Count Your Blessings

I think I've already blogged about this but what the hey, its a reminder that I need much more often than I blog about it. (edit* this is one of those posts that shows my crazy divergent thought process..... which is the preferred way of saying I'm rambling....)

I simply don't count my blessings. I speak for myself because I'm the only one whose heart I really know. Although, IF I had to guess, I would think that this is a general failure among California Christians.

It's so so easy to count all the things that suck. Work sucks, I know....(90's ref). School sucks. Sometimes even serving can be difficult. Loving people is difficult. Hmmm loving other people.... that one seems to shed light on the problem. Most people don't have a problem loving themselves. Even those who are hard on themselves, certainly love themselves. Just a thought, maybe people who beat themselves up do so because they lack something that would otherwise allow them to love themselves more.

Granted, I don't think the bible says that you should hate yourself. Sometimes Christians use the term "first love." Obviously that should be God, but is your second love yourself? Now I don't know exactly what should be second, third, fourth love for people. It's probably dependent on relationships and circumstances unique to every person but I'm pretty sure love for yourself should be relatively low in the list.

I think one thing that I love too much is my pride. I don't want it hurt or challenged. I want to be right and I want to be the best. Even though I know I'm not, I don't want anyone to tell me because it hurts my pride. Which, like so many other things to be worked on, pride seems to be the problem with recognizing our blessings.

I think our complaints are often caused by this sentiment that we deserve better or we deserve more than what we're getting. I think last time I talked about blessings, I ended with God being enough. And certainly He is, this is the clearest lesson in the book of Job. God is enough, where if you had no other blessings at all, you would still be blessed far beyond what your pride would convince you that you deserve.

I just listened to PPK's sermon from 6/24/09 (the oldest in the berean archive) One thing that PPK mentions is that we can not say to God that "you don't understand what I'm going through, you don't understand my suffering." But He does! First of all, He's God! Second, Christ came and suffered all things. We have a high priest who can sympathize, who has been tempted, betrayed, tortured, labored, abused, killed..... Whether you agree or disagree that we don't deserve anything, certainly, Christ did not deserve the trials of His life on Earth.

Anyway, my ultimate rebuke for myself that prompted this blog is that I am undeniably blessed. I have God! but even still He's blessed me so much! What room do I have to complain about the small things in light of the greater things. How can I be comfortable complaining about pay when I have a job! or complain about the cold morning when I live in Orange County! Thats a short list, haha, I definitely have much more that I complain about, verbally but probably more often in my heart. If you are a Christian, theres nothing to complain about, not even just in your heart, because (like last time) you have God, and He is enough (in addition to those blessings (in no particular order what so ever) like family, job, school, food, comfort, friends, church, girl friend, service opportunities, car, candy, bananas, video games, disneyland, pixar movies, my pastors, the internet, my cousins, my grandma, the beach, motorcycles, panda express, 50mph speed limits, the smell of vanilla or cinnamon or melon or sour apple or gf's perfume or hawaii or bacon, hawaii, ccm, r&b, christian rap, reliant k, guitars, bass, ruth's chris, retreats, taco tuesdays, middle earth, amazon.com, aim, google, cameras, my not so awesome point and shoot that I seriously love, hiking, switzer, ladder canyon, june lake, snowboarding, snow chains, husbands and wives, blackouts, counsel, many older brothers, rancho, facebook, blogger, old small groups, new small groups,...... goodness this could take a lifetime, I think I did this last time too.

Point being, there is so much to be thankful about to be discontent with the small things.

1 Victorious Day (lets go for 2)

Honestly, its stinkin hard to have a victorious day but its so so good. I think having an eternal perspective is my goal, obviously. But before I can even get there I need to cultivate a glorifying attitude that will extend beyond right now. I recently shared that my greatest weakness is laziness. I think the way that it manifests itself in my life is in procrastination or even negligence.

But how selfish is procrastination! It's a total self concern. At the deepest level its not about not wanting to do something, but about wanting to do something else. Procrastination and neglect is an attitude of self service. I don't want to do laundry as much as I want to watch tv, so I'm going to do that. Or I want to sleep more than I want to read (happens to me a lot... mornings and nights....). I become a slave to my appetite. I forget where I recently heard that? Are you subject to your appetite or are you in control of yourself? How silly, am I in control, of course I am. Until I thought about all the desires that I indulge in: games, sleep, food, internet, hanging out (I'm separating hanging out from fellowship, they're different).

So how do I deal with my selfish (another thing I admitted to struggling with) and lazy tendencies?

I just do it. Theres nothing stopping me from doing productive things. The only hurdle is making the decision to do so.

Yesterday was awesome, and I was a little bummed I couldn't do more.

-Go to work

-Meet up with Jon Sng (I love Jon Sng)

-Go home

-Call and meet AAA to get my keys out of my car

-Put clothes/sheets/towels in the laundry

-Read Judges 10-13 for sunday school. (This is about Samson)

-Go to best buy, picked up "UP" and "Transformers" movies (how fun, one's good, the others to put on tv when I'm doing chores)

-Put clothes/sheets/towels in the dryers (only top ones available! lame!)

-Do p90x chest and back, ab ripper

-Take a shower (to which I forgot I was washing my towels, but running through the apartment makes for a quick air dry)

-Fold clothes/sheets/towels

-Upload Sports day pictures to Berean album

-Blog 2 lines

-Boil eggs

-Make myself lunch for the next day

-Read the opening to 1 John (and forget because I mean to read after I get home from work but i believe John is introducing himself in the opening)

-Go to sleep

Maybe thats not a whole lot but let me list my more average schedule

-work

-subway

-work

-home

-games/tv

-sleep

.......

haha maybe thats a little dramatic but that is the general picture. I pray that I don't lose my conviction to glorify God with my free time, just by being a good steward over the things he's blessed me with.

(And if anyone reading, or even not reading, this wants to meet me up for lunch, I'm right next to albatross, or the hat, or jersey mikes (legit sandwiches)))

Lotsa happenings

Hello blog, things certainly are crazy. Hmm I had a productive day, spent mostly with myself and my thoughts. So much so that I want to blog about them. But as seems to always be the case. There just isn't enough time in the day.

I haven't forgotten about you blogger....

An update

Hello blogger! long time! No no it's not you, it's just.... I've been busy. Of course I'll come back..... from time to time. You understand.

The thing is, I'm not as emo as I was earlier this year haha, so I have less extreme emotions and conflicts that work to my sanctification, and as such, substantial posts that would serve to be an encouragement to any degree. Apart from that, blogging about what I read, while helping me be consistent has proven to double the time that it takes me to study a passage, sometimes more (because I'm more concerned about what I write on here and have to brainstorm and review more of what I want to share). Anyway, I did get a little behind in my reading, but be assured, this blog no longer reflects my reading patterns. I think, when I feel like it I will still post notes and thoughts on passages, it will work as a review. Like my unpublished post on Jude that i have yet to finish despite reading it weeks ago.

Well, I am dating now, and I've definitely been learning a lot. It's not easy but definitely a blessing and a means of sanctification, and I hope a means for God's glory. Well that's what it must be. I must say, as far as relationships go, I've never had one with a Christian, and its way way more awesome than I thought. What fellowship has light with darkness indeed. It's cool just how Christians have an eternal perspective, and as such know what is and isn't important. And Christians at just (or try to be) selfless and serving. What a blessing.

But again, thats not to say its easy, but thats what makes it sanctifying. Honestly, selflessness and serving aren't easy, I want to be selfish sometimes, and too often I am. Too often I'm prideful. I don't want my girlfriend to be the target of my mistakes, but that she is and will call me out on them is some of the best accountability to holy living that I've had.

She is very much awesome and I am very much blessed. (You'll get your own post soon, but that will take me awhile.)

Thats all = ]

one shy of a qtr century (that would be 24 haha)

First of all... yes I'm still blogging about what I'm reading about and yes I'm about 6 days behind. I'll catch up soon I promise ^^ (that is catch up on the writting, I'm only a little bit behind on reading : T)

Anyway, as of sunday I'm 24 years old. I finally got a disneyland season pass that I've wanted since my sophomore year..... 4-5 years ago. I honestly love disneyland fireworks. Going there with a few of my favorite brothers and sisters reminded me that I'm not that old! Haha at least in my mind and somewhat in my heart. I honestly know how the fantasmic show and the fireworks mechanically and electronically work but it still feels magical in my heart. Maybe I'm just not there yet, but I still love hanging out and playing games and playing sports and watching movies (especially kid movies), eating sweets, and staying up late. Not much has changed huh? Haha.

My childlike tendencies got me thinking about Matt 18:3-4. How I must be like a child to enter the kingdom of heaven. I believe the major point that Christ is trying to convey here is found in vs. 4, key word "humbles." A child is totally dependent on their parents. So too we need to be dependent on our Father in heaven. Literally, we must be dependent to enter the kingdom.

