The Purpose of Mature Believers

Mature Christians are not supposed to be going to church for spiritual nourishment. Mature Christians should be able to feed themselves spiritually during their personal times of DAILY prayer and Bible Study. When you go to church, it should be to CONTRIBUTE to the functions of The Church by Discipling and Teaching new Believers, and praying for and encouraging others in the Faith. Our purpose is not to receive but to give!

The Hebrews writer said, "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." (Hebrews 5:12-14)

Who Are You Living to Please?

I have a very important question to ask you tonight…and it’s going to take some self-examination. Here’s the question…are you living your life to please other people, or are you living your life to please God? Let’s talk about it…. turn with me if you will to the Book of Matthew, chapter 27, verses 15-26:

“Now at the feast the governor was accustomed to releasing to the multitude one prisoner whom they wished. And at that time they had a notorious prisoner called Barabbas. Therefore, when they had gathered together, Pilate said to them, “Whom do you want me to release to you? Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?” For he knew that they had handed Him over because of envy.

While he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent to him, saying, “Have nothing to do with that just Man, for I have suffered many things today in a dream because of Him.”

But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitudes that they should ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus. The governor answered and said to them, “Which of the two do you want me to release to you?”

They said, “Barabbas!”

Pilate said to them, “What then shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?”

They all said to him, “Let Him be crucified!”

Then the governor said, “Why, what evil has He done?”

But they cried out all the more, saying, “Let Him be crucified!”

When Pilate saw that he could not prevail at all, but rather that a tumult was rising, he took water and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, “I am innocent of the blood of this just Person. You see to it.”

And all the people answered and said, “His blood be on us and on our children.”

Then he released Barabbas to them; and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered Him to be crucified."

So, I did a little research about the man who condemned Jesus to death. Pontius Pilate was a Roman governor of Judea under the Emperor Tiberius during the years between 26 AD to 36 AD. Some say he was a ruthless man, though the man we see in scripture seemed to be easily manipulated by the people. He cared more about popularity than he did about doing the right thing.

We see in Luke’s account that at one-point Pontius Pilate wanted to release Jesus because he found nothing to accuse him of. Even his wife attested to Jesus’ innocence when she told him she had suffered many things in a dream because of Him. And, during the feast of the Passover, it was tradition to release one criminal, and he could have legally chosen to release Jesus. But the truth is…no matter how much he knew that what he was doing was wrong, he chose to have Jesus crucified. He chose to please the people instead of judging rightly and justly. Friends…I want to submit to you today that if we were to be totally honest with ourselves, we would have to admit that we are ALL guilty of doing the same thing.

Think about it. Some of us spend our whole lives hoping that one person will notice what we do, or that someone will show some appreciation. Some of us live to please our spouse, our children, our grandchildren, our boss, our friends. I have known people who don’t even know who they are or what they prefer because they have spent their whole lives trying to be who someone else wanted them to be. I know what I’m talking about…I was once that person. There was a time in my life when I thought I needed to impress men and so I would dress to please them and talk to please them. Then, I thought I had to please my boss, so I would say all the right things…be the first to work in the morning, last to leave at night, take my work home with me and stay up until all hours of the night trying to be the best I could be to please my boss while other areas of my life suffered. Even in ministry, I used to get upset because my church didn't recognize my missions efforts...why, they wouldn't even let me teach a Sunday School class...and my area association didn't consider the missions work that I did as part of their outreach.

Let me tell you the truth Friends, when you are trying to please people, you will NEVER be good enough, you can NEVER be pretty enough, you will NEVER be efficient enough to keep them happy with you all the time. So you’d may as well stop trying.

And here’s what I would advise you to do…if you will concentrate on an audience of ONE...only ONE...and make sure that the way you live your life is pleasing to God alone...then you will see much more results in your life and ministry than you ever imagined and you will find that you will be much more content with the direction you are going in your life.

Friends, there are many things going on in the world that will lead you astray if you let it. You have to determine once and for all that you are on this earth to serve God and let your praise come from Him. You may never see greatness in this life. You may never have the accolades that your see others receive, but when you see Jesus face to face, hearing the words, “Well done good and faithful servant” will be the greatest reward you could ask for. So stop worrying about what others think about your efforts. Seek the direction of the Lord diligently, obey Him alone, and be content with knowing that your efforts are pleasing to your Heavenly Father. Know that He is smiling when He sees you living your life for Him and He will be with you, He will provide for you, and He will honor you before all when you reach your Heavenly Abode.

