Tag: End

Judgment Is Coming!

2 Peter 2:1-9

God’s divine order of creation was altered, after man entertained sin, thus initiating inevitable judgment upon the earth. God hates sin, because it’s very intent is to perform the opposite of what He designed man to do. Man was created in God’s image, to do those things that please Him, yet sin caused men to desire not God’s will, but their own.

As the one who created and sustains all things, God has every right to execute judgment as He desires. Contrary to those who believe God will save all people, because He is so loving, and kind, and compassionate, God will pour out His wrath on all unrepentant sinners.

In time past, God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, delivered them into chains of darkness, and left them to await their final judgment. In the days of Noah, mankind had become so wicked, to the point God was extremely sorrowful for what the people had done to themselves. In the same way a parent expresses sorrow for a child who rebels, God was sorry that the people chose sin, rather than a relationship with Himself. God said, “I will destroy man whom I have created from off the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenth me that I have made them.” (Genesis 6:7). God the Father would have showed mercy on the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, had He found ten righteous men there. Unfortunately, none except Lot was found righteous in the sight of the Lord.

Today, churches and religious institutions are littered with false teachers, prophets, and other evil agents, who secretly have brought in damnable heresies among the Saints. Unfortunately, many are being deceived by false doctrines, and are falling away from the faith, but judgment is coming to all who deny the truth of the Gospel, and turn men away from following Christ.

“Beware! God spared not the angels that sinned, and you will meet the same fate, if you don’t repent!” – Ell

“If God Be For Us…”

Romans 8:31-39

Without God, we are defeated, but with God, we are more than conquerors! Without God, we are separated from Christ, but with God, we are inseparable from Christ! Without God, all who come against us can bring us harm, but with God, all who come against us have no chance! Without God, we have no Savior, but with God, the Savior was given for all! Without God, we toil and labor in vain, but with God, our acts of faith are counted as righteousness! Without God, all are condemned, but with God, all have an opportunity to be redeemed! Without God, we are left without hope and alone, but with God, Christ maketh intercession for us! Without God, we can be carried away by tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, or sword, but with God, we are covered from all that forms against us! Without God, we live in vain, but with God, we die daily for a greater purpose!

Hope, In Sorrow

Matthew 24:4-14

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to an exciting episode of, “Hope, In Sorrow” starring, Jesus, and His disciples! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

(Jesus sits on the mount of Olives, followed by His disciples, after prophesying persecution and destruction to Jerusalem in the temple.)

Disciples: (Removed themselves from the crowd, to have a private audience with Jesus.) Master, we heard your words concerning Jerusalem, and the things to come, but can you elaborate more on their meaning? And, when will all these things take place? Also, what shall be the sign of your coming, and the end of the world?

Jesus: Remain focused at all times, and don’t allow anyone to deceive you, because many will approach you in my name, claiming they are Christ, and will actually deceive many.

(The disciples listened attentively to the words Jesus was speaking.)

Jesus: In time to come, you will hear of wars and rumors of them also, but don’t faint, nor lose heart, because all these things must come to pass.

Disciples: Alright Master, so is this the end?

Jesus: No, not yet. There’s more…

(The disciples wonder and contemplate the possible extent of Jesus’ prophecies amongst themselves.)

Jesus: Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; and there will be famines, pestilence, and earthquakes in various places.

Disciples: After hearing all those horrible things that will take place, this must indeed be the end, right Master?

Jesus: Not so. In fact, these are signs of the beginning of sorrows.

Disciples: How could things possibly get any worse than these perils?

Jesus: In that time, men will deliver you up to be afflicted, and even kill some of you. And, you’ll be hated of all nations for my name’s sake.

Disciples: …

Jesus: Many false prophets shall rise, and deceive countless people. And, because iniquity shall run rampant in the land, many will develop hearts of stone.

Disciples: We are soon to face some extremely hard times.

Jesus: Don’t fret, because whoever endures until the end of the time of sorrow, shall be saved.

Disciples: Master, that is encouraging news! But, when will the end of the world be?

Jesus: When the gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations, then shall the end come.

*If the time of sorrow the disciples faced was only the beginning, I can only imagine how difficult the days will become for those who remain today. We can see the obvious signs of the end fast approaching, but if we endure, we will be delivered by the resurrected Jesus, who died for the sins of the world.

This concludes the exciting episode of, “Hope, In Sorrow”. Thanks for tuning in, and have a fantabulous journey!

Uncertain Riches

1 Timothy 6:17-19

Despite how much wealth men strive to attain in the earth, there’s no amount that can purchase their salvation, nor eternal security in God’s kingdom. People allow themselves to get so caught up in earthly affairs, until they forget to hold fast to the basics of Scripture. “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.” (Matthew 24:35). The only sure thing that will cross over from this life to the next is, the Word of God. In addition, the time that’s soon to come, requires for man to be redeemed of their sins, by the blood of Jesus, in order to pass from death to life, and reap the benefits of an everlasting habitation with the Father.

