil Made Me Do It! Part 3: “Who Put The Bop In The Bop Shoo Bop?”)

By admin On May 30th, 2024

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Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 8

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The Devil Made Me Do It!

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Part 3:

“Who Put The Bop In The Bop Shoo Bop?”

To read Part 1, click here…October 13th (The Devil Made Me Do It! Part 1)

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WHO IS THAT MAN?

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There was a popular little song back in the mid-Twentieth Century, that unknowingly asked a very profound question…

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Listen… “Who put the bomp in the bomp bah bomp bah bomp?
Who put the ram in the rama lama ding dong?
Who put the bop in the bop shoo bop shoo bop?
Who put the dip in the dip da dip da dip?

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Who was that man? I’d like to shake his hand
He made my baby fall in love with me…”

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For those who are too young to remember this musical era, this song was praising the peculiar background singers who harmonized using `such nonsensical words and phrases in so many of the love ballads of that day!

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The Platters performing – cropped image – Wikipedia – Share-alike License

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And even though the composer of this song didn’t realize the profundity of what he was asking, it nevertheless brings us straight to the Bible for the answer…

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Magnifying Glass – Wikimedia – Share-alike License

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THE SPIRIT OF ANTICHRIST

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Yes, just listen to what the Bible says about the spirit that indwells an unsaved person… “Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, THE SPIRIT THAT NOW WORKS IN THE CHILDREN OF DISOBEDIENCE” Ephesians 2:2

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This above Bible verse is one of the most ignored passages in all of Scripture. Even most Christians refuse to believe its fearful implications!

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

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BUT I’M NOT AN ANTICHRIST!

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“Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:” Ephesians 2:2

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You see, what this passage is implying, nay, what it is clearly teaching, is that the spirit of Antichrist is now working in the children of disobedience, wherever they are found, both in the world and also in the Church.

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“What!?! You mean to tell me that I’m being indwelt by Satan!?!”

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This is the common response by the world (and worldly Christians) to the assertion that they are indwelt by, “the prince of the power of the air. That spirit that now works in the children of disobedience”!

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Anger during a protest – by David Shankbone – cropped image – Wikimedia – Share-alike-License

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TWO SPIRITS IN THE WORLD

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**But the fact is, either I am indwelt by the Spirit of Truth or I am indwelt by the Spirit of Error…**

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Listen… “and this is that [spirit] of antichrist…They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them…Hereby know we THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH, AND THE SPIRIT OF ERROR” 1st John 4:3-6

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Yes, there is a Spirit of Truth, but also a Spirit of Error. And the Spirit of Error is merely a worldly spirit…. “They (Antichrists) are of the world, and the world hears them.”

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SATAN, THE RULER OF THIS WORLD

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And contrary to popular opinion, this world is actually the kingdom of darkness, ruled over by the prince of darkness, the Devil. And those who live in this world are the loyal citizens of Satan’s kingdom!

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Listen…“and all the world wondered after the beast. And they worshipped the dragon (Satan)…” Revelation 13:3, 4

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“You mean to tell me that I worship Satan!?!”

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No, I’m not telling you anything! I’m just relaying to you what God’s assessment of us is!

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

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LUCIFER, THE WORLD’S GREATEST MUSICIAN!

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**Now, back to this little song, “Who Put The Bop In The Bop Shoo Bop?” What we do not consider is that Satan was a master musician in Heaven!**

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Yes, just listen to his musical abilities… “Thus saith the Lord GOD; Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty…The workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created. Thou art the anointed cherub that covereth;” Ezekiel 28:12

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This reference to “tabrets and pipes” is a reference to his musical abilities. And this other verse, as well…“Thy pomp is brought down to the grave, and the noise of thy viols…How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning!” Isaiah 14:11, 12

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And so, these two passages make reference to Satan’s elaborate musical accomplishments: tabrets, pipes, violins. Lucifer was a veritable one-man-orchestra/choir!

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Stuck Lucifer ca-1890 – wikimedia – public-domain

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LUCIFER: THE MAN BEHIND THE WORLD’S MUSIC

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**And so, why should we be surprised that Satan, “the god of this world” is intimately involved in the affairs of the world of music?**

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After all, Satan is no slacker! He’s a very hard worker! And so it should be no surprise that he is working very hard, behind the scenes, in producing the music of this world!

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Gustave Dore – Paradise Lost illustration – Lucifer becomes Satan – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

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FALLING IN LUST

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And it must give Satan great pleasure to produce the highly sensualized music which is being churned out today around the world!

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Satan exults whenever he can make young people fall into romance and lust, through one of his songs! And there is no shortage of sensual music today, both lyrically and musically. And much of today’s music is highly sexually-charged.

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And not only are young people so susceptible to such music, but Satan greatly amplifies the romantic magnetism, that these teens are completely helpless as they are drawn into, and held captive in Satan’s web of sin and lust!

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Music Song Singer – cropped and darkened image – Wikimedia – C.C. Share-alike License

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NOT GENUINE LOVE

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All we need to do is to look at the statistics to know that most romantic relationships are not the result of genuine love.

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True love is patient, gentle, forgiving, pure, righteous, and never gives up! But the mere fact that 9 out of 10 romantic relationships eventually dissolve, only confirms that these episodes were not true love, but something less! Something from beneath, and not from above!

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

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“IS THIS THE MAN (LUCIFER) THAT MADE THE NATIONS TO TREMBLE?”

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So in answer to the burning question… “Just who was that man (who put the Bop in the Bop Shoo Bop?).”

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Simple, it was Lucifer, the god of this sinful, selfish, and lustful world in which we live, and in which we are now being held captive!

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Yes, Lucifer, the great musician, fallen from Heaven, who writes these emotional and sensual songs which make young people fall into a rapturous euphoric romance (lust) with one-another, beyond their control!

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**Don’t forget that Satan is called, “The god of this world” 2nd Corinthians 4:4. And as such, he orchestrates much of what goes on here in this, his kingdom!**

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

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THE GOOD NEWS!

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Now amidst these continuing bad reports of this world’s terminal condition, there exists some very Good News!

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Yes, God is still calling all those who are ready and willing to make an Exodus out of this Babylon world! And praise God that the door of mercy is still ajar, waiting for the last group of ex-patriots of this condemned planet to come aboard the Ark of Salvation, which is about to leave this planet en-route to the Celestial City of God!

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So, why not rather come and live forever in a Land in which pure music and innocent laughter rings through the ever-winding valleys and echoes against the majestic mountains and everlasting hills?

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

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TO READ PART 4, CLICK HERE…

NOVEMBER 4 (The Devil Made Me Do It! Part 4: The God of This World Made Us Do It!)

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

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TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to be wise as a serpent regarding this very deceptive world. Let me not be ignorant of Satan’s devices, nor of his power over this world…

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

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THE END

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TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

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7 HEADS, 10 HORNS, & 7 CROWNS OF THE DRAGON

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“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.” Rev. 12:3

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**In Revelation, the Dragon of Revelation 12 is described as having seven heads, ten horns, and seven crowns. However, the Dragon Constellation up in the night sky does not.**

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But God has faithfully created the 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 composed of ten stars.

