fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402 
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Post by fearnot on Jun 23, 2016 16:56:25 GMT -5
Thank you Cindy for all the time and effort you did put in when I know you have not been feeling well.
Today Thursday June 23
I read Ruth 4: 13-16
Boaz and Ruth have a son (and thus Namoi gains a 'son').
This so is a direct ( in the physical realm) ancestor of Jesus.
From a despised Moabite, to having a son who would be an ancestor of Jesus....wow!
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Post by Cindy on Jun 24, 2016 12:08:26 GMT -5
just quoting my reply since we're on a new page now.It nice to read a 'love' story' ( although, all believers have an even better love story to tell, about how Jesus pursued them and loved them to Him and how he provided, protected etc. them).
But in our times right now, we don't hear many sweet love stories, so reading Ruth is such a nice change!
Thank you for explaining that Naomi was depressed ( wanting to die even) and so wasn't really looking out for Ruth ( at least not at first) the way she should! that helped explain why she didn't clue Ruth in. Today Tuesday 21th
I read Ruth ch.3: 14-18
So Boaz is anxious to settle the situation ( hoping to marry Ruth).
Before she leaves he gives he a lot of barley....continuing to care for her.
Naomi tells Ruth, he will settle it before the day is over!
Hey guys :) I finished Luke 21, and I believe I will end the book by tommorow. I have a lot to write on the chapters I studied, but its almost midnight here. So tomorrow, I have a day off work, and I will come back with my comments :) I love you guys :) Goodnight  Eva, have you lost interest in the tribulation thread or did you just forget about it?Hello guys! Lets see some things I studied this period. Chapter 14:15-25 As far as I remember from Matthew that I saw this again. Jesus was talking about the fact that He called the gentiles to form the church because the Jews didnt accept Him, right? In the whole chapter 15 Jesus talks about how precious is each one of us, every single person, and that He provides everything we need to us to know Him and be saved, and then its up to our decision. Will we follow Him, or not? I believe I am not sure about the meaning of the fist part of chapter 16, 16:1-13
The Parable of the Shrewd Manager in Luke 16 can be hard to understand. It was for me for a long time. The main purpose of telling this story was to teach people that it is wise to prepare in advance for the judgment to come. Everything we have is given to us by God. All our money, all our possessions, everything, including our talents and abilities and even our intelligence. Remember when God created Adam, He told Adam that man's job was to be the steward of the earth, to care for the earth and all that was on it. In other words, the earth did not belong to Adam, and it does not belong to us. It belongs to God for He created it. Because all that we are and all that we have is also given to us by God, it does not really belong to us, it belongs to God. He gives it to us so that we will make good use of it and bring glory to Him. We are God's stewards and He expects us to use our money for things that will bring glory to Him, not things that we selfishly want for ourselves, not so we can store up a bunch of money for ourselves and have more then we need. Everything we have is to be used for Him because it belongs to Him and that is our job. Like my computer, my phone, my TV, everything, should only be used to bring glory to God.
In the story Jesus told, the manager forgot that he was just the steward of the money and that it did not really belong to him and he wasted some of his master's money. (just like we do all the time) Jesus showed that one day we will have to answer for the way we have used what God has given us, just as the steward in his story had to answer to his master. In the story, when the steward realized that he had sinned and that he was in trouble because of it, he quickly began to make plans that would cause people to want to help him. The way he did this was dishonest because he caused his master to lose even more money by what he did. But by doing that, he made those men like him so that when he got fired from his job, they would help him. So he used his master's money to buy earthly friends.
Jesus is NOT telling us to be dishonest! He would never do that. In fact, He called him "unrighteous". What He is telling us is to remember that we will be judged for what we do with the money and things the Lord has given us and that we should therefore use what we have to make friends that will want to help us on that day. The only way we can do that is by telling others about Jesus and by using what we have to help others so they will want to know our Lord. That way when it's time for judgment, they will be in heaven to welcome us.
So we are to invest our money, possessions and time in such a way that we cause people to want to know Jesus because we are so good and kind and helpful to them. When they needed something we gave it to them. If they needed money, even if we did not have enough for ourselves, we gave it to them, if they needed food, we gave it to them, and we always did so with a smile and with love, and with no fear for our own future (because we know God will take care of us). That will cause them to want to know how we could live like that, and when they ask us, we tell them about Jesus.
Jesus only used the unrighteous man to show that even the most wicked people of this world are smart enough to provide for the future, and teach us that believers should be even smarter, because we know that our life does not end here on earth and that we have an eternity to plan ahead for. This is how we earn treasure in heaven.
In 15:19-31 I wondered this... Do the people in hell indeed watch people in Heaven from distance? Luke 17, I remember we talked before about the similar chapter that is in Matthew. In Luke 17:34-36 Jesus were not talking about the rapture, as some think , but about the Second coming. It amazes me that after the rapture, and after all things that would happen then, people would not worry about what is happening and why, and they will just continue their lives and their everyday routine like nothing is happening... ! Luke 18. Jesus is focusing on how we should pray. We should faithfully ask and He will provide for us (as long we ask for something according to His will) and we have to know also that we are sinners and He does not provide for us because we are "good" or we "deserve it" but because He loves us. We have to be humble just like kids, and we should not seek material things and earthly possesions
Yes, Luke 17 is about the second coming. That is amazing, isn't it?Jesus does not tell us that we should not seek material things, in fact, He tells us it's ok to ask for things we need or want. We just need to understand that we are not to make them the most important thing in our lives. In Luke 19:11-27 Jesus is talking about how we should use arou blessings to bring fruit, right? But how do we know if we are using or blessings in a good way or not in our everyday lives? Again on Luke 21 the Lord was talking about what will happen after the church is gone from the earth, if I am not mistaken. And people that would believe to Him after would be in trouble on earth because of the devil and his followers, right? In chapter 22:24-30 it amazes me that the disciples were talking about "who is above of the others" , just some minutes after the Lord told them that someone will betray Him and lead Him to die. I am moving to 23
This is where it gets confusing. Obviously, we know that the disciples did not live long enough to see His second coming. So they are in heaven now as are many other Christians who did the work Jesus gave them to do. After the rapture, all believers will receive their rewards for having done the work God gave us to do. Depending on how well we did the works He gave us, we will either receive rewards or if we did not do well, we will not receive any rewards. Part of that reward that we will all receive is that we will return to the earth with Jesus at His second coming. At that time, all believers who are still alive will receive rewards for the work they did during the tribulation and they will be allowed to enter the Millennial Kingdom. Those who are punished at His second coming will be sent to Hell to wait for their final judgement at the Great White Throne after the Millennial Kingdom.
We do not have to be concerned or worry about whether or not we are doing the work He prepared for us to do as long as we are always living for Him and not for ourselves, because He tells us: “for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.” (Philippians 2:13) So God will make sure we do His Will. All we have to do is continue to stay in His Word daily and be obedient to what His Word tells us. He also tells us, “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:8) So we do not have to worry because He will give us all we need to do the works He planned for us and it will be quite natural for us to do it. Luke 21:1-24 is not about the tribulation. I know it sounds a lot like it, and it is a lot like what the tribulation will be like, but that is not what Jesus is talking about here. In Luke He is warning His followers about what will happen in 70 AD. This is a prophecy that would come true within a short time after His death and resurrection, proving once again that He was from God and was God. He told them that when they saw Jerusalem surrounded by armies that they should flee to the mountains. I know Luke 21:20 especially sounds similar to when He spoke about the abomination of desolation, but it is not. This is the prophecy that saved all the Christians from being killed by the Romans. History shows that all the Christians had fled from Jerusalem before Rome attacked so not even one was killed or made a slave! That alone is amazing, and shows how carefully the Lord watches over those who belong to Him! The only part that is about His Second Coming is Luke 21:25–28.
