FOUR ARABIC WORDS YOU NEED TO KNOW...

"Ignorance is Bliss"
...is a term used to falsely justify apathy on any given subject.  It's a saying we use when confronted by a truth because we believe it's better not to know something than to know it and be upset by it.   

We believe "what we don't know" won't hurt us. That's not true.  What we don't know CAN hurt us. What we don't know IS hurting us.  America is no longer the country we once knew.  We are aware of Muslim influence in our government but we keep our head in the sand and pretend that their presence is non-threatening.   Keeping our head in the sand can lead to submission of our country to Islam!

Muslims are using four methods to gain inroads into our country.   These methods are described in four Arabic words.  FOUR ARABIC words you need to know:

 TAKLYYA - TAWRIYA - KITMAN - MURUNA

1.  TAKLLYA
Dissimulation about ones Muslim identity. 

Do whatever you have to do in order to conquer.  The word "al-Taqiyya" lmeans: "concealing or disguising one's beliefs convictions, ideas, feelings, opinions, and /or strategies ....In political terms it can mean direct deception and intentional concealment of key Islamic doctrines...in order to gain influence and deceive the so-called "enemies of Islam"...   In other words, if you can't reach your objective by telling the truth, it is permissible to lie. Just so you reach the goal !!  When it's possible to achieve an aim by lying, it is not only permissible but on occasions, obligatory."  

2.  TAWRIYA
Creative lying.

One example:  if you wish a Muslim a "Merry Christmas" and he responds with a greeting of "I wish you the best" you could think that he is returning the holiday greeting.  Actually, he is only saying, "I wish for you to convert to Islam."  For when he wishes you the best, he thinks your conversion is best for you.

3.  KITMAN

Telling half truths.  

Kitman results in telling partial truths and distorted truths.  They may relate a passage of the Koran which sounds harmless yet further passages reveal the rest of the meaning, which is not harmless but damaging to non-muslims.

4.  MURUNA
Using flexibility of rules in order to achieve a goal.

Practicing deception as in:  blending in with non-muslims - appearing as a non-muslim.  Muslims show no signs of deception because there's no apprehension, guilt, or anxiety inside of them as they do whatever is necessary to achieve their goal.   

The following is taken from islam-watch.org: 
 
Muslims practice muruna in the same way a chameleon changes colors to avoid detection. Muslims will sometimes shave off their beards, wear western clothing, or even drink alcohol to blend in with non-Muslims. Nothing is more valuable these days to the Islamists than a blue-eyed Caucasian Muslim willing to engage in terrorism.

Another common way of using muruna is for a Muslim to marry a non-Muslim or to behave like a non-Muslim so their true agenda will not be suspected. The 9/11 hijackers visited strip clubs and bars during their off-times while taking classes in the U.S. to fly airplanes into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and the White House. Many Americans believe Hillary Clinton’s aide, Huma Abedin, married Jewish Congressman Anthony Weiner at least in part to burnish her security credentials so she could infiltrate the highest levels of the Administration.

Only through Muruna could a Muslim fundamentalist woman like Huma Abedin marry a Jewish man (Aanthony Weiner) and not suffer the wrath of her Muslim Brotherhood family.

Four Arabic words clearly show that the practice of Islam is about lying and deception in order to achieve majesty over non-muslims.  These four tactics help them make inroads into our nation.  This the same pattern used by Satan to bring about the defeat of a person.  If someone lies and deceives you - they are your adversary.  Everything about Islam is a counterfeit of God and His Word.  Thus, everything about Islam is of Satan.

These four tactics are used by Satan:

TAWRIYA - Creative lying.  The Word tell us that Satan is the father of lies and that truth is not in him.  John 8:44 "...He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies."  (NLV)  Satan conceals the plan of destruction he has for you as he leads you casually into a life of worldly pleasure.  

TAKLLYA - Dissimulation about ones Muslim identity.   Satan conceals his true identity.  He appears as an angel of light when we know he has come to steal, kill, and destroy.
2 Cor. 11:14  But I am not surprised; Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. (NLV)

KITMAN - Telling half truths.  Satan is a master at half-truths.  He used half truths in his dialogue with Jesus in the wilderness.  Jesus knew the Truth and countered his deception with The Word of God.  Luke 4:4,8,10.

MURUNA - Using flexibility of rules in order to achieve a goal.
Satan  bends and blends in order to gain admission in your life or family.  He will appear non-threating in order to persuade you to become involved in 'not so bad'  behavior and activity.  You are convinced that what you are doing really isn't such a big deal!  Yet, he has infiltrated your thoughts, your home, and is now influencing your lifestyle.  He is working a plan while deceiving you.  

