Seeing Grandma's Ghost - True Story

"Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are of God..."
1 John 4:1 [RSV]

When Adam and Eve believed Satan’s first lie, "you will never die," (Genesis 3:4), the world was cast into sin and confusion that grows worse every year. Satan lied in direct opposition to God's truth, “when you eat of it [and sin] you will surely die.” (Genesis 2:17). Since Satan’s first lie almost everyone believes that when you die you keep on living.

It was this teaching and the popular 1960's television comedy, Bewitched, that almost caused my spiritual ruin. Bewitched piqued interest in other schoolgirls, and at slumber parties we would attempt levitation and seances. We did not know the Bible truth that would protect us from danger. “The living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing.” (See: Ecclesiastes 9:5-6 and 10; Psalm 115:17; Psalm 146:4; Job 7:9-10; Job 14:21; and Isaiah 8:19-20.)

On May 21, 1963 at 10:15 p.m. I sensed something "bad" in the house. Trying to alert my parents to danger by shaking their bed and yelling - I was confused when they did not respond. Crawling back into bed, I was startled when Grandma Anna, who lived three hours away in a nursing home, walked through the closed door. She was filmy-white. Slowly she glided towards me.

"Grandma, why are you here?" I asked innocently. Never speaking she came to me, her face changing into a demonic glare while gesturing to choke me. "Jesus help me!" I screamed, while throwing the covers over my head. Moments later the ghost was gone. The clock read 10:20 p.m. I cried out to Mom who came immediately.

The next morning the nursing home called with the news that Grandma Anna had died the night before at 10:18 p.m.

"Grandma was in my room last night,” I told the family, “she was see-through white." Mom was unnerved, but said, “Such things are impossible. Grandma is in Heaven. When people die they go to Heaven."

For years I wondered what Grandma had wanted from me. Was she really trying to kill me, or just wanted me to go to Heaven with her? These questions haunted me for a long time.

In 1975 a friend and pastor, Dr. Charles Felton, explained, “the living know that they will die but the dead do not know anything.” Ecclesiastes chapter 9, verses 5, 6, 10. Dr. Felton said that the ghost was the devil – the devil had been confusing me and wanting me to follow him ( the devil.) These words of Holy Scripture protected me from further attacks.

HEALTH - Part 2

Dear Friend:

As Jesus entered the village ten lepers met Him but kept their distance. They said, "Jesus! Master, have mercy on us!" Jesus looked at them and said, "Go. Show yourselves to the priest." Obeying Him they turned and ran and were healed. Then only one turned back to thank Jesus for healing him, and fell at Jesus' feet. Jesus said, "Were not ten healed? Where are the other nine? Only you have returned thanks to God. Arise and go your way, your faith has made you whole." Luke 17:12-14

**********

Paul said, "Three times I have pled with the Lord to remove my handicap. Each time the Lord said, `My grace is sufficient for you. For My strength is made perfect in weakness.' So I will now boast of my weakness for I am glad to be a living demonstration of Christ's power instead of showing off my own power and ability. For Jesus' sake I am content with weakness, insults, hardships, persecutions and disasters. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:8-10

***********

"Now we look in a mirror and see a blurred reflection, but someday we will see God and understand why things happened as they did just as clearly as God sees right now." 1 Corinthians 13:12

HEALTH

Dear friend, I pray above all else that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. The Lord says, "My child, listen to My Words and keep them ever in mind. Allow them to penetrate into your entire being, for they mean real life and radiant health for you.

Do not be conceited, sure of your own wisdom. Instead, trust and reverence God and turn your back on evil. When you do that, then you will be given renewed health and vitality. For I will restore your health and heal your wounds.

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and do not forget all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities; who heals all your diseases.

The above quotes are taken from these Bible texts:
3 John 2/ Proverbs 4:20-22; 3:7-8/ Jeremiah 30:17/ Psalm 103:2-3.

Creator of the Heavens

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God, and all things were created through Him and nothing was made without Him.

By faith we understand that the world was created by the Word of God, so that what is seen was made of things which cannot be seen.

Scoffers deliberately ignore this fact: that by the Word of God the heavens existed long ago. Since earliest times men have seen God's Creation and have known of His existence and great eternal power. So they will have no excuse for saying, "there is no God".

For in these last days God speaks to us by His Son....through Whom He created the world!

[The Hands that sustain the worlds in space, and holds them in their orderly arrangement, are the Hands that were nailed to the cross!]


Look into the heavens! Who created all these stars and planets? He creates them in number calling each one by its own name. By His great might and strong power not one strays or is lost.

Why do you say that the Lord God does not see your troubles and is not being fair? Don't you know? Haven't you heard?! The everlasting God, the Creator of the Universe, never grows faint or tired. No one can fathom His understanding.

[Remember how He cares for the stars? He loves you even more!]


The above quotes are from these Scriptures: John 1:1-4/ Colossians 1:16/ Hebrews 11:3/ Genesis 2:3/ Nehemiah 9:6/ Psalms 33:8-9; 95:6; 148:3-5/ Acts 17:30-31/ Hebrews 1:2/ Isaiah 40:26-28

The Soul that Sins will Die

The soul that sins will die.

The living know that they will die, but the dead do not know anything. Their love, hatred and envy die with them.

The dead have no work, wishes, knowledge nor understanding - for they are dead.

The dead praise not the Lord. He breathes his last and is buried; in that same day his thoughts die also.

The dead will never arise to haunt, and will never return to his house. They will never know if their children are honored, or if they fail or face disaster. They do not know about it, because they are dead!


REFERENCES
The above quotes are from these Bible texts:
 Ezekiel 18:4/
Ecclesiastes 9:5,6,10/
Psalm 115:17; 146:4/
Job 7:9,10; 14:21

A Sympathizing Friend

Whatever our situation, if we are doers of His word, we have a Guide to direct our way;
whatever our perplexity, we have a sure Counselor;
whatever our sorrow, bereavement or loneliness, we have a Sympathizing Friend (His name is Jesus Christ).

Ministry of Healing 249 E G White

The coming of the Anti-christ

For satan himself masquerades as an angel of light! So is it any wonder if his followers pretend to be holy and righteous? Their end will be what they deserve.

Do not believe every person, but test their message to see if they are from God, because many false prophets are in the world.

The coming of the anti-christ will be in accordance with satan's works - displayed in all sorts of counterfeit miracles, signs, wonders and deceitful evil.

The Holy Spirit expressly says, "In the last days some will leave the faith and will believe evil spirits and doctrines of demons."

So watch yourself lest you are weighed down with life's worries and cares, and Christ's Coming catches you off guard. Watch and pray at all times so you will have the strength to keep yourself from evil.

Above quotes from these Scripture Texts: 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 / 1 John 4:1-3/ 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10/ 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17/ 1 Timothy 4:1

One thing Satan loves...

Give your whole life to Jesus, not just parts here and there. God can only forgive the sins which you confess and give to Him.

One thing Satan loves is when people say they belong to God but continue living how they want.

“Pay attention, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is.” Mark 13:33.

Be ready for Jesus’ coming at any time. Don’t fool yourself into thinking it is in 20 years or even in 3 years from now. You might not live that long! Nobody knows - so be ready now!

Habit of Talking...

Cultivate the habit of talking with the Saviour when you are alone, when you are walking, and when you are busy with your daily labor.

Ministry of Healing 510-511 (1905 E G White)

In Answer to the Prayer of Faith

It is a part of God’s plan to grant us, in answer to the prayer of faith, that which He would not bestow did we not thus ask.

The Great Controversy 525 E G White

Those who Hate God

The Lord delights in mercy; and for the sake of a few who really serve Him, He restrains calamities and prolongs the tranquility of multitudes. Little do [those who hate God] realize that they are indebted for their own lives to the faithful few whom they delight to ridicule and oppress.

The Great Controversy, 632, E G White

Problems of Marriage

Satan hates marriage - this is no surprise. He is behind all marriage problems!

Satan causes strife, arguments, anger, adultery, jealousy, bitterness, envy, sexual sin, and a slew of other problems - especially those dealing with the emotions.

There is a war going on! Between Satan and his minions, and God and His holy angels. Between the devil and Gods people. [See this Blog site dated June 13, 2015 - No Mimic Battle].

Stay true to Jesus, ask His Holy Spirit for help and discernment. Focus on Jesus love for you.

Stay true to God and your spouse. Honor your marriage.

If there is violence, seek shelter, get help.

Angel Protection

We may, through the exercise of faith and prayer, call to our side a retinue of Heavenly angels, who will guard us from every corrupting influence.

