Free Life Blog

Does God Feel Distant?

He’s Not

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!”

Believe it. Faith is the oil for our lamps.

Why do I say that you must say it out loud?

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.

Follow Him on Medium: https://chris-bunton.medium.com/

Follow Him on Free Life Blog: https://myfreelifeblog.com/

Read His Spiritual Writings on Blogger: https://chrisbunton.blogspot.com/

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What is Predestination?

Don’t be confused.

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.

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Our Peace

Our Peace Comes Through Knowing Him

“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.

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Unofficial Bosses

They think they own you.

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.

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Joy Comes In The Morning

God calls us to Him

“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.

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Inspire Others

We have work to do.

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.

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The God Who Answers

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…

by . November 9, 2025

The Princes Of This World

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…

by . November 2, 2025

Overcoming Anxiety And Fear

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…

by . October 26, 2025

Where’s the Blue Jay?

Where did he go?

Where’s the Blue Jay?
I don’t see him much any more.

That pretty bird of blue
was a common sight
in my youth.

But where is the Blue Jay?
He stays in the deep deep woods
Away from trouble it seems

I saw him the other day
Fighting with a friend
But he flew away.

I wonder where he goes
That crazy bird of old.
What’s happened to him?

It’s not a silent spring I see,
But it definitely has less Blue.
Something is wrong.

Is it the factory farm,
poisoning the fields,
killing him?

Is it the poisoned soil and air,
where he flies to live
and see the world below.

Where does he go?
To escape the eyes of man.
To be free if he can.

I would like to go.
To a place of my youth,
where the poison is no more.

A place of life,
without greed
for profit and pay.

A place where,
beauty lives,
and we find the Blue Jay.

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The Thief On The Cross

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…

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Are You Really Following Jesus?

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.…

by . October 5, 2025October 5, 2025

I Am Legion

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…

by . September 28, 2025

Spiritual Abuse

It’s not from God

I’ve been involved with Churches and ministries for at least 20 years. I’ve seen things. Things that are not from God.

But first let’s define spiritual abuse. WebMD says, it’s “any attempt to exert power and control over someone using religion, faith or beliefs.”

Here’s my definition; because let’s be honest. If someone is mistreating me, I don’t need an experts definition. I know it when I feel it.

Spiritual abuse is when a person in a perceived position of authority uses spiritual things in order to hurt, control, steal, suppress or destroy another person.

This is not just Christian. It can be any religion, cult or guru. It can even be in para religious groups, such as Bible studies, AA meetings, rehab centers, shelters, and family situations.

The location is less the issue. It centers on the person doing the abusing. No matter where they lurk.

These abusers are often charismatic or have some influence. They are highly deceptive. They are in positions that God probably did not put them in.

What’s that mean?

Well, some people go into ministry not because of a call from God but because it is the family business. Or they saw a way to earn a living and get respect. Or even they wanted to help people.

But, they were not called by God. It’s possible they don’t even know God. They are doing the ministry work in their own power, probably for money only.

Now there’s more to it than this. Jesus said, “By their fruits you shall know them.” These abusers, do not know God, so they cannot truly exhibit the fruits of the Spirit.

Sure, they can obey rules. A chimpanzee can obey rules. But, having love, joy, peace, patience, wisdom ….. is something that really can’t be faked.

Now understand that no one is perfect. We fail. Also understand that God wants to save the abuser as well, and might be trying to draw them to Himself. People make mistakes.

It takes a while to grow fruit. Good or bad. They didn’t become abusers over night. Things have happened to them and Satan has worked to destroy them. Pray for them.

But, these folks should not be in positions of power, just because they can take a few college classes and get their dad to ordain them.

Ok?

It’s hard because the Bible teaches that we should support authority and believe that it is put in place by God. Since God is all powerful, it is believed then that all leaders are in power because of God. An abuser will make sure you remember this. His or her victim followers will make sure you remember this. This is what leads to the Hitlers, and the Stalins and the Jim Joneses.

But, no where in God’s Word are we led to support evil. We are not forced to abide with with false teachers or false brethren, or false leaders. There is no fellowship with the children of Belial.

Did David stay with Saul? No. He left, and confronted and exposed him every chance he got. He did not kill God’s anointed. But, he did not hang out with him or let Saul kill him either.

There will be a pattern of abuse. There will be others who have tasted it or sensed it. People driven from the church. Employees leaving oddly. God will often give signs and point things out if you’ll notice.

