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One Right Way and One Door

March 1, 2014

Heaven's Door

As there is but one right Way and but one Door, and as all Christians do not see alike and do not walk together, could it be that we are all wrong? all going in a wrong direction? — No, that could never be as long as the Lord does not forsake the earth. Indeed not, for He must have a people in whom to confide His Truth and by whom to save those who choose to go His way.

So, those who choose to go some other way will in the end discover that the Devil, not the Lord, is behind them, and that hell, not the Kingdom, is ahead of them.

We should do well to discuss for a few minutes the qualifications which a shepherd must have in order to pass the porter’s inspection. I may use a few illustrations, perhaps only two or three.

You remember that there was a child by the name Samuel who early in life came to walk in “the Way,” and therein he was trained. Now think on what happened: One night Samuel, you recall, was suddenly awakened by a Voice. Supposing it to be the voice of Eli, he quickly jumped up from bed and went to inquire of Eli. Of course Eli was surprised, but he calmly said, “I did not call you. Go back to bed.” Since there was no other person but Eli around. Samuel was certain that the elderly man had called him. Nevertheless he obeyed and straightway went back to bed.

Before long, though, perhaps as soon as Samuel had fallen asleep again, the Voice called the second time. You know that Samuel could easily have then said to himself, “That old man must be dreaming. Here he is calling me again. But I won’t be bothered with him any more; I’ll just let him holler all he can.”

Samuel, nevertheless, as quickly as before hurried to his master’s bed, only again to hear the words, “Go back to bed, I did not call you!” Still a third time he heard someone calling, and just as willingly and as respectfully as before, he went to his master’s bedside the third time! Eli finally perceiving that the Lord must have been calling the child, therefore instructed Samuel what to do. And what did Samuel do? — Exactly as he was told.

Had Samuel not been as willing, as respectful, and patient as he was, do you think he would ever have come to hold the highest office in the land? — Of course not. There was nothing else but the saintly qualifications of character which Samuel demonstrated that night that promoted him to the office of prophet, priest, and judge.

Do we still wonder why Samuel was called out of bed three times in succession and why he and Eli were disturbed in the night? — For two reasons: (1) To prove that regardless of the inconvenience, Samuel would not hesitate to arise when called, and that he would not become angry, that he would not “sass” Eli. (2) The Lord wanted to help Eli; He wanted to prevent the possibility of Eli’s concluding that Samuel was getting out of place and questioning his ability to discipline his own sons.

Had Eli not been given the opportunity to know for certain that the Lord talked to the child, he then could have easily concluded that Samuel was conniving against the sons of Eli. But providential circumstances being as they were, Eli certainly knew without doubt that God had a message for him. There was no room for doubt.

Boys today, as in times past, are anxious to get somewhere in life, yet millions of them fail to reach their goal and many ruin their lives. They want to become great men, but they fail to even make middle men. And the reason? — It is simply because they overestimate their own powers, and underestimate God’s power. They know not that with God there is no failure, and that with Him “they can get places.”

You boys and girls lend yourselves unreservedly to God. He needs great men, and He can make you such. When you learn God’s way and become a responsible boy or girl as did Samuel, God will not overlook your zeal, integrity, and sincerity. He will give you something great for your reward. Yes, you will then indeed be great.

Ancient David also was a young boy and nothing more than a common shepherd. But he was a good shepherd, the best in the land. God saw that he was mindful of and faithful to his duties, and so He determined to make the boy a king over His people. Indeed, when a person does one thing well, it is likely that he will do another thing just as well. David was as good in his duties as was Samuel in his. That is why he was lifted from the sheepfold and placed in the palace.

I am thinking of another boy, a young boy in his teens — Joseph. The Lord saw something in him that He could not find in Joseph’s brothers. Not only was he his father’s favorite son, but he was God’s favorite, too. God had in mind something great for Joseph– greater than the world could ever think of. To prove himself trust-worthy Joseph had to first become a slave. He had to be trained for the big job.

So the way Providence worked, it was that his brothers sold him to be a slave. Just then he recalled what the Lord had promised him in a dream — that besides his brothers, even his father and mother were to bow down to him. Can you imagine what a splendid opportunity was his to curse God when he saw himself on the way to slavery?