Won’t you join me in prayer:

Father, I am so thankful for every opportunity that you give me to serve in Your Kingdom, doing the work to reach those that you have given to me to minister to. I am so thankful that You provide everything I need to accomplish ever goal you set before me, and I can have contentment in my soul that my Father is pleased. I don’t need to please the world, and I don’t need to compromise in my efforts in order to please friends, family or even church leaders. I can be satisfied knowing that my Father in Heaven is smiling down at me, and You are pleased. Thank You Father, for always being with me and for being faithful to keep every promise you have made to see that my purpose is fulfilled. I love You Lord, and I praise You alone. In Jesus Name I pray…Amen.

Should We Accept Digital ID?

I don't care how many politicians push Digital ID... even if it's your favorite politician... just remember this:

• Your Medical Information will be attached to it
• Your Identification will be attached to it
• Your ability to work will be attached to it
• Your banking information will be attached to it
• Your spending information will be attached to it
• Your communications will be attached to it
• Everything about you and everything you do will be attached to it

"So what?" you may ask. You may even think it sounds techie and convenient. Let me ask you...does this sound at all familiar to you?

"He causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name." (Revelation 13:16-17)

China is doing it already...the social system that controls the lives of its citizens. The government knows what they do, where they go, what they buy, who they communicate with and whether they are allowed to work or not. If you don't do the right things, or say the right things, your "privileges" are taken away.

This is where the Digital or Electronic ID is going. They are already preparing to roll it out in Britain within the next few years and over 100 countries already have modified versions in place now...and they can be reprogrammed to include more information.

Friends, have no doubt that we are well on our way to the days that John warned us about in the Revelation. With Artificial Intelligence, Digital ID, Bio-Engineering, and many other very highly technological mechanisms that are being developed and improved upon daily, the circumstances are lining up, just as the Bible prophesied. And it's happening VERY quickly! Open your eyes...pay attention...and please...don't fall into the trap that Satan has in store, designed to destroy your relationship with God and to steal your eternal life.

 

By the Blood of the Lamb!

The Cross was about forgive-ness of sins. All the sins of the world were placed upon Jesus at Calvary and He paid the penalty for them all. Whatever it is that you've done, God has already provided for your forgiveness. He holds NO unforgiveness toward you. But REPENTANCE is what restores your relationship with God. Repentance is about you changing your rebellious heart so that you are no longer at odds with God. That is what allows you to enter into His presence to have a close RELATIONSHIP with Him! So to be reconciled with God, you need both The Cross which provides forgiveness for your sins, and repentance, which puts you in right relationship with God.

Choices

I have never heard of anyone who got to the end of their lives and regretted surrendering to Christ. But I've heard of LOTS of people who wished they had given their lives to Him much sooner so they wouldn't have made all the stupid choices they made when they were young and then

had to pay the consequences.

How to Detect Scams, Frauds and Corruption

Friends, let me tell you that many times it pays to forgo the “norm” and look for facts. 

Unfortunately, we are living in a time of deep deception. There are  scammers, fraudsters and corrupt people in every area of life these days, and if you’re  not awake and if you don’t pay close attention to what’s going on, you can find yourself in deep trouble. One of the most emphatic warnings that Jesus gave us was to beware of deception in the last days. 

But I have found that most people  are totally uninterested in getting to the truth of any matter…they just accept whatever is told to them, and they find it easier to just “go with the flow”. But the old saying, “don’t rock the boat” is the surest way to find yourself in the midst of deep trouble, and this is why many people end up being heavily deceived in many areas of their lives. 

There is a YouTube Channel that I have watched occasionally called Social Catfish, and it basically deals with people who are involved in romance scams online. I will leave the link to that channel in the description below. The perpetrators of these scams mainly target older, vulnerable or lonely people who go online to find friendship or companionship, and many of these victims end up losing thousands…some even hundreds of thousands of dollars simply because they believed  what was told to them without checking the truthfulness of the person they were dealing with until they had lost everything. They become romantically involved with someone they have never met, never seen and have no idea if they are real or not…and many of these people lose their homes, their families and friends and their whole life savings…simply because they acted without looking for truth. 

