The Story of Chosun - Part 11

Fresh winds blow on the Korean Peninsula. Evil can only dominate for awhile. Eventually darkness yields to light. Now, in Korea, then "Koryo", it is not yet time to talk of the ultimate Light, Jesus, but a moral light at least is allowed to come, in the form of the Yi Chosun dynasty, created in the person of Yi Tajo.

In 1371 Sin-don, the court favorite by deceit, is exposed and killed. Over against this victory is the negative fact that the King is given over to sodomy and Japanese pirates invade Seoul, and burn it down.

1374. The King is assassinated. His supposed son, from Sindon, ascends. But the Chinese Ming dynasty draws the line at any acceptance of Koryo: they point out that an assassination and a questionably legitimate heir are reasons for them to hesitate at the validity of any alliance.

In 1378 rising star Yi Tajo is put in charge of all the military. His is the one strong life in a nation gone weak from the top down. Through his influence the occasional raids of the Japanese are quelled.

The new King can't decide whether to favor the Ming dynasty or the old Mongolian power, descending as is Koryo into history. He is double-minded about this for some time, and additionally, he continues in many of his father's evil ways. The drinking, the women, the hunting, the stealing. Koryo has lost its moral compass.

The Japanese come on worse than ever as they see such weakness. But Tajo wins yet another victory. Slowly the people begin to expect him to deliver them. That seems to be his own growing awareness too.

In 1383, the Capital is moved back to Seoul, then to Kaesong, currently a part of North Korea, in between Seoul and Pyongyang.

By 1386, the Ming have decided to recognize the King of Koryo. But, in 1388 the King decides to attack Liao-tung, in Ming territory. Yi Tago warns against it, believing it will destroy Koryo. The man caught up in his flesh will always make wrong decisions. We cannot call Yi Tajo a spiritual man by any means, but he seems to be directed by higher standards, and to that extent he raises expectations in Korea.

As plans begin to march to the northern regions against Ming, the Japanese are allowed to enter the south unopposed. Yi and his army are forced to turn around and march on Kaesong to stop Gen. Choe, the master of the plan. Some see this as Tajo's "Crossing of the Rubicon", or in his case, the Yalu.

The weak-kneed King turns Choe over to Yi Tajo, who banishes him with a "Go in peace." Then the King is likewise banished. His adopted son is placed on the throne, while Tajo waits for the right moment. The new "king" is not of royal blood. He is often not listed as a King of Koryo. Yet Tajo is hesitant.

In 1389, the Capital comes back to Seoul again. But the King decides to remain in Kaesong amidst the almost universal wish that Yi Tajo be king. Tajo's relatives murder and banish all of his opposition to push him throne-ward. Finally, in 1392 the King abdicates and turns over the kingdom to Yi-Tajo. 475 years of Koryo rule have come to an end.

The Yi dynasty will prove to be a lasting one. In fact, the last one. Not until the aggression of Japan annexes Korea in 1910 will the Yi Dynasty be forced out of power. It is this period of time that shapes and molds Korea into its pre-modern form. Much of Yi remains to this day.

And it will be during the Yi "Chosun" period that Jesus Christ and His claims are offered to the people of this ancient and proud land. Their response is amazing. How the Koreans have loved Jesus! That makes all the worse the rule of the present tyrant of the North, who keeps the people from their appointed fellowship with God through Christ.

Much for which to pray!

Look for Bob Faulkner's home page on http://sermonaudio.com.

There you will find a combination of love for the Scriptures and a desire for North Korean believers to have their needs met. There are nearly 300 blogs, over 200 Bible teaching MP3's, lists of resources, NK picture albums, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together! Contact me any time at diakonos3@gmail.com.

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Would love to fellowship with believers who respond .

In North Korea - The Homework Game

The story is told of a young Korean girl who was raised during the days of the Communist takeover of North Korea. Going to school one day she noticed there was a new teacher. She noticed even more when the teacher announced that there was to be no homework that day! Amazed, she listened as the teacher went on to explain a game that would be played instead.

As all little children, this girl loved games. The new teacher explained that she was to go home and find the big black book that was read to her every night, secretly hide it in her book bag, and bring it to school. Those who did would be awarded with great prizes. But remember, she was told, secretly!

It sounded a little strange to her ears. She had never kept secrets from Mother and Father, but surely they would be so proud of her when she came home with the prizes, and of course, with the Bible. For that was the book which she heard every night. She marveled that the teacher knew that she experienced this reading, but just thought that all adults know a lot of things.

She ran all the way home, and patiently waited for her parents to go to bed, even volunteering to go to bed early herself. Now her parents marveled. This was so unlike her, especially since she was not tired out by homework tonight. Nevertheless, they tucked her in, and went to get the book. The girl thought she heard a scraping sound in the other room. Then the story. Then the return of the book to its hiding place. More scraping. Then finally Mom and Dad went off to bed.

Excited, she waited and waited until she was sure the parents were asleep. Then she sneaked into the next rooms and looked around. Finally she saw it, a place in the kitchen wall that seemed to have a loose rock sticking out. She carefully moved the rock out and sure enough, the big black book!

The teacher was as good as her word. Fourteen students brought in black books. Fourteen students were given a bright red flag and a red scarf. Plus they were treated like kings and queens. What a day!

That night she ran home to tell her parents what had happened and to show the prize. No secrets tonight! She called out for Mom. No answer. She waited. Mom did not appear. She waited more. Dad did not come home from work. She waited as she began to tremble and cry and fear. But they did not come home.

She finally drifted into sleep. When she awoke the next morning she wiped the sleep out of her eyes and immediately began to think of a horrible dream she had had. Or was it a dream? She called out for her parents again. No answer. No parents. Gone forever.

Mom and Dad had been arrested the day before, charged with teaching their child from foreign, decidedly anti-Communist, propaganda. She never saw them again. That day, she too was taken away, to a government home. Life truly changed.

Forty years passed. The middle-aged woman escaped into China, and began meeting with Christians, who for the first time since those young days gave her something to be excited about. They told her of Jesus, and of the hope of Heaven. Christ came into her life and gave it meaning and purpose.

Jesus came to give us hope. Let us pray that many more North Koreans will receive this wonderful message of Christ.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. Just about every day I'm writing a blog featuring some news, a book, or a story of North Korea. There's a live news feed on the site, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together!

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond on my site.

Church-Hoppers, Beware!

It hit me again this morning. I was praying in preparation for our weekly Bible study. I'm supposed to be in I Peter, but my mind and heart were led over to the Book of Revelation. There's a curious truth hidden there that many Protestants need to hear.

Since our exit from Romanism lo these many hundreds of years, we protest-ors have been dividing and re-dividing and sub-dividing until we are more known for our splinters than our solid wood. We love to think of ourselves as "separated" when many times all we are is separate. There's a huge difference.

A truly separated, or holy brother, stands out in a crowd. And that's the point. He has to be in the crowd to begin with before he can stand out. He stands out not because he leaves but because God has filled Him and He is different.

