The act of intercession; therefore is something crucial to communication throughout scripture that indeed gives us some insight of Hebrews 7:25 (He ever lives to intercede for us). Daniel also repeated this theme in Daniel 9:8-10. God's promise here was the prophetic insight given in Jeremiah 29:10. God stated this would happen; so it appears to be a done deal. There was no promise how many would do this; as is evident from the small group that initially rebuilt the wall; and the disobedience of many was seen with marriages to foreign wives. No doubt worldliness had affected the hearts of those who should have remembered the prosperity God gave them in Babylon and His promises to return after that time. It is a wonder that confession of the sins of church congregations isn't given much attention as compared to particulary egregious ones of individuals as it still affects the overall witness as we see from exhortations written for the churches in Revelation 2 and 3; for example.
Look at God's faithfulness to Israel as stated in Jeremiah 31:36 where the courses of nature would have to change with the sun and moon for God to abandon His covenant promises. In fact the only covenant changed is that related to the method of worship with the law and sacrifices which was of course replaced by the perfect sacrifice under Christ which abolished therefore the old ordinances. (see Hebrews 9-10). The object of worship was therefore Christ; God had stated in Isaiah 1:11; see also Psalm 69:31.
In understanding the New Covenant we should perceive that it is still the same God with the same characteristics today that existed in the Old Testament from eternity. We would on the surface expect that to be a "no brainer"; but how often do we see the fear of God demonstrated as in Acts 5:1-11 with Ananias and Sapphira? Our commitments to God should not be of fools ( Ecclesiastes 5:4). See Matthew 5:33-35 for ungodly vows.
I desire to be submissive, & remain teachable, let take a look at one of your statement of belief.
You spoke to Ronald, & previously stating this many time as I recall
We get our understanding of the Bible from the Bible itself. The Bible alone and its entirety is the Word of God and must be our only Authority.
Ok, this is your faith, not mind, you know where I STAND ON THIS ISSUE, saying that Luke 1:6 they were not blameless. When the Scripture of Truth says plainly "walking in all the commandments & ordinances of the Lord blameless". along with the rest of the Scriptures that I've quoted concerning this, even giving you concordance reference which you use to understand the words of God. David, you don't even believe your own faith & your calling God a liar & you expect me to give heed to counsel such as this?
I could go on refuting you soundly with the Scriptures & sound reasoning, but considering our past conversations, what would be the purpose?
Souls are at stake here, whom Jesus suffer & paid the ultimate price for & God will judge His people Ecclesiastes 5:2,3
David,,,,,,, as Keith Green song says, Your heart is hard (& is hardening ) & your prayers are cold, so where will you go from here?
HI Things to remember when you make your vows before God.
1.Serve God with fear and trembling for He made us and not we, so we are in His creating and when we pray, we enter into his presence.
2.All the vows that you make is being recorded by an angle and one day we will give an account of each man's words.
3.When you pray BeCareful for your mouth will cause you to sin if you fail to pay your vows before God
4.Don't fail to pay your vows and cause God to destroy the works of your hands.
It's written in
( Ecclesiastes 5:4-6 kjv)
4.When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed.
5. Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay.
6. Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say thou before the angel, that it was an error: wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hands
No, I don't believe we're supposed to wear crosses. Leviticus 26:1, nowhere does it say wear a cross, as jewelry. However it does say not to make idols.
Recently I thought, if a person had a friend that was killed by gunshot & had a miraculous recovery. How would he feel, if when he returned to his friends & family, they had an image of the gun or bullet around their neck, to honor him. I would think it would be upsetting to say the least. Wouldn't he say, "your missing the main point." isn't it the life lived?Jesus himself being the example of a loving life, helping others in need? & the hope & promise of resurrection. John 5:21-29, 1Corinthians 15:42-58, John 11:25, Ecclesiastes 5:15, 1Timothy 6:7,
Bare your cross: Luke 14, looking at context, whole chapter Jesus in doing the better thing by healing, suffered rejection, hate, wrongful judgement.
A cross is painful, it's obvious, on view for everyone to see, not something we can hide in our pocket. It causes ridicule & even division. Luke 14:11, Luke 14:12-14, Luke 14:17-20,24, Luke 14:26,27, also Matthew 10, note Matthew 10:36, Matthew 10:17,18, Matthew 10:21, Matthew 10:22, please read in context Matthew 10, Matthew 10:32-42, & Luke 9:22-26, also Matthew 16:21-28, Mark 8:29-38, Mark 10:14-52,
Your words are taken serious with God and when you bind them in the name of Jesus it will be establish. You need to understand that we Christians are like the ambassador of a nation.
our home is not here but we are here for a short stay while representing our kingdom with full authority. ( Matthew 28:19-20)
And so, while we are here all authority has been given to us by Jesus and so when we speak and agreed on matters especially concerning the church of Jesus Christ it will be bind here on earth as well as in heaven.
A good example has been given to us in the book of Ecclesiastes 5:4
4When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow.
