He was taken by stealth, the Prince of Peace. He was pierced for our transgressions. He was bruised for our selfish actions and by His stripes we are healed.


I wish to extend my honor and gratitude to those who have chosen to serve and sacrifice also for the sake of protection and peace. Thank You, and God Bless You!

Friday, June 22, 2012

Dream Maker



Many people seem to have wandered through life with little or no sense of purpose, just existing from one day to the next. Yet, if you watch most children playing, they seem to be so happy and full of life, imagination and dreams. They're always looking for some new adventure, or something that's would be challenging and/or rewarding. It's the way they were designed.


Yet, as many people grew up, things changed and they got busier, too busy in fact. Most become parents and/or joined the work forces of society. But the dreams and ambitions they once had now seem to be dead and buried in the past. Others are trying to be the picture of success, working longer and harder to fulfill their dream, going to the extreme, for what?   And a few seem will to do anything, just to keep from getting bored, including wasting more time watching TV or playing video games or going to sports events. In the process many have lost track of time and reality, watching others trying to fulfill their dreams. Most people have now giving up on having any dreams of their own.  


Some people no longer know what's really important to them. While other are busy trying to help or please someone else, such as their children, their spouse, their boss and sometimes even themselves. Some don't even know how to take time off, to rejuvenate their body, mind or spirit. Or even do some serious soul searching. (But, there's still hope for you, so please read on.)

If I were to ask you. Are you fulfilling your dream? What would you say? Would it be something like, "Well, I'm too busy for that," or "What dream! I'm just trying to survive." Is that what life's all about, survival?

Do you know that God placed within you and every child of his, a dream? A dream to be fulfilled. Some are small and others are much bigger, but more importantly it was pacifically designed for you. He also gives everyone, the ability to fulfill their portion of that dream. It may not be the dream you once though of, such as a sport figure, or a celebrity, or being rich and famous. But, a dream just the same that is much bigger and grander than you could ever imagine. God is also able to provide everything necessary to get you started and help you fulfill your part. But, you will still have to choose and it will cost you to follow his dream. Even human's dreams require lots of time, practice, energy  and money. 


God's dreams don't come cheap either, but they are much more rewarding. His dreams are meant to give people a purpose or reason for living. Without a dream or dreams, your already dead, even though you may still be breathing and content with doing just that. Probably, because you may not know any better. The truth of the matter is, God loves you and he has a lot more in mind for you. Don't sell yourself short or believe the lies of others who will try to discourage you. You're never too dumb, weak, or old to begin your dream and pass it on. A dream(s) that make your life worth living. Yet, many times you won't be able to complete them, because they're much bigger than anyone realized.

There are two kinds of dreams, spiritual and carnal ones. The spiritual ones comes from God, your Heavenly Father and they are eternal. The others dreams often stem from our pride, greed and lust (or too much pizza) and then they're forgotten or fade as quickly as we had them. The same goes for all our carnal efforts or activities. They have no lasting value or eternal purpose even though they may be gratifying for some earthly goal. Or maybe helping a few people or some charitable act to save the animals or the earth from global warming. Some even dream of killing others over foolish beliefs or some other vile and vain imagination.

However, God's dreams have real meaning, and often they are life changing. They're meant to inspire, give hope or direction, sometimes they even warn us or others. Some may be just a simple gift to enjoy in our nightlife when one may be experiencing a difficult or stressful time. (God cares about every facet of our life, even when we're asleep.) Other dreams maybe grander in scope to pass onto another generation. 


Sometimes God's dreams show us how to accomplish certain task, or create or build. Others are for instructions or blessings or revelation knowledge to be shared with others. Other reveal some form of judgment that need to acted on through intercession. God's dreams are meant for LIFE, not death, even to save one poor lost soul. You may wonder, how and why God would do that?


There are no limitations to God's love, power, knowledge or abilities. He owns everything and knows every thought you have and what you will do next week, month and year—because God is LOVE and he cares for you very much. We just have to be willing to accept that and work with Him. That requires us to be able to hear his voice and do what he says so we will be ready when the time comes. That process can start now if you're willing. It may seem hard at first, but it's really not. Just spend more time waiting before him each day (talking if you feel that's necessary, remember he knows your heart and your thoughts). God is also very patient, but he's not a fool either. We need to be serious about our efforts.  


