All posts by Tribal Ministries

Discerning the Times – Introduction

Understanding the Times

Discerning the Times

The Pharisees and Sadducees came up, and testing JESUS, they asked HIM to show them a sign from heaven.
But HE replied to them, “When it is evening, you say, ‘it will be fair weather, for the sky is red.’
“And in the morning, ‘There will be a storm today, for the sky is red and threatening.’
Do you know how to discern the appearance of the sky, but cannot discern the signs of the times?
“An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign; and a sign will not be given it, except the sign of Jonah.”
And HE left them and went away.
Matthew 16:1-4

In this passage of Scripture we saw religious leaders wanting JESUS to prove that HE was indeed the Messiah sent by GOD, by providing a miracle from heaven (such as when fire came down from heaven to the earth, proving Elijah was the prophet sent by The true GOD in 1 Kings 18:36-39).

Our Beloved LORD JESUS WHO had already performed many miracles up to this point, had provided sufficient proofs that HE was WHO HE claimed to be. Yet these religious leaders still did not believe in HIM. Knowing that sufficient proof of truth would never be accepted by hardened, unbelieving hearts HE simply stated “An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign; and a sign will not be given it, except the sign of Jonah.” This statement to the unbelieving religious leaders was expounded upon in Matthew 12:39-41:

But HE answered and said to them,
“An evil and adulterous generation craves for a sign; and yet no sign will be given to it but the sign of Jonah the prophet; for just as JONAH WAS THREE DAYS AND THREE NIGHTS IN THE BELLY OF THE SEA MONSTER
So will The SON of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth
“The men of Nineveh will stand up with this generation at the judgment, and will condemn it
because they repented at the preaching of Jonah
and behold, something greater than Jonah is here

So do believers need to discern (understand or recognize) the signs of the times? Yes for many reasons, but we will only give you four:

1.  So that we are not caught off-guard; unprepared; asleep (Mrk 13:36, Rom 13:11).
We have been continually commanded to “be on the alert” (Mat 24:42-44, Mat 25:1-13, Mrk 13:32-36, Luk 12:35-40, 1 Ths 5:1-6). To be on the alert means to be watchful; extremely aware of what is going on with our surroundings.

“What I say to you I say to all, ‘Be on the alert!'”
Mark 13:37

We have been commanded to keep a careful watch over ourselves, our hearts and our lives (Pro 4:20-27, Eph 5:15-18), so that the worries of this life, the everyday events in this life, the pleasures of this life, and the deceitfulness of wealth in this life cause us to be as unexpectant and unprepared for HIS return as unbelievers (Luk 21:34-36, Mat 24:36-39, Luk 17:26-30).

2. So that we have knowledge of what we should do (Hos 4:6).
We should be like the sons of Issachar (1 Chr 12:32), we should understand the times we are living in, and have knowledge of what GOD’s people should do, as demonstrated by the following Scriptures:

“By smooth words he will turn to godlessness those who act wickedly toward the covenant
But the people who know their GOD will display strength and take action.
Daniel 11:32

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations
Baptizing them in the name of The FATHER and The SON and The Holy SPIRIT
Teaching them to observe all that I commanded you
And lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28:19-20

And HE said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation”
Mark 16:15

Preach the word
Be ready in season and out of season
Reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction
2 Tim 4:2

But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
2 Timothy 4:5

Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way,
What sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness
2 Peter 3:11

3. So that we are able to give understanding to others what is going on (Dan 11:33).
Our Beloved LORD GOD is a friend to those who love and obey HIM (Pro 18:24, Jhn 15:14-15, Jam 2:23). HE makes known to HIS friends:
    • HIS Will (Rom 12:2, Col 1:9-10, 1 Ths 4:3-8)
    • HIS Ways (Psa 25:8-9, Psa 32:8, Psa 119:3)
    • HIS Heart (Jer 31:3, 1 Tim 2:3-4, 2 Pet 3:9)
    • HIS Plans (Gen 6:13, Gen 18:17-33, 1 Sam 3:11-14, Psa 33:11, Amo 3:7)
So that we may know and understand HIM (Jer 9:24, Exd 33:13↔Psa 103:7, Gal 6:14).

As friends of GOD, we are also called to be HIS faithful servants and messengers; making HIS WORD known to others for their salvation (Mrk 16:15-16, Rom 10:13-18), for their growth by gaining understanding (Ezr 8:1-8, Mat 28:19-20), for their welfare concerning the consequences of sin (Jer 23:22, Jer 35:15, Jam 5:19-20), and for their knowledge of various events and circumstances (Mrk 13:23, Jhn 15:18-19, 1 Ths 3:4, 1 Pet 4:12-19).

Will we be able to give understanding to everyone? No, the wicked will not understand (Dan 12:10). They will not hear The WORDS of JESUS CHRIST (Jhn 8:43-47) because they refuse to listen (Isa 30:10, 1 Jhn 4:5-6), they reject the truth (2 Ths 2:10-12, 2 Tim 4:3-4) and mock those who bring it (2 Pet 3:3-4, Jud 1:18-19).

4. So that we are not frightened but recognize the events that lead to our redemption (Mat 24:6, Mat 24:32-33, Luk 21:9).
HE has told us everything in advance (Mrk 13:23), so while men who do not know HIM or HIS plans are fainting from fear of what appears to be happening (Luk 21:26), we should be expectantly looking for HIS return (Luk 12:35-40, Luk 21:29-36).

“Take heed, keep on the alert; for you do not know when the appointed time will come.
Mark 13:33

Useless Eaters

Something to think about

Useless EatersA bruised reed HE will not break
And a dimly burning wick HE will not extinguish
HE will faithfully bring forth justice
Isaiah 42:3

Repealing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, better known as “Obamacare,” has dominated news headlines since it was first passed on March 23, 2010. For more than 7 years there has been a nonstop effort to repeal (cancel or invalidate) this law that helps the poor, the elderly, the sick, and the disabled.

