Why Would God Want to Help Us?

 Posted July 7, 2025

A Nation in Mourning

Over the July 4th holiday, devastating flooding swept through the Texas Hill Country. More than 100 people have lost their lives—many of them children. Dozens are still missing. The sorrow is almost too much to bear.

And so, the familiar question arises:

“Why did God let this happen?”

A Harder Question

But maybe we need to ask a deeper question:

“What do we expect from God when we disregard the world He entrusted to us?”

For decades, scientists have sounded the alarm that human activity—especially the burning of fossil fuels—is disrupting Earth’s climate. Many in power still resist change. Comfort outweighs conscience. Short-term gain silences long-term wisdom.

So again: Why would God want to help us if we refuse to help ourselves?

Scripture and Stewardship

“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” — Psalm 24:1 (NIV)

God gave humanity dominion (Genesis 1:28), not for exploitation, but stewardship. We were entrusted with creation. But when dominion becomes domination, suffering often follows.

When the Earth Took a Breath

During the early months of COVID-19 lockdowns, the planet responded to humanity’s pause:

• Cleaner air in cities like Los Angeles and New Delhi

• Historic drop in CO₂ emissions

• Wildlife sightings in long-developed areas

• Clearer waters and quieter urban environments

It was as if creation exhaled—a temporary sabbath from human disruption. But the moment was fleeting. We quickly returned to old patterns.

The Red Warning of Mars

Other nations are pressing toward clean energy. The U.S., in contrast, continues to reverse key environmental protections. And that brings Mars to mind. Scientists believe it may once have resembled Earth. Today, its atmosphere is composed of 95.3% carbon dioxide.

Is that a warning written in red dust?

So Why Does God Still Help?

“Do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness… not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?” — Romans 2:4 (NIV)

God is patient. In His mercy, He gives us:

• Wisdom to change course

• Prophetic voices that sound the alarm

• Glimpses of hope—like the Earth's healing breath during COVID

What we need now is repentance—not just spiritual, but ecological.

God hasn’t abandoned us.

Maybe He’s waiting for us to become the stewards we were created to be.

Children Not Like the Others

My wife and I recently watched a thought-provoking documentary on YouTube titled “Autism, Telepathy, and Faith | Katie Asher.” It tells the story of Katie Asher’s son, Houston, who developed a form of autism that left him nonverbal and with limited motor function. Doctors essentially gave up hope that he would ever function in society. Many who interacted with Houston dismissed him—assuming he couldn’t engage in the same activities as other children.

But then something miraculous happened.

Houston did something that awakened a deep conviction in his mother: there was far more going on inside her son than anyone realized. Determined to reach him, Katie searched for ways to communicate—and what she uncovered was extraordinary. Houston demonstrated profound inner awareness. He could read people’s thoughts, converse with Yeshua (Jesus) and angels, grasp complex scientific concepts, and navigate the spiritual realm in ways few could imagine.

As I reflected on Houston’s story, I couldn’t help but think of Stephen Hawking. Though bound by a debilitating disease, his intellect was undeniable—and because society recognized his genius, people developed technology to help him communicate. That technology enabled him to lecture, teach, and inspire millions.

It makes me wonder: How many others—like Houston—have been quietly overlooked simply because they can’t express themselves in traditional ways? What gifts might we discover if we applied that same innovation and belief to those the world has written off?

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Something else was brought to mind. I did a post about the heart intitled "The Heart - It's Not Just A Pump". The Bible talks about the heart a lot. I found out that the heart is an amazing thing. Our hearts can communicate with each other and so much more.

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Another post I thought about is "Living Water – Water of Life – Life Giving Water"

There is just so so much out there of God that we have not discovered yet.

Satan temps, Father God does not

I was thinking about something this morning that goes along with my last post 'Test the Spirits'.

Satan temps us to sin and do evil. I was thinking about the 'Lord's prayer ' where it says "lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil" and I wanted a deeper meaning of this so I went into ChatGPT to find out what it had say.  I thought it said it very well so here it is. 

The phrase "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil" from the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:13) is deeply meaningful, and Christians have reflected on it for centuries. Here's a breakdown of its deeper significance:

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"Lead us not into temptation"

This line can sound confusing at first—why would God lead anyone into temptation? But it’s important to know that in the original Greek, the word for temptation (πειρασμός, peirasmos) can mean both "temptation" and "testing" or "trial."