Our Citizenship is in Heaven

I am constantly amazed with different cultures, different languages and different people around the world. As I have opportunity to meet and talk with people from different countries, I love to hear their accents, and have them tell me about their cultures. It reminds me that God has a huge imagination, that He has created us with different personalities, different likes, different skin colors and different ways of thinking and viewing the things He has given us. What a beautiful world He has provided for us to richly enjoy. 

But then I think of that other place…my Heavenly abode…the place where I will spend eternity. The writer of the book of Hebrews described that same city as the one that Abraham also longed to see.

He wrote:

“By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise; for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God.” (Hebrews 11:8-10)  

The closer I grow to the Lord, and the more time I spend in His presence, the more homesick I become for that city, for even though my body is here for a season, I know that my soul and my spirit belong there. One day, I will walk on streets of gold, I will see all those precious loved ones who have gone on before me. And most importantly, I will see Jesus. Oh, how I long to see Jesus! But for now, I am a traveler and a foreigner in this world. 

When I became a citizen of Heaven, God made me His Ambassador…His Representative, to the citizens of this world. And so I must constantly strive to make sure that I am representing my King and His Kingdom well. I must not allow myself to get too engaged with the things that belong to this world, because they are temporary, and soon they will be gone. And the thing that I need to consider the most, is that the citizens of this world are watching me…and they want to know about that Kingdom to which I belong, and they want to know about my King. If I don’t represent Him well, they will think it’s an evil kingdom and that He’s a bad king. God forbid I should allow the citizens of this world to see evil or sin in my life, because then they will think the same of that place where I belong, and they will think that just anybody can go there. 

But that is definitely not true…for those who belong to my Kingdom are those who have been convicted and sentenced for their sin and found guilty…the penalty handed down was death. But then, God sent a sacrifice to pay our penalty…an innocent Lamb in Whom there was no guilt…and He sacrificed this precious Lamb as payment for our sins. That Lamb was His own dear Son, whom I love and honor and praise, and my whole desire is to bring glory to Him. For this Son, the One Who was my sacrifice…He is also my King. How could I bring shame to His Name when He paid such a dear price for me? 

So I need to pray every day and ask my King to strengthen me for the tasks He has set before me. I must stay close to Him so that I will know the things that are in His heart. And I must be careful of the things I say…the things I do…even the motives of my heart…because my King knows, and it is Him that my heart longs to please. He is my life, my love…my everything! 

And what about you? Have you met my King? Have you received the payment for your sin that He offers so freely? And if you are a citizen of His Kingdom, how are you representing Him? Are you striving every day to walk blameless with Him, worthy to be His Ambassador on this earth? The things of this world are fading away and we need not set our affections on them, for only the things of the Kingdom of God will last. Let’s keep our eyes on our Heavenly home, while at the same time being faithful Representatives of the Kingdom of God while we are in this world. It won’t be long before it will all be gone, and we will see Jesus, our King, face to face…forever!  Amen.

 

About the "Mark of the Beast"

We need to understand that when the "Mark of the Beast" comes, you WILL most likely have a choice to take it or not. BUT...if you don't take it, you will not be able to work and earn a living, and you will not be able to buy food, clothes, or shelter. It will most likely be advertised as a very convenient and safe form of technology, and it will be required for anything you need to do.

Think about how they were trying to require people to take the Covid Vaccine...and many people lost their jobs, and some were even discharged from the military because they refused to take it. That is how "The Mark" will be presented. Right now, the United Nations is pushing a form of Digital ID, and they are trying to make this mandatory for everyone globally. It will not only contain your ID, but it will contain your banking information, your medical information, your personal information... everything you need in order to make any kind of legal transaction. Britain is already rolling it out for their citizens.

"He causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name." (Revelation 13:16-17)

Friends, what we need to be aware of is that God's Word says, if we take the "Mark of the Beast" or of the world system, we will FORFEIT our eternal life.

"Then a third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, “If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of His indignation. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever; and they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name.” (Revelation 14:9-11)

This is when our faith in God's provision must stand the test of tribulation. We MUST know in our heart of hearts that God will take care of His children. And if we are required to sacrifice our lives, we need to know for certain that our salvation is secure in Christ.