Our High Calling 23 (1961, posthumous compilation, E G White)

Do not Neglect Secret Prayer

Do not neglect secret prayer, for it is the soul of religion. With earnest, fervent prayer, plead for purity of soul. Plead as earnestly, as eagerly, as you would for your mortal life, were it at stake.
Testimonies Vol. 1, 163 (1885, E G White)

God always hears Our Cries

Amid the anthems of the celestial choir, God hears the cries of the weakest human being.

 We pour out our heart’s desire in our closets, we breathe a prayer as we walk by the way, and our words reach the throne of the Monarch of the Universe

. [Our prayers] may be inaudible to any human ear, but they cannot die away into silence, nor can they be lost through the activities of business that are going on.

   Nothing can drown the soul’s desire. 

  Christ’s Object Lessons 177, E G White

WORKING

"When the redeemed stand before God, precious souls will respond to their names who are there because of our faithful, patient and earnest persuasions to flee to the Stronghold (God).

 "Thus, those who in this world have been laborers together with God will receive their reward."

Testimonies to the Church, Volume 8, 196-197, E G White

Do not Follow Vain People

Those who work will have plenty of food; but those who follow vain people will have poverty enough
. Proverbs 28:19

Ashley Madison - Forgiveness

Compassion for those who have been exposed by the Ashley Madison hack has been in short supply. There has been a lot of "they got what they deserved," even though the innocent spouses, children and family members deserved nothing of the sort.

But the truth is, we all have secrets! How would you feel if your most personal details were exposed? What if your deeply-held secrets were published on a searchable database? Yet as uncomfortable as that sounds, the Bible is clear that one day the private secrets of all people who have ever lived are going to be revealed.

The Bible says, "Fear God and give Him glory, for the hour of His judgment is come." Revelation 14:7. And Daniel 7:10 states, "...the judgment was set, and the books were open."

The Books of Record that contain the deeds and misdeeds of every person (good or evil) will one day be opened. As Solomon wrote in Holy Scripture, "God will bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it is good, or whether it be evil." Ecclesiastes 12:14.

While many are trying to figure out how to handle the damage caused to their reputations, God offers every person a simple remedy. Acts 3:19 states, "Repent and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the Lord."

In the judgment that precedes Jesus' return, the sins of those who have faith in God will be blotted out. When the Books are opened, their pages are clear rather than stained by sin. In place of sin is purity and righteousness. The grace that forgives is the grace that cleanses, and in the judgment the redeemed are found to be white as snow (Isaiah 1:18).

The woman taken in adultery repented for her sin and heard Jesus say, "neither do I condemn you" John 8:11

Repentance opens the door to the cleansing power of God. Grace does not justify sinful behavior, but it does justify the sinner.

God sees the hearts of all, and He does so without condemnation. King David wrote that God "knows our frame, He remembers that we are only dust" Psalm 103:14, and God loves us anyway.

Holy Scripture promises that "if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" 1 John 1:9.

We all have secrets. What shouldn't be a secret is that God is able to cleanse and heal, remake, restore, forgive. The reality of the judgment isn't only that sinners will be judged, but that sinners - when they repent - are forgiven! God offers that hope to all sinners everywhere.

Original Blog by John Bradshaw, August 31, 2015. blog.itiswritten.com

Love of Money...

Now the Spirit explicitly states that in the last days some will depart from the faith by listening to corrupt spirits and demonic doctrines. 1 Timothy 4:1

If any one … does not believe the words of Jesus Christ … that person is conceited, and understands nothing. They are doting on controversies and semantics, resulting in envy, strife, and evil thoughts. They think godliness is only a path to monetary gain - for the love of money (greed) is the cause of all evil. 1 Timothy 6:3-5, 10

But you, O child of God, run away from evil and follow righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience and humbleness. 1 Timothy 6:11

In regards to our faith and trials – Gold is not afraid of fire!

Fun-Loving Timmy

Being pet-less since 1976 we finally decided to adopt a kitten named Timothy. Timothy cried all the way home, but it was really fun having a kitten!

The first week at our home Timmy jumped on the coffee table into Andy’s toast with jelly! Later, tiny Tim jumped into the toilet as it was flushing and luckily we were there to save him from going down the drain!

Tim, being all boy, liked to help Andy with carpentry work including hammers; you can imagine how hard it was for Andy to hammer with Timmy constantly pressing his nose against the nail! Uncovering a furnace vent, the next thing we knew Timmy was stuck inside!

We have handles on our doors rather than knobs, which is a mistake because Timmy can open any door he chooses. If guests are in the bathroom Timmy will open the door, bare his teeth and run off! Timmy is not dumb, but he is weird! Another time Timmy opened a door to the outside! We searched all over the yard, but it was already dark…..then I felt a furry beast crawling up my leg under my nightgown…. I screamed and the culprit was…...you guessed it, Timothy!

While we were painting the bedroom, Timmy decided to sneak in and walk in the paint tray. Prancing around the room, he left white paw prints all over the blue carpet and then rubbed his face, sides and tail against the freshly painted walls! Timmy was promptly given a bath and refrained from any more painting tricks.

At exactly 10:00 p.m. Timmy likes to be put into his bed and have a fuss made over him. One evening, due to company, we forgot the routine and Timmy came into the living room every few minutes to remind us. At 10:25 p.m. we still had not put Tim to bed, so being resourceful, he got even. Getting out a pair of dirty underwear from the hamper, Tim proudly pranced around our guests carrying his prize! Our guests roared with laughter, we turned red, and Timothy was promptly put to bed!

Despite all his trouble making, Timmy is loved. How much more does God love us despite all our trouble making!

Special vegetarian dish for 2

Came up with new vegetarian recipe!

Use almond-coconut milk instead of water in a gravy mix, comes out rich and creamy.
Open small can of vegetarian Fri-Chik. Contains 5 pieces.
Use Fri-Chik broth with almond coconut milk to vegetarian gravy mix for the gravy.
Add extra milk.
in 8x8 casserole dish add 1 Tbsp margarine, Chik pieces and cover with gravy.
Cover casserole with foil
Bake 350 degrees for 45-50 minutes.
Meanwhile make noodles or pasta of your choice.
Serve Fri-Chik and gravy over noodles.
A side dish of steamed asparagus is good.
Serves 2

The SHAKING - A Dream given to Deb M

The following dream was given in answer to prayer. Being a new Christian and believing this denomination was God's true church, I was very confused by some members and was ready to look for another denomination.

I believe the Lord was saying, "The church is not perfect, but stay with it. Help to make it better. The shaking time is here. Go where I lead you, and if you are faithful you will be safe from the coming disaster of the end time."

In the dream Andy and I were attending services in a church. During the sermon I realized the church had changed in appearance and the service was worldly. We decided to leave immediately because we did not want to be exposed to error.

While walking toward the front door God told us not to leave the church, but to go up into the attic where we would be safe. The attic had a single large pillar and a large window facing east.

In a very short time the church began swaying. We were scared and thought we would be safe outside the church, but remembered what God said [see paragraph 2]. The church continued swaying, quickly picking up momentum. The huge structure swayed until the top of the church almost touched the ground on the west (left) side.

Screams of terror filled the church as the worldly people tried to escape on their own but could not! Minutes later these same people were hurled out of the church windows and doors by an unseen Force. We stayed in the attic knowing there was nothing we could do for them now.

After a few moments the church's main supporting pillar fell on me, but I was not hurt. I immediately expected the entire church to collapse, but it did not.

Suddenly the top of the church touched the ground on the west (left) side, but the terrific strain did not damage the structure. When the top of the church touched the ground on the east (right) side it remained and stopped all swaying. Then Andy and I walked into a beautiful country where we had a reunion with friends.

Notice in the dream the church did not fall even though the main supporting pillar did fall.

Later I saw this quote for the first time: "The church may appear as about to fall, but it does not fall. It remains, while the sinners in Zion will be sifted out, the chaff separated from the precious wheat. This is a terrible ordeal, but nevertheless it must take place." Selected Messages Vol.2, page 380 by E G White

Find True Rest - Justification

This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe…. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented Him as a sacrifice of atonement [margin: taking away sin], through faith in His blood. (sacrifice). Romans 3:22-25

The key points in these verses are: We all have sinned but because of Gods grace all are justified who have faith in the cleansing power of Christ’s blood.

God’s way of giving us complete security is to justify us by faith in Christ. “Come to Me, all you who are weary and heavy burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

All of us worn out by the struggle to be good enough, to measure up on our own, can find true rest in Christ’s generous acceptance. All of us who are burdened by scars from the past and by an aching sense of inadequacy and shame, can find peace and wholeness in the Christ who at the cross opened His arms to us.