5It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it.
6Do not let your mouth lead you into sin. And do not protest to the temple messenger, "My vow was a mistake." Why should God be angry at what you say and destroy the work of your hands?
7Much dreaming and many words are meaningless. Therefore fear God.
Here you see God takes the word which you speak using your mouth seriously, so when you agree on something according to it his will God will also agree in heaven.
So, i will leave you with That to ponder and be in prayers ask God for understand for wisdom is the principal thing and therefor in all your getting get understanding. (Provers 4:7)
Verse 5 in this short Psalm indicates vows that David made; unknown as to exactly what they were. The next verse states assurance of long life which Solomon was promised in 1 Kings 3:14 IF He would remain obedient and not stray as warned in the conditions listed there as well as in 2 Chronicles 1:11 and sequential verses (without the promise of long life there). Solomon's sins probably shortened his life; however despite his lengthy reign.
In David's case vows were given; whereas in Solomon's case I know of no such example. There are warnings; in fact in Ecclesiastes which Solomon wrote after learning some bitter life lessons where he mentions vows. ( Ecclesiastes 5:4-8). God requires it; and we are "fools" if we don't. A vow can be a one time act such as Paul in Acts 18:18; or one that is done for as long as a lifetime (such as a marriage vow). Thus; we need to be careful what we promise and have every intention to complete it. Judges 11 shows the seriousness of a poorly thought out vow (much controversy there as to the meaning; it would probably mean dedicating as a perpetual virgin to the Lord in the case of a human as opposed to an animal sacrifice). There are whole commentaries on that passage of scripture.
In this Psalm we should focus on the eternal benefits of those who trust God. Verse 7 indicates the king will abide before God "forever"; and this would clearly foreshadow the Messiah who was to be a son of David who would finally be the one to restore the Kingdom and fulfill all the promises left undone. It would seem that David's vows were for a lifetime of some sort of service (verse 8). The continual praise certainly should accompany what we vow; that would be nice to see in marriages. The rock in verse 2 certainly would indicate Deity; and God's protection in verses 3 and 4 show our heavenly home to come and the angelic protection promised for His saints (see Psalm 91:4).
I was encouraged through your faith. Even through those tragedies: you proclaim love for Biblical Truth & trusting GOD's ways are always helpful.
Your comment is very difficult to answer because of the severe troubles you've faced & currently living in. I've had to take time with GOD & through the Holy Spirit leading without emotional bias, etc. Know, I have lifted the whole situation up in prayer.
Here are powerful scriptures to hopefully help emotionally, spiritually, with strength in faith & hope to endure; for each day or every moment you need them. Psalms 43:1,
For wisdom : Proverbs 29:27, Zephaniah 3:5, Luke 16:10, Matthew 25:31-46, Luke 18, Proverbs 21:3, Isaiah 58 - Isaiah 59, Ecclesiastes 5:8,
This section goes from they did not believe (as seen in John 6:64; 8:46 and others) to verse 39 of this chapter which states that they COULD not believe as prophesied in Isaiah 53:1.
Verse 42 serves as a harsh reminder that we can have belief in Christ but we also must CONFESS with our mouths ( Romans 10:9-10) in order to have saving faith. We are reminded here of Luke 16:15 which states that which is honorable among men is an abomination to God.
Here; it was praise of men that was the cause; and being thrown out of the synagogue; not even direct physical persecution.
Verse 48 reminds us of the conviction of the Spirit as mentioned in John 16:8; a few chapters later. Clearly; the whole Godhead works as a unit in tandem in ways mysterious to man.
Verse 40 goes on further to state from Isaiah about God Himself blinding men. Some other verses on that include 2 Thessalonians 2:11 where God Himself sends strong delusion so that they will believe the lie because of the previous verse where they did not LOVE the truth. Also we have Isaiah 66:4 where it says that God will choose their delusions.
All sin stems from self justification; and self love that cannot accept the true state of our souls as fallen man because of Adam and his progeny that makes up natural man. Naked we come into this world and naked we shall go ( Job 1:21); also see Ecclesiastes 5:15. We cannot love anything above God; Jesus uses the word HATE for anything else ( Luke 14:25-26). We see the general sentiment in verse 25 of this chapter. Clearly; Christ Himself showed love in the previous chapter for Lazarus; Mary and Martha as well as John when He said "Behold your mother" to John at the cross so that he could take care of her. ( John 19:26-27).
There were times when they sought Him out when He stated the more important principle that those who followed Him were brothers; sisters; etc. ( Luke 8:21).
The blueprint for being a child of God or not is in John 12.
Welcome to the discussion, I think I may have seen some posts from you, possibly.
I think I agree with your statement about the Babylonian captivity because of: Jeremiah 34:8-22, There's also: Jeremiah 22:3,4,5,17, Ezekiel 22:7,29,
Daniel prophetic dreams & explanations, I try to line up with other scripture when I can.
