The first issue is perhaps the only main one; that is what does "accepting Christ as Lord and Savior mean?" As a PERSONAL Savior there is some more meat to that framework of logic. But there are many confessors out there but not true possessors of the Holy Spirit. We must truly remain within the vine and bear fruit to be one of His ( John 15:4). Baptism doesn't save anyone; it is an act of obedience and public confession which we are commanded to do associated with our repentance as scripture indicates as well.
The second issue is the purpose for the cannabis usage. it would be nice to assume that for medicinal and prescriptive purposes; it is being used for pain relief or some other theraputic use; or that what is being used is the kind without THC.
The plant itself has much more nutrient value and is not toxic unlike tobacco; although any smoked substance is bad for the lungs. Ultimately; the Lord chastises all those He loves. One can be caught with a vice for a time; but the Spirit is only grieved if it already exists within a person; which it is not with unbelievers.
In terms of recreational use; do we want the temple of the Holy Spirit to be contaminated; or influenced by a substance that causes hallucinations and an altered conscience (even if arguably it doesn't cause addiction like other stronger substances).
Anyone who doesn't do what he knows to be right--for him it is sin. ( James 4:17). We as with any other thing we take liberty to do must also consider others who are brothers who may in their conscience consider something wrong; as well as the obvious compromising of our testimony. That same principle exists for alcohol use; along with other drugs that marijuana often is a "gateway" to. Also there are illegal vendors who will spike PCP and who knows what other dangerous substances in it that are a danger to you and anyone else involved as well as monies going to nefarious characters.
Galatians 2:20 - I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
Demon spirits cannot enter you when Jesus Christ resides in your heart. If you are truly a born-again believer, what you are experiencing is demon influence. Resist them! James 4:7 "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Seek help from someone who is a dedicated Christian who can help you through this. Draw as close to God via prayer, reading the Word, and singing.
"Resist the devil and He will flee from you" James 4:7
Dear Acbertha, I suggest disassociating with this person who is asking you to join this group.
We are told to "avoid even the appearance of evil". (can't find the verse)
So, it may be best to speak firmly to this person that you will not join him in this group because you are a Christian and belong to Jesus, not the devil, as this group follows the evil one.
Interesting; in the fact that it came up in discussion in small group tonight. 1 Tim. 5:8 gives us a clue; as to the effect of such action; and states that those who do not care for the needs of their family are worse than an infidel. There is; simply put no specific verse about gambling. But there is the verse that states if we know the right thing to do and don't do it to us it is sin ( James 4:7).
In theory; one could be a genius who can memorize a deck of cards; or who has proven to win more than lose in a particular game; or balance out amounts bet so that in time they are ahead or in the black. If they were willing to provide for others including their own budget and needs by allocating earnings and expenses as one would with any other method of employment and strictly stopped when they had spent the amount allocated; and had enough invested on the side to sustain them; and or other means of income then conceivably they could make such an occupation a career or side job. Most casinos; of course would tire having losses themselves with such individuals present at their establishment.
The temptations for overspending; greed; and the other vices such as drinking; and pornography so often available at such establishments; and not doing such things around others who have an addiction to gambling would be very hard to avoid. The specific question of someone with an offering made under gambling raises these issues. The vast majority of those who play games of chances are from those who are at best seduced by the world; and are likely to be ensnared while they systematically destroy their lives and that of their family. There is the warning of a "double minded man" being unstable in all his ways ( James 1:8). We cannot love both God and mammon according to Christ. I cannot see how such an occupation can be an effective witness; nor how it can demonstrate trusting God to provide for our needs; even if it isn't specifically listed as a sin.
Hello Roberta. Not knowing the exact nature of the matter or conflict between you & your granddaughter, I can only share some verses for you to look up & take to heart. I hope that they will minister to you both at your points of need. You can hover over the Scriptures with your mouse/pointing device or look them up in the Bible (also given here on this KJBO Site).
