Revelation – A Valid Prophecy – 2012 ?

 

The Book of Revelation is quite an interesting, intriguing narrative account of the grand finale! Bursting at the seams with a great wealth of relative, similar, prophetic symbolism that is also found in the Books of Daniel and Zechariah. It is in Revelation that John shares his many quite extraordinary, remarkable visions. John endured a lot of persecution because of his faith and belief in Jesus Christ. It is here on the rocky island of Patmos John was exiled because he would not worship the image of Emperor Domitian. Scores of readers shy away from reading Revelation and find some of its contents a bit disturbing. Others simply find it weird and even a bit irrational. However, when one looks closer through a spiritual lens you will discover that John truly and unselfishly intended to enlighten, inspire hope and encouragement in the midst of his own personal predicament. Revelation contains valid prophecy.

Revelation has been described as one of the most complicated, intimidating Books in the Bible. One might pose the question; “Well if it is so complicated then why bother at all to read Revelation?” First and foremost because it is the inspired Word of God. John gives us a profound reason to persevere through its contents. One must certainly solicit the aid and assistance of the Holy Spirit to open your spiritual ears for any lucid clarity. John himself really answers that question earlier on. He tells us that “Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take it to heart what is written in it, because the time is near…”

 John also reinforces the fact that Jesus Christ is, lived here on earth, is the King of Kings, and the Almighty Ruler, of the kings of the earth and is most definitely coming back again! Here in Revelation we are reminded that Jesus created all things and all things are subject to Him. This further helps one to understand why Jesus humbled Himself, and actually became the “Word in flesh.” It was out of obedience to the will of the Father that He died upon the cross, and then arose with all power. Here we learn the immense significance of His amazing position as the “Lamb of God.” He once and for all gave His life. For those who believe this is the Gospel the “Good News!” Just by knowing who we are in Him helps us to live victoriously as John did despite his situation and what was happening in the world! Essentially our purpose for life and living is to discover Him as our Creator and seek Him above everything else. We who are believers have been purchased with His Blood. The Church belongs to Him, His Church is His Bride!

Revelation contains an affluent wealth of prophetic visions that stretches one’s imagination to think far beyond the surface. To ponder and launch out into the deep where one’s faith or lack thereof becomes apparent. John goes on to describe the events on a scroll to be sent to the seven (7) Churches. To each of them he has some very specific and interesting comments. Take some time and see where your congregation of choice is? “He who has an ear, let Him hear what the Spirit says to the Churches.” It is important today in this 21st century to be mindful that the scriptures are being fulfilled. GOD’s WORD is AWESOME! God wants us to have an intimate personal relationship with Him. It is important to know the Lord’s Word for yourself. This way you “will no longer be infants tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming…” as expressed in Ephesians.

It is here in Revelation that we are reminded of the ongoing spiritual warfare that was and has continued to go on within and against His Church. Keep in mind when Revelation was written the many large, small, storefront and or mega buildings where the Church comes together for worship did not exist. The war between good and evil continues. This is again why it is so very important to have an intimate personal relationship with the Lord and His Word. Revelation does not easily open its contents for one to readily embrace and understand. One must seek and call upon the Holy Spirit to keep you attentive. To continue through the many passages that requires a deep concentration and steadfastness through the many tumultuous interludes. This is also why it is so very important to worship the Lord “in Spirit and in TRUTH He indeed, is truly worthy of our praise!

All in all Revelation major overtones reassures us that our HOPE and TRUST must be in the Lord. John clearly reminds us that GOD alone gave His only Begotten Son to redeem us from the clutches of sin and death and insure our access to eternal life! It is through Adam that sin and death entered our existence. During one’s mesmerizing safaric journey through Revelation there are many turns and unexpected surprises. Vivid, veracious scenes depicting the seven (7) seals, seven (7) trumpets, scrolls, exotic creatures, dragons and angels, seven (7) plagues and seven (7) bowls of God’s wrath, and a wondrous plethora of rare precious gemstones and so much more… Here in Revelation there is also a wonderful vision magnificently illustrating the joy and honor for being invited to the great wedding supper. SEVEN is the number of COMPLETION! The King of Kings emerges and gives us a glimpse of what Heaven is like. It is through Jesus Christ’s love for us, His birth, sinless life, crucifixion, death and resurrection that we have been redeemed and given the gift of eternal life. Within the power of His resurrection is our Hope!

