Stand In Faith Podcast

“Having become as much superior to the angels as the name He has inherited is more excellent than theirs.”— Hebrews 1:4Hebrews 1:4–14 reveals how the resurrected Son of God became superior to angels—and how believers now share His immortality and throne.In this lesson, we explore why Hebrews compares Jesus to angels, what name He inherited, when God said “Today I have begotten You,” and what it means to live in God’s eternal “Today.”🕰️ Chapter Guide0:00 – Intro If Jesus is the eternal Son of God, how could He become superior to angels?0:45 – Overview of Hebrews 1:4–14 How Jesus became superior, why angels are mentioned, and what “the name He inherited” means.2:05 – Why Compare Jesus to Angels First-century Jews saw mankind as beneath angels; Hebrews shows the man Jesus surpassing them.3:40 – What Name Did Jesus Inherit Onoma—His identity, reputation, and authority. Praying “in His name” explained.5:10 – The Name ‘Son of God’ Jesus was declared Son of God in power at His resurrection—not baptism or transfiguration.7:10 – Psalm 2 and the Resurrection “Today I have begotten You” fulfilled—Jesus’ resurrection as the dawn of a new creation.9:00 – God’s New Creation The “Today” of Psalm 2 marks the moment immortality entered history.10:20 – God’s Eternal ‘Today’ Einstein, space-time, and why with God there’s no yesterday or tomorrow—only “Today.”12:20 – Eternal Perspective and Human Choice Our choices in time shape our eternal state; “star differs from star in glory.”14:00 – Already Glorified in God’s Today Romans 8:30 and Hebrews 10:14—believers already perfected in the heavenly realm.15:40 – Paul Saw His Glorified Self 2 Cor 12—Paul’s rapture into the third heaven shows our future reality.17:10 – Jesus Exalted Above All Philippians 2—through obedience unto death, the man Jesus is exalted above every creature.18:40 – We Share His Superiority Ephesians 2 and Romans 8—we’re co-heirs, seated with Christ in heavenly places.20:10 – Our Place in God’s Eternal Today Christ’s obedience in time completed what’s finished in eternity; we share His immortal life.21:25 – Closing Thought / Outro Jesus’ resurrection secured your destiny—to reign with Him forever.📚 Related Resources* 📖 Birth Pangs of the End Times — FREE eBook 1 of the Positive Apocalypse trilogy* 📖 Martyrs and Miracles — Book 2 — Then the End Shall Come* 📖 Restoring Eden — Book 3 – His Kingdom, Our ReignVisit ThomasNoss.com or End-Time-Disciples.com for more teachings, downloads, and discussion materials. Get full access to A Positive Apocalypse at www.thomasnoss.com/subscribe

What does biblical faith look like when obedience costs everything?In Episode 7 of A Positive Apocalypse, a disciple faces the ultimate test — and Revelation’s promise to overcomers becomes real.This is how overcomers are proven.YouTube VersionAs the pressure intensifies, the question becomes unavoidable:Would your faith remain steady if comfort, reputation, and security were stripped away?Episode 7 brings the theme of Revelation 2–3 into focus — not as abstraction, but as lived reality. This is how overcomers are tested. This is how crowns are earned.Jesus encouraged us, saying, “Behold, I am coming quickly. Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.” — Revelation 3:11📖 Continue the StudyRead the trilogy’s Book 1 free worldwide:👉 https://books2read.com/birth-pangsTo start listening to the Trilogy at Episode 1Read the full Companion Scripture & Study Notes here:👉 https://www.end-time-disciples.com/revelation-overcomers-episode-7Get the full Positive Apocalypse trilogy:👉 https://books2read.com/positive-apocalypse⏱️ Timestamps00:00 — The testing begins03:12 — Obedience under pressure08:47 — When faith becomes final15:30 — The cost of refusing compromise23:18 — The heavenly council responds31:42 — Crown imagery and Revelation continuity38:55 — Self-examination: would you remain steady?42:10 — Revelation 3:11 — Hold fast#APositiveApocalypse #EndTimes #ScripturalEschatology #BiblicalMaturity #Revelation23Overcomers #CommandMaturity #FaithfulEndurance #Revelation3 #ChristianFiction Get full access to A Positive Apocalypse at www.thomasnoss.com/subscribe

When the Lamb opens the second, third, and fourth seals of Revelation chapter 6, the red, black, and pale horses ride.War spreads across nations.Famine reshapes economies.Death follows in their wake.YouTube VersionThis episode of Birth Pangs of the End Times is a fictional dramatization of what the opening of these seals might look like in the modern world — not speculation, not sensationalism, but a sober exploration of the spiritual and systemic consequences described in Scripture.Revelation does not present chaos outside of God’s control. The Lamb opens the seals. The events that follow unfold under His authority.What happens when conflict escalates?What happens when financial systems fracture?What happens when scarcity and mortality confront a world that has rejected God?This episode invites you to consider those questions seriously.🎧 A Positive Apocalypse TrilogyThis is episode 6 of Book One, Birth Pangs of the End Times. If you are new to this trilogy, you can start at episode 1 by clicking Here.📖 Continue the studyDid this episode raise deeper questions for you?* Do spiritual principalities rule over nations today?* What does “the third box’s tally” mean?* Is a coming central bank digital currency connected to the mark of the beast?* What is true success in a collapsing world?A structured Companion article explores these questions in greater depth.If this episode challenges or strengthens you, consider sharing it with someone who is serious about understanding Revelation in its full biblical context.Stand in Faith! Get full access to A Positive Apocalypse at www.thomasnoss.com/subscribe

Rachel is introduced in this episode of the Positive Apocalypse trilogy — and with her comes a prophetic vision.Not a vision of escape, but of endurance.* A vision of light spreading to the nations.* Of overcomers rising.* Of the dragon raging against those who keep the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus.Before the storm breaks in the next episode, heaven reveals what victory looks like.What does it mean to overcome? And how does Revelation 12 shape the calling of disciples today?Listen to this podcast, and continue the study with this week’s companion study.To start the trilogy at episode 1, click Here.Companion Study: Overcoming the DragonRevelation 12 does not merely describe a future cosmic battle — it reveals the present calling of the saints. The dragon is cast down, but his rage intensifies. What does it mean to “overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony”?In this week’s Companion study, we examine the scriptural foundation of biblical overcoming — and what it demands of disciples in the last days. Get full access to A Positive Apocalypse at www.thomasnoss.com/subscribe