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The main body of the wave has seven stars (#‘s, 1 thru 7). And the tip of the crest of the wave has the other three stars (#’s, 8, 9 & 10). So we have this 7 and 10 numbering. 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).

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TOMORROW…

AUGUST 9 (Apocalypse Now! Part 2: Tormented With Fire!)

Campfire Pinecone – Emeldil at English Wikipedia – Share-alike license

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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 #585 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.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Daily Devotional – August 22 (Habakkuk Says “Run!”, Part 4: Flee Fornication!)

By admin On May 30th, 2024

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Daily Devotional, year 2 – August 22

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Habakkuk Says “Run!”,

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Part 4:

“Flee Fornication!”

TO READ PART 1, CLICK HERE…August 11th (Habakkuk Says “Run!”)

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“Flee fornication!…

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“…Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body…

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“…What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?…

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“…For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.”

1st Corinthians 6:18-20

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Schnorr von Carolsfeld – Joseph and Potiphar’s Wife – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

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**Habakkuk the prophet warns Christians of the corrupting influence of Chaldeans (the unbelieving people of the world).**

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Yes, like never before, God’s people are being spiritually corrupted by the close contact with unbelievers.

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But Habakkuk foretells of the day when God tells His people to “RUN!”

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Habakkuk by James Tissot – Wikimedia Commons – US Public Domain

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“EVIL COMMUNICATIONS CORRUPTS”

1st Corinthians 15:33

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Now, we might not know every reason why we are to run. But we do know a good many reasons.

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For instance, as Habakkuk says…“Therefore the law is slacked, and judgment doth never go forth: for the wicked doth compass about the righteous; therefore wrong judgment proceedeth.” Habakkuk 1:4

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Yes, with such close contact with unbelievers, it is becoming increasingly difficult to avoid being corrupted by such things as the high-tech devices which young and old alike are now addicted to.

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And by just a little bit of improper judgment, the Believer can now drum up ungodly images on the Internet which could never before seen, so easily!

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A MOST DANGEROUS SITUATION

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And, on another front, as a result of so-called “Women’s Liberation”, the work-force is now filled with both women and men, working together, side-by-side, five days a week! Now isn’t this a great temptation for both women and men?! Yes, both the married and the unmarried are forced to mingle each and every day with the opposite gender, who by the way, are all dressed up and on their best behavior!

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So here is just one more example of how Satan has made today’s living conditions even more dangerous! The divorce rate for both Believers and unbelievers is incredibly high!

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Male – female symbol – Wikimedia – GNU General License

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CHURCHES FORGET THEIR HIGH & HOLY CALLING

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And today’s churches are exercising wrong judgment in relaxing the dress codes, and other standards.

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And sexual promiscuity within the churches has been steadily increasing through the past decades. Even ministers are showing imprudence by hiring attractive secretaries, often falling into affairs, ending in divorce!

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And school children are now beginning to be encouraged by their schools to engage in sexual perversion!

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Church of Christ worship music – CROPPED IMAGE – Wikipedia – Share-alike License

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SODOM ALL OVER AGAIN!

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Now just what can God’s people do about this sad situation? It is very difficult, because Christians must earn a living. So what are Christians to do?

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Well, one thing for Christians to do, is to perhaps forget about trying to live the same opulent lifestyle which the unbelievers are living. In other words, in order to not place yourself in harm’s way, you might think about learning a trade in which you are not rubbing elbows with the opposite gender each day.

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This is one way to “RUN!”, as Habakkuk warns.

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

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FLEE FORNICATION!

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The Bible says… “Flee fornication!”1st Corinthians 6:18. This is the same message as Habakkuk, when God tells us to, “RUN!”

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Parents should likewise encourage their children to seek for employment which is not going to be a snare for their souls. Far too many Christian parents encourage their children to seek after time-consuming, energy-sapping, high-paying careers which lead to the same opulence which led Sodom down into decadence and into its ultimate destruction!

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Young business people – Cropped Photo – Wikimedia – the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license.

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But where can we run? And where do we hide?

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

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HOW TO BE HIDDEN

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The prophet, Isaiah gives us the direction in which to go… “Come, My people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast. For, behold, the LORD cometh out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain.” Isaiah 26:20, 21

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The very first step in hiding ourselves is to shut out as much of this ungodly society as possible, and begin to surround ourselves with a heavenly atmosphere. Sacred music, Bible readings, meditation on the Bible, unceasing prayer. These are among the godly influences which replace such things as the TV, secular radio, sports, amusements and other worldly influences.

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No, the Christian cannot come completely out of the world. But we can come a good way out, if we so-choose!

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And then, if our work-place environment is unwholesome, we can pray for wisdom and help to correct the situation.

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ABOVE PICTURE: Hide Thyself in thy Chambers – inspired by Tornado Over Kansas by Curry

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TO READ PART 5, CLICK HERE…

SEPTEMBER 4 (Habakkuk Says “Run!”, Part 5: Schools of Babylon!)

ABOVE ENGRAVING: Whore – Babylon – Burgkmair – 1523 AD – this old engraving shows that the Church once realized that the Babylon Mother of Harlots was actually the apostate churches – Wikimedia – US Public Domain.

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TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to flee fornication. Give me wisdom to know what to do about my workplace situation…

Prayer for USA – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution 2.0

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THE END

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TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

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WIDE & NARROW GATES IN THE HEAVENS

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

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So what are these two gates all about? And how can I choose the right door? Well, just read this article and these questions and more will be answered.

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But before we explore these questions, let’s take a look at why these two sets of stars represent these two biblical gates.

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PICTURE – Constellation- Woman of Revelation 12 flees to the mountains Mark 13:14 This is not a star-chart, but merely a concept picture, but made up of real constellations (Ursa Major & Auriga, Hyades, etc…, howbeit not in their actual positions in the night-sky)

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HOW THE GATES RELATE TO ORION & DRAGON

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This sketch below is when these constellations are in the eastern sky in early winter (However, this constellation group can even be seen as early as July, in the pre-dawn hours).

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In the eastern sky, it’s not so easily seen which gate the Revelation 12 Woman will enter. The Wide Gate is made of the two brightest stars of this Wave of Water Constellation. Satan spews out the deadly water of his false worldly ideologies; which many of these ideologies have a form of godliness, but in some way are not in harmony; or perhaps these worldly ideologies add to the Bible, which is strictly forbidden (see Deuteronomy 4:2).

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**On the other hand, the Strait Gate (narrow gate) is composed of the two brightest stars of the Orion The Reaper’s sickle. The true Strait Gate represents Jesus, the Word of God.**

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Listen… “I [Jesus] am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.” John 10:9

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TOMORROW:

AUGUST 23 (Apocalypse Now! Part 8: “These Things in the Churches”)

Church – Milano Duomo – 1856 – Wikipedia – Public Domain

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20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

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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.

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THIS IS STUDY #599 PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING….

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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.

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Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 20 (The Great Babylonian Dream-Machine! Part 2: Pursuing My Dreams!)

By admin On May 30th, 2024

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Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 20

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The Great Babylonian Dream-Machine!

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Part 2:

“Pursuing My Dreams!”