Yes our country is in an economic crisis, property values have plummeted and continues to decline. Companies and corporations large and small are closing their doors. His principles for marriage and the family are being abandoned by the masses, immorality on the rise, unexplained weather phenomenon, wars and rumors of war continue, the entire universe is being impacted. Yes one must be aware and concerned, but don’t be alarmed or afraid by all the events we hear and will continue to hear. Is it important to read Revelation? Yes of course, All of God’s Word is true. John tells us that “Behold, I AM coming soon! Blessed is he who keeps the words of this prophecy in this book.”

It is also in Revelation that an angel of the Lord reminds us that “These words are trustworthy and true. The Lord the God of the spirits and prophets, sent an angel to show his servants the things that must soon take place.” God knows us from the inside out through and through. He knows the why, who what, and why not. You may not want to think about it but time is of the essence. Our entire lives are an open book to the Lord. It is important that we keep in mind that our life continues on throughout eternity. It is important to know for sure where you will spend eternity! This is not based upon what someone says, thinks or does not say about you. It is based on His Word and knowing without a doubt that it is to Him you belong. “It is in Him we move and live and have our being.” Hear what His Spirit has to say “BLESSED are those who wash their robes, that they may go through the gates of the city. Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehoods…”Although Revelation may be difficult to comprehend at times, I want to encourage you to read on. Remember the Word of God is like no other. It is “quick (alive) and powerful, sharper than a two-edged sword…” Since it is so full of life, each time you take time to read it and glean its wisdom your spiritual ears and eyes are opened just that much more! And yes most definitely, Revelation is a valid prophecy

God is our Father & Creator! Have you really given some serious thought to what eternity will be like? Imagine The Word tells us that there will be no more, death, pain or sorrow! "God will wipe every tear from their eyes! " It is important to realize when you truly are living for the Lord whatever you are going through its not over for you. In the end "WE WIN" God has the last WORD! "These are the words of HIM who is HOLY and TRUE, who holds the KEY of DAVID, What HE opens NO ONE can shut, and what HE shuts NO ONE can open!"

The Bible starts with a marvelous story of Creation. Genesis records the Beginning. It concludes with the creation of a new heaven and earth in Revelation. Those who overcome through Jesus Christ will "stand firm in the end." (evil will not be able to mimic itself as good and continue to deceive many…) We don’t know the day or the hour but JESUS is coming soon!!! The Promises of God will be fulfilled! HIS WORD will not return void! In this world where disobedience, mistreatment, persecution, immorality, evil, lying, and deception continue to rise… JESUS CHRIST OUR SAVIOR tells us to endure by FAITH! TRUST HIM! In spite of how things appear, He really does ultimately have it ALL under His control! His message of Love, Repentance and Salvation is extended to all! He is the "Bright and Morning STAR!" HE IS the ALPHA and THE OMEGA THE BEGINNING AND THE END!!! We can ALWAYS have HOPE in the LORD!!! TO GOD Be THE GLORY!

 

Listen/download the song "Jesus Is Coming Soon By Jus-B-Cuz".

 About the Author:

DeBorrah K. Ogans is a licensed Pastoral Counselor and ordained minister. She is certified through the Sarasota Academy of Christian Counseling in Creation Therapy and holds a Master’s Degree in Biblical Clinical Counseling. DeBorrah is a Co-Founder along with her husband Randall of "Alpha 7 Ministries". DeBorrah has written extensively and her many columns are widely published on Hubpages. She is the author of a pre-marital guide "How Do I Love Thee: Things You Need To Know Before You Say I Do", and  "Holy Matrimony: Now That

You’re Married"

Walking In Integrity

Do you desire to walk in integrity? Do you desire to be whole? Do you really know that there is absolutely nothing in life that God is not aware of? “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God.” God in His infinite wisdom knew from the very beginning of time that we would have to endure many situations, trials, sicknesses, grief and yes difficult people. His Word tells us that He knew us before the foundation of the world. God has given us so many examples to remind us daily who He is. You see “The heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament display His handiwork!” So why is it that so many elect to walk contrary to His Word?