From: Discover Bible Lessons (Online) Lesson #13, part 3

biblestudies.com

PRAY !

The Lord is disappointed when His people place a low estimate on themselves. Desire of Ages 668

Prayer is Heaven’s ordained means of success in the conflict with sin and the development of Christian character. Acts of the Apostles 564

When we come to Him in faith, every petition enters the heart of God. When we have asked for His blessing, we should believe that we receive it, and thank Him that we have received it. Then we are to go about our duties assured that the blessing will be realized when we need it most. Desire of Ages 200

When every other voice is hushed, and in quietness we wait before Him, the silence of the soul makes more distinct the voice of God. Desire of Ages 363

Make every effort to keep the communion between Jesus and your own soul. Steps to Christ 98


all quotes by E G White

Demonic Miracles & Healings?

Many Christians assume that any supernatural power must come from God. Can Satan actually heal? And if so, how can we tell the working of the devil from the working of God?

Just before Jesus’ coming, demons will work miracles, [see Revelation 16:14]. Genuine miracles from the devil! And these satanic powers perform their wonders in the name of Jesus Christ, [see Matthew 7:22-23.]

So false prophets will use Christ's name to practice evil and lawlessness. Through these deceivers the devil performs all kinds of lying wonders to entrap the unsuspecting. Miracles themselves are not proof of God's presence.

Never forget. Some miracles are the work of the devil done in the spirit of lawlessness – violating God’s law. “This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome.” 1 John 5:3.

Genuine love for God is the test, and true love for God means obeying His commandments. Love for God means more than a warm fuzzy feeling in our hearts when we worship. The proof of Christian love is not miracles, not speaking in tongues – the proof is keeping God’s commandments. John 14:15.

based on a book by George Vandeman in Comrades in Christ, p 21

A Warning Dream to Deb M

A Warning Dream to Deb M

In the dream: after purchasing a small, beautiful acreage on the edge of a forest we went about our chores. Suddenly it was announced Sunday Laws were enforced; it was now time to retreat deep in the forest until Jesus came. Andy found a book about a pioneer trail that ran right past our front door to a forest refuge. Deciding to take the trail we first got together a few things to take along, things we thought God would not provide for us.

Telling those with us to go ahead we continued to get more items from the house. While making a large pile of items in the front yard we noticed the wheelchair-bound, blind, infants and elderly running at top speed on the trail to safety.

Going back into the house for more items we realized this was it - Jesus would soon be here! But we were also getting sentimental over the things we would leave behind. I yelled, "Hurry up! We have to go!" But we both lingered. Then as we were ready to leave my family entered the house carrying all their possessions for us to care for. They did not want us to leave - they wanted us to stay and help bring their packages into the house. We were in a quandary what to do - help our family or go and meet God. The dream ended.

Upon awaking I knew I needed to prepare for the Lord’s return and put away material things and encumbrances.

Open the Windows of the Soul

God is inviting us to close the windows of the soul earthward and open them Heavenward, that He may flood our hearts with the glory, which is shining across the threshold of Heaven.

In Heavenly Places 247 by E G White

Daily Instruction

Day by day God instructs His children. By the circumstances of the daily life He is preparing them to act their part upon the wider stage to which His providence has appointed them. It is the issue of the daily test that determines their victory or defeat in life’s great crisis.

Desire of Ages 359 by E G White

Constant, Perfect Peace

There will be peace, constant peace, flowing into the soul, for the rest is found in perfect submission to Jesus Christ. Obedience to God’s will finds rest. The disciple that walks in the meek and [humble] steps of the Redeemer finds rest, which the world cannot give, and the world cannot take away. ‘Thou will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee.’ 

[Gentleness & humbleness], which ever characterized the life of the divine Son of God, possessed by His true followers, brings contentment, peace, and happiness that elevate them above the slavery of artificial life.

Our High Calling 98 by E G White

Listen to the Lord!

"I will hear what God the Lord will speak...."
Psalms 85:8 [KJV]

I fully believe the Lord can and will impress people; if He does not then why does the Bible say to "test the spirits, whether they are from God" (See 1 John 4:1).

At work I was strongly impressed by God to leave my office desk and go to the other side of the room, I thought, "How strange!" When reaching the opposite wall a large ceiling fixture fell down where I had been sitting, breaking my chair and smashing the window next to my desk. It pays to listen to God!
*****

Andy was lying under the car doing engine work with the motor running. While moving a linkage an audible voice called out, "Don't touch!" Getting out from under the car he looked to see who was standing next to him. There was no one. Crawling back under the car he moved the linkage again when the voice called out, “Don’t touch!” Andy did a double take of what he was doing; he was moving the gearshift linkage to the reverse position. Since the engine was running another move on the linkage would have caused the car to run over Andy’s chest!

Jesus' Second Coming & the Last Days

But no one knows the day or hour of Jesus coming, not even the angels nor Jesus Himself.
 Only the Father knows. Pay attention! Watch and pray! For you do not know when the time is. 
 Mark 13:32-33    
Jesus says, "I will return!" John 14:3

As time winds down, the intensity and frequency of the signs will increase.
 But, God will protect His faithful followers thru the last days.  Read Psalm 91.


INCREASING SIGNS IN THE PHYSICAL WORLD
Earthquakes/Disasters [Violent & Strange Weather?] - Matthew 24:7; Luke 21:11, 25
Famine, Strange New Diseases/Pestilence - Matthew 24:7; Luke 21:11
Signs in the Sun, Moon, Stars and heavenly bodies - Matthew 24:29; Luke 21:25

INCREASING SIGNS IN THE BUSINESS WORLD
Discontented Employees, Disproportionate wealth, Money Troubles - James 5:1-6,8
Increase in Knowledge - Daniel 12:4

INCREASING SIGNS IN THE POLITICAL WORLD
Disregard for Justice - Isaiah 59:12-14; James 5:6
Fear, Distress, Perplexity Everywhere - Luke 21:25-28
Wars & Rumors of War - Matthew 24:6, 7; Luke 21:9, 10
Leaders & Pastors preach “Peace & Safety” – when there is neither
1 Thessalonians 5:3; Jeremiah 6:14; Ezekiel 7:25

INCREASING SIGNS IN THE SOCIAL WORLD
Moral Collapse, Increase of Violence & Crime - 2 Timothy 3:1-6, 13
Love pleasure more than God - 2 Timothy 3:4
No Natural Affection - 2 Timothy 3:3
Disobedient to Parents / No Self Control - 2 Timothy 3:1-4
Evil increases, so the love of many grows indifferent - Matthew 24:12

INCREASING SIGNS IN THE RELIGIOUS WORLD
Form of godliness, but denying God - 2 Timothy 3:5
Disregard for God’s will, but doing “religious” works - Matthew 7:21-23
Ignoring & Rebellion against God’s Truth - 2 Timothy 4:3-4
False christs & prophets - Matthew 24:11, 24
Scoffing at Jesus’ Promise to Return Soon - 2 Peter 3:3-4,9-14

Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 for the full scene of His coming

A Curse into a Blessing

And the Lord your God will turn a curse into a blessing for you, because the Lord your God loves you. Deuteronomy 23:5

Confirmation

Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me." John 6:39 [KJV]

In seventh and eighth grade (1967-1969) church catechism class was conducted by Pastor Keith. This class prepared us for the "Rite of Confirmation" when we renewed our baptismal vows spoken for us by our parents and godparents when we were infants.

Catechism was not as expected. A Catechism book was used in our study. We memorized printed answers to printed questions and the Bible seemed to take second place. Being in the last row, where I could not see, did not help my concentration, but "we must sit alphabetically."

Thumbing through the Bible I read a text that was so impressive that I wrote it in large letters in my catechism book, "We ought to obey God rather than man," Acts 5:29.

We were required to memorize the catechism's version of the Ten Commandments.

One day in Catechism we were studying the Sabbath commandment, third in the Catechism, fourth in the Bible, when Kurt asked, "Why are the catechism's Ten Commandments different from the Bible's?"

Pastor Keith asked if anyone had mentioned this to him. Kurt said his grandmother had.

 The pastor said the Bible and Catechism agree on everything, then changed the subject.

Kurt persisted and the class urged him on. As he read the Sabbath commandment from the Bible and then from the Catechism we were amazed they did not agree. Kurt pointed out that the Bible specified the seventh day of the week as the Sabbath, not Sunday the first day as the pastor taught.

Pastor Keith angrily snapped, "Do not mention this subject again! You are too young to understand, you do not know anything! You have not even been confirmed! You are to take my word for what the Bible says and accept it!"

He dismissed us early under a veil of fear and confusion.

