It is no surprise that we are living in days of confusion and deception. When good things are called evil, and awful things are labeled "good" it is a clear indication of danger ahead! How long must God endure such unthinkable levels of mockery against holiness, righteousness and the people of faith in our modern society. Often, my heart aches for the lost souls who repeatedly wage battle against religious freedom and anything or anyone who preaches the true gospel of Jesus Christ. The Bible says clearly, that we should know the truth and the truth shall make us free. Yet, for so many, truth is just relative. In fact, it is simply anything that can be intellectually taught by someone who looks knowledgeable and articulates with passion and purpose. Truth has been taken captive, and altered if not watered down completely by the minds of young and old alike. God's Word is Truth. But let not any man or woman promote this hate speech or intolerance, as they say. There are no shortage of mockers out there, no shortage of people who absolutely hate what God stands for and the truth that the Gospel of Jesus Christ represents.
Maybe there will come a time when there is a holy unity among God's people when it comes to advancing the message of Jesus Christ and His Kingdom principles. Until then, we will undoubtedly face obstacles and absolute ridicule from people inside and outside of the church. When Ananias and Sapphira lied to God and Peter, they were both struck dead. (Acts 5:1-11) When Lot's wife disobeyed and turned back to gaze upon the city, she was turned to a pillar of salt. (Gen. 19:26) When the crowds jeered and mocked Noah as he was constructing the ark of safety, they were closing their opportunity to live through the great flood and missed their chance of survival. All were drowned. (Gen. 6-9)... There are many more stories in the Bible of mockers ultimately facing their final destiny. Do not be alarmed or frightened by the intimidation tactics and evil schemes of mockers. Some are unaware of the damage they do, while others are very purposeful and strategic in their wicked ways. As believers and followers of Jesus Christ, we are to be ever vigilant and wise in dealing with every person we minister to. Some are truly sent to us by God for deliverance and healing, while others are sharpened tools in the clutches of the enemy to bring destruction and chaos into the camp. If you have studied scripture and biblical history at all, you would agree that this is nothing new.
As we enter into a new year, I am anticipating the Glory of God to be intensifying and increasing among the people of God worldwide. Just as when Solomon finished praying as he was dedicating the temple, a sudden fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the Lord filled the temple. (II Chron. 7:1) It's such an amazing story, that even the priests could not enter the temple of the Lord because the glory of the Lord filled it. When all the Israelites saw the fire coming down and the glory of the Lord above the temple, they knelt on the pavement with their faces to the ground, and they worshiped and gave thanks to the Lord, saying, "He is good; his love endures forever." (II Chron.7:2-3)
Are you ready for moments like this? I want to encourage you to believe God at His word and to press through past the mockers and insults. Lets find truth and joy on our journey with Him. The Lord is Good and His Love endures forever. Happy New Year! The best is yet to come.
So very good and right on! Loved "pressing through past mockers...finding joy on our journey with Him. The Lord continue to bless your ministries! In Christ, Marilyn Oslin
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