Too many of the bretheren are just out-standing, not standing out! Imagine a guy going to a picnic and spending the whole time sitting under a tree thinking nasty thoughts about the picnickers. Some of us are like that. Everyone else is enjoying Jesus, while we sit back and "spy out their liberty", just knowing that they couldn't possibly be real.

God never called His church to walk alone. Once we have come out of Babylon we are to come together in Zion. We are not called to be loners, judges, monks. The calls to one-mindedness as in I Peter 3, are not calls to doctrinal purity but calls to the compassionate mind of Christ, the brotherly love of believers, tenderheartedness, and the like. These things we can experience. Doctrinal unty will not happen until we are all made perfect with Him.

One does not reject his infant child because the child lacks understanding and "agreement" intellectually. So in the churh we do not exclude those with whom we disagree. If they are born again, eventually one or both of the 2 arguing parties will see things exactly the same. Eventually.

But I was talking about the Book of Revelation. You remember the seven churches. Consider, and weep with me when you do, because I have spent much time at the "church picnic" sitting under my tree of judgment, that not once does God tell believers to leave the churches that are described. And some of them are pretty bad. One is lukewarm, one is corrupt, one is actually dead!

But the command is to repent, to hold fast, to continue on, not to walk out! Leaving a church dooms it, if perchance you are the last hope that church has.

Stay with your congregation. Lay down your life for it. Offer your gifts and your prayers and your finances and whatever you have. More importantly, avail yourself of all the giftedness that is available to you in that fellowship. When you stop seeing all the faults God will open your eyes to your own great needs, and to a member of that body that has the answer for it.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. I have created over 200 blogs and the site features a live news feed, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together! Contact me any time at diakonos5@yahoo.com

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. I love to write Scriptural works. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond.

Laws Of Attraction In Action

Jesus, The Master Copywriter

One of the longest threads in the history of Michel Fortin's Copywriter's Board is "Jesus, The Master Copywriter." This topic caused a stirring back then and pulled in many opinions that both agreed with my position and bluntly disagreed with my views.

Irrespective of how you assess the Bible, as mere literature or Holy Writings, the fact is that there are many copywriting lessons to be learned from this all time bestseller. Considering the position that the Bible holds in the literary world and the number of books inspired by the Bible you shouldn't be surprised that the "secrets" of persuasion are also hidden in its pages.

Here was where the great literary genius William Shakespeare got his inspiration and he is considered the master of English literature.

It so happens that I also get my inspiration from these pages-for copywriting!

Now let's look at one example and it's recorded in the Gospel according to John in chapter 4 of his book. It commonly called the story of the woman at the well. And it goes something like this ...

It's midday and Jesus waits by a well while his disciples go to a nearby town to buy food. A woman approaches the well to draw water, a very uncommon time since the most women come in the cooler parts of the day to collect water.

Jesus asks her for a drink to which she is very surprised that a Jew should ask a Samaritan woman for such a favor. These two people groups had no dealings with each other except for trade and business.

The woman questions Jesus request to which he replies that if she really knew who she was talking to she would ask him for living water so she never has to return to the well again. What? This really got her attention because such "living water" would mean that she would never have to face the stare of neighbors who shunned her as a moral failure.

But she is puzzled by the fact that Jesus has nothing to draw water from the well, so how could he give her "living water"? She immediately compares him to Jacob who dug the well centuries ago, "Are you claiming to be better than Jacob?"

Once Jesus had her attention he immediately asked her to call her husband. She immediately went on the defensive and claimed she had no husband. Then Jesus indicated that the man she was living with was not her husband but she was married four times before. Ouch!

This was a personal blow to her ego but it came only after Jesus had gained her interest by making her an incredible offer-living water.

Because this subject was so uncomfortable she tried to change the course of the conversation into a theological debate about the right place to worship. Jesus entertained her question anyway and she finally became convinced that he was not an ordinary man.

She finally left her water pots-the very thing she came for-and ran into the village to tell every one about her encounter. (Talk about word-of-mouth advertising.)

You are free to read the original narrative for yourself but here are some pointers that may be of interest to you as a copywriter and marketer:

1. Jesus spoke to her as an individual not as a crowd or a group of people. He made her feel that she was the most important person to him right there and then. Every good copywriter is able to make the reader of the sales letter feel like they are listening to a friend sharing some good advice, instead of one nameless member in a crowd.

2. Jesus knew her problem. He understood his "market" and what the woman was looking for. If you can determine the driving force behind your target market then the sale is 50% made. She wanted water but MORE than just water. She was looking for a reason to make a change in her life.

3. Jesus spoke to her in the language she understood. He entered the conversation that she was already mentally engaged in. She wanted a way to stop coming to the well at midday but more so a reason not to be ashamed of her life. Speak in the language of your market and you'll get them listening. Speak about what they are already interested in and you have a friend.

4. Jesus answered her objections by selling himself as the solution to her problems. She had two major objections: He had nothing to draw the water and they had a big difference in beliefs. Both of these objections were answered which led to the "sale." He not only treated her with respect (it wasn't considered proper for a man to speak with a woman in public like this) but also gave her hope for the future. We can say that he over-delivered, so much that ...

5. He made a happy customer who was more than willing to share the good news with others!

This narrative is a classic study of how to turn "enemies" into friends, prospects into your best "evangelist" and curiosity seekers into lifelong customers.

Go ye and do likewise!

Ray L. Edwards is a freelance copywriter, copywriting coach, Internet marketing consultant and published author. He has made his clients millions of dollars online and can be contacted about his services at http://www.webcopy-writing.com

Believing In Yourself

Romance - Why Write It

If you think Romance is a lesser form of fiction, go off immediately and read Pride and Prejudice.

There are many kinds of genre fiction, but nobody accuses Ian Rankin or Ruth Rendell of being lesser writers - simply because they write Crime. Genre fiction has certain expectations and constraints. But what else you do with it is up to you - and your talent.

While writing classic Romances, Jane Austen managed to comment on society, give a feel for time and place, and for people's absurdities, strengths and flaws.

Some Romance is published just for the escapism. And that's fine, too. We all need to escape from time to time. Whatever you choose to do with it, Romance can be fun to write - but don't make the mistake of thinking it's easy. It can be as hard to execute well as any other kind of writing.

Many people believe there's an easy-to-follow formula - a cookie cutter to shape the story with their eyes closed. But this would make Romance fiction incredibly boring - to read and write. Every book would be the same.

As I said, it can be fun to write. But in order to write well, you have to like romance. You must enjoy daydreaming sappy stories. You must go aaah when you hear of love that works out.

Besides being enjoyable, romance can be good practice for writing any form of fiction. You're constrained by the expectations of genre, which frees you up in a strange way to be really creative within those limitations.

It gives you the freedom to concentrate on the important things - every story worth turning a page should have believable characters, conflict that carries us through it, a satisfying ending, a world we can believe in, and language that entertains us.

