All there is to know about our LORD SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST is in scripture. Let us study to show ourselves approved, with the knowledge of being able to discern and apply HIS word daily as it glorifies HIM. 2 Timothy 2:15
May we add daily unto our knowledge and wise application the attributes and character of our GOD the LORD JESUS. Colossians 3; 2 Peter 1
(many more)
Numbers 6
24 The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:
25 The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:
26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
27 And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them.
Some would claim not to believe in anything; while many who claim to be atheists are involved with Satanism. This could be twofold; there is some fascination with rebelling against society (which "coincidentally" intersects with man's perverse fleshly tendencies). Otherwise; some wish to hide their true intentions by stating they are atheists who are in reality closet Satanists.
Again from a purely logical viewpoint it becomes clear that as a spiritual entity; worship; prayer and various rituals make such individuals just as "religious" as their Christian counterparts just focusing on the enemy rather than God.
There are some who follow their own maxims and would be turned off by the thought of the evils committed by others in such occult practices. It is sad but true that there may actually be MORE marriages held together among nonbelievers than in the "Christian" community; although some are content today to live with someone without making a legal commitment of a marriage certificate. There are; no doubt those who volunteer more; donate larger gifts to charities and perform other "good deeds" that often can outmatch what we as believers perform. When we leave things to unregenerate men; however we see the quick decay from the humanistic idealism of the late 19th Century to the "Free love" of the sixties to today's society with sodomy; and other same sex relationships and what is heading rapidly toward pedophelia.
Of course history has shown the bloodbath of those who are worshipped as dictators but officially demand atheism otherwise of their citizenry. Just as dangerous; of course is nationalism which usually attempts to assimilate the "Christian" cause in their own form of adulation for the man in charge. No doubt an amalgamation of all the characteristics of the old fallen empires will constitute the final "Beast" system ( Dan. 7:23 and following verses). Antichrist will exalt himself above all and claim to be God.
God states that those who say there is no God are fools ( Psalm 14:1-2). I suppose I should capitalize the word atheism as it indeed is a belief system or "religion" albeit man made. Even the demons believe and shudder as James 2:19 states.
From a purely logical and scientific level; of course any such logic is seriously flawed. First of all not believing in God (as opposed to being "agnostic" removes any hope of life after death that is verifiable). God in His infinite wisdom has allowed such items as the shroud of Turin that seems to defy logic and appears to be the image of Christ Himself. The integrity of the scriptures prophesying Jesus' birth death and resurrection and future ramifications are hard to argue against; and the lack of any body found are pretty clear indications of the Resurrection. The deaths of all the martryrs (12 Disciples) which except for John were martyred would be for naught if the Resurrection weren't real.
We also can't explain things such as decay from the second law of thermodynamics if indeed evolution is true and things evolved to MORE complex structure and order from lesser; and we can't prove so many of these "missing links" which when not turning out to be proven fraud (such as with "Piltdown man") often are proven to be separate genus or even kingdoms of animal species. When we see the ancient giant structures of great complexity which are being discovered all the time the concept of man being primitive also is challenged; and the story of fallen angels and their offspring of "men of renown" seems the likely answer for such large building blocks and scientifically complex structures pointing to the stars. ( Gen. 6:4).
Our own moral structure proves to any objective outside observer at least to be sorely deficient; we are incapable of externally keeping the law and our hearts don't have the desire to serve selflessly or to worship our Creator. Surely the complexity in nature proves a Creator.
Jeremiah 17:8 along with Psalm 1 bring out the benefits of a tree whose roots are planted near the water. This steadfast faith in the Lord is contrasted in the next verse which describes the vicissitudes of the heart of unregenerate man. These vital concepts describe the state of a soul; who needs to be vigilant to bearing fruit and testing themselves to see if they are in the faith is a necessary prerequisite ( 2 Cor. 13:5). Those who do not bear fruit are cut off and burned; a figurative statement describing a very real state of the lost at Judgment Day (see John 15:2).
Surely all flesh is as grass ( 1 Peter 1:24) and like a vapor this life soon passes away ( James 4:14). Eternity is in men's hearts showing that indeed the nature of man is for their spirit to live forever after the body and soul perish ( Ecclesiastes 3:11). This means their legacy is either eternal glory and recognition of those things done while living for the Lord; or eternal damnation for the lack thereof. (see Matthew 25:34 and associated verses).
There is some hope for us who still are producing works of wood; hay and stubble ( 2 Tim. 2:21-23) to change to better works if we have a foundation in Christ ( 1 Cor. 3:11). This results in varying degrees or levels in the harvest and subsequent reward for those who are saved (see also Mark 4:20).
Those in the flesh and not Born Again can only interpret what they see around them in the world (the actions of others who serve as their peers and interpreted through their own understanding). God alone as I see it through predestination determines who will be saved. On our end it takes a fair evaluation of who we really are as compared to a righteous God which then leads to godly sorrow and repentance (which is indeed a gift from God as about half a dozen scriptures indicate). John 16:8 must enlighten us to our desperate plight that SHOULD be aided by proper evangelism appealing for individuals to repent.
Our SAVIOR, GOD the LORD JESUS CHRIST is faithful in all HIS promises. Whatever we need to accomplish HIS work, HE will provide.
Ephesians 4:
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
2 Timothy 3:
.
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
Although the work may be important, there is nothing more important than to spend a "rest time" with the LORD.
As CHRIST always had a time of rest, and prayer with HIS FATHER; let us do the same that we may be restored spiritually, physically as we await the coming of our KING of Glory, the LORD of HOST.
Ps 24:8 Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.
10 Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah.
