Heb 10:24 and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds,
Heb 10:25 not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Heb 10:23-25
Heb 10:23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful;
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
148 comments:
one!?
Lori
the problem is the second woman likely thinks or has bought into the lie (from the man) that the first woman just didn't understand him or must have driven him to it and it will be different with her. it never is however sadly enough.
Marge
part of healing in any church is the church has to be willing to take a Biblical stand on sin AND the person in sin has to want to change and be repentant. the woman in question does not appear to be repentant. in medicine no healing can take place unless the underlying cause or root of the problem is identified and dealt with. same with sin.
While confessing sin to another is a reasonable and good idea, the act of confession should never take the place of confession to God. I would not consider confessing to a pastor or priest a confession to God.
I suspect at root of the first churches concern is that they don't want to be held accountable for not chastising the woman although since she has moved on it should be a moot point.
Heb 10:23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful;
is hubby's fav!
so that I don't have to repost it Paul's take on sexual sin and the churches Biblical response is found in 1 Corinthians 5. I take the passage to mean unrepentant sinners not repentant ones. Be warned the words are harsh and might appear unloving but
1- sexual sin distorts the picture of God's relationship with us
2-it destroys not only the testimony of the person(s) involved but that of the corporate body of believers as well
3-while the first part of the passage certainly seems to address a specific sexual sin, the later part of the passage doesn't and refers essentially to all sexual immorality
4-he lists some other sins we also by and large in the church don't condemn either
5-the person who is sinning is more than likely going to be a stumbling block to someone else in the church and may cause them to sin as well. Pastors are supposed to protect all the members of the church
all that being said. had I been approached in any fashion, and rightly so, by any member of the church I attended at the time about my behavior I would also have been defiant and gone to another church. I have nothing but compassion for those involved in sexual sin. it seems to be one of the more devious sins and is so easy to fall.
PRAYER REQUEST
From a member of the Omega Letter:
I am in a deep depression that is affecting everything in my life, including my health (diabetes). It's like a rolling stone. The worse one is, the worse the other becomes. I really need help to fight it (and not medical!).
Please pray. Thank you.
I haven't included her name as I think she prefers the privacy but please pray for her.
Lori
you are a good friend to person A. for person C all you can do is pray that her eyes will be opened before it is too late and that God will protect her. I personally can not understand why any pastor would marry a known abuser to another person. it is beyond my comprehension.
unfortunately in society at large the victim is often the one blamed and the abuser is never held accountable.
i hope the pastor who is marrying them has done EXTENSIVE counseling with this couple and especially the woman involved. you described her as a sweet girl which in an abuser's mind translates to pushover target who will never stand up to him. she is at significant risk of dying in this relationship.
btw
how is your friend who got so sick?
JIB,
I agree with you, about the situation in question.
I had gone off subject, (a tad bit) once again :)
My comment about Pastor Buntain, was to be able to confess your faults, to another person, you can fully trust within the Church. He said, he'd counseled many people in the course of his ministry, that really only needed to be able to confess (whatever it was) to another person. It was all within the reference to confession as found in James 5:16
"Confess your faults one to another, that ye may be healed. The effectual prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
Sorry, I had moved on, and I really wasn't still on the subject being discussed.
Anyhow, back to the comments from Pastor Buntain :) He said, he was sorry that people were often hurt, when they "confessed" to another Christian, who wouldn't hold the other person's confidence. He said, that the Confessional was a healthy part of the Church, that should (in his opinion) never been done away with, etc. (In that context) Sins should always be confessed to God, yes.
Just sharing another's Pastor's views, really. But, as with Jesus (maybe) writting in granite, ...it is interesting, isn't it?
I'm SOOOO happy to see the snow/ice melt!!! I'm loving it!!!
Mac,
I'm agreeing in prayer, about the person from the Omega letter. That the Lord meets her right where she is, and she experiences complete deliverance from all her problems.
(spirit, soul and body)
Jib,
You made some good points.
However there is a lack of information regarding timing & exactly what kind of gossip was flying around @ the time. One lady was driving by her house @ night to see if she was home? Was this lady then spreading this info around? So then after the entire congregation now knows about it there is no choice but to quickly publically expose the situation?
Does the pastor need to go into detail regarding the exact sin or could he have publically called it a "serious sin" & left it at that?
Sorry-I'm quite suspicious as I know how bad women can become in this regard.
It said she confided right before the actual divorce took place-so we don't know how long she was involved with a new man before she was actually to be divorced. We also don't know when she began to hit the sack with him. Was this new guy the cause of the divorce to begin with?
Was this an ongoing event or something that came about rather quickly?
Her conscience must have bothered her to begin with to confide in another about this.
I wonder if given more time if she would have eventually had a change of heart & repented without all the drama.
Jim C.
How would they handle this situation in the Catholic Church? I hear people do get excommunicated so how does it work?
(BTW I agree that the Body of Christ should not tolerate someone who has a defiant attitude committing a serious sin. My initial reaction is based more
upon the "gossip" & defamation of character standpoint of the situation.)
What does the Bible say about Gossip?
Jib,
You made some good points.
However there is a lack of information regarding timing & exactly what kind of gossip was flying around @ the time. One lady was driving by her house @ night to see if she was home? Was this lady then spreading this info around? So then after the entire congregation now knows about it there is no choice but to quickly publically expose the situation?
Does the pastor need to go into detail regarding the exact sin or could he have publically called it a "serious sin" & left it at that?
Sorry-I'm quite suspicious as I know how bad women can become in this regard.
It said she confided right before the actual divorce took place-so we don't know how long she was involved with a new man before she was actually to be divorced. We also don't know when she began to hit the sack with him. Was this new guy the cause of the divorce to begin with?
Was this an ongoing event or something that came about rather quickly?
Her conscience must have bothered her to begin with to confide in another about this.
I wonder if given more time if she would have eventually had a change of heart & repented without all the drama.
Jim C.
How would they handle this situation in the Catholic Church? I hear people do get excommunicated so how does it work?
(BTW I agree that the Body of Christ should not tolerate someone who has a defiant attitude committing a serious sin. My initial reaction is based more
upon the "gossip" & defamation of character standpoint of the situation.)
What does the Bible say about Gossip?
What's wrong with Gossip?..."As Paul described this evil conduct, we might expect to find mention of such vile things as greed, deceit, adultery, murder and so forth. But please take note of the other inclusions -- especially the mention of “gossip and slander.” Does this come as a surprise? Paul said that gossips and bad-mouthers were in the same league as murderers, sexual perverts, and God haters -- and that such sins were worthy of a death sentence! "
WORD FOR THE USA- Robert Makona, brother from Kenya visiting America for the first time.
I just finished "Survive the Depression, the Shaking Has Begun", by Andrew Strom.
The emphasis is on "spiritual" survival & an "end time" revival.
It's really quite good but his prophetic scenario may be some cause for concern if you’re "married" to your denomination.
Lisa
my point exactly. to condemn this church and the pastor without all the facts is wrong. we don't know all the details nor the timing of all the events. for all we know everything was done quite orderly and we only really have her version of events
I would agree the gossip part is wrong and the pastor should have addressed the gossip part equally also.
I do hope you didn't mean to imply that it was ok for her to "hit the sack" with her current man if the divorce proceedings were under way?
Russian currency continuing alarming slide, rumors of potential riots and unrest also
best way to diffuse the situation is to do what Germany did. find a scape goat and start a war
Israel Preparing Tanks, Infantry Troops For Possible Ground Incursion
No Flour, No Food? UNRWA Stopped Aid Due to Lack of Flour
Getting back to the whole church situation that Jim wrote about...personally it sounds a bit much to me...not to mention the broken confidence.
Some of the "holier than thou" people wind up being not so "holy" after all.
They remind me more of the Pharisees than anything else.
Interesting what is going on in Israel and Gaza.
We should definitely keep our eyes on what is going on over there!
<><
I bumped into ATTY at another forum. He wishes everyone well.
Jib,
Do you really think I would imply such a thing?
Well, I guess it's possible if unbenounced to me I came down with a brain disease.
Lisa, Shalom! You asked:
How would they handle this situation in the Catholic Church? I hear people do get excommunicated so how does it work?
Well, not like this, I can tell you that! Let me make some points about how the Sacrament of Reconcilliation (aka "Confession") works in the RCC:
1. You need to confess your sins to G_D.
2. When you have hurt someone, you should (if at all possible) ask that person face-to-face for their forgiveness. (This is in addition to point 1.)
3. The priest has been given authority as part of his priestly ministry to forgive sins. (Matthew 18:18) The priest is also the head of the local Christian community, and as such needs to know the spiritual condition of the people.
4. Therefore, given the admonition to "confess your sins to one another" as well as confessing your sins to G_D, the priest acts as G_D's Vicar, i.e., the head of the household, to whom the master entrusts authority when the master is away.
5. The priest also acts as a substitute for those times when you cannot ask the person you have sinned against for their forgiveness. For example, when you look at porn, you are sinning against that woman. Technically, you should find her and confess your sin to her face-to-face, and ask her forgiveness. Since this really isn't feasable, the priest acts as a substitute for that victim of sin.
