When we live in peace and safety with time to dwell on our actions and how we live, ironically, this peace can be a source of danger if it decreases our alertness. For this reason, we are admonished to be watchful: âTherefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming,â (Matthew 24:42 ESV). In February and March 2014, the world was watching as Russia began to invade the region of Crimea, previously connected to Ukraine (a conflict that remains ongoing). Letâs look at … [Read more...] about Russia, Crimea, & Ukraine 2023
Kingdom of God
Why Canât Man Govern Himself?
The Creator gave humanity a fantastic opportunity and a perfect environment after Satan's rebellious war had caused the earth to become without form and void. Satan, as Heylel, had rejected Godâs government and chaos and confusion was the result (Genesis 1:2). As God considered the creation of man in His image, He moved to clean up the earth to provide a âvery goodâ environment for man to live in. âYou sent forth Your Spirit, they are created; and You renew the face of the earthâ (Psalm … [Read more...] about Why Canât Man Govern Himself?
The Garden of Eden
Scholars have long scratched their heads trying to figure out the exact location of the garden God planted eastward in Eden. That it is a physical place is not in doubt. Out of the ground the Eternal made trees grow that were pleasing to the sight and good for food. The garden was watered by a river, which then parted into four rivers. It was into this physical setting that man was placed with the instructions to tend and keep the garden. It must have been a fabulous environment as everything … [Read more...] about The Garden of Eden
Three Judgment Periods
The Apostle Paul outlines, in his letter to the Hebrews, the doctrines or principles of the teachings of Christ and he concludes the list with the doctrine of eternal judgment (Hebrews 6: 1-2). One of the most astounding truths revealed in the Bible, though not widely understood, is that God is not trying to save the entire world now. However, the Bible also shows us that all of mankind will have a chance for salvation. But if God is not trying to save the world now, how can all of humanity … [Read more...] about Three Judgment Periods
The Calming Light
Death of a Loved One From time-to-time events cause us to deeply consider the reality of our own mortality. One of those times inevitably is when we experience the death of someone close to us. This is particularly true in a situation that involves a devastating disease such as cancer or a tragic accident â those times when death is unexpected and premature. Experiencing the process causes us to be very realistic about just what we are as physical beings. Many of the Psalms capture the … [Read more...] about The Calming Light
Peace, Peace but There is No Peace
Peace is something that we all desire, seek and want. During the Christmas season, one of the tag lines of the holiday is âlet there be peace on earth.â But regardless of how hard the governments of man and individuals work for peace -- it is elusive. Why is that? One of the reasons peace is so elusive is the way power is used and where it is focused. In general, there are two approaches to the use of power. One use of power leads to strife, conflict, and war while the other leads to peace. … [Read more...] about Peace, Peace but There is No Peace