Word became Flesh!

I desire the Deep things of God. I am not satisfied with the basics of Biblical Christianity, even though I am compelled to preach the basics, because many of God's children seem to be illiterate and still sucking on the bottle. By this I am stating that many if not most in the Church today cannot even tell a seeker why they are lost, not to mention how they might be Saved. One of the Deep things of God is the Person-hood of Christ. Who is He? Is He Deity? Just a prophet? Just a Spirit filled man? Is He God in the Flesh? Does it really matter what God’s Word says? Does the Bible only speak to the people mentioned in the Bible? Does Jesus ever claim that He is God? Does Jesus ever claim to be the Messiah? These questions were raised and discussed at Bible Study recently and I wanted to share the Scriptures that clearly speak to the Character of Jesus. I have heard many preachers and teachers that deny that Jesus claimed to be the Christ (Messiah) and say that Jesus was not God in the flesh. So I will simply say, what does Jesus say? Let us hear Him speak and the Holy Spirit speak through the prophets and Apostles. We need not the opinions of man, but the opinion of God! So is Jesus God in the flesh? Our very Salvation Depends on the Deity of Jesus Christ! If Jesus is not Divine, we are still lost in our sins because a Holy God requires a Holy Sacrifice to Atone for sins!

Philippians 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

John 5:18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.

John 8:51 I tell you the truth, if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death.”
52 At this the Jews exclaimed, “Now we know that you are demon-possessed! Abraham died and so did the prophets, yet you say that if anyone keeps your word, he will never taste death.
53 Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?”
54 Jesus replied, “If I glorify myself, my glory means nothing. My Father, whom you claim as your God, is the one who glorifies me.
55 Though you do not know him, I know him. If I said I did not, I would be a liar like you, but I do know him and keep his word.
56 Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad.”
57 “You are not yet fifty years old,” the Jews said to him, “and you have seen Abraham!”
58 “I tell you the truth,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am!”
59 At this, they picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus hid himself, slipping away from the temple grounds.
Exodus 3:13 Moses said to God, “Suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ Then what shall I tell them?”
14 God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM. {14 Or } This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I AM has sent me to you.’”
15 God also said to Moses, “Say to the Israelites, ‘The LORD, {15 The Hebrew for sounds like and may be derived from the Hebrew for in verse 14.} the God of your fathers– the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob– has sent me to you.’ This is my name forever, the name by which I am to be remembered from generation to generation.
John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2 He was with God in the beginning.
Revelation 19:13 He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God.
John 1:14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, {14 Or } who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Jesus indeed existed before the Creation, not just as a thought or plan!
John 17:1 ¶ These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: 2 As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. 3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. 4 I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. 5 And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.

Matthew 26:60 But they did not find any, though many false witnesses came forward. Finally two came forward
61 and declared, “This fellow said, ‘I am able to destroy the temple of God and rebuild it in three days.’”
62 Then the high priest stood up and said to Jesus, “Are you not going to answer? What is this testimony that these men are bringing against you?”
63 But Jesus remained silent. The high priest said to him, “I charge you under oath by the living God: Tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God.”
64 “Yes, it is as you say,” Jesus replied. “But I say to all of you: In the future you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.”
65 Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “He has spoken blasphemy! Why do we need any more witnesses? Look, now you have heard the blasphemy.
66 What do you think?” “He is worthy of death,” they answered.
67 Then they spit in his face and struck him with their fists. Others slapped him
68 and said, “Prophesy to us, Christ. Who hit you?”
Colossians 2:8 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. 9 For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form,10 and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority. (NIV)
Colossians 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: (KJV)

There is but One God and His Name is Jesus! You may ask, how Can God Die? Well very Simple. God is a Spirit. Jesus through the Incarnation, became flesh. John 1:1 ¶ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God.” John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” Who is the Word? Revelation 19:13 And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.” When He died on the Cross it was only His Flesh that died. 1Pe 2:24 “Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.” Jesus is God in the flesh and His flesh died and paid for our sins and He arose by His own Spirit on the third day to secure Eternal Life to all who would Repent of their sins and believe in His Sacrificial Death and Resurrection! Hallelujah! I am sure many will deny the Deity of Jesus Christ and will suffer the consequences. I Trust it will not be you dear reader! Don't Listen to mans opinion about who Jesus is or is not, Read the Inspired Word!
Last exhortation in closing:
Jude 1:3 ¶ Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. (KJV)
3 Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt I had to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints. (NIV)
4 For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. (KJV)
4 For certain men whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are godless men, who change the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord. (NIV)

Powerful Delusion!

Confusion! Confusion! Confusion! So much confusion and rejection of the Truth has resulted in the “Falling Away of the Church.” How did I come up with this statement? Simply by knowing the Truth as revealed in the Word of God! Consider this Passage of Holy Scripture; 2Thessalonians 2:1 Concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered to him, we ask you, brothers,2 not to become easily unsettled or alarmed by some prophecy, report or letter supposed to have come from us, saying that the day of the Lord has already come. 3 Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the man doomed to destruction. 4 He will oppose and will exalt himself over everything that is called God or is worshiped, so that he sets himself up in God’s temple, proclaiming himself to be God.”

The Return of the Lord Jesus will not occur until the Rebellion (fallen away) and the man of lawlessness (anti-Christ) is revealed! In order for him to rise to power and proclaim himself to be God the last Jewish Temple has to be built. Well is there any doubt the the fallen away has started? Have you been paying attention to the Church? Sin abounds and not much Repentance. The Grace and Forgiveness of God seem to be secondary to the Entertainment offered by the Contemporary Church! Living in Biblical holiness and Loving Christ and our fellow man seem to be crowded out by Narcissism! You now Jesus said this would happen just before His Return. Matthew 24:10 “At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, 11 and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. 12 Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, 13 but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.” Jesus also reference the man of lawlessness being revealed before His Return. Matthew 24:15 “So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination that causes desolation,’ {15 Daniel 9:27; 11:31; 12:11} spoken of through the prophet Daniel– let the reader understand–” Well do we understand?

Where does the confusion mentioned earlier come into play? Matthew 24:23 “At that time if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or, ‘There he is!’ do not believe it. 24 For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect– if that were possible. 25 See, I have told you ahead of time. 26 “So if anyone tells you, ‘There he is, out in the desert,’ do not go out; or, ‘Here he is, in the inner rooms,’ do not believe it. 27 For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.” False prophets and false teachers exponentially out number True holy men of God! God is not the author of confusion, Satan is the father of lies! 2Thessalonians 2:9 “The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with the work of Satan displayed in all kinds of counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders, 10 and in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. 11 For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie 12 and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness.” Confusion, deceit, counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders, evil deeds of the flesh all contribute to the fulfillment of the “Rebellion” just before Christ’ Return! Because the “Christian Church” in America has rejected the Truth and turned to the Entertainment god, God has sent a powerful delusion so they will believe a lie and be condemned with all who delights in wickedness!

So what must we do to guard against such powerful delusions and false teachings? 2Chonicles 7:13 “When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command locusts to devour the land or send a plague among my people, 14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” Titus 3:3 “At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.”