Remember, Jesus came to set us free. Anything that seeks to hold you hostage is probably not good.

The abusers will probably twist scriptures to say that the freedom is only spiritual and it comes through obeying and following the abuser, or some other twisting.

The abuser doesn’t want you free. The abuser needs to control you, and keep you silent, and obeying. A wolf in sheep’s clothing who fleeces and devours the sheep.

Notice, that all the scriptures they use will be twisted to a form of control, and that control will then be twisted to the church, employer, or government. They will claim that you must find God only at church. Then, they will claim that that means THEIR church.

Understand that Jesus set us free and turns us to a relationship with God. Is that what your abuser tells you?

A real leader from the Lord, will follow God. He will be led of the Spirit and seek to do God’s Will. He will teach from the Word and try to walk in the Spirit. This doesn’t mean he won’t sin. We all sin. But, he will be so focused on serving God, that he doesn’t have time to play games like trying to manipulate people or trick them into following him. He will let God guide you to where He wants you to be.

It doesn’t have to be sexual or physical abuse. Or abuse through neglect or preventing healthcare, or anything.

It can simply be a constant effort of making you feel, guilt, fear and shame. This is not love.

It’s a feeling of being worthless. It’s a feeling of ostracism, if you don’t obey. They won’t kick you out totally because that would be a loss of control. They want you to crawl back and obey. They want you to be a second class citizen and sit under their footstool as it says in James.

If you are saved, then you are free in Christ, and it’s between you and God, how He defines your freedom. He’ll tell you.

Spiritual abuse is very sneaky. It can appear to be the tenets of a religion. But, there’s no real love. Not really. There’s no real peace. No joy. It’s just rules and fear.

Satan uses these abusers to keep people away from God. To keep the real Saints confused and too busy to fight. And to kill, steal and destroy. To hurt people.

You know what’s happening to you. Pray about it. Take steps to escape. Ask God to lead you.

I’m not saying we always run away from trouble. Sometimes, God has you there to serve Him. Sometimes, He might be using you to expose the abuser, so God can correct them.

You must have a relationship with God and listen to Him. Anger, bitterness, and resentment can lead to revenge. Then, you can become just the same as your abuser.

Abusers do not have to act alone. Sometimes it can be a group. Abusers tend to find each other. They can be like vampires, where the head vampire creates and promotes the vampires under him or her as reward or to keep control.

They can work together to destroy people who might oppose them. When you try to complain, they will say that “All churches are like this.” Which is really not a good selling point. If all churches abuse their members then that’s a problem.

Remember, Jesus brings liberty. Control is the opposite of that.

In everything, turn to God and let Him save you, guide you and heal you. He will lead you to where he wants you to be.

Follow Him on Medium: https://chris-bunton.medium.com/

Follow Him on Free Life Blog: https://myfreelifeblog.com/

Read His Spiritual Writings on Blogger: https://chrisbunton.blogspot.com/

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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.…

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The Christian And Violence

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…

by . September 14, 2025

Fear Not

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…

by . September 7, 2025

Sunshine

A Tail-Rhyme

Sunshine through the window,
lifts my heart when I’m low.
It makes me smile.

There’s a happiness that comes;
and through my heart it runs,
then sits a while.

Follow Him on Medium: https://chris-bunton.medium.com/

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Photos by the author. A pot in the backyard.

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What Is Death?

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…

by . August 31, 2025

Matthew 25 Church

Are we prepared for His return? Matthew Chapter 25 is a chapter in the New Testament that describes what will happen when Christ returns. It states that He will separate the sheep from the goats. It appears that this judgment is not the Great White Throne judgment, where the lost are judged. This judgment is…

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Let Us Be Content

Always more. More, More, More. “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.”— Heb.…

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Fasting for Health

It could change your life

Fasting is a powerful tool for health. It has been mentioned in spiritual and alternative health circles for quite some time, but in our modern world we tend to forget about it, or find it difficult to perform.

You must realize that the concept of eating 3 square meals a day, at specific times set down by other people, is not a natural way of living. Eating when you are hungry is actually far more healthy. As a matter of fact, most of the world for thousands of years, and even today live a “Feast or Fast” life. Meaning that they “feast” when food is available, and “fast” or go without when it’s not. Animals in the wild, live the same way.

