Son of a Rebel

"I have not come to bring peace but a sword," and furthermore, "I only do and say what I see my father doing." By making bold declarations like these, Jesus not only made himself a rebel to fallen mankind, but also made his father one. He also claimed he was sent with a mandate from his father, Jehovah; and that mandate was to bring freedom and restoration to the Kingdom of God.

The arrogance of this man named Jesus was hard for many of his fellow countrymen to swallow. The nerve of him, telling people they needed to change their ways or suffer the consequences. Furthermore, by declaring God as his father, and by declaring he was the truth, the life and the way, he became the religious leaders' number one target. Jesus was a rebel on a mission; his mission was to destroy the works of the enemy, Satan, and to establish the Kingdom of God. He pursued his mission with a boldness and a tenacity never seen or heard before. At first many people thought he was just a young arrogant fool—a trouble maker. But later on some saw him as a serious threat, and even called him a demon. Others wondered and questioned whether he might be the answer to their prayers—a prophet, the promised one, or "The Messiah."

This rebel from Nazareth demonstrated passion and zeal regarding his Father's House by overturning the tables of men's minds and ways. Jesus was not your common foe, and his tactics were quite unique. He often taught the people or told them stories about the Kingdom of God and what it was like. However there were certain requirements that were necessary if they ever hoped to enter—requirements that some felt were too harsh. This rebel had not come to deliver them from the tyranny of the Roman Empire, as many had hoped, but to bring freedom by breaking chains of sin (something definitely more important to God). This would be a challenge indeed, for most of these people had been obsessed with idolatry or were suppressed by the religious leaders who spent their lives making up new laws, traditions and building mindsets regarding the God they thought they knew.

But this bold rebel, Jesus, also had a soft spot in his heart for the poor and needy, the widows, and the orphans. He also had little interest in money or the things of the world, and he often criticized those who did. He offered mercy, when others wanted to see judgment. This man was not your typical rebel; he even loved children and spent most of his time talking with and helping others. His fight was not so much against men as it was for the truth, justice and the Kingdom of Heaven (the ways of God). He also encouraged others to follow him; and some did. In fact he chose twelve low-lifes who were expected to learn from him, and then do everything they were shown and told.  Jesus was very patient with them and others, for he knew their strengths and their weaknesses.

Jesus the rebel was a expert with the sword—his words could cut through all the bull coming from his opposers, religious men with "holier than thou" attitudes. There was no fear in his eyes but only kindness. Even his anger was tempered with grace. He used the simple things in life to confound men's wisdom and knowledge, so that it was impossible for anyone to defend himself. His sword cut to the quick of people's hearts, exposing the roots of their carnal and selfish thinking. His opponents tried to stay out of arm's reach, after suffering numerous blows to their egos. But, there was always some new hot-shot who thought he could trap him, only to leave confused and disarmed. But, they all agreed on one thing: Jesus spelled trouble for them. And some were determined to get rid of this rebel—one way or another.

His teachings were considered foolish by many—he exalted humility, giving and sacrifice. And the idea of loving and praying for your enemy was something they would never have considered. But wherever Jesus went he told the people how much God loved and cared for them. And he also encouraged them to pray, forgive one another, and surrender to the will of God; something Jesus always did himself.

Jesus also demonstrated an incredible power and authority that caused some people to fear and tremble. Others wondered and questioned where he got his power and authority. Just by a simple touch of his hand or by a few words he could heal the sick, cast out demons, or raise the dead. It was even reported that he caused a storm at sea to cease. There were other reports of miracles that were hard for many people to believe. This rebel seemed to have a secret weapon that enabled him to penetrate people's thoughts in a way no other person could. He would say things that kept the listener in suspense (or sometimes confused them). How can a person fight against a man who knows you better than you know yourself? He knew every move a person would make. Sometimes when he looked at someone, he or she would either want to surrender or run away and hide.

And Jesus was not your handsome rebel. However his mannerisms and words were quite captivating—but sometimes offensive. Still many people followed him just to see what he would do next, or if he would perform other miracles. It wasn't surprising to see many of the women falling for this young rebel with his message of LOVE, something most men don't think much about, except maybe the twelve men who were willing to leave everything and follow him. But Jesus' agape love was a different kind of love than what the people had known or heard of before.