6. Remember: you are confessing your sins to G_D. The priest's presence is "accidental", i.e., he is there to act as a substitute and to recite the formula (on the Father's behalf) forgiving your sins. Because of this accident, the priest has become privy to a conversation between you and G_D. For this reason (i.e., the priest was not the intended or primary recipient of the conversation), the priest is forbidden from revealing the contents of this conversation. This is "the seal of the Confessional." THIS IS ABSOLUTE! THE PRIEST CANNOT REVEAL THE CONTENTS OF ANY CONFESSION TO ANYONE AT ANYTIME!
7. Also remember that your confession must be a result of genuine remorse. If the priest becomes convinced that you have no sincere desire to change or reform your life, he cannot give absolution. If the sin is serious enough, it means you cannot receive Holy Communion.
So from a CATHOLIC viewpoint, here's my interpretation of what happened:
Woman A went to woman B to talk about stuff happening in her life. We don't know if A wanted advice from B or if A was confessing her sins to B. In either case, A expected B to keep her mouth shut about the personal details of her life. In a Catholic format, A would have gone to her priest, who would have placed the conversation under the seal of the Confessional. No one else in the congregation hears of it, end of story.
By going to the group of women without A's knowledge or permission, B violated the seal of the Confessional. Everything that has happened since then has happened because of this; and regardless of their good intentions, B, the group of women, and the pastor are all guilty of this.
Excommunication is a different thing that will have to wait for another message. -- gotta get back to work.
<><
Jim, I really didn't want to drag this out, but Person A and Person B do not know one another. Person A was a prayer partner aware of the situation, not personally involved with B, but with C. The ex turned out to be an associate with A's husband. He ended up at their anniversary party. She then put two and two together and that's when things escalated.
B sees a priest twice a year for accountability and advice, not for absolution. Her mother isn't not happy with that, but I John 4:9 says, "If we confess our sins, he is just and able to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
Israel pounds Gaza for second day
Gaza strikes kill at least 270
Hizbullah will not join Hamas in fighting Israel
Egypt accused of deceiving Hamas
IDF mobilizes tanks, reinforcements at border
'Eight killed' in Iran armaments plant blast
Lisa,
I have read Andrew Stroms latest book as well as some of his others. I am not all that convinced about the end time revival though. So, there is a great falling away and revival? That confuses me and I need to study scripture more on the subject. What do you think?? Of course, it could be just in other parts of the world that sees a great revival as we are seeing a great falling away and perversion of scripture here.
Also, everyone, a while back i had asked for prayer for a job. I had applied to 24 or so places and I already let you know a week ago or so that God has given me a job, but there is more to it. He not only gave me a job but one that I LOVE! I have been there for a week and really love working there. I am a bridal consultant now. I praise the Lord for not only providing a job but also one that fits my personality so well!
Please keep my husband in prayer as he is out of work again. He is a self employed carpenter. The Lord provided a remodel job for him a few weeks ago at just the right time but it is finished now and we are praying that the Lord will provide another one soon.
Thanks!
Diana
no Lisa I didn't think so but couldn't resist the ruge to tease you a little bit because they way you worded you sentance could imply that is was ok because she was separate and in the process of divorce.
sorry Jim-only God is able to forgive sins and I don't think that verse applies in the sense that God gave us the authority to do so
not sure if this was one of the links provided by Lori but
Iranian religious leader orders muslims to defend Palestinians against Israel nearly approaching a fatwah
Russia the other big player in Gog with the failing economy has asked Israel to stop and let in aid
the headlines today have all been full of how many Palestinians have been killed and nearly all are protraying Israel as the aggressor and generally fail to mention how many Israelis have been killed from the rocket barrage that comes from Gaza.
I think things are going to escalate dramatically in the next few months. Obama's response, who gets elected PM in Israel and whether Putin takes back over the Presidency will all factor into this. If Israel really struck it rich in oil in the next couple of months expect things to move even more rapidly than before
Joel has a new post
Diana,
I know what you mean about thinking "Revival" at this particular point in time such as it is.
This is how I think of it.
We are called into the Body of Christ to work together for the Kingdom of God. Each of us are blessed/gifted with particular callings/burdens.
No one is blessed w/a complete revelation regarding how things are going to all work together for the Coming of our Lord.
Strom's particular burden from God has been on studying & preaching Revivals. From what I've heard from him he speaks truth & has a passion for the lost.
Although I don't quite agree w/all the details they are minor.(ie:Rapture timing) Since I think he is "in touch" w/the Holy Spirit there must be a reason for his being/calling.
He states in the book a great sifting/shaking going on in the Church & we are watching this come to fruition. You can also consider this "Apostasy" as God uses deception to see who will stay true to His word & not follow after the flesh & desires/traditions of men. Is this "the great Apostasy" already?
I don't know. (Seems like a warm up to me.Pre-great apostasy birth pang.)
He mentions that soon there will be a clear dividing line in the Church. Those who compromise the Word and those who will not. Can we not see this happening today in the Christian news headlines?
At some point after all this Shake & Bake occurs in the Church - in the interim a remnant of Christians will have been made spiritually ready to witness the light of the gospel in the midst of the apostasy & darkness. (this is the "revival")
This group would consist of the Christians who stand by the True Word of God & those who have prophetic/healing/supernatural
ministry gifts. Such as it was in the 1st century Church.
These would be Christians called out of "denominations" and are led by the Holy Spirit. They would be bold and proclaim the glory of Christ wherever/whenever possible.
That's the just of it in a nutshell. He does not believe in Dominionism-so it's not to usher in the Kingdom of God through political or forceful means. It's to proclaim the true gospel to a dying world in the end times before the return of Christ.
Since I don't think God would turn up the heat on the Church without providing the anointing power of the Holy Spirit to His Bride-this scenario doesn't sound inconceivable to me.
As far as the timing of it? Who knows? Pre-Trib? I don't know? If need be apparently so. In the Trib-most definitely.
Meanwhile there are Revivals happening in other countries while in the world of Laodicea America we seem to be in a wake-up call mode.
So to me his theory sounds reasonable & we'll just have to see what unfolds in the time ahead of us. Meanwhile I'll continue listen to what the other leaders in the Body of Christ have to say & see how all these "parts" could fit into a final "piece" of end time events.
Our pastor makes a good point in that it's always easier to see how prophetic events all come together "after" the fact than trying to figure it out in advance.
I'm sure God will blow our minds once again when we look back on it all. That I have no doubt of.
Jib,
I figured as much.
Now I'm going to lay in wait until I can spring a real whopper on ya!
Good questions, Diana! And praise God for answered prayers!
Lisa,
Your explanation really helped me see where Strom is coming from, thank you. That makes alot of sense to me. I do see Strom's love of the Lord and His people in what I have read from him, I trust what he has to say and of course I test what any one says against scripture to see if there is truth in their words. I stumbled upon Strom's web site when I was learning about the Todd Bentley fiasco. I find it incredibly interesting that the web sites that I have "stummbled" across in my quest for true servants of the Most High are all intertwined with each other in some way. For example, I ran into you at Joel Richardson's but you also read from Rosenbergs and Stroms and I have been to both even before I met you!
Anyone else have a suspision that this latest in Gaza will escalate with other Arab countries becoming involved??
Bless you all
Diana
Isralestine Blog Site Take a look at the pictures Bill Salus posted from the Pre-Trib Conference. The 1st one he posted was w/Joel Rosenburg!
(Then look at all the old timers!)
Salvation in the Tribulation?
Has anyone wondered about the Marriage Supper of the Lamb?
If the "Church" is taken up-then prepared for the wedding-the Feast would not begin until the last of the Tribulation Saints were ready?
Are they not also part of the Bride? Hum. After waiting thousands of years (yeah-a few days to God.) He would not include everyone?
I just found this online-101 Last Days Prophecies I had given this little phamplet to my mailman for Christmas & was trying to locate more. They are nice little "prophetic" tracs to pass out. This one can be e-mailed.
Queen of Peace
I've been looking at this a little-how "Mary Queen of Heaven"-"Co-Redemptrix" could appear & unite many of the world's religions.
What this article does point out which is interesting-is the detail of how important and highly placed Mary is in the religion of Islam.
"It is interesting to note that in the Koran, Jesus is almost exclusively referred to as “Jesus son of Mary,” rather than “Son of God.” The Koran vehemently denies that Jesus is the Son of God, yet it holds both Jesus and Mary in high esteem. More important to our context, is the fact that Mary is highly honored in both the Koran and Hadith. Muslims consider Mary the greatest of all women.[2] Furthermore, Muhammad is reported to have said that Mary reached the “level of perfection.”[3]
Muslims, like Catholics, refer to her as Our Lady (Sayyida). She is also venerated as a pure and holy saint in the Islamic world. In fact, in the Koran, Jesus and Mary are considered pure and saintly. In contrast, Muhammad is told to ask forgiveness for his sins (Suras 40:55; 48:1-2)."
Thanks to all of you who prayed for my friend at the OL. Here's her response:
How do I thank you? I guess praising God is the only way and I am doing just that!
I felt your prayers immediately - and literally. I could feel them. And I felt it as I was washed clean again, but it wasn't instantaneous. Patti, your spirit is so astute. Your feelings of what was wrong were about 90% of it - I was exhausted mentally and spiritually. I never had time to replenish between the phone ringing or hearing that still small voice requiring me to respond in some way. I LOVE the gifts He has given me and I am joyful most of the time. But last Sunday all it took was one cross remark from Bob and I went over the edge. And then the diabetes goes haywire causing more stress and the snowball rolls down the hill, depression causing severe sickness and loss of diabetic control which causes depression which causes...and so it goes.