James 4:10; Ephesians 4:31,32; John 15:12; Romans 12:9,10; Philippians 2:3,4; Colossians 3:12-16; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7; Ephesians 4:2,3; Galatians 5:22-26; John 13:34,35 (given to re-emphasize John 15:12).
I don't know if the following helps you but i think that all the answers we need are provided by God in His Word .
By declaring God is my Lord we accept that He takes control of our lives AND give that control to Him. Nevertheless He wants us to keep asking for our needs until He answers as the widow in the parable of the unjust judge kept doing. LUKE 18: 1-7. bearing in mind MATHEW 6:33 which means that if we give priority to our spiritual needs then the Lord will fulfill our material needs and MATHEW 26:39 which means that sometimes God's plan for us maybe a bit different to our plans for ourselves and JAMES 4:3-4 which means that we don't ask for bad things or things like say winning the lottery or getting rich AND always have faith when asking MARK 11:22-26.
Those are few but ...actually a whole book can be written about asking and receiving from God
Dear Denise, draw nigh to God and He will draw nigh to you. Read your Bible and pray. May the following verses be a comfort to you as they are to me.
James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Romans 8:38,39 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Ps. 56:3 Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
In context James 4:1-10 is dealing with wars and fights among Christians that disrupt and divide the church. He attributes it to lusts that war in our members. We crave for things that we cannot have, both because we don't ask God for them and when we do ask we He refuses our requests, because they are wanting to give in to our lusts. Lusts within leading to fights make us Adulterers or Adulteresses trying to be just like the world, which acts as God's enemy.
James reminds us that the Spirit is within us and strives against such desires, since God will jealously claim those who are joined to Him. Yet the Spirit also gives us more grace. The Spirit simultaneously resists our pride and gives us grace when we start to humble ourselves. James then says that as we submit to God in humility the Spirit enables us to turn His resistance to the proud against the devil, who is above all proud, so that he must flee.
Now that brings us to the verse your question is about. The word "nigh" means "at a short distance away". As the devil flees at the sight of us humbling ourselves, rejecting his wicked pride and distancing us from him, the distance between us and God grew shorter and God moves toward us.
However, the grief and betrayal of Adultery must still be acknowledged and faced in repentance to bring true restoration. Adultery has to be put away from us by acknowledging we are sinners in what we've done and that we've acted as double-minded cheaters against our true love. Real grief at the relational harm we've caused is appropriate and necessary in the face of Adultery. But God promises that if we present true humility before Him like this, He will forgive our sins and lift us up to enjoy His everlasting love again.
Read Hosea. That book gives God's view of friendship with the world as Adultery and Hosea has to act out God's jealous love and grace in the face of that kind of betrayal from the wife God called him to marry. That is what James is talking abou
Matthew 6:9-13 and a slightly abridged version in Luke gives us Christ's instructions in HOW we ought to pray. We have the honor and praise to God (fulfilling the First Commandment); and an example of seeking His Kingdom first and His will to be done-then asking for our daily provisions; forgiveness of sins (commission/omission) as well as forgiving others; asking to not be led into temptation; and being delivered from evil; and once again acknowledging God's authority (yours is the Kingdom; power and glory). Our prayers therefore are encapsulated in us verbalizing and meditating on God's authority and Holiness.
This by no means should be a ritualistic prayer. When we look at it; there really isn't any miraculous manifestation asked for in terms of healing; casting out demons; etc. But it needs to be the foundation of our lives so that our testimonies are genuine and we are living not for ourselves but for God. Clearly; we are NOT to pray as James states to satisfy our lusts ( James 4:3). There are times when we need to say God help! and clearly in a crisis life and death moment that may be enough. Trust in God's provisions despite external circumstances AND that the works that He has for us from before the beginning of the world ( Ephesians 2:10) are two major factors in a good prayer life. Obviously; discipline to listening to His voice; spending quality frequent quiet times in prayer and the Word are helpful as well. It is helpful to understand His will and also to rest in the fact that we have a High priest ever interceding for us ( Hebrews 7:25); and Romans 8:33. We all see through a glass darkly; but should seek to grow in maturity and wisdom.
