THE MONSTER IN THE MIRROR - SELF - Principles of Victory In The Christian Life - Part IV

In order to appreciate victory we must first clearly identify and recognize what it is that we need the victory over and why we need this victory. Notice what the Bible says about the last days.

This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves... TIMOTHY 3:1,2 ---> Perilous means dangerous (ADEL) Why are the last days so dangerous ? The Bible tells us why. “...men shall be lovers of their own selves...” The rest of this verse continues with a description of various manifestations of selfishness.

It is selfishness which makes the last days so dangerous and it is selfishness in all of its varied forms that we need the victory over; by the grace of God selfishness must be overcome. (Revelation 21:7)

The Bible teaches that the transgression of God's law of 10 commandments is sin. (1 John 3:4)

All sin is selfishness. Satan's first sin was a manifestation of selfishness. (Read Isaiah 14:12-14 and Ezekiel 28:13-17) He sought to grasp power, to exalt self. A species of insanity led him to seek to supersede God. And the temptation that led Adam to sin was Satan's declaration that it was possible for man to attain to something more than he already enjoyed, possible for him to be as God Himself. The sowing of seeds of selfishness in the human heart was the first result of the entrance of sin into the world. God desires every one to understand the evil of selfishness, and to cooperate with Him in guarding the human family against its terrible, deceptive powers. The design of the gospel is to confront this evil by means of remedial missionary work, and to destroy its destructive power by establishing enterprises of benevolence. (Philippians 2:5-8/ Matthew 16:24/ 2 Corinthians 10:5/ Micah 6:5)

God does not employ compulsory measures; love is the agent which He uses to expel sin from the heart. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me. (Psalms 37:4/ John 6:37/ Romans 8:32/ Psalms 43:4/ 1 Peter 1:8)

Notice this point with care... All self‑exaltation and self‑admiration are the result of ignorance of God and of Jesus Christ, whom He has sent. (Proverbs 9:10/ Isaiah 57:15/ Romans 1:28-31/ Philippians 3:7,8)

The antidote for this is found in these words...

"Pride and self-worship cannot flourish in the soul that keeps fresh in memory the scenes of Calvary."

Selfishness is written on the human heart in plain, unmistakable characters. Selfishness is the root of all evil. Selfishness lies at the foundation of all sin. Thus we conclude that selfishness is the principle which excludes one from heaven. “Human selfishness is the barrier to eternal life.” (Mark 7:21-23/ Jeremiah 17:9/ John 3:5/ Matthew 18:3/5:8/5:3,10/ Mark 10:15/ 1 Corinthians 6:9,10/ Galatians 5:19-21/ Rphesians 5:5)

The principle of selfishness is deadly and will lead to the time of trouble. “Selfishness is a deadly evil.” (Proverbs 18:12/ Ezekiel 31:10,11/ Revelation 18:7/ Daniel 5:22,23,30/8:25) Those in the world, having lost their connection with God, are making desperate, insane efforts to make centers of themselves. This causes distrust of one another, which is followed by crime. The kingdoms of the world will be divided against themselves. Fewer and fewer will become the sympathetic cords which bind man in brotherhood to his fellow man. The natural egotism of the human heart will be worked upon by Satan. He will use the uncontrolled wills and violent passions which were never brought under the control of God's will. For of whom a man is overcome , of the same is he brought in bondage . (2 Peter 2:19) (Romans 6:16/ Isaiah 2:11,17/ Matthew 24:10/ Zechariah 14:13/ Jeremiah 30:7) This will be the result at the close of human probation when the Holy Spirit is finally withdrawn from those who have rejected the work of the love of God in their lives ...(Matthew 12:31,32/ Revelation 22:11)

To be continued...

It is not the will of our heavenly Father that so many would be deceived concerning salvation and eternal life in these last days. While GOD loves everyone and will forgive anyone HE does not change our character against our will or without our cooperation.

A Christ-like character is the only kind of character that could enjoy heaven and a Christ-like character is the only kind of character that could be trusted in heaven.

We are given a life-time, (be it long or short) to cooperate with God in developing a Christ-like character for eternal life in heaven. It begins with the new birth experience.

Ask Jesus Christ to come into your life today and to begin the work of changing you for heaven. Confess your sins and acknowledge your need of Him. He loves you and wants the privilege of enjoying friendship with you forever.

Let's pray...

Heavenly Father, I am a sinner and have lived a selfish life and broken your commandments. I believe that you love me and have proved it by allowing your Son Jesus Christ to be crucified on the cross for my sins.

I believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross to pay the penalty for my sins because He loves me.

I believe that Jesus Christ was resurrected and will give me power over sin because He loves me.

I believe that Jesus Christ will come again and deliver me from the presence of sin because He loves me.

Please cause me to be born again right now and bless me with new motives, new desires and new purposes. Help me to grow more and more like my new Lord and Savior from day to day.