If we as true Christian’s focus on Jesus and walk obediently to the Word of God we will in wise Perish with the ungodly. John Wesley started his societies and when asked by people who wanted to join, he would simply say “do you have a desire to flee from the Wrath to Come?” Well the Wrath of God is Coming and we need to be fleeing to Jesus! The god Entertainment, Satan, anti-Christ, and all the wicked will be destroyed by the Brightness and Glorious Appearing of Jesus Christ! Make sure you are not being deceived by the power in this World!

Such a Fear Monger!

O what a fear monger! O you just hate poor people! O you are just trying to manipulate and control people who disagree with you! O you are a bigot! Did I miss anything? I am not sure how or what your response will be after reading this blog but I will simply tell you to get in line for name calling! The topic? The New World Order! O it is coming fast and furious! Some Christians are convinced the Rapture of the Church will happen before the Anti-Christ takes control in the New World Order. It is not my intention to debate the timing of the Rapture, but to simply encourage you to be prepared! I have often pondered the question; what is the most important Prophecy concerning the Return of Jesus? I believe the answer is hope for the best and plan for the worst, which is the message Jesus gave us in the Parable of the Ten Virgins in Matthew 25:1-13. As we wait for Jesus, we need to be prepared by having enough oil in our lamps and not be caught off guard as the Lord tarries! What does this Parable have to do with the New World Order? Everything! Jesus told us in Matthew 24:15 that the Anti-Christ (abomination that causes desolation) would rise to power before His Return. The Anti-Christ' New World Order is described in the following passages of Scripture. Revelation 13:13 And he performed great and miraculous signs, even causing fire to come down from heaven to earth in full view of men. 14 Because of the signs he was given power to do on behalf of the first beast, he deceived the inhabitants of the earth. He ordered them to set up an image in honor of the beast who was wounded by the sword and yet lived. 15 He was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that it could speak and cause all who refused to worship the image to be killed. 16 He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, 17 so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name.
18 This calls for wisdom. If anyone has insight, let him calculate the number of the beast, for it is man's number. His number is 666.
China, Japan, Germany, Russia, Brazil, France, England and Saudi Arabia have all stated recently the World needs a single Leader and a new Global currency! Some have stated they want Barack Obama to be that Leader! All I can say is look what is happening with the US dollar. The dollar has been the Global standard for years but now the dollar is collapsing and America debt has climbed beyond comprehension. In fact Americas debt is greater than the entire Worlds wealth combined! Look it up as see if this is true. This simply means a New Global currency is on the horizon. Also listen to this Scripture concerning economic collapse. Revelation 6:5 “When the Lamb opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature say, "Come!" I looked, and there before me was a black horse! Its rider was holding a pair of scales in his hand. 6 Then I heard what sounded like a voice among the four living creatures, saying, "A quart of wheat for a day's wages, and three quarts of barley for a day's wages, and do not damage the oil and the wine!"
Be prepared! Be Alert! Trust in Christ Jesus! I think the passage Jesus preached in the Sermon on the Mount speaks volumes. Matthew 6:24 "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money. 25 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
28 "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
With the collapse of the US dollar comes great economic stress! Food, cloths, water and the necessities of life will be difficult and may even be scarce! Notice what Jesus says in verse 33. The Father in Heaven will provide for His children as we seek His Kingdom first!
The New World Order is Coming soon! Are you Trusting and seeking His Kingdom first in your life? Are you a Wise Virgin and have enough oil in your lamp? Are you Prepared? Jesus died on a Cross and Rose from the dead! Believe in Him and Repent! That is the first and most important step we can take to be prepared for what is Coming! Turn to Jesus now before you are deceived by the False Prophet and the Anti-Christ!

Homophobia, really?

Waking up this morning was a delight! I know my Redeemer Lives! Since I gave my life to the Only Savior Jesus Christ, life has been tough but very rewarding. The only and greatest thing I have ever experienced is seeing my sins Washed away in the Divine Blood of Jesus shed on the Cross! As I drank my coffee this morning I was reading an article written by a Christian concerning homosexuality. He was debating and lamenting over the so called scientific evidence that homosexuals are born that way. I desire not to rant and rave about whether homosexuality is a sin or not, because that is a non issue with God! He says that it is a sexual sin, Period! What I do desire is to make a few comments that hopefully will clarify, for any Christian who reads this post, will agree with God. It matters not at all if you agree or disagree with me on any issue that God's Word clearly tackles. A preacher friend of mine read the article about the scientific evidence that homosexuals are born that way and was somewhat perplexed stating; “if they are born homosexual then they are not responsible and we as preachers cannot address this issue because they cannot help themselves.” My jaw about hit the floor! After a few moments lamenting his ignorant statement I was compelled by the Holy Spirit to rebuke Him with the Truth in Love! Romans 3:20 “Therefore no one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of sin. 21 But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22 This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference,
23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” We are all born sinful and are in need of Redemption regardless of scientific evidence! Homosexuality is a sin, just as lying, cheating, stealing, idolatry, hatred, unforgiving, drunkenness and coveting. We must understand as Christians that homosexuals are born sinful just as you and I are born sinful. We all Must repent of sin and be Born again in Christ! There is an argument about whether homosexual is a choice. Well, hello! We all have a choice! Continue to live in sin and refuse New Birth in Christ and go to Hell or choose repentance and be Born Again! Many people try to justify their behavior by pointing to other behavior. Sin is Sin regardless! Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again." 1John 3:8 “He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work. 9 No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God.” So the Truth is we Christians must Preach and Teach there is a New Life in Christ through Repentance and Rebirth! We Christians must not be homophobic or bashing them with Bible verses, for they cannot understand the Truth until they are Born again. We must Point them to Jesus! Show them how Jesus has changed your life! Show them they can also receive forgiveness. Tell them the Truth in Love. Tell them they Must be Born Again!

What will you choose?

As I sit on the front porch and enjoy the beautiful weather, I wonder how many Christians will read this post and even consider what is being addressed? The issue I would like to address is Halloween. For many years growing up this was an exciting and enjoyable time. But as I grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ I am somewhat disturbed by this concept. What is Halloween? You know what it is and what it is not! All of us Christians have knowledge of right and wrong, good and evil. I have learned that just because something is “fun” does not make it right. Let us listen with fresh ears what the Scripture has to say and then ask some simple questions to consider. 2Corinthians 6:14 Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?

15 What harmony is there between Christ and Belial (Satan)? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?

16 What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.”

17 “Therefore come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.”

18 “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.” Is not Halloween the celebration of darkness? Is Halloween not the celebration of the World of evil? Is Halloween not the celebration of pretense? Is Halloween righteous or wicked? Can we as Christians have fellowship (participation) with unbelievers and be a good witness for Christ at the same time? Some Christians say Halloween is a good time to witness for Christ. Let me ask this question with a Scripture in mind. James 4:4 You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.” Am I condemning Christians for participating in this Pagan celebration? No! But Scripture sure did! To live as the World and to do as the World put’s you in direct conflict with the Word of God! 1John 2:6 “Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did.” Would Jesus celebrate Halloween? 1John 2:15 “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For everything in the world– the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does– comes not from the Father but from the world. 17 The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.” Just a few things to ponder and pray about as Halloween approaches. May we all surrender to the Calling and moving of the Holy Spirit in our lives! This may be difficult, but the things in life that are easy usually end up being Carnal. Blessings to all!