Dear brother. Our salvation is not a result or a wage for our good lives, it is a gift from God through the sacrifice of His Son Jesus Christ. To understand that think that all people have sins since we are human and have weak nature . So God has to convict us no matter how good or bad people we are, just the penalty differs. But Jesus paid that penalty on the cross once (the wage of sin is death) as a represantative for all people of all times so now everybody who believes and accepts that sacrifice is freed from God's conviction (apostle Paul deals with that in ROMANS 2-8). But (and here is where the misunderstanding about grace and work comes in) once you accept the salvation God offered you and start walking your christian life, you HAVE TO HAVE a good life obeying God's laws written in the Gospel and do good things (works) so that you keep the salvation that you once accepted, because it can be lost, AND transform youself (your character) so to become similar to Jesus', that is God's. How do i loose my salvation? By doing sins and do not repent (the wage of sin is death). Also by not doing good things (works) which again is a sin {see James 4:17). It is not that the good things we do will save us, it is always the grace of God, but they show what we have inside (apostle James deals with that in his epistle). Example given, if i say i have love then how do i show that? By not being interested in other peoples needs and give some help? If that is the case then two things may have happened, either i dont care and i am outside God's life and salvation or i have not understood who is the God i beleived in. Wrote too much, hope didnt confuse you.
Have to say that for this topic various churches have various beliefs.
James 4:14 (KJV) Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
You're correct I don't see that verse putting any emphasis on family relationships in Heaven.
Dear Deborah Kuradal, You say you need God in your life right now...let me ask you this? Have you been born again? If you have, trust in Him. Here are some verses which have helped me.
1John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Romans 8:38,39 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Ps. 56:3 Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord
Have you been born again? If not, here is the Way.
"As it is written, 'There is none righteous, no, not one.'" ( Romans 3:10)
"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." ( Romans 3:23)
"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." ( Romans 6:23)
"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." ( Romans 5:8)
"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." ( Romans 10:13)
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.- Romans 10:9-13
13 Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: 14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. 15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that. 16 But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.
Faith is not presumption that your will and God's will are the same. Jesus taught us to pray:
Matthew 6:10
Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Faith is submission to God's will as Christ submitted His will to the Father's will ( Matthew 26:36-46)
39 And he (Jesus) went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.
42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.
44 And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words.
4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11
And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Satan is a created being, what does he look like? Isaiah 14:12-15 morning star, translated Lucifer, the morning star/day star is the planet, Venus, it is brightest just before sunrise, 2 Corinthians 11:14 an angel of light, 1 Peter 5:8 a roaring lion, Revelation 12:3 great red dragon seven heads ten horns and seven crowns. There are many descriptions of Satan, but he is a master of disguise.
The horrific almost cartoonish description of Satan comes from the Middle Ages. If the understanding it is covering Satan, Ezekiel 28:14 says Satan was a covering cherub. There are seraphim we see in Isaiah 6:1-6 and in Revelation 4:6-9 called beasts, and cherubim, is in the bible more times, seraphim six wings, cherubim four wings. The biblical descriptions, I believe if we came face to face with, we would faint from fear.
Satan is not omnipresent; he can only be in one place at a time. There are evil spirits and evil angels he controls on this earth, we see in Daniel, battles that we cannot see, Daniel 10. The devil and his evil spirits can affect our life, and it can be vicious, Ephesians 6:12 but we far too often use that to excuse our own bad choices (the devil made me do it). Galatians 5:17
We also have been told, James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Jernej, we are not robots. God gave us free will to do His will or to do evil. You can choose between porn and God's commandments. It is hard, but all things are possible with God. Ask Him to forgive you and mean it by repenting, that is, never doing it again. Immerse yourself in Him by praying, reading His Word, singing, going to church, seeking fellowship with other Christians. When the devil gives you the urge to go back to porn, rebuke him and he will flee. James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Here are other verses that will help you.
--Corinthians 10:5 Take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. Philippians 4:8: Whatever is... true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy.