In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Welcome to the family of God !

Have a great weekend and may the Lord keep and bless you.

T.K.

SCARED TO DEATH - The Difference Between Love and Fear - How To Recognize Love - Part IX

The Difference Between Love and Fear

Fear - a strong feeling caused by knowing that danger, pain, or evil is near.

This is the most commonly understood and recognized kind of fear that is generally known among human beings.

What is another source of fear ?

There is fear in guilt. (Isaiah 33:14/John 19:7,8/1 Timothy 5:20/1 Samuel 12:20/Esther 7:6/Psalms 119:120)

What is the cause of guilt ?

Selfishness is...the cause of human guilt. (Genesis 42:21/Leviticus 5:3,4/Romans 3:19/James 2:10) There are many different manifestations of selfishness but all result in guilt. The guilt and/or the selfishness are not actually perceived by the human mind when it is not under the control of the Spirit of God.

SELFISHNESS ----------> GUILT ------------> FEAR

Fear is one of the fruits that may grow on the tree of selfishness. So our heavenly Father seeks to cut away at the roots of the tree of selfishness thereby eliminating fear.

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear. 1 JOHN 4:18

GOD is love. There is no fear in love and there is no fear in GOD. Those who love HIM do not fear His presence. It is the presence of GOD alone that can permanently do away with fear.

ONLY THE SENSE OF GOD’S PRESENCE CAN BANISH THE FEAR. (No matter what the source of that fear may be)

Through JESUS CHRIST, the SON of GOD and representative of GOD, anyone who desires may experience the presence of GOD.

The one who is actually conscious of the presence of CHRIST is able to live without fear as he or she lives life experiencing what heaven is like. “..in thy presence [is] fulness of joy..” (PSALM 16:11) "The definition of heaven is the presence of Christ" and "heaven is all health." Why does perfect love cast out fear ? “...perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment.” (1 John 4:18)

The word (noun) torment means great pain or suffering and the pain or suffering may be physical or mental or both. Fear weakens and can ultimately destroy the health of the body and the mind if it is not overcome so perfect love casts it out.

He that feareth is not made perfect in love. (1 John 4:18)

How is one made perfect in love ? "...practice makes perfect." To be made perfect in love one must be in the habit or practice of loving; of doing good and nothing but good. 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 good circulation purifies the blood, and secures health. Giving or receiving love will significantly improve one’s health.

If we cry out to the LORD in prayer, pleading for HIS presence asking HIM to help us choose (yes, make a choice) to love, this can be our testimony, “I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.” (Psalms 34:4)

By the grace of God, we will continue to study these things in another post.

T.K.

© 2009 Tyrone Keels

www.issues-of-life.com

You have just been reading from page 8 of a booklet entitled, "How To Recognize Love" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blogs... 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.

DEADLY SUBSTANCES - Natural Remedies - Specific Herb Uses - Part V

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.

It is more than likely true that most people do not realize how detrimental to health is the introduction of poisonous substances into the bloodstream. Not really understanding the impact upon the liver, the kidneys and other vital organs of the body, people on long term medication seal their own fate through the continued use of pharmaceuticals.

Of late, vaccinations and the possibility of mass innoculation has been in the news because of a "perceived" (or possibly conceived) potential swine flu epidimic. More poisons for the blood streams of the citizens of America.

Here are some interesting thoughts concerning vaccinations from Dr. Carley - http://www.icnr.com/articles/vids.html

and here are a few others of interest...

A 60 Minutes segment on what happened in the 70’s with the "Swine Flu" hoax. (This 60 minutes was only aired once never to be seen again by the public):

Swine Flu 1976 Hoax – PART I
http:​/​/​www.​youtube.​com/​watch?​v=​Ro1WL5ketWg

Swine Flu 1976 Hoax – PART II
http:​/​/​www.​youtube.​com/​watch?​v=​H0aIoa97X5k

Here is the Propaganda put out to the public in 1976 by the Federal Government:
http:​/​/​www.​youtube.​com/​watch?​v=​ASibLqwVbsk

Here is a message from congressman Ron Paul recently referring to the Swine Flu (hysteria) in the 1970’s: http:​/​/​www.​youtube.​com/​watch?​v=​TB5-​Y08qbjo

Flu Vaccines have been directly linked to Autism from the Mercury content contained in the preservative Thimerosal.

These first 2 videos were first reported on local news channels but not any more.

ABC, NBC Clips Part 1 – Vaccines and Autism
http:​/​/​www.​youtube.​com/​watch?​v=​Sv35sXZLtj8

ABC, NBC Clips Part 2 – Vaccines and Autism
http:​/​/​www.​youtube.​com/​watch?​v=​VgeHbfIVn70

“Due to the use of thimerosal in vaccines given to kids, the number of cases of autism has increased by 1500 percent since 1991….”