You've sure read a lot. I hope this helped. It would be a good idea to make a note in your bible concerning what Jesus is talking about in Luke Luke 21:1-24, since it does sound a lot like the tribulation.
It is very, very difficult for me to reply to so much at at one time hon. I know you didn't have a choice this time though... You're doing very well!
Hi Eva:
I think you asked some good questions, I will be very interested in seeing what Cindy has to say!! :-)  Today, Wednesday, the 22nd
I read Ruth: 4:1-12
We get to see the 'court house' drama as Boaz negotiates with the other kinsman redeemer.
I am not exactly sure how or why, if he had accepted being Naomi's redeemer, and had a child with Ruth it would have jeopardized his child inheritance?
Wouldn't Ruth's child or children, have just inherited Naomi's land?
Wouldn't the father have been able to give his land and/or things to which ever child he decided to?
In any case, once he discovered he would have to also accept Ruth, he passed on being kinsman redeemer (They had a weird way of sealing the deal by giving the man a shoe or sandal)....
and Boaz was free to marry Ruth, which he did.
This has taken way too long, so I can't do anymore today... sorry.
Thank you Cindy for all the time and effort you did put in when I know you have not been feeling well.
Today Thursday June 23
I read Ruth 4: 13-16
Boaz and Ruth have a son (and thus Namoi gains a 'son').
This so is a direct ( in the physical realm) ancestor of Jesus.
From a despised Moabite, to having a son who would be an ancestor of Jesus....wow!
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jun 24, 2016 13:51:19 GMT -5
I know I am so glad the Lord included gentiles also!
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jun 24, 2016 15:48:04 GMT -5
Today Friday 24th
I read Mark:1:1-8
V.1 States in part:
"The beginning of the good news about Jesus ...."
This tells us what the gospel, or the 'good news' is, it is Jesus and about Jesus.
It mentions how John the Baptist is out in the wilderness, so it seems to me people had to go a ways to hear John.
I started thinking about that, they did have cars or off road vehicles, nor motorcycles, no cabs, buses, trains, planes etc.
I am thinking most folks back then didn't even have a horse or a camel to ride out to see John.
Some may have had a stubborn donkey, especially handy if the wife was 8 months pregnant.
Now I have no idea if it took a couple of hours or even days?
But what if some had to camp out over night!
With the scorpions, centipedes, poisonous snakes and spiders, along with it either staying super hot or the temps dropping waaaay low.
Oh and then the day time temp might have been in the 100's!
Now I just have to mention some people ( in reply to my vehement grumbling about heat) have try to smooth my fervored brow with saying: "Oh but its dry heat"...like that is a good thing!
I have a theory that dry heat is a very very thirsty heat and it looks for water.... ( can you guess where I am going with this theory)!!!
Bingo, it is a monster.....looking to suck all the water out of meeeeee!
Sorry I digress ....( even thinking about hot weather makes me crazy)!!
We are given a description of John....who appears to be a bit of an unusual man, in dress and eating habits.
I used to think I had heard of every type of diet there was, but John the Baptist tops them all...it seems he ate two main foods locusts ( ugh) and wild honey ( I could live with that)!
And his outfit was equally notable made from camel hair ( does this mean he had a bunch of camels?)
But even more important was that he was a very humble man!
And it settles the question about water baptism....yes it is important.... but what really counts is the baptism of the Holy Spirit that comes with belief in Jesus!
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Post by evafromgreece on Jun 24, 2016 15:48:12 GMT -5
Hey guys :) I finished Luke 21, and I believe I will end the book by tommorow. I have a lot to write on the chapters I studied, but its almost midnight here. So tomorrow, I have a day off work, and I will come back with my comments :) I love you guys :) Goodnight
No, no, no :) I will catch up on this also :) Its almost midnight here. I will come back tomorrow in both threads. I know its difficult when I post long post with many different things... Thank you for your answers , I know its a great effort by your side also <3 |
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Post by Cindy on Jun 25, 2016 9:37:55 GMT -5
I know I am so glad the Lord included gentiles also!
Today Friday 24th
I read Mark:1:1-8
V.1 States in part:
"The beginning of the good news about Jesus ...."
This tells us what the gospel, or the 'good news' is, it is Jesus and about Jesus.
It mentions how John the Baptist is out in the wilderness, so it seems to me people had to go a ways to hear John.
I started thinking about that, they did have cars or off road vehicles, nor motorcycles, no cabs, buses, trains, planes etc.
I am thinking most folks back then didn't even have a horse or a camel to ride out to see John.
Some may have had a stubborn donkey, especially handy if the wife was 8 months pregnant.
Now I have no idea if it took a couple of hours or even days?
But what if some had to camp out over night!
With the scorpions, centipedes, poisonous snakes and spiders, along with it either staying super hot or the temps dropping waaaay low.
Oh and then the day time temp might have been in the 100's!
Now I just have to mention some people ( in reply to my vehement grumbling about heat) have try to smooth my fervored brow with saying: "Oh but its dry heat"...like that is a good thing!
I have a theory that dry heat is a very very thirsty heat and it looks for water.... ( can you guess where I am going with this theory)!!!
Bingo, it is a monster.....looking to suck all the water out of meeeeee!
Sorry I digress ....( even thinking about hot weather makes me crazy)!!
We are given a description of John....who appears to be a bit of an unusual man, in dress and eating habits.
I used to think I had heard of every type of diet there was, but John the Baptist tops them all...it seems he ate two main foods locusts ( ugh) and wild honey ( I could live with that)!
And his outfit was equally notable made from camel hair ( does this mean he had a bunch of camels?)
But even more important was that he was a very humble man!
And it settles the question about water baptism....yes it is important.... but what really counts is the baptism of the Holy Spirit that comes with belief in Jesus!
Eva, have you lost interest in the tribulation thread or did you just forget about it?
No, no, no :) I will catch up on this also :) Its almost midnight here. I will come back tomorrow in both threads. I know its difficult when I post long post with many different things... Thank you for your answers , I know its a great effort by your side also <3 
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jun 25, 2016 22:52:19 GMT -5
Today Sat. June 25
I read Mark 1:9-15
There is the baptism of Jesus ( by John) where the three persons of God are there (the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).
Then Jesus is tempted for 40 days.
After that is a very difficult part for me: John the baptist goes to prison but Jesus goes into Galilee.
What is hard for me, is that it appears like Jesus just abandoned John. It does not appear like he ever went to visit.
I understand Jesus might have died if he went to visit John and maybe because it was not the right time, perhaps none of us would have been saved.....also
John's ministry seems to have been in prison. I think the message is sometimes our ministry may not be one of ease and comfort in this life, but we are put where God wants us to be.
Even Paul saw the inside of jails.
And tho is seems like Jesus abandon John, I know he never really did ( there is physical closeness and spiritual closeness....and I suppose when I look at it that way, spiritual closeness is truly better, tho sometimes in this life it seems extremely hard to have physical closeness lacking).