He might have said, “Why should I serve a God that promises glory but instead gives humiliation, hardship and isolation?” But Joseph did as wisely as Job: By sanctifying God in his heart, he in effect said, “Though He slay me, yet in Him will I trust.”

Joseph quickly reconciled himself to his situation, confident that his father’s God knew all about his troubles. Thus his slave masters, the Ishmaelites, immediately recognized that they were in possession of a fine slave, a slave that they could sell for a good piece of money.

How do I know this? — I know it because the Ishmaelites took him straightway to a man who would buy nothing but the best, to the richest man in Egypt, to one that could pay the price. Rich men, you know, do not buy cheap things, neither do salesmen take cheap things to them.

Even while in grief, Joseph must have demonstrated his ability to serve, and must have shown great respect to his slavemasters while on the way to Egypt, because then it was that the peddlers found out the worth of their captive, and then realized that they could sell him to someone who wanted something good and that could pay the price. Potiphar, too, soon found out that Joseph was in all respects trustworthy.

Thus it was that he became Potiphar’s number 1 man. Even Mrs. Potiphar fell for him. It was at this juncture, you recall, that he came to the climax of his graduation test. Passing the greatest test of his life, he graduated from the house of Potiphar, then from the prison house, whereupon he was promoted to Egypt’s throne, the world’s greatest.

In promotion or in demotion Joseph gave God the glory and did his honest best. At every thing he was put to, he was second to none, and thus he became the greatest among all earthly living.

As to the real secret of his success you will find in one simple principle — firmness against temptation to sin, and faithfulness to duty: “Ah! I cannot do this wicked thing. I shall sin neither against men nor against God,” was his answer to temptation.

This is why Joseph was great in his father’s house, in the hands of the Ishmaelites, in the house of Potiphar, in the prison cell, on the throne of Pharaoh, and in all the world. This is why all the ancient world bowed down to him.

From these biographical facts is seen that the simple principles which brought success to Samuel, to David and to Joseph, can doubtless bring success to all of us. And remember that success begins right wherever you happen to be, whether in the temple courts, in the sheepfold, in the yard of a slave master, in the prison house, or in the king’s palace — makes no difference where.

You need not run to catch success, but you do need to bend down and pick it up. Yes, indeed, success drops from the sky, but to pick it up you must bend down very low. This you must do if you wish to really succeed in anything.

Right now the Lord is advertising for at least 144,000 life-savers, with headquarters on famous Mt. Zion — a greater post than was held by Joseph. Will you be one of them? There are greater opportunities today than ever before. Why not venture into something in which there is no chance-taking? Anyone can succeed if he is willing to pay the price.

The above post was from a sermon given on August 10th, 1946 by Victor T. Houteff. (Timely Greetings, vol.1 ,no. 2, p.21-26) For the full sermon click here http://www.shepherds-rod.org/TGvol1/1tg2.htm

Posted in Christian faith, Obedience | 2 Comments »

The Lord’s Security

January 25, 2014

1391734_533790490029227_556472776_n  A while back we posted about the loss of my beloved dog,  “Shotsky” (listed under God’s signs). The Lord had gave me a most wonderful pet and I was privileged to have him for about 7 years. But after he was gone I started to become concerned. I thought, ” I have lost my security alarm”. He was my guard dog and as such,  once in a while while I would be sleeping , he would bark if he heard any noise.

So I began to think about another “security blanket” in the form of another dog. But as the weeks went by and while I was thinking about securing another dog, the Lord woke me up one day with His words–” You think I can’t protect you?” Wow! That struck me deeply!

After I heard this, a vision was given me of a police officer standing near my window looking at a burglar suspect say, “What are you doing?” Then the suspect looks up wide-eyed and runs for his life!  The Lord basically said He could send His angels at anytime in a flash of a moment to stop any trouble.

This was quite a rewarding revelation. I pondered this thought and it became greater and greater in understanding, of His great and unique ability to protect us.

In Scripture we are told to be kind to strangers because the Lord could be allowing His angels to visit us (Hebrews 13:2). So we can rest assured that any security needed, a police officer, a commando, an army, whatever, the Lord is able to place before us at a moments notice.

As the quote in the picture says, ” The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and delivers them. Oh taste and see that the Lord is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!” (Psalms 34:7-8)

It really is based on faith and belief. At times I have felt the power of the Lord so clearly that I would almost be ready to face a bad situation and call upon the Lord to see the danger fall to the ground. This is powerful faith.