These are the things that make any book good, no matter what you are writing. Romance forces you to concentrate on these aspects, since these are the aspects that will make your story stand out above the crowd.

Readers want to know that certain things are likely to happen in a Romance, and that other things won't. But we also like to be surprised. We like to be held on tenterhooks - not quite sure which way you'll swing our emotions. And this is what makes any story great.

Jo-Anne Richards is the author of four novels. Her latest is My Brother's Book, published by Picador.

She is co-founder of allaboutlove.net, a website dedicated to romance reading and writing. The site publishes novels and short stories, and runs interactive online writing courses in romance writing. It includes a basic lesbian romance writing course - thought to be unique.

Time To Yourself And Meditation

Is 2012 Really the End of the World?

Maybe just the end of the world as we know it. No, the world is not going to implode or explode or be completely destroyed in any form for that matter. 2012 is a new beginning, not an end.

There has been so much said about all this, from the bible, from Nostradamus, from Edgar Cayce, from the Mayans. In 2012 we will truly be able to experience heaven on earth. For some, this has already started. We are already feeling these changes. There are many people on this earth who have Ascended from the 3D reality to the 5th Dimension reality already. The Earth herself has ascended from 3D to 5D. In 5D time and space are different, they do not exist in the same way as they do in 3D. This is why so many people are having experiences outside what the "norm" has been the past few thousand years.

Some people think the financial meltdowns etc. are really bad news. It is just a change, different things going on, it doesn't have to be bad news. Everything is perception. A lot of people are being forced to change the way they have been thinking, or the way they have been doing things. So much of the world's issues right now are related to the old 3D ways crumbling. It is a new beginning, not an ending.

Jesus (or whatever Ascended Master you relate to based on your religion or lack thereof), IS coming. It is the Christ Consciousness in us all. Jesus "the man" is not going to just show up one day to save us. Its not quite like that. The consciousness of Jesus will show up for us all as soon as we realize that we have access to it. It is your own greatness, your own Christ Consciousness that will save you. Your realization that you are God. We ourselves are the second coming.

What makes things so hard is the separation from the divine light and love of all that is. For many years people have turned to religion, or leaders that tell us that things are outside of ourselves. Those in perceived power don't want us to know that the power of EVERYTHING is within us. We are all one.

The talk of hellfire and hell coming to earth for those that do not accept Jesus into their lives is true in some ways, but not in the literal sense that some organized religions would have you believe. It has to do with those that accept they are the creators themselves. Those that can see and feel their own greatness will truly be creating a heaven on earth for themselves and those around them.

Those that rely on (or "worship"), things from the 3D reality -- money and ego and external power -- truly will be in a hell on earth. Earth and her energy is changing, has already changed. We, as a species, are learning that we can create whatever we want here. It has very little to do with ego and power. There are many on the earth right now who are here to help with this transition. Many lightworkers who are ascending and "getting it" are here to help you. Many are actually devoting their lives to helping others remember where they came from and what divine beings they are. The first wave of Ascension is over. There are many Masters on this plane of our planet right now. Willing to help you to realize you don't have to stay stuck in 3D any more. Many people think Jesus is a saviour, as in separate from you, that will come and rescue you from your life, your existence, yourself, your perceived sins. God is not going to "make people go to hell". What kind of loving God would actually make people go to hell? If all one does is worship money, control or power they WILL likely end up in their own hell. This will be their own doing (or undoing) though. It will not be something that is done TO them.

Look at how things are right now. The world financial crisis is HUGE. Anyone who is very centred in, or worships, money or power at this point in time is RIGHT NOW in their own personal HELL. God certainly isn't putting them there. It is their perception of their time on earth that is putting them there.

Those that are suffering right now just need to look inside themselves, at the Christ Consciousness, at the God in THEM. Hanging onto the old 3D reality and the worship of external things like money or power or ego is what is causing them suffering. The always wanting more is causing suffering. There is enough on this earth for everyone. Some say they don't believe that...I've had people tell me to my face that I'm full of you know what just for suggesting such a thing.

The reality of it though....at least MY reality of it is that there is enough for all. If we take the greed, the control, the lusting for external power away, there is enough.

All through the bible it states that God is in all of us. Therefore, Love is in all of us.

Religions made the devil up to scare the heck out of people. There were, and still are, those that do not want you to know your own greatness. They don't want you to know what they know. If everyone knew, there would be balance. No one would be better than, or richer than. Everyone would just "Be".

Religions say the devil "fell from grace" because he wanted to be God-like. What better way to make people shun their own greatness, their own connection with God. Scare the crap out of them so that when they start to realize their own greatness, and that they are not just a "part of Source (God)", but that they are indeed Source (God) themselves, the creators of their own lives and spiritual journeys, they get afraid and experience more separation. As soon as people realize their greatness, no one will be able to control them. That is very scary for those that think they have the power over the masses.

We are all God-like. We are all creators, God is Love, we are all a part of God. This scares a lot of people and there are certain governments and religions that don't want people to know this, so they make up stuff like the devil or demons to scare people. They don't want the general population to realize their power, they would lose their own place in society; in the 3D reality they have created for themselves. Imagine if everyone knew just how much like God we are, how much a part of God we are.....no one could control us anymore. No one would have the power to "make" us fearful. God is Love.....the "devil" is fear.

So, is 2012 the end of the world? I certainly hope it is the end of the world as we have known it up to this point.

Do not fear the changes, embrace them. Connect with Source in your own way. Find and connect with your own internal Christ Consciousness, your own greatness.

When things are done with Love and not fear, nothing but God and Love can shine through.

There are many things going on. Being a psychic lightworker myself (for lack of a better term), I know that what I see and do, anyone can see and do. The biggest challenge is to KNOW that you can do it. It is just a matter of being open to it and having the realization that we are all Source.

Remember where you came from, remember your divinity. Connect with your own Christ Consciousness. Experience the bliss every day, feel the love every day. Live with Love not Fear of what is going on on our earth. Its all good...

I am a psychic living in British Columbia, Canada. I have been psychic since birth and have been doing psychic readings for others for the past 25 years. With these psychic readings I help people to enhance their own personal growth and assist them to realize their life path. I am also a medium and often when I do readings I have contact from the other side, whether from a loved one who has passed over or Spirit teachers and guides. Visit Psychic Medium for more information on psychic readings.

Do You Actually Get to Go to Heaven - Christian Thinking

Questions To Ask Your Pastor
Using Words In The Bible Effecti

Hope in All Religions

I was reading a book on advertising when the author mentioned, "All Advertising Is about Hope."

This got me thinking about other people's dreams and aspirations, most of this is wrapped around them hoping to accomplish something or do something. I never gave it much thought but hope is one of the most important things in our lives. Some people go around hoping that they will keep their job, when the economy is in bad shape. Others go around hoping for forgiveness for their sins or other bad deeds they have done in the past.