Last night I got rid of the last of it all (I should say God didi) and I finally felt human again. Today I spent the day in my music, always healing, and it didn't fail me this time, either.
I love you guys so very much. I honestly don't think I would have come out of this without your prayers. I couldn't pray myself and it was a bleak week.
Please know that I am praying for all of you and especially for the special requests. Thank you to you who sent ecards and private emails to show how much you care. I have shed so many tears this week and am shedding more now as I write. This time because I'm happy and am so grateful to you.
God can never bless you enough for who you are and what you do.
Hamas members of the Palestinian Legislative Council in Gaza have approved a new bill "to implement Koranic punishments," including hand amputation, crucifixion, corporal punishment and execution Well, I have to admit although I've seen unreal disgusting ways of torture from Islam-"Crucifixion" was not exactly on my radar screen.
I hope this is not the next shocking picture we see on the
5:00 news.
Mac,
Thanks so much for sharing with us.
God is good, and good all the time!
Israel tanks mass near Gaza as jets again pound Hamas
IDF Releases Photos of Hamas Targets, Terror Training Facilities
IAF Destroys 40 Tunnels in 270 Seconds
IAF Warplanes Seen Flying Over Lebanon
Iranian Red Crescent vessel heads to Gaza
Syria, Turkey Break Off Talks with Israel Because of Gaza Op.
Putin’s Authoritarian Steamroll in Russia
Lori
that article on Putin was chilling
Anyone interested in the "Mahdi" and the Islam "Jesus" will like this link. Found it on Joel's T.
**It stresses "Jesus" quite a bit! (I'll have to see if there is any speak of "Mary")
Awaited Mahdi.com
Child
do you still keep in touch with Davey? seems another quake hit the 3 mile island area-the 7th since October!
OK, I really need to give it a rest then I find more. These are some quotes taken from that same end time Islamic link under: "THE MESSIAH DAJJAL HAS SECRETLY STARTED WORK"
"According to the Dajjal's (Muslim's Anti-Christ) strategy, in order for the glad tidings imparted regarding the End Times to take place, civilizations must first turn against one another, and there must be a terrible war. According to this error, before the appearance of the Messiah, who is expected in the End Times, a terrible battle known as Armageddon must take place, between the Jews and some Christians who support them on the one hand, and Muslims and Catholics on the other."
According to the indoctrination of the Dajjal, "there must be a period of disaster lasting seven years; Jews and other believers must be oppressed during that period; and two-thirds of Jews must die in the battle of Armageddon and the lands of Israel must be devastated." By means of a series of figurative, but groundless interpretations of holy scriptures, the Dajjal seeks to make Christians and Jews believe that the Messiah can only come to earth once all these conditions have been fulfilled. According to this belief, inculcated in Christians by the Dajjal, the Jews will win that battle under the leadership of Prophet 'Isa (Jesus) (as), will follow him, and will return to Christianity."
(Muslims & Catholics on the other? What? How did they become tied together?)
"He causes (The Dajjal-Islam's Anti-Christ) those people who fall under his spell to believe that speaking of peace before the coming of the Messiah is to go astray, to oppose the holy scriptures, and even Dajjalism. By these means he convinces them that tension in the Middle East should not be lowered. (10) He portrays countries that are opposed to war, and peace movements, as part of the movement of the Dajjal, and intends to make sure the climate of war in the region continues so that there should never be peace there until the coming of the Messiah."
***Remember the real Anti-Christ will conquer through "Peace". So here they are speaking of Christians who will warn others that this dude(the Mahdi or whomever) is the Anti-Christ & his peace is FAKE.
"He portrays peace, liberation and security, and the achievement of peace in the Middle East as Dajjal-like movement engaged in opposition to holy scriptures; bloodshed, the ruthless killing of innocent men, women and children, and the spread of pitiless savagery over the region are all portrayed as a so-called religious observance.
He (Dajjal) portrays Catholics, who believe in the same scriptures as them (Muslims) and who recognize Prophet 'Isa (Jesus) (as) as their prophet, and who perform the same acts of worship, as enemies who need to be eliminated."
"Similarly, he portrays Muslims, who like them believe in Allah, love and respect the same prophets, possess the same moral principles, and who are awaiting the coming of Prophet 'Isa (as) with the same excitement, as a community needing to be combated."
So here we are-Catholics & Muslims on the same level. Jews & other Christians following the Islamic Anti-Christ & wishing ill will upon the Muslims & Catholics.
I still wonder how the Catholics became seperated out of the "Christian" base in these beliefs. What is it about the Catholics in particular which unite them on the opposite side of the Jews & Christians?
Further to Lisa's Putin article:
Soviet Law Returns To Russia
I found this link a long time ago and I thought I'd post it here for those who are interested. It's an informative study of Revelation by Tony Garland. It is from a pretrib perspective.
A Testimony of Jesus Christ
Soviet Law Returns To Russia
Pakistani Taliban enforces sharia on tribal region
Egyptians open fire on Palestinians
Germany defends Israeli military action in Gaza
PA leader begged Israel to hit Hamas before he left office
Warplanes pound Gaza for third day
Hizbullah Vows to Open Second Front in Gaza Conflict
Top PA negotiator: No peace talks with Israel during Gaza assault
GAZA: Death toll rises to 315 in third day of Israeli attacks
Peres: 'Anyone Asking Israel to Stop Shooting, Change Address'
Dr. Rick Warren: Keynote speech to 8th annual Muslim Public Affairs Council convention
Tricky times for EU as Sarkozy hands presidency to Czechs
off topic, but good article
on public education
Anybody noticing the earthquakes at Yellowstone? Thirteen since Saturday morning, none bigger than 3.8
I should note that while Yellowstone has many earthquakes, I have not seen this many so close together since I started watching the USGS site.
Jeosophat Trigger! Put that pea shooter down!
Joel has a new post (Dec 29)
Prayer request for Bill-my hubby.
He is now officially "on his own" and no longer employed via steady paycheck.
So that means living off savings until money comes in from jobs he's trying to get going. This morning he came home from the doctor-the news was not great-went a little backwards & was told from him that he should go see a psychiatrist. (He is naturally either "high" or "low". Not much middle ground. **I'm the steady eddy in the relationship.)
I'm doing fine-of course I'm not him w/the major pressure & know God will provide for our family.
What I'm not confident in is my Husband. Today I had to lay it on the line & mention to him that he is not seeking the Lord with all his heart/mind/soul & strength.
Therefore-he is withholding from God & won't have peace. I asked him if he ever feels God's presence and he said he felt it a couple of times.
I told him I feel it everyday-some days more than others but this is how I came XYZ to that point.
He gave me every usual excuse why he's not on fire & really reaching out-reading the Bible & reading the Christian books on hope & adversity that have been collecting dust. (you see-he has plenty of time for the Newspaper and Football on TV)What he does do is pray everyday & goes to Church on Sundays. (I think he feels that's enough although he confessed to me last week that he's only at 25% of where he should be.)
I'm sure if he will just yield fully to the Lord-then God will provide that peace & eventually also provide the needed income.
But he's just not there yet. I'm 100% sure that God had stripped us from financial security a few years ago so that we both would seek His face. I'm so grateful & happy as a clam. Hubby is still wrestling w/God.
So I'm going to let him know "the collective cave" is praying for him.
God has been extremely patient & gracious in this whole situation. I just hope hubby won't physically do himself in (stroke or sickness) under the weight of worry in the meantime. He is a tough nut to crack.
Lisa,
I'm agreeing with you, in prayer, that God answers your every petition.
Mac, when you ran into ATTY I hope you told him how much we miss him and also invited him to Israel, the Epicenter of the World.
Good News from Ray Comfort & tips for witnessing
FM spokesman in Tehran: Iran begins preparing operations against Israel
DEBKAfile Special Report
December 29, 2008, 9:49 PM (GMT+02:00)
On Monday, Dec. 29, Day 3 of Israel's Gaza operation, the spokesman said Iran had embarked on preparations for operations against Israel in line with the directives laid down by supreme ruler Ayatollah Ali Khameini in his speech Sunday.
in his speech, Khameini issued a fatwa calling on Muslims to stand up and defend Palestinians against Israel. He said "true believers" were "duty-bound to defend" the Palestinians. Khamenei did not spell out what he intended. The foreign ministry statement said believers killed in their cause would be counted martyrs.
A group of hardline clerics is signing up volunteers to fight "against the Zionist regime" in the Gaza Strip "in either military, financial or propaganda fields." This is reported by the semi-official Fars news agency.
Iranian lawmaker Ali Motahari told the Iranian news agency IRNA that it was time for Iran and Arab nations to go to war with Israel.
DEBKAfile: Egypt has led widespread Arab voices blaming Hamas for the Gaza crisis and accusing Iran of manipulating the Palestinian cause as a power play for its own ends.
Lisa, joining with you and Marge in prayer for your husband.
Anne; yes I did tell ATTY he was missed.
Lisa, Shalom! Sorry this is taking so long to reply to stuff you were posting yesterday. I spent a couple of hours on a response, then had to delete it before posting because Work Happened.