You see many do not simply understand that God really has provided everything that we need in order to live and properly function in this world. God has given us the Bible that contains 66 books which have been divinely inspired. He sent His Son to purchase with His life; a plan of salvation for us! It is through His plan of salvation we access His overflowing abundance. It is through Him we are given the opportunity to walk in integrity.

Walking in integrity provides you with a sense of wholeness. It gives you an assurance to know when you are walking with the Lord your steps are ordered. This does not mean that bad things will not happen. I assure you they will. But if you are quietly still you will be able to recognize the author of its origin. You will be able to soar above your situation and rest in the arms of an all powerful and mighty God. You see God is awesome and He is mighty in battle.

Life today is very complex. The world is full of people who subscribe to a multiplicity of belief systems. Many simply have no moral or ethical barometer to determine what is right or wrong. Many live in lifestyles entrenched in a multiplicity of addictive behaviors. You also have those who do not really believe in God but they attempt to live life by doing good things. Then you have another group that is just mentally insane! On the other hand you have many who profess to be believers that opt to employ a distorted fragmented partially clad truth system. That is really not truth at all. Then you have those who know without a doubt they are children of God. They realize that they live in the world but they know that they are not of the world. So therefore we have global conflict.

What are you saying? As a child of God you realize that you live in the world. But on a spiritual level you know that you must not conform to its belief system. You withdraw on your Faith account. You beseech God for direction. You do not walk in the counsel of ungodly people. How do I do this? You must learn to walk in integrity. You must pray that the Lord illuminates your understanding to help you see your path forward. You seek solace in the scriptures for further guidance. You accept the truth even when it is painful. You lay aside the weights that so easily make an attempt to hinder you walking in the Light of God’s Word. Daniel’s life displays an excellent example of integrity. His peers were intimidated by his character. For this they plotted against him. Yet, Daniel remained faithful to Godly principles. God took care of Daniel. Walking in integrity causes one to walk against the grain. You see the Truth is always the pathway to God!

We who are Christians must seek to resolve our earthly challenges in a spiritual way. This does not mean to adopt some fairytale never never land faulty belief system. Neither does it mean I can do anything, say anything or live any way and God will just have to forgive me mentality. After all we are not under the law we are under grace. It means to responsively take personal responsibility for your actions!

There will be consequences for behavior! Don’t t use or manipulate others who are weak and are ignorant to God’s Way of living in order to get your way! Integrity will help you walk in meekness. Meekness is power under control! The world system is not the system that God wants His children to operate within. The law is for the unlawful. But if you know the truth it does not matter. Many choose evil over what is right! You know that whatever trumped up charges someone tries to infer against you they will simply have no weight. Just remember Daniel! Obedience to God is vitally important for the believer. You must choose to walk in integrity!

Walking in integrity is not an easy task. You see it also means to stand for what is right in the eyes of God. You may have to go some places and be some places you would rather not be; but only for a season. Just know God walks with you wherever you go! But you must be certain you have not crossed your will with His! You abandon the need to manipulate the situation. Integrity does not have to fight its way into anything. Grace which is a by product will sustain you. You instead elect to pray and seek God’s guidance. It is through this guidance you can obtain the spiritual, physical and emotional energy to endure. To soar above your circumstances. This will give you the spiritual clarity to operate in spite of! Your faith will assure you God will eventually pull down any strongholds! By faith you know the Holy Spirit will illuminate the darkness that tries to perpetrate a fraudulent simulated light.

It is very difficult to properly relate to someone who lacks integrity. They quite often subscribe to the idea that they can do whatever is necessary to get what they want. They have a very difficult time dealing with anyone who does not agree with them. They often resort to fragmenting the truth to solicit support of those who are partially informed. You do not have to resort to their tactics! Do not be dismayed when they hurl insults. Just know that they are coming from a place of insecurity. A child of God must “walk by faith”. This means you have to keep walking in the Light even when you are not sure how things will turn out. But through faith you know God will work it out for your good! That you must focus on Him when those who walked with you at one time walk no more. You see the narrow road to God is not full of travelers. But it is the path that leads you over through and beyond the wide road that leads to destruction. The faith that God has instilled in you as His child will daily illuminate your path. Diligently study His Word! It will give you healthy realistic boundaries. Integrity will assist you. It will provide an invisible shield to insulate you from the claws of the many wolves that adorn sheep clothing!