Episode 4 of The Positive Apocalypse marks a turning point.A trusted friend suffers a sudden medical collapse.A lawful order demands unquestioning compliance.And Katie is forced to choose—between career security and obedience to truth.In this episode, refusing to go along quietly brings swift consequences: isolation, pressure, harassment, and removal. The system closes ranks. Doors lock. Explanations are rewritten. And those who once belonged—who served faithfully—are flushed out.This chapter explores the cost of discernment, the price of independence, and what happens when someone tells the emperor he has no clothes.📖 Birth Pangs of the End Times (Book 1) is available free for readers who want to continue the story from the beginning.👉 Subscribe at https://thomasnoss.com for links to the free book, the full trilogy, and weekly audiobook episodes.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – A system demands compliance 07:20 – Mandatory vaccination order announced 17:10 – Shrek’s sudden medical collapse 21:00 – “I will not comply” 26:43 – Chapter 9: Flushed Out 29:02 – Career or conscience 32:04 – Solitary confinement 34:08 – “The emperor has no clothes” 40:44 – Discharge and exile 45:18 – Closing reflection and prayer Companion Article for Episode 4A nonfiction Companion article for this episode examines the biblical pattern of truth-tellers being rejected by the very systems they once served.Specifically, it explores:* Why are faithful believers so often removed rather than reformed within systems they once served?* How does the Bible describe institutions that promise security but demand allegiance?* What patterns of exile appear in the lives of biblical truth-tellers—from Joseph and Daniel to Jesus and the apostles?* Why does Scripture warn that the majority will choose safety and conformity over faithfulness in times of testing?* Why do most people compromise under pressure, and how does Scripture warn against following the majority? Get full access to A Positive Apocalypse at www.thomasnoss.com/subscribe

In Episode 3 of the Positive Apocalypse trilogy, the story moves from a shattered landing zone to the highest court in the universe. (Start at Episode One?)A combat medevac mission turns catastrophic when an RPG kills the pilot and forces a wounded copilot to make an impossible choice under fire. Courage, sacrifice, and survivor’s guilt collide in a moment where “greater love has no one than this” becomes more than a verse—it becomes a lived reality.But the battle doesn’t end on the battlefield.As the dust settles on earth, the narrative pulls back the veil on the unseen realm. In God’s heavenly court, accusations are weighed, eternal destinies are recorded, and a pivotal decision is made that will change the course of mankind’s history. * The Divine Council convenes. * The Accuser speaks. * Long-standing restraints are lifted.This episode explores:* What it really means to leave no one behind* The cost of obedience and sacrifice in a broken world* The biblical concept of the Divine Council and heavenly judgment* The tension between guilt, forgiveness, and redemption* Why the greatest wars are often fought unseenEpisode 3 deepens the trilogy’s spiritual stakes and sets the stage for a world entering a new and dangerous phase—where deception accelerates, truth becomes costly, and every soul must choose whom they will trust.📖 Episode 3 Nonfiction CompanionA nonfiction Companion for Episode 3 explores the biblical foundations behind the Divine Council scene, the role of the Accuser, and how heavenly judgment is portrayed across Daniel, the Gospels, and Revelation.Specifically, it answers these questions:* Is there really a heavenly court, or council?* Are the 24 elders in the heavenly court?* What’s with the three boxes? Are they biblical?* Why do ‘lip-service’ and ‘Jesus-Plus’ believers go into box 1?* Why does box 3 matter? Are martyrs a ‘trigger’ in Revelation?* Was Satan “bound” so he couldn’t deceive the nations?* Satan’s three restrictions in Chapter 6.* Why 70 principalities over the nations?* Will ‘most’ Christians compromise to save their lives? Is this biblical?The Companion is designed to:* Clearly separate biblical text from fictional dramatization* Encourage listeners to consider spiritual truths illuminated by the episode⏱️ Episode Chapters00:00 – OpeningGreater Love Has No One Than This01:40 – Chapter 5Leave No Man BehindA medevac mission under fire, an impossible decision, and the cost of courage.15:10 – Chapter 6God’s Council in Heaven – Three Boxes Before the ThroneThe Divine Council convenes. Accusations are made. Boundaries are set—and removed.34:20 – Chapter 7Two Children Lost – The Voice of the AccuserGrief, guilt, confession, and forgiveness collide where no medals are given.46:30 – Closing ReflectionThe unseen war intensifies—and the cost of choosing truth begins to rise.Until next time—stand in faith. Get full access to A Positive Apocalypse at www.thomasnoss.com/subscribe

What happens when faith collides with fear—without warning?In This Audio PodcastIn Episode 2 of The Positive Apocalypse, Katie graduates from high school and (after two years of training) she becomes an Army medevac copilot. She’s unexpectedly pulled into a mission she wasn’t prepare for, and may not survive. What begins as routine duty quickly becomes a test of conscience, courage, and identity.This episode explores “the narrow path”—not as an abstract idea, but as a lived decision made under pressure. Drawing parallels to Peter’s unexpected failure and restoration, the story asks a hard question:Have you already decided who you’ll be when your life is suddenly threatened?This is not end-times fiction driven by spectacle or glorified violence. The Positive Apocalypse presents a Scripture-first vision of endurance, accountability, and faith tested in real human moments—where fear can overrule intention if the cost hasn’t already been counted.📚 Dig Deeper: Biblical Companion DiscussionThis episode’s nonfiction companion post explores the biblical theology behind the episode.Get answers to these questions this episode raises:* What’s real in this story?* Do angels still visit people today?* Do people have heavenly experiences today?* Are all governments part of Satan’s world system?* Can Christians serve in these worldly institutions?* Will the majority of believers really compromise?* The golden calf pattern* Modern-day golden calvesCHAPTERS:00:00 – Episode 2 Begins00:02 – A New School, A Hidden Past(Katie arrives, tries to blend in, meets Mrs. Henderson)00:11 – Guilt in a Crowded Room(The cafeteria scene: isolation, shame, quiet encouragement)00:20 – Finding a Place to Sit(Meeting the pilots, nicknames, team dynamics)00:24 – Chapter 4: The Narrow Path(Title card – Forward Operating Base Freedom, Kijiristan)00:25 – A Mission Without Warning(Medevac call, rushed briefing, Apache escort)00:29 – Into the Landing Zone(Red smoke, hostile territory, tension rising)00:32 – Under Fire(Apache gunships engage, RPG threat emerges)00:33 – “RPG Ahead!”(The cockpit explosion and loss of consciousness)00:40 – Counting the Cost(Peter’s denial, fear, self-preservation vs faith)00:46 – Wake Up(Aftermath, smoke-filled cockpit, survival)00:47 – Episode Closing & Next Steps(Book promo + “Stand in faith”)📘 Book One is FREE worldwide as an ebook. https://books2read.com/birth-pangs📦 Or get the complete trilogy box set — all three ebooks, one continuous journey through the end times. https://books2read.com-positive-apocalypseIf this episode resonates, consider subscribing, sharing, and walking the narrow path with us.Until next time—stand in faith! Get full access to A Positive Apocalypse at www.thomasnoss.com/subscribe