-- Romans 8:38,39 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
-- Ps. 56:3 Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.
-- Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
-- 1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
-- Psalms 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
-- Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
-- Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Let this be your aim:
-- Galatians 2:20 - I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
Amen. From my understanding, the main ingredients to an effective prayer is faith ( Matthew 21:22) and pure motives (or pure heart). ( James 4:3). I think some miss the 2nd category- God knows our heart.
That's admirable you are praying for others so much and genuinely care. Thank you for sharing God's love and lifting others up. God bless.
I knew a guy named Cecil at Myrtle Beach Air Force Base. He adopted a 6month old baby girl that had been horrificly abused. I read your post several times. I closed the ap. Had to pray a little & think on your post. I haven't heard from our friend Cecil since I was a teenager. The MBAFB shut down shortly after those days & everyone moved away.
Cecil, GOD is Just. Have you heard of Moses? In Genesis, Abraham was promised several amazing things, a son from his 'wife', in their old age, etc. Gen. 12:2,3,7, but also that those heirs would be servant in strange land & afflicted 400 yrs. Genesis 15:12-13, if you read in depth you can find GOD's justice. Genesis 12:10-17, Genesis 16:1-16, Genesis 21:9-19 = it was in Egypt, Abraham's children of Sarah's son Isaac's offspring were afflicted.
Genesis 18, shows great mercy of GOD that if 10 righteous were in that land (Sodom & Gomorrah) it would've been spared. That's his Nephew Lot's friends & family. ?, Right here is proof the GOD interecedes on People's behalf when they obey HIM.
GOD's ways are not our ways, Isaiah 55:8,9,
We cannot blame GOD for wickedness of man = Genesis 6:5-6,
Yet GOD shows us mercy & unimaginable love, John 3:16-17, salvation through sacrifice, Psalms 18:25-27,
GOD is merciful, true & Just. If you read the books that go alongside Isaiah you'll get a clearer picture: 2Chronicles 36, Jeremiah 29, Jeremiah 51, Exodus 22:22, Isaiah 1:17, Isaiah 1:23, Jeremiah 7:6, Jeremiah 22:3, Ezekiel 22:7, Malachi 3:5, Zechariah 7:10, you can start with those verses because that's most of what GOD asked of Israel & Judah. Then please read the Books & chapters.
Then Babylon: 2Kings 20:12-18,19, Daniel 1, 2Kings 25:8-9, I stopped there because that's enough about the evil.
Hopefully these are helpful if you are trying to search for truth & understanding. You can also ask for wisdom James 1:5-6,21,
Deuteronomy 28, note: Deuteronomy 28:58, Deuteronomy 28:15, Deuteronomy 28:28, Matthew 15:22-28, Matthew 17:14-21, Mark 5:2-13, Mark 7:27-30, Luke 4:33-43, Luke 8:26-40, Luke 9:35-50, Acts 10:38, James 4:7, 1John 3:8, Jude 1:9,
I'm sorry I just saw your reply, the meaning of your question is not totally clear. Evil has many faces; it is like the wolf that is dressed like a lamb, trickery, and deception. The meaning of being deceived can be, taken out of the way. James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
The second issue is the purpose for the cannabis usage. it would be nice to assume that for medicinal and prescriptive purposes; it is being used for pain relief or some other theraputic use; or that what is being used is the kind without THC.
The plant itself has much more nutrient value and is not toxic unlike tobacco; although any smoked substance is bad for the lungs. Ultimately; the Lord chastises all those He loves. One can be caught with a vice for a time; but the Spirit is only grieved if it already exists within a person; which it is not with unbelievers.
In terms of recreational use; do we want the temple of the Holy Spirit to be contaminated; or influenced by a substance that causes hallucinations and an altered conscience (even if arguably it doesn't cause addiction like other stronger substances).