Whenever you are in doubt of direction seek Godly direction. Often a simple whispered prayer will suffice. Because God really does know where you are, what you have done and better yet what you are going to do. Please do not subscribe to the counsel of the ungodly. Beware of those who talk right and walk left. Who use the grace of God as a license to sin! Who indulge in unspeakable behavior! Who live to satisfy the flesh and have an insatiable desire to star in an imitation spiritual spotlight. You see with God there is absolutely nothing that is hidden! Therefore you realize that there is no need for an audience when you know that you have God’s attention 24/7. To much is given much is required! You can then walk humbly in His Light because you know that “Greater is He that is in you than He that is in the world”! Know there can be no true peace and contentment where truth is not welcomed. God is the Spirit of TRUTH! But you can share with anyone who asks “This joy that I have the world did not give it to me.” Neither can the world take it away! Do you really want to be made whole? Begin today to walk in integrity! TO GOD BE THE GLORY!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

DeBorrah K. Ogans is a Marriage Educator, licensed Christian Counselor, Life Coach and ordained Minister. She is certified through the Sarasota Academy of Christian Counseling in Creation Therapy and holds a Master’s Degree in Biblical Clinical Counseling. She is the author of a pre-marital guide “How Do I Love Thee: Things You Need To Know Before You Say I Do,” and “Holy Matrimony: Now That You’re Married”. DeBorrah has written extensively and has a plethora of columns and commentaries on life subjects that are widely published.

Look How Far The Lord Has Brought Us

From The “Pit” To The “Palace”

America along with the world has been privileged to share a monumental, memorable phenomenon. Barak Obama becoming the 44th President of the United States of America is nothing short of a miracle! If you look closely and attentively throughout the corridors of America’s history you will find that what was thought to have been unheard of has happened. By the grace of God the “Impossible has become possible!” It took faith, fortitude, stamina, dedication, persistence and perseverance to forge ahead against insurmountable odds for Barak Obama to pursue relentlessly the position of president. His winning the candidacy for the President of America reaches far beyond the United States. It has been said that his methodical, strategic campaign was a seamless, well planned, professionally skilled endeavor of any other candidate. This victory has brought about a much needed message of “Hope” and renewal of confidence within the American people. It also yields a restored “Faith in God.” The Word of God tells us that “Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen.” The Truth and promises of the scriptures have been “made alive.” “With God All things are possible.” One can surely appreciate the fact that the ” highway of possibilities” has been opened. The possible pathway of opportunities are boundless for our nation, the world and future generations to come.

Traveling throughout the world affords one the opportunity to broaden your perspective and experience and envision life through a much broader lens. I am thankful for having been afforded such an opportunity, to travel throughout the world along with my husband /pastor as well as in a group. The world is so very diverse with a plethora of multi cultural people, customs, religions and beliefs. All having such a broad assorted variety of lifestyles in which an innumerable amount of peoples with diverse backgrounds live together. But regardless as to where I have traveled, from Mexico to Aruba, the Bahamas to Jamaica, England to Rome, Athens Greece to Ephesus, France to Spain and Switzerland…. I have always been thankful to return home to America. We have met wonderful people. There have been countless wonders, magnificent architectural expressions and artistic monuments as well as majestic sceneries to behold from the hilltop Montserrat to Notre Dame Cathedral, St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City to the Blue Mosque and Hagias Sophia in Turkey. Yet I have never seen nor experienced a place where the freedom in which we are privy to here in America is experienced anywhere else in the world. It is because of this freedom and opportunity Barak Obama has become the 44th and 1st Afro American President. How ironic he and his family will be the first Black Family to ever take up resident in the nation’s capitol infamously known as “The White House.” “Look How Far The Lord Has Brought Us.”