The article linked to titled "Queen of Peace" had a broken link in referring to the essay "Mary and the Moslems" written by Bishop Fulton J. Sheen back in the 1950's. I found two different sources for that essay. This one on the Catholic Culture web site begins with a modern analysis of Bishop Sheen's essay; while Archbishop Sheen Today! -- Mary and the Moslems places both the essay and events referred to in the essay into historical context.
As for giving Mary the title "Co-Redemptrix", that is not part of Catholic doctrine. There is a movement to give Mary this title, based on the fact that she said "Yes" to G_D. Put another way, Mary could have freely chosen to accept (say "Yes") or reject (say "No") to G_D's offer to make her the Mother of the Christ. Had she rejected G_D's offer, we would not have salvation history. However, Mary DID say "Yes" ("Totus Tuam" -- "All for You") to G_D, and as such she didn't just participate in salvation history, she played a pivotal role in it. We have salvation history because she said yes. Thus, the movement to give her the title "Co-Redemptrix" is not to say that she was equal to Christ in redeeming mankind; rather, that she assisted (co-operated) G_D in creating Salvation History in a way that it could not have occured without her co-operation. It's a reminder to each of us of how when we say "Yes" to G_D we also participate in the redemption of mankind; and saying "Totus Tuam" as Mary did will have amazing results.
(I recall what your uncle wrote towards the end of his book, where he mentions an old sermon pointing out that G_D gave dominion over the earth to Man, and as such by His own rules cannot directly lead people to salvation, but depends on us to invite, instruct, and lead people to Him. This sort of falls into that category.)
I should mention that there is no small measure of controversy within the Church over this potential doctrine. When you read a theological discussion that says something like, "Regarding the writings of Bishop So-and-so of blessed memory, it is evident that he wrote with clear hand and clear mind, yet his reasoning is somewhat cloudy in regards to the writings of St. Augustine in this matter," you know there's going to be a theological smack-down. When they start criticizing each other's Latin grammar, you know the brass knuckles are being dusted off.
<><
Lisa, Shalom! I did some checking out of that "Awaited Mahdi.com" website. I noticed that the guy who is pushing this is from Turkey. I think this is why he's working hard to unite/combine Christianity and Islam, with Islam being the natural culmination of Christianity, of course.
BTW, I couldn't stop looking until I figured out what the (as) meant every time they referred to Jesus, i.e., Prophet Isa (as). AS = Alaih as-Salaam = Peace Be Upon Him = pbuh. Mary has (sa), which would be "Upon Her Be Peace".
Anyway, you're not going to find any mention of Mary when talking about the Mahdi. She is glorified as "the most perfect of women" in Islam, but women do not play an active role in Islam and certainly not in the end times. This is in direct contrast to Judaism, where women drove tent pegs through skulls, lead armies, saved nations, etc.
Reading that stuff about the Dajjal just made me think about the plan of the Antichrist to sow confusion among the believers. Some will follow Dajjal, some will wait for Isa, some of the Jews will convert to Christianity, etc. As for your question, I still wonder how the Catholics became seperated out of the "Christian" base in these beliefs. What is it about the Catholics in particular which unite them on the opposite side of the Jews & Christians?, I've got some ideas.
For one thing, Catholics honor Mary, the other Christians don't. This guy also says that the Catholics "who believe in the same scriptures as them (Muslims) and who recognize Prophet 'Isa (Jesus) (as) as their prophet," I don't think so. That's just an attempt by the Evil One to divide and conquor by separating the Christians. (How many Christians do you know that would believe that the Catholics have the same beliefs as the Muslims, just because that's what their pastor told them?) And as for, "...how the Catholics became seperated out of the "Christian" base in these beliefs. What is it about the Catholics in particular which unite them on the opposite side of the Jews & Christians?", for that you would have to ask the Evil One what is so special about the Catholics (or rather, what scares the h*ll out of him about the Catholics) that would cause him to do that.
Work is over; TTYL!
<><
ASEAN Muslim group plans retaliation on Israeli attack
Next EU president Czech Republic defends Israeli strikes in Gaza
Egypt to warn Israel of Hizbullah attack
Ashkelon gets rocket tracking system
Israeli PM Olmert says Gaza campaign in 'initial stages
IDF launches YouTube Gaza channel
Senior Chinese, Russian military officials hold first-ever talks via direct phone link
Russia to build uranium conversion plant in Far East in 2009
Russia's Lavrov, Condi Rice discuss Gaza
Scientists plan to ignite tiny man-made star
Lisa,
Praying with you for your husband, I just read what your wrote, been busy working. I understand where you are coming from with your dear hubby. Mine is the same. I place my trust in the Lord but my hubby worries himself sick and actually gets mad at me because I don't worry myself sick! He is a smoker too so all the more for concern. I have a sneaking suspicion that the reason why he is not dead yet or destitute is because of all my cries for mercy on him and our family to our Lord. My dear one does not seek the Lord either. Lisa, the Lord hears our prayers for our loved ones and has shown us and them much mercy, keep praying. Please, fellow cave dwellers, pray for these dear husbands of ours, the Lord desires that they submit their full lives and minds to Him.
In love,
Diana
Yellowstone National Park was jostled by a host of small earthquakes for a third straight day Monday, and scientists watched closely to see whether the more than 250 tremors were a sign of something bigger to come.
There weren't any today on the USGS site (only 2.5 and greater)
Yellowstone update
Jim C.
You always add some interesting insights. I was also wondering what in the world that (as)(sa) meant.
And finding out that the website comes from Turkey-Yes, of course-that also makes sense. The other Islamic writings I have read have do not mentioned Catholics in particular. They have been more hard lined convert or kill types.
The End Time writers from Turkey portray Islam as Peace,Peace,Peace.
The "People of the Book" (Jews,Christians,Muslims) will eventually be united in the name of Peace.
We should keep our eyes on Turkey anyway- They seem to be major players in the End Time line up.
The Mary-Co Redemptrix thought. So everyone is not on the same page about that one? I just can't see it that way at all. It's true that God calls us & we can say yes or no. Sometimes that No will be convinced to turn into a Yes though trials/tribulations in life.
Other times God just moves on and chooses someone else. So if Mary said no then another would be raised up in her place. The plan of salvation would have occurred whether she agreed or not.
The Plan of the Evil One. I agree. But what if the plan is to actually mark an agreement between Catholicism & Islam?
Right now it does not seem feasible but ? Stranger things have happened.
Hubby is out of town right now but did mention my email to him was inspiring and that he would take it to heart. (Whew-I'm always nervous about what kind of reaction I'm going to get. I don't know why. So far he has always responded positively.)
But before he left he made the comment if I had read the book that I had gotten for him to read. (After hearing the list of excuses for not reading it.)
Well-I wanted to read it but was waiting for him 1st. So I took his words to heart and started it last night.
Wow-no wonder this is what he should have been looking into all along. It answer’s so many things he's been searching for in a well thought out and an easily comprehensive way.
Then Boroeagle kept coming to mind. So Scott-I don't know how this would apply in your situation but- you should also read this book: "The Upside of Adversity, Rising from the Pit to Greatness, by OS Hillman."
Some of it applies to my circumstance as well-so if you feel like your in limbo, God's not answering, everything is going wrong, etc...it's been a wonderful blessing & a great one to pass along. (Now I just wonder when he gets back if he WILL read it.)
N.J. rules against church group in lesbian case
Group was wrong not to rent out property for couple's civil union, state says
Does Anyone Remember The Predictions From the 1990's? This is somewhat of a "teaser" but interesting that the stories/events throughout Genesis may parallel our day as well.
the wife here....
Lisa...will be praying for you and hubby
Anne....I thought that Yellowstone activity was wierd also..I will keep watching:0
Alright , I'm at the edge of my seat watching this Gaza war unfold daily. We have missionary friends in Asia and Africa and am praying for their safety as well as an incredible time for the Lord through them right know....as for us too for that matter.
After reading Joel R's update and people inside the Gaza strip saying they should have enough supplies to last them until March it made me go through all my supplies again. Time to restock all that I have dipped into over the holidays, etc. After realizing our family is covered for awhile, maybe we should get more to reach out to other families to take in during a time of need...what better way to serve than with a captive audience:) Have made contingency plans with my nieces who are away at college. Our town is closer than their parents big city and therefore if something happens they are to come here and they can bring as many friends and roommates as they want! That alone makes me want to run to Sams and get more of everything.
Anyway, I don't know if Iran and their saber rattling and the other Arab countries call to jihad is serious or more talk and bulling. It just makes me feel like like we need to be ready. Does anyone else feel like that???
The daily devotion today in "Our Daily Bread" was perfect for me. "No Fear in the New Year" Mark 6:45-52. Also this quote from Isaiah 43:1 (which I love) "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine." ..... That is right, we are His and nobody else.
I've had a recurring dream since 2003 that I am being called by my name in a familiar voice and that voice is awakening me from sleep(literally). I don't have it often but when I do it is profound and unlike any normal dream I've ever had. I've come to realize that this is the Lord and He is calling me to follow Him. (It was during a dark time in my life after I lost both of my parents with in a 24 hr period) I know wonder if that is what I will hear before the trumpet sounds...My Holy Father calling me by my name because I am His. Boy, Oh Boy I can't wait to find out and I hope it is soon.