What is it you're hoping for? There's got to be something. Are you hoping to become a multimillionaire or even the world's first trillionaire. Are your dreams big or small? Are you the kind of person who is happy living a simple life with very little possessions like a Buddhist monk or are you one who is seeking the lifestyle of the King.

Hope supplies us with the will to continue through hopeless obstacles during our lifetime.

Most people seeking hope are looking for a way out of something or a way toward a better life. These people often fall easy prey to large religious organizations, as they take them under their wing and slowly start to brainwash them. They seek the weak minded, helpless, poor and trusting people and build their organizations using them. I once believed in Christianity, but it no longer offers me true hope, the more I study Christianity and other organized religions, I noticed certain similarities based on inspiration.

I hope I live the good life, so I can go to heaven, the promised land, our ultimate enlightenment.

I hope I am living the true will according to God, Buddha, Krishna or other supreme beings.

I hope that the Bible is wrong about the 144,000 people from the 12 tribes.

I hope I'm living a life that is pleasing to the Lord.

If you're part of an organized religion, ask your religious leaders, any questions that you have about your religion. If they can't answer these questions, try to find them on your own. Books, videos, and the Internet are great sources for information. If you're living your life for the sole purpose of going to heaven one day, you could be disappointed, when that day arrives.

Ask a couple of questions and I hope you will get honest answers to them.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development. Check out one of his recommended books, Read This Book

Greg is currently creating articles on religion filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

You Shouldn't Believe Everything In The Bible - Spare The Rod

Was Jesus A Good Example
Effects Of False Prophets

Christianity Vs Works Based Religion

Over the centuries Christianity has grown immensely in popularity. I feel that why this has come to pass is because it is the only religious doctrine that is based solely on us praying in the name of Jesus to God to ask forgiveness for our sins, and forgiveness being granted by God. In John 14:5-6 (NKJV) Thomas said to Him, Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way? Jesus said to him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. These two passages clearly instruct each of us to ask forgiveness of our sins in Jesus name.

Our Father in Heaven knew that no matter how hard mankind tried, because of our imperfections, we would always be sinners; and sinners are not permitted to enter His kingdom in heaven. In the Old Testament we can read how mankind, in general, kept falling short of Gods commandments, and how even when led by Moses, the people had weak days and could not sustain these commandments of the Living God on a continual basis. My conception of the Old Testament and other major religions portray to me that they are works based. God bridged this gap from the works based type in one sole act. He sent forth to earth His Son for all of mankind. This is best summarized by Jesus disciple John in the New Testament; John 3:16 (KJV) which says, God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. This is also reinforced by The New Testament in 1 John 2:1, 2:2 (NCV) which says, But if anyone does sin, we have a helper in the presence of the FatherJesus Christ, the One who is right. He is the way our sins are taken away, and not only our sins but the sins of all people. In my mindset only the New Testament of Christianity offers mankind the only feasible alternative.

The unique posture that Jesus Christ offers mankind in the New Testament of Bible is His covenant that He made with God, and is expressed by Jesus at the Last Supper, in the New Testament in Luke 22:19, 20 (NCV). Then Jesus took some bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to the apostles, saying, This is my body, which I am giving for you. Do this to remember me. In the same way, after supper, Jesus took the cup and said, This cup is the new agreement that God makes with His people. This new agreement begins with my blood which is poured out for you. From this point forward Christianity was born, and mankind truly had the way to enter heaven.

Jesus, during His crucifixion, said in Luke 23:34 (KJV), Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do. Alone, this selfless statement by Jesus, thinking only about us, in His ultimate anguish and pain of taking on all on the mankinds sins past, present and future during the crucifixion portrays the truest love that He had for all of mankind, and set the example for His Fathers second greatest commandment, Love your neighbor as you love yourself.

Family-eStore will try to provide you with articles of interest to a Christian and patriotic way of life. The articles are written by Steven Coffman (Owner) of Family-eStore.com, (National Essay Contest) winner 1969. I am a person with strong Christian and patriotic beliefs. Tenacity, faith, and a belief in God, Country and Family are key components to success in life.

The Christian articles are only intended to bring you closer in your relationship to our Father in heaven. The Patriotic articles are only intended to show pride and patriotism to our Land of the free and home of the brave, (The United States of America). I hope that you enjoy and are enlightened by them.

What About The End The End Of The World

Wrong With Bible Verse
Effects Of False Prophets

Proof of Life

Ah yes, I know this feeling: This is the part where I start to feel completely and utterly overwhelmed. I've come to know this place, the Land of Overwhelm. I visit so often, I might as well move my stuff here and take residence. I keep saying I want to do things differently, but what am I doing differently, really?

I look at my list of to-do's and the truth looks me in the eye: There is no humanly possible way you will get this all done today.

So I do what the experts tell me to do. I prioritize. I even look at my to-do's and figure out what can be postponed, what can be put off til that nebulous 'After-The-Holidays' time when supposedly everything in my life will get so much easier, and suddenly I will have limitless time to do everything I've been putting off. (Yeah, right.) I shuffle. I cancel an appointment here, a lunch date there. I put off going to the bathroom far too long. (My bladder understands I'm busy.) I've given myself permission to turn some "yes"es to "maybe"s and some "maybe"s to "no"s. I reschedule. I apologize.

And then, this morning, in my journal, I am practicing gratitude, making my list, checking it twice, of all the things I am grateful for in this moment. Doing my best to be present, to stay true to my core, to center myself, yada yada. And Overwhelm interrupts rudely, beckoning... "Hey! Don't forget about me. What are you doing journaling? Don't you have a butt load of things to do?" and then I try something different.

Adding to my gratitude list, I write in my journal "I am grateful for overwhelm." Overwhelm stops in her tracks and looks at me with a puzzled expression. I breathe into my overwhelm and decide to do it differently today. I don't need to resist it, to challenge it, to struggle, as much as overwhelm is one of my favorite struggles. Today, I'll simply dance with it.

For what is overwhelm, really, but proof of life? Granted, a full life, an overflowing life, and yes, I crave a simpler life, and yes I'd love to take a day of rest-but-there-is-too-much-to-do and yes, sometimes I feel like I am being swallowed, but today, I will practice gratitude for my stress- for the stress is proof of life, too. Do dead people feel stress? Do corpses feel overwhelmed? Doubt it.

There she goes again, even now, while I type this.

"There is so much to do..." her mantra, Overwhelm, whispering in my ear constantly, growing especially petulant when she thinks I have forgotten (silly notion- how could I forget?) "There is so much to do..." she whines "Aren't you overwhelmed???" Yes, I am.... yes, I know. Yes, there is. But here's the thing:

There is always 'so-much-to-do'.

Until I'm dead, of course, and then I'll have an infinite supply of vacation days. But knowing me, I'll probably reassign myself immediately into another body, come back right away, screaming my way back into the human race. That will be me, I bet, signing up for this thing, this messy, overwhelming, crazy, busy, stressful, beautiful thing called life, all over again.

