Wake up Castle Rock and America

I pray that everyone had a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving. Now, I have a question for you. Do you keep Christ in Christmas at Christmas? Or would you instead celebrate something else? This question has haunted me for almost as long as I can remember. I remember the first time that it ever crossed my mind. It was in the military, and we were in the field on maneuvers at Christmas in Germany. I wonder about Christmas customs around the world. One of the stories I had heard was about the people of China celebrating Christmas in a completely different way than most other countries. It went like this back when the Chinese Communist Party ruled over them, and many homes wouldn't even have doors on the holiday. They would have a small image of Jesus at the center of the door and another person or family member outside to greet guests. It bothered me to think about how different our culture was from theirs, but at the same time, it also made me want to learn more about them so that I could be like them without being afraid of what others might think of me. So I started praying about it, asking God whether or not I should change what I am doing with my heart this holiday season. I asked Him to show me if keeping Christ in Christmas is possible or if even I am too stuck on the tradition to see past it all and accept Jesus as my true love gift from God… Christmas is one of the most important holidays of the year for Christians. It is a time to remember that God's gift of His Son, Jesus, came to earth as a man and died on the cross so that we could live. In this Spirit-filled season, we rededicate ourselves to living life to the fullest and celebrate Christmas as a time to focus on Him—not things, people, or ideas that can't be missed on December 25th. So here are some tips from a Christian standpoint on how to celebrate Christmas from a healthy perspective.         What is Keeping Christ in Christmas? Keeping Christ in Christmas is crucial to Christ's birthday—Christmas—in the holiday season. It is making room for Jesus in one's own home during this time of year. Traditionally, this has meant that the door to one's home is shut, and a small image of Jesus is placed at the center of the door. On the doorframe is a picture of the Nativity or the Ascension. Family members and close friends are invited to open the door and greet the guest as the doorbell rings. Gifts are exchanged, and the Christmas spirit is brought into the home.       Does Keeping Christ in Christmas depend on our culture, or can it be changed with time and effort? It's really up to you. You can choose to keep what Christ is believed to have meant for your culture and celebrate it throughout the year with your family, friends, and community. Or, you can turn back the hands of time and observe what your culture does not celebrate. This is why it's so important to make time for yourself this season and open the door for the season of giving. This is the first step to keeping Christ in Christmas. By making time for yourself this season, you are actively choosing to keep Christ in the Christmas season. Stay in the Christmas Spirit. When you celebrate Christmas, you are celebrating the life and death of Jesus. You are paying him tribute, and by doing so, you are acknowledging His existence and His power and celebrating how he redeemed us from our sins by giving us his precious blood. When you stay in the Christmas spirit, you are focused on only some things that are supposed to be done on December 25th. Instead, you are aware of the fact that this is a special day, and you are making an effort to focus on what is likely to be an incredibly joyous occasion.       What are other customs keeping Christ from us this season? Many customs are associated with Christmas that we could spend our time examining and discussing, but a few could be more positive. For example, there is the custom of reindeer-ing, in which poor, tired, abused, and hungry reindeer are forced to pull a sleigh full of toys and other gifts made by humans. Other animals are often forced to serve as companions; most of the time, they are not given adequate food or water to keep them alive through the long journey. There is also the custom of equipping the reindeer with sledgehammers and chainsaws so they do not have to walk in pain and can deliver the gift parcels. Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas: living a new life and being born again. Many people need help understanding the true meaning of Christmas. They think it is about Santa and presents and getting into the nitty-gritty of bargaining with the most powerful man in the world. But the truth is, the real meaning of Christmas is about living a new life and being born again. Most of us have heard the story of how Jesus was born. We have been told that He was born in Bethlehem of Nazareth. We have been told that He was born under the sign of the star that His parents saw in the sky. We have also been told that He grew up in Capernaum on the Sea of Galilee. But what we may not know is that after living a life of sin, after being tempted in every way that human souls could be drawn, He came to earth as a man and died on the cross for our sins. And now He is alive again and has returned to heaven.       Is keeping Christ in Christmas even possible? It is possible to keep Christ in Christmas, but it requires a lot of work. People might not notice if you don't actively work on it, but the choice is there for you to make. The first step is to accept Christ as your true love gift from God. Then, you need to make space for Him in your home this Christmas. This can be as simple as closing the door or turning off the lights in the room where you typically keep your traditions. It would be best if you chose to open the door for the season of giving by accepting the gifts others have brought for you. Finally, it would be best if you spent time with people celebrating something different from you. Celebrate the birth of Christ by reciting his birth announcement and His story. At the heart of Christmas is the birth of Christ. And during this season, you can celebrate the fantastic fact that through the power of God, the Son of God was born to earth. You can observe that He lived a sinless life and that we were all born again through His birth. You can also celebrate how the perfect babies were conceived through a virgin's womb. You can observe that this baby, conceived through God's power, was born to a virgin. This is the compelling story of the birth of Christ, and while you are celebrating the beginning of that story, you are also celebrating the end. Don't forget about the poor and oppressed. As the most famous religious holiday in the world, the opportune time to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas is during this season. During this time, we are all more conscious that we are all connected by a shared humanity and that by participating in this season of giving, we are extending a warm and fuzzy feeling to people less fortunate than ourselves. Look to Jesus for redemption. When you celebrate the true meaning of Christmas, you are also celebrating the fact that through the death of Christ, our sins were forgiven, and a new relationship with God was begun. This is a time to think about how we can return the favor and be more welcoming to the people in our lives who have been having a rough time this past year. When you think about the poor and oppressed, you are also thinking about the people in your community who may not have had a chance to celebrate Christmas because they are struggling with their own economic issues. You can't make a wish for the whole world during this season of gifts because you are not going to change anyone's mind—only your heart. So instead of being hard on yourself for being so selfish as to forget about other people, you can look to Jesus for forgiveness and try to give him a warm and fuzzy on this birthday.       Conclusion The true meaning of Christmas is about giving, and it is possible to celebrate Christmas without giving to others. This is the essence of Christmas, but some people choose to keep it out of duty or obligation. The truth is that Christmas is a time to spend with family, friends, and loved ones, but it can also be a time to give gifts to others. The key is to celebrate the birth of Jesus, the son of God, in a way that makes His birth meaningful to the recipient. As you can see, there are many ways to celebrate Christmas from a nutritional standpoint and keep Christ in Christmas. By carefully planning your celebration, you can avoid excess and focus on the good things that come with this beautiful holiday. If you are struggling with overeating or feeling stressed out this time of year, try to stay focused on the good in your life and schedule downtime for a relaxation exercise before the big day. This will help you stay in the Christmas spirit and focus on the true meaning of this most important holiday. Jesus Christ

A Visit from St. Nicholas BY CLEMENT CLARKE MOORE 'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there; The children were nestled all snug in their beds; While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads; And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap, When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter. Away to the window I flew like a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash. The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow, Gave a lustre of midday to objects below, When what to my wondering eyes did appear, But a miniature sleigh and eight tiny rein-deer, With a little old driver so lively and quick, I knew in a moment he must be St. Nick. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name: "Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! on, Cupid! on, Donner and Blitzen! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!" As leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky; So up to the housetop the coursers they flew With the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too— And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof. As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound. He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot; A bundle of toys he had flung on his back, And he looked like a pedler just opening his pack. His eyes—how they twinkled! his dimples, how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard on his chin was as white as the snow; The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke, it encircled his head like a wreath; He had a broad face and a little round belly That shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly. He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself; A wink of his eye and a twist of his head Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread; He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk, And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose; He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight— “Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

Thanksgiving with a Christian Point of View What are you thankful for? Let us Talk about Thanksgiving. There are so many things to be thankful for in life. From the most minor things, like a beautiful sunrise, to the bigger things, like being alive and having friends and family. Here are a few things that come to mind when I think about what I am thankful for. Primarily, I am thankful for my family. Able to tell my that I loved her before she went home to be with Christ Jesus’ mom, last living sibling, my sister Eva Lee, my wife Deanna, and children are the most important people in my life, and I could not be happier to have them all around me. I am thankful for their love, support, and laughter. I am also thankful for my friends. I have never had as many great friends as I do now, and I am grateful for every single one. They have helped me through some tough times; I think of them as my second family.   Lastly, I am thankful for my health. Although not perfect, and I have had my share of setbacks, I am happy with my health. I do not always feel great, but I know that I am lucky to be alive and able to do all the things that I love according to the will of God. Giving thanks is a crucial part of the Christian faith. The Bible tells us to give thanks in all things (1 Thessalonians 5:18). And what better time to give thanks than Thanksgiving? Giving thanks is a way of showing our dependence on God and His blessings. It is also a way of expressing gratitude for all He has done for us. When we give thanks, we acknowledge that everything we have is a gift from God. What a reason to give thanks! This Thanksgiving, let us remember to give thanks for all of God's blessings, big and small. Let us also remember to give thanks for His most extraordinary gift of all - His Son, Jesus Christ. Through Christ, we have been given the ultimate blessing of eternal life.   Thanksgiving is a time when most people take time to reflect and be thankful for the things they have in their lives. This may be why it is often considered one of the happiest holidays. But it can also be stressful, especially if you host friends or family for the first time. However, there is more to Thanksgiving than just food and football games. This holiday has a deeper meaning that harkens back to the Puritans, who first celebrated this special day in 1621 by giving thanks to God for their blessings. In fact, "The First Thanksgiving" was an event that brought together settlers from England and Native Americans as allies instead of enemies. As with any other Christian holiday, there are diverse ways you can celebrate Thanksgiving from a Christian point of view.       Keep the focus on giving thanks and celebrating abundance. The central theme of the day should be. That is why the first pilgrims came together in the first place. If you want to go even further, you can incorporate the celebration of abundance. You cannot be grateful if you do not also have a bunch of blessings in your life. The Christian celebration of Thanksgiving invites us to celebrate the goodness of God by reflecting on all the blessings in our lives. Whether struggling or thriving, you can always find something to be grateful for.   Have a meal that reminds you of all you are grateful for. The centerpiece of most Thanksgiving celebrations is the meal itself. But if you want to take things a step further, why not choose a food that reminds you of something you are grateful for? You can also select the type of food based on the person you are thankful for the most. This can be a friend, family member, or significant other. You can even make it a group celebration by choosing food that reminds you of your friends or community. If you want to do this in a way that is as inclusive as possible, you can ask each guest to bring a dish that represents something for which they are grateful.       Do not forget that helping others is one of the most important Christian values. As someone welcoming guests into your home, you may need to emphasize that helping others is a prominent Christian value. However, the best way to do this is to demonstrate the importance of giving to others while planning and preparing for your celebration. This way, your guests will see your value first-hand in helping others. If you are hosting the meal, think of ways to help others by donating your time or money. This can be as simple as giving to your local food bank or helping a friend who needs extra hands. If you are attending a friend's celebration, think of ways to help that do not involve active hosting. For example, you can offer a side dish to share or even help clean up.     Help your guests understand why this holiday is unique to you as a Christian. While celebrating the first Thanksgiving is a beautiful way to celebrate the Christian holiday, it is not the only way. You can also develop your traditions and help your guests understand why they are essential to you. You can go all out with a full-blown, themed celebration, or you can keep things simple by choosing one aspect of the holiday to focus on. This can be anything from the menu to the decorations. Let your guests know what you are planning so they can participate in the celebration to the best of their ability. If they are not Christians, tell them that the holiday is something you celebrate annually but that they do not need to participate in any religious aspects. You can even help them find ways to experience that do not have anything to do with Christianity.   Did you know Thanksgiving is a holiday that celebrates the harvest season, and the holiday was first celebrated by the Pilgrims in 1621. The holiday is not a pagan holiday and is celebrated worldwide by Christians.   Thanksgiving is a holiday that celebrates the harvest season, and the holiday was first celebrated by the Pilgrims in 1621. The holiday is not a pagan holiday and is celebrated worldwide by Christians. While Thanksgiving is celebrated by many people, there are some who believe that it is a pagan holiday. The holiday is not celebrated in England until the mid-18th century and in Canada until the late 1800s. The holiday is also not celebrated in Scotland until the late 19th century. The holiday is celebrated first in the United States and then in other countries worldwide.   Remember to continue celebrating when the holiday is over. The holiday itself is excellent, but you do not have to stop celebrating when it is over. There are plenty of ways you can continue to focus on gratitude once the celebrations are over. A straightforward way is to keep a gratitude journal. Every day, write down one thing for which you are grateful. Once a week, read your diary so you can reflect on all the blessings in your life. This way, you can extend the holiday if possible and always remember to be grateful for everything you have. There are also more involved ways to continue the celebration even when the holiday is over. You can create an ongoing tradition that you perform every year on Thanksgiving, whether decorating your home for the winter season or baking a particular type of pie. Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks for all the blessings in our lives. But what if we could also give thanks for the ultimate blessing of eternal life through Christ Jesus? Just think, if it were not for Christ, we would have no hope of eternal life. So, this Thanksgiving, let us give thanks for the ultimate blessing of eternal life through Christ. Because without him, we would have no hope. Also, invite Jesus into your home this Thanksgiving Tell Jesus You're Thankful Primarily, you can bring Jesus into the holiday by expressing gratitude to him. It is easy to get so caught up in the busyness of the season that you forget to pause and give thanks to the Divine Being, who is the source of all blessings. When people are often gathered during the holidays, it is a beautiful time to express gratitude. You can do this formally, such as having everyone at the table go around and say what they are grateful for. You can also do this informally while waiting for family members to arrive at a gathering.       Participate in a Thanksgiving Meal Ritual One of the most important rituals of Thanksgiving is the meal itself. When was the last time you invited Jesus to sit at your table for a Thanksgiving meal? To ask Jesus into your holiday festivities this year, you can make the meal a memorable spiritual experience. You can do this in a few ways. You can start by ensuring that your table and surroundings are clean and tidy. This is not only respectful of your guests, but it also represents taking time to clean up your life and surroundings. You can also make sure that your table is set beautifully. This can be a highly creative activity that engages all your senses. For example, you may want to set the table with fall flowers and candles to create a beautiful atmosphere. You can also make the meal itself an act of worship! You can start by saying grace before eating or by making a special ritual out of blessing the food. You can also include special foods representing the fall season, such as pumpkins and apples. Finally, you can invite all your senses into the meal by creating a unique atmosphere and serving the dinner with special attention and care.       Light A Candle to Guide Your Thanks Another way to invite Jesus into your meal is to light a candle to guide your thanks. You can do this after you have said grace or at any other time you want to give thanks during the meal. When lighting the candle, you can use it to help guide your thoughts and words so that you express gratitude in a beautiful and meaningful way. To do this, look at the flame, and allow it to draw you into a state of deep relaxation. Then, as you inhale, imagine that your breath fills the flame with gratitude. As you exhale, imagine the flame taking your breath and gratitude and guiding it toward the Divine Source of all blessings. Continue t