H1N1 Flu Vaccine Will Contain Mercury
http:​/​/​www.​associatedconte​nt.​com/​article/​2008884/​h1n1_​flu_​vaccine_​will_​contain_​mercury.​html

Swine Flu Vaccine Should Not Be Given to Children in Schools
http:​/​/​www.​nvic.​org/​NVIC-​Vaccine-​News/​July-​2009/​Swine-​Flu-​Vaccine-​Should-​Not-​Be-​Given-​to-​Children.​aspx

Drugs never cure. They only change the form and the location of the disease. Herbs when used with understanding, provide a safe and powerful alternative to poisonous drug therapy. Here is a continuation of a descriptive list of herbal properties in alphabetical order.

ANTI-ZYMOTICS - Herbs used to destroy or arrest the action of bacterial organisms

Blackberry, Black walnut, Cloves, Elecampane, Garlic, Gentian, Lobelia, Mullein, Peppermint,

APERIENTS OR LAXATIVES - Herbs used as mild evacuants or laxatives to the bowels

Agar, Almonds, Apples (stewed), Apricot, Asparagus, Balm of Gilead, Balmony, Blue cohosh, Blue violet, Boneset, Buckthorn bark, Burdock root, Butcher’s broom, Carob, Cascara sagrada, Cocnut milk, Chicory, Cleavers, Endive, Fennel, Feverfew, Figs, Flaxseed, Golden seal, Hickory, Honeysuckle, Hops, Horehound, Hyssop, Licorice, Marshmallow, Motherwort, Mustard, Oats, Olive oil, Oregon grape, Parsley, Peach, Prickly ash berries, Prunes, Raspberries, Safflower, Sesame, Spinach, Strawberry, Turkey rhubarb, Wahoo, Watermelon, Wood betony

AROMATICS - Herbs that are odoriferous, having a fragrant, pungent and spicy taste, and which stimulate the gastrointestinal mucous membrane.

Angelica, Anise, Balm of Gilead, Basil, bayberry leaves, Buchu, Burdock leaves, Caraway, Cardamon, Catnip, Celery, Cloves, Fennel, Goldenrod, Horehound, Hyssop, Jamaica ginger, Lemon peel, Mountain balm, Myrrh, Orange peel, Parsley, Peach, Peppermint, Pimento, Red clover, Rosemary, Sassafras, Spearmint, Sweet flag, Tumeric, Valerian, vanilla, Wild cherry, Wild marjoram, Wood betony, Wormwood

ASTRINGENTS - Herbs that influence the vital contractility of cell walls, condense the tissues, make them denser and firmer, and arrest improper discharges.

Acacia, African ginger, Agrimony, Amaranth, Apple bark and root (powerful), Barberry, Bayberry (powerful), Beech bark and leaves, Bilberry, Bistort (powerful), Blackberry (powerful), Black cohosh, Black walnut leaves, Buchu, Bugleweed, Butternut, Cayenne, Chaparral, Cherry, Chestnut leaves, Cloves, Comfrey root, Cramp bark, Culver’s root, Echinacea, Elecampane, Evening primrose, Eyebright, Figwort, Goldenrod, Grape leaves, Hawthorne, Hickory bark, Honeysuckle, Hops, Horse tail, Hydrangea, Lobelia, Lungwort, Magnolia, Male fern, Mandrake, Mountain laurel, Mullein, Myrrh, Periwinkle, Persimmon, Plantain, Pleurisy root, Pomegranate, Purple loose strife, Red maple, Red oak, Red raspberry, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Sanicle, Scullcap, Shavegrass, Sorrel, Squaw vine, St. John’s wort, Stinging nettle, Strawberry, Sycamore, Turkey rhubarb, Uva Ursa (powerful), Wahoo, White oak (strong), White willow, Wild cherry, Witch hazel, Wood betony, Yarrow, Yellow dock,

APHRODISIACS - herbs used to correct conditions of impotence and strengthen sexual power

Black cohosh, Damiana, Echinacea, False unicorn, Ginseng, Jamaica ginger, Saw palmetto berries, Vanilla pods, Yohimbe

BALSAMIC - Herbs that mitigate, soothe and heal inflamed parts

Avocado leaves, Balm of Gilead buds, Spikenard

To be continued...

You should not use herbs as a means to treat disease or illness unless and only if you have followed these steps first in dealing with disease symptoms.

1. Ascertain the cause

2. Correct the wrong habits and change the unhealthful conditions and

then...

3. Assist the body to heal itself

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.

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

CHANGE YOU CAN COUNT ON: Principles Of Victory In The Christian Life - Part III

Do you want change ? Real change ? Check this out...