To read Part 1, click here…May 6 (The Great Babylonian Dream-Machine!)

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“For a dream cometh through the multitude of business;”

Ecclesiastes 5:3

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Some months ago, a Christian woman from a conservative church made the following comment… “God wants us to pursue our dreams!”

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Now she did not elaborate just what dreams we should be pursuing.

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But it sure is an interesting statement for a professed Christian to make, wouldn’t you agree?

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Woman in Mediterranian – Wikipaintings – US public domain

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WHAT DREAMS SHOULD I PURSUE?

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And this raises a very interesting question: “Just what dreams should I be pursuing?”

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After all, there are many dreams to pursue in this life. Some pursue money and material possessions. Some pursue fame and fortune. Some pursue hobbies and sports. Some merely want a peaceful life and a cottage on a little green acre. Others want a high-paying career and all the accompanying amenities. Some dream of romance.

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Yes, this world offers many dreams that one can pursue.

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ABOVE PICTURE: Dream Maker of Babylon – Signs Of Heaven.org

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THE DREAMS OF A CHRISTIAN

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But what about the Christian? What dreams should the child of God pursue?

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Shouldn’t the greatest dream of the Christian be to meet the Lord in peace? And this would necessitate a sanctified life of holiness, wouldn’t it?…

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

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Here above, Paul made clear just what his dream was: to win Christ.

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

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DIDN’T PAUL HAVE CHRIST ALREADY?

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But many will say, “Well why would Paul want to win Christ? Didn’t Paul already have Christ?”

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Listen as Paul continues… “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13, 14

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So Paul did not consider himself to have apprehended Christ.

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But he pursued Christ as though he had not yet obtained Christ.

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Paul Shipwrecked – Acts 27:41-44 – www.lavistachurchofchrist.org – Public Domain

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THE DREAM OF HEAVEN FOR MY LOVED ONES

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But what other dreams should the Christian pursue?

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Well, wouldn’t the greatest dream for a Christian be, to see his or her children (and grandchildren) walking those heavenly streets of gold someday?

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Yes, each and every day, the Christian cries out for the Salvation of his or her family! And not just for our children, but for our parents and friends too!

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Yes, God has called us to be ambassadors for Christ!

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And He has elected us to be priests, crying out on behalf of all those around us!

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Family Portrait – cropped image – Wikimedia – Share-alike License

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***THE DREAM OF BEING FILLED WITH CHRIST’S* *FULLNESS***

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And so, are there still any other dreams that the Christian should pursue?

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Well, isn’t our great hope to become Christlike in every way?

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To be filled with His goodness?

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To be filled with His love?

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To walk in His holiness?

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Listen…“He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.” 1st John 2:5, 6

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So to walk as He walked. This is also the Christian’s dream!

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Brooklyn Museum – What Our Lord Saw from the Cross – James Tissot

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FORSAKING ALL, A MUST!

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Now unfortunately, most churches today teach that the Christian can have Heaven and still pursue earthly dreams. But the Bible calls that kind of thinking, “double-minded”…

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Listen to Jesus… “So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be My disciple!” Luke 14:33

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Most churches don’t really believe this statement by Jesus. But Paul believed it!

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

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Christ calling His Disciples by Edward Armitage – 1869 – courtesy Wikigallery.com – Public Domain

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“CONTENT WITH SUCH THINGS AS YE HAVE”

Hebrews 13:5

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

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Now is Paul saying here that we cannot own anything? Furniture? A car? A house?

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Of course not! What Paul is merely warning us against, is the danger of becoming materialistic.

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Yes, we live in a very materialistic world.

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The whole world is going after the lusts of the flesh, the lusts of the eyes, and the many proud pursuits and careers.

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

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CALLED OUT OF THE WORLD

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But Christ has called us out of the world, to become strangers and pilgrims on an upward heavenward sojourn!

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And Paul agrees with this by saying…“For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.” 1st Timothy 6:7, 8

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OK, so Paul tells us to be content with food and covering.

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And yet, the Church for the most part ignores Paul’s admonition, and continues to accumulate needless possessions and proud attainments.

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Upward Pathway – cropped and altered image – by böhringer friedrich – for-Wikimedia – Share-alike-License

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WHICH WORLD WILL YOU CHOOSE?

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The fact is, there isn’t enough time to pursue this world and Heaven too!

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**And there isn’t enough room in the heart for both worlds to co-exist! We must each choose which world we are going to live for! Heaven or Hell (this world)! We just cannot live for both!**

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And if we are going to save our family, we cannot expect to have a divided heart.

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A heart divided cannot stand! It will certainly fall!

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But to win Heaven for our loved ones will require all the heart, soul, mind and strength!

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Nothing less will do!

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This world is the battlefield for the souls of men!

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TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS!

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Well, the Good News is, that this is still the day of Salvation. And in an instant, the Christian can repent and turn away from the pursuit of earthly Mammon (the pleasures and riches of this selfish world). And there is no need to immediately trash all our belongings!

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No, it’s like that old song… “Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in His wonderful face! And the things of the world will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace!”

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Yes, when we lift up our heads heavenward, the things of the world begin to lose their luster! The brightness of Jesus makes this world look dark and drab by comparison!

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USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

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TO READ PART 3, GO HERE…

January 2 (This Vanity Fair Dream-Machine! Part 3: It’s A Theme-park World!)“

Fantasy Kingdom Theme Park – Bangladesh – Creative Commons CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication.

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TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Let me not be deceived by this very alluring world, and by the very deceitful, “prince of this world”…

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THE END

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TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

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THE NARROW & WIDE GATE STARS

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This most amazing phenomenon is seen throughout the winter.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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TOMORROW…

AUGUST 21 (Apocalypse Now! Part 7: Tormented With Fire!)

Brooklyn Museum – The Rich Man In Hell – James Tissot – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

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20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

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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.

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THIS IS STUDY #597 PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

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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.

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Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 19 (Apocalypse Now! Part 6: Fire & Brimstone!)

By admin On May 30th, 2024

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Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 19

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Apocalypse Now!

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Part 6:

“Fire & Brimstone!”

To read Part 1, click here… AUGUST 3 (Apocalypse Now! Part 1: Silencing the Gospel!)

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“And the third angel followed them,

saying with a loud voice,

If any man worship the beast and his image,

and receive his mark in his forehead,

or in his hand,

The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God,

which is poured out without mixture

into the cup of His indignation;

and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone

in the presence of the holy angels,

and in the presence of the Lamb:”

Revelation 14:9, 10

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Mark of the beast – pub. dom. – Wikipedia

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This above passage from Revelation presents a fearful scenario about the punishment of all those who worship the beast and his image…“and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb:”

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Now at first blush, it would appear that unsaved humanity will be tormented by literal “fire & brimstone”, as their eternal reward.

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Brooklyn Museum – The Rich Man In Hell – James Tissot – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

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WHAT DOES SCRIPTURE SAY?

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But the Bible is a spiritual book, and must be carefully studied to be properly understood.

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And so, it might be well to take a few minutes to better understand what God is speaking of concerning, “fire & brimstone”.

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

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FIRE AND MUCH WOOD?!