We know that prophets such as Noah and David, went forth and did their duties knowing the Lord had their back.

Noah endured decades of ridicule and taunting, yet he remained courageous because he knew the Lord was with Him and would secure him and his family.

David stepped up to Goliath because he too, knew that the Lord had his back. Oh what faith and strong belief can do to one’s walk!

It all comes down to faith and trust. Do we really believe that the Lord can do this or that? Have we considered the Lord first in our life’s problems and concerns?

Once we really believe that He can protect us, we walk around with a new confidence in Him, and new love for Him.

Our Lord said, “Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.” (Matt.10:31)  and ” for he who touches you touches the apple of His eye.”(Zech. 2:8)

We have the great Eyes watching us. He doesn’t miss one small thing. Therefore, we should not worry and do as the Lord said, “…Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”(Mark 5:36)

We know that we cannot please God without faith. “And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him” (Hebrews 11:6).

In the near future the saints of God will have total security from the Lord.

“At our happy, holy state the wicked were enraged, and would rush violently up to lay hands on us to thrust us into prison, when we would stretch forth the hand in the name of the Lord, and they would fall helpless to the ground.” (Early Writings, p.15)

… “Run, say to that young man, ‘Jerusalem shall be inhabited as villages without walls, because of the multitude of people and livestock in it.Then I, Myself, will be a protective wall of fire around Jerusalem, says the LORD. And I will be the glory inside the city!” (Zechariah 2:4-5)

Can we imagine the extent of  protection from the Lord? The upcoming prophecies are to be fulfilled and His security and protection will be there. We can imagine going to bed at night and not even thinking of locking the doors! To walk in the moonlight streets late at night without a worry.

All this is yours and mine, all we must do is make Him King and Ruler of our life. Abide by His word as said by His prophets.  Agree to pass on sins of this world and commit and convert.

“But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9)

May you exercise your faith, trusting in the One who can give you the only security worth having–  The Lord’s Security.

Posted in Christian faith, Christian walk, Courage | 4 Comments »

Peddling the Word of God

June 16, 2012

One of the most striking things I learned in the journey for God’s truth is that God’s word specifically says his “bread” (word) should be free. That the Holy Spirit should move the conviction upon the receiver of His word to “help out”. Let us look at this neglected area of His word.

A while back members of our church and myself got together and raised several hundred dollars to post a large billboard in our town, about the Sabbath being the day of the Lord, not Sunday. Our plan was set, we wanted them to call and when they did we sent out info, such as Sabbath literature and  DVD’s. I contacted a well known SDA ministry to order.

The DVD’s sent are a very powerful tool in explaining why the Sabbath is the Lord’s day and not Sunday. It goes into all the arguments for and effectively counters the arguments against God’s real day of worship- the 7th day. I decided to order many of them. I called their office and spoke to the man in charge.  We discussed the situation and I mentioned I wanted to order quite a few, maybe 100 or more. Thinking that just maybe our billboard would be a divine success.

As we discussed, I figured that this man would appreciate our efforts for proclaiming God’s Holy day on the billboard. Plus I said we would use their own site as reference on the billboard itself. But as we talked it became clear I wasn’t getting much of a break. I sensed that something was amiss. Money was too important to them to budge much and eventually I capitulated and paid a hefty cost for about 50 of them. But this episode made an impression on me.

I sensed that the real concern was the dollars/profit , not spreading God’s truths. Little did I know , later in my walk I would see the obvious clear light on this subject, hence this post would be made some day (now).

In the New Testament, apostle Paul makes clear how some have the wrong motive in spreading God’s word.  ” Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit, on the contrary in Christ we speak before God with sincerity like men sent from God.” (2 Cor. 2:17).

Again we read “freely you have received, freely give”. (Matt. 10:8) Although that quote is spoken of in the context of spiritual gifts, after reading the Cor. quote, we can see it clearly applies to the spreading of the word as well. Can we imagine our great role model, our King, saying to someone who want’s some word’s of wisdom  “Ok, I’ll give you some advice, but that’ll be 20 dollars”? Or the apostle’s saying they want to be paid for spreading the word of God? Absolutely not. Should it be any different today?