I think a least at first, if I had been John, I would have felt abandoned, jealous, bitter, and angry of the apostles free with Jesus, while I was wasting away in prison.
But perhaps even I could see I had a different role. Then I would still have had fear of soon being beheaded all alone....tho even that would not be true.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jun 27, 2016 0:29:39 GMT -5
Today Sun. June 26
I read Mark 1:16-34
Jesus calls 4 disciples and tells them they will go from being fishermen to fish for people. I am amazed that they immediately followed Jesus. They dropped whatever they were doing and even tho their new job might have seemed a little strange or odd, they were obedient. I want to be able to be like that!
V.22 says: "The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law."
I don't think it's any surprise that Jesus would be the best teacher there ever was or will ever be. However, it seems like the 'pastors...teachers of the law...taught with a mix of uninspiring, and dead teaching, possibly because they no longer truly believed?
Again it seems there were a lot of demon possessed people at that time. Strangely there was a demon possessed man in the synagogue.
The demon feared and believed in Jesus, however, he did not have a relationship with Jesus, nor did the demon love Jesus.
Some Foolishly people today want to have a relationship with a demon today in order to get power, and they might...for awhile.
But the demon will not love them, and then the person ( unless they become saved) will spend eternity in Hell, instead of heaven where Jesus would love them forever.
What a terrible sad choice!
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Post by Cindy on Jun 27, 2016 12:39:08 GMT -5
Today Sat. June 25
I read Mark 1:9-15
There is the baptism of Jesus ( by John) where the three persons of God are there (the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).
Then Jesus is tempted for 40 days.
After that is a very difficult part for me: John the baptist goes to prison but Jesus goes into Galilee.
What is hard for me, is that it appears like Jesus just abandoned John. It does not appear like he ever went to visit.
I understand Jesus might have died if he went to visit John and maybe because it was not the right time, perhaps none of us would have been saved.....also
John's ministry seems to have been in prison. I think the message is sometimes our ministry may not be one of ease and comfort in this life, but we are put where God wants us to be.
Even Paul saw the inside of jails.
And tho is seems like Jesus abandon John, I know he never really did ( there is physical closeness and spiritual closeness....and I suppose when I look at it that way, spiritual closeness is truly better, tho sometimes in this life it seems extremely hard to have physical closeness lacking).
I think a least at first, if I had been John, I would have felt abandoned, jealous, bitter, and angry of the apostles free with Jesus, while I was wasting away in prison.
But perhaps even I could see I had a different role. Then I would still have had fear of soon being beheaded all alone....tho even that would not be true.
§36. Jesus’ Baptism (Matt 3:13–17; Mark 1:9–11; Luke 3:21–23)
§37. The Temptation of Jesus (Matt 4:1–11; Mark 1:12–13; Luke 4:1–13)
§38. John Disclaims the Messiahship (John 1:19–28)
§39. John Identifies the Messiah (John 1:29–34)
§40. Jesus’ First Disciples (John 1:35–51)
§41. Jesus Proves Himself to His Disciples (John 2:1–11)
§42. Jesus Sojourns in Capernaum (John 2:12)
§43. Jesus Lays His Messianic Claim (John 2:13–22)
§44. Jesus’ Divine Perceptivity (John 2:23–25)
§45. Nicodemus: The Heart of the Gospel (John 3:1–21)
§46. John Defers to Jesus (Matt 4:12; Mark 1:14; Luke 3:19–20; John 3:22–4:3)
A. The Parallel Ministry of Jesus and John (John 3:22–24)
B. John Resigns His Ministry (John 3:25–36)
C. John’s Imprisonment (Matt 4:12; Mark 1:14; Luke 3:19–20; John 4:1–3)
§47. The Gospel in Samaria (John 4:4–30)
§48. A Seminar in Evangelism (John 4:31–38)
§49. The Gospel’s Success in Samaria (John 4:39–42)
§50. Jesus Returns to Galilee (Luke 4:14–15; John 4:43–45)
§51. Jesus Heals a Nobleman’s Son (John 4:46–54)
§52. Jesus Preaches in Nazareth (Luke 4:16–30)
§53. Jesus Moves to Capernaum (Matt 4:13–17; Mark 1:14b–15)
As you can see, a lot happened during the time of the few verses you read. Now, as far as Jesus leaving John goes, if we look at it logically, we'll realize that Jesus and John did not ever "hang out" together. Even as children they most likely rarely saw each other since their families did not live near by each other. John was the forerunner, he was to come before Jesus, and that's exactly what he did. He was honored to baptize Jesus and see the Holy Spirit descend on Him and hear the Father's voice. That's the only time as adults that Jesus and John were together, that we're told about. Right after that, the Spirit lead Jesus out into the desert to be tempted and when He returned, He began His ministry. When John baptized Jesus, He knew then that his time was over, because Jesus was no longer, "coming", He was there. Therefore John knew that while there might still be a few areas that he hadn't yet reached with the news, that his time was running out if not completely over. Sure enough, when he didn't voluntarily end his mission, he was arrested and put in prison. That's when he sent some of his disciples to Jesus to ask Him if He was the Messiah they were waiting for and Jesus told him, "yes" by His actions and His Words. It was after that, that John was killed. When Jesus heard that he'd been killed, we know it affected Him because we're told: “When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place.” (Matthew 14:13) But John and Jesus were both doing the Father's Will, not their own. We know too that John was the very first person who ever had the Holy Spirit dwell within them for their whole life. John was used to talking with God through prayer and I'm quite sure he spent a lot of time in prison doing just that. He would not have expected Jesus to come to him, because he knew that Jesus had to be about the Father's business, just as he had, only more so. Today Sun. June 26
I read Mark 1:16-34
Jesus calls 4 disciples and tells them they will go from being fishermen to fish for people. I am amazed that they immediately followed Jesus. They dropped whatever they were doing and even tho their new job might have seemed a little strange or odd, they were obedient. I want to be able to be like that!
V.22 says: "The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law."
I don't think it's any surprise that Jesus would be the best teacher there ever was or will ever be. However, it seems like the 'pastors...teachers of the law...taught with a mix of uninspiring, and dead teaching, possibly because they no longer truly believed?
Again it seems there were a lot of demon possessed people at that time. Strangely there was a demon possessed man in the synagogue.
The demon feared and believed in Jesus, however, he did not have a relationship with Jesus, nor did the demon love Jesus.
Some Foolishly people today want to have a relationship with a demon today in order to get power, and they might...for awhile.
But the demon will not love them, and then the person ( unless they become saved) will spend eternity in Hell, instead of heaven where Jesus would love them forever.
What a terrible sad choice!
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Post by evafromgreece on Jun 27, 2016 15:33:27 GMT -5
Hey guys :)
I h@ve @ problem with my ke@bord I c@nnot write "a"- I copied @nd p@ste it now, so you will know wh@t I me@n. So inste@d of this I use "@" , th@t looks simil@r, until I find wh@t is wrong.