When I share this, I'm speaking of myself as a military veteran that served 21 years of service to this country. And went through many ups and downs and had many doubts. I also would like to share with not only veterans but everyone. Christian service is noble, sacrificial, and life-changing. At the same time, serving as a Christian soldier is challenging and often lonely. As a result, veterans who identify as Christians sometimes feel isolated from their faith and unprepared for their post-military life. Thankfully, several Christian organizations support veterans with unique benefits and services. But you don't need to be an active member of any organization to remain vibrant in your faith, pursue God's will for your life, and transition smoothly into civilian life. This quick-read ebook podcast will explore Christian veterans' challenges, specifically as they transition from military service into civilian life. From there, we'll get you ready to take the next step toward becoming a thriving veteran who knows what you believe and why you believe it!         Christian veterans struggle to find their place in civilian life. For many veterans, the military is the only way they know how to make a living. As such, veterans often struggle to identify their new selves in civilian life. What do you do with your skills and expertise? And where do you belong if you can't remember a place for yourself? Veterans often find themselves alone, sitting uneasily between civilians and fellow veterans. This can create a "no man's land" where you struggle with your own identity as you question where you belong. This feeling is familiar among veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. While many civilians can walk away from service knowing they made a difference, veterans often don't. They were caught up in the mission and the mission alone. While the task was necessary, the veterans frequently asked what their service meant.   Christian veterans struggle to maintain a healthy relationship with God. Veterans who walk away from active duty often wonder how they can continue to trust and follow God. For many, the decision to walk away from military service was to walk away from God. This makes it challenging to maintain a healthy relationship with God. Where do you start? How do you trust again after putting your trust in yourself and others who ultimately failed you? As a Christian veteran, you must seek a healthy relationship with God. This relationship will help you regain your faith and grow as you trust God to see you through your post-military life.     Christian veterans struggle with depression and anxiety. While we don't have enough data to know how prevalent mental health struggles are among veterans, we do know that veterans who identify as Christians are more likely to struggle with anxiety and depression. There are many reasons for this. Among them, veterans who identify as Christians often struggle to find their place in civilian life. They work to maintain a healthy relationship with God, and, as a result, they struggle to understand the point of their service. As a Christian veteran, you must understand the signs of depression and anxiety and seek help as soon as they arise. You must also realize what an unhealthy relationship with God looks like. You can challenge these issues independently, but you will likely face significant challenges and setbacks. It's best to seek the help of a qualified and experienced mental health professional.     Christian veterans have difficulty finding purpose and meaning in their service.     As a Christian veteran, you may need help understanding the point of your service and the service itself. The challenge here is to recognize that your service's effectiveness differs from the service itself. The fact is the impact of your service on those around you. The best way to understand the point of your service is to ask yourself a straightforward question: "What difference did my service make, and how did it make a difference?" If you're having difficulty answering this question, it may be because you have yet to witness your service's impact. If this is the case, you can continue to trust God during this waiting period. Trust that God has a plan for your kindness and service itself. As you await God's plan, you must remember that the point of your service is the impact of your service on others.   Christian veterans struggle to understand where they fit in the Church.   As a Christian veteran, you may have difficulty understanding where you fit in the Church. After all, you're no longer in uniform and not a part of a specific unit or community. While your service will inform your role in the Church, you'll likely find that you're not restricted to any single position or community. As a veteran, you may find yourself in various settings, including in a civilian congregation, a veteran's Church, online, or even in prison. Whatever role or community you find yourself in, you can learn more about your faith and how you fit into the Church by reading the Bible (both the New Testament and the Psalms are great places to start), attending a Bible study, or even joining a veteran's Bible study.       Conclusion When you're ready to jump into your post-military life and know who you are and what you believe, you'll find it easier to be the best version of yourself! As a Christian veteran, you must understand the challenges you face in becoming a thriving veteran who knows what you believe and why you believe it. You can use the information in this article to prepare for the long and challenging journey ahead.   Why I Choose To Celebrate Veteran's Day As A Christian The Bible contains plenty of information about serving in the military. While many of the Bible's references to the military are only analogies, several verses directly relate to this question. The Bible does not explicitly state whether or not someone should serve in the military. At the same time, Christians can rest assured that being a soldier is highly respected throughout the Scriptures and know that such service is consistent with a biblical worldview.   The first example of military service was in the Old Testament (Genesis 14) when Abraham's nephew Lot was kidnapped by Chedorlaomer, king of Elam, and his allies. Abraham rallied to Lot's aid by gathering 318 trained men from his household and defeating the Elamites. Here we see armed forces engaged in a noble task—rescuing and protecting the innocent.   Late in its history, the nation of Israel developed a standing army. The sense that God was the Divine Warrior and would protect His people regardless of their military strength may have been why Israel was slow to develop an army. The development of a regular standing army in Israel came only after Saul, David, and Solomon developed a robust, centralized political system. Saul was the first to form a permanent army (1 Samuel 13:2; 24:2; 26:2).   What Saul began, David continued. He increased the army, hired troops from other regions loyal to him alone (2 Samuel 15:19-22), and turned over the direct leadership of his armies to a commander-in-chief, Joab. Under David, Israel also became more aggressive in its offensive military policies, absorbing neighboring states like Ammon (2 Samuel 11:1; 1 Chronicles 20:1-3). David established a system of rotating troops with twelve groups of 24,000 men serving one month of the year (1 Chronicles 27). Although Solomon's reign was peaceful, he further expanded the army, adding chariots and horsemen (1 Kings 10:26). The standing army continued (though divided along with the kingdom after the death of Solomon) until 586 B.C. when Israel (Judah) ceased to exist as a political entity.   In the New Testament, Jesus marveled when a Roman centurion (an officer in charge of one hundred soldiers) approached Him. The centurion's response to Jesus indicated his clear understanding of authority and his faith in Jesus (Matthew 8:5-13). Jesus did not denounce his career. Many centurions mentioned in the New Testament are praised as Christians, God-fearers, and men of good character (Matthew 8:5; 27:54; Mark 15:39-45; Luke 7:2; 23:47; Acts 10:1; 21:32; 28:16). The places and the titles may have changed, but our armed forces should be just as valued as the centurions of the Bible. The position of a soldier was highly respected. For example, Paul describes Epaphroditus, a fellow Christian, as a "fellow soldier" (Philippians 2:25). The Bible also uses military terms to describe being strong in the Lord by putting on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-20), including the tools of the soldier—helmet, shield, and sword.   Yes, the Bible does address serving in the military, directly and indirectly. Those who honorably serve in the military deserve our respect and gratitude. Christian men and women who serve their country with character, dignity, and honor can rest assured that our sovereign God condones and respects the civic duty they perform.     ‍     ‍   There are many national holidays that Christians may struggle with. Veteran's Day is one of those. Many Christians perceive it as a secular holiday and perhaps even a bit un-Christian. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. When we look beyond the surface, there are many Christian principles within Veteran's Day that can help us grow in our faith. Let's explore why as Christians, we should embrace Veterans Day rather than shy away from it.           Decoration And Acknowledgement Of The Fallen Veteran's Day is about more than just celebrating our armed forces; it is about paying tribute to those who have fallen in combat and continue fighting for our freedom today. While we honor those who have served, we should also remember those lost during the war. Let's take a moment to reflect on how their sacrifice has impacted us. Veterans Day is a way to remember our fallen brothers and sisters in arms. It is a chance for us to pay homage to

                                                        I'm a Christian with PTSD                                               God can even use my situation for His glory                                                                                                                                                     Mt acronym for PTSD = PRAYER -THANKFUL-STEADFAST-DEDICATED (TO TRUST IN GOD)   I have military service-connected disabilities, and yes, there were moments when I even had suicidal thoughts because I felt like I was a burden to my family. I found myself withdrawing from society and avoiding social situations at all costs.  I did not want to be around people, but my wife kept pushing me to seek help and got me back into the church. While symptoms of PTSD won't ever go away, through treatment, they can be managed and remain dormant, so living and thriving with PTSD is possible. FYI only People who have experienced a traumatic event and have PTSD are at greater risk of attempting suicide. About 27% of those diagnosed with PTSD have attempted suicide. Last month, the media reported on three separate yet related death by suicide in just one week. Does PTSD damage the brain?   According to recent studies, Emotional Trauma and PTSD cause brain and physical damage. Neuropathologists have seen overlapping effects of physical and emotional trauma upon the brain. Although The Bible does not say anything specifically about Posttraumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD, I can glean much guidance from some indirect teachings in the Bible. What is PTSD: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that may occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, a severe accident, a terrorist act, war/combat, or rape or who have been threatened with death, sexual violence or severe injury. Yes, I have a treatment process involving physical, mental, and spiritual healing. I also require professional help. My treatment is ongoing. I have gotten many resources from the VA hospital. Medication has helped alleviate some of my symptoms. I m thankful to have a network of support—counselors, doctors, my family members, pastors, and the church family—it has been essential in my recovery process.  Of course, my most important support is God, our ultimate Healer, and Counselor. David wrote, "From the ends of the earth I call to you, / I call as my heart grows faint; / lead me to the rock that is higher than I. / For you have been my refuge, / a strong tower against the foe" (Psalm 61:2–3). It is our responsibility to exercise faith in God, to stay in the Word, to cry out to God in prayer, and to maintain fellowship with other believers.  We go to God in our distress and use the resources He provides. Regardless of the circumstances, there is hope. First and foremost, that hope comes from God. Posttraumatic stress disorder can be devastating, but I must remember that I was not alone in my struggles.  Many others have dealt with PTSD, and resources are available to help you. It can be challenging to get through each day when you're struggling with PTSD, but staying positive and focused on the good in your life is essential.    You deserve happiness in your life, and you deserve to be healthy. There are many ways to cope with PTSD, but staying in God's Word does help. By changing your thinking, focusing on the good, practicing self-care, and finding a support group, you can manage your PTSD and find joy in your life again. I did. I discovered that Changing my perspective helped me stop feeling sorry for myself and focus on the good things God has blessed me with in my life. Finding humor in my situation allows me to laugh away some of my stress and fear. I had to learn to speak the truth about practical things; it was challenging but also necessary. Often, I felt endangered when the situation did not warrant it.  Remind me that going to Walmart or any store is not a traumatic event but a new and safe situation. This is important. It is also essential to say that PTSD is not an excuse for bad behavior. Likely, PTSD will contribute to opposing thoughts and behavior patterns. This is understandable, but it should be resisted. James 4:7 New International Version Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. When we encounter trauma, it's natural to have an immediate and often intense response. After all, the human brain was not designed to experience these kinds of events.  When we are suddenly confronted with danger, it triggers the "fight-or-flight" response in our brains. This is an automatic reaction that our ancestors needed when they were in trouble — but unfortunately, these responses are now triggered by experiences that are not physically threatening.  Fortunately, as Christians, we do not have to leave suffering unaddressed or unresolved just because we believe that Jesus has already won the final victory over evil and sin.  With Christ and his Holy Spirit living within us, we can still find a way forward from any traumatic event and begin to heal from its effects on our lives. If you or someone you know has experienced trauma from abuse or other events and needs help understanding how the Christian faith can help with PTSD, read for some suggestions. Know that God cares about you and will help you heal.   Jesus suffered significant trauma in his life — not only on the cross but also in his childhood when he was separated from his mother and had to confront the injustices of his society. Jesus also lived with the knowledge that he would suffer an unjust death.  Like Jesus, you can rely on God's presence and love when you feel most alone. God is always with you and will help you heal from the trauma you have experienced. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to get to know God better. Read his Word to find out what he thinks about you and the trauma you've experienced. Remember that you are not alone. When you suffer trauma, it's important to remember that you aren't alone.  The Bible tells us that we've all experienced hardships due to living as human beings on this broken planet. One of the most reassuring passages for those suffering trauma is Psalm 34:18: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." God's Word tells you that you are not alone; others have endured the same suffering and survived, and so can you. It would be best if you reached out to others in your community who can be there for you when needed. You may want to find a local trauma survivors' support group or a counselor who can help you connect with others who have also experienced trauma.   Acknowledge your feelings, but don't rely on them exclusively. When we encounter trauma, we are often encouraged to express our feelings, but it's important not to rely too much on them.  For example, if you were sexually abused as a child, it's not healthy to continually re-experience those emotions or sensations in your body. Instead, you want to acknowledge those feelings and emotions and then focus on healing from them.  You can do this by writing down your memories, speaking to them to a trusted friend or counselor, or engaging in other activities that can help you process what has happened without re-experiencing the trauma again and again. You can do this for any traumatic event in your life: a car crash, the death of a loved one, acts of violence, or natural disasters.  Remember Can PTSD be permanent? In some cases, mainly where it is not treated, PTSD can last a very long time, perhaps the remainder of one's life. Most people with longstanding PTSD find that the symptoms are not steady in severity. For some people, PTSD symptoms gradually fade over time. I have developed insomnia and sleep apnea and still wake up in a sweat. I still react to sudden movement or noise. However, I continue to work on myself through God and my wife and ongoing counsel. Identify what helps you feel safe. Some people want to avoid the situations that trigger their trauma. Others want to face their fears. It's essential to identify what helps you feel safe: • Avoiding certain people or places. • Facing your fears. • Engaging in activities that help you relax. • Engaging in activities that help you feel strong. • Connect with friends or family members who can support you. • Spending time in nature. • Reading scripture. • Praying. • Seeking professional counseling — these are just a few of the many ways you can begin to heal from trauma. My wife convinced me to join the recreation center's American Legion and silver sneakers and pursue my photography hobby.     Find a trusted counselor and build a support network. Talking with a professional counselor can help you process your trauma and find new ways to cope with your anxiety, fear, or other negative emotions. It can be helpful to talk with someone who understands what you're going through and who can help you process and heal from the trauma you have experienced in your life. It's also essential to build a support network of people who can be there for you when you need them. You may want to find a support group or start visiting a counselor who can help you find others like you who are going through similar things.   Take care of your body by eating well and exercising. Taking care of your body is an essential part of healing from trauma. Eating well and exercising can help you to feel empowered, relaxed, and strong. In addition, taking care of your body can remind you that you are worth taking care of. You can do whatever works for you: meditative exercises like yoga or tai chi, physical exercise like running or weight-lifting, eating well by eating a balanced diet — it's essential to find something that works for you. One important thing to remember is that you don't have to get over trauma in one day or even a few months. Healing takes time and is an ongoing process — but you do