However when you say "America" I have learned many people outside of USA, more often of the "America" Continents, will reference themselves as American, especially when immigrating into USA, likewise other Continental countries call them American, USA often called The States; I've learned in recent years. Being this is a globally active website I try to clarify USA. If you're speaking only of USA, I would like to comment to that. I feel it unfair to group all U.S. into that assessment. However many Psalms 62:10, treasonous, tyrannical leaders within industry, Ezekiel 46:18, banking, loans, education, political, etc Isaiah 5:7-8,, definitely fit into that. Quite possibly we, most of us, fall into the category of the oppressed more than the oppressors = that GOD will deliver, protect & bring justice: 2Peter 2, Psalms 37, Psalms 12:5, Ecclesiastes 5:8, Isaiah 54:15-17,
Hopefully these last few scriptures are encouraging
I've experienced similar situations with " experienced contractors" that had really bad results. I've experienced much of that. Next time I think it may be wise for myself to inquire & require " high quality results " instead of " experienced ". I actually learned how to install my own carpet without stretching it. I had the carpet dealer cut the exact size for each room. When needed I would have it cut with extra length, for walkway, & closets, preventing seams. Then I would carefully cut those to fit as I layed it in place with a carpet knife. The " tact strip" nails alongside the walls grab carpet to lock in place. When the carpet weight is overwhelming I've had rooms clear, clean & ready to install & the carpet rolls delivered to each room. The carpet is much more manageable when opened & rolled out.
So it seems the main question is how to handle this situation as GOD fearing believers. After a bad job has been done.?
1st prayer, Proverbs 3:6, Proverbs 11:5,
2nd don't withhold wages to the wage earner: Proverbs 3:27, Leviticus 19:13, Jeremiah 22:13, Malachi 3:5,
I'm responding to your reply without reading any of the responses, so my thoughts will stay focused. Just incase there's repeating._..
Being you're still alive, it's not final judgement: Matthew 4:17, Acts 17:30, 2Peter 3:9, in context read whole chapter. Psalms 48:14, Proverbs 10:12, Proverbs 13:14, Ezekiel 33:11, Ezekiel 18:32,
it could be warning from GOD: Psalms 118:18,
or attack not from GOD,: Ephesians 6:12,
Psalms 90,
Jeremiah 18:8,
Psalms 37,
You are angry because of injustice it seems: Exodus 21, Exodus 22, Leviticus 20, Numbers 35, Proverbs 8:36, Genesis 18:19, Proverbs 21:3,
Psalms 73, Jeremiah 27:7-18, Isaiah 58, Isaiah 59, Matthew 25:31-46, James 2,
Beautifully put. I believe some misunderstand, the "Coming of The LORD, Return of The LORD, THE Day of The LORD " as I did also, as dearly loved fellowship of Believers would pray for it. Maybe by Philippians 3:20, eagerly awaiting, & Colossians 4:2, That misinterpreted.
Then one day I read: Amos 5:18-24,
People long for Mercy, Justice, correct judgement that may be the root of the plea, prayer.
However Jesus instruction was pray "Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven " Matthew 6:9-13,
Daniel 7:27, Psalms 145:13, John 17, note John 17:15-16, Luke 17:20-21,
Genesis 37:5-11, Genesis 40:5-22, Genesis 41, Deuteronomy 13:1-4, Job 7:14, Jeremiah 29:8, sometimes dreams come because of movies we watched, "you caused to be dreamed" Ecclesiastes 5:3,
Genesis 20:3, Numbers 12:6, Jeremiah 23:28, Matthew 1:20, Matthew 2:12,13,19,22, Books of Daniel 2, 4, 7, Matthew 27:19,
It's like this Genesis: GOD gave dominion to man over the Earth, including sea. Gen. 1:28, It's a ' stewardship ' that all men will give an account for. Matthew 25:31-46, yet the Earth still belongs to GOD : 1Corinthains 10:26,
GOD gave Moses a set of "Best Laws" That if people obeyed, would cut down on suffering. Instead many have rebelliously rejected, mocked & ignored & refusal to enforce. Whose then to blame for suffering in consequence? Proverbs 3:27,
I think it amazing that GOD intervenes on our behalf so many times. Exodus 3:9, Psalms 12:5,
& ultimately gave us Salvation John 3:16-18, Ecclesiastes 5:8,
5:8If thou seest the oppression of the poor, and violent perverting of judgment and justice in a province, marvel not at the matter: for he that is higher than the highest regardeth; and there be higher than they.
There have been several moments that were very difficult for me. Just recently I realized the years I studied scripture being confined mostly to bed after injuries: GOD ALMIGHTY is using it today, in being able to point others to scripture, without that difficult moment._..? .. would I have studied even half as much?. John 14:26, 2 Corinthians 4:17-18,
The losses I've suffered, has given me strength years before these recent trials. GOD had me prepared to face many difficulties. Through GOD's grace, taught me deeper trust in him & deeper realization of these scriptures. Hebrews 12:27-29, 2 Corinthians 1:3-7,
Praise the Lord for His goodness to us everyday. I am glad you speak of the greatness of Jesus and His work in your life this year despite hardships. I think that many of us can say that honestly. I can.