Three question's to ponder.

Three questions that were discussed between three friends. I thought it might be of interest to some who follow this blog!
Question one: Why do you suppose that God sent Jesus at the exact time that He did?
Erick and Glady did a great job. I would simply add this; Daniel 9:26 After the sixty-two ‘sevens,’ the Anointed One will be cut off and will have nothing. {26 Or ; or } The people of the ruler who will come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end will come like a flood: War will continue until the end, and desolation’s have been decreed.” He saw when Christ was coming to Atone for sin. Precise timing of God’s Revelation. Jesus mentions this; Luke 19:41 As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it 42 and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace– but now it is hidden from your eyes.
43 The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side.
44 They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God’s coming to you.” Notice Jesus said they did not recognize the timing of His Coming.

Question two: Why not be tolerant of other religions such as Muslim, Buddhist, etc as long as it does not effect how we believe?
Again Erick and Glady speaks volume’s on this issue. My input is this; Did the Prophet Elijah tolerate the Baal worshipers idol? NO. Did Moses tolerate the idolatry of Egypt and the idolatry of Israel? NO! Did Jesus ever teach His disciples to tolerate Pagans religions? NO! Does Jesus state any where that there are other religions that are valid? NO! He said John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Listen to Paul”s teaching in 2 Corinthians 6. 14 Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?
15 What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?
16 What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.”
17 “Therefore come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.”
18 “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.” We a Bible Christians cannot tolerate what God does not tolerate, PERIOD! Love them and proclaim the Gospel but never tolerate religions offered by the World!

Question three: Do you believe smoking is a sin? if yes or no, what scripture backs your beliefs.
Again Erick and Glady spoke well on this issue. But I do disagree with their personal conviction on this issue. The reason I say this is simple. God defines what sin is and what it is not. The passage used by Paul is 1Corinthians 6:13 “Food for the stomach and the stomach for food”– but God will destroy them both. The body is not meant for sexual immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. 14 By his power God raised the Lord from the dead, and he will raise us also. 15 Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never! 16 Do you not know that he who unites himself with a prostitute is one with her in body? For it is said, “The two will become one flesh.”
17 But he who unites himself with the Lord is one with him in spirit.
18 Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body.
19 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;
20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.” Context is important. Paul is talking about Sexual sin. If we as believers tell people that anything that is bad for our bodies would be a sin against the Temple of God, we would be opening Pandora’s box. Caffeine, sugar, salt, eggs, trans fat, soda, most meat, too much sun….have all been determined to be bad for our bodies. So if we practice this passage we must abstain from all these things as well. Right? If a Christian has a conviction that smoking is a sin, stop smoking. Remember, saints of old thought woman should not wear pants because they thought it was a sin. Sin is well defined by God’s Word, we don’t need to add our own convictions on others. If a person is enslaved by smoking or any other substance not describe as a sin in God’s Word, then they need to ask God to help them.
Great discussion! Peace and Love to all!

Who is Jesus? Do you even care?

Does it really matter what God’s Word says? Does the Bible only speak to the people mentioned in the Bible? Does Jesus ever claim that He is God? Does Jesus ever claim to be the Messiah? These questions were raised and discussed at Bible Study resently and I wanted to share the Scriptures that clearly speak to the Charactor of Jesus. I have heard many preachers and teachers that deny that Jesus claimed to be the Christ (Messiah) and say that Jesus was not God in the flesh. So I will simply say, what does Jesus say? Let us hear Him speak and the Holy Spirit speak through the prophets and Apostles. We need not the opinions of man, but the opinion of God! So is Jesus God in the flesh?

John 8:51 I tell you the truth, if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death."
52 At this the Jews exclaimed, "Now we know that you are demon-possessed! Abraham died and so did the prophets, yet you say that if anyone keeps your word, he will never taste death.
53 Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?"
54 Jesus replied, "If I glorify myself, my glory means nothing. My Father, whom you claim as your God, is the one who glorifies me.
55 Though you do not know him, I know him. If I said I did not, I would be a liar like you, but I do know him and keep his word.
56 Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad."
57 "You are not yet fifty years old," the Jews said to him, "and you have seen Abraham!"
58 "I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "before Abraham was born, I am!"
59 At this, they picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus hid himself, slipping away from the temple grounds.

Ex 3:13 Moses said to God, "Suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them, 'The God of your fathers has sent me to you,' and they ask me, 'What is his name?' Then what shall I tell them?"
14 God said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM. {14 Or } This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.'"
15 God also said to Moses, "Say to the Israelites, 'The LORD, {15 The Hebrew for sounds like and may be derived from the Hebrew for in verse 14.} the God of your fathers-- the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob-- has sent me to you.' This is my name forever, the name by which I am to be remembered from generation to generation.

John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2 He was with God in the beginning.

Re 19:13 He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God.

John 1:14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, {14 Or } who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

John 4:24 God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth."
25 The woman said, "I know that Messiah" (called Christ) "is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us."
26 Then Jesus declared, "I who speak to you am he."

Mt 26:60 But they did not find any, though many false witnesses came forward. Finally two came forward
61 and declared, "This fellow said, 'I am able to destroy the temple of God and rebuild it in three days.'"
62 Then the high priest stood up and said to Jesus, "Are you not going to answer? What is this testimony that these men are bringing against you?"
63 But Jesus remained silent. The high priest said to him, "I charge you under oath by the living God: Tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God."
64 "Yes, it is as you say," Jesus replied. "But I say to all of you: In the future you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven."
65 Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, "He has spoken blasphemy! Why do we need any more witnesses? Look, now you have heard the blasphemy.
66 What do you think?" "He is worthy of death," they answered.
67 Then they spit in his face and struck him with their fists. Others slapped him
68 and said, "Prophesy to us, Christ. Who hit you?"

John 14:1 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.
2 In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.
3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.
4 You know the way to the place where I am going."
5 Thomas said to him, "Lord, we don't know where you are going, so how can we know the way?"
6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
7 If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him."
8 Philip said, "Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us."
9 Jesus answered: "Don't you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, 'Show us the Father'?

Col 2:8 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.
9 For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form,
10 and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority.

Pr 30:1 The sayings of Agur son of Jakeh-- an oracle: This man declared to Ithiel, to Ithiel and to Ucal:
2 "I am the most ignorant of men; I do not have a man's understanding.
3 I have not learned wisdom, nor have I knowledge of the Holy One.
4 Who has gone up to heaven and come down? Who has gathered up the wind in the hollow of his hands? Who has wrapped up the waters in his cloak? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and the name of his son? Tell me if you know!

Hebrews 1:1 In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways,
2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe.
3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
4 So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs.
5 For to which of the angels did God ever say, "You are my Son; today I have become your Father"? Or again, "I will be his Father, and he will be my Son"?
6 And again, when God brings his firstborn into the world, he says, "Let all God's angels worship him."

Now that the Bible has spoken clearly about the Person of Jesus Christ, what are you going to do with this knowledge? Are you going to continue in unbelief and doubt? Are you going to continue listening to man rather than God? Make your free will choice! Your decision will have Eternal consequences. If you choose to believe the Bible and know who Jesus is according to the Bible then listen to what Jesus says you need to do right now. “Mt 4:17 From that time on Jesus began to preach, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near."

