The Issues of Life

PRINCIPLES OF VICTORY IN THE CHRISTIAN LIFE - RIGHT ACTIONS - Part XIII

2012-03-02T19:30:00.003-05:00

The simplest facts about life and living that were documented in an ancient book long ago are now being validated by modern science. ... our results suggest that “doing good” may be an important avenue by which people create meaningful and satisfying lives. BEING GOOD BY DOING GOOD: DAILY EUDAIMONIC ACTIVITY AND WELL BEING -

Michael F. Steger,

Todd B. Kashdan,

Shigehiro Oishi

University of Louisville, Educational & Counseling Psychology, Room 308, College of Education & Human Development, Louisville, KY 40292, USA George Mason University, Department of Psychology, Mail Stop 3F5, Fairfax, VA 22030 University of Virginia, Department of Psychology, 102 Gilmer Hall, PO Box 400400, Charlottesville, VA 22904-44000(1)

As we continue studying the way to have victory in the Christian life, we find that the words of Christ as found in the Bible are still light years ahead of 21st century society in promoting mental, moral and physical health. No one has to wait for science to catch up to God in order to experience the benefits of Christlike living.(2) The methods of happiness and the techniques of self-conquest are continued in this article.

Yes...that's right...this is a promotion of good works as another means of obtaining victory over sin and self in the Christian life. Good works inspired and empowered by the grace of God are not only possible but expected of Christians.

Some well-intentioned and very sincere but misguided religious people are emphasizing so passionately salvation without good works that the impression is left on minds that good works are a worse sin than sin itself.

This is unfortunate because not only does Jesus Christ encourage doing good to others but now even scientific studies support the principles that the Savior taught about good words and deeds.

Consider the following 16 victory aids that are not yet fully understood by science and in some cases yet to be discovered:

1. Doing good is an excellent remedy for disease.

2. Nothing will give greater spiritual strength and a greater increase of earnestness and depth of feeling than visiting and ministering to the sick and the desponding, helping them to see the light and to fasten their faith upon Jesus.

3. The pleasure of doing good animates the mind and vibrates through the whole body.

4. Triumph always follows decided effort.

5. Striving to excel inwhat is excellent is lawful, and promises entire success.

6. When human beings work in union with the Life-giver, who offered up His life for them, happy thoughts fill the mind.

7. Taking hold courageously of the work that needs to be done, and putting the heart into it, makes the work a pleasure, and brings success.

8. The more earnest our own efforts to attain to holiness of heart and life, the more acute will be our perception of sin, and the more decided our disapproval of it.

9. It is beneficence that overcomes selfishness and ennobles and purifies the soul.

10. The essence of all righteousness is loyalty to our Redeemer. This will lead us to do right because it is right‑‑because right doing is pleasing to God. The righteousness of Christ consists in right actions and good works from pure, unselfish motives. It is always best and safe to do right because it is right.

11. As you confess before men and women your confidence in the Lord, additional strength is imparted to you.

12. If we would labor to repress sinful thoughts and feelings, giving them no expression in words or actions, Satan would be defeated...

13. Every good deed is as a seed sown, to bear fruit unto eternal life. Every success gained places us on a higher round of the ladder of progress and gives us spiritual strength for fresh victories.

14. Every right action prepares the way for its repetition.

15. Every unselfish action makes the character more Christlike.

16. Strength to resist evil is best gained by aggressive service.

Right actions, good words and good deeds beautify the character and bring honor to God. It prepares the willing person to live eternally in a place where doing good is just as normal as breathing air. It is only here in this sin filled world and on this planet that consistent, continuous demonstrations of goodness can be considered offensive or can make someone uncomfortable. It doesn't matter. God is good and there is nothing nor anyone that can stop Him from being and doing good. He wants to make the same thing true about human beings. He is waiting to strengthen every sincere and willing soul to reflect His character to the world.

You have just been reading from page 13 of a booklet entitled, "Principles of Victory in the Christian Life" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts...

REFERENCES:

(1) http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0749597809000703

(2) http://www.ingentaconnect.com/search/article?option1=tka&value1=%22doing+good%22&pageSize=50&index=34

Proverbs 3:7,8, 16:7,24/Isaiah 58:6-8/Luke 6:27/Matthew 5:44/Acts 10:38/Galatians 6:10/Hebrews 13:16/James 4:17/3 John 1:11/Psalms 16:11/Romans 8:8, 15:2/Job 17:9/Psalms 23:3, 37:9, 55:22, 64:10, 92:12, 106:3/Proverbs 11:30, 21:21/Matthew 5:6, 6:33/Romans 6:16,18/Ephesians 5:9/1 Timothy 6:11/2 Timothy 3:16/ 1 John 3:7,10/James 4:7/Psalms 28:7/Isaiah 12:2, 26:4/Psalms 40:10/Revelation 12:11/2 Corinthians 2:14/Joshua 1:8/Psalms 82:3,4/Proverbs 11:25/Proverbs 16:17/Proverbs 17:27,28/Proverbs 21:21/Proverbs 4:18/2 Peter 1:5-7/Psalms 115:14/Ezekiel 20:43, 36:31/Psalms 119:104,113,128

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THE PURPOSE OF LIFE - HAVE YOU FIGURED OUT WHAT IT IS ? IT'S NOT WHAT YOU THINK

2011-11-04T19:30:00.000-04:00

DO YOU KNOW THE PURPOSE OF LIFE ?

ABC News reported on a study that shows how having a purpose in life reduced the risk of developing Alzheimer's by 52% (1) The Chicago Tribune also published an article linking happiness and health to having a purpose in life.(2) Actually, there are quite a few studies demonstrating a variety of health benefits that come from having a purpose in life. Scientific studies reveal that purposes in life are directly related to the degree of selfishness or unselfishness in a person's life.(3) This would seem to indicate that having just any purpose will not do.

There are a lot of people who don't know or understand what the purpose of life is. They plan their lives and live without giving much thought to the possibility that there is some urgent and important reason for their existence. Years of unnecessary difficulty and stress as a result of trying to deal with the issues of life are the experience that many go through. The origin of life, the purpose of life and the issues of life are all interrelated. What a person believes and understands about how life began will shape his or her understanding about the purpose of life and will affect how he or she relates to the issues of life.

WHY HUMAN BEINGS WERE CREATED/THE PURPOSE OF LIFE

This may come as a shock to masses of people but the purpose of life according to the One who makes life possible is not to make oneself happy at any cost. The purpose of life is not to have all one's desires nor to pursue one's dreams of fortune and success. These may gratify but they cannot satisfy. They may thrill but they will never fulfill. That's because The One who created human beings has a grander purpose in mind for us than granting us just a few fleeting moments of selfish pleasure. In fact, the person who lives for pleasure is already dead, in a sense, in more ways than one.(4) When our lives are not in harmony with God's purpose for our lives, deep joy, peace and contentment elude us.

What is God's purpose for every human being ? Very simply - To be conformed to the image of His Son.(5)

To reflect the character of Jesus Christ is to thereby assure true happiness. Happiness that has the right foundation of an excellent character. What the Bible explains and what many of us don't realize about happiness is that it is conditional upon who we really are as a person. Let this be impressed upon the mind -

Our happiness comes not from what is around us, but from what is within us;

not from what we have, but from what we are.

Happy is that people, that is in such a case: yea, happy is that people, whose God is the LORD.

(Psalms 144:15)

According to Jesus, those who have come to the age of accountability before God and have lived their lives without determined, consistent efforts to reflect His character and resist sin have the source of their unhappiness within.

For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man. (Mark 7:21-23)

True and abiding happiness cannot come from what's around us so long as what is within us is unChristlike.

The things we have cannot make us happy if we have a miserable character. The incredible mystery of this strange situation is that our own self is the last person we would suspect of making us unhappy. We are for the most part in great measure self-deceived.(6) God understands this and for those who have invited Him into their lives, he helps to bring to our knowledge the hidden, sinful things about ourselves that we would never have known if He had not chosen in our behalf to save us from them.

He often does this through allowing us to encounter difficult circumstances and difficult people. Our words and conduct as we relate to these are revealing what is in our hearts and it is the purpose of God that as we pray and receive His grace, we will be victorious over impatience or any other unChristlike traits of character that are revealed during these times.

It is by close, testing trials that God brings his people near to himself; for in trial and temptation he discovers to them their weakness, and teaches them to lean upon him as their only help and safeguard. When this result is attained, his object is accomplished, and his tried servants are prepared to be used in every emergency, to fill important positions of trust, and to accomplish the grand purposes for which their powers were given them. While under the trial, these seasons are terrible. Hope seems to fail, and despair seizes upon us. But in these dreadful hours we must learn to trust, to depend wholly upon the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour, and cast our souls in their helplessness and unworthiness upon him who is mighty to save unto the uttermost all who come unto God by him.

Our sorrows do not spring out of the ground. In every affliction God has a purpose to work out for our good. Every blow that destroys an idol, every providence that weakens our hold upon earth and fastens our affections more firmly upon God, is a blessing.

The fact that we are called upon to endure trialshows that the Lord Jesus sees in us something precious which He desires todevelop. If He saw in us nothing whereby He might glorify His name, Hewould not spend time in refining us.

So long as we are in the world, we shall meetwith adverse influences. There will beprovocations to test the temper; and it is by meeting these in a rightspirit that the Christian graces are developed. If Christ dwells inus, we shall be patient, kind, and forbearing, cheerful amid frets andirritations. Day by day and year by year we shall conquer self, and grow into anoble heroism. This is our allotted task; but it cannot beaccomplished without help from Jesus, resolute decision, unwavering purpose,continual watchfulness, and unceasing prayer. Each one has a personal battle tofight. Not even God can make our characters noble or our lives useful, unlesswe become co‑workers with Him.

Through conflict the spiritual life isstrengthened. Trials well borne will develop steadfastnessof character and precious spiritual graces. The perfect fruit of faith,meekness, and love often matures best amid storm clouds and darkness.(7)

So there you have it; the purpose of life.

To cooperate with God and allow Him to develop within us a Christlike character before we die so that we can be trusted with the gift of immortality; to live eternally in heaven and be made capable of enjoying heaven.

Many misunderstand the object for which theywere created.
It was to blesshumanity and glorify God, rather than to enjoy and glorify self.(8)

Is Jesus Christ your deeply personal Lord and Savior from the penalty and power of sin ?

(1) http://abcnews.go.com/Health/AlzheimersNews/purpose-life-stave-off-alzheimers/story?id=9986018
(2) http://www.chicagotribune.com/sns-health-life-purpose-happiness,0,660311.story
(3) http://www.tswj.com/2009/913824/abs/
(4) 1 Timothy 5:6
(5) Romans 8:28,29/Philippians 2:5
(6) Jeremiah 17:9
(7) 1 Peter 1:7, 4:12,13/James 1:12/Job 23:10/Romans 5:3,4/Zechariah 13:9/Psalms 66:10/Revelation 3:18
(8) 2 Timothy 1:9,10/Revelation 4:11/Ephesians 2:10, 3:8-11/1 Corinthians 3:16,17

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IT'S TIME TO GET STRONG - PRINCIPLES OF VICTORY IN THE CHRISTIAN LIFE - Part XII

2011-06-10T19:30:00.161-04:00

Physical strength is often easier to measure than mental or spiritual strength. According to the Guinness Book of World records, Derek Boyer of Australia holds the record for the most bench presses in a single minute. He set the record on September 23, 2010 by pressing 251 pounds 5.28 ounces 126 times in one minute.(1) In the Bible, Samson was considered to be the strongest man of his time. If he had had greater spiritual strength, he no doubt would not have revealed the secret of his physical strength nor would he have allowed his hair to be cut by an enemy.(2) Spiritual strength is of great value and is something that every person will need if he or she plans to obtain the victory over sin. In this post we look at two more principles of victory over sin that are often grossly underestimated and are frequently neglected sources of spiritual power.

PRAYER AND THE PRESENCE OF GOD

Some people consider prayer a useless mental exercise. However, very many people are going to be eternally stunned to realize how by failing to appreciate this simple test of faith they have forfeited the gift of immortality and everlasting companionship with God. Prayer is simple heart communication with God verbally or mentally expressed to Him. The person who does not feel it necessary to communicate with God here on earth, could never be happy in the actual presence of God in heaven. How does prayer and the presence of God bring victory over sin and selfishness you ask ?

Nothing will give such clear views of self as secret prayer. He who bears with him a continual sense of the presence of Christ, cannot indulge self-confidence or self-righteousness.(3)

The more we pray, the nearer will heaven be to us. Prayer, whether offered in the public assembly, at the family altar, or in secret, places man directly in the presence of God.(4)

As a shield from temptation and an inspiration to purity and truth, no other influence can equal the sense of God's presence.(5)

When it becomes the habit of the soul to converse with God, the power of the evil one is broken; for Satan cannot abide near the soul that draws nigh unto God. The closer we are to God, the safer we are; for Satan hates and fears the presence of God.(6)

Communion with God through prayer develops the mental and moral faculties, and the spiritual powers strengthen as we cultivate thoughts upon spiritual things.(7)

The more a person's heart is in communion with God, and the more his affections are centered in Christ, the less will he be disturbed by the roughness and hardships he meets in this life.(8)

Through communion with God, sin will become hateful to us.(9)

READING AND STUDYING THE BIBLE

In the end, it will be understood by every human being that each individual was in the midst of a war for his or her mind. It is not an accident that so many influences compete for our thoughts every moment of every day. There are principles that can be permanently fixed in the thoughts and minds of each of us and these along with the feelings help make the character. A Christlike character is the only kind of character that could ever enjoy heaven and being in God's presence; a Christlike character is the only kind of character that can be trusted in heaven. Character is not changed after death. It is therefore of the utmost importance that the mind be filled with those things that will tend toward the development of a Christlike character; a beautiful, loving, unselfish person.

Bible reading, the critical examination of Bible subjects, essays written upon topics which would improve the mind and impart knowledge, the study of the prophecies or the precious lessons of Christ--these will have an influence to strengthen the mental powers and increase spirituality. A familiar acquaintance with the Scriptures sharpens the discerning powers and fortifies the soul against the attacks of Satan. The heart that is stored with the precious truths of God's word, is fortified against the temptation of Satan, against impure thoughts and unholy actions.(10)

Pure healthful reading will be to the mind what healthful food is to the body. You will thus become stronger to resist temptation, to form right habits, and to act upon right principles.(11)

The more closely the Scriptures are studied, the more clearly shall we understand the true character of our thoughts and actions.(12)

As we try to become acquainted with our Heavenly Father through his word, angels will come near, our minds will be strengthened, our character will be elevated and refined, and we shall become more like our Saviour.(13)

The truth of God never degrades the receiver. The influence of the truth upon him who accepts it will tend constantly to his elevation. Those who are sanctified through the truth are living recommendations of its power and representatives of their risen Lord.(14)

The present deteriorating conditions of our world are warning those who have an ear to hear and a mind to understand. Very difficult times are just ahead. Not only will physical endurance be tested but mental and spiritual strength will be measured as well. If you haven't started already, begin immediately. It's time to get strong.

