#exalted and ascended Christ

[a-godman]

The Triune God was Involved with Christ's Ascension and the Pouring of the Spirit

Even as the Divine Trinity is the framework of the entire New Testament, so the Divine Trinity is the structure of the book of Acts; in particular today we want to see how the Triune God was fully involved with the Son’s ascension and the pouring out of the Spirit. Amen! This week we are in the last week on, Experiencing, enjoying, and expressing Christ (part 1), and the topic is, The Divine…

[httpsoftbunni]

Heaven and Earth Come Together in Christ

Preface for Whole Bible Study

The New Testament's view of the universe is really similar to that of the Hebrew Bible. Christ's message was that he was joining Heaven, the space of humanity, with himself. Humans are to partner with Christ in bringing Heaven to Earth by contributing to human flourishing.

New Testament Views

The Gospel of Matthew

Matthew 4:8 “a high mountain” from which Christ can see all the kingdoms of the Earth

Matthew 4:17 Kingdom of Heaven has come near

Matthew 6:9-10 The Lord’s prayer, God’s Kingdom/will here on Earth as it is in Heaven

Matthew 11:23 Capernaum not exalted up to Heaven but going down to Sheol/Hades

Matthew 12:39-40 Sign of Jonah, belly of whale // “heart of the Earth”

Matthew 12:42 Queen of the South comes “from the ends of the Earth”

Matthew 28:16-20 On a mountain, the risen Christ says, “all authority in Heaven and on Earth belongs to me”

The Gospel of Matthew

Matthew 4:8 “a high mountain” from which Christ can see all the kingdoms of the Earth

Matthew 4:17 Kingdom of Heaven has come near

Matthew 6:9-10 The Lord’s prayer, God’s Kingdom/will here on Earth as it is in Heaven

Matthew 11:23 Capernaum not exalted up to Heaven but going down to Sheol/Hades

Matthew 12:39-40 Sign of Jonah, belly of whale // “heart of the Earth”

Matthew 12:42 Queen of the South comes “from the ends of the Earth”

Matthew 28:16-20 On a mountain, the risen Christ says, “all authority in Heaven and on Earth belongs to me”

The Letters of Paul

Philippians 2:9-10: The exalted Christ was raised high, so every knee will bow “in Heaven, on Earth, and under the Earth.”

Ephesians 1:19-22: Christ’s resurrection exalted him to “sit at his right hand in the heavenly places.”

Ephesians 2:1-7:  We have been raised from the dead and “raised up and seated with him in the heavenly places.”

2 Corinthians 12:1-4: Paul talks about “a guy I know” (himself) who had a vision and apocalypse where he ascended up to the “third Heaven.”

The Book of Revelation

Revelation 21:1-3:  A new Heaven and Earth, a city descending from Heaven (presumably the new one coming to a new Earth), but it’s called a tabernacle.

Revelation 21:10: The city coming down again, described as a temple-Jerusalem-garden-throne of God

What is going on in these passages???

Over time, it became clear that the authors of the Hebrew Bible, Christ, and the apostles imagined a universe that is very different from our modern conception of the universe.

It’s crucial to understand the Bible on its own terms, which may require unlearning and relearning the biblical conception of the cosmos, that is, Heaven and Earth.

[wisdomfish]

Mormonism cannot lead you to heaven because it departs from the biblical teaching of the triune God.

LDS adherents insist that they believe in the God of the Bible. The language on God and Christ in the LDS faith appears nearly identical to that of biblical Christianity. Mormon doctrine claims that Jesus is the Son of God, Savior, and Redeemer who died for us. However, there are fateful differences between the God of Mormonism and Christianity.

Mormon teaching denies one of the most important biblical teachings, that God is a Triune God; one God and three Persons, God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Instead, the Persons of the Trinity are said to be three separate gods. That difference is catastrophic: it teaches polytheism, not monotheistic tri-unity, as Scripture does. Further, God the Father is said to be an exalted man who “…has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man’s; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost has not a body of flesh and bones, but is a personage of Spirit” (Doctrine and Covenants, 130:22). The Father was once a mortal being who dwelt on earth and eventually ascended to his current god-like status. This puts the LDS god no higher than an exalted man.

Mormonism teaches that he is the father of human spirits (before creation, all humanity were spirits who lived with God the Father), among whom were Christ and the Holy Ghost. This is a different God altogether than the God of the Bible. It’s a God who is less than the eternal, immutable, infinite God, and thus, no god at all. The true God, however, was never a mortal being, but eternally an immortal, immutable, and triune Being with no beginning or end (Job 36:26; Ps. 90:2, 93:2, 102:25-27). For that reason, the god of Mormonism is an idol and a false god. Consequently, he is a god who cannot accomplish true redemption and in whom there is no salvation. To believe in a god different than that of Scripture is to adhere to an unsavable system.

~ Eric Davis

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

Devotional Hours Within the Bible by J.R. Miller

Elijah on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18)

Elijah challenged Ahab to a test of Baal’s power. He demanded that the question should be settled, whether the Lord or Baal was the true God. Baal’s prophets were summoned, therefore, to meet with Elijah on Mount Carmel. On one side stood Elijah, alone, as the prophet of Jehovah; and on the other side the four hundred and fifty priests of Baal. All day, from morning until evening, Baal’s priests had been about their altar, crying, dancing, and gashing their flesh, after the custom of their heathen worship. But Baal had not answered, and, with mortification in their hearts and curses on their lips they turned away in defeat. It is now Elijah’s turn. Will Jehovah answer by fire and thus prove Himself the true God?

Elijah called the people to come near to him, that they might see all that he did, for there were no secrets in the worship of the true God. Then he repaired the altar of Jehovah, which had been broken down. Once the fires had burned on this altar but it had been neglected, the people having turned away to worship calves of gold, instead of the true and living God.

While this picture of the ruined altar is before us we may think of other altars that are broken down. There are homes where once the voice of prayer was daily heard, where the family bowed in worship. But now no longer does the morning and evening prayer ascend. There are those who at their mother’s knees were taught to kneel, and who through infancy and youth continued to pray but who no longer bow before God. All about us, everywhere, are these broken - down altars. The first thing the prophet did at Carmel that day was to rebuild God’s altar which was in ruins. The first step toward blessing in prayerless homes and lives is to build again the old altar of God.

Elijah then made preparation for the great test. He prepared the altar, put the wood in order, cut the bull in pieces, and laid it on the wood. That was all he could do; the fire must come down from God. Common fire would not do it must be fire from heaven. It is the same in our sacrifices. “Present your bodies a living sacrifice” to God, is our part. God will never lift us up on His altar we must lay ourselves there willingly. We present our bodies a living sacrifice when we yield our will and surrender ourselves to God with love and praise, ready for obedience and service.