Anyone who doesn't do what he knows to be right--for him it is sin. ( James 4:17). We as with any other thing we take liberty to do must also consider others who are brothers who may in their conscience consider something wrong; as well as the obvious compromising of our testimony. That same principle exists for alcohol use; along with other drugs that marijuana often is a "gateway" to. Also there are illegal vendors who will spike PCP and who knows what other dangerous substances in it that are a danger to you and anyone else involved as well as monies going to nefarious characters.
I'm not sure why such a question is asked.
Demon spirits cannot enter you when Jesus Christ resides in your heart. If you are truly a born-again believer, what you are experiencing is demon influence. Resist them! James 4:7 "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Seek help from someone who is a dedicated Christian who can help you through this. Draw as close to God via prayer, reading the Word, and singing.
Dear Acbertha, I suggest disassociating with this person who is asking you to join this group.
We are told to "avoid even the appearance of evil". (can't find the verse)
So, it may be best to speak firmly to this person that you will not join him in this group because you are a Christian and belong to Jesus, not the devil, as this group follows the evil one.
In theory; one could be a genius who can memorize a deck of cards; or who has proven to win more than lose in a particular game; or balance out amounts bet so that in time they are ahead or in the black. If they were willing to provide for others including their own budget and needs by allocating earnings and expenses as one would with any other method of employment and strictly stopped when they had spent the amount allocated; and had enough invested on the side to sustain them; and or other means of income then conceivably they could make such an occupation a career or side job. Most casinos; of course would tire having losses themselves with such individuals present at their establishment.
The temptations for overspending; greed; and the other vices such as drinking; and pornography so often available at such establishments; and not doing such things around others who have an addiction to gambling would be very hard to avoid. The specific question of someone with an offering made under gambling raises these issues. The vast majority of those who play games of chances are from those who are at best seduced by the world; and are likely to be ensnared while they systematically destroy their lives and that of their family. There is the warning of a "double minded man" being unstable in all his ways ( James 1:8). We cannot love both God and mammon according to Christ. I cannot see how such an occupation can be an effective witness; nor how it can demonstrate trusting God to provide for our needs; even if it isn't specifically listed as a sin.
Psalms 46:9,
Psalms 37,
Yes I believe the little children and some mentally challenged people will go to heaven.
Here's why, There seems to be an age of accountability.
Deuteronomy 1:39. Here Joshua reminds Israel of the decree given by God in Numbers 14:21-33. Here the age of accountability is 20 years old.
James 4:17. I don't see a one year old knowing he's in need of a savior.
Romans 14:12. This is something a child can't do.
King David seems to think at least babies go to heaven in 2 Samuel 12:19-23.
Today this may have more to do with maturity which differs from one kid to another.
Perhaps at an early age one may know good from evil but lack full knowledge and understanding of the gospel, and need of a savior. I hope this helps.
God bless.
James 4:10; Ephesians 4:31,32; John 15:12; Romans 12:9,10; Philippians 2:3,4; Colossians 3:12-16; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7; Ephesians 4:2,3; Galatians 5:22-26; John 13:34,35 (given to re-emphasize John 15:12).
Also, see James 4:14
"You do not have, because you do not ask." James 4:2
"For "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." Romans 10:13
"Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6
"And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:12
By declaring God is my Lord we accept that He takes control of our lives AND give that control to Him. Nevertheless He wants us to keep asking for our needs until He answers as the widow in the parable of the unjust judge kept doing. LUKE 18: 1-7. bearing in mind MATHEW 6:33 which means that if we give priority to our spiritual needs then the Lord will fulfill our material needs and MATHEW 26:39 which means that sometimes God's plan for us maybe a bit different to our plans for ourselves and JAMES 4:3-4 which means that we don't ask for bad things or things like say winning the lottery or getting rich AND always have faith when asking MARK 11:22-26.
Those are few but ...actually a whole book can be written about asking and receiving from God
James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Romans 8:38,39 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Ps. 56:3 Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
James reminds us that the Spirit is within us and strives against such desires, since God will jealously claim those who are joined to Him. Yet the Spirit also gives us more grace. The Spirit simultaneously resists our pride and gives us grace when we start to humble ourselves. James then says that as we submit to God in humility the Spirit enables us to turn His resistance to the proud against the devil, who is above all proud, so that he must flee.