The deceiver's influence, oppression, and condemnation can be difficult to identify.  Our adversary is artful in conversation.  Genesis 3:4 “You won’t die!” the serpent replied to the woman."  Obviously, Eve believed him. She ate of the fruit and then offered it to Adam.  Result?  Sin entered the world.  

One battle we engage in on a daily basis is to believe what the Word says about us and reject the four methods used by our enemy to infiltrate our minds in an attempt to lead us to destruction.   

Four Arabic Words.  Only Four.  Yet, so damaging.  

Now we know...

PURPLE PENGUINS?? A World gone Krazy!

I'm on a soapbox! Yes, I am.  It's not the first time and I am certain ... it won't be the last.  I have never in my born days (and they are many), seen stupidity gone to seed as much as the kraziness happening in our society today!  

(The following excerpts are taken from an online article by Deena Winter, Nebraska Watchdog.org )

IN LINCOLN, NEBRASKA:
A Lincoln middle school staffer gave teachers training documents advising them not to use “gendered expressions” by calling students “boys and girls” or “ladies and gentlemen,” but to instead use more generic expressions like campers, readers, athletes or even purple penguins to be more “gender inclusive.”

Have you recovered from shock, or rolling in the floor laughing?  If so, let me continue!  

"A handout called “12 easy steps on the way to gender inclusiveness” advised teachers to avoid separating students by gender, but instead by birth dates or preferences. For example, they could ask students whether they prefer skateboards or bikes, milk or juice, dogs or cats, summer or winter."

 IT NEVER UPSET ME TO BE CALLED A GIRL, A LADY, OR A FEMALE!!  I never had the urge to black someone's eye because they referred to me as a girl!  I DOUBT our children are upset over being either a boy or a girl.   When parents have an ultra sound performed to find out if they are having a boy or a girl - how many of them have a breakdown if that baby is identified as a boy or a girl?  None!!  

THIS IS as·i·nine - ASININE defined: extremely stupid or foolish brainless, mindless, senseless, idiotic, imbecilic, ridiculous, ludicrous, absurd, nonsensical, fatuous, silly, inane, witless, empty-headed!

Yes!  All of the above!  What mindless, empty-headed, brainless PC human concocted this witless, absurd idea for our schools?? 

They are instructed NOT to instruct the boys and girls to gather on the rug - but they are told to ask the purple penguins to all sit on the rug!

For goodness sake, why can't our children be children?  Why can't they be girls and boys - and innocent ones, at that?  

There are those in our society whose minds have become twisted until they are absolutely imbecilic!  

Lincoln Supt. Steve Joel said he was "happy and "pleased" with the training materials because the school district wants all children to be successful and not feel like outcasts or be afraid to go to school... 

The training material:  "12 easy steps on the way to gender inclusiveness...can be viewed at the following website:

http://watchdog.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2014/10/Gender-inclusive-training-handouts.pdf

There are only three pages.  You might want to print them.  Reread them; you probably won't be able to believe what you are reading the first time through, anyway.  

Here is step #3:  

Provide an opportunity for every student to identify a preferred name or pronoun. At the beginning of the year or at Back-to-School Night, invite students and parents to let you know if they have a preferred name and/or pronoun by which they wish to be referred.

I really must add #8.  It is too unbelievable to ignore:

Be intolerant of openly hostile attitudes or references towards others EVERYTIME you hear or observe them, but also use these as teachable moments. Take the opportunity to push the individual on their statements about gender. Being punitive may stop the behavior, at least in your presence. Being instructive may stop it entirely. 

Really???  Really???  

Supt. Joel also said: "As for teachers who may be offended by the training material, they should meet with their principal and talk through that."    

Gotta love real people who comment on these articles!  

1.  Jerry wrote:  "Yes, you will discuss it publicly, you will tell me if you intend to try to force my daughter to share intimate facilities with someone who is anatomically male, then, give your soul to God."

2.  Patrick: All we learned in Human Biology is false!  

Is your blood boiling yet?  This is happening in our schools and our children will suffer.  Honest, real, good folks ... must step up and say, enough is enough!

Oh yes ... one other instruction given is: Avoid using "normal" to define any behaviors.  And to think, I've worked hard to be considered "normal" all these many years.  

But, then... I still think I'm a female, so what do I know?

.....

THE DANGER OF DECEPTION....

When we stray from the Word ... 

it is like stepping in deadly quicksand.  

James 1:14-15  14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.  15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

Now, let's read the same verses from the Amplified Bible:

14 But every person is tempted when he is drawn away, enticed and baited by his own evil desire (lust, passions).  15 Then the evil desire, when it has conceived, gives birth to sin, and sin, when it is fully matured, brings forth death.