Most people watching the battles to repeal and replace health care laws, see it as the battles of “the haves and haves not”. Instead of seeing it for what it really is, behavior driven by hatred, lack of compassion, selfishness, hardheartedness, unfeelingness, and greed.

 

Why wouldn’t most people including those professing to be “christian”, not see this for what it is? Without GOD’s Holy SPIRIT, most things are not always immediately discernible. But those who are continually led and taught by The SPIRIT of GOD are able to examine closely, and perceive clearly the events that are occurring (1 Cor 2:15).

 

The intense effort to repeal the “Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act “ is a manifestation of those ancient wicked spirits that are sneaky, cowardly, and without mercy, or compassion.

 

Why are those ancient wicked spirits considered “sneaky” and “cowardly”? Every demonic spirit, Satan, and even sinful flesh is “sneaky” and “cowardly”. When being enticed into sin, you will never be given the truth about its consequences (Jam 1:13-15); instead the focus will be on satisfaction. The uninformed, the unbelieving, the naïve, and the weak are deceived into making wrong choices and following deadly courses when they are made to believe what is not true, through delusion or misleading (Gen 3:1-13, Deu 11:16, Rev 12:9). Many who are part of the intense effort to repeal the health care act, have been deceived on two levels:

1.     the focus is on the President who passed the act by calling it Obamacare instead of the reason for the health care act in the first place, “to protect patients who were unable to get reasonable health care because of preexisting conditions, and to provide affordable health care to those who are dying without it“

2.     stoking the fears that insurance premiums will continue to rise unchecked, creating uncertainty among the insurers, instability in the markets and proving the fears are true as a result of the behavior caused by its being expressed

 

We have seen these evil spirits at work in The BIBLE, throughout history, and even in those who are close to us:

1.    In Biblical history these evil spirits were at work in the Amalekites (descendants of Esau’s grandson Amalek, Exd 36:12):

a.     During the Israelites journey from their harsh bondage and mistreatment in Egypt, men from the tribe of Amalek attacked the slowest and weakest Israelites at the rear (Deu 25:17-19).

b.    While David and his six hundred men were away with Achish to prepare for battle (1 Sam 29:1-11), the Amalekites came and stole their belongings, wives, sons and daughters (1 Sam 30:1-6).

These evil spirits worked against David and his men; without from the Amalekites and within from the wicked and worthless men among David and his men (1 Sam 30:22). Two hundred of David’s six hundred men were too exhausted to cross the brook Besor to get their belongings and captive families back, so they remained behind (1 Sam 30:10). Instead of having compassion on these exhausted men, those wicked and worthless men announced that those who did not fight, would only receive their wives and children back and nothing else (1 Sam 30:21-25).     

2.       In World history these evil spirits are at work:

a.     In Hitler in 1939, when he began using the term “unnütze esser” – (which literally means “useless eaters” or “useless mouths”). This term was first used in the T4 program as the genocidal marker in Nazi Germany which targeted the terminally ill, the disabled (both physical and mental), and the elderly for “euthanasia”. It was then extended to include any other people who were considered an economic burden on society.

b.     In terrorists both past and present, they prey upon the weak; using the elderly, the sick, women and children as human shields; firing upon troops, while hiding within hospitals, orphanages, and family homes; deliberately placing the elderly, the sick, women and children in or around combat targets to deter the enemy from attacking these targets; forcing these helpless people to march out in front of them during battles.

c.     Daily, within families when an individual is more concerned about their own desires and needs rather than others; among co-workers when there is little tolerance for the shortcomings or struggles of others; and for strangers when there is no compassion for the destitute.

 

Our Beloved GOD is compassionate and merciful. In the opening Scripture, Isaiah 42:3; HE tells us HE will not break off or entirely crush those who are weak, fragile, easily shaken or broken. And HE will not extinguish or quench those who are barely hanging on, instead by HIS grace and HIS hand, HE will revive, restore, feed and cultivate until they grow strong again. HE truly is the lifter of our heads (Psa 3:3-6)!

 

Throughout The BIBLE HE has commanded us to respect the elderly (Lev 19:32, Pro 23:22, 1 Tim 5:1), take care of the widows, orphans (Psa 68:4-6, 1 Tim 5:3-5, Jam 1:27) do no wrong to foreigners (Lev 19:33-34, Mat 25:34-35, Heb 13:1-3), help the needy and the poor (Deu 15:11, Pro 19:17, Pro 22:9, Mat 25:34-36), and be strength to those without strength (Psa 82:3-4, Rom 15:1).

   

For HE will deliver the needy when he cries for help,

The afflicted also, and him who has no helper.

HE will have compassion on the poor and needy,

And the lives of the needy HE will save.

HE will rescue their life from oppression and violence,

And their blood will be precious in HIS sight;

Psalm 72:12-14

Devoted to Prayer

Uncategorized

Position of PrayerDevote yourselves to prayer
Keeping alert in it
With an attitude of thanksgiving
Colossians 4:2

The aforementioned Scripture, is part of the instructions we are given in Colossians 3:1-25, and Colossians 4:1-6; these instructions teach us how to conduct are lives on a daily basis as followers of JESUS CHRIST.

Today, we will examine the instruction for prayer, by examining the three-fold way we have been instructed to pray.

