Cardinal On The Bough Flashing Crimson In The White He Takes Flight In Fog
Bio: Chris Bunton is a writer, poet and blogger from Southern Illinois. He has published in several magazines, and has written a poetry eBook called “Against the Man” and an Addiction Recovery eBook called “Made Free: Overcoming Addiction“ a collection of dystopian short stories.“The Future is Coming” and his latest book “The Latter Days‘ is a book on Bible Prophecy and avoiding the deceptions to come.
We are justified in Christ There was only one law in the beginning. Just one. “But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.”–Gen. 2:17 People want to act like God is some eternal killjoy,…
Abide in the Lord We all face trouble in life. It is something we can all agree upon. No matter who you are, something bad will eventually come to cause you trouble. Something will break your heart. Something will break you down. Something will make you crazy, concerned or confused. When we look at the…
Satan’s Insanity If you’ve read the Bible, you know that we have a spiritual enemy. Satan fell sometime after creation. We do not know exactly when, but it was because he desired to be “like the most High”. (Isa. 14: 12-17) He wants to be God. This desire led to his fall and corruption. It…
They say that there is one constant in life and that is change. Therefore, because of this fact we should just accept change and move on.
This is basically adaptation. In the wild, if a species doesn’t adapt to change, they will probably cease to exist in the future. Therefore, adapting to change or accepting it or embracing it, is actually a survival tactic for individuals and even helps the species to survive.
Ok? You got that?
There’s a lot of truth in the statements above. But the concept has always bothered me. Mostly because I’m a rebel at heart and being told that I must accept something doesn’t sit well with me.
But that is not the whole reason. The real reason is because something in me says that this isn’t correct. It’s not entirely accurate. If you know the truth, the truth will set you free.
So, what is the truth? Well, the truth is that there are two types of change. Just like there’s two types of evil. Natural and Man-Made. (We could add in a third spiritual type but let’s keep it simple)
Now that we have split the difference it is easier to see the problem.
Yes, natural change such as aging, death, disease, natural disasters, decline, accidents, are things that happen, and we should accept the change, mitigate the harm and move on. There are things we can do to protect ourselves, and lessen the impact, and we should do that, but at the end of the day things will change.
But Man-Made change is often caused by selfishness, greed, ignorance, hate, foolishness, carelessness, unkindness, procrastination, indifference, and on and on… (Along with spiritual things, but we are keeping it simple. Cough cough…demons…cough cough…)
Man-made changes need to be evaluated and resisted if found to be evil.
Often times, man-made change is the result of one person sitting on a throne, or a group of people who think they are better than the rest of us.
They often listen to a group of rich and powerful people who do not care about you and me. They care about profit and traditions of men. They care about rules, and maintaining positions.
They listen to people who are busy bodies trying to justify their purpose. They listen to scammers who profit off of keeping things stirred up, and creating problems, so they can bring solutions.
So, no. This type of change should be rejected not embraced.
Do you realize how much destruction and suffering exist because of the decisions made by humans?
How much pain and suffering have you and your family endured because of changes brought by some leader?
How much change has occurred because leaders want to punish all of us, because of the actions of a few?
Sure, we can just suck it up. We can just embrace change and move to capitalize on it. Heck, we might even get rich in the process, then we can make the rules and change things. Right? How often does that actually happen?
For some reason when a person gets to a level where they can fix things, the person changes and become just like the oppressors they sought to fix.
Too many people for too long have just accepted man-made change and refused to suffer in order to create the changes that need to happen.
Rather than just accepting and embracing the changes the oppressors give us. Start giving the oppressors, changes they must embrace and accept.
And of course, I’m not talking about violence. (You got to clarify this or they will try to claim you’re violent.)
Just realize that not all change should be accepted. Some change comes from people who cannot find their way out of a circular room. Some change comes from people with questionable motives. Some change comes from people doing downright evil things.
Embracing it. Is embracing evil.
Those in charge want you to accept change. Because, as it has been said. “All that needs to happen for evil to flourish is for good men to do nothing.”
That statement becomes truer if you can get good men to accept evil. Or justify it. Or embrace it.
You are free. So be free. You can choose to embrace whatever you like.
But, don’t embrace change, just for change’s sake.
Embrace what is good, and sow love, and light and kindness into the world.
Then, watch good things come.
Bio: Chris Bunton is a writer, poet and blogger from Southern Illinois. He has published in several magazines, and has written a poetry eBook called “Against the Man” and an Addiction Recovery eBook called “Made Free: Overcoming Addiction“ a collection of dystopian short stories.“The Future is Coming” and his latest book “The Latter Days‘ is a book on Bible Prophecy and avoiding the deceptions to come.