The Way of Peace!

Often we as believers are forgetful of the Lord’s Peace in our lives. At Bible Study last night I was compelled to share my personal testimony about the Peace of Christ. You can watch this study by going to www.proclaiminglight.com. I would like to share the Scriptures that were used during that Bible Study in hope that they may speak to your heart as they have mine. Isa 48:22 "There is no peace," says the LORD, "for the wicked." Isa 32:17 The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever. Isa 53:5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. Ps 119:165 Great peace have they who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble. John 14:23 Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.
24 He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.
25 "All this I have spoken while still with you.
26 But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.
27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-- think about such things. Matthew 11:27 "All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.
28 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
These passages of Holy Scripture teach that without Jesus there can be no true Peace within the heart of man! Peace is not the absence of war, strife, stress, trials and sorrow. The Peace that Christ offers all people is quietness of the soul through a Right Relationship with Him. Notice this Invitation hat Jesus offers in Matthew 11:28-30. Do you need inner peace? Are you burdened with the stress of life? Do you feel fearful of what will happen tomorrow? Do you need refreshment for your soul? If so, then go to Jesus and He will provide True Peace in troubled times! I will close with the Words of the Prince of Peace; Matthew 6:24 "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money. 25 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?
26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? 28 "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” May the Peace of the Lord Jesus be with you all!

I wonder, where do YOU fit?

“Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God who made us.” Abraham Lincoln Let us consider with humility what one of America’s most loved President said during our Nation’s civil war. Let us also try and apply this statement to America today. Can it be conceived, that after the passing of many years since that Great President spoke those words, how far this Nation has fallen from the God who has Created us and Blessed us as a Nation? Intoxicated with self! The only word to describe the masses is Narcissism! The definition’s are as follows; 1. inordinate fascination with oneself; excessive self-love; vanity. 2. erotic gratification derived from admiration of one's own physical or mental attributes. 3. an exceptional interest in or admiration for oneself, esp one's physical appearance 4. sexual satisfaction derived from contemplation of one's own physical or mental endowments. Most in America seem to be so self consumed to see their need of Redemption! Their need of a Savior! Their need of humility! Their need of God’s Grace and Mercy! The Bible speaks volumes about the Depravity of this Human condition. God Created mankind with a Free choice. “Choose Him and live or choose to go your own way and die!” Hell is ever expanding and making room for mankind who’s choice is their own way! Make no mistake about it, God does not want anyone to Perish in the Lake of Fire. He wants all to come to the Knowledge of the His Son Jesus. He wants all to see the futility of their own thinking and humble themselves! He wants all mankind to Repent of Self! No person can be saved without first being humbled and repentant. Self Pride, Self centeredness, Self reliance, Self sufficiency, Self indulgence and Selfishness are self destroying! Listen to this story that Jesus told concerning this topic. Luke 18:9 “To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else, Jesus told this parable: 10 "Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood up and prayed about {11 Or } himself: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men-- robbers, evildoers, adulterers-- or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.' 13 "But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.' 14 "I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." So dear reading, where do you fit in this parable? Have you humbled your self and ask God to have Mercy on you for Christ sake? Have you not seen your sinfulness? Your Narcissism? Your Pride? Do you not know that you need to Repent? May God have Mercy on me a sinner should be the cry of your soul! If we as Americans continue to be self sufficient and self consuming we will see America Self Destruct! As Ronald Reagan once said, “If we are not a Nation under God, we will be a Nation gone under!”

O Divine Master, hear our Cry!

As I ponder the Greatness of God and His Salvation through His Son Jesus Christ, I wonder just how many Christians understand His Great Work in their lives? As a Christian I am often reminded by the Holy Spirit how much Jesus suffered for my Redemption. As an individual Christian living within the Body of Christ and struggling to build His Kingdom as the Spirit prods me, I have a sense of His Divine Presence in my life. Here are some of my thoughts recently to try and illuminate my hearts devotion this past week. It is better to understand than to be understood! Better to Love than to be loved! Better to pray than to worry!
It is better to Trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man! It is better to do what Gd says than to simply know what He says! It is better to give than receive. Better to be kind than to be bitter. Better to be smile than to frown. Better to have something in the next life than to have everything in this life! Better to forgive than become bitter! Better to repent than to be able to define repentance! Better to have a contrite heart than one that is proud! Better to keep my mouth shut than to offer a sacrifice of fools! Better to be Thankful to God than to Grumble and complain! O Divine Master help me to sow love where there is hate. Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is distrust, Honor! Where there is division, unity! Help me to sow in Righteousness and Reap your Unfailing Love! Help me to comfort the neglected. Bring Truth where there is deceit! Where there is stress, bring Gospel of Peace! O Jesus, help me to see that your Grace is more than sufficient for my weaknesses! Give me a strong desire to seek the lost! Proclaim Freedom to the captives! To stand strong on your Mighty Word! Help me Jesus to forgive as you have forgiven me! Help me to Love what you Love and hate what you hate! May I reflect your Image in the way I live my life, not just in my words! May the Wellspring of Living Waters flow freely from my life! O Gracious and Merciful Savior, make my life a witness of your Glory! Fill me with your Holy Spirit that I may not forget your Word or your Power! Help me to Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness so I will be Filled! Grant all who read this the ability to forsake themselves and Trust in Christ Alone for Eternal Life! Eternal Joy! Eternal Bliss! All in the Name of Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God! Amen!!

Study of the Ten Commandments!

Study of the Ten Commandments

First I would like to address the question of validity. Some Christians say we need to get out of the Old Testament and get into the New Testament. Listen to the words of Jesus in the New Testament. Matthew 22:36-40 "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." These words indicate that Christians still need the Moral Law of God. Not for salvation purposes but out of Love for Jesus. He said John 14:15 "If you love me, you will obey what I command. So the Ten Commands are to be obeyed out of love for Jesus. Again Jesus says "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. Anyone who breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:17-19 If Jesus says we need to obey His Commands, well we need to obey them. It is as simple as that. If we think differently than what the Bible clearly teaches then we need to repent and obey. Proverb 30:5 "Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. 6 Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar. Let us look and see if God needs to rebuke us!

Exodus 20:1-17
1 And God spoke all these words:
Notice who is speaking, God. This is His Words so we need to listen.

2 "I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
LORD (self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God:--Jehovah) Jehovah is speaking and reminding Israel who He is and what He has done for them through Moses. It is also noteworthy that Jesus delivers us from bondage as well.

First Commandment:
3 "You shall have no other gods before me.
The First Commandment is clear; do not have anything in your life that is more important than Our Creator, our Father and our God! He delivered us and Saves us through Jesus His Son and deserves prominence in our lives. 1Corinthians 6:19 “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.”