Repentance is born in the heart by beholding the love of Christ, who gave his life to save the sinner. It is the goodness of God, manifested in Christ, that softens the heart. It is the virtue that goes forth from Jesus that inspires the purpose of the soul to turn away from sin. We do not repent in order that God may love us, but God reveals his love to us that we may repent. (Romans 2:4/2 Corinthians 7:10/2 Peter 3:9/Acts 17:30)

It is in beholding the love of God that repentance is awakened in the sinner's heart, and an earnest desire is created to become reconciled to God. 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. (Job 42:6/Psalms 97:10) We can no more repent without the Spirit of Christ to awaken the conscience, than we can be pardoned without Christ. Christ draws the sinner by the exhibition of his love upon the cross, and this softens the heart, impresses the mind, and inspires contrition and repentance in the soul. (Luke 5:32/Mark 2:17) The degree of our love for God depends upon the clearness and fulness of our conviction of sin. (Luke 7:47/Psalms 51:1-4/Revelation 1:5,6)

There is no undecided work about true conversion. It is the work of the Holy Spirit upon human character. A Christian is one whose heart is controlled by the Holy Spirit. (Romans 8:9,14,16/Galatians 5:22,23/Philippians 2:13) The Holy Spirit inspired the Scriptures and always leads to the Scriptures. The Scriptures are the great agency in the transformation of character. (2 Timothy 3:16,17)

To follow Jesus requires wholehearted conversion at the start, and a repetition of this conversion every day. Genuine conversion is needed, not once in years, but daily. (1 Corinthians 15:31/Luke 9:23/Psalms 61:8,68:19) This conversion brings man into a new relation with God. Old things, his natural passions and hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong, pass away, and he is renewed and sanctified. But this work must be continual; for as long as Satan exists, he will make an effort to carry on his work. (1 Peter 5:8) He who strives to serve God will encounter a strong undercurrent of wrong. His heart needs to be barricaded by constant watchfulness and prayer, or else the embankment will give way; and like a mill‑stream, the undercurrent of wrong will sweep away the safeguard. (Mark 14:38) No renewed heart can be kept in a condition of sweetness without the daily application of the salt of the word. (Psalms 119:11) Divine grace must be received daily, or no man will stay converted. As the mind is enlightened in regard to what is purity and sanctification, and the heart responds to the strivings of the Holy Spirit, a daily conversion will be the result. (2 Peter 1:2-4/Ephesians 4:7/)

To remove the stains of sin requires the work of a lifetime. Every day renewed efforts in restraining and denying self are needed. Every day there are new battles to fight and victories to be gained. Every day the soul should be called out in earnest pleading with God for the mighty victories of the cross. (1 Timothy 6:12/Psalms 119:12,50:15/

However complete may have been our consecration at conversion, it will avail us nothing unless it be renewed daily; but a consecration that embraces the actual present is fresh, genuine, and acceptable to God. Every living Christian will advance daily in the divine life. (John 14:23) As he advances toward perfection, he experiences a conversion to God every day; and this conversion is not completed until he attains to perfection of Christian character, a full preparation for the finishing touch of immortality. (2 Timothy 4:7,8/Romans 2:7/1 Corihtians 15:52,53/Philippians 3:13,14/Matthew 24:13/Hebrews 3:14,6:11/Acts 15:11/Revelation 2:26)

To be continued...

It is not the will of our heavenly Father that so many would be deceived concerning salvation and eternal life in these last days. While GOD loves everyone and will forgive anyone HE does not change our character against our will or without our cooperation.

A Christ-like character is the only kind of character that could enjoy heaven and a Christ-like character is the only kind of character that could be trusted in heaven.

We are given a life-time, (be it long or short) to cooperate with God in developing a Christ-like character for eternal life in heaven. It begins with the new birth experience.

Ask Jesus Christ to come into your life today and to begin the work of changing you for heaven. Confess your sins and acknowledge your need of Him. He loves you and wants the privilege of enjoying friendship with you forever.

Have a great weekend and may the Lord keep and bless you.

T.K.

ILLUSTRATION OF THE PLANT - How To Recognize Love - Part VIII

ILLUSTRATION OF THE PLANT

Illustrations can sometimes help us to better understand truth. Just as Jesus has been called the "lily of the valley" so also is love often compared to a tender plant. It must be cultivated and cherished, and the roots of bitterness all have to be plucked up around it in order for it to have room to circulate, and then it will bring in under its influence all the powers of the mind, all the heart, so that we shall love God supremely and our neighbor as ourselves. (Ephesians 3:17-19/Colossians 2:6,7)

What causes roots of bitterness to spring up ? The absence of the grace of God working in the life prepares the way for this to happen. An act, a word, a thought, cast into the minds of the great concourse of humanity, if it bears the heavenly endorsement, will yield a harvest of precious fruit; but if it is inspired by Satan, it will cause the root of bitterness to spring up, whereby many will be defiled. (Hebrews 12:5/Jeremiah 2:19, 4:18)