When we are walking with the Lord. “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, ……… Wait for it Wait let it sink in for a few minutes Pay attention to how much it bothers you to just rest in Christ Hold Hold Hold Ok ……who walk not after the…
The Spirit battles against the flesh This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye…
He is faithful God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.—1 Cor. 1:9 How is trust built? With anyone, whether it’s parents or friends or enemies or government or neighbors, trust is built or destroyed by relationship, and experience. It is the same with God.…
Yes, it is the modern equivalent of the Tower of Babel from the days of old.
It is a picture of the same battle that has been fought between good and evil since the Fall of man. Since the enemy rebelled against God. Since the Lord ascended and the promise of His return was given.
We can see throughout history, the struggle between forces.
We can see the common tongue, in Jesus day was Greek, and the violent Roman empire ruled the known world.
And it was through Greek, Latin and the roads of the Roman empire that the Gospel was spread, and the saints grew in number, till the Church became the religion of Rome.
Then, Satan used false leaders in the Catholic Church to suppress the Word, excommunicating and killing anyone who opposed them.
But, the Word was printed and translated into other languages so the truth and the Gospel could spread. But evil spread with it, and tried to stop it.
Kings of Europe, rose up and fought wars, colonizing, and spreading their power around the world. Satan’s servants enslaving, murdering, worshiping money, and annihilating entire people groups. Putting the whole world in debt to the fallen ones.
But, within it the Gospel and God’s Word spread around the world using The Spanish, French and British languages and empires, as a tool.
Till the world broke free from the Kings, and formed new governments, and Constitutions promising free religion and free speech to spread the Gospel and God’s Word around the world.
But a new last days empire has arose, and was taken over by the same desire to grow, and kill and exploit the world and create a New World Order Kingdom of the Anti-Christ.
In the midst of it, the Gospel is spread globally, even in restricted countries.
Then the internet came into being. The new Tower of Babel, to unite the world.
But, it allows the saints through social media and websites to spread the Gospel so the Word can be published in every nation, till the end comes. (Matt. 24:14)
As governments, corporations and religious leaders work to quell rebellion and to control free speech on line, working to silence opposition, and to prepare for the coming of the Mark of the Beast. The saints continue to work.
While things move towards the final persecution of the saints when the Anti-Christ over comes them. (Daniel 7:21, Dan. 7:25, Rev. 13:7)
Till the Lord returns and sets up his ever lasting kingdom.
Are you working?
Bio: Chris Bunton is a writer, poet and blogger from Southern Illinois. He has published in several magazines, and has written a poetry eBook called “Against the Man” and an Addiction Recovery eBook called “Made Free: Overcoming Addiction“ a collection of dystopian short stories.“The Future is Coming” and his latest book “The Latter Days‘ is a book on Bible Prophecy and avoiding the deceptions to come.
It will happen in these last days “Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day (The Day of The Lord) shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;”— 2 Thess. 2:3 (2 Thess 2:1-15) It seems that this event…
Have You Tested God? “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”—Luke 6: 38 First, I wanna say that this verse and all…
He rewards those who seek him. And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 10 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 11 If a son shall…
Everything I seek to do, gets put on hold, with no control.
Over and over I try; and again the effort dies.
My bills are always on time, but my blessings never arrive.
Who makes everything wait? Who calls around behind my back?
Bad news always finds a way, but the good news waits and waits.
What is this thing that comes on time, to make everything else seem to fail?
It’s not a coincidence, when it’s obviously done.
I could have been a contender, but this entity takes over.
Major business call coming? Cell phone just quit working.
Everybody watching me? I trip and fall in everything.
In a hurry to get out? Something dumb breaks down.
Someone shows up to say hi? Never the ones I really wanna see.
That Entity drags it’s feet, and causes the world to twist.
Just to slow me down, and make me give up.
Just to tick me off, and make me fail.
Just to distract me, and get me off track.
To keep me in this hole, till the day I die.
Having never really lived, except to chase my tail.
That Entity is real, and I can’t seem to escape.
Sometimes, the Entity is me.
But, not every time.
When will I be free?
I have faith it will come.
Bio: Chris Bunton is a writer, poet and blogger from Southern Illinois. He has published in several magazines, and has written a poetry eBook called “Against the Man” and an Addiction Recovery eBook called “Made Free: Overcoming Addiction“ a collection of dystopian short stories.“The Future is Coming” and his latest book “The Latter Days‘ is a book on Bible Prophecy and avoiding the deceptions to come.