Let God know that you're willing to work with him, and that begins with repentance and more prayer time. Shed excess baggage, a clutter mind or life has little room for God's dreams. Fasting meals can also helps prepare our minds and bodies for His dreams to be revealed. God's desires will then becomes yours and you will want to see the dream he has planned lived out. He says, '"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord. "Plans for good and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope ...when you seek me...and search for me with all your heart."' (Jer. 29:11-13)



God's dreams for us are much bigger than anything we could ever imagine. What we do and say can effect hundreds, thousands even millions of people lives, now and those who will live after us. God's dreams were promised to Abraham and his descendants for a thousand generations (that's a very long time). That's how big God thinks, his abilities (and ours) can go beyond time and space, because we too share in his power. These Bible character's dreams effected the lives of countless numbers. 


Noah was a righteous man and he found grace is the eyes of the Lord. God gave him instructions (a dream) to save his family and the generations to come, along with all the animals. King David was told to buy a piece of land, where the temple of the Lord was to be built, and he gave his gold and silver to help start it. Yet, the greatest example he gave us was the position of his heart. David loved God with all his heart. He was not a man with divided interests. When we're willing to prepare our heart the same way as David, God will help us fulfill our dream. Mary yielded her body and her dignity to give birth to the savor of the world, Jesus Christ.


Sometimes we my have to be willing to sacrifice everything, to see a dream accomplish. Jesus did when he was only 33 years old, he chose to hang on a cross and die to save humanity. It was then, he was able to say, "It is finish." That was the dream set before him, to see us free from the bonds of sin, to make all thing new and gain access to the Heavenly Father. What would you be willing to do in order to see others set free from their physical, mental and/or spiritual bonds?


God's dreams are meant to go beyond ourselves, time and space. They are eternal, whereas mankind's dreams are small, usually selfish, and they have only temporary value or pleasure. However, there is no greater joy or reward than knowing that you have pleased your Heavenly Father, the Dream Maker.


Note: Every man and woman of God is given a dream and a role to play. Some may appear grander than others, but they're all have a significant part in the Kingdom of God.

A Time For War


Give me the money that has been spent in war and I will clothe every man, woman, and child in an attire of which kings and queens will be proud. I will build a schoolhouse in every valley over the whole earth. I will crown every hillside with a place of worship consecrated to peace. ~Charles Sumner

War does not determine who is right - only who is left. ~Bertrand Russell

It'll be a great day when education gets all the money it wants and the Air Force has to hold a bake sale to buy bombers. ~Author unknown, quoted in You Said a Mouthful edited by Ronald D. Fuchs

I dream of giving birth to a child who will ask, "Mother, what was war?" ~Eve Merriam

The release of atom power has changed everything except our way of thinking... the solution to this problem lies in the heart of mankind. If only I had known, I should have become a watchmaker. ~Albert Einstein

What a cruel thing is war: to separate and destroy families and friends, and mar the purest joys and happiness God has granted us in this world; to fill our hearts with hatred instead of love for our neighbors, and to devastate the fair face of this beautiful world. ~Robert E. Lee, letter to his wife, 1864

Everyone has their own opinion about war because of what they've seen, heard or experienced as a result of them. However the Bible states in Ecclesiastes Chp. 3:1-8:

"There is an appointed time for everything."

"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; A time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; A time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; A time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; A time for war and a time for peace."
As much as many of us dislike war, they do serve a purpose in God's greater design. Whether it is for judgment, blessing or discipline (correction and purification), God is in control and He loves all His children.

There are many of things that can be learned from war. Here are some of them:

- Trust in the wisdom of God.
- Evil must be confronted.
- Realize our own weaknesses and limitations versus God's strength and protection.
- The outcome of obedience is more important than our personal feelings or needs.
- Sacrifice is the foundation and the principle requirement for seeing others set free.
- The future and eternity have a greater reward than the present.
Wars are caused by people who chose to deviate from the will and plan of God. Satan looks for victims who show signs of weakness, of pride and greed and lust, using them to breed discontent and fuel hatred toward another person, a race, a religion or a nation. These fleshly traits are used by the enemy, satan, as his way of stealing, killing and hurting people. When men aspire to leadership they often have wrong motives. Some choose to set themselves up by force as superior to their neighbors and brothers, forcing their opinion and beliefs on others, insisting they submit or be destroyed. Regardless of their motive and actions, God is still in control. He is even the authority over satan, as to fulfill his greater plan.