So with the clear words of instruction on spreading God’s word, we should then be in a better position to see who is and who is not obeying these word’s of instruction from our Lord. What do we find in almost all of the current church ministries today? A DVD or CD for “only” 21.95 here, or another over there for “only 19.95” , etc. etc. SDA churches are no exception. The holy (word of God) and the common are of no difference.The products  are “marketed” first and foremost, you don’t pay,  most of the time– you don’t get.

This is one area where I was very surprised to learn,  the Lord’s end time messenger’s the DSDA (Davidian Seventh Day Adventists **) —do not charge one cent for literature , DVD’s, or CD’s(scripture and SOP based). They even mail it out for free. Are they hurting? Apparently not. God has and continues to provide. This has been practiced for  several decades by the DSDA.

In Isaiah we read a beautiful worded scripture basically saying the same thing. “Ho! Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters;and you who have no money, come, buy and eat. Yes, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Why do you spend money for that which is not bread?And your wages for that which does not satisfy. Listen unto me, and eat that which is good, and delight yourself in abundance”.(Isaiah 55: 1-2) Here we see that often when we spend money on  a “peddler” of God’s word, it will many times not  satisfy. Does this mean that if they charge for books or other literature (DVD’s, etc) that it is automatically not spiritually good? Of course not, Ellen White’s books are mostly sold, as an example.

But the greater point is that when you see  God’s servants  trying to give you at no cost literature based on the word of God, then these are being “peddled” exactly how our Lord said to peddle them–free. Obedience to His word can only bring great joy and reward!

The great One who knows how many hairs are on our head, knows how to make sure we have enough compensation to fulfill the spreading of His word.

Just look at the many SDA ministries today, nearly all will charge you.

Let us look at what Brother Houteff (Co-founder, with the Lord,  of the DSDA) had to say on the matter.” If your literature is any good at all, it should not be sold at such high prices, but instead it should be given away free of charge and thus be scattered everywhere as the leaves of autumn. On the contrary though, books that should be sold for $1 per copy you are selling for $2 or $3. If the literature is  given away for free, and if it is convincing, it should bring added multitudes of souls and thus yield more in tithes and offerings than it’s purchase price now brings. Your love of money, though, makes you afraid to take that chance.” ( 3rd Jezreel Letter)

Also we read “Everyone who endeavors to do whatever he or she can, be it little or much, be it part or full time, is now provided with free literature of unlimited amount, with free transportation, be the trip a mile or a thousand miles long, and whatever expenses one may incur by his busying himself in this great and grand work, are all paid by this Layman’s Movement.” ( 4th Jezreel Letter)

To summarize, we see that our Lord really want’s His people to take the “Bread” (His Word) free. Those who follow His instructions on this really do step out in faith and call upon His word, that He will provide. The greatest faith brings the greatest rewards.

(** Not to be confused with “Branch” Davidians, off shoot movement from the original Davidians, started in the early 60’s. They add and subtract from the original writings of brother Houteff)

Posted in Christian faith, Obedience, Proper teachings | 2 Comments »

Christian Love (Gal. 6:10)

May 26, 2012

In (Gal.6:10) we read  “Therefore, whenever we have opportunity, we should do good to everyone, especially to those in the household of faith”.  Here we see two directives. One, do well to those outside the faith, secondly, do well especially to those among our household (church) of faith.” With this short paragraph of inspired words, we can gain volumes in instructions of  righteousness (right doing).

Within the last couple of weeks the Lord brought me two examples  on the first part of the above. I mention these not to infer you must do them, only as examples of the doing good to our people outside the faith.

In both instances they occurred at gas stations. The first, I pulled in  to get gas, I noticed this  long haired skinny unkept man looking through the trash can. Also immediately I felt the urge . “Invite this man into the Arco and buy him lunch” I thought. So I said “hey brother, follow me into the store, I’ll buy you lunch.” He looked at me with a surprised look, but quickly came along. I said upon entering  “go over there and get a sandwich and what ever else you want.”

So we checked out and he gave me a big “thank you”. I said “God be with you bro.”  No preaching, no words of advice, the actions had spoken instead. Just maybe this act will be remembered and the Lord will start to work on His heart in some way.