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Listen… “For Tophet is ordained of old; yea, for the king it is prepared; he hath made it deep and large: the pile thereof is fire and much wood; the breath of the LORD, like a stream of brimstone, doth kindle it.” Isaiah 30:33

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Here is a verse concerning the judgment of the last days. And yet, when God speaks here of the “pile thereof is fire and much wood”, this is a tip-off that God is speaking metaphorically, and not literally.

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After all, this verse says that Tophet will burn because of all the wood. So if we would take this literally, it would be totally ridiculous! And this is confirmed by the next words, “the breath of the LORD, like a steam of brimstone, doth kindle it.”

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Now obviously these metaphors, speaking of piles of wood and the breath of the LORD and the fires of Tophet are presenting an allegorical description of the great Day of God’s wrath.

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Firewood – Tres Tombs in Igualada – cropped image – Wikimedia – Share-alike License

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GOD IS A DEVOURING FIRE

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Here is another passage which even further confirms the metaphorical nature of fire & brimstone… “Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: For our God is a consuming (devouring) fire.” Hebrews 12:28, 29

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**Here it says that our God is a “consuming” or “devouring fire”. Now obviously, God is a Spirit, and not an actual fire.**

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Transfiguration – Bloch – Wikimedia Commons – US Public Domain

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DEVOURING FIRE ON MOUNT SINAI

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The point is, we need to interpret the Bible as a spiritual book. And while there are many verses which are plain spiritual statements, yet there are many other verses which must be interpreted spiritually, in order to make any sense.

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Now let’s look at one more passage… “And the sight of the glory of the LORD was like devouring fire on the top of the mount in the eyes of the children of Israel.” Exodus 24:17

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Here again, the words, “devouring fire” are used here to describe the glory of God, when He appeared to Israel from Mount Sinai. This word, “devouring” can also be translated, “consuming”. And so, the Bible consistently compares the glory and judgment of God to a consuming and devouring fire. But it is not a literal fire. Rather it is a spiritual fire which burns up the wickedness of all who are cast into that fire…

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Gérôme, Jean-Léon – Moses on Mount Sinai – Jean-Léon Gérôme – 1895-1900 – Wikimedia – Pub. Dom.

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DWELLING WITH THE DEVOURING FIRE

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Listen to this rather lengthy passage…

“The sinners in Zion are afraid;

fearfulness hath surprised the hypocrites.

Who among us shall dwell with the devouring fire?

who among us shall dwell with everlasting burnings?

He that walketh righteously, and speaketh uprightly;

he that despiseth the gain of oppressions,

that shaketh his hands from holding of bribes,

that stoppeth his ears from hearing of blood,

and shutteth his eyes from seeing evil;

He shall dwell on high:

his place of defence shall be the munitions of rocks:

bread shall be given him;

his waters shall be sure.

Thine eyes shall see the King in His beauty:

they shall behold the land that is very far off.”

Isaiah 33:14-17

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As this above passage reveals, only the righteous will be able to dwell with the devouring fire and everlasting burnings. And here is veiled, allegorical language to describe the LORD! It is God who is that devouring fire and everlasting burnings. And only righteousness can dwell with Him. And everything else will obviously be burned up! Spiritually burned up! Wickedness cannot dwell with our God, who is a consuming fire!

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USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

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WICKEDNESS BURNED UP FOREVER!

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And so, all this information gives us a much greater understanding of what the coming indignation will be like.

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Yes, the coming Judgment Day will be a day of fire, and torment for all those who are proud.

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But it is a spiritual fire that will burn up and destroy the wickedness in the world!

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Picture – Lot Escapes Sodom – www.thebiblerevival.com offers free Bible clipart – Public Domain.

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LITERAL FIRE

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Now, having said all this, it is interesting (and very sad) to see so many literal fires burning in these last days: forest fires are devastating the western United States, and haters throw fire-bombs, igniting many cities, etc….

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Now as we tearfully behold all these tragedies, it should be a wake-up call to all those who desire to live forever!

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Paradise California – Wikipedia – US Govt. Public Domain

Protesters – Wikimedia – Share-alike License 3.0

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TO READ PART 7, CLICK HERE…

AUGUST 21 (Apocalypse Now! Part 7: Tormented With Fire!)

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

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TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Hide me from the fiery tempest which is now coming upon the earth. Help me to put away any worldly traits and affections and lusts which I may still be clinging to. Let me take refuge under the shadow of Thy wings…

Morning Prayers – Ebenezer Newman – Downard – 1860 – Wikipedia – Public Domain

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THE END

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TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

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7 STARS IMITATE THE CROSS OF ORION

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This phenomenon begins in late October, in the pre-dawn hours. It then begins a little earlier each night, and lasts for several months, until they both appear to lie down once again.

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

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

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

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ABOVE CHART: The Cross of Orion Constellation star-chart – not for commercial use

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TOMORROW…

AUGUST 20 (The Great Babylonian Dream-Machine! Part 2: Pursuing My Dreams!)

ABOVE PICTURE: Dream Maker of Babylon – Signs Of Heaven.org

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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 #596 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.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 18 (Apocalypse Now! Part 5: Being Well Hidden)

By admin On May 30th, 2024

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Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 18

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Apocalypse Now!

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Part 5:

“Be Well Hidden!”

To read Part 1, click here… AUGUST 3 (Apocalypse Now! Part 1: Silencing the Gospel!)

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“Come, My people,

enter thou into thy chambers,

and shut thy doors about thee:

hide thyself as it were for a little moment,

until the indignation be overpast.

For, behold, the LORD cometh out of His place

to punish the inhabitants of the earth

for their iniquity:

the earth also shall disclose her blood,

and shall no more cover her slain.”

Isaiah 26:20, 21

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One of the most heart-warming sights in this world is to behold various animals with their babies. And the hen with her baby chicks is no exception!

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The Bible makes the comparison between the hen with her chicks, to God and His children…

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Listen… “(To the chief Musician, Altaschith, Michtam of David, when he fled from Saul in the cave.) Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in Thee: yea, in the shadow of Thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast.” Psalm 57:1

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Here above is a most interesting situation. David was hiding in a cave from his oppressors. And he makes the allegory of hiding in the shadow of God’s wings, until these calamities be overpast.

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hen with babies – cropped image – wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license

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“When the wicked rise, men hide themselves…”

Proverbs 28:28

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Now, just how do we Christians relate to all this? How are we to say to God, “hide me under the shadow of Thy wings?”

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Well listen to Isaiah…“Come, My people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast. For, behold, the LORD cometh out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain.” Isaiah 26:20, 21

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You see, this above passage foretells of the day in which God calls His people to take cover, until a great storm is “overpast”. It is the storm of “Judgment Day”! It is the “Valley of Jehoshaphat! It is “The Day of the Lord, which is near in the Valley of Decision!

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ABOVE PICTURE: Hide Thyself in thy Chambers – inspired by Tornado Over Kansas by Curry

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“LAY ASIDE EVERY WEIGHT!”

Hebrews 12:1

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Yes, the Day is now at hand in which every true worshipper of God is to flee to the mountain of God!

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We must cast away any and every possible deterrent that may harm or hinder us in our attempt to be hidden under the “shadow Thy wings!”