. Questions were raised such as, “Why does the Bible say one thing and the catechism another? Why does the pastor get upset if we ask Bible questions?”

On Confirmation Sunday the pastor gave each confirmand a personal Bible text. Mine was, "lo, I am with you always even unto the end of the world," Matthew 28:20. I had never heard this text before, and it filled me with questions and awe; "the end of the world?"

Needless Anxiety

Needless anxiety is a foolish thing; and it hinders us from standing in a true position before God.

When the Holy Spirit comes into the soul, there will be no desire to complain and murmur because we do not have everything we want. Rather, we will thank God from a full heart for the blessings that we have.

…let us study the word of God that we may know how to take hold of His promises, and claim them as our own. Then we shall be happy. The enemy will be unable to destroy our peace.

Appeal for Unity, E G White

Needless Worry

There is much needless worrying, much trouble of mind, over things that cannot be helped. The Lord would have His children put their trust fully in Him.

Our Lord is a just and righteous God; His children should acknowledge His goodness and His justice in the large and small things of life.

Those who cherish the spirit of worry and complaint are refusing to recognize God's guiding hand.

Appeal for Unity, E G White

The Kingdom

We need to be more diligent in the study of the Scriptures. They must be to us, not a make believe story, but the truth of the living God, the foundation of our faith, the assurance on which we build our hope of eternal life in the kingdom of heaven.

Appeal for Unity, E G White

WORLDLY MATTERS

The minds of many are occupied with the consideration of worldly matters, often to the exclusion of the religion of God’s word.

The thoughts are more often upon the matter of eating and drinking and dressing (clothing/fashion) than upon the great and important duty of serving God with humility and prayer.

...in many families decided changes must be brought about; they need to know what they must do to be saved.

If they will inquire diligently the way of life, God will impart to them an understanding of His word, and teach them to value - at their true worth - the things of eternity. Then the heart will no longer reach out covetously for worldly benefits and the pleasures of this life.

E G White, Appeal for Unity

Moon Landing 1969

Summer School is a good thing!

In 1969 I participated in voluntary Middle School summer school activities. Those being meteorology and astronomy.

In astronomy the class drove 70 miles to the University Planetarium and then out to lunch. One evening the class congregated at our teacher's house where his wife served us a light supper, including raspberry lemonade, and then we viewed the moon through the teacher's telescope. We also talked about the upcoming Moon landing and our excitement was at a fever pitch.

I remember the Moon walk of Neil Armstrong. It happened July 20, 1969. My family watched from our television. When Neil Armstrong took that first step and uttered those immortal words, "One small step for man, one giant step for mankind," Mom and I cried. It was too awesome to comprehend. My friend Diane called and cried, "Did you see it?! Did you see it?!" Diane was in my astronomy class too. The entire class was super-excited and almost stunned that such things were happening in our world, in our lifetime.

What God Has Done

The plan of salvation originated with God.
Salvation was purchased through the death of Jesus.
Forgiveness is secured through the blood of Jesus.
Power for holy living is granted through the Holy Spirit.

In other words, everything concerning the plan of salvation is provided for us.
Those who accept what God has done and follow His leading will be led to freedom.

by John Bradshaw - It Is Written

itiswritten.com

We are Never Abandoned

Christ will never abandon those for whom He has died. We may leave Him and be overwhelmed with temptation, but Christ can never turn from one for whom He has paid the ransom of His own life.

Prophets & Kings 176 E G White

God's People are Safe

God who slumbers not, who in every crisis has been the strength and dependence of His people, will carry out His eternal purpose.

   He will thwart the designs of wicked men, and will bring to confusion the counsels of those who plot mischief against His people.

He who is the King, the Lord of hosts…amidst the strife and tumult of nations guards His children still.

 When the strongholds of kings shall be overthrown, when the arrows of wrath shall strike through the hearts of His enemies, God's people will be safe in His hands.

E G WHITE

A PRAYER

Lord, take my heart, For I cannot give it. It is Thy property.
Keep it pure, For I cannot keep it for Thee.
Save me in spite of my weak, unchristlike self.
Mold me, fashion me,
Raise me into a pure and holy atmosphere,
Where the rich current of Thy love can flow through my soul.

Christ’s Object Lessons 159, E G WHITE

VBS - Vacation Bible School

In the 1960's - during two weeks in June - from nine a.m. until noon - mornings were spent at Missouri Synod Lutheran Vacation Bible School.

 All the children would enter the sanctuary by two's singing “Onward Christian Soldiers” while following the Christian and American flags.

In the sanctuary we would sing, pray and listen to a sermonette and a mission story. Then in our classrooms we would work on crafts and listen to Bible stories.

 It was so wonderful to be there! And so wonderful to be a part of it all!

Always Room for One More

God never downsizes His kingdom. There is always room for one more.

Benign tumors

Four weeks ago Andy's doctor (ENT) found two tumors on Andy's neck, one was quite large. A biopsy was performed - both were benign! The ENT urged to have them removed ASAP - so the following week they were removed in a 3 hour surgery. Andy's incision goes from around the ear down almost to the adam's apple. Praise the Lord that none of the facial nerves were cut/damaged!

The day after Andy's surgery I noticed a large, painful purple/red lump on my left breast. My doctor saw me the next day and it was removed. It was benign!

We are both in pain still, but healing.

Praise God the tumors were benign and removed promptly!

Feel the pain - Cry if you want

Go ahead, feel the pain - Cry if you want. Acknowledge something has died even if it is just a dream of how your life was supposed to go. Tears have a way of cleansing the soul and refreshing the spirit. As you release all that is bottled up inside, God collects those precious tears in a bottle, and does not disregard them. See Psalm 56:8.

Unveiling the Diva Mystique p 82, Michelle McKinney Hammond, Harvest House Publishers, 2005

Lay All Your Plans Before God

Lay all your plans before God, to be carried out or given up as His providence shall indicate.

Accept His plans instead of your own, even though their acceptance requires the abandonment of cherished projects.

Testimonies for the Church, Volume 7, page 44, E G White

Not by Feeling, but by Faith

Whether we feel God’s love towards us or not – God does love us – God loves you. Believe that He does.

  Go not by feeling but by faith!


When something is wrong in your life you must make the change to line up with what God says in Holy Scripture. God cannot truly bless unless our lives are right with Him.

 God bless you.

No Mimic Battle

We do not understand as we should the great conflict going on between invisible agencies, the controversy between loyal and disloyal angels. Over every [person] good and evil angels strive. This is no make-believe conflict.

It is no mimic battle in which we are engaged. We have to meet most powerful adversaries, and it rests with us to determine which shall win. We are to find our Strength where the early disciples found theirs.

Signs of the Times, Feb. 17, 1914, E G White

See Blog January 12, 2015 - Stupendous Crisis

Before our eyes...

Today men and nations are being tested by the plummet in the hand of Him who makes no mistake...

. Today the signs of the times declare that we are standing on the threshold of great and solemn events. 

Everything in our world is in agitation. Before our eyes is fulfilling the Savior's prophecy of the events to precede His coming.

Prophets & Kings, pp 536-537, E G White

See blog Jan 12, 2015 - Stupendous Crisis

The remainder of our life...

Let us look to the monumental pillars, reminders of what the Lord has done to comfort us and to save us from the hand of the destroyer.

Let us keep fresh in our memory all the tender mercies that God has shown us:
the tears He has wiped away,
the pains He has soothed,
the anxieties removed,
the fears dispelled,
the wants supplied,
the blessings bestowed -
thus strengthening ourselves for all that is before us through the remainder of our [life]...

Steps to Christ 89, E G White

I Love You...Says God

God says, "I love you with eternal love, pursuing after you with loving kindness. Whoever believes in Me and keeps My Commandments loves Me, and My Father will love them who love Me and I will love them and manifest Myself to them. For God so loved the human race that He gave His only Son, that anyone who believes in Him will not suffer eternal death but will have eternal life."

This is love: not that we love God, but that He loves us, and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. No one has a greater love than the One who lays down His life for His friends.

Dear Friend, since God loves us this much, we should love each other. We love because God first loved us. If anyone says, "I love God," yet hates another, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. Jesus said, "By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for others."

Dear Friend, I close my letter with these last words. Be a mature Christian, pay attention to what I have written, be in unity, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you always. And to know the love of Christ, which surpasses all understanding….

 Now to God who is able to do all things super-abundantly beyond what we think or ask...to Him be the glory... throughout all generations, forever. Amen!