So this phrase can be understood as:

• A request for protection from trials that might overwhelm us, that is, “Don’t allow us to be tested beyond what we can bear.”
• A humble admission of weakness, acknowledging that we’re vulnerable and could fall if faced with temptation.

It doesn’t suggest that God tempts us (James 1:13 clearly says He doesn’t), but rather that we’re asking God not to allow us to be placed in situations where we might fail.

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"But deliver us from evil"

This part is a prayer for rescue and protection:

• The word "evil" can also be translated as “the evil one,” referring to Satan, the adversary.
• It’s a plea to be freed from the power of sin, darkness, and spiritual harm.
• It’s also a call for God’s ongoing help to walk in righteousness, not just avoidance of sin, but deliverance into life and light.

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Together, the phrase is a cry for God's protection:

"Father, don’t let me be overwhelmed by trials or temptations. Keep me safe from the power of sin and evil, and lead me in Your ways."

It reflects a spirit of dependence, humility, and trust, recognizing our need for God’s help in our daily spiritual battle.

Definition of temps:

The phrase "he temps me" means that someone is presented with something or someone attractive or desirable, and they feel a strong inclination to want or do something, even if it goes against their better judgment or goals. 

"To tempt" means to draw or entice someone, often towards something they shouldn't or something unwise or harmful. The desire for this tempting thing or action can be very strong, potentially leading to negative consequences. 

So, if someone says "he temps me," the person is saying that the actions, words, or presence of another person makes them want something or behave in a way they are trying to avoid. For example, someone on a diet might say, "He temps me with that delicious-looking dessert!" meaning that the dessert he offers makes them want to break their diet.

Test The Spirits

Test The Spirits

Jesus frequently warned about false teachers and prophets, cautioning his followers to be discerning. Here are some key scriptures:

Matthew 7:15 – "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves."

Matthew 24:24 – "For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect."

Luke 6:26 – "Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets."

2 Peter 2:1 – "They will secretly introduce destructive heresies—even denying the Master who bought them."

1 John 4:1 – "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world."

Recognizing false teachings requires discernment and a strong foundation in biblical truth. Here are some key ways to identify them:

1. Distorted Scripture – False teachers often twist or misinterpret biblical passages to fit their own agenda rather than staying true to the intended meaning.
2. Appeal to Emotion Over Truth – They may prioritize emotional experiences or personal revelations over sound doctrine.
3. Self-Promotion – Instead of pointing people to Christ, false teachers often seek personal fame, wealth, or influence.
4. Contradicting Core Christian Beliefs – They may deny essential doctrines such as the divinity of Christ, salvation through grace, or the authority of Scripture
5. Encouraging Sin or Compromise – Rather than calling people to repentance, they may justify sinful behavior or water down biblical standards.
6. Lack of Accountability – They often resist correction and operate outside of biblical community and oversight.

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I've been thinking about something lately. Throughout time Lucifer, AKA Satan, the Devil, has tried to thwart Father God's plans of salvation and bringing all things back into himself; God becoming all in all. 

I have often wondered what happened in heaven. Why did Lucifer and the other angels fall away from Father God? 

Satan has always wanted to be like Father God. He tries to deceive people in ways to turn them away from Father God and to put roadblocks in God's plans. I kind of think there may be two main reasons for him doing it. He wants them to worship him instead of Father God. The second is so he can accuse us to Father God of being no better than himself. Satan is very cunning and often uses scripture to deceive. This is why it is important to not just trust everyone.

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Here is an example.

We often drive by a huge church on 59 North of Houston, Texas. It has a huge gold dome on top. We've noticed that the dome has gone through some changes over the last year or so. They redid the gold dome, and it now has a large gold symbol of some kind on top. 

For a long time, we didn't know what it was because we never saw any signs to identify it. My wife and I kept talking about it every time we drove by so my wife recently decided to do some investigating and found out that it is the Iglesia de La Luz del Mundo (Light of the World Church). There are a number of these large churches in more than 50 countries throughout the world. She found a documentary, and we found out that they have a dark history. 

From Wikipedia:

Controversies and criticism

La Luz del Mundo has been the subject of several controversies. Church leaders have been accused of creating a cult of personality, sexually abusing members, and have been criticized for amassing wealth, living a lavish lifestyle, and attempting to build entire cities. In 2022, the church director and self-proclaimed “Apostle of God” Naasón Joaquín García pled guilty to three charges related to sexually abusing children.[144] In December 2022, HBO and RAINN released an original documentary series titled Unveiled: Surviving La Luz Del Mundo, which tells the story of child sexual abuse within the church.[145]

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In these churches of deception, they use scriptures to manipulate the people so that they can get what they want. I thought about how the Devil tried to tempt Jesus in the wilderness. He used scriptures and he offered him power, riches, control over all the nations. (Luke 4:1-13)

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Some things I have noticed with these churches of deception: Not only in churches but in governments. 