In the 1930’s America was a segregated society where everything was separate. There were even separate water fountains and restrooms labeled for “Whites only” and less hygienic accommodations for the “Colored”. Let’s not forget back seats on buses and back entrances to public facilities. Many Blacks decided to migrate to the North. Being born and raised in California has had its benefits since here, we have been somewhat shielded from the dire profundity of racism and discrimination that permeated the deep south. Not that discrimination did not go on here, it did it and has and has……. Here we have just been a tad further removed from the antagonistic discrimination which was so outwardly and blatantly, readily displayed itself in the deep south. Despite the fact America is a country made up of immigrants from all over the world. Where slavery was practiced and embraced. Where many Whites felt that they were superior to Blacks and we were perceived as inferior. To many even to be dark skinned was considered a curse. To be beaten, severely punished, raped or lynched and treated less than human was once considered acceptable behavior. The right to learn how to read and write was also denied as well as deemed illegal. Dissension, factions, immorality and discord are works of the flesh. Here is an excerpt from the article; Blacks are better off than in 1999 than in 1960 “After the Civil War, many amendments were passed in order to better represent blacks in America. The 13th, 14th and 15th amendments all changed blacks’ lives drastically and positively. The 13th amendment ended slavery and the 14th declared blacks as citizens. The fifteenth amendment stated that anyone can vote, regardless of color or race. However, the South devised poll taxes and literacy tests in a successful attempt at preventing blacks from voting. But in 1964, after a sufficient number of states ratified an amendment proposed by Congress, the tables turned for blacks. The 24th amendment banned poll taxes. The voting act of 1965 banned the use of literacy tests related to voting. Voting gave blacks a say in government and helped raise the moral of blacks in America.” “Look How Far The Lord Has Brought Us.”

I can personally recall from time to time watching on television the injustices broadcasted on the news and the many interruptions for special bulletin news reports as a child. I can remember the many tales of my parents and the many experiences they encountered growing up in the early 1900’s in Arkansas. I was a mere toddler when segregation in the schools legally ended in 1955, which resulted in the Montgomery Bus Boycotts. The Supreme Court eventually ruled that Alabama segregation laws were unconstitutional. It is during this time that Rosa parks decided not to give up her seat to a white person simply because she was so very tired. This protest resulted in Dr. Martin Luther King a Baptist Minister at the time, being ushered to the front lines as a prominent Social Leader for the Black Community. Discrimination in theaters, hotels, hospitals and public places continued on until in 1964 Congress passed a Civil Rights Act. Dr. King lead many “Peaceful Freedom Protest Marches” protesting the many injustices upon Blacks. Dr. King believed, practiced and exemplified the Fruit of God’s Spirit which is Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness and Self-Control. “Look How Far The Lord Has Brought Us.”

I can recall when I was in Jr. High School during the sixties, as president of my homeroom. I clearly remember having to lead the class in the “Pledge of Allegiance.” But, halfway through one particular morning, all of a sudden it dawned on me. It had become quite clear to me that it really was not “Liberty and Justice for all”. So I decided that I would silently and peacefully protest not to complete the pledge. Of course it did not go over big at all with my homeroom teacher. But it was a real awakening in my soul… One cannot help but to appreciate the far reaching magnitude of what has taken place here on November 4th 2008! It will be forever recorded in America’s History. American has resumed its intended purpose and the opportunity to provide “Liberty and Justice for All” has been forthrightly reinstated! There is no doubt that the successful election of Barak Obama was a concerted effort that included a network of people of All Colors and creeds working together. This is truly a victory for ALL people of America! He comes from a multi faceted colorful ancestral heritage that represents a multitude of people. “With God ALL things are possible.” His Word tells us “that God is not a respecter of persons…” It may be hard for the finite mind to fathom that God who is Omniscient, knew way back then, even from the very beginning of time what would be taking place today! “Look How Far The Lord Has Brought Us.”

We as Christians and as a Country have so much to be thankful for. All of God’s Word is true! Today we are living in perilous times. But despite the nations many financial hardships, declining economy, overwhelming number of businesses closing, devaluation of property, wars and rumors of wars, terrorists attacks, natural disasters, famines and earthquakes in divers places throughout the world, we can have peace knowing God is still in absolute control! Absolutely nothing gets by Him! Romans 12 tells us, “To not be conformed to the pattern of this world! But to 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…” As a professed Christian and believer it is very important to know God’s Word! To have an intimate personal relationship with HIM! The book of Romans goes on to tell us that in leadership the ability to govern diligently is a gift from God. Ultimately every authority, government and principality is under God’s authority and the headship of Jesus Christ. Colossians tells us that ” For by Him All things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible, and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by Him and consist for Him…” Whether you believe it or not only God is Sovereign! The Bible tells us how God, delivered the children of Israel out of Egyptian bondage. There are also endless true life stories in His Word of how He delivered His people from unjust rulers and countless situations that seemed impossible. “Look How Far The Lord Has Brought us.”