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PICTURE – Constellation- Woman of Revelation 12 flees to the mountains Mark 13:14 This is not a star-chart, but merely a concept picture, but made up of real constellations (Ursa Major & Auriga, Hyades, etc…, howbeit not in their actual positions in the night-sky)

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And this is the exclamation point of today’s devotional: to let go of even the little indulgences of this world, that tend to compromise our thinking, and hinder us from entering into the fulness of the Lord!

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Exclamation Mark – Wikimedia – Public Domain

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COMING OUT OF BABYLON

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You see, there are many things in this world that are seemingly benign, some even having the appearance of goodness. And it takes real Christian maturity and much prayerful wisdom to discern which things are to be retained by the Christian, or discarded.

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And when God calls us out of Babylon, He is, in reality, calling us to put on Christ in all His fulness and purity!

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**Now obviously, “that’s a tall order”, as the saying goes! To walk, even as Christ walked, is no casual endeavor! And the Child of God must give his or her self every possible advantage!**

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Because, to purify the heart, and to conform the life into the image of the Holy One of God, is no menial task!

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USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

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VICTORY REQUIRES ALL!

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“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,” Hebrews 12:1

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**And so, any Christian who will truly, “strive for the masteries”, must give all to obtain the victory crown! 2nd Timothy 2:4, 5**

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SECULAR ENTERTAINMENT MUST GO!

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**Now this website has spoken ad-nauseam concerning putting away all secular entertainment, such as TV, secular radio, less-than-holy Internet surfing, secular reading material, etc…**

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But the Christian must even go further! You see, even such things as daily news might best be put away, to a great extent. This is because there are so many salacious news stories these days which are designed to absorb the attention of the public. Yes, whether it’s the countless shocking crimes, celebrity gossip, or the ongoing political dramas, today’s news can be very addicting!

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And if I have the tendency to become what is commonly referred to as a “news junkie”, then I really need to call my habit by its rightful name: an idol!

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TV – ABC-Good Morning America – Wikipedia – Share-alike License

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THE HEART IS DEFILED

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And beside the addictive nature of today’s news, there is another detrimental effect which occurs from all this.

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Listen…“If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God;” 1st Peter 4:11

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Here we have a command to keep our speech pure. We are to allow Christ to live out His life freely through us. And our speech should be free of covetousness and worldly vanity.

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But if we give ourselves over to a day-by-day absorbing of the news, we will invariably find that our thoughts will be greatly channeled along the issues of the world. And when we talk with others, the conversation will soon gravitate toward these worldly issues, making us sound more like people of the world, rather than loving followers of Christ!

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Lunch Break – cropped image – Wikimedia Commons – Share-alike License

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DON’T WANDER AWAY!

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And so, today’s devotional is an encouragement for we Christians to hide ourselves “till the indignation be overpast.” Isaiah 26:22.

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But when we allow ourselves to soak up the daily news reports, it is much like a baby chick, wandering away from the mother hen. No longer is that little chick under the protection of its mother!

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And let’s face it! You can just bet that Satan is out there lurking in the shadows, laying-in-wait for any little bird who dares to wander into Satan’s territory!

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GOOD NEWS!

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The Good News is that God is calling His people to…“Come, My people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast. For, behold, the LORD cometh out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain.” Isaiah 26:20, 21

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Yes, there is a hiding place, a shelter from the storm in which God’s faithful ones must now hide.

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Listen… “Seek ye the LORD, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the LORD’S anger.” Zephaniah 2:3

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And those who are willing to let go of any and every selfish little indulgence that hinders the pursuit of Christ, just might be hidden from the terrible calamities which are soon coming upon the whole world!

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ABOVE PICTURE: Hide Thyself in thy Chambers – inspired by Tornado Over Kansas by Curry

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TO READ PART 6, CLICK HERE…

AUGUST 19 (Apocalypse Now! Part 6: Fire & Brimstone!)

Brooklyn Museum – The Rich Man In Hell – James Tissot – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

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TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Hide me from the fiery tempest which is now coming upon the earth. Help me to put away any worldly traits and affections and lusts which I may still be clinging to. Let me take refuge under the shadow of Thy wings…

Marine Praying – Wikimedia – USMC Public Domain

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THE END

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TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

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7 STARS IMITATE THE CROSS OF ORION

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This phenomenon begins in late October, in the pre-dawn hours. It then begins a little earlier each night, and lasts for several months, until they both appear to lie down once again.

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

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

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

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ABOVE CHART: The Cross of Orion Constellation star-chart – not for commercial use

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

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TOMORROW…

AUGUST 19 (Apocalypse Now! Part 6: Fire & Brimstone!)

Brooklyn Museum – The Rich Man In Hell – James Tissot – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

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20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

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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.

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THIS IS STUDY #595 PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

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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.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 17 (Psalm 101, Part 3: Crucifying The Old Man!)

By admin On May 30th, 2024

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Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 17

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Psalm 101,

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Part 3:

“Crucifying the Old Man!”

To read Part 1, click here…AUGUST 16 (Repentance 101, Part 1: Separation)

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“A Psalm of David. I will sing of mercy and judgment:

unto thee, O LORD, will I sing.

I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way.

O when wilt Thou come unto me?

I will walk within my house with a perfect heart….”

Psalm 101

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**Now in yesterday’s devotional (click here), it was pointed out that Psalm 101 is all about a repentance which vows to separate from all wicked influences.**

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And it was pointed out that we are now living in a day in which all the filth and wickedness of this Babylonian and Sodomite world can be accessed by anyone, via television, radio, Internet, books & magazines, etc…

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ABOVE PICTURE: Dream-Maker of Babylon

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BY GRACE ALONE, BUT WORKS DO FOLLOW!

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And so, Psalm 101 has a special message for today’s Christian, to come out from among these wicked and corrupting influences and separate from them, if one ever hopes to be a child of God!

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Oh yes, Salvation is by grace and grace alone!

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But only those who have truly become saved will respond to God’s grace by making decided efforts to purify the heart and transform the life into the likeness of Jesus Christ!

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Chaplain reads Bible – Wikimedia – US Govt. Public Domain

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SEPARATION

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Now having said all this, the commission has been given to every true worshipper, to separate from every evil influence, as far as possible.

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And no, we cannot come entirely out of this world!

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But we can come a good way out, if we so-choose!

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And this is what Psalm 101 is all about!

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Hide Thyself in thy Chambers- inspired by Tornado Over Kansas by Curry

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THE EVIL WITHIN!

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But here is the point to today’s devotional: while we want to separate from outside influences which corrupt the hearts of Believers, we must also be equally concerned about the evil within!

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Yes, there is an evil man within each and every new convert to Christianity! And the Bible refers to this man as “The Old Man”. This “Old Man” is the flesh (enhanced by spiritual wickedness), which is corrupt and sinful, and desires to control each and every person.

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Now when a person truly comes to the Lord through Salvation, there is born within, “The New Man”. And thus begins a struggle between the Old Man and the New Man for lordship over the Believer.