Why am I starting a blog using this particular portion of scripture?  Because I noticed a video about a "Christian Couple" (?) starting a swinger community in Florida.  I watched the video then I started doing some research.  Oh, My! This couple has taken up their cross to start a Christian swinging website to spread the gospel and share their interest with other devoted (?) Christians???  Really??

The couple?  Dean and Christy Parave.  Dean says, "So far today, God hasn't told me, Dean stop that, it's a sin.  I don't want you to do that."  Until he does that, I'm going to keep trying to help as many people as I can.  His "wife" Christy ( a bisexual mother of three) says, "God put people on earth to breed and enjoy each other.  I feel God is always with me and he has put us here for a reason."  She goes on to say ... "Dean and I are both in agreement with this lifestyle, so we're not committing adultery." 

HOW DID THIS HAPPEN?   Dean explained that after conversion, he built a 40-ft cross in his backyard and committed to doing God's work for the rest of his life. And he found his ministry in swinging and exercise.  "If I can go to the next swingers event and get 10 people to believe in Christ, my job's done."  

He is deceived into thinking he is spreading the Word by hosting a wife-swapping, swingers event.  

Here is what one article wrote about this couple:

A Bible-thumping couple in Florida is changing the way people think about their faith — with a hookup website for devout Christian swingers!

Cristy Parave and her husband, Dean, are the unashamed bodybuilding Jesus lovers bringing couples together and introducing them to their wild lifestyle of swapping sex partners and Bible verses, Barcroft Media reports.

When the fitness gurus got sick of finding swingers online who couldn’t meet their standards, they decided to set up their own swinging network -------- They have been touring the US ever since, meeting couples who want to join in and indulge in their holy promiscuity.

Yes, he has the freedom to live his life as he sees fit.  BUT....slapping a "FOR THE LORD" label on what they do to make themselves feel better is DANGEROUS DECEPTION!

DANGEROUS DECEPTION - TEMPTED, ENTICED, AND BAITED by your own lust - FOLLOWING THROUGH with that emotion and allowing it to CONCEIVE SIN  is enough. But, to JUSTIFY your choice by saying that God approves of your sin is a lie from hell.  God never approves of sin.  

BUT THE ULTIMATE DECEPTION is to declare that you are living this lifestyle FOR THE LORD!.  

Dear Believers, Keep your eyes and ears open.  We do not live in a spiritually safe environment!  Spiritual deception is on the rise.  Unless you discern, recognize, and run  - your life can be ruined.  

1. YOU CANNOT TRUST JUST ANYONE ON SPIRITUAL MATTERS

Do not join a herd and form your spiritual beliefs by group influence.  Think for yourself.  Search the scriptures.  Find a Bible-believing, devil-stomping, Holy Ghost filled church and be a faithful student of the Word.  

2.  YOU CAN'T BELIEVE EVERY PERSON WHO SAYS THEY ARE OF GOD

There are counterfeit Christian leaders and twisted minds professing to understand God. They believe they are working for the Lord and they will attempt to convince you of their spiritually as they preach in His Name.  They deceived themselves, first ... and  they are so positive of their belief that they are determined to convince you, as well.    

3.  JUST  KNOWING ABOUT JESUS IS NOT ENOUGH

Don't stop there.  There's more.  You must have a greater faith than demons.  You need a relationship with Jesus Christ.  In these last days believers will be required to act on His Word... they will be required to know HIM on a personal basis.  It's time to anchor our soul on the Rock, Christ Jesus. 

It's dangerous to play church!  We deceive ourselves if we think singing in the choir, teaching a class, or sitting on a church pew ... alone ... will get us to heaven.  In these last days the church will only come ALIVE by 'christians' becoming Dedicated instead of Deceived!  It's time to become immersed and saturated with TRUTH from the Word of God!  

Luke 21:8 And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived......

Rest assured, God will not deceive you about your spiritual condition, about remedy for sin, about right service for Him.  He will not deceive you about righteousness, holiness, moral living or anything else!  Also, God will deliver you from the clutches of evil men.

BE NOT DECEIVED -  IT'S JUST TOO DANGEROUS !!

UNTIL THESE THINGS HAPPEN...I can't believe Islam is peaceful

When I see these things cease, only then will I believe Islam is a religion of peace:

1.  Beheadings and Executions

2.  Bombings

3.  Threats

4.  Murders

5.  Wars

6.  Moderate (?) Muslims rising to stop and oppose the radicals

7.  Inhumane treatment of women and children

8.  Cease implementation of Sharia Law

AND UNTIL THEY:

9.  Repent

10.  Accept  Jesus Christ as Messiah and the Word of God as Truth

11.  Renounce Muhammad as prophet

12. Cease looking for Mahdi to come and take over the world and  instead, look for the return of Jesus Christ as Messiah.