  God's Plans or Your Plans   God's plans never fail and always lead us to a happy ending, but that doesn't mean we won't get scared or feel like giving up. Feelings are real and can take over your mind, giving you second thoughts about continuing with what you believe is the right path. However, if you keep listening to your fears, you will never know what God has in store for you. If we let fear control our actions, we might miss out on the great things that are waiting for us around the corner. Whatever challenges come our way, trusting God is the most important thing we must do to succeed. With these inspiring quotes about trusting God when everything feels off, you will be able to remind yourself that it's not about your plans or His plans but rather His plan for your life.           Change your perspective When everything feels off, and you're second-guessing every choice you make, you might want to consider changing your perspective. We can all change our perception of an event, situation, or person and start seeing things differently. If your life is feeling off, start looking at things with a new perspective. You might discover that you have nothing to worry about. You can change how you feel by changing how you look at things. If you are stressed out and feel things aren't going well, try looking at the situation differently. Break down the problem into smaller pieces, and focus on the positives. By changing your perspective, you might realize everything is going according to plan.       Don't be afraid to fail. When you're walking through life, there will be moments when you will feel like everything is going wrong. You may feel like you're failing at life and don't know where to go from here. You may feel like giving up and quitting everything you've been trying to achieve. At these moments, you must remember not to be afraid to fail. If you forget this one thing, it doesn't mean you're a failure as a whole. Everyone fails at some point in their lives. All great people who have ever walked the face of the planet have failed. This is how we learn to grow and get better. If you don't make mistakes, you can't learn from them. Failing at something doesn't make you a failure; it makes you human.       It's not about you Sometimes we get so caught up in our own lives and plans that we start to forget that it's not about us. It's about what God has planned for us. We will make mistakes. We will feel lost and lonely. We will question our faith. This is all part of our journey, and it's OK to feel this way. When you get overwhelmed with your feelings, remember that it's not about you. It's about God. God has a plan for your life, and he has your back. He sees you when you are in the depths of despair, and he hears your cries for help. He is there for you. He wants you to know that he is with you through the ups and downs of life.       God won't give you more than you can handle There will be moments in your life when you feel like you're being tested. You will face many obstacles, and you will struggle to find a way to get past your fears. You will feel like giving up and want to walk away from your journey. This is when you must remember that God won't give you more than you can handle. Every situation you encounter is meant to help shape who you are as a person so you can grow into a better person. You are not meant to go through life without facing any obstacles. They help you grow and become a better version of yourself. You can get through anything you're faced with. Remember that God won't give you more than you can handle.       Take time to reflect. When the universe feels turned upside down, and you want to give up, take time out of your day to reflect. Reflect on your past and experiences, or even those who have played a role in your life. Think about the things you have learned and how you have grown. Reflecting on your past can help you realize that you can do great things. You have what it takes to make it through the tough times and succeed in whatever journey you're on.       Bottom line The universe is a crazy place, and it will throw us curve balls regularly. It can be hard to know what to do when everything feels off. You might get scared and feel like giving up, or you might have to force yourself to move forward. Regardless of your thoughts, you must remember that it's not about your or God's plans. It's about God's plan for your life. Never let fear make you question your decisions, as God's plans always result in a happy ending. Even if we get scared or feel like giving up, when we follow God's plans, they will lead us to a good place. When you listen to your fears, you will never know what God has in store for you. Whatever challenges arise, trusting God is the most important thing you can do to succeed. We must heed God's plans rather than our own if we wish to achieve. In these inspiring quotes on trusting God despite everything going wrong, you'll be able to remind yourself that it's not about His plans versus your plans, but rather His plan for your life. In the book of Galatians, Paul challenges the church to "Stand firm and do not be intimidated." In verses 17-19, he encourages them by reminding them of who they are in Christ. As believers, we have an identity in Christ that is much more than what we were before salvation. We are saved and set free from the penalty of sin, but we also have a new identity. In this booklet/podcast, you'll learn about your identity in Christ, how it changes everything, and how it should impact everything. Read on to discover more about your new identity in Christ as a follower of Jesus.     What does it mean to have an Identity in Christ? The first part of Galatians 4:4 reads, "In Christ you are..." This is your identity in Christ. It is the place you find yourself as a believer. To have an identity in Christ means having an identity in relationship to Jesus. Your identity in Christ is an excellent reminder of what you were, who you are now, and who you are yet to be. First, it reminds you of what you were. Before salvation, you were a slave to sin. You were captive to the power of sin, held by its grip, unable to break free. The Christian life is not about trying to live a perfect life. You were not saved to try and be good enough. Instead, you were saved from being set free. With God's help, you've been free from sin's power and given power over sin. Second, it reminds you of who you are now. As a believer, you are set free from the power of sin. You are no longer a slave to sin but a slave to righteousness. You are not just set free from the penalty of sin; you are also set free from the law of sin and death. No longer are you held captive by its power. You have been adopted as a child of God and have a new identity as God's child.   You are no longer a slave to sin. First, you are no longer a slave to sin as a believer. Sin has a hold on all of us. Sinful desires and tendencies are a part of our fallen state. Because of the fall, we are all born with a sinful nature. That sinfulness is directed toward our relationship with God. We are sinful and want to do sin. We want to do what is against God and His word. We want to live our lives our way and on our terms. We are in an ongoing struggle with our sinful nature. In Christ, you are no longer a slave to sin. You are free from its power and have the power to fight it. In Christ, you have been given the ability and capacity to defeat sin and to live above it. You have been given a new nature, a new heart, and a new spirit. You are now a new person because the older person has been crucified with Christ. You have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit. He lives in you, empowering and enabling you to live above sin and be set free.   You are set free from the law of sin and death. Second, as a believer, you have been set free from the law of sin and death. Law is a rule or standard. The law of sin and death refers to the practice or standard given in the Old Testament. It is a rule written on the hearts of humans that they failed to live up to. The law of sin and death refers to the power of sin and death holding humans back from eternal life. In Christ, you have been set free from the law of sin and death. You are set free from the power holding you back from your potential and the life you were meant to live. The law of sin and death was a rule written on your heart. It was within you holding you back from being all that God created you to be. In Christ, you have been set free from the law of sin and death. In Christ, you have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit. He lives in you, empowering and enabling you to live above sin and be set free.   You have been adopted as a child of God. Third, you have been adopted as a child of God as a believer. God, the author of life, created you and has great plans for you. In Christ, you are adopted as a child. This means that God has adopted you into His family. You are no longer just a friend or a companion but a child of God. Through His Son, Jesus, God has adopted you as His child. You have been given a new identity as God's child. You have also been given a new name. Your name is no longer the one your parents gave you. Instead, it is the name of a son or a daughter of God. God gives you His name and an identity as a son or a daughter. You are God's child, and you are called to represent Him.   How does your Christian Identity change everything? Your identity in Christ is everything. It is where you find yourself and how you see yourself. It is your past, present, and future. In Christ, your past has been forgiven and forgotten. Your present is transformed, and your future is filled with hope and promise. You were saved and set free from the penalty of sin, but you also have a new identity. You are no longer a slave to sin, set free from the law of sin and death, and adopted as a child of God. Your Christian identity changes everything. Everything chan

Welcome to Wake up Castle Rock. Wake up, America.   We are living in a world of corruption, destruction, hypocrisy murderous individuals, and was sad about it is that a lot of this is the outcome many political leaders have taken God and Jesus out of our nation. I think some people question where's God. The reality, we all need Jesus, from the sinner to the Saint, from the prison to the politician, from the church members to the pastors. We all need Jesus. God is right here with us. We must continue faith, hope, and trust in God and never lose heart. We all know, at least I hope that we all know, that in God's word, this says there will be wars and rumors of wars; take a good look around you. Are we living in end times? I believe we are, but if that date is near, none of us truly knows. I can only hope and pray that Christians will wake up and share the gospel of Jesus Christ and not be afraid to do it. I also hope to pray that non-believers will come to Christ and also pray that these political leaders, those that have hearts of stone, God will give them a heart of flesh, so they will realize what they are doing. You know, I don't care too much about watching the news. It is very depressing a times. It's just one-sided. It's OK for them to promote homosexuality, yet they do not want to promote the virtues of living for Christ. You have churches that are being burned down, people that believe in pro-life are being attacked but yet that somebody says something negative about homosexuals, they want to take you to court they want to say, oh, that is a hate crime it's very confusing what about the hate crimes that it's been formed and that have been targeted against Christians. I am not that naive not to think that someone will say something negative about this podcast. They will hate me for being a Christian speaking the gospel truth. Still, it's OK because if they say something negative about this podcast, all they do is what it says in God's word. Jesus said in this world you would have trouble, you would have tribulation but take heart he has overcome the world. Jesus also said you would be persecuted. And I'm not going to lie; I genuinely believe that some who profess to be Christians are afraid to stand up for Christ because I might lose my job or fear what people would think of me. But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.   Suppose you need any appliance repair. I highly recommend Aspen Appliance Repair of Castle Rock. Ask for Kevin Kreger 720 909 3095 Aspen Appliance Repair - Best Rates in Castle Rock CO https://www.aspenappliancerepairofcastlerock.com/   We service all Major Brand Name Appliances. Quality Service to Castle Rock residents for over 25 Years. No Service Call Fee. Services: Oven Repair, Appliance Repair, Washer Dryer Repair. Garbage Disposal Repair · ‎Contact Us · ‎About Us · ‎Professional Services This is not a paid advertisement