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Christ battles satan www.thebiblerevival.com-public domain4

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THE BATTLE OVER “SELF”

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The Bible says… “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.” Galatians 5:16, 17

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**And so, a battle begins in the life of the Believer. It is the battle over “self”! And it is an expressed commission by God for every Believer to crucify the flesh…**

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

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ABOVE PICTURE: The Battle over Self

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THE NEW MAN & THE OLD MAN

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And so, back to Psalm 101. Just how does this Psalm apply to this concept of overcoming “self”?

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You see, every true child of God is painfully aware that evil still exists within! When Psalm 101 speaks of separating from evil influences in the form of liars, slanderers, gossips, flatters, extortioners, and the like, the Believer sees all these qualities within his or her own heart! The Old Man of the flesh has not yet been fully crucified! The New Man, created in in righteousness and true holiness does not yet have full control.

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And so, while Psalm 101 is definitely about separating from the evil from without, but also about separating from the evil from within! Yes, we must part ways from Antichrist without, but also from Antichrist within!

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ABOVE PICTURE: The Battle over Self

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AN IMPOSSIBLE CLIMB?

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So just how do we do this? Just how do we conquer such an impossibly ‘high mountain’?

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Well, fortunately, God makes a wonderful promise… “Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” Philippians 1:6

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Yes, those who are true children of God can rest on this above promise that it is God who will accomplish this Herculean task!

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Matterhorn Mountain ascent Dore – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

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“GOD IS MINE HELPER”

Psalm 54:4

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Listen again to Paul’s exhortation to the Philippians… “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own Salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” Philippians 2:12, 13

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This above passage by Paul not only exhorts us to put out our own effort to conform our lives to Christ’s godly life, but it reveals just Who is working within us, to inspire us, and to strengthen us to do of God’s good pleasure! Yes, God is the true source of Power within the true worshipper! And that’s very Good News!

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

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A JOYFUL WORK!

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And so, we should not think for a minute, that this work of repentance and separation from the evil in our lives is a dreary and dreadful task!

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No, God’s Spirit within gives us great joy and peace: a joy and peace that the world cannot know!

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Yes, the world looks at Christians as, “the savor of death-unto-death”. They do not understand the joy of purification! The world is shackled in slavish bonds to the selfishness and sinful corruption which rules over this fallen planet!

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And so, the world lives in hopelessness and defeat, in this prison-house of sin, called Planet Earth.

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Paul Shipwrecked – Acts 27:41-44 – www.lavistachurchofchrist.org – Public Domain

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A WORK OF PURIFYING & TRANSFORMING

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But those who have been called to liberty, will continue on in Christ’s Word, as we journey up the pathway to victory.

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And those who are truly traveling up that pathway out of this hellish world below, will be constantly engaging in the work of heart-purification, and life-transformation.

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And Psalm 101 is a very important piece of the puzzle of overcoming the world, the flesh, and the Devil!

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USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

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UP THE PATHWAY TO VICTORY!

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**And so, each time I see an ungodly trait or habit within, I need to realize that this is merely, “The Old Man” still trying to regain his former dominance over me!**

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**And by prayer, by pleading, by Bible contemplation, and by finally eliminating that particular “noxious weed” out of my life, I will ascend higher and higher up the pathway to joyful victory!**

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Upward-Pathway-by-böhringer-friedrich – cropped and altered image – for-Wikimedia-Share-alike-License

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PSALM 101

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101:1 A Psalm of David. I will sing of mercy and judgment: unto thee, O LORD, will I sing.

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101:2 “I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt Thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart

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101:3 “I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.

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101:4 “A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person.

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101:5 “Whoso privily slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off: him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer.

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101:6 “Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve me.

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101:7 “He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my house: he that telleth lies shall not tarry in my sight.

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101:8 “I will early destroy all the wicked of the land; that I may cut off all wicked doers from the City of the LORD.

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David the Shepherd Boy – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

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TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Give me a heart that longs to crucify the Old Man of sin. Help me to fix my gaze on Christ and His glory. Persevere with me until I have finally overcome the world…

Prayer for USA – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution 2.0

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THE END

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TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

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“CAN YOU LOOSE ORION’S BANDS?”

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ORION & HORSE FALL BACKWARD

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God perplexes Job with the question… “Can you loose the bands of Orion?” This Bible riddle has likewise perplexed theologians down through the ages, but now has been revealed to those of us living at the end of time.

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You see, at the beginning of winter, you can see Orion, the Dragon, the Horse, and the Woman in the east, above the horizon. When in the east it appears that the Dragon is winning the battle. The Horse looks as if he is tumbling backwards. Orion likewise appears to have fallen backward. This is similar to the passage from Genesis, in which Jacob is pronouncing his blessings on his children. But when he comes to Dan, it sounds more like a curse.

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Listen… “Dan shall be a serpent by the way, an adder in the path, that biteth the horse heels, so that his rider shall fall backward.” Gen. 49:17.

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God often inserts a prophecy, hidden within an Old Testament text. And here is one fine example of how God is using Dan as a picture of Satan, to illustrate a spiritual concept.

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ORION & HORSE GET

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THE FINAL VICTORY

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Now if you will stay up all night, you will see that the tables turn very dramatically for our three warriors. This is because, as night progresses, and this constellation group moves to the west, God has designed this threesome to now be in the opposite circumstance. Now it is Orion and his Horse who are atop the Dragon. Now Orion is about to whack off the Dragon’s head with his two-edged sword, while the Horse is stomping on his tail. And of course, there needs to be no explanation, because this picture tells the whole story. Jesus wins in the end! God’s people are victorious at last! No wonder the Bible calls this story…”The Good News”!

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TOMORROW…

AUGUST 18 (Apocalypse Now! Part 5: Being Well Hidden)

Hide Thyself in thy Chambers- inspired by Tornado Over Kansas by Curry

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20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

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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.

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THIS IS STUDY #594 PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

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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.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 16 (Psalm 101, Part 2: Separation)

By admin On May 30th, 2024

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Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 16

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Psalm 101,

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Part 2:

“Separation”

To read Part 1, click here…December 6th Year 3 (Psalm 101 :A Lesson On Television From Psalm 101)

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“A Psalm of David. I will sing of mercy and judgment:

unto thee, O LORD, will I sing.

I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way.

O when wilt Thou come unto me?

I will walk within my house with a perfect heart….”

Psalm 101:1, 2
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The above words are the beginning words from Psalm 101. It is a rather short Psalm. And yet it is a very poignant and memorable Psalm! (To read entire Psalm, scroll down this page)

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It paints a picture of a man in his house, who makes vows unto his God concerning his future behavior! But this man is apparently waiting for the Lord to visit and bless him, because he says, “Oh when will You (God) come unto me?”

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David the Shepherd Boy – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

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A BEGINNING COLLEGE COURSE

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Now the name of this devotional is “Repentance 101”, alluding to some beginning college course, which beginning college courses are often called 101, as opposed to intermediate courses which are called “201”, and advanced courses, “301”

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But we will refer to this Psalm as “Repentance 101”, because it presents some basic principles about what it means to prepare one’s heart for the Lord to make His abode in that Believer’s heart!

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College Lecture Hall – Wikimedia – Share-alike License 3.0

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And so, the remainder of this little Psalm speaks of the various reforms which the Psalmist will make, in hopes that the Lord will come quickly into the fulness of spiritual glorification.