2008 Lisa Olson

http://www.sacredinthecity.org

Lisa Olson is natural-born supporter of growth and expression who loves to create happiness, cool experiences and inspiring others to step into their authenticity. She is a "Spiritual Midwife" and Soul-full Living Strategist with an extensive background in life purpose coaching, marketing, promotions, event management and community building. A writer, artist and lifelong journaler, she facilitates workshops, groups, rituals and dance experiences designed to awaken the senses and stir the soul. She can be reached at lisa@sacredinthecity.org.

How Many Disciples Were There, Really

Using Words In The Bible Effecti
Ask And You Might Receive Or Ask

Putting God on Trial

I was listening to something interesting the other day when someone mentioned putting God on trial for some of the atrocities in the world. If God is the creator of the universe and all that is, or all that ever will be, how can we put him on trial, he's our creator. We can't put our spiritual master on trial can we, he'll just escape anyway if we convict him, won't he. He's got to be smart enough to break out a prison.

As a child I often thought about God and why he would allow such suffering throughout the world. It never made sense to me when I was child and it still doesn't make sense to me today. Why would the creator, want us to suffer, with even the littlest of problems. Other religions have explained it as if God was teaching us a lesson and that's why we have hardships in our lives.

Do you think God ever went through these hardships? Did God have problems finding a job or gathering some food? Does God even eat? Okay now I'm getting off the topic here,(I wonder what God does eat)... if children do something wrong, most of the time their parents will discipline or correct them. If adults to things wrong, the government will discipline and reprimand them. Sometimes these punishments can be severe. It depends on the crimes committed.

If man has to be put on trial for committing crimes like murder, genocide, and general atrocities towards mankind, should God also be put on trial or is he above man because he's God. I can't imagine the creator of the universe ever being put on trial for man's crimes against humanity or other men, but it seems like someone who is all powerful and all knowing could help his children out of this little mess that we're in today.

Couldn't God help us like we help our children. We as parents might not have all the answers, but we do not claim to have them. We are not all powerful and all knowing, like we would assume God to be. When is God going to help us solve some of our major world problems, like genocide and starvation.

Putting God on trial might not solve all of our problems today but it would be nice to have some help with our problems. If he created us to please him, do we have to go on trial one day, for all the things we did or ignored while we were alive. Something to think about isn't it.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing and personal development. Check This Out What Happened to the Wise Men's Gifts

Greg is currently working on a video library filled with great movies on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world.

Don't Tithe If You Can't Afford to - Poor Christians Beware of Motivated Church Leaders

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You Don't Become a Wicca, You Either Are Or Are Not

There is a major growth in today's society for older religions, this includes people who want to become a Wicca. First of all, people need to understand that you do not become a Wicca, no more than you become a doctor and an engineer. Sure, there are signs of progress, and as a doctor or an engineer you get a piece of paper, however, that doesn't make you a doctor or an engineer.

As I said you do not become a Wicca. I am sure this raises some degree of curiosity and confusion. If I don't become a Wicca, then why do people call themselves such? See, it's not about becoming as much as it's about being. You don't become a Wicca, you are one.

I learned this a long time ago when I was studying the martial art of Ninjutsu, and it carried over as I began practicing witchcraft. As I gained belt after belt, I wondered at what point I would be a ninja. I couldn't wait to tell people I was a ninja. Once I earned my black belt, I wondered if I was now a ninja. I asked my teacher and his only response was, "you will know."

Eventually I came to understand that I can't become a ninja. It is something I am or am not. It wasn't about becoming, it was about being a ninja. The same is true when talking about how to become a Wicca. I now live, day to day, the way of the ninja. I use the philosophy and strategies I learned as I trained to live my life on a daily basis. The same is true for my spiritual practices.

You see, you didn't become anything, I either was or wasn't. I either lived as one, walked as one, talked as one, made decisions as one based on what I had learned, or I didn't. Learn, study, and apply what you learn as you grow, and you will be a Wicca. Then there will be no need to become a Wicca.

Are you ready to become the most powerful witch you can? Do you want to learn what it means to be a witch, and how to create your own spells at the drop of a dime? Do you want more free spells and the best resource for ancient witchcraft and Wiccan knowledge? Then Click Here Now to learn how! Don't forget to sign up for your completely free spells!

Can You Ask God For Wisdom

Effects Of False Prophets
Nothing Will Be Impossible

Undines - Nature Spirits of the Water

According to legends around the world, an undine is a water nymph or water spirit. Undines can be found in any type of body of water, particularly forest pools and waterfalls. They are said to have beautiful voices, which are sometimes heard over the sound of the water. In Scotland, undines are referred to as wraiths of the water.

According to some folklore traditions, undines can take human form, thereby losing their immortality but gaining a soul. This misleading notion has led them to be a popular motif in romantic and tragic literature. Undines are sometimes referred to as nixes, nasty water sprites with mean temperaments. This is another unfortunate characterization of undines. Likewise, undines are often confused with mermaids and sea goddesses.

Paracelsus, a Swiss philosopher of the 15th century, believed that undines and other nature spirits occupied a realm between that of humans and spirit. Although they resemble man in physical form, they are more akin to the spirit realm in their abilities.

They are actually one of the four main types of nature spirits: gnomes (earth element), sylphs (air element), undines (water element) and fiery salamanders (fire element). Since water is critical for human life and all life on the earth, undines understandably play a significant role in mythology and esoteric traditions.

Undines, along with other nature spirits, are guardians of the earth. Undines are under the direction of their hierarchs, Neptune and Luara. Undines are particularly involved in clearing bodies of water of pollution and other chemical hazards. Undines play an important role in the spiritual world and in the maintenance of the balance and purity of the physical platform of the earth for mankind's evolution.

Rose Greenwood is a freelance writer specializing in spirituality and natural health. For more information about undines and other nature spirits, and how we can assist them as they work on behalf of mankind please see http://www.theheartscenter.org The Hearts Center offers an opportunity for seekers to receive up-to-date inspiration from the ascended masters and other spiritual beings. To purchase books, CD's, DVD's, art, and more, please visit http://store.heartscenter.org Learn about the ascension, karma and reincarnation, the benefits of meditation, the use of the violet laser light and much more.

Don't Tithe If You Can't Afford to - Poor Christians Beware of Motivated Church Leaders

Is Jesus The Only Way To Heaven
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For North Korea - Articles Of War

North Korea may not have heard of the name "A.W. Tozer" ? Christian author, pastor. Man of deep insights. Flesh-bashing. Great man of God who left this life in the same year as JFK and CS Lewis, 1963. But he serves as an example of the kind of man needed to get the job done over there.

I heard a tape of him this morning on the way to work. You can believe me or not, but he said he was not as excited about the coming of Jesus as some of those around him. He wasn't fearing for his salvation but was well aware of his shortcomings and believed that Christians too must be judged before Christ. There, rewards and punishments alike will be handed out as our life is in review before God. He said he had simply wasted too much time in his life and feared to have to give an account of it. Yes, A.W. Tozer. Now, I have had those same thoughts, but with me they are infinitely more true. How about you?