First, we are instructed to “devote ourselves to prayer” What does it mean to “devote yourself to prayer”? The English word “devote” in this passage of Scripture was translated from the Greek word “proskartereō” (NT:4342) and it means to:
• adhere (or stick to)

These all with one mind were continually devoting themselves to prayer
Along with the women, and Mary the mother of JESUS, and with HIS brothers
Acts 1:14

• diligent (pay close attention to; take great effort)

And HE came to the disciples and found them sleeping
And said to Peter, “So, you men could not keep watch with ME for one hour?
“Keep watching and praying that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Matthew 26:40-41

• be steadfast (not changing; not wavering; staying strong)

Now when Daniel knew that the document was signed
He entered his house (now in his roof chamber he had windows open toward Jerusalem)
And he continued kneeling on his knees three times a day, praying and giving thanks before his GOD
As he had been doing previously
Daniel 6:10-11

• continue at all times

Pray without ceasing
1 Thessalonians 5:17

• persevere and not faint (or give up)

Now HE was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart
Saying, in a certain city there was a judge who did not fear GOD and did not respect man
There was a widow in that city, and she kept coming to him, saying
‘Give me legal protection from my opponent’
For a while he was unwilling
But afterward he said to himself, ‘even though I do not fear GOD nor respect man
Yet because this widow bothers me, I will give her legal protection
Otherwise by continually coming she will wear me out’
And The LORD said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge said
Now, will not GOD bring about justice for HIS elect who cry to HIM day and night
And will HE delay long over them?
I tell you that HE will bring about justice for them quickly
However, when The SON of Man comes, will HE find faith on the earth?”
Luke 18:1-8

Why has our Beloved LORD GOD called us to be “devoted in prayer”? Devoted or persistent prayer, causes us to be in continual direct communication with HIM. This consistent communication causes us to be reliant upon HIM (Psa 71:5, Psa 84:12, Jer 17:7-8); to draw close to HIM (Jam 4:8); bringing us into HIS presence (Exd 34:5-8).
It is in HIS presence things are put into perspective (Psa 73:1-28); fear is exchanged for confidence (Jdgs 6:22-24, Isa 41:10-13); anxiety is replaced with peace (Php 4:6-8); sorrow is turned into comfort (Isa 51:12, 2 Cor 1:3-4); despair changed to hope (Psa 42:5-11, Psa 43:4-5,); defeat becomes victory (2 Sam 5:22-24, Psa 56:1-13); and we are able to resist the enemy (1 Sam 30:6, Psa 18:1-2, Jam 4:7, 1 Pet 5:6-8).

Second, we are instructed to “keep alert in it” What does it mean to “keep alert in prayer”? The English word “alert” in this passage of Scripture was translated from the Greek word “grēgoreō” (NT:1127) and it means to:
• keep awake (completely conscious; not drowsy or any state of sleep)

But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day would overtake you like a thief
For you are all sons of light and sons of day
We are not of night nor of darkness
So then let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober
For those who sleep do their sleeping at night, and those who get drunk get drunk at night
But since we are of the day, let us be sober
Having put on the breastplate of faith and love
And as a helmet, the hope of salvation
1 Thessalonians 5:4-8

• be watchful (carefully observing; paying close attention to; perceptive)

Then The LORD said to Gideon
The people are still too many; bring them down to the water and I will test them for you there
Therefore it shall be that he of whom I say to you, ‘This one shall go with you,’ he shall go with you
But everyone of whom I say to you, ‘This one shall not go with you,’ he shall not go”
So he brought the people down to the water
And The LORD said to Gideon
“You shall separate everyone who laps the water with his tongue as a dog laps
As well as everyone who kneels to drink”
Now the number of those who lapped, putting their hand to their mouth, was 300 men
But all the rest of the people kneeled to drink water
The LORD said to Gideon, “I will deliver you with the 300 men who lapped
And will give the Midianites into your hands; so let all the other people go, each man to his home”
Judges 7:4-7

• be vigilant (staying watchful and alert to danger or trouble)

Be of sober spirit, be on the alert
Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour
But resist him, firm in your faith
Knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world
1 Peter 5:8-9

Why have we been called to “keep alert in prayer”? If we look at 1 Peter 4:7 using translations from both the Complete Jewish Bible and Message, the question is answered succinctly (or gets to the point in just a few words):

The accomplishing of the goal of all things is close at hand.
Therefore, keep alert and self-controlled, so that you can pray.
1 Peter 4:7 (Complete Jewish Bible translation)

Everything in the world is about to be wrapped up, so take nothing for granted.
Stay wide-awake in prayer.
1 Peter 4:7 (The Message translation)

Third, we are instructed to “have an attitude of thanksgiving” What does it mean to “to have an attitude of thanksgiving”? The English word “thanksgiving” in this passage of Scripture was translated from the Greek word “eucharistia” (NT:2169) and it means to have:
• gratitude (to be grateful, appreciative)

Enter HIS gates with thanksgiving
And HIS courts with praise.
Give thanks to HIM, bless HIS NAME.
For The LORD is good;
HIS lovingkindness is everlasting
And HIS faithfulness to all generations.
Psalm 100:4-5

• thankfulness (both acknowledge and recognize the benefits received)

Sing to The LORD a new song
Sing to The LORD, all the earth
Sing to The LORD, bless HIS NAME
Proclaim good tidings of HIS salvation from day to day
Tell of HIS glory among the nations
HIS wonderful deeds among all the peoples
For great is The LORD and greatly to be praised
HE is to be feared above all gods
For all the gods of the peoples are idols
But The LORD made the heavens
Splendor and majesty are before HIM
Strength and beauty are in HIS sanctuary
Ascribe to The LORD, O families of the peoples
Ascribe to The LORD glory and strength
Ascribe to The LORD the glory of HIS name
Bring an offering and come into HIS courts
Worship The LORD in holy attire
Tremble before HIM, all the earth
Say among the nations, The LORD reigns
Indeed, the world is firmly established
It will not be moved
HE will judge the peoples with equity
Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice
Let the sea roar, and all it contains
Let the field exult, and all that is in it
Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy before The LORD
For HE is coming
For HE is coming to judge the earth
HE will judge the world in righteousness
And the peoples in HIS faithfulness
Psalm 96:1-13

Why have we been called to “have an attitude of thanksgiving in prayer”? A heart that comes to our Beloved LORD GOD full of thanksgiving, is a heart that fully knows WHO HE is (Jer 32:16-17, Luk 1:37, Heb 11:6); a heart that remembers all HE has done (Psa 103:2, Psa 116:12); a heart that has full confidence in HIM (Psa 59:16-17, Psa 95:1-7, Psa 91:1-3, 2 Tim 2:13); a heart that has experienced HIS goodness and mercy (Psa 124:1-8, Psa 63:1-8, Psa 116:1-2, Psa 121:1-8).