The above quotes come from these Bible texts (variety of versions): Jeremiah 31:3/ 1 John 14:21/ John 3:16/ 1 John 4:9-10/ John 15:13/ 1 John 4:11,19-20/ John 13:35/ 2 Corinthians 13:11/ Ephesians 3:19-21

Finances

"There is one who makes himself rich, yet has nothing; and one who makes himself poor, yet has great riches." Proverbs 13:7

"Better is a little with righteousness, than vast wealth without justice [God]." Proverbs 16:8

From a Bible view, God promises to provide for us when we put the principles of Heaven first in our lives.

 In a world where little is certain, in an age of tremendous financial insecurity, God promises that when we are faithful to Him, He will provide.

No one ever trusted God in vain. He never disappoints those who trust in Him.

Chapter by G Edward Reid, in the book God will Provide, pages 21, 27. by John Bradshaw of It Is Written

Weight-Loss Diet

My doctor gave me this weight loss diet - its very simple!

Eat three meals a day.

Eat 50 to 55 grams of carbs per meal - With your choice of foods, but no more than 55 grams.
You can eat lots of food per meal if the carbs per item is low.  Count the carbs of EVERYTHING you eat.

You are allowed a 10 gram carb snack @ 10 am and one at 3 pm.

Drink water between meals to help you stay full.

The Answer by Deb M

There will come an Answer, though the time is unknown.
It is God’s only Answer, He will send His Own.
It is God's perfect Answer for all humanity;
He brings peace, joy and freedom, love and dignity.


Men have their own answers, but strange as it seems,
They say war is the answer for all men's sufferings.
But I know God has the Answer to hate, bloodshed and war;
For Christ is the Answer the world needs nothing more.


Soon Christ will come,
And will end this world of strife
Christ, [pause]
Our only Hope and Life

SIGNS of Jesus' Second Coming

Do not be afraid, believe in God & Jesus. John 14:1-3
Like a woman’s labor pains, the Frequency & Severity of the Signs Increase until Jesus comes. 1 Thessalonians 5:2-3; Matthew 24:7-8



INCREASING SIGNS IN THE PHYSICAL WORLD
Earthquakes/Disasters [Violent Weather?] - Matthew 24:7; Luke 21:11, 25
Famine, Strange New Diseases/Pestilence - Matthew 24:7; Luke 21:11
Signs in the Sun, Moon and heavenly bodies - Matthew 24:29; Luke 21:25

INCREASING SIGNS IN THE BUSINESS WORLD
Labor & Money Troubles - James 5:1-6
Increase in Knowledge - Daniel 12:4

INCREASING SIGNS IN THE POLITICAL WORLD
Disregard for Justice - Isaiah 59:12-14; James 5:6
Fear, Distress, Perplexity Everywhere - Luke 21:25-28
Wars & Rumors of War - Matthew 24:6, 7; Luke 21:9, 10
World Leaders/Pastors preach “Peace & Safety” –
1 Thessalonians 5:3; Jeremiah 6:14; Ezekiel 7:25

INCREASING SIGNS IN THE SOCIAL WORLD
Moral Collapse, Increase of Violence & Crime - 2 Timothy 3:1-6, 13
Love pleasure more than God - 2 Timothy 3:4
No Natural Affection - 2 Timothy 3:3
Disobedient to Parents / No Self Control - 2 Timothy 3:1-4
Evil increases, so the love of many grows indifferent - Matthew 24:12

INCREASING SIGNS IN THE RELIGIOUS WORLD
Form of godliness, but denying God - 2 Timothy 3:5
Disregard for God’s will, but doing “religious” works - Matthew 7:21-23
Ignoring/Rebellion against God’s Truth - 2 Timothy 4:3-4
False christs & prophets - Matthew 24:11, 24
Scoffing at Jesus’ Promise to Return Soon - 2 Peter 3:3-14

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

OLD TESTAMENT - THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

1. You will have no other gods before Me. Exodus 20:3

2. You will not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or in the earth, or that is in the water under the earth. You will not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate Me; and showing mercy unto thousands that love Me and keep My Commandments. Exodus 20:4-6

3. You will not take the Name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that takes His name in vain.
Exodus 20:7

4. Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. Six days you may work, and do all your work; but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God. In it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, daughter, manservant, maidservant, thy animals, nor the stranger that is within thy gates. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy. Exodus 20:8-11

5. Honor your father and mother, that your days be long upon the land which the Lord thy God gives to you. Exodus 20:12

6. You will not murder. Exodus 20:13

7. You will not commit adultery. Exodus 20:14

8. You will not steal. Exodus 20:15

9. You will not lie about a neighbor. Exodus 20:16

10. You will not covet your neighbor’s house, wife, servants, animals, or anything that is your neighbor’s. Exodus 20:17


NEW TESTAMENT - THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

1. You will worship the Lord your God. and Him only will you serve. Matthew 4:10

2. Little children, keep yourselves from idols 1 John 5:21
...abstain from idols... Acts 15:20
Do not be idolaters... 1 Cor. 10:7

3. That the Name of God and His doctrine be not blasphemed. 1 Timothy 6:1

4. For He spoke in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all His works. There remains a rest [‘keeping of a Sabbath’ margin] to the people of God. For he that is entered into His rest, he also hath ceased from his own works as God did from His. Hebrews 4:4, 9, 10

5. Honor thy father and thy mother. Matthew 19:19

6. Thou shalt not murder. Matthew 19:18

7. Thou shalt not commit adultery. Matthew 19:18

8. Thou shalt not steal. Romans 13:9

9. Thou shalt not bear false witness. Romans 13:9

10. Thou shalt not covet. Romans 7:7

What is Love?

If I had the gift of speaking in foreign languages without learning them, and even if I could speak every heavenly language, but did not love others, I would only be making noise.

If I had the gift of prophecy and knew the future, but did not love others, what good would it do?

Even if I had the gift of faith and could move mountains, I still would be worth nothing without love.

If I gave all my worldly possessions to the poor, and even if I were burned alive for preaching the Gospel, but did not have love, it would be of no value.

Love* is patient and kind, never jealous or envious, never boastful or proud, never haughty, selfish or rude.

Love does not demand it's own way. Love is not irritable or grouchy. Love does not hold grudges, and will not keep score against friend or enemy.

Love is never glad about injustice, but rejoices whenever truth wins out. Love is loyal, and has faith in God under all circumstances.

Someday prophecy, foreign languages and special knowledge will disappear, but Love goes on forever.

Now we know so little even with our special gifts, but when Jesus comes and we have been made perfect and complete at His coming, then those special gifts will come to an end, for they are no longer needed.

It is like this: when I was a child, I spoke and thought as a child. But when I reached adulthood my thoughts were far above childish ways.

 In the same way, we can see and understand only a little about God now, as if we were looking at His reflection in a poor mirror. But someday we are going to see Him as He is, face to Face! What I see now is blurry, but later I will see everything as clearly as God sees now!

There are three great things: FAITH - HOPE - LOVE. And the greatest is LOVE!

*God is Love. In this paragraph substitute your name wherever the word "Love" appears.

Bible Text: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13.

God's Leading Statesmen

God has His agents among the leading men and women of the nation. With unanswerable arguments statesmen who fear the Lord are influenced by holy angels to oppose measures that would greatly impede the work of God. Thus a few people will hold in check a powerful current of evil.

Based on The Great Controversy, chapter 38-The Final Warning, page 610, E G White

Illustration of Jesus' Second Coming - Deb M Dream

Illustration of Jesus’ Second Coming – Deb's Dream
Being chased by killers I ran into the woods and stopped in a small clearing where a beautiful, simple, little, solid church was standing. Climbing roses, vines, and bright flowers were its adornment. I decided to enter the House of Refuge.

A very happy, pleasant man greeted me and seated me on the right hand side of the sanctuary. He used the outside aisle as the center aisle was reserved for the guest. I felt a wedding was to begin.

The man seated me next to a beautiful, young woman: long dark hair, sweet round face, big brown eyes, short. Her attitude immediately impressed me that she was a very God-fearing woman. While we sat, she quietly mentioned her son was soon expected, though she did not know when. I thought, "how nice," and told her I would like to meet him. She said I would and then I realized who her Son was! We sat in the church praying and reading our Bibles.

Suddenly there was much commotion and appalling noise. Brown-robed men, walking two abreast, came down the center aisle each carrying a book and a large, dimly lighted candle. As the men walked down the center aisle they told obscene jokes, pushed and shoved each other, and were very irreverent. Standing in front of the little church they mocked sacred things such as faith, prayer and God. The young woman was clearly upset; I, too, was upset but did not know what to do.

A voice rang out, "He is here!" The men's faces grew pale and anxious. Camera flashes filled the room as reporters huddled by the front door waiting, but no One came.