Jesus' desire for us is to love God first and then our neighbors. Even if there are some losses or sacrifices, we must trust God for the full benefit of such battles.

God allows wars to be a tool to bring purification into the hearts of mankind. Wars often help us realize our own pride and depravity. Just as God did with the children of Israel; they were judged for their sins, but they were also taught how to conquer their enemies. But, in the New Testament Jesus taught people to fight the enemy with the power of love — to pray for and bless people that spitefully use us. We need to forgive, even from our greatest depths of pain (the cross). Anytime there is a war, it should be a time of prayer, intercession, an examination of the heart. People should expect to see sacrifices, even personal ones. Most wars often take longer than anticipated.

Wars are really fought on several fronts, not only where the action is but also on the home front and in the heart. Conflicts always heighten emotions, but we must not let them rule us. There are always differences of opinions from leaders, from neighbors, and even within the family. Questions and doubts about war, all the rights and wrongs, and thoughts and sides that can be taken. It grieves me to see the hate and division between people, races and nations as a result of war. Not only the current wars, but all wars.

The loss of life and human suffering not only grieves me but also our Heavenly Father. He is like a good parent and does not take pleasure in disciplining his children or seeing them suffer, but knows it is necessary at times for the good. He knows the benefits we may not see at the time; including the possibility of some of his children rebelling or dying. All of us need to understand this.

There is also "the fallout" or consequences of wars on individuals and families. Whether they have to deal with a death or a capture of a friend or loved one, wounded and/or disabled, there's a lot of emotion, pain and suffering. Often the emotional or mental pain is the worst. Bitterness and resentment can creep in and fester (poison) the mind. Many veterans and soldiers' minds are tormented by nightmares, being driven to despair and hopelessness because of what they have seen and experienced. As a result many marriages and families have suffered, and many have been destroyed.

Recently, I learned that an average of 18 American soldiers and vets, after coming home from war, are committing suicide each day. I think that is horrible and unacceptable. What that does to families is devastating and unimaginable. We must pray for our soldiers and their families wherever they are. We have to give them HOPE, letting them know that not all is lost or in vain. We must let them know that there is a reason to live; that their sacrifice is appreciated.

All these service men and women have paid far too great a price to be ignored. God wants to honor them also, those who have been willing to sacrifice for their families, their country and were willing to stop evil from spreading in other parts of the world. But, most importantly that they come to know Jesus , the one who loves them and spared them for a reason. They need to know that not all is lost, and be encouraged to see the glory of God and the wonderful future he has in store for them.

We're reaching out to all of you now. Jesus wants to take your burden, whether you are a veteran or not, and give you a reason to continue to live a life full of hope and joy. In the days ahead God is going to demonstrate his love and mercy in a greater way than ever seen before. And you will even see it on the news (and reporters will be speechless). We are about to see the greatest move of God, where minds, lives and limbs will be restored—including body parts that were missing. There will be no question as to whether there is a God, and who he is. He will display his awesome and miraculous power through his sons and daughters (the army of God). The enemy will not prevail over this army, whose commander and chief is Jesus Christ the Lord. And the children will sing His praises. There will be signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth. You and I will see the revelation of the Heavenly Father's love that will take away the pain and sorrow that have been in lives because of wars. (Even the ones we created by our own mistakes, including our personal and emotional wars.)

As a nation and as individuals we need to learn how and when to fight the physical and the spiritual battles. By reading the Bible, we gain wisdom by the examples given and knowledge by applying it to our lives. Unfortunately, many of us are slow learners; but God is very patient. Rather than seeking to be independent, we as children of God need to become totally dependent on him, understanding that he knows best.

Jesus told us that in the last days there would be wars and rumors of wars. But don't be afraid, for those things must happen. For nation shall rise against nation, brother against brother, and kingdom against kingdom. (Mt. 24: 6-7) He tells us this so we can have peace and not fear, for Jesus has overcome the world. (John 16:33) Don't fear Him who can kill the body, but fear him who can kill both the body and the soul. (Mat. 10:28)

God promises that the future will be better for the righteous. "Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. (Mt. 24:34) There is coming the time when the lion or wolf will lie down with the lamb. (Is. 11:6 and Is. 65:35) And a time when there will be no more tears, sorrow or pain. And no more wars. Swords will be hammered into plowshares, and the wicked will be no more. We will live in peace and harmony in the presence of Jesus Christ for eternity. Now that's Heaven on earth, don't you think? Hope to see you there!