It is through a committed personal relationship with His Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ one can truly experience necessary continued spiritual growth and development as well as His peace and freedom that surpasses the understanding of man. There are invaluable benefits knowing who you are in Christ. Today it is through God’s grace and mercy America has been delivered! It was quite evident as we all watched the hysterical excitement permeate the enormous crowds as Barak Obama was elected president. God has truly delivered America from the clutches of despair and hopelessness and ushered in a glistening glimmer of “Hope”! “Nothing is impossible with God.” In His Word He also tells us although we may be accused living among unbelievers (pagans) we must still live to please Him! God’s promise to “never leave nor forsake us” is quite true! Truly we can say “GOD BLESS AMERICA!” As Christians we must individually, collectively and corporately pray and ask God’s protection, grace, wisdom and direction to rest upon President Barak Obama, his family and his staff. As he takes upon his shoulders the awesome tasks of restoring America’s dignity, credibility and prominent visual universal position. He will encounter many land mines and obstacles. America has a tall order to fill. The 24th Psalms says, “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it, the world and all who live within it…” As a country and a nation that proclaims to be “one nation under God with Liberty and Justice for ALL.” The Word says, ” With God All things are possible.” Praise be to God from whom ALL blessings flow. Praise Him ALL creatures here below… It is truly amazing ! Again “GOD BLESS AMERICA” One can truly say “Look How Far The Lord Has Brought us.”

Listen/Download song “Look How Far The Lord Has Brought Us” by Brenda Lowe.

About the Author:

DeBorrah K. Ogans is a Marriage Educator, licensed Christian Counselor, life coach and ordained minister. She is certified through the Sarasota Academy of Christian Counseling in Creation Therapy and holds a Master’s Degree in Biblical Clinical Counseling.

Do You Know What Time It Is?

Do you know what time it is?
The Old Testament book of Ecclesiastes tells that there is a time for everything under the sun. This wonderful book is another illustration depicting God knowing all things. Solomon was the wisest and richest man that ever lived. Ecclesiastes was written to spare future generations the necessity of learning through their own experiences. In this book he shares the futility of living a life apart from God’s principles. He also tells us that “God will bring to judgment both the righteous and the wicked, for there will be a time for every activity, a time for every deed”. One thing that is clear, is that there is nothing that takes place that God is not aware of. We were created for his glory! The purpose of our life is to glorify God in all that we do.

We have a moral, ethical and spiritual obligation to grow in the knowledge of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! Once we accept Christ we progress toward spiritual wholeness. To become a new creation one must put away old sinful habits. The Apostle Paul talks about becoming a new creature through Christ Jesus. Paul in the New Testament knew as well that there would be those who would try to undermine his good intentions. He knew that there would be those who would continue in sin. That there would be those who would justify supporting those who choose to continue to practice sin. God’s Word clearly tells us that there will come a time when they will even attempt to put you out of their church. They will even try to control you with rules they made themselves. Yet they do not adhere to them! That time is now! You see Paul expressed freedom rather than rules! Paul tells us that those who rely on the law are cursed. (See Galatians) He stressed freedom and living in the liberty that Jesus’ birth, life, death and resurrection made possible! God instructs us to be careful of those who divide His Church as well! God is not divided nor is He the author of confusion. Before faith came we were prisoners to the law. The righteous are to live by FAITH! He has left us His Comforter to lead and guide us to all TRUTH! Hebrews tells us that the Lord would write His laws in our hearts!