Make no mistake:  I want all Muslims to be saved!!  They are in need of a Savior.  But, make no mistake in that they DO follow the Koran.  They will follow their imams - they will follow their Mahdi when he arises.  Until they are converted - we face the threat of their loyalty to Islam!  Yes, many have excellent friends and business associates who are muslims - and they have great relationships with many of them!  But, in the end, never take for granted where their loyalty lies!

FROM ISLAM-WATCH.ORG:  "ISLAM is not a religion of peace - the core of Islam is filled with unbounded hatred of the unbelievers - is unbelievably intolerant toward them, and is extremely cruel and merciless to Muslims who dare to deviate from its doctrine.

ISLAM is beyond alteration, because Muslims- who attempt to modernize and reform its unremitting bigotry, irrational rituals and its cruel and draconian punitive measures - are targeted for annihilation.

We tell the world that the ongoing terrorism, unleashed by Islamic militants, is not an aberration from the so-called 'peaceful religion of Islam'' instead, it is the real Islam preached and practiced by its founder, Prophet Muhammad.  A thorough study of the Qur'an and prophetic tradition (Hadith, Sunnah) makes that obvious.  We, therefore, have launched this website to expose the "real Islam" - the Islam that is determined to replace the modern civilization with the 7th century Bedouin barbarism, peddled by Muslims as the true Islamic Civilization.  Let the world watch Islam through www.islam-watch.org and be warned."

I would like to believe Islam is a religion of peace - but they can't have peace 

or bring peace until they know the Peacemaker!  

Never forget that Islam is a man-formed religion expanded via military efforts.  

Every point about Islam is in direct contrast (copycat) of the Word of God and Jesus Christ!  

So, now ... where does that leave me ... and other believers ... other christians ... other church-goers?   The following article gives wise counsel - read and take heed:

EXCERPT FROM a 10/2/14 ARTICLE by James Robison: 

When Beheading Comes to the Heartland of America

God have mercy on us! If Christians don't wake up, it will be devastating to everything sacred. Terror will win when our God should be reigning through His people. Wake up, believers, before you meet the horror intended for those who love faith and freedom! Stand up! Choose His righteousness and shelter from this terrible storm. Don't give the enemy an inch, much less your mind, family, freedom, children and future! Christians who love God and their neighbor as commanded are the only ones who can lead the charge against the enemy of life and liberty. We need God's wisdom. In our own power, we lack the insight and strength necessary to stand against the gates of hell.

The trend can be reversed if Christians, prophets and priests sound the alarm and lead the charge. Crises and catastrophic events always bring together caring, faith-filled people to make the necessary difference. I'm praying that all Christians who have been on the sidelines will come to the aid of the family, country and freedom. In faith and courage, we can crush the enemy's head—the old serpent that makes people mindless and heartless. It's not too late, but soon it will be. Freedom will be lost if believers don't join together on common ground to correct our course.

"Therefore, thus says the Lord, 'If you return, then I will restore you—before Me you will stand; and if you extract the precious from the worthless, you will become My spokesman. They for their part may turn to you, but as for you, you must not turn to them.

"'Then I will make you to this people a fortified wall of bronze; and though they fight against you, they will not prevail over you; for I am with you to save you and deliver you,' declares the Lord.

"'So I will deliver you from the hand of the wicked, and I will redeem you from the grasp of the violent"(Jer. 15:19-21, NASB).

James Robison is the founder and president of LIFE Outreach International.

HERE'S WHAT YOU DO WITH PROBLEMS /TRIALS:

Is the solution so simple that we don't see it?  It is really this easy to solve life situations, all problems, conquer our own issues, dispel disbelief, and get the victory ...  is it this easy?  Perhaps it is!  And that could be the reason we have missed it.

I will list 5 easy, yet profound steps.  Do not take them lightly!

1.  STOP

Stop what you are currently doing in response to the trial or problem you are facing.  More than likely, your first response to a problem or trial is fleshly (I know, mine usually are).  By now, you probably realize that what you are currently doing (worry, complain, etc) isn't working.  So, just STOP.

STOP talking to people about your problem/situation more than you talk to God.  STOP your thought pattern of human reasoning and worrying which only drag you down.  STOP speaking words of defeat and words that diminish the presence and power of God in your life.

John 6:63, I Corinthians 2:14, James 1:23, Galatians 5:19

2.  PICK UP YOUR BIBLE

It is the Living Word of God.  It is powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the diving asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart (Hebrews 4:12).

Now you see from this verse alone that the Word of God is of greater effect than your natural mind!!
Our instructions are in the Word. God's Truth is in the Word.  God is talking via His Word!