So, we know the seasons. The Bible is 30% prophecy, as some have stated. But, when you consider that the whole thing is about Jesus Christ, and that all the stories and pictures speak of Him, His First Coming and Second Coming, I think its more like 100%. God has called all believers to be…
God works to build the Kingdom through us. James 2:14-26 In this passage. The apostle James, speaks of works being an aspect of our faith. It ends with the famous phrase “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” In the verses James shows that God commanded…
Why does God let us struggle? When we get saved, we might notice that there are things that change in us immediately. But, there are other things that do not. It’s like God saves us and removes some things but leaves other things in our lives for us to struggle with. I mean if God…
There are times in our lives when we feel that God has abandoned us. It seems that He doesn’t hear and we don’t feel His presence or see His movements in our lives.
I have experienced the same.
God has opened my eyes to the reality of it, and I have listened to Him and grown in Him.
The matter is an issue of faith.
I want you to read this verse.
“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.”—Matt. 12:36
Now a lot of preachers want to use this verse to impose fear.
But, I want you to see that Jesus is telling us that God hears every word. God is so close to us and so interested in us, that every word we say will be shown back to us when we see Him.
If you are saved and know Him, then this is not a scary thing. It spurs us to greater things.
So, read this verse and believe it. Believe it like God is standing before you telling it to you.
We are made righteous and our faith comes when we believe the Word God has given us. (Rom.10:17, Rom. 4:3)
So, when we think God is not listening or doesn’t hear, we can stand on this verse and say.
“No! God hears every idle word!” And believe it.
It’s not like sending a text message to a friend and we don’t hear back. So, we think “Did he get the text?”
God got it. We can KNOW he got it, because of this verse. We put our faith in it and Him.
Daniel prayed and heard nothing back. Till finally an angel came and said. We got your prayer the minute you started praying. And I came to answer but had to fight through the Enemy to get here. (Dan. 10:1-21)
Trust God. Trust His Word.
Our relationship with God is based upon faith. Our faith grows when we trust his Word and stand on it, and see Him move in our lives
Satan is working to keep you from trusting Him. To keep you from knowing Him. He seeks to destroy you and keep your faith weak. To keep you from the battlefield.
This why we cannot trust our feelings. We are flesh. We have a corrupted nature. We live in a world that is full of distraction, and we have an enemy trying to destroy us.
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”—Prov. 3:5-6
When everything tells us God has abandoned us and is not listening. When the enemy whispers into our mind that we sin too much for God, or that God has left us or even that He is testing us.
We can stand on the promises of God. We can rely on His Word and the things He has done for us in the past. That is our testimony. (Rev. 12:11)
So we say “No! I trust in the Lord. I’m leaning on Him and the Word says He will direct my paths!”
Have you seen movies where two armies oppose each other and a general rides on a horse in front of his men and gives them great words of encouragement?
He is building faith. He is building encouragement. He is trying to drive out fear and stir up morale for the coming battle.
“Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.” —(Rom. 10:17)
When we speak the Word, we also hear the Word and it stirs up our faith in us if we are willing to believe it. Speaking the Word causes things to happen in reality. God says “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”—(Isa 55:11)
God’s Word says “I will never leave you nor forsake you”—Heb. 13:5
He is with us. Believe it. Say it to yourself.
“God will never leave me nor forsake me.”
Believe it. Drive the fear and doubt away.
Will the Shepherd abandon the Sheep? ( Psalm 23)
No. He leads us to still waters. He protects us with his rod. His staff comforts us.
Because He is with us. We believe it and know it. He is here.
Do you know the Shepherd?
None of this matters if you’ve never turned to Him and asked Him to save you. It’s the same faith. He calls us and we realize that we need Him.
Then, we hear the Word He gives us and we believe it and turn to Him. Asking Him to save us. Then, He washes us clean in the Blood of Jesus Christ and we are saved and begin to grow in Him. Just ask Him to save you. (Rom.10:9-10)
This world is tough. But, the toughness of this world is designed to cause us to turn to Him. Because He is our only Hope.
He is with us.
Believe it. No matter what things look like.
Bio: Chris Bunton is a writer, poet and blogger from Southern Illinois. He has published in several magazines, and has written a poetry eBook called “Against the Man” and an Addiction Recovery eBook called “Made Free: Overcoming Addiction“ a collection of dystopian short stories.“The Future is Coming” and his latest book “The Latter Days‘ is a book on Bible Prophecy and avoiding the deceptions to come.