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David the Shepherd Boy – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

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A PSALM OF CHRIST & A PSALM FOR US TOO!

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Now this Psalm is a Messianic Psalm of David. And so it applies to the thoughts of Christ, and His relationship to His Father.

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And yet, these Messianic Psalms can also apply to the individual Believer too!

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And that will be our focus today.

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David the Shepherd Boy – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

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A PSALM OF SEPARATION

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Now the Psalm begins by making vows… “I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt Thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person.” Psalm 101:2-4

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Now from this above passage, we see this to be a Psalm of separation.

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Yes, Psalm 101 is a Psalm about separating from those who are wicked, and from their ungodly influences!

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

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BAD ASSOCIATIONS

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Listen again…“I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt Thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.”

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The Psalmist is concerned about the corrupting influences of the wicked.

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Listen… “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.” 1st Corinthians 15:33

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Oh yes, he understands that when his Lord does finally and fully inhabits his heart, that will bring true perfection. And he longs for that day!

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And so, this Psalmist makes vows to separate himself from all gossips, slanderers, liars, flatterers, and angry persons, and worldly-minded pretenders who come into the Church with their malignant influences!

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

ABOVE STAR-CHART (with constellation drawn in by this website)- Serpent with Wise Virgins not Attached – seen late summer into fall only – Serpent Constellation – comprised of the head of Draco, plus stars from the Bootes Constellation – www.signsofheaven.org – not for profit use

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A PROPHECY FOR TODAY!

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Now, this particular Psalm seems to be a Psalm for this very day in which we now live.

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Because notice that it. says…“I will set no wicked thing before my eyes!”

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Well, isn’t it true that today is a day in which Mankind is able to set wicked things before our eyes?

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Yes, the television, radio, and Internet (plus all other reading material), are easily accessible to most every man, woman, and child. And the very low-level character-types described in this Psalm are seen literally everywhere on television, Internet and also heard on radio, etc.!

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ABOVE PICTURE: TV indoctrination – www.signsofheaven.org

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SCRIPTURAL PROOF-TEXT?

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Now does the Bible confirm this concept of separation?

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Listen to Paul’s exhortation… “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness?…Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean [thing]; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” 1st Corinthians 6:14, 17, 18

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This New Testament passage from 2nd Corinthians 6:14-18 conveys the same basic idea that Psalm 101 presents!

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Chaplain reads Bible – Wikimedia – US Govt. Public Domain

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THE ROAD TO REDEMPTION

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Well, the Good News to all this is that today is still the day of repentance!

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Yes, there is still time to return to the Lord with weeping and mourning and vows. And these two passages (Psalm 101 & 1st Corinthians 6:14-18) are a good place to start up that road to redemption!

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USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

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PSALM 101

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101:1 A Psalm of David. I will sing of mercy and judgment: unto thee, O LORD, will I sing.
101:2 I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt Thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart

101:3 I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
101:4 A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person.
101:5 Whoso privily slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off: him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer.
101:6 Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve me.
101:7 He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my house: he that telleth lies shall not tarry in my sight.
101:8 I will early destroy all the wicked of the land; that I may cut off all wicked doers from the City of the LORD.

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David the Shepherd Boy – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

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TO READ PART 3, GO HERE…

AUGUST 17 (Psalm 101, Part 3: Crucifying The Old Man!)

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

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TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Give me the desire to search out all these things. And give me the desire to purify my heart and conform my life into Thy image…

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

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THE END

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TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

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

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THE NARROW WAY: THE PILGRIM’S PATHWAY

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

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

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

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John Bunyan – Wikipedia – Public Domain

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

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LOCATION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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TOMORROW…

AUGUST 17 (Repentance 101, Part 2: Crucifying The Old Man!)

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

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20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

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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.

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THIS IS STUDY #593 PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

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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.

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Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 15 (The Commandments of God, Part 2: Rethinking the Removing of the 10 Commandments)

By admin On May 30th, 2024

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Daily Devotional, Year 2 – AUGUST 15

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The Commandments of God,

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Part 2:

“Rethinking The Removal of the 10 Commandments”

To read Part 1, click here…JULY 28 (The Commandments of God, Part 1: The True Light Now Shineth!)

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“Now we know that what things soever the law saith,

it saith to them who are under the law:

that every mouth may be stopped,

and all the world may become guilty before God.”

Romans 3:19

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There was a joke which circulated through the Christian community a few years back, that went something like this:

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A boy came to his teacher after class, saying, “Hey Teach!”

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“Yes, Johnny?”

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“So you say that we don’t have to obey the Ten Commandments anymore?”

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“That’s right Johnny! The 10 Commandments were the product of mere humans, and not to be regarded.”

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Well, Teach, then God doesn’t care if I steal a car?”

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“Well Johnny, actually there is no God. So how could He possibly care if you steal a car, if He doesn’t really even exist?”

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“So, you’re saying it’s not wrong to steal a car?”

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“Well, I suppose you’re right, up to a certain degree.”

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“So then Teach, it’s not wrong if I steal that nice shiny car out there in the parking lot, that belongs to you?”

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“Well now Johnny, that happens to be that very certain degree, I just mentioned, where it does become wrong to steal!”

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Thou Shalt Not Steal Sign – cropped and altered image – Wikimedia – Share-alike License

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SURVIVAL OF THE STRONGEST

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Well, you get the point of this little joke. If the 10 Commandments are merely the work of men, and God doesn’t really exist, then they do not have to be obeyed.

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And if they do not have to be obeyed, then who’s to say what is right and what is wrong?

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It’s now just survival of the fittest: the strongest in the world, overtaking the weaker!

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Cat and dog – Dont know whats comin – Wikimedia – Share-Alike License

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“It is time for thee, LORD, to work: for they have made void thy law”

Psalm 119:126

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Since atheism has risen to power, there has been a steadily growing movement to remove any and every Christian object or sentiment from public viewing.

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And these secularists are working around the clock to remove anything Christian, including the 10 Commandments from the public.

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Atheist sign Wisconsin State – cropped image – wikipedia – share-alike license

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INSANITY NOW IN VOGUE

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The problem is, when you tell people they don’t have to obey the 10 commandments, then what can you expect? A free-for-all? Insanity? Anarchy? Mob rule? And isn’t that what’s beginning to happen right now in society?

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Yes, this society is beginning to turn most everything upside down! The police are now often considered the bad guys.

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And criminals, “are just trying to get ahead in life, and expressing their frustration about being oppressed, and need to be understood, rather than severely punished.”

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Does this sound crazy?

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Yes, very crazy!

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Boston Marathon Bombing – Wikimedia – Creative Commons 2.0

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***COMMANDMENTS GIVEN* *TO HOLD SOCIETY TOGETHER***

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But how could a rational society allow this unthinkable situation to become the norm? Well obviously, it won’t be long until all Hell breaks loose! And once that lawlessness rises to intolerable levels, then society will try to back-peddle. But at that point it will be too late!