3.  DO WHAT IT SAYS

Our response to God's Word is a pivotal issue in the last days of this age.  Only with a sincere love of the Truth can we fully implement His instructions in our life.  Ignoring Truth (along with His instructions) abandons us to no more than our human efforts, and thus...negates the involvement of the power of God.  By choice, we put ourselves in a position to struggle and wear ourselves out physically, emotionally and do damage to our spiritual walk with the Lord.

Ephesians 6:10-18 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of HIS MIGHT.  Put on the whole ARMOR 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 ...

Prepare yourself!

a) Put on the armor of God.  (Truth, righteousness, gospel of peace, salvation, and the sword, which is the Word of God)
b) Gird yourself with Truth
c) Stand firm
d) Praying always .... in the Spirit
e) Watch with all perseverance and supplication

4.  PRAY

Prayer isn't just another weapon - it is part of the actual conflict itself.  In prayer you co-labor with God Himself.  Prayer is where the victory is won.  In prayer, you receive power through that connection with Jesus Christ.  The Holy Spirit revives you - He speaks to you - He leads you - He transforms you.

Once you begin this step you will notice changes in your spirit and soul.  Now, you can intensify your prayers!  You will find yourself beginning to pray with fervency and belief!  Prayer will become the "first thing" you do ... instead of saying "I don't know what else to do but pray" .... You are maturing!  You are becoming a warrior to be reckoned with!

5.  BELIEVE

None of the above steps will bring you into the victory you seek unless you believe.  Circumstances will give you all the right reasons to stop believing!  Jairus' daughter was dead.  They told him not to bother the Master further.  But Jesus has a different perspective on the impossible.  He told Jairus to Keep Believing!  Why?  Because with Jesus --  nothing is impossible!  Nothing!  I love the KJV of Mark 5:36, "As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, He said to the ruler of the synagogue, be not afraid, only believe."  Jesus used the word 'only'.  Only??

ONLY:   nothing more ...  without others or anything further ..... 

Jesus was saying, "Don't listen to them, just trust me" "Don't do anything else but believe" "Don't dread"  "Don't fear"  "Don't doubt"  "Don't wring your hands"  "Don't moan in grief"  "Don't look to anyone else"  "Don't say anything else"   --  STOP WHERE YOU ARE AND JUST BELIEVE!

He was saying, "STOP, you've done everything else and it seems hopeless - but KEEP BELIEVING, BECAUSE "I AM" IS HERE!"

When you don't see the answer and you have followed the other four steps....just simply stop and believe.  God is working and there's a process to the process!!  Something is happening!  You can't see it, but Jesus is busy - the Holy Spirit is active!  Don't stop the supernatural process by speaking unbelief or conducting yourself contrary to the instruction of the Word of God.

CONCLUSION:

You have a choice to make.  You can ignore these steps and continue down the human pathway of worry, struggle, and depression - OR - you can go the John 10:10 route:

"The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy.  I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).  Amplified  

-You can do this!  
.....

2 OUT OF 700 REPRESENTED HEAVEN

Corrie ten Boom

 

"My sister, Betsy, and I were in the Nazi concentration camp at Ravensbruck because we committed the crime of loving Jews. Seven hundred of us from Holland, France, Russia, Poland and Belgium were herded into a room built for two hundred. As far as I knew, Betsy and I were the only two representatives of Heaven in that room.

We may have been the Lord’s only representatives in that place of hatred, yet because of our presence there, things changed."

In Matthew 5:13 Jesus said that we are the salt of the earth.  Then, in verse 14 of the same chapter of Matthew, He said that we are the light of the world. 

In other words, we are to have a presence!  We are salt and light.  We preserve, we support, and we lead.  We are to be a blessing to the world, though they don't realize our calling and purpose!  Life can't be sustained without salt.  How then, will they know, except you are salty and live as salt on this earth!  You are the answer to someone's problem.  You are the light which shines on a path of redemption and hope for them.  You are valuable!!

Matthew Henry's commentary on this verse says:
The doctrine of the gospel is as salt; it is penetrating, quick, and powerful (Heb. 4:12);
it reaches the heart Acts 2:37. It is cleansing, it is relishing, and preserves from putrefaction.  

“A Peanuts cartoon, showed Peppermint Patty talking to Charlie Brown. She said, "Guess what, Chuck. The first day of school, and I got sent to the principal’s office. It was your fault, Chuck." He said, "My fault? How could it be my fault? Why do you say everything is my fault?" She said, "You’re my friend, aren’t you, Chuck? You should have been a better influence on me."

Peppermint Patty was seeking to pass the buck but she was probably right. We should be a good influence on our friends. We are salt and light!  Jesus said so!

I'm reminded of the song (Christ Ambassadors) we started each youth service with when I was a teen ... way back w h e n ....  We sang with gusto that we were Christ's Ambassadors since that was also the name of our youth group.  Perhaps we should sing that old song once more ... for we are still ambassadors for Christ.  We are representatives from Heaven to this dying world. 