"You mean Luke 16:19 and the story about Lazarus and the rich man who died right? First know that this is not a parable. It is a true story Jesus told about two men who lived at that time and died the way He said they did. The Jew's who lived there would have been aware of these two men since the one man was very rich. The idea that a rich man would be excluded from heaven and that a poor man would be in heaven would have made the pharisees very angry as it went against everything they believed. As far as people being in hell and being able to see into heaven goes, you have to remember that people did not go to "heaven" before Jesus was ascended. Before then, when people died they went to “Hades” (also translated as Sheol). Anyway, before Jesus ascended, when people died they went to Hades which was divided into two parts. One part was called Abraham's Bosom and that's where the righteous went when they died, those who were not saved, went into the other part of Hades which doesn't have any other name. So at that time, yes, the unsaved could see believers although as Jesus said, it seemed "far away". This is no longer true and has not been since Jesus ascended to Heaven. Remember, when He ascended to Heaven, He took all the saved out of Abraham's Bosom to Heaven with Him. “This is why it says: “When he ascended on high, he led captives in his train and gave gifts to men.” (What does “he ascended” mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions? He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.)” (Ephesians 4:8–10) All those who were in Abraham's Bosom, joined Jesus and went to Heaven with Him when He ascended. "
We h@ve discuss this @ lot before, but now I understood this completely. Th@nk you for reminding me this @nd for helping me cle@r this up.
"Luke 21:1-24 is not about the tribulation. I know it sounds a lot like it, and it is a lot like what the tribulation will be like, but that is not what Jesus is talking about here. In Luke He is warning His followers about what will happen in 70 AD."
I know in 70 @d Jerus@lem w@s destroyed. C@n we discuss this @ bit more? I know we h@ve mention this v@rious times, but this w@y I @m seeing slowly the whole picture :)
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jun 27, 2016 17:35:10 GMT -5
Wow! thank you so much for the explanation of what actually happened between John and Jesus. That was such a comfort.
Eva:
By the way...how clever for you to figure out to use the @ symbol.....it's actually kind of pretty!
Anyway, Today, I am a little sad, our grandchildren went to their dad's.
Also because the dad is pushing Devon to come live full time with him ( I went thru a similar thing twice) I am both angry and annoyed with him
but
on the other hand,
the dad is majorly charismatic regaling all of us with incredible funny stories.
The problem is he uses that gift to get his own way, and he is very very gifted...he could be a great stand up comic!
Thankfully his oldest daughter and his pregnant girlfriend where also there.
I did pray before he came ( for my daughter also) that he would not bully or harass her and he did not!
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jun 27, 2016 21:48:11 GMT -5
Today Monday June 27th
I read Mark 1:29-38
I remember reading about Jesus healing Mark's mother-in-law and she immediately began to wait on them.
I used to wonder about that. I know once people are saved they are to do good deeds for the Lord, but the fact she hoped up right away, was amazing to me, yet I suppose she is an example to us.
And twice, again is the mention demon possessed people....strangely a lot seemed to be in the synagogues.
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Post by Cindy on Jun 28, 2016 10:55:03 GMT -5
Hey guys :) I h@ve @ problem with my ke@bord I c@nnot write "a"- I copied @nd p@ste it now, so you will know wh@t I me@n. So inste@d of this I use "@" , th@t looks simil@r, until I find wh@t is wrong. "You mean Luke 16:19 and the story about Lazarus and the rich man who died right? First know that this is not a parable. It is a true story Jesus told about two men who lived at that time and died the way He said they did. The Jew's who lived there would have been aware of these two men since the one man was very rich. The idea that a rich man would be excluded from heaven and that a poor man would be in heaven would have made the pharisees very angry as it went against everything they believed. As far as people being in hell and being able to see into heaven goes, you have to remember that people did not go to "heaven" before Jesus was ascended. Before then, when people died they went to “Hades” (also translated as Sheol). Anyway, before Jesus ascended, when people died they went to Hades which was divided into two parts. One part was called Abraham's Bosom and that's where the righteous went when they died, those who were not saved, went into the other part of Hades which doesn't have any other name. So at that time, yes, the unsaved could see believers although as Jesus said, it seemed "far away". This is no longer true and has not been since Jesus ascended to Heaven. Remember, when He ascended to Heaven, He took all the saved out of Abraham's Bosom to Heaven with Him. “This is why it says: “When he ascended on high, he led captives in his train and gave gifts to men.” (What does “he ascended” mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions? He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.)” (Ephesians 4:8–10) All those who were in Abraham's Bosom, joined Jesus and went to Heaven with Him when He ascended. " We h@ve discuss this @ lot before, but now I understood this completely. Th@nk you for reminding me this @nd for helping me cle@r this up. "Luke 21:1-24 is not about the tribulation. I know it sounds a lot like it, and it is a lot like what the tribulation will be like, but that is not what Jesus is talking about here. In Luke He is warning His followers about what will happen in 70 AD." I know in 70 @d Jerus@lem w@s destroyed. C@n we discuss this @ bit more? I know we h@ve mention this v@rious times, but this w@y I @m seeing slowly the whole picture :)
Jesus needed to let everyone know what would happen at the very end of time, during the tribulation, but He also needed to let His followers know what would be happening to them personally, after He ascended and the church had begun and grown. The reason Israel, and especially Jerusalem would be destroyed in ad 70 was because the nation had rejected Him as their Savior; there was no reason for them to be caught in that horror since they had not rejected Him. He wanted them to be safe, and therefore told them what to watch for and what to do when it happened. Since the destruction did not happen for about 40 years after Jesus ascended, He knew they would probably forget, but He wasn't worried because He also knew that the Holy Spirit would remind them at the right time and get them all out of there. In fact, at that time, He also still had some prophets and when the time was near, those prophets also reminded His followers of what He said. We know from history, that not one single Christian was left in Jerusalem when Rome attacked!
This is another way we can be sure that we will not experience the tribulation either, as that again is mainly directed at the Jew's and the church has no reason to be part of it. So Jesus was not only warning His believers so He could keep them safe then, but also showing us that He would keep us safe when it came to be our turn. Wow! thank you so much for the explanation of what actually happened between John and Jesus. That was such a comfort.
Eva:
By the way...how clever for you to figure out to use the @ symbol.....it's actually kind of pretty!
Anyway, Today, I am a little sad, our grandchildren went to their dad's.
Also because the dad is pushing Devon to come live full time with him ( I went thru a similar thing twice) I am both angry and annoyed with him
but
on the other hand,
the dad is majorly charismatic regaling all of us with incredible funny stories.
The problem is he uses that gift to get his own way, and he is very very gifted...he could be a great stand up comic!
Thankfully his oldest daughter and his pregnant girlfriend where also there.
I did pray before he came ( for my daughter also) that he would not bully or harass her and he did not! Today Monday June 27th
I read Mark 1:29-38
I remember reading about Jesus healing Mark's mother-in-law and she immediately began to wait on them.
I used to wonder about that. I know once people are saved they are to do good deeds for the Lord, but the fact she hoped up right away, was amazing to me, yet I suppose she is an example to us.
And twice, again is the mention demon possessed people....strangely a lot seemed to be in the synagogues.
Interesting isn't it that the demon possessed would be in the synagogue? That's the last place you'd expect to find them isn't it? Just as today we normally don't expect to see it in our churches, and yet it's there, just as much as anyplace else where you would expect to find them.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jun 28, 2016 13:49:26 GMT -5
Thank you that really helped explain why she hopped right to it so to speak :-)
And yes, I was thinking that was the last place you would expect demon possessed folks to be.....and I fear today even some so-called pastors might be, because some for sure, have denied almost everything about the Bible, Jesus, God etc.
I am waiting to see what will happen to the church we ( well Leonard still went) used to go to.