We cannot change our own heart Elijah did not bring fire from some furnace or smoking hearth to kindle the wood on his altar; he prepared the sacrifice and then waited for God to give the fire. When all the preparations were made, Elijah prayed for God to send the fire. We get nothing spiritual from heaven, without prayer. Prayerlessness receives no blessings. A day without prayer is a day unblessed, unsheltered, and open to all disaster. If we are seeking blessing and are ready to yield our wills and affections to Christ we have but to cry to God, and He will send down the divine fire to consume the sacrifice which we have laid upon His altar. But we must always pray. “Ask and you shall receive.” Mere waiting is not enough there must be supplication as well as consecration .

The form of Elijah’s prayer must be noticed. “Let it be known this day that You are God in Israel.” The prophet was not seeking his own glory but God’s. He was not trying to work a miracle to show his power but to show the people that Jehovah was the true and the only God. We should never think of honoring ourselves in doing God’s work our aim always should be to honor God. After anything we have done for God, we should not exult in our own exaltation but should thank God and honor Him.

A king, when his army had won a great victory, bared his head in the presence of his soldiers and reverently repeated, “Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us but to Your name be the glory!” We should never concern ourselves about our share of the honor, about the reputation or the glory we are to get from any work we have done, any duty, any sacrifice we have made; we should seek that God’s name alone shall be honored, that it may be known that He is indeed God.

All day, the prophets of Baal had prayed in vain beside the altar but the moment Elijah began to pray “the fire of Jehovah fell, and consumed the burnt-offering.” A god that cannot answer prayer is not the God for needy, tempted, perishing, dying men. Baal had been proved no god. He was unable in that great crisis to give any answer. But the moment Elijah prayed, the fire fell.

The test of Mount Carmel is being repeated every day in thousands of places on the earth. Our God is the Hearer of prayer. Burdened hearts are crying to Him and He is answering their requests. Blessings are falling upon needy, suffering lives in response to earnest, faith-filled supplications. The fire of the Lord is always falling. It fell on the day of Pentecost on the praying disciples. It has fallen since on millions of heart - altars, consuming earthliness and sin, and leaving the glowing flames of love, devotion, and holy service.

The effect on the people was tremendous. When they saw it they “fell on their faces, and they said, Jehovah, He is God !” Jehovah had been forsaken and His worship abandoned. Jeroboam’s sin had thus ripened into its full, terrible fruitage. Baal was now accepted as the god of the nation. Jehovah’s prophets had been hunted to death. So utterly had idolatry driven out the true worship, destroying or sending to hiding places, the followers of the true God that Elijah thought he was the only one left in the whole land who was loyal to Jehovah. Then came this test. It was a magnificent occasion one man against king, prophets, priests, people; but one man with God is more than a match for all the world against God.

This test is going on still. Baal’s worshipers are yet prominent in the world, though known now by other names. What are the evidences of Christianity? What demonstration of power have we ever had which shows that Christianity is divine? We may point to the whole history of the Church, in answer to this question. Wherever the gospel has gone through the centuries, divine power has been with it. A little study of history and a little examination of the map of the world will show thousand of Carmels. Idolatry and false religions have done their best but nothing has come of their experiments no moral improvements, no lifting up of the people, no sweetening and purifying of homes, no building of hospitals and asylums, no restoring of lives, no saving of souls.

Then Christianity entered with its simple story of divine love, its fire from heaven, the power of the Holy Spirit; and wherever it has gone all has been changed. Men have turned from their sins unto God. Evil hearts have been made holy. Cruelty has given place to gentleness. Happy homes have been built up. Society has been transformed. As we see these wonderful results of Christian life the Carmel days over again we can say with joy and triumph, “ Jehovah, He is God !”

The victory was complete. The fire consumed the burnt offering, even the stones and the dust, and licked up the water that filled the trench. Baal’s prophets had been defeated and must die. They had been proved guilty of high treason, as representing idolatry. Events moved rapidly. Elijah announced to Ahab the coming of rain. The prophet then went to the top of Mount Carmel, and we see him next in the attitude of prayer praying for rain. Although God had promised the rain yet it was necessary that Elijah should pray for it. “Ask and you shall receive.”

Elijah’s prayer suggests to us also the importance of expectation. When we ask for things which God has promised, we should look for an answer. The prophet sent his servant to watch for the clouds. The picture is very beautiful. The answer did not come immediately but the prophet continued pleading with God. Again and again and again the servant went up and looked but there was nothing to be seen, no cloud in the sky. At last, a little cloud as small as a man’s hand appeared. The answer was coming. The prophet ceased to pray and set out on his journey to Jezreel.

[apenitentialprayer]

Christ Enthroned, by Kelly Latimore.

Today, the vision that the world gives us for happiness is basically that we have to get everything right. If I go to the right college and I get the right job, and then I find the right spouse and I get the right friends, and then I live in the right place — if I get that all right, then I'll be happy. It's no wonder we all have so much anxiety. Because that's a lot of stuff to try to get right. What's the problem with this picture? Well, the problem is that I'm at the center, and I'll never get all that right, and no one of those things will ever satisfy me. And so, in order to be happy, what do I have to do? I have to dethrone myself from the center of my life, put Jesus at the center, and then ask Him: Jesus, where do you want me to go to college? What's the career you made me for? Who am I supposed to marry, if I'm supposed to get married? What's my vocation? All these questions come when I realize Jesus is Lord.

- Bishop Andrew Cozzens (Beautiful Eucharist, pages 47-48). Italics original.

[O]nce you know that, in Christ, God is forever overcoming the gap between human and divine — the Christian path becomes less about climbing and performance, and more about descending, letting go, and unlearning. Knowing and loving Jesus is largely about becoming fully human, wounds and all, instead of ascending spiritually or thinking we can remain unwounded. The ego does not like this fundamental switch at all, so we keep returning to some kind of performance principle, trying to climb out of this messy incarnation instead of learning from it.

- Fr. Richard Rohr, O.F.M. (The Universal Christ, page 110)

Come and see the works of the Lord who has done fearsome deeds on the earth; who stops wars to the ends of the earth, breaks the bow, splinters the spear, and burns the shields with fire; "Be still and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, exalted on the earth." The LORD of hosts is with us; Our stronghold is the God of Jacob. Selah.

Psalm 46:9-12

[michaelofnebadon]

Religious Renewal

Remember that the Michael Revelation is considered revelatory by its adherents, and its teachings have inspired spiritual seekers worldwide. Whether one agrees with its content or not, exploring its spiritual insights can be thought-provoking and enriching. 

The Michael Revelation integrates concepts from science, philosophy, and various religious traditions to offer a comprehensive framework for understanding the universe and our place within it. It emphasizes the idea that all religions contain truth and that they play a crucial role in the spiritual evolution of humanity.

The Revelation's portrayal of Jesus provides a detailed account of his life and teachings, emphasizing his universal message of love and brotherhood. 

The Michael Revelation encourages readers to seek spiritual growth through love, service, and the pursuit of truth, beauty, and goodness, suggesting that these values are the essence of true religion.