For over three years this rebel and his little band of renegades traveled the countryside going to villages and cities in search of "lost sheep," hoping to free others who were bound by demons, sicknesses and diseases. He often encountered large crowds along the way, but he seemed to prefer the smaller groups or home settings. He liked talking to individuals on a personal level; more like heart-to-heart. He loved to tell them about his Father. He also told them about the peace and joy and rewards available for those who would place their trust in him. But, this rebel (with a heart of gold) would one day pay the ultimate sacrifice for the cause he was sent to the earth to fight. To the horror of many and to the joy of others he was nailed to a cross, then died and was buried. (Even from the cross there were no words of anger or bitterness, only kindness and forgiveness.)

His enemies thought they had won, but this rebel wasn't through fighting. To their shock, and to the surprise of his mourning followers, he appeared again—ALIVE! He demonstrated complete power over Satan, then shared some final words of hope and encouragement to his followers, before he made his incredible departure through the clouds. The mission he had begun was now entrusted to his disciples and followers to continue—the fight for their brothers, sisters and the restoration of all things. They to had now become rebels. He also asked them to wait for reinforcement of power that would come soon; and they did. They would be his witnesses also, and the truth of his words would set others free. The most important thing that Jesus would leave them was his message about the power of LOVE, and the emphasis on knowing the Father—the greatest Rebel of all.

Note—there are still followers and rebels with the heart of Jesus; they too have been sent by The Father. (The same problems and the same enemy Jesus faced then are still around today. However people are more obsessed with idolatry and suppressed by religion than ever before.) The newer rebels  will clarify the message of Jesus that has been distorted over the centuries by religion. You will see true love and awesome power demonstrated by them as never before. The truth of the matter is: God's sons only appear to be rebels because the rest of the world is out of order. If you wish to know more about this Rebel, check out Cloak of Zeal blog site.

In a Pig's Trough?

Have you ever eaten out of a dumpster or a garbage can? Many people have. All around the world there are millions of people who are hungry. But then, maybe you're not that desperate yet. The fact that you're reading this article on a computer screen shows you're better off than millions of others. However, it doesn't mean you won't face desperate situations in the future, hopefully not. Even though you may never eat from a pig's trough or out of a garbage can, it doesn't mean you will be exempt from hard times. To help you avoid such a situation, let me share a short story with you. So take another sip of your coffee latte and read on.

There once was a very wealthy man who had two sons. The wealthy man had a very big company and thousands of people who worked for him. His two sons also worked for him as managers of several major departments within the business. However, one day the younger son was tired of working for his dad, and wanted to enjoy life a little more. He was tired of working six days a week, and ten hours a day. He had worked for his father as long as he could remember. He had come to work with his father, when he was a boy, and his father would walk him around the factory. The business expanded over the years, and as the younger son got older he started working in various departments. But now in management, his job was less physically stressful. Yet he wanted to see the world and do some other things, not unlike the other men his age who didn't work for his father's company.

So one day he asked his father for his portion of his inheritance. His father was very disappointed with his son's request and was unable to change his mind. So reluctantly the father gave his youngest son the money the son thought to be so important. Then they said goodbye, and the father asked the son to keep in touch. The son had promised to do so, but once he was out on his own he never gave it another thought—until many years later.

During those years the young man did whatever he wanted. He traveled the world and stayed in the best hotels and resorts; he ate the best foods and drank the finest wines. He even had many lavish parties, which never lacked for friends, as long as he was footing the bill. However he didn't mind because he was rich. But, over the years, the money was going faster than expected. So he made some investments, but they didn't work out for him.

Eventually, the money was all gone and so were his friends. No one would even give him a place to sleep or food to eat. He tried to find work, but it was difficult because there was a recession now and he had few useful skills. He begged for money on the street corners, and slept in doorways of buildings and old abandoned houses; but winter was coming soon and he was getting cold during the nights. He barely found enough food to eat and he wasn't feeling very well.

Finally, he found a job cleaning stalls at a ranch; he slept on the hay inside the barn and was allowed to eat whatever they fed the animals. He took the job because he was starving and freezing, but after a few weeks of eating from the pig's trough he came to his senses. He said to himself, "Why? Why am I doing this? I could be working for my father in the lowest position and be living better than this. I will go to my father and beg for his mercy".

On the way back home, when the son could finally see his father's house in the distance, oh how the memories flooded his mind. How could he have been so foolish? What would his father say? Yet before he reached the house his father came running out, embraced him and kissed him with tears in his eyes. Then the son said, "Father I have sinned and I am no longer worthy to be called your son." Then the father told his servants, "Quick, bring out the best coat and put it on him, and put a diamond ring on his hand and a pair of Austin shoes on his feet; and tell the chef to put on the steaks, and let us eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found."

Today, many people think they can do better on their own. They don't want to listen to their Heavenly Father or take His advice. They take the gifts and talents and the money he has given them and use them to satisfy their own wants and desires. They make friends with the world, yet in the end they find it to be a harder taskmaster than their Father. Yet they usually don't realize it until it is too late.