It is a fact, that the average human can live 3 weeks or more without food. I realize that there are certain medical conditions, that make this difficult, but even these could benefit from a reduced habit of constant food intake.

So, let’s talk common sense here. If you stop eating food for a period of time, let’s say 24 hours, and only consume clean water with no chemicals. You are allowing your body time to focus on other things such as healing, instead of digesting food. The pure water in the mean time flushes toxins out of the body.

Understand that your sweat, your pee and your poop is your body’s way of eliminating waste or toxins from the body. It is like the exhaust pipe on your car. What happens when it clogs? Fasting gives your body time to flush those systems clean, because you are not bringing anything into your body except pure water. Paul Bragg who has written many great books on Naturopathic medicine, and is the creator of Bragg’s Apple Cider Vinegar, used to fast one 24 hour day a week.

Fasting allows the body the chance to focus all of its energy on healing. Our body often wants to stop eating when we are sick, and we think this is a bad thing. But, what if it’s not? What if forcing ourselves to eat, is actually taking energy from the healing process? Controlled fasting, while consuming the proper nutrients, and fluids, can aid in healing of ailments that are attacking our body. Fasting is most powerful, when used as a preventative practice. You might not get sick at all, if you fast regularly and let your body clean itself and spend time on other things rather than digesting food.

Consider fasting in relation to weight loss and all the health issues that obesity causes. If you fasted 24 hours one day a week, then that is 3 meals a week you have reduced. That is 156 meals a year. Now add to this, to the fact that you are only eating when you are hungry, and that you are eating healthier smaller meals. You will lose weight, it’s inevitable.

Also, consider that the leading causes of death and disease in America is cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. All of which have links to things we consume. So, fasting as a preventative can greatly reduce the risks of these ailments because you are not consuming them. You are doing even more to fight this if you are eating organic clean foods and drinks and exercising. Exercise, along with all of its other benefits, also causes you to shed toxins through sweat.

Fasting benefits us on a spiritual level as well. Just like how fasting lets the body focus on healing, it can also let our spirit focus on God. We are more than just bodies who eat and make little bodies. We are a soul and a spirit, who happens to have a body. There is more to reality than what we see around us. There is more in existence than what we are suffering right now. Fasting can open the veil to the spiritual, and has done so for thousands of years.

Not only that, but fasting gives us the practice for resisting temptations. If you have trouble with will power, or resisting the urge to do certain things, or you want to be stronger to fight an addiction. Fasting will give you the practice you need to make you stronger, when those times of temptations come. Imagine that you want that chocolate bar or that habit. You cannot resist it. But, through fasting, you have practiced resisting the urge to eat which is a very strong urge. Fasting can make your ability to resist, stronger, and that ability can be applied to anything.

When you are fasting you must remember that you are only consuming fluids. So, if you feel the need to pass gas, you better be careful. Stay near restrooms. If you feel the desire to eat, then drink pure water (or juice) instead. It will reduce the acid in your stomach that makes you feel hungry. Also, realize that the hunger pangs are only temporary. After a few days they will stop, until your body reaches a point of panic mode, and you need to eat to survive. Those initial pangs are based upon your habit of eating at certain times, and always having food available. It’s in your mind, so to speak. Drink water and it will make you feel better.

Fasting is a great addition to anyone’s attempts to live a healthy lifestyle. Like most natural healing practices, it works best as a preventative. Try it. Fasting will not kill you. You will not die if you skip a meal or two. Start small and work your way up. I tend to fast from lunchtime to lunchtime, 24 hours later.

Just realize that our modern way of eating is greatly flawed, and could be killing us. Don’t view this as a punishment, or a diet. View it as a rebellion against the system that is making you and your family sick. View it as a change in lifestyle. Anything less will just make being healthy a struggle. You have to change your mind, and your life will follow. Pray for help. Always pray. Pray for health. Pray to lose weight. It helps.

(I will drink coffee as well as pure water or juice, if needed. Some might reject this. But, many people need coffee to prevent a splitting headache. Drink your coffee, along with pure water or juice during your fast. But, start working on reducing your coffee intake over time. Don’t let coffee or a headache or nay sayers, stop you from benefiting from what fasting can do)

Follow Him on Medium: https://chris-bunton.medium.com/

Follow Him on Free Life Blog: https://myfreelifeblog.com/

Read His Spiritual Writings on Blogger: https://chrisbunton.blogspot.com/

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