Reinforcing the Wall, Stand and Be Not Weary

By Ray Gano

Folks I have been disheartened lately.

In no other time in history have we seen God’s hand at work. Daily we see more and more pieces being placed in the bible prophecy puzzle than ever before. This is a time of GREAT excitement because daily we see scripture unfold.

But people are becoming numb to this fact and that is what disheartens me.

All people see about them is doom and gloom where in reality we should be rejoicing because we know that our Lord is coming soon for His spotless bride.

Paul reminds us to not be weary…

Galatians 6:9(KJV) And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

But all around me I see people dropping like flies and that disheartens me.

Why?

Because the many people I talk to give me the same excuse, well it is multiple excuses but it boils down to one primary thing and that is they choose to not play anymore and stick their heads in the sand.

I hear excuses such as…

• I’m to busy
• I don’t care anymore
• There is nothing I can do about it
• I’m just gonna wait for the Rapture
• There’s to much to Read / Study / Learn / Report / Convey / Share
• Things are too confusing
• Are you sure the rapture is coming?
• Yada yada yada…

Do you see what I mean?

Friends, every single one of us have a responsibility to the Lord. If you are reading this right now, THEN A HIGH FIVE KUDOS TO YOU!

You have not fainted and you are still on the wall!

Do you realize that we have rewards waiting for us right around the corner?

2Ti 4:8 (KJV) Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

I am troubled that people are taking themselves out of the game when it is NOW that we need watchmen more than ever on the wall sounding the alarm of our Lord Jesus Christ.

People making those selfish head in the sand excuses, forget what God says…

Heb 13:6 (KJV) So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

Several of my heroes were involved in the civil war; they were very strong God fearing men who had honor and valor.

These men were, General Robert E. Lee, one of the most respected Generals to ever serve this nation and the Union. And Lt. General Thomas Jackson AKA Stonewall Jackson, a General that is held in the highest respect to many of those who have served throughout the years.

One evening Stonewall Jackson was asked the following by a Captain John D. Imboden

"General" Captain John D. Imboden remarked,

"How is it that you can keep so cool and appear so utterly insensible to danger in such a storm of shell and bullets as rained about you when your hand was hit?"

General Stonewall Jackson instantly became grave and reverential in his manner, and answered, in a low tone of great earnestness:

"Captain, my religious belief teaches me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time for my death. I do not concern myself about that, but to be always ready, no matter when it may overtake me."

He added, after a pause, looking Captain John D. Imboden full in the face:

"That is the way all men should live, and then all would be equally brave" (1)

That is my wish as well, that all would be equally brave.

Friends and fellow watchmen on the wall, now is not the time to be faint and weary of heart. We are standing in the crossroads of life and standing upon that wall at our moment of greatness. For all of us are watchmen, predestined to honor and valor in the service of our Lord in these last days. In this calling we can take our comfort. Knowing that, daily we must remember that we are the body of Christ’s last defense.

I love Joshua, he is a hero of mine. He was a mighty man of God who had great valor and courage before the Lord.

Joshua stated the following…

Joshua 1:9 (KJV) Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.

Another one of my heroes is David, a man after God’s own heart. He gave these words to his son Solomon…

1Ch 28:20 (KJV) And David said to Solomon his son, Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the LORD God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD.

Psalms 27 is a great psalm of David. The general object of the psalm is to excite in others confidence in God; and when you read it, one gains the strength and fortitude to stand upright upon the wall because it is God in whom we trust and wait upon.

But here is a little background to this Psalm.

It is understood that the situation which gave cause for David to pen this Psalm is that he learned that Saul died a cowardly death leaning upon his spear and then asking an Amalekite soldier to finish the job (2 Sam1:6-9).

David needed to instill hope once again in his fellow soldiers of Judah. We learn that in the Septuagint version, Psalms 27 has the title, “A Psalm of David before his anointing.” Because of this, it is believed that David stated Psalms 27 to his men there at his anointing in Hebron. They needed to have a boost in confidence and to know that the job they were called to is one of greatness and honor. They needed to know and remember that it is the Lord who is in control and that He is their Salvation. It was on that day that David was first inaugurated as the new king of Israel as found in 2 Sam 2:4.