Friday, April 27, 2012

Addictions and Deceptions

Many people today, are addicted to practically everything around them. Some more than others, here just a short list of some common ones; cell phone calling and texting, computer Internet, watching TV, video games, sugar, coffees, chocolates, junk food, over eating, cigarettes, alcohol, drugs, sex, pornography, work and religion. The thought of going a week without one of these or other additions, would seem like the end of the world for many of these addicts (I had my share of addictions too). Most additions are harmful, some more so than others. There is damage is done whether we believe it or not, either to our body, our mind or our spirit.
 

In western civilizations, people take great pride in their freedom, when in truth they are not really free, they're just like many others in bondage. Most people don't realize what it is like to be truly free, because they have become slaves to their additions and sins. The majority are bound in their minds, by the lies and deceptions of their beliefs. Many people believe if others do it or think that way, it must be OK. It's part of their life style, even if its done in secret. When people compare themselves to others, they often feel better about themselves. And others just don't care anymore. Unfortunately, many of these people have no desire to be free of their addictions, unless a doctor or God says so; or until its too late. That in itself, shows the power of these addictions and deceptions have over people's minds.
 

God never intended for his children to be controlled by desires for things, habits or religion. In the beginning when he created man and women, His plan was that we walk together in freedom and contentment. Unfortunately, Adam and Eve's mistake changed that, but thanks to the cross and the blood of Jesus Christ we can still walk together in total freedom and power over our enemy and addictions. Satan would try to persuade us that he has a better alternative, or there is no harm by it. Compared to what Jesus offers and the guideline He has set. That guideline is agape love. We are to love God, love others and be kind to our body which was designed to be God's temple. How we take care of it is important to Him, and it should be important to us also. It's one way for us to show respect and honor to Him.
 

God has given us the power to break the chains and set us free of all addictions (both physical and spiritual addictions). Physical addictions effect our body and religious addictions effects our spiritual body. Both will harm and some will kill you but the latter is eternal. (Rom. 8:12-17). But, it does requires an effort on our part and faith in his love for us. Often, this is can be made easier with the aid of another brother or sister in Christ, to help and encourage, but not necessary. We should all desire to live as long and healthy as God intended for us, to serve His purpose on earth and when our time up, he will call us home. Once we really begin to understand God ways we will see how foolish we were, but grateful just the same for His patience. Jesus should be our only desire everything else will find its proper place in him. He satisfies all our needs.


"Oh taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man that trusts in Him."
Psalms 34:8



Free Indeed


"Can you think of the way that we used to be
We were young, full of hope and full of dreams.
Look around what has happened in between
Living life can steal your hopes away it seems.


Dream again
Oh, your like a child who's waiting to become


The Son has come to free us
So set your eyes on Jesus
Your free now


To love as He has loved you
To live like He's among you
To dream now
Know that you are free indeed


When your world is a dark and lonely place
Turn your eyes from yourself and seek His face
There's a hope in His open arms you'll find
And a peace that gonna free your heart and mind."



Written by; David Cleveland; Grant Cunningham; Mat Huesman
Sung by, Point of Grace



Monday, April 2, 2012

Looking for True Happiness

Are you still looking for true happiness? What motivates you to get up each day? Have you found in life what you are looking for? Or have you given up the search like so many others who have become content until something upsets their mundane lives. Others often fear something bad could happen at any moment like a tornado or loosing their job. What are you looking for?

Older people are just happy to be alive. Some of them live alone or are abandon in rest homes. Others have pets to keep them company. Young people used to have dreams or ambitions, many still do, but that too is changing as some see what appears to be futility ahead. Many are choosing to live for the moment, not caring about the future.

Then there are the children who go hungry and are scared as they see their homes, families and relationships break up. Many have no idea of what true happiness is or a sense of security. While other people will be stuffing their houses, minds and bodies with things they don't really need, and they don't seem to care about the waste or the damage it causes them. At times life just doesn't seem fair, as people struggle to make sense of it all or find some kind of happiness.