The pastor, who was very very big on psychology and social helping addicts etc. has stepped down as senior pastor, so he can focus on counseling.
I have no idea who will replace him.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jun 28, 2016 15:04:22 GMT -5
Today Tue. June 28
I read Mark 1:40-45
Jesus heals a man with leprosy
I was reading J. Vernon McGee commentary and I really like this sentence ( actually a black pastor friend of his said this):
"The Lord told him not to tell anybody and he told everybody.
He tells us to tell everybody and we tell nobody".
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Post by Cindy on Jun 29, 2016 10:28:26 GMT -5
Thank you that really helped explain why she hopped right to it so to speak :-)
And yes, I was thinking that was the last place you would expect demon possessed folks to be.....and I fear today even some so-called pastors might be, because some for sure, have denied almost everything about the Bible, Jesus, God etc.
I am waiting to see what will happen to the church we ( well Leonard still went) used to go to.
The pastor, who was very very big on psychology and social helping addicts etc. has stepped down as senior pastor, so he can focus on counseling.
I have no idea who will replace him. Today Tue. June 28
I read Mark 1:40-45
Jesus heals a man with leprosy
I was reading J. Vernon McGee commentary and I really like this sentence ( actually a black pastor friend of his said this):
"The Lord told him not to tell anybody and he told everybody.
He tells us to tell everybody and we tell nobody".
I keep forgetting to remind you guys that while it's very good (obviously) to understand what we're reading, the most important part of studying is at the end, when we ask the Lord to help us know how to apply what we've just studied to our lives. The reason I say it's the most important is because just knowing the information doesn't help us, but applying it to our lives does.
So let's really focus on that more then on what the passages were about. I'm not saying you shouldn't write what they were about - as you obviously need to know that in order to know how to apply it to your life. I'm just saying let's focus more on how we can apply it ok?
You've done well in keeping at this daily and I think you're getting into the habit of it again now. So now, let's make sure this daily habit does even more good for our souls and talk about how we can apply it.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jun 29, 2016 16:03:41 GMT -5
Well, I sort of reluctantly mentioned that I 'supposed' Mark's mother-in-law was an example to 'us'....LOL
I really should have said:
She was an example to 'me', but I think my rebellious self was procrastinating.....like...
really?
Can't I take a wee short nap first?
Seriously tho, She is an example ( to me), so that if the Lord blesses me with a better day ( or not),
and gives me something He wishes me to do.....
I need to be like Mark's mother-in-law,
and NOT procrastinate!
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jun 29, 2016 16:18:48 GMT -5
Today Wed. June 29th
I read Mark 2:1-5
The 4 men who carried their paralyzed friend to Jesus, could find a way into the home because of the huge crowd, and so cut a hole in the roof to lower the man down to Jesus, were an example to me.
I need to have that type of zeal, love, determination, ingenuity etc. to do whatever it takes (cut a hole in the roof if I have to) to be close to Jesus.
Not only that, but it probably took the four men, effort and time, first to carry him to the home, but also to cut the roof.
I need that type of dedication to be willing to spend the time and effort needed.
The people blocking the 4 men's normal way into the home, remind me of obstacles ( like videos, TV series, 'pleasure books, naps and snacks, gardening, etc.)
anything... that hinders my getting to fellowship with Jesus thru His word or prayer.
Not that I cannot do those things but when they keep me away from the Lord, then I need to cut a hole.
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Post by Cindy on Jun 30, 2016 10:12:31 GMT -5
Well, I sort of reluctantly mentioned that I 'supposed' Mark's mother-in-law was an example to 'us'....LOL
I really should have said:
She was an example to 'me', but I think my rebellious self was procrastinating.....like...
really?
Can't I take a wee short nap first?
Seriously tho, She is an example ( to me), so that if the Lord blesses me with a better day ( or not),
and gives me something He wishes me to do.....
I need to be like Mark's mother-in-law,
and NOT procrastinate!
Did you ever see the movie the karate kid? In it the karate master has the kid doing all kinds of chores around his house and yard, which drives the kid crazy cause he just wants to learn karate. Later the kid discovers that everything the man had him doing was preparation for the karate as it mimicked all the moves he would have to perfect, so by doing the chores, he had already perfected those moves without even knowing it! The reason I brought that up is because that's how God seems to often do things with us. He gives us normal every day chores to do, that we mostly don't want to do lol, but uses those chores to prepare us for the spiritual encounters we'll have later. I learned this the hard way of course, but thought it was quite interesting, especially when I realized that He does the same thing in the OT to Israel!
Today Wed. June 29th
I read Mark 2:1-5
The 4 men who carried their paralyzed friend to Jesus, could find a way into the home because of the huge crowd, and so cut a hole in the roof to lower the man down to Jesus, were an example to me.
I need to have that type of zeal, love, determination, ingenuity etc. to do whatever it takes (cut a hole in the roof if I have to) to be close to Jesus.
Not only that, but it probably took the four men, effort and time, first to carry him to the home, but also to cut the roof.
I need that type of dedication to be willing to spend the time and effort needed.
The people blocking the 4 men's normal way into the home, remind me of obstacles ( like videos, TV series, 'pleasure books, naps and snacks, gardening, etc.)
anything... that hinders my getting to fellowship with Jesus thru His word or prayer.
Not that I cannot do those things but when they keep me away from the Lord, then I need to cut a hole.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jun 30, 2016 12:31:42 GMT -5
Thank you Cindy for explaining that in ways we don't always understand at the time, we are being prepared for spiritual orders from the Lord.
First thing in the morning....spend time with the Lord.
I suppose that lesson is in the Bible (prob. more than once) but it reminded me of Joseph first as a servant/slave, and then in prison.
Surely in prison, Joseph may not have thought, isn't this great, God is preparing me to be 2nd in command of all of Egypt!! ( oh and to reconcile and save my family).
Of course you can quote anything I write at any time.
The strange thing is, that was something I wrote without having just read a commentary on it.
Tho I suspect it may have been something I heard or read, at least in part, the general idea?)
20, or 30 years ago.
But IF so.... I had internalized it,
and thus, was able to put it in my own words, after re-reading it the other day.
So that is really cool for me :-)
Cuz I was just trying to do what you said..... apply it to my life!! ,
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jun 30, 2016 15:41:19 GMT -5
Today Thursday June 30th
I read Mark 2:6-12
So in these verses, the men get the paralyzed man before Jesus, but instead of healing the man physically, Jesus forgives the man of his sins.
The teachers of law immediately think to themselves that Jesus is blaspheming, because ONLY God can forgive sins.
Knowing that they were thinking that, Jesus then heals the man, astonishing everyone!
There are several ways I can apply this to my life.
One is when I am tempted to be depressed because Jesus has not healed my physically, to reflect on the fact, He has healed me in a much much, incomparable greater way... of forgiving my sins!!!
And truly, I would rather not be healed in this life, and spend eternity with Jesus in Heaven, than to be healed physically ( and be extraordinarily beautiful...in this life for however long I might live),
...but spend eternity in Hell because my sins were not forgiven.
But also, I do not know if perhaps Jesus might decide to heal me physically also.... ( the emphasis on ALSO.....having sins forgiven),
and then,
if he chooses, to heal me physically.
Further tho, this is even something I can apply to my thinking when I see evil ( like the teachers of the law present that day) winning battles.