It is always good to extol the mercies of God, who gives us what we need despite our daily sinfulness, and even more and more as He sanctifies us each day, So thankful!
The Lord is great in all things. This year has been a tough year on me. But through it all, God the Lord Jesus Christ has been a wonderful counsellor to me, and a provider beyond my wildest desires.
Thank You Lord God for all you have done for me. May the Lord be gracious unto all on this platform. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to every this December 25, 2021.
I feel to reply to your post and expand to what Carleton stated. In this wicked world we live in one of the most important questions we, those who follow Christ, can ask ourselves when a situation occurs is "what would Jesus Christ do"?
It is right that the truth be spread and exposed. What is right and wrong. A big problem is the evil powers of this world own pretty much everything to do with mass communication. T.V., radio, internet, schools, etc and many people are brainwashed and deceived. Only a very small portion can be trusted to follow truth in whatever way. Although the devil mixes lies with truth to make it even harder for people to denote one from the other.
As I have been following what has been going on with the powers that be in the world for probably the last decade. Violence and fighting physically accomplishes nothing but more violence and blood shed. What the evil one wants. People to destroy themselves, by dividing them in any way, for their gain.
We, who follow Christ, are to live in peace. To turn the other cheek. To love and have mercy even on our enemies. Who I do not see as any other "person". It is the devil and the evil powers that be who control people in this world. That is what/who I hate. Not people. As I feel sorrow that they are being led to damnation. Hoping, and praying, one day in their lives they shall see the light and give themselves to the Lord. One more repentant sinner who has been saved.
Here are a couple verses from the OT and NT for you. With Romans 12:21. Reading Romans 12:17-21 gives a better view. Fear not those who can destroy the body, but Him who can destroy both body and soul in Gehenna/Hell.
Matthew 10:27-28.
Ecclesiastes 5:8
Micah 6:8
Matthew 5:39-45
Ephesians 6:11-17
They that take the sword shall perish with the sword. Matthew 26:52.
Jesus Christ is the only way. Not fighting for this, or any, "country". "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, saith the Lord."
Ecclesiastes 3:14-17 I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him.
15 That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been; and God requireth that which is past.
16 And moreover I saw under the sun the place of judgment, that wickedness was there; and the place of righteousness, that iniquity was there.
17 I said in mine heart, God shall judge the righteous and the wicked: for there is a time there for every purpose and for every work.
Ecclesiastes 5:8 If thou seest the oppression of the poor, and violent perverting of judgment and justice in a province, marvel not at the matter: for he that is higher than the highest regardeth; and there be higher than they.
Ecclesiastes 7:8-9 Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.
9 Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.
2 Timothy 4:5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
The prosperity gospel has no weight to it at all and is not a proven system.the more you give doesn't mean youll be rich one day.people who have made it in business successes are the ones God chose to favor. The results in life will speak for itself anyway.and the things we need in life are spiritual. Money could never amount to what the spirit and soul needs to survive on. The truth sets us free!
I am that Michael Isaac Dale on Ecclesiastes 5 - 4 years ago
Though the wicked study and copy much Scripture, only our Holy Father gives discernment to see and hear. For the wicked (in his desire to cause fear) would frame Scripture in ways that, if it were possible, would deceive the very elect. It is written, (And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.)
I am that Michael Isaac Dale on Ecclesiastes 5 - 4 years ago
THE VISION (4) For in your days, O rebellious house, will I say the word, and will perform it, saith the Lord GOD. Verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. There shall none of my words be prolonged any more, but the word which I have spoken shall be done, saith the Lord GOD.
I am that Michael Isaac Dale on Ecclesiastes 5 - 4 years ago
THE VISION (3) So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. I am your sign: The days are at hand, and the effect of every vision. For I am the LORD: I will speak, and the word that I shall speak shall come to pass; it shall be no more prolonged:
I am that Michael Isaac Dale on Ecclesiastes 5 - 4 years ago
THE VISION (2) Take heed that no man deceive you. For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. See ye not all these things? Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not. Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.
I am that Michael Isaac Dale on Ecclesiastes 5 - 4 years ago
THE VISION (1) And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: And as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples saith unto him, Master, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here! And Jesus said unto them, Seest thou these great buildings? For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.
The act of intercession; therefore is something crucial to communication throughout scripture that indeed gives us some insight of Hebrews 7:25 (He ever lives to intercede for us). Daniel also repeated this theme in Daniel 9:8-10. God's promise here was the prophetic insight given in Jeremiah 29:10. God stated this would happen; so it appears to be a done deal. There was no promise how many would do this; as is evident from the small group that initially rebuilt the wall; and the disobedience of many was seen with marriages to foreign wives. No doubt worldliness had affected the hearts of those who should have remembered the prosperity God gave them in Babylon and His promises to return after that time. It is a wonder that confession of the sins of church congregations isn't given much attention as compared to particulary egregious ones of individuals as it still affects the overall witness as we see from exhortations written for the churches in Revelation 2 and 3; for example.