Trust in HIM at all times, O people;
Pour out your heart before HIM;
GOD is a refuge for us. Selah.
Psalm 62:8

We Are All HIS CREATIONS

Thought for Today

Created from DustIt is I who made the earth, and created man upon it

I stretched out the heavens with MY hands

And I ordained all their host

Deuteronomy 4:32

 

 

But We Are Not All HIS Children

I am a child of GOD 2

For all who are being led by The SPIRIT of GOD, these are sons of God

For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again

But you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!”

The SPIRIT HIMSELF testifies with our spirit that we are children of GOD

Romans 8:14-16

I Want to live Sober

Something to think about

A Sober Life is a Righteous LifeRecently, I was listening to one of my favorite praise and worship leaders being interviewed on a talk show. The talk show host was telling the praise and worship leader how awesome her voice was, and asked her why she was not in show business. He went on to say, “after all, gospel is show business these days; you could be living the celebrity life style.” She looked at him and said “My voice is to be used for HIS glory alone, I want to live sober, I have people looking up to me.”

In that very moment our Beloved LORD JESUS spoke to my heart and spoke two words “sober and alert”. HE confirmed I was witnessing a “sober” life.

To live sober, is to live a righteous life:

  1. that glorifies HIM, instead of glorifying self
  2. whose external conduct reflects HIS inner presence
  3. where internal thoughts reflect the day-by-day transforming work of HIS Holy SPIRIT in hearts
  4. that is focused on living out HIS WORD daily
  5. not distracted by the intoxications of this world
  6. that is alert to HIS Voice, therefore avoiding traps set by the enemy
  7. that apprises all things spiritually

The end of all things is near

Therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit

For the purpose of prayer

1 Peter 4:7

Reviewing Scriptural Support for the definitions of “living sober” ― a righteous life is:

A life that glorifies HIM:

Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works

And glorify your FATHER WHO is in Heaven

Matthew 5:16

A life that does not glorify self:

I do not receive glory from men

But I know you, that you do not have the love of GOD in yourselves

I have come in MY FATHER’S NAME, and you do not receive ME

If another comes in his own name, you will receive him

How can you believe, when you receive glory from one another

And you do not seek the glory that is from The ONE and ONLY GOD?

John 5:41-44

A life whose external conduct reflects HIS inner presence:

For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh

But those who are according to The Spirit, the things of The Spirit

For the mind set on the flesh is death

But the mind set on The Spirit is life and peace

Because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward GOD

For it does not subject itself to The LAW of GOD, for it is not even able to do so

And those who are in the flesh cannot please GOD

However, you are not in the flesh but in The Spirit, if indeed The Spirit of GOD dwells in you

But if anyone does not have The Spirit of CHRIST, he does not belong to HIM

Romans 8:5-9

A life whose internal thoughts reflect the day-by-day transforming work of HIS Holy SPIRIT:

But you did not learn CHRIST in this way

If indeed you have heard HIM and have been taught in HIM

Just as truth is in JESUS

That, in reference to your former manner of life

You lay aside the old self

Which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit

And that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind

And put on the new self

Which in the likeness of GOD has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth

Ephesians 4:20-24

A life focused on living out The WORD daily:

I have set The LORD continually before me

Because HE is at my right hand, I will not be shaken

Psalm 16:8

So I will keep YOUR LAW continually

Forever and ever

And I will walk at liberty

For I seek YOUR PRECEPTS

I will also speak of YOUR TESTIMONIES before kings

And shall not be ashamed

I shall delight in YOUR COMMANDMENTS

Which I love

And I shall lift up my hands to YOUR COMMANDMENTS

Which I love

And I will meditate on YOUR STATUTES

Psalm 119:44-48

Become sober-minded as you ought

And stop sinning

For some have no knowledge of God

I speak this to your shame.

1 Corinthians 15:34

A life not distracted by the intoxications of this world:

Do not love the world nor the things in the world

If anyone loves the world, the love of The FATHER is not in him

For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life

Is not from The FATHER, but is from the world

The world is passing away, and also its lusts

But the one who does the will of GOD lives forever

1 John 2:15-17

A life that is alert:

For it is HE WHO delivers you

From the snare of the trapper

And from the deadly pestilence

Psalm 91:3

Take heed, keep on the alert

For you do not know when the appointed time will come

It is like a man away on a journey, who upon leaving his house and putting his slaves in charge

Assigning to each one his task, also commanded the doorkeeper to stay on the alert

Therefore, be on the alert — for you do not know when The MASTER of the house is coming

Whether in the evening, at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or in the morning

In case HE should come suddenly and find you asleep

“What I say to you I say to all, ‘Be on the alert!'”

Mark 13:33-37

Now as to the times and the epochs, brethren, you have no need of anything to be written to you

For you yourselves, know full well

That The Day of The LORD will come just like a thief in the night

While they are saying, “Peace and safety!” then destruction will come upon them suddenly

Like labor pains upon a woman with child

And they will not escape

But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day would overtake you like a thief

For you are all sons of LIGHT and sons of day

We are not of night nor of darkness

So then let us not sleep as others do

But let us be alert and sober

For those who sleep do their sleeping at night

And those who get drunk get drunk at night

But since we are of the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love

And as a helmet, the hope of salvation

1 Thessalonians 5:1-8

Be of sober spirit

Be on the alert

Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion

Seeking someone to devour

1 Peter 5:8

A life that apprises all things spiritually:

Now we have received, not the spirit of the world

But The SPIRIT WHO is from GOD

So that we may know the things freely given to us by GOD

Which things we also speak

Not in words taught by human wisdom

But in those taught by The SPIRIT

Combining spiritual thoughts with spiritual words

But a natural man does not accept the things of The SPIRIT of GOD

For they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised

But he who is spiritual, appraises all things, yet he himself is appraised by no one