The men relaxed and continued to create even greater havoc. They said He was late and would never come, that it was all a big hoax. I wanted to speak out about their sacrilegious attitude but the young woman silently bade me not to.

Suddenly bright light illuminated the little church. We turned to see what was going on as a trumpet sounded. The woman's Son had come! The Lord was an awesome sight, majestic and inspiring! I was not frightened by Him, but felt deeply humbled.

His face! I could not take my eyes off His face! It was alight and alive with glory. His eyes burned as living flame, His skin was like polished brass, and His robe was pure white with a gold belt.

The woman and I, never taking our eyes off Him, raised to our feet to honor Him. The men looked away and shrank into oblivion.

I wished upon waking that the dream had been real, for it was very grand and wonderful.

...Even Those who Hate Him

People, God does love you. He loves you so much. Please accept what Jesus has done for you - He died on the cross and provides for you in your daily life.

Even if you do not like God He still provides for you.

God loves everyone - even those who hate Him.

Buffy the Kitten - My Nurse

In 1968, due to orthopedic surgery, I was completely bed-ridden for two months so was allowed to adopt a kitten!

Since a friend's cat had kittens I chose an orange kitten named Buffy to be my companion, actually Buffy chose me! As soon as I sat on my friend's floor to inspect the kittens, Buffy, an nine week old crawled right into my lap and would not leave. So actually Buffy chose me!

Buffy had an uncanny sense about my needs for he stayed by my side 24 hours a day. Every morning, at exactly 7:00 a.m., he would awaken me by first meowing, then by sitting on my stomach, then by sitting on my chest, then by patting my nose, and finally by sitting on my face! Quickly I learned to wake up before this last step!

God was so good and kind to give me such a loving companion!

God won't Force us to love Him

God is so powerful that He could force us to love Him, but God doesn’t use force, because He loves us and wants us to love Him back.

Jesus determined, (in council with His Father) to do everything possible, no matter the cost, to rescue sinners. Jesus loves you more than He values His own life – He died for you!

Bad things happen to good people – it’s because of sin, not because God hates you. God loves everyone. The devil hates everyone. You don’t believe in God? He believes in you! Trust yourself to God – He will care for you.

God planned for you before the world began. He longs for you to talk to Him about everything that is on your mind.

God always listens. I go to Him with all my problems and He always looks after me. As a small child I learned these things – it made all the difference in my life.


Often your mind may be
Clouded because of pain.
Then do not try to think.
You know that Jesus loves you!
He understands you.
You may do His will by simply
Resting in His arms.

My Horse Friends

A major facet in my youth was horses. Our Lutheran church friends from Germany, two elderly brothers Karl and Ernie Wolff, owned Hillside Stables in Omaha, Nebraska. When I was three years old the family went to see the horses and I rode an older mare.

Hillside Stables had many interesting and impressive horses such as:
Golden Centaur - an elegant palomino with arched neck, large dark eyes; white, wavy tail and mane and a high tail carriage.
 Pepper - the black, classic Morgan;
two thoroughbreds ridden by seventy-year old twin sisters;
Snow King - a white 30-year old retired circus horse;
Private Eye - a handsome, dark chestnut Saddlebred with green-hazel eyes;
and my champion Appaloosa - Spottum Bottum.

Point of interest: at Hillside Stables, in the 1960’s, feed, hay and board in a box stall with use of tack room and all facilities was one dollar a day; and horse rental was $1.25 an hour!

In Omaha, Hillside was located on a huge property bordered by the Papio Creek on the south and west, by Dodge Street on the north, and by the Interstate on the east. There were 3 large pastures to ride in, and a tree nursery too! It was a true pleasure to be at Hillside!

A Jewish friend, Elisse, owned a beautiful palomino named Golden Banner. Since she was Jewish she kept God’s Ten Commandments including keeping holy Saturday - the seventh-day Sabbath. The Fourth Commandment says that cattle (domestic animals) should not work on Sabbath.
Exodus 20:8-11. So on Sabbath Elisse would only turn Banner out to pasture and then give him a good rub-down; she never rode Banner on the seventh-day Sabbath.

Our God of all Comfort

God speaks to us in a special way in times of testing. This is presented with the sincere desire that you might be strengthened as God speaks to you in your time of need, and that you, through the “Comfort of Scriptures might have hope.” Romans 15:4.


“Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; who comforts us in our trials.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

“Do not fear, for I am with you. Do not worry, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; yes, I will help you; yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.” Isaiah 41:10

“The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms (eternal strength).” Deuteronomy 33:27

“Like a father pities his children, so the Lord pities those that fear Him. For He knows our frame, He remembers that we are only dust.” Psalm 103:13-14

“Do not worry about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

“God will keep you in perfect peace, when your mind is focused on God, because you trust in God.” Isaiah 26:3

[Jesus said,] These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you might have peace. In the world you will have trials, but be happy, because I have overcome the world!” John 16:33


“Now for a while, if need be, you are in heaviness through many trials and temptations. That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than purified gold, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the coming of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:6-7


[The Lord said,] “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.
 [Paul’s response was,] “Most gladly I will glory in my infirmities and trials that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

As you claim God’s promises by faith, He will grant you:

His triumph in the midst of testing.
His joy in the midst of sorrow.
His peace in the midst of trouble.

Religious Liberty in Public School

Public elementary school, District 66 in Omaha, Nebraska, had many memorable, spiritual moments!

 In sixth grade we discussed the Biblical Flood, the long lives of pre-Flood people, why Pilgrim women did not wear make-up, and how our weekdays received their names from paganism.

In grades 1 through 12 our class sang songs based on the Old Testament and this in Public School!

 However, when I checked out a Bible from the school library the principal promptly reprimanded me, saying Bible reading was for the home!

In sixth grade all the students explained different aspects of their religion (Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, Atheist). From these discussions the varied backgrounds understood each other better. We were taught everyone has the right to believe as they wish despite anyone's opinion to the contrary.

We were taught to believe in religious freedom, freedom of the press, freedom to assemble peacefully, and liberty of conscience.

Lessons from a Rescue Dog

"All about us God has placed the beautiful things of nature that they may teach us about Him." The Wonderful Way (Dept. of Education, General Conference of S.D.A., 1955, page 412.)


Our dear Ingrid, the rescue collie dog, has been a true blessing - teaching us lessons about God. She was saved from what we believe was an abusive home, and Ingrid is constantly thankful for being rescued.

Ingrid teaches us about God’s protection. When I am bathing, Ingrid lays outside the bathroom door as protection. One day Andy came home unexpectedly (using the front door) and I was in the shower. According to Andy, Ingrid crouched by the front door and was growling deep in her throat with hackles up because she did not expect Andy, and Ingrid felt I was in danger. After a few seconds she recognized Andy and made little apologetic sounds and allowed him to enter the house.

Ingrid teaches us how to be obedient to God. She does this by paying close attention to our every word and action. When asked to perform a chore she does it willingly and without hesitation. If only we would remember to be obedient when God asks us to do something for Him.

Ingrid teaches us to remain close to God. Whenever Andy comes home, (using the back door), no matter the time, Ingrid bounds out with great enthusiasm and greets him at the back door. If only we had as much enthusiasm for Christ and His return.

 Ingrid is faithful and remaining close is her way of worshipping us.

We really loved Ingrid for she was a true friend. We prayed for the right dog and found her, and we like to think that perhaps Ingrid was "praying" for the right home and that her prayers were answered too!!!

God's Precious Animals

In training animals I verbally correct only when necessary, and praise and love them constantly showing them respect. The pets return my love and respect more than one hundred percent.

Example: Being very ill, I passed out on the floor. Regaining conscientiousness I found my pets doing their best to help me. Timmy the cat was lying over my left ankle, Ivory the cat was laying over my right ankle, and Ingrid the dog was lying by my side. Only when I felt better did the animals leave their post. God uses even little animals to help.

"The intelligence displayed by many animals approaches so closely to human intelligence that it is a mystery.

". The animals see and hear and love and fear and suffer. They use their organs far more faithfully than many human beings use theirs. They manifest sympathy and tenderness toward their companions in suffering.

"  Many animals show affection for those who have charge of them, far superior to the affection shown by some of the human race. They form attachments for man which are not broken without great suffering to them."

  Ministry of Healing pages 315-316 by Ellen G White

A Russian Blue named Timmy - Timmy the Troublemaker

Being pet-less we finally decided to adopt a Russian Blue kitten named Timothy. Timothy cried all the way home, but it was really fun having a kitten!

The first week Timmy jumped on the coffee table into Andy’s toast with jelly! Later, tiny Tim jumped into the toilet as it was flushing and luckily we were there to save him from going down the drain!