As the battle for souls continues on in the world, to what do we give our time? I talked about the war effort in another article. Now (and this should have come first) the motivation for war, the "articles of war" if I may. Here are some Scriptures that point to Christians fighting. In the context of my ongoing mesages about North Korea, NK workers are called to fight for their own personal holiness and for the life and salvation of a nation. It is an awesome struggle. Yet I do not believe I have even convinced myself of how awesome it really is. I still eat too much and pray too little. I still complain too much and praise too little. I still enjoy this world too much and the next too little. And I forget about my suffering brothers all too often.

You must do your own confessing, but here are some "articles of war", admonitions from God's Word, to help get us back on track if we need it.

Article 1. Go, preach. Mark 16:15. Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. The war is going on until that is accomplished.

Article 2. Fight. I Timothy 6:12. Fight the good fight of faith. Until all believe, the fighting must go on.

Article 3. Stay free. II Timothy 2:4. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life. You simply cannot be a warrior and a couch potato at the same time. Turn the world off! There's a war going on!

Article 4. Stay connected. Ephesians 6:11. Put on the whole armor of God. This isn't your war. He just needs loan of your body for awhile.

The battle is the Lord's, not only to fight but to win. Let's identify with Him and make it ours, too.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. Just about every day I'm writing a blog featuring some news, a book, or a story of North Korea. There's a live news feed on the site, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together!

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond on my site.

Structuring Your 24 Hour Day

Why all the Hate

A Life Of Spiritual Education
Can You Change Your Life

Jesus, Lord Over All

My western friends may be disappointed to know that I do not believe democracy to be the purest form of government. In its misunderstood form, the "rule of the people" does not exist. All the people cannot rule. They merely designate who will rule. If you think you are in charge, try a late payment to the IRS or parking in a spot designated "no parking."

But even representative rule, true democracy as we know it, which we have experienced so beneficially for these 200 plus years in America, is not the preferred way. Not for me. Corruption enters into systems like these, precisely because they are run by the people, not in spite of that fact.

No, give me an iron-fisted ruler.

One will will speedily punish wickedness. But let the definition of wickedness be properly spelled out.

One who will reward righteousness. But let righteousness also have its proper definition.

One who cannot be toppled by some greater power. One who is unquestioned in his right and capacity to rule.

Give me a perfect monarch, who can settle all disputes with justice. One from whose lips will drop perfect wisdom, but from whose hands will flow perfect compassion.

You say, There is no such one. I say, There is. King Jesus , Messiah of Israel and of all believing gentiles too, meets the requirements I have listed. His reign of 1000 years will be the very prelude to eternity. The earth awaits Him. His people elect Him, but He was elected by the Father for this very position before the worlds began. He shall rule, even though the "people" of earth attempt to strike Him down .

So in speaking so often against the rule of oppressive tyrants on earth, one in particular, we must remember to oppose them on the right grounds. It is not because they are "all powerful" or "unopposed" or a "totalitarian" leader. Jesus Himself will be all of that and more.

We are against them because they take from the hearts of men their right to choose King Jesus as their Lord. They supplant Jesus with their own ways and principles and songs. Rather than allowing their people to experience the fact that a nation is blessed whose God is Jehovah, they show the world that a nation without this God of Gods is cursed. In this they have been a mighty revealer of the truth of God but their end shall come, all rulers and nations that despise the Holy One.

All hail, KING JESUS! Lord over all the lords of Earth!

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. Just about every day I'm writing a blog featuring some news, a book, or a story of North Korea. There's a live news feed on the site, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together!

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond on my site.

Eliminating Negative Media From

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Dale Carnegie

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Lifes Suffering Cycles
Angels And Demons Are They Real

The Sabbath in the Book of Acts

There is a 4000 year tradition of Sabbath in the Old Covenant. There is a strong Sabbath example and doctrine in the life of Jesus. Into the future via Jesus and the prophets, we can see a Sabbath just before the Millennium, and a Sabbath during the Millennium. Only the Gentile church is in question. Now the history of the beginnings of the church, both Jewish and Gentile, is found in the next book of the Bible, Acts. Just what happens to the Sabbath after the resurrection of Jesus? Do the Jews change? Do the Gentiles demand a change? Above all, what does God say, if anything, about this day?

First, there is essentially no mention of a Sabbath day until the 13th chapter. But I consider this passage quite interesting in our search for the Sabbath truth.

Acts 13:14. "But when they [the apostles] departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and sat down."

It was Paul's custom, as it was Jesus', to attend synagogue services and to teach at them. They were, after all, Jewish rabbis. Following this introductory word, Luke relates the very lesson Paul taught, after which the Jews filed out. But...

Acts 13:42, 44. "...when the Jews went out of the synagogue, the Gentiles begged that these words might be preached to them the next Sabbath... and the next Sabbath almost the whole city came together to hear the word of God."

I find it interesting that Gentiles cared not one whit that they were entering into some Jewish practice. They had heard about this Jesus phenomenon and wanted in. So the first totally Gentile meeting of saints recorded in Scripture is on the Sabbath. This so angered the Jews that they became jealous and opposed Paul. So Paul says he will from now on go to the Gentiles. Do you think that Paul then told these Gentiles that they should change the rest day now? They were not worried about a seventh day rest. Why should Paul have been? And I ask humbly and carefully now, why should we be?

Though this history is sound and exemplary, most persons looking for light on the subject in the book of Acts want to go to Acts 15. Sabbath is not mentioned in that chapter, but perhaps it is important we stop there for awhile. A conflict arises over circumcision. This practice , like the Sabbath, and the tithe, was linked to Judaism. It seems to Paul and later the whole church that such a thing as the cutting of the flesh ought not to be bound onto Gentile believers as a requirement for salvation or even as a necessity for growth in the Lord. It seemed to them that this sign is purely a part of the covenant between God and the Jewish people. A list of basics requirements of Gentile believers is then drawn up and distributed, and is accepted by us today as the bare minimum of the law of Moses that we should enjoin on new believers in Messiah. The list is as follows:

1. abstain from things polluted by idols

2. abstain from sexual immorality

3. abstain from things strangled, and blood

All else, conclude the leaders of the day, would be considered "troubling" to Gentiles now turning to God. The emphasis is to be on the grace of God, not the law of God, from this day on. Well now. What a shocking statement to men who as children memorized whole books filled with laws, every one of which was required for acceptability before a holy God!

So Jewish believers will continue on with the Sabbath and other laws of Moses, but Gentiles... Is that truly what is being said here? A double standard? Or are the Jews likewise to be totally free from their tradition and from Moses? We must look seriously at this whole legal matter later. For now, the last words about Sabbath in Acts:

Acts 16:13, 17:2, and 18:4 tell of several more Sabbath meetings, where Paul meets with Jews on their "turf" and explains to them the way of salvation, with a variety of results. There seems to be little light in this book about what to do with Sabbath. There is even a mention of a first-day meeting, in the evening, but no reason is given why. Does the day not matter any longer? Why, Acts 2 records daily meetings, house to house, and daily additions in membership. The church was a constant every-day thing. Was not one day above another any longer? What of the beautiful pattern established by Moses and all the prophets, and Jesus Himself? Can any other New Testament writer help us out?