“So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want.” Please bear with me as we look at a few scenarios. Tell me, is it okay to stand before God’s people drunk or under the influence of some narcotic substance and deliver scripture? ( This excludes temporary medications ) If so is this a good example for children or anyone else? Is this of the Holy Spirit? Is it okay to engage in immoral activities? Does it matter if you do or say whatever you desire and then want to stand in front of God’s people and tell them how and when to worship Him? Or is it that the above are okay for some and not for others? Or is it only for those who let you do whatever you want, when and how you want? Better yet does it even matter at all if we consecrate ourselves for Worship Services? Oh well, I guess we just confess we believe in Jesus? At some point in time you can seriously decide to change? Just think for a moment. What if Jesus came back during Worship? When you are on a date? Or at home? Perhaps while at work? Or had you even given His return much thought? Well, how about on Saturday morning or Wednesday evening? That time is nearer than you might think. What if death knocks on your door are you ready? Are you preparing to live with Him in eternity? God is calling His children home daily! The point is, do you know what time it is? It is time out for foolishness! Let’s see what the book of Galatians tells us about the works of the flesh. They are “Sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery, idolatry and witchcraft, hatred, discord, jealously, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy drunkenness, or orgies, and the like, I warn you, as I did before that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God!” You see we really need to know what time it is. Look how marvelous God is! He knew in Solomon and Paul’s time as well that the world would be the way it is today! Jesus died that we might overcome sin in the flesh. Do not be deceived. This is why when sin knocks at your door you do not have to answer! You can sincerely call on the Savior!

Do you really know the purpose of life? Do you know what time it is? The wide road that leads to destruction is well traveled by many. The narrow road that leads to God has fewer travelers. We must be careful when we decide to stand up for our rights. Have they been measured by God’s standards? God wants us to stand up for His principles. In today’s time Ecclesiastes would be considered negative. But from God’s perspective it has a plethora of wisdom! You see! God wants your life fulltime! He is not only interested in what you do on Sunday! Or just what other people see! He is interested in every facet of your life! When your life focuses on God it will have meaning! He wants to not only free you but your children and your children’s children! Get off that wide road! Break generational cycles of dysfunction! You do not have to settle for a psuedo emotional temporary experience. He can deliver you from all evil! He can and will keep you in any and every situation. He will even turn what others mean for evil into GOOD! Do you really know what time it is?

We were created in the image of God. We must learn to take heed to what God says throughout His Word. We must be doers of His Word! He even tells us in Ecclesiastes ” Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are in earth, so let your words be few. As a dream comes when there are many cares, so the speech of a fool when there are many words.” If you carefully read and prayerfully listen to God’s Word you can commence fervently cultivating an environment where God’s Spiritual Fruit can grow and flourish. Paul tells us that “the fruit of the Spirit is Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control! Against such there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying one another.” It is important that we really know,and implement God’s Word in our lives daily!

The teacher in Ecclesiastes was not only wise but he imparted and shared his Wisdom. Today sin abounds! Everything and anything goes! God continually Speaks To His children in many ways. God always has a better way! We are Soldiers; but our weapons are not carnal! He will fight all your battles! This is why He says when you have done all you can do just “Stand!” He did not say that everything in this life would be good. But He did say if you love Him and are called according to His purpose; He would work it out for your good! He Tells to ” overcome evil with good!” Works do not save you, but they do display your Faith! His Word tells us to pray for those who despitefully use you . I urge you to take some time andreally evaluate where you are? Do you know what time it is? Do not walk in the counsel Of ungodly People. Do not allow anyone to enable you by making you comfortable in sin. You do not have to live a yoyo existence! It is a beautiful thing to see one’s life turned in the right direction by the Lord! God is truly able! God’s plan for mankind has not changed. The author of Ecclesiastes ends this wonderful book of wisdom by simply stating ” 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.”

Do you know what time it is?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
DeBorrah K. Ogans is a Marriage Educator, licensed Christian Counselor, Life Coach and ordained Minister. She is certified through the Sarasota Academy of Christian Counseling in Creation Therapy and holds a Master’s Degree in Biblical Clinical Counseling. She is the author of a pre-marital guide “How Do I Love Thee: Things You Need To Know Before You Say I Do,” and just released her second book “Holy Matrimony: Now That You’re Married”.

DeBorrah has written extensively and has a plethora of columns and commentaries on life subjects that are widely published. DeBorrah along with her husband is co-founder of Alpha 7 Ministries, a Counseling and Music Ministry that reaches “Beyond The Walls”. There are times when we all need some encouragement in our walk with the Lord. The Counseling Ministry was designed to encourage, motivate and uplift you in your journey. The Music Ministry produces and records music for every musical taste: Contemporary Christian, Gospel, Praise & Worship, Instrumental Gospel/Jazz, and Easy Listening.

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