When they accuse Christians and Christianity of all manner of evil ( like saying the Bible is 'hate' speech),
and I feel defeated and depressed,
I can consider how, at any time Jesus chooses, He may go from 'just' spiritual healing in the world,
to cleansing all the evil on every level.
In fact, I need to be grateful, He has not yet done so, because by His delay, some of the 'teachers of law', and other sinners, may yet be saved....
included prayerfully many of my loved ones.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jul 1, 2016 14:17:52 GMT -5
Today July 1st
I read Mark 2:13-17
Its said that Jesus once again walked by the lake ( somehow that made me feel good, He liked the water like meeeee...LOL)
I know, he was not there for for His own pleasure...
Actually He was there for Levi. ( what was a tax collector doing by a lake?).
Anyway Jesus goes to eat dinner with Levi and other tax collectors ( I guess there were so disliked, they pretty much had to hang out with each other?)...plus other sinners.
Somehow I wonder if that was God's irony, in that, everyone is a sinner....but then ...
Why were the Pharisees near enough to see Jesus eating with those they considered 'low lifers, trash' etc. ( and why were the Pharisees close enough to even talk to Jesus).
It's easy to see how snobby, self-righteous and even hateful the Pharisees were....
But....
I can easily apply it to my life ,because through-out my life, at different time and places etc.
If....I am totally honest, there has been times when I felt 'superior' to some group of people.
It was not against minorities, but more like a kind of self-hate, and against the 'establishment', against the wealthy, at one point against the police, or at a different time, what people call poor white 'trash', another time it was against drug addicts and alcoholics ( tho in college that could have defined me) etc etc.
These days I need to be vigilant that I don't feel 'superior' against the unsaved, because I am a sinner like they, ( and in many ways maybe a worse one)...
And also I need to take care not to be disdainful of 'liberals'....and on and on it goes.
It is easy for me to fall into that kind of thinking, without really 'thinking', so this is a good reminder.
When I see how hurtful that attitude is, I need to check my own attitudes!
Sometimes ( every once and awhile) it is soooo strong, I need to pray that Jesus will soften my heart ( Like for example my first reaction when I see (introduced to) a woman, almost totally covered in tattoos, skin tight outfit, with gobs and gobs of makeup, and/or santanic looking jewelry, maybe bleached blond or bright blue, purple etc. hair....well you get the idea)
I realize I feel very uncomfortable, and 'superior' and I need to immediately pray for the Lord's help.
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Post by Cindy on Jul 2, 2016 10:14:07 GMT -5
be back tomorrow to reply!
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jul 2, 2016 13:08:42 GMT -5
Praying you will get a much needed rest!!
Today, Friday, July 2nd
I read Mark 2: 18-22
Jesus is questioned about why his disciples are not fasting ( I just read a commentary that said, fasting was not apart of the law)...
and the point Jesus makes is to be with Him is more important.
So right there is a good application, I should not put even 'good' things ahead of Jesus.
I live in a world where if I manage ( with God's help) to beat back a sin, I feel victorious
but if I can add to that, some 'good deeds"....
I am in danger of getting so involved in the 'good' I neglect, the 'best' which is a relationship with Jesus ( by prayer and reading His Word.)
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Post by Cindy on Jul 3, 2016 9:53:56 GMT -5
Thank you Cindy for explaining that in ways we don't always understand at the time, we are being prepared for spiritual orders from the Lord.
First thing in the morning....spend time with the Lord.
I suppose that lesson is in the Bible (prob. more than once) but it reminded me of Joseph first as a servant/slave, and then in prison.
Surely in prison, Joseph may not have thought, isn't this great, God is preparing me to be 2nd in command of all of Egypt!! ( oh and to reconcile and save my family).
Of course you can quote anything I write at any time.
The strange thing is, that was something I wrote without having just read a commentary on it.
Tho I suspect it may have been something I heard or read, at least in part, the general idea?)
20, or 30 years ago.
But IF so.... I had internalized it,
and thus, was able to put it in my own words, after re-reading it the other day.
So that is really cool for me :-)
Cuz I was just trying to do what you said..... apply it to my life!! ,
I can generally tell when what you've written is out of a commentary... I don't mean necessarily copied out of one, but when the thought is taken from what you read. There's a difference in how you say things that are your own and how you say things that you're getting from elsewhere. I can tell the difference when I do that too. God takes the things we see, hear, read, etc and uses those things to get His message across to us.The big difference between the two is that what we get from the commentary and write is knowledge that's just in our head; when we speak or write something that we simply believe is true, it's knowledge that has gone from our heads into our hearts, and that God is now using to change us to be more like Jesus. Those are the normal steps of learning for all of us. When we share what we've learned with someone else, either verbally or in writing, it helps us as much, if not more, then the person we're sharing it with, because it helps the information stick in our memory better, and also helps us to understand it better ourselves, which in turn brings it closer to being heart knowledge.
You're doing a great job of explaining and applying the information too!
Today Thursday June 30th
I read Mark 2:6-12
So in these verses, the men get the paralyzed man before Jesus, but instead of healing the man physically, Jesus forgives the man of his sins.
The teachers of law immediately think to themselves that Jesus is blaspheming, because ONLY God can forgive sins.
Knowing that they were thinking that, Jesus then heals the man, astonishing everyone!
There are several ways I can apply this to my life.
One is when I am tempted to be depressed because Jesus has not healed my physically, to reflect on the fact, He has healed me in a much much, incomparable greater way... of forgiving my sins!!!
And truly, I would rather not be healed in this life, and spend eternity with Jesus in Heaven, than to be healed physically ( and be extraordinarily beautiful...in this life for however long I might live),
...but spend eternity in Hell because my sins were not forgiven.
But also, I do not know if perhaps Jesus might decide to heal me physically also.... ( the emphasis on ALSO.....having sins forgiven),
and then,
if he chooses, to heal me physically.
Further tho, this is even something I can apply to my thinking when I see evil ( like the teachers of the law present that day) winning battles.
When they accuse Christians and Christianity of all manner of evil ( like saying the Bible is 'hate' speech),
and I feel defeated and depressed,
I can consider how, at any time Jesus chooses, He may go from 'just' spiritual healing in the world,
to cleansing all the evil on every level.
In fact, I need to be grateful, He has not yet done so, because by His delay, some of the 'teachers of law', and other sinners, may yet be saved....
included prayerfully many of my loved ones.
I have a question for you... if you want, we can talk about it in the counseling forum, or here, it doesn't matter to me. So if you're uncomfortable answering here, feel free to either tell me you don't want to answer at all, or that you would rather answer in the private forum ok? My question is this: If God healed you totally, 100% right now and made you the most beautiful woman in the whole world, how would that change your life? What would you do if that actually happened?
Today July 1st
I read Mark 2:13-17
Its said that Jesus once again walked by the lake ( somehow that made me feel good, He liked the water like meeeee...LOL)
I know, he was not there for for His own pleasure...
Actually He was there for Levi. ( what was a tax collector doing by a lake?).
Anyway Jesus goes to eat dinner with Levi and other tax collectors ( I guess there were so disliked, they pretty much had to hang out with each other?)...plus other sinners.
Somehow I wonder if that was God's irony, in that, everyone is a sinner....but then ...
Why were the Pharisees near enough to see Jesus eating with those they considered 'low lifers, trash' etc. ( and why were the Pharisees close enough to even talk to Jesus).