Space fails me here, but yes, there are other New Testament insights as to whether Sabbath is for us today. I encourage my readers to continue this search throughout the rest of Scripture.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. I have created over 200 blogs and the site features a live news feed , lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together! Contact me any time at diakonos5@yahoo.com

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. I love to write Scriptural works. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond .

Water Damage Mold

The 21st Century Lord's Prayer

The Lord's Prayer

This is the newer version of The Lord's Prayer.

The fuller version of the Lord's prayer is found in the bible in the gospel of Matthew 6:10-14, as well as a part in the gospel of Luke 11:2-4.

The Lord's prayer is the most famous model prayer that Jesus teaches us. It is therefore used frequently in Christian church services, and is often prayed as a personal prayer.

What surprises me, and disappoints me, is the continue use of the older Victorian version of the Lord Prayer. I would argue that this older version means very little to the modern, young, seeker who comes into the Church. This is because the language of English changes with time, and it becomes increasingly hard to decode by young church seekers.

To be more specific the use of old English causes a double translation, one from the original text into English, and then a further translation from old English into modern English. For example "Thy will" is well known to older generations but is not in common usage outside of church circles and should now be "Your will".

I am not suggesting that those who like the older translations are wrong, they are not. The the older translations are equally valid. If you have learned an older version and are happy with it, that is all that matters. It is just that language changes with time, and we should be seeking to include the young in our use of English, and be seeker sensitive, without changing the meaning of the text. I am arguing for clarity, not confusion of the translation.

There may even be a case for looking at the 1977 modern version and updating it further, whilst keeping to the exact biblical meaning of the prayer.

The fuller version of the Lords prayer is found in the bible in the gospel of Matthew 6:10-14, and is the most famous model prayer that Jesus teaches us. It is therefore used frequently in Christian church services, and is often prayed as a personal prayer.

(The Lord's Prayer - Modern Version)

Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name.
Your Kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as in heaven
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins,
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom,
the power and the glory are yours.
Now and for ever. Amen

The prayer can be broken down into sections, and each section can be contemplated as a separate topic and thought about in greater depth.

(The new English version was adopted by the Church of England in 1977)

Steve is a Christian who lives in North East England with his wife, and is web master of a number of websites including Christian Websites Directory, and Christian Article Directory

Starting With Simple Things

Cherubic Hymn Movie Video

I love the chants from the Byzantine Chant and other Religions

Peaceful Warrior God

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site:

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a christian Ideas library filled with great movies on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world.

Dale Carnegie
Greg Vanden Berge Quotes

The Deity of Jesus Christ - From Kings to Job

From the book of II Kings to Job are several entries that when coupled with a New Testament statement prove that Jesus is Divine.

II Kings 3:14 and 19:31, our God is called the Lord of hosts. David, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Amos, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi, they all call Yahweh the Lord of hosts, or the Lord of armies. But in Revelation 19:11-14 we catch a glimpse of another "Lord of Hosts," or, that is, the same One, in a different context: "I saw ...a white horse, and he that sat upon him...doth make war...And the armies which were in heaven followed Him upon white horses..." Commander Jesus. God.

I Chronicles 16:33, judge.David is singing again. Part of the song goes, "...He cometh to judge the earth." The concept of a coming judgment by the coming Judge is fulfilled quite handily in the Christ of God, as says again Peter to Cornelius, (Acts 10:42) "It is [Jesus] which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick [living] and dead." Paul agrees, later in Acts (17:31), speaking to the religionists on Mars' Hill: "He [God] hath appointed a day, in the which He will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom He hath ordained." So God is the Judge. But He judges through Christ. And Christ becomes the Judge without God ceasing to be the Judge. Oh my, we're in over our head. This calls for faith. The revelation simply remains that Jesus is God.

II Chronicles 7:14 forgiver of sins. The Lord appears to Solomon by night and reveals to him in that classic passgae, 7:14, that if certain conditions are met, He will forgive their sins. Now who can forgive sins, but God? That's what some Israelites wanted to know when Jesus said to a man sick from palsy, "Son, thy sins be forgiven thee." A good question still. No one can forgive sins, but God, for it is against God, and God only, as David said in Psalm 51, that we sin. I can tell you that what you did against me is forgiven, but the sin remains on the books in Heaven until it is covered by the blood of God's Son.

Ezra 5:11-12, God of Heaven. Reference is made in Ezra 5:11,12 to one called the "God of heaven." Everyone knows God is in Heaven. Now struggle with this one, from the lips of Jesus: (John 3:13) "And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven."Even while He was here, the true residence of the One we call the "Nazarene," was heaven. The place where GOD lives.

Nehemiah 9:5, exalted Name. What a time of praise and rejoicing the returning Israelites were having! We extract only this piece of information for our use now: (9:5) "...blessed be thy glorious name, which is exalted above all blessing and praise." David said, "O Lord our Lord, how excellent is Thy name in all the earth!" (Psalm 8:1) Joel adds on that "Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be delivered." The name. Students of the Word surely know where I'm heading now. It's the masterful work of Paul to the Philippians: (2:9-10) "Wherefore God hath highly exalted Him (Jesus) and given Him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow..." An exalted name! An excellent name! The name of Jesus! Can Joel find an echo in the New Testament? You're way ahead of me: Romans 10:9-13: "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and believe in thine heart...thou shalt be saved [delivered]...for whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." The saving name, too! The name of the Lord:JESUS!

Nehemiah 9:26, sender of prophets. Nehemiah mentions the prophets sent by Yahweh, the God of Israel. We know that all the prophets were sent of God, right? Consider Matthew 23:34 in this light. Jesus is speaking to the religiously deceived Jews of His generation: "Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes..." Has Son suddenly usurped Father's job? Oh no. Father and Word have been working in this way forever. What God does, Jesus does...

Job 19:26, God incarnate. "Incarnate" sounds so theologically correct. And it should. But Job had it like it is. (19:26) "In my FLESH I shall see God." Now, in order for Job to see God in Job's flesh, God will have to have flesh too! But no! Even Jesus said, John 4:24, "God is a Spirit, and they that worship Him must worship Him in Spirit and in truth." How could God be flesh? Incarnate, OK, but not flesh! Doesn't sound quite right, but the mystery of all mysteries is just that: "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." John 1:14. The Word became flesh. And John says that the Word (Jesus) was God (John 1:1)!

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. I have created over 200 blogs and the site features a live news feed, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosen together! Contact me any time at diakonos5@yahoo.com

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. I love to write Scriptural works. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond.

Moving Objects With Your Mind

Proving That an Invisible God Does Exist

Here's a pretty good interview about someone explaining the existence of God.