Numbers 6:
24 The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:
25 The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:
26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
Our healing is spiritual not physical . The body is just a shell that decays with age and ailments . I have been ill for well over thirty years , different things , some permanent some not , including stage 4 cancer ten years ago . I've had covid twice for sure but I think maybe three times , I have arthritis , sicca syndrome , fibromyalgia and a heart condition . My God has taught me many things through my ailments , lessons that I needed to learn and I'm sure I still have plenty to learn . God permitted His Son to suffer terribly for our sins , why should we think that we shouldn't suffer ? Do we think that we don't deserve to suffer ? Do we think that other people , sinners ? atheists ? idolaters ? do we think that they deserve to suffer more than we do ? We must learn than none of us are any better than anyone else , we must understand it , accept it and believe it whole heartedly . Why me ? say some . Why not me ? say I . Whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth . God brings us into submission by whatever means He sees fit , only He is righteous , we are not , not ever . Accept your lot and thank God for showing you such mercy every day . If you cannot imagine that your life could be even worse , then just watch the news and see how others live and suffer . Thanks to God for His very great mercy and generosity , Thy Kingdom Come .
Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after.
What is interesting is the next verse which contrasts this with good works that also become clear even if they start off being hidden.
The effects of sin are what is known as bad fruit. The cause of sin is of course from a corrupt and fallen nature (see Jeremiah 17:9 on the state of a human heart without saving grace).
James 3:6 states this:
And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.
This figurative expression no doubt will eventually lead to one's destruction in fire; as well as the destruction of the earth in like manner as we see stated in 2 Peter 3:10 and numerous other verses. God made everything good; but the fall of man led to death for all forms of life; as well as even the stars not being pure in His sight ( Job 25:5 seems to corroborate this with Job 15:15). He is going to create therefore a new heaven and earth where righteousness dwells ( 2 Peter 3:13 and see Revelation 21 and 22.)
God had to bring a total cure for the total corruption in what was made originally pure in His sight (see Ecclesiastes 7:29). This brought Christ part of the Godhead to personally die as our atonement and also of course to restore all nature from the fall which consummates when He returns and eventually at the end of the Millennium when the last enemy death is destroyed ( 1 Cor. 15:26). Judgment comes to the angelic realm who fell after Lucifer's rebellion. Some have already been judged ( 1 Peter 3:19-20 also read book of Jude). The rest of mankind; of course lives on borrowed time and because God is patient to ensure all His elect come to Him people try to get away with all they can ( Ecclesiastes 8:11).
A spoonful of sugar won't help this medicine go down; God's love will
A-dorn' (Gk: kosmeo) has its primary meaning, "to arrange," "to put in order," "to decorate."
"So are my ways higher than your ways"(Is.55:8-9)
We shall compare the simplicity of Christ required of women in the early church, 'that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array';(1 Ti.2: 9; 1 Pe.3: 3) on the other hand we have the bride of Christ, "the holy city, new Jerusalem". (Re.21:2;19:7)"
How come?
"Marriage of the Lamb is come" is a time for rejoicing. The honor of the bride is in the newness of relationship begun with Christ , from betrothal to the marriage supper where the array of precious stones mentioned in Re.21:19-21 are created under the true Light and created in heaven! "And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. (Re.21:2;19:7)." What is most precious in earth is glass catching the rays of the sun and natural eye is deceived.
King Abimelech of Gerar while compensating Sarah for causing distress to her modesty made amendments, "And unto Sarah he said, Behold, I have given thy brother a thousand pieces of silver: behold, he is to thee a covering of the eyes, unto all that are with thee,"(Ge.20: 16)
Abraham as 'a covering for her eyes' has an equivalent. "And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes."(De.6:8) The Spirit implies Abraham as the double for the Son, the word become flesh. ("I am the Way").
The only offensive weapon in Ephesians 6 is the sword of the Spirit. Today's megachurches have tended to make things into a sideshow by defining success as someone with a lot of possessions. Indeed God CAN honor a prayer regarding material things but it is unwise and naive to ignore verses such as Deuteronomy 17:17; for it can lead to total apostasy later when greed takes over.
Playing games to underestimate the intensity of the evil we face does no one any favors either. Those who would be hesitant to warn sinners of their grievous state and need of repentance so as not to "offend" anyone are probably the same ones who downplay how serious the conflict is with the demonic horde under Satan that have pretty well taken over society; and worse the church in a large part making those who want to engage in serious battle seem like they are outcasts. Worse still there are many who look at Satan as somehow ruling over hell (as opposed to perhaps guarding Hades in the past as seen in those held captive described in Psalm 68:18). Men are blinded because of their own sin but 2 Corinthians 4:4 shows how Satan is the agent the Lord allows to keep men in this state. Part of praying for someone may indeed be for the enemy to cause enough misery for them to cry out to the Lord; this seems commonplace for those who are Prodigal type individuals.
We see when multiple people in particular persevere in prayer for someone things often eventually happen. For those who won't respond; often they are taken away and we never have contact with them again. We don't have the luxury of knowing if anyone has another day on this earth; but we do know the Lord will save all of His elect.
Also; of course the praiseworthy attributes of God's Holiness; power; might; honor and glory should be acclaimed with conviction. This comes from TRUE worship in song and scripture reading. It also comes from a broken and contrite heart ( Ps 51
"But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;"
The scriptures show multiple times such as Matthew 27:19 with Pilate's wife (who may or may not have come to saving faith) and with Paul in particular (with the jailor who he had a chance to bring to faith along with his whole family) in Acts 16:30-33. The jailor even showed compassion in washing the stripes from whipping of Paul that apparently occurred earlier. There were others who Paul was able to bring to faith who were often wives of important officials.
Jesus; of course knew what He was talking about since we ALL start out as enemies of God. This puts us on an even playing field so to speak; so that we cannot understand how God can change the heart of a serial killer but not of someone who always seems to be a "nice person" whether our family members or friends. It isn't so much important to browbeat someone as to their sinfulness to convince them to repent; ASSUMING that we are preaching about the sorry state of human souls in general with unregenerate hearts. This is how the Gospel was preached; those in authority were given general and very harsh rebukes by Christ as part of the general call. WE certainly need to clearly speak of how Jesus saved us from total depravity or however we want to describe our sorry state before salvation.