Your presence is vital to those searching for meaning in life.  Remember you are salt and you are light.  You can change unpleasant surroundings by just walking in the room.  Light is sweet to those who are sitting in darkness.  You are vital to the purpose of the Kingdom. 

Remember Corrie ten Boom's words:

We may have been the Lord’s only representatives in that place of hatred, yet because of our presence there, things changed.

Maybe you would like to sing along with me:
We are Christ Ambassadors
And our colors we must unfurl.
We must wear a spotless robe,
clean and righteous before the world.
We must show we're cleansed from sin and that Jesus lives within.
Proving duly that we're truly.
Christ Ambassadors.

....

'God Is Here, but I Am Getting So Tired'

"God is here, but I'm getting so tired. Tired of praying. Tired of crying. Sometimes it seems like there is no end to all this misery. I know God is in control, but sometimes I feel so hopeless. I regularly fall on my knees and cry out to Him about why all of this is happening."

Hanna is a Christian woman living in Damascus, Syria, with her husband. She and her husband have two young daughters. She works in a school.

Her story was published recently in Charisma News.  Hannah poured her heart out over the last year, describing life in Damascus...the trauma and stress known only by those in a war area.  When you experience a civil war that is now going into its fourth year and has already taken 120,000 lives ... you do get weary.  You do get tired.

When I read this article some time ago, I couldn't help but save it to a document.  We can relate to Hannah even though our streets are peaceful and our problems small in comparison to hers - but, nonetheless, the enemy plots to wear each of us down with life. 

Perhaps you are one of those who can say with Hannah, ""God is here, but I'm getting so tired. Tired of praying. Tired of crying. Sometimes it seems like there is no end to all this misery. I know God is in control, but sometimes I feel so hopeless ..."

James H. McConkey wrote, "What can you do when you are about to faint physically?  You can't DO anything!  In your weakness you just fall upon the shoulders of some strong loved one, lean hard, and rest until your strength returns.  The Lord's message to us is 'Be still and know that I am God' (Psalm 46:10)."

Hudson Taylor was so feeble in the closing months of his life that he said to a dear friend, "I'm so weak that I can't work or read my Bible, and I can hardly pray.  I can only lie still in God's arms like a little child and trust." 

That's all the Heavenly Father asks of you when you are weary.

I know it isn't popular to dare mention a believer weakening to this state in life, but, it's all too real and honest to ignore ...  even believers become weary.  BUT, Christians have a hope that is not of this world.  Our hope rests in the reality and presence of Jesus Christ.  Our hope rests in the Comforter Jesus sent to us - One to walk along side of us - One to live inside of us -  One to minister to us and talk to us. That is the Holy Spirit!  The third person of the Trinity. 

Now, if you can relate to this phrase, "God is Here, but I am getting so tired"  then remember:

The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.  Shouts of joy and victory resound in the tents of the righteous:  "The LORD's right hand has done mighty things!  The LORD's right hand is lifted high; the LORD's right hand has done mighty things!" -  Psalm 118:14-16

My comfort in my suffering is this:  Your promise preserves my life..  Psalm 119:50

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.  Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.   Psalm 46:1-3

We all need encouragement at times.  Especially, when we are tired.  I'm reminded of the story about the little boy who said to his father:  "Let's play darts.  I'll throw and you say 'Wonderful!'" 

Listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit say to you today, "Let's do life ...  you live ... and I'll say 'Wonderful!'"  

Child of God, you have a right to LIVE and enjoy living because: 
IN HIM you live and move and have your being. 
IN HIM you can lift your head and look up for your redemption draws near. 
IN HIM you will find joy in the midst of troubles. 
IN HIM you have a beautiful future and a purpose. 

Read what Hannah did with her school children in the midst of war:

"In our school we gathered the children to pray for the victims. I told the children: No matter what bad things are happening around us, our God is still good; even if we're in danger of death, our God is still good and worthy of praise. So we raised our hands and started worshipping God. The parents of one of our Muslim pupils were present while we did that, and they were so impressed they said: 'Our child is safe here. He is under the protection of God.'"

...so we raised our hands and started worshipping God!  Even unbelievers will recognize the presence and protection of our Almighty God!

The name of the LORD is a strong tower, the righteous run into it and are safe!
Proverbs 18:10

Tired?   Run.  Run.  And run quickly...

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THE REALITY OF BEING AN AMERICAN

THAT'S ME.  AN AMERICAN.  BORN AND RAISED IN THE GOOD OLE' USA. 

I'm still American.  I still believe the American way.  Such as going to church - freedom to live - believing in good morals -  you know....the way we were raised.