You have just been reading from page 11 of a booklet entitled, "Principles of Victory in the Christian Life" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts...

(1) http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/search/Details/Most-bench-presses-of-a-person-in-one-minute/53463.htm
(2) Judges 13:24 - 16
(3) Isaiah 57:15, Psalms 86:1, Matthew 6:6, 1 Corinthians 1:29
(4) Daniel 9:20,21, Jonah 2:7, Psalms 140:13, 145:18
(5) Matthew 26:39, John 17:15
(6) Matthew 4:10,11, Mark 1:34, Luke 4:41, Hebrews 2:14, Revelation 12:9, 1 John 3:8, Psalms 16:11
(7) Jude 1:20, Psalms 109:4
(8) Matthew 26:41,42,44, Luke 6:28
(9) James 4:8, 1 Thessalonians 5:23,
(10) Psalms 119:11,28,105, John 17:17
(11) 1 Peter 2:2, Jeremiah 15:16, Psalms 51:6
(12) Hebrews 4:12
(13) Daniel 9:22,23
(14) Psalms 119:130,60:4, 1 John 2:5, Proverbs 12:17

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IT'S WHO YOU KNOW NOT WHAT YOU KNOW - TO KNOW GOD IS TO LOVE HIM - PART 3

2011-04-22T19:30:00.008-04:00

Have you ever been invited to a royal wedding ? Chances are, if you are like most people, an invitation to a royal wedding being held somewhere on planet earth has never reached your eyes or ears. Usually, those who are invited must know the bride and/or groom or be known by them in some way. The most brilliant mind, the wealthiest businessman may be absent from the guest list because in the case of a royal wedding it is not a matter of what one knows; it is a matter of who you know. It doesn't matter what you know if you don't know or are not known by the hosts of the wedding.

In a spiritual sense, there is a royal wedding to which all are invited. The king gives the invitation in the Bible(1) and an opportunity to become acquainted with Him before the marriage supper of the Lamb is a matter of eternal urgency.

-- "Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that gloriet~ glory in this, that he understandeth. and knoweth ME, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgement, and righteousness, in the earth..." Jeremiah 9:23,24

THOSE WHO DON'T KNOW GOD

In the Bible, the characters of those who do not know God are vividly portrayed for all to see. The subduing influence of Christ at the center of one's thoughts and feelings is absent from each person who chooses not to gain an experimental knowledge of God. One's knowledge of God or lack thereof is directly related to the measure of Christ-likeness in one's character. To not know God is to grow to become the opposite of Him in character.(2)

"And Pharaoh said, Who is the LORD, that I should obey HIS voice to let Israel go? I know not the LORD, neither will I let Israel go." Exodus 5:2

"For MY people is foolish, they have not known ME..."

Jeremiah 4:22

"They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth GOD service. And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the FATHER, nor ME." John 16:2,3

"And even as they did not like to retain GOD in their knowledge, GOD gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient..." Romans 1:28

"Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of GOD: I speak this to your shame."

1 Corinthians 15:34

"... the LORD hath a controversy with the inhabitants of the land, because there is no truth, nor mercy,. nor knowledge of GOD in the land. By swearing, and lying, and killing, and stealing, and committing adultery, they break out, and blood toucheth blood." Hosea 4: 1,2

The climax of history and the end of the reign of sin occurs when Jesus Christ returns to this earth the second time and to those who do not know Him, He appears as a flame of fire. The principles that have become a part of their character have so changed them that the very appearance of Christ burns the sin within them which they have chosen to cling to rather than Christ. It will be a sad end indeed for these poor misguided souls who have not grown accustomed to the light of His countenance and the sense of His presence(3).

"And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the LORD JESUS shall be revealed from heaven with HIS mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not GOD..."

2 Thessalonians 1:7,8

This is not God's desire for anyone and He earnestly appeals to every human heart right now to be reconciled with Him while there is still time. What will you do ? Do you have an experimental knowledge of God and Jesus Christ ?

(1) Matthew 22:2-14/Isaiah 55:1,2/Revelation 22:17
(2) 1 John 4:8
(3) 2 Thessalonians 2:8

You have just been reading from a study entitled, "To Know God Is To Love Him." Look for more pages from this study in future blog posts...

www.issues-of-life.com

IS IT REALLY GOD WHO IS CAUSING THE DISASTERS AND CATASTROPHES ?

2011-03-11T19:30:00.003-05:00

IS IT REALLY GOD WHO IS CAUSING THE DISASTERS AND CATASTROPHES ?

Should God be blamed for the catastrophes which happen ? Is He sending a message that He wants us to keep His 10 commandments ? That is what radio commentator Glenn Beck suggests according to a New York Daily News article and an ABC news report.(1) Some of the more recent disasters in modern history have led some people to believe that somehow God is actually causing these terrible events. Even the governor of Tokyo has stated that he believes the recent earthquake and tsunami were a form of divine punishment.(2) From the terrorist attacks of September 11^th, 2001, to the more recent quadruple disasters in Japan(3), people have wondered why God has not intervened to prevent such tragedies.

While it may be the natural human inclination to blame God for sorrow, suffering and sadness, the Bible, often referred to as the word of God pulls back the curtain of the unseen world to reveal the true sources of calamities. In the book of Job in the Bible, God allows human beings to see who is really behind suffering and sorrow and sin (4). Many people freely profess a belief in God but do not acknowledge the existence of Satan who both God and Jesus Christ in the word of God have identified as the enemy of all mankind. It is strange that people would speak of “acts of God” as causing destruction and death but make no mention of Satan as the true source of devastation on this earth.

This is not to say that the devil is to blame for everything. Much of human suffering can be traced back to the words and actions of human beings. Errors in human judgment and selfishness continue to result in the loss of untold numbers of lives every day. Yet, Satan, one of the most dangerous foes to human beings, as pointed out by Jesus Christ Himself, is rarely recognized as being responsible for much of the misery in the world.(5)

It is interesting to note that the emperor of Japan stated that he was praying for his people.(6) I don’t know how he prayed or who he was praying to but In times of crisis, it often seems that human beings instinctively turn to prayer and/or to God. The Bible predicts that just such a thing will happen in the last days as disasters increase in nations around the world. Increasing disasters are indeed one of the signs of the last days pointing to the soon return of Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, due to general Biblical ignorance, Bible prophecy also predicts that a counterfeit revival will come as a result and lead to the enforcement of religious laws as a misguided attempt to appease God and bring an end to the disasters. False miracles that many will believe is the power of God will confirm people in error (7)

We are rapidly approaching that time. Will you be ready with a Christ-like character to help others find their way to the mercy seat of God ? Will you be ready to pass through the searching scrutiny of the judgment ? God is not punishing anyone right now but He is allowing circumstances and events to move forward toward the conclusion of the great controversy between Christ and Satan. Everyone must pass through the judgment to either live eternally after receiving the gift of immortality from the Lord and Savior whom they have loved or to be separated from that very same Life-Giver whose love they have rejected; to perish in the lake of fire with Satan and his evil angels. (8) Only by the grace of God imparted to our lives and the blood of Christ applied to our life record in heaven because of our choices will any of us be ready. May our heavenly Father keep you and I today and prepare us for that day.

(1) http://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/glenn-beck-calls-japan-quake-message-god-gilbert/story?id=13139648

http://news.uk.msn.com/world/news-articles.aspx?cp-documentid=156497885

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/2011/03/14/2011-03-14_glenn_beck_japan_earthquake_could_be_message_from_god_to_follow_the_ten_commandm.html

(2) http://moderntokyotimes.com/2011/03/16/tokyo-governor-ishihara-says-earthquake-and-tsunami-was-%E2%80%9Cdivine-punishment%E2%80%9D/

(3) http://www.nydailynews.com/news/world/2011/03/13/2011-03-13_hundreds_flee_in_japan_after_shinmoedake_volcano_begins_spewing_ash_boulders.html

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2011/03/14/3162909.htm

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1366109/Japan-volcano-Earthquake-tsunami-potential-nuclear-meltdown-enough.html?printingPage=true

(4) Job 1,2

(5) John 8:44, Luke 8:12, Revelation 12:9, Matthew 25:41

(6) http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-12756801

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2011/03/16/3165919.htm

http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20110316/wl_asia_afp/japanquakeroyal

(7) Revelation 13:11-14

See also ongoing studies of America in Prophecy at http://issues-of-life.weebly.com/

(8) 2 Corinthians 5:10, Hebrews 9:27, Ecclesiastes 12:14, 1 Peter 4;17, Revelation 14:7, 20:15, 20:10

www.issues-of-life.com

WHEN YOU SEE A FLAW IN SOMEONE ELSE - TURN AWAY - DON'T TAKE PICTURES - PRINCIPLES OF VICTORY IN THE CHRISTIAN LIFE - Part XI

2011-02-25T19:00:00.001-05:00

On television and in movies and even on the radio, entertainment often takes the form of human beings speaking unkindly about or to each other. It is not uncommon to hear people make comments or remarks about other people in the home, in the workplace and even in the church. Much of this happens because many of us don't understand the powerful effect of words upon our own lives. Even if the words spoken about someone are a true description of that person, unless the purpose is for the good of the speaker and the one spoken about, it can result in positive harm. Speaking about the personality issues or character flaws of others is not healthy for the mind and not in any way uplifting to the listener. As we continue reviewing the principles that assist in obtaining the victory over sin and selfishness, let's look at how we should relate to the flaws that we see in others and our own character weaknesses.

PRINCIPLES THAT ASSIST IN OBTAINING THE VICTORY

TURNING AWAY FROM HUMAN IMPERFECTION TO GOD

a) When a person turns away from human imperfections and beholds Jesus, a divine transformation takes place in his or her character.

b) Everything that causes us to see the weakness of humanity is in the Lord's purpose to help us to look to him, and in no case put our trust in man, or make flesh our arm. It is not intended that these weaknesses should be the theme of conversations.

c) The soul does not become more and more like Christ by beholding evil, but like the evil which it beholds. When we allow our minds to dwell upon the imperfections of others, our own souls become filled with the leaven of evil. By dwelling upon the faults of others, we are changed into the same image. Love cannot exist where the conversation is largely upon the errors and mistakes of others.

d) If we allow the mind to dwell upon the imperfections and moral deformities of others, we ourselves shall become depraved in character, and mentally one-sided and unbalanced. But if the mind dwells upon the perfect life of Christ, and the thoughts and conversation are centered upon him, we shall be changed to the same image.

e) We darken our lives by talking of our own imperfections or of the imperfections of others. The victory over sin and self is not gained by focusing on our imperfections and sin. It is obtained by focusing on and reflecting the beauty of Christ's character as God supplies the grace.

f) The more we dwell upon our own imperfections, the less strength we shall have to overcome them.

g) It is not praiseworthy to talk of our weakness and discouragement. Let each one say, "I am grieved that I yield to temptation, that my prayers are so feeble, my faith so weak. I have no excuse to plead for being dwarfed in my religious life. But I am seeking to obtain completeness of character in Christ. I have sinned, and yet I love Jesus. I have fallen many times, and yet He has reached out His hand to save me. I have told Him all about my mistakes. I have confessed with shame and sorrow that I have dishonored Him. I have looked to the cross and have said, All this He suffered for me. The Holy Spirit has shown me my ingratitude, my sin in putting Christ to open shame. He who knows no sin has forgiven my sin. He calls me to a higher, nobler life, and I press on to the things that are before."

h) God reveals to us our guilt that we may flee to Christ, and through Him be set free from the bondage of sin, and rejoice in the liberty of the sons of God.

The principles given to Christians in the Bible are often very different from the principles at the foundation of conduct in this world. And why shouldn't they be ? The Christian life is to be a preparation for eternity in the world to come; a world completely different from this world. Hence, the relationships which we have with other human beings must be governed by principles which more fully reveal the love of God in the character of Christ. Needlessly exposing or conversing upon the flaws and faults of others just gets in the way.

Jeremiah 17:5/Hebrews 12:2/Isaiah 45:22/Psalms 34:4,5, 1:1-3, 118:8, 19:14/Micah 7:7/Philippians 4:8/1 John 2:1, 1:8,9/2 Corinthians 3:8, 4:18/Galatians 6:1/Proverbs 17:9

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You have just been reading from page 10 of a booklet entitled, "Principles of Victory in the Christian Life" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts...

BEWARE ! - WATCH OUT !! - DON'T LET THIS PERSON RUIN YOUR LIFE

2011-01-07T19:00:00.002-05:00

You will never guess who I am on your own. My goal is to destroy you. I have fooled you before and I will certainly do it again and again. I have to be brutally honest with you. I do not care for you and in fact I hate you. I am definitely your worst enemy. Don’t try to figure me out. I’m much more cunning than you can imagine. I will out think you every time. You are no match for me. You will never be able to defeat me on your own and you’re probably already worshipping me. Let me tell you a little about me.

I hate perfect order and perfect organization. In fact, I hate the very word perfection especially as it pertains to the conscience and morality. I am by nature against self-sacrifice and self-control. I don’t like rules and laws that prevent me from being me. I disagree with people who are constantly trying to uphold any moral standards or principles which interfere with having fun and pleasure. I believe that life is meant to be enjoyed and full of self gratification. I answer to no one but me. Don’t try to correct me when I need to be corrected because I do not appreciate people trying to help me see that I am wrong even if I am wrong. In case you still don’t get it, let me spell it out for you in plain English. I live for me and me alone. My plan is to live life according to my view of the way life should be lived but I will not live life in order to please any so called God or gods. No I’m not the devil but I am your worst enemy.

Life must center around me and what makes me happy and I don’t plan to let you think otherwise. I’ll help you to feel that it is not necessary to consistently show compassion and mercy towards other human beings. I oppose all your efforts to be kind and sympathetic towards those who are in need of your time and energy or assistance. Don’t try to be conscientious regarding your health. I can stop you. I can make sure that you eat whatever you feel is right, as much as you like, whenever you like. I encourage you to avoid physical, mental and spiritual health at all costs. I hope to lead you to disregard any foolish nonsensical talk about laws of health. I will lead you to put the responsibility for your health in the hands of someone else.