Though, I was thinking of other reasons to be "childlike." Granted, in 1 Cor 13:11 we are told to not be like children (mostly referring to maturity). But I think, just in this stage of life, I struggle to not be an adult in the sense that I worry. It's so characteristic of adults that I want to be childlike and care free. Not irresponsible for sure, but I can be responsible and not worry about tomorrow. I know that God provides so why worry about getting paid more, why worry about owning a home or a car, why worry about well... anything? It's all in God's hands. This year has helped me realize God's sovereignty and the beauty of it. I'm not in control of everything. And like a child, I don't care (that much, I still got some work to do)

Age is just a number, I still like to play ^^

Rev 22:6-21

EPIC FAIL. Okay seriously time to catch up. I need to at least close out Revelation. So here we go

Rev 22:6-21 Jesus is coming

I read this so long ago that I had to reread which this blog was meant for me to remember what i've read aish anyway.

Now the angel reassures John that everything he's seen and heard is true because the angel is a messenger from God. Next is a promise that Jesus is coming soon. Here, the inherency of word is absolute. Verse six says "These words are trustworthy and true..." Again and again after this the angel stresses the importance of the "words of this book." I find this reassuring because it is the prophetic books that I find the most difficulty to not believe but understand. There is a bit of faith and trust that must come in to play when understanding these books and thank God that these are His words written in His book that I can know that what I read is truth. No debate about that, the bible is simply truth. I digress from the passage, continuing on.

I don't know what so overwhelmed John to start worshiping the angel who was telling him about what would happen. But he quickly got rebuked by the angel and points him back to God as the only one deserving praise. This so struck me, not that i didn't already know this, but i forget that i don't deserve praise. It doesn't matter how hard you work or what you accomplish, still, God is the only one worthy of praise. Worship is for the creator not the created. Do not worship the angels, brothers and sisters, even when they come with plagues and mighty acts of destruction, to worship them would only warrant more of that destruction on yourself.

The next verse (10) warns John to not seal up the words of the prophecy. This seems to be an exhortation to write down what he's seen and heard. "For the time is near" makes me think that there are some really important things (obviously everything in the bible is important) in this book that we should know! and soon! It sounds like we ought to get ready. How? by not sealing up the words of the prophecy. Thats what I'm getting from this verse. Once through is not enough, I'm hope I come back to this book soon.

Verse 11 sounded like curse and blessing for actions but after reading notes it seems that it is referring to the finality of the end. The evildoer will do evil and the filthy will be filthy, there will be no redemption for them. Yet the righteous and holy will not lose their characteristics. It is a reminder that it's not too late to accept Christ, to pursue righteousness, but! one day it will be too late.

Christ is coming soon, He is God, it will be crazy. We are to wash our robes with the blood of Christ, this is the only prescribed method in this passage to attain access to the tree of life that will be in God's city. Those who do not wash their robes will be outside the city. Jesus reiterates again that He has sent this angel, that this is His message to His followers. In the closing of this passage is a prayer to Christ for him to "come." This is the prayer that we ought to have. The sooner he comes the sooner we can take from the water of life, by his grace.

the passage closes with a warning about taking or adding to the scripture, repeating the prayer for Christ to come, acknowledging the imminence of His return.

Goodness that is a long passage but i can finally move on. I will catch up soon. Sorry for the delay but work has been kurhazy.

Thank God for revelation, that we may know the signs and be prepared for the one thing we ought to look forward to.

Rev 22:1-5 The River of Life

freak I'm not doing very well in catching up am I.

Well here's a short one for today.

Rev 22:1-5 The River of Life

The angel now takes John to the river of life which flows from the throne and through the city, which is now a temple as it houses God's presence. Also, by the river of life is the tree of life with 12 kinds of fruit and leaves that heal the nations. Now the word says that there will be no more cursed things, that we will worship God, that we will see His face, His name will be on our foreheads, and there will be no more night because God will be our light.

Well thats basically it for the first five verses of the last chapter. The river and tree I think represents or encapsulates in a sense, God providing for us. This reminds me of Eden when Adam did not have to toil to survive but instead was sustained by God. Food and water is all we really need to survive, so whether we do need a calorie intake or if God is just symbolizing His sufficiency, we won't have to worry about surviving. We will be taken care of.

To further the idea that the new Jerusalem represents a state much like Eden is the lack of cursed things. Before the fall, there was no such thing as a cursed person. Yet because of that first sin we are all cursed and a part of this curse. This is not how creation was intended to be, but when God fulfills His plan, things will be the way they were meant to, and like Eden, there will be no more curse.

The other notable thing about this passage is the promise to see God's face. I don't know how, and I dont' know what He will look like, or if I will even see with the concept of vision I have now, but I'm so excited that I can see and not die. Funny, that song. "I want to see your face, I want to know you more." I remember thats one of the first songs that intrigued me to get involved at a more um.... legit church? Well long story, but a relationship with God was not something I had considered before then. I dunno. Aren't you excited? It's like.... hm..... I talk to Josiah and David and CK and Sarah Chun but I never get to see them anymore. If I knew I was going to meet up with them soon I would be super excited! As much as I love those guys, much more do I love God, have I been talking with Him, have I admired Him,..... when I finally see Him in ALL 100% of His glory then..... I dunno how I'll feel. I think it will be something like taking away all the worries and troubles of this world. Not momentarily but like really taking away everything that burdens and holds me back. I'm getting pretty far into speculation. After all the word just says that I'll see His face.

EXCITING!

hmmm..... anyway..... I'll try to really catch up this weekend, crazy weekend, I dont really know what I'll be doing. I'm supposed to go home but i don't know when *shrug*

The New Jerusalem

Rev 21:9-27 The New Jerusalem

An angel appears, one who had one of the bowls of wrath, and shows John the bride who is the wife of the Lamb. Keeping in mind that the bride is the church. The angel takes John, in the Spirit, where he sees the city descengin from heaven. The city has the glory of God and radiates, which its crazy that I would be blogging about this passage today because we learned today in Hebrews that Jesus radiates God. Hebrews 1:3 "He is the radiance of the glory of God." We know that we are supposed immitate Christ and as such radiate God's glory. Luckily, or um... blessedly? one day we will as promised in this passage.

Now the city had twelve angels and twelve walls and twelve foundations and such, and on these things were the names of the tribes and the apostles of the Lamb. Now the angels show the protection of the city, no evil will enter it. The apostles and tribes represent the unity of those adopted both in the OT and NT. The city is measured out and measurements are all divisible by 12, which may lead one to believe that these measurements are symbolic. It is noticed that there is no temple, probably because the entire city is the temple, which is God's presence. Interesting fact, the measurement of the city is cubic, which is the same shape as the Holy of Holies in the OT. And then as if to throw the prostitutes adornings in her sinful face, the city is described with 12 jewels, representing the invaluable beauty of this city that is graced with God's presence. These 12 jewels correspond to those on the OT priest's ephod.

Lastly, the city has no sun or moon because it's light come from God. The gates are never closed because there is no night, and there are no enemies to attack. Only those whose names are written in the book of life will enter.

Things I realize: I remember when I read this... um.... almost a week ago that I was very interested in what heaven would be like. I've wondered for a long time for sure, but since understanding the gospel, I stopped caring. I just trust that it's somewhere I want to be. Despite the trust, I don't know if thats really the best way to look at heaven, but maybe it's good to know that I will be in God's presence and He will literally be the light of my world and I will never worry about terrorists or dictators or missles or stepping in gum or killing spiders or car accidents or anything. This passage promises protection, and as strong and safe and secure as I think I am, there is nothing close to 100% protection in this world and thats something I'll have to deal with until I enter that new jerusalem. Exciting huh! ^^

good night

Catch up wrap up

Aish, if I were to be completely honest, reading every day has not really been a strength of mine, so blogging about what I read every day, while helping me significantly, has been a bit difficult in itself. I have read every day since I started this but blogging every day, hmmmm something I gotta work on a bit more.

Anyway, tis the end. Or well, the end of the end? ............... the end of Revelation. I feel like I need to do a review though. So despite what I said earlier, I didn't necessarily read any passages the last two days but rather read up on various notes and commentaries in an attempt to permanently log Revelation to memory. And then I start Jude today. I'm hoping to maybe cover the last three revelation passages today, the review tomorrow, and then 2 or 3 jude passages until i catch up.

Aish it's been a busy yet blessed week/weekend so far.

Rev 21: 1-8 the new kingdom

I think it's interesting that we look for a king and ruler to bring about His kingdom and reign. Yet this is the exact misunderstanding that the Jews had(have). They thought that the messiah was going to save them from the oppressive nations and establish a rich and powerful nation. Well.... Christ actually came to not save us from oppressive nations but to save us from ourselves. But you know that. I just thought it was a bit ironic that the huge misunderstanding, the misunderstanding that made Christ weep when riding into Jerusalem, is a similar hope that we have. Granted I don't expect salvation from nations, or riches, or even power, I look forward to a kingdom where Christ will reign and receive the glory thats due, and that I can serve Him face to face. In fact, thats the awesomeness of this passage, it promises fellowship with God.

So lets jump into it (haha sounds like what pastors say. Is that what PPK says? "lets jump into the Word" hmm anyway)

Rev 21: 1-8 The New Heave and The New Earth

John sees a new heaven and a new earth and the sea has gone away. Out of heaven, the holy city descends and God dwells with His people. THIS IS THE BEST PART!

verse 3-4

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying,

"Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man.

He will dwell with them, and they will be his people,

and God himself will be with them as their God.

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes,

and death shall be no more,

neither shall there be mourning, nor crying,

nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away."

What more could you want than to have you Holy and perfect father and creator be there for you always and to sheild you from all bad things. I love my parents and my friends and my disciplers, brothers and sister, many many people in my life. But (I'm sorry if you thought otherwise) none of them are perfect, none of them can fellowship with me like God can. When we fellowship which God as the center of our relationship, we push each other closer to Him, encouraging and challenging one anther. By doing so we can hopefully see Christ reflected in that brother or sister. But the reflection is just that, it's not the full thing. Would you watch a movie in a mirror if you could just turn around and watch it for real?

After we are told about the fellowship we have with God, the passage says that "it is done!" And God is described as the Alpha and the Omega, that is, the first and last letter of the greek alphabet, beggining and end. He will satisfy the thirst of those who are thirsty and not require a payment. BUT! "the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for muderers, the sexually immoral, sorcereres, idolaters, and all liars," will be burned in the lake of fire. (side note: the lake of fire causes a second death. I don't really know what this means but its what the word says. Perhaps this is the utter destruction of a person and their soul?) It is apparent that this is going to be an exclusive city.

It burdens me to see that in America, especially in California, our society has made righteousness and faith a subjective matter. There are no rights or wrongs. But unfortunately for those who hold that view, there will be a day when they are judged one way OR the other. There is no "what's true for me is true for me and what's true for you is true for you." To steal from a christian rap artist, this just isn't logical. What if my truth says your's is a lie, then whats true for you can't be true because my truth is true for me and saying that what's true for you is true can't be true because of what's true for me. Sorry if you got lost in that but the point is, there is only one answer, only one truth. 1+1=2 and thats it. There is nothing else 1+1 can equal.

What I realize: is that I don't know exactly what heaven will entail, what it will look like, what it will smell or feel like, or if I'll even have the ability to see or smell, but I do know that I will be able to fellowship with God. God himself. And it will be personal. It won't be a concert with God on stage and me in the stands. It will be God and me. He will wipe my tears Himself. And I don't cry! cause I'm so manly..... (I actually cry pretty easily, usually in a sad movie or a really happy moment.... granted I don't bawl or anything but I'll at least be honest and tear up.) Point being, heaven is going to be crazy sweat and awesome and I can't wait! Bummer about those thrown in the lake of fire though. Apart from Christ I deserve to be there. That serves to strengthen the conviction to share with others.

goodness its late again! good night.

Rev 20:11-15

It's late and I wasn't going to post until tomorrow but then my hair is wet so I can't sleep yet. I don't mean to do this, I mean to be intentional with my blog and definitely intentional in my study. But I need to sleep because I have work in the morn, so unfortunately heres a short post on Rev 20:11-15

Rev 20:11-15 Judgement Before the Great White Throne

So John sees the great white throne and "him who was seated on it." John also sees the earth and sky retreat from Him, who is Christ. In verse 13, it also says the sea gives up those who are in it. So with the land, sea, and sky giving up all who are in them, where can anyone hide? everyone will be judged. The passage continues to mention the book of life and that all whose names are not in it will be thrown into the lake of fire. The passage says that the dead are judged, "by what was written in the books, according to what they had done." In these books are written all the deeds on non-Christians and they will be dealt with justly. Christians however, will be rewarded by their deeds yet their sins are reconciled by Christ's blood and that is how their names are written in the book of life.

What I realize: Luckily, as a Christian, my name is written in the book of life and I won't be held accountable for my countless sins. Even if I didn't do anything really really bad, which I won't really ellaborate on..... but any sin before a perfect God is inifinitely horrible. The way I look at is, life is a pass or fail class, the requirement for pass is 100%, no less. Thank you Jesus for dying for me, I should be judged for so much, but I won't.

goodness I'm tired, I would otherwise continue. Tomorrow I start ch 21

Rev 20: 7-10

The Defeat of Satan

Rev 20: 7-10

so at the end of the thousand years, satan is released and deceives nations all over the earth. he will gaver armies as numers as the sand of the sea. This huge army surrounds the saints and the holy city but as soon as they do, they are consumed with fire. then the devil was thrown into the lake of fire with the beast and false prophet where they suffer forever.

Another short passage. Satan is released at the end of Christ's reign on Earth and in one last effort to rebel, he gathers all non-Christians from around the world. This is confusing because this appears to be after Christ has come back, so does He come back and not destroy all who oppose Him? After all, satan gathers somebody. So does that mean that while we reign with Christ that there will also be nonbeleivers around? Well from what I can gather is that Christ comes back, gathers His people into the holy city where He reigns for a thousand years, yet there are those who do not follow Christ outside the holy city. These are the people satan gathers. Now the reason I don't think satan's army is the tribulation is because the Word states that the beast and false prophet were already in the lake of fire.

What I realize: God's justice is swift. Satan's gonna lose, and quick. I realize that it's important to study revelation and the signs of Christ's return because the beast will rise in power and authority and reign just like Christ will, yet only one is the true Lord of Lords.

Serving up Humility with a side of Anger and Sorrow

Honestly, God, through Dr. Snider, punched me in my spiritual face this weekend.

Dr. Snider spoke at Berean's summer retreat, giving us 5 sermons on holy affections. I wasn't really sure what that meant going into retreat but it seemed to be holy emotions, affections just sounds cooler haha. In order, Dr. Snider talked to us about Humility, Anger, Love, Sorrow, and Joy, drawing from God's example of these affections in scripture.

Well humility isn't really an affection but the mode in which we ought to control our emotions. Thats right control our emotions. While our emotions are often circumstancial, the way in which we think about and reflect on those circumstances defines how we react emotionally. Not that I understand the workings of emotions but this was suggested by Dr. Snider and seems to be true. I'd like to also add that we are responsible for how we react to our emotions. I think it's understandable that circumstances can be overwhelmingly emotions, such as in a tragedy, but that does not excuse our response. How we handle our emotions is where Dr. Snider really rebuked me.

Why was I rebuked? Because I'm emotional? Haha well yes kind of, whether you thought so or not. The thing is, I'm very easily brought down or lifted up, my anger and irritation is bottled up, my love is not big enough, my joy is too conditional, and my sorrow is indulged with pity. Yet most of this is all internalized or burdening one very unlucky close friend. The problem is that I excused unedifying emotion because my emotions were internalized. As if anger was okay just because I don't yell or chew people out. Dr. Snider gave the example of road rage, how maybe you don't actually take revenge by swerving through traffic after someone cuts you off, but you might do it in your mind, and you always win. And I do always win in my mind. This is the depraved condition of my heart, expressing unedifying anger in my heart and mind, and really, what does God care about more? cutting someone off? or the selfish and unloving anger i my heart?

Tying in humility, what owns me is why do I get mad? Do I get mad because someone sins against me or because they have sinned against God? In fact, I need to be sorrowful that the person sinned and not angry that I've been inconvenienced or even hurt. Granted there is righteous and holy anger.

Yes anyway, It's late. I want to blog about more than what I read but its a little difficult.

Good night world!

Rev 20:1-6 The Millenium

I'm going to try and seperate this post because hmmm.... Well it's just difficult to give my opinion on such a debated topic.

So a summary of what the word says first.

Rev 20:1-6 The Millenium

John sees an angel with a key to the bottomless pit and a chain, with which he takes satan and binds him for a thousand years. During this time, satan is unable to deceive the nations until he is released. At the end of the thousand years, satan will be released for a short time.

After this, John sees thrones where "those to whom the authority to judge was committed," and the martyrs and those who did not worship the beast or its image will come to life and reign with Christ for a thousand years. The rest of the dead did not come to life until after the thousand years is over. The ones who are raised are considered blessed and will be priests and reign with Christ.

So what do i think? I really do not know. I feel like this passage can be used to argue pre or post-millenialism. Well for sure I'm not amillenialist. Maybe this is bad because I know Berean leaders encourage us to study and take a stance one way or another, but at the moment I don't really care. I'm very excited that christ will come and reign! Whether the tribulation comes first or after, I don't really care much. After reading this passage it seems to me that, in light of yesterdays passage, the millenium will come after the tribulation. Verses like 4, talking about those who did not worship the beast and bear his mark makes me believe that the tribulation will have already occured at this point.

Either way, this passage makes me excited for Christ's return. I feel like a minority, and, well... as a Christian, I am. But when Christ comes back, His kingdom will be the one kingdom! the one nation! and we will reign with him! We are subjects and servants but not just subjects and servants we reign too! He promises that we will reign with Him.

Well I'm super tired so thats all the blogging I'll devote to this passage. Good night ^^

The Ultimate Knight in Shining.... Self (He's actually wearing linen)

Honestly, I'm a bit emotional for a guy I think. Not that I can't be tough or anthing, but I am easily burdened or easilty encouraged and everything in between (but never defeated). Study Revelation was a bit scary and um... well not fun to study what satan's reign was going to be like, but huzzah, this book is far from being about defeat but rather victory! So here is another passage about Christ coming to earth.

Rev 19: 11-21

Here John sees a rider on a white horse. The rider is described in several ways:

1. He is called Faithful and True. Well the only one (who is or was human or has human form at least) is Christ. This is clearly Christ.

2. "His eyes are like a flame of fire." I don't know know what this means exactly but it seems to be a reference to Christ's omniscence. His ability to see the heart and its intentions. See Rev 1:14.

3. He has many diadems on His head, which I think is simply a symbol of Christs authority to reign over all the earth.

4. "He has a name written that no one knows but himself." I have no idea about this one but the ESV study bible says that Christ can never be fully known, that His being is a divine mystery. Though I don't think God withold any mystery regarding Himself from us when we are in His presence in the end.

5. His robe is dipped in blood. A reference to his sacrifice on the cross.

6. He is called "The Word of God." This is also a clarification of the rider being Christ. Recall John 1:1, speaking of the Word being with God and being God, then in John 1:14 the Word becomes flesh, and that is Christ.

So thats who the rider is, Christ. Now what is He going to do?. Well He is in a robe, which isn't armor by any means, yet He came to wage war! At least He brought an army right? But this army is clothed in linen, granted the linen is white and pure, but certainly now warrior material. But thats the thing, unlike our cultural white flag, back then white was a color for victory. The battle was already won by Christ's presence. What he brought was teh sharp sword that came from His mouth and the iron rod with which he would rule. I'm inclined to believe that this sword is the same that Christ used against the pharisees, from His mouth comes the word of God! And we know that the word of God is sharper than any two edged sword (Heb 4:12). The rod is what Christ uses to strike down nations, and indeed they are all His. One other thing He will do is walk on the winepress of the fury and wrath of God. Remember the winepress? where the non-Christians will be crushed until the blood flows as high as a horses bridle? Ya, Christ is gonna be the one stomping on those grapes! A final identifier is the name written on the riders robe and thigh, "King of kings and Lord of lords." This is a title that no one else has or will ever have.

So now the enemy. An angel calls all the local birds to eat up the flesh of the defeated beast and kings and all who fought against Christ. The beast and the false prophet are thrown into the lake of fire, captured but not killed. They are thrown in alive. I don't know the practical ramifications of this but lets just imagine, dying and then having your body burned as oppossed to just skipping the dying step and burning alive. Ya being killed first would probably be easier. The rest were killed and the birds ate them up.

What I realize: Thank goodness I'm on Christ's side. There was no battle. In verse 19 it says the beast and his army gathered to make war. Then in verse 20, the very next sentence, the beast and prophet are captured and thrown in the lake and everyone else is killed. Dang, I don't think i could beat up a kid that fast you know? Not that I would beat up a kid..... bad example..... Okay, I have a harder time killing some bugs than Christ had conquering His enemies. Better? Goodness I'm delerious haha.

I stinkin love retreat!!!!! Need to sleep now and be awake for tomorrow's session on joy. I'll try to blog a bit about affections and the greatness of the rebuke that I've received this weekend. I love it! ^^

Marriage Supper!!!!

How exciting! I love weddings, and being a Berean member, I get to go to so many.

Rev 19: 6-10 The Marriage Supper of the Lamb

So then, upon Christs return, there is a multitude of praise. I don't really know if this is people on earth or in heaven or on the new earth in the millenium but regardless of when exactly, everyone will praise God. And the way people praise God will sound like "the roar of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder, crying out."

When Christ comes, he will be coming for His bride who will be clothed in pure white linen. This is in contrast to the prostitute who was clothed in luxurious purples and adorned with jewelry. But Christ's bride will be even more beautiful because she is clothed with the righteousness and purity given to Her by the Father. Btw, we, the church, are the bride, and her garments are from us kinda... well the verse says it so no use in restating it in my own words, "for the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints."

Lastly, an angel commands John to write down how blessed those who belong to the bride are, for being invited to the banquet. But John bows down and worships the angel! Perhaps in his excitement or maybe he was actually awstruck by the angel and was compelled to worship it. But John is quickly rebuked and the angel reminds him that he too is a servant and that they must worship God alone.

What I realize: I love weddings. The ceremony is one of the most public ways that I get to see two people express their love for each other. And being at Berean, each wedding and relationship is devoted to God. I think that is so cool. That is the kind of relationship that Christ relates His relationship with the church to. I really need to work on belonging to a bride that would be suitable for such a groom as Christ. Thats really weird to say because, as a guy, I've never ever focused on being a good bride but rather a good husband but I have to be both haha. A good husband and father for a family if I were to ever be blessed with one, yet a submissive member of the bride that is the church. If Christ's return is the banquet, then we are in the ceremony. You know how the groom says his vows first? I feel like he's still waiting for us to make our vows and actually commit to Him. Well maybe we're not even that far. Perhaps Christ has proposed to the church and we are preparing for that day when everything is supposed to be perfect, yet we aren't perfect yet. Or maybe I'm going wayyyy to far in this analogy haha. Either way, as much as I would want my wife to be working on her character to be the most Christlike she can be, much more I need to strive to be as Christlike as possible for the sake of Christ's bride.

I suck.... haha..... RUNNING HARDER!!!!!!!! RAWR!!!!!!

I'm not suitable for you, Christ, yet you still accept me. Help me strive after you and be the kind of man you've called me to be.

百

BAM 100 POSTS!!!!!!!

At Berean Community Church Summer Retreat!!!! oh ya!!!!

Honestly so excited, so happy to be here!!

Yay!

Anyway

Rev 18

Fallen is Babylon the great. It is described as being a place where all kind of bad things dwell, specifically; unclean spirit, unclean birds, and unclean and detestable beasts. It is a place of sexual and economic immorality.

Then a voice from heaven continued with the analogy of the prostitute. She does not consider herself a widow, which I think may refer to non-Christians denying God and Christ as Lord over their lives. Instead they depend on themselves and will be judge accordingly. She will be payed back double for her iniquities. She lived in luxury and glorified herself but she will have plagues fall on her ina single day, "death and mourning and famine and she will be burned up with fire; for mighty is the Lord God who has judged her." Actually I forgot and have too much to type to go back so the first thing the voice says is to not ally ourselves with the prostitute. That means for us, to reject the world. It is a very difficult thing and I'm sure that when I have to choose sides, I will pick God's side despite family and friends remaining in the iniquity of the prostitute.

The kings and merchants who had acquired such status and wealth from Babylon will stand apart from the city and mourn its destruction, but! I do not believe they will escape the same judgement. These merchants lament over the loss of what defined and made their lives valuable. The destruction of Babylon is the removal of everythign non-Christians find important, yet not being of this world, a part of this Babylon, Christians will rejoice because what we long for, live for, defines us, is God's everlasting presence that can not be destroyed or taken away by fire.

The scene moves to heaven where the merchants lengthy lament is met with rejoicing by the saints who are vindicated by God's justice. Mimicing Jeremiah 51:63-64, an angel throws a millstone into the sea to represent the destruction and loss of babylon. Honestly, throw a stone into one of the oceans and try to find it again. It won't be found, it is forever gone, and it certainly will not rise. There is reasurance that anything resembling worldly lifestyle will be lost; violence, musicians, crafts, labor, lamps, marriages, etc....

What I realize: The treasures of this world can be blessings but only if they are offered to God. I don't think God just blesses us to make us happy. He blesses us so that we can bless others. And honestly, all things of this world will one day be destroyed, sent to the bottom of the sea, and then what worth will it have? One that struck me is that there will be no more marriages in vs 23. Before I was a Christian and even now I struggled with schooling and miscellaneous jobs so that I could provide for my family (if I'm ever to be trusted with one). Really, before Christ, thats what my life revolved around, my eventual wife and kids. And thats not a bad thing.... but it can be if not handled the way that God designed. If I am ever blessed with a family, they will not have been given to me for my own fulfillment but rather they will be my responsibility, whom I will shepherd, to ultimately give glory to God. If I can't do that, then I don't deserve a family because a family in itself, without God in the picture, is just a worldly "activity" that will pass when we die. What good is anything if it's not used to serve God?

Anyways, next is friday's reading

Rev 19:1-5 Rejoicing in Heaven

So basically the saints in heaven are rejoicing over the ruin of the Babylon. Which again, this is a good while after Babylon had conquered Judah. Finally the prostitute that is synonymous with Babylon is destroyed and the saints are avenged as God righteously judges the wicked. They cry out "Hallelujah!" which is the only time the word is used in the new testament. It literally means praise Yahweh.

"The smoke from her goes up forever and ever." Fire damge is an interesting thing because there is no repairing something thats been damaged by fire. Things that have melted from a fire can not be taped back together... like a photo. Buildings can not be patched because 1. usually a fire will consume the whole building or 2. the fire affects the very structure of the building, permanently damaging it. When a person is burned, scars remain forever, if there is any skin left, which may only be repaired with skin grafting (a crazy skin transplant procedure). Point being, when babylon falls and is consumed in fire, it goes up with the smoke never to return, it will be gone, erased from existance. Hooray!!!!

By this the elders and beasts bow down to God offering Him praise. A voice actually commands it (as if anyone was able to help their amazement anyway) that all who fear the Lord, small and great, should praise God.

What I realize: Well more what I struggle with, is a proper fear of God. I know what He can do but perhaps the knowledge has not yet been taken into understanding in my heart. I suppose I have respect for God but I don't know about fear. I think I've been so saturated with growing in understanding of God's more pleasant attributes that a proper fear of Him has been neglected. Perhaps if I feared Him more, I would be moved to work harder for Him. I am certainly (and ceaselessly for the rest of my life) growing.

Double header

Is that how you spell double header? Doesn't seem right to me haha.

Anyway, both yesterday's reading and today's was a full chapter.... SO I think I'm gonna be relatively short again.