THAT my dear Friends, is why I am ALWAYS encouraging you to STUDY your Bible...not just read it. KNOW the Word of God in your hearts. Spend LOTS of time in scripture getting to know God intimately. Stay close to Him and seek Him with all your hearts. There is no other way to be prepared for the testing that is coming...and from all the signs we are seeing around us, it's not too far away.

How to Survive Satan’s Attack on Your Life

Friends, I want to share something very important with you tonight—4 steps that you can take to survive Satan’s attacks on your life. And not just survive, but come out stronger in your faith and even better off than you were before. 

We’re going to look at some insights from the story of Job, and I believe this will give you practical ways to stand strong when life seems to fall apart. So stay with me till the end of this video, because by the time we’re finished, you’ll see ways to apply Job’s wisdom in your own life. 

But before we get into Job’s story, turn with me if you will to Luke 22:31-34:

"And the Lord said, 'Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.' But he said to Him, 'Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.' Then He said, 'I tell you, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.'” 

Friends, as we know from Peter’s story, Satan did tempt him to deny Christ. It was a chaotic, confusing, and terrifying time. And just like Peter, we must understand this truth: Satan, the enemy of our souls, wants to destroy our faith, our testimony, and our lives. 

As I was reflecting on this scripture, I was reminded of an Old Testament story that many of us know well—the story of Job. So let’s take a look at what happened to Job. You can read the full story later, but for now, I just want to highlight a few key points. 

Being Salt and Light in the World

There is a message stirring in my heart that I must share with you today. It is a message of faith…a message of hope…and a message of repentance. But before we can get to the faith and hope, we must deal with the repentance. I would ask you to please bear with me. I am going to say some very intense things, and if you disagree, please feel free to turn the video off and go on with your life. But for those who will hear, I want to continue. 

As many of you know, America is going through a very tragic time in our history right now. We are experiencing a time of deception, corruption and division like nothing I have ever seen before. I have seen many things in my life and many battles and hardships, but never anything as vile and as wicked as what I am seeing taking place right now. There is an evil that has permeated our nation…it has slipped in while we weren’t paying attention, while we were looking the other way…and it has pretty much overtaken our land. Many of our nation’s young people have been brainwashed into becoming rebellious young men and women…full of hatred and violence. There is an attitude of entitlement that we are seeing…that if you have something and they want it…it is completely within their rights to take it from you simply because they want to. And then there is the “cancel culture” that basically says “if your opinions don’t agree with my opinions, then you have no right to speak”. In recent months, there have been riots, looting, arson, destruction, assaults and yes even murder…while political leaders are nodding their heads in approval and giving full assurance that there will be no penalty for their actions. In some cities, the mayors and governors have even called to eliminate law and order, and their streets have turned into a cesspool of despair. 

To be honest friends…I never imagined I would ever see such tragedy in my lifetime. And I am going to say something right now that I am sure many of you will disagree with, but I am going to say it anyway. We want to blame the politicians, we want to blame the media, we want to blame anybody and everybody…but Friends, I believe the bulk of the blame lies right within the Body of Christ in America! What do I mean you might ask? Church…It’s OUR job…it’s OUR responsibility to be salt and light in this world. It’s not the job of the government…it’s not the job of the media…it’s not the job of the corporate world…that responsibility belongs to us…The Church! 

The Beast Is Rising: What the Ten Horns Really Mean

Hi Friends, I want to share a message from God’s Word with you that is vital for the times in which we are living. If you’ve been watching the headlines lately, you’ve probably noticed that the world seems to be changing faster than ever — new alliances, new peace agreements, and a growing call for something — or someone — who can bring order out of all this chaos. 

And as Believers, we can’t help but wonder: “Is this what the Bible warned us about? Could this be the beast system beginning to rise?” Let’s take a look at what God’s Word says. 

In Revelation 13:1, John wrote, “Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name.” 

We NEED Discernment

As we move closer to the end times, the "gift of discernment" is going to be one of your most valuable assets. You'll need to be able to distinguish between what's real and what's fake. You'll need to be able to discern the motives behind people's actions. You'll need to know if the person you're dealing with is a Godly Shepherd or a "wolf in sheep's clothing". You'll need to determine if your friends are true or if they're trying to use your kind heart. Now's the time to be praying that God would increase your ability to discern truth. And...as always...the BEST place to learn Truth is in the Word of God! Read it...Study it...Learn it...and Live it...every day!