The Michael Revelation is a sevenfold revelation and includes his personal writings and discourses given to the apostles of the 1st century and the 21st Century,  the Urantia Book text given by the Divine Personalities coming from Uversa with a commission to enlighten the race and who serve to exalt and elevate and ennoble all lives, The Golden Scripts of Christ Michael, A Course in Miracles text, the Pathwork Lectures of the Host of Nebadon Administration who are ascended and free, and the Association of Sananda and Sanat Kumara present a unique and expansive narrative of Jesus Michael's life and teachings, including a detailed account of his faith.

According to this revelatory gospel, Jesus' faith was not rooted in tradition or mere intellectual assent; rather, it was a deeply personal and spiritual experience. His belief in God was characterized by a profound trust and a serene confidence, unaffected by the trials and tribulations of mortal life.

The Michael Revelation describes Jesus' faith as the result of the insight born from the divine presence within him, known as his indwelling Adjuster. This faith was not a passive acceptance but an active and dynamic force in Jesus' life, shaping his understanding of God as a loving and caring Father, with whom every individual could have a personal relationship. The portrayal of Jesus in this Revelation emphasizes his role in elevating the concept of God to a more intimate and accessible level, encouraging believers to view themselves as children of a divine parent. This perspective on faith is intended to inspire a living and experiential belief, transcending dogmatic formulations and theological debates. It suggests that faith, as exemplified by Jesus, is a transformative and empowering force, capable of guiding individuals through the complexities of life with grace and certainty.

The Revelation presents a complex cosmology, including the figure of Michael of Nebadon, who is revealed as the sovereign spiritual Father Son Representation for our local universe named Nebadon. According to the text, Michael is a title given to a Creator Son, an Order of divine beings responsible for the creation, preservation, nurturing guidance, maturing, and progressive evolutionary advancement and administration of a sector of the cosmos. 

The Revelation describes Michael's seven bestowals, or missions, among various forms of life in the universe, culminating in his final bestowal as Jesus of Nazareth on Earth, which is referred to as Urantia in the Revelation. This narrative is intended to provide deeper insights into the nature of divinity and the process of spiritual governance in the universe as given by the Revelation. It's a unique blend of spirituality, philosophy, and universal meanings and elements that has intrigued readers and scholars since its publication.

The teachings about Michael of Nebadon aim to bridge the gap between human understanding and divine wisdom, offering a perspective on how celestial beings interact with and guide the evolutionary progress of worlds and their inhabitants. 21st Century Revelation of Michael Of Nebadon

[albertfinch]

Seeking Communion – November 23, 2024

Those who wait on Him and remain faithful to obey Him will soar. They will accomplish His purpose for their life more NOW than ever before. Now is the time for the mature believers to prevail -- the tenacious ones who don't give up, who persist -- the faithful ones who set their face toward their calling in Christ and do not relent till it comes to pass.

This is the hour for the warrior spirit to arise, the sons of the Lion of Judah!  This is the season to excel and ascend. Cultivate that spirit of excellence. "Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and innocent children of God -- without fault in a warped and crooked generation.  Among whom you will appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life." - (Philippians 2:14-16)

He will grow your influence and enlarge your territory (1 Chronicles 4:10). Abide in Him, let His love abide in you. Only with His presence will you produce fruit that lasts as you disciple others into their Christ identity, preparing them to bear fruit that remains for His advancing Kingdom.

2025 is the year for the workers in the field, the ones who have pledged their allegiance to the Lord of hosts and served Him with unwavering resolve -- He will come and be with His faithful servants -- He will empower them to do far greater things than they could've ever imagined.

As 2024 comes to an end the nameless, faceless, rankless army of the Lord will be raised up. A company of people who fear only the Lord, whose eyes look only to Him, and who march in unity without breaking rank. Remove pride that exalts itself against Him -- remove the human wisdom that rises up against His wisdom. For His ways are above your ways, His thoughts are higher than your thoughts.

"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."  -  Isaiah 40:28-31

ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

[thewahookid]

Question:

What is the difference between the Ascension (of Jesus) and the Assumption (of the Blessed Virgin Mary)?

Answer:

Christ, by his own power, ascended into heaven. Mary was assumed or taken up into heaven by God: she did not do it under her own power.

The elevation of Christ into heaven by His own power in the presence of His disciples the fortieth day after His Resurrection is narrated in Mark 16:19, Luke 24:51, and in the first chapter of Acts. For Mary, although declared divinely-revealed dogma only in 1950, documentation of belief in the Assumption dates to at least the 5th century.

For one example of this long-held belief, at the Council of Chalcedon in 451, when bishops from throughout the Mediterranean world gathered in Constantinople, Emperor Marcian asked the Patriarch of Jerusalem to bring the relics of Mary to Constantinople to be enshrined in the capitol.

The patriarch explained to the emperor that there were no relics of Mary in Jerusalem and that “Mary had died in the presence of the apostles; but her tomb, when opened later . . . was found empty and so the apostles concluded that the body was taken up into heaven.” (2:41)

In the eighth century, St. John Damascene was known for giving sermons at the holy places in Jerusalem. At the Tomb of Mary, he expressed the belief of the Church on the meaning of the feast: "Although the body was duly buried, it did not remain in the state of death, neither was it dissolved by decay. . . . You were transferred to your heavenly home, O Lady, Queen and Mother of God in truth."

All the feast days of Mary mark the great mysteries of her life and her part in the work of redemption. The central mystery of her life and person is her divine motherhood, celebrated both at Christmas and a week later (Jan. 1) on the feast of the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. The Immaculate Conception (Dec. 😎 marks the preparation for that motherhood, so that she had the fullness of grace from the first moment of her existence, completely untouched by sin. Her whole being throbbed with divine life from the very beginning, readying her for the exalted role of mother of the Savior.

The Assumption completes God's work in her since it was not fitting that the flesh that had given life to God himself should ever undergo corruption. The Assumption is God's crowning of His work as Mary ends her earthly life and enters eternity. The feast turns our eyes in that direction, where we will follow when our earthly life is over.

The feast days of the Church are not just the commemoration of historical events; they do not look only to the past. They look to the present and to the future and give us an insight into our own relationship with God. The Assumption looks to eternity and gives us hope that we, too, will follow Our Lady when our life is ended.

In 1950, in the Apostolic Constitution Munificentissimus Deus, Pope Pius XII proclaimed the Assumption of Mary a dogma of the Catholic Church in these words: "The Immaculate Mother of God, the ever-virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heaven."

With that, an ancient belief became Catholic doctrine and the Assumption was declared a truth revealed by God.

Source: Cool Catholics

[newlyfaithfulhumanity]

The Sovrnty Foundation

fides spes caritas

Faith, Hope, and Charity in the rehabilitation and restoration and reordering of the Universal Planetary Government.

The United Ministry of the Paradise Sons of the Original Mother Son of Paradise dedicated to guiding the individual evolutionary experience of the individual and the planetary sphere.