The second happened when I pulled up, again to an Arco. I get out and this man about 30 comes up and points to his truck with his wife and kid inside. “Hey bro, could I bum a few dollars from you, we need to go to Ontario and we’re out of money.”  I didn’t have any cash on hand and so I said “No, I don’t have cash”. And proceeded to walk in to the store  to purchase gas with my debit card. As I was in there, it occurred to me –how would I feel in that position stranded with my family? So after getting the gas, I walked out and yelled over to him “what pump you on?”  He told me and I went back in and purchased 25.00 gas for him. He was profusely thankful and I felt the Lord’s will had been done.

Did I have “opportunity” to do good to my brethren in the above examples? Yes, of course. Our Lord very well may have placed those in my path, knowing I had the means to help, to see my actions.

I have Steps to Christ books in the back of my truck, and when the opportunity arises I hand out to certain people. Yet, in both of these instances I felt the kind acts were sufficient to touch them and possibly lead them to think of “brotherly love” and thereby to their Maker. The old saying “action speaks louder than words” can be so true in many instances. “..Be ye doers of the word..” (James 1:22)

Christian love clearly is shown in our actions.  Our Lord said the following “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another ” (John 13:35). We should  remember the simple things of our Christian walk. The basics can sometimes be overlooked, as if we don’t need them. The common courtesies, the prompt return calls, emails, etc. can be very good habits showing our love and kindness.  We can become careless and neglect the plain simple truths and acts of love.

Can we imagine someone in the Lord’s circle asking Him a sincere question and the Lord just looking at Him then walking away? Our Lord  is our example in all things right? Look at His courtesy, He even wrapped and folded His own burial clothe upon His resurrection!

How important is love?  Perhaps no where in all of scripture can we find just how important it is as in these words  “If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing” (1 Cor. 13:2).

The second part of (Gal.6:10) has much more ramifications. Our own brothers and sisters in the faith are the ones we especially do good to.

Recently I had a talk with a dear brother who has done some real solid works for the Lord for many years. He was upbeat despite the fact that he was sincerely struggling on the financial front. But I thought “how is it that none of the brothers and sisters knew about this, or if they did, how did they turn their backs?”  We all can face tough times but it is at those times when we as true  brothers and sisters should step up to the plate and do something if it is within our power.

We should  look out for our own,as our brother’s and sister’s keeper.  It can be like the old saying “too close to the forest to see the trees”. Again, it’s the basics of Christ’s love that we can sometimes overlook.

 Let’s look at some specific ways we can do good to our brethren.

1) When a brother or sister asks us a question or drops a line to say hello(via email, or voice message, or whatever)  we make a good effort to get back to them in a reasonable time. Again, our Lord said  “Do unto others whatever you would like them to do unto you”(Matt. 7:12)  If you want to be ignored, then  –ignore.  But we shouldn’t be a hypocrite and expect answers or responses  when we don’t give them.

2) Check in now and then with your brothers and sisters of the faith. We shouldn’t expect them to come to us always. Our own members of the faith are the ones who have at least made the profession of Christ, so we should hold them up in our remembrance  and reach out when possible.

3) If we know their profession, and we have a need of that service, let’s use them for it,as opposed to calling someone outside our faith. I sure wish our own churches would have a church directory showing the different occupations of the members.

4) Of utmost importance, let’s never forget that sharing of the word and bible study with our brethren is extremely important. Share the word when possible and learn together. We must have knowledge as we know our Lord said  “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge” (Hosea 4:6)  One of the most sad things to see, is when a bro or sis want’s to learn something from a fellow bro or sis in the faith, and they are ignored!  Oh what a true travesty! 

 The bible says “be angry and sin not”  (Eph 4:26) And this is describing me right now. I just can’t for the life of me, comprehend how someone would see that as acceptable to the Lord.  Our knowledge should be shared.  “Freely you have received, freely give” (Matt. 10:8)  Why should it be coveted by us? It’s like “I have my knowledge,  you go get your own, don’t bother me”. I couldn’t look myself in the mirror if I was ignoring  my brethren in the faith, who would inquire of me.

5)  As we are nearing the very last days. Our reach-outs to our brethren must be accelerated. As we have shown many times in this blog, our Lord pronounced that the Elijah message would be His last. Let’s get that out there to our people.

6) Be a “great” person to our brethren. What do I mean?  “But he that is greatest among you, will be your servant” (Matt.23:11)  We must have the mind set that we are to “serve” and not be aloof and have others serve us. Translated in practical advice, it means we look to help where we can.