Welcome to the weekly audiobook journey I promised you.Last week I committed to bring you the complete Positive Apocalypse trilogy in free weekly audiobook episodes throughout 2026. Today, that commitment begins.Episode 1 covers the first two chapters of Birth Pangs of the End Times. This is where we meet Katie Whitefeather—a young Alaskan native plagued by loss, shame, and a decision she can’t undo.YouTube Video VersionEpisode Length: 42 minutesChapters: Chapter 1 (Gutted) & Chapter 2 (Shame, Rejection, and Hope)Timestamps:* 0:00 - Introduction* 0:15 - Chapter 1: Gutted - Sweet Little Princess Katie* 23:45 - Chapter 2: Shame, Rejection, and Hope - Sin’s Consequences📚 Dig Deeper: Biblical Companion DiscussionWant to go deeper into the scriptures that inspired this chapter? Each fiction episode will be paired with a nonfiction companion post that explores the biblical theology behind the episode.This week’s companion: Episode 1 Theology: When God’s Grace Confronts Human ShameIn this deep-dive, I examine three critical questions raised by Katie’s story:* Can God forgive the “unforgivable”? - What the Bible says about irreversible sins and complete redemption* The Pharisee in all of us - How do we maintain biblical standards without self-righteousness? (Luke 18:9-14)* Living with grace and consequences - Why forgiveness doesn’t erase earthly results, and what that means for believersThis isn’t opinion or tradition—it’s biblical theology tested across the whole counsel of Scripture.💬 Discussion QuestionsFor those who’ve listened:* What was your initial reaction to Katie’s situation? Did you feel sympathy, judgment, or both?* Pastor David says, “The only difference between your sins and ours is, the village doesn’t know what our terrible sins were.” How does this statement challenge you personally?* Katie hopes to “escape her past” by moving to Ketchikan. Based on your life experience or biblical understanding, do you think geographic escape works?* The village treats Katie like the Pharisee treated the tax collector. Have you seen this dynamic in church communities? How should the church balance grace and accountability?Join the conversation in the comments. I read and respond to every comment.📅 Next Week: Episode 2A Fresh Start & Two Rules for LifeKatie hopes for a clean slate—but her past isn’t done with her yet.Uncle Andy introduces “Two Rules for Life” and teaches Katie about counting the cost of discipleship. These principles will shape everything Katie does for the rest of the trilogy.Drops Friday, January 23Subscribe so you don’t miss it.🎁 Want the Complete Book?Option 1: Free eBookBirth Pangs of the End Times (Trilogy eBook 1) is perma-free and available worldwide. Free on Amazon, Kobo, Google Play, Apple Books, B&N, and othersOption 2: Complete Trilogy BundleGet all three ebooks (Birth Pangs, Martyrs and Miracles, Restoring Eden) in one convenient eBook package for $9.99:Buy the Complete TrilogyOption 3: Keep Listening Just stay tuned for weekly episodes. I’ll be here every Friday with a new chapter in Katie’s journey—completely free, forever. Get full access to A Positive Apocalypse at www.thomasnoss.com/subscribe

This is episode 1 in a verse-by-verse Bible Study in the Book of Hebrews.Before Jesus could come, every prophecy had to be spoken, every promise made, every word written. Then—when the scroll was complete—the Word of God became flesh.📖 This first episode of the Book of Hebrews series explores:Who wrote the letter and when it was written (mid-60 AD, before 70 AD)The purpose of Hebrews—to elevate Jesus and warn believersWhat “long ago” vs “in these last days” really meansThe prophetic connection between Hosea 6 and 2 Peter 3 — “after two days He will revive us”The seven-fold glory of the Son revealed in Hebrews 1: Heir · Creator · Radiance · Image · Upholder · Purifier · King📚 Next episode: Hebrews 1:4 – 2:4 — Jesus and the Angels: The First Warning.🎁 Get my FREE prophetic novel Birth Pangs of the End Times (eBook 1 of the Positive Apocalypse Trilogy):👉 Click Here✝️ Until next time—Stand in Faith.#BibleStudy #Hebrews #JesusChrist #EndTimes #BibleProphecy #BookOfHebrews #WordOfGod #StandInFaith #PositiveApocalypse #ChristianTeaching⏱️ Topics in This Podcast0:00 Intro – Before Jesus Could Come0:35 Purpose of the Hebrews Series1:15 Who Wrote the Letter?2:10 When It Was Written (before 70 AD)3:15 The Purpose: Elevate Jesus & Warn Believers4:10 Reading Hebrews 1:1-35:00 Long Ago and in Many Ways – God Spoke6:15 Prophetic Progress Before Christ7:30 In These Last Days – God Speaks Through His Son8:30 Prophetic Timing – Hosea 6 & 2 Peter 39:30 The Seven Attributes of the Son10:00 Heir of All Things10:30 Creator of Heaven and Earth11:00 Radiance of God’s Glory11:30 Upholder of All Things12:00 Purifier of Sins12:30 Seated at the Right Hand of Majesty13:10 Summary – The Supremacy of Christ13:40 Next Episode Preview & Free Book Invite13:55 Closing – Stand in FaithSubscribe at https://thomasnoss.com Get full access to A Positive Apocalypse at www.thomasnoss.com/subscribe