Read now the words of the Lord given to David, the new king of Israel, to his faithful soldiers and words that we as watchmen on the wall can take solace in as well.

Psalms 27:1-14 (KJV) “A Psalm of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? 2 When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell. 3 Though a host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident. 4 One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple. 5 For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock. 6 And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD. 7 Hear, O LORD, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me. 8 When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek. 9 Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation. 10 When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up. 11 Teach me thy way, O LORD, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies. 12 Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty. 13 I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. 14 Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.”

It is Psalms 27:14 which is the binder that gives us strength to carry on another day upon the wall.

Here it is again, and hear David’s voice speaking it to his troops.

Psalms 27:14 (KJV) Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

Folks, it is my personal belief that those who are abandoning the wall are weak in God’s Word. It is God’s Word that we find our strength. Leaving the wall to learn God’s word is another poor excuse and one lacking in commitment to ones calling. I know that these are hard words to say, but it is what I feel is true.

Folks, if we abandon our fellow watchmen and abandon our duty upon the wall, do you realize the sorrow that one will gain in their life? This is called walking away from what the Lord has called you to do and a form of disobedience.

These are hard words to say, but you know when rubber meets the road, I am correct in what I am saying.

Friends, if you are reading this, you are a watchman on the wall.

If you are a PZ Insider, you are a watchman on the wall.

If you are not a watchman on the wall, why else do you have this insatiable need for news? Have you looked at a news article and it seem to jump off the page in 3-D Technicolor? You read it and you hear the words in surround sound dolby stereo.. Right?

That is happening to you because you are called to be a watchman on the wall and it is your duty to sound the alarm.

The time is now to get tough and stand. We must know the word of God and have it buried in our heart. Because it is God’s Word that carries us through in battle.

With that said, we need to equip for this battle. How we do that is we must learn God’s Word and have it in our hearts.

Days are coming where the ownership of the bible may be a crime. In fact, go to any Christian bookstore and try to find a good King James Bible. It is hard because they are becoming scarce. They are being replaced by all these watered down modern versions. Shoot, try to find a Thompson Chain Reference in a King James Version and odds are that you have to special order it.

Here is the plan that I am adapting from “The Gideon’s Scripture Memory Verse Course.”

Let’s start with the what is being called the KEY VERSES

#1 - Romans 1:16 - The Gospel

#2 - Colossians 4:6 - The Answers

#3 - 2 Cor 5:17 - The Christian Life

#4 - John 15:5 - The Fruit

#5 - 2 Corinthians 1:20 - The Promises

#6 Eph 6:13 - Be Prepared

We first need to learn and memorize the foundations and then each foundation key verse has 10 sub verses that focus on the primary area.

Folks, Tracye and I do not want to be the only ones here left of the wall. We need you here beside us and together we can make a difference for the Lord.

The following page I have laid out these verses so that you can print this out on card stock and then cut out the cards. I encourage you to carry these with you all the time so that you can set them to heart. In doing this, you will always have God’s Word with you and when there seems to be dispare upon the wall, you have these to fall back on.

The time is now to stand and be counted and not shirk ones duty to the Lord and abandon your post.

I am honored to be a watchman on the wall and await the day to here my Lord tell me..

Enter, my good and faithful servant into the Joy of The Lord…

Maranatha!

Do We Really Love Christ?

By Ray Gano

Joshua 24:14 -15 (KJV) Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD. 15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.

Why did Joshua make this statement?

He feared for Israel.

He started to see Israel become lazy and they were choosing the apostate ways of the Canaanites, the false ways, the ways of the world.

Israel was become complacent.

Fast forward to today and what do we see? The same thing, people making excuses so that they can indulge in their pet sins. They wallow in the ways of the Canaanites, the ways of the world, the ways God has told us to stay clear of.

Like Joshua, we too must choose this day, whom we are going to serve.

But that is just the beginning.

Once we have chosen, we must take action on it.

Christ said in John 14:15 (KJV) If ye love me, keep my commandments.

But have we?

I don't think so. I believe we are moving in the opposite direction instead of living how Scripture tells us.