My mother wouldn't let me use slang words such as:  gosh, golly, darn... those really bad words.  Because of my raisin' I still don't use those words.  I remember growing up in the days when my world was small.  We felt the pain when a relative moved out of state.  Yes, I recall those times when we cried with grief when the time came for them to leave after their brief visit. 

My playground was the few blocks near the house.  Neighborhood kids gathered to play Cowboys and Indians.  And as the years passed we outgrew such play time and moved into maturity (somewhat) ... and our world was still small.  In my early teen years, my world became 'church' - with a group of young folks.  The greatest times were when we all just hung out together, usually on those many steps leading up to the door of the church.  Or, going to Al's Snack Bar (drive-in) and ordering their delicious cheeseburgers after church!  Driving around town was our entertainment, basically.  Gas was cheaper, but wages were smaller, too.

Still ... THE REALITY OF BEING AN AMERICAN ... remains unique to all civilization, to this day.  Our heritage of safety, decency, and correct Bible-belt teaching stands tall above all other countries.  (I was always scared of Russians, communists)

Early American morals included decency, common sense, and were Bible-based.  So,  my question today is:  How can I change now, to be politically correct?  I can't.

Today, I'm expected to: 
Shake  off my parents standards of decency, morals and rules
Develop a more "modern" interpretation of Scripture
Accept wide tolerance of all religions which stomp my beliefs in the ground
Keep my beliefs and thoughts to myself as to not offend the anti-Christ system
Disrespect the American flag
Hide my Christian behavior and cease from talking about the gospel
Accept liberalism which includes abortion, gay and lesbian lifestyle
Turn a blind eye to sin and allow it to become the norm

Most of all, I'm supposed to accept the fact that my grandchildren could be brainwashed by our public schools into believing that THE REALITY OF BEING AN AMERICAN means to be ungodly and in opposition to all that is decent.

But, I can't do that.  THE REALITY OF BEING AN AMERICAN IS so engrained in my soul that I cannot become like the current world system demands.  It grates against my spirit when I read of the unjust attacks against our children in school and the strong push from our government to remove our God-given rights in freedom of speech and love for our country!    

As Lucas Cherry stated in his Charisma article (I Am a Millennial, and I Am Not Leaving the Church ):  I will not move off course, even when everyone predicts that is what I will do. You see, I care enough about my friends to share the truth with them. I love them enough to not let a watered-down gospel deceive them. I love Christ enough to not try to give Him a marketing makeover in order to get people to like Him—and me—more. I think the way He represented Himself in the Bible is just fine, and I am even realizing that just because something is not popular, it is not necessarily wrong. 

I remain steadfast in proclaiming that the way of the cross is the only way.  Jesus is our Savior and Healer.  He is our soon-coming King. 

THE REALITY OF BEING AN AMERICAN still resounds with a message of decency!

I'm proud to be an American - and I'm very proud to know Jesus Christ as Lord!
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DON'T EVER, EVER RING THE BELL !!

Admiral William McRaven Knows a thing or two

about courage and changing the world.  The video of his speech presented at UT (Austin) was shared on Fox ... 

 

 "As a commander of the forces that killed Usama bin Laden and a Navy SEAL for 36 years, Admiral William McRaven knows a thing or two about courage and changing the world. In one of the most inspiring commencement speeches, Adm. McRaven advised graduates at his alma mater – the University of Texas at Austin – on how to change the world."  -Fox News, The Five

 

Here are his 10 life lessons for grads on how to go about doing that:

 

1. If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed.

2. If you want to change the world, find someone to help you paddle.
3. If you want to change the world, measure a person by the size of their heart, not the size of their flippers.
4. If you want to change the world get over being a sugar cookie and keep moving forward.
5. If you want to change the world, don’t be afraid of the circuses.
6. If you want to change the world sometimes you have to slide down the obstacle head first.
7. If you want to change the world, don’t back down from the sharks.
8. If you want to change the world, you must be your very best in the darkest moment.
9. If you want to change the world, start singing when you’re up to your neck in mud.
10. If you want to change the world don’t ever, ever ring the bell.

THE TOUGHEST TRAINING IN THE WORLD:   That’s what sailors volunteer for when they have the goal of becoming a Navy SEAL.  Its 25 weeks of training to test their endurance and will.  Cold, miserable, and tired are three words that sum up the experience.  Master Chief Information Systems Technician Dennis Wilbanks, head SEAL recruiter said, “You have to want the program.  And mentally, never give yourself the option to quit.”  70% drop out within the first few weeks. 

It is said that they want them to be able to work flawlessly under intense mental and physical exhaustion.  Why? As one instructor put it, “Mistakes made when working with explosives only happen once.” 