• The leaders are said to be chosen by god.
• This may be true, but I do not think it is by the one true God, Father God, the God of gods, the creator of all things.
• Because they are purported to be chosen by god, and people believe it, it makes it difficult to speak out when people have been wronged. This is the case in La Luz del Mundo church. The girls and boys who have been sexually abused feel helpless to say anything. Their own families won't believe them. Suicides are fairly common. 

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In contrast, here are God's ways, his character:

Jeremiah 9:24

New American Standard Bible 1995

24 but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord who exercises lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things,” declares the Lord.

Christ Jesus, who is One with Father God, gave us examples of this when he was here on earth. All that he did exemplified lovingkindness to people. When Jesus was with his disciples, he demonstrated another example by washing their feet.

 

John 13:12-17

New American Standard Bible 1995

12 So when He had washed their feet, and taken His garments and reclined at the table again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? 13 You call Me Teacher and Lord; and you are right, for so I am. 14 If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you. 16 Truly, truly, I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him. 17 If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.

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In God's kingdom, all become One in Christ Jesus, who is One with Father God. The Holy Spirit works to bring the people together, exercising lovingkindness to each other. It is like a marriage feast. 

Never forget Yeshua (Jesus). Never forget Father God. Jesus' great sacrifice for us, his love for us, Father God's love for us, is what made this all possible.

The Kingdom of God

I want to talk about Father God's kingdom—and share my belief that you and I are invited to live in it today.

In the Bible, especially in the book of Acts, we read about the early church. This first community of believers was founded on the teachings of Yeshua (Jesus) and held together by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit.

Luke, a physician and close companion of the Apostle Paul, is traditionally believed to have written both the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts. His detail-oriented nature made him well-suited to record these events accurately and thoughtfully.

In Acts 1:1–11, Luke describes the risen Jesus speaking with His followers about the kingdom of God. He instructs them to wait in Jerusalem for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Then, before their eyes, He ascends into heaven—leaving them with the promise that He will return the same way.

This early Church was not simply an organization—it was a Spirit-formed body of believers.

• Their identity was rooted in who Yeshua is and what He accomplished for us.
• The Holy Spirit, promised by the Father, became their helper—teaching them, empowering them, and uniting them in love and purpose, just as Yeshua prayed in John 17:11: “that they may be one as we are one.”
• Entrance into this community began with repentance and baptism, as Peter declared in Acts 2:38–39: “Repent and be baptized... and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
• These believers were devoted to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. They shared their possessions, lived in unity, and praised God daily (Acts 2:42–47).

I've been reflecting deeply on this picture of the early Church, especially as I grow older. For much of my life, I’ve lived independently—doing things on my own, relying on my own strength. Family has helped at times, and for larger tasks I’ve hired assistance, though not always with satisfaction.

Now in my late 70s, I'm more aware than ever of the importance of true community. And despite being in church for most of my life, I don't believe I've ever been part of a fellowship that fully mirrors the Acts church—where the Holy Spirit knits believers together in unity, and God's authority, not man's, leads the way.

Jeremiah 9:24 reminds us what truly matters:
"Let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice, and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight," declares the Lord.

Being part of God’s kingdom is a serious calling—not to be entered into lightly. Think about what Yeshua endured on our behalf: the sinless one, crucified for us, fulfilling prophecy, rising on the third day, and appearing to many before ascending. All of this was done so we might be forgiven and restored to the Father.

Lately, I’ve been thinking more about this kingdom in light of the troubling direction I see in today’s world. What we’re witnessing from political leaders—such as President Trump and his administration—reminds me of the rise of oppressive regimes in history, like Nazi Germany in the 1930s. Many people are fearful of what the future holds.

But in God’s kingdom, fear has no place. Who is more powerful than God? When we live under His rule—trusting in His righteousness, justice, and mercy—we can find peace even in uncertain times.

God/Allah is One

I believe that the phrase "God is One" is often subject to misinterpretation and here is why.

Islamic Belief: Muslims have faith in Allah as the sole, all-powerful God, the Sovereign and the Creator. They place their trust and fear solely in Him.

Jewish Belief: Jews uphold the belief in a singular, incomparable God.