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God gave the world the 10 Commandments to hold this world together. And when a society no longer tolerates these laws, then sooner or later that society will be destroyed from without or within…

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Listen again to today’s signature verse…“Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.” Romans 3:19

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Yes, the 10 commandments were given to this whole unsaved world, to show us our guilt, thereby condemning our rebellion against Heaven!

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Moses Breaks Tables of the Law – by G. Dore – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

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LAWLESSNESS & PANDEMIC MADNESS RISING

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Just look around! Immorality is rising to pandemic proportions! Crime is rapidly growing! The courts are finding it harder and harder to respect the rule of law! Many politicians make regulations according to who passes the most “contributions” to them “under the table.”

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**In the business world, it’s called, “Risk Management: Whatever we can get away with!” There is rapidly declining morality in the business world. At least it seems that way, doesn’t it?**

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The God-given institution of marriage & family are now greatly in shambles, because secularists are “reimagining society”!

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And our young people (many from broken, dysfunctional, or one-parent homes), saturate themselves with songs about violence, crime, and lust, via their high-tech devices!

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Parents having their children’s genitals mutilated, imagining that they can change their God-given gender by the hand of a so-called “doctor”! This kind of devilish societal madness is really frightening and should send a giant alarm about the fearful hour we’re now in!

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And government-run schools are not only beginning to encourage students to engage in sexual promiscuity, but also teaching them to hate one-another, all based on skin-color!

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And things are getting so bad, a few teachers are even beginning to encourage the fantasy of murdering those whose skin pigment doesn’t qualify them to receive “politically-correct” protection!

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Minneapolis Riots – Wikipedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic license

Antifa @ Protest Trump in Phoenix – 8-22-17 – Wikipedia – GNU Free Documentation License, Version 1.2

Gay Parade – Jazz Jennings 2016 – Wikipedia – Creative Commons License

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SURVIVAL OF THE STRONGEST?

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While Bible storybooks were once regularly used in public schools, they are now banned! The Bible is now a forbidden Book in our schools!

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And atheistic educators are raising the current generation on the idea that there is no God. And if nature lives by the law of, “the survival of the fittest”, don’t they think that their students can put 2+2 together? Don’t they realize that children are smart enough to adopt this “law of the jungle” ideology into their own personal lives as well?

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“If I can get away with it, then what’s wrong with doing it? I just won’t get caught! It’s merely ‘survival of the fittest’!”

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Nazi Stabs Bible – Wikimedia – Public Domain

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HOW’S YER LAWLESSNESS WORKIN’ OUT FOR YA?

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There’s a popular saying which goes, “Well, how’s yer (this or that) workin’ out for ya?”

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This currently popular saying is always said in a sarcastic tone, and yet as we look around, it almost makes a person want to defiantly ask secularists that very question! “How’s yer removing of the 10 Commandments workin’ out for ya? You like all this lawlessness, hate and madness!?”

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Ferguson Riots – Wikimedia – Creative Commons 2.0

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IS GOD WITHDRAWING?

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Well, what is God supposed to do when a society wants nothing to do with Him? Is He going to let us have our own way?

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Yes, it seems that God is gradually removing His protection away from this world. And perhaps, that is why we are seeing the four winds of societal turmoil and confusion rapidly increasing to an almost hurricane force!

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Hong Kong protest near Tamar – Wikipedia – Share-alike License

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“And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name…is Abaddon (Destroying Angel), but in the Greek…Apollyon (Destroyer)”

Revelation 9:11

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What atheists do not believe, nor consider, is that sin is a bottomless pit! There is no limit to the depths of depravity one can go!

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Without the Law of God, they are like a ship without a map nor compass to guide them to a safe-haven!

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And even now, we are tragically witnessing the secularists in society abandoning all reason and godliness, as they insanely rationalize sin in its varied forms! Lust, perversions, racism, theft, violence, hatred, even murder are excused and rationalized in one way or another!

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Things which were unimaginable just a few years ago, are now being forcibly trumpeted upon the public, via the various media Goliaths! And threats, even acts of violence are just now beginning to be urged upon all those who yet cling to God’s Law to some degree!

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Riot – Wikimedia – Public Domain

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“The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God”

Psalm 9:17

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Even several thought-leaders of today’s atheistic movement are now suggesting that human cannibalism might become advantageous in controlling the population growth!

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If this idea seems absurd, just listen to the following Bible prophecy…“And I will cause them to eat the flesh of their sons and the flesh of their daughters, and they shall eat every one the flesh of his friend in the siege and straitness, wherewith their enemies, and they that seek their lives, shall straiten them.” Jeremiah 19:9

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After all, if mankind is merely the product of an accidental explosion in ages past, then there is no right or wrong. No Judgment Day. Just do whatever one wishes to do. Whatever one can get away with. Life is meaningless! Teachers and college professors actually teach this mad-hatter insanity!

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And when the Holy Spirit is finally taken out of the way, then such unthinkable horrors will be committed everywhere without the slightest twinge of conscience by the unsaved of this world!

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Cannibalism in Russia and Lithuania 1571. – Wikimedia – Public Domain

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GOOD NEWS?

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Is there any Good News here? Is there any hope? Is it too late for the world?

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Listen… “Come, My people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast. For, behold, the LORD cometh out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain.” Isaiah 26:20, 21

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Here is the only place of hope! The storm that’s approaching is the greatest and most terrible storm to ever come upon this earth! This storm will destroy from one end of the earth to the other! But it will begin at the house of God.

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If ever there was a time to flee from the wrath to come, it is NOW!

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ABOVE PICTURE: Hide Thyself in thy Chambers – inspired by Tornado Over Kansas by Curry

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“It is time for thee, LORD, to work:

for they have made void thy law”

Psalm 119:126

“The wicked shall be turned into hell,

and all the nations that forget God”

Psalm 9:17

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TO READ PART 3, CLICK HERE…

SEPTEMBER 24 (The Commandments of God, Part 3: Love Not The World!)

Ten Commandments – cropped photo – Wikimedia – Share-alike License 4.0

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TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to prepare myself to stand in the evil day! Help me to put on the armor of God. Help me to hide myself from the approaching storm…

Marine Praying – Wikimedia – USMC Public Domain

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THE END

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TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Click credit links below each pic, for licensing names/details/tags/etc.. Most pics cropped/reduced in size

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

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EARTH: PLANET OF REST

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Counting the Sun as the 1st heavenly sphere, the Earth is the 4th heavenly sphere. If we extend our theory (and it’s just a theory) that God created our solar system to correspond to the commandments, the Sun corresponding to the 1st Commandment, then Planet Earth would correspond to the 4th Commandment: the Seventh-day Sabbath.

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And so, on the very planet that corresponds to the commandment that exalts the idea of “peace” and “rest”, there exists very little peace. And very little rest. Ironic, isn’t it?

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And so the 4th member of our solar system, being Planet Earth, will be the host for this article.

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The Earth seen from Apollo 17 – NASA & Wikipedia – Public Domain

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FOR FURTHER STUDY:

Planet of Rest: “What is the True Sabbath?”

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TOMORROW…

AUGUST 16 (Repentance 101)

Teacher writing on Chalkboard – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Share-alike License 2.0

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20+ MINUTE AUDIO JEREMIAH STUDY

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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 #592 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.

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Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »