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Questions About Halloween?

This post is for believers who have questions about Halloween, and who want to know a little more about the origin of the second most popular holiday in the United States.  The information in the link below was compiled by Good Housekeeping.  https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/halloween-ideas/g4607/history-of-halloween/  Proverbs 4:7 says "Wisdom is the principal thing, therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding (KJV)." I hope this information helps answer some of the questions. Blessings and peace!

The Power of the Cross

Forgiveness of sins was accomplished by Jesus on the cross. Something else was accomplished as well. Through belief in Jesus, and repentance, we have the power to move away from sin toward a lifestyle that pleases God. The Bible is clear about the expectations that come along with truly accepting Jesus as our Savior. Jesus said it this way: "And He said to them all, if any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. (Luke 9:23, KJV)." The Apostle Paul wrote "Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin (Romans 6:6 KJV)." And in Galatians, Paul writes plainly "And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:24 & 25 KJV)."  Does this mean that overnight we will be perfect? No. What it means is we don't make e...

Jesus Is Coming Soon

Many of us have heard, or even spoken, the statement "Jesus is coming soon." But what does "soon" mean? This morning, my husband was enjoying a much-needed extended rest. I was in the kitchen and he texted me to let me know he would be out "soon," as a breakfast preparation alert. I fired up the burners and got "cracking" on the eggs. As the meal prep progressed, I began to wonder when my husband was going to appear. Ultimately, I popped my head into the bedroom door to let him know breakfast was almost ready.  The early Thessalonian church, like me, misinterpreted "soon." The gospel had been preached to them, including Jesus' promise to return and receive all believers to Himself. Some of them used that teaching to justify quitting work and were wandering idly around: if Jesus was coming back, why bother? The Apostle Paul wrote to the church at Thessalonica and cleared up their misinterpretation of Jesus' second coming. Many ev...

Built LAMB Tough!

 I'm sure you've seen the commercials. A shiny pick-up truck shows off its rugged power. It appears like the truck can conquer any type of terrain. The commercial ends by comparing the truck with an animal that is strong enough to batter its way through almost anything. Well, last night I was thinking about Christians, and the adversity that can come along with the territory. The Apostle Paul says it better than I ever could. "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength (Philippians 4:12-13 NIV)."  While I was deep in thought about the challenges believers face, the last line of the commercial popped in my head and I was filled with joy. Why? Because Christians are "built LAMB tough!" Blessings and peace!

Kindness Is Important

This past week, I was reminded how important kindness can be. Someone pulled me aside to let me know they appreciated that I speak to them when I am passing by. The person informed me my simple courtesy was not common. The look on the person's face let me know that my greetings had deeply affected them. Speaking to the individual did not "cost" me anything. But it meant so much to them. It is a fact that not everyone has been so deeply moved by me speaking to them. Sometimes I am completely ignored by the other person. That doesn't matter. If my kindness positively impacts ONE person, God approves. "Thus has the LORD of hosts said, 'Dispense true justice and practice kindness and compassion, to each other'" (Zechariah 7:9 AMP).

God's Mercy Spared My Life

I was reflecting this morning on the number of times I made decisions that could have cost me my life. There were many. I  would have been  "six feet under the earth" long ago, if it were not for the mercy of God! I would like to say that all those times happened when I was young, or before I became a believer. That is not the case. As a fully grown woman who loved the Lord, I made some stupid, risky choices.  One such instance came to mind this morning. I was visiting a "gentleman" at his home. A discussion ensued that turned heated. I tried to de-escalate the conversation, but he wasn't having it. He was determined to get his point across and yelled at me . Suddenly, all my rational thought was gone. Nobody yells at me...my Dad never yelled at anyone, and I wasn't going to let this "man" yell at me. In the middle of his family room , I let him know in no uncertain terms that yelling at me was not an option. When I finished, I stood there feeling ...

Labor Day

This is Labor Day weekend. Many hard working Americans are happy to have a much-earned day off from their jobs. However, many workers don't realize the holiday was established in the late 19th century. At that time, labor activists pushed for a federal holiday to recognize the many contributions workers have made to America's strength, prosperity, and well-being.  In other words, Labor Day is a day set aside to acknowledge the worker's role in making America the country that it is . Every worker, no matter what job is performed, is important . Work is honorable and interconnected. The variety of jobs allows this country to function at the level that it does.  So, as you celebrate Labor Day, think about the contributions you are making. Pause and reflect on what your role means in the broader picture and what that picture would look like without you . Be proud of what you do and do it to the best of your ability.  Happy Labor Day! Reference: "How Did Labor Day Begin? W...