It's easy to see how snobby, self-righteous and even hateful the Pharisees were....
But....
I can easily apply it to my life ,because through-out my life, at different time and places etc.
If....I am totally honest, there has been times when I felt 'superior' to some group of people.
It was not against minorities, but more like a kind of self-hate, and against the 'establishment', against the wealthy, at one point against the police, or at a different time, what people call poor white 'trash', another time it was against drug addicts and alcoholics ( tho in college that could have defined me) etc etc.
These days I need to be vigilant that I don't feel 'superior' against the unsaved, because I am a sinner like they, ( and in many ways maybe a worse one)...
And also I need to take care not to be disdainful of 'liberals'....and on and on it goes.
It is easy for me to fall into that kind of thinking, without really 'thinking', so this is a good reminder.
When I see how hurtful that attitude is, I need to check my own attitudes!
Sometimes ( every once and awhile) it is soooo strong, I need to pray that Jesus will soften my heart ( Like for example my first reaction when I see (introduced to) a woman, almost totally covered in tattoos, skin tight outfit, with gobs and gobs of makeup, and/or santanic looking jewelry, maybe bleached blond or bright blue, purple etc. hair....well you get the idea)
I realize I feel very uncomfortable, and 'superior' and I need to immediately pray for the Lord's help.
They didn't hang out with each other just because they were disliked, but rather because they liked each other. Normally we all choose friends that think like we do. Like the saying: "birds of a feather, flock together."
It's funny you'd mention that about the woman with all the tattoos and your reaction, because Bruce and I saw a woman just like that in the grocery store a few weeks ago and what you wrote describes her exactly! Not only that, but you also described our reaction to her as well. I felt badly that I reacted to her that way and asked for the Lord to soften my heart and to forgive me just like you said! Strange huh? LOL
Praying you will get a much needed rest!!
Today, Friday, July 2nd
I read Mark 2: 18-22
Jesus is questioned about why his disciples are not fasting ( I just read a commentary that said, fasting was not apart of the law)...
and the point Jesus makes is to be with Him is more important.
So right there is a good application, I should not put even 'good' things ahead of Jesus.
I live in a world where if I manage ( with God's help) to beat back a sin, I feel victorious
but if I can add to that, some 'good deeds"....
I am in danger of getting so involved in the 'good' I neglect, the 'best' which is a relationship with Jesus ( by prayer and reading His Word.)
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jul 3, 2016 11:48:40 GMT -5
I don't mind discussing the idea of what I would do if not only healed but made beautiful, here.
The thing is I fear there is more 'bad' reasons than good.
However, as I am now on a very rapid ageing slope, I find, I am more and more self-conscious.
Therefore, I have a harder time talking to people ( never mind witnessing) because, I am more focused on that person feeling uncomfortable with a old person and my deep wrinkles etc.
I realize a very pretty person can be distracting also.
However, I think people ( at least at first) feel more comfortable with nice looking, rather than than old and wrinkled. It's probably a toss-up, so its more about "me" feeling more self-confident.
For example, About a year ago, my landlord, said to me:
when ( or was it how? I am not quoting verbatim)
did you get old? ( he may have added........... so quickly).
I had stopped dyeing my hair, so it is now grey/white among other things.
I even try to wait going out to our tiny yard, until no one is out ( except maybe our daughter).
And even then, I turn my back in such a way, that my face can't be seen as I am bending over pulling weeds, because the skin sags tremendously, and is not very pleasant.
The 'self-centered self-conciousness' extends to a putting my hand up by my mouth to try to cover those deep nasal folds....
I do try to put my hand back down tho.
Its a struggle: hide, vs. praying and asking to Lord to help me not be self-centered, but look to Him and trust Him even in this ageing issue.
If I were more healthy and nice looking, it seems like I would have more energy, confidence, and opportunity to perhaps find times to witness?
I wouldn't be thinking about how I look old etc. so I could focus more on the other person's needs.
Think of it like, if you were to go out, but when you left the light was very dim in your home.
But after you got to the store or where ever...
You struck up a conversation with someone.....
You noticed they were sort of staring at you shirt....
Then, you look down, and see that somehow you had pulled out a top that was filthy ( ugly food spills and dirty dirt from the garden).
Also, you see they are now looking at your hands, and even tho you washed them carefully, your nails still have lots of dirt embedded in them for your time working in the garden).
But I would think to myself that I could be coming across as a slob and would just want to end the conversation rather than explaining why I looked such a mess.
If I had a clean shirt and nails on, I would find the conversation easier...I wouldn't be worried about looking like a slob ( or old, or dirty, smelly. or any other unpleasant thing)....
So I could just focus on the person, and what to say.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jul 3, 2016 12:07:43 GMT -5
That is amazing about you meeting such a person.
It's strange because a brand new neighbor from across the street wanted me to let the furniture delivery men in because she couldn't be there at the time they were coming.
Another neighbor came over with this new person to introduce us.
But I had a hard time trying not to stare at all her tattoos. She was a 'normal' looking person otherwise which made it even odder to me.
But in general I have a hard time not feeling uncomfortable around a person who is almost totally decorated in tattoos.
My daughter has one and even that give me the yimmy yammies LOL
Or, they are trying to be 'unique'
But that reminds me of how young folks throughout the ages, decide they will be different, unique etc.
Not to 'pick on' any groups but take the 'hippies' of the 60's or the more recent 'goths'....they end up looking the 'same'.
My son used to be into goth but I cringed at the guys and girls in all black everything, nails, hair and lipstick all black.
I have to work harder to see the real person and not the cover.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jul 3, 2016 12:14:04 GMT -5
I was wondering about commentaries.....don't we sometimes read something ( even a Christian novel) that may so astound, and enlighten a portion of scripture, that we do 'internalize" it and take it into our heart as well as our minds?
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,402
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Post by fearnot on Jul 3, 2016 12:39:04 GMT -5
Today, July 3rd
I read Mark 2:23-28
So it seems the Pharisees had nothing better to do with their time,
than stalk Jesus and His disciples!!
Since the Pharisees majored in 'legalism',
they focused on the fact that the disciples were 'gleaning' on the Sabbath.
I think it was a two-fold accusation: the gleaning, and it being the Sabbath.
Actually ( I looked at the cross reference Dt 23:25) people were allowed to pick enough by hand but not use a sickle).
Jesus however chooses to focus on the 2nd half....the Sabbath part, and it seems like Jesus takes issue with their 'legalism'.
The application for me, is to beware of my own brand of 'legalism'.
One of the main problems or drawbacks is when, legalism nullifies compassion, pity, kindness, love etc.
There is a difference, between wanting to follow God's rules, and laws, because we love Him, and being so rigid that we (I) have no love in our hearts.
For example, I have been talking a little about tattoos. In my own brand of 'legalism', I think:
God didn't give us our bodies as a 'canvas' for our 'art work'......he gave us paper and canvas etc. for that!!!
However, I have to ask the Lord for compassion and love in my heart to overlook a greatly tatooed man or woman.
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Post by Cindy on Jul 4, 2016 11:04:28 GMT -5
I don't mind discussing the idea of what I would do if not only healed but made beautiful, here.
The thing is I fear there is more 'bad' reasons than good.
However, as I am now on a very rapid ageing slope, I find, I am more and more self-conscious.