1 Corinthians 2:12-15

But the day of the Lord will come like a thief

In which the heavens will pass away with a roar

And the elements will be destroyed with intense heat

And the earth and its works will be burned up

Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way

What sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness

2 Peter 3:10-11

Shaking Off the Dust

Examining Every Scripture

shake dust from feet 2Whoever does not receive you

Nor heed your words

As you go out of that house or that city

Shake the dust off your feet

Matthew 10:14

What is the significance of “shaking the dust off the soles of your feet”? To “shake off the dust” is a vivid gesture. But before we tell you why, let’s look at three Major Prophets in the Old Testament where our Beloved LORD GOD used vivid gestures to send a profound message:

  • Isaiah followed GOD’s instructions to walk around naked and barefoot for three years as a warning sign to Egypt and Ethiopia, that the people of these two countries  would be led away in nakedness and shame, as captives and exiles by the King of Assyria (Isa 20:1-6).
  • Jeremiah followed GOD’s instructions to purchase a lined waistband and wear it around his waist, symbolizing the closeness of Israel to GOD. But then GOD instructed him to remove the linen waistband and go and hide in the crevice of a rock. After much time has passed, he was then instructed to retrieve that linen waistband that had been ruined; symbolizing that the nation of Israel like the waistband, was once of great value, but because of their sin and idolatry had become like the waistband, ruined and totally worthless (Jer 13:1-11).
  • Ezekiel followed GOD’s instructions to pack a bag that he would carry over his shoulders with bare necessities. He was to carry this bag out in daylight, so the Israelites would see him carrying it. He was then called to dig a hole through the city wall with them watching, and that night with them watching, he would go out of the city through the hole he had dug in the wall, carrying the bag on his shoulders. When the Israelites asked him what he was doing, he was instructed by The LORD GOD to tell them what all he was doing symbolized (Eze 12:1-16).

The very act of “shaking the dust off your feet” is a vivid gesture symbolizing:

  • The testimony that will go against those given GOD’s message but rejected it (Mar 6:11, Luk 9:5). Those rejecting GOD’s message will be held responsible for their conduct (Pro 19:16, Eze 9:9-10, Eze 14:21-23).
  • GOD’s impending judgment ― since their rejection of the messengers and the message of repentance, essentially cut them off from receiving mercy and salvation (Matt 10:14-15, Luke 10:1-16)
  • Renunciation ― or formally refusing to associate with further; as well as rejecting any responsibility for (Acts 18:4-6, Eze 33:6-9, Act 20:26-27)

Under what circumstances should one “shake the dust off your feet”? When a person(s) completely rejects The WORD of GOD; often with hostility (aggressively, angrily, or unfriendly), as demonstrated by the following verses:

Job 21:14-15

“They say to GOD, ‘Depart from us!

We do not even desire the knowledge of YOUR ways.

‘Who is The ALMIGHTY, that we should serve HIM,

And what would we gain if we entreat HIM?’

Isa 30:9-11

For this is a rebellious people, false sons, sons who refuse to listen to the instruction of The LORD; Who say to the seers, “You must not see visions”; And to the prophets, “You must not prophesy to us what is right, Speak to us pleasant words, prophesy illusions. “Get out of the way, turn aside from the path, let us hear no more about The Holy ONE of Israel.”

Jer 11:21-23

Therefore thus says The LORD concerning the men of Anathoth, who seek your life, saying, “Do not prophesy in the name of The LORD, so that you will not die at our hand”; therefore, thus says The LORD of hosts, “Behold, I am about to punish them! The young men will die by the sword, their sons and daughters will die by famine; and a remnant will not be left to them, for I will bring disaster on the men of Anathoth — the year of their punishment.”

Acts 18:5-6

But when Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul began devoting himself completely to The WORD, solemnly testifying to the Jews that JESUS was the CHRIST. But when they resisted and blasphemed, he shook out his garments and said to them, “Your blood be on your own heads! I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.”

1 The 2:14-16

For you, brethren, became imitators of the churches of GOD in CHRIST JESUS that are in Judea, for you also endured the same sufferings at the hands of your own countrymen, even as they did from the Jews, who both killed The LORD JESUS and the prophets, and drove us out. They are not pleasing to GOD, but hostile to all men, hindering us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved; with the result that they always fill up the measure of their sins. But wrath has come upon them to the utmost.

2 Tim 4:3-5

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths. But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

What is the instruction for dealing with one who is not openly hostile in their rejection of GOD’s WORD, in fact periodically comes to Church? We have been first called to examine ourselves (Psa 26:2, Luk 6:41-42, Gal 6:1-3). Secondly, we are instructed to observe their behavior (Mat 7:15-20, Luk 6:46-45). Finally with gentleness we are called to correct them as demonstrated by 2 Tim 2:24-26:

The LORD’s bond-servant must not be quarrelsome

but be kind to all

able to teach

patient when wronged

with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition

if perhaps GOD may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth

and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil

having been held captive by him to do his will

How do you correct someone within the Church who continues to walk in sin, because they reject GOD’s Truth? Our Beloved LORD GOD tells us in:

Mat 18:15-17

“If your brother sins, go and show him his fault in private; if he listens to you, you have won your brother.  “But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that BY THE MOUTH OF TWO OR THREE WITNESSES EVERY FACT MAY BE CONFIRMED.  “If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.

What does it mean in Matthew 18:17 “let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector”? It means to avoid, or do not associate with them (2 The 3:6-7, 2 The 3:14-15, 1 Cor 5:1-13). Sin is like leaven or cancer, it spreads (Gal 5:7-9), and corrupts those who associate with the willful disobedient (1 Cor 15:33).

What is the instruction for dealing with one who causes dissension (separation or problems) in the Church? We have been given clear instructions in the following verses:

Rom 16:17-19

Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them. For such men are slaves, not of our LORD CHRIST but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting.

Tit 3:10-11

Reject a factious man after a first and second warning, knowing that such a man is perverted and is sinning, being self-condemned.

2 Jhn 10-11

If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house, and do not give him a greeting; for the one who gives him a greeting participates in his evil deeds.