It's exciting to live in these times...and a little freaky. Pray for yourself and your family and your friends and the people God will be bringing into your life. I think we are about to start moving at warp speed soon folks. Stay on your knees:)
Fighting the Good Fight,
Jenny
Will pastors emulate Jeremiah in '09?
Some Christians see red over 'Green' Bible
New way to market Scripture focuses on environment
Bet Al would be happy though.
To Gaza, With Love
Why Israel Struck
Groundhog Day for the Fifth Column of Malice
Sarkozy to visit Israel to promote truce
“Look up you whose eyes are fixed on this earth, you who are captivated by the events and changes on the surface of this earth. Look up, you who turned away from heaven to this ground because you had become disillusioned. Look up, you whose eyes are laden with tears, you who mourn the loss of all that the earth has snatched away. Look up, you who cannot lift your eyes because you are so laden with guilt. Look up, your redemption is drawing near. Something different than you usually see daily, something more important, something infinitely grater and more powerful is taking place.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer
From an article in Christianity Today.
Watch Perry Stone's latest video if you have not already."The Truth Behind being left Behind."
At the end He quotes four verses re:the Rapture & that the event would be considered a Reward & a Privilege. These four things were mentioned in the Bible for Christians to always be doing.
Mark 13:33 Watch
Luke 21:36 Pray to be Accounted Worthy
1 John 2:2,3 Abide in Him
Hebrews 9:28 Look for His coming
BTW-That Green printed Eco Bible really frosts me!
Protesters gather at Obama's vacay spot, demanding he support jihad against Israel And I thought they would look like Muslims-wrong.
Lisa, I like this one:
Rev 3:10 'Because you have kept the word of My perseverance, I also will keep you from the hour of testing, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.
Mac,
Since you're quite a bit ahead of most of us here, I wanted to wish you a happy new year before it passed!
To the rest,
It's a bit early, but in case I get busy tomorrow, I hope your new year is a good one. We all have troubles in our life, yet we're so blessed with the wonderful relationship we have with our Heavenly Father and all our Christian friends who encourage us and pray with and for us.
Angie
I wonder if this has some prophetic workings?
"Arab foreign ministers are scheduled to meet in Cairo on Jan. 2, 2009 under the auspices of the Arab League to “formulate the Arab position to deal with Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip,” Arab League Chairman Amr Moussa said on Dec. 27, 2008. At the upcoming meeting, “some will call on Egypt and Jordan to cut diplomatic relations with Israel,” said Abdel Monem Said Ali of the Cairo-based Al-Ahram Center for Strategic and Political Studies."
Two rockets strike Beersheba
European Commission Calls for End of Violence in Gaza
**The New Year's Eve service tonight will be covering prophetic happenings of the year & what could happen in 2009. I'll let you know if there is anything interesting.
Mac,
(That scripture is one of my favorites!)
I can't wait to really get to know God's sense of humor. We study more of His other attributes-logically as we all need to shape up and take Him seriously @ His word.
We have a 4 poster bed.I had a Lasik eye operation to correct my Long distance vision about 8 years ago. That was the best thing I ever spent money on-but I don't see quite as well in the dark as I used to. (without contacts I felt like I was almost blind-really fuzzy.Now it's 20/20)
So at night when I walk to bed I have to be careful because I've rammed my forehead into one of the the posts. I've done this twice in the past 3 months-the last time I got a lump on my forehead.
As far as God's calling I've felt "in limbo" since the move back to CA. So I kept praying & asking to show me what the plan is.
I think to myself-what can I do? I'm home schooling one child so I can't even volunteer for anything.
Every second is taken up. I look for possible ministry opportunities but come up with a blank.
So I prayed again last night and this is how I got the answer.
I was walking back to my bed in the dark w/one hand stretched out to feel the post first before I ran into it. I knew I was close but did not feel the post so I waved my hand back and forth hoping to locate it.
Right when I was just about to hit the post w/my head again my other hand quickly reached up 6" from my face & felt it before impact.
Then I realized the answer in my spirit. My eyes are searching for Kingdom work in the distance @ other/new opportunities when what needs to be done is right in front of me.
**I thank the Lord for preventing the goose egg on my forehead this time!
Angie and Lisa,
I have to tell both of you, how your last posts really ministered to me. And thanks!
Everyone,
I listened to Joyce Meyer yesterday, and she was talking about the difference between becoming -busy, or fruitful. Wow! If anyone can watch her series now, it's excellent! (and I only saw the one program-but plan to watch the rest of the series!) She goes into relationships, and being fruitful for the Kingdom of God.
Again-it was excellent teaching!
I also want to wish you all a most Happy and blessed New Year-2009!
Lisa
will be praying for you. a difficult thing to deal with. not knowing what kind of lawyer hubby is tempers suggestions but if appropriate does he still have a prior client list he could send mail to or call and let them know he's back in town? the good side of this is he really can't use work per se as an excuse not to be active in church.
some interesting articles on Putin
Putin's new years tests and at the end asks if a "The question exists for the forthcoming Obama administration whether an economically weakened Russia is more or less of a danger."
one of the reader's responded thusly in the editorial section with the highlights being mine
"As he watches the Russian economy -- and not coincidentally, his legacy -- collapse around his fur-warmed ears, it will occur to Putin that the only way to maintain the Russian economy will be to drive up the price of oil, as high and as quickly as possible, and the only way to do that will be to reduce the supply to the industrial world.
He also will conclude that this will necessitate a war in the Middle East, one that shuts the Persian Gulf and threatens the economies of the industrialized world. To this erstwhile KGBnik, the obvious candidate is a (preferably nuclear) war between Iran and Israel, which is already in its preliminary, slow-motion phases.
This rationale appears to be ineluctable, so prepare for $10-a-gallon gas and a 19th-century lifestyle, courtesy of the Bolshethugs in the Kremlin.
-- David Govett
Davis, California"
and it seems Mr Medved wants to be his own man
Trouble for Putin with an independant Medved?
and finally an excellent commentary on the current war in the ME
Israel is the canary in the mine
Lisa
do you belong ot a homeschooling group? if so do the parents offer their talents to others free of charge? our group here in town has parents that are artists and teach art classes to the students of the whole group, those that sing offer choir etc. it's a thought.
get involved in something that your daughter can also be involved in-you seem to be really good with animals have you considered pet therapy? it can be done with pets other than dogs, some places have ferrets, cats etc. most of the time it's a dog. you and your daughter could do something like that together and you never know what doors might be opened in that fashion.
Mac,
Great article on emulating Jeremiah in 2009. I have to admit that when I saw your link, what came to mind was Obama's nutty pastor Jeremiah Wright. Unfortunately, it seems that that's the Jeremiah too many people are emulating.
Lisa,
I can relate so much to what you said about looking for your purpose. And the Spirit is right. There is so much we can do right where we are. There are people who have been such a tremendous encouragement to me just because of the way they live their lives.
There are two men in my church whose wives have passed away in recent years. I don't know what sort of private grief they went through, but the way they dealt with it "in public" was amazing to me. Their lives didn't come to a halt. They didn't lose their purposes in life. The one man was as zealous for his ministries as before his wife's passing.
I have a friend, Anna, who has reumatoid arthritis (sp?). Some of her fingers are so bent she can't straighten them. She has something like 10 artificial joints. But she doesn't let her disease stop her from doing what she wants to and what she can do. When we went on a cruise in November, she wanted to go snorkeling. Like me, she's overweight, but I figured that despite her weight and RA, if she was going snorkeling, then I was too.
You may be influencing people through your every day behavior and peaceful attitude. You may be an encouragement to people without realizing it. And you may never know who you are influencing.
Two or three times one of the instructors at work has commented about how I don't get angry and seem happy. I'm not good at evangelizing, so all I could think of was to tell him that my attitude came from being right with God.
So it's my hope that others may be seeing the Jesus in me as well.
Angie
Angie,
You are so right!
The only Jesus some people see, is the Jesus in us :)
I know, it's always better to "walk the walk," Because, sadly, others have "talked the talk, and failed to, walk the walk."
God bless you, Angie! And thanks for sharing with us. You are always such a blessing!
Love,
Marge
Gotta run for now! Catching up with things, since the snow/ice is over. YEAH!
A Critical Review of The Empty Tomb: Jesus Beyond the Grave
Happy New Year's Eve one and all.
Been there done that...bring on 09.
Stay safe, keep praying and keep looking up.
Back to my closet!
Happy New Year, friends!
Just a few more hours til we welcome 2009. Praying for a year ahead that's full of blessing and protection on all our families and loved ones, as well as our nation and the apple of God's eye.
FYI - Joel has a new post up with updated info and a helpful map that shows the rocket range and which cities are being hit. We're going to send our January gift to the Joshua Fund. Has anyone contributed there yet? I wanted to send a note of encouragement along with our check. Wouldn't it be neat if Joel got a bunch of prayers and encouraging words from his loyal band of cavers?
Alright...we're off for dinner with friends. See ya'll next year!
Blessings,
Jen
Happy New Year to all...May this be the year we gather in the Heavenly Cafe for cup of perfect java and meet face-to-face.
Has anyone been keeping up with the Yellowstone quake log???? more activity today. There was over 30 quakes with 3 over a 3. or higher. Very interesting indeed.
Also worth noting is Ukraine. They are playing with Russsia and their fuel/oil supply. Jim C. do they play a part in the Gog/Magog original trib origin??? I also think China is being suspiciously quiet right now......especially after their little phone chat with Russia. Anybody have any thoughts on that subject???