Look at God's faithfulness to Israel as stated in Jeremiah 31:36 where the courses of nature would have to change with the sun and moon for God to abandon His covenant promises. In fact the only covenant changed is that related to the method of worship with the law and sacrifices which was of course replaced by the perfect sacrifice under Christ which abolished therefore the old ordinances. (see Hebrews 9-10). The object of worship was therefore Christ; God had stated in Isaiah 1:11; see also Psalm 69:31.
In understanding the New Covenant we should perceive that it is still the same God with the same characteristics today that existed in the Old Testament from eternity. We would on the surface expect that to be a "no brainer"; but how often do we see the fear of God demonstrated as in Acts 5:1-11 with Ananias and Sapphira? Our commitments to God should not be of fools ( Ecclesiastes 5:4). See Matthew 5:33-35 for ungodly vows.
I desire to be submissive, & remain teachable, let take a look at one of your statement of belief.
You spoke to Ronald, & previously stating this many time as I recall
We get our understanding of the Bible from the Bible itself. The Bible alone and its entirety is the Word of God and must be our only Authority.
Ok, this is your faith, not mind, you know where I STAND ON THIS ISSUE, saying that Luke 1:6 they were not blameless. When the Scripture of Truth says plainly "walking in all the commandments & ordinances of the Lord blameless". along with the rest of the Scriptures that I've quoted concerning this, even giving you concordance reference which you use to understand the words of God. David, you don't even believe your own faith & your calling God a liar & you expect me to give heed to counsel such as this?
I could go on refuting you soundly with the Scriptures & sound reasoning, but considering our past conversations, what would be the purpose?
Souls are at stake here, whom Jesus suffer & paid the ultimate price for & God will judge His people Ecclesiastes 5:2,3
David,,,,,,, as Keith Green song says, Your heart is hard (& is hardening ) & your prayers are cold, so where will you go from here?
In love & truth, your Friend
Frankie J
HI Things to remember when you make your vows before God.
1.Serve God with fear and trembling for He made us and not we, so we are in His creating and when we pray, we enter into his presence.
2.All the vows that you make is being recorded by an angle and one day we will give an account of each man's words.
3.When you pray BeCareful for your mouth will cause you to sin if you fail to pay your vows before God
4.Don't fail to pay your vows and cause God to destroy the works of your hands.
It's written in
( Ecclesiastes 5:4-6 kjv)
4.When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed.
5. Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay.
6. Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say thou before the angel, that it was an error: wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hands
pray to God to give you understanding Amen
No, I don't believe we're supposed to wear crosses. Leviticus 26:1, nowhere does it say wear a cross, as jewelry. However it does say not to make idols.
Recently I thought, if a person had a friend that was killed by gunshot & had a miraculous recovery. How would he feel, if when he returned to his friends & family, they had an image of the gun or bullet around their neck, to honor him. I would think it would be upsetting to say the least. Wouldn't he say, "your missing the main point." isn't it the life lived?Jesus himself being the example of a loving life, helping others in need? & the hope & promise of resurrection. John 5:21-29, 1Corinthians 15:42-58, John 11:25, Ecclesiastes 5:15, 1Timothy 6:7,
Bare your cross: Luke 14, looking at context, whole chapter Jesus in doing the better thing by healing, suffered rejection, hate, wrongful judgement.
A cross is painful, it's obvious, on view for everyone to see, not something we can hide in our pocket. It causes ridicule & even division. Luke 14:11, Luke 14:12-14, Luke 14:17-20,24, Luke 14:26,27, also Matthew 10, note Matthew 10:36, Matthew 10:17,18, Matthew 10:21, Matthew 10:22, please read in context Matthew 10, Matthew 10:32-42, & Luke 9:22-26, also Matthew 16:21-28, Mark 8:29-38, Mark 10:14-52,
Philippians 2:1-15, Colossians 1:10-29 ,
Matthew 25:31-46, James 1:5,
Hopefully these are helpful
our home is not here but we are here for a short stay while representing our kingdom with full authority. ( Matthew 28:19-20)
And so, while we are here all authority has been given to us by Jesus and so when we speak and agreed on matters especially concerning the church of Jesus Christ it will be bind here on earth as well as in heaven.
A good example has been given to us in the book of Ecclesiastes 5:4
4When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow.
5It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it.
6Do not let your mouth lead you into sin. And do not protest to the temple messenger, "My vow was a mistake." Why should God be angry at what you say and destroy the work of your hands?
7Much dreaming and many words are meaningless. Therefore fear God.
Here you see God takes the word which you speak using your mouth seriously, so when you agree on something according to it his will God will also agree in heaven.