Government leaders and officials seem to be at a loss also as they search for answers for how to solve the ever-growing problems and corruption in their countries, or how to correct the hurting lives and wasted resources that they have been entrusted with. Many people have less and less hope or confidants in Government being able to help them or others resolve or deal with the real issues of life. Some are wondering whether there is such a thing as true happiness.

True answers and happiness seems to be an illusion along with most people's dreams. So in the meantime, they try to have a little fun along the way to give their emotions a boost. Whether it is an affair, exploits on the Internet, beer parties or making a little extra money on the slide, people continue to do foolish things in meaningless searches for true happiness.

Religious leaders struggle with the same problems as do many of their members, as they try to encourage one another. Yet, it seems everyone is pretending that everything will be alright. Even though they have seen thousands of unanswered prayers go by the wayside, and don't know or understand why. However, their hope is still in heaven and it seems to be their ultimate goal, eventually.

As King Solomon said, "Vanity, vanity all the ways of man are vanity!" (
Eccles. 1:2)

If we want to see change, restoration, fulfilled promises and dreams for a better and happier future, then the Heavenly Father has and is the answer. He is determined to bring true happiness to this world. He's waiting for us and wants us to
seek him with all our hearts, but most of all he desires a simple and honest relationship with Him. We need to come to realize who he really is, the all loving and powerful Heavenly Father. Then we will see answered prayers and experience true happiness that only the He can give.

There is soon coming a mighty move of God. When you see it, jump in and grab it with both hands, for it will be an experience that can last for eternity. Don't miss it! When all you see are problems or feel life is hopeless, you need to change your focus." Look up, lift up your hands and cry out to God, because your redemption draws near." (Luke 21:28) Why are you still looking and waiting?

Jesus said,
"I have come that you might have life, and that you have it more abundantly." (John 10:10). And God doesn't lie. (Num. 23:19).

Monday, March 19, 2012

March Madness

Do you hear it? Do you hear the sound of marching? My army is marching around the walls. Those walls that divide my Kingdom and my people. I'm destroying the walls that separate my brothers...and my sisters. I'm also smashing those walls that intimidate, hinder and confine you. And I will even expose and crush the walls that come between you and me, if you will let me, says the Lord. 

So don't despair, I'm answering your spirit's cry. Your prayers are bring down walls. So don't give up the victory is near. The victory is yours—the victory is mine.

Are you ready? Are you ready to shout? My army is marching, and the walls are coming down. This is not madness, this is the power of my love, grace and mercy for you, my church and my bride, says the Lord.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

Burning Bridges


Hi, what's your name? That's probably the most common question asked after a greeting. The next is probably, What do you do for a living? But, who are we really? Is who we are a title, an occupation or something else?

Whether it is an informal meeting, business meeting or a date, it's one of the ways we get to know others after the visual assessment. However, how we look or act sometimes speaks louder than our words. Sometimes we can tell what a person is or does by the way he or she dresses.

Many people like to be known for what they do, especially men. Even some women do, including some married women who want a title beyond just "wife" or "mother." So now they're homemakers or career mothers. But, is that who they really are? Appearances and occupational status can be too important in much of western society, but it's not at all important to God.


Jesus chose fishermen, a tax collector, a zealot and various "nobodies" as his first disciples. He also associated with the poor, the weak and sinners. He also had a few rich friends. But, Jesus cautioned people not to judge by outward appearances, and not to show partiality within the church (the body of Christ). He rebuked the Pharisees for the clothes they wore as to draw attention to themselves, also how they wanted to be greeted by others, also their work habits and ethics—
making themselves special and above others. Maybe we should keep that in mind the next time we go clothes shopping or job hunting. Mostly, we should be ourselves and find pleasure in just being a child of God. Just like a snowflake, no two alike, yet we all have specific purposes and beauty in life to express in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Our identities must be found in him, for "what does it matter if we gain the whole world [possessions and human attention] and lose our souls."

Jesus cautioned his disciples after their experiences with the power to deliver people from sicknesses and diseases and the raising of the dead. He said, "It is better to glory in the fact that your name is written down in heaven, the Book of Life." (Luke 10:20). Jesus also mentioned,
"Many will say to Me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, and cast out demons in Your name, and done manywonders in Your name?" And He will reply, " Depart from me, for I never knew you." (Mat.7:22,23)
In the area of true importance and eternal values, it's not what we say, what we do, or who we know, but who knows us that really matters.
At one time in my life, painting and being an artist was both enjoyable and very important to me. I liked seeing people's reactions and pleasure when they looked at or purchased a painting of mine. I had invested over 20 years of my life improving the talent God had given me. My work was impressive to many people, and I received a lot of recognition even though I didn't really seek it. However, it is an occupation where many artists hope to be recognized and become famous because of their work. I wasn't much different.