We are corrupt at the very core. What I am going to present to you today is something different. A different way to look at the world, and humanity. Something different than the legalism around us. As Christians we are taught and have come to understand a view of God, Scripture and the World based…
We are tempted to reject Him. When we get saved, we confess Jesus as our Lord, and believe in Him alone for salvation. We are called to Walk in the Spirit, and to abide in Him. We get great joy in the Lord. Prayers answered. Life changing experiences, and we see Him working to protect…
It’s hard sometimes This time of year, around Christmas is a very hard time of year for many people. It is not a joyful festive time, no matter how much we try to dress it up with religious zeal, and bright lights. This is the time of year we often miss those who have gone…
There are some verses in the Bible which speak of predestination and have led to many false and confusing beliefs in regards to it.
“Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,”—Eph 1:5
“In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:”—Eph. 1:11
There are folks who have used these verses to justify and teach the belief that God; being sovereign allows people to be born, who are predestinated to be thrown into hell. There is nothing to be done by them to change it.
Likewise some people are born to be saved, they claim.
I have never believed this. Something in this doctrine causes my spirit to reject it. It makes the idea of preaching and spreading the Gospel, or trying to follow God, pointless.
I know those people who believe in predestination have their arguments and verses.
But, I’d like to show what I perceive to be true, from the Word. Of course we cannot prove for a fact any of these things. But, I’d like to get as close to God’s character and the Word as I can.
ALL humans are predestinated before and at birth to be saved. They just don’t all make it through. Don’t fly off the handle, I’m not speaking of a general salvation here. keep reading.
“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Pet. 3:9)
This is Peter talking. He walked with the Lord. If everyone is predestinated at birth to Heaven or Hell, then whats the point of this verse? What’s the point of God desiring for all humans to turn to Him, if they are already doomed or saved from birth?
What I’m going to teach here will probably be different than what you’ve heard or been taught. But, we are called to avoid false teaching. This subject has a lot of false doctrine around it.
Look in the Bible. When God created the Earth He predestinated that all humans would be with Him. He made everything “Good”. All humans would be in the Garden of God with God forever. But, the fall came and corrupted humans. It destroyed the original plan. God’s original intent is that we would be with Him.
Now apply this same concept to each of our lives. We are created in the womb and born in a right standing with God until we fall personally. We are all subject to death because of Adam, but we are only subject to Hell because of our own personal fall. Just like the creation story. It is a picture of our own spiritual life.
Adam and Eve, and all of creation has Free Will, but God made everything as though humans would never fall. He still treats us as though we will be with Him. Even though He knows the future. That’s love.
Even though God knows the future and knew Adam and Eve would fall. And He knows each of us will fall. He does the good, loving thing anyway.
God is Love. He does Good, no matter what. All things work for the good of those who love God. But, His good turns to bad in those who are opposed to Him.(1 John 4:8, Romans 8:28)
Have you ever heard of the Book of Life? (Phil. 4:3, Rev. 3:5, Rev. 13:8, Rev. 17:8, Rev. 20:12-15, 21:27, 22:19)
This is a book that holds the names of all the people who are saved.
It’s my belief that God put every humans name in the Book of Life.
All humans are predestinated for salvation.
Do babies go to hell?
No. They have a right standing with God.
They face death because of Adam’s fall, but they do not face eternal separation until they reach the age of accountability and willfully, knowingly choose to Sin. They do not understand law and consequences. (Rom. 5:13)
When a person reaches the age of accountability and chooses to willfully sin, their name is blotted out of the book. They die spiritually and are headed for hell and the lake of fire. This is eternal separation from God, because they have become corrupt and defiled by Sin. That’s what death is. Separation. Eternal death is a quarantine. (Ex 32:32-33, Psa. 69:28, Rev. 3:5)
All humans sin, fall and face Hell. Until they hear God’s call and turn to Him, for salvation, confessing Jesus is The Lord. (Romans 10:9-10, Romans 1:6-7, Rom. 2:4, )
The moment a person’s name is blotted out of the Book of Life, God immediately starts to pursue them in Love. Seeking to save them. Calling them to turn to Him.
If they hear, and turn, God saves them. Then, they can see the predestination. They can see that God originally had them, then pursued them and woke them up.
Once saved a person can see this. They can see how God worked in their life and that He was always with them and trying. Then God, guides them into the life He predestinated for them. (Eph 1:5, Eph. 1:11)
They receive a new life. They are a new person. They are born again. They have a new name written in the Lambs Book of Life. (John 3:3-5, 2 Cor. 5:17, Isa 66:2, Rev. 2:17. Rev. 3:12, Throughout scripture the Lord has given the Saints new names.)