Matthew 10:28 shows what we should NOT fear (our death) and what our persecutors SHOULD fear (see also Philippians 1:28).
Easier said than done; actually not possible apart from the Spirit giving us the utterance (see Luke 12:12).
We must remember God determines when our last day is on earth not Satan or man. No doubt Satan desires 24/7 to destroy us so we must always be vigilant and not let our guard down. The same should be said in prayer for those suffering persecution today.
But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
Romans 8:38-39 says:
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
It would seem that we are coming to the fulfillment of both Psalm 83 and one of Isaiah 17:1 very soon as well. At some point a false peace will take over at the first seal of Revelation and it could appear to head that way immediately before then; followed by the Rapture. We probably have years ahead; if He tarries of unprecedented persecution and sad to say martyrdom. We are said to be hated of ALL nations; then the end will come ( Matthew 24:9). This could have a final fulfillment during the Tribulation but also could be speaking of today.
Prayer of course is paramount. I know someone who has recently moved to Israel in the ministry (I will leave out his name and position for security sake). He and his wife see firsthand the displacement of hundreds of thousands from the border areas being attacked on multiple fronts. There are those behind the scenes funding and staging the mass demonstrations in several cities today who no doubt will not stop until they are forced to and have no less goal than overthrowing our government and making this into a Muslim country with Sharia law. No doubt we should continue to pray for individuals the Lord puts into our lives. Some things are better avoided; but we all need to search our hearts to trust God if we need to defend the life of another in these situations of mass looting and no doubt increasing violence. We all need to prepare for martial law at the very least. The end is near and now it is vital that we preach it and trust God iving obediently
10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
16 Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.
GOD bless all as we walk together in the name of our LORD JESUS CHRIST.
Happy New Year everyone! May we all be blessed and a blessing to all who are directed our way by the Spirit of CHRIST.
GOD bless all who frequent this site to learn more of our LORD KING and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST.
May we all be blessed and grow in the LORD, so we may be used to minister to others and give glory to our GOD. Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 2:10; Titus 2:11-14
Let us learn to seek, accept and apply the wise counsel of the LORD in our lives daily.
I pray for GOD'S blessings on all the saints this coming new year. May we be prayer warriors, Bible scholars, wise counsellors, and true worshippers of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
May the new year bring glory and praise in the name our KING and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST.
I will pray for you to find a more appropriate living arrangement than the one you are now in.
At some point we may need to take steps that will bring realization to our elders that they need to be in a more intensive care situation. You have been through a very serious illness and recovery in recent months. And your need for more income is an important one to realize and pray for. It is amazing that both of your parents are in their nineties. That is unusual.
If the Lord has you continue to be in your parents' home to care for them, then I pray for Him to strengthen you in every way and bless you in providing for your needs.
If the Lord opens up a better living situation, then I pray for Him to provide the job, salary, and hours needed to meet your financial needs.
Do you have siblings to help out with your parents?
At the fall of Jericho Achan secretly appropriated some of the spoils of war to himself, disregarding that these were dedicated to the Lord. Joshua had before the battle declared " And ye, in any wise keep yourselves from the accursed thing,.., and make the camp of Israel a curse, and trouble it."(Josh.6:18). Because of his sin Israel lost the following battle of Ai, and the reason was revealed to Joshua from the Lord. Achan and his family were stoned to death and their bodies along with possessions were burned in the valley of Achor. (See entry below-Achor)
(Is.65:10). What does the Spirit aim at with the example of Achan? A disciple' forsaking all for the kingdom of heaven' is to treat appropriating other man's riches as foolhardy as that of Achan. Foolish ministers of our times who espouse prosperity belong to who St Paul would classify as 'reprobate concerning the faith'. (2 Ti.3:7-8)
Achor, the valley of
"A place for the herds to lie down in." (Is.65:10,9) The valley of despair becomes a place for the shepherds to take ease. For Israel it also points a door of hope. (Hos.2:15) Jesus Christ is that door. " I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture."( John 10:9)
David's third son born to Maacah at Hebron (2 Sa.3:3). The divine Will with regards to throne of the seed from David's loins was fixed. His reign would be forever. God had set his Son for that role. King David before his death spoke to Solomon," If thy children take heed to their way, to walk before me in truth with all their heart and with all their soul, there shall not fail thee (said he) a man on the throne of Israel". Absalom could have stepped into the role. But murder of Ammon disqualified him as his own life later would be shaped by his father whose adultery with Bathsheba and murder. In the case of his father Prophet Nathan had said, "Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house (2 Sa.12:11)". He was very much a victim of his own impulsive actions.
The Spirit in organizing the Father-Son relationship is not about history but about relationships. "Thy will be done in earth as in heaven." Our relationships in earth follow a pattern accordingly beginning with Seth who stepped in the breach of Abel. Seth foreshadowed how Christ would step into the breach in order to make peace between God and man. The Spirit gives us a clear proof how we are to approach the God document.
Consider the similarities between the Life of Jesus and of Absalom. So it is not coincidence that the latter meets his end, "And he was taken up between the heaven and the earth," as Jesus was hung up in mid-air. Instead of Judas Iscariot we have Ahithophel who hanged himself because of Absalom who spurned his advice. (2 Sa.17:22) Either we are for Christ or against him. It is the lesson we may derive from it.
Absalom was in a hurry to take control of his father's throne. In order to spearhead a revolt from Hebron he lied. His actions would seem as taken from the playbook of Satan. His blatant lie may have fooled David but not God. He precipitated the events even as the red dragon did "And there was war in heaven."(Re.12:9-13) (Selected)
Let us be faithful in our study of the word of GOD. We will then be prepared and capable of giving an answer to every man who will ask of our hope and satisfaction in our SAVIOR KING JESUS CHRIST.