Every deed of thoughtful kindness, of obedience, or of self‑denial, will reproduce itself in others, and through them in still others. So every act of envy, malice, or dissension, is a seed that will spring up as a "root of bitterness," whereby many shall be defiled. (Matthew 7:17,18/Galatians 6:7/Proverbs 22:8) This root of bitterness can only be plucked up by GOD who then sows the soil of the heart (which is the mind) with the incorruptible seed of the woman, JESUS CHRIST, the WORD of GOD. Our heavenly FATHER watches over the heavenly SEED as it grows in the heart (mind) and the Bible says regarding that Seed that “he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground...” (Isaiah 53:2)

Christ should never be out of the mind. because 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. (2 Corinthians 3:18)

JESUS said,“Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.” (MATTHEW 15:13)

Love is a plant of heavenly origin. It is not unreasonable; it is not blind. It is pure and holy. But the passion of the natural (unconverted) heart is another thing altogether, While pure love will take God into all its plans, and will be in perfect harmony with the Spirit of God, passion will be headstrong, rash, unreasonable, defiant of all restraint, and will make the object of its choice an idol. Infatuation and human passion are often mistaken for love.

Passion may feel like the love that many human beings understand but pure love originates from only one source. This heavenly plant only flourishes where Christ reigns supreme. Where love exists, there is power and truth in the life. (Psalms 138:2,26:3/2 Timothy 1:7)

CHRIST and the love of CHRIST can only reign supreme in a converted heart; in the heart of someone who has had the experience of “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.” (1 PETER 1:23) Just as the planted seed after being submerged in the earth will eventually spring forth and bear fruit, so likewise... When self is submerged in Christ, true love springs forth spontaneously. (John 15:5,12:24)

By the grace of God, we will continue to study these things in another post.

T.K.

© 2009 Tyrone Keels

www.issues-of-life.com

You have just been reading from page 7 of a booklet entitled, "How To Recognize Love" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blogs... 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.

LAWS OF THE MIND - What Are You Thinking About ?

Think right thoughts, and you will perform right actions. Principles like these and many more which govern the mind and its functions are found throughout the Bible. Understanding how the mind works and appreciating the laws that govern it could be very useful in controlling stress, anxiety and depression and even totally transforming a person's life. (Romans 12:2/Proverbs 16:3/Isaiah 26:3) I will list a few here for anyone interested . More about this can be found at www.issues-of-life.com.

If the mind is habitually given difficult tasks, it acquires efficiency and power.

The mind gradually adapts itself to the subjects upon which it is allowed to dwell.

The thoughts will be of the same character as the food provided for the mind.

Proverbs 1:5,24:5/Romans 8:5/Psalms 1:2/1 Timothy 4:15

If our thoughts and feelings are not brought into harmony with heaven while we are alive upon this earth, we could never be happy there nor could we be trusted there.

Let us cooperate with our heavenly Father to the end that others may be attracted to Christ and heaven too as they behold His character reflected through us.

T.K.

NATURAL REMEDIES - Specific Herb Uses - Part IV

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.

I don't know about you but I found the statistics regarding the amount of Americans using drug medication startling. From the American Heart Association, check this out...

Almost two-thirds of Americans currently use medicines: 49 percent use prescription drugs and 30 percent use nonprescription medications.

32 million Americans are taking three or more medications daily.

http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=107

More than half of Americans are on medication...

http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2008-05-14-medication-nation_N.htm

Drugs never cure. They only change the form and the location of the disease. Herbs when used with understanding, provide a safe and powerful alternative to poisonous drug therapy. Here is a continuation of a descriptive list of herbal properties in alphabetical order.

ANTI-SCORBUTICS - Herbs used to prevent and cure scurvy (bleeding gums)

Black berries, Black currant, Bladderwrack, Blueberries, Burdock root, Chickweed, Cleavers, Cranberries, Dandelion, Elecampane, Flaxseed, Hydrangea, Lemon juice, Mandarin orange, Marjoram, Oregon grape, Origanum, Pineapples, Radishes, Sanicle, Sarsaparilla, Sheep sorrel, Shepherd’s purse, Sorrel, Spinach, Strawberry, Stinging nettle, Tomatoes, Water dock, Wild apple, Wood betony, Yellow dock

ANTI-SCROFULOUS - Herbs used to heal scrofula (lymphatic system diseases)

Agrimony, Barberry, Bayberry, Bittersweet, Black cohosh, Black walnut, Bladderwrack, Blue flag, Burdock root, Camomile, Chaparral, Cleavers, Coltsfoot, Comfrey root, Dandelion, Echinacea, Figwort, Gentian, Hyssop, Lavender, Mandrake, Oregon grape, Plantain, Pleurisy root, Red clover, Rosemary, Sarsaparilla, Sassafras, Sorrel, Stillingia, Stinging nettle, Turkey rhubarb, Valerian, Vervain, Wild carrot, Wood betony, Wormwood, Yellow dock