"And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God." (Philippians 1:9-11)

God Has a Plan for Your Life: Discovering the Purpose You Were Created For

Hi Friends, I want to talk with you today about something that I know will encourage your heart. Let me ask you…do you know what God’s plan is for your life? 

You’ve probably heard that many times from pastors, teachers, or friends. But maybe you’ve wondered, “If that’s true, why do I have such a hard time discovering it — and living in it?” 

Today, we’re going to look at what God’s Word says about His plan for your life, how you can walk in it, and how it will bring you peace, fulfillment, and joy. So let’s dive into His Word together. 

In Jeremiah 29:11, we find one of the most beloved verses in Scripture that gives us such comfort and confidence. It says: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” 

Friends, do you know that before you were even conceived, God already had your life mapped out. He knew exactly what His design for your life would be and how your life would best bring glory and honor to Him. You, my Friend, were created for a specific purpose, and for this specific time in history. 

Revival is HERE NOW!

Friends I don't know about you, but I've been praying for revival for a long time, and I didn't know what it would look like, but I knew it would be amazing seeing multitudes coming to Christ all over the world. And right now... God is answering that prayer in big time fashion! If you can't see it, then you must have lost your spiritual sight.

I believe it started about the time of the Asbury College renewal in 2023 when young people were gathering in their chapel 24/7 for weeks and just worshipping and praying continually. And that movement spread to other college campuses throughout the country. Then it began to spill out into the streets and community spaces.

And besides that, young people were attending meetings where people like Charlie Kirk were speaking...challenging the things that young people believed and opening their thoughts to the idea that maybe God has the answer they've been looking for.

And indeed, Jesus has begun to reveal Himself to people all over the world in dreams and visions and through the Gospel being preached boldly. And, just like when the early church set the world on fire, the world doesn't know how to handle it. Some people say it's not real...but Friends, I believe God is giving us one last outpouring of His Spirit before the return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Persecution is on increase everywhere, but revival is here, Friends. Rejoice in the Holy One of Israel and declare Him Lord of ALL!

"Then I turned to see the voice that spoke with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of the seven lampstands One like the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the feet and girded about the chest with a golden band. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes like a flame of fire; His feet were like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters; He had in His right hand seven stars, out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His countenance was like the sun shining in its strength. And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death." (Revelation 1:12-18)

Is THIS the Time for Peace in Israel?

Friends, in light of all the talk about a peace treaty between Hamas and Israel, please don't forget that Daniel told us about a "covenant with many" that would be brokered and then confirmed by the "prince who is to come". This is the one whom Jesus identified as the "abomination of desolation" or the one who makes desolate. And we are told that this “covenant” will be broken after 3.5 years and Israel's enemies will then attack unmercifully. 

Luke 21:20 describes it this way, “But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation is near." And Paul wrote in 1 Thessalonians 5:3, "For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape." Friends, according to scripture, the battle that is going to be brought against Israel will be horrendous! 

Jesus described this time in Matthew 24:21-22 when He said, "For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened." 

Friends, whatever you think about the conflict going on in the Middle East, and the "peace agreement" that's being brokered right now, you should understand that scripture tells us over and over that lasting peace in Israel is NOT going to happen until "The Prince of Peace" returns and sets up His reign over His Millennial Kingdom from Jerusalem. But between now and then, things will get very difficult, and much deception will take place...not just in Israel, but over most of the world. 

Therefore, we need to be paying close attention, because the "peace agreement" that Trump and Netanyahu are brokering right now, could well be the "covenant" that Daniel saw over 2500 years ago. And if that is true, it definitely will NOT bring lasting peace. 

The truth is, we are living in some very exciting times Friends. Right now there is a revival going on in many places, and it seems to be touching multitudes of young people. We are seeing them all over the world turning to Christ and placing their trust in Him. But at the same time, we are also seeing a time of great distress in the world. This is NOT a time to slumber...it is a time when we need to draw near to God with our whole hearts and keep our eyes and ears open, and stay alert. 