Now that brings us to the verse your question is about. The word "nigh" means "at a short distance away". As the devil flees at the sight of us humbling ourselves, rejecting his wicked pride and distancing us from him, the distance between us and God grew shorter and God moves toward us.
However, the grief and betrayal of Adultery must still be acknowledged and faced in repentance to bring true restoration. Adultery has to be put away from us by acknowledging we are sinners in what we've done and that we've acted as double-minded cheaters against our true love. Real grief at the relational harm we've caused is appropriate and necessary in the face of Adultery. But God promises that if we present true humility before Him like this, He will forgive our sins and lift us up to enjoy His everlasting love again.
Read Hosea. That book gives God's view of friendship with the world as Adultery and Hosea has to act out God's jealous love and grace in the face of that kind of betrayal from the wife God called him to marry. That is what James is talking abou
This by no means should be a ritualistic prayer. When we look at it; there really isn't any miraculous manifestation asked for in terms of healing; casting out demons; etc. But it needs to be the foundation of our lives so that our testimonies are genuine and we are living not for ourselves but for God. Clearly; we are NOT to pray as James states to satisfy our lusts ( James 4:3). There are times when we need to say God help! and clearly in a crisis life and death moment that may be enough. Trust in God's provisions despite external circumstances AND that the works that He has for us from before the beginning of the world ( Ephesians 2:10) are two major factors in a good prayer life. Obviously; discipline to listening to His voice; spending quality frequent quiet times in prayer and the Word are helpful as well. It is helpful to understand His will and also to rest in the fact that we have a High priest ever interceding for us ( Hebrews 7:25); and Romans 8:33. We all see through a glass darkly; but should seek to grow in maturity and wisdom.
Have to say that for this topic various churches have various beliefs.
James 4:14 (KJV) Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
You're correct I don't see that verse putting any emphasis on family relationships in Heaven.
God bless.
1John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Romans 8:38,39 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Ps. 56:3 Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord
Have you been born again? If not, here is the Way.
"As it is written, 'There is none righteous, no, not one.'" ( Romans 3:10)
"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." ( Romans 3:23)
"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." ( Romans 6:23)
"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." ( Romans 5:8)
"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." ( Romans 10:13)
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.- Romans 10:9-13
God bless you!
This is why we say God willing.
And we don't promise either. We just say yes or no and do it. Anything more than that is evil.
13 Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: 14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. 15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that. 16 But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.
Faith is not presumption that your will and God's will are the same. Jesus taught us to pray:
Matthew 6:10
Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Faith is submission to God's will as Christ submitted His will to the Father's will ( Matthew 26:36-46)
39 And he (Jesus) went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.
42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.
44 And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words.
True faith looks beyond ourselves. Philippians 4:4-11
4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11
And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Satan is a created being, what does he look like? Isaiah 14:12-15 morning star, translated Lucifer, the morning star/day star is the planet, Venus, it is brightest just before sunrise, 2 Corinthians 11:14 an angel of light, 1 Peter 5:8 a roaring lion, Revelation 12:3 great red dragon seven heads ten horns and seven crowns. There are many descriptions of Satan, but he is a master of disguise.
The horrific almost cartoonish description of Satan comes from the Middle Ages. If the understanding it is covering Satan, Ezekiel 28:14 says Satan was a covering cherub. There are seraphim we see in Isaiah 6:1-6 and in Revelation 4:6-9 called beasts, and cherubim, is in the bible more times, seraphim six wings, cherubim four wings. The biblical descriptions, I believe if we came face to face with, we would faint from fear.