Rev 17 The Great Prostitute and the Beast

Here, one of the angels that carried a bowl of wrath takes John in the Spirit, meaning a vision or transcendence probably. He is taken to a wilderness type place, which has been a place of sanctuary for God's people, especially in this book (remember the pregnant woman who was protected from the dragon in the wilderness?). Anyway, perhaps from the Spirit influenced perspective that Paul has at this moment, he sees a prostitute on a beast. The beast is much like the beast mentioned earlier, having seven heads and ten horns. The woman is well adorned with beautiful colors and jewelry, so apparently attractive, but John sees that her cup is "full of abominations and the impurities of her sexual immorality." and her forehead had written on it, "Babylon the great, mother of pprostitutes and of earth's abominations." She is drunk with the blood of saints. Now this is scary to me because this image is how I see non-christians, or at least my bc (before Christ) days, because I was wretched and sinful but covered myself with a good gpa, "fellowship," fake service, and generally nice guy (or I tried to be). But those were just adornments, white washed tombs. And yet this image is what delights, in drunkeness, not realizing what they do, in the death of Christians.

Even John when he first saw the woman "marveled greatly." But then the angel slapped him upside the head (not literally, I'm just in a bit of a playful mood) and was like, I'll tell you whats up. So the angel explains that the beast is the one that will rise from the bottomless pit and will be destroyed, along with the unsaved who worship it. I guess I was wrong awhile back when I said the heads weren't likely kings because here the angel explains that 5 of the heads were, that one is, and one more is a king to come. The ten horns are kings who have not come to power. These are "of one mind" and give their authority to the beast. They will fight against the Lamb and lose.

Interestingly at the end of the chapter, the angel reveals that he is talking about everyone, all nations. But the ironic thing here is that the ten horns and the beast will destroy the prostitute, even though she is evil too!. And the angel assures John that this is God's intent and His sovereign plan.

What I realize: Well first of all, evil is deceiving, adorned with nice things, but carrying wicked things. I know this already but I feel we are all still prone to crave what our earthly eyes see. Second, I think it's interesting that the enemy would be of one mind. Perhaps God asks us to do the same to fight against the enemy. If they're going to be united then we need to be also. (Yes I'm still memorizing Philippians, and what came to mind is ch 2:2 "complete my joy by being of the same mind, with the same love, being in full accord and of one mind." and Phil 2:5 "Have this mind among you, which is yours in Christ Jesus.") Last, sin and evil is self-destructive. Obviously. God didn't send fire or legions or Sata to destroy the prostitute, though under His command they all certainly would have done the job, but rather God will allow sin to destroy evil. Awesome. God will finish up what sin fails to do though when He judges all.

And honestly its late again, I will catch up!!!!! eventually.....

tomorrow blog Ch 18 read 19:1-4

Blog fail

Tomorrow I promise..... dude what a waste of a post. Sorry for wasting your time haha.

1 day sabbatical

J/k I did read this morning and started to write up a post but its mucho late. I had to go to LA to get a big car to move tomorrow. Didn't expect it to take quite all day but it did. Anyways, the message of the three angels to be posted tomorrow. I hope. good night world

THE MEGA POST! that no one will read.....

I'm back! Well I didn't really go away, just busy movin. Which I must say, it is way nice to be back, to have a clean apartment, to not have three desks in the living room (I'm trying to get rid of mine). Also I'm in the thick of VBS planning. Honestly the Berean kids are great joy but also one of my biggest burdens. I'm a bit relieved to not have to give any more lessons until October, but I am leading praise for the rest of Sept after retreat. Goodness. I am super excited about retreat! I'm super excited about collegians coming back! I'm super excited to hang out with my (ex)small group!

I've been trying to organize my life so that I can be efficient with my time and money (since those are the two things adults seem to handle the most). I've been trying to make my time with people and by myself intentional and profitable. I think thats a reason why I'm glad to be back at rancho. I didn't feel at home at turtle rock because I knew I wasn't going to stay long. But now I feel like I have more stability and consistency in my life, which I hope lends itself to a more stable and consistent(ly growing) relationship with God.

Anyway, thats my quick update since I haven't been posting since posting (or not) my Rev study. But ya, back to that, I have a lot to cover.

Rev14:6 - 16:21

Okay first Rev 14:6-13

This is a really cool section of Revelation because this is the build up to the end. Its really cool too because it illustrates how awesome God is. When I walk into a room there is no song, or marked followers, angels announcing anything, or really anything to precede the awesomeness of my entrance. Ya.... I'm not awesome haha.

There are three angels with three messages to give before God busts onto the scene. The first proclaims an "eternal gospel" demanding the nations to fear, give glory, and worship God. The second angel announces that Babylon is fallen, a major enemy to Israel. The last angel announces that all who worship the beast will suffer eternal torment. Last the passage ends with an exhortation for the saints to persevere.

Short analysis and reflection (because I'm doing like 4 passages...). The first angel is explaining the person of God that the world had rejected. I suppose, if you do not have a relationship with God like a Christian does, then you can not know who he is or how to respond to Him. So here it is; fear Him, give Him glory, and worship Him! The second angel lets us know that enemies to Israel are enemies to God, even if He used them in His sovereign plan. There will be justice and God will be righteous. Those who don't accept the grace bought with Christs blood will be held accountable for all their evil. Also noteworthy is that Babylon was not a power at the time this book was written (actually the Roman Empire was in power) which could mean all enemies of Israel or of God, or perhaps Babylon or a form of it will rise to power again, perhaps under the rule of the beast. I guess considering the third message, Babylon might likely be a particular nation because the third message includes all who follow the beast, THAT would be all the enemies of God. And here, the angel reitterates that their punishment for their sins and rebellion will be eternal. Verse 11, "And the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever, and they have no rest, day or night...." But there is a concession that following God requires endurance (especially in the midst of persecution). Yet that endurace is rewarded with rest! Cool huh!

mmkay next... aish....

Rev 14:14-20 The Harvest of the Earth

So one like the son of man appeared on a cloud with a sickle to which an angel affirmed that the earth was ripe! So He reaped the earth. That would be Christians. The word for ripe here actually reffers to grain, which is different from the ripeness of a grape. This son of man is very obviously Christ, who first came to sow, and will return again to reap. But there is a second reaper. This reaper is identified as an angel, having power over fire. This angel will reap the ripe grapes (again different from the ripe grain) and put them in the winepress where they will be crushed. Now it doesn't take much imagination to see that Christians are the grain and non-christians are the grapes, and in being either, I'd rather not be crushed. The grapes will be crushed in the winepress until blood runs from it as high as a horses bridle.

Quick reflection. Christ will come, be assured of it, and he will gather to himself those that belong to Him. To be honest, being reaped does not sound like fun, but being with Christ? Now thats worth getting sickled. At least I'm not being crushed after being reaped. And honestly, not like it matters, but they don't even get reaped by Christ, but by an angel. Simply being the grain is awesome, being grapes sucks. Grapes get crushed till blood flows as high as a horses bridle. I don't think many people know this, but I used to have a horse (name wimpy, she had one eye). Anyway, if you've ever ridden a horse you realise that the bridle is pretty stinkin high, like 5ft high or more.

Rev 15 The Seven Angels with Seven Plagues

Looking down on earth, as if on a ceiling of glass, are those in heaven who had conquered the beast. And they sang and played harps, singing the song of Moses. vs 3-4

"Great and amazing are your deeds,

O Lord God the Almight!

Just and true are your ways,

O King of the nations!

Who will not fear, O Lord

and glorify your name?

For you alone are holy.

All nations will come

and worship you,

for your righteous acts have been revealed."

Then the angels came out of the sanctuary, clothed with golden sashes, and from the four living creatures, they received the bowls of God's wrath. The sanctuary was filled with God's glory and none could enter.

Reflection: Um I don't know what to say about this one. Those who sing the song of Moses are thought to be th 144,000 mentioned earlier. I tend to think that this is actually all those who are redeemed and they will be spared from the wrath of God. I don't think this is in reference to the tribulation because I think these bowls of wrath will be the end of world.

Rev 16 Seven Bowls of God's Wrath (vs 1-16) The Seventh Bowl (vs 17-21)

Goodness this is long and I'm really tired so...... I'm combining all of Chapter 16 which is the unleashing of the 7 bowls of wrath. The first bowl was a plague of sores on those who worshipped the beast. The second bowl turned the sea into blood so that everything died in it. The third bowl turned the springs and rivers into blood. Similar to the second. The fourth bowl was poured on the sun so that it was intensified. The fifth bowl placed the beasts throne into darkness. The sixth bowl dried up the river Euphrates. And the seventh bowl was a great earthquake that basically destroys the earth. Also, hail came down.

Reflection: At the end of the tribulation, during God's partial judgement, only a third was destroyed but these bowls of wrath will be all consuming. Everything that we know here on earth will be destroyed. A special note about the sixth bowl should be made because the river Euphrates was a border for Israel and kept enemies at bay. The drying up of the river would let provoke war and conflict. In such a sense, the river was something of a peace keeper that God will take away at the end of time. The last plague is just the end of it all. I don't tell anyone because I'm way too macho, but I was pretty dang scared during the northridge earthquake in 94. I guess earthquakes don't phase me much anymore but I was freakin scared back then. But this last one will split cities and swallow nations, totally destroying everything. And as if that wasn't enough, hail 100 lbs will fall on the earth.