This episode dives deep into the meaning of the Black Horse of Revelation 6:5–6—a symbol of end-time famine and spiritual judgment. The team explores how this isn't just about food shortages and inflation, but also about a famine of hearing the word of God (Amos 8). Scripture, history, and modern trends are brought together to warn of both physical calamities and a spiritual collapse coming within the church—the great falling away of 2 Thessalonians 2:3.🧭 Outline with Timestamps* [0:00] Introduction the Black Horse as famine and spiritual judgment* [0:39] Opening banter: coffee, context from past episodes* [3:20] Core Scriptures: Matthew 24:7–8, Mark 13:8, Luke 21:11, Revelation 6:5–6* [7:20] Isaiah 24: the earth defiled, broken, staggering like a drunkard* [11:55] Joel 1–2: dried-up joy, cosmic signs, call to repentance* [16:25] Amos 4:6–11: divine judgment meant to call people back* [20:55] Ezekiel 5 & 7: sword, famine, plague—God removes false security* [25:15] Peter, Solomon, and the worthlessness of silver and gold* [30:10] Joel 2:32 & Isaiah 25: God's promise of escape and rich provision for the faithful* [36:00] Ezekiel 7:19: silver and gold cannot deliver; spiritual bankruptcy* [38:40] Jeremiah 14: false prophets promise peace, but famine comes* [43:10] Zechariah 14: plague and wealth collapse of nations attacking Jerusalem* [47:45] Haggai 2: shaking of all things—only what is founded in God remains* [50:30] The rider's scales: Lady Justice, and Daniel’s “weighed in the balance” warning* [54:20] Application: How does the modern church resemble ancient Israel?* [59:15] What are our real treasures? People—not possessions* [1:02:30] God's discipline is an invitation to return—He wants us back* [1:05:50] Two famines: of food and of love (Matthew 24:12, 2 Timothy 3)* [1:09:30] A form of godliness but denying its power—churchgoers without faith* [1:12:10] Famine of God's Word (Amos 8:11–14): Dan and Beersheba as golden calf centers* [1:18:15] Modern golden calves and religious festivals: tradition vs. Scripture* [1:24:00] Leviticus 23: feasts fulfilled and those still future* [1:29:20] Weighing our faith: only a few will find the narrow path (Matthew 7:13–14)* [1:34:10] Apostasy (2 Thessalonians 2): Judas as a type of the deceived* [1:39:15] Apocalypse: unveiling of spiritual reality and dimensional truth* [1:43:00] Final warnings: deception, spiritual illiteracy, and famine of truth* [1:47:05] Final prayer* [1:48:00] Closing message: weigh your life against the truth📖 Key Scriptures* Revelation 6:5–6 — The Black Horse and scales of judgment* Amos 8:11–14 — Famine of hearing the Word of God* Isaiah 24–25, Joel 1–2, Amos 4, Ezekiel 5 & 7, Jeremiah 14* Matthew 24:7–12, Mark 13, Luke 21, 2 Timothy 3* Daniel 5:27 — "Weighed in the balances and found wanting"* Matthew 7:13–14 — Narrow is the way* 2 Thessalonians 2 — The Great Apostasy* Leviticus 23 — God's appointed times Get full access to A Positive Apocalypse at www.thomasnoss.com/subscribe

This podcast is a companion supplement discussing spiritual lessons from Chapter 6 of my Christian end-times thriller, entitled Birth Pangs of the End Times.To receive the most benefit from this podcast, please read chapter 6 before listening. You can read it free at www.thomasnoss.com, or you can buy Birth Pangs of the End Times on Amazon. Here’s A Brief Summary of Chapter 6The SettingOn an annual Day of Atonement, early in the 20th century, the Almighty convened his heavenly council.In my fictional representation of God’s heavenly council, God the Father and the 24 elders are seated around a U-shaped table, with God at the center and 12 elders to his left and 12 to his right.Standing before the Father, in the center of the U, are Jesus and Satan.A scribe sits near them at a table with three boxes on it. Each box has a light on it. The first box shines red. The second box shines white. And the third box’s light is not yet illuminated.Around them are a myriad of God’s angels, all watching the proceedings expectantly.The Council’s ProceedingsThe fate of 57 million people who died that year are sorted into one of the three boxes. I’ll be using rounded numbers to simplify this discussion.1. Out of 57 million, Satan has a list of over 37 million who never had a relationship with Jesus. The council agrees for them to go into the first box, making its red light glow brighter.2. Next, the Devil produces a list of 15 million that claim to have some connection to Jesus. They fall into two categories.* 10 million made a lip service confession of faith, but their lifestyle never showed any evidence of true faith.* The Devil said another 5 million were ‘Jesus-plus’ believers, who partly believed in Jesus, but also depended on their own good works, or their church affiliation, for their forgiveness.Jesus agreed concerning these 15 million, except for 2000 people who found true faith before they died. As a result, out of these 15 million, all but 2000 went into the box with the red light. The 2000 went into the box with the white light.3. The remaining 5 million are true believers, so they’ll be put into the second or third boxes.* Almost all of them go into the second box, making the white light brighter* The final 19000 are disciples who suffered martyrdom for their faith. These go into the third box. But this light doesn’t come on.4. Finally in chapter 6, because we’re approaching the end of the age—it’s been almost 6000 years since Adam—God removes Satan’s restriction against deceiving the nations. However, God places the following boundaries on Satan’s activities:* Satan may not kill more than half the earth’s population* He must continue to work through humans, using human authority, because God gave Adam the authority to rule over the earth.