Second Commandment:
4 "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below.”
5 “You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me,
6 but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.”
Idolatry, What is it? The Hebrew word translated in the King James version of the Bible is graven image. (to carve, whether wood or stone:--grave, hew). An idol is changing the image of God into our image. Thinking about God in ways other than who He is. To change His image is to worship God in your own image. Notice we are Created in His image, not vice versa. If we have anything in our lives which we hold dear to our hearts more than Him we are worshiping that thing instead of the Creator. What we will not surrender to Him we will ultimately worship! God is jealous? Yes. But the jealousy refers to His zeal or anger. What is He angry at or about? Idolatry, sin, putting other things ahead of Him! God says He will punish the children for the sins of their fathers to the third and forth generations of those who hate Him. Seems unjust or does it? The Hebrew word for visit or punish is as follows; [to visit (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit]. Who suffers when parents are hateful toward God? Is it not the children? Adam Clark describes this portion of Scripture this way; ‘This necessarily implies-IF the children walk in the steps of their fathers; for no man can be condemned by Divine Justice for a crime of which he was never guilty; idolatry is however particularly intended, and visiting sins of this kind refers principally to national judgments’. Verse six shows the love and mercy of God toward those that love God and obeys His commands. Notice the difference between the judgment upon the generations of those who hate God is much less than the mercy or love He shows to those that live in loving obedience.

Third Commandment:
7 "You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.
Because God’s Name is Sacred and Holy any misuse of His name will automatically get God’s attention. To misuse or take His name in vain is to slander or empty God out of our hearts. Notice God says He will not allow a person to escape punishment for calling Him a liar or emptying His Name as useless. Jesus says in Matthew 5:33-37 "Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord.' But I tell you, Do not swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God's throne; or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” Again Jesus speaking concerning words in Matthew 12:36,37 “But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." Let us therefore watch our words and not use them to slander or for evil speech.

Forth Commandment:
8 "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work,
10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates.
11 For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.”
The Sabbath is a day of remembrance. One day in seven to rest from our labors and remember our Great Creator! Notice God made it Holy. No Christian is free to disobey what God has Commanded. Most Christians disobey this Command by not remembering and choose to say Sunday is the Sabbath. I challenge you to find in the New Testament where it says this Command is nullified. Also remember what Jesus said; Matthew 12:8 “For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath." Believing in Jesus and walking in obedience to Him is remembering the Sabbath. Continued study of this topic, one should refer to Hebrews. 4:7-11 “Therefore God again set a certain day, calling it Today, when a long time later he spoke through David, as was said before: ‘Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.’ 8 For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day. 9 There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; 10 for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from His. 11 Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience.”


Fifth Commandment:
12 "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.

This is the first Commandment with a promise attached. “That you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” Now what does He mean “honor your father and your mother?” The Hebrew word for honor can be translated- to promote. The Etymology Dictionary defines the word honor this way; high respect, as for worth, merit, or rank: to be held in honor. God’s first institution was the family. Father, mother and children. God knows that if children will honor their parents, they will certainly be more apt to honor Him. It is a disgrace to God’s character and love to dishonor our parents!

Sixth Commandment:
13 "You shall not murder.
First off let us realize that the KJV translated the word kill. The Hebrew word means man-slayer, murder. So the word kill does not and is not what we are to obey hear. Murder is different from killing. Listen to other Scriptures define what God is saying in this Command. Matthew 5:21 "You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, {21 Exodus 20:13} and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.'
22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother {22 Some manuscripts } will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, 'Raca, {22 An Aramaic term of contempt} 'is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell.
1John 3:15 Anyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life in him.”
Proverb 6:16-19 “There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil,
a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.” Now we see the difference between murder and killing. The King James translators missed the translation from original Hebrew. “ ratsach” is a primitive root; properly, to dash in pieces, i.e. kill (a human being), especially to murder:--put to death, kill, (man-)slay(-er), murder(-er).
To kill someone or to murder someone is different; to kill someone in self defense or in case of war does not fall into the same category as murder.
Here is an illustration for killing;
1Samuel 15:2 “This is what the LORD Almighty says: 'I will punish the Amalekites for what they did to Israel when they waylaid them as they came up from Egypt. 3 Now go, attack the Amalekites and totally destroy everything that belongs to them. Do not spare them; put to death men and women, children and infants, cattle and sheep, camels and donkeys.'"
Israel went to war with the Amalekites. They were a wicked and Idolatress people. Israel was acting in self defense under the direction of God.
An illustration of murder is;
Ps 106:34 “They did not destroy the peoples as the LORD had commanded them, 35 but they mingled with the nations and adopted their customs.
36 They worshiped their idols, which became a snare to them.
37 They sacrificed their sons and their daughters to demons.
38 They shed innocent blood, the blood of their sons and daughters, whom they sacrificed to the idols of Canaan, and the land was desecrated by their blood.”
You see killing and murdering are two different things. The best illustration of murder today is abortion. The shedding of innocent blood! Soldiers do not commit murder when fighting for our Country.

Seventh Commandment:
14 "You shall not commit adultery.
Adultery covers a multitude of sins pertaining to sex. Most people think that you have to be married in order to commit this sin. Not true! Listen to Jesus; Matthew 5:27 "You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' {27 Exodus 20:14} 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” It is also note worthy to apply this commandment to our relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Part of being an obedient Christian if faithfulness. Going to Church, serving and loving others, witnessing, worshiping etc...are all part of what God wants for our lives. If we become unfaithful we have committed spiritual adultery!

Eight Commandment:
15 "You shall not steal.
To the simple minded, this commandment is easy. Do not take anything that does not belong to you or that you have not earned. This is absolutely what this command is saying! But, there is a spiritual aspect to stealing. Listen again to God speak; Malachi 3:8-10 "Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. "But you ask, 'How do we rob you?' "In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse-- the whole nation of you-- because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.” God is a giving God and He wants us to be giving as well. Let us not steal from our neighbors or steal from God what is His!

Ninth Commandment:
16 "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
Again, what is hard about this command about lying? If your neighbor is doing well and you are not, the tendency of fallen man is to attack his neighbor’s character. Giving false testimony is a willful and premeditated act! One of the best ways of bringing shame upon yourself is to lie about them in some way. Hear are a few Scripture to give greater understanding about this command; Proverb 6:16-19 “There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.” Notice two of the seven things detestable to the Lord have to do with false testimonies, lying. Again, listen to Jesus; Matthew 5:33-37 "Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord.'
But I tell you, Do not swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God's throne;
or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” Proverb has selective passages concerning gossip-which is false testimony: Proverb 11:13 “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret.” 16:28 “A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends.” 18:8 “The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man's inmost parts.” 20:19 “A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much.” 26:20 “Without wood a fire goes out; without gossip a quarrel dies down.” The most stunning and straight forward passage is Revelation 21:8 “But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars-- their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death." Do not lie or gossip, enough said!