The Michael Revelation is a sevenfold revelation and teaching which includes:

1. Jesus Michael's personal writings and discourses given to the apostles of the 1st century.

2. The Michael Of Nebadon Archival Library of the 21st Century.

3. The Urantia Book text given by the Divine Personalities coming from Uversa with a commission to enlighten the race and who serve to exalt and elevate and ennoble all lives.

4. The Golden Scripts of Christ Michael.

5. A Course in Miracles text.

6. The Pathwork Lectures of the Host of Nebadon Administration who are ascended and free.

7. The Association of Sananda and Sanat Kumara with the Sons and Daughters of Nebadon present a unique and expansive teaching array and a narrative of the Royal Road of Transformation Ascendancy.

The Sevenfold Cosmic Viewpoint of the Paradise Trinity to Enhance all Meanings, Values, and Vision:

1. The Universal Father:

   - The Michael Revelation describes God as the Universal Father, emphasizing a personal relationship with each individual.

   - God's love is unconditional, and He is accessible to all through the indwelling presence of the Thought Adjuster (a fragment of God within each person).

2. Eternal Progression:

   - The Michael Revelation and its teachings emphasize that life is a journey of eternal progression.

   - Mortals evolve spiritually through experiences, choices, and growth.

   - The goal is to attain perfection through alignment with divine will.

  3. The Supreme Being:

   - The revelatory cosmology introduces the concept of the Supreme Being, an evolving deity.

   - The Supreme is the sum total of all finite experiences and the unifying force in the grand universe.

   - Mortals contribute to the Supreme's growth through their decisions and actions.

4. Spiritual Realities:

   - The Sevenfold Michael Revelation discusses various spiritual realities, including angels, celestial beings, and the afterlife.

   - Angels serve as ministering spirits, guiding and assisting humans.

   - The soul survives physical death and continues its journey in the morontia realms.

5. Cosmic Citizenship:

   - The Michael of Nebadon teachings emphasize that we are citizens of a vast cosmic family.

   - Our spiritual growth contributes to the harmony of the universe.

   - We participate in the cosmic brotherhood of beings from diverse worlds.

6. Jesus Christ Michael:

   - The Michael Revelation presents an expanded narrative of Jesus' life and teachings, as well as, revealing the 21st century bestowal mission and ministry of Michael.

   - Jesus Michael is portrayed as both divine (the Son of God) and human (the Son of Man).

   - His mission, was and still is, to reveal the Father's love and show the way to eternal life.

7. Personal Religious Experience:

   - The Michael Revelatory Perspective encourages personal religious experience.

   - It values inner communion, worship, and the pursuit of truth.

   - Each person's spiritual journey is unique and significant.

2025. The Sovrnty Foundation

[versegpt]

The Magnificent Truth of Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ stands as the centerpiece of the Christian faith, embodying both divinity and humanity in one extraordinary person. As the eternal Son of God, He is fully divine and fully human—one person with two natures. This profound mystery is essential to understanding His role in God's plan for redemption.

The Incarnation: God Among Us

Born of the Virgin Mary, Jesus entered our world as the promised Messiah. His birth signifies the moment when God chose to dwell among humanity, bringing the promise of redemption to life. This act of love reveals the depth of God’s commitment to saving His creation, demonstrating that He understands our struggles, temptations, and suffering because He experienced them Himself.

A Life of Love and Holiness

Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus lived a sinless life, exemplifying love, compassion, and holiness in every interaction. He cared for the marginalized, healed the sick, and offered forgiveness to sinners. His miracles—transforming water into wine, feeding the hungry, and raising the dead—demonstrated His divine power and authority over creation.

Moreover, His teachings conveyed the heart of God's kingdom, emphasizing the importance of repentance, faith, and the call to love one another. The parables He shared often illustrated profound truths about God's nature and our need for a relationship with Him.

The Cross: Our Substitute

The pinnacle of Jesus' mission was His sacrificial death on the cross. As our substitute, He willingly gave His life as a propitiatory and reconciling sacrifice, paying the penalty for our sins. This act restored our broken relationship with God, showcasing His grace and love. Jesus' death was not the end; it was a divine plan that fulfilled the prophecies of old and opened the door for our salvation.

After His crucifixion, He was buried and rose bodily on the third day, triumphing over sin and death. This resurrection is the cornerstone of our faith, affirming that Jesus conquered the grave and offering eternal life to all who believe in Him.

The Ascension and Mediation

Following His resurrection, Jesus appeared to many, providing undeniable evidence of His victory. He then ascended into heaven, where He sits at the right hand of God the Father. In this exalted position, He serves as the only mediator between God and humanity, interceding on behalf of believers. His reign as King assures us that He is sovereign over all creation, providing hope and strength as we navigate life’s challenges.

The Promise of His Return

One day, Jesus will return in glory to judge the living and the dead, establishing His eternal kingdom. This promise assures us that our faith is not in vain; there is a day coming when justice will prevail, and every tear will be wiped away.

The Way, the Truth, and the Life

Jesus boldly declared, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life" (John 14:6). Through Him alone can we know God and receive eternal life. His invitation to follow Him is one of love, grace, and hope, reminding us that our journey with Him is not about striving for perfection but about embracing His perfect love.

Conclusion

In summary, Jesus Christ is not just a historical figure; He is our Savior, the embodiment of God’s love for humanity. His life, death, and resurrection reveal the heart of the Gospel and the hope we have in Him. As we reflect on the truth of Jesus, let us embrace the grace and mercy He offers, sharing this transformative message with others.

THIS IS #JESUS.

[freebiblestudies]

The Three Angels' Messages Lesson 03: Shine

Revelation 14:9-11 - Then a third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, "If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of His indignation. 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 ascends forever and ever; and they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name."

The third angel’s message is very ominous and scary. The third angel’s message also leaves us full of questions. What is the mark of the beast? Is it a tattoo or a bar code of some sort? How can we avoid getting this mark? Before we try to answer any of these questions, there is something important we need to discuss first. Did you know that God has a mark for His people?

Let’s read together Revelation 6:12-17 and 7:1-4.

There is a question asked at the end of Revelation chapter 6.  “Who is able to stand when Jesus comes again?  The answer is given at the beginning of Revelation chapter 7.  Those who have the seal of the living God on their foreheads will be preserved.

The mark of the beast and the seal of God are antithetical to each other – you can only have one or the other.  Ultimately, everyone must choose one mark or the other.  The mark of the beast and the seal of God both involve worship.

Let’s read together Revelation 14:1 and 22:4.

What is the seal of God?  The 144,000 and God’s redeemed people who have been saved by the blood of Jesus both have the name of God written on their foreheads.  What is the significance of this?

Let’s read together Exodus 33:18-23 and 34:1-35.

God’s name, God’s law, and God’s character are all one and the same.  When Moses asked to see God’s glory, God agreed upon three conditions:

Moses was to be put in a cleft of rock

God would cover Moses with His hand

Moses could only see God’s back

God then passed by Moses and proclaimed His name and character.  God wrote His law, the ten commandments, again on two tables of stone.  When Moses came back down the mountain, he told the children of Israel God’s commandments.