* Finally, at the end of chapter 6 Satan convenes his angels for a planning meeting.Spiritual Lessons in Chapter 61. God’s Council in HeavenThe Bible teaches that God has a council, or court, in heaven. For anyone who wants to learn more about it, I recommend the late Dr. Michael Heiser’s website, https://www.thedivinecouncil.com. * The scenes in Job 1 and 2 are well-known examples of God’s council.* Revelation 4 is a picture of God’s throne room, with his 24 elders.* Accuser vs Advocate* 1 John 2:1 Jesus is our advocate with the Father* This chapter is a spatial dramatization of spiritual truths2. Yom Kippur – the Day of Atonement* Annual day of Israel’s national judgement and salvation – Leviticus 23* Passover is about personal and family salvation* Tabernacles is about the salvation of all nations3. In chapter 6, all the dead from the previous year are sorted into three boxes* Some may wonder why the ‘Jesus-plus’ believers got put into the first box with the unbelievers.* Other than believe and receive, there’s no work that we can do to earn our salvation.* We don’t have a personal covenant with God, and your acceptance by God isn’t related to anything you do or don’t do—except to believe.* By faith, we become a partaker in the “everlasting covenant” that’s between God the Father and God the Son.* This covenant is sealed in Christ’s blood, and it’s forever settled in heaven.* You can read about the everlasting covenant at: https://standinfaith.org/old-covenant-vs-new-covenant/* Your good works won’t determine our salvation, but they will determine your eternal rewards. I think of these like the medals that a soldier earns in battle:* 1 Cor 15:41-42, There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differs from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead.* In other words, for all eternity each saint will shine with the brightness he’s earned during this life. The brighter the star, the more glory and respect he will have earned.* 1Co 3:9-15, For we are God's fellow workers. You are God's field, God's building. According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it. Let each one take care how he builds upon it. For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw—each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If anyone's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire.* Paul likens our lives to a building. Jesus is the foundation, and believers all build on him. But what kind of building you build will be tested by fire. Will your building survive?4. The third box includes holy Christian martyrs* Rev 6:11 Then they were each given a white robe and told to rest a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brothers should be complete, who were to be killed as they themselves had been.* Rev 12:1-11 And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death.5. Why will the 3rd box cause Satan’s downfall?* I’ll explain this in the Chap 16 podcast, when Satan is cast down.* The heavenly conflict between God and Satan that started before the first day of creation in Genesis, in a previous age. To learn about this now, read the Overcomers Treasure Map at https://standinfaith.org/spiritual-warfare 6. In chapter 6, God Releases Satan to Deceive the Nations* Revelation 20:3 says the Devil gets seized and bound for 1000 years, so that he can’t deceive the nations. After the thousand years ends, he must be released a little while.* Most people think Satan’s binding happens in the future, after Armageddon, and then he’s released at the end of the millennium.* But I believe he was bound at the cross in the first century, and he was released after WW2 to deceive the nations at the end of this age. I also believe the Gog/Magog references in Rev 20:8 and Ezekiel 38 are the same event. They’re the final battle we call the Battle of Armageddon.* The term for thousand simply means a long time. It isn’t necessarily a literal thousand years.* Here are some of the signs of Satan’s deceiving the nations:* The United Nations and their humanistic global programs, such as ‘Agenda 2030’* World Economic Forum and their global ‘Great Reset’ by 2030* Global controls over economics, media, and religions* Global perversions and ridiculous delusions, such as men chest-feeding babies, gender confusion, and government-sponsored Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs.Paperback Book LaunchBefore concluding this week’s podcast, here’s an update about the paperback version’s status.* This week I reviewed the paperback proof copy and made a number of minor changes for typos, image sizing, etc. I also added two scenes based on feedback from an award-winning author friend.* I’ve resubmitted the updated manuscript and I’ll receive a new proof copy on Monday, January 20th. Assuming there are no problems, I’ll push the publish button early next week.Until next week, may God’s kingdom come, and his will be done, on earth as in heaven.Links:Read Chapter 6 freeBuy Birth Pangs of the End Timeshttps://drmsh.com/divine-councilThe Everlasting Covenanthttps://standinfaith.org/spiritual-warfare Get full access to A Positive Apocalypse at www.thomasnoss.com/subscribe