BUT…
Many people refuse to accept God’s call. All people hear it. But, not everyone turns to God. (Matt. 13:3-23)
God keeps trying. But, not everyone makes it. Not everyone turns to Him. (repent)
God predestinates everyone to salvation. But not everyone accepts it.
Why does this matter?
Because people need to know that they have free will.
They have a choice and can choose God and be saved and set free.
Many of the teachings of predestination, lead people to believe that there’s no way to change things. They are just doomed, or a loved one was just condemned, with no hope.
That is not the case.
God calls everyone to turn to Him and be saved.(2 Pet. 3:9)
Have you called on Him? (Rom. 10:13)
What I’ve told you here is what the Bible seems to teach on Predestination. It is based in God’s character. He loves us and acts in such a way to assume we will not fail and will be with Him. He pursues us and works to save us. Then, when we turn to Him we can see how He has worked in our lives and we know He was always there, trying. That is what Paul means by predestination. That is what I’m speaking of here. (Eph 1:5, Eph. 1:11)
Turn to God. He is there.
Bio: Chris Bunton is a writer, poet and blogger from Southern Illinois. He has published in several magazines, and has written a poetry eBook called “Against the Man” and an Addiction Recovery eBook called “Made Free: Overcoming Addiction“ a collection of dystopian short stories.“The Future is Coming” and his latest book “The Latter Days‘ is a book on Bible Prophecy and avoiding the deceptions to come.
A Look at Matthew 24 “Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake. And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive…
It’s important to understand. In order to resist temptation, we must understand what is going on. If we miss an aspect of it, we cannot really resist it. We just shift it around or suffer through. “Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with…
What does that look like? It’s so simple anyone can do it. That is how God designed it. I’m going to avoid magical theological words and just give it straight. As we go through life things happen to us. Good things and bad. We have excitement over good things. We celebrate victories and enjoy time…
“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”—Phil. 4:6-7
You’ve seen the slogan
“Know Jesus. Know Peace. No Jesus. No Peace.”
But, what does it really mean and how do you obtain it?
It’s about having a relationship with Him.
It’s not about Faith, or Trust or Believing.
These things matter and are the first steps needed. They are important.
But, you can put your faith, trust and belief in a rock, and it won’t save you. It won’t bring you real peace.
You must have a relationship with Him. A relationship is give and take.
Faith, Belief and Trust is not. It is one way.
“O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.”—Psalm 34:8
You are “Blessed” when you trust, believe and have faith in Him. That blessing is the relationship that comes from it. All the treasures in the world is nothing compared to the relationship.
“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”—Heb. 11:6
When we put our faith in Him He rewards us when we diligently seek Him.
That’s relationship. We don’t stop at faith. We don’t stop at trust or belief, we move forward into knowing Him and having a relationship with Him. Our faith must lead to relationship.
We believe God’s Word, and stand on it in times of trouble. Then we see God move and we grow in faith and relationship with Him. This brings peace as we remember how He has been with us in the past. We have seen Him move.
Remember, the demons of hell believe and tremble, because they do not confess Him as Lord, they are in rebellion. They do not have a relationship with Him. Many people pray to receive Christ, but never really know Him. They never grow in Faith or have a relationship with Him. (James 2:19)
God calls us. When we hear. When we believe, and turn to Him. Putting our faith and trust in Him, confessing Jesus as our Lord. Trusting Him alone for salvation. God places us IN Christ Jesus. (Romans 10:9-10)
Jesus died for us. When we ask to be saved and confess Him as Lord, God places us within that salvation. He puts us on that Ark of protection. He washes us with His Blood. We die with Christ, and are born again with Him. That’s what it means to be IN Christ Jesus. Our peace comes by being IN Him. It comes through Him, not us.
But, if you do not have a relationship, can you really say you are in Him? Can you really expect to get anything like peace, through Him?
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”—Eph. 2:8-10
We are saved by God’s Grace. Not works. We are saved through faith so we can do good works IN Christ Jesus. The good works are based in our relationship with Him. We are yoked together with Him in relationship and service to God and others.
Ok, so what about Peace?
Well, when we are saved we receive the Holy Spirit.
God’s Spirit comes to dwell with us and in us. He comforts us and teaches us.
He helps us in our relationship with God (Himself).
He brings us gifts and develops fruit in our life.
If we do not quench His work. (1 Thess. 5:19)
“…the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”—Gal. 5:22-23
When the Holy Spirit works in us He develops this fruit if we do not fight Him, or do things to stop it.