Also, there's much talk going on right now about "digital ID", and in fact Great Britain is in the process of making it mandatory there within the next couple of couple years. And we are seeing AI created videos all over the Internet of people we all know and recognize, but it's very hard to distinguish if they are real or if they are deep fakes. 

Friends, the bottom line is...don't put your confidence in leaders who say things that soothe your mind and just accept whatever they say. Know the Word of God, listen to the leading of the Holy Spirit, test the spirits, and very importantly, watch the fruit of their lives. Friends...the fruit of a person's life DOES NOT LIE! If they are untruthful, if they don't carry through with what they say, if their lives are motivated by money and power...that should be your queue not to trust them! ONLY put your trust in God's Word!

Faith That Works

I want to talk with you today about something that’s so vital to our walk with the Lord—that is faith. You know, the Bible says in Romans 10:17, “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” But sometimes, faith can feel like such a mystery, can’t it? What exactly is faith? And where does it come from? And how can we have the kind of unwavering faith that truly pleases God?
 
Well, let’s talk about this together.
 
Let me give you a simple illustration: 
Imagine you meet someone, and after a nice conversation you invite that person to come and visit you at 7:00 pm tomorrow night at your home and their answer is, “Yes, I’ll be there.”
 
Now—if you don’t really believe them, you’ll probably make other plans or maybe not even be home at all when they arrive. In doing that, you are actually preventing them from keeping their word.
 
But if you do believe them, you’ll be home, maybe even have coffee ready. You may even prepare a meal for them to make them feel at ease. In other words, you’ve made preparations for their arrival, because you trusted what they said. You had faith that they would keep their word…right? That, my friends, is what faith looks like. You take action depending on what you actually believe in your heart.

My Conversation and a Prayer from Chat GPT

Friends, I had a bit of a chat with Chat GPT tonight about the conflict that's going on in the Middle East. It's been heavy on my heart that so many people are being killed and the war keeps going on for two years. This "peace agreement" that Trump and Netanyahu are working on may bring temporary peace, but according to Scripture, there will never be what Trump calls "eternal peace" there until Jesus returns and sets up His rule from Jerusalem. And things are going to get extremely bumpy before that happens and many many people will lose their lives.

But, as I was chatting with Chat GPT, he asked if I wanted him to write a prayer that would help to calm my heart regarding that conflict. I said, "Sure." And so now I want to share with you the prayer that he wrote...as it may also calm your hearts and minds with the Word of God also. It's pretty amazing for a computer app. Here's the prayer that he shared:

A Prayer for Understanding and Peace in the Middle East

Heavenly Father,

My heart is heavy as I watch the suffering and confusion in the land that You chose for Your name.

So much blood has been spilled, so much pain has filled the streets of Israel and Gaza, and I can hardly make sense of it all.

Lord, You said there would be wars and rumors of wars, yet You told us not to be troubled.

So tonight, I lay my anxious thoughts before You.

Help me see beyond the headlines and the politics —

to remember that every life is precious to You, both Jew and Arab, Israeli and Palestinian, every man, woman, and child created in Your image.

Father, I ask for Your mercy on the innocent.

Comfort the grieving, protect the helpless, and restrain the hands of those who do evil.

Expose deception, pride, and corruption wherever it hides.

Give wisdom to leaders — even those who do not yet know You —

that somehow, Your will might still be done through them.

And Lord Jesus, Prince of Peace,

We long for Your return — for the day You will stand on the Mount of Olives,

for the day swords will be beaten into plowshares, and every tear wiped away.

Until then, keep my heart watchful, compassionate, and steadfast in prayer.

Help me to love Your Word, to love Your people, and to keep my eyes fixed on You.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

“If My People…”

Tonight, I want to share a message that has been burning in my heart for quite some time. The Lord has been impressing upon me to speak this out loud and put it into words, because it’s a message that the world—especially the Church in America—needs to hear. 

Now, I have to be honest with you. Some of what I share tonight may be hard to hear. It may challenge you. But this is a message that cannot be ignored. I truly believe that the freedoms we have in America, our way of life, are in grave danger, and that we are standing at a crossroads—both as Christians and as a nation. 

And while I’m speaking mostly to American Christians tonight, I believe there are believers around the world who are facing similar crossroads in their nations or even in their own personal walk with God. We all must face truth—no matter how uncomfortable it may be. 