We are told of the falling away of people from the faith: however, may we be fully armored to stand against the spiritual wickedness in high places.
Thank you brethren for prayer cover and standing in the gap making up the hedge in for all in CHRIST Name.
May our diligence and maturity in CHRIST JESUS glorify and praise our SAVIOR.
We should desire this completeness as much as we desire for the completion of history and the return of our Lord and Savior. We should pray to be able to suffer all things in order that those who are to come to Christ will be brought to Him, just as Paul desired to be spent for the sake of those who are to come to Christ in belief. We ought to desire to be used of God and to be used up by God in service to Him and to the Church until all things are made subject to Christ, and all enemies are crushed under His feet, and the Son of God delivers up to the Father the kingdom, authority, the glory given to the Son until His work is completed in the consummation of time and history.
Heavenly Father, I pray today that You infuse into each believer the passion and patience to endure whatever You bring our way for the sake of the Church that exists now and the Church that is to be when all the elect has been brought into Christ just as Christ has the passion, the long-suffering, and the will to accomplish all of what has been given of Him in completing His bride for glory. Help us to be brave and full of faith, eager to share what we have received from You with others in order that the elect will hear the gospel and come to believe. Cause us to have a cooperative will to align with the will and work of the Holy Spirit within us to live for You, for Your glory, for the accomplishment of Your will in and through us, for the sake of all who are called to salvation by Your amazing grace, mercy and love. How blessed we are to have been chosen by You before creation for salvation and life in You through the Son and Holy Spirit. Strengthen us to be courageous in the face of hardship and persecution, gracious in our conduct and speech to those who do not yet believe, godly in how we live our lives before others, resistant to evil and the devil, and compassionate in our giving and helping of others who are in need of provision and most of all Jesus. Amen.
I sent this prayer to a friend of mine in small group who is going to start; Lord willing a study on prayer in a couple weeks. I appreciate the theological integrity to this prayer which is very scripturally based and edifying in my opinion.
I suppose I should apologize not continuing with the attributes of God in alphabetical order. Certainly; you shouldn't hold back if you have a desire to continue that theme. I don't have one particular reason that I discontinued it.
In general it seems I have tanked as to eliciting any responses; maybe I am too "preachy" in my style or people are tired of my approach at this point. I am more drawn toward videos of those who are evangelizing as of late and am trying to shift my focus in that direction. Seems like your latest postings aren't responded to yet either; although the holiday time frame may have something to do with that. My main concern is to minister to others; there is a lot of chatter out there but often not much substance. Even criticism has gone down for me lately. In the end I just pray that those who are looking for deeper fellowship in the Word will find it; and that the Lord can use me in whatever way He deems fit.
I've had of course a lot on my plate. I appreciate your steadfastness; honestly I'd probably cry if you decided to abandon your faith. Maybe it seems grim and unnecessary to say that; thankfully many who fall away come back (they will if truly His). We all need to be prepared to see even those we love fall away; or else it can totally destroy our souls so that we are rendered incapable of continuing steadfastly. Maybe I'll put a post up about the Prodigal son.
Luke 6:36 "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful."
James 2:13 "For He shall have judgement without mercy, that have shoed no mercy, and mercy rejoiceth against judgment."
Here we see how mercy triumphs over judgment, so we should be careful to show mercy, being patient with others who are sinners as we are."
Romans 9:22-23 "What if God, willing to show His wrath, and to make His power known. endured with much long-suffering the vessels fit for destruction: And that He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of His mercy, which He had afore prepared unto glory!"
We all can say like Paul, 1 Tim. 1:15-16 "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners: of whom I am the chief. Howbeit for this cause (to save sinners) I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all long-suffering (His unlimited patience), for a pattern (example) to them which should hereafter believe on Him to life everlasting." 2Pet. 3:9
When we wonder why God allows evil things to continue to happen in this world and in our lives, we can, like Peter, affirm that "The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but His long-suffering (long on patience) to us-ward, not willing that any (elect) shall perish, but that all (elect) will come to repentance.
The Lord's tarrying in unlimited patience is for the benefit of all who will be our brethren in eternal life to come to salvation, even though He knows that no matter how much time is allowed mankind, many will never come to Him for salvation.
When we see evil abounding all around us, we still can rejoice, knowing that there are still more elected ones to be saved to add to our joy in our fellowship with our Savior. Every person counts who is to come to salvation, until then, the church is incomplete until the last elected one comes to salvation. see pt. 3
The Bible calls this "long-suffering". Which is pretty descriptive. Patience is usually thought of as being able to wait without fussing about something or to put up with behavior in children, well, because they are children and other thoughts along this line.
However, long-suffering tells us that in this waiting and tolerance there is suffering on the part of the one being patient. God hates sin. Sin offends Him deeply. yet, knowing how the Son would suffer and die for us, God suffered long in the sinfulness of mankind in order to bring them His Son as Savior. God would be just to have ended it all with Adam and started all over again. But He didn't. He could have created mankind anew after bringing death and judgment onto Adam and Eve. He could have ended ALL of mankind with the flood because ALL were sinful, but He spared sinful Noah and His sinful family members. He could have judged ALL mankind with the flood with death and judgment and created mankind anew. But He did not. He chose to be long-suffering instead, waiting for the fulfillment of the ages to arrive to send forth the Son.
God is patient with us as the Father of the prodigal son illustrates. He loves mankind and desires for the redemption of all of the elect. But in the meantime, until all elect have been saved, the elect will live among those who reject God, and God holds off His righteous judgment upon the world full of sinners throughout history until ALL salvation is accomplished for ALL of the elect. Then comes the end where Jesus returns to fulfill eternal salvation for all who believe and to execute righteous eternal punishment upon those who do not believe in Him, in His Son, and have been regenerated by the Holy Spirit.