This podcast is a companion supplement discussing spiritual lessons from Chapter 5 of my Christian end-times thriller, entitled Birth Pangs of the End Times.To receive the most benefit from this podcast, please read chapter 5 before listening. You can read it free at www.thomasnoss.com, or you can buy Birth Pangs of the End Times on Amazon. I’ll post links to both at the bottom of the transcript.Here’s A Brief Summary of Chapter 5While loading wounded soldiers in an enemy-controlled area, Katie’s Blackhawk medevac helicopter was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade, instantly killing her pilot (whose nickname was "Tiedown") in the left seat and knocking her unconscious in the right copilot’s seat. She also suffered from shrapnel wounds in her left arm and face.As she regained consciousness, her crewmen were frantically urging her to takeoff, and she was going to. But then she saw another American soldier, about 50 yards away, running toward them carrying another man over his shoulder. So, even though they were exposed to more enemy fire, she waited until they climbed aboard before she tried to takeoff.Despite her injuries, Katie managed to fly the heavily-damaged helicopter back to their base.A few days later, during a memorial service, Tiedown was posthumously honored with Bronze Star and Purple Heart medals. Katie received the Distinguished Flying Cross and a Purple Heart for her skill and heroism. After the ceremony, she retreated to her private quarters, where she struggled with complex emotions about gaining hero status in the incident that claimed Tiedown's life.Four Spiritual Lessons in Chapter 51. Waiting in the LZ. (LZ stands for landing zone.)2. Will it fly?3. Fate vs Providence4. The Only Real Security1. Waiting in the LZIn chapter 4, while she was unconscious, Katie recalled Uncle Andy’s encouragement to ‘count the cost,’ to be mentally prepared for unexpected threats to her life. He used examples from his experience as a medevac pilot decades ago in Vietnam. Also, from the Bible he used the three times Peter denied that he knew Jesus.In this chapter, after regaining consciousness she was in just such an unexpected situation herself.A 20-year-old newby, she was on her first combat mission. Here she is, waking up next to a dead pilot, in a smoke-filled, battle-damaged aircraft. She’s not fully conscious yet, but her experienced crew-chief is frantically yelling at her to take off and get them out of the LZ. More enemy RPGs could hit them at any moment, killing them all.As she’s preparing to take off and get them all out of danger, she sees Ethan Salvadore struggling to carry another soldier toward her helicopter. He’s about 50 yards away, so it’s going to take a while for him to reach the helicopter. Meanwhile, they’re sitting ducks, an easy target for any enemy with an AK47 or another RPG.She’s immediately confronted with a life and death decision.* Should she sit tight while Ethan struggles to reach them, gambling the lives of the five people still alive on the helicopter?* Or should she abandon the two men, saving herself and four others from the imminent danger they were in?Apparently, she’d listened to Uncle Andy’s words and taken them to heart. Hard as it was, the golden rule said the right thing to do was to wait for the two men…making their helicopter a sitting duck for another 30 seconds--the longest half-minute of her life.She had counted the cost and done the right thing. Ethan Salvadore would be eternally grateful.2. Will It Fly?As she waited for Ethan, Katie realized the lives of everyone on board her helicopter now totally depended on her, and her alone. There was no one else who could fly it.She assessed the situation. Her helicopter was severely damaged, with the dead pilot’s blood and brains splattered around the cockpit. But there was no time to grieve. At any moment they could all share his fate.She realized she had two major problems.* The helicopter was mechanically damaged, but the extent was unknown.* She’d been knocked unconscious, had shrapnel wounds, and her mental state was fuzzy. At this point she didn’t know if she had any other injuries.Was the aircraft safe to fly? What if the flight controls were damaged? What if it started on fire?And, what if she was able to take off but then she lost consciousness? Everyone on board would die, helplessly, in a mass of tangled wreckage.So, no. The aircraft wasn’t safe to fly. And she wasn’t in any condition to fly it. But what was the alternative? The prospect of capture, imprisonment, torture, and rape made Tiedown’s quick death almost preferable.There really wasn’t another viable option. If a damaged aircraft and wounded pilot could get them out of their situation, she’d have to try.As soon as Ethan and his dead friend piled onto the Blackhawk’s cargo floor, Katie ‘pulled pitch’ and got them all out of there and back to their base.How is this a spiritual lesson?Sometimes, due to no fault of your own, you may find yourself in a desperate situation with no good options. In that case, choose to do the right thing and, like Katie, trust that God will make it work. And if he doesn’t, go to lesson #4 below.3. Fate vs ProvidenceAfter having two medals pinned on her uniform, Katie struggled to understand whether God chooses who lives and dies in these situations? And if He does, what’s his criteria? She said questions like this made her brain hurt.The Bible teaches that God puts a hedge of protection around people and nations that he favors. Job and Israel are examples.I recently watched a History Channel documentary about George Washington. The documentary said he wasn’t a Christian, but he did believe in what he called providence. That is, he believed he had divine protection of some kind. This belief was reinforced in 1755, when, as a young British officer in the French and Indian War, he was in a battle where two horses were shot out from under him, and his coat had three bullet holes through it, but he emerged unharmed.I believe God supernaturally protected Washington because he was so instrumental in the rise of America as a fledgling nation. So, yes, I believe God does put a hedge around some people, and not necessarily because they’re believers.In my head I can hear voices from two camps now:* One says, “How do I get God to put a hedge around me?* The other says, “Why does God play favorites? Why has he made my life and my family so miserable?I’m afraid there’s no simple answer from this world’s perspective. Bad things often happen to good people. Jeremiah, Job, and Habakkuk all asked, ‘why do the wicked prosper?’But all such questions are from the perspective of our short lives in this world, which is not the right way to look at it. This brings me to lesson #4.4. The Only Real SecurityThe only real security we have isn’t in this world. We need to raise our eyes higher.Psalm 73 gives us the correct perspective to view our situation. If you’re following the Lord, but wicked people always seem to be more blessed than you, this psalm is for you.I’ll be reading verses from Psalm 73 in the English Standard Version:Psalm 73Verses 3-9 talk about the prosperity of the wicked.The Prosperity of the Wicked (v3-9)I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.They have no struggle in their death; their bodies are well-fed.They are free of the burdens others carry; they are not afflicted like other men.Therefore pride is their necklace; a garment of violence covers them.From their prosperity proceeds iniquity; the imaginations of their hearts run wild.They mock and speak with malice; with arrogance they threaten oppression.They set their mouths against the heavens, and their tongues strut across the earth.Verses 12-14 contrast the prosperity of the wicked against the affliction of the righteous.The Wicked’s Prosperity Contrasted with the Affliction of the Righteous (v12-14)Behold, these are the wicked— always carefree as they increase their wealth.Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure; in innocence I have washed my hands.For I am afflicted all day long and punished every morning.Then, the psalmist gets a different perspective and he finally understands the truth.The Key to Understanding (v16-22)When I tried to understand all this, it was troublesome in my sightuntil I entered God’s sanctuary; then I discerned their end.Surely You set them on slick ground; You cast them down into ruin.How suddenly they are laid waste, completely swept away by terrors!Like one waking from a dream, so You, O Lord, awaken and despise their form.When my heart was grieved and I was pierced within,I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before You.In contrast with the future ruin of the wicked, the righteous have hope for their futureEternal Blessing of the Righteous (v23-26)Yet I am always with You; You hold my right hand.You guide me with Your counsel, and later receive me in glory.Whom have I in heaven but You? And on earth I desire no one besides You.My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.The last two verses sum up the two fates of all mankind.The Two Fates Contrasted (v27-28)Those far from You will surely perish; You destroy all who are unfaithful to You.But as for me, it is good to draw near to God. I have made the Lord GOD my refuge, that I may proclaim all Your works.So, just as in Psalm 73, in chapter 5 Katie realized that if she’s living in communion with the Lord, death doesn’t matter. She has nothing to fear from death. In a previous chapter she visited a beautiful meadow in heaven, and she didn’t mind if death took her back to that beautiful place forever.In the meantime, she decided that she doesn’t need to solve the mysteries of God and the universe. She only needed to do two things:* Do everything as unto the Lord, and* Follow the truth in every situation.This concludes the spiritual lessons from chapter 5.Next Week’s PodcastIn next week’s podcast we’ll be taking a trip to