Sorry that was not blogged well. I have much more to write about but it's past my bedtime and my post would be like 3 times longer if i wrote everything. Oh well, I'll be more consistent.

Tomorrow Rev 17:1 the Great Prostitute and the Beast

Covenanspensationalism Rev 14:1-5

This seems to be a recurring problem but again, I haven't studied enough to difinitively say I think covenant theologists or dispensationalists are absolutely correct. And to be honest I may never fully agree with anyone because ultimately, in prayer, and diligent study, I think the Spirit will work in me and form my convictions.

Anyway, theres nothing I could really do anyway with regard to God's plan for Jewish people because whatever it entails...... despite what people may guess...... wouldn't be suprised...... I'm not Jewish. (BTW guesses of my nationality include: mexican, italian, middle eastern, iranian, phillipino, aztec, white, korean, japanese, chinese, thai, canadian, and....... I think thats its.....)

So I only bring this up because this passage particularly talks about 144,000 who will appear with the lamb and honestly I don't know for sure who they are.

Rev 14:1-5 The Lamb and the 144,000

So the lamb busts onto the (up until now) bleak scene with 144,000 people, marked by God on their foreheads. What marks their foreheads? God's name apparently. Okay I lied a little I guess I kind of know who the 144,000 are. Most likely this is referring back to chapter 7: 5-8 where God promises to protect his people, sealing 12,000 from the tribe of the sons of Israel. But this is a curious thing in itself that I suppose I'll brush over since I started blogging after studying that passage. The tribes listed aren't actually the sons of Jacob. Well mostly they are, but Dan is omitted and in his place is Manasseh. It's also not the tribes that inherited Canaan. Perhaps (and this is a big perhaps) each is symbolic of a group of people? I don't know, however it is pressumed that the designation of 12,000 is symbolic, likely with they use of 12 as representing God's covenant and promise. All that aside, who cares! the lamb is here!

Man I want to hear more about the lamb but..... this is what came with him; "a voice from heaven like the roar of many waters and like the sound of loud thunder. The voice I heard was like the sound of harpists playing on their harps." I think thats a good illustration because I think, apart from singers, we don't generally equate strong thunderous voices with the melody of a harp. Actually I haven't heard much harping so its a bit difficult anyway. But that aside its amazing that Christ's presence will be amazingly powerful yet beautiful. There will never be anything so great and awesome as this moment. This is the greatest thing to ever happen to anyone, anything, ever, anywhere, #1, bankai, nine-tails, gg, epic, beautiful, amazing, loving, finally the best day of my and every other Christians existence. Sorry I got really excited haha.

So then the 144,000 sing a song that only they can learn and the angels can learn and know. Again most beleive that 144,000 is symbolic of all those who are redeemed. I think that would be the case here, as I can't think of a reason why nor find a passage (didn't look very hard) that would exclude saved souls from singing praise to God.

Now the passage ends with a declaration of the 144,000's righteousness both in sexual purity on the purity of their speech. Perhaps this is true by worldly standards but I'm thinking that as the word is written by God it is written under his standard of righteousness. So I'm thinking that these people are actually living in Christ or if dead are really in Christ. They have been sanctified and glorified and are at that point righteous under Christ as we are righteous. The difference is that we are still being sanctified and are not yet glorified.

Yes unfortunately, I'll end there because its late and I have to plan a lesson still! well perhaps I'll just outline it for the time being. Anyways, I'll do Rev 14: 6-13 tomorrow

love life ^^

As if one wasn't enough (its not) Rev 13: 11-18

I like to think I'm a kid at heart. After all my favorite movies are kid movies, my favorite foods aren't very "mature", I am easily excited and let down, and I would stop doing just about anything to play with my friends haha. So maybe thats why, at least this morning, I read this passage and totally felt like bagging on satan for being weak sauce. Like, come on, a dragon, two beasts, angels and you still lose to one man. I feel like I would pick on satan if he went to my school. His reign is "allowed" by God and lasts only 7 years. With respect to eternity, he's out like a fatkid in dodgeball. (horrible, James Hong used that the other day and I very guiltily laughed)

Rev 13: 11-18 The second beast

Now the second beast came from the earth and only had two horns. Specifially, its two horns made it look like a lamb. However, it is very obviously not the lamb because it also spoke like a dragon. Now if the beast happens to come in the form of a human then I would suppose speaking like the dragon would be blaspheming against God.

This beast seems to be the backup, as it exercises the same authority as the first and makes the people give the first beast worship. This second beast is "allowed" (by God) to rain fire in front of the people. So being able to do this, many are deceived. Therefore this second beast tells the people to make an image of the first. Seriously, I was a little worried up to this point that I might be deceived but the situation is just like humans. Someone can appear christian but what they do contradicts their title. I know putting on the new, putting on Christ, is not something I can do perfectly, so sometimes my actions are contrary to my identity as a Christian. But I won't fall into this trap by satan. Looking like the lamb won't mean anything if everything the beast does contradicts the character of Christ, showing off by raining down fire, building idols, and blaspheming God.

This second beast was (again) allowed to give breath to the idol so that it could speak and apparently slay those who didn't worship. And even those who did follow the beast would be marked on the hand or forehead in order to buy and sell (essentially survive). Interestingly, in deuteronomy, God had instructed the Israelites to bind the Word to their wrists and foreheads. I think in both cases, the mark identifies ownership, whether a person is God's or satans. Having the Word written on our heart is God's mark of ownership on us. Lastly, the number of the beast is three sixes and wise people are told to calculate it. Now adding up the letter (in hebrew) of either beast or nero ceaser adds up to three sixes but its believed that there will be a greater fulfillment of this number in the future.

Things I realize: I see how people who don't know the Word will be fooled. To be honest, I worry about my parents. I don't know if they can discern the times. They know that Jesus is coming back, and I worry that they may falsely believe that satan is Him because they don't know Him well enough. This is conviction to know Christ, to know God better, so that I know Him when He comes. At the same time I am to study the Word so that I know satan and his beasts will come presenting themselves as the lamb.

So I will continue studying then

Tomorrow Rev 14:1-5 The lamb and the 144,000

Rev 13:1-10 Another day long blog

Yesterday's blog took me just about the whole day because I just didn't have a lot of free time. Perhaps I'll have to start waking up earlier so that I can blog when I read but goodness... isn't 6 early enough already? haha.

But yes my boss is not in meetings and I have a considerable amount of work to do so........... ya.......

Rev 13:1-10 The first beast

So this beast comes out of the water and it resembles the dragon with 10 horns, 10 diadems (again crowns), and 7 heads. Perhaps I should be looking more in depth but I'm very hesitant to assume something that is not clearly there and thereby corrupt God's messege with my foolishness. Not to say John MacArthur is necessarily foolish but the commentaries on these passages are sometimes a bit stretched it seems. I don't know if the heads and horns refer to empires because I'm not even sure what empires will exist during the tribulation. I do think it's safe to conclude that the horns represent power, that his heads probably do refer to influence over something human. And not that I have much ground to argue with J Mac but I would guess that the diadems are more likely representative of empires or nations or leaders than the heads, they are crowns after all. Ultimately this is what we're told, this 7 headed, 10 diadem, 10 horned beast, came from the sea and was like a leopard, with feat like a bear, and mouth like a lion. J Mac equates these animals to nations but I kind of think they are just fierce atributes that WOULD define a beast. (though I am amused how J Mac relates the lion to the nation of babylon just because babylon make me think of lions too, more specifically baby lions, but thats a totally off topic story).

Now I think this is interesting. The beast has a mortal wound that has been healed. Supposedly this is because the beast will come claiming to be the lamb. I think this is very possible and exactly what might deceive a lot of Israel since they had been waiting for a strong and mighty saviour (by their worldly standards). They wanted a conquerer and satan is gonna give it to them, though they don't really know what they want. False prophets claim to be Jesus all the time. Unfortunately, the chapter goes on to say that the earth was "marveled" and followed the beast while worshiping the dragon who gave the beast authority. The people proclaim "Who is like the beast, and who can fight against it?" By the way, I don't think that I've mentioned that the beast is the antichrist.

As appropriate of the antichrists nature, he will blaspheme against God and wage war against the saints. He will have authority "over every tribe and people and language and nation." And everyone will be deceived and worship the beast EXCEPT Christians. The Word clarifies that only those whose names are NOT written in the book of life will worship the beast.

In verse 9 and 10 we are assured of persecution and called to persevere. I like what the ESV study bible says; "captivity and sword are God's ordained route to victory for his saints, they must practice endurance." Indeed if it happens, then it has been sovereignly planned and ordained. If I'm to die by the sword, then let me die for Christ! I just hope I can say that so confidently when(if) I meet that sword.

Things I realize: Revelelation is scary.... the end..... j/k. Well it is scary because there will be evil but I know that God is never out of control and I can be content with that. Like pastor Aaron said yesterday, I must actively put on the new self, including endurance. I don't like to endure pain (unless it's pulling hairs, not that I like to endure pain but I hate hairs enough to do so haha) but hopefully I will hate sin and evil enough to endure persecution if thats what it takes to glorify God. It is also very practical to know things about the antichrist, like pretending to be the lamb, or that he will be worshipped by so many.