In my view, no one should be expected to live a restrictive life. Me listening to whatever music, eating whatever food, wearing whatever clothes, enjoying any entertainment or engaging in any activity that pleases me is what I expect you to understand and accommodate. As far as I’m concerned, beauty of character and moral excellence are boring, idealistic and impractical subjects. To me, people who are always trying to do good or be good are hypocrites because nobody can be nor should anyone try to be perfect in the way that it says to be perfect in that so called holy Book that people refer to as the Bible.

I try to make sure that your mind is ruined by leading you to leave it unguarded. When you try to focus your mind exclusively on truth and goodness and purity, I distract you and turn your attention elsewhere. I will make you afraid to be considered fanatical when it comes to guarding your mind. I will trick you into allowing wrong principles to take firm hold in your mind through music and images from books, movies, television shows and other sources. I will convince you that this is freedom of choice and work to help you believe that there is nothing wrong with these things because you are in control.

I work to flood your mind with your own opinions instead of truth and I’ll help you build your life upon opinions. I want to help you to trust in you and your reasoning ability alone. I make your conscience less and less sensitive and if it is troubled in any way, I influence you to rationalize away any ridiculous moral concerns. I’ll keep you from thinking about things like eternity, the judgment and overcoming weaknesses of character.

You’ll never find me because I’m a master of disguise. I hide behind words and actions which do not reveal my true motives. I can end your life without you even knowing that I did it. I know all your weak points. I know what you like and what you don’t like. I know all about you and how to motivate you but you hardly even know me. I have an enormous appetite and can never be satisfied with just a little or just once. You will never be able to make me happy.

I positively resist any and all efforts to change me or make me different. I am proud of who I am and you must accept me the way that I am. You must accept me for me and there is nothing that you alone can do about my power over you. Do you know who I am ? I’m your worst enemy.

There are verses in the Bible that refer to me as the carnal nature or the flesh. Other places speak of me as the human heart. Some call me human nature. My real name is SELF and I am thoroughly, hopelessly, extremely selfish. I live in you and I am at the core of your being. Pleased to make your acquaintance. Now go back to what you were doing and keep serving me because you know you like it.

Don’t even think about breaking free from my power. I’ve got chains wrapped around your heart and I am not planning to let you go any time soon unless I am forced to do so.

There is only One who can help you to conquer me. He is my natural enemy as well as yours. He can strengthen you to resist me and to overcome me. His name is Jesus Christ and He has helped many to be free from my power and influence. He alone can open your eyes and help you to see me as the monster that I am.

He can cause me pain. If you cooperate with Him and live to please Him, you will destroy me. Therefore I must keep you from spending time with Him. I must keep you from loving Him and living your life in such a way as to please Him.

He will lead you to choose music that I don’t like but the music He chooses is acceptable in heaven. He will cause you to feel compassion and sympathy for other human beings and to think of new ways to bless them. He will lead you to actually help others and suffer inconveniences for them without murmuring or complaining. He will make you a cheerful giver. He can take away the sarcasm and the sharpness and the coldness from your character and put love in your looks and manners and in the tones of your voice.

He will lead you to be careful with your time, your money, your words and your actions so that you consult with Him concerning each of these things.

He can give you a deep, increasing, unchanging joy to take the place of my counterfeit happiness which is dependent upon circumstances and having things. He can make you beautiful on the inside while I can really dress up the outside and make it look nice. Once He has your affections, you will willingly, gratefully and wholeheartedly live to make Him happy instead of me and that will destroy me.

If you frequently meditate upon His love and study His character, my power over you will be broken. As your mind is transformed, I will die. Every time you make an effort to reflect His character to someone, it will bring agonizing pain to me. Every time you rely upon Him to resist the temptations to overeat, to lust, to swear, to lie, to steal, to envy, to covet or to complain, I am mortally wounded.

Your determination to become like Christ in character by receiving God’s grace will assure my death. So, why am I revealing my weaknesses and telling you how to defeat me ? Because, if you are like any of the other millions of human beings I have conquered and destroyed, then you will do nothing. I have nothing to worry about. Or do I ?

WHICH WAY ARE YOU TRAVELING ? WHAT ROAD ARE YOU ON ?

2011-01-01T19:16:00.010-05:00

While it may not be popular in modern society for an individual to define any particular lifestyle as right or wrong, the Bible makes no apology for pointing out that there is a right way and a wrong way to live; that there are good choices and bad choices.

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

There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. (Proverbs 14:12) There are many modern examples of this. People on the wrong road resulting in fatal accidents. Here is one - http://blog.syracuse.com/opinion/2010/09/megabus_crash_its_past_time_to.html. A google search brings up about 8 million, 320 thousand hits.

According to the Bible and even more specifically, according to the words of Christ Himself, all roads do not lead to the same destination. There is a right way and a wrong way to reach any place. No matter how sincere a person may be, traveling on the interstate in one direction away from their home will not take them home.

In this life there is set before every human being two ways--the broad road of self-indulgence and the narrow path of self-sacrifice and self-control. Into the broad road you can take all forms of selfishness, pride, love of the world; but those who walk in the narrow way must lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset. Which road have you chosen--the road which leads to everlasting death, or the road which leads to glory and immortality ? In the Bible, God promises eternal life to those who are seeking and walking on the road which leads to these things. To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life...(Romans 2:7)

There never was a more solemn time in the history of the world than the time in which we are now living. Our eternal interests are at stake, and we should arouse to the importance of making our calling and election sure. We dare not risk our eternal interests on mere probabilities. We must be in earnest. What we are, what we are doing, what is to be our course of action in the future, are all questions of untold moment, and we cannot afford to be listless, indifferent, unconcerned. It becomes each one of us to inquire, "What is eternity to me ?" Is my feet in the path that leads to heaven, or in the broad road that leads to perdition ?

When it comes to eternal life, church membership does not guarantee it and sincerity alone cannot claim entitlement to it. It is our own daily course of action that reveals our characters and determines our destiny. True faith and genuine Christianity is not merely professed but demonstrated in consistent Christ-like expressions of love.

Those who make a success of the Christian life will count all things as loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. Only those who are abiding in Christ can know what true life is. They realize the value of true religion. They have brought their talents of influence and means and ability to the altar of consecration, seeking only to know and do the will of Him who has died to redeem them. They know that the path they must travel is strait and narrow, and that they will have to meet many obstacles and temptations, as they resist the enticements of the broader road that leads to ruin; but they will discern the footsteps of Jesus, and press onward toward the mark for the prize of the high calling in their Lord and Saviour. They will choose the royal way that leads to heaven. Is this the way you are traveling ? Take heed and get on board now while there is still time. Ask God for strength to live triumphantly in Christ today if you are a Christian and ask God to give you new motives, new desires and new purposes if you are a not a Christian or a backsliding one. He is able to save unto the uttermost all that come unto Him. That means all of us down here who must choose which road we will travel in this life.

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INVENTORY THOUGHTS BEFORE THE NEW YEAR

2010-12-31T17:28:00.002-05:00

Lord, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am. (Psalm 39:4)

Another year has almost passed into eternity.... Let us review the record of the year that so soon will be past. What advancement have we made in Christian experience ? Our work--have we so done it that it will bear the inspection of the Master, who has given to every man work according to his several ability? Will it be consumed as hay, wood, and stubble, unworthy of preservation? or will it stand the trial by fire ?

Every provision has been made that we may attain a height of stature in Christ Jesus that will meet the divine standard. God is not pleased with His representatives if they are content to be dwarfs when they might grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ. He wants you to have height and breadth in Christian experience. He wants you to have great thoughts, noble aspirations, clear perceptions of truth, and lofty purposes of action. Every passing year should increase the soul's yearning for purity and perfection of Christian character. And if this knowledge increases day by day, month by month, year by year, it will not be work consumed as hay, wood, and stubble; but it will be laying on the foundation stone, gold, silver, and precious stones--works that are not perishable, but which will stand the fires of the last day.

Is our earthly, temporal work done with a thoroughness, a fidelity, that will bear scrutiny? Are there those whom we have wronged who will testify against us in the day of God? If so, the record has passed up to heaven, and we shall meet it again. We are to work for the great Taskmaster's eye, whether our painstaking efforts are seen and appreciated by men or not. No man, woman, nor child can acceptably serve God with neglectful, haphazard, sham work, whether it be secular or religious service. The true Christian will have an eye single to the glory of God in all things, encouraging his purposes and strengthening his principles with this thought, "I do this for Christ."

A blessed New Year to all...

CHECK YOUR HEALTH RIGHT NOW ! - ONLINE HEALTH EVALUATION BY 8 DOCTORS - Health Instead of Disease Series #9

2010-11-26T19:30:00.016-05:00

If you had the opportunity to know your health condition right now for free, would you take advantage of the opportunity ? We will come back to this in a few paragraphs. The link to the free health exam will be at the bottom of this page. How important is your health to you ? Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired ? Not everyone has the time or the means to regularly visit a doctor and get a complete and thorough checkup. Even doctors themselves are quite often sick and in need of quality medical attention too. http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504763_162-20016645-10391704.html Indeed, at the present time, many doctors are still lacking education about diet and nutrition. Nearly 25 years ago the National Academy of Sciences published a report indicating that medical schools provided inadequate instruction about nutrition and today it has been found that not much has changed in terms of better training in this area. http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/16/health/16chen.html?_r=1

The physician who is a true Christian has access to the God of Daniel. Through divine grace and power, he may become as efficient in his calling as Daniel was in his exalted position. But it is a mistake to make a scientific preparation the all-important thing, while religious principles that lie at the very foundation of a successful practice are neglected. Many are lauded as skilful men in their profession, who scorn the thought that they need to rely upon Jesus for wisdom in their work. But if these men who trust in their knowledge of science were illuminated by the light of heaven, to how much greater excellence might they attain! How much stronger would be their powers, with how much greater confidence could they undertake difficult cases! The person who is closely connected with the great Physician of soul and body, has the resources of heaven and earth at his or her command, and he or she can work with a wisdom, an unerring precision, that the godless man or woman cannot possess.

The physician needs more than human wisdom and power that he may know how to minister to the many perplexing cases of disease of the mind and heart with which he is called to deal. If he is ignorant of the power of divine grace, he cannot help the afflicted one, but may aggravate the difficulty; but if he has a firm hold upon God, he will be able to help the diseased, distracted mind.

When physicians understand physiology in its truest sense, their use of drugs will be very much less, and finally they will cease to use them at all. The physician who depends upon drug medication in his practise shows that he does not understand the delicate machinery of the human organism. It should be the work of the God-fearing physician to guide the mind of patients to right principles. It is labor lost to teach people to look to God as a healer of their infirmities, unless they are taught also to lay aside unhealthful practices. In order to receive His blessing in answer to prayer, they must cease to do evil and learn to do well. Their surroundings must be sanitary, their habits of life correct. They must live in harmony with the laws of God, both natural and spiritual.

What counsel does the Bible give regarding health ?

And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. (Revelation 14:6,7)

As we zero in on the health message in these words - "give glory to Him", we find that it is a part of the gospel...indeed the "everlasting gospel."

How does the Bible teach that human beings should give glory to God ?

What ? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own ? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. (1 Corinthians 6:19,20)

Education in health principles was never more needed than now. Notwithstanding the wonderful progress in so many lines relating to the comforts and conveniences of life, even to sanitary matters and to the treatment of disease, the decline in physical vigor and power of endurance is alarming. It demands the attention of all who have at heart the well-being of their fellow men.

The physician who endeavors to enlighten his patients as to the nature and causes of their maladies and to teach them how to avoid disease, may have uphill work; but if he is a conscientious reformer, he will talk plainly of the ruinous effects of self-indulgence in eating, drinking, and dressing, of the overtaxation of the vital forces that has brought his patients where they are. He will not increase the evil by administering drugs till exhausted nature gives up the struggle, but will teach the patients how to form correct habits, and to aid nature in her work of restoration by a wise use of her own simple remedies.

Here are some encouraging words of life from the Bible revealing God's tender care and love for human beings... and especially His concern for our spiritual and physical health...

Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. (3 John 1:2)

Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities ; who healeth all thy diseases; (Psalms 103:2,3)

If you've already tried earthly physicians, health programs and plans without successful restoration of health, why not cooperate with God and try learning and applying His principles of healthful living ? Try the free evaluation and see what you learn from the results. Click on the link under "Christianity For The Last Days" on this page in the upper left hand corner or click on the link below. God bless.

FREE ONLINE HEALTH EXAM

http://the-issues-of-life.blogspot.com/p/free-health-self-examination_01.html

By attempting to put into practice anything that you have read in this article you release Tyrone Keels from any responsibility for the results if you are dissatisfied with the outcome.

Read the full disclaimer for health issues at www.issues-of-life.com

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WILL THE REAL FAITH PLEASE COME FORWARD - TRUTH & ERROR SERIES #1

2010-10-15T19:30:00.034-04:00

According to a survey taken in April 2010, 80% of Americans claim that religious faith is somewhat important to their daily lives and 62% say that they pray everyday. If the majority of Americans believe religious faith is important to their lives and 62% pray everyday, then why is this necessary:

HOUSE VOTES TO EXPAND NATIONAL DNA ARREST DATABASE

Millions of Americans arrested for but not convicted of crimes will likely have their DNA forcibly extracted and added to a national database, according to a bill approved by the U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday http://news.cnet.com/830113578_3-20005458-38.html.

CODIS stands for Combined DNA Index System. It is the core of the national DNA database, established and funded by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and developed specifically to enable public forensic DNA laboratories to create searchable DNA databases of authorized DNA profiles. http://www.dna.gov/dnadatabases/codis

Apparently the U.S. House of representatives does not believe that religious faith is as important to the daily lives of 80 % of Americans as they say or they wouldn’t vote to expand the National DNA crime database. Perhaps they realize that religious faith or even just faith means different things for different people and religion can describe almost anything for some people.

I have often heard people say that we all believe in the same God. I question that. Do we really all believe in the same God ? Do we all have faith in essentially the same Lord or "higher power." Try this quick test and see.

Believer #1 - The God I worship loves me and accepts me and will take me to heaven no matter how I live so long as I make a profession of faith in Christ. I don't have to put forth any effort to overcome or resist sin because Jesus has done it all for me. He is so loving that I can never be lost even if I choose to. He loves me too much to let my personal choices and lifestyle habits prevent me from being saved. He will take me to heaven no matter what kind of character I have.