Knowing how patient the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit have been for all of the history of creation, even of the angels prior to the creation of the physical world (when some sinned horribly and most did not) shows us that we are to be merciful as He is.
Thanks for letting us know Mr. Neville's prayer needs. I will be praying for him and his family.
May we add daily unto our knowledge and wise application the attributes and character of our GOD the LORD JESUS. Colossians 3; 2 Peter 1
(many more)
Numbers 6
24 The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:
25 The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:
26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
27 And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them.
Happy New Year everyone!
December 30, 2023
May we saints be diligent, faithful in our prayers for all areas of our life.
Happy New Year brethren!
December 30, 2023
Some would claim not to believe in anything; while many who claim to be atheists are involved with Satanism. This could be twofold; there is some fascination with rebelling against society (which "coincidentally" intersects with man's perverse fleshly tendencies). Otherwise; some wish to hide their true intentions by stating they are atheists who are in reality closet Satanists.
Again from a purely logical viewpoint it becomes clear that as a spiritual entity; worship; prayer and various rituals make such individuals just as "religious" as their Christian counterparts just focusing on the enemy rather than God.
There are some who follow their own maxims and would be turned off by the thought of the evils committed by others in such occult practices. It is sad but true that there may actually be MORE marriages held together among nonbelievers than in the "Christian" community; although some are content today to live with someone without making a legal commitment of a marriage certificate. There are; no doubt those who volunteer more; donate larger gifts to charities and perform other "good deeds" that often can outmatch what we as believers perform. When we leave things to unregenerate men; however we see the quick decay from the humanistic idealism of the late 19th Century to the "Free love" of the sixties to today's society with sodomy; and other same sex relationships and what is heading rapidly toward pedophelia.
Of course history has shown the bloodbath of those who are worshipped as dictators but officially demand atheism otherwise of their citizenry. Just as dangerous; of course is nationalism which usually attempts to assimilate the "Christian" cause in their own form of adulation for the man in charge. No doubt an amalgamation of all the characteristics of the old fallen empires will constitute the final "Beast" system ( Dan. 7:23 and following verses). Antichrist will exalt himself above all and claim to be God.
God states that those who say there is no God are fools ( Psalm 14:1-2). I suppose I should capitalize the word atheism as it indeed is a belief system or "religion" albeit man made. Even the demons believe and shudder as James 2:19 states.
From a purely logical and scientific level; of course any such logic is seriously flawed. First of all not believing in God (as opposed to being "agnostic" removes any hope of life after death that is verifiable). God in His infinite wisdom has allowed such items as the shroud of Turin that seems to defy logic and appears to be the image of Christ Himself. The integrity of the scriptures prophesying Jesus' birth death and resurrection and future ramifications are hard to argue against; and the lack of any body found are pretty clear indications of the Resurrection. The deaths of all the martryrs (12 Disciples) which except for John were martyred would be for naught if the Resurrection weren't real.
We also can't explain things such as decay from the second law of thermodynamics if indeed evolution is true and things evolved to MORE complex structure and order from lesser; and we can't prove so many of these "missing links" which when not turning out to be proven fraud (such as with "Piltdown man") often are proven to be separate genus or even kingdoms of animal species. When we see the ancient giant structures of great complexity which are being discovered all the time the concept of man being primitive also is challenged; and the story of fallen angels and their offspring of "men of renown" seems the likely answer for such large building blocks and scientifically complex structures pointing to the stars. ( Gen. 6:4).
Our own moral structure proves to any objective outside observer at least to be sorely deficient; we are incapable of externally keeping the law and our hearts don't have the desire to serve selflessly or to worship our Creator. Surely the complexity in nature proves a Creator.
Jeremiah 17:8 along with Psalm 1 bring out the benefits of a tree whose roots are planted near the water. This steadfast faith in the Lord is contrasted in the next verse which describes the vicissitudes of the heart of unregenerate man. These vital concepts describe the state of a soul; who needs to be vigilant to bearing fruit and testing themselves to see if they are in the faith is a necessary prerequisite ( 2 Cor. 13:5). Those who do not bear fruit are cut off and burned; a figurative statement describing a very real state of the lost at Judgment Day (see John 15:2).
Surely all flesh is as grass ( 1 Peter 1:24) and like a vapor this life soon passes away ( James 4:14). Eternity is in men's hearts showing that indeed the nature of man is for their spirit to live forever after the body and soul perish ( Ecclesiastes 3:11). This means their legacy is either eternal glory and recognition of those things done while living for the Lord; or eternal damnation for the lack thereof. (see Matthew 25:34 and associated verses).
There is some hope for us who still are producing works of wood; hay and stubble ( 2 Tim. 2:21-23) to change to better works if we have a foundation in Christ ( 1 Cor. 3:11). This results in varying degrees or levels in the harvest and subsequent reward for those who are saved (see also Mark 4:20).
Those in the flesh and not Born Again can only interpret what they see around them in the world (the actions of others who serve as their peers and interpreted through their own understanding). God alone as I see it through predestination determines who will be saved. On our end it takes a fair evaluation of who we really are as compared to a righteous God which then leads to godly sorrow and repentance (which is indeed a gift from God as about half a dozen scriptures indicate). John 16:8 must enlighten us to our desperate plight that SHOULD be aided by proper evangelism appealing for individuals to repent.
Ephesians 4:
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
2 Timothy 3:
.
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
Although the work may be important, there is nothing more important than to spend a "rest time" with the LORD.
As CHRIST always had a time of rest, and prayer with HIS FATHER; let us do the same that we may be restored spiritually, physically as we await the coming of our KING of Glory, the LORD of HOST.
Ps 24:8 Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.
10 Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah.
Numbers 6:
24 The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:
25 The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:
26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
Happy New Year, brethren! Our redemption is near.