Tomorrow Rev 13: 11-18 The Second Beast

Rev 12:7-17 GG No-Re Uninstall

I used to be a nerd, or am I still? I dunno. But anyways GG No-Re Uninstall (Good Game, No Rematch, Uninstall your game) Thats kind of how I feel having read this passage.

I don't know why I would ever worry or be anxious about satan or what he's doing because God owns like no other. Its like, Michael Phelps may have won 8 medals at the olympics, but seriously, God would have won all 302 gold medals and set 302 records for all eternity. (excuse my illustrations, I study after church on Sundays, which may be a bad idea because of how tired I get but I'll continue anyway) But this passage is about satan rebelling in heaven and failing, then going after Israel and failing. I can't think of anything else satan has ever tried to do other than rebel against God and trip up His followers, but he couldn't even do that. 0 for 2 sucka.

Rev 12:7-17

This passage starts with the heavenly battle between Michael and his angels, and the dragon and his angels. It is thought that this is Michael the archangel referred to in Jude 9 if not the same as the prince referred to several times in Daniel (Dan 10:13, 21; 21:1). Its difficult to say whether this is the original fall of satan or as some believe, the beginning of the tribulation. I am really unsure of when this takes place but perhaps it is an illustration both of what has happened and what will happen. The dragon and his angels are cast from heaven to earth. In the case that this is during the tribulation, this could be cause for increased demonic activity on earth.

Sweet victory. satan is called the accuser, which in a more direct translation would be recognized in a legal context. Basically satan accuses us sinners as guilty, which is true, if we are not found to be in Christ. We too defeat the beast in Christ. It says so in verse 11, "And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death." Specifically this is referring to martyrs but it can refer to us if we so trust in Christ being found innocent by His blood. So satan's got nothing on us, as an accuser, he has nothing.

Now I don't care to know satan like I care to know God. But I really think sin must be irrational (as Piper said at resolved) because satan must know how powerful God is and must be totally irrational to rebel. The Word says "the devil has come down to you in great wrath, because he knows that his time is short!" He knew he was defeated and soon be be totally defeated in a short time. This is probably in reference to the tribulation. Mostly because I fell like, considering Israel's history that a "short time" would be more appropriate for the 7 years of tribulation, than the thousands of years since the fall.

Now since satan is on earth he decides to go after the woman who bore the male child. I personally think that this woman is still representing Israel but the time at which this pursuit against them is occuring could be anytime in history I suppose but (for a time, and times, and half a time which is 3 and a half years) leads one to believe this is specifically during the first part of the tribulation. But God protects them in the wilderness aided by eagle's wings, which seem to be a symbol of protection (as horns are symbols of power). During this pursuit, the serpent will flood water from its mouth, most likely in false teaching and promises to trip up Israel. However, the earth swallows up the water. Frankly, I would need to study these passages more in depth and over a longer period of time to be convicted more definitively of what everything means. As of now I want to know what God says in His word and try to understand it and have it on my heart. So the earth swallowing up the flood? I dunno, divine protection? Only God can do such an incredible thing? Just guesses as the Word doesn't explain to me the meaning.

Becoming frustrated with his pursuit of "the woman," the serpent pursues "her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus." I think that would include us gentiles right? After all, we are enemies of satan as much as Israel.

What I realize: Well first, satan sucks. He has only been defeated over and over and as the accuser he has nothing on us. Thats like kobe without the existence of basketball, lenses without the existence of cameras, intercoolers without the existence of turbos (haha that one's for me), totally useless. Thats what satan is. Apart from that, I realize that he is coming in wrath and it won't be easy when the tribulation comes. But I have Christ. And in Him, I know I can get through it, dead or alive, I can trust. (illustrations from teaching kids) its like eating vegetables as a kid. They sure don't taste good and the good of enduring that is not very evident. But you trust that your parents love you and if you're a good kid, you won't forsake them because of such a hardship.

Tomorrow, the serpent starts to use the beasts. Rev 13:1-10 The First Beast

Note: so I meant to post this earlier, like after church. But I don't have a desk anymore, so my computer is in my bed and I was super tired. So I started to just lay down, hand above my head at my keyboard and I was just typing without looking. I wake up an hour or so later (more in my bed like a normal person) and look at my screen to see

Rev 12:7-17

jjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjj

awesome

Rev 12:1-6

Honestly I am freaking macho, aint no burgler, killer, gangsta, whatevs got nothing on me. ^^ Scary movies are whatevs. Sometimes they're even funny cause the stuff that happens is just silly. Seriously, how does one guy kill like 20 people and all the cops suck at defending anyone?

Anyway, my point is, few things disturb me. But one thing that does disturb me is satan. I like to read about what movies are coming up and the interesting stories that people come up with, though i don't watch a whole bunch of movies : T (too much time and money). But I will not and could not ever watch a movie thats coming out called "antichrist". One critic describes the movie as twisted, depraved, and troubling. Thats just about how I feel about satan.

satan has power enough to really torment people if God allows it (and when He allows it, it works to His glory, such as when satan used Judas and the Sanhedrin and everyone involved in Christ's crucifiction. Those were horrible sins that facilitated the greatest sacrifice and glorious act of love ever.)

Afraid?

No.

I know God is sovereign.

Troubled, bothered, anxious?

Ya. a bit.

That all being said, this passage is about satan trying kill Jesus.....

Rev 12:1-6 The Woman and the dragon

A "sign" appeared in heaven, looking like a woman wearing the sun and standing on the moon, with 12 stars crowning her head. She is pregnant and giving birth. There are four woman representation in Revelation, each symbolizing something different. (2:20, 17:3-6, 19:7). But this woman is clearly representing Israel. The 12 stars are the giveaway. Those would be the tribes of Israel. The sun and the moon are a bit tricky and I'm not sure exactly what they mean but J. Mac says that the sun symbolizes the exalted status of Israel while the moon symbolizes God's covenant relationship with them (as new moons were associated with worship). I think the total encompassment of the then understood heavenly realm (sun moon and stars) may also point to the ordained and holy nature of the event of Christ's birth. This was no ordinary child, no ordinary birth. The mention of birth pains and the woman crying out is likely synonymous with Israel's cry for a saviour and king.

In verse three a great red dragon appears that is satan. In verse 9 of this chapter it says "And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and satan...." The dragon is described as having seven heads with seven diadems and ten horns. The seven heads and diadems (which are crowns) probably refers to satan's rule over nations during the tribulation and the 10 horns (as learned at bcc) represent power. The dragons tail then sweeps a third of the stars and causes them to fall to earth. Since this happens at the same time as the dragon's fall, these stars are probably other fallen angels.

The dragon seeks to devour the child, who is mentioned to be male, which further identifies the child as Christ. Also the "child was caught up to God and His throne." So I'm very sure this is Christ. He will rule all the nations with an iron rod. This may be a reference to Christ's power to crush rebelious nations (as in Psalm 2:8-9) or His royal rule. Either way satan fails and Christ prevails.

The woman is protected by God in the wilderness for 3 and a half years. Theres two takes on this. First, some believe that this is the present protection from the beast until he is released during the tribulation. Though I am more inclined to believe, because of other scripture, that this is the last half of the tribulation where God's followers are being persecuted and must flee to the wilderness. God does not forsake his people.

Things I realize: The one thing that really stands out to me is the imagery of a "great red dragon" failing to devour a pregnant woman and her infant child. Honestly, if God can protect such helplessness, then how secure I am! To be loved by God is such comfort and peace and contentment. Yes bad things may happen and persecution may take place but God is sovereign over that. So what makes me feel secure is that, though I may experience some horrible things, under God's protection. I can't really explain how my heart feels but its something like.... I am protected from utter destruction, even in persecution I am protected by knowing I am saved, I am protected knowing God is sovereign. I suppose, as anxious as I said I am concerning satan, I'm confident of God's love for me, that He won't abandon me as I am in Christ.

Tomorrow Rev 12: 7-17 satan Thrown Down to Earth

Rev 11:15-19 Bbbbrrrrrrrr

I guess bbbbrrrrr is what a trumpet sounds like to me?

This was a short passage with few notes. You know how there's those ummm subchapters in most bibles, they usually cover one event, sermon, or idea. Ya, so i usually study one of these, thats why today is only 5 verses. Yes so straight to it.

Rev 11:15-19 The Seventh Trumpet

When the seventh angel blows its trumpet God's kingdom will reign over everyone.

Side Note:

To be honest, with respect to pre-mil/a-mil/post-mil and pre-trib/post-trib, I haven't studied enough to believe one way or another. I know the pastors at Berean say its important to take a stance one way or another, probably so that we can be ready to defend and share the truth the Spirit has led us to. Granted, with study I will probably be convicted one way or another but as of now I don't know what will happen but I can trust that it will be good.

Back to the passage, depending on your view of escatology, God's kingdom may be brought to earth at this point and the millenium may begin. Or perhaps we will leave this earth to enter a new Jerusalem or new earth or heaven to be in God's presence. However it specifically works out, it is what we've been waiting for! "Your kingdom come, Your will be done." Here it is! Not long before this the saints were crying out in ch 6:10, "They cried out with a loud voice, 'O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?'"