Believer #2 - The God I worship expects me to show that I believe in Him by shouting or jumping up and down or dancing or rocking to praise music. He wants me to always feel good. Anything that makes me feel bad is not from Him. I won't claim it. God loves me too much to not let me enjoy myself while praising Him with whatever worship style I feel like praising Him with.

Believer #3 - The God I worship lets me handle rattlesnakes and drink poison because He has promised in Mark 16:18 that these things will not hurt me. He is too loving to let me be injured in any way while I worship Him according to my interpretation and understanding of the Bible.- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-RnZ7T3XyA

Believer #4 - The God I worship has a beautiful character that He desires me to copy and this character is revealed in the Bible. He enables me to resist sin, to love others and to keep all 10 of His commandments. He looks for fruit in my life and causes it to grow as I cooperate with Him. He will not save me against my will or without my cooperation. He loves me too much to not let me demonstrate my love for Him by reflecting His image.

Believer #5 - The God I worship is a loving and healing God who will heal me of all diseases even if I keep smoking cigarettes and eating unhealthy. My lifestyle habits and choices have no effect on God's promises. God loves me too much to let me remain sick or in ill health, even if it is my fault. He will use the doctors to help me.

Believer #6 - The God I worship puts no restrictions upon me and allows me to live as I choose so long as I attend church. He loves me too much to limit my freedom or to keep me from pleasing myself and enjoying life the way I want to.

Believer #7 - The God I worship will ultimately save most people and allow them to go to heaven so long as they tried to live a decent life and did a lot of good things. He loves human beings too much to require any commitment from them or any changes in their lives before they can go to heaven.

Believer #8 - The God I worship wants me busy for Him all the time. I must constantly be at work for Him as I earn His favor or at least appear to be very active for Him while I do my best to be a good person so that I can be saved and have a place in His kingdom. He loves me too much to not allow me to contribute all my effort and work to my salvation.

It should be apparent to the most casual observer that these people do not believe or have faith in the same God. Nor is it possible that all these believers will reach the same destination with their faith.

What did Jesus believe that faith was ? What is the faith of Jesus and why is it important ?

Let us turn to the Bible for some answers.

This is continued on the "Christianity For the Last Days" page.
Click on "The Faith Of Jesus" at the top left hand corner of this page for more.

© 2010 Tyrone Keels
http://www.issues-of-life.com/

You have just been reading from part of a study/message delivered to an audience of very attentive listeners.

THE POWER OF APPRECIATION CAN HELP ANYONE BECOME CHRISTLIKE - PRINCIPLES OF VICTORY IN THE CHRISTIAN LIFE - Part X

2010-09-10T19:30:00.007-04:00

Who does not like to be appreciated ? To be appreciated is not necessarily the same thing as being praised. Praise may at times have some undesirable side effects but proper appreciation can strengthen and motivate. The consciousness of being appreciated is a wonderful stimulus and satisfaction. To appreciate means to value and to be appreciated is one of life's most satisfying joys. Satisfying joys give vigor to the mind and health and vital energy to the body. Who knew that appreciation was so important to health ? Certainly Jesus Christ did. Notice how He reemphasizes the worth of every human being - But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. (Luke 12:7) God desires to be appreciated too and the appreciation of His character is another fundamental principle which will aid in obtaining the victory over sin.

APPRECIATION OF THE CHARACTER OF GOD AND OF CHRIST

a) God desires from all His creatures the service of love--service that springs from an appreciation of His character. He takes no pleasure in a forced obedience; and to all He grants freedom of will, that they may render Him voluntary service. God does not force the will or judgment of any. He desires that the creatures of His hands shall love Him because He is worthy of love. He would have them obey Him because they have an intelligent appreciation of His wisdom, justice, and benevolence. And all who have a just conception of these qualities will love Him because they are drawn toward Him in admiration of His attributes.

b) In the Bible, Jesus is symbolically represented by a variety of beautiful illustrations. He is referred to as the "Bright and morning Star" and the "Pearl of great price." The whole Bible contains revelations of the character of Christ that can only be treasured and valued by those who continually see more and more clearly the desperate selfishness of their own hearts apart from God's grace. When we are fully awake to our own sinfulness, we shall appreciate Christ.Through an appreciation of the character of Christ, sin will become hateful to us.

No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. (Matthew 6:24)

c) Moral power increases by dwelling upon the goodness, beauty, mercy, and love of Christ.

d) God has granted freedom of will to all, endowed men with capacity to appreciate His character, and therefore with ability to love Him and to choose His service. Loving God or rejecting His love would not be possible without freedom of choice.

e) When the sinner has a view of the matchless charms of Jesus, sin no longer looks attractive to him or her; for he/she beholds the Chiefest among ten thousand, the One altogether lovely. The more one studies the character of Christ, the more attractive will He appear. The more attractive Christ appears, the less appealing sin becomes and the more we are preparing to spend eternity with God as our lives are brought more into harmony with heaven.

John 3:16,12:32,14:15,21,23/

Psalms 45:7,97:10,107:43/

Matthew 12:30,22:37,13:45,4/

Romans 6:18.20/Isaiah 26:3/

Ephesians 3:14-19/Proverbs 3:31/

Philippians 1:22,3:8,13,14,4:13

Deuteronomy 30:19/Revelation 22:16/Joshua 24:15/Mark 12:30

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You have just been reading from page 9 of a booklet entitled, "Principles of Victory in the Christian Life" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blogs...

DON'T BE IN A HURRY TO DIE - TRUE HEALTH CARE REFORM - HEALTH INSTEAD OF DISEASE SERIES #8

2010-08-13T19:00:00.003-04:00

Some time ago, I was speaking with a man about health and I remember one of his comments to me. He said - " Well we all have to die of something." In reply I said to him - "Yes that may be true but who says that we have to be in a hurry."

This is what it seems like today in society. Many people are either consciously and deliberately or ignorantly hurrying toward the grave. This death wish might very well be just a symptom of a deeper, more important issue. A hurting, broken heart and a lifetime of attempts to medicate the pain. The fallen state of human nature and its helplessness to change self-destructive habits apart from the grace of God in Christ.

CBS carried the news story about scientists who found that junk-food addicted rats would rather starve themselves than eat healthy food. -http://cbs2chicago.com/watercooler/rats.food.addiction.2.1597432.html

How is it with us ? Some of us are really so addicted to nutritionally deficient food that we actually imagine physical suffering if we have to make any radical lifestyle change or adopt a more healthy diet as part of the daily routine on a permanent basis. Likewise, just as it is true physically so it is true spiritually that many human beings including many professed Christians would rather die than give up cherished habits and lifestyle practices under the mistaken notion that Jesus died on the cross so that we would not have to change our habits.

Notice God's purpose regarding physical and spiritual health -

Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. 3 John 2

Again, the Bible makes plain that it is God who has the highest regard for our physical and spiritual well-being - Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases. (Psalms 103:2,3)

It is folly to believe that any human being could have a greater care for our spiritual and physical well being than our loving Creator who gave up His only begotten Son that we might have an opportunity to receive everlasting life through faith in Him. Why is it that many distrust the Manufacturer when it comes to the care of their health ? His understanding is infinite (Psalms 147:5) Take a look at a few examples of the love of God for us as He shares His foresight and insight for our best interests and far in advance of our time.

In the Bible God says it is not good to drink (fermented wine or strong drink) alcoholic beverages -(Proverbs 20:1/Isaiah 5:11/Mark 15:23)

Modern science discovers - Alcohol Amount, Not Type -- Wine, Beer, Liquor -- Triggers Breast Cancer-http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/09/070927083251.htm

Link Between Alcohol And Cancer Explained: Alcohol Activates Cellular Changes That Make Tumor Cells Spread-http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/10/091026172052.htm

Alcohol Consumption Increases Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence, Study Finds-http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/12/091210125540.htm

In the Bible God says that it is better to have only a few possessions and to be humble, self controlled, slow to anger than to be proud, mighty and full of travail and having an irritated or annoyed spirit - (Proverbs 16:19,32/Ecclesiastes 6:9, 7:8)

Modern science discovers - "Antagonistic People May Increase Heart Attack, Stroke Risk - http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/08/100816162633.htm

In the Bible, God says a broken spirit and sorrow of heart have a powerful negative influence upon the body. (Proverbs 15:13, 17:22)

Modern science discovers that- Depression as Deadly as Smoking, Study Finds -http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/11/091117094933.htm

In the Bible God says - we should eat what is good; for strength and not for gluttony

Modern science discovers - New Intervention Program Promotes Healthy Dietary Choices During Infancy -http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/07/100713011043.ht

In the Bible God says -Human beings can be influenced to choose right or wrong and choosing to do right can make a person physically stronger. (Job 17:9/Proverbs 16:9/Isaiah 9:16)

Modern science discovers - Being Naughty or Nice May Boost Willpower, Physical Endurance -http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/04/100419151114.htm

Moral Judgments Can Be Altered: Neuroscientists Influence People’s Moral Judgments by Disrupting Specific Brain Region -http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/03/100329152516.htm

All of these principles pertain to physical, mental and spiritual well-being. The current widespread ignorance regarding the laws of health has resulted in the establishment of a counterfeit health care reform system that will do nothing to address the true causes of the crisis which made necessary the reform in the first place. As society continues to accept more counterfeit reforms in exchange for the principle of the cross of Jesus with its appeal for self denial and self control over the appetite, a way is being prepared for the acceptance of future counterfeits of even greater consequence.

The true solution to the health care crisis, real estate crisis and educational crisis is not Super-Nanny government but basic education in the principles of health and self-government by the grace of God through faith in Christ. Recklessness in physical habits tends to recklessness in morals.

If we really want to begin reforming health care in this country, it could start with a massive deliberate and intelligent educational program aimed at speaking to the root of skyrocketing costs – health habits of Americans. It should be a program that visits each home and family with the hopeful message of restoration possibilities through radical lifestyle changes adjusted to the individual pace of those who participate.

The only hope of better things is in the education of the people in right principles. Let physicians teach the people that restorative power is not in drugs, but in nature. Disease is an effort of nature to free the system from conditions that result from a violation of the laws of health. In case of sickness, the cause should be ascertained. Unhealthful conditions should be changed, wrong habits corrected. Then nature is to be assisted in her effort to expel impurities and to re-establish right conditions in the system.

Since disease results from violating the laws of health, it is very important that everyone know and understand the laws of health and strive by the grace of God to live in harmony with them.

These 8 laws may be found detailed at - http://www.issues-of-life.com/Health%20Issues.html

Any person who examines these laws will quickly recognize the lifestyle habits which he or she has adopted that are contributing to disease. This is the first step towards identifying the cause of disease and making an effective treatment possible.

By attempting to put into practice anything that you have read in this article you release Tyrone Keels from any responsibility for the results if you are dissatisfied with the outcome.

Read the full disclaimer for health issues at

http://www.issues-of-life.com/Web%20Pages%20-%20Health%20Disclaimer.html

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DOES YOUR LIFE HAVE MEANING - SIGNIFICANCE AND VALUE ? - TO KNOW GOD IS TO LOVE HIM - Part 2

2010-08-06T20:00:00.001-04:00

Whether you are Myspace Mad or a Facebook fiend, if you are among those who frequently check in with these social networking websites, then identifying what's at the center of your life may at times be a challenge. Some people feel as if their day to day living has no real significance and so they are in search of something but they don't know what. Others find meaning for their lives in the things that they do or the places that they go. Many have no conscious dignity of character or wonder what the purpose of life is. For a great majority of people, life is defined by the relationships they have, don't have or have had. Do you know the reason why a living, ongoing relationship with God and Jesus Christ is so important to us as human beings ?

WHY DO WE NEED TO KNOW GOD

1. Our lives are pure only when we are under the control of GOD and happy only when we are in communion with HIM. Human beings were created by God to enjoy only those things that do not violate the conscience. Because of an inherited bent towards sin and selfishness, we enjoy the opposite. There is a greater tendency to gratify the senses and please oneself which grows uncontrollable if it continues unchecked. While there is in many hearts a desire for good, as human beings we are generally inclined to enjoy those things that are not pure and those things that violate the conscience but the evidence is clear...after all is said and done, we still are not happy...

2. "Like our SAVIOUR, we are in this world to do service for GOD. We are here to become like GOD in character, and by a life of service to reveal HIM to the world. In order to become like HIM and to reveal HIS character, we must know HIM aright. We must know HIM as HE reveals HIMSELF." No one can serve God right and reveal His character with a mere intellectual or mental knowledge of God. Only a personal experience with the transforming love of God that influences the thoughts and feelings in the right direction is properly called knowing God or a knowledge of God. Only an experimental knowledge of God transforms a person and reaches others.

3. "A knowledge of GOD is the foundation of all true education and of all true service." The absence of humility and the predominance of pride in modern society would be done away with were human beings to begin education with a knowledge of themselves as they really are in the sight of God. Education that separates the thoughts and feelings from the Creator is positively dangerous.

4. "Transformation of character, purity of life, efficiency in service, adherence to correct principles, all depend upon a right knowledge of GOD." In connection with the grace of God, knowing that God is love and that He loves each person individually and personally is motivation and inspiration and empowerment for the highest character development.

5. "The value of man is estimated in heaven according to the capacity of the heart to know GOD." If human beings could not know God, then we could not know eternal life and of all the realities that exist in human minds, eternity in the presence of eternal love is the ultimate reality and God's reality which is really the only reality that matters in the end.

John 15:10,11/Jeremiah 9:23,24/1 John 4:8/2 Corinthians 4:5-7/Psalms 147:5/Proverbs 2:3-6,9:10,1:7/Colossians 2:3/Romans 11:33

ULTIMATE END RESULT OF KNOWING GOD

"To know GOD is eternal life"

Personal knowledge of God gained by actual experience with Him in prayer, in assisted living and in reflecting the image of Jesus Christ to others.

"And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true GOD, and JESUS CHRIST, WHOM THOU hast sent." John 17:3

"According as HIS divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of HIM that hath called us to glory arid virtue." 2 Peter 1:3 .

The ultimate purpose and result of an ever increasing knowledge of GOD is godliness, eternal life---salvation.

"Look unto ME, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am GOD, and there is none else." Isaiah 45:22

"Heaven is a ceaseless approaching to GOD through CHRIST."

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You have just been reading from a study entitled, "To Know God Is To Love Him." Look for more pages from this study in future blog posts...