We are driven by self interest

Scripture says… Matthew 5:44

Matthew 5:44 (KJV) But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

We are consumed about Material Things

But scripture says… Matthew 6:31-33

Matthew 6:31 (KJV) Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? Or, What shall we drink? Or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?

Matthew 6:32 (KJV) (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.

Matthew 6:33 (KJV) But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

We worry about what tomorrow brings-

Scripture says… Philippians 4:6

Philippians 4:6 (KJV) Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

We are a nation of self-indulgence and debauchery -

Scripture says… 1 Corinthians 10:7-8

1 Corinthians 10:7 (KJV) Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.

1 Corinthians 10:8 (KJV) Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.

Wanting what the "Jones" have and keeping up with the Jones is all important -

Scripture says.. Exodus 20:17

Exodus 20:17 (KJV) Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbor's.

Legalistic?

Judgmental?

Jesus Christ The Word says… If ye love me, keep my commandments.

But are we doing that?

But more than that, do we really care what the bible says anymore anyways?

Do we really love Christ?

If we do, why don't we heed His word?

One of the most common questions I get is the following… Is America in Bible Prophecy?

Are we?

Look around and what do you see?

2 Timothy 3:2 (KJV) For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,

2 Timothy 3:3 (KJV) Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,

2 Timothy 3:4 (KJV) Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;

2 Timothy 3:5 (KJV) Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

2 Timothy 3:6 (KJV) For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,

2 Timothy 3:7 (KJV) Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.

Sounds like today

Sounds like America

It may even sound like some of us sitting here right now.

Ouch!

Have you really committed your life to Jesus Christ or are you just paying lip service?

I keep hearing the same petty excuses from many Christian folks.

Oh we go to church on Sunday mornings…

Keep the Ten Commandments…

I am a good person; I even give to the poor…

But I ask, does He live within your heart?

1John 2:4 (KJV) He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.

Isaiah 8:20 (KJV) to the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.

1 Corinthians 10:21 (KJV) Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.

Man is spiraling out of control through the lust of the flesh and his rebellion to God.

If you are reading this I ask, are you truly born again or are you paying a bunch of lip service?

Are self interest, material things and keeping up with the Jones more important?

Who do you really serve?

We opened this with Joshua asking Israel to make the choice.

He said "Choose you this day whom you will serve."

Is America in Bible Prophecy?

Figuratively yes she is, you will find her in Isaiah 5:8-23, Romans 1:18 - 32 and as I have shown, 2 Tim 3:1-7.

But we find her in yet another scripture.

Revelation 3:15-16 (KJV) I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. 16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth.

But here is another question; do you see yourself in this?

Have you chosen this day whom you will serve and if so are you doing it with all your heart, soul and mind?

Christ says… If you love me, keep my commandments.

Do you love Him?

Really or is it just lip service?

Who Do You Serve?

Jesus stated the following…

John 14:6 (KJV) Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

If you do not have Christ in your life, you will spend eternity in hell. This is a fact. It does not matter if you believe this or not, it is the truth spoken by Jesus himself. If your name is not written in the Lambs Book of Life you will go to hell for what you have not done and that is accepting Christ as your personal savior. To be placed in the Lamb Book of Life, you need to turn your life completely over to Him. Having "head" knowledge or "just believing in Christ" is not the same as having "heart" knowledge with Christ living in your heart. We know that even the devils believe in Him, where are they spending eternity?

James 2:19 (KJV) Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

We work hard at Prophezine to show that Bible Prophecy is coming to pass. Because of this fact, the Bible is true. Since the Bible is the true and inerrant word of God, there is a heaven and there is a hell.

If you claim the title of "Christian" then take account of yourself this day. Many claim the title, but we read in God's Word that the title does not get you into heaven.

Mat 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Mat 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?

Mat 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Who you serve will determine where you will spend eternity. If you are not serving Christ and a true child of God, then you are serving Satan and a child of the enemy.

If you are not 110% sure, then take account of yourself, your very life depends upon it.

1John 1:9 (KJV) If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

________________________________________

About the Author:

Ray & Tracye Gano are the Executive Directors of Prophezine. Prophezine deals with Bible Prophecy and World Events from a Pre-trib, pre-millennial, dispensationalist stand point. They currently serve close to 70,000+ (and growing) people world wide with a weekly newsletters, daily news updates, community based website and Internet radio shows. Ray recently released his latest project “Escape The End Time Money Snare – The CD a multimedia CD co-authored with Wilfred Hahn focusing on how to escape the trappings of mammon and learning how to live simply in God’s abundance.