Remember, we are fallen beings. So we must develop the fruit because it is not natural for us.
Think of an adult who suffers an injury and must go to rehab to relearn the most basic things. How to walk. How to eat. How to use their hands.
It’s tough. It’s painful. It takes time. This is how the Holy Spirit develops His fruit in us.
This develops the relationship.
Understand that the Fruit is the Fruit of the Spirit. It’s not ours. It’s not our flesh. It’s Him in us. This is why we fail at times. We fall back into our old self. Our flesh.
So, if we are really saved, and really seeking Him. Then, things will come into our lives that will cause us to turn to Him, and the Holy Spirit will use it to grow fruit in us.
We learn to love because God has shown us that He loves us.
We have peace because God has shown us a thousand times that He is there with us and everything will be fine.
We have joy because we see Him again.
We have patience because we know Him and can wait on Him forever, because he has taught us to.
We know goodness, gentleness and faith because we have learned it by seeing Him working in our lives, and how he treats us and others.
We have temperance, because we need nothing but Him.
We learn Meekness through brokenness and being rebuilt by Him.
All of this is the relationship, and because of the relationship.
We confess our sins to Him and trust Him. (1 John 1:9)
We pray to Him and trust Him.
We see Him move, over and over again. And know Him.
Now we look at the verse in Philippians, and rightly divide it based upon relationship.
“Be careful for nothing; “…Because we know Him. We know He is with us and loves us.
“but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”…We can discuss anything with our Father. He is on our side. He is with us and knows how best to help us. We give thanksgiving because we believe His promise “Whatsoever you ask in my name I will do.” (John 14:14) So we thank Him, knowing He is moving.
“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”… We have peace because we know Him and we have his Holy Spirit. That peace is greater than anything in this world, because God is greater, and we know Him and are known of Him. He is with us and in us. Remind yourself of this. But, remember it’s because we are IN Christ Jesus. It’s because we pray in His name. It’s through Him that we have life, salvation and everything. This is our peace.
We trust that whatever God does with our prayer to Him will be fine. He loves us, “And we know that ALL things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” —-(Romans 8:28)
If you are saved, then you are called. If you have the Holy Spirit then you have love for God, and it is being developed in you.
So, why do I not have peace? You might ask.
When you exercise or lift weights you come to a point of muscle failure. A point where you can’t lift anymore. A point where you strain. But if you keep working you will eventually lift that weight with ease.
The Holy Spirit is developing fruit in you. It is like exercise. You will be pushed and grow from it.
We turn to God and He helps us, and we see Him moving and our faith grows, our peace grows, our love for Him grows. See?
That’s relationship. He is with us and nothing else matters.
Always turn to God, and He will be there and comfort you and help you, and you will grow from it. Like a spotter in the Gym who puts his hands on the bar. He’s got you. He shouts encouragement. You are ok, just tough it out and trust the one who has your back.
And you will have more peace.
Remind yourself of His promises as you watch Him move in your life.
We encounter something in our life. We lean on the promises God has given. We speak them out loud and faith grows. We see God move and we grow to trust Him more, and this brings peace.
Trust Him. Study His Word. Trust His Word.
He’s got you. And that brings peace.
Bio: Chris Bunton is a writer, poet and blogger from Southern Illinois. He has published in several magazines, and has written a poetry eBook called “Against the Man” and an Addiction Recovery eBook called “Made Free: Overcoming Addiction“ a collection of dystopian short stories.“The Future is Coming” and his latest book “The Latter Days‘ is a book on Bible Prophecy and avoiding the deceptions to come.
A Deeper Meaning “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”—1 Tim. 6:10 People often misquote it as “money” is the root of all evil. But it’s not. Money is a tool. Like a…
What is it? Let us rightly divide 2 Thessalonians 2, and come to some conclusions about the near future. This book was written by the Apostle Paul. He is speaking of the last days, which we are in. I’m using the KJV. “Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ,…
He is there and will answer. We live our lives in this world, where we seem to have no control. Where we look every where for answers. Everything seems hard and we have sorrow, working our selves to death. We seek answers from gods, idols and wisemen. We seek answers from deep within ourselves. We…
You know who I mean. I’m talking about those people in our lives that seem to try to rule over us, in some way. They have no real authority over us, but try everything they can to keep us in line, according to their rules.
It might be that co-worker who thinks she or he knows more, or has the right to tell you how to do your job, or has some control over your work. They are like little Hitlers, invading everything and controlling it.
It could be that driver in the car in front of you, who is blocking your path. You know the guy who is in the wrong lane, or driving the wrong speed, or just plain stupid. You know you feel it too.