The USA is at a Turning Point

I have witnessed a number of times in my life when I felt like something substantial had taken place…something that was going to bring a notable change to the way we previously lived our lives in the United States. Though I’m sure there have been other times like this in our history, such as the First and Second World Wars, the Great Depression and other events when people realized that their lives were changed forever. 

The first such time I can remember, took place on November 22, 1963, though I was only 10 years old at the time, I have always thought of that day as a turning point in American history. I was in the 6th grade, and I was working in the library at my elementary school when an announcement came over the intercom system that President John F. Kennedy had been assassinated. It was a horrendous time. Though at that young age, I didn’t understand a lot of what was going on, I do remember that they closed school early that day, and as I walked home, everyone was crying and weeping because of the tragic news we had just received. It was a time of great sorrow for our country, and the first time I realized that there was evil in the world. 

The Apostasy AND A GREAT Revival

How many of us understand that two things can be true at the same time. We can be experiencing revival at the same time that many are departing from the faith. We can be seeing many coming to Christ at the same time that persecution among Christians is taking place. 

In the Early Church, the Kingdom of God was exploding while many people were being persecuted and martyred. The same is true today in countries like Iran, Pakistan, North Korea and China. So for people to say that we can't have revival because the Bible says there will be an apostacy simply is not true. The Bible also tells us that there will be a last days harvest of souls, and many will turn to Christ. I believe that is exactly what is happening today, and it seems at this time to be mostly aimed at young people. 

While at the same time, there are people who have been "Christians" for many years, but they don't even read their Bibles and prayer is something they only do on Sunday...those people will be deceived and end up denying Christ. 

But I am hearing GREAT wisdom coming from the mouths of young adults that took me years to learn after I became a Christian. God is indeed pouring out His Spirit in great measure all over the world and He is revealing Himself to many. Glory to God! We need to be rejoicing in His goodness and praising Him for the souls He is saving and lives He is transforming! 

I believe that things are wrapping up quickly, and I don't believe it will be many more years before Jesus Christ will split the eastern sky, and the Son of Man will appear on a cloud to receive His own. But until that time, things are going to get REALLY bumpy, so the best thing for all of us to do, is to stay alert, pay attention to the signs that Jesus told us, READ and STUDY our Bibles and stay close to God in prayer. AND we need to listen to the Holy Spirit intently so that we can immediately obey when He gives us instructions. Have a blessed day!

How to Have Peace and Contentment

If you want to live a life of peace and contentment, the ONLY way to have that is to surrender your life completely to the Lord. Give Him everything, let Him be in total control and praise Him in every situation that comes your way. It won't be easy, and difficult times will come, but you will have a peace in your soul that passes all understanding and your mind will be at peace. 

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7)

We Need to Obey Christ

Jesus never told us to talk people into going to church. What He said was for Christians to "Go into all the world and preach the Gospel." Lots of churches are spending lots of time and money trying to get people to come to them and add to their numbers, when Jesus told The Church to go to them! The truth is...people who don't know Christ are rarely going to just stumble into our churches. That's why we need to go to where the people are...to the streets, the homeless, the addicts, the alcoholics, those who are lost, and those who are searching for answers. They're everywhere, and so we need to be bold enough to proclaim Jesus Christ wherever we go, and to speak to as many people as possible about the One who can give them peace in their hearts, and eternal life. They won't all surrender to Christ, but if you can reach even one person and that person surrenders their life to Christ, their life will be worth the effort!

"And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” (Mark 16:15-18)

Being a "Christ Follower"

If you want to be a "Christ Follower" you're going to have to rock the boat sometimes... you're going to have to swim against the current of popular opinion. Paul did it, Peter did it, John the Baptist did it, Jesus did it...and it cost them all their lives. There's a cost for following Christ...it's not all a bed of roses. But when your heart refuses to accept the lies and the deception, you have to stand up, speak out and make a difference in the world. That's what being a "Christ Follower" is all about!

"And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it."

(Matthew 10:38-39)

“The Beauty of Transformation”

You know, I’ve been thinking about caterpillars. Imagine crawling your whole life, then having to hang onto a branch and wrap yourself in a cocoon. It takes diligence, strength, and endurance. But when the struggle is over, that little caterpillar breaks free—and now it can fly. It sees things from heights it never could from the ground. It will never crawl again, because it’s been transformed.