LET'S START AT THE BEGINNING - HOW TO BE A MAN - HOW TO BE A WOMAN - 1

2010-07-09T19:00:00.010-04:00

There is your view, there is my view and then there's God's view. It is taken for granted that most everyone of adult age and reasoning comprehends what it means to be a man or woman. One common definition found in the dictionary and the minds of most people is a male or female individual of the human race, of adult growth or years. This is the generally understood meaning. God's definition of a man or woman differs somewhat from this. It is the purpose of this series of posts to explore, understand and inspire appreciation for God's view of manhood and womanhood and to create a desire to be as He intends that human beings should be through the grace of Christ. The word man as used in many Bible verses often refers to mankind or the human race and therefore includes both men and women.

While scientific teachings acknowledge no specific objective or ultimate plan for the human race, God makes clear that He made man and woman for a purpose. The fulfillment of this purpose was to be the aim and joy of human beings. It is failure to recognize and conform to God's purpose for life that leaves human beings empty and without a compass in this world ever seeking to fill the void with inadequate and often self-destructive substitutes. There are literally thousands upon thousands who can explain the purpose of life with no more than the words "to be happy."

Many misunderstand the object for which they were created. It was to bless humanity and glorify God, rather than to enjoy and glorify self. Only by understanding God's purpose for creating human beings and giving us life can we truly see that the plan of salvation encompasses more than simply forgiveness of sin. It includes restoration from sin's power as well.

When Adam came from the Creator's hand, he bore, in his physical, mental, and spiritual nature, a likeness to his Maker. "God created man in his own image" (Gen. 1:27), and it was His purpose that the longer man lived the more fully he should reveal this image--the more fully reflect the glory of the Creator

Above all lower orders of being, God designed that man, the crowning work of His creation, should express His thought and reveal His glory, and it was His purpose that the longer man lived the more fully he should reveal this image--the more fully reflect the glory of the Creator. Hence we see, that the purpose for which human beings were created and the ultimate purpose of life is - to continually reflect more and more of the image of the Creator expressing His thoughts and revealing His glory.

What is man, that thou art mindful of him ? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet: All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field; The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, and whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas. (Psalms 8:4-8) These verses may lead us to consider man as God made him and as he is now.

MAN/WOMAN AS GOD MADE THEM

When God had made man in His image, the human form was perfect in all its arrangements, but it was without life. Then a personal, self-existing God breathed into that form the breath of life, and man became a living, breathing, intelligent being. All parts of the human organism were put in action. Man came from the hand of God perfect in every faculty of mind and body; in perfect soundness, therefore in perfect health. All his faculties were harmonious. In all his emotions, words, and actions, there was a perfect conformity to the will of his Maker. His nature was in harmony with the will of God. His mind was capable of comprehending divine things. His affections were pure; his appetites and passions were under the control of reason.

Woman, as God made her, was a perfect and lovely image of the divine ideal of womanhood. She was noble, perfect in symmetry, and very beautiful. When God created her, He designed that she should possess neither inferiority nor superiority to the man, but that in all things she should be his equal. Her heart had the glow of healthful feelings and the tint of her complexion was soft and radiant being untainted by no artificial cosmetic. She had a well-balanced mind and a pure character, reflecting only the true, the good, and the beautiful. She was not loud, forward nor presumptuous but poised, modest and morally charming.

Someone may ask how it is possible to know what the first man and the first woman were like. It all depends upon who you trust for your information. According to the Bible, they were created in the image of God. They reflected His character - they were pure and sinless because God's character is pure and sinless.

So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day. (Genesis 1:27,31)

After each day of creation, God saw that what He had done was "good." After creating man, He viewed this work as "very good." If God says something is very good, that is exactly what He means.

MAN/WOMAN AS THEY ARE NOW

Here is where most human beings, including many religious people are deceived concerning human nature. The heart of man is by nature cold and dark and unloving; Man's wisdom is untrustworthy. Man is fickle, filled with self-esteem, pride, and selfishness. By nature man has no love for God. It is not natural for him to think of heavenly things. The natural heart is at enmity against God, and will resist the clearest evidence of truth. It is ever pleading in favor of worldly customs.

Man is worshiping the reflection of his own image. The nature of man is in opposition to the divine will, depraved, deformed, and wholly unlike the character of God expressed in his law.

Selfishness is the essence of depravity, and because human beings have yielded to its power, the opposite of allegiance to God is seen in the world today. Nations, families, and individuals are filled with a desire to make self a center. The human heart is naturally inclined to idolatry, self-gratification and self-exaltation.

In the scenes that transpired at the judgment hall, and at Calvary, we see what the human heart is capable of when not under the influence of God's Spirit.

Jeremiah 17:9/Mark7:21,22/Galatians 5:19-21/Romans 1:26-31/2 Timothy 3:1-5/Matthew 24:12

RETURNING TO GOD'S PURPOSE FOR CREATING MAN AND WOMAN

Sin has marred and well-nigh obliterated the image of God in man. It was to restore this that the plan of salvation was devised and a life of probation was granted to man. To bring him back to the perfection in which he was first created is the great object of life--the object that underlies every other. (Romans 8:28,29/Ephesians 2:10,1:4,5/2 Timothy 1:9)

This series of studies will be continued in subsequent posts.

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You have just been reading from part 1 of a study entitled, "How To Be A Man - How To Be A Woman" Look for more pages from this study in future posts...

IT'S WHAT YOU KNOW AND IT'S WHO YOU KNOW THAT MATTERS - PRINCIPLES OF VICTORY IN THE CHRISTIAN LIFE - Part IX

2010-07-02T08:58:00.020-04:00

In the competition for Miss Teen USA, Miss South Carolina attempted to answer a question and in doing so she demonstrated that at times, "what you know" really does matter. Her reply has had more than 43 million views and she has been condemned and judged by many as lacking vital knowledge. It is not known how many viewers would have been able to answer the same question that was given to her. On the other hand, we also have words of Jesus to consider emphasizing the importance of "who you know" Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name ? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works ? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. (Matthew 7:21-23) Jesus describes religious people who never really knew Him as is evidenced by the Lord's statement that He never knew them. A theoretical or mere intellectual knowledge of God and Christ will never transform the character of the one who does not have a practical experience in the application of Bible principles for daily living. If God is good all the time, why not have a preference for Him all the time ? In other words, why do we not choose to allow the principles of His word to govern our choice of leisure, recreation and relationship activities. Why is He not the center of our joy and living ?

Many people know a lot of things and some people hardly know anything but very few people know much about the most important things in life. Very few really know God as it is our privilege to know Him. The more satisfied anyone is with himself and his present knowledge, the less earnestly and humbly will he or she seek to be guided into all truth. Truly knowing God is an educational relationship process which involves more than seeking intellectual stimulation or emotional ecstasy. As one comes to know God more, the inclination to sin is lessened and the desire to do right is increased and this is manifested in words and actions.

While worldly education prepares one to help build the national economy, true education embraces not merely a training of the intellect, but is a symmetrical development of all the powers--physical, mental, and moral. It is the inculcation of those ideas which will impress the mind and heart with the knowledge of God the Creator and Jesus Christ the Redeemer.

A student may go through all the grades of the schools and colleges of today. He may devote all his powers to acquiring knowledge. But unless he has a knowledge of God, unless he obeys the laws that govern his being, he will destroy himself. The so called "higher" education of the world in no way inspires obedience to the laws of God or the development of a Christlike character.

The educational curriculum that lays great stress on memorizing, produces a class of conservative people who are more inclined to trust society's institutions rather than the simple words of God. Such are more easily led by human authority and scholarship than by the wisdom of God. Indeed, any knowledge upon any subject that references from inspirational sources will be typically viewed with skepticism while that which is chiefly a product of the highest human reasoning is readily accepted.

Notice, the type of reasoning that God encourages - Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD (Isaiah 1:18)

The highest education will be that which will teach our children and youth, our teachers and educators, the science of Christianity, that will give them an experimental knowledge of God's ways, and impart to them the lessons which Christ gave to his disciples of the paternal character of God. Obtaining an experimental knowledge of God comes by wearing the yoke of Christ.

There is no education to be gained higher than that given to the early disciples, and which is revealed to us through the word of God. To gain the higher education means to follow this word implicitly; it means to walk in the footsteps of Christ, to practice His virtues. It means to give up selfishness and to devote the life to the service of God. Higher education calls for something greater, something more divine, than the knowledge to be obtained merely from books. It means a personal, experimental knowledge of Christ; it means emancipation from ideas, from habits and practices, that have been gained in the school of the prince of darkness, and which are opposed to loyalty to God. It means to overcome stubbornness, pride, selfishness, worldly ambition, and unbelief. It is the message of deliverance from sin. It may be wisely interwoven with any other study or discipline by the Christian teacher.

In this post we continue learning the principles which inspire and make possible the victory over sin and selfishness.

PRINCIPLES THAT ASSIST IN OBTAINING THE VICTORY

PRINCIPLES THAT STIMULATE OR INSPIRE A DESIRE FOR VICTORY

#2 SEEKING TO KNOW GOD AND CHRIST

a) The less we meditate upon Christ and His matchless love and the less we are assimilated to His image, the better will we appear in our own eyes, and the more self-confidence and self-complacency will we possess.

b) The one who talks most familiarly with his divine Leader has the most exalted conception of His greatness and is the most obedient to His commands.

c) The experimental knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ whom He has sent, transforms man into the image of God. It gives to man the mastery of himself, bringing every impulse and passion of the lower nature under the control of the higher powers of the mind.

d) It is essential to our eternal well-being to know more of God; for love to God depends on a conception of His goodness. His excellence, and a knowledge of His will.

e) It is necessary to know God in order to be attracted to him.

f) When the transgressor becomes acquainted with GOD, and experiences HIS love, it produces in his heart a hatred for sin and a love for holiness.

g) The more we know of God, the higher will be our ideal of character and the more earnest our longing to reflect His likeness.

2 Peter 1:2,3:18/Proverbs 9:10, 16:22, 19:27/John 17:3, 15:10/2 Timothy 3:7,16/Genesis 2:17/ Job 22:21/1 John 2:3,4, 3:6,24, 5:2/Jeremiah 9:23,24/Isaiah 1:17,46:8/Matthew 11:29, 7:13,26 /Hosea 4:1,2 /Romans 1:28/Philippians 3:8/Colossians 2:8/Mark 7:9/2 Corinthians 3:18/Revelation 2:5,3:3/Luke 8:21/James 1:22,23/Exodus 23:2/

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DO YOU KNOW GOD ? DO YOU LOVE HIM ? - TO KNOW GOD IS TO LOVE HIM - Part I

2010-06-18T19:00:00.003-04:00

Movies don't usually do a good job of honoring God and often times they portray themes exalting human traits above His mercy and love. One of the differences between human love and God's love is the ability of God's love to transform a person's character. When a person comes to know God through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, he or she will continually be elevated and transformed while remaining in that relationship. What is not commonly understood by many who profess to love and know God is that their claim is either supported or not supported by evidence in the way that they live their lives. It is not possible to love God secretly; to love Him without revealing a preference and desire for Him in one's leisure, labor and life time. While God loves human beings, it appears that sin has so blinded our minds as to prevent most of us from realizing that God expects us to love Him in return. Many people would probably agree that a one-sided relationship is one where one person gives all the love and the other person does all the receiving. All growth and advancement in the relationship is checked because of the selfishness of the one who chooses only to receive. Is the purpose of life merely to receive love from God ? We will explore this and other questions as we look at how God expects us to love Him in return.

WHAT DOES GOD WANT WITH YOU AND I ?

"Ye are MY witnesses saith the LORD, and MY servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am HE: before ME there was no god formed, neither shall there be after ME." Isaiah 43:10

Notice that the Lord has chosen human beings to fulfill two very important roles -

"MY witnesses"

"MY servant"

We may ask the question - for what purpose has God chosen witnesses and servants ?

THAT YE MAY KNOW

BELIEVE

UNDERSTAND

We may further ask - What are we to know and believe and understand ?

"that I am HE" (and what else ?)

"before ME there was no god formed (and)

"neither shall there be after ME."

The verse indicates choice, trust and thought - important components of every relationship.

God chooses servants

He trusts persons as His witnesses

He invites the thoughts of the mind to know, believe and understand Him

"Be still and know that I am GOD..." Psalm 46:10

What does it mean to know someone ? To know God in particular ?

Know - to perceive with certainty; to understand clearly; to have a clear perception of truth, fact, or any thing that actually exists -to recognize by recollection, remembrance, representation or description

Why does God want human beings to know Him ?

"GOD desires to bring men into direct relation with HIMSELF."

From the first verse in the first chapter of the first book in the Bible where GOD introduces HIMSELF---"In the beginning GOD..." (Genesis 1:1) to the first verse in the first chapter of the last book in the Bible--- "The Revelation of JESUS CHRIST..." Revelation 1:1, GOD is trying to make HIMSELF known to us...Why? Another one of the reasons why God wants us to know Him is given as follows -

GOD desires from all HIS creatures the service of love - service that springs from an appreciation of HIS character.

HOW DOES KNOWING GOD IMPACT A PERSON'S LIFE

"Grace and peace be multiplied unto YOU through the knowledge of GOD and ofJESUS CHRIST our LORD." (2 Peter 1:2)

This verse, as well as Job 22:21, tells us what may be multiplied unto us by knowing GOD and JESUS...Grace and Peace--

"Gr.ace gives man power to obey the laws of GOD."To learn of CHRIST means to receive HIS grace, which is HIS character. Many people are willing to accept God's forgiving grace for the pardon of sin but very few believe in or are willing to accept God's enabling grace to overcome sin.

"The peace which CHRIST called HIS peace, and which HE bequeathed to HIS disciples, is not a peace which prevents all divisions; but it is a peace which is given and enjoyed in the midst of divisions. The peace that the faithful defender of the cause of CHRIST has is the consciousness that he is doing the will of GOD and reflecting HIS glory in good works. It is an internal rather than an external peace."

Other ways that a person is impacted by knowing GOD...

a) "To know GOD is to love HIM."

b) "When we know GOD as it is our privilege to know HIM, our life will be a life of continual obedience."

c) " the more we know of GOD, the more intense will be our happiness."

(John 14:15,21/1 John 5:3/Psalms 16:11/1 John 4:7,8/Hebrews 12:28/Romans 1:3-5, 6:14,15/1 John 2:3,4/Isaiah 26:3/Psalms 119:165)

The above is self-explanatory and clear beyond question. Knowing GOD-- perceiving HIM with certainty, understanding HIM, recognizing HIM by recollection, remembrance, representation or description will lead to loving HIM, obeying HIM and the experience of happiness with an increasing intensity. Grace and peace are multiplied to a person through knowing GOD and JESUS CHRIST. The character quality of love in God will, if allowed, awaken and inspire love and gratitude in us which will be revealed in a practical revelation of the character of Jesus Christ.