December 30, 2023
First Timothy 5:24 states:
Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after.
What is interesting is the next verse which contrasts this with good works that also become clear even if they start off being hidden.
The effects of sin are what is known as bad fruit. The cause of sin is of course from a corrupt and fallen nature (see Jeremiah 17:9 on the state of a human heart without saving grace).
James 3:6 states this:
And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.
This figurative expression no doubt will eventually lead to one's destruction in fire; as well as the destruction of the earth in like manner as we see stated in 2 Peter 3:10 and numerous other verses. God made everything good; but the fall of man led to death for all forms of life; as well as even the stars not being pure in His sight ( Job 25:5 seems to corroborate this with Job 15:15). He is going to create therefore a new heaven and earth where righteousness dwells ( 2 Peter 3:13 and see Revelation 21 and 22.)
God had to bring a total cure for the total corruption in what was made originally pure in His sight (see Ecclesiastes 7:29). This brought Christ part of the Godhead to personally die as our atonement and also of course to restore all nature from the fall which consummates when He returns and eventually at the end of the Millennium when the last enemy death is destroyed ( 1 Cor. 15:26). Judgment comes to the angelic realm who fell after Lucifer's rebellion. Some have already been judged ( 1 Peter 3:19-20 also read book of Jude). The rest of mankind; of course lives on borrowed time and because God is patient to ensure all His elect come to Him people try to get away with all they can ( Ecclesiastes 8:11).
A spoonful of sugar won't help this medicine go down; God's love will
A-dorn' (Gk: kosmeo) has its primary meaning, "to arrange," "to put in order," "to decorate."
"So are my ways higher than your ways"(Is.55:8-9)
We shall compare the simplicity of Christ required of women in the early church, 'that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array';(1 Ti.2: 9; 1 Pe.3: 3) on the other hand we have the bride of Christ, "the holy city, new Jerusalem". (Re.21:2;19:7)"
How come?
"Marriage of the Lamb is come" is a time for rejoicing. The honor of the bride is in the newness of relationship begun with Christ , from betrothal to the marriage supper where the array of precious stones mentioned in Re.21:19-21 are created under the true Light and created in heaven! "And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. (Re.21:2;19:7)." What is most precious in earth is glass catching the rays of the sun and natural eye is deceived.
King Abimelech of Gerar while compensating Sarah for causing distress to her modesty made amendments, "And unto Sarah he said, Behold, I have given thy brother a thousand pieces of silver: behold, he is to thee a covering of the eyes, unto all that are with thee,"(Ge.20: 16)
Abraham as 'a covering for her eyes' has an equivalent. "And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes."(De.6:8) The Spirit implies Abraham as the double for the Son, the word become flesh. ("I am the Way").
The only offensive weapon in Ephesians 6 is the sword of the Spirit. Today's megachurches have tended to make things into a sideshow by defining success as someone with a lot of possessions. Indeed God CAN honor a prayer regarding material things but it is unwise and naive to ignore verses such as Deuteronomy 17:17; for it can lead to total apostasy later when greed takes over.
Playing games to underestimate the intensity of the evil we face does no one any favors either. Those who would be hesitant to warn sinners of their grievous state and need of repentance so as not to "offend" anyone are probably the same ones who downplay how serious the conflict is with the demonic horde under Satan that have pretty well taken over society; and worse the church in a large part making those who want to engage in serious battle seem like they are outcasts. Worse still there are many who look at Satan as somehow ruling over hell (as opposed to perhaps guarding Hades in the past as seen in those held captive described in Psalm 68:18). Men are blinded because of their own sin but 2 Corinthians 4:4 shows how Satan is the agent the Lord allows to keep men in this state. Part of praying for someone may indeed be for the enemy to cause enough misery for them to cry out to the Lord; this seems commonplace for those who are Prodigal type individuals.
We see when multiple people in particular persevere in prayer for someone things often eventually happen. For those who won't respond; often they are taken away and we never have contact with them again. We don't have the luxury of knowing if anyone has another day on this earth; but we do know the Lord will save all of His elect.
Also; of course the praiseworthy attributes of God's Holiness; power; might; honor and glory should be acclaimed with conviction. This comes from TRUE worship in song and scripture reading. It also comes from a broken and contrite heart ( Ps 51
Matthew 5:44 states:
"But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;"
The scriptures show multiple times such as Matthew 27:19 with Pilate's wife (who may or may not have come to saving faith) and with Paul in particular (with the jailor who he had a chance to bring to faith along with his whole family) in Acts 16:30-33. The jailor even showed compassion in washing the stripes from whipping of Paul that apparently occurred earlier. There were others who Paul was able to bring to faith who were often wives of important officials.
Jesus; of course knew what He was talking about since we ALL start out as enemies of God. This puts us on an even playing field so to speak; so that we cannot understand how God can change the heart of a serial killer but not of someone who always seems to be a "nice person" whether our family members or friends. It isn't so much important to browbeat someone as to their sinfulness to convince them to repent; ASSUMING that we are preaching about the sorry state of human souls in general with unregenerate hearts. This is how the Gospel was preached; those in authority were given general and very harsh rebukes by Christ as part of the general call. WE certainly need to clearly speak of how Jesus saved us from total depravity or however we want to describe our sorry state before salvation.
Matthew 10:28 shows what we should NOT fear (our death) and what our persecutors SHOULD fear (see also Philippians 1:28).
Easier said than done; actually not possible apart from the Spirit giving us the utterance (see Luke 12:12).
We must remember God determines when our last day is on earth not Satan or man. No doubt Satan desires 24/7 to destroy us so we must always be vigilant and not let our guard down. The same should be said in prayer for those suffering persecution today.