Tenth Commandment:
17 "You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."
Let us define covetous; to desire wrongfully, inordinately, or without due regard for the rights of others: to covet another's property. The Hebrew word for covet literally means, to delight in. When you see something your neighbor has and you do not have the same thing and you start thinking things like, I wish I had that, I want what they have, I deserve what they have etc... that is coveting! Here again is other Scriptures to define this Commandment; Luke 12:13 “Someone in the crowd said to him, ‘Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.’ 14 Jesus replied, ‘Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?’ 15 Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." 16 And he told them this parable: "The ground of a certain rich man produced a good crop.
17 He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.'
18 "Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods.
19 And I'll say to myself, "You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry." ' 20 "But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?' 21 "This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God." Again listen to Paul; Colossians 3:1 “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” Finally, we reach this verse to bring this Commandment to full understanding. Hebrews 13:5 “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’"
Now we have heard the Truth of God’s Commandments. God is enough! He wants you and I to live Free from the bondage of sin! God through His Son Jesus Christ wants us to be filled with Him, through the Holy Spirit. God will bring every man into judgement. The question is not if we have kept all these Commandments, for this is impossible, it is whether we believe in Jesus Christ as the only sin substitute. Jesus fulfilled the entire Law of God where we have broken them all! James 2:10 “For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.”
Here is a reminder; Matthew 22:37-40 Jesus replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." These words indicate that Christians still need the Moral Law of God. Not for salvation purposes but out of Love for Jesus. He said John 14:15 "If you love me, you will obey what I command.” So the Ten Commandments are to be obeyed out of love for Jesus! Ephesians 2:8 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith-- and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” The good works Paul is speaking of is obedience to the Law of the Ten Commandments. Jesus died and shed His Blood to wash away our sins, disobeying the Law, and is calling us to a holy life. The only way to live a Holy life is repenting of our sins and believing in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and then walking and living in obedience to the Holy Law of God! “If you Love me, obey my Commands!” Jesus.

Devil's Beatitudes!

Most Christians are very familiar with the words of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount concerning Christian Character, known as the Beatitudes. It has been several years now since I read the Devils imitation and mockery of the Inspired Words of Jesus. If the devil were to write his beatitudes, they would probably go something like this:

1. Blessed are those who are too tired, too busy, too distracted to
spend an hour once a week with their fellow Christians --
they are my best workers.

2. Blessed are those Christians who wait to be asked and expected to
be thanked -- I can use them.

3. Blessed are the touchy who stop going to church --
they are my missionaries.

4 Blessed are the trouble makers -- they shall be called my children.

5. Blessed are the complainers -- I'm all ears to them.

6. Blessed are those who are bored with the minister's mannerisms and
mistakes -- for they get nothing out of his sermons.

7. Blessed is the church member who expects to be invited to his own
church -- for he is a part of the problem instead of the solution.

8. Blessed are those who gossip --
for they shall cause strife and divisions that please me.

9. Blessed are those who are easily offended --
for they will soon get angry and quit.

10. Blessed are those who do not give their offering to carry on
God's work -- for they are my helpers.

11. Blessed is he who professes to love God but hates his brother and
sister -- for he shall be with me forever.

12. Blessed are you who, when you read this, think it is about other
people and not yourself -- I've got you too!

Did these get you thinking? So are you a counterfeit Christian or one who serves Christ and His Kingdom? I am not sure about too many things in life but this I am absolutely certain; you cannot serve a Holy God and the Devil at the same time. So many Christians, who may not be Christian at all, live their lives with one foot in Heaven and one foot in Hell! That is to say, they love Jesus and obey Jesus only when it serves their flesh. I am reminded of what Jesus said concerning this issue; Luke 9:23 Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it.
25 What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self? 26 If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.”
The Devil wants to destroy your soul and keep you from giving Praise and Glory to your Creator Jesus Christ, whereas, Jesus wants to Bless you and Save you from destruction! Your choice. Cry out in repentance and receive Jesus as your Master and Lord! If not, the Devil already has you!

Why does God’s Word have number combinations?

Everyone who has read the Bible for any length of time has come across certain number combinations. For instance the number three, symbolizing the Trinity or the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, are clear from Genesis through Revelation. Seven seems to penetrate our minds from time to time as we read the Word. The number twelve certainly should get our attention. Well how about Forty? It is remarkable that Moses, the great lawgiver of the Jews, previously to his receiving the law from God, fasted forty days in the mount (Ex 34:28); that Elijah, the chief of the prophets, fasted also forty days (1Kings 19:8ff); and that Christ, the giver of the New Covenant, should act in the same way. He was tempted by the Great liar and deceiver of our souls in the desert for forty days and forty nights. (Matthew 4:1-11) Was not all this intended to show, that God's kingdom on earth was to be spiritual and Divine? Romans 14:17-18 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, 18 because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men.” It is also very interesting that Jesus, after His Passion and Resurrection, walked , talked, ate and taught the disciples for Forty days before He was transported to the Right Hand of His Father to make intercession for sinners like us who Trust in Him for Salvation! Is there some deep spiritual, mystical or hidden message behind the number 40? Some might be inclined to spiritualize such things and come up with new teaching or revelation. Would this mean that God is unclear and somewhat schizophrenic? Yes. However, The Triune Godhead is not such a god! He is crystal clear about His plan for the salvation of sinful man. Nothing that God has Revealed about Himself is up to man’s own interpretation. (2Peter 1:20-21) There are other examples of the number forty that have a negative aspect. They show the Judgement of God in increments of forty. Genesis 7:4 Seven days from now I will send rain on the earth for forty days and forty nights, and I will wipe from the face of the earth every living creature I have made." God had enough of the wickedness and rebellion of mankind! Numbers 14:33-34 Your children will be shepherds here for forty years, suffering for your unfaithfulness, until the last of your bodies lies in the desert. For forty years-- one year for each of the forty days you explored the land-- you will suffer for your sins and know what it is like to have me against you.' The Israelites rebelled and crumbled against God’s plan and we see His Righteous Judgement. So what shall we conclude about the number forty? To answer that I would like to ask a few questions. 1). What was Elijah, Moses and Jesus doing that may give us examples to bring us to maturity in the faith? 2). Am I willing to be used by God for His Purpose? For instance, praying and fasting 40 days. 3). Am I willing to go back and study the references given by the devotion writer? After all we are seeking the Knowledge of the Holy, are we not?

Study of the Will of God!

What is the will of God? What does God want for you? What does God’s Word say about His will for us? I am going to attempt to answer these questions in this study.
1). 1John 2:17 The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever. So according to this passage if we do or obey the Will of God we will have Eternal life. John 17:3 Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. John 6:28 Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?”
29 Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.” God’s will for everyone is that all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1Timothy 2:4. Also Acts 2:36-38 “Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.”
When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Why were you Created? Revelation 4:11 “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.” So first God’s will is to be saved next His will is to 1Th 5:18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Eph 5:20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Hebrews 13:15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise– the fruit of lips that confess his name. Psalms 50:23 He who sacrifices thank offerings honors me, and he prepares the way so that I may show him {23 Or } the salvation of God.” Ps 100:1 A psalm. For giving thanks. Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; {3 Or } we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. Be Saved and be Thankful. This is the Will of God.

2). What does God want for you? Romans 12:1,2 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God– this is your spiritual {1 Or } act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is– his good, pleasing and perfect will. God’s wants us to worship with all of our lives. He does not want us to be like this world. 1John 2:15-17 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world– the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does– comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever. Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Psalm 31:19 How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in you. 1Corinthians 2:9 However, as it is written: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him”
Matthew 5:3-12 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.
Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
John 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
2Timothy 1:6-10 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life– not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. Now Jesus prays for believers in John 17 which is God’s will for us. In Summary Ecclesiastes 12:13&14 Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil. I pray this will help each of you as you seek to do the will of God in your lives. Note this is not exhaustive but only a few nuggets to chew and meditate.

A few thoughts about Morality!