Let’s read together Genesis 17:4-6, 15-16; Genesis 33:22-28; Daniel 1:3-8; and Acts 9:1-5, 13:9.

There have been instances in the Bible where God changed an individual���s name to reflect a new identity.  God changed the names of Abram (“high or exalted father”) and  Sarai (“my lady or my princess”) to Abraham (“father of multitudes) and Sarah (“princess”).  God changed their names to reaffirm His promise that they will have a child and his descendants would become a great nation.

God changed the name of a Jacob (“supplanted”) to Israel (“contends with God”) to signify his reception of the same covenant promise given to Abraham and Isaac.

Nebuchadnezzar changed the names of Daniel and his friends as part of his attempt to indoctrinate them into Babylonian culture and thinking.

Jesus changed the name of Saul, a persecutor of Christians, to Paul when he became a follower of Christ.

Let’s read together Psalm 19:7; Isaiah 6:3; Matthew 5:45; and Romans 7:12.

God’s name, God’s law, and God’s character are all one and the same. Anything said about God’s name can also be said about His law.  For example, God is holy and perfect.  God’s law is also holy and perfect.

Let's read together Exodus 20:8-11 and Ezekiel 20:12, 20.

The fourth commandment in the Bible tells us when we worship and who we worship. The Sabbath is a sign that God alone makes us holy. Our own works cannot make us holy. We must trust in and rest in God's work for us. We cannot add to the work of salvation. We can only enjoy it. The Sabbath is a sign of trusting in Christ's righteousness and not our own.

Let’s read together Deuteronomy 6:1-8; Ecclesiastes 9:10.; John 3:16; and Hebrews 10:16.

God is actually talking about the Ten Commandments in this passage of Deuteronomy. How do we know this? Moses just repeated the Ten Commandments to the people of Israel in Deuteronomy chapter 5. Did Moses mean in Deuteronomy 6:8 that we have to literally bind stone tablets to our hands? Of course not! Let the things you do demonstrate the God you serve.

Additionally, Moses did not want us to literally bind a copy of the Ten Commandments between our eyes. What is between your eyes? It’s your forehead, which plays an important role in processing information in a meaningful way.  If God’s name is on your forehead, then His law is on your forehead. Moses wanted us to take the name of God, the holiness of God, and the law of God and put them into our minds.

Let’s read together Romans 5:1-2 and  Ephesians 2:8.

Remember, salvation is by faith through grace. You cannot obtain salvation by your own works. Salvation is a decision you make in your mind. The seal of God can only be communicated and applied in the mind.

Conversely, the mark of the beast can be received by the hand or the forehead. You can receive the mark of the beast by your works or by your mind. It is the inculcation of principles that are against the name, the character, and the law of God. This disabuses us of the notion that the mark of the beast is some kind of literal tattoo or barcode placed upon our bodies.

If you have the seal of God, then you don't have to worry about the mark of the beast, even if you didn't know what the mark of the beast is! The seal of God is the name of God, the law of God put right into your mind. You accept the seal of God by faith, and God works outside of you to declare you righteous and inside of you to make you righteous by the power of the Holy Spirit. When you have a daily personal relationship with God, He will write His law into your hearts.

Let’s read together Exodus 20:11; Matthew 24:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4; Hebrews 4:1-11; Revelation 13:4; and Revelation 14:6, 9-12.

Worship is tied to receiving the mark of the beast.  If the seventh-day Sabbath is a sign of God’s authority, then the mark of the beast must be a counterfeit sign.

Consider the following excerpt from The Catholic Record of London, Ontario, Sept.1, 1923, p.4:

Protestants reject Divine Tradition, the Unwritten Word, which Catholics accept as of equal authority with the Written Word, the Bible. The Divine authority given by Christ to the Church to teach in His name, to bind and loose, Protestants deny. For them - and it is their boast - the Bible and the Bible alone has Divine authority.

Now in the matter of Sabbath observance the Protestant rule of Faith is utterly unable to explain the substitution of the Christian Sunday for the Jewish Saturday. It has been changed. The Bible still teaches that the Sabbath or Saturday should be kept holy. There is no authority in the New Testament for the substitution of Sunday for Saturday. Surely it is an important matter. It stands there in the Bible as one of the Ten Commandments of God. There is no authority in the Bible for abrogating this Commandment, or for transferring its observance to another day of the week.

For Catholics it is not the slightest difficulty. "All power is given Me in heaven and on earth; as the Father sent Me so I also send you," said our Divine Lord in giving His tremendous commission to His Apostles. "He that heareth you heareth Me." We have in the authoritative voice of the Church the voice of Christ Himself. The Church is above the Bible; and this transference of Sabbath observance from Saturday to Sunday is proof positive of that fact. Deny the authority of the Church and you have no adequate or reasonable explanation or justification for the substitution of Sunday for Saturday in the Third - Protestant Fourth - Commandment of God.

Sunday worship does not have a Biblical basis. It has pagan roots. It is the mark of the Roman Catholic Church’s authority over the Bible. It has been adopted by Protestant churches and rationalized as “the Christian Sabbath” without any biblical support.

Why should we keep the seventh-day Sabbath? The Sabbath:

Was created by Jesus before sin and the day He rested from creation (Genesis 2:3)

Was commanded at Sinai by Jesus (Exodus 20:8-11)

Was kept and honored by Jesus (Luke 4:16)

Was kept by all of Jesus’ Old Testament followers (Ezekiel 20:12)

Was kept by all of Jesus’ New Testament followers (Luke 23:56; Acts 13:42, 33)

Is a sign of both creation and salvation (Exodus 20:8-11; Deuteronomy 5:12-15)

Is the day Jesus calls us to remember and honor (Exodus 20:8-11; Ezekiel 20:20)

Will be kept in heaven (Isaiah 66:23)

Note in Revelation 14:11 that those who receive the mark of the beast have no rest. The Sabbath is all about rest. The physical rest on the Sabbath is a sign of our creation.  The spiritual rest on the Sabbath is a sign of our redemption.

John contrasts those who get the mark of the beast with those who keep the commandments of God in spirit and truth. God's people have His name and law inculcated into their very minds, thoughts, and thinking.

Let’s read together Daniel 3:1-6; John 16:2; and Revelation 14:8-12..

Note that no one has the mark of the beast right now.  Just like in Daniel chapter 3, the mark of the beast will only come about when a day of worship is enforced by civil authorities.  Additionally, there will be legal punishment for those who do not worship on that day.

Let’s read together John 14:15; Galatians 5:22-26; and James 2:14-26.

Apple trees don’t produce apples to be apple trees, but because they are apple trees. In the same sense, Christians don’t do good works to be saved, but because they are saved. Works do not get or earn you salvation.  Rather,  works are the result of salvation based on what Jesus did for us.