ANTISEPTICS - Herbs used to prevent, resist and counteract the decay of cells and the formation of pus (putrefaction)

Amaranth, Anise oil, Arrowroot, Beech, Blackberry, Blue violet, Buchu, Bugleweed, Burdock, Camomile, Caraway oil (powerful), Cayenne, Cinnamon oil, Cloves and oil, Echinacea (powerful), Elecampane, Eucalyptus, Fennel oil, Figwort, Gentian, Golden seal, Hydrangea, Lemon, Marigold, Marshmallow, Mullein, Myrhh (powerful), Plantain, Pleurisy root, Sandalwood, Sanicle, Saw Palmetto, Smartweed, Stinging Nettle, Uva Ursa, Vervain, White oak, Wormwood

ANTISPASMODICS - Herbs used to relieve nervous irritability and reduce or prevent excessive involuntary muscular contractions (spasms)

Apricot seed, Balm, Blue cohosh, Boneset, Bugleweed, Camomile, Catnip, Cayenne, Cedron, Chaparral, Cloves, Coltsfoot, Cramp bark, Cumin, Elecampane, Eucalyptus, Evening primrose, Rennel, Garlic, Gentian, Jamaica ginger, Lady’s slipper, Lobelia, Marigold, Mullein, Oats, Parsley, Passion flower, Peppermint, Pleurisy root, Pomegranate, Prickly ash berries, Primrose, Red clover, Rosemary, Sassafras, Scullcap, Skunk cabbage, Spearmint, Valerian, Vervain, Wild ginger, Wild yam

ANTI-SYPHILITICS - Herbs used to relieve and cure syphilis or other ventral diseases

Barberry, Bayberry, Bittersweet, Black walnut, Bladderwrack, Blue flag, Blue violet, Burdock, Chaparral, Cleavers, Corn Silk, Culver’s root, Echinacea, Golden seal, Hydrangea, Hyssop, Kava kava, Mandrake, Marshmallow, Mountain laurel, Oregon grape, Parsley, Plantain, Red clover, Red raspberry, Sandalwood, Sanicle, Sarsaparilla, Shavegrass (horsetail), Spikenard, Stillingia, Uva Ursa, Yellow dock

ANTI-VENOMOUS - Herbs used as antidotes to animal, vegetable and mineral poisons.

Agrimony, Balm, Bistort, Black cohosh, Black mustard (narcotic poisoning), Cedron, Chaparral, Coca (narcotic poisoning), Echinacea, Elecampane, Fennel, Garlic, Gentian, Hyssop, Life everlasting, Lobelia, Marigold, Marjoram, Mustard (narcotic poisoning), Olive oil, Plantain (powerful), Sassafras, Scullcap, Slippery elm, Solomon’s seal, White oak, Wormwood

To be continued...

You should not use herbs as a means to treat disease or illness unless and only if you have followed these steps first in dealing with disease symptoms.

1. Ascertain the cause

2. Correct the wrong habits and change the unhealthful conditions and

then...

3. Assist the body to heal itself

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.

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

TRUE CONVERSION + CONTINUAL GROWTH = A CHRISTIAN

This is just a quick follow-up to Thursday's post. Conversion and Christian growth are often mistaken to mean the same thing. The Bible makes a distinction between the 2 experiences. There is an initial conversion and a daily conversion that continues after. The clearest and plainest demonstration of what conversion is may be understood by considering the experience of Saul of Tarsus who was converted and became Paul. Read Acts 9:1-20 to see what happens in conversion. Take special note - this is at the BEGINNING of Christian experience. Paul's growth in Christ began after he was converted. The true conversion that occurs when a person confesses and repents of his or her sins for the first time includes such a radical change in the person's attitude toward sin and Christ that many mistakenly believe that it could only happen gradually. The thoughts and feelings of a truly converted individual are changed with his or her permission by the grace of God at the moment of initial conversion.

Many have never truly been converted and this is made evident in their disposition towards sin and Christ. Sin and selfishness is not avoided at all costs and Christ is not the center and joy of their lives. They may wear the name of Christian but their thoughts and feelings and affections are not in heaven or upon heavenly things. They are of the earth..earthy..

The conversion of Saul was marked with heartfelt repentance, thorough confession, and an earnest longing for pardon of sin. Prior to his conversion, Saul had been proud and self-confident; now he was bowed down with sorrow and shame; he abhorred himself because of the suffering he had brought upon the disciples of Jesus. In the light of the revelation that had come to him, he began to see himself as the chief of sinners.