Christian Belief: Christians adhere to the belief in only one God, as stated in Isaiah 43:10; 44:6, 8; John 17:3; 1 Corinthians 8:5-6; Galatians 4:8-9. Christianity, however, introduces the Trinity concept, sparking considerable debate and conflict with other faiths. The Trinity denotes the triune nature of God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, as referenced in Matthew 3:16-17, 28:19; John 14:16-17; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Acts 2:32-33; John 10:30, 17:11, 21; 1 Peter 1:2.

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This notion has even led to confusion among Christians themselves. 

Islam, Judaism, and Christianity all profess belief in a singular God. Yet, in the creation narratives of the Quran, Tanakh, and Bible, God is frequently mentioned using plural pronouns (WE, US, OUR). It would arguably be more logical to use singular pronouns (I, ME, MY) to underscore God's singularity. This is the basis for my view that the statement "God is One" is not fully understood.

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Examples:

Islam: The Quran quotes God: "Indeed, We created man from a mingled sperm-drop, to test him; thus, We gave him hearing and sight. His procreation stems from various elements, fitting his multifaceted role in the universe, necessitating a broad spectrum of attributes. Does man not recall that We created him previously when he was nothing? (19:68) And We made every living thing from water... (21:31) Did We not create you from a trivial fluid, which We placed in a secure environment? (77:22)" (21 The Prophets - al-Anbiya)

> "Do the disbelievers not see that the heavens and the earth were one mass, and We tore them apart? And We made from water every living thing. Will they not believe? And We placed on earth stabilizers, lest it sways with them, and We placed therein signposts and passages, that they may be guided. And We made the sky a protected ceiling; yet they turn away from its wonders. It is He who created the night and the day, and the sun and the moon; each floating in an orbit. We did not grant immortality to any human being before you. Should you die, are they then the immortal? Every soul will taste death. We burden you with adversity and prosperity—a test. And to Us you will be returned." (21:30-35)

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In Judaism, the Tanakh says: "And God said, 'Let us make man in our image, after our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.' And God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." (Genesis 1:26-27)

"And the LORD God said, 'Behold, the man has become like one of us, knowing good and evil; now, lest he reach out his hand and take also from the tree of life, and eat, and live forever.'" (Genesis 3:22)

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In Christianity, the Old Testament (similar to the Tanakh) states: "Then God said, 'Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the sky, over the cattle, over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.' God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." (Genesis 1:26-27)

"The Lord God said, 'The human has now become like one of us, knowing good and evil. Now, so that he does not reach out his hand and take also from the tree of life, and eat, and live forever.'" (Genesis 3:22)

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The true meaning of "ONE" and "GOD IS ONE" can be further understood through the words of Jesus (Yeshua).

First, Jesus stated that He existed with the Father before the world was created, which explains the plural form of God in creation: "Now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world was created." (John 17:5)

Jesus also declared that He and the Father are One: "I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them in your name that you have given me, so that they may be one as we are one." (John 17:11)

When we accept Jesus into our lives and receive the Holy Spirit, we become one with Christ: > "We have many parts in one body, but the parts don’t all have the same function. In the same way, though there are many of us, we are one body in Christ, and individually we belong to each other." (Romans 12:4-5)

Another way to understand “God is One” is to see God like we see a man and a woman who, through marriage, become one.

Stressful Times

Our US elections are coming up next Tuesday November 5, 2024. It is possible that Donald J. Trump could be elected as our president and personally, I do not feel that will be a good thing.

Trump and his allies appear to be following a strategy reminiscent of tactics used by Hitler and the Nazis. The initial goal is to secure enough popular support to win the presidency, while simultaneously working to undermine or eliminate opposition. If elected, their "Project 2025" blueprint could be enacted, potentially leading to the removal of those seen as threats or undesirable by those in power. This vision could include establishing a national religion, controlling media, and imposing increasing restrictions on freedoms.

If you support him and his allies, you may be unwittingly aiding this agenda. Right now, you may be useful in this pursuit of power but remember; those who outlive their usefulness may find themselves discarded or worse.

Have you noticed how more and more countries are falling under authoritarian rule, and how these leaders are starting to join forces? It’s unsettling to think about leaders like Putin and Kim Jong-un strengthening their alliance, with reports suggesting that North Korea might even be sending troops to support Russia in Ukraine. So many people caught in this struggle become pawns in a dangerous quest for power. If Trump were to become president again, many fear he will take an authoritarian approach here in the U.S., and the thought of him aligning with leaders like Putin is deeply troubling. It could put democratic values at risk in ways that would impact all of us, reshaping our world in ways we may not yet fully understand.