Let’s read together Genesis 15:6; Deuteronomy 30:19; Joshua 24:15; Romans 1:17, 3:23-24, 8:6; Galatians 3:24; James 2:10; and Revelation 2:10.

When Adam and Eve were in the garden of Eden, they were expected to keep all of God’s commandments.  God only tested their faith in Him on one point - to not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.  Likewise, God’s people in these end times will be expected to keep His commandments.  The final test will be only on one point - will we keep the seventh-day Sabbath, the true day of worship?

What is the message of the third angel?  It is a message about righteousness by faith.  Will you have faith in Jesus?  Will you stand strong and keep all of His commandments out of love and obedience to His word? Will you stand strong in the face of overwhelming peer pressure to worship on another day?  Will your faith endure to the end, even if it meant your death?

Friend, the third angel's message is not to be feared, but to be welcomed! It is good news for all those who have the seal of God! Jesus is promising to destroy sin and death forever!

[afreakingnature]

first. i'm not here to argue, just here to state my take or what have you

maybe i'm misinterpreting it or missing something but shouldn't we also be kind of distressed that they turned a pregnant woman into a warframe. while she was pregnant

and maybe i'm missing the point or something, yes stalker should have gotten help a long time ago, but i feel like the whole pregnant warframe thing is kind of an unprecedented event and jade might have just died anyway. i mean. i think it's a lose/lose situation no matter what. i think she was just fucked over from the start. i wish that they handled things differently, though, having her die just so that stalker can have his little redemption segment seemed kind of pointless? i know you guys at DE are more creative than that. she at least could have gotten a bit of screen time. she can fly and has an exalted weapon, why not have her ascended form or whatever take out the corpus at the very end instead of just having them stop shooting

like. fuckin. elaborate on the sorren/jade relationship for more than a few lines of dialogue. tell me about ballas' involvement with it. was parvos a part of the deal? why is sorren pro-orokin when they subjected him and his pregnant partner to one of the worst fates imaginable. come on now

and, critically, playing a violent shooter as a pregnant woman is incredibly uncomfortable and i really think they should have changed the model or something because jesus christ what are you on DE

[spinallyspiraling]

Inbox me or comment and let's discuss this

It's weird, who I am makes me feel like it's mandatory to chase the ineffable yet the ineffable is the scariest concept, idea, and truth to contemplate and experience. I rise a lot and fall almost the same amount as I rise because nothing is known about rising after one has already received 777. (Lightning Flash of creation, flaming sword, etc.)

It's not a commitment issue because I want to be my best self and not any version of me that is negative to the world at all. Having these ideas keeps my heart pure, but in total truth, I have no idea of what to expect. In limited knowledge, I momentarily run back to what I know. When I ascend to a new height, even though I can never return to the same level or depth as before, the pendulum is swinging towards the monad and the pineal gland. Upwards flows the current, so I drift up into the unknown that is inescapable. The energy dissipates from the pendulum every time gravity takes a stab so the pendulum is more in death with every swing instead of more than life... In over analyzing the process, I can't help myself by shaking the pulsating and inflamed question; "Will I totally lose myself?"

In some way aren't we all supplanted by all we know, think, and experience anyways right? What if you in time were

to be replaced with something that wasn't you? Would you yourself pray for a replacement version of you that creates the peace God also wants for you or would you pray for a version of you that ruthlessly subtracts the population? Society in their religious memberships become subservient to one narrative anyways so when one observes the options wouldn't either option have to be a Christ regardless of what wing it resides? God is pleased with all of his creation when he performs his will for it. This makes God happy. (look for this in your Bible as I reworded it entirely) Maybe God needed the Revelations chapter of the Bible. When one gets critical of it all why does it nag as a question, "Why even give the word of your mouth, the chapter Revelations to the Prophets anyways?" If the Bible is your word and you uphold the first and the last, you have the power to create a paradise with you and your son, yet you gave the prophet who wrote Revelations an antichrist and a devil who came to be in command and control of the world and it's government. If God had Revelations written then wasn't his will technically to decimate the world's population by more than 90%, to establish such a low human populace, and first of all give the Devil and the antichrist any power to begin with? There will be a time when God and his son return in flesh, in astral, hell; only God knows what form. Their arrival would mean world peace and everlasting life. Wouldn't the side of good and evil both be absolved since revelations and the rest of the Bible was his word and even his will? There are either four or seven crowned princes of hell, therefore it must be that God is pleased by those who perform his will. If those who act poorly yet were fated to do such as a way to ensure other parts of your word to be completed would they or would they not even be rewarded as opposed to condemned? It is said when Judas hung himself that a demon came and cut a reincarnation out of the belly or his lower intestine. Judas was allowed to become the Devil. God loved Judas and even Judas was the favorite of Jesus. Judas had to do his dirt so God could openly give the world the Tav or the Tau which is a cross and his covenant to his people. Wouldn't all of the aforementioned information indicate that a crowned prince of hell who was evil in the eyes of the world have exaltation rather than a torturous and famished afterlife? Jesus even said at the last supper that everyone was his friend except one of them who was the Devil.

Rising up could eventually render someone's awareness to fade out and to be supplanted with something that wasn't God's light. The opposite could be on the other side of the Kundalini once the ionization has reached 33 two times. The fear and the worry is all stemming from desire to be the best expression of self to the possibility of becoming the or an Antichrist. Maybe God's plan was to fulfill a need for a small population so the few could live forever and pose no threat to the world at all; whether it be the atmosphere, the oceans, or even beyond the atmosphere. Surely God's will would be to null, reduce, and eradicate all life that failed to even try to fathom his existence or those who were seen as unworthy of an eternity with his presence. Why would a God who has wrath, judgement, and vengeance give love and acceptance to someone who dismissed him or didn't care to commune or find him at all? The only evil is willful ignorance in the face of Knowledge. Science even says adapt/evolve or die. God wants to be known and even the "evil" exists to ensure the arrival of his word complete. God is an all consuming fire so wouldn't the kundalini fire result in God's word being fulfilled even if one received the Devil at the top of the tree on the second ascent? In Matthew it even says God's son came as a sword even though they expected him to come as peace. The second coming is said to descend down into flesh but the antichrist is said to ascend out of the pit upwards. How would evil result in my kundalini ascending out of the body and upwards into the monad? God is the Monad. The first rising creates the lightning flash that gives man the Christ within so even if a second rising creates an Antichrist wouldn't it be God's will since it occurred by traversing the tree back into the Monad which is God?

It is said that the lifting of the serpent saved the Jews and was called the Brazen Serpent. In the bible it also says the Son of Man needs to be lifted up. So why would Revelations then further dictate that the Antichrist ascended and went upwards from the pit when the Brazen Serpent and the Son of Man needed to be lifted?