So, i will leave you with That to ponder and be in prayers ask God for understand for wisdom is the principal thing and therefor in all your getting get understanding. (Provers 4:7)
Verse 5 in this short Psalm indicates vows that David made; unknown as to exactly what they were. The next verse states assurance of long life which Solomon was promised in 1 Kings 3:14 IF He would remain obedient and not stray as warned in the conditions listed there as well as in 2 Chronicles 1:11 and sequential verses (without the promise of long life there). Solomon's sins probably shortened his life; however despite his lengthy reign.
In David's case vows were given; whereas in Solomon's case I know of no such example. There are warnings; in fact in Ecclesiastes which Solomon wrote after learning some bitter life lessons where he mentions vows. ( Ecclesiastes 5:4-8). God requires it; and we are "fools" if we don't. A vow can be a one time act such as Paul in Acts 18:18; or one that is done for as long as a lifetime (such as a marriage vow). Thus; we need to be careful what we promise and have every intention to complete it. Judges 11 shows the seriousness of a poorly thought out vow (much controversy there as to the meaning; it would probably mean dedicating as a perpetual virgin to the Lord in the case of a human as opposed to an animal sacrifice). There are whole commentaries on that passage of scripture.
In this Psalm we should focus on the eternal benefits of those who trust God. Verse 7 indicates the king will abide before God "forever"; and this would clearly foreshadow the Messiah who was to be a son of David who would finally be the one to restore the Kingdom and fulfill all the promises left undone. It would seem that David's vows were for a lifetime of some sort of service (verse 8). The continual praise certainly should accompany what we vow; that would be nice to see in marriages. The rock in verse 2 certainly would indicate Deity; and God's protection in verses 3 and 4 show our heavenly home to come and the angelic protection promised for His saints (see Psalm 91:4).
I was encouraged through your faith. Even through those tragedies: you proclaim love for Biblical Truth & trusting GOD's ways are always helpful.
Your comment is very difficult to answer because of the severe troubles you've faced & currently living in. I've had to take time with GOD & through the Holy Spirit leading without emotional bias, etc. Know, I have lifted the whole situation up in prayer.
Here are powerful scriptures to hopefully help emotionally, spiritually, with strength in faith & hope to endure; for each day or every moment you need them. Psalms 43:1,
For wisdom : Proverbs 29:27, Zephaniah 3:5, Luke 16:10, Matthew 25:31-46, Luke 18, Proverbs 21:3, Isaiah 58 - Isaiah 59, Ecclesiastes 5:8,
James 1:19,20,
This section goes from they did not believe (as seen in John 6:64; 8:46 and others) to verse 39 of this chapter which states that they COULD not believe as prophesied in Isaiah 53:1.
Verse 42 serves as a harsh reminder that we can have belief in Christ but we also must CONFESS with our mouths ( Romans 10:9-10) in order to have saving faith. We are reminded here of Luke 16:15 which states that which is honorable among men is an abomination to God.
Here; it was praise of men that was the cause; and being thrown out of the synagogue; not even direct physical persecution.
Verse 48 reminds us of the conviction of the Spirit as mentioned in John 16:8; a few chapters later. Clearly; the whole Godhead works as a unit in tandem in ways mysterious to man.
Verse 40 goes on further to state from Isaiah about God Himself blinding men. Some other verses on that include 2 Thessalonians 2:11 where God Himself sends strong delusion so that they will believe the lie because of the previous verse where they did not LOVE the truth. Also we have Isaiah 66:4 where it says that God will choose their delusions.
All sin stems from self justification; and self love that cannot accept the true state of our souls as fallen man because of Adam and his progeny that makes up natural man. Naked we come into this world and naked we shall go ( Job 1:21); also see Ecclesiastes 5:15. We cannot love anything above God; Jesus uses the word HATE for anything else ( Luke 14:25-26). We see the general sentiment in verse 25 of this chapter. Clearly; Christ Himself showed love in the previous chapter for Lazarus; Mary and Martha as well as John when He said "Behold your mother" to John at the cross so that he could take care of her. ( John 19:26-27).
There were times when they sought Him out when He stated the more important principle that those who followed Him were brothers; sisters; etc. ( Luke 8:21).
The blueprint for being a child of God or not is in John 12.
Welcome to the discussion, I think I may have seen some posts from you, possibly.
I think I agree with your statement about the Babylonian captivity because of: Jeremiah 34:8-22, There's also: Jeremiah 22:3,4,5,17, Ezekiel 22:7,29,
Daniel prophetic dreams & explanations, I try to line up with other scripture when I can.