7) Last and most importantly, we strive to show kindness and concern for our brethren in our correspondence. We show –Christian love.

May our ever seeing Lord guide you and keep you always, my beloved brethren(which always means sisters too).

Posted in Brotherly love, Christian faith, Christian walk, Galatians, Humility | 2 Comments »

Honor In His Temple

April 21, 2012

As we are well familiar, in our Christian walk we are to be ever learning, looking for God’s truths as looking for gold nuggets as Ellen White said. Recently an experience happened concerning His truth  and awoke me to something I had not considered. It was — Honor in His Temple. I was aware of the basics, but learned that there was more to this honoring Him within His house. Let us look into this neglected area of proper reverence to our Lord.

The experience was mentioned in the prior post “Cry Aloud, Spare Not”. To summarize, I had learned that irreverent speaking should not occur within God’s temple. This led me to look into this area more fully.

As we have posted in prior posts, the sealings of God are now taking place . It is being placed upon only those who sigh and cry for the abominations done in the church and our lives. Let’s look at some of  the abominations that take place within —God’s temple.

Recently my church friend by whom God used to enlighten me about proper temple reverence, shared her thoughts about the subject. She said that when we go to the court house and into the judge’s courtroom, how must we act?  Are we respectful? Ofcourse. Do we chat with our friends and family in there? If we did we’d quickly be warned or else taken out. How much more should we keep an honorable quiet and show respect in our Maker’s earthly house, the God of the universe?

Let us read from the pen of inspiration.In speaking of entering the sanctuary, she says ” When the worshippers enter the place of meeting, they should do so with decorum, passing quietly to their seats…Common talking, whispering and laughing should not be permitted in the house of worship, either before or after the service” (Testimonies for the church, Vol. 5, p.491) 

She continues “If when the people come into the house of worship, they have genuine reverence for the Lord and bear in mind that they are in His presence, there will be a sweet eloquence in silence.”(Ibid, p.492)

One of the main reasons we come to our Lord’s earthly house is to give Him our collective thanks and praise. We should think of what we experienced with our Lord during that week. Maybe a prayer answered, a revealing dream given, a general closeness felt in the week.  We can then give Him real sincere heartfelt thanks and praise as we come before Him in honor.

Here’s some good solid ways we can show our  Lord that we want to come before Him in the honor due Him–

1) We can dress our best.  But nothing extravagant. Wearing of shorts, mini-shirts, tennis shoes, etc. should be strictly avoided.

2) Our bible is with us, showing Him it’s His word that we cherish.

3) Our grooming is presentable. We certainly refrain from jewelry and chains and such. I was struck just how offensive jewelry and the like is to the Lord when I learned (Isaiah 3:18). In the last days, and after the church judgement, He tells us what he will do. “In that day the Lord will take away the finery: The jingling anklets, the scarves, the crescents; The pendants, the bracelets, the veils: The headdresses, the leg ornaments, and the headbands;The perfume boxes, the charms, and the rings; The nose jewels, the festal apparel, and the mantles: The outer garments, the purses , and the mirrors:The fine linen, the turbans, and the robes.” If these are not pleasing to the Lord, let us begin now, to shun these upon entering the sanctuary.

4) As mentioned we keep a proper quiet upon entering the sanctuary. No chatting or worse–laughing.

5) We arrive early because one of the rudest, disrespectful things to our Lord and to others, is to arrive late. Would you  arrive 20 or 30 minutes late to a meeting with your boss? One of the worse sights is to see someone or a family come into church about half way through the sermon! Cmon, if you are going to blatantly advertise your lack of reverence for our Lord, don’t even show up. Better to try to arrive early next time  than to show such disrespect and carelessness.

6) Turn off the cell phones. It truly is abhorrent to see a person playing with their cell, such as a game or viewing  worldly sites, or even their own emails. Do we not have 6 days during the week to do this?

7) Sleeping or cat-napping is a BIG no-no. Again, try going to a meeting with your boss and as he is talking–take a nap.

8) Hats should not be worn by the men. Women may wear them, but modest in their appeal. As Paul clearly states “Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonors his head.” (1 Cor.11:4)

9)Proper kneeling.  In the service we are asked to kneel and pray. Some do the “lazy” kneeling, with their bottom resting on the end of the pew and the knees on the cushion bracket. Is this the best you can do before the God who created you? Let us kneel upright and properly.