DUCT TAPE   DUCT TAPE It can fix many things, but it cannot improve stupidity -ignorance-foolishness-arrogance Has Covid caused many just to go stupid-foolish-arrogant-ignorant-You decide Many people lack knowledge; yes, this includes our elected leaders but rather than trying to find it, they don't. Fools remain in stupidity and would rather live in evil than learn the way of righteousness. Just take a look around rainbow fentanyl pills-hate crime mounting up-yale professor working with 3-year old’s on their gender journey-john Kerry climate hypocrisy-man arrested for buying body parts-foot floating in yellow stone park-people sucker punching innocent bystanders- Body found in Clear Creek in Adams County; investigation underway Shooting outside a sports bar in Aurora and so much more.   Look at what Scripture teaches about being stupid Proverbs 9:13 Folly is an unruly woman; she is simple and knows nothing.   Ecclesiastes 7:25 I searched everywhere, determined to find wisdom and to understand the reason for things. I was determined to prove to myself that wickedness is stupid and that foolishness is madness.   2 Timothy 3:7 Always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth.   Proverbs 27:12 The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.   Ecclesiastes 10:1-3 As dead flies give perfume a bad smell, so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor. The heart of the wise inclines to the right, but the heart of the fool to the left. Even as fools walk along the road, they lack sense and show everyone how stupid they are.   Proverbs 14:23-24 In hard work, there is always profit, but too much chattering leads to poverty. The crown of the wise is their wealth, but the stupidity of fools is just that—stupidity!   Psalm 10:4 The wicked are too proud to seek God. They seem to think that God is dead.   Fools hate getting corrected.   Proverbs 12:1 The person who loves correction loves knowledge, but anyone who hates a rebuke is stupid.   Idol worshipping   Jeremiah 10:8-9 People who worship idols are stupid and foolish. The things they worship are made of wood! They bring beaten sheets of silver from Tarshish and gold from Uphaz, and they give these materials to skillful craftsmen who make their idols. Then they dress these gods in royal blue and purple robes made by expert tailors. Jeremiah 10:14-16 Everyone is stupid and without knowledge. Every goldsmith is put to shame by his idols, for his images are false. There is no life in them. They're worthless, a work of mockery, and when the time of punishment comes, they'll perish. The Portion of Jacob is not like these. He made everything, and Israel is the tribe of his inheritance. The LORD of the Heavenly Armies is his name.   Reminders   2 Timothy 2:23-24 Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Proverbs 13:16 All who are prudent act with knowledge, but fools expose their folly.   Ignorance is the lack of knowledge or understanding. Ignorant people are either unaware or uninformed. Sometimes we are ignorant because we do not know there is a need to learn something. Other times, we are ignorant because we have chosen not to learn something we need to know. In Hosea 4:6, the Lord says, "My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you." Willfully rejecting knowledge that God wants us to have is sinful ignorance. While unintentional ignorance about earthly topics is understandable, intentional ignorance about spiritual matters can lead to eternal destruction (Romans 1:18–23).   The Bible makes a distinction between ignorance and innocence. We don't have to be ignorant of sin; we can be highly informed about sin yet remain innocent of it. But we should all be ignorant about the practice of evil. Ephesians 5:11–12 says, "Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret." In Matthew 10:16, Jesus warned us, "I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves."   We must know how our enemy functions to fight the spiritual battle. Believers are encouraged to forgive each other "so that Satan would not outwit us; for we are not ignorant of his designs" (2 Corinthians 2:11, ESV). Ignorance about what the devil is up to—and ignorance of the damage done by unforgiveness—is dangerous to our spiritual health. One of Satan's basic tactics is to keep people ignorant: "The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ" (2 Corinthians 4:4). Ignorant people are easy prey for those with wicked schemes (Psalm 1:1–2; Proverbs 7:6–7, 21–23).   God says that idolatry springs from spiritual ignorance: "Ignorant are those who carry about idols of wood, who pray to gods that cannot save" (Isaiah 45:20). Ignorance of the true God is unjustifiable because the knowledge of God's existence and power is available all around us (Romans 1:18–23). People who substitute false gods instead of pursuing the real God are sinfully ignorant.   Hebrews 5:2 says that Jesus is "able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and are going astray since he himself is subject to weakness." God has great patience, even with the ignorant. Even when we are willfully ignorant, He gives us a multitude of opportunities to learn (2 Peter 3:9). Paul said that God showed him mercy because, before Jesus saved him, he had "acted in ignorance and unbelief" (1 Timothy 1:13; Acts 3:17).   God commands us to repent of our ignorance and seek Him with all our hearts (Acts 17:30; Jeremiah 29:13). The opposite of spiritual ignorance is wisdom, and we are told to seek wisdom above all things (Proverbs 3:13–18). Fortunately, knowledge is readily accessible; the book of Proverbs personifies wisdom as a noble lady who is calling out to all publicly: "To you, O people, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind. You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, set your hearts on it" (Proverbs 8:4–5). Every time the Bible commands us to "listen" or "hear," God gives us a chance to trade ignorance for His wisdom.     Foolishness results from a person misusing the intelligence God has given him. A fool uses his reasoning skills to make wrong decisions. The most basic type of foolishness is denying God's existence or saying "no" to God (Psalm 14:1). The Bible associates folly with a quick temper (Proverbs 14:16–17), perverse speech (Proverbs 19:1), and disobedience to parents (Proverbs 15:5). We are born with innate foolishness. Still, discipline will help train us in wisdom (Proverbs 22:15).   Proverbs 19:3 says that foolishness is counterproductive: "A person's folly leads to their ruin." Jesus in Mark 7:22 uses a word that means "senselessness" and is translated as "folly." In that context, Jesus describes what comes out of the heart of man and defiles him. Foolishness is one of the pieces of evidence that man has a defiled, sinful nature. Proverbs 24:9 says, "The schemes of folly are sin." Foolishness, then, is the breaking of God's law, for sin is lawlessness (1 John 3:4).   To the fool, God's way is foolishness. "The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing." (1 Corinthians 1:18; cf. verse 23). The gospel seems foolish to the unsaved because it doesn't make sense to them. The fool is entirely out of phase with God's wisdom. The gospel goes against the unbeliever's native intelligence and reason, yet "God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe" (1 Corinthians 1:21).   The believer in Christ receives the very nature of God (2 Peter 1:4), which includes the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16). By relying on the Holy Spirit's indwelling power, the believer can reject foolishness. His thoughts can please the Lord, and he can make decisions that glorify God as he enriches his life and the lives of those around him (Philippians 4:8–9; Ephesians 5:18—6:4).   When it comes to our eternal destiny, one is either a fool, meaning he rejects the gospel of Christ, or one is wise, meaning he believes in Christ and commits his life to Him (see Matthew 7:24–27). The believer discovers that the gospel—what he thought was foolishness—is, in reality, the wisdom of God providing him eternal salvation. Has Covid caused many just to go stupid-foolish-arrogant-ignorant- You decide Many people lack knowledge; yes, this includes our elected leaders but rather than trying to find it, they don't. Fools remain in stupidity and would rather live in evil than learn the way of righteousness. Just take a look around rainbow fentanyl pills-hate crime mounting up-yale professor working with 3-year old’s on their gender journey-john Kerry climate hypocrisy-man arrested for buying body parts-foot floating in yellow stone park-people sucker punching innocent bystanders- Body found in Clear Creek in Adams County; investigation underway Shooting outside a sports bar in Aurora and so much more   Look at what Scripture teaches about being stupid. Proverbs 9:13 Folly is an unruly woman; she is simple and knows nothing.   Ecclesiastes 7:25 I searched everywhere, determined to find wisdom and to understand the reason for things. I was determined to prove to myself that wickedness is stupid and that foolishness is madness.   2 Timothy 3:7 Always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth.   Proverbs 27:12 The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.   Ecclesiastes 10:1-3 As dead flies give perfume a bad smell, so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor. The heart of the wise inclines to the right, but the heart of the fool to the left. Even as fools walk al

Your Thoughts Is It Okay to Push or force Homosexual Ideas on People? Welcome to wake up castle rock and America. I'm your host Willie Ayers.   ‍I remember when many spoke about Christian trying to force religion on others; however, I do not hear anyone speaking of homosexuals forcing their ideas on others, including children. You turn on the tv or go to a movie nine times out of 10; there with be an act of homosexual activity or conversation eluding to it. Many researchers cite environmental factors as major contributors to homosexual feelings. They firmly believe that negative early childhood experiences in an unloving or non-supportive home environment are a critical part of this process. In the modern world, it's evident that there are many different ideas about what is right and what is wrong. It doesn't take much to see that Christians and homosexuals have very different viewpoints on what is acceptable behavior. Many people today don't believe in God or think he doesn't exist. To many non-believers, it seems clear that the Christian faith is outdated and irrelevant. But the truth is that we live in a world where people make decisions about their eternity every day. The Bible makes it clear that everyone will answer to God one day, no matter who they are or what they have done on earth. In this podcast, I will be discussing homosexual ideas vs. Christian views on love and relationships with a further focus on gay marriage and Christianity. The Problem with Same-Sex Marriage for Christians For many people, it might seem like a good idea to have people marry whomever they want, regardless of their sex. But Christians have a problem with this because they believe God designs marriage between one man and one woman. They reason that only a man and woman can create a family and be there for each other in a way that nobody else can. Christian marriage is based on God's creation of humans, male and female. That marriage was designed to bring together two individuals of the opposite sex for a life-long relationship to love and care for one another and raise children. The Bible and Homosexuality The Bible has a lot to say on various topics, and homosexuality is one of them. When people try to discuss the issue of homosexuality and Christianity, the first thing they often do is look at specific passages in the Bible that talk about it. The Bible makes it clear that the act of homosexuality is a sin. God created humans, male and female, and he didn't make any others. According to the story in the book of Genesis, God created Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve. But just because the Bible condemns homosexuality, that doesn't mean that every person who is gay is automatically going to hell. The Bible clarifies that no person is beyond God's mercy if they ask for it. What the Bible Says About Homosexuality and Marriage Homosexuality is against the Bible, but it isn't the worst sin out there. Homosexuality is a sin, but not all sins are equal. We know, for example, that murder is a much worse crime than lying. Similarly, some sins are worse than others, and homosexuality is one of them. By committing this sin, a person rejects the gift of gender that God has given them. In dismissing their God-given identity, they leave a core part of who they are. So, the Bible doesn't say much about homosexuality because it wasn't a common practice in the times when the New Testament was written. But when it does address homosexuality, the Bible makes it clear that gay marriage is an act of rebellion against God's desire that people have a family with a member of the opposite sex. If people choose to have homosexual relationships, they are sinning against God, and they aren't able to have the family he has in store for them. How that Changes the Christian View The Bible clarifies that homosexuality is a sin and isn't something Christians condone. But the fact that homosexuality is a sin doesn't mean that the Bible condemns gay relationships. There are some things that the Bible says that apply to homosexual relationships. While it is true that Christians believe that gay relationships aren't ideal, the Bible also makes it clear that people should love and care for each other, and they should be faithful to one another. These are characteristics that most relationships have, regardless of their sexual orientation. Indeed, the Bible makes it clear that all people are worthy of love and that all people are capable of loving others. It also makes it clear that all people are capable of having healthy relationships with members of the opposite sex. What is Christian Love? As we've already talked about, the Bible clarifies that all people are capable of love. It also makes it clear that love is a choice that we make. But the question is, how can we know what love is? To understand love, we must first figure out what love isn't. It isn't a feeling, and it isn't automatic. It isn't something that happens to us. Instead, love is something that we choose to show to other people, and we can only show it when we decide to do so. The Bible tells us that love is patient, kind, and selfless. It is something that we do for others, not something that we expect to get in return. Conclusion The Bible makes it clear that homosexuality is a sin and that gay marriage is against the wishes of God. But it also makes it clear that all people are capable of love. Some may believe or misinterpret this to include regardless of their sexual orientation. However, this does not mean it is okay to go against the will of God. We have seen that the Bible makes it clear that homosexuality is a sin and that gay marriage is against the wishes of God. But it also makes it clear that everyone is capable of love, regardless. Most researchers have concluded that sexual orientation is a complex, multifactorial issue in which biological, social, and psychological factors combine to play a role in the ultimate sexual orientation of an individual. According to Julie Harren, Ph.D., the formula for this interplay between factors might be represented by these equations:   --Genes + Brain Wiring + Prenatal Hormonal Environment = Temperament. --Parents + Peers + Experiences = Environment. --Temperament + Environment = Homosexual Orientation.   What's missing from these equations is the existence of a soul, the individual's choice, and the devil's temptation (see James 1:14).   Prejudice is not a constraint. Although it may be more accessible psychologically for a homosexual to believe that homosexuality is inborn, the accumulated scientific evidence suggests otherwise. Homosexuals may have a genetic predisposition, but the human choice is still a factor. Ultimately, sexual orientation is determined outside of the womb. This truth offers hope for change for those unhappy living a homosexual lifestyle. Clinical experience has shown that, with help, some homosexuals can change learned responses and defense mechanisms to early painful experiences.   In 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, the sin of homosexuality is listed next to theft. Just as there is no genetic excuse for stealing, there is no genetic excuse for homosexuality. Environment, culture, and choice make one a thief, and the same factors make one a homosexual.   Christ died for homosexuals. God loves persons of all sexual orientations, just as He loves all sinners. The Bible says, "God demonstrates his love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). Jesus Christ "is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world" (1 John 2:2). The gospel of Christ "is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes" (Romans 1:16). In Christ alone we find the definitive source for healing, restoration, forgiveness, and comfort. He is the way we can all experience the affirming, unconditional love, value, and acceptance of our Father in heaven.     If this is true and homosexual behavior is dishonoring, a separation from God’s blessing, and self-harm, then the loving thing to do is to stay away from it. To encourage others to indulge in sin is to encourage them to reject God’s blessings on their lives. It is the opposite of love. That being said, those with homosexual attractions desperately need love. Even if they agree with the Bible that homosexuality is a sin and resolve not to seek fulfillment of their sexual desires, they must still find love in other relationships—the self-sacrificing love of agape and the friendly companionship of phileo. When our emotional and social needs for love are met, we are less likely to seek fulfillment in unbiblical ways. It’s no different for single heterosexuals than for those with homosexual attraction.