From one web site:

He describes one test during Basic Underwater Demolition School/SEAL (BUD/S).  This test is difficult to put in words.  Words can’t begin to show how grueling it really is.  They break them down and see how physically and mentally tough they are. It sometimes reaches the point of death and resurrection.

“One of the tests is they make you dive to the bottom of a pool and tie five knots,” the Shooter says. “One guy got to the fifth knot and blacked out underwater.  We pulled him up he was, like, dead.  They made the class face the fence while they tried to resuscitate him.  The first words as he spit out water were ‘Did I pass?  Did I tie the fifth knot?’  The instructor told him, ‘We didn’t want to find out if you could tie the knots, we wanted to know how hard you’d push yourself.  You killed yourself. You passed.”

This is when the majority of the trainees quit, and even the act of quitting is painful.  They must ring a brass bell to signal they don’t have what it takes to be a SEAL.  The whole camp can hear them ring that bell.   To become a Navy SEAL…It takes an unrelenting drive and a willingness to never quit.

---------
As Christians, we've been tested and often, mentally, we've wanted to ring that bell.  We've given up on our dreams....our calling.  We've given up far too easily. 

Basic Underwater Demolition School ------“The belief that BUD/S is about physical strength is a common misconception.  Actually, it’s 90 percent mental and 10 percent physical,” said a BUD/S instructor at the San Diego facility.  “(Students) just decide that they are too cold, too sandy, too sore or too wet to go on.  It’s their minds that give up on them, not their bodies.”

The Apostle Paul said in 2 Corinthians 4:8,9:
We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;  Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

Paul was saying that even in our greatest perplexities, we know God is able to support us, and to deliver us, and in Him we always place our trust and hope. 

Failure is only a failure if you don’t learn something from it.  We all want to do more in life.  We all  want to live a more exciting life.  We all want to do something that matters for the Kingdom of God.  But, in order to do that we must not RING THE BELL.  We absolutely must not give up.  We must not listen to that small voice that suggests that we will never make it.   Take on the attitude of a Navy SEAL - they know that if they quit they won't be called a SEAL, they will be called a sailor. 

Believers can become wimps or warriors.  We can be a cowardly or unadventurous individual.  OR, we can put on the whole armor of God and get out there on the battlefield for the Lord.  Our trials can make us better, not bitter.  We can stand firm against the onslaughts of the enemy - holding the banner of salvation high.

Do not ever “ring the bell” and allow yourself to simply be mediocre.

Admiral William McRaven concluded his speech: 
Know that life is not fair and that you will fail often, but if take you take some risks, step up when the times are toughest, face down the bullies, lift up the downtrodden and never, ever give up — if you do these things, the next generation and the generations that follow will live in a world far better than the one we have today.

Ring the bell and you no longer have to do the runs, the obstacle course, the PT — and you no longer have to endure the hardships of training.  But, If you want to change the world don’t ever, ever ring the bell.

All you have to do is ring the bell to get out.

 

"So then, brethren, ..." "As a result of all this, brethren," Paul is saying, "stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by letter." Two activities, says Paul, are possible despite the hard times they were going through. They could "stand fast," and they could "hold fast." Stand fast; "Do not give in under pressure," and Hold fast; "do not give up the truth."

More than anything else, our generation of Christians needs to hear these words again. "Stand fast." Paul is saying that we already have what it takes to do so. What we need to do is to draw upon the resources he has made available; to choose to live accordingly. Take God at his word! There is no reason to quit, or to give in.  There is no reason to ring the bell.

Christians:  If you want to change the world,

don't ever, ever ring the bell.

 

Remember:

 

Philippians 4:13

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

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JESUS, COME QUICKLY

FLIGHT DELAYED, FLIGHT CANCELED

We arrived at the Belize airport with full confidence that our flight would leave as scheduled.  It isn't.  Delay!  I don't know why it is delayed, but it is.  So we will use this time wisely, sitting in the airport.  We wait. 

We also understand our flight from one point to our destination is canceled.  This time we are told it is due to weather.  All beyond our control.  We wait.

I'm waiting, patiently.  Writing a blog.  Patiently. 

There is one flight I will not miss.  It will not be delayed, nor will it be canceled.  It is the rapture of the Church. I am a Pre-Trib Rapture believer.  This means that the rapture will take place before the seven year tribulation begins.

I Thessalonians 4:15-17 says:
¹⁵ We tell you this directly from the Lord: We who are still living when the Lord returns will not meet him ahead of those who have died.¹⁶ For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the Christians who have died will rise from their graves. ¹⁷ Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever.

This I know for sure,  He's Coming and I am Going.  God's timetable is accurate and He will be on time.  No delays - No cancelations.

I certainly need to stay ready, for any moment that flight will happen.  Got my boarding pass in hand!  Bags packed.  Ready to go.

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