Please visit Prophezine by going to http://www.prophezine.com

visit their new daughter ministry Wisdom Farms at http://www.wisdomfarms.com

Q&A - How Do We Know The Path We Are On?

By Ray Gano

Hello Ray!

I have a really important question for you about your article "Are You Really Living for the Lord". How do we know the path we are on? If so many people claim to be good Christians, how do we know that we are "Living for God?" I totally understand the Sunday morning Christian reference; however where do we draw the line of what is acceptable and what is not?

I completely understand that we are not to love money or material things. My second question is, if you are fortunate to make decent money is it wrong to have nice professional clothes for work? Is it wrong to try to be the best you can be as long as you are not "cocky" about it or look down on others?

I just sometimes wonder if taking vacations is a sin or buying my daughter a new sweater she likes. I believe it is worthy of discussion. The world has so many people (pastors, ministers, priests, etc.) telling us so many different things. ~~ PZ Reader Paula

You ask some very good questions, the fact that it is important to you tells me that you are on the right path.

In today's world salvation is taught, but sanctification is not. Because of that, people stop at the cross and then use grace as a license to sin.

What is forgotten is that it does not end with the cross, that is where everything begins.

What we need to realize is that a very high price was paid so that we may be seen "spotless" before our Father God. That sacrifice was Christ being scourged, mocked, tortured and then crucified. Read my latest article The Museum of Idolatry. I end it showing what the world is now mocking, our Lord and Savior.

Here is what scripture says...

Romans 12:1-2 (KJV) I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

What did Christ do for us? He suffered at the hands of the world to pay for our sins.

What then is our reasonable service? To give our lives over to Him and the service of our Lord. Now, we are already Christians, we have the cross, but now we start walking the life of sanctification.

What distinguishes a true Christian from a C.I.N.O.? (Christian in name only) In most cases the answer is one word - guilt. Those who are truly Christians are convicted when they sin and feel guilt whenever they do sin ( and we all sin).

Those who aren't true Christians don't feel guilt, either because they have quenched the Holy Spirit or because they were never saved in the first place.

If fact, one of the sure ways to find out if you are really saved is how you react to sin.

If you just shrug it off and say "everyone sins". Then you have problems.

If you hate every sin you have committed and feel guilt every time, you are saved.

Scripture says...

1 Peter 1:16 (KJV) Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

Are you living a holy and acceptable life unto the Lord? Do you obey God's Word or do you do as you wish and slap the name Christian on things of the world so that it soothes your conscience.?

Christ said...

John14:15 (KJV) If ye love me, keep my commandments.

Do you love Him? Not only do you love Him for all to see, but do you love Him inside as well? Do you obey Him even when no one is looking? If we love the Lord, we keep His commandments. Yes we still mess up from time to time because no matter what we are still born of that sin nature and we will never escape from that here on earth while we still inhabit these "dirty rags" of a body.

Scripture says..

Isaiah 8:20 (KJV) "to the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them."

1 Corinthians 10:21 (KJV) Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.

1 John 2:4-5 (KJV) He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.

We live in a world where we as man call the shots. No longer do we submit to Father. So many who claim the title Christian have one foot in the church and one foot out. What these people do not realize is that they are lying to themselves, because they do not obey God's Word. They are deceiving themselves and being deceived. They are on the Broadway vs the Narrow way.

Christ tells us himself Matthew 7...

Matthew 7:20-23 (KJV) Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works?

23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Often what people do to sooth their conscience is to say that Christ is talking to those who are in cults, false religions, ect. Problem with that is that there is no religion or cult out there besides true Christianity that call Jesus Lord...Lord. They call Him "a lord," one of many lords, ect. But never THE LORD.

So Christ is talking to "Christians" here in Matthew 7. When you read the context fully, it is self evident. These verses are the most fearful verses any Christian can read, because He is talking to us.

Matthew 7:13-14 (KJV) Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:

14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

We see here that on the Broadway, many there be which go in there at.