However when you say "America" I have learned many people outside of USA, more often of the "America" Continents, will reference themselves as American, especially when immigrating into USA, likewise other Continental countries call them American, USA often called The States; I've learned in recent years. Being this is a globally active website I try to clarify USA. If you're speaking only of USA, I would like to comment to that. I feel it unfair to group all U.S. into that assessment. However many Psalms 62:10, treasonous, tyrannical leaders within industry, Ezekiel 46:18, banking, loans, education, political, etc Isaiah 5:7-8,, definitely fit into that. Quite possibly we, most of us, fall into the category of the oppressed more than the oppressors = that GOD will deliver, protect & bring justice: 2Peter 2, Psalms 37, Psalms 12:5, Ecclesiastes 5:8, Isaiah 54:15-17,
Hopefully these last few scriptures are encouraging
I've experienced similar situations with " experienced contractors" that had really bad results. I've experienced much of that. Next time I think it may be wise for myself to inquire & require " high quality results " instead of " experienced ". I actually learned how to install my own carpet without stretching it. I had the carpet dealer cut the exact size for each room. When needed I would have it cut with extra length, for walkway, & closets, preventing seams. Then I would carefully cut those to fit as I layed it in place with a carpet knife. The " tact strip" nails alongside the walls grab carpet to lock in place. When the carpet weight is overwhelming I've had rooms clear, clean & ready to install & the carpet rolls delivered to each room. The carpet is much more manageable when opened & rolled out.
So it seems the main question is how to handle this situation as GOD fearing believers. After a bad job has been done.?
1st prayer, Proverbs 3:6, Proverbs 11:5,
2nd don't withhold wages to the wage earner: Proverbs 3:27, Leviticus 19:13, Jeremiah 22:13, Malachi 3:5,
3rd justice & judgement : Proverbs 3:27, Job 8:3, Proverbs 21:3, Ecclesiastes 5:8, Isaiah 56:1,
Is it justice to speak up, to inform others? I ask you to seek GOD's direction & discernment on these. I'm reminded of: Matthew 5,
Hopefully these are helpful
I'm responding to your reply without reading any of the responses, so my thoughts will stay focused. Just incase there's repeating._..
Being you're still alive, it's not final judgement: Matthew 4:17, Acts 17:30, 2Peter 3:9, in context read whole chapter. Psalms 48:14, Proverbs 10:12, Proverbs 13:14, Ezekiel 33:11, Ezekiel 18:32,
it could be warning from GOD: Psalms 118:18,
or attack not from GOD,: Ephesians 6:12,
Psalms 90,
Jeremiah 18:8,
Psalms 37,
You are angry because of injustice it seems: Exodus 21, Exodus 22, Leviticus 20, Numbers 35, Proverbs 8:36, Genesis 18:19, Proverbs 21:3,
Psalms 73, Jeremiah 27:7-18, Isaiah 58, Isaiah 59, Matthew 25:31-46, James 2,
Ephesians 6:10-18, Ephesian 4:26, Psalms 82:3, Ecclesiastes 5:8,
Hopefully these are helpful
Then one day I read: Amos 5:18-24,
People long for Mercy, Justice, correct judgement that may be the root of the plea, prayer.
However Jesus instruction was pray "Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven " Matthew 6:9-13,
Daniel 7:27, Psalms 145:13, John 17, note John 17:15-16, Luke 17:20-21,
Proverbs 21:3, Isaiah 56:1, Psalms 82:3, Isaiah 59:4, (context Isaiah 59), Jeremiah 22:15, * Isaiah 58,
2Samuel 8:15, 1Kings 10:9, Ezekiel 45:9, Micah 6:8,
We even as 1 person can bring justice, mercy, truth, hope, deliverance, through faith, endurance, prayer, action & being a living example
Romans 1:17, James 2, Hebrews 11, 2Corinthians 5:7, Mark 11:22-26,
We are called to bring Justice, Judgement, Mercy.
Ecclesiastes 5:8, Jeremiah 23:5, Matthew 24:3-51, Mark 13:5-37, Matthew 25:31-46, Luke 6,
Psalms 102:17, * James 5,
Hopefully these are helpful, please share these scriptures with those whom you feel led as a tool
Genesis 20:3, Numbers 12:6, Jeremiah 23:28, Matthew 1:20, Matthew 2:12,13,19,22, Books of Daniel 2, 4, 7, Matthew 27:19,
Acts 2:17
Hopefully these are helpful
Genesis 8:21-22, Gen. 9:9-17, therefore HE made a covenant of mercy. Yet HE also makes promises of giving an "account"
Genesis 9:5-6, Psalms 37, Isaiah 61:3, Romans 12:9, Hebrews 10:30, Jude 1:7,
It's like this Genesis: GOD gave dominion to man over the Earth, including sea. Gen. 1:28, It's a ' stewardship ' that all men will give an account for. Matthew 25:31-46, yet the Earth still belongs to GOD : 1Corinthains 10:26,
GOD gave Moses a set of "Best Laws" That if people obeyed, would cut down on suffering. Instead many have rebelliously rejected, mocked & ignored & refusal to enforce. Whose then to blame for suffering in consequence? Proverbs 3:27,
I think it amazing that GOD intervenes on our behalf so many times. Exodus 3:9, Psalms 12:5,
& ultimately gave us Salvation John 3:16-18, Ecclesiastes 5:8,
Hopefully this is helpful
Psalms 73:22-28, Titus 3:2-8, Matthew 7:26,
1 Corinthians 4:9-13, Proverbs 4:5-18, Proverbs 5:1-2,
1Corinthians 1:18-31,
Hopefully these are helpful in your study.