But should we really reject them? Shouldn’t we pray for them? Our Beloved LORD GOD is pretty clear in HIS instructions in the aforementioned Scriptures:

  1. turn away from them (Rom 16:17)
  2. reject a factious man – a man who causes dissension (Tit 3:10)
  3. do not receive him into your house, and do not give him a greeting (2 Jhn 10)

Again the reason for rejecting one who is intent on causing dissension, is to stop the spread or growth of dissension in the body. We have not only witnessed the impeding of Church growth, we have even seen Churches destroyed from the division allowed to fester and grow within the body. Our Beloved LORD JESUS has called HIS body to live in unity (Psa 133:1, Eph 4:1-3, Col 3:12-14), harmony, being of the same mind (Rom 15:5, Rom 12:16, 2 Cor 13:11, Php 2:2, 1 Pet 3:8), and love (Rom 12:10, 1 Pet 1:22, 1 Pet 4:8). In fact HE tells us the world will know we are HIS disciples, by our love for each other (Jhn 13:35).

And yes we should pray diligently for them until HE tells us to cease praying for them.

Would GOD really tell you to quit praying for someone? Absolutely, as demonstrated in Jeremiah 7:1-16, and Jeremiah 14:10-12. Our GOD is very merciful and patient, not wanting anyone to perish (2 Pet 3:9), but after many warnings and call to repentance, there will be finally judgment/punishment (2 Chr 36:15-17, Jer 7:25-26, Jer 25:3-11, Luk 11:49, 1 Cor 4:11-13).

The one who listens to you listens to ME

And the one who rejects you rejects ME

And he who rejects ME

Rejects The One who sent ME

Luke 10:16

HE Was Not Forsaken

Something to think about

Jesus_on_the_crossAbout the ninth hour JESUS cried out with a loud voice, saying,

“ELI, ELI, LAMA SABACHTHANI?”

That is, “MY GOD, MY GOD, WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME?”

Matthew 27:46

Every year during this season of remembering our Beloved LORD JESUS CHRIST ultimate sacrifice ― HIMSELF; many well-meaning pastors across the globe will erroneously preach a sermon about GOD’s heart and JESUS question as HE was finishing the purpose for which HE had come.

Every year pastors correctly teach that JESUS CHRIST is The Lamb of GOD WHO appeared in order take away the sins of the world (Jhn 1:29, 1 Jhn 3:5). However, those same pastors use the question JESUS asked in Matthew 27:46, to incorrectly teach that by taking on the sins of the world at the cross, HE experienced the wrath and alienation from GOD.

As a young believer in JESUS CHRIST, every single time I heard this erroneous message preached I became very sad and uncomfortable at the idea that GOD would forsake HIS own SON at the time HE needed HIM most. I have undergone countless, and very painful experiences in my life; through each one of them, HE never left me (Deu 31:6, Heb 13:5). HE didn’t abandon me at my greatest hours of need, HIS presence continually rested upon me (1 Pet 4:14). With every experience, my trust in HIM grew, and our relationship deepened. During my times of suffering, the nearness of my GOD was my refuge (Psa 73:28), and in that refuge or place of peace and safety, I came to know HIM and to know HIS heart (Eph 3:17-19). We became friends (Jhn 15:14-15).

As HIS messenger, I know the extreme importance of standing in HIS council (meeting with HIM concerning HIS Message – Jer 23:22) and presenting accurately what HE speaks (2 Tim 2:15).

Like HIS disciples before me, I simply ask HIM what a particular passage of HIS WORD means (Mat 17:10-13).

I asked HIM about Matthew 27:46, and this is what HE told me:

  • HE does not lie (Heb 6:18), HE is a GOD of Truth (Psa 31:5), HE is faithful (2 Tim 2:13) and cannot lie (Titus 1:2)
  • HE will not forsake the righteous (Psa 37:28, Psa 37:25), HE did not forsake JESUS or hide HIS face from HIM (Psa 22:24)
  • As my Beloved JESUS was finishing the work HE had been given (Jhn 17:4, Jhn 19:30) in those final moments before HE laid down HIS LIFE (Jhn 10:17-18), HE did three final things:
    • Extended forgiveness and eternal life to a repentant criminal (Luk 23:39-43)
    • Explained to HIS disciples what was happening to HIM on the cross, and what the outcome of HIS great sacrifice would be (Psa 22:1-31)
    • Made arrangements for HIS mother Mary to be taken care of (Jhn 19:25-27)

 

Precious in the sight of The LORD

Is the death of HIS godly ones

Psalm 116:15

(Lessons in The Book of Job) Choose your friends wisely

Pearl of Wisdom

prayer-groupNow when Job’s three friends heard of all this adversity that had come upon him

They came each one from his own place, Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite

And they made an appointment together to come to sympathize with him and comfort him

When they lifted up their eyes at a distance and did not recognize him, they raised their voices and wept

And each of them tore his robe and they threw dust over their heads toward the sky

Then they sat down on the ground with him for seven days and seven nights with no one speaking a word to him

For they saw that his pain was very great

Job 2:11-13

In these passages of Scripture, we see when Job’s three friends hear about all his adversity, with good intentions:

  • they make an appointment with each other, to get together and come offer him both sympathy and comfort
  • they mourn greatly when they first see their friend, because they barely recognize him due to his physical condition
  • they sit with him for seven days and seven nights without speaking a word, witnessing how greatly he is suffering

However their good intentions go awry, and they eventually become:

  • his accusers, (accusing him of wrongdoing―Job 19:1-4)
  • his scoffers (expressing doubt about his integrity and righteousness―Job 16:20)
  • his persecutors (causing him more suffering with their words against him―Job 19:21-22)
  • his condemners (declaring him guilty of wrongdoing―Job 32:3).