As hard as it may seem to believe, this world is not our home. In fact, we’re just passing through, to get to the place God has prepared for those who love Him, so we shouldn’t allow ourselves to invest too much time accumulating earthly treasures. While it’s man’s duty to work in order to earn a living, it’s unbiblical to make money the essential goal in life. Many get drawn away into frivolous living, and allow their love for money to plant seeds of evil along their path. Money isn’t inherently evil, but the love of it has caused many people to do things that were unacceptable to the moral standards of society, as well as God’s holy standard.

God isn’t against having wealth, instead, His focus is on the deeds we do. What we invest our time in, establishes certain foundations, by default. For example, if we focus most of our attention on making money, having nice cars, and being popular on social media, we’ll establish a weak foundation that will crumble when the time comes for God to judge our works. On the contrary, if we do consistent good works toward others, we’ll build a good foundation against the time to come. Even if we don’t have material wealth, we can still be a blessing to others in many ways.

“It matters not the amount of money in our bank account, but what we do with the time and resources God has given us, to make the lives of others better.” – Ell

The Whole Picture

1 Samuel 9:1-10

Do you ever wish sometimes, God could show you the purpose for your life plainly? I often wonder why things happen the way they do, but over time, the reasons are eventually revealed. While God could lay out a direct order for our lives, we must stay true to His Word, as His will for each individual is revealed daily. An example of this was evident in our text. God placed judges to rule and govern over His people, but they desired to be as other nations who were ruled by kings. While God’s way was indeed efficient, He would allow the ungrateful Israelites to receive a king. The man God set aside to be Israel’s first king, had no clue of what he would soon walk into, as he lived a normal life in obedience to his father, who was considered a mighty man of power. For some strange reason, Saul’s father’s asses had gone missing. This was odd, because livestock were usually kept under careful watch during these times. Saul’s father told him to take a servant, and search for the missing asses. While Saul was busy conducting his search, God had already told the prophet Samuel the day before, to be ready to meet, and anoint the young Saul as captain over the people of Israel. It’s amazing how God can see the end of a matter, before we even receive instruction on how to do our part. God knows all, and has prepared a way for every person to fulfill His purpose, but we must follow His instruction, so that we can always connect to those whom He placed on our path, to take us to the next level.

The Wages Of Sin 2

1 Kings 22:29-40

…all he had to do was listen, and obey! Like, he literally asked for an answer from the Lord, and received it, yet he refused to do the right thing! Seriously, Ahab?! Okay, let me start over. Have you ever needed help with something, and you couldn’t accomplish it on your own, but when help arrived, you turned it down? That thing you so desperately needed, in order to be successful, or in the case of Ahab, to stay alive, you chose rather to abide by the words of those who spoke lies, rather than truth. The Bible makes it very clear, king Ahab was the most evil man of his time, and was responsible for committing countless acts of wickedness, on behalf of Baal. When seeking a word of certain victory against the Syrians, Ahab’s false prophets were influenced by a spirit approved by God, to speak lies from their lips. The prophets confirmed (falsely), the king would fair well against the Syrians, but God spoke through the prophet Micaiah, warning the king he would suffer greatly, if he went to battle against Syria. In other words, God set before king Ahab life, and death, and gave him the power to choose which to acknowledge. Ahab literally hated Micaiah, because he usually spoke against the wickedness he sought approval for. Why hate a man for trying to save your soul? Oh senseless king. Unfortunately, Ahab ignored Micaiah’s godly advice, and was met with a disastrous end.

Despite how cruel and wicked some people become, God will continue to show them sincere love. But, when God’s warnings of judgment for disobedience are ignored, those same people condemn themselves to a disastrous end.

Regarded, And Not Despised

Psalm 102

“…men ought always to pray, and not to faint;”
(Luke 18:1b). The year 2021 has barely begun its second quarter, yet many unfortunate events have already taken place. People in every country continue to suffer from the lingering pandemic, while others hold their stance against police brutality and social injustice. If this year started with such unfavorable circumstances, I can only imagine what’s to come as the days go by.

It’s evident, we are living in perilous times, but there is no reason for the Saints to stop praying. Situations and circumstances do seem bleak and grim, but God still sits on His throne, monitoring the decaying earth. The days we experience have been prophesied many years ago, and are expected to worsen. Fortunately, the Bible teaches us how to prepare for today, and what’s soon to come.

God loves His people, and hates to see them suffer, but walking in the Spirit doesn’t always take you along a smooth path. Suffering comes as a package deal with being joined with Christ. We suffer, because Jesus suffered, but in our suffering, we mature, and grow stronger and wiser through our experiences. The Spirit of God guides believers throughout each day, and as we speak to the Father, He regards our prayers and acknowledges our faith in His own way, and according to His perfect timing. We pray, so that we can keep our line of communication with God open, and receive instruction from our Father, through His Spirit. Prayer also keeps our minds and hearts focused on those things that are important to God, and not what we think we should do.

God’s business should always be priority, and despite how the world looks, those who love Him have been given the necessary tools to stand in the evil day. “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;” (Eph. 6:10-18).

Can You Hear Me Now?