At forty years of age, God saved me from myself and gave me a new interest in Him. A couple of years later, after reading a passage in the Bible (1 King 19:19-21, about the call of Elisha), I felt God wanted me to follow Elisha's example. So I had a Burning Bridge Party at a church where I displayed 30 of my paintings of all sizes and shared the new direction God was taking me to a group of friends. I wanted to show my appreciation to all them by giving each of the 12 couples, one of my paintings. They were very pleased with my offer. I told each couple why I appreciated them and then asked them to go up and picked their favorite one off the wall and returned to their seat with their gift. When the last couple had picked, I asked them to stay and visit, and have some cake and refreshments that we had brought.

While they were enjoying their gift, talking and having some refreshments, I gather the remaining paintings and took them outside. Then I went back into the fellowship room and asked my guests to come outside with me for the rest of the party. When we had all gathered outside, they stood there watching in disbelief, as I set fire and burned the remaining paintings worth thousands of dollars. Along with my easel and display panels, all in one big blaze
out on the gravel parking lot. Most could not believe their eyes or comprehend the full meaning of what they were seeing, but God did. Even though I shared it was my way of demonstrating how much God meant to me and how he had changed my life. I was ending my profession by burning the bridges to my occupation and my past way of thinking, and choosing a life and career with Jesus Christ. Ten years later He had me change my name. Another 10 years have gone by and now I'm starting a new ministry with His name tag, Israel David—a friend and a son of God.

Note: As Christians, even if you don't have a prophetic calling on your life, one should still consider separating themselves from their past lifestyle, things and relationships that hinder your walk with the Lord. Have a burning bridge party with some new and maybe some old friends and let them know the new desires of your heart or just be by yourself, with God, and then present yourself a living sacrifice in love and obedience to God. The most important thing is to be known as a son or daughter of God, regardless of your calling.

Monday, February 27, 2012

What's The Point


Many people have wandered through life trying to find meaning and purpose to it all. Some have sought to find it in power and making money, while others choose high adventure or life-daring risks. Some feel it is in causal relationships, only to see heartache and disappointment as they try meaningless sex for a temporary thrill. Many believe it is found in a life long commitment in marriage and raising children, only to struggle to keep it together. A few even try alternate lifestyles to satisfy their wounded spirit. Others try some form of drugs for a temporary escape from it all. And still many believe their religion has given them a sense of peace and hope. Most will try a combination of these experiences. Even many Christians say they love and trust God, yet they live pretty much just like the rest of the world. And some people will still live aimlessly, void of hope, dreams and expectations. So again, I ask, what's the point?

What are we wanting to accomplish and what will our last words be, if we even have anything to say about it all? What would you tell the next generation before your time has expired, if all that you believed ended at the grave? What did you learn from it all? Would you tell them to make the most of it while they are young, healthy and strong? What is "the most of it" mean anyway? Then, what is the point of living? Or, if you have a religious concept of the hereafter, would you say, "I hope I'm good enough to make it to the other side."

What final words would you want to share or give to encourage your children and grandchildren? And what if you never married or never had any children? What would you want to tell your friends if you had any? What would you want them to put on your tombstone— "I did it my way." And what would people say about you after you're gone? Did you contribute anything to society or to your fellow man while you were on earth? Would you even be missed? What would you want people to know before you die?

Most people don't even consider those kind of thoughts, until it's too late. Do you ever ask yourself, why you get up in the morning? Is it to get a education, punch a time card, pay another bill or give your boss a piece of your mind that you can't really spare? Do you find yourself chasing one dream after another, never catching one?

Do you ever just sit and just enjoy a beautiful sunset or walk on the beach with the creator? Have you ever just looked up into the starry night sky and wondered how awesome God must be? Did you take the time to find the real meaning to life? Was it the meaning of Life, perhaps? Did you ever really find what you were looking for? Have you taken the time to get to really know Him. If you haven't, then what is the point?

The point
is—Life without an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ is meaningless.