How did these three friends turn from comforters to torturers, especially in the midst of his great suffering? They made the same mistake many make:

  • they judged Job’s situation according to the flesh (Jhn 8:15), which is a standard that only considers outward appearances (1 Sam 16:7, John 7:24)
  • they trusted in their own understanding to assess Job’s situation (Pro 3:5, Luke 13:1-5) instead of inquiring of our Beloved LORD GOD through prayer (1 Sam 23:1-5, 2 Sam 21:1, Isaiah 11:3-4)
  • they did not really know our compassionate GOD nor understand HIS WORD (Mic 4:12), therefore they thought and spoke in error of HIM and about what happened to Job and his children (Job 42:7, Job 4:7-9, Job 8:4, Jhn 8:19, Jhn 16:1-4)

What standards should we use in choosing friends? Simply use the standards our Beloved ABBA FATHER set for us in HIS WORD:

  • Do choose:
    • the faithful who have an intimate relationship with our GOD (Psa 119:30-32, Psa 119:63, Pro 13:20-Pro 14:16) and obey HIM consistently (Num 14:24, Jhn 4:34, Jhn 8:29, Act 13:22)
    • the obedient who are willing to obey HIS WORD no matter the cost (Num 14:6-9, Dan 1:5-20, Dan 3:12-18)
    • the intercessors who are willing to pray for you (Rom 1:9-11, Eph 6:18, Col 1:9-12) and pray with you (Dan 2:17-19, Jam 5:16)
    • those who faithfully go to GOD’s House and encourage others to do so also  (Psa 95:1-8, Psa 122:1, Heb 10:25)
    • those who love The LORD or obey HIS WORD (Psa 119:63, Jhn 14:21, 1 Jhn 5:3)
  • Do not choose:
    • the wicked an ungodly person who is hostile to GOD (Psa 26:4-5, Psa 36:1-4, Psa 139:19-22, Jude 1:15)
    • sinners a person who does not obey The WORD of GOD (Pro 14:7-9, Mat 7:21-23, Luk 6:46, 1 Jhn 3:4)
    • scoffers:
      • a person who scorns GOD and HIS servants (2 Chr 30:6-10, Luk 6:22)
      • a person who scorns the truthfulness of HIS WORD (Gen 3:1-5, Isa 5:18-19, Eze 12:21-28)
      • a person who mocks both GOD and HIS WORD (2 Pet 3:3-4, Jude 1:18)
    • one who claims to be a believer, yet engages in sexual immorality, is greedy, worships idols of the world, is abusive, gets drunk, and steals (1 Cor 5:9-13)
    • idolaters a person who serves other gods (Deu 13:6-11, Mat 6:24)
    • slanderers a person who lies/makes false statements about another in order to hurt their reputation (Psa 15:3, Psa 50:19-20, Psa 101:5, Pro 10:18, Pro 20:19)
    • gossips a person who reveals personal or secret information about another (Pro 11:13, Pro 21:23, 1 Tim 5:13, Jam 3:2-12)
    • quick tempered a person who is easily angered (Pro 22:24-25, Pro 29:11, Pro 29:22)
    • lovers of the world and the things in it (Rom 12:1-2, Jam 4:4, 1 Jhn 2:15-17)

 

Do not be deceived

“Bad company corrupts good morals.”

1 Corinthians 15:33

(Lessons in The Book of Job) Does GOD still Love Me?

Pearl of Wisdom

feeling-alone-in-prison

And Job again took up his discourse and said,

“Oh that I were as in months gone by,

As in the days when GOD watched over me;

When HIS lamp shone over my head,

And by HIS light I walked through darkness;

As I was in the prime of my days,

When the friendship of GOD was over my tent;

When the ALMIGHTY was yet with me,

And my children were around me;

When my steps were bathed in butter,

And the rock poured out for me streams of oil!

Job 29:1-6

“And now my soul is poured out within me;

Days of affliction have seized me.

“At night it pierces my bones within me,

And my gnawing pains take no rest.

“By a great force my garment is distorted;

It binds me about as the collar of my coat.

“HE has cast me into the mire,

And I have become like dust and ashes.

“I cry out to YOU for help, but YOU do not answer me;

I stand up, and YOU turn YOUR attention against me.

“YOU have become cruel to me;

With the might of YOUR hand YOU persecute me.

“You lift me up to the wind and cause me to ride;

And YOU dissolve me in a storm.

“For I know that YOU will bring me to death

And to the house of meeting for all living.

Job 30:16-23

In these two passages of Scripture, Job first talks about how blessed his life was before tragedy and intense suffering befell him. He then describes his intense emotional and physical suffering, which seemed to be met only with silence when he cried to our Beloved LORD GOD for help. This sadly leads him to accusing our precious GOD of indifference, cruelty and persecution. Which leads us into our current lesson from The Book of Job. Do not let your circumstances cause you to lose confidence in our GOD, doubting HIS love and concern for you.

Our prayer is that each one of you would personally and intimately know our Beloved LORD JESUS CHRIST, so that as HE dwells in your hearts by faith, you would know how wide, how long, how high, and how deep HIS love is. And that you would know and experience that love beyond your understanding, so that you would never again doubt HIS love or concern for you despite your circumstances (Eph 3:14-19).

And that from the very depth of your heart and soul, you would understand our LORD’s declaration to each one of us in Romans 8:35-39:

Can anything ever separate us from CHRIST’s love?

Does it mean HE no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death?

(As the Scriptures say, “For your sake we are killed every day; we are being slaughtered like sheep.”)

No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through CHRIST, who loved us.

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from GOD’s love.

Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow

Not even the powers of hell can separate us from GOD’s love.

No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of GOD that is revealed in CHRIST JESUS our LORD.

New Living Translation

Our brother Paul knew GOD’S love for him and all the other apostles going through intense suffering when he declared in 2 Corinthians 4:7-12:

We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure.

This makes it clear that our great power is from GOD, not from ourselves.

We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed.

We are perplexed, but not driven to despair.

We are hunted down, but never abandoned by GOD.

We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.

Through suffering, our bodies continue to share in the death of JESUS

So that the life of JESUS may also be seen in our bodies.

 Yes, we live under constant danger of death because we serve JESUS,

So that the life of JESUS will be evident in our dying bodies.

So we live in the face of death, but this has resulted in eternal life for you.