The 24 elders will then fall on their faces and worship God. They thank God for who He is and was, that he now reigns, that His wrath has come on the nations, the dead will be judged, the servants, prophets, and saints are rewarded, and the destroyers of the earth destroyed. Thats a lot to be thankful for. Not to get political but people put so much hope in people like president Obama to "fix" the nation. How silly. God is going to take EVERYTHING, from the most wretched nation to the dead grass and make His kingdom glorious in these final days.

The last verse talks about God's throne opening up and the ark of His covenant is seen in His temple. I think this is really important to the nature of heaven. Only the high priest was able to enter the holy of holies, where the ark of the covenant was. But here, the temple is opened up and the ark is visible. That means those in heaven are in the holy of holies, the actual presence of God. Then the chapter ends with the presence of lighting, rumbling, thunder, earthquake, and heavy hail. I think this may be the third woe associated with the last trumpet as this could surely destroy all rebellion against God. I'll be more sure tomorrow.

Things I realize: Studying Revelation grows my excitement for God's coming kingdom. This passage reminded me of that ch6:10 verse about the saints crying out. If I'm honest sometimes I don't know how God answers prayers and I usually dismiss it with a lack of understanding or wisdom on my part. But His answer is so apparent and powerful when His final judgement comes. They were crying for God to reign and like no other thing ever it just happens. Theres no town hall meeting, congress, house, vote, higher taxes, no requirements to fill other than God's will. Another thing that I'm reminded of is, James 1:12 "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him." There's mention of the elders and how they bow down to God. In ch4:10 the elders cast their crowns. With application to where I'm at today, I will work hard to attain that crown of life and those heavenly treasures promised. But I realize that even in heaven, I'm not building them up for myself, my crown and treasures (if any) will be cast to God. And I'm glad for it! The more I have to bring Him, the better.

Tomorrow Rev 12:1-6 The Woman and the Dragon

There are no pictures here! Rev 11:1-14

Scattered post today for sure. I've been wanting to post about this weekend, one post about my family, and another on sunday school, but my pictures are on my laptop and unfortunately I write a lot of blogs at work! haha. (I know I could upload the pics at home and then write at work but..... it's hard to sit down and do it some weeks)

Anyway I was reading a blog that posted scripture every morning and thought hmmm what a good idea to post what I read and learn in the morning. I'm not sure that anyone cares much about what I learn or even what I'm reading so I'm kinda gonna do it for myself. I don't even really know who reads my blog (except sharon) but if I'm going to post on what I've studied everyday, it will work as a bit of accountability. I don't expect anyone to call me out on missing posts (though I wouldn't mind at all, actually it'd be appreciated) but for the sake of encouragement (or to prevent discouragement) posting what i read and learn serves as extra (not primary) reason to be disciplined in my study.

So imma get to it. I started a new reading plan recently and its um.... not too structured. Especially as I'm about to use "when I have time." So having failed at YOTB (year of the bible), I read on that schedule when I have time, making it 2YOTB. And since YOTB covers so much per day I couldn't study it all so I started at the back of the bible. I'm on Revelations and when I finish I will move to Jude. See? YOTB goes forward, study going backward, two pronged attack!!!!

......

Yes anyway Revelation 11:1-14 The Two Witnesses

(I am not good at expositing or anything, I'm just trying to understand what is written and allow the spirit to work in my heart)

So in this passage, God gives John a measuring rod with which to measure the temple and those who worship there, but not the court outside the temple because it is given over to the nations. What John is measuring is God's possession. We are His. He does not take those for Himself who are outside the temple, not worshipping Him. The people outside the temple will "trample the holy city for forty-two months." Then two messengers will come and prophesy for 1260 days (which is the same as forty-two months if you consider a month to be 30 days, and forty-two months is 3 and a half years which is half of a sabbatical year (7 years)). I'm not clear on when these messengers arrive, but, if they start their ministry after the 42 months of trampling the city, then when they finish the 42 months and 1260 days will add up to 7 years, a sabbatical time period.

Now a quick note about the holy city, this is disputed as being an actual or symbolic city. With regard to a lot of references to beleivers in Revelations, many will argue that this is Jerusalem and the people there are descendents of Israel while others claim that it is the universal church. Personally, I believe and know that God blesses all nations and will save more than just Israel, so I am generally inclined to believe that Revelation, more often than not, is referring to the universal church.

The majority of this passage actually deals with these two messengers who are referred to as the two olive trees and two lampstands, which, if you're a Berean, you may remember these are two images from our Zechariah study not too long ago. We studied that there would be a king or leader to rebuild God's temple, and a high priest to lead worship. While Christ is both king and priest, I'm not sure that this would be referring to His return as these two witnesses die after "they have finished their testimony." However, before they die they are pretty powerful as anyone who would harm them would be consumed with fire from their mouths. They can "shut the sky" and turn water to blood.

But then the witnesses finish their ministry and the beast rises from the bottomless pit to conquer and kill these witnesses. And people rejoice over their death! They don't allow them to be buried becauese of the celebration of their defeat. God only allows this to last for 3 and half days though. A very short time before God vindicates His saints. They are raised from the dead and God calls them up to heaven.

After the witnesses are gathered to heaven (which is a debate regarding a specific resurrection of these two or perhaps the rapture of all God's people.) A great earthquake comes and kills a tenth of the city, specifically, 7 thousand. This scares the people and they give glory to God. Whether they turn to God or not? Well, this is probably the tribulation, so.... no. If thats the case then God's work on earth will be so amazing and frightening that people will not be able to help but give Him glory and acknowledge Him, but they will still rely on their righteousness and reject Christ, perhaps beyond all reason and understanding. Unfortunately for them, the seventh trumpet will blow next, and the third woe is coming.

Things I realize: Well, I'm not sure, I am scared and excited for the end times because, while this stuff is scary, it's judgement on the wicked and vindication for the saints! I think it's important to know what things may look like when this time comes, because it is apparent that so many people will be deceived. When God measures me, I want to be of some worth to Him, not a useless dull tool, but a sharp tool that has been sharpened (sanctified) throughout my life, usefull for building His kingdom. Not so much to build up heavenly treasures as promised, but if I could hear "well done my good and faithful servant" that would be treasure enough.

I'll continue to think about this passage throughout the day. Tomorrow Rev 11:15-19 The Seventh Trumpet

I've got the joy well with my soul

So I was introduced to this song by PAGE CXVI called "Joy"

I don't know where else to listen to it other than their myspace page http://www.myspace.com/pagecxvi

Few songs give me chills like this one does. To be honest, the first time I listened, I almost didn't finish the song. It's just so depressing. To sing about joy when you're so obviously not joyful.

The second fruit of the spirit is joy. I haven't studied so deeply to know whether the order of the fruits of the spirit is particularly significant, but considering how love is the first, I thought perhaps I should at least make this note.

I know I very often talk about not being defeated but I think I utterly fail to convey what I mean. Therefore, let me tell you the story of Mr. Horatio G. Spafford.

Horatio G. Spafford was a successful Chicago lawyer in the 1860's. He had a wife, four daughters, and a little boy. He owned a significant amount of real estate next to lake Michigan. And he supported his church and was good friends with his preacher D.L. Moody.

Unfortunately, in 1870, his only son caught scarlet fever and died at the age of four. A year later, in 1871, the great Chicago fire consumed all of his lake Michigan property. 2 years after that, Mr. Spafford decided his family needed a vacation. In addition, D.L. Moody was in need of assistance during his evangelistic work in Britain.

Just when as the family was about to leave from New York, Mr. Spafford was needed in Chicago for business. So as to not ruin the vacation, he insisted that his wife and four daughters continue on without him. On November 2nd 1873, Mr. Spafford's wife and children were in a horrible accident. Their ship, the Ville de Havre, collided with the Lochearm. Their ship sank in 12 minutes and 226 people were killed.

Nine days later, in Chicago, Mr. Spafford received a telegram from his wife that said "saved alone." His wife, Anna, recalled her four daughters clinging to her while on the deck of the sinking ship. Her last memory was of the violent waters taking her youngest from her arms. But by God's grace, some wreckage floated up from beneath her unconsious body and saved her life.

Mr. Spafford took the very next ship out of New York to meet with his wife. Upon passing over where his wife's ship likely sank, he was called to the deck. While floating over the 3 mile deep grave of his daughters, he returned to his cabin to write this

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.

It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Having joy doesn't mean you'll necessarily be happy all the time. Even the song that Page 116 transfers from states that the joy is "deep down in my heart." Joy is not just worn on the surface but is founded in the heart so that no matter what tragedy, what trial, what hardship you are never in despair because of the joy in your heart. And what joy there is! to not be held to the debt we would owe because of our sin! to be loved by greatest of beings!

Lately, everything in my life is awesome, but when tested, I want to be so strong. I want to be able to praise the Lord when I've lost everything. Though maybe I never will? Who knows.

I need to be sensitive to those who are having difficult times yet encourage them to have trust in a God who loves them. How difficult, but if I can, I won't let this world suffocate the joy that we ought to be founded on.

Now I'm rambling.... Anyone who reads probably notices that I can't end a blog with a succinct and clear point..... ever...... But thats how the flow of my thoughts go I suppose. Especially when it comes to spiritual things, I can't ever conclude a thought, they are just ever progressing (and hopefully maturing) understanding.

yes......

end....

joy