I went on a tour of a historical building last year. I made an appointment for my tour with a group at exactly 12:30, which was the time they gave me. I paid $30.00 in advance for the tour. These people are experts and know how long tours take, and how many people on average come. This should help them streamline their system
But yet, even though I arrived early and was prepared to be pleasant and learn, I was required to wait for about an hour. The only place to wait was in the gift shop, which of course gave others who were waiting plenty of time to purchase items. I’m cheap. So, I didn’t purchase anything.
Now, I’m a pretty patient person. I’ve learned it over the years. But, I’ve also learned that many times people intentionally make you wait because it benefits them, and their business in some way. I can understand that, but if you make me wait, then you are stealing time from my life. My time is valuable also. I should be able to demand a refund or something for the time stolen from me. Actually, I shouldn’t have to demand. It should be gladly given.
Think of the Doctors office. You made an appointment, and you better not be late, and you better not cancel. But, even though you obey the rules, you are still going to sit and wait. All you have in this life is your time and labor. That is your value. You should be able to send the doctor, dentist, plumber, cable guy, mechanic, preacher, lawyer, or any other “Boss” a bill for your time. It should be a point of ethics, and backed up by law.
What about government entities and courts? In America, “We the People” are the boss, we pay taxes, and this is a fact. But, we bow and scrape to all of the masters who seem to be over us. We should get tax breaks for the time we spend in government lines trying to fulfill some law. We should get free gas for the amount of time spent sitting in traffic because of construction. And don’t talk about safety or quality of roads. They shut down 20 miles of highway, so they can stand around and watch one guy work. Now, I understand they are milking the job, and working hard in the blazing heat. But, I still think the whole thing could be done differently.
If I’m required to go to court for some law violation, I should get time and money off my sentence for every minute I sit waiting, or hour I miss of work, or gas spent driving there. It should be part of the fine, or punishment. I’m to be considered innocent, till proven guilty, but yet, I cannot get this time stolen from me back.
And yes, I have been to court many times, and I have pleaded guilty simply because I could not afford to miss work. It was easier and cheaper than a lawyer, missing work, and all the time and trouble of fighting it out. That should almost be a violation of our rights to receive a fair trial. If I try to get my fair trial, I lose my job, home, and who knows what else.
Now, of course I’m somewhat kidding. We greatly appreciate the people who do these jobs, and need them to continue. We also provide services to them, and waste their time as well. It’s just frustrating to deal with so many such things, not to mention our real bosses, or work. It’s proven that stress kills. Is it any wonder that so many people try to escape from the things of this life, in any way they can?
I just think that as a society we should work on trying to make things easier on each other, instead of harder. Life is hard enough.
Bio: Chris Bunton is a writer, poet and blogger from Southern Illinois. He has published in several magazines, and has written a poetry eBook called “Against the Man” and an Addiction Recovery eBook called “Made Free: Overcoming Addiction“ a collection of dystopian short stories.“The Future is Coming” and his latest book “The Latter Days‘ is a book on Bible Prophecy and avoiding the deceptions to come.
Who really rules? Let’s talk about some conspiracy and spiritual truth for a moment. Because you must understand that there is only ONE conspiracy. And that’s the spiritual battle behind the scenes, that we all can see parts of, and have a feeling about, but cannot completely prove. The people who rule this world are…
It is a demon. Cast it out. Jesus said, “Fear Not” (Matt. 10:31) He said it many times. Actually, it’s a theme throughout scripture. Fear at its most basic level, is a lack of trust in God and His promises. That is a harsh saying, especially when we are dealing with anxiety. Because, often times…
A picture of us all The thief on the cross, spoken of in the Gospels of our Lord Jesus, stands as an extreme view of salvation in the eyes of some. The man who did what appears to be absolutely nothing, yet Jesus himself saved him declaring, “Today you shall be with me in…
“For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.”— Psalm 30:5
Things happen in our lives. Terrible things that break us and drag us down. Things that we cannot control and break us. Things that make us weep in our beds at night in agony.
This world is a terrible place.
It was created good by God, but has become corrupted.
God is our friend
He is Love. He is on our side and calls us through the darkness and pain.
He is the calm after the raging storms on the sea of despair.
He is our shepherd in a world filled with savage beasts seeking to devour.
He calls us and seeks us.
Even when we get angry at Him and blame Him.
Even when the entire world and our own mind tells us it’s His fault.
When the enemy whispers that God is against us.
The Lord is there, with a still small voice asking us to turn to Him.
There are things we do not understand. But He does.