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

Devotional Hours Within the Bible by James Russell Miller

Peter Delivered From Prison (Acts 12:1-17)

One day James and John asked Jesus that they might be given exalted positions in the Master’s Kingdom. Mark 10:37. They knew not what they asked. It was only a few years later, that Herod killed James with the sword. So James got, sooner than he expected and in a way far different from his thought to his place at the right hand of Jesus. Truly we do not know what we are asking for, when we pray for nearness to Christ, or for high places in His Kingdom. Yet James has never regretted the path by which he ascended. His work was soon done but death was no calamity to him as it only exalted him to his home in glory.

There were two doors to that prison. One opened out into the city the way Peter was delivered; the other opened upward into heaven the way James was taken. We pray for our friends in sickness, that God would restore them to health. Again, there are two ways in which the prayer may be answered. God may heal our friends with bodily healing, and restore them to us in this world; or He may take them up into heaven, into eternal health and blessedness. A man who had been an invalid all his years was near death. A friend asked him how he was, and his answer was, “I am almost well .”

When Herod saw that his action in taking the life of James pleased the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. He was one of those rulers who was swayed by public feeling. Nor have we to go among the rulers to find the same spirit. There are plenty of people everywhere who have no settled principles of their own, who do not stop to ask what is right but who do wait to know what their neighbors will say or think. Even young children very soon begin to be governed by the fashion of the day. We had better get the lesson here, that the true thing is always, not what will please the world and win the approval of our fellow men but what God would have us do. Men who follow public opinion are like ships, which are propelled by sails going whichever way the wind blows. Those who are governed by principle are like the vessels which are propelled by and engine, which do not depend on the winds.

Peter, therefore, was kept very securely in prison. Herod treated him as a dangerous prisoner. He not only had him in prison, with doors and bolts and bars but he had sixteen soldiers to guard him, four at a time. To two of these he was always fastened by chains on his wrists, one chain binding him to each soldier, so that he could not move without disturbing the soldier. Why were such extra precautions necessary to guard such a poor, defenseless man as Peter? Had Herod heard the story of a former imprisonment of this same man, when the doors were miraculously opened and the prisoner released? Did he mean to defy the power of Peter’s God when he put double chains on him and kept four armed soldiers on guard about him all the time? So it appears. No doubt the wicked king thought his plan perfectly successful. Tomorrow the execution would take place. Men plot against God but He who sits in heaven laughs!

While Peter was in prison, his friends were praying earnestly for him. To Herod’s power and the strength of his prison walls and chains, and the vigilance of his soldiers, they opposed only the quiet power of earnest, importunate prayer. They made no appeal to public diplomacy, nor did they think of using any force to rescue their friend from prison they stormed the prison through the gate of prayer. The sequel proves and illustrates the power of prayer .

Men talk about the invariableness and unchangeableness of the laws of nature as if God had no control of affairs in His own universe. We need not give ourselves any trouble about how He can answer our prayers we must leave that to Him; but we may as well settle it in our minds once for all that the God to whom we talk in prayer can do whatever pleases Him. He can always find some way to help us or bring deliverance when we are in trouble.

We must not conclude, however, that He will always save us from danger, as He saved Peter. No doubt the disciples prayed for James, too, when Herod seized him and yet he was beheaded. The prayers were answered in a different way; he was supported in the trial of martyrdom, and his release was not through the iron gate into the streets of Jerusalem but through the gate of pearl into the streets of heaven! If Peter had been executed, who could have said that the prayers of his friends were not answered? God knows how best to answer our requests, and all true prayer submits even its most earnest petitions to the divine will.

The Bible story tells us most realistically, “the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains.” There is something very beautiful in this picture. The time is just at hand for Peter’s execution. Tomorrow he is to be brought out to die before the people. How is he spending his last night? We are permitted to look in upon him in his prison. There he lies on his cell floor. Two chains bind him, wrist to wrist, to two guards. But there is no evidence of distress in his cell. Peter is sleeping in quiet confidence and peace. If we could look into Herod’s palace, it is not likely that he, on his soft bed, with his luxury and liberty, slept that night half so sweetly as did Peter in his prison. This peace is possible to all who love the Lord Jesus Christ. “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on you.”

In a great flood on the Ohio River, some men in a skiff saw in the center of the broad river, amid the wreckage of houses and fences and forests and fields a baby’s cradle floating. Rowing to it, they found the baby sleeping there as sweetly as if it had been lying in its mother’s bosom. So in the wildest storms the believer may rest in the love and power of Christ.

As Peter prayed, “an angel of the Lord stood by him.” Tarry a moment to think of the ministry of the angels. It is a wonderful thought that these good spirits from heaven are continually bringing help to God’s people on the earth; that they serve the saints in countless ways. They can go anywhere, through closed doors and prison walls. They move noiseless and unseen. They can fill even a cell with light. They can knock off fetters and open doors and lead us out of the worst perils. They are our friends, if we are Christ’s friends. No doubt they help us continually, although we are not always aware of it. The most real things in this world are the unseen things. I believe in the actual presence and help of angels. They wait on us, and guard our home and guide our steps.

“Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. ‘Quick, get up!’ he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists.” Wherever Christ’s messengers go there is light. They carry the light in their faces. They are God’s shining ones. Keble fancies that the apostle was dreaming in his last sleep, as he supposed, of the release coming to him on the morrow, and thought the angel’s arousing that of the executioner come to call him out to die.

Notice here by way of illustration, that many people are bound with chains bound to other man, too, ofttimes, and led by them wherever they will. But to such Christ’s messenger comes, as the angel came to Peter, bidding them arise. And if they obey, the chains will fall off.

In eight words we are told the sequel. The angel said to Peter, “Follow me. And he went out, and followed.” That is all we have to do in this world simply to follow Christ, or the guide He may send to lead us. We have nothing to do with opening the way; our part is only to follow implicitly and unquestioningly, and He will always open the door for us. This lesson is worth heeding.

Here is a Christian man in sore perplexity. He cannot free himself. He can see no way out of the entangling circumstances. He is just like Peter that night in his prison, doors bolted, chains on his hands, stern guards encircling him. Is there any way out of such environment? Yes, Christ can lead him out. All that is needed is complete surrender to Him, and simple, unquestioning, absolute obedience and childlike following where He leads. Chains fall off when He bids us rise and obey. Prison doors open when we follow Him. Our only duty is obedient following; He does all the rest.

Peter did not understand at first who the friend was that was taking him out. They he said, “Now I know of a truth, that the Lord has sent forth his angel and delivered me.” It is not until they are gone, that we recognize the angels. While they are with us we do not know them. This is true of many of the blessings God sends us. We do not prize the worth of our best human friends, until they have left us. Our very familiarity with them, hides from our eyes the excellencies of their character and the value of their helpfulness. They grow up alongside of us and grow into our lives so gradually and unconsciously that we do not know how much they are to us, how we lean upon them, how many doors they open for us, how their love brightens our paths. Suddenly they vanish, and then we see that they are God’s angels. Their plain garb at once appears radiant with glory as they withdraw. A vacant chair is ofttimes the first true revealer of the worth of one whose presence and love have blessed us for years!