We also see regarding the narrow gate that "few there be that find it."

Can we lose our salvation? No we cannot. But what we need to ask ourselves, have we been deceived for so long thinking that we are Christians, where in reality, we are not? That is a terrifying question.

Take Up Your Cross and Follow Me

Do you love the Lord, but more importantly, who do you serve? Do you serve yourself, your whims, wants, desires or have you given it all up and fully submitted to the Lord.

Here is what scripture say...

Mark 10:17-23 (KJV) And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?

18 And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? There is none good but one, that is, God.

19 Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.

20 And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth.

21 Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.

22 And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.

23 And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!

I want to take a little time here and explain what is going on. We in the west do not fully understand at times Jewish tradition and culture.

Here we see a man who came running to Christ, upon standing before Christ HE KNEELED. Next this man called him GOOD MASTER.

Here are two very important clues that often because we are ignorant of Jewish culture we read right over it thinking nothing of it. The man kneeled and called Christ GOOD MASTER.

In fact Christ comes back and asks the man " Why callest thou me good?"

What we do not realize is that even today in Jewish culture you never call anyone "good." Why? Because there is only one who is good and that is God.

So what do we know that is taking place here?

We know that this man realized who he was addressing.. He KNEW He was addressing God in the Flesh, The Messiah. The man knelt before him as God and called Him good, knowing He was God.

Knowing who Jesus was, the man asks Jesus how to get to heaven. He names everything he has done, but Christ tells him that he needs to sell everything, give it to the poor, take up his cross and follow Him.

Now we have got to remember that this man knows he is talking to The Messiah, and what did he do?

He went away angry because he was not willing to give up all to serve the Lord. Here in this story the man's "all" was his possessions. But for other people it could be some other thing, lifestyle, whatever.

The key is that we submit fully to Him forsaking everything then we pick up our cross and follow him.

Remember the following...

1 Corinthians 10:21 (KJV) Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.

If you are not serving God, you are serving the flesh. There is no grey area, no middle of the road. God is binary, either you are serving Him, or you are not serving Him. We know this by reading Revelation.

Revelation 3:16 (KJV) So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth.

Of Buy Sweaters and Pastors Saying Different Things

>>> I just sometimes wonder if taking vacations is a sin or buying my daughter a new sweater she likes. The world has so many people (pastors, ministers, priests, etc.) telling us so many different things.

Buying things for your children is a blessing to them. God blesses us and we are His children, why can't we bless ours? The problem going overboard to the point where we are spoiling our kids which is more of a disservice than a benefit. Does God give us everything we want? No, He promises us to provide for our needs, everything else is a blessing.

You speak of vacations, that is a blessing from the Lord, at least that is how I look at it. I know that I cannot afford going on vacation, so if we are able to go anywhere at all, the blessing has to come from the Lord to make it possible.

As for the world's pastors, teachers and such. What we need to always remember is to go back to the final authority, that is God's Word.

Speaking of the Bereans, Paul states the following...

Act 17:11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

This is a principle that we in the church have forgotten. We have become lazy and depend on others to tell us what we need to know vs searching out the scriptures for ourselves.

How Do We Know The Path We Are On?

>>>> How do we know the path we are on? If so many people claim to be good Christians, how do we know that we are "Living for God?" I totally understand the Sunday morning Christian reference; however where do we draw the line of what is acceptable and what is not?

Again, it is how we handle our sins which shows us what path we are on.

Those who are truly Christians are convicted when they sin and feel guilt, where the Sunday morning Christians (C.I.N.O) don't feel their guilt. This is because they have either quenched the Holy Spirit or they have no guilt because they were never saved in the first place.

As for knowing what is acceptable and what is not, we learn this by reading God's Word daily.

Scripture says...

Deuteronomy 6:5-9 (KJV) And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.

6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:

7 And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.

8 And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes.

9 And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.

Clearly God is telling us to meditate always on His Word. Not only that, but to teach His Word to our children always as well. Think about this for a moment, when you sit, when you walk, when you lie down, when you get up. That pretty much encompasses all day. When you do this, His Word becomes part of you and with that comes discernment.