But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
Romans 8:38-39 says:
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
It would seem that we are coming to the fulfillment of both Psalm 83 and one of Isaiah 17:1 very soon as well. At some point a false peace will take over at the first seal of Revelation and it could appear to head that way immediately before then; followed by the Rapture. We probably have years ahead; if He tarries of unprecedented persecution and sad to say martyrdom. We are said to be hated of ALL nations; then the end will come ( Matthew 24:9). This could have a final fulfillment during the Tribulation but also could be speaking of today.
Prayer of course is paramount. I know someone who has recently moved to Israel in the ministry (I will leave out his name and position for security sake). He and his wife see firsthand the displacement of hundreds of thousands from the border areas being attacked on multiple fronts. There are those behind the scenes funding and staging the mass demonstrations in several cities today who no doubt will not stop until they are forced to and have no less goal than overthrowing our government and making this into a Muslim country with Sharia law. No doubt we should continue to pray for individuals the Lord puts into our lives. Some things are better avoided; but we all need to search our hearts to trust God if we need to defend the life of another in these situations of mass looting and no doubt increasing violence. We all need to prepare for martial law at the very least. The end is near and now it is vital that we preach it and trust God iving obediently
10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Have a great New Year in CHRIST name.
December 29, 2023
Galatians 5:
16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
Thank YOU for FATHER for blessings and benefits YOU have freely given us.
Happy New Year everyone!
December 29, 2023
16 Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.
GOD bless all as we walk together in the name of our LORD JESUS CHRIST.
Happy New Year everyone! May we all be blessed and a blessing to all who are directed our way by the Spirit of CHRIST.
December 29, 2023
May we all be blessed and grow in the LORD, so we may be used to minister to others and give glory to our GOD. Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 2:10; Titus 2:11-14
Happy New Year to every one.
December 29, 2023
May we all go forward in the Name of the LORD JESUS CHRIST, empowered by the HOLY GHOST dwelling in us, and with wisdom from HIS word.
December 29, 2023
I pray for GOD'S blessings on all the saints this coming new year. May we be prayer warriors, Bible scholars, wise counsellors, and true worshippers of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
May the new year bring glory and praise in the name our KING and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST.
Happy New Year everyone!
December 29, 2023
I will pray for you to find a more appropriate living arrangement than the one you are now in.
At some point we may need to take steps that will bring realization to our elders that they need to be in a more intensive care situation. You have been through a very serious illness and recovery in recent months. And your need for more income is an important one to realize and pray for. It is amazing that both of your parents are in their nineties. That is unusual.
If the Lord has you continue to be in your parents' home to care for them, then I pray for Him to strengthen you in every way and bless you in providing for your needs.
If the Lord opens up a better living situation, then I pray for Him to provide the job, salary, and hours needed to meet your financial needs.
Do you have siblings to help out with your parents?
Achan
Achan
At the fall of Jericho Achan secretly appropriated some of the spoils of war to himself, disregarding that these were dedicated to the Lord. Joshua had before the battle declared " And ye, in any wise keep yourselves from the accursed thing,.., and make the camp of Israel a curse, and trouble it."(Josh.6:18). Because of his sin Israel lost the following battle of Ai, and the reason was revealed to Joshua from the Lord. Achan and his family were stoned to death and their bodies along with possessions were burned in the valley of Achor. (See entry below-Achor)
(Is.65:10). What does the Spirit aim at with the example of Achan? A disciple' forsaking all for the kingdom of heaven' is to treat appropriating other man's riches as foolhardy as that of Achan. Foolish ministers of our times who espouse prosperity belong to who St Paul would classify as 'reprobate concerning the faith'. (2 Ti.3:7-8)
Achor, the valley of
"A place for the herds to lie down in." (Is.65:10,9) The valley of despair becomes a place for the shepherds to take ease. For Israel it also points a door of hope. (Hos.2:15) Jesus Christ is that door. " I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture."( John 10:9)
David's third son born to Maacah at Hebron (2 Sa.3:3). The divine Will with regards to throne of the seed from David's loins was fixed. His reign would be forever. God had set his Son for that role. King David before his death spoke to Solomon," If thy children take heed to their way, to walk before me in truth with all their heart and with all their soul, there shall not fail thee (said he) a man on the throne of Israel". Absalom could have stepped into the role. But murder of Ammon disqualified him as his own life later would be shaped by his father whose adultery with Bathsheba and murder. In the case of his father Prophet Nathan had said, "Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house (2 Sa.12:11)". He was very much a victim of his own impulsive actions.
The Spirit in organizing the Father-Son relationship is not about history but about relationships. "Thy will be done in earth as in heaven." Our relationships in earth follow a pattern accordingly beginning with Seth who stepped in the breach of Abel. Seth foreshadowed how Christ would step into the breach in order to make peace between God and man. The Spirit gives us a clear proof how we are to approach the God document.
Consider the similarities between the Life of Jesus and of Absalom. So it is not coincidence that the latter meets his end, "And he was taken up between the heaven and the earth," as Jesus was hung up in mid-air. Instead of Judas Iscariot we have Ahithophel who hanged himself because of Absalom who spurned his advice. (2 Sa.17:22) Either we are for Christ or against him. It is the lesson we may derive from it.
Absalom was in a hurry to take control of his father's throne. In order to spearhead a revolt from Hebron he lied. His actions would seem as taken from the playbook of Satan. His blatant lie may have fooled David but not God. He precipitated the events even as the red dragon did "And there was war in heaven."(Re.12:9-13) (Selected)
May we not falter, but remind ourselves of the many lost souls, and the back slidden brethren who need a loving and kind hand of grace.
Happy New Year everyone! Let us all walk in the love of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
December 29, 2023
Happy New Year everyone!
December 28, 2023
We are told of the falling away of people from the faith: however, may we be fully armored to stand against the spiritual wickedness in high places.
Thank you brethren for prayer cover and standing in the gap making up the hedge in for all in CHRIST Name.