This podcast is a companion supplement to Chapter 4 of Birth Pangs of the End Times, discussing spiritual topics from this chapter. So, to receive maximum benefit, read chapter 4 first. You can read it free at https://www.thomasnoss.com, or buy the book at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DR3Q275G Spiritual lessons from Chapter 4 of Birth Pangs of the End TimesIn chapter 4, Katie’s breakfast is interrupted when she’s unexpectedly assigned to be a copilot on her first combat medevac mission. Her pilot’s nickname is Tiedown, and they’ve been called to rescue some wounded Green Berets.She’s amazed and excited to see how Tiedown does things in the cockpit. She realizes she’s no longer in a training environment. Tiedown doesn’t read from the aircraft’s checklist. He does the Blackhawk’s startup sequence from memory. And forget about making a soft and gentle landing in the landing zone, or LZ.In the LZ, when she sees her first real casualty, a soldier whose mangled leg was missing below the knee, Tiedown sees her transfixed by the gory stump. He tells her “A Dustoff pilot’s rule number one is ‘Don’t look behind you.’ Some things you’ll see can mess with your head. Focus your attention forward so you can fly them back as quickly and safely as possible.”The LZ was thought to be safe. Sporadic enemy fire was quickly addressed by their Apache gunship escorts. Then, Katie saw a single enemy stand up with a long tube on his shoulder, a rocket propelled grenade launcher, and it was aimed directly at her. Before anyone could react, the RPG exploded into her helicopter’s cockpit, killing Tiedown in the left pilot seat.Blasted into unconsciousness, she heard what sounded like a grand piano crashing down from a 10th-story apartment onto a concrete sidewalk—all 88 keys pounding at once.She felt no pain, and no sensations or awareness of the physical world at all. She didn’t see, hear, or feel anything from that realm. But strangely, she was still completely self-aware.Am I dead? Is this what it’s like to die?Most of us have had a similar experience, where we’ve been knocked unconscious, knocked out of the physical world into what people call unconsciousness.And yet, in that inner realm, there’s another level of consciousness within each of us. It’s a level where we’re actively thinking, and we have a sense of our own identity, but we’re not aware of the physical world around our body. Perhaps it’s the realm we’re in when we dream at night.Once I had a situation like Katie’s. I was piloting a scout helicopter in Vietnam when my helicopter’s tail rotor hit a tree, making me and my two gunners crash into a brushy hillside. I was knocked unconscious when my head hit the ground. As I was regaining consciousness, but before I could open my eyes, I had thoughts like Katie’s.Noxious fumes filled the cockpit, bringing me into a semi-conscious state. Choked by the fumes, I couldn’t breathe. I feared being burned alive if the crash caught fire. I was dazed in the wreckage, with my face laying against leaf-litter on the jungle floor. I couldn’t unlatch my seatbelt. In my soul, I resigned myself to die.But then, from somewhere deeper inside, I felt my spirit say, “No! Do Not accept defeat. Keep trying!” So I did. I found the latch, freed myself, and crawled forward, through the broken windscreen, onto the brushy hillside. I yelled for my gunners, who’d left me for dead, and we climbed up the hill to be rescued by another helicopter and taken to the Long Binh hospital for stitches.I believe these thoughts, from deeper inside, were from my spirit—that part of each one of us that gives our body its life.Here’s the relationship between our spirit and soul… In Genesis, when God created Adam he breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and Adam became a living soul. God’s breath became Adam’s spirit, and the combination of spirit and flesh is what creates our soul. Our spirit is not of the physical realm, but our soul is. Our spirit doesn’t need to eat, stay warm, or use our body’s physical senses. These are all soulish functions. Your spirit is your life, your personality, the essence of you. As Jesus hung on the cross, it was when he breathed out his spirit that his body died.When your body dies, your spirit continues to live, but not in the physical realm.Where does the spirit live after we die? That depends on whether your spirit is clean or dirty. In our physical existence we’ve all sinned at least once in our life, and that sin permanently defiles our spirit. And our defiled spirit can never enter God’s presence.The only way to enter God’s presence is to exchange our defiled spirit and receive a clean, undefiled spirit. God made this possible through our repentance and faith in the sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus. Faith in his perfect sacrifice and resurrection enables God to give us a portion of Christ’s Holy Spirit. This is what Jesus meant when he told Nicodemus that we must be born again. Then, afterward, as we follow his spirit within us, denying the world, the flesh, and the Devil, we grow in holiness as sons of God. You’ll see this process dramatized in future chapters of Katie’s story.Seeking Glory and RespectKatie was eager to get into combat. She wanted to prove herself in battle, like her uncle Andy, who sewed his Vietnam medevac unit’s patch on every new leather flight jacket he ever owned. She wanted to earn the same glory, the same respect, and the same reverence people showed to him in their town.In fact, she hoped to enjoy even more prestige than her uncle. He was a white male from the lower 48, so his combat exploits were not surprising to anyone in Ketchikan.In contrast, she was a Klinatok female, an orphan barely 20 years old, and her community had no such expectations for someone like her … especially with her history.She’d prove Auntie Ella wrong. She’d make her clan and her parents proud of her.It’s natural for us to want to make our family and community proud of our achievements, and to be respected and honored. But, in the big picture, such a desire is short-sighted. All the people we want to respect us will be dead in 100 years. Katie will earn this world’s acclaim, but she’ll soon learn that worldly glory is both fickle and temporary.I’d much rather seek eternal glory and respect by following the Spirit of God and perfectly accomplishing his will for my life. If you do this, for all eternity you’ll have glory and respect from God and all the angels and saints in heaven. Jesus himself will say, “Well done, my good and faithful friend.” (Jn 15:15 and Mt 25:23)Counting the CostKatie has a flashback to an outdoor BBQ, when Uncle Andy encouraged her saying, “In life, but especially in combat, you need to be mentally prepared for unexpected threats to your life.” He said, “your natural impulse will be to pull pitch and get the heck out of there.”The term ‘pull pitch’ is pilot slang. It’s when a pilot pulls up on the collective pitch control of a helicopter. Doing so increases the pitch, or angle, of the rotor blades spinning overhead, making them grab more air, increasing the helicopter’s lift.Uncle Andy used the example of Peter, when he denied three times that he knew Jesus. The night before, at the Last Supper, Peter boldly claimed that he was willing to die for Jesus. But when confronted unexpectedly by a servant girl, at the end of Mark chapter 14, Peter began to curse and swear, saying “I do not know this man of whom you speak! And immediately the rooster crowed a second time. Then Peter remembered the word that Jesus had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” And he broke down and wept.Peter regretted this for the rest of his life. Many link Peter’s three denials with the three times the resurrected Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love me?” in John chapter 21.In the last 20 years I can think of two cases where I fell into the same trap Peter fell into. In both cases, when I was unexpectedly confronted with a question that would’ve been detrimental to my goals or reputation, I instinctively lied to protect myself. I’ve repented of these moral failures and been forgiven. But they taught me a lesson. The lesson is this:1. If I don’t do anything wrong, I won’t need to cover anything up.2. Always speak the truth, even if it’s not complementary to my goals or reputation. The consequences of truth are better than the shame of guilt. Live in the light, don’t hide in darkness.What is True Success?Uncle Andy said, “Wealth and rank are the world’s metrics for success. This success is genuine, but it’s temporary, and short-sighted.”“In the afterlife, billionaires and presidents will have less status than today’s homeless beggars. Remember the parable about the rich man and Lazarus? All worldly success will be burned up. But genuine success is measured by following the truth in every situation.”He continues, saying, “You’ve got a good and tender heart, Katie, and flying with the Army has been a blessing for both of us. But the Army bureaucracy is part of Satan’s world system, and we’re members of God’s kingdom. These two kingdoms are at war with each other, and none of us can be faithful to both. We all must choose. So, eventually, the world’s bureaucracy will test you to determine your loyalty.”Walking the Narrow PathAndy summed up his advice, saying, “Will you compromise the truth and follow their philosophies and dictates, like ninety-nine percent of people do? Or will you walk the narrow path, alone, and follow the truth? When you’re tested, no matter what the cost, I encourage you to follow my two simple rules.” We discussed Andy’s 2 rules in chapter 3’s podcast.In Matthew chapter 7 Jesus told us to “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the way that leads to life, and only a few find it.”Only a few will enter through the small gate and walk on the narrow path. I