Here is a good example. Do you know how treasury department agent knows how to spot a counterfeit dollar? They study the original. They know how a dollar feels, looks like, smells like and even tastes like. They know the dollar bill so well that when a fake is given to them, they "just know" it is a fake. How do they know? They know it is a fake because they know the true dollar so well.

That is what we as Christians need to get to. We need to know God's Word so well that when error, bad things, wrong things no matter to what degree or size it is, if it is wrong we will "just know" because we know the truth. We know the truth because we know God's Word; that is because we spend so much time with His Word.

With all that stated, I have to ask …

Who Do You Serve?

Jesus stated the following…

John 14:6 (KJV) Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

If you do not have Christ in your life, you will spend eternity in hell. This is a fact. It does not matter if you believe this or not, it is the truth spoken by Jesus himself. If your name is not written in the Lambs Book of Life you will go to hell for what you have not done and that is accepting Christ as your personal savior.

To be placed in the Lamb Book of Life, you need to turn your life completely over to Him. Having “head” knowledge or “just believing in Christ” is not the same as having “heart” knowledge with Christ living in your heart. We know that even the devils believe in Him, where are they spending eternity?

James 2:19 (KJV) Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

We work hard at Prophezine to show that Bible Prophecy is coming to pass. Because of this fact, the Bible is true. Since the Bible is the true and inerrant word of God, there is a heaven and there is a hell.

If you claim the title of “Christian” then take account of yourself this day. Many claim the title, but we read in God’s Word that the title does not get you into heaven.

Mat 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Mat 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name and in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works?

Mat 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Who you serve will determine where you will spend eternity. If you are not serving Christ and a true child of God, then you are serving Satan and a child of the enemy.

If you are not 110% sure, then take account of yourself, your very life depends upon it.

1 John 1:9 (KJV) If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me, we are here to serve.

Christ or the Canaanites

By Ray Gano

Joshua 24:14 -15 (KJV) Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD. 15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.

When Joshua stated these words, he was on his deathbed. He called all of Israel together to speak to them one last time.

You see, he feared for Israel. He started to see Israel become lazy and choose the apostate ways of the Canaanites, the false ways, the ways of the world.

Like Joshua, we too must choose this day, who we are going to serve. Once we have chosen, we must take action on it.

Too often we see people making excuses so that they can indulge in the ways of the Canaanites, the ways of the world, the ways God has told us to stay clear of.

Oh, we put fancy words to it and all. We get all warm and fuzzy by slapping the name “Christian” on it to fool the ignorant. In reality all this does is dilute what God has said and in turn we excuse our indulgence with the ways of the world.

Before I get into this, I want to make sure you understand that I am not refuting the doctrine of eternal security. I believe once saved always saved. What I do have a problem with are those who are claiming the title Christian thinking that they are saved and living an open life of sin that is not according to God’s word. But instead they are indulging in the many ways of the world and making excuses for it.

Looking at the world today we see MANY people claiming the title “Christian” but I do not see them living the life worthy of a Lord who personally died for their sins.

Matthew 7:15-16 (KJV) Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

Matthew 7:18-20 (KJV) A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

I get a lot of emails telling me “who are you to judge me, your not God.” I agree, I am not God, but in the verse above I am told how we are to know who is NOT of God. This is also echoed again in Ephesians 5 talking of good fruit and worldly fruit. It is by their fruits that we shall know them.

It is through their fruits they identify themselves as to who they really serve.

In the days before Joshua’s death, Israel had many victories and won many battles over those who lived in the land. But we also learn that it was the tribe of Dan that led to the ultimate fall of Israel. You can read about this in Joshua 19. Because Dan dwelt among the Canaanites and Philistines they became exposed to the ways that were not of the Lord. They were introduced to their false gods, worldly ways and wild women. This in turn spread like a cancer, which Joshua saw in Israel.

In Joshua 24, it is seen that a covenant was made between Joshua, the people and God. They said that they would not turn away from the Lord and that they would turn away from the ways of the Canaanites and not worship their gods.

But when Joshua died, excuses came into play. Apostasy went to work and cancer spread throughout all of Israel.

This is exactly what we are seeing in Christianity today

Matthew 7:14 (KJV) Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

This should be a very sobering verse to those who are claiming the title and not living the proper life for the Lord.