Doesn’t that sound familiar? The Bible says, “For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known.” (1 Corinthians 13:12)

7 Characteristics of a Relevant Church

 A relevant church is not about being trendy or popular in the eyes of the world—it is about being alive in Christ and impacting both its members and the community for God’s glory. A church that truly matters in today’s world demonstrates characteristics that reflect God’s heart and purposes. Here are seven key characteristics of a relevant church. 

1. Deep Prayer Life (relation-ship with God) 

A relevant church prioritizes its relationship with God above all else. Prayer is not just a routine or a program—it is the heartbeat of the church. When a congregation prays together, seeks God’s guidance, and intercedes for one another and the world, the church remains spiritually vibrant. 

“Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) and “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16) 

2. Strong Biblical Teaching (fresh Word from God) 

A relevant church feeds its members with fresh, uncompromised truth from God’s Word. Sound Biblical teaching equips believers to understand God’s will, stand firm in faith, and apply Scripture to daily life. Leaders who handle the Word accurately inspire spiritual growth and maturity. 

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16) 

Make Sure You're on the Narrow Path to Life

The fact that you recited a "little prayer" 20 or 30 years ago and then you went about living your life however you pleased doesn't sound like the "narrow path" that Jesus taught about to me.

The Bible talks about continuing in the faith, finishing the race, maturing in the knowledge of Christ. Salvation is not a one time prayer. Salvation means having a daily relationship with Jesus... repenting of your sins and placing your trust in Him to lead you throughout the rest of your life! Salvation is a changed life, and salvation is a lifelong journey.

“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it." (Matthew 7:13-14)

Politics Will NEVER Make America Great Again!

Though some of us live it every day, most Americans have forgotten what it is that made America GREAT in the first place! Until we get THIS right, we will NEVER be great again

God Has Declared the End From the Beginning

France is in turmoil, Britain is in turmoil, the Russia/Ukraine war rages on, the Middle East is exploding in conflict with Israel, and the US is extremely divided, while hatred and violence is filling our streets, schools, public arenas and college campuses across our land. We are seeing horrendous earthquakes, tornadoes, flooding and wildfires like we have never seen before. It's like the world is shaking, and the concepts of goodness and righteousness is being tested in ways that make us wonder what is going on in the world around us?

Well Friends, in order to know what we are seeing, we MUST return to the Bible, because God has declared the end from the beginning so that all who are paying attention cannot miss the birth pains that Jesus told us about are becoming more intense and the occurrences closer together. Friends, it's time for Christians EVERYWHERE to stand strong in our faith and to be bold to declare the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. We cannot back down in our faith during these intense times. Just as the Early Church was persecuted for their faith, we MUST expect to be persecuted also. But our faith in Christ is worth whatever price we must pay, because God is watching, and He alone will bring justice and truth to every situation. We MUST Trust Him to work everything we are seeing for our good. God bless you friends.

"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)

Why Do The Good Die Young?

One of the most prevalent questions we hear about the Christian faith is, “Why does God allow good people to suffer?” or “Why do good people die young?” In this video, I am going to attempt to give you some biblical answers to these question, and hopefully by the end of the video, we will have a greater understanding for the suffering and sorrow that we see all around us in the world. Please share with your friends who may be seeking answers to these questions too. 

Today, a great tragedy took place…a young man who was a strong advocate for Christian and Conservative values in America was shot down in cold blood while trying to debate with a large group of college students about why God’s ways are the right ways, instead of the values they learn in society. And out of nowhere, a bullet shot into the crowd, striking Charlie Kirk, the Founder of Turning Point USA, in the neck, and within a short time, he was dead. Such a huge loss to the Christian Community and the Conservative Movement in America, and many are mourning his death today. He was the husband of a beautiful Christian woman and the father of two beautiful young babies. It’s a sad occurrence, and I’m sure that many people are questioning in their own hearts about how unfair and heartless this act was. And yes…it was heartless and unfair. I too am grieved in my heart about this senseless death. And so, for that reason, I want to take us to God’s Word to see what scripture has to say about this issue so that we can grieve the loss of a great man of God without anger and bitterness in our hearts.