"For the love of CHRIST constraineth us..." 2 Corinthians 5: 14

Constrain - to compel or force; to urge with irresistible power

Anyone who is habitually experiencing the love of Christ senses the compelling, urging power of that love to go forward in obedience to do whatever God asks or requires...

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You have just been reading from a study entitled, "To Know God Is To Love Him." Look for more pages from this study in future blog posts...

RIGHT THOUGHTS & THINKING RIGHT - PRINCIPLES OF VICTORY IN THE CHRISTIAN LIFE - PART VIII

2010-06-04T19:00:00.002-04:00

Many mistakenly believe that because God is love, no matter what their character is like, somehow God will allow them into heaven. It is a significant tragedy that many will be unprepared for an eternal life in the presence of God because they choose not to believe one very important fact: that character is not changed in heaven nor at death. God does not change anyone after they die nor does He magically transform a person's character in this life against their will or without their cooperation. The development of a Christ-like character that can truly enjoy heaven and can be trusted in heaven must take place in this life on earth. This development of character cannot take place apart from the grace of God but we are reassured that God will perform the work in us as we cooperate and that we can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth us. The need to have and the promise of obtaining victory over sin in order to be saved is clearly presented to us in the Bible and the Spirit of prophecy. This challenges us with nothing less than aiming for moral excellence in Christ through total dependence upon God's enabling grace. The good news concerning the practical "how" of attaining the goal of overcoming sin needs to be presented just as much, if not more, as the good news about the forgiveness of sin. Let's look at some of the principles that our heavenly Father has shared with us to help us obtain the victory over all selfishness and sin in our lives. The principles requiring human effort for victory over selfishness may be divided into two specific categories which are both physical and mental.

PRINCIPLES THAT ASSIST IN OBTAINING THE VICTORY

PRINCIPLES THAT STIMULATE OR INSPIRE A DESIRE FOR VICTORY

Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; (2 Corinthians 10:5)

#1 HAVING RIGHT THOUGHTS

a) If the thoughts are right, then as a result the words will be right; the actions will be of that character to bring gladness and comfort and rest to souls. Think right thoughts and you will perform right actions.

b) The more we think of heaven, the more happiness we shall have.

c) As Christ the Pattern is constantly kept before the mind's eye, new habits will be formed, powerful hereditary and cultivated tendencies will be subdued and overcome, self-esteem will be laid in the dust, old habits of thought will be constantly resisted, love for the supremacy will be seen in its real, despicable character, and will be overcome.

d) Habitually dwelling upon Christ, his exalted character, and the all-sufficient merits of his sacrifice, increases the faith, sharpens the imaginative power, strengthens the longing desire to be like him, and creates holy earnestness in prayer, that makes it efficacious.

e) “...pride and self-worship cannot flourish in the soul that keeps fresh in memory the scenes of Calvary.

f) As the mind dwells upon Christ, the character is molded after the divine similitude. The thoughts are pervaded with a sense of his goodness, his love.

g) By constantly contemplating heavenly themes our faith and love will grow stronger. With eternal realities in view we will habitually cultivate thoughts of the presence of God. This will be a shield against the incoming of the enemy; it will give strength and assurance, and lift the soul above fear.

h) And as one drop of rain prepares the way for another in moistening the earth, so one good thought prepares the way for another.

i) “...when the Lord sees the determined effort made to retain only pure thoughts, he will attract the mind, like the magnet, and purify the thoughts,..”

j) It is learning to think less of ourselves and more of making others happy that will bring to us divine strength.

(Proverbs 12:5,16:11,11:25/Romans 12:2/Isaiah 26:3/Titus 1:15/Philippians 4:8/1Peter 1:13/Hebrews 12:1-3/Ephesians 4:23/Psalms 94:19,104:34)

The unconverted, natural mind has no intention of overcoming sin and self and sees nothing particularly appealing about frequently contemplating heaven or having the thoughts centered in Christ. There is hope, however, for the soul who will recognize his or her need and cry out to God for a complete transformation of mind. This study will be continued in subsequent posts.

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FRIENDSHIP IS THE FOUNDATION OF GOOD RELATIONSHIP - Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful Counselor - XXIII

2010-05-21T19:07:00.004-04:00

While many view movie going as a pleasant, leisure time diversion, the laws governing the human mind do not suddenly go on vacation when a person enters the theater. Movies have an influence on the thoughts and feelings and a movie/comedy about friendship is a reality show for many people. Often it is realized too late, not at all or after much loss of precious time that friendship is the basis for enduring relationship. Whether in courtship or marriage or even church fellowship, many may be acquainted with each other but may not in actuality be friends. Another consideration would be the meaning of the word "friends" as understood or used by different people. Like the word love, the word friends is often casually and improperly applied in a variety of ways that do not necessarily make clear what is being talked about. According to God, one of the closest relationships in which true friendship should be demonstrated in human relationships is the marriage relationship. This post will focus on friendship, according to God's view of it, in the context of a union between husband and wife. Several of the principles for friendship discussed here can be universally applied to all friendships although they may clash with the general worldly understanding of relationships. If we have difficulty accepting and living by these principles in this life, it is not likely that we could be happy nor trusted in the future life in heaven in the presence of God where everyone reflecting the image of Jesus Christ will eternally exemplify His traits of character in relationship toward one another.

HOW TO BUILD AND MAINTAIN THE FRIENDSHIP RELATIONSHIP

That which we prize we seek to preserve and make more valuable if we can. In the marriage contract men and women have made a trade, an investment for life, and they should do their utmost to control their words of impatience and fretfulness, even more carefully than they did before their marriage, for now their destinies are united for life as husband and wife, and each is valued in exact proportion to the amount of painstaking effort put forth to retain and keep fresh the love so eagerly sought for and prized before marriage. Love can no more exist without revealing itself in outward acts than fire can be kept alive without fuel. (Matthew 6:21/Proverbs 27:5/Song of Solomon 8:7/Romans 7:2/1 Corinthians 7:39/1 John 4:7,11)

In your married life seek to elevate one another. Do not come down to common, cheap talk and actions. Show the high and elevating principles of your holy faith in your everyday conversations and in the most private walks of life. Be ever careful and tender of the feelings of one another. Do not, either of you, for even the first time, allow a playful, bantering, joking censuring of one another. These things are dangerous. They wound. The wound may be concealed, nevertheless the wound exists and peace is being sacrificed and happiness endangered. (Ephesians 4:32/2 Timothy 2:24/Titus 3:2,3/Hebrews 3:13)

The husband and wife should be all to each other. The wife should have no secrets to keep from her husband and let others know, and the husband should have no secrets to keep from his wife to relate to others. The heart of his wife should be the grave for the faults of the husband, and the heart of the husband the grave for his wife's faults. Never should either party indulge in a joke at the expense of the other's feelings. Every couple who unite their life interest should seek to make the life of each as happy as possible. Live for the glory of God. Be tender, kind, and courteous to each other. (Ephesians 4:2/Proverbs 11:13,17:9,20:19,25:9)

The happiness of your life will consist in making God your trust, and in seeking to make each other happy. Practice self-control. It is so easy to speak thoughtlessly, words that grieve and wound. Do not venture to trifle with each other's feelings. Practice patience, encourage love, discipline yourselves to guard every word and action, and study how you can be a blessing to each other. Never recount the mistakes, or errors, or faults of each other in the presence of a third person, or in company, be the circle ever so select. Live for God and for each other. (Galatians 5:15/John 15:12,17/Leviticus 25:17/Proverbs 10:19,17:27,28)

Affection cannot be lasting, even in the home circle, unless there is a conformity of the will and disposition to the will of God. Bearing the marriage responsibilities in the home, linking their interests with Jesus Christ, leaning upon His arm and His assurance, husband and wife may share a happiness in this union that angels of God commend. The warmth of true friendship and the love that binds the hearts of husband and wife are a foretaste of heaven. (1 Thessalonians 5:11/Psalms 127:1/Romans 12:10/Galatians 6:2/Psalms 91:9-11/Zephaniah 3:9)

You have just been reading from page 25 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR." This was the last page of the book. If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

THERE IS NO CURE FOR CANCER BECAUSE THE BODY HEALS ITSELF- BY 8 LAWS OF HEALTH AND THE GRACE OF GOD (B) - Health Instead of Disease Series # 7

2010-05-07T19:00:00.005-04:00

Disease never comes without a cause and cancer is a disease. While it has been described as the abnormal division or growth of cells, this explanation does not say what caused the abnormal growth or division to start. What causes cancer ? Disease is an effort of nature to free the system from conditions that result from a violation of the laws of health. Cancer is a symptom of internal pollution and toxic internal conditions of the body. The quality of the environment where the cell lives contributes to the normal or abnormal growth and development of the cell and in the case of cancer the inner body is not healthy.

Think about it. Every cell is serviced by the blood stream. Blood is what makes cell nourishment and cell cleansing possible. Without blood, the cells could not live. Whatever enters the bloodstream therefore, will have an impact on the cells. Don't let anyone fool you. The things that we are injected with, medicated with or eat, drink, inhale or absorb are delivered to the bloodstream and have an impact on the cells of our bodies. The Bible makes clear that life is dependent upon the blood and for this reason should not be eaten. Unfortunately, many do not realize that this eating of blood with the flesh (meat eating) is the source of many diseases and a major cause of cancer . It is the uric acid and blood that gives meat it's flavor and it's danger. (Deuteronomy 12:23/Leviticus 17: 11 - For the life of the flesh is in the blood)

Food has a direct impact upon the blood - http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=8196665&page=1

All human diseases thrive or are subdued via the bloodstream. The bloodstream is often how many parents unwittingly pass on diseases to their children and even to newborn babes. Since disease results from violating the laws of health, it is very important that everyone know and understand the laws of health and strive by the grace of God to live in harmony with them.

These 8 laws may be found detailed at http://www.issues-of-life.com/Web%20Pages%20 %20Health%20Disclaimer.html

3 STEPS TO BE TAKEN FOR THE RESTORATION OF HEALTH

1. In case of sickness, the cause should be ascertained.

2. Unhealthful conditions should be changed, wrong habits corrected.

3. Then nature is to be assisted in her effort to expel impurities and to re-establish right conditions in the system.

NATURAL TREATMENT AND CURE OF CANCER BY THE BODY'S OWN MECHANISMS

1. ASCERTAIN THE CAUSE

Cancer and other degenerative diseases take hold in the body and grow when the immune system is depressed or malfunctioning. Therefore ANYTHING that depresses the immune system can eventually help lead to cancer. Things that pollute the blood or that cannot be converted into good blood and weaken the immune system such as TOO MUCH protein, too much fat, smoking or chewing tobacco, constantly breathing filthy, smoggy air. Drinking alcoholic beverages, sodas, coffee, black tea, chocolate, cokes, etc. Certain, chemicals, radiation, drug medications and vaccinations. Persistent and chronic constipation. Poor function of any of the organs of elimination (Liver, Bowel, Kidneys, Lungs, Skin) If the organs of elimination cannot keep up with the amount of toxic waste we are producing, in desperation the body eventually turns to the formation of tumors and cancers. Soft cancers are cells gone wild because of the excess waste in the system. Hard tumors are garbage cans prepared to hold the toxic waste. Poor health habits, Lack of exercise or insufficient exercise of the proper kind. Exposures to toxic/carcinogenic substances - flouride, mercury in fish or high fructose corn syrup, etc. Stress - physical and/or emotional, with no relief. Habitual perverted or unclean sexual practices. Over-production of hormones in response to habitual anger, fear, hate, sadness, etc. Habitual applications of cosmetics or other poisons to the skin. Carcinogenic additives and contamination of food including colorings, preservatives, hormones passed on from animal treatments and feed, fungicide and pesticide chemical residues from crop and landscaping treatments, contamination from plastics used in packaging, and toxic industrial wastes leeching into soil and water ending up in crops.

2. CORRECT WRONG HABITS - CHANGE UNHEALTHFUL CONDITIONS

Go read and understand and put into practice the 8 laws of health NOW!!

http://www.issues-of-life.com/Web%20Pages%20 %20Health%20Disclaimer.html

If you are still well enough to eat, make an immediate change in your dietary regimen. A vegan diet is best. Especially should objectionable meats such as pork, ham, bacon, sausage, hot dogs, hamburger, canned meat spreads, pressed meats, and canned composite meats such as Spam, be permanently eliminated. Use mostly whole grain cereals, bread, pastas. Cereal grains must be well cooked, usually from 2 to 4 hours. Use legumes (beans) five or more times weekly.

Do not use white bread, buns, melba toast, crackers and saltines, cakes, cookies, white macaroni, spaghetti, white rice, bolted corn meal, cream of wheat, and other refined grain products. Make your own whole grain melba toast and melba waffles. Crackers, cakes and cookies are unhealthful when made with baking soda or powder, eggs, milk, shortening, artificial flavorings and colorings and sugar. The whole grain pastas require a little more cooking, but with a bit of practice one can prepare these as well as the refined, white grains.

Cancer cells thrive on sugar. If you feel compelled to use a sweetener, use honey, molasses, barley malt, maple syrup, or turbinado sugar instead of white sugar, brown sugar or confectioner's sugar. In any case, use these all very sparingly. Dried fruits use moderately.

Try having just 2 meals per day. The two meal plan allows the digestive organs to rest. Never snack. Only have water between meals. Have a set, regular time for meals. The digestive organs should be stimulated only at certain specified intervals, so that they can maintain their rhythmical pattern.

Read labels for and avoid irritants and harmful foods and additives such as vinegar, monosodium glutamate (MSG) pepper (black, hot), baking powder, soda (sodium bicarbonate), cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, all spice, animal products (whey, sodium caseinate, gelatin, mono- and di-glycerides), mace, lactose. All of these substances harm the internal environment of the body through poisoning the blood. There are also medical treatments for cancer which harm the body, depress the immune system, help increase the toxins in the body for cancer cells to develop and thrive and ultimately lead to death.

Caution regarding chemotherapy and radiation: Both of these treatments can cause cancer. Both are highly toxic and poisonous to the blood stream. Tumors are toxins that may be located at one or more places in the body but chemotherapy is toxin delivered to all the tissues and organs of the body via the bloodstream with no medical way of removing this poison from the body. If given to a healthy person, he or she would grow sick and die. Why, then would anyone give poison to a sick person ? "As a chemist trained to interpret data, it is incomprehensible to me that physicians can ignore the clear evidence that chemotherapy does much, much more harm than good."--Alan Nixon, Ph.D., Past President, American Chemical Society. "Most cancer patients in this country die of chemotherapy. Chemotherapy does not eliminate breast, colon or lung cancers. This fact has been documented for over a decade. Yet doctors still use chemotherapy for these tumors... Women with breast cancer are likely to die faster with chemo than without it." - Alan Levin, M.D."