I wrote a post back in 2013 that I think may be very helpful to read and think about.

'Where's God"

Hypocrisy

When I woke up this morning, I was thinking about hypocrisy.

Bible verses on hypocrisy:

1 John 4:20

New International Version

20 Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.

1 Peter 2:16

New International Version

16 Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves.

Galatians 6:3

New International Version

3 If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves.

Jeremiah 23:11

New International Version

11 “Both prophet and priest are godless;

    even in my temple I find their wickedness,”

declares the Lord.

Luke 6:46

New International Version

The Wise and Foolish Builders

46 “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?

Luke 12:2

New International Version

2 There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.

Mark 7:6

New International Version

6 He replied, “Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written:

“‘These people honor me with their lips,

    but their hearts are far from me.

Matthew 6:1

New International Version

Giving to the Needy

6 “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.

Romans 10:3

New International Version

3 Since they did not know the righteousness of God and sought to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness.

Titus 1:16

New International Version

16 They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him. They are detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good.

Matthew 23:27-28

New International Version

27 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean. 28 In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.

Luke 20:46-47

New International Version

46 “Beware of the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. 47 They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely.”

James 1:22-23

New International Version

22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror

Matthew 6:16-18

New International Version

Fasting

16 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Matthew 7:21-23

New International Version

True and False Disciples

21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ 23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’

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I am writing about this because there are some in congress who want to change the way the United States of America operates. They want our laws and the way the country is run based on their interpretation of the Bible. God is perfect, man is not. If those who create our laws are not willing to obey them themselves, then they are hypocrites. 

Can You Love; Without God?

Can someone who does not believe in a god, love? I believe that they can because there is "that of God in everyone". 

What do Quakers mean by the “Inner Light”?

Here's their answer;

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Here is the problem:

Imagine if we could love all the time—there would be peace, wouldn't there? Picture this: you have a close friend; someone you always enjoy being with. Life feels peaceful. But then something happens, and that peace is shattered. You stop communicating, and suddenly, you don’t want to see them anymore.

This is where Jesus comes in. He did what he did to restore peace, just like a mediator who steps in to heal the broken bond between friends. Jesus would do whatever it takes to bring you back together—even if it meant giving his life.

That's how deeply Father God and His Son, Jesus, love us. They will go to any length to restore peace.

God the Father sent His Son, Jesus, to take on human form. There needed to be a human who could live a flawless life, fully upholding the law, to stand in our place. It wasn't enough for God to simply forgive our sins without justice. Jesus, out of love for the Father and for us, willingly accepted this mission.

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Love is not a solitary feeling; it thrives in connection with others.

Love is a deep emotional bond that transcends mere affection or attraction. It's a multifaceted experience that can encompass feelings of care, compassion, respect, and connection toward others or oneself. Love can manifest in different forms, such as romantic love, familial love, friendship, and self-love, each with its unique dynamics. At its core, love often involves selflessness, vulnerability, and a genuine desire for the well-being of another.

Obeying The Laws VS Love

I had an intriguing thought last Sunday morning about the contrast between Jewish and Christian teachings. In Judaism, there is a strong emphasis on knowing and obeying the law. Meanwhile, Christianity centers around love as the guiding principle.

But this raises a thought-provoking question: If someone loves but does not know the laws, will that love naturally lead them to obedience? Conversely, if a person diligently follows the laws, does that process cultivate love within them?

ChatGPT provided an insightful response on this topic, exploring both perspectives.

Jewish Perspective:

In Judaism, obeying the laws (mitzvot) is foundational. These commandments serve as a path to holiness, righteousness, and a deeper connection with God and others. However, the laws are not solely about strict adherence—they are meant to be observed with intention and love. The Torah reinforces this idea with commandments such as “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18). In this way, obedience is seen as a reflection of love rather than separate from it.

Christian Perspective:

Christianity, particularly the New Testament, presents love as the ultimate fulfillment of the law. Romans 13:10 states, “Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law.” The belief is that a heart full of genuine love naturally aligns with moral principles, making explicit adherence to the law less of a rigid requirement and more of a natural outcome.

The Relationship Between Love and Law:

• If You Love but Don’t Know the Laws: From a Christian viewpoint, authentic love can lead a person to act in ways that inherently align with the moral essence of the law. However, without knowledge of specific commandments, they may unknowingly overlook certain behaviors considered important in religious tradition.