IntroductionGet ready to strengthen your faith and gain powerful insights into the end times with the Stand In Faith podcast, hosted by Amazon best-selling author Thomas Noss, also known as Major Tom.In each episode, Tom explores spiritual lessons from his "Positive Apocalypse" trilogy and two nonfiction books, all available free on StandInFaith.org. He also discusses current events from a biblical perspective, recommends faith-building resources, and responds to listener questions.Join Thomas as he helps you stand firm in your faith and prepare for the Lord's return. And now, here's your host, Major Tom!Thank you Emily. This is episode 3 in the Stand In Faith podcast. Today’s date is Friday, December 27th, 2024.Works In Progress Update:Before I discuss the sales status of my new book, I want to remind everyone that the content of all my fiction and nonfiction books and articles is available free through my website at StandInFaith.org.I have two reasons for publishing commercial versions of my work.1. Many subscribers asked me to give books to them in Kindle, paperback, audible, and hardcover formats, which they prefer.2. My calling is to proclaim end-time truths to people in every nation, and commercial vehicles like Amazon have established in-roads to people in many countries.With that disclaimer out of the way, here’s some exciting news about my new book release.* Before Christmas, when my new Kindle eBook entitled Birth Pangs of the End Times was on pre-order, it rose to being the #1 New Release in the Religious Biblical Fiction category.* On Christmas day it went live, and it’s already the #1 Best Seller in the Men’s Inspirational Spirituality category. So it’s already an Amazon Best Seller in one of its three Amazon-assigned categories.* As of now, it’s Friday, Dec 27th at 11am Eastern time, and the book is currently #5 in its two other categories, which are: Women’s Inspirational Spirituality and Inspirational Spiritual Fiction. By New Year’s Day I expect it will reach #1 in those categories as well.* I sent my Launch Team an email yesterday, sharing my goals and schedule for the book’s launch. In a nutshell, I have two launch goals, and the launch team’s scheduled activities go from now until December 31st.* My two goals are:* To earn Amazon Best Seller status in its three Amazon-assigned categories.* Get at least 8 book reviews on Amazon, and 5 reviews in GoodReads.During the book’s launch, I’ve discounted the price by 75%, from $7.99 down to $1.99.To get your copy before the price goes back up to $7.99 on New Year’s Day, go to Amazon and search for the book title, Birth Pangs of the End Times. Or, go to the bottom of this podcast’s transcript and I’ll share a link.For those who read the book, please leave a review on Amazon.Finally in my ‘Works in Progress’ section, I’ve had two people today ask me when the physical book will be coming out? I’ll try to get the paperback version formatted and released within the next two weeks.Recommended Resources1. Yesterday, Hephzibah, a sister from England, sent me a worshipful YouTube video of Michael W Smith leading a large audience in singing Agnus Dei, Worthy is the Lamb. I was really busy with book launch planning at the time, but once I started this video, I had to stop everything and just immerse myself for 10 minutes in its Spirit of worship. I realized that it’s been a long time since I’ve been in a congregation that really entered into worship, reverently waiting on and worshiping Jesus, in fellowship with others in the Spirit of the Lord. If you’d like to experience this feeling, I’ll add a link to the YouTube video at the bottom of this podcast’s transcript. You can find Hephzibah’s channel on Substack.com @Hephzibah78. I’ll add a link in the transcript.2. I’m still recommending the book entitled PREM: An Apostle's Triumphant Witness for Christ in Nepal. Prem Pradhan was a Hindu soldier, A Gurkha in the British Royal Air Force, then he commanded a tank regiment in the Indian army. But God had other plans for his life. Prem’s story of dedication and sacrificial faith is one we Westerners need to hear in the days before we’re called upon to suffer for our faith. And that day is coming. I’ll add a link to buy this book at the bottom of the transcript.Current Events Analysis* While everyone is distracted by the holidays, many of the world’s economies are on the verge of collapsing. For example, the Mannarino Market Risk Indicator or MMRI, shows the US Stock Market is at an extreme level of risk. On the MMRI chart, anything above 200 is high, and above 300 is extreme risk. We’re at 310 and it’s still rising.* Meanwhile, in the middle east, Syria is a failed state and Iran’s economy is failing, making the Ayatollahs even more dangerous as they cling to power.* Speaking of Iran, the outgoing US administration recently briefed the incoming Trump administration that Iran is an imminent nuclear threat. It sounds like the Biden people have washed their hands, like Pontius Pilate, and said “Good luck with that.” I just hope we make it to January 20th without something blowing up. Link in the Transcript.* Fox News celebrities Sean Hannity and Ainsley Earhardt are now engaged.* The following are gleanings from the Christmas edition of the Know the Times newsletter in Substack.* Drunken Sailors: There’s a summary of the American budget fiasco last week, including congress’s attempt to give themselves a 40% pay raise. Thankfully, their bloated bill got rejected, and they ended up ‘kicking the can down the road’ a couple more months. But, after president-elect Trump proposed eliminating the debt ceiling altogether, I’m concerned what a totally republican US government will do when this issue comes up again in the spring. If they remove the debt ceiling, congress will spend like a drunken sailor, without restraint, resulting in hyperinflation.* The Next Scamdemic? There are human cases of Bird flu in California, Wisconsin, and Louisiana. The governor of California declared a state of emergency there. New Jersey’s largest healthcare system now requires everyone to wear masks on their premises.Spiritual LessonsIn the Spiritual Lessons portion of today’s podcast I’m discussing Chapter 3 of Birth Pangs of the End Times.Here’s A Brief Summary of Chapter 3:1. After being rejected and ashamed in her village, Uncle Andy enrolled Katie in Ketchikan High School where Katie finally gets a fresh start.2. Andy shared his two rules with Katie, which Katie agreed to follow.3. After a social studies class discussion about abortion leaves Katie alone and depressed in the lunchroom, her teacher encouraged her. Her teacher said, “You’re a good person and you’ve got a bright future ahead of you, so always remember that.” Katie left the cafeteria with a desire to heal, forgive herself, and begin anew with a fresh start.4. Four years later, Katie graduated from high school, enlisted in the Army, and graduated from flight training as a Warrant Officer helicopter pilot. Katie is assigned to fly Blackhawk helicopters in a medevac squadron in Kygyristan, a fictional nation resembling Afghanistan and Iraq.a. Katie is a good pilot, but she’s struggling to learn the administrative and procedural requirements in her new position. She must memorize all the local area routes, threats, safe altitudes, and procedures before she can be released as a copilot and become part of a crew flying operational medevac missions.b. After a full day of studying, she puts on her mask and parka, then walks out into the cold to the squadron mess hall. There, she’s loudly invited to join three of her fellow pilots at their dinner table. She doesn’t really want to but feels socially obligated to join them. T-Bar, Shrek, and Tiedown are their nicknames. They introduce themselves and give her the nickname ‘Poca,’ which is short for Pocahontas. These three will be her best friends during her time in Kygyristan.Three Topics:1. A Fresh Start: Sometimes we all need a fresh start. If Katie would’ve stayed in her village, it would’ve been very difficult—almost impossible—for her to gain any semblance of self-respect or success. Every day, for the rest of her life, someone in the village would’ve looked down on her, reminding her of her moral inferiority to them. So, changing her environment didn’t change Katie, but it gave her the opportunity to start making the changes she wanted to make.2. Uncle Andy’s Two Rules. This book is unapologetically a Christian book, but I don’t like syrupy-sweet, Bible-quoting movies and books that beat me over the head with their religious message. In everyday life, real people don’t talk like that. So I tried really hard to avoid being preachy. On the other hand, our need for God in our lives, and our common need of repentance and faith are true, so it would make this book just another spiritually-useless bit of entertainment if I watered them down so as to make them popular with everyone who doesn’t want to be spiritually challenged. As a result, Uncle Andy rarely quotes the Bible, but his two rules basically sum up the way everyone should think and live. And if you follow these two rules, I believe you’ll prosper as God’s disciple.3. Encouragement and Hope: Her teacher’s words of encouragement gave Katie a desire to heal, to forgive herself and hope for the future. It’ll be a few years before Katie is fully able to forgive herself, but here she’s encouraged and there’s a flicker of hope—she sees it afar off.Listener emails and comments* About the last podcast, Aaron said, “Great episode this week. I'm enjoying the spiritual lessons you're drawing out of each portion of the book.”* I received these comments about my new book release:* Lily said, “How exciting!”* Justine said, “I look forward to this new book.”* Un-silent had trouble seeing the options for the cover design survey, so I posted them in my website and added a link in the comments to last week’s newsletter.Next WeekIn next week’s pod

Transcript at https://standinfaith.org/stand-in-faith-podcast-episode-2/ Get full access to A Positive Apocalypse at www.thomasnoss.com/subscribe

Episode 1 Show Notes Get full access to A Positive Apocalypse at www.thomasnoss.com/subscribe