Saul yielded himself fully to the convicting power of the Holy Spirit. With eyes anointed by the grace of God, he saw the mistakes of his life, and recognized the far-reaching claims of the law of God. He who had been a proud Pharisee, confident that he was justified by his good works, now bowed before God with the humility and simplicity of a little child, confessing his own unworthiness, and pleading the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour. Saul longed to come into full harmony and communion with the Father and the Son; and in the intensity of his desire for pardon, he offered up fervent supplications to the throne of grace.

A Brief Review

When a person accepts Christ for the 1st time and is truly converted

1. His or her views about Christ change and they are ready to do what He tells them to do (Acts 9:6)

2. His or her views about other human beings change and they are interested in the salvation of others. (Acts 9:20)

3. He or she exalts Christ as God and no longer exalts and worships self as god. (Acts 9:20)

May the Lord bless us with His love and give you and I an increasing understanding.

T.K.

AM I REALLY A CHRISTIAN ? - Principles of Victory In The Christian Life - Part II

TRUE CONVERSION

= Real Christians

Today it is quite fashionable in our modern American society for many to profess Christianity. This has contributed to a wide variety of opinions about what it means to be a Christian as well as significant confusion for the sincere hearted searcher for truth. Even people who pretend to kill other people in movies claim to be Christian.

This is not really the way Jesus Christ intended to be remembered. Many have never really been converted. Much of what claims association with Christianity is a misrepresentation of the character of Christ and God. The Lord Himself said that we would be able to recognize a Christian by the "fruit" or character traits manifest in the person's life. That includes each one of us. Let's continue examining the beginning of a true Christian experience.

When true conversion takes place in the heart, it is made manifest in a transformation of character, for those who are converted become Christlike. (Matthew 18:3/ John 15:5/ Galatians 5:24)

Pride no longer lives in the heart, sin seems abominable. The converted soul hates the thing that depraves his moral sensibilities. He hates that which crucified the Lord of life and glory. (Romans 6:6/ Matthew 5:5,18:4,16:24/ Ezekiel 36:31)

Those who are truly converted grow in the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and as knowledge of Christ increases, they see more clearly where their own weakness lies; they realize the deep depravity of their natures. (Job 42:6/ John 5:31/ Matthew 13:3/ Psalms 92:12)

They understand the strength of sin, and know the power of their old habits. No deep‑seated love for Jesus can dwell in the heart that does not see and realize its own sinfulness. (Romans 7:14-20/ Galatians 5:17/ Ezekiel 20:43)

The Spirit of God does not create new faculties in the converted man but works a decided change in the employment of those faculties. When mind and heart and soul are changed, man is not given a new conscience, but his will is submitted to a conscience renewed, a conscience whose dormant sensibilities are aroused by the working of the Holy Spirit. (Hebrews 9:14)

Repentance for sin is the first step in conversion. Repentance is an intense hatred of sin in all its forms. Repentance includes sorrow for sin, and a turning away from it. We shall not renounce sin unless we see its sinfulness; until we turn away from it in heart, there will be no real change in the life. (Ezekiel 14:6/ Jeremiah 18:30)

It is one of the saddest evidences of the blinding influence of sin that months and years roll on and there is no awaking to repentance.

True repentance will lead a man to bear his guilt himself and acknowledge it without deception or hypocrisy. Repentance is genuine when reformation takes place. (Psalms 38:18)

He who is truly repentant, he who is regenerated, hates sin. All manner of selfishness is distressing to him. Indifference to God on the part of those around him grieves him.

Without true repentance, there can be no true conversion. Many are deceived here, and too often their entire experience proves to be a deception. This is why so many who are joined to the church have never been joined to Christ. Baptism may be repeated over and over again, but of itself it has no power to change the human heart.

All who profess the truth are not converted, although they may think they are. Some mistake transient emotions, ideas, and fancies, or resolutions formed in their own strength, for conversion. But faith is a living, abiding principle. Its object is truth,‑‑divine, eternal, changeless truth. Genuine, saving faith is inseparable from repentance and conversion, and will manifest the fruits of the Spirit. It is a continual, conscious trust in Jesus. (Matthew 7:20-23)

Many are received into the church who are not converted. All who are baptized are to give evidence that they have been converted.

^{While the Lord brings into the church those who are truly converted, Satan at the same time brings persons who are not converted into its fellowship. While Christ is sowing the good seed, Satan is sowing the tares. There are two opposing influences continually exerted on the members of the church. One influence is working for the purification of the church, and the other for the corrupting of the people of God. (Matthew 13:24-30, 25:1-13, 26:21)}

To be continued...

It is not the will of our heavenly Father that so many would be deceived concerning salvation and eternal life in these last days. While GOD loves everyone and will forgive anyone HE does not change our character against our will or without our cooperation.

A Christ-like character is the only kind of character that could enjoy heaven and a Christ-like character is the only kind of character that could be trusted in heaven.