Like I said I'm on the edge of my seat with this Gaza war situation. I wake up in the middle of the night praying for the Jews and their children, the Christians who are ministering to everyone and all the innocents caught in the middle.Also pray for Egypt to stay strong and support Israel in any way possible weather it is directly or indirectly. I fear after these round of talks next week, they will crator-I hope not.
I wonder if Psalm 83 will play out???? Bible Prophecy today has a good article on it. Take a read if you have a chance.
May the Lord's peace be with you in all of 2009---which is in roughly four hours for us Texans:)
Fighting the Good Fight,
Jenny
ooops
I had a couple typos in that last blog-sorry.
Jim C in my question to you-I meant is Ukraine the sight of the original tribe in the Gog/Magog war? If so, wasn't it curious that they are messing with Russia right about now with their gas/oil supply?
And of course, I meant to use whether instead of weather. However, the weather in my part of Texas is swinging from the highs of 40's to highs of 70's from one day to the next which tend to bring on migraines for me and bad asthma for my youngest. We pray for relief soon or sooner:)
Lastly, I will type my way out of my spelling craters and say good-night......and God Be With You in the New Year!
Jenny
Has anyone heard from Wilma, lately?
no and I was also beginning to wonder about that-forgot to wish her a happy bday too.
Wilma
are you out there?????????
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!
Hi everyone here in the Cave! Wanted to pop in and say "Happy New Year"! May the Lord bless and keep each one of you in this new year.
Am also quite on the edge of seat to see what happens with the Gaza situation. I am so thankful that our Lord neither slumbers nor sleeps!
Love in the Lord,
Diana
hey just checking in after being away for a few days
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Happy New Year? Oh yes, HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Or rather 2009-The Year of Judgment
That was the word from our pastor tonight for this New Year. He believes this is another year of Apostasy for the Church, Shaking up of the Nations, but a year of Revival & outpouring of the Holy Spirit for the true Body of Christ who does not depart from the Word of God.
(Doesn't this sound vaguely familiar w/what I had stated in regards to Andrew Strom?)
He mentioned the 9 Fruits of the Spirit & the 9 Gifts of the Spirit.
His word this year for the Church was "Compassion." Assist & Preach to the Elderly, Poor, Orphans,
Prisoners, etc.. Get out of the Church & out to the people-It's harvest time.
(OK-So let's see if this is it for 2009. We have 12 months to find out!)
The Year End Review from Understanding the Times.Top 25 News Items from 2008
Prayer Request
My wife Angie and I received a phone call tonight from the adoption counselor who counseled the birthmother of our adopted son.
This counselor, Nancy, is a wonderful Christian woman. She really felt led to call us regarding a young woman, Melissa, who she has been counseling. Without going into the details that Nancy shared with us, let me just say that Melissa has had a tremendous amount of hurt and abuse in her life -- some of it from others and some of it self-inflicted. God is working in her life though. Nancy has been taking her to church and Nancy believes she has placed her faith in Christ. She is quite young in the Lord though and is pregnant. She is wise enough to know that she is not in a position to raise a child and does want to place this child for adoption with a Christian family.
She is unemployed, unmarried, and has some very deep scars that she needs the Lord to heal.
Angie and I had a very long journey to parenthood. Infertility and financial barriers prevented us from becoming parents until September 2006. We always wanted to have more than one child but after adopting Daniel, felt that financially we couldn't afford the costs associated with getting a home study and adopting again (attorney fees, hospital expenses, court fees, etc...)
We are also on the upper end for parenthood in terms of age. We're in our mid 40's now.
So, we really don't know if this is something we are to pursue. God would need to miraculously provide for us financially if we were to allow our profile to be presented to Melissa for her consideration.
I would covet your prayers for the following:
1.) That God would minister mightily to Melissa. That he would fill her heart with faith, hope, and love and that he would provide for her needs (emotional, physical, financial, and spiritual)according to His riches.
2.) That he would give Nancy discernment, wisdom, emotional, physical, and spiritual strength to give Melissa the counsel, friendship, and guidance that she so desperately needs.
3.) That God would protect and bless this precious child with just the right parents.
4.) That the Lord would speak to Angie and me if He has called us to be this child's parents and an encouragement to Melissa. It would be an open adoption (we are absolutely comfortable with that). And that the Lord would provide for us financially if it is His will that we adopt this child.
Thank you so much for taking this to the throne of God. I know there are prayer warriors here!
This topic may have come up before at Joel's old blog or here at the cave. I don't recall. But there J.R. Church wrote a book called Hidden Prophecies in the Psalms that was first published back in 1986.
The book's thesis is that the first 100 Psalms correspond to the first 100 years of the last century in terms of prophecy concerning Israel. Read Psalm 48 and think of the events in 1948. Read Psalm 67 and consider what happened in 1967.
Anyway, I was wondering what folks here might think of this. As I read Psalms 109, 110, 111, etc... I can see how the content of these Psalms may very well be prophetic.
On the other hand, I wonder why the Lord would use the years we use in our Roman calendar rather than the Jewish calendar. Anyway, food for thought for the New Year.
Happy New Year. May God bless everyone here at the cave. I'm in Oregon right now so the 2009 is still in the future for me as I write. For those of you already in 2009, how does the future look anyway? Never mind, I know it is always good for those who are in Christ Our Blessed Lord and Savior. Let's continue to abide in Him as he gives us the grace to do so this year.
Here's an article realted to the above.
Psalm 107 and the Inverted
Nun in Prophecy!
Praying over those issues, Jim.
As for the future (2009), I seem to have misplaced my DeLorean.
I haven't heard from Wilma in awhile either. But I thought about her, as the first song I heard this New Year, (Pacific Standard Time) was by Judy Jacobs. (TBN)
Happy New Year-2009!
To all, Shalom, and may your New Year be blessed!
Jim G., good one on that Psalm 107 article. To be honest, when I first saw the title, I wondered about that nun; if she was a Franciscan or a Benedictine...
:-)
<><
Jim G;
Praying right now for these needs and expecting our merciful Lord to answer in a mighty way. Please keep us updated.
In Christ,
Diana
Lisa,
Thanks for sharing what your pastor had to say about the new year. Honestly, I don't even attend a church anymore. All I have is fellowship over the internet here and at Apostasywatch.com, have you been there before? I have visited and attended so many churches. We moved back home to the midwest after spending two years in Northern Virginia and have just encountered so many dissapointments in the churches we have been to. At one the pastor had someone ask him about end times and her shared with the congregation that his answer was not to worry about it, that Jesus would be back someday but we did not really need to spend any time thinking about it or looking for it. I stopped going after that. I know I can't find a "perfect" church this side of heaven but it is those kinds of teaching that I do not want my children integrating into their train of thought. So, I teach my kids of the Lord here at home now. We learn so much more just from reading His word. I do want a church home though and feel quite alone many times but feel the Lord is telling me to wait, He will lead us to fellowship in His time. But, it is an encouragement to hear things from your church all the way in sunny Cal!
In Christ's love,
Diana
If the inverted nun theory is correct, is Ps 109 a prophecy for 2009? Interesting, if so. It seems to be about persecution of believers.
Cute, Jim C.
Iraq takes control of green zone from U.S.
Syria boosts Mashaal's security
Over 10,000 people across Islamic Republic have registered for volunteer suicide attacks against Israel
Gaza rocket barrage hits Negev; direct strike on 8-floor Ashdod residence
IAF strike in Gaza kills Hamas political leader Nizar Rayyan
War coverage
IAF Takes Out Missile Storage Facility that Doubled as Mosque
Egyptian ship seized by Somali Pirates (6,000 tons of fertilizer)
EARTH TO EUROPE, RUSSIA: HAMAS MUST BE CRUSHED, NOT CODDLED
Assad Draws Peace Map - Syria On Northwest Shores Of Kinneret
Olmert Says Time Is Ripe For Syrian Peace Talks, Barak Adds Israel Could Take Syria Out If Needed
Rocket hits mosque full of grads and kassams
Rocket hits Ashdod apartment building; no injuries reported
Be'er Sheva Rocket Path: China-Iran-Egypt-Gaza
Blair visits Middle East amid pressure to broker ceasefire
That Psalm article was interesting. Didn't realize there was mention of a potential
"Submarine" in one of them.
So I went to check out Psalm 108 (for 2008) and I had written Gog/Magog/Trib above it. Well we know that didn't happen last year-so?
Looking at Yellowstone & that it would be a "Super" volcano blast if it goes off. Hum. An article said it would disrupt most of North America & cover it in 3feet of Ash.
A recent series of earthquakes in Yellowstone National Park has renewed concerns about what a giant volcano under the park has in store.
Diana,
I think the Lord does tell His people at times to "hold off" & seek him. It certainly can't be plesant to bounce around from one Church to another.
I was stagnant for years (not seeking the Lord or Church) & a small part of that was I was petrified to being misled after coming out of a former JW experience.
I DID NOT want to go from one apostate Church to another & at that point didn't know what was true or not. The JW's believe that everyone except themselves are the false religion of Babylon. (And that is what I thought was -Wrong!)
So I knew the Body of Christ was out there but I wouldn't have had any foundation to test it. So now you are testing things out & building a foundation just between you & God.