It amazes me what people are doing today all in the name of Christianity and thinking that Grace gives them a license to sin.

Here is a short roadmap in which the ways of the world which have entered the church…

The Avenue (Wide Road)

- Watered down modern versions of the bible, NIV, The Message, RSV, Living Bible, NASB pretty much anything based upon the Westcott and Hort school of thought.

- Christian contemporary, Heavy Metal, Death Metal Rock

- Co-mingling of worldly beliefs and biblical beliefs

The Actions (Compromise)

- Christian Yoga; Yoga for kids

- Healing and practicing Reiki (wizardry)

- Feng Shui (occultic lay lines and earth magic)

- Walking the Labyrinth

- Contemplative prayer – (Transcendental Meditation - TM)

- Tai Chi and other forms of “Christian” martial arts

- The return of the Liturgy

- The return of candles, icons and incense

- The return of the worship of saints, mother Mary and of Angels

The Results (False Gospel)

- Salvation without the Blood of Christ, death burial and resurrection

- Salvation by works

- Rejecting the Bible as the infallible word of God

- Rejecting of doctrine and the tenants of the faith

- Complete acceptance of new age thought and belief along with the occult and pagan practices

I can go on, but I think you get the idea.

NOW… if something in this list has “ticked you off” or is a point of contention, you need first need to ask yourself “WHY?”

Why are you getting upset that your pet sin, belief or practice is listed here?

If you are a child of God, there should be some conviction going on as well as recognition that you have been indulging in the world’s ways.

Now if you refuse to accept the conviction in your heart, the next thing that usually happens, one usually lashes out at the messenger, which is me at the moment. This usually consists of calling me some name, attacking my intelligence, calling me a Pharisee, judgmental, stiff necked, fanatic, fundamentalist, ect. Saying that I have no idea what I am talking about.

Next the excuses come as to why we are allowed to wallow in some of these sins and pagan ways and working to discredit the messenger.

I point back to what Joshua said..

“Choose you this day whom ye will serve”

Often people think there is grey area with God. This is a major mistake. God is a YES / NO, binary, black or white God.

He is also a God who does not change His mind or ways to suit modern day man. Many would have us to believe that just because it was not ok for the Israelites doesn’t mean He holds us to the same standards of obedience today. It seems as if today’s thought in Christian circles is God does not care how I live, what I do or how I act as long as I am “working” for Him.

This is just not true. God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.

2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV) All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

Now, some of you out there may be involved in some of the things I have mentioned and not know it is living in the ways of the world. That is because you have been deceived. But, now that you know, you have a choice to make. Do you continue living in disobedience (sin) or not?

Now, If you continue living in disobedience this tells me one of two things.

1. You really are not saved
2. You are living in rebellion

If this is you, which one are you?

What sort of fruit are you producing in the eyes of God? Is this fruit godly and good - or wicked and corrupt? The Word of God has much to say about this issue, and anyone who claims Jesus Christ as their personal Savior should have no problem accepting the Bible as the final authority. Knowing this, we are called to submit to Him 100%. Again if you choose not to, you then serve your father the devil as stated in John 8:44. The other option is you are His and choose rebellion.

Personally, I would not want to be in ones shoes who choose to live in rebellion.

Here is how God will deal with those who choose to serve the world when they are His.

2 Chronicles 7:19 - 22 (KJV) But if ye turn away, and forsake my statutes and my commandments, which I have set before you, and shall go and serve other gods, and worship them; 20 Then will I pluck them up by the roots out of my land which I have given them; and this house, which I have sanctified for my name, will I cast out of my sight, and will make it to be a proverb and a byword among all nations. 21 And this house, which is high, shall be an astonishment to every one that passeth by it; so that he shall say, Why hath the LORD done thus unto this land, and unto this house? 22 And it shall be answered, Because they forsook the LORD God of their fathers, which brought them forth out of the land of Egypt, and laid hold on other gods, and worshiped them, and served them: therefore hath he brought all this evil upon them.

Now, I can hear it already. If you are one of these people you are going to say to yourself, “well what I am doing is good, it isn’t hurting anyone and through it I am being a good Christian example and have even talked about God and shared the gospel, so I guess that it is ok and I can keep doing what I feel is right.”