DO YOU HAVE TO GO TO CHURCH? Welcome to wake up castle rock and America I’m your host, Willie Ayers member of Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Franktown, Colorado. I got asked this question the other day. Nowhere does scripture mandate one's attendance at church as a condition of salvation. Paul writes, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--not by works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9).   Does a Christian have to attend every service his church provides? The simple answer is "no." There is no New Testament command for believers to maintain perfect attendance at church. Attending every church service does not make a person "holier" than the one who misses a service here and there. Our relationship with God is not based on rule-following or punching a time clock at church; it's based on our position in Christ (1 Corinthians 1:2).   The question that matters in eternity is not "How many times was I in church" but "Did I truly know Jesus Christ?" (Matthew 7:21–23).   However, there is a problem with having a nonchalant attitude toward church attendance. We should not be ambivalent in the matter. God's plan in this age involves the church, which Jesus promised to build (Matthew 16:18), and we should be supporting God's plan enthusiastically. However, why is church attendance going to church important?"   Simply put, the Bible tells us we need to attend church to worship God with other believers and be taught His Word for our spiritual growth. They had no designated church building back then, but "every day they continued to meet in the temple courts.   The early church "devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and prayer" (Acts 2:42). We should follow that example of devotion—and to the same things.   They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts" (Acts 2:46). Wherever the meeting takes place, believers thrive on fellowship with other believers and the teaching of God's Word.   "Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (Hebrews 10:24–25).   Interestingly, even in the early church, some made a "habit" of not fellowshipping with other believers. Their example is not to be followed. The church is where our spiritual gifts best edify the Body of Christ (Ephesians 4:11–12). It is difficult to "spur" each other to love and good works if we are not attending church. How can we encourage one another if we're never around one another?   Church attendance is not just a "good suggestion" but God's will for believers. Hebrews 10:25 says we should "not be giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Even in the early church, some were falling into the bad habit of not meeting with other believers. The author of Hebrews says that's not the way to go. We need the encouragement that church attendance affords. And the end times approach should prompt us to be even more devoted to the church.   The church is where believers can love one another (1 John 4:12) and encourage one another.   (Hebrews 3:13), "spur" one another to love and good works (Hebrews 10:24), serve one another (Galatians 5:13), instruct one another (Romans 15:14), honor one another (Romans 12:10), and be kind and compassionate to one another (Ephesians 4:32).   When a person trusts Jesus Christ for salvation, they are made a member of the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27). For a church body to function correctly, all its "body parts" need to be present and working (1 Corinthians 12:14–20). It's not enough to attend a church; we should be involved in some ministry to others, using the spiritual gifts God has given us (Ephesians 4:11–13).   A believer will never reach full spiritual maturity without having that outlet for their gifts, and we all need the assistance and encouragement of other believers (1 Corinthians 12:21–26).   For these reasons and more, church attendance, participation, and fellowship should be regular aspects of a believer's life. Weekly church attendance is in no sense "required" for believers, but someone who belongs to Christ should have a desire to worship God, receive His Word, and fellowship with other believers.   You and I, as Christians, should be committed to our local church, involved in our local church, and supportive of our local church.   Be it zoom or online, God is not limited in what He does (Luke 1:37). He can use live, in-person preaching and live streaming on the internet. Many of Billy Graham's crusades were filmed live and are still being broadcast on television and streamed online.   This requires regular church attendance. And they are still having an impact. "Surely the arm of the LORD is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear" (Isaiah 59:1). It is the gospel that saves (Romans 1:16); as long as the gospel is preached, the fact that it's online doesn't matter.   An online church service cannot replace "the assembling of ourselves together" (Hebrews 10:25, NKJV). Still, it is a good way of doing church, especially when faced with circumstances beyond our control that prevent us from being together.   A believer will naturally love his brothers and sisters in Christ (1 John 4:21), and that love will manifest itself in a desire to fellowship, not avoidance.   When the church is praising the Lord, all believers should want to join in the praise; when the church is praying for others, all believers should want to participate in the prayer; when the church is studying the Word, all believers should want to join in the learning.   We live in a world of distractions. So many things call us away from our commitments, our involvement, and our support of the local church:   I know I have been guilty of these sports activities, work schedules, community projects, or just being lazy, etc.—the list is never-ending.   There are valid reasons for missing a church service, and we must avoid legalism in such matters. At the same time, we should ensure absences are the exception, not the rule.   Each believer should examine their own heart to determine their motives for missing church, and therefore, I'm during this podcast. It could be that a rearrangement of priorities is in the order I know that I need to do so.     Jesus is the Cornerstone of the Church (1 Peter 2:6). We are "like living stones . . . being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 2:5). As the building materials of God's "spiritual house," we naturally connect. That connection is evident every time the Church "goes to church." If you are in Franktown or surrounding areas, come worship with us. Be blessed and be safe. Thank you for listening to this podcast.  

    Hello and welcome to wake-up-castle-rock-and-America. I am your host Willie T Ayers. Did you know that do not fear is in the Bible Three Hundred Sixty-Five times?    Yes, there is so much happening today in our society inflation -abortion – daylight murders- corrupt politicians-homosexuality-IRS destroying tax returns- domestic terrorists and so much more.    Did you know that our brains express only two primary emotions: fear and love? And we decide to choose one or the other. Christ says, "Perfect love casts out all fear." Which will you choose?  1 John 4:18, Isaiah 41:10, Romans 8:38    Today, I would like to share the following scripture from Isaiah 41:10; “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.”    I repeat it again, Did you know that the bible tells us not to fear 365 times? That is once for every day of the year! God makes it clear in scriptures like Isaiah 41:10 that he wants us to choose faith over fear daily. He wants us to trust that He will provide for our every need.    You might ask, how do I have faith? I believe that religion is when we choose to stand on the promises of God even when we begin to feel insecurity or doubt. Confidence is like a muscle; every time you believe God's word, it is an opportunity to exercise that muscle.    Sometimes God allows situations to arise in the lives that force us to trust him. If you and I are faced with a difficult decision or circumstance today, I want to encourage you because you are in the right place! There is no place better than to be in the House of God with fellow believers, be it Zoom, TV, blog, podcast, etc.; your body our body is the temple.   When the Apostle Paul wrote the words "Your body is a temple" to the church in Corinth, he was saying this: You no longer must go to a building, an ornate, gilded temple built with your blood, toil, and sacrifice, to meet with our God. Know how you are in the temple. You are the place in which you can dwell with our God.    God is promising us in his word that He will reward our faith. As you view this blog/podcast, I want to challenge you to think about the areas of your life where God asks you to take a step of faith and trust him.      Fears are normal. They’re a natural response to our environment and the situations we encounter. So, what can we do when fear seems overwhelming? The Bible has many examples of people who experienced fear or anxiety.   They trusted God during their struggles and remained obedient despite their fears. If you’re experiencing fear or anxiety, these scriptures will help you trust God in those moments and lean on Him for strength.    What does Bible say about standing firm?    Ephesians 6:11-16 provides us with advice on standing firm in the Lord. Standing firm in the Lord is done by putting on the whole armor of God. These verses include filling your life with truthfulness, righteousness, peace, and faith. To put on the full armor of God, you must consist of him in all you do    Know that God is with you no matter what.      In the book of Psalms, King David writes, “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who trusts in him.” (Psalm 34:8). In that moment of David’s life, he was experiencing betrayal and loss. He had placed his trust in others and his abilities but had been let down.   He found himself experiencing fear and anxiety. But David also found God. And through his faith in God, David discovered a peace he couldn’t have found alone. God has never left you. He’s never changed His mind about you. He is good, and He is always with you. He knows every struggle you’re facing, and He is there with you during it all. Trust God. Lean on Him. Let Him know you need Him now.    What is the biblical definition of stand?    To stand means you remain firm and immovable, even when (or especially when) you are the smallest, youngest, or last standing. You may be the means for holding up others.    Be on the lookout for deception.    In the book of Corinthians, the Apostle Paul writes, “For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.” (2 Corinthians 12:8). Paul says that the Holy Spirit intercedes with us or prays on our behalf.   He also describes the prayers of the Holy Spirit as groanings or noises too deep for words. Paul is warning us that sometimes when we feel overwhelmed, we might be tempted to give in to panic or despair. These emotions can come from the Enemy and lead us to make bad decisions. Trusting them can lead us down a path of deception and put us in danger.   The Holy Spirit, on the other hand, guides us towards God and helps us find strength in Him to make the right choices. Find ways to quiet your mind and listen to the Holy Spirit at this moment. Take deep breaths. Meditate. Read your Bible and pray.    Turn to God for comfort and strength.    The book of Psalms again provides insight into how people can best handle anxiety. In Psalm 94, the psalmist prays, “Gather my sons together to me, and my daughters too; Let the children of my house understand the end of the Lord and His provision for them.” The psalmist is facing a great battle or perhaps a terrible plague that has left many of his children dead. He is anxious and afraid but turns to God for strength and comfort. He prays for his children and the rest of God’s people to know that God is good and has a plan for those who trust Him. No matter what your struggles are, turn to God. Let Him know you need Him now.      Plan to fight your fears.    The Bible tells us not to be afraid in the book of Psalms. It also tells us to trust in the Lord. These are great advice, but they’re not enough on their own. We also must take action to fight our fears and face our anxieties head-on. The Bible also provides us with strategies and examples of people who lived through difficult circumstances.   The Bible tells the story of Daniel, thrown into a den of lions for refusing to worship the king’s gods. Many people would have been overcome with fear, but Daniel trusted God. He had a plan: He kept his faith in God and remained obedient to God’s word. He knew he would be okay. You have a plan, too.      Trust God even when you don’t understand.    In the book of Job, a Job is a man who has lost everything—his family, his health, and all of his wealth. Job is grieving and angry that he’s been betrayed and forced to suffer in such a terrible way. Job has every right to feel the way he does, but he has also lost sight of God. Job doesn’t understand why he’s been betrayed and forced to suffer. He doesn’t understand why God has let this happen to him. In his despair, he prays, “My cry for help is worthless and unneeded” (Job 10:1). Job struggles but refuses to turn to God. He refuses to trust God even though he doesn’t understand what God is doing. Let Job’s story be a lesson to you.    To be steadfast and unmovable is to be spiritually grounded. A responsible person knows what he believes and cannot be “tossed back and forth by the waves and blown here and there by every wind of teaching” (Ephesians 4:14).   An unmovable person can hear false teaching, engage doubters, and defend the truth without shaking his faith. In his other epistle to Corinth, Paul expresses his concern for this church: “I am afraid that just as the serpent’s cunning deceived Eve, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:3). Even believers who the apostle had personally taught Paul were victims of deception. How much more vulnerable are we?    To remain steadfast and unmovable, we must know God’s Word. Second, Timothy 2:15 says, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth” (NASB). To accurately handle the word of truth, we must not only read the Bible, but we must allow it to become part of us. Its truth should penetrate our minds and hearts and shape our thinking and actions. It should so fill our minds that we can detect error when we hear it. Satan uses Scripture for his purposes, twisting it to sound as though it says something it doesn’t say (Luke 4:9–11).    We are vulnerable to error if we have not been diligent in our study and meditation on truth. The world’s false religions can be persuasive when they quote Bible verses to support their error. Even Christians can be duped by smooth-sounding heresy if they do not have a solid grounding in the “whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27). God desires that we grow daily in our understanding of Him and His Word so that we will remain faithful to the end (John 8:31; 2 Peter 1:2; 3:18; 1 John 2:24).    Bs blessed and be safe. Do not let fear control you; Jesus is the answer  

Is Satan Using Covid to Destroy Your Relationship in your life? Did Satan use Covid to bring out the true and hidden evil in people?   Satan is a master at destroying relationships, marriages, and families. The Bible is filled with examples of how Satan attempted to destroy relationships through deception, temptation, and other destructive means. Even in the church, Satan seeks to divide and attack the unity of believers. I believe that Satan has used elected leaders to divide America. In Revelation 12:9, Satan is described as "the accuser of our brothers" and "the adversary." These are just two ways of saying he's a liar who wants to trick us into mistrusting each other so we can't trust one another or God. It sounds rather complex, but it comes down to something that is not only very simple but obvious as well; so many people are afraid of trusting others because they don't want anyone to know what they're doing or who they are on the inside. Many are so scared to have faith over fear. We need to trust in the word of God. We need God and Jesus now more than ever.   What is Covid? COVID-19, or coronavirus disease 2019, is a respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). The effect of the illness can range from mild to severe. First identified in Wuhan, China, in late 2019, the virus quickly spread to other countries. On March 11, 2020, COVID-19 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. Why would God allow Covid-19?" The world seems to be asking this question, which gives the most significant part of the answer. More on that shortly.   Why Are People Afraid of Trusting Others? Trust is the foundation of a successful relationship. It's essential in friendships, marriages, and even our relationship with God. But many people are afraid to trust others. All relationships have some level of risk. Whether at work, home, or church, you are putting yourself in a position of being open to hurt. You may be rejected, criticized, or even ignored. But if you let these fears control you, neither you nor your relationships can ever be as strong as they could be. They are so worried about being let down or hurt that they don't allow themselves to be vulnerable or open enough to develop authentic and lasting relationships. Satan's favorite way to keep people from trusting each other is to sow seeds of doubt. He knows that if he can get someone to question another person's motives, he'll cause a rift in their relationship. He'll keep them from ever being close enough to one another to be vulnerable.   On the topic of trusting others, King David said, "It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes" (Psalm 118:8–9). David spoke from experience, having been betrayed many times by those close to him (see Psalm 41:9). Instead of becoming bitter or regarding all people as inherently untrustworthy and not worth his time, he learned and taught a simple truth: sinful people will fail us, but we can always trust in God. David's son, King Solomon, knew that lesson well and added to it, saying that it's better to trust God than to trust our own minds (Proverbs 3:5–6).   Satan's Strategy to Destroy Relationships Satan's strategy to destroy relationships is to get people to mistrust one another. He knows that if he can get someone to question another person's motives, he has stopped that relationship from ever being close enough to be vulnerable. He's blocked it from growing stronger and becoming even more potent for good. Even though others will fail us sometimes, and we are not always trustworthy, we can and should still trust people to vary degrees. Without Trust, a genuine relationship is impossible. It is precisely because we know that God will never fail us and that we can trust others. Our ultimate security is in Him, so we are free to trust others and experience the joy it brings. Trusting others is almost inseparable from loving others. True intimacy can only be achieved through honesty and Trust. It requires Trust to bear one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2) and "spur one another on toward love and good deeds" (Hebrews 10:24). It takes Trust to confess our sins to one another (James 5:16) and share our needs (James 5:14; Romans 12:15). Trust is necessary for any number of human relationships, and especially for the healthy functioning of the family of Christ. What is Covid? here's more as promised Only a liar or a true prophet can claim to know God's reasons for bringing about COVID-19 or any other specific calamity. That's partly because God's purpose extends to every individual involved, from the beginning of time to the end of the world. Understanding every possible factor goes far beyond human ability, but God has within His complete knowledge and control of every facet of every situation (Romans 8:28–30). The Bible reveals some insights about God's use of deadly disasters. Still, we must apply relevant Scripture and the principles of faith to gain wisdom about any specific disaster.   As with any mystery, we must go from the known to the unknown in our search to solve it. So we'll put the question of why God would allow COVID-19 into the context of what we already know from the Bible and personal experience: we know that life is a gift from the Creator (Isaiah 42:5; Acts 17:25). We know that God alone has the right and power to give life and take it away according to His wisdom and plans (Job 2:10). We know that life is short and includes some degree of suffering, ending in death and judgment for how we lived our lives—only one life with no "do-overs" (Hebrews 9:27). Short or long, our lifespan and date of death are set and controlled by God (Matthew 10:29). Even the most extended human lives are "like a breath; their days are like a fleeting shadow" (Psalm 144:4).   Moses described God's sovereignty over life and death, and this could have been written about today's COVID-19 pandemic: "You turn people back to dust, saying, 'Return to dust, you mortals.' A thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by or like a watch in the night. Yet you sweep people away in the sleep of death— they are like the new grass of the morning: In the morning, it springs up new, but by evening, it is dry and withered." (Psalm 90:3–6).   So what is God's purpose in allowing COVID-19? Without being too dogmatic, we know that generally speaking, one of God's purposes in trials is to get the world's attention off themselves and onto Him, their Creator and Savior—which is the most significant part of the answer to the question at hand. "Why would God allow COVID-19?" Millions are suddenly asking that question right now, believers and non-believers alike, which means God is on their minds. God desires for all people to earnestly seek Him and find Him, discovering that He is close to us (Jeremiah 29:13; Acts 17:26–28). God desires us to sense our weakness and neediness so that we put our Trust in Him (2 Corinthians 12:9). God desires people to fear Him with proper reverence and awe (Proverbs 9:10); to love Him more than their own lives (Matthew 10:37; John 12:25); and to show love and gratitude for the Savior by loving and helping fellow humans, especially the suffering (Romans 15:1; James 2:14–17). God desires to shift our focus and affection away from this temporary, troubled world to our eternal, heavenly home (Colossians 3:1–2; Hebrews 12:1–2). Times of trouble are a prime motivation for us to store up treasures in heaven rather than cling to treasures on earth (Matthew 6:19–20; Colossians 3:1–3) and to be good stewards of those blessings God gives us in this life (Luke 16:11; Matthew 25:14–30). God wants us to trust Him, knowing that our times are in His hand (Psalm 31:15).   Ultimately, the poor and hurting seek God, not the rich and comfortable. It is danger and calamity that turn men to their Savior, not health and wealth (see Mark 2:17). It is suffering that wakes us to our actual needs. C. S. Lewis put it this way: "God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pain: it is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world" (The Problem of Pain, HarperCollins, 1996, p. 91). Life for all people means facing suffering, death, and eternal destiny. Even if we develop immunity to COVID-19, we can't escape the fact of trouble in the world. What's best for us in any situation is to seek God: "Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart" (Psalm 119:2). A final decision, the bottom line, RightNow, your choice. Trust in God and Being honest with yourself and others is the best way to avoid the lies Satan uses to destroy relationships with God and others. If you are a believer or in a relationship, don't let fear or the media lies control you. Trust in God first than yourself and others, and know that prayer and honesty is the only way to grow your relationships. resources; Logo bible study -Got Questions-my observation-asking questions- and lots of prayers New International Version Psalm 91 1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.[a] 2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” 3 Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. 4 He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. 5 You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, 6 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. 7 A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. 8 You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked. 9 If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling, 10 no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. 11 For he will command h