Tim liked to help Andy with carpentry work including hammers; you can imagine how hard it was for Andy to hammer with Timmy constantly pressing his nose against the nail! Uncovering a furnace vent, the next thing we knew Timmy was stuck inside!

We have handles on our doors rather than knobs, which is a mistake because Timmy can open any door he chooses. If guests are in the bathroom Timmy will open the door, bare his teeth and run away! Timmy is not dumb, but he is weird! Another time Tim opened a door to the outside! We searched all over the yard in our night-clothes but it was already dark…..then I felt a furry beast crawling up my leg under my nightgown! I screamed! and the culprit was…...you guessed it, Timothy!

While we were painting the bedroom, Timmy decided to sneak in and walk in the paint tray. Prancing around the room, he left white paw prints all over the blue carpet and then rubbed his face, sides and tail against the freshly painted walls! Timmy was promptly given a bath and refrained from any more painting tricks.

At exactly 10:00 p.m. Timmy likes to be put into his kennel and have a fuss made over him. One evening, due to company, we forgot the routine and Timmy came into the living room every few minutes to remind us. At 10:25 p.m. we still had not put Tim to bed, so being resourceful he got even. Timmy got out a pair of dirty underwear from the hamper and proudly pranced around our guests carrying his prize! Our guests roared with laughter, we turned red, and Timothy was promptly put to bed!

Despite all his trouble making, Timmy is loved.

 How much more does God love us despite all our trouble making!

A Shelter from the Storm

In 1968, when I was thirteen years old, Mom and Dad went to a party in another town about thirty minutes away.

 While they were gone a tornado was sighted, and a city-wide tornado warning was issued.

 Dad phoned me at home, “Deb, are you alright?!” I replied, “I'm pretty scared.” Dad’s immediate response was, “I'll be right home!” Dad arrived and took me back to the party with him. How great was Dad's love for me.

So will Jesus come back for us at Earth's darkest hour. How great is God’s love for us!

 If for no other future plans than this, the Lord is teaching me total dependence and faith on Him.

"For Thou hast been a stronghold to the poor...a shelter from the storm...." Isaiah 25:4 [RSV]

Have You Ever Wondered about Heaven...?

Have you ever wondered what eternal life in Heaven and the Earth made new will be like?! Then I ask you to read Isaiah chapter 65, verses 17-18 and verses 21-25. Now read Revelation chapter 21, verses 1 thru 27, and continuing thru chapter 22, verses 1 to 7. These are the best descriptions I can find in Holy Scripture of Heaven. And they are awesome!!


"We do not propose undue speculation on the details of the future life. Its loveliness will surpass our fondest dreams, its beauty will excel our most enthusiastic imaginations, and its joy will soar above the flight of our highest hopes." God Speaks to Modern Man, p 602, Arthur E Lickey

"One pulse of harmony and gladness beats through the vast creation....From the minutest atom to the greatest world, all things, animate and inanimate, in their unshadowed beauty and perfect joy, declare that God is love." The Great Controversy, p 678, Ellen G White


"Now the dwelling of God is with humanity, and God will live with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death, or mourning, or crying, or pain - for that is all gone forever!" Revelation 21:3-4


But now we desire a better country, a Heavenly country. God is not ashamed to be called our God, for He has prepared for us a City! Hebrews 11:16 - paraphrased

He Died

Jesus Christ died for us. The loving, lovely One for the lost sheep. He did not have to do this, but He died so that we might have immortal life in beautiful Heaven with Him for eternity.

Surrendered

As you cast yourself on Christ, you are fulfilling His purpose for you. You are no longer a law to yourself. But no violence is done to your will and your freedom of action. The mind is brought under the authority of a new law. But it is the royal law of liberty. The whole being is surrendered to God. The heart is transformed by the Spirit's power.

Battle Creek Letters, November 11, 1902
from Ellen G White to John Harvey Kellogg MD

Who can Comprehend the Love....

Who can comprehend the love that God has shown in sending Christ to save perishing souls?

 I am conscious that language is far too feeble to depict this love. And our minds can not take it in. It is impossible even for the angels fully to comprehend how completely God identifies His interests with those of His blood-bought heritage, and how tenderly He deals with the tried and tempted....

How much God loves human beings, we never can compute. The universe is filled with proofs of His measureless benevolence.

Excerpt from Battle Creek Letters, November 11, 1902
from Ellen G White to John Harvey Kellogg MD

Your Greatest Desire...

Have you determined to be rich? Then let these words in Matthew chapter six impress your heart and direct your life. They will teach you to be content, and to yield your will to the control of the Holy Spirit. You will not then be elbowing (back-stabbing)your fellow-worker that you may make room for your plans.

But your greatest desire will be to work in just the place that God has assigned you, and where He can look upon you with approval.

An Appeal for Unity and Confidence, pamphlet 14, p 13, Ellen G White

Hasty Temper...Spirit of Strife

Great is our need of the saving grace of Christ. Everywhere we turn we see more or less clearly revealed the spirit of strife for place and position, a reaching out for honor and recognition.

My brethren and sisters, if you desire honor, seek it in the right way. How shall you seek it, do you ask? In obedience to the word of truth. Our ambition in this life should be to honor Christ at every step.

The hasty temper, the cruel speech, the unkind thought, are not to be indulged. It is not for us to exalt this one, and condemn that one. In right words, words that bless and encourage, we are to reveal the fruits of righteousness.

An Appeal for Unity and Confidence, pamphlet 14, page 13, Ellen G White

This entry is just as much for me as anyone. In the past week, I too, had a hasty temper.

Christ will Freely Give

When the law of God and the Spirit of God have made the sinner conscious of his sin, let him come to Christ. The forgiveness that the law could not provide, Christ will freely give.

...The woman taken in adultery Christ did not condemn, for she already felt condemned and ashamed. She needed sympathy and forgiveness, and Christ was ready to grant it to her.

God Speaks to Modern Man, p 386, Arthur E Lickey

Destroy the Law...?

God's law and His character are inseparable. He did not and will not change either. Calvary is God's final and unanswerable argument in favor of His eternal law. Destroy the law and Calvary becomes a meaningless tragedy.

God Speaks to Modern Man, p 372, by Arthur E. Lickey

Beware! of Self-pity

We need to beware of self-pity. Never indulge the feeling that you are not esteemed as you should be, that your efforts are not appreciated, that your work is too difficult.

Let the memory of what Christ has endured for us silence every murmuring thought.

The Lord has no place in His work for those who have a greater desire to win the crown than to bear the cross.

Ministry of Healing 476, E G White

A Good Reputation

Choose a good reputation over great riches, for being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold

. Proverbs 22:1

Gold & Fire

In regards to our faith and trials - "Gold is not afraid of fire."

Stop being Angry!

Commit everything you do to God, Trust Him and He will help you!

Be still in the presence of God, and wait patiently for Him to act.

Do not worry about evil people who prosper, or fret about their wicked schemes.

Stop being angry - turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper, it only leads to harm.

For the wicked will be destroyed, but God's people will possess the earth made new.

The above lines are from Psalm 37:5,7-9

Be still, and know that I Am God. Psalm 46:10

God Rescues Every Time

God hears His people when they call to Him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles.

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, He rescues those whose spirits are crushed.

The righteous face many troubles, but God rescues them every time.

Psalm 34:17-19

Those who hate the Righteous...

Calamity will surely overtake the wicked, and those who hate the righteous will be punished.

But the Lord will redeem those who serve Him - Everyone who takes refuge in God will be saved.

Psalm 34:21-22

Who will Go to Heaven?

Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord? Who may enter your presence on your Holy Hill?

Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts.

  Those who refuse to gossip or harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends

 Those who despise flagrant sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the Lord

 those who keep their promises even when it is inconvenient.

 Those who lend money without interest, and who cannot be bribed to lie about the innocent.

Such people will go to Heaven!

Psalms chapter 15, verses 1-5

Spirits of Devils

Quotes from the Ellen G. White book, Early Writings, p 262

I saw that the saints must have a thorough understanding of present truth, which they will be obliged to maintain from the Scriptures. They must understand the state of the dead; for the spirits of devils will yet appear to them, professing to be loved relatives or friends who will declare to them unscriptural doctrines.

The spirits of devils will do all in their power to excite sympathy and will work miracles before them to confirm what they declare. The people of God must be prepared to withstand these spirits [demons] with the Bible truth that the dead know not anything, and that they who thus appear are the spirits of devils.

We must examine well the foundation of our hope: for we shall have to give a reason for it from the Scriptures.