I hope you will remember this little updated story from the Holy Bible (The Prodigal Son, Luke 15:11-32). Your heavenly Father is waiting for you to come home if you haven't already. He loves you and misses you very much. Don't wait until you end up eating from the pig trough to change your mind. He's patiently waiting for you.

"I have never seen the righteous or his children hungry or begging for bread."

(Psalms 37:25)

3-D Jesus

Hollywood has made a number of movies into blockbuster hits by adding three-dimensional special effects (3-D). This third dimension is created by wearing special glasses that makes you feel like you are almost there where all the action is taking place. The characters are so real that you feel you can reach out and touch them or even get killed in some of the action scenes.
 
 As incredible as 3-D movies are and the glasses that must be worn it see it, a person is still not seeing the real thing. It is an illusion that are mind accepts as real when in fact it's not. This is entertainment, not true life. Sometimes movies can inspire or inform us with facts  and truth, such as The Passion of the Christ. But, you still can't talk to Jesus or have any interaction with him or with  any other character in this movie, or any other movie, even if it is in 3-D.

While the world has been making advances in a number of areas, the church for the most part seems to be stuck in a rut with little life or power. Many churches still continue to portray Jesus as a two-dimensional character or a lifeless form. Perhaps if they put on their invisible 3-D glasses they can make their 2-D Jesus seem more real to them. But there is very little depth or power in their relationship with him. They seem to pretend he's real, like the movie Lars and the Real Girl, with a life-sized plastic figure.

Many things are said about Jesus' abilities, but many don't act like he is their Master or believe everything he says. Their Jesus has been stripped of much of his powers, authority and compassion, and he becomes just a part of their religion, leaving him with only the power to forgive sins and somehow get them to heaven after they're dead. Sadly, it seems to leave you feeling one can no longer reach out and touch Him. Therefore, many have chosen the company and help of others connected to the world and its systems. 

No wonder the world scoffs at Christianity. They call Jesus their Healer yet many are sick and still go to doctors. They claim Jesus is their Provider, Shield and Shepherd, yet many are in debt, fearful and discontent with what they have. They speak of love, yet there are just as many broken homes and marriages in the church as those outside the church. And some even claim that God hates certain individuals because of their life-styles. (Yet God's grace is there to meet the the hurting at whatever level of faith they may have in Him.) As the world sees it many Christians are just like them. But then they also thought the same thing about Jesus. (God knows the difference and that's what really matter just as he does for all His sons.) The world is not interested in their two dimensional (2-D) God or Jesus that looks like and is as powerless as a paper cutout for Sunday school lessons. Neither are they impressed with the examples demonstrated by so many Christians.
 
It's time for the church to take off the 3-D glasses and see JESUS Christ through spiritual eyes and a renewed mind. Then we will have a whole different perspective or dimension of Jesus. People will find Him full of life, love and power. The Bible tells us that all things are possible to those who believe. (Mat. 19:26) Also Jesus says, "Therefore I say to you, all things for which you ask, believe that you have received them, and they shall be granted." (Mk.11 :24). Jesus is more real, more powerful, more loving, and more caring than we could ever imagine, and he wants to be an intimate friend and not a social one we visit on Sunday or at our leisure or when it's convenient.

Jesus taught his disciples that the world would know Him by their love, and so it should be even today and into the future through all of Jesus' disciples. Nor does Jesus want to be confined to religious theaters (church buildings). In fact he refuses to be and that is why we are going to see him showing up in such places as beaches, parks, playgrounds, public schools, shopping malls, bars, worldly parties, gang meetings, street corners, stadiums, even at casinos and many other places. We are to be the hands and feet of Jesus, also speaking his words, healing the sick.and helping those who are in need of God's love, grace and mercy.

People want to see and feel his compassion and the warmth of his love. This is the reality they will see in his followers as we walk in his Word and in his humility. (Followers of Jesus still make mistakes, they are still human.) Jesus has also given us his authority as to establish the Kingdom of God, a kingdom of many more dimensions. I'm believing for the miraculous intervention of God, and we're starting to see it happening. Only when we open our eyes and ears to the truth and lead by His Holy Spirit will we see Jesus in all His fullness and glory. Jesus Christ is real and He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

"Truly, truly, I say unto you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do because I go to the Father." (John 14:12)

God in the Rearview Mirrow

In today's hectic world people tend to get caught up in trying to stay ahead of everyone else. No one likes standing in lines at counters or waiting at stop signals or being patient in traffic jams. Neither do very many people enjoy driving in the slow lane. People often prefer to drive the fast lane and are often in a hurry for some reason or another. Unfortunately, at times I'm that way too, but I try to stay within the speed limits, otherwise I'm having to check my review mirror for flashing lights.