I was brought back into the fold by a couple of Christians who attended the Church I'm at. I was leery at first but had thrown all my concerns to God & knew He would not lead me into another pit. So as He called I followed & the rest is history. This is the circumstance that for myself was the right one.
When your all settled in I wonder if the Lord will call you to do a small group Bible study? Or perhaps you will find a good Church.
We do all need each other & the internet is wonderful. Another point that has been stressed over the past years is that when things really start hitting the fan-we will need a network of believers-small groups who have built up relationships-to encourage & help one another.
Last night at the end of the service our Pastor mentioned how the Holy Spirit moves powerfully in the midst of His congregations. "Where two or more are gathered"... and that He loves to see His Children united together, help & love each other.
So our Pastor had everyone grab a hand & lift up all their arms in praise.(Sometimes I wonder what I got myself into w/my hubby. I was not back to the Lord when I married him-so maybe I deserve what I get.)
(No bitterness, No bitterness-I repeat...)
I looked over to him to hold hands and raise our arms and he just stood there and said "This is getting to be too much. This is ridiculous." When I looked around the congregation I think he was the ONLY one w/this attitude. Everyone else interlocked hands & raised their arms up.
So I just raised my arms up by myself & ignored him. A minute later he raised his up but we were not even holding hands. (How sad is that!)
He may eventually come around (before the rapture) and he may not. I was relieved & comforted to run into some friends after the service. So all I can tell you is that w/a stubborn hubby such as mine-the physical presence of other like minded believers is a great blessing & I know if/when things really get tough I'll relish their love & support.
After the service he told me it was late & he has more patience in the morning. Then onto all his health woes. (So at least his conscience was working.) UGGG.
Lisa,
Good seed is being sown into your husband's heart. Give it all (I know you have!) over to the Holy spirit.
Diana,
Prayer will lead you to the right Church.
I know, in my own life, I'd gone to a Church for years, but it was quite a long distance from home. So, I went to three Churches, (closer to home) and out of the three, narrowed my choice down to two. I really liked the one Church better, and just before I committed to it, I heard the Pastor refer to the rapture of the Church, as "the great escape," and that he didn't believe there was a rapture, etc., etc.
I think the bottom line here, is to remain open, to being led by the Holy Spirit. Because, I feel, in my own life, that the Lord is calling me to (yet) another ministry. (unknown to me, now) So I'm praying about it, and I know God will answer.
And as Lisa said, sometimes the Lord is saying, to hold off, and seek His face.
Just a couple of thoughts on this Jan. 1st.
Wilma,
Judy Jacobs sang, These are the Days of Elijah!
What a great song to start 2009 off with!
Lisa-
Praise the Lord your husband is willing to go to church with you and hear you out when you talk about spiritual things. The door is open and your patience and perseverance is important. Remember, God's word will not return void and is sharper than any sword. Stay strong in the Lord, He has brought us here to lift you up and pray you through.
Jim G.-
will be praying for you and your wife to have clarity from the Lord in your decision.
Now I see it is Russia holding back from Ukraine for allowing fuel to be pumped through. Which will in turn end up hurting Europe. Europe is on high alert for terrorist attacks-the highest it has been since 9-11.
I knew those gas prices being so low was too good to be true. I think Russia and Dubai(sp?) and other Arab nations are feeling the lack of $ and are getting set to drive that price back up...among other things in their diabolical bag of tricks.
I also think some other country is going to join the war party of Israel and Hamas in these next weeks. I think if you could look into the spiritual world you would see Israel surrounded by demons drooling and chomping at the bit to join in and go after her(like something out of a Frank Peretti book). Someone(country) is going to jump the gun out of pure pride and join the attack in some way. I hope it is God's will is to slap them back. Someone made a reference to this as it is the end of Israel "wandering for 40yrs.(1968-2008)" and this war will give them their land back. Wouldn't that be something if this war took out so many of the buildings that it gave them pasture land again at the same time discovering oil. We know they will at some point! However they better hurry, Jan.20th is coming upon us soon. Although Bush was somewhat a fair-weathered friend to Israel-BO is no friend at all.
I'd like to see another scenario from Jim C. on how you think this will play out......maybe you already did and I just slept a couple times since that.
Anybody have any thoughts on it?
Side-bar on the inauguration;
Pray that the atheists who are trying to take "God" out of the presidential swearing in (oath) is shouted down/thrown out of court. I pray for Rick Warren to really be convicted for the Lord and to stand solely for Him. I fear Rick W. is under extreme spiritual attack. I don't want to judge him but I don't agree with him on a couple of things. The whole world will be watching this and will be listening to what he has to say. With that being said, of course he needs our prayers.
Enough rambling for today...
Fighting the good fight,
Jenny
Jenny, Shalom! Good question about Ukraine and the Scythians. Present-day Ukraine is on the western edge of the area controlled by the Scythian culture. In fact, the name "Ukraine" comes from an old word that means "The Outback" or "Beyond The Pale". It's the place where the people who didn't fit or who were avoiding certain people (debt collectors, angry husbands, etc.) would move. The Scandinavians would use the various river routes to travel down there to trade, and from there the trade traveled on the Great Silk Road. The present-day ethnic Russians come from the Kieven Russ (Russ = red, for the Scandinavian's red hair) which were a mixture of the Scandinavian traders and the Scythians.
However, if you're going by simple presence, Russia (including the present Islamic republics to it's south) has a greater portion of Scythian than does Ukraine. What I find most interesting about Ukraine is a story that St. Andrew traveled to the place of present-day Kiev, placed his staff on a spot where the present-day Cathedral is located, and claimed the land for Christ. To me, that means Ukraine is going to be pivotal (in the sense of a balance point) in what's going to happen.
<><
Well, walking in a negative state all morning (I don't do negative.) hubby sat on the couch to watch the football game which strategically placed on the arm or the couch was the "Adversity" book.
I casually told him he was experiencing the "Joseph Pit." He said-"I don't know what I'm experiencing but I want to get out of it. Did you read that book?"
So now he's actually reading it in front of the game.
Hallelujah! Now I just pray he "hears" what the Spirit says through the book & doesn't give up on finishing it.
Jenny,
Rick Warren. Looks like the spiritual attack started long ago.
Now he's under a "spiritual delusion" of his Global Peace Plan.
But of course. He fits in perfectly with the whole Global deal. Who better to head it up? Rick Warren, Tony Blair, & the Pope.
Should be interesting to see if these people join together in a global united effort to capture the "Christian" side of things.
Interesting and disturbing article from the Brussels Journal...
Spain’s Jewish Problem
Hi there everyone,
Thanks for words of encouragement regarding church. I am trusting the Lord to lead our family to other fellow believers soon. I am sure that if invited to church or a group somewhere that I will start out not wanting to go but I am more than willing to do anything my Lord wants of me.
My two oldest children just left for a week long trip to Southern Florida with my parents. The girls are 11 and 14 and have never been to visit my sister in FL. nor have they ever been so far away from me. I have been choking back tears all day, afraid of something happening to them. My parents are very strong believers as is my sister and her family or else I never would have let my girls go so far away (we live in mid Illinois). I know that they will love being there but I miss them terribly already. Please pray for their safety and my heart not to be troubled. I have given them over to the Lord and know He knows what is best for them but still I am having a really hard time without them here. I worry about something catastrophic happening in the world while they are away from me. So, I will have a good cry and will feel better after knowing there are saints lifting my precious ones up to our Lord.
Thank you
I also found that article, the nun one, interesting. Have not had a chance to study those particular Psalms yet but I have thought that since it was written in 2007, the Judgement has not seemed to have started yet so I don't know just how credible the theory is.
I do think this war in Gaza will escalate, and soon. Other Arab nations getting involved and perhaps an attack against Israel. I prayed along the same lines that Joel R. laid out in his latest post on the matter, that Israel will turn back to the Lord and seek His face. Good to know that the Lord does have a plan in all of this.
Diana
Diana,
I'm agreeing with you, in prayer, about the safety of your precious children!
May God bless you, and give you great peace (Shalom) during this time of absence from them.
What's that old saying? The closest thing to God's love, is the love of a Mother for her children.
How true, how true :) Even though my youngest son is 32 years old, he's still my "baby :)"
Diana, I live in West Palm Beach. First of all the weather is extremely nice today, high is 74, tomorrow proves to be another beautiful day.
If your family members are near Palm Beach County, there are many things they can do and some free beaches... I would like to suggest Carlin Park in Jupiter, Fl. You can see the Jupiter lighthouse from the beach. There's also a nice park attached to the Jupiter inlet called, Dubois Park. (right next to Jupiter beach, too) Depending on high and low tide, you can see some cool fish. Also, Wakotahatchee wetland in Delray beach, is free and beautiful. Have them visit an "Ice Cream Club" if they can find one... the most amazing ice cream available in our area.
If your family gets into any difficulties in the area, give us a call. We have friends and family around the state. Write to my email and I'll pass along my cell.
Relax, regardless of whether we're home or abroad, we are always in His tender care.
lori
campsmore@gmail.com
Oops! I've just been corrected, Jupiter beach is next to Dubois, that's where you can play in the ocean and see the lighthouse. Carlin park is also in Jupiter and is a free beach/park. Both are very nice and well maintained.
A coming led Turkish/Islamic Union Wow-the Turks are on Fire. I can almost see the Anti-Christ coming out of this Peace/Love movement.