Chemotherapeutic drugs are also called antineoplastic drugs or cytotoxic agents and according to the CDC have been known to cause mutations and cancer - http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/88-119/antineo.html. They are so poisonous that OSHA has developed guidelines for handling them and preventing occupational exposure to them.

3. ASSIST THE BODY TO HEAL ITSELF

Go read and understand and put into practice the 8 laws of health NOW!!
http://www.issues-of-life.com/Web%20Pages%20 %20Health%20Disclaimer.html

The objective of the cancer routine is to improve circulation to and oxygenation of the cells; to change the intestinal flora with a high fiber diet; to discourage cancer cell growth with hot baths; to stimulate the immune mechanism for cancer resistance; and to combat toxins which cause anemia and loss of appetite.

Drink 6-10 cups of water, as pure as possible, each day but never during meals.

Herbal Formula

St. John's Wort 1 part
Chaparral 1 part
Alfalfa 2 parts
Pau D'Arco 2 parts
Violet Leaves 1 part
Echinacea 2 parts
Kelp 1/3 part

Mix and take 2 Tbsp in 8 oz. of water (make tea). Drink 3 times per day.

d. Do not use sweeteners in your teas. Though they are medicinal and may not appeal to the taste, the herbs were given to us by our Creator for healing. Drink them faithfully.

e. Drink Blue Violet and Red Clover tea freely. These teas may be considered part of the daily water intake.

or use Kelp, Garlic, Burdock, Sheep Sorrel, Comfrey, Violet, Echinacea, Pau D'Arco mixing 3 oz. each in just enough water to make it stick. Eat two tablespoons four times daily

Good Multi-Vitamin/Mineral and in addition...

Vitamin E - 1200 IU daily
Vitamin C (ascorbate form) - 5000 mg. 3 times daily
Kelp - 5 tablets twice daily
Niacin - 50-100 mg. daily
Beta Carotene - 50,000 3 times daily

Chlorophyll (liquid) - restore alkalinity of the blood

Proteolytic Enzymes (vegetarian) - (break through the protein barrier of cancer cells)

Green Tea 4, 8 or 16 oz Extracts - http://www.herbasway.com/

After detoxification and cleansing, the body may be really sensitive to drugs, meat, coffee, tea, and alcohol; if any of this is used it can cause cancer to grow back fast.

Super Powerful Anti-Cancer Supplements

1. OPC3 - http://www.marketamerica.com/corporate/product-2217/isotonix-opc3.htm#

2. PolyMVP - http://www.polymvasurvivors.com/index.html ((Emergency help - a little expensive but may save your life. Can be used during chemo for protection and strength)

3. Chaparral Extract (non-alcoholic)

4. Green Tea Extracts (not black tea) - http://www.herbasway.com/

Dry heat sauna or steam bath 3 times a week. Finishing off each session with cold to close pores.

Constant prayer to God about everything, not just cancer. Choose to live for Christ and not for self. Have a meaningful, challenging goal and life purpose - to become Christlike in character.

If I had cancer of the breast, a low plant steroid (low estrogen) diet would be my regimen. If cancer of the prostate, a high plant steroid (higher estrogen) diet would be my regimen.

The above is just a sample of just part of a regimen that I would begin if I had cancer. Depending upon the type of cancer and the stage of cancer, I would add and/or replace certain supplemental items. Inland sea minerals flush, psyllium and bentonite just to mention a few. Different cancers require some specialized programs but the first step towards healing of all diseases and especially cancer require education and obedience to the laws of health.

If you are considering following such a program as I have outlined for myself, pray and ask God to change your heart and then for strength and grace to change your lifestyle. Ask Him to forgive you for breaking His mental, physical and moral laws and living a selfish life. Invite Jesus Christ to be Lord of your life and cause you to receive new motives, new desires and new purposes.
CHALLENGE - If it were me I would try all the above for 10 days and see if there is not a significant improvement
The use of herbs should complement obedience to the 8 laws of health. More information about this at www.issues-of-life.com under health issues.

(1) Chemicals in the blood - http://www.forbes.com/2010/01/21/toxic-chemicals-bpa-lifestyle-health-endocrine-disruptors.html

(2) Chemicals, gases and radiation and cancer - http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,592303,00.html

(3) Meat eating and cancer -http://www.nature.com/bjc/journal/v96/n7/full/6603689a.html

(4) Meat eating and cancer - http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/prevention-genetics-causes/causes/meatconsumption

(5) Meat eating and cancer - http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSN1043849120071211

(6) Milk and cancer - http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/4051331.stm

(7) Medical Radiation and cancer - http://deainfo.nci.nih.gov/advisory/pcp/pcp08-09rpt/PCP_Report_08-09_508.pdf

(8) Lead in Cocoa and Chocolate - http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16203244?ordinalpos=1&itool=PPMCLayout.PPMCAppController.PPMCArticlePage.PPMCPubmedRA&linkpos=1

(9) Chemotherapy kills patients- http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/11/13/2418640.htm

(10) Chemotherapy deadly - http://www.nature.com/bjc/journal/v95/n12/full/6603498a.html

(11) Chemotherapy serious adverse affects - http://www.asco.org/ASCOv2/Meetings/Abstracts?&vmview=abst_detail_view&confID=65&abstractID=35486

(12) Chemotherapy can cause leukemia (cancer). - People treated with chemotherapy, particularly alkylating agents, may have an increased risk of developing leukemia several years after treatment -http://www.merck.com/mmhe/sec15/ch182/ch182f.html

(13) Green Tea - Antioxidant and Antibacterial - http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/bk-2005-0909.ch009?prevSearch=green%2Btea%2Band%2Bcancer&searchHistoryKey=

(14) Green Tea Catechins (Catechins are flavonoid phytochemical compounds that appear predominantly in green tea) - Prevent metastasis of cancer cells -http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jm901330e?prevSearch=green%2Btea%2Band%2Bcancer&searchHistoryKey=.

(15) Apples - antitumor - http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/bk-2007-0956.ch015?prevSearch=green%2Btea%2Band%2Bcancer&searchHistoryKey=

(16) Green Tea - antitumor - http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jf070568s?prevSearch=green%2Btea%2Band%2Bantitumor&searchHistoryKey=

(17) Chaparral (Nordihydroguaiaretic acid - NDGA) Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) is a phenolic compound isolated from the creosote bush Larrea divaricatta (chaparral) that has anti-cancer activities) Prevents/Inhibits Cancer Cell and Tumor Growth - http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16142439

(18) Chaparral suppresses growth in breast cancer cells - http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16142439

(19) Chaparral kills breast cancer cells -http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18645000

(20) Chaparral inhibits prostate cancer cell growth -http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18491370

By attempting to put into practice anything that you have read in this article you release Tyrone Keels from any responsibility for the results if you are dissatisfied with the outcome. Read the full disclaimer for health issues at www.issues-of-life.com
© 2010 Tyrone Keels
www.issues-of-life.com

CANCER THE KILLER DISEASE DEFEATED BY 8 LAWS OF HEALTH AND THE GRACE OF GOD (A) - Health Instead of Disease Series #7

2010-05-03T08:32:00.017-04:00

Perhaps few other words being spoken to individuals today cause such fear as the word cancer. Because of its track record of fatality and unyielding reputation, many literally begin dying faster as soon as the doctor tells them that they have cancer. Many feel as if their bodies have been invaded and see no hope in trying to fight back. One thing for sure, cancer was never part of the Creator's plan. In fact, death was never intended to bear rule over mankind as it does today. Jesus Christ spent more time healing people of diseases and even raising some from the dead than He spent teaching and preaching. In this post and others which will follow, by the grace of God, we will courageously face cancer and look at the principles of health and living and natural remedies which subdue and heal from cancer.

The word ‘cancer comes from the latin "carcinoma"meaning crab. It is the most dreaded disease and refers to all malignant tumours caused by the abnormal growth of a body cell or a group of cells .

All cancers begin in cells

· Carcinoma - cancer that begins in the skin or in tissues that line or cover internal organs.

· Sarcoma - cancer that begins in bone, cartilage, fat, muscle, blood vessels, or other connective or supportive tissue.

· Leukemia - cancer that starts in blood-forming tissue such as the bone marrow and causes large numbers of abnormal blood cells to be produced and enter the blood.

· Lymphoma and myeloma - cancers that begin in the cells of the immune system.

· Central nervous system cancers - cancers that begin in the tissues of the brain and spinal cord. - http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/what-is-cancer

The majority of cancers occur in the age group 50-60. Sex does not affect the incidence of the disease. It, however, affects the site of growth. In men, cancer is usually found in the intestines, the prostate and the lungs. In women, it occurs mostly in the breast tissues, uterus, gall-bladder and thyroid.

Cancer is a general term applied to a series of more than 200 malignant diseases which may affect many different parts of the body. These diseases are characterized by a rapid and uncontrolled formation of abnormal cells which may mass together to form a growth or tumor, or proliferate throughout the body, initiating abnormal growth at other sites. If the process is not arrested, it may progress until it causes death.

Here are some other facts about cancer cells that will help us as we develop the strategy to eliminate them and restore health without the use of poisonous drugs or therapies.

all cancer cells are surrounded by a coating (sialo-glycoprotein) - In 1902, Scottish embryologist, Dr. John Beard. cancer cells both hide from their host’s immune system by producing a protective protein coating that carries a negative electrostatic charge. White blood cells, a key component of the immune system, being negatively charged themselves, are therefore electrostatically repelled from these cells. This repulsive force inhibits the white blood cells from being able to devour any type of cancer cell in the body.

all cancer cells are acidic and produce acid - http://jcs.biologists.org/cgi/content/abstract/107/9/2381

http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/bi952234e

http://insciences.org/article.php?article_id=8298

all cancer cells have a lower ph than the surrounding tissue -

all cancer cells produce large amounts of lactic acid and use it - http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/11/081120171325.htm

all cancer cells of any type use glucose (sugar) - http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17046224

all cancer cells are anaerobic (using very little or no air or oxygen) in their metabolism.

All cancer cells have a unique pattern of proteins, similar to a fingerprint, on their surface membranes, - http://www.cancer.med.umich.edu/news/stemcell.htm

all cancer cells are abnormal cells in which the processes regulating normal cell division are disrupted. - http://www.learner.org/courses/biology/textbook/cancer/cancer_1.html

These facts about cancer are readily available to most people. What is not so commonly understood is that cancer cannot be burned, poisoned or cut out of the body without potentially causing cancer to reappear some where else in the body.

There is an interesting verse in the Bible which has some relevance to one of modern medicine's most popular cancer treatments - chemotherapy.

For by thy sorceries were all nations deceived. Revelation 18:23

In the book of Revelation in the Bible, the word sorceries comes from the greek word - pharmakeia. The word pharmakeia is where we get our word pharmacy from. Here is the entry in the Strong's Bible concordance.

Strong's number 5331 // farmakeia // pharmakeia // far-mak-i'-ah //
from 5332 ; n f
AV - sorcery 2, witchcraft 1; 3

1) the use or the administering of drugs
2) poisoning

According to the Bible, in the last days, many people will be deceived and poisoned by a modern form of sorcery called drug medication. Instead of addressing the actual cause of illness, drug medications treat symptoms.

The information about cancer that we have looked at so far is actually what we will use to develop the strategy which heals of cancer and restores health. The natural drugless healing of cancer will be explored in the next post.

A PERFECT COMPANION DOES NOT GUARANTEE SATISFACTION - Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful Counselor - Part XXII

2010-04-25T19:58:00.009-04:00

Sometimes in relationships things don't always go very well. Most of us who have had any experience in this area know that this is an understatement. Often, because of the disillusionment and disappointment with the present circumstances of a relationship, people are tempted to believe that if only their husband or wife or boyfriend or girlfriend were more attractive or more intelligent or just much better, everything would be alright. This is not necessarily true. For if it were possible to unite us with the person whom we believe to be everything that we are looking for, it would not take very long for us to discover that we may not be all that we thought we were. Often we think better circumstances or better people would make our lives much better when in actuality, there is something in us that could work against our "perfect relationship." When we say perfect, we are speaking about someone who says and does the right things at the right times. Would a perfect boyfriend or girlfriend or perfect husband or wife make us happy ? This is what we will look at in this week's post...

A PERFECT COMPANION DOES NOT GUARANTEE SATISFACTION

Eve had a perfect home and a perfect husband who had pure affections, perfect thoughts and control of his appetites and passions. Yet, Eve was not satisfied.

What can we learn from this ?

Our happiness comes not from what is around us, but from what is within us; not from what we have, but from what we are.

It's not what's around us or what we have that is the source of true happiness. Happiness depends upon what are and what we have within us. Apart from Christ, all that we have is self and self can never be satisfied and self will never keep a person happy.

Adam was a perfect type of man. Every quality of mind was well proportioned, each having a distinctive office, and yet dependent one upon another for the full and proper use of any one of them. As Adam came forth from the hand of his Creator, he was of noble height, and of beautiful symmetry. He was more than twice as tall as men now living upon the earth, and was well proportioned. His features were perfect and beautiful. Adam was in the perfection of manhood--the noblest of the Creator's works. He was in the image of God, but a little lower than the angels. (James 3:2/1 John 4:18,12/Psalms 37:37/Matthew 5:48/Hebrews 2:7/Genesis 1:31,6:4)

Man came from the hand of God perfect in organization and beautiful in form. All his faculties of mind and body were fully developed and harmoniously balanced. His nature was in harmony with the will of God. His affections were pure; his appetites and passions were under the control of reason. Before his fall Adam was free from the results of the curse. When he was assailed by the tempter, none of the effects of sin were upon him. He was created perfect in thought and in action. (Proverbs 12:5,16:3/Galatians 5:22,23/Matthew 5:5,8)

Eve had all that her wants required. There was nothing lacking to make her happy, but intemperate appetite desired the fruit of the only tree that God had withheld. She had no need of the fruit of the tree of knowledge, but she permitted her appetite and curiosity to control her reason. She was perfectly happy in her Eden home by her husband's side; but, like restless modern Eves, she was flattered that there was a higher sphere than that which God had assigned her. Eve had everything to make her happy. She was surrounded by fruit of every variety. Yet the fruit of the forbidden tree appeared more desirable to her than the fruit of all the other trees in the garden of which she could freely eat. She was intemperate in her desires. (Genesis 2:8-16/Proverbs 10:22/Hebrews 13:5)

According to the Bible, Eve was overcome through her senses. And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. (Genesis 3:6) Eve heard the voice of the serpent, saw, touched and tasted the fruit and more than likely smelled it.