• If You Obey the Laws, Does That Lead to Love?: Within Jewish practice, following the laws is designed to foster closeness to God and a harmonious community. Obedience can cultivate love when done with the right heart and understanding. However, if a person follows laws mechanically without purpose or devotion, they may not experience the deeper love those laws aim to nurture.

Ultimately, love and law are intertwined rather than opposed. In Judaism, obeying the laws with the right intention can lead to love, while in Christianity, love is seen as the true fulfillment of the law. Both perspectives acknowledge that love and law work together to shape a meaningful spiritual journey.

Reflecting on this, I was reminded that humanity, in its imperfections, has fractured the peace between each other and God. Yet, in His mercy, God sent His Son, Yeshua (Jesus), to live a perfect life in obedience, becoming the spotless sacrifice for our shortcomings. His sacrifice restores the possibility of peace for us all. Through repentance, we accept His forgiveness and invite transformation into our lives. And even in that process, God is ready to guide us toward change.

Separation of Church and State

 

The First Amendment of the United States Constitution protects religious liberty by limiting the government's authority to civil issues and preventing it from establishing a religion.

SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE

In countries where a dictator is in control, the main religion often becomes a powerful tool for maintaining authority and control over the populace. These regimes frequently leverage religion to legitimize their rule, unify the country under a common identity, and suppress dissent.

1. **Legitimizing Authority**: Dictators often claim divine right or portray themselves as chosen by a higher power. By aligning themselves with religious leaders or symbols, they create a narrative that their leadership is sanctioned by a higher authority, discouraging opposition on moral or spiritual grounds.

2. **Unifying the Population**: Religion can be a unifying force, and dictators exploit this by promoting a single, state-approved interpretation of the main religion. This fosters a sense of national unity and identity, making it easier to mobilize the population for the regime's goals and to isolate and demonize those who do not conform.

3. **Suppressing Dissent**: Religious doctrines and institutions are used to justify the suppression of opposition. Dictators may label dissenters as heretics or enemies of the faith, thereby framing political opposition as a moral and religious transgression. This not only justifies harsh crackdowns but also discourages people from voicing dissent due to fear of social and religious ostracization.

4. **Control of Religious Institutions**: Dictators often place loyalists in key positions within religious institutions or create state-controlled religious organizations. This ensures that religious teachings and activities align with the regime’s interests, preventing religious leaders from becoming sources of opposition.

5. **Propaganda and Indoctrination**: Religious rhetoric and symbols are integrated into state propaganda. Schools, media, and public events emphasize religious teachings that support the dictator’s narrative, creating an environment where the regime's ideology is seen as intertwined with religious duty.

In summary, dictators exploit religion as a multifaceted tool to reinforce their power, suppress opposition, and unify the populace under their rule. This manipulation of faith not only consolidates their control but also makes it harder for opposition movements to gain traction in a society where religious and political identities are closely intertwined.

LOVE

I woke up early this morning and I remembered that I was dreaming about LOVE. I was specifically dreaming about the medic, Desmond Doss, who is credited with saving more than 70 solders lives, even enemy soldiers', during one of the bloodiest battles of World War II in the Pacific. He did it without carrying any kind of protection for himself. He refused to carry a weapon or take a person's life. When he enlisted into the Army, he told them this and was almost rejected for service. They thought that he wouldn't make a good solder, but they took him anyway. He went through literal hell from his commanders and fellow soldiers, but he never quit/gave up. Click the link and go down to the 'Synopsis' of the movie. The movie, 'Hacksaw Ridge', based on true events. It is well worth seeing if you haven't already. (maybe without children). His whole character was amazing, hard to believe, and is one example of LOVE (AGAPE LOVE). The kind of LOVE that Father God and his son, Yeshua (Jesus) has.

I've been thinking a lot about my life lately. I cannot remember if I have ever loved that deeply. The Bible talks about God's chosen. Jesus said that his disciples were the ones his Father God gave him, specifically chosen. I wonder now, are God's chosen the only ones who have that kind of LOVE? I am not saying that we can't love unless we've been chosen by God. I kind of think our love may not be Agape Love, but some flavor under that.

I remember that on the day of Judgement there are many books that will be opened. But there is one book that stands apart from all the others. It is called the Book of Life, God's chosen. If we could see those who God has chosen, I think we might be quite surprised by those He has picked.

Here is a thought about how to obtain LOVE. Repent, empty self; my will dies. Ask Yeshua (Jesus) in and his will takes over.