Matthew 18:21-35, Matthew 6:12,14, Mark 11:26, Luke 11:4, Leviticus 23, Leviticus 25, Numbers 30, Ecclesiastes 5:4,5, Ezekiel 18:7-32,
Deuteronomy 23, Proverbs 28:8, Psalms 15:5, Ezekiel 22:12,
The losses I've suffered, has given me strength years before these recent trials. GOD had me prepared to face many difficulties. Through GOD's grace, taught me deeper trust in him & deeper realization of these scriptures. Hebrews 12:27-29, 2 Corinthians 1:3-7,
1 John 4:18,
Thank you for your blessing.
Hopefully these encourage you
Praise the Lord for His goodness to us everyday. I am glad you speak of the greatness of Jesus and His work in your life this year despite hardships. I think that many of us can say that honestly. I can.
It is always good to extol the mercies of God, who gives us what we need despite our daily sinfulness, and even more and more as He sanctifies us each day, So thankful!
Thank You Lord God for all you have done for me. May the Lord be gracious unto all on this platform. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to every this December 25, 2021.
I am curious to know where you encountered this concept.
To be equal with God we must first judge God's value and merit.
One quick response is that the Jews sought to stone Jesus when they perceived His claim of equality with God, as in John 5:18.
Also look at
I John 3:20 - God is greater than our hearts
Psalm 61:2 - God is higher than us
Psalm 89:27 - God will make Christ higher than the kings of the Earth
Ecclesiastes 5:8 - God is higher than the highest
If you will know them by their fruits, let's look to our ways;
Isaiah 55:9 - God's ways are infinitely higher than ours
Job 15:6 - We are unclean
Isaiah 64:6 - NOTHING we do could measure up to God's righteousness
That is a very big and significant thing to say, to claim anyone as an equal with God.
As a comparison, there is one very heretical sect which believes we will judge God.
Clearly, just based upon the references I have listed, their claim is not the least bit credible.
Such statements cannot stand of their own merit nor of that of their speaker.
Equality with God or standing in judgment of God would be enormous claims requiring substance to back them up.
Big claims are either big truths or big falsehoods. Not everyone can determine the difference.
You may or may not be a great theologian or an academic authority.
Even such titles wouldn't be enough for a common joe like me.
Being that this is a Biblical site, answers of that magnitude carry credibility only when they are backed by Scriptural reference.
Otherwise;
If I wanted to debate you, it would be difficult because I don't see here where your basis is or how to clarify a dissent.
If I wanted to agree with you, well, again, your basis is not shown, so I would be at some degree of loss in composing a reply.
On any subject, but especially such a profound claim, let authority be Sola Scriptura and let Scripture interpret Scripture.
I feel to reply to your post and expand to what Carleton stated. In this wicked world we live in one of the most important questions we, those who follow Christ, can ask ourselves when a situation occurs is "what would Jesus Christ do"?
It is right that the truth be spread and exposed. What is right and wrong. A big problem is the evil powers of this world own pretty much everything to do with mass communication. T.V., radio, internet, schools, etc and many people are brainwashed and deceived. Only a very small portion can be trusted to follow truth in whatever way. Although the devil mixes lies with truth to make it even harder for people to denote one from the other.
As I have been following what has been going on with the powers that be in the world for probably the last decade. Violence and fighting physically accomplishes nothing but more violence and blood shed. What the evil one wants. People to destroy themselves, by dividing them in any way, for their gain.
We, who follow Christ, are to live in peace. To turn the other cheek. To love and have mercy even on our enemies. Who I do not see as any other "person". It is the devil and the evil powers that be who control people in this world. That is what/who I hate. Not people. As I feel sorrow that they are being led to damnation. Hoping, and praying, one day in their lives they shall see the light and give themselves to the Lord. One more repentant sinner who has been saved.
Here are a couple verses from the OT and NT for you. With Romans 12:21. Reading Romans 12:17-21 gives a better view. Fear not those who can destroy the body, but Him who can destroy both body and soul in Gehenna/Hell.
Matthew 10:27-28.
Ecclesiastes 5:8
Micah 6:8
Matthew 5:39-45
Ephesians 6:11-17
They that take the sword shall perish with the sword. Matthew 26:52.
Jesus Christ is the only way. Not fighting for this, or any, "country". "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, saith the Lord."
With respect. God Bless.
15 That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been; and God requireth that which is past.
16 And moreover I saw under the sun the place of judgment, that wickedness was there; and the place of righteousness, that iniquity was there.
17 I said in mine heart, God shall judge the righteous and the wicked: for there is a time there for every purpose and for every work.
Ecclesiastes 5:8 If thou seest the oppression of the poor, and violent perverting of judgment and justice in a province, marvel not at the matter: for he that is higher than the highest regardeth; and there be higher than they.
Ecclesiastes 7:8-9 Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.
9 Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.
2 Timothy 4:5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.