We are given a life-time, (be it long or short) to cooperate with God in developing a Christ-like character for eternal life in heaven. It begins with the new birth experience.

Ask Jesus Christ to come into your life today and to begin the work of changing you for heaven. Confess your sins and acknowledge your need of Him. He loves you and wants the privilege of enjoying friendship with you forever.

T.K.

DEADLY MISTAKES versus Principles of VICTORY in the Christian Life - Part I

This post is for the benefit of so many who don't understand how to become a Christian and stay one. One of the greatest deceptions misleading many in these last days is that since Jesus died for everyone, just believing in Him will save them. No good works are required in order to go to heaven.

This is what was told to George Sodini - the 48 year old man who went into a health club in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on August 4, 2009 and killed 3 women, wounded several others and then killed himself. Story here - http://abcnews.go.com/US/story?id=8258525&page=1

Here is an excerpt from his online diary entry the day before he committed the murders:

"Maybe soon, I will see God and Jesus. At least that is what I was told. Eternal life does NOT depend on works. If it did, we will all be in hell. Christ paid for EVERY sin, so how can I or you be judged BY GOD for a sin when the penalty was ALREADY paid."

This poor soul was deceived about eternity, Christ and salvation. To the end that others may be saved from such tragic misunderstanding, this series of posts are being made available.

BEGINNING OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE

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. 

(Proverbs 3: 13, Luke 12:15)

The very first requirement for victory in the Christian life is that the person be a Christian indeed. The doorway into the Christian experience, the first step on the path to complete victory is conversion sometimes referred to as being born again. This takes place when a person allows his or her heart to be softened by God’s love and the impressions that God makes on the conscience. When the power of the will is not used to resist this experience, the thoughts and feelings about God will change and the process of character development begins. It is only God, who can, in answer to prayer, cause a person to be born again and thus begin a Christian life. (John 3:3-6, 1:12,13/ Hebrews 3:7/ Romans 2:4)

Beginning in the morning of life, controlled by the laws of nature and of God, the Christian moves steadily onward and upward, daily drawing nearer his heavenly home, where await for him a crown of life, and a new name, "which no man knoweth saving him that receiveth it." Constantly he grows in happiness, in holiness, in usefulness. The progress of each year exceeds that of the past year. (Philippians 3:13,14/ 2 Peter 1:3-11)

For the benefit of any reader who has not yet commenced a Christian life and does not know how to begin or what conversion is, an explanation follows...

In his conversation with Nicodemus, Christ explained the nature and importance of true conversion. He solemnly declared, "Except a man be born again,"--unless he receive a new heart, new desires, purposes, and motives, leading to a new life,--"he cannot see the kingdom of God." He is no longer to be a willing subject to the enemy of Christ, to remain in subjection to the power of sin. (2 Corinthians 5:17/ Ezekiel 36:26)

True conversion = new desires + new purposes + new motives from God

Conversion is a change of heart, a turning from unrighteousness to righteousness. Relying upon the merits of Christ, exercising true faith in him, the repentant sinner receives pardon for sin. As he ceases to do evil, and learns to do well, he grows in grace and in the knowledge of God. He sees that in order to follow Jesus he must separate from the world, and, after counting the cost, he looks upon all as loss if he may but win Christ. He enlists in his army, and bravely and cheerfully engages in the warfare, fighting against natural inclinations and selfish desires, and bringing the will into subjection to the will of Christ. Daily he seeks the Lord for grace, and he is strengthened and helped. Self once reigned in his heart, and worldly pleasure was his delight. Now self is dethroned, and God reigns supreme. His life reveals the fruit of righteousness. The sins he once loved he now hates. Firmly and resolutely he follows in the path of holiness. This is genuine conversion. (Romans 6:6,11,12,18/ Matthew 16:24/ 2 Peter 3:18)

In the unregenerate heart there is love of sin, and a disposition to cherish and excuse it. In the renewed heart there is hatred of sin, and determined resistance against it. In the renewed heart there will be a fixed principle to obey the will of God, because there is a love for what is just, and good, and holy. There will be no hesitating, conferring with the taste, or studying of convenience, or moving in a certain course because others do so. (Romans 8:1,2,5,7,12, 13)

It is not the will of our heavenly Father that so many would be deceived concerning salvation and eternal life in these last days. While GOD loves everyone and will forgive anyone HE does not change our character against our will or without our cooperation.

A Christ-like character is the only kind of character that could enjoy heaven and a Christ-like character is the only kind of character that could be trusted in heaven.

We are given a life-time, (be it long or short) to cooperate with God in developing a Christ-like character for eternal life in heaven. It begins with the new birth experience.

Ask Jesus Christ to come into your life today and to begin the work of changing you for heaven. Confess your sins and acknowledge your need of Him. He loves you and wants the privilege of enjoying friendship with you forever.

T.K.