Is America Full of Hate? The Conversation We're Not Having   20-year-old woman shot and executed while pushing ‍her 3-month-old in a stroller. Seattle Street Preacher Assaulted at Pride Event, Abortion Rally; Arrested After Bible Thrown in Portable Toilet Biblically speaking, there are positive and negative aspects to hatred. It is acceptable to hate those things that God hates; indeed, this is very much proof of right standing with God. “Let those who love the Lord hate evil” (Psalm 97:10a). Indeed, the closer our walk with the Lord and the more we fellowship with Him, the more conscious we will be of sin, both within and without. Do we not grieve and burn with anger when God’s name is maligned, when we see spiritual hypocrisy when we see blatant unbelief and godless behavior? The more we understand God’s attributes and love His character, the more we will be like Him, and the more we will hate those things that are contrary to His Word and nature. Is America full of hate? That’s the question many are asking after a recent spate of high-profile and disturbing incidents. In just one week in late September, a man armed with an automatic rifle murdered 22 people at a restaurant in suburban Denver; a man sent explosive devices to prominent critics of President Trump, including several Jewish leaders and former Vice President Joe Biden; and, in response to these events, the president tweeted a video of him beating up another person with the face of CNN labeled as “Fraud News Network.” If you think we’re living in a particularly hateful moment — one highlighted by divisive rhetoric from our leaders — you’re not alone. But the answer isn’t as simple as that. There is ample evidence to support this claim, but this phenomenon is not new. This type of hate has always existed in America but recurs cyclically throughout history. It’s an essential distinction because figuring out why these events continue to repeat themselves is the key to resolving them. So let’s explore what is driving this current resurgence of hate and what we can do about it.   A Brief History of Hate in America That America has a long history of hate is not news. It’s in our DNA. We were founded as a nation on the principle that certain people aren’t worthy of being part of our collective “we” — that they’re “others” who don’t deserve to be treated like “we” do. Given this, it makes sense that there have been several cyclical upsurges of hate in American history. The first significant one was in the early 19th century when a movement of “nativism” — or fear of cultural or racial change — was directed against newly arrived Irish and German immigrants. In the 1850s and 1860s, during the era of western expansion and the Civil War, there were two more violent upsurges: one against Native Americans and another against African-American slaves and freedmen. Each of these movements featured the signs of modern hate: false propaganda, dehumanization, and the use of violence. They culminated in a tragedy: the Native American population in the U.S. declined by about 90% in the 19th century, and black people were terrorized and subjected to the Jim Crow system of segregation and discrimination until the mid-20th century. During these eras, many people of conscience tried to speak out against the hate and warn of the tragic consequences it would bring. But they were ignored. However, the hatred that is negative indeed has to be that which is directed against others. The Lord mentions hatred in the Sermon on the Mount: “But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment” (Matthew 5:22). The Lord commands that not only should we be reconciled with our brother before we go before the Lord, but also that we do it quickly (Matthew 5:23-26). The act of murder itself was certainly condemned, but hatred is a “heart” sin, and any hateful thought or act is an act of murder in God’s eyes for which justice will be demanded, possibly not in this life but at the judgment. So heinous is the position of hate before God that a man who hates is said to be walking in darkness, as opposed to the light (1 John 2:9, 11). The worst situation is that of a man who continues professing religion but remains at enmity with his brother. The Scriptures declare that such a person is a liar (1 John 4:20), and he may fool men, but not God. How many believers live for years pretending that all is well, putting on a front, only to be found finally wanting because they have harbored enmity (hatred) against a fellow believer?   The Myth of American Exceptionalism American exceptionalism is the belief that the U.S. is qualitatively different from other nations. It is a core premise of President Trump’s political philosophy (and his brand of right-wing nationalism). It also infects many other political ideologies and its proponents often use it to justify the idea that the U.S. is immune to the kind of “bad things” that happen in other countries. But this myth of American exceptionalism is a distraction from the real issues facing our country. It is a myth because, in fact, hate and other social ills have been present in America as long as there has been an America — since the beginning. So this is nothing new. What is true is that America has been a leader in many positive social and political movements, including the abolition of slavery, women’s suffrage, and civil rights for black people and other minorities. These are all things worth celebrating. But they don’t negate the fact that hate is deeply rooted in our history and culture, and it is cyclical in nature.   Code Words and Hidden Meaning Many of the talking points that fuel hate are framed in terms of “freedom,” “security,” and “American values.” This is why it’s important not to take these terms at face value but to think critically about what they actually mean and to whom they apply. For example, many of the leaders who promote the idea of building a border wall use the argument that it will protect the nation from “illegal” immigrants who are coming here to do us harm. This is an example of “dog whistle” politics — a coded language used to appeal to the prejudices of a particular group of people. “Illegal” immigrants are a made-up group that doesn’t actually exist. All immigrants who come here without proper documentation are violating the law — that’s why they’re called “illegal.” Yet we conveniently forget this and speak in terms of “them” being “evil” and “us” being “good.”   An Outgrowth of Institutionalized Racism The hate that is currently being stirred up in the U.S. is, in part, a continuation of the racism that has always been present here — but it’s also a reaction to the tremendous demographic and cultural change that has taken place in the past several decades. We’ve become more diverse and less white, and we’ve become more globally interconnected. This has created more economic and cultural competition, and it’s brought more people of different backgrounds and cultures into our country. All of this seems to be triggering a backlash among certain people who feel that their “way of life” is being threatened. They fear that they no longer “own” their country and that they don’t have the same opportunities as other people.   A Culture of Violence and War as Entertainment We’ve also become a more violent society in recent decades. We are attracted to images of violence and war, and we’ve created a culture in which these things are seen as entertainment. We’ve also become more isolated and self-focused. We’re less likely than ever to know our neighbors, and we’re less likely to engage in civic activities like voting or volunteering for charities or community organizations. This has created a climate in which people become more susceptible to the fear-based messaging of the hate-mongers, because they have less opportunity to engage with others and get the facts that would contradict these messages.   Where Do We Go From Here? The good news is that hate is not a new emotion, nor is it an emotion that is unique to America. There is ample evidence that all societies have the capacity to hate and inflict harm, and we see these tendencies in both our history and our present. The difference between now and other historical moments is that our society has never been as connected as it is now, and we have more tools at our disposal for propagating hate and triggering violent responses. So how do we respond to this challenge? First, we need to recognize that hate is a cyclical phenomenon. We must learn from the past, study the patterns of history, and recognize the signs of its cyclical nature. This will help us to not get caught up in the hysteria of the moment and keep us from making knee-jerk reactions that might make the situation worse. Second, we must continue to speak out against hate in all its forms and call out those who promote it. This is essential and will be increasingly important as we move into the 2020 election cycle. Third, we must use all the tools at our disposal to promote understanding, encourage dialogue, and break down barriers between people of different cultures, races, and backgrounds. This is the only way to overcome the fear and ignorance that breed hate.   Conclusion This podcast is meant to help us better understand the current state of hate in American society. Hatred is a poison that destroys us from within, producing bitterness that eats away at our hearts and minds. This is why the Scriptures tell us not to let a “root of bitterness” spring up in our hearts (Hebrews 12:15). Hatred also destroys the personal witness of a Christian because it removes him from fellowship with the Lord and other believers. Let us be careful to do as the Lord advised and keep short accounts with everyone about everything, no matter how small, and the Lord will be faithful to forgive, as He has promised (1 John 1:9; 2:1). We must remember that hate has been present in America since the beginni

What It Means to be a Christian in a Nation with an Evil Government We live in a world where suffering seems familiar to many of us. We can learn and apply many truths and healing principles to our lives by studying the book of Job in the Bible. The overturning of Roe vs. Wade did not create division in America; it started when leaders started supporting individual groups, such as BLM, ANTIFA, DEFUND THE POLICE, and OPENING THE BORDERS. However, they want to attack freedom of speech, the 2nd amendment, religious beliefs, parental rights, and more. With the rise of nationalism, right-wing movements, and the encouraging of far-right ideologies in the current political climate, many Christians are asking what it means to be a Christian in a nation with an evil government.  Today, we see many examples of leaders who do not align with Christian values. There is also an increase in persecution of Christians and laws that restrict our ability to practice our faith. This has led many Christians to wonder how they should respond to a government that is unkind to their beliefs. Should we separate from society and isolate ourselves?  Or are there better ways for us to answer? In this podcast, we will look at what it means to be a Christian in a nation with an evil government and explore several helpful principles that can guide us in living boldly as followers of Christ during these times. What does the Bible say about being a Christian in an evil society? The Bible has much to say on this topic. We see several examples of Christians being persecuted for their faith by leaders who did not align with Christian values.  One example is when the apostle Paul was charged with being a troublemaker and was imprisoned. Another example is when the apostle Peter was imprisoned for preaching about Jesus.  There is also the example of how Christians were pressured to participate in worshiping the Roman emperor as a god. Despite these societal pressures and the risk of persecution, the Bible teaches us that followers of Christ are to follow God's word, not the government's.  The Bible also teaches us that as followers of Christ, we must remain in society, not isolate ourselves. Jesus himself said that Christians should be part of society. He said, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16). The importance of resisting evil One of the essential principles to keep in mind as Christians in a nation with an evil government is that we should actively resist evil.  There are many examples in the Bible of how Christians actively resisted evil in their societies. One example is when Peter and the apostle John were ordered not to preach and were threatened with arrest, they replied by saying,  "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge. For we cannot but speak about what we have seen and heard" (Acts 4:19-20).  Another example is when the apostle Paul boldly resisted the evil practices of false teachers in his society. He said, "When I came to you, I did not come with excellence of speech or wisdom. For I have known you for a long time, and your souls are in an idle state.  But now I am going to come to you for the third time, and I will not be a shame to you as I have been, but with a little shame, as the representative of the shame of the Christ" (2 Corinthians 2:1-2). Finding ways to resist evil actively. As a Christian, you don't have to wait for society to oppress you before resisting evil.  You have a responsibility to fight corruption whenever you see it actively. When you witness an injustice, speak up against it. When you encounter a form of evil, resist it with the truth. When you see violence, stand against it with love.  When you observe hatred, respond to it with kindness. When you detect greed, meet it with generosity. You don't have to wait until you are imprisoned or until your rights are taken away to resist evil. You can do it now, and you can do it with words and actions that show the love of Christ. Finding ways to respond to evil with good Another principle to keep in mind as a Christian in a nation with an evil government is that you should actively respond to evil with good. While we should always respond to evil with truth, there are times when we need to respond to evil with interest.  For example, if you witness a violent act and try to speak up against it only to be met with hate and hostility, then a better response for you might be to respond with love.  Or, if you meet a person who is consumed with greed, a better answer might be to respond with generosity. You can bring light into a dark world by responding to evil with good. How can we find strength during times of trial? Another essential principle to remember as a Christian in a nation with an evil government is that we should not expect to be free from trials.  Followers of Christ are promised that they will experience difficulties and testing during their lives. The apostle Paul himself said, "In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33).  When you are going through a trial, instead of focusing on what is happening to you and your rights being taken away, focus on how you can use this trial to bring glory to God.  How can you use what you are going through for others? How can you turn your situation into a blessing for others? You can keep your eyes on the goal, knowing that God will use your trials to draw you closer to him, strengthen your faith, and make you more like Christ. Run From Sin Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 2 Timothy 2:22   Conclusion When we focus on the principles discussed above, we can find strength during times of trial and persecution.  We can also find comfort as we navigate the current political landscape of our society, knowing that we have the eternal word of God to guide us.  As we navigate these challenging political times, we can find strength and comfort knowing that God is sovereign and is in control. We can also find comfort knowing that God is a God of justice, and we can trust him to bring justice to all people.  In the meantime, we can continue to resist evil actively, respond to evil with good, and find strength during times of trial. With these principles in mind, we can be confident that we can be followers of Christ during the current political climate, no matter what society throws our way. If you would like a topic to be discussed on this podcast, send an email to  standup4yourfaith@gmail.com  