It is amazing how many intellectual Atheist cannot define evil. I do not intend to belittle any, only to stimulate thinking. By definition, I am not very knowledgeable of the origins of Atheistic thought. Nor do I claim the desire to understand every thought from every Atheist. Let me ask a few questions for which most Atheist try to explain away. Does evil exist? Define evil please? Ok, here are a few secular definitions; 1. morally wrong or bad; immoral; wicked: evil deeds; an evil life. 2. "extreme moral wickedness." Now here is an Antonym--righteous. Secular definitions-1. characterized by uprightness or morality 2. acting in an upright, moral way; virtuous. Now who sets the parameters? What is right and what is wrong? Can man set these parameters? Who says the murder is wrong? Who says sleeping with another mans wife or husband is wrong? Who says stealing is wrong? Is not Murder evil? How about the evils of Adultery? The evil of taking something that does not belong to you. To say that mankind and his behavior evolves through the millennia is absolutely illogical. With this train of thought, one day murder will evolve into giving life, adultery will be what gives strength to marriage and stealing will evolve into charity. What is Atheism? Definition of Atheism: 1. the doctrine or belief that there is no God. 2. disbelief in the existence of a supreme being or beings. Is this logical? To believe there is no belief? An Atheist told me some time back that faith is believing in something that you know does not exist. Wow that redefines logic. The end of Faith is the aspirations of many Atheist’, which in turn would be the end of Atheism. Only suggesting that there is something Greater than the Intellect of mankind! What is the mathematical percentage that everything that is known just happened? God does exist. Jesus did die on a cross and was raised from the dead! With man, this is impossible, but we are not talking about man are we? By the way, I am not telling anyone how or what to believe. That is your free will choice!

Intimacy with God!

O the beauty of an intimate relationship with the Living God through the Grace, Mercy and Love of Jesus Christ! I am always reminded just how much Jesus suffered to make a way for me, a mere sinner, to have access to the Holy of Holies. Hebrews 9:14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” Is there anything greater than the Blood of Jesus? One of the most disheartening things to ever grace my ears was a lady that told me that God could not possible love her. The only thing I could do is sing a song that I learned early in my life. “Jesus Loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so. He will wash away my sin, let His little chid come in.” How much does God love the unlovable? 1John 4:9 This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son {9 Or } into the world that we might live through him. 10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for { Or } our sins.” Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him!” To say that God does not love everyone is to blaspheme the Name and Character of God, because “God is love.” I had to share with this sin laden lady whom thinks that God cannot love her. “You must repent, turn away, from your sins and believe in the Death of Jesus on the Cross, His burial and His resurrection from the dead in order to understand the things of God! Her pride and sin were separating her from receiving the Benefits of Christ! Maybe some of you think that some how you are such a sinner that God could not possibly love you and forgive you? Stop with the Pride! Repent and believe! Jesus is not and will not die again to pay for your sins! He died once for all! Now to go back to the beginning of this devotion. God does not desire just a relationship with you. He wants an intimate relationship with you. What’s the difference? Glad you asked! Here’s the difference; A relationship with God means you received His Pardon and can now enjoy His Love for you, whereas an intimate relationship means that you can receive His Pardon, enjoy His Love and you can now Bless Him with your life instead of Him just blessing you! Intimacy with the Loving God is more than just asking Him to bless you, it is you asking Him, how can I bless you God? It is easy to say God bless me, not a bad thing by the way, but it is a totally different thing to say “Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.” Psalm 103:1 So God loves you and will forgive you all your sins if you repent! Then you can enjoy intimacy with the Only Holy God! Bless the Lord O my soul, Bless His Holy Name! O the beauty of an intimate relationship with the Living God through the Grace, Mercy and Love of Jesus Christ!

How Great is our God?

As I ponder today about the Greatness of our God and Father, I am reminded from the weeping Prophet Jeremiah of God’s Great Faithfulness. Jeremiah Laments over his people and comes to this conclusion in chapter 3 of Lamentations; 3:19 Remembering mine affliction and my misery, the wormwood and the gall.
20 My soul hath them still in remembrance, and is humbled in me.
21 ¶ This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope.
22 It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23 They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. 24 The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. 25 The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. 26 It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD.” I am convinced that everything in my life that is bad is do to my lack of devotion to the Lord and everything in my life that is good comes from Him who died for my iniquities, Jesus Christ! I have a problem with self- imposed misery. To explain my misery, it is best to go to the affliction of the Apostle Paul. Romans 7:15 I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. 16 And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17 As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. 18 I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19 For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do-- this I keep on doing. 20 Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.” I have the desire to pray but I put it off. I want to walk obediently before my God always but I find myself coming short of that mark. My soul gets downcast within me and I find myself broken before Him. Alas, it hits me! THAT’S where He wants me to be!! Lamenting my sins and humbly coming to Him for Cleansing and strength! Paul buts his conclusion this way. Romans 7:24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? 25 Thanks be to God-- through Jesus Christ our Lord! May everyone who finds this devotion find themselves lamenting and humbling themselves before the Lord Christ! For Jesus understands our afflictions and He understands humility. Isa 53:3 He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Isa 53:7 He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.” O my Jesus, my Rock and my Redeemer! Isa 53:10 Yet it was the LORD's will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the LORD makes his life a guilt offering, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand. 11 After the suffering of his soul, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities. 12 Therefore I will give him a portion among the great, and he will divide the spoils with the strong, because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.” Jesus understands our needs and will meet our needs, according to His Riches in Glory, if we would simple humble ourselves, repent and lament our sins! Come to Jesus, He will not forsake you or leave you! He will Save you from yourself!!

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT MASTURBATION?

"What does the Bible say about masturbation?" is one of our most frequently asked questions. Many Christians have found it difficult to answer this question according to the Bible, because the Bible never mentions masturbation specifically. To understand how God feels about this subject, we must examine other verses that deal with issues such as lust, self-control and purity. Also, we must examine its fruit to see if it is from God. We have tried to address this issue by answering some of the most frequently asked questions. Our prayer is that God will use this page to bring freedom and deliverance.
"Does God care about what we do in the privacy of our bedrooms?"
Sex is God's invention. He is the mastermind behind it—and His creation is worth far more to Him than it is to us. This beautiful expression of love was created out of His own heart, as a gift to be experienced between a husband and wife. It is only in marriage that this manifestation of intimacy can be fully enjoyed in the depth for which it was created.
"Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and the sexually immoral" (Hebrews 13:4, NIV).
"Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge" (Hebrews 13:4, KJV).
The more beautiful and unique something is (like sexual intercourse), the more power it holds over our lives, either for good or bad influence. That is why it is so easy for the devil to corrupt the most precious of God's gifts. When we become more in love with the gifts than the One who endowed them, the things that were designed to bless us begin to destroy us instead. Yes, God cares about what we do with our bodies, in public or in private. He doesn't want us to abuse ourselves in any way.