For the sake of gratifying the taste, Eve transgressed the command of God. He had given her everything her wants required, yet she was not satisfied. Ever since, her fallen sons and daughters have followed the desires of their eyes and of their taste. Eve was beguiled by the serpent to believe that God would not do as He said He would. "Ye shall not surely die," said the serpent. Eve ate and imagined that she felt the sensations of a new and more exalted life. She bore the fruit to her husband, and that which had an overpowering influence upon him was her experience. (Genesis 3:13/Ecclesiastes 1:16/2 Corinthians 11:3) (Human experiences which rely upon senses alone are not always safe or adequate guides for making decisions)

The serpent had said that she should not die, and she felt no ill effects from the fruit, nothing which could be interpreted to mean death, but, just as the serpent had said, a pleasurable sensation which she imagined was as the angels felt. Her experience stood arrayed against the positive command of Jehovah, and Adam permitted himself to be seduced by the experience of his wife. (Genesis 3:6,17/1 Timothy 2:14)

Adam and Eve were a perfect couple who had everything they needed to be happy. It is highly unlikely that a loving God did not supply all that was necessary for their pleasure and enjoyment. There was no emotional insecurity or lack of human love and intimacy. Material, intellectual, physical, emotional and all needs were met. Yet, they were offered and accepted a false experience being deceived thereby with the promise of a better life than the one they were experiencing. There is a such thing as a right experience and a wrong experience and depending upon which one is cultivated, the character is shaped for eternal life or eternal death.

Having all that we humanly need or all that we humanly desire will never satisfy us unless Christ is supreme in our affections and the chief cornerstone of our character purifying all our desires.

By the grace of God, we will continue this study in another post.
Have a wonderful evening.

You have just been reading from page 24 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

BEING LOVELY AND LOVING WITHOUT RECEIVING HUMAN LOVE - THIS WILL BE HARD WITHOUT CHRIST - Marriage Counseling With the Wonderful Counselor - Part XXI

2010-04-09T11:09:00.012-04:00

Can you do this ? Can anyone do this ? It may be hard but it is not impossible. We're talking about loving someone and being a lovely person without receiving human love in return. Well, why would I want to do that you might ask. For one thing the best experience of love is in giving it not receiving it. Receiving love and being appreciated is certainly good and more in harmony with our human nature. However, the purer, better and more fulfilling love is experienced by giving it and it is this kind of love that is most needed in all relationships; especially marriage. It all boils down to you being the beautiful person that God created you to be regardless of how anyone treats you. That is called Christ-likeness and it requires the grace of God.

BEING LOVELY AND LOVING WITHOUT RECEIVING HUMAN LOVE

The husband or the wife can be loving even if one of them does not receive human love from the other. This can only happen by the grace of God and His love being shed abroad in the heart.

Those who enter the marriage relation while unconverted should not after conversion leave their unbelieving companions. Whatever their religious character may be, they must remain faithful, kind, and true toward them; yet they should acknowledge the claims of God above any earthly relationship, serving him with fidelity, even though inconvenience, trials, and persecutions may arise for the sake of Christ and the truth. This persevering fidelity to truth and duty may be a sanctifying influence upon the unbelieving companion. Even sinners whose hearts are not utterly closed to God's Spirit will respond to kindness; while they may give hate for hate, they will also give love for love. But it is only the Spirit of God that gives love for hatred. To be kind to the unthankful and to the evil, to do good hoping for nothing again, is the insignia of the royalty of heaven, the sure token by which the children of the Highest reveal their high estate. (1 Corinthians 7:10-16/Luke 6:32-35)

In the character of Abigail, the wife of Nabal, we have an illustration of womanhood after the order of Christ; while her husband illustrates what a man may become who yields himself to the control of Satan. Nabal was like the rich man in the parable. He had only one thought,--to use God's merciful gifts to gratify his selfish animal appetites. He had no thought of gratitude to the giver. He was not rich toward God; for eternal treasure had no attraction for him. (1 Samuel 25:36/Romans 8:5/Galatians 5:19-21)

Nabal was naturally unreasonable and abusive, and when aroused he knew not what he said or did. The piety of Abigail, like the fragrance of a flower, breathed out all unconsciously in face and word and action. The Spirit of the Son of God was abiding in her soul. Her heart was full of purity, gentleness, and sanctified love. Her speech, seasoned with grace, and full of kindness and peace, shed a heavenly influence. Kind words make the life beautiful and noble; for in them is the spirit that pervades heaven. (1 Samuel 25:3,10,1126,28,30/Galatians 5:22,23)

Nabal had scornfully inquired, "Who is David?" but Abigail called him, "My Lord." With kind words she sought to soothe his irritated feelings. She did not reproach him for his hasty action, for she felt assured that a little time and reflection would work a change in his purpose, and that his conscience itself would condemn the violent measure which he was about to take. She pleaded with David in behalf of her husband. (1 Samuel 25:24)

With utter unselfishness of spirit, she desired him to impute the whole blame of the matter to her, and not to charge it to her poor, deluded husband, who knew not what was for his own good or happiness. What a spirit is this ! With nothing of ostentation or pride, but full of the wisdom and love of God, Abigail revealed the strength of her devotion to her household. Whatever was her husband's disposition, he was her husband still, and she made it plain to the indignant captain that the unkind course of her husband was in nowise premeditated against him as a personal affront; but it was simply the outburst of an unhappy and selfish nature. (1 Samuel 25:24,25,28,31,10,11)

Abigail was a loving and lovely person without love from her husband. Is it possible for a human being to be like Abigail ? There are many more examples like this that could be cited but the greatest example is seen in the person of Jesus Christ. By the enabling grace of God, any person can become Christ-like in character and give love even if he or she does not receive it.

By the grace of God, we will continue this study in another post.
Have a wonderful weekend.

You have just been reading from page 23 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

HIGHER EDUCATION - A MASTER'S DEGREE IN RELATIONSHIPS - Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful Counselor - Part XX

2010-04-04T21:03:00.013-04:00

ADDITIONAL COUNSEL FOR BOTH HUSBAND & WIFE
This also cometh forth from the LORD of hosts, which is wonderful in counsel, and excellent in working.
(ISAIAH 28:29)

Someone has said that if we stop learning then we stop living. To gain an education that makes one a better person is certainly a noble goal. Better person according to the world's standards, however, may often refer to a person's monetary value rather than his or her moral worth. The education that teaches a person how to give the most and how to be the best in a relationship is priceless. This is the kind of instruction that God wants everyone to have. In this post we will visit one of the classes being taught in the school of marriage and take good notes.

MARRIAGE IS A SCHOOL

School - a place of education or collection of pupils of any kind; any place of improvement or learning. (American Dictionary of the English Language)

Marriage is certainly a place of learning and a place of potential growth and improvement. Notice what is to be the study in the school of marriage for the students who are enrolled.

To gain a proper understanding of the marriage relation is the work of a lifetime. Those who marry enter a school from which they are never in this life to be graduated. It should henceforth be the life study of both husband and wife how to avoid everything that creates contention and to keep unbroken the marriage vows.

It is the duty of every married couple to studiously avoid marring the feelings of each other. They should control every look and expression of fretfulness and passion. They should study each other's happiness, in small matters, as well as in large, manifesting a tender thoughtfulness, in acknowledging kind acts and the little courtesies of each other. These small things should not be neglected, for they are just as important to the happiness of man and wife, as food is necessary to sustain physical strength.

Study to advance the happiness of each other.

The word study means to fix the mind closely upon a subject; to apply the mind to; to dwell upon in thought. (American Dictionary of the English Language)

In summary, here is what marriage students need to study...

1. how to avoid everything that creates contention

2. how to keep unbroken the marriage vows

3. each other’s happiness

(Proverbs 24:3, 17:14, 13:10, 1:5, 9:9, 16:21,23/Psalms 101:3/1 Corinthians 7:3/Ephesians 4:32/1 Timothy 6:8/Philippians 2:3/Exodus 20:13,14/Deuteronomy 6:6,7, 11:19/Amos 3:3/John 13:17)

The world generally and somewhat ignorantly teaches people how to fight fair or disagree and argue successfully. It is believed that contention is inevitable and some say that adultery is not so bad. One's personal happiness is often considered the priority which should guide decisions regarding the relationship. On the other hand, God teaches that it is best to avoid contentions altogether and He shows us how to do it. In connection with Christ, both the husband and wife may receive enabling grace to resist and overcome all selfish tendencies that threaten to destroy marriage. While it is true that these lessons are not generally taught in the world, if husbands and wives actually study and apply the principles of these subjects, they will be prepared to pass the test of finances, the test of fading outward beauty, the feelings and emotions test, and any of life’s other physical, mental or spiritual tests.

By the grace of God, we will continue this study in another post.

Have a triumphant day in Christ.

You have just been reading from page 22 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

A BEAUTIFUL WOMAN - A BEAUTIFUL WIFE - ONLY BY THE GRACE OF GOD - Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful Counselor - Part XIX

2010-03-24T14:38:00.008-04:00

Most of us who have ever been in a love relationship with someone will have to admit that we did not attend any special classes that taught us how to make these experiences a happy success. We basically decide based upon what feels right or what we think may be best for us. Personality alone won't hold a relationship together. There are character qualities needed by both the man and the woman if there is any hope for something more than a temporary pleasant distraction on life's highway. In this post we consider the last 3 keys to a husband's/man's heart and how to win him and keep him.

10. A SUBMISSIVE WIFE

It is the duty of the wife to yield her wishes and will to her husband. Both should be yielding, but the Word of God gives preference to the judgment of the husband.

Give up your own ideas and your own wishes if by so doing you can help him. Thus you will be blessed. Do not persist in having your own way when you know that this afflicts him. The requirements of the husband may sometimes seem unreasonable to the wife, when if she should calmly, candidly take the second view of the matter, in as favorable a light for him as possible, she would see that to yield her own way and submit to his judgment, even if it conflicted with her feelings, would save them both from unhappiness and would give them great victory over the temptations of the enemy.

This helps him to develop humility as he beholds it in his wife. It is a law of the human mind that by beholding we become changed. When the Spirit of Christ controls the husband, the wife's subjection will only result in rest and benefit, for he will require from her only that which will result in good, and in the same way that Christ requires submission from the church.

A husband needs a submissive wife and a limit to that submission. God requires that the wife shall keep the fear and glory of God ever before her. Entire submission is to be made only to the Lord Jesus Christ, who has purchased her as His own child by the infinite price of His life... There is One who stands higher than the husband to the wife; it is her Redeemer, and her submission to her husband is to be rendered as God has directed--"as it is fit in the Lord." (Colossians 3:18) (Ephesians 5:22/Titus 2:3,4)

11. A VIRTUOUS WOMAN - Virtuous - morally good (ADEL)

A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones. (Proverbs 12:4) A virtuous woman does not make her husband ashamed of her conduct when they are alone together, together with others or when she is not by his side.

Virtue of character depends upon the right action of the powers of the mind and body. Who can find a virtuous woman ? for her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. (Proverbs 31:10-12)

12. A TRUE, UNSELFISH WOMAN

No other influence that can surround the human soul has such power as the influence of an unselfish life. In the companionship of a true, unselfish woman, the husband finds peace and happiness, forgetting the cares of the world. In order to be happy ourselves, we must live to make others happy. If the mind is free and happy, from a consciousness of right-doing and a sense of satisfaction in causing happiness to others, it creates a cheerfulness that will react upon the whole system, causing a freer circulation of the blood, and a toning up of the entire body. A contented mind, a cheerful spirit, is health to the body and strength to the soul. A merry (rejoicing) heart doeth good like a medicine. (Proverbs 17:22,31:30,15:13/1 Samuel 25:3/John 6:53,54,16:33/Hebrews 9:14/)

It is selfish to devote our precious time to mourning over disappointed hopes, indulging a useless grief that clouds the family circle. Undue grief is displeasing to God. Grief, anxiety, discontent, remorse, guilt, distrust, all tend to break down the life forces and to invite decay and death. It is the worst phase of selfishness to fret and censure and complain because you have the power to do this and those whom you abuse in this way cannot prevent you. Self-pity is deteriorating to the characters of those who cherish it, and it exerts an influence that spoils the happiness of others. If the wife is selfish, lacking in womanly traits, neither amiable nor self-denying, may the Lord help them: for life will be a woeful disappointment. (Proverbs 27:15,25:24,21:9,7:11/Psalms 73:21/Matthew 26:38/Ecclesiastes 2:17)

EXCELLENCE OF CHARACTER IN A WOMAN

All that makes men manly, or women womanly, is reflected from the character of Christ. This is because true manliness and true womanliness include character qualities and is not just defined by gender. Woman, if she wisely improves her time and her faculties, relying upon God for wisdom and strength, may stand on an equality with her husband as adviser, counselor, companion, and coworker, and yet lose none of her womanly grace or modesty. She may elevate her own character, and just as she does this she is elevating and ennobling the characters of her family and exerting a powerful though unconscious influence upon others around her.- Every woman should develop a well-balanced mind and a pure character, reflecting only the true, the good, and the beautiful.

Woman does not know her power. God did not intend that her capabilities should be all absorbed in questioning: What shall I eat ? what shall I drink ? and wherewithal shall I be clothed ? There is a higher purpose for woman, a grander destiny. She should develop and cultivate her powers, for God can employ them in the great work of saving souls from eternal ruin. Woman's heart is full of patience and love if that woman has surrendered her heart to God.

The Lord would have woman seek constantly to improve both in mind and heart, gaining intellectual and moral strength that she may lead a useful and happy life,--a blessing to the world and an honor to her Creator. Daughters of the heavenly King, members of the royal family, will feel a burden of responsibility to attain to a higher life, that they may be brought into close connection with heaven and work in unison with the Redeemer of the world. (Revelation 12:1/Ruth 3:11/Psalms 144;12/Galatians 3:28/Proverbs 4:18,31:29/2 John 1:5/Philippians 3:14/Deuteronomy 18:13/Matthew 5:48/Romans 12:2)

By the grace of God, we will continue this study in another post. Have a wonderful weekend.

You have just been reading from pages 20 and 21 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.