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All of a sudden, I am being reminded of a number of old posts:

Monday, August 3, 2020 ---- Love

Sunday, June 24, 2018 ----- Love Thy Enemy

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5/5/2024

Talking about coincidences. This morning at church, our pastor had a sermon on LOVE. His favorite scripture verses on the subject are 1 Corinthians 13; mine too.

1 Corinthians 13

New International Version

13 If I speak in the tongues[a] of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast,[b] but do not have love, I gain nothing.

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. 11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. 12 For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Judgment Day

Judgment Day

If today were Judgment Day, Yeshua (Jesus) has finished putting a spotlight on your life, and he tells you to go away, he never knew you, how would you feel? How would I feel?

If today were it, Judgment Day, I don’t believe that I would do well. So many things I have done and not done. I think that what I would regret most is missing the opportunities to talk with someone. I will get kind of a inclination to talk with someone. I mull it over in my mind why not to and why I should. If I finally decide to do it, go talk with them, more often than not, it is too late. The person is gone. Whenever we feel the need to meet someone, just do it. Don’t think, just do it. These opportunities go away quickly.

In the book "Celestine Prophecy" it calls these opportunities coincidences. They are important to us and have great meaning. If not at that very moment, then for a later time.

I've repented a number of times but seem to fall back into my same old person. I think, how can God put up with me?  His Son, Yeshua (Jesus) went through unimaginable things so that I could be forgiven. Why can’t I honor him? Why can’t I honor Father God for His plan to save us? Such Love those two have for us…...

We can ask forgiveness today and after seeing that we fail, we can ask forgiveness and try again. One day the disciple Peter asked Yeshua (Jesus), "How many times should I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?" Jesus tells him, "Not seven times, but seventy times seven." (Matthew 18:21-35)

God is patient with us, but His patience is finite. Some day we will be judged. No one but Father God knows when that will be.

Forgiveness is circular or reciprocal. If we forgive then we are forgiven.

Matthew 6:14-15

New International Version

14 For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.

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Think about what Yeshua (Jesus) went through, for us all, so that we could have forgiveness.

Here are the crucifixion stories in the Bible:

Matthew 27, Mark 15, Luke 23, and John 19 

He endured things beyond our comprehension. He did it for all of us.

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If being fearful of God makes you do good works, then be afraid. If doing good works is for rewards at Judgment Day, then that is for your benefit. Doing good works because you LOVE is the ultimate reason. LOVE like Father God and Yeshua (Jesus) LOVE. I think this may be what "The Way" means in the Bible.

John 14:6

New International Version

6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

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John 14:15-16

New International Version

Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit

15 “If you love me, keep my commands. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—

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4/24/2024

I was looking through some of my old posts and came across 'The faith that justified Abraham'. This is a long read but I feel like it goes very well with this post and the 'Good Works' post.

Good Works

I've been thinking. Why do we do good works?

If I understand correctly, the Muslims do good works for rewards at the judgement day. Allah (God) looks at the good and the bad things we do and if the good things outweigh the bad things, then we are rewarded somehow.

With the Jews, they do good works because of the laws. Yahweh (God) looks with favor on the Jew who obeys the laws.

I am not sure any more about Christians. Some say that simply having faith will save us and there are plenty of scripture verses in in Bible to suggest this to be true. A popular verse is Ephesians 2:8-9

New International Version

8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.

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And then there are these verses:

James 2:14-26

New International Version

Faith and Deeds

14 What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? 15 Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.

18 But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.”

Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. 19 You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.

20 You foolish person, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless[a]? 21 Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. 23 And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,”[b] and he was called God’s friend. 24 You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone.

25 In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? 26 As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.

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So, some Christians try to have faith and do good works but so often will fail at some point in their lives.

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A Pharisee by the name of Nicodemus came to Yeshua (Jesus) one night and started asking him questions. Jesus said something very interesting and puzzling. He said, "Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.”

Here is the exchange of words between Nicodemus and Jesus:

John 3:5-21

New International Version

5 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. 6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit[a] gives birth to spirit. 7 You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You[b] must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”[c]

9 “How can this be?” Nicodemus asked.

10 “You are Israel’s teacher,” said Jesus, “and do you not understand these things? 11 Very truly I tell you, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony. 12 I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things? 13 No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven—the Son of Man.[d] 14 Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up,[e] 15 that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.”[f]

16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. 19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. 20 Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. 21 But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.

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True children of God do good works out of LOVE. They do it because they LOVE Father God. They do it because they LOVE Yeshua (Jesus). And they do it because they LOVE the people. This is agape love, the highest form of love, the same LOVE God and Jesus have for all human beings.