Many have made this their way of life. They race around trying to get the things done that they have on their already overloaded calendars. There are jobs, shopping, business appointments, church activities, school meetings, doctors appointments, kids sports and dozens of other things. Life is so busy that the only quiet time many people have with God is waiting at the stop light and listening to some Christian music while they drive—if that. Somehow the most important person in our lives has been forgotten or left back in the dust of our rush. If you're one of those person, may you should look more closely in the mirror and notice the tears in God's eyes.

God loves us, and he wants us to take the time to be with him, and not feel like we need to be on the run all the time. Jesus set the example by starting the day right, early in the morning with the Father. If he felt it was necessary for him, shouldn't it also be important for us?

Make time for God, throughout the day for just a moment or two, and tell him how much you love him or thank him for what he's done or going to do; it will be worth it. You may even need to eliminate some things or change your priorities. Make God first in your life, and everything else will go much smoother; you will be way ahead in what's really important in life. You might even try asking him what he would have you do. Life's much better when God is near you, than when he's in the your rearview mirror.

More About Jesus

After posting my previous article Desperate For God, I felt that something was still missing. The next morning as I laid in bed I started thinking about it again. Then I read it again and realized it had not been finished quite the way I felt God would have it. It was like the last chapter in a book was missing or the summery in an article. Can you imagine what the Bible would be like without the last book, Revelation—the end of the story with the coronation of Jesus? That's how I felt. I needed to say more about Jesus.

So often in churches or on TV, we hear incredible sermons about the Bible characters that God and Jesus dealt with. We sometimes hear about their faith but more often about their sins and downfalls, such as Samson and Delilah, David and Bathsheba, Peter's denial of Christ, doubting Thomas and many more. (Too often ministers within Christianity focus on the sins and faults of people. Many of us are guilty of that too.) Unfortunately, by the time we leave church, all we remember are the supporting characters, their actions, and not The Star, Jesus.

However, that should not be the situation nor the norm. The Bible is not just a book of history or the stories of people. It is an incredible book that portrays the wonderful and awesome love of God and Jesus, their power and faithfulness and emotions for the human race (you and me). Frankly, I doubt if anyone will ever be able to comprehend the immensity of God's love.

In the article about the Phoenician woman, I felt something was missing. And there was. I wanted to bring people back to Jesus and his love. Jesus is the main character that I would prefer people to remember at the end of my articles. Without Him all the supporting characters mean nothing. Yes, the faith of the woman got her past the issues of pride. But, it was the incredible love of Jesus that drew the faith from her. She could not have done it without Him. Jesus might have easily have granted her request and been done with her, but he didn't. In this situation it might have even looked like Jesus was being cruel, but in reality he was demonstrating great love. He was patient and waited for her to come to the full realization of her need. He carefully chose his words to deal with the real problem: her heart. Jesus desires to do the same with each of us.

We often want God to fix our problems quickly, and that would be the end of things. However, if Jesus were to always do that, there would still be the spiritual problems and possibly no real relationship with him. In actuality, we seldom see the power of God move in our lives until we do our part, which starts with humility, honor and/or repentance—just as this woman did. Yes, there was repentance, even with the thief on the cross hanging to the right of Jesus. Jesus saw both their hearts. His desire is for an intimate relationship with no pretenses or hindrances.

Unfortunately many people don't wait long enough for the disciplines of Jesus, or to acknowledge the possibility of sin in their own hearts. They often choose to look for help from someone else or something else that will satisfy them quickly or more comfortably. But, to the Heavenly Father his loving discipline is paramount. (Read Heb. 12:8-11) Without it, it is impossible to be his son. We need his correction, lest we wander this world aimlessly and ignorantly. He loves us so much and he doesn't want to see that happen to us.

A true relationship between the Father and his sons and daughters is built on Jesus Christ. Discipline, obedience and trust are all parts of the building process of agape love. That relationship is held together by the blood of Jesus and a covenant, not by human emotions. This is accomplished only when we submit to his will, his disciplines, and place our focus (our desires) on him. Jesus is all we really need and he is worth all our effort—whatever it takes to get it right. Otherwise we might not become his mature sons in His Kingdom.

In the future, if I write an article and you don't see the awesome love or faithfulness of Jesus and/or God, please forgive me. Such is not my intention; after all He is the Morning Star. 

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!