New Living Translation

It is important to stop here and emphasize, you cannot have confidence in someone you do not know. If you do not have a real, personal and intimate relationship with our LORD JESUS CHRIST, you cannot know GOD (Jhn 14:6, Jhn 8:19, Jhn 16:1-3) you will never understand HIS WORD (2 Cor 2:14-16), nor trust in HIS promises (Zep 3:1-2). You can know HIM, by simply accepting HIS free gift of love and salvation (Rom 6:23, Jhn 3:16, Rom 5:8). Ask HIM today to come into your heart and life, HE’s waiting for your invitation (Rev 3:20).

For those of you who have a personal relationship with our Beloved LORD JESUS CHRIST, do not let your circumstances cause you to lose confidence in our Beloved ABBA FATHER. If you know HIM, then trust:

  1. HE is causing all things to work together for good (Rom 8:28), as demonstrated in Job’s suffering (Job 3:25-26, Job 9:28, Job 30:15, Job 42:5-6, Jam 5:11―Job 42:10-17).
  2. As any good parent HE disciplines those HE loves (Heb 12:5-8, Pro 13:24).
  3. HE is creating holiness within us, and causing the fruit of righteousness to be produced through us (Heb 12:9-11, Jhn 15:2, Gal 5:22-23), the more obedient we become the more present The HOLY SPIRIT is in our lives (Acts 5:32, 1 Pet 4:14)

 

HE humbled you and let you be hungry

And fed you with manna which you did not know, nor did your fathers know

That HE might make you understand that man does not live by bread alone

But man lives by everything that proceeds out of the mouth of The LORD

Your clothing did not wear out on you, nor did your foot swell these forty years

Thus you are to know in your heart that The LORD your GOD was disciplining you just as a man disciplines his son

Therefore, you shall keep the commandments of The LORD your GOD, to walk in HIS ways and to fear HIM

Deuteronomy 8:3-6

 

Light of the world

Something to think about

oil_lamp

You are the light of the world

A city set on a hill cannot be hidden

Nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand

And it gives light to all who are in the house.

Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works

And glorify your FATHER WHO is in Heaven.

Matthew 5:14-16

When John the baptizer was asked by the priests and Levites from Jerusalem who he was, he did not fully know (Jhn 1:19-25). He knew from the messages that Gabriel The archangel (Luk 1:11-25) and The Holy SPIRIT (Luk 1:57-77) had given his father Zacharias; he was a prophet of GOD (Luk 1:76), the forerunner (one who goes before) our Beloved LORD JESUS CHRIST (Luk 1:17, Luk 1:76) to prepare hearts (call to repentance/turn back to GOD from sin) in order to receive HIS salvation (Mat 3:1-3, Luk 1:17, Luk 1:76-77).

John the baptizer, like so many of us, did not fully know who he was. Only our Beloved LORD JESUS fully knew and revealed to us who John the baptizer was; he was indeed Elijah the prophet who would come as the forerunner of our Beloved LORD JESUS CHRIST (Mal 4:5-6, Mat 11:14, Mat 17:10-13).

Our Beloved LORD JESUS has revealed to us who we are. In HIS sermon on the mount, HE told us, HIS followers, we are the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Mat 5:13-16).

As the salt of the earth, we bring:

  • Purity to an impure world (2 Kin 2:19-22); by living out lives that have been purified through our Beloved LORD JESUS CHRIST (Psa 51:10, Mat 5:8, Tit 2:11-14, 1 Jhn 1:9), we stand out from those who live morally corrupt lives (Gen 6:11-12, 2 Pet 2:10).
  • Grace to a cruel world (Col 4:6), allowing us to reflect the character of our Beloved LORD JESUS WHO dwells within us (Jhn 1:14-17). We love when hated, bless when cursed and pray for those who mistreat us (Luk 6:27-28, Rom 12:14). We are merciful (Luk 6:36), forgiving (Eph 4:32, Col 3:12-13) and reconciling (Mat 5:23-24).
  • Thirst for The Holy SPIRIT in those who witness righteousness, peace and joy (Rom 14:17), in faithful servants of JESUS CHRIST despite their circumstances (Jhn 14:27, Jhn 16:33, Php 4:7).  

Our GOD is Light (1 Jhn 1:5), our JESUS is The LIGHT (Jhn 9:5, Jhn 12:46) and when we walk closely with HIM by seeking HIM out (Psa 27:8, Psa 105:4) and obeying HIS WORD (Jhn 14:21, 1 Cor 1:9, 1 Jhn 6-7), HE will abide with us, by living within us (Jhn 14:23, Rom 8:9, Eph 3:17); and we become bearers of HIS LIGHT to the world. And as the light of the world:

  • We are like the stars HE has placed the sky to give light on the earth (Gen 1:16-17); we appear as lights in the midst of a perverse and crooked generation (Php 2:13-15).
  • We bear The LIGHT HIMSELF within our hearts (2 Cor 4:6, Jhn 1:4-9, Jhn 8:12), shining forth HIS presence in our lives (Pro 4:18, Dan 12:3, Eph 5:7-9) bringing praise and honor to HIM as a result of how we live (Mat 5:16, Eph 2:10, 1 Pet 2:12).
  • We enlighten the eyes and hearts of those sitting in darkness; that they may turn from the darkness and kingdom of Satan (Act 13:46-47, Act 26:16-18) to The LIGHT and Kingdom of GOD and HIS Beloved SON JESUS (Col 1:12-13)

A wise man once said “Salt speaks of inward character that influences a decaying world; light speaks of the outward testimony of good works that points to GOD.” Sadly, there are many who do not know our Beloved LORD JESUS CHRIST; they live in darkness (Psa 107:10-11, Jhn 12:46), not knowing what they stumble over (Pro 4:19), or even where they are going (1 Jhn 2:11). So let us live lives, which glorify our Beloved LORD GOD, causing them to desire to know HIM for themselves.

For with YOU is the fountain of life;

In YOUR light we see light.

Psalm 36:9