He will comfort us, and teach us and grow us and help us to understand.
He will save us and dwell with us and in us.
When we turn to Him and ask him to save us and put our faith in Him, confessing Jesus as our Lord.
He moves in our soul.
He brings us from darkness and we see Him move in our lives.
Then, He fills us and we see the truth of Him.
We see He was with us in the darkness. He was with us in the despair. He was with us when we were hiding from Him. He was there.
And all that fear we had.
All that anger toward Him, will turn to joy.
And when we fall into that deep long sleep, we will awake with Him in the morning.
And every day will be new in Him.
He is all there is, and all there ever will be.
Bio: Chris Bunton is a writer, poet and blogger from Southern Illinois. He has published in several magazines, and has written a poetry eBook called “Against the Man” and an Addiction Recovery eBook called “Made Free: Overcoming Addiction“ a collection of dystopian short stories.“The Future is Coming” and his latest book “The Latter Days‘ is a book on Bible Prophecy and avoiding the deceptions to come.
Make sure. What does it mean to follow the real Jesus? Well, let’s look and see. Jesus’s ministry was a ministry of healing. This should tell us something about what we believe in regards to the Gospel and how we are to serve God. Because we want to be like Him. That is real godliness.…
You are never too far gone. In the books of Luke, Mark, and Matthew we see the story of the Gadarene Demoniac. (Mark 5:1-20, Luke 8:26-39, Matt. 8:28-34) He had an unclean spirit, which called itself “Legion” because there were many of the demons inhabiting this man. He lived in the tombs, crying out and…
The saints will be overcome. The scriptures are clear that the Anti-Christ will make war with the saints and overcome them. (Dan. 7:25, Rev. 13:7) I want to point out how this is likely to occur and how it is already started. I am not giving a prophecy here. I’m just pointing out some things.…
I came from a place of rock bottom. Where the Lord has lifted me up, cleaned me off and is working in my life.
That is a fact. But, I get discouraged. I want to help others, but it seems as though I don’t. It seems as though I’m a waste or stagnate or not who I should be.
I believe that God wants me to use my failures and my successes to help others. To help people rise up. To help them see better things. To help them know God, and be saved through Him.
But, sometimes I get distracted. Sometimes it seems impossible. Sometimes it looks like no one cares or is listening.
So, I pray and pour out my frustrations to God. And like He always does He moves and gives me a nudge. We have a language between us that He has developed which helps me to know He is there and working.
Jesus said “My sheep hear my voice.”
God often speaks through others. We can be that voice if we follow the Spirit.
It just takes one person to let someone know that they matter.
God will bring someone or something into my life and give an encouraging word to me. God encourages me and reminds me of what really matters. He shows me that HE is what matters most. He shows me that inspiring others to be saved and know God is what matters most. That walking with God, changes lives over time and gives people hope in this dark world.
So, like God inspires us, and keeps us going, we need to inspire others and help others so they can keep going also. It gives their life meaning, and it gives your life real meaning as well. It gives us a purpose and a focus. And when those times of darkness comes into your life and you feel that you don’t matter, God can show you an example of a time that you made a difference to someone. He can remind you of your purpose and what really matters in life. He can remind you of the times God showed up and you saw Him move. This testimony of our experiences can build our faith and help us through the dark times. It can help us overcome evil.
But if there’s nothing there, how can He show you? Let Him break your heart and cause you to seek Him, and love others. Let Him guide you to help others. This is a fallen world, but we can help each other get through it.
God loves you and is with you. Just turn to Him and ask Him to save you through Jesus Christ. He will come running. And when He does; just use the things He teaches you, and the lessons learned from your past to help others make it through.
Bio: Chris Bunton is a writer, poet and blogger from Southern Illinois. He has published in several magazines, and has written a poetry eBook called “Against the Man” and an Addiction Recovery eBook called “Made Free: Overcoming Addiction“ a collection of dystopian short stories.“The Future is Coming” and his latest book “The Latter Days‘ is a book on Bible Prophecy and avoiding the deceptions to come.
What is the truth? I want to start with the ultimate truth, then talk about the current times, and prophecy. If you want to know God’s will on any subject you can probably find it in the Garden at Creation. There was no evil or death present. Nothing killed anything else. The humans and animals…
God is with us “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” –Luke 12:32 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”— 2 Tim. 1:7 “So that we may boldly say, The Lord is…
It’s important to know. Death on its most basic level means separation. It is not an end, as some suppose. The Bible teaches that we are triune, like God. We are made in His image. We have a body, a soul and a spirit. When God created everything He created it good. Evil was contained…
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