In fact, an older definition of masturbation is "self-abuse." Although more modern dictionaries may no longer carry this definition, they are still linked together under self-abuse:
Self-abuse noun¹
1. Abuse of oneself or one's abilities.
2. Masturbation.
1 Corinthians 6:18 (NIV) further confirms this, saying that unlawful sexual relations defile our own bodies. "Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body."
"Isn't it still better to masturbate than to commit fornication?"
The easy answer to this question would be, "Yes, it is better to masturbate, because at best it corrupts only one person. It certainly is the lesser of two evils." However, why would a loving, holy, all-powerful God abandon you to a situation in which you have to choose any evil, whether it be "lesser" or "greater?" To really answer this question, we must again go back to God's original plan for sex.
First of all, masturbation will not truly relieve the sexual pressure that one may feel. It may for a short moment, but in the long run it only creates a deeper desire and capacity for sex, which will lead to more masturbation. If you let yourself become enslaved to a sexual high, you will find that you need to go to increasingly extreme acts to maintain the same degree of excitement. There are even ungodly sex therapists who recommend masturbation as a way of increasing sexual desire, not lessening it. This creates a vicious circle, like the junkie who craves a "fix," but is only temporarily satisfied. The more he indulges in his dependency, the more ensnared by addiction he becomes. This is the nature of all sin. That is why Jesus declared that all who sin become a slave to sin (John 8:34).
Furthermore, masturbation usually involves fantasy, visualization, and often pornography. The Bible is very clear as to what God expects of us in these areas of fantasy and lust. It teaches that we must not look lustfully at each other nor should we behave in such a manner as to entice others to lust after us.
"I made a covenant with my eyes not to look with lust upon a girl. I know full well that the Almighty God sends calamity on those who do" (Job 31:1-3, The Living Bible).
"You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28).

While the above verses refer to men lusting after women, all women know that it can very easily be reversed to apply to themselves as well. Men may be more easily visually stimulated than women, but women can be just as vulnerable to sexual fantasy in the emotional realm. Both are sin in God's eyes, and both can be brought into subjection by controlling our thoughts through Christ's power.
All sexual immorality begins with a thought. A lustful thought not taken captive, will eventually lead to other perversions, because sin reproduces itself in increasingly greater measures. If we do not deal with our evil thoughts, they will take root in our hearts.
It is for this reason that God is so concerned with our thought life. Jesus came not only to deliver us from our "outward" sins, but also from wickedness that begins in the heart.
"Isn't God unreasonable to demand sexual purity after giving us sexual drives that seem to overwhelm us at times?"
Our loving God never demands from us what is impossible for us to do. We are so weak within ourselves that it may seem impossible, but He will equip us with His holy power to overcome any sin, if we ask in faith.
Of course, sexual urges in and of themselves are not wicked. They are natural. God created us that way. He desires that we get optimum pleasure out of them by using them the way they were created to be used. However, many desires for physical gratification (whether it be food, sex, etc.) stem from a deeper need that is unfilled deep inside us. Gorging our flesh can never fill a hunger that grows out of our spirit. Only intimacy with God can fill the deepest needs inside of us. No other created thing has that power.
God is no more unreasonable than any caring parent who lovingly disciplines their child. It is only because He knows what is best for us. He sees a mighty potential in each one of us that far supersedes our wildest dreams, and He loves us enough to do all He can to bring it to pass.
"I agree with all the theory, but living it out on a day to day level is another story."
This is the place where we need the empowerment of the Holy Spirit in our everyday lives. The Holy Spirit is not a vague "force," but the very power of God to comfort you and strengthen you against the sins that used to rule you before you were born again. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we have the very ability that Jesus had to resist temptation. He depended completely upon the Father and so must we.

Something you must know is that God is not the one who is tempting you in this area to "test" you. God is on your side and wants to set you free from these things, not lead you into them! "When tempted, no one should say "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed" (James 1:13-14).
God wants us to overcome every sin and temptation in our lives. Please slowly read the following verses and let their message seep deep inside your spirit.
"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it" (1 Corinthians 10:13).
"For though we live in the world we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:3-5).
"In the same way count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness. For sin shall not be your master for you are not under law but under grace" (Romans 6:11-14).
"For we have not a high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:15-16, King James Version).
"Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God" (2 Corinthians 7:1).
"Can I really be set free?"
"In (this) freedom, Christ has made us free—completely liberated us; stand fast then, and do not be hampered and held ensnared and submit again to a yoke of slavery—which you have once put off " (Galatians 5:1 Amp).
If you are in a real struggle with any form of sexual sin, we do not believe it was by accident that God led you to this teaching. He wants to set you free, starting right now! We would like to share several things that you can do to break loose from this stronghold:
1. Confess this sin first to God, then go to a committed Christian you trust, such as your pastor. Ask God to lead you to someone that you can be accountable with, who will be faithful to pray with you and for you. This will take humility on your part, but it will lead to life. James 5:16 says: "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." (You may not feel "righteous" but if you have admitted your sin to God and received His forgiveness, you are! That means your prayers are powerful and effective!)
2. Flee from and reject anything that aggravates this sin. For example, you may need to get off the Internet for a season or purchase software that blocks out pornography. This may sound too drastic, but it certainly is mild compared to Jesus who said, "If your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body, than for your whole body to go into Hell" (Matthew 5:30). His point was that we must be willing to part with anything that causes us to sin—even if it hurts temporarily.
3. You may need to seek healing and deliverance from qualified Christians who are anointed in this area of ministry. If you have been deeply involved in sexual sins, the devil probably has a stronghold in that area of your life. If you can, find some people who can help you stand against the devil, for he is the one who seeks to lead you into temptation, and whispers lies of hopelessness and shame into your ears. If he drops a filthy thought into your mind just when you are trying to pray (he has used this tactic on even the holiest saints of God), tell him to leave in the name of Jesus! Recognize his voice for what it is, and submit yourself to God. As you do this and resist the devil, he will flee from you! He is deathly afraid of those who are submitted to God in brokenness and humility.
4. Don't give up! Deliverance might take time. Self-control takes effort. You may slip occasionally—or even a lot. But remember that God loves you and He will be faithful to perfect His character in you as long you keep submitting to Him. Eventually you will win—and not because of your best efforts, but because of God's mercy (Titus 3:5). Just as salvation is received in faith, so deliverance must be received in faith. This has nothing to do with our character, strength, or failings. The only thing it is dependant upon is you receiving it in humility. If you should fail, recognize it quickly, ask God to forgive you—and then receive His forgiveness! He is faithful to do that which He promised, not just in a select few mighty men and women of God, but in all who are willing to come humbly before Him. That includes you! We want to encourage you to hold on to this scripture as your anchor:
"May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and He will do it" (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24).
If there is anything else we can do to help you, please let us know. In closing, we would like to pray for you:
"Father, we thank you for bringing this person into our website. We know that it was your Holy Spirit that led them here and we thank you for your faithfulness to them! We lift them up to you now and ask that You fill them with a desire for You that transcends every other desire they have ever known. Let them know your cleansing love and power. We thank you that he whom the Son has set free, is free indeed. We speak this freedom into the life of this one whom the devil has bound in shame. We speak healing and deliverance and we break every tie that has kept them under a spirit of addiction and perversion. We stand against the Evil One and his every plan to bring destruction in this one's life. Father, in faith, and by the power and authority You have given us, we declare that this one is FREE in the name of Jesus! We commit them to Your care and we loose Your Holy Spirit to minister to them at this very instant. We ask these things in the precious name of Your son, Jesus Christ."