10)Keep control of the children. If you got a baby who continually is crying, step outside the sanctuary. If the little ones are chatting or playing, warn them sternly to keep quiet. The small ones are going to soak up the impressions of reverence if we teach it. ” Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Prov.22:6)

So when we come into God’s house, we are to be ever mindful that it’s not a social club, a place where we can chat, laugh, giggle and just forget who the great One is , who is there in our midst. I really think it would be a great idea to place a beautiful kingly chair right there in the altar area of the sanctuary. So people would remember every time they look up Who it is that is sitting there. One last thing, we as SDA many times fail to stay after church , to kneel and pray.Maybe, just maybe this can enhance our prayer life.

In closing, we will do well to place in our hearts and minds, the proper reverence due our Lord in His temple. He is worthy of this.

In Christ, Whom all glory and honor is due . Amen.

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God sends a Hummingbird

April 2, 2011

Image result for picture of a hummingbird

Many of us are fascinated with this beautiful little creature. Popular science says, and I quote ” By all rights they shouldn’t be able to fly. It’s wing movements are not at all like other birds. It’s the only  species that can fly backward and one of the few that can hover”. So we see they are blessed little creatures of God. God also, I believe, uses them sometimes as little messengers. As you will see in my following story.

Last month in church I told of an experience I had with a hummingbird. I pulled up in line at the local McDonalds. As I waited I noticed a hummingbird flying about this bush in front. God told me ” Keep an eye on that hummingbird”. So I watched it. In a few seconds later it stopped it’s activity and turned around and flew right up to my door window and just hovered and stared at me for what seemed like at least 4 or 5 seconds. I was amazed. It was like it was saying  “Hello, I am from God, to brighten your day, take care”. Then he flew away.  I looked up and said ” Thank you”. It certainly did brighten my day!

Many tell of similar experiences. A lady  came up to me after church and told me of a similar experience with a hummingbird. Also a friend of mine told how God uses hummingbirds to hover close to his Mom regularly.  I believe God uses these special creatures for such little signs and even  dramatic signs as I am about to show you.

It happened this last Sunday. As many of you know I am really big on this short little prayer — ” Dear Lord, guide me in my walk. Keep me mindful of your Holy Laws. Please warn me if I go astray. Let me walk righteous before you”.  And He is faithful in answering this prayer even to the point of a dramatic sign.

In (John 14:21) we read “He that has my Commandments and KEEPS THEM, he it is that LOVES ME and shall be LOVED BY THE FATHER, and I WILL LOVE HIM, and will REVEAL MYSELF TO HIM”. In this word of God we see a real “key” to knowing Jesus  — Keep His Commandments!  And once we do ( to the best of our ability)  He delights in giving us REVEALING signs and wonders, tokens of His love. This in turn strengthens our faith and we become zealous because we do indeed “know” Him.

You’ll remember in my last post “Draw Close” I pointed out how pop-music was beginning to be a problem again in my life. The Lord had made me aware of this. But He REALLY WANTED ME TO GET HIS POINT!  ” Rob, you cannot hear me with that playing . You are not advancing in your walk, as long as you continue to make music an idol like this”.

So after becoming aware of this I shut off the truck radio and didn’t listen at all for 2 days before last Sabbath. I felt closer to Him and could hear Him (His thoughts He made occur in my mind). I often call Him the “Great God of Occurance”, because many things that happen to “occur” to us, can often be Him sending it to us. They just “pop” into our mind.

Then Sunday morning came and I had to go out to my garage to do some appliance work. I have a small shop in  there where I often repair appliances. I opened up my electic garage door. I almost mindlessly and out of habit, walked over to my garage radio/tape player  ( yes, you go it! to listen to music!) As I got close to it and began to reach for the on button I jumped back!  I stood there in shock and amazement. It was a dead hummingbird slumped over RIGHT IN FRONT of the radio!  What is this about? I wondered. Then our Lord told me ” Just as this bird is dead, so too is your radio dead ”  WOW!

It took me a while to gain my composure but I did go to my room and pray to Him. Giving Him praise and thanking Him for faithfullylooking after me.