Love,Love-Kiss,Kiss-Bliss,Bliss
Thank you both Lori and Marge. I feel much better now after having shared all of that. They are on their way to Jupiter, FL. and both want to come home with a tan! :)
Marge, I am 35 and my mom still calls me to make sure I am ok after hearing of accidents on the interstate that I travel on frequently. So, I understand how your 32 year old can still be your "baby". I am sure it will be the same with my 4 children, especially the one who is the "baby" now, my 3 year old son.
Have a good night all, I am off to relax after taking down the tree and putting away the decorations.
Diana
Shalom, all! Just some stuff to share:
This is related to the "A Coming Turkish Led Islamic Union?" article:
A Caliphate “from the Red Sea to the Caspian”?
For the latest on Gaza War coverage, esp. stuff not making the MSM or stuff you'd be surprised to see in the MSM:
Gaza Update 5.5 (There's a 6.0 due out real soon now.)
They make this sound like a BAD thing!
Israel's Attacks On Gaza Deepen Palestinian Rift
This person has some interesting insights:
Meryl Yourish
<><
Just for fun...
Uncle Jay explains 2008
Medvedev's assertiveness troubles Putin
Israels FM Livini: President Sarkozy understands the nature of the threat Israel faces'
On seventh day of Gaza op, IAF hits more than 20 Hamas targets
Israel allows over 300 foreigners to leave Gaza
Sorry about that link to "Gaza Update 5.5". You should find the corrected link here.
In fact, update 6 is up. Enjoy!
<><
Lori
that was most amusing. got quite a chuckle out of that.
Jim C
that was a neat site with all sorts of links to other things to read.
I had to snort over one of the links that Lori provided about Livini saying that the french President understood Israel's concerns-huh? since when. he's been clamoring as much as the rest for Israel to cease fire, at least in public. it is interesting though since he is Jewish from a long line of Zionist activists-the only reason he is Catholic was so his Jewish grandfather could marry a non Jew. he bears watching with that statement of Livini's.
From Chambers today. it has a whole host of implications and could be applicable to any situation I think whether daily life or trying to lose weight.
"Have you ever "gone out" in this way? If so, there is no logical answer possible when anyone asks you what you are doing. One of the most difficult questions to answer in Christian work is, "What do you expect to do?" You don’t know what you are going to do. The only thing you know is that God knows what He is doing. Continually examine your attitude toward God to see if you are willing to "go out" in every area of your life, trusting in God entirely. It is this attitude that keeps you in constant wonder, because you don’t know what God is going to do next. Each morning as you wake, there is a new opportunity to "go out," building your confidence in God. ". . . do not worry about your life . . . nor about the body . . ." (Luke 12:22). In other words, don’t worry about the things that concerned you before you did "go out."
Have you been asking God what He is going to do? He will never tell you. God does not tell you what He is going to do— He reveals to you who He is. Do you believe in a miracle-working God, and will you "go out" in complete surrender to Him until you are not surprised one iota by anything He does?
Believe God is always the God you know Him to be when you are nearest to Him. Then think how unnecessary and disrespectful worry is! Let the attitude of your life be a continual willingness to "go out" in dependence upon God, and your life will have a sacred and inexpressible charm about it that is very satisfying to Jesus. You must learn to "go out" through your convictions, creeds, or experiences until you come to the point in your faith where there is nothing between yourself and God."
go out without knowing what you are to do??? very scary for control freaks.
More updates about Gaza to come.
Ummmm...who's Jack?
Sorry, I don't remember you. :(
He sure seems like an interesting fellow. **Read his list of favorite books.
The link Jim C. sent for "Gaza Update" is Jack's. There are some
good links to articles/blogs on it.
You can see where people's heads are in the Gaza matter.
Also,
I was listening to a CD from International Creation Research about Mt.Saint Helens eruption & then onto Yellowstone & how much more severe that eruption was when the "cap" blew off-most likely Flood-Post Flood era.
Then-He mentioned that "as in the days of Noah" (Yellowstone-in the days of Noah) the Son of man returns & Judgment by fire follows.
**So-Yellowstone is a place to keep an eye on. (Had not thought of the connection before.)
Global Protests Condemn Gaza Attacks"
Interesting stuff going on!
Mac,
Thought you might appreciate this.
Israellycool…Inside the mind of an Ozraeli
Thanks, Jim G, I'll check it out tomorrow. I notice a lot of anti-semitism starting to rear its ugly head. I fear the Gaza conflict is just a good excuse for some to show their hatred.
Bethlehem Christians flee religious persecution by Muslims; Journalists blame Israel, mollify world to opposing Jihadism
(Watch the Video)
Mac,
It's a pro-Israel site. Here's more on the guy behind the site:
Who are you?
I am a 33-year-old Jewish guy, originally from Perth, Australia.
When did you move to Israel?
Towards the end of 2000.
What is your background?
My religious background is that I was brought up as a secular Jew, but, through a series of events, decided to become observant. My journey led me to studying Torah in Israel for a year, which means that if you are going to attempt to discredit Judaism by bringing so-called “sources”, be prepared to be caught out on it.
Education-wise, I completed law school, and also earned another degree in commerce/business. I also have a diploma in Tetris, and snooker.
Why do you post anonymously?
I prefer it this way, since I want the focus of my blog to be spreading the truth about Israel and the Jewish people, rather than me.
Why the name “Israellycool”?
I thought it was a nice play on words. Besides, I think Israel is a cool place.
Depend of His Ability
New Art in Baghdad Very Babylonian!
Should be interesting to see what happens in Iraq as the US phases out.
Sarkozy seeks 'path of peace' in Mideast tour
The war and why
Bush: Hamas attacks on Israel an 'act of terror'
Israeli tanks expected in Gaza Strip as foreigners are allowed to flee
Mashaal to IDF soldiers: 'A black fate awaits you in Gaza'
Israel ok's call-up of tens of 1000's of reservists as Gaza ground op gets underway
Ground op underway: IDF troops enter Gaza
Heard In Iran: Iranians Speak Out Against Hamas
Soldiers exchange fire with Hamas gunmen inside Strip
Iran official holds talks in Syria on Gaza operation
Assad and Medevev discuss situation in Gaza
NATO says could help in Middle East after peace deal
Ceasefire efforts gain momentum as Israel continues assault on Gaza
Blair calls on Obama to use his presidency to unify the world... and says he's still friends with President Bush
With all thats going on with Israel and Gaza, I can see how things could easily lead into the events as foretold by the ancient Israeli prophets.
Fox news has had some great coverage and a special is on tonight at 9...the son of a Hamas leader who became a "Christian" gives some insight into the Hamas mindset.
<><
Whatcha guys and dolls been doing while I am lazing around in Missouri and Arkansas?
Would you believe I have been in a remote native village in Missouri without cell phone coverage and no laptop? Would you believe it snowed and threw ice storms at us in Missouri where I was spending some time with my son and his family, plus my grandkids? Do you think I got tired of the snow and yucky weather and declared war on it? Yeah,you would believe that and I did do all of it. Taught a few people the truth about Israel in the process and it felt so good setting the record straight for once.
I miss all of you and I will try to catch up but right now I am at my daughter and son-in-law's enjoying the love and fellowship greatly. I have had a very blessed and wonderful Christmas and I am ready to get back to Sallisaw and tend to being a wife again.
I hope all of you got wonderful encouragement and love for Christmas and also shared the same with others.
I will talk with you more when I get home Monday. I am using my daughter's laptop and it is a little slow for me.
Please keep praying for Israel and our new President elect.
Shalom
Grany
Grany!
So great to hear from you!
Wilma, זה כל כך נפלא לשמוע ממך!
אני שמח שאתה נהנה עם המשפחה שלך.
יש לנו את כל הפסידו, אך שמח שאתה טוב.
הרע סערה נתן לך מספיק זמן כדי לחדד את כישורי הריקוד.
ש לי מתנה בשבילך, אבל לא שלח את זה עד שאני יודע שיש לך הגיעו הביתה. חג שמח ו יום הולדת שמח.
ש לי מתנה בשבילך, אבל לא שלח את זה עד שאני יודע שיש לך הגיעו הביתה. חג שמח ו יום הולדת שמח.
lori
oops, got the hiccups there....
Grany,
I can envision you "in faith" declaring war on the weather.
Happy to see you've still got your spunk!
Lori,
Was that writing Hebrew? Are you trying to communicate to Grany by "code" so the rest of us don't know what's going on? J.K.(:
Lisa
Google just added Hebrew in their translator, it was just for fun!
Grany, good to hear from you!
The Debka File site has been attacked in both Hebrew & English.
Joel R. is posting like mad. Just got an urgent message for needed $ in Gaza.
I pray the IDF Ground troops have more stealth than the American troops seemed to have in that type of street combat. I hate to even think about those brainwashed crazed Muslims & what they will scheme up to do to the Jews if they get the chance.
(If we could see into the spirit realm I wonder what the sight to behold is over there. WOW.)
Lisa, Shalom! I think the IDF forces will have more stealth simply because Israel will have several thousand people who had lived in Gaza. I imagine some of those people are now in the IDF, so there's all that personal knowledge to draw on. The biggest problem I can see are all the tunnels that will have been dug.
<><
New post is up.
Post a Comment