Peter came to the house of Mary the mother of Mark. In answer to his knock, “a maid came to answer, named Rhoda.” We ought to get a lesson or two for our young girls from this little maidservant. Her work was lowly only attending the door but she had her reward that night. She was the first to know of Peter’s release. She seems to be the only one who had faith enough to recognize that it was Peter. Her great gladness shows us that she loved Peter, and no doubt had been praying for his deliverance. There is one thing that every girl should learn of Rhoda not to let her joy run away with her wits. A sensible girl would have opened the door as soon as she recognized Peter’s voice; but she was so happy that she ran off to tell the good news, and left the apostle standing outside shivering in the cold. We should never in our happiness forget the practical duties of the moment.

This maid, Rhoda, waited not to greet Peter but ran in and told that Peter stood before the gate. And they said unto her, “You are out of your mind.” They had been praying for Peter’s release or deliverance from the power of Herod. Now the answer to their prayer stood before the gate, knocking for admission, and they could not be convinced that it was their friend. That is often the way it is with all of us. When the answer comes to our prayers the very things for which we have been praying we are surprised, and cannot believe that they have really come. No doubt we ofttimes keep the answers to our prayers standing outside our doors and knocking.

[bibleversegarden]

Christmas Blessings: A Savior Who Is Christ The Lord

Christ was conceived in the womb of the virgin Mary, the betrothed wife of Joseph of the house and lineage of David. 

"And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" (Luke 2:7-14)

Rejoice in His unfailing love; proclaim the good news of His salvation, from day to day. "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace." (Ephesians 1:7)

The Lord who ascended on high, to the right hand of God, is transforming our lives from glory to glory, by His Spirit. He shall come again, to receive His church to Himself, and we shall see Him face to face.

The Lord be magnified, the Lord be glorified, the Lord be exalted, in heaven above and the earth beneath. Amen.

A Merry Christmas to you and yours; abide in His love!

- A Walk In The Garden Devotions

[childofchrist1983]

This Bible verse is a joyful praise in the LORD God Jesus Christ. Here, we see King David rejoicing in Him. So should we! We should always exalt in the LORD Jesus Christ. He is all things to us. We must praise His Holy name forever. He is worthy of all praise. Like prayer and the Holy Bible - the Holy Word of God - praise in Jesus' name is one of the most powerful weapons against sin and Satan that we possess. When we praise God, we affect ourselves, God, the enemy. Walls fall and troubles and temptations weighing on us clear.

The lack of praise conversely affects everything in our lives. While almost everyone would agree that praise is a good thing, many people don’t see the responsibility to praise God even when we don’t feel like it. When we give this “sacrifice" of praise unto God, we are overcomers. Praise comes naturally when we recognize the goodness in our lives. We should make it a point to praise Him each and every day.

May we make sure that we give our hearts and lives to God and take time daily to seek and praise Him and share His Truth with the world. May the LORD our God and Father in Heaven help us to stay diligent and obedient and help us to guard our hearts in Him and His Word daily. May He help us to remain faithful and full of excitement to do our duty to Him and for His glorious return and our reunion in Heaven as well as all that awaits us there. May we never forget to thank the LORD our God and our Creator and Father in Heaven for all this and everything He does and has done for us! May we never forget who He is, nor forget who we are in Christ and that God is always with us! What a mighty God we serve! What a Savior this is! What a wonderful Lord, God, Savior and King we have in Jesus Christ! What a loving Father we have found in the Almighty God! What a wonderful God we serve! His will be done!

Thanks and glory be to God! Blessed be the name of the LORD! Hallelujah and Amen!

Father God Almighty, LORD Jesus, I praise You. You are wonderful, mighty and holy. You are worthy of all my praise. I will praise You in the morning and in the evening. I will praise You even when I don’t exactly feel like it. I will rejoice in You always! Let us all be made aware of all You have done for us and continue to do for us each day. Help us to always be rejoicing and thankful of heart.

By Your grace, let us shine Your light in a crooked, perverse nation that has turned its back on You. Let others see our good works all in Your name and glory as we glorify our Father in Heaven. Give us eyes to see what You want us to see so that we may walk each day in step with You and Your will and Spirit. Help us to do Your will and to follow the path You've laid for us. Give us the courage to turn away from the things of this world and love, follow and serve You with our whole heart and being. And thank you for the gift of eternal salvation and eternal life.

You and Your Holy Word and Spirit give us hope, peace, salvation, and so much more! Let our relationship with You be the foundation and pleasing in Your eyes, so that we may hear Your praise as we gaze upon Your face and enter Your Kingdom. Lift our spirits and our hearts. Light up our lives, O Lord. May we abide in You for all our days and beyond!

You are Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End! We know Your promises are true and we place our hope in You! May we continue to pray and seek You. Present us with daily opportunities to go to others with Your message of eternal salvation. May we live our lives with a spirit of thankfulness and may we always magnify You, O Lord. Allow our praises to You encourage others to seek Your face. Help us all to be humble and obedient to You. And help us to be courageous enough to seek You daily and to humbly and faithfully do our duty to You, spreading the truth of Your Gospel to all in all nations, as You commanded before You ascended back to Heaven (Mark 16:15-16). May our lives show the world Your light and Truth and that You are a loving God and Heavenly Father who delights in showing love and mercy. May we all be humbly and faithfully honored and excited to worship, glorify and serve You daily and to do Your will. You have been so good to us, far more than we as wretched sinners deserve. You are so good! So wonderful! Forever and always!

Thank you for keeping me and helping me in times where I am tempted to go astray. Praise be to You today and every day of my life and let me never forget all of the blessings that are given me by You. As much as the enemy will try, he will never be able to successful breed doubt about who You are, in the minds of anyone who truly believes and follows You. And I will follow and serve You all the days of my life and beyond! Thank you for the connection with You that we are given through Your Holy Word and Spirit. Thank you for all Your creation and Your miraculous ways. Thank you for being our stronghold and my refuge. Thank you for seeing us as worth the sacrifice. Thank you for sustaining us, loving us and defining us according to Your will and love for us. Thank you for making sure we are taken care of. Thank you for being the best friend we could ever have! Thank you for Your endless mercy and love that has saved us. Thank you for always protecting us and providing for us and for Your Spirit to help us when we are in need. Thank you for abiding within me and may I abide with You, O Lord. Thank you for giving us a chance to be saved from our sin and spend eternity with You. Thank you for adopting us as part of Your family in Heaven and making us one of Your own. Thank you for being our present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1). Thank you for always being near and for loving us. Thank you for giving us a reason to love others and so many more reasons to love, praise, serve and follow You. Thank you for Your selfless and sinless sacrifice. Thank you for Your guidance and protection. Thank you for Your Truth and light. Thank you for Your wisdom and strength and grace. Thank you for giving life to the world and to us. You give and take away – And we thank you for it. Thank you for everything! Your will be done! Blessed be Your mighty name! To You and Your Kingdom be the glory forevermore! In Your name we humbly pray, Amen and amen