For the living know that they will die but the dead know not anything. Ecclesiastes 9:5

Washed-out Bridge

While traveling on a dirt county road Andy noticed, too late, that the bridge was washed out!

Traveling at 30 miles per hour he had no time to stop and the next thing he knew the washed out bridge was behind him!


Andy was so excited that he drove 60 miles back home and brought me to see this amazing sight, and to measure the wash-out and to take photos.

The hole measured seven feet long, twelve feet wide, and ten feet deep. Tire tracks could be plainly seen in the soft dirt road going right to the edge on one side and continuing on the other side - the car had not jumped the hole! Andy felt no bumps or jolts as is common when his little car goes over even the smallest pothole.

Andy explains, "I drove over on God’s hand, there is no other explanation why the car did not fall in the hole. God saved me!

 ‘For He shall give His angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.’ Psalm 91:11.”

Terrible Intensity

The great controversy between good and evil will increase in intensity to the very close of time. ..

.As the church approaches her final deliverance, Satan is to work with greater power.

For six thousand years that mastermind (Lucifer - Satan), that once was highest among the angels of God, has been wholly bent to the work of deception and ruin.

And all the depths of satanic skill and subtlety acquired, all the cruelty developed, during these struggles of the ages, will be brought against God's people in the final conflict. And in this time of peril the followers of Christ are to bear to the world the warning of the Lord's second advent....

In the great final conflict, Satan will employ the same policy, manifest the same spirit, and work for the same end as in all preceding ages.

That which has been, will be, except that the coming struggle will be marked with a terrible intensity such as the world has ever witnessed. Satan's deceptions will be more subtle, his assaults more determined.   If it were possible, he would lead stray the elect.

Selections from The Great Controversy, Introduction, ix, x, xi by E G White

WATCH !!

Before the Flood .

... for seven days the people, knowing not that their doom was fixed, continued their careless, pleasure-loving life and mocked the warnings of impending judgment. "So," says the Savior, "shall also the coming of the Son of Man be." Matthew 24:39.

"Watch...lest coming suddenly He find you sleeping." Mark 13:35, 36.

Perilous is the condition of those who, growing weary of their watch, turn to the attractions of the world.

While the man of business is absorbed in the pursuit of [money];
while the pleasure lover is seeking indulgence;
while the daughter of fashion is arranging her adornments
- it may be in that hour the Judge of all the earth will pronounce the sentence:
 "You are weighed in the balances, and are found wanting." Daniel 5:27

Selections from The Great Controversy, p 491, E G White

Facing Life's Record

All who would have their names retained in the Book of Life should now, in the few remaining days of their probation, afflict their souls before God by sorrow and true repentance.

The purity and devotion of one will not offset the [lack] of these qualities in another.

[God] will examine the case of each individual with as close and searching scrutiny as if there were not another being upon the earth.

The Judgment is now passing in the sanctuary above. ...Soon - none know how soon - it will pass to the cases of the living...

"Watch and pray, for you know not when the time is." Mark 13:33

Selections from The Great Controversy, p 490, E G White

Valentine's Day

In high school and college I was very particular as to who I dated. The guy had to show respect for himself; if he had no respect for himself how could he have respect for me?

 Respect was very important, as was morality, which included no smoking, drinking, drugs or lewd behavior. (I did not date much, but married a gem of a husband!)

 I did not start dating until I was almost seventeen.

 And am proud to say I kept my promise made at a young age and was a chaste virgin for my future husband.

We have been married over 40 (forty) consecutive years!

When We Receive our Heavenly Reward

"When the redeemed stand before God, precious souls will respond to their names who are there because of our faithful, patient and earnest persuasions to flee to the Stronghold.

 Thus, those who in this world have been laborers together with God will receive their reward.”

Testimonies to the Church, Volume 8, pp. 196, 197, E G White 

The Truth About Grandma!

"Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are of God..." 1 John 4:1 [RSV]

As a Christian I fully believe in the Trinity of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The Hebrew word for “Trinity” is Elohim, and in Genesis 1:26 is translated "Us." God is interested in everything that affects us, for the Trinity deeply loves each one of us.

When Adam and Eve believed Satan’s first lie, "you will never die," (Genesis 3:4, 5), the world was cast into sin and confusion that grows worse every year. Satan lied in direct opposition to God's truth - "if you eat it [a sin] you will die" (Genesis 2:17). Since that first lie almost everyone believes that when you die you keep on living.

It was this teaching and the popular 1960's television comedy, Bewitched, that almost caused my spiritual ruin. Bewitched piqued interest in other schoolgirls, and at slumber parties we would attempt levitation and seances.

We did not know the Bible truth that would protect us from danger. “The living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing.” (See: Ecclesiastes 9:5-6 and 10; Psalm 115:17; Psalm 146:4; Job 7:9-10; Job 14:21; and Isaiah 8:19-20.)

On May 21, 1963 at 10:15 p.m. I sensed something "bad" in the house. Trying to alert my parents to danger by shaking their bed; I was confused when they did not respond. Crawling back into bed, I was startled when Grandma, who lived three hours away, walked through my bedroom door. She was filmy-white. Slowly she glided towards me.

"Grandma, why are you here?" I asked innocently. Never speaking she came to me, her face changing into a demonic glare while gesturing to choke me. "Jesus help me!" I screamed, while throwing the covers over my head. Moments later the ghost was gone. The clock read 10:25 p.m. I cried out to Mom in the next room, she came immediately.

The next morning the nursing home called with the news that this same grandmother had died the night before at 10:20 p.m.

"Grandma was in my room last night,” I told the family, “she was see-through white." Mom was unnerved, but said, “Such things are impossible. Grandma is in Heaven. When people die they go to Heaven."

For years I wondered what Grandma had wanted from me. Was she really trying to kill me, or just wanted me to follow her to heaven? These thoughts haunted me for years.

In 1975 SDA pastor Dr. Charles Felton explained to me, "the living know that they will die, but the dead do not know anything," Ecclesiastes 9:5,6,10. He explained it was the devil whom I had seen - the devil had been confusing me and wanting me to follow him (the devil.)

I was so happy to finally know the truth about "Grandma!"

The Story of the Good Samaritan according to me

There once was a young woman who was walking in a rough neighborhood (sin). Suddenly she was mugged by a gang (Satan and his demons). They hurt her physically and emotionally, and left her for dead in the gutter.

After awhile a church member walked by. The young woman called out for help, but the church member cursed her and continued walking.

Then the head elder walked by. The young woman pleaded with him to please help her, but he stuck his nose in the air and pretended not to see her.

Then the pastor walked by and was disgusted to see her lying in the gutter. He too passed her by.

Finally, Jesus Himself walked by and when the young woman weakly called out for help Jesus immediately stopped and helped her. He didn’t call her a “stupid idiot” for walking in such a rough neighborhood, but He did dress her physical and emotional wounds and carried her to the nearest Inn and continued to care for her.

The next day, before He left, Jesus told the innkeeper to feed the young woman and wash her wounds, saying He would repay the innkeeper when He returned.

“Inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.” - Jesus

Purchased by the Blood of God

God is a judge. He is passionately concerned with justice. But He alone is our Intercessor. He presents His own perfect life and shed blood as our Substitute. He satisfies His own demand for justice - at great cost to Himself. That is the foundation of His righteous empire.

We are guilty. There is nothing we can do to cover our shameful acts. We deserve to die. But God looks through all that and sees Jesus' sacrifice. Mercy and justice come together in that great act of Love.

We have been purchased and saved by the shed blood of God Himself.


Selections from Empires in Collision, p 70, George E Vandeman

Faith & Works

What good is it, if a man claims to have faith but has no works? Can such faith save him?

Someone will say, "You have faith; and I have works.
Show me your faith without works, and I will show you my faith by what I do. "

You believe there is one God? Good! But even the demons believe that and shudder.

Foolish man! Do you want evidence that faith without works is useless? Was not our ancestor Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? You see his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did! Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness; and he was called God's friend.

You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone.

As the body without breath is dead, so faith without works is dead.

From the book of James 2:14, 18-24, 26.

Complaints? - Really?!

The children of Israel were led into difficult circumstances, like at Marah, where they were practically dying of thirst and found that the water was bitter. Angrily they reproached Moses for leading them into such a terrible spot, forgetting that the Lord Himself had led them there.


"Many look back to the Israelites, and marvel at their unbelief and murmuring, feeling that they themselves would not have been so ungrateful; but when their faith is tested, even by little trials, they manifest no more faith and patience than did ancient Israel. When brought into [tight] places, they murmur at the process by which God has chosen to purify them."
Patriarchs and Prophets, p 293 by E G White