Matthew 17:1-8

Hearing the voice of God has been misunderstood for ages, and many have taken advantage of others, by claiming to hear from God, while taking money in exchange for a “word from the Lord”. Throughout the Old Testament, God spoke to men in various ways; from a burning fiery bush, to even using a donkey to get a man’s attention. In the New Testament, God spoke though His Son, Jesus, and gave Him all the instructions required, to guide men back into the fold. Today, the Holy Ghost is in the hearts of those who have received God’s gift of salvation, to offer strength, comfort, and bring back to remembrance, the teachings of Christ.

God would never leave His people to traverse these perverse lands alone, so He made sure to give us His Spirit to keep us on the right track. Men who claim to hear from God on the behalf of others, typically have motives to manipulate them for selfish reasons. God doesn’t speak to men as He did in the past, so for those who yearn to know God’s plans for them, read His Word. Also, for those who want to hear the voice of God audibly, read the Word out loud lol (credit to Justin Peters).

The Bible entails all the instructions and tools the church needs to keep themselves occupied, until Christ returns, so I admonish all to be mindful of those who claim God gave them a Word for you, because everything God wanted you to know, is written in His Word. While God can bring people to your heart and mind, He will hardly ever tell someone what you need, without first revealing it to you.

Be strong, be vigilant, because the enemy is still trying to take us out before this year ends. We’ve had ups, and downs, but by the grace and mercy of God, we are still here. Continue to guard yourselves against the evil one, and keep your faith in the Lord. Study and meditate on the Word of God daily, so that you can prove to Him, your love and dedication to His will is solid.

Special Delivery

Luke 1:26-38

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to an exciting episode of, “Special Delivery!” Starring, Mary, and Gabriel the Messenger! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

(Mary walks from the kitchen to the living room while cleaning, then suddenly sees the angel Gabriel appear before her)

Mary: (Screams frantically!!!) Who are you? What are you doing here? How did you get in my house? What is happening right now?

Gabriel: Calm down Mary, everything is fine. I am Gabriel. I was sent by God to give you some very exciting news!

Mary: I’m extremely sorry I screamed in your face. Allow me a moment to sit, and catch my breath.

(Mary sits on the couch, and looks puzzled at Gabriel’s presence)

Gabriel: Oh Mary, you are highly favored, and the Lord is with you. You are truly blessed among women.

Mary: I don’t understand your words sir. What do you mean? What is this about?

Gabriel: Fear not, Mary. You have found favor with God. I’ve come to tell you, you will conceive in your womb, and bring forth a son, and will call his name JESUS.

(Mary’s puzzling look grows more intense)

Gabriel: The child you birth will be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David.

Mary: I…..but…..

Gabriel: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there shall be no end.

Mary: Forgive me kind sir for my puzzled gaze, but how shall this be, seeing I know not a man.

Gabriel: The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

Mary: All this seems unreal, and hard to fathom.

Gabriel: I understand how you must feel right now, but if it makes you feel any better, your cousin Elisabeth, the one who was called barren, she’s already six months pregnant, even in her old age.

Mary: How did you know that?

Gabriel: Mary, with God, nothing shall be impossible.

Mary: Well sir, be it unto me, according to thy word.

(Gabriel departs, and Mary sits for hours, pondering over the message she had received from the angel)

*Every word spoken of Jesus before His birth, was fulfilled. He, along with his cousin John, would be great, but Jesus would be even more greater, because He was indeed, the Son of God. God saw something in Mary, to trust her with birthing the Savior of the world, and her humility and submission to Gabriel’s message, proved that she was well able to carry out God’s plan for her life. What has God called you to do? Have you submitted yourself to carrying out His plan for your life? Or, are you too busy concerning yourself with the business of others? Focus your time and efforts on doing what God has called you to do, then watch Him bless you, as you walk in obedience to His commands.

This concludes the exciting episode of, “Special Delivery”! Thanks for tuning in.

Conditioned To Endure

Isaiah 7:10-15

The average athlete trains hard, putting their bodies through extensive and repetitive training, so that when the time comes to compete in their event, they’ll be conditioned to perform accordingly. It’s easy to tell whether or not an athlete of a specific sport has trained or conditioned properly, by how long they last while performing, or the effort they put forth during an event. A boxer who’s legs get weak and shaky halfway during a fight, probably decided not to take his training seriously. Another example is, when a swimmer gives up halfway through a lap, because their conditioning wasn’t up to par.

Throughout the years, I’ve often stressed, “Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance”. The better we plan and prepare for what’s ahead of us, the better we’ll perform, when that time comes. This same fact holds true for the body of Christ. All our lives we train daily, showing love and kindness to others, shunning things that are evil, and resisting temptation when it comes, so that as the end-time prophecy continues to be fulfilled, we won’t cower nor fret, when times become more severe. God daily loads us with benefits, in order that we gird and guard ourselves against the evil one. In addition, every situation we overcome now, will increase our faith in God, and better prepare us to face what’s soon to come.

The world is suffering greatly because of sin, but the Bible plainly states that perilous times will indeed come, in the last days. Make it your business to grow daily in the knowledge of God, and ask for His wisdom to help you understand the times, and how you must conduct yourself, as these last days pass by. “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord”. (1 Corinthians 15:58)

“The way may seem hard, but you’ll endure, by the power of God.” – Ell