Do you see what went on in that excuse? It is pretty much the same argument that Eve had with herself regarding the apple.

They went against God’s Word. Here is what God says…

Proverbs 3:5 (KJV) Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Proverbs 16:25 (KJV) There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

Isaiah 8:20 (KJV)"to the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them."

Romans 12:2 (KJV)"and be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of god."

“Yea, hath God said??” said the snake to the Eve.

Are you leaning upon your own understanding, your own beliefs, your own wants, desires, lusts?

Are you ignoring what God’s word clearly says?

Here is what God’s word says…

Matthew 7:18-20 (KJV) A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

1 Corinthians 10:21 (KJV) Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.

Like the verses in Matthew 7; 1 Cor 10:21 is very clear in that you can not serve two masters. Either you serve the devil and produce the fruits of the world, or you serve Christ and produce fruits of the spirit. There is no mixing the two.

Going back to Mat 7:14 we KNOW that there are not many who will go to heaven.

Matthew 7:14 (KJV) Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

We also know that many will claim the title but God will not know them.

Matthew 7:21-23 (KJV) Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

We also learn that many claim the title, but the roots did not take hold. If one is not producing the good fruit of the Lord, then there is a good chance that they are not one of His.

Matthew 13:3-9 (KJV) And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow; 4 And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: 5 Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: 6 And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. 7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: 8 But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some a hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. 9 Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Being a Christian is not easy, Christ told us that himself. But because we are His, we have the strength to continue on daily in His will. Paul tells us that our strength is made perfect in weakness.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (KJV) And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

It is when we submit 100% to him and His will, then the Lord does great things in our lives.

Living a life of sin, even when you claim the title seems easy, but in the long run, will lead to destruction.

Matthew 7:13 (KJV) Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:

The church has lost its way. Many people claim the title, but in reality many are not His. Many choose the ways of the Canaanites, ways of the world, their father the Devil and not the ways of the Lord. This is just another sign of the last days.

Here is what God’s word says…

2 Timothy 4:3-4 (KJV) For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

If you are one of those who got upset at me when you read this, you need to reexamine your life and get right with the Lord. If you are not a Christian, but claiming the title, you too need to get right with the Lord or choose you this day who you will serve.

Joshua 24:15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.

Who Do You Serve?

Jesus stated the following…

John 14:6 (KJV) Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

If you do not have Christ in your life, you will spend eternity in hell. This is a fact. It does not matter if you believe this or not, it is the truth spoken by Jesus himself. If your name is not written in the Lambs Book of Life you will go to hell for what you have not done and that is accepting Christ as your personal savior. To be placed in the Lamb Book of Life, you need to turn your life completely over to Him. Having “head” knowledge or “just believing in Christ” is not the same as having “heart” knowledge with Christ living in your heart. We know that even the devils believe in Him, where are they spending eternity?

James 2:19 (KJV) Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

We work hard at Prophezine to show that Bible Prophecy is coming to pass. Because of this fact, the Bible is true. Since the Bible is the true and inerrant word of God, there is a heaven and there is a hell.

If you claim the title of “Christian” then take account of yourself this day. Many claim the title, but we read in God’s Word that the title does not get you into heaven.

Matthew 7:21(KJV) Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Matthew 7:22(KJV) Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?

Matthew 7:23(KJV) And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Who you serve will determine where you will spend eternity. If you are not serving Christ and a true child of God, then you are serving Satan and a child of the enemy.

If you are not 110% sure, then take account of yourself, your very life depends upon it.

1John 1:9 (KJV) If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

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About the Author:

Ray & Tracye Gano are the Executive Directors of Prophezine. Prophezine deals with Bible Prophecy and World Events from a Pre-trib, pre-millennial, dispensationalist stand point. They currently serve close to 70,000+ (and growing) people world wide with a weekly newsletters, daily news updates, community based website and Internet radio shows. Ray recently released his latest project “Escape The End Time Money Snare – The CD a multimedia CD co-authored with Wilfred Hahn focusing on how to escape the trappings of mammon and learning how to live simply in God’s abundance.

Please visit Prophezine by going to http://www.prophezine.com

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