In the above story we can gain some real insight. We can see that when we pray WE MUST BE ON WATCH to look for His answer. They may come in any different kinds of ways. Some could have saw the dead bird and said “wow, how strange” then think NOTHING about it being a sign from God. Because they were not watchful or expectful of His speaking to them.

I can’t say strongly enough that our Lord wants to answer your prayers. It will all depend on your belief and faith and watchfulness. And if it is  ACCORDING TO HIS WILL   In (1 John 3:22) we read “Whatever we ask, we receive of Him, because we keep His Commandments, and do the things that are pleasing in His sight”.    God be your strength and desire! Amen.

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A story of true faith

January 29, 2011

Sometimes we get alittle discouraged in our walk and need stories like the following.

His name is Mike Mudd. He was in his mid twenties when he gave his heart to the Lord and became a Christian. ” I had been an atheist my whole life and then had an experience with the Lord. I went from an atheist to telling everybody about the Lord”, Mike said.

Mike was an valued employee at a local auto parts  store. Shortly after becoming a Christian Mike became aware of the Sabbath and felt he must keep it. Mike’s pastor wrote a letter to the company explaining Mike’s beliefs. The company was very supportive and agreed to give Mike Saturday  off.

Later the company changed management. In 2007 they contacted Mike and told him he would have to work Saturdays. Mike refused! He valued the time spent with the Lord and knew that day was the “Lord’s day”. Mikes says “they told me if I wouldn’t work they would let me go. So I was terminated. It was scary as no income was coming in”.  Mike went for making good money to no money!

But Mike and his family stood firm! Just like the prophets of old they drew the line and would not cross it. God’s law was just that, GOD’S LAW. Later a friend heard about Mike’s story. He told Mike about a Seventh Day Adventist program that helped people who had be wronged by their convictions.

The organization heard the details about Mikes situation and contacted the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and filed charges against the company for religious discrimination. In the meantime Mike and his family were PRAYING for a way to share the gospel to others. They looked not upon their own suffering but  to others  whom they could help. Now  is that not what Christ taught!!?  Serve and not think about what we need, amen!

God heard their prayers for it was sweet to Him! Their selflessness was truly a good thing before the Lord. Shortly therafter they decided  to attend the Lay institute for Evangelism. Mike said ” we didn’t have the money to cover the cost for the program but we were convinced it was what the Lord wanted us to do”.

Mike then heard from the organization defending him that his former company had made a settlement offer. They agreed to pay him EXACTLY the amount needed to attend the program!  God came through!  Wow!

Mike said “My wife and kids got to see how the Lord works when we are faithful. It has been an unbelievable experince for us. If we set our hearts upon God and according to His will, He will always be faithful, always!”

Let the above story be a reminder that when we put GOD FIRST he comes back and lifts us up to Him! amen.

Ps. The Seventh Day Adventist Church has a department called “The Department of Religious Liberty” should anyone need help in any similar circumstance. 1-800-456-3991

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Heart to Heart

December 2, 2010

The following post is contributed by my dear friend Barbra Namuddu. They are some  pointed scriptures and may we dwell on their truth!

(2 Peter 3:9) ” The Lord is not slow to do what He promises, as some think. Instead, he is patient with you, because he does not want any one to be destroyed, but wants all to turn away from their sins”. Here is shows that even when we think He isn’t watching and caring for us He is!

(Mark 7:20-23) ” It is what comes out of a man that makes him unclean. For from the inside, from a person’s heart, comes evil ideas which lead him to do immoral things, to rob, to kill, commit adultery. be greedy and do do all sorts of evil things….”   Certainly all sin originates within our heart and mind. For our nature is evil and rebellious.  Only Christ can change this nature!

(Matthew 12:34) ” You snakes, how can you say good things, when you are evil? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of”  Amen. Our talk should be of love and gentleness, as Christ showed. Even though their is what is called ” righteous anger” it should be far and few between.

The Ten Commandments are God’s principles that originate from His heart. That heart is love and cannot produce harshness, so the Ten Commandments express love fo God to us, and love of us towards our fellow brothers and sisters. When God writes the Commandments in your heart, our heart is becoming like His heart, so it is heart to heart, as it were.

God says today, that my child I am giving you a new heart. Will you accept it?  Will you turn away from your sins? Please pray often for God to keep providing with this new heart and constant renewing of  His love!     Amen.

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