      You hear many say that they found Jesus. No, Jesus found them. Jesus was never lost. We are the ones that are lost.   The Proof: How Jesus Christ Founded Me I had fallen away from God. When I got Out of the military, I lived in and out of hotels. I was a drinker daily: stone-cold alcoholic and a drunk. I went out looking for fights, furious and bitter. I did not have a job and went to eat in and out hamburger stand. I got into a conversation with an elderly gentleman (Jack Eager). He asked me if I needed a job. He hired me the next day. This was November 1993. God blessed me to meet a wonderful church-going woman, and she got me back into the church. I ( rededicated my life to Christ and got re-baptized.   The Proof is a modern-day gospel that reveals Jesus as the most influential person who ever lived. It’s not just a book, it’s a movement that inspires, challenges, and changes lives. As you listen to this podcast you are on the edge of something unique. You’re standing at the threshold of your new life in Christ – an adventure that will change everything about you. The Proof is about more than just believing in Jesus as your Savior; it’s about having a personal relationship with Him by responding to His love with faith and obedience. So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and explore how Jesus Christ founded you     The Proof is not about Christianity; it’s about Jesus. The Proof is about Jesus and what He has done for you. Christianity is a religion that people try to follow in order to make a relationship with Jesus. The Proof flips this concept and creates a relationship with Jesus, your starting point. We don’t try to pursue Jesus; we follow him and walk with him. This is why it’s so important to know you know Jesus. If you believe in a Jesus you’ve never met, He can’t be your Savior.     You can never know too much about Jesus. This may sound extreme, but it’s true. The more you know about Jesus, the more you will love Him, and the more you will want to follow Him. More excellent knowledge of Jesus will also protect you from false teachers and doctrines that are out there. Let your desire to know everything about Jesus be your driving force. Be hungry for more information about His life and His teachings. Read the Bible and books about Jesus, and go online to learn more. The more you know about Jesus, the more you will love Him and trust Him with your life.     Be sure of your decision to follow Jesus. Don’t make Christianity about what you’re going to get out of it. If you’re going to have a relationship with Jesus, it has to be a decision you’re sure about. Look at your life and ask if you’ve done anything for Jesus lately. If the answer is no, you need to do something right away before you start to lose your passion for Him. If you decide to follow Jesus, you’re making the most critical decision of your life. Make sure you’re ready to take full responsibility for your decision. Once you’re His follower, there’s no turning back. Your life will never be the same.     Everything you do must be because of Him. Jesus said that whatever we do to others, we do to Him. Once you’ve decided to follow Jesus, everything you do must be for Him. Whatever mission you’re on, be it at your job or in your community, let the goal point people toward Jesus. Let your prayers and your actions be to glorify Him. Remember that even your hard times are for Him. They are lessons He wants to teach you.         You can only fully know and love God through Jesus Christ. You cannot fully know and love God if you don’t have a relationship with Jesus Christ. God is a Spirit, and Jesus was God in the flesh. Through Jesus, you get to experience a personal relationship with God. You can know God’s voice, character, plans, and love through Jesus. You can see the fullness of God’s love by accepting His sacrifice on the cross. You can know God’s forgiveness and heal through Jesus. It’s only through Jesus that you can know God and love Him.    

Gun Violence in America: What Can We Do to Stop the Madness This memorial day lets us all remember not just our military but also the victims of the senseless shooting.‍ In the wake of another school shooting, America Robb Elementary School shooting is once again grappling with gun violence and how to prevent these tragedies from continuing to happen. In response to the Parkland shooting in February 2018, many students have taken a stand and spoken out about the need for stricter gun laws and other measures to reduce gun violence. The NRA has come under fire, with many questioning why they continue to have so much influence over politicians and whether their money has anything to do with it. There are no easy answers to this question. This podcast examines gun violence in America today, what may be fueling it, what we know about its effects on society, and possible solutions that may help reduce it in the future. What is the current state of gun violence in America? According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Report (UCR), there were about 15,000 homicides committed with a firearm in the U.S. in 2017, the last full year for which data are available. This is a rate of 6.3 homicides per 100,000 people, or about 3% of all homicides in the U.S. The UCR data also show that firearm homicide rates have generally declined since the 1990s. While rates have decreased, they've also shown a dramatic increase in the past two years. In 2016, when the UCR data were compiled, there were 14,415 firearm homicides in the U.S. The following year, the number increased by nearly 10% to 15,386. This represents the highest number of firearm homicides in the U.S. since 2014. Why has there been an increase in gun violence? Most academics who study gun violence agree that there has been a general downward trend in homicide rates since the 1990s. But there have been significant increases in firearm-related homicides in recent years. So, why have rates of gun violence increased? A couple of essential factors may be driving the rise in gun violence: ACSW. These factors may help explain the increase in gun violence from 2016 to 2017. While the causes of the rise in gun violence are speculative at best, we can take action to reverse the trend and reduce gun violence in the future. Who is most at risk for gun violence? Homicide is a pretty rare event in the U.S.; according to the CDC, it occurs at 3.7 per 100,000 people. But gun violence is much more common among specific segments of the population. The FBI's UCR data show that black Americans are disproportionately likely to be victims of gun violence. Black Americans make up only 13% of the U.S. population, but they account for over half of firearm homicides. The homicide rate among black Americans is 11.7 per 100,000 people. The FBI data also show that the 15-34 age group has the highest rate of firearm homicide. But homicides committed with a firearm are also common among young children and the elderly, who are least likely to commit a homicide with a gun. How can we reduce gun violence? The first step to reducing gun violence is better understanding its causes and effects. While there's no denying that there's a problem, we need to determine what's driving the increase in gun violence, who is most at risk, and what can be done. This may sound challenging, but it's pretty simple. We need to follow the data. With the information provided above, we can identify who is most at risk and what may be causing gun violence to increase. Armed with this information, we can develop policies and solutions to help reduce gun violence in the future. The most obvious answer is to enact stricter gun laws. While gun violence has been declining since the 1990s, it's still far too familiar and has shown a dramatic increase in the past two years. We know that the majority of firearm homicides are committed with handguns. So, we can pass laws that make it more challenging to buy and own guns by requiring background checks and waiting periods while also making it more difficult to transport and store handguns. We can also make it more difficult for people with a history of violence or mental illness to obtain guns.   Auburn High School — Rockford, Ill.   Seminole High School — Sanford, Fla. Oliver Citywide Academy — Pittsburgh, Pa.   Magruder High School — Rockville, Md.     Beloit Memorial High School — Beloit, Wis.     South Education Center — Richfield, Minn.     Rufus King High School — Milwaukee, Wis.   Wenonah High School — Birmingham, Ala.   Catonsville High School — Baltimore     Minneapolis Public Schools — Minneapolis     McKinley High School — Buffalo, N.Y.   Olathe East High School — Olathe, Kan.   .   East High School — Des Moines, Iowa     North Gardens High School — Miami Gardens, Fla.     Justin F. Kimball High School — Dallas   Dunbar High School — Baltimore     TechBoston Academy — Dorchester, Mass.     Eisenhower High School — Yakima, Wash.     Lee Williams High School — Kingman, Ariz.   Oakdale Elementary School — Charlotte, N.C.     Tanglewood Middle School — Greenville, S.C.      Erie High School — Erie, Pa.     Edmund Burke School — Washington, D.C.     Heights High School — Houston   Walt Disney Magnet School — Chicago       East Kentwood High School — Kentwood, Mich   Robb Elementary School  — Uvalde, Texas   Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., 2012. The Columbine shooting on April 20, 1999

We need to pray for our leaders even when it is hard to do so. How’s your FAITH?   Our leaders have many pressing issues to address, and it can be easy for them to forget topics that they feel further removed from or don't hear from their constituents about. But our leaders can help end global poverty and hunger through policy change. Pray that they would hear from constituents on issues impacting the most vulnerable and that they would be moved to action. Also, Father God, Our leaders are juggling their interests, the interest of many constituents, and sometimes the interest of organizations. It can be hard to find solutions that meet everyone's wants and needs. I pray that our government leaders represent all of their constituents well and courageously uphold biblical values. I ask this in the mighty name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ Amen What does the Bible say about praying for our leaders: Prayer for our leaders is not unique to democratic nations, and it did not begin with the United States National Day of Prayer. The Bible contains many commands to pray for our leaders—national and local, secular and religious.   Paul wrote in 1 Timothy 2:1–4, "I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." God told the Israelites in exile to pray for Babylon: "Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper" (Jeremiah 29:7). Romans 13:1 says, "Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. God has established the authorities that exist." Paul requested prayer "for all the Lord's people" and for himself that he would speak the gospel boldly (Ephesians 2:18–20).   Prayer is important. And it seems the Bible makes special mention of praying for those in positions of authority. Such authorities include government officials (international, national, and local) and pastors, church elders, school boards, school principals, employers, etc.   We do not pray for our leaders simply because we are commanded to. Praying for them makes practical sense. Our leaders can affect the conditions we live in and impact our families, our churches, our workplaces, our cities, and our countries. When those in authority obey God's will, it is easier to "live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness" (1 Timothy 2:2). When evil men are in authority, our prayers for them are just as needed, as illustrated by William Tyndale's last words as he was being burned at stake: "Lord, open the King of England's eyes."   Also, we do not pray for our leaders merely for our benefit. Leadership can be a tiring task. James 3:1 says, "Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly." Leaders carry a degree of responsibility to their followers. They are often the targets of criticism and the go-to people in a crisis. If they are leading well, they are living their lives in service. We pray for them because we recognize the greatness of their task and because we are grateful for their willingness to lead.   So how should we pray for our leaders? First, if we are uncertain that they know Jesus, we should pray for their salvation. But whether or not our leaders are Christians, we should pray that God will guide them as they guide us. We should pray that they   are wise, discerning, and surrounded by helpful advisers. We know that God has placed our leaders in authority over us (Romans 13:1), and we can ask Him to use them as He will. We should also pray for their protection. When praying for pastors or ministry leaders, we can pray for them to have strength during spiritual warfare and to remain encouraged in the Lord. We can pray for their families, who often feel scrutinized and bear an extra load.   Briefly stated, we should mention our leaders before God in prayer and ask Him to have His way in their hearts, support those around them, and use their leadership to benefit their followers.   Why are bacteria on mars considered life bet, yet a heartbeat on earth is not? Biden Blunders 58th’ birthday In an interaction with reporters after undergoing his first routine physical in office, the oldest president in American history said that he is going to celebrate his ‘58th’ birthday while it was his ‘79th' on November 20 in 2021.       'President Harris' While delivering a speech at South Carolina State University during its 2021 Fall commencement ceremony, Biden referred to US Vice President Kamala Harris as “President Harris”.  The US President said, “… all kidding aside, of course, President Harris, who’s a proud Howard alumn, she might have something to say about Delaware State.”      Confusing history During a menorah lighting celebration at the White House for Hanukkah, the president appeared to forget Arab–Israeli history as he got confused between 1967 Six-Day War and Yom Kippur War of 1973.      Pray that these leaders will be given a heart of flesh