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4/24/2024

I was looking through some of my old posts and came across 'The faith that justified Abraham'. This is a long read but I feel like it goes very well with this post and the 'Judgement Day' post.

Compassion and Love

I have often thought that compassion and love are one in the same, but I no longer think so. 

I have been thinking about my life recently and am ashamed. I can have compassion for others but that is about as far as it goes. Love is doing something with that compassion. Think about Father God and His Son, Yeshua (Jesus). They always do something with their compassion, LOVE.

John 3:16

New International Version

16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

1 John 3:16 (New International Version)

 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.

1 John 3

New International Version

3 See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 2 Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears,[a] we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. 3 All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.

4 Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness. 5 But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin. 6 No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him.

7 Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. 8 The one 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 them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God. 10 This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.

More on Love and Hatred

11 For this is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another. 12 Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil and his brother’s were righteous. 13 Do not be surprised, my brothers and sisters,[b] if the world hates you. 14 We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love each other. Anyone who does not love remains in death. 15 Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life residing in him.

16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. 17 If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? 18 Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.

19 This is how we know that we belong to the truth and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence: 20 If our hearts condemn us, we know that God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. 21 Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God 22 and receive from him anything we ask, because we keep his commands and do what pleases him. 23 And this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us. 24 The one who keeps God’s commands lives in him, and he in them. And this is how we know that he lives in us: We know it by the Spirit he gave us.

Restoration

Restoration

Something I like to do when I am studying a specific subject in the Bible is I will make a list of all the scriptures. This post will go with my post ‘Forgiveness – Repentance – Restoration’.

Deuteronomy29:1

Covenant Renewal, Oaths, Restoration, Charges to the Nation

These are the words of the covenant that Yahweh commanded Moses to make with the Israelites in the land of Moab besides the covenant that he made with them at Horeb.

In Context | Full Chapter | Other Translations

1. 2 Chronicles 24:13

   So those doing the work labored, and the restoration for the work made progress under their hand. And they restored the house of God to its position and strengthened it.

   In Context | Full Chapter | Other Translations

2. 2 Chronicles 27:3

   He built the upper gate of the house of Yahweh, and he did much restoration on the wall of Ophel.

   In Context | Full Chapter | Other Translations

3. Ezra 5:1

   Temple Restoration Resumed

   Now the prophets, Haggai and Zechariah the son of Iddo, prophesied to the Jews who were in Judah and in Jerusalem, in the name of the God of Israel who was over them.

   In Context | Full Chapter | Other Translations

4. Nehemiah 4:7

   Opposition Stopped

   Now when Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites heard that the restoration of the walls of Jerusalem were going forward and the gaps were being closed, they were very angry.

   In Context | Full Chapter | Other Translations

5. Job 42:1

   Job’s Repentance and Restoration

   Then Job answered Yahweh and said,

   In Context | Full Chapter | Other Translations

6. Psalm 60:1

   A Lament After a Defeat and a Prayer for Restoration

   For the music director, according to Shushan Eduth.

   A miktam of David. To teach.

   When he fought Mesopotamia and Aram Zobah, and Joab returned and struck Edom in the Valley of Salt, twelve thousand persons.

   O God, you have rejected us. You have broken us. You have been angry. Restore us!

   In Context | Full Chapter | Other Translations

7. Psalm 126:1

   A Prayer for Restoration

   A song of ascents.

   When Yahweh restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like dreamers.

   In Context | Full Chapter | Other Translations

8. Isaiah 14:1

   The Restoration of Israel

   But Yahweh will have compassion on Jacob, and he will again choose Israel and set them on their land, and the immigrant will join himself to them, and they will attach themselves to the house of Jacob.

   In Context | Full Chapter | Other Translations

9. Ezekiel 36:1

   Prophecy to the Mountains of Israel and of Israel’s Restoration

   “And you, son of man, prophesy to the mountains of Israel; and so you must say, ‘Mountains of Israel, hear the word of Yahweh;

   In Context | Full Chapter | Other Translations

10. Amos 9:11

    Restoration of Israel

    On that day I will raise up the booth of David that is fallen, and I will repair its breaches and will raise up its ruins and will build it like the days of old.

    In Context | Full Chapter | Other Translations

11. Acts 3:21

    whom heaven must receive until the times of the restoration of all things, about which God spoke through the mouth of his holy prophets from earliest times.

    In Context | Full Chapter | Other Translations