May our diligence and maturity in CHRIST JESUS glorify and praise our SAVIOR.
Happy New Year every one!
December 27, 2023
pt. 3
We should desire this completeness as much as we desire for the completion of history and the return of our Lord and Savior. We should pray to be able to suffer all things in order that those who are to come to Christ will be brought to Him, just as Paul desired to be spent for the sake of those who are to come to Christ in belief. We ought to desire to be used of God and to be used up by God in service to Him and to the Church until all things are made subject to Christ, and all enemies are crushed under His feet, and the Son of God delivers up to the Father the kingdom, authority, the glory given to the Son until His work is completed in the consummation of time and history.
Heavenly Father, I pray today that You infuse into each believer the passion and patience to endure whatever You bring our way for the sake of the Church that exists now and the Church that is to be when all the elect has been brought into Christ just as Christ has the passion, the long-suffering, and the will to accomplish all of what has been given of Him in completing His bride for glory. Help us to be brave and full of faith, eager to share what we have received from You with others in order that the elect will hear the gospel and come to believe. Cause us to have a cooperative will to align with the will and work of the Holy Spirit within us to live for You, for Your glory, for the accomplishment of Your will in and through us, for the sake of all who are called to salvation by Your amazing grace, mercy and love. How blessed we are to have been chosen by You before creation for salvation and life in You through the Son and Holy Spirit. Strengthen us to be courageous in the face of hardship and persecution, gracious in our conduct and speech to those who do not yet believe, godly in how we live our lives before others, resistant to evil and the devil, and compassionate in our giving and helping of others who are in need of provision and most of all Jesus. Amen.
I suppose I should apologize not continuing with the attributes of God in alphabetical order. Certainly; you shouldn't hold back if you have a desire to continue that theme. I don't have one particular reason that I discontinued it.
In general it seems I have tanked as to eliciting any responses; maybe I am too "preachy" in my style or people are tired of my approach at this point. I am more drawn toward videos of those who are evangelizing as of late and am trying to shift my focus in that direction. Seems like your latest postings aren't responded to yet either; although the holiday time frame may have something to do with that. My main concern is to minister to others; there is a lot of chatter out there but often not much substance. Even criticism has gone down for me lately. In the end I just pray that those who are looking for deeper fellowship in the Word will find it; and that the Lord can use me in whatever way He deems fit.
I've had of course a lot on my plate. I appreciate your steadfastness; honestly I'd probably cry if you decided to abandon your faith. Maybe it seems grim and unnecessary to say that; thankfully many who fall away come back (they will if truly His). We all need to be prepared to see even those we love fall away; or else it can totally destroy our souls so that we are rendered incapable of continuing steadfastly. Maybe I'll put a post up about the Prodigal son.
Agape; Rich P
No need to apologize for not continuing to post about God's attributes. I am happy to continue and welcome your input as well.
God is so amazing and we have much to know about Him and much to celebrate about His wonderful nature that blesses us so everyday.
PT. 2
Luke 6:36 "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful."
James 2:13 "For He shall have judgement without mercy, that have shoed no mercy, and mercy rejoiceth against judgment."
Here we see how mercy triumphs over judgment, so we should be careful to show mercy, being patient with others who are sinners as we are."
Romans 9:22-23 "What if God, willing to show His wrath, and to make His power known. endured with much long-suffering the vessels fit for destruction: And that He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of His mercy, which He had afore prepared unto glory!"
We all can say like Paul, 1 Tim. 1:15-16 "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners: of whom I am the chief. Howbeit for this cause (to save sinners) I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all long-suffering (His unlimited patience), for a pattern (example) to them which should hereafter believe on Him to life everlasting." 2Pet. 3:9
When we wonder why God allows evil things to continue to happen in this world and in our lives, we can, like Peter, affirm that "The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but His long-suffering (long on patience) to us-ward, not willing that any (elect) shall perish, but that all (elect) will come to repentance.
The Lord's tarrying in unlimited patience is for the benefit of all who will be our brethren in eternal life to come to salvation, even though He knows that no matter how much time is allowed mankind, many will never come to Him for salvation.
When we see evil abounding all around us, we still can rejoice, knowing that there are still more elected ones to be saved to add to our joy in our fellowship with our Savior. Every person counts who is to come to salvation, until then, the church is incomplete until the last elected one comes to salvation. see pt. 3
The Bible calls this "long-suffering". Which is pretty descriptive. Patience is usually thought of as being able to wait without fussing about something or to put up with behavior in children, well, because they are children and other thoughts along this line.
However, long-suffering tells us that in this waiting and tolerance there is suffering on the part of the one being patient. God hates sin. Sin offends Him deeply. yet, knowing how the Son would suffer and die for us, God suffered long in the sinfulness of mankind in order to bring them His Son as Savior. God would be just to have ended it all with Adam and started all over again. But He didn't. He could have created mankind anew after bringing death and judgment onto Adam and Eve. He could have ended ALL of mankind with the flood because ALL were sinful, but He spared sinful Noah and His sinful family members. He could have judged ALL mankind with the flood with death and judgment and created mankind anew. But He did not. He chose to be long-suffering instead, waiting for the fulfillment of the ages to arrive to send forth the Son.
God is patient with us as the Father of the prodigal son illustrates. He loves mankind and desires for the redemption of all of the elect. But in the meantime, until all elect have been saved, the elect will live among those who reject God, and God holds off His righteous judgment upon the world full of sinners throughout history until ALL salvation is accomplished for ALL of the elect. Then comes the end where Jesus returns to fulfill eternal salvation for all who believe and to execute righteous eternal punishment upon those who do not believe in Him, in His Son, and have been regenerated by the Holy Spirit.
Knowing how patient the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit have been for all of the history of creation, even of the angels prior to the creation of the physical world (when some sinned horribly and most did not) shows us that we are to be merciful as He is.