Therefore, I have a harder time talking to people ( never mind witnessing) because, I am more focused on that person feeling uncomfortable with a old person and my deep wrinkles etc.
I realize a very pretty person can be distracting also.
However, I think people ( at least at first) feel more comfortable with nice looking, rather than than old and wrinkled. It's probably a toss-up, so its more about "me" feeling more self-confident.
For example, About a year ago, my landlord, said to me:
when ( or was it how? I am not quoting verbatim)
did you get old? ( he may have added........... so quickly).
I had stopped dyeing my hair, so it is now grey/white among other things.
I even try to wait going out to our tiny yard, until no one is out ( except maybe our daughter).
And even then, I turn my back in such a way, that my face can't be seen as I am bending over pulling weeds, because the skin sags tremendously, and is not very pleasant.
The 'self-centered self-conciousness' extends to a putting my hand up by my mouth to try to cover those deep nasal folds....
I do try to put my hand back down tho.
Its a struggle: hide, vs. praying and asking to Lord to help me not be self-centered, but look to Him and trust Him even in this ageing issue.
If I were more healthy and nice looking, it seems like I would have more energy, confidence, and opportunity to perhaps find times to witness?
I wouldn't be thinking about how I look old etc. so I could focus more on the other person's needs.
Think of it like, if you were to go out, but when you left the light was very dim in your home.
But after you got to the store or where ever...
You struck up a conversation with someone.....
You noticed they were sort of staring at you shirt....
Then, you look down, and see that somehow you had pulled out a top that was filthy ( ugly food spills and dirty dirt from the garden).
Also, you see they are now looking at your hands, and even tho you washed them carefully, your nails still have lots of dirt embedded in them for your time working in the garden).
But I would think to myself that I could be coming across as a slob and would just want to end the conversation rather than explaining why I looked such a mess.
If I had a clean shirt and nails on, I would find the conversation easier...I wouldn't be worried about looking like a slob ( or old, or dirty, smelly. or any other unpleasant thing)....
So I could just focus on the person, and what to say.
Second, if you are that busy thinking those kind of thoughts, (thoughts which should have been taken captive, by the way) then you have no time, or at least a whole lot less time to think about what you should be thinking of, which is that you are an ambassador for Christ. An ambassador does their best to be clean and neat, but does not have time to worry about their "looks". They stand up straight and tall, and look people in the eye, so that others will know that they are proud of their King (or president in this day and age), and that also tells people that they stand firmly in the authority their King has invested them with. They seek out other people to be friendly to them, so that more people will know that the country they come from has friendly and helpful people in it, because they are not only representing their King, but also their country itself. Our King is the Lord Jesus Christ and our country is Heaven (New Jerusalem). There is no country on earth that is more beautiful, or that has more wonderful, loving people in it than ours, and we have to show people that by the way we act here and now.
Third, you're more right then you realize that beauty can distract people from what another person is saying. My daughter used to like to tease the boys she dated by asking them a question, after they'd been talking for awhile. So after they'd been talking awhile, she'd ask, "Tell me one thing...what color are my eyes?" Of course the boys always turned bright red and stuttered because they realized they'd been caught. They had no idea what color her eyes were because they'd been looking at her breasts - even though they were always covered as she always dressed very modestly. Regardless of that though, we don't have a choice. God gave us the bodies He did for a reason, and if we don't like them, if we have a problem with them, we have to take it up with Him. But I wouldn't suggest it, because by having a problem with them, we're saying that He didn't do a very good job. It's not His fault that we age and get wrinkled etc. but at the same time, He tells us that while we're here we're to accept the conditions of this world and be content, knowing that He will make it worth our while when He takes us Home. We are literally here on a mission, and the bodies we have our our disguise. We are disguised to look like regular earth dwellers who are really the walking dead, when in fact, we are alive in Christ and seated in the heavenlies with Christ right now. “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:4–10)
You have a big job ahead of you to keep taking your thoughts captive and replacing them with the truth. You can also use them to witness to others. For example, if you think someone is "obviously" looking at your wrinkles, then use it to tell them why people get old and have wrinkles - because of sin. And that because of your King, you have His promise when you get Home, that He is going to give you a new body that will never get old or sick! Be proud that Your King is in control and that He gave you such a great disguise so you could walk among the dead and tell them how they can have life!
Fourth, you hit the nail on the head when you labeled it "self centered, self-consciousness." Both of those words should be big red flags for you, telling you that you need to stop those thoughts and replace them with God centered consciousness instead. When we are busy thinking about God and what He wants, we don't have time or energy to consider ourselves. We know better than to say, "I can't because" because we know that God will enable us to do what He wants us to do. Our job is to take the first step expecting Him to do so. In your case that first step is going outside when other people are there, or not hiding your face. (By the way, if someone sees you outside, they most likely won't think anything of it, but if they see you outside hiding your face, they are going to focus on that and wonder what's wrong with you) So the more you hide, the more you are causing people to think something is wrong and to wonder what it is and try to see it.
Please don't be upset or think that I'm upset, because I'm not. I'm just trying to show you what God says and help you understand it so you can be freed from Satan's schemes. I hope this helps some, and would like to talk about it more if it would help you.
That is amazing about you meeting such a person.
It's strange because a brand new neighbor from across the street wanted me to let the furniture delivery men in because she couldn't be there at the time they were coming.
Another neighbor came over with this new person to introduce us.
But I had a hard time trying not to stare at all her tattoos. She was a 'normal' looking person otherwise which made it even odder to me.
But in general I have a hard time not feeling uncomfortable around a person who is almost totally decorated in tattoos.
My daughter has one and even that give me the yimmy yammies LOL
Or, they are trying to be 'unique'
But that reminds me of how young folks throughout the ages, decide they will be different, unique etc.
Not to 'pick on' any groups but take the 'hippies' of the 60's or the more recent 'goths'....they end up looking the 'same'.
My son used to be into goth but I cringed at the guys and girls in all black everything, nails, hair and lipstick all black.
I have to work harder to see the real person and not the cover.
I was wondering about commentaries.....don't we sometimes read something ( even a Christian novel) that may so astound, and enlighten a portion of scripture, that we do 'internalize" it and take it into our heart as well as our minds? Today, July 3rd
I read Mark 2:23-28
So it seems the Pharisees had nothing better to do with their time,
than stalk Jesus and His disciples!!
Since the Pharisees majored in 'legalism',
they focused on the fact that the disciples were 'gleaning' on the Sabbath.
I think it was a two-fold accusation: the gleaning, and it being the Sabbath.
Actually ( I looked at the cross reference Dt 23:25) people were allowed to pick enough by hand but not use a sickle).
Jesus however chooses to focus on the 2nd half....the Sabbath part, and it seems like Jesus takes issue with their 'legalism'.
The application for me, is to beware of my own brand of 'legalism'.
One of the main problems or drawbacks is when, legalism nullifies compassion, pity, kindness, love etc.
There is a difference, between wanting to follow God's rules, and laws, because we love Him, and being so rigid that we (I) have no love in our hearts.
For example, I have been talking a little about tattoos. In my own brand of 'legalism', I think:
God didn't give us our bodies as a 'canvas' for our 'art work'......he gave us paper and canvas etc. for that!!!
However, I have to ask the Lord for compassion and love in my heart to overlook a greatly tatooed man or woman.
Good job!
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Eva, have you lost interest in the tribulation thread or did you just forget about it?
!!