ABORTION IS MURDER The Bible never specifically addresses the issue of abortion. However, numerous teachings in Scripture make it abundantly clear what God's view of abortion is. 10 Lies the Pro-Abortion Community Tells To Convince You Abortion Is Okay! ‍ The pro-choice movement is complex, and abortion is a polarizing topic. But, whether you're for or against abortion, there are always things you didn't know about the subject. Today, we're breaking down the top lies the pro-abortion community tells to convince you abortion is okay. Read on to learn more about the myths, truths, and arguments surrounding abortion. The Pro-Abortion Movement Is Bipartisan The pro-abortion movement is sometimes accused of being a small group of radical feminists. They often take a skeptical stance toward the more significant "pro-life" movement, which is often seen as a group of conservative, religious conservatives. However, the movement to decriminalize and then legalize abortion has a long history of bipartisan support. While the pro-life movement is often seen as a single-issue movement, abortion laws and policies are usually decided by lawmakers who are often not very vocal about their own beliefs. You Can Tell Your Senator About Your Abortion Before You're Pregnant This is one of the most popular pro-abortion lies. You should know that the average first-trimester abortion takes about nine weeks from the first day of a woman's last menstrual period. So, if you're planning to get an abortion before you're about 37 weeks pregnant, you can't tell your senator about it. This is because abortion laws are supposed to protect women's right to make their own decisions. Still, doctors are legally prohibited from divulging the pregnancy to anyone before fetal viability. Within the first five months of pregnancy, the medical community agrees that unborn children can survive outside the womb, with organs and a heartbeat, and even begin to move. So, unless you have an excellent reason to get an abortion before you're about nine weeks pregnant, you can't tell anyone you're pregnant. Abortion Will End Human Trafficking And Abuse Will abortion end human trafficking and abuse? Um, no. Many of the victims of sexual trafficking and abuse were victims of their own decisions to get an abortion or have unprotected sex. It's also important to remember that abortion is never safe or "free." Considering that an abortion commonly costs between $300-$500, you're probably better off financially and emotionally not getting an abortion, especially if you were exploited as a victim of sexual abuse and trafficking. However, if you were raped and didn't want to parent a child, getting an abortion isn't worse. Having An Abortion Will Make You Unhappy Women report feeling a wide range of emotions after having an abortion. Some report feeling relief, while others say sadness or even anger. Depending on the person and the circumstances, it's also possible to feel regret or sadness, but these are very personal feelings. Most people feel sad or regretful when they have a loved one's death, but this doesn't mean they will be unhappy. Having an abortion should not negatively impact your life. Abortion Is Safer Than Having A Baby This is another one of the pro-abortion myths we're going to debunk. Despite what the medical community says, there's no scientific proof that having an abortion is safer than carrying a baby to term. Since the method and circumstances of each abortion vary, it's hard to generalize the safety of having an abortion. This means that you're taking a risk no matter how you choose to end a pregnancy. You Shouldn't Feel Guilty About Having An Abortion Guilt is often a very personal feeling. That's why you shouldn't feel guilty about having an abortion. If you were raped or became pregnant due to sexual abuse or exploitation, you shouldn't feel bad about having an abortion. Not only do you have the right to have an abortion if the circumstances are right, but you shouldn't feel guilty about it, either. There's Only One Right Decision For Every Woman This is another one of the pro-abortion myths that we're debunking. It's important to remember that every woman has no right decision. Some people might prefer to save their money or have another child later in life. Some might decide not to have children at all. These are all excellent choices, and no one should make them feel guilty for making their own decisions. Conclusion The pro-choice movement is complex, and abortion is a polarizing topic. But, whether you're for or against abortion, there are always things you didn't know about the subject. Today, we're breaking down the top lies the pro-abortion community tells to convince you abortion is okay. Read on to learn more about the myths, truths, and arguments surrounding abortion. Additional information Jeremiah 1:5 tells us that God knows us before He forms us in the womb. Psalm 139:13–16 speaks of God's active role in our creation and formation in the womb. Exodus 21:22–25 prescribes the same penalty—death—for someone who causes the death of a baby in the womb as for someone who commits murder. This law and its punishment clearly indicate that God considers a baby in the womb to be just as much a human being as a full-grown adult. For the Christian, abortion is not a matter of a woman's right to choose to have a baby. The baby is already present and living. Abortion is a matter of life or death of a human being made in God's image (Genesis 1:26–27; 9:6).   What does the Bible say about abortion? Simply put, abortion is murder. It is the killing of a human being created in the image of God.   A common argument against the Christian stance on abortion is "What about cases of rape and/or incest?" As horrible as it would be to become pregnant due to rape or incest, is the murder of a baby the solution? Two wrongs do not make a right. A child resulting from rape or incest could be given in adoption to a loving family. Many families, some unable to have children on their own, stand ready to receive and love a child from any background. The baby in this situation is entirely innocent and should not be punished for the evil act of their mother or father or any family member.   It's also important to keep in mind that abortions due to rape or incest account for a tiny percentage of total abortions: only 1 percent of abortions can be traced to cases of rape or incest (Torres and Forrest, cited by Physicians for Reproductive Choice and Health and the Alan Guttmacher Institute in An Overview of Abortion in the United States, October 2001, www.abortionfacts.com/facts/8#cite-1, accessed 9/9/21).   Another argument often used against the Christian stance on abortion is, "What about when the mother's life is at risk?" Honestly, this is the most challenging question to answer on the issue of abortion. First, let's remember that such a situation is exceedingly rare. Dr. Landrum Shettles, a pioneer of in vitro fertilization, wrote, "Less than 1 percent of all abortions are performed to save the mother's life" (Landrum Shettles and David Rorvik, Rites of Life, Zondervan Publishing House, 1983, p. 129). When testifying before the U. S. Senate, Dr. Irving Cushner, Professor of Obstetrics at the UCLA School of Medicine, when testifying before the U. S. Senate, was asked how often abortions are necessary to save the life of the mother or preserve her physical health. His response: "In this country, about 1 percent" (testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee's Subcommittee on the Constitution of the United States on October 14, 1981, quoted in The Village Voice, July 16, 1985).   Other medical professionals state that abortion is never necessary to save the mother's life. Over 1,000 OB-GYNs and maternal healthcare experts signed a statement in 2012, saying, in part, "As experienced practitioners and researchers in obstetrics and gynecology, we affirm that direct abortion—the purposeful destruction of the unborn child—is not medically necessary to save the life of a woman" (Dublin Declaration on Maternal Health, www.dublindeclaration.com, accessed 9/9/21). Further, in 2019, "medical leaders representing more than 30,000 doctors said intentionally killing a late-term unborn baby in an abortion is never necessary to save a mother's life" (www.lifenews.com/2019/03/05/30000-doctors-say-abortion-is-never-medically-necessary-to-save-a-mothers-life, accessed 9/9/21).   Second, let's remember that God is a God of miracles. He can preserve the life of a mother and her child despite all the medical odds against it. Third, even in the small percentage of abortions performed to save the mother's life, most of those abortions can be prevented by an early induced delivery of the baby or a C-section. It is infrequent that a baby must be actively aborted to save the mother's life. Ultimately, if the mother's life is genuinely at risk, the course of action can only be decided by the woman, her doctor, frequently the father of the child, and God. Any woman facing this complicated situation should pray to the Lord for wisdom (James 1:5) as to what He would have her do.   Most abortions performed today involve women who simply do not want to have the baby. As indicated above, just 2 percent of abortions are for rape, incest, or the mother's life is at risk. Even in these more difficult 2 percent of instances, abortion should never be the first option. The life of a human being in the womb is worth every effort to preserve.   All sins can be forgiven (John 3:16; Romans 8:1; Colossians 1:14). For those who have had an abortion, remember that the sin of abortion is no less forgivable than any other sin. A woman who has had an abortion, a man who has encouraged abortion, and a doctor who has performed an abortion can be forgiven by faith in Jesus Christ.  

Why Trusting God is Better than Trusting Man It can be tempting to trust only those most familiar to us, especially in moments of uncertainty and doubt. For example, we don't always feel like trusting God. In such situations, we may feel tempted to seek out the advice of someone we know and trust instead of trusting in God. It may seem logical to look to our friends and family first and trust that they are acquainted with the right people. But, in truth, this is not the ideal way of approaching the matter. Why trusting God is better than trusting man. At its core, a trust is a selfless act. Trust cannot exist under the threat of losing our reputation, position, or well-being. Therefore, to truly trust someone, we must first be assured that this person will not use our trust for their gain. Because of this, we must first trust God before trusting anyone else. But what does this mean? What does trusting in God have to do with trusting man? And more importantly, should we trust God? Let's look at this topic and explore why trusting God is better than trusting man. It's the right thing to do In the book of Proverbs, Solomon states: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not rely on your own understanding." (Proverbs 3:5) This is a critical aspect of trusting God. When we trust God, we are not doing so because we think it is the right thing to do, but because we know it is the right thing to do. We are trusting because we are confident that what we are trusting in is trustworthy. We are not trusting because it is a "good" idea. We are trusting because it is the right thing to do. We are not trusting because we hope for a reward. We are trusting because we know it is the right thing to do. God is trustworthy In the book of Numbers, God gave the Israelites a promise: "I will bring you into the land of Canaan, where you will be able to enter the land and possess it.   (Numbers 14:22) Why did God not allow the Israelites to enter the Promised Land until they had completed 40 years of wandering in the wilderness? Why did God let the Israelites walk for nearly two full decades before He finally allowed them to enter the land? The answer is simple: To trust God is to rely upon a trustworthy person. God, Himself states, "My house will be a house of prayer for all nations." (Isaiah 56:67) We trust God because we know He will keep His promises.                                                                          Our trust is rewarded. When we know they will repay our trust with kindness, we trust a person. God is the ultimate source of faith, and He always rewards our trust with kindness. We can see this in the account of Joseph. Joseph was an enslaved person in Egypt, and he warned his master that he was being taken to prison. His master then put Joseph in prison, and the guards put Joseph in a dungeon. During this time, Joseph did not trust the guards or the jailer. Joseph trusted God no matter how bad his situation got. His trust was rewarded when Joseph was finally released from prison. God sent His angel to Joseph, and the angel told Joseph to flee to the land of Canaan, where he would eventually become the second in command and deliver His people.    God always keeps His Word.                                                                God is reliable and trustworthy. This is why we trust Him, and this is why we should trust Him. We trust God because He is trustworthy and dependable, and we can trust Him to do what He says He will do. We trust Him when we know He will be accurate and faithful to His word. We see this in the story of Gideon when the Philistines were invading the land. The people of Israel begged Gideon for help, and Gideon promised to deliver them. But, one promise, in particular, drew Gideon's trust: "The Lord will fight for you, and you will defeat the Philistines." (Judges 6:12) When the Philistines were finally defeated and the Israelites were freed from the oppression of their enemies, God kept His promise. He fought for them, and He defeated the Philistines.                                                                      It's essential to trust in God. Trust is a relationship between two parties, and rightly so. In this case—we trust God. However, this means that we need to trust Him, but how is this possible? How can we trust something we do not understand? And how can we trust something that we have no tangible evidence of existing? To trust something, we must believe it based on evidence. God, however, is something that most people do not know exists. But God promises to give us enough proof that we can trust Him.                                                                                         Conclusion There are many reasons to trust in God. One of the most important reasons is that trusting Him is better than trusting man. It is better because it is something that we do, not something that we think about. It is something that we do, not something that we hope for. It is better than trusting someone because it is for the long-term, not just for now. Trusting in God is better than relying upon someone because it is something that is for eternity. Trusting in God is better than trusting someone because God is trustworthy and reliable. Trusting in God is better than relying upon someone because God can keep His Word, and this is what matters most. The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever puts his trust in the Lord shall be safe. To fear man also means to please a man, prioritizing the will of man above the will of God. There are two main ways we can come under the fear of man. The first is through control or domination. This is where some men use intimidation to try and force you under their power because of their position, wealth, and status. The second way is through manipulation, and this is where persuasive lies are used, so they show you a false love or give you false praise, but the goal is to get you in a place where you don't want to lose that seeming love or praise, so you are subject to their will. In another case, by subjecting your will to them, you are ultimately subjecting to Satan because those men are themselves subjects to Satan. So, you are not only their slave, but you become a slave of Satan. In the book of Colossians, Paul says that even when you serve in your work under other men, do it as unto God and not unto men. This way, every decision can be guarded by God alone. If our goal is ultimately to please men, then we cannot be servants of Christ.

Do you believe in the power of Prayer……I certainly do….Jesus Lives New International Version Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.   Matthew 24:6-13 New International Version 6 You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. 7 Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of birth pains.   9 “Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. 10 At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, 11 and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. 12 Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, 13 but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. Please pray for God’s protection upon the Ukrainians, and for His protection upon Israel. Both are being attacked by evil people and terrorists.       Please pray for those who are suffering from pain; addictions;  depression;  loneliness;  heartache;  loss of a loved one/pet;  homelessness;  fighting cancer/diseases; obesity;  anorexia; financial issues;  job issues;  and attacks from the enemy.   Please pray for our parched land to receive an abundant amount of rain and snow.   The Bible never specifically addresses the issue of abortion. However, there are numerous teachings in Scripture that make it abundantly clear what God’s view of abortion is Jeremiah 1:5 tells us that God knows us before He forms us in the womb. Psalm 139:13–16 speaks of God’s active role in our creation and formation in the womb. Exodus 21:22–25 prescribes the same penalty—death—for someone who causes the death of a baby in the womb as for someone who commits murder. This law and its punishment clearly indicate that God considers a baby in the womb to be just as much a human being as a full-grown adult. For the Christian, abortion is not a matter of a woman’s right to choose to have a baby. The baby is already present and living. Abortion is a matter of the life or death of a human being made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26–27; 9:6).   What does the Bible say about abortion? Simply put, abortion is murder. It is the killing of a human being created in the image of God.    Please pray for babies not to be aborted/murdered, and for the Doctors and Nurses who do this to repent of their sins, confess them to Jesus, and receive Him as their Savior. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus tells his followers, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.”    And please pray for those of us who minister on the streets to Momma’s as they try to enter the murder mills. For Jesus to shine His Light through us into their hearts, and for His protection upon us as we witness. And for his protection upon the babies and the mothers.      For God’s will, strength, courage, Word, peace, love, boldness, wisdom, and knowledge upon all who minister in His Son’s glorious name.