Satan is not omnipresent; he can only be in one place at a time. There are evil spirits and evil angels he controls on this earth, we see in Daniel, battles that we cannot see, Daniel 10. The devil and his evil spirits can affect our life, and it can be vicious, Ephesians 6:12 but we far too often use that to excuse our own bad choices (the devil made me do it). Galatians 5:17
We also have been told, James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
God bless,
RLW
2John 1:5-11, James 4:4-5, I'm reminded of 2Kings 20:12-18, Isaiah 39:1-7, Micah 7:5, Proverbs 19:4,= Job 19:14, Proverbs 14:20, Psalms 38:11,
Proverbs 19:7, Luke 21:16, Proverbs 19:6, Proverbs 18:24, Proverbs 27:6,
Even Jesus friends : Mark 3:21, Zechariah 13:6, Psalms 41:9, Luke 7:34, Matthew 11:19, Matthew 26:48-50
John 15:14-26, Job 42:10, -after = ( Job 32:3 ), Mark 5:19, Luke 14:12-14,
Hopefully these are helpful for wisdom in your love & wisdom towards GOD, your friends & close friends
Here are other verses that will help you.
--Corinthians 10:5 Take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. Philippians 4:8: Whatever is... true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy.
-- Romans 8:38,39 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
-- Ps. 56:3 Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.
-- Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
-- 1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
-- Psalms 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
-- Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
-- Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Let this be your aim:
-- Galatians 2:20 - I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
May God bless you!
James 4:3,
Hopefully these are helpful
That's admirable you are praying for others so much and genuinely care. Thank you for sharing God's love and lifting others up. God bless.
James 4:3,
Hopefully this is helpful
I knew a guy named Cecil at Myrtle Beach Air Force Base. He adopted a 6month old baby girl that had been horrificly abused. I read your post several times. I closed the ap. Had to pray a little & think on your post. I haven't heard from our friend Cecil since I was a teenager. The MBAFB shut down shortly after those days & everyone moved away.
Cecil, GOD is Just. Have you heard of Moses? In Genesis, Abraham was promised several amazing things, a son from his 'wife', in their old age, etc. Gen. 12:2,3,7, but also that those heirs would be servant in strange land & afflicted 400 yrs. Genesis 15:12-13, if you read in depth you can find GOD's justice. Genesis 12:10-17, Genesis 16:1-16, Genesis 21:9-19 = it was in Egypt, Abraham's children of Sarah's son Isaac's offspring were afflicted.
Genesis 18, shows great mercy of GOD that if 10 righteous were in that land (Sodom & Gomorrah) it would've been spared. That's his Nephew Lot's friends & family. ?, Right here is proof the GOD interecedes on People's behalf when they obey HIM.
GOD's ways are not our ways, Isaiah 55:8,9,
We cannot blame GOD for wickedness of man = Genesis 6:5-6,
Yet GOD shows us mercy & unimaginable love, John 3:16-17, salvation through sacrifice, Psalms 18:25-27,
GOD is merciful, true & Just. If you read the books that go alongside Isaiah you'll get a clearer picture: 2Chronicles 36, Jeremiah 29, Jeremiah 51, Exodus 22:22, Isaiah 1:17, Isaiah 1:23, Jeremiah 7:6, Jeremiah 22:3, Ezekiel 22:7, Malachi 3:5, Zechariah 7:10, you can start with those verses because that's most of what GOD asked of Israel & Judah. Then please read the Books & chapters.
Then Babylon: 2Kings 20:12-18,19, Daniel 1, 2Kings 25:8-9, I stopped there because that's enough about the evil.
Hopefully these are helpful if you are trying to search for truth & understanding. You can also ask for wisdom James 1:5-6,21,
Job 38:1-41, James 4:12,
* Hebrews 7:25,
Deuteronomy 28:1-14, Exodus 23:25, Matthew 4:23,
Luke 9:55-56,
Jeremiah 32:27, Jeremiah 32:17, Luke 1:37,
Hopefully these are helpful
Romans 10:17
"So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."
1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
James 4:8
Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
James 5:13Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.
14Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:
15And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.
16Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
I'm sorry I just saw your reply, the meaning of your question is not totally clear. Evil has many faces; it is like the wolf that is dressed like a lamb, trickery, and deception. The meaning of being deceived can be, taken out of the way. James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
God bless,
RLW