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Peaceful Warrior God

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site:

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a christian video library filled with great movies on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world.

Dealing With Selfish Thoughts
Value Of Change In Your Life

Witnesses Must See Before They Say

"Oh, you can't believe refugees, they will tell you anything you want to hear." This quote is from Jasper Becker and is not his feeling but the attitude of UN officials back in the days before the rest of the world believed North Korea was in serious trouble. Other Western minds figured that all the horror stories coming from real eyewitnesses were some kind of South Korean plot to make the North look bad. The South Koreans on their part thought the North Koreans were making all this up to squeeze more aid and sympathy from their neighbors. "Smart" people who work at the Pentagon looked for mass graves with their satellite photography, as one normally sees such mounds during famines as in Africa. No mounds. Must be no graves. Must be no famine. Others knew the truth but downplayed it so as not to insult the NK government and harm nuclear negotiations.

And today it would seem that history is repeating itself. Though organizations have painstakingly sent interviewers to listen to independent stories from individual refugees. Though these eyewitnesses without corroboration continue to tell the same story of the horrors of North Korea. Though escapees and defectors join in the chorus, write books, create websites, there is
still a group of politically elite folks in Eastern U.S. cities who think just like the no-holocaust crowd. They are in denial of the real North Korea. They tell us it's not really that bad. They say Kim is being victimized. They say it's all political. They say Bush is the problem.

We Christians know about this phenomenon. In the first century Jesus told His people they would be witnesses. That was a promise, not a command. Witnesses see things. If you don't see anything, you don't say anything. Makes sense to me. We've got believers running around today like the seven sons of Sceva in Acts 19. They know the name of Jesus and try to use it to promote their own interests, but they've never seen Jesus or known Him. They are false witnesses.

And yes, there are a lot of people who have been to North Korea. Ambassadors. Politicians. But when they are there they see what they are supposed to see and that's it. They come back, blind witnesses, telling us to hold our peace and not believe everything we're hearing. They're afraid to ignite more conflict.

Personally, I want to continue to see through the eyes of those who have lived there, grown up under these strange and awful ways, and been forever damaged . I choose to believe those who know the prisons from the inside, not satellite photography guesswork. I choose to believe those who have starved in North Korea, over the soft Washingtonians who may have never missed a meal in their lives. I choose to believe ex-guards from North Korean prisons over reporters bound by a party line and a salary.

Truth is more important now than all the nuclear bombs put together. We have seen what lies will do. Rip the cover off North Korea though the stench is overwhelming, and let the healing light of Truth make it anew.

That's my prayer anyway. And my God can do all this and more. Let's keep praying.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. Just about every day I'm writing a blog featuring some news, a book, or a story of North Korea. There's a live news feed on the site, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together!

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond on my site.

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North Korea's Unique Educational System

From North Korea comes yet another witness of the reality of life there. All life? No. All the time? Of course not? But this man was there. He saw first hand things that should not be seen in our world. No attempt is being made to "defame" a nation, only to allow the West to understand that something must be done.

He is Kim Tae Jin, and comes to us by way of China, North Korea, China again , North Korea again (this time through the prison system including well-known Yodok), again China, Mongolia, Seoul. And that's just the outline of his story.

His father was Chinese military, so he started out there. But he and his Korean mother returned in 1961 to North Korea when he was five. Went through the standard educational system, got a job, all in South Pyong-an Province. At age 30, a full grown adult, he decided to visit family in China. There he was arrested and forced back home.

Then he was passed through North Korea's other "education" system, where one learns even more. The lessons are about fearing and then hating the government, though that is certainly not what is intended. First, there is torture in the "People's Safety Agency" near Chongjin. Four months later, more torture at the "National Security Agency" . He was eventually accused of treason because of his family visit.

And the torture? According to this eyewitness (and who can know better?) Beatings. Sleep deprivation. Forced to kneel or sit motionless for hours. Not permitted to wash, thus fleas, lice. Freezing temperatures in the jail cells.

Then on to "university", if I may continue using the analogy. The "Revolutionizing Process Zone" at Yodok. Four years six months. A slave labor camp. Helps the body. Helps the mind. Not only that, all this free labor helps to keep North Korea's economy barely afloat. Farming corn. Cutting trees into firewood. Making furniture. Serving the whims of the government.

So what's so bad about farm work for a prisoner? Hey, after 8 months in confinement as described above, that's what the prisoners think at first. "I can move around!" But the food is meager, and was even before famine rations of the mid 90's. To survive, he has to eat plants, grasses, rats, snakes, frogs. People around him are dying from starvation every week. He is personally witnessing public executions of those trying to escape. Still enduring beatings. Sit-down-stand-up exercises until he can barely sit up.

Four and one half long years. But at least, now free at last. Happy? No. His wife has to denounce him. It's the rule. Denounce and divorce anyone suspected of treason or you are supporting him and may be punished yourself.

Five more years. Finally he must leave this cruel land. Off to China. Off to Mongolia. Seoul in 2001.

I tried to warn you. It's not pleasant . Let us bear Kim Tae Jin's name to the Father tonight, along with all the other Tae's who are still at Yodok, Hoeryong, Chonjin, and all the others. How helpless we feel. But let us keep believing that God is working in all of this, having His perfect will. And as Mary said to the servants at Cana, "Whatever He says to you, do..."

Say the word, Lord. And give us your grace to obey it.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. Just about every day I'm writing a blog featuring some news, a book, or a story of North Korea. There's a live news feed on the site, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together!

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond on my site.

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if you don't matter to God, you don't matter to anyone else, that statement doesn't make a lot of sense. If I reversed the phrase, if you don't matter to anyone else you matter to God. Something to think about.

Seek the wisdom and the truth shall set you free.

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The Law of Moses and the Believer

What is the status of Moses' law today? In short, law lives. But it can harm us no more. The original law came by Moses (John 1:17 )and because of the weakness of our flesh condemned us, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ, who promised us He did not intend to destroy the law, but to be sure it is fulfilled (in Him and in us).

Law lives. How do I know? Because sin lives, and sin is the transgression of law. Every man who confesses his sin admits to the broken law of God. The difference between now and then or if you will, us and them, is not lawlessness but forgiveness.

Law, a major part of Scripture, lives, but now we dread not its pages. Rather we can be enriched by the "encouragement of the Scripture" (Romans 15:4). For the unconvinced we will look at some of Paul's heaviest teachings about the law, in summaries of the teachings of Romans and Galatians .

Romans: Romans 2. Law is everywhere, whether handed down from Sinai or built into Gentile thinking by the passing down of truths from the creation. We are told that we cannot boast in the law, because we are all lawbreakers. Circumcision is added as a seal of the Old Covenant if the covenant-maker is perfectly obedient in every way. Since that never happened, and all are lawbreakers, circumcision is a meaningless sign now, and the New Covenant is sealed by a circumcision of the Spirit.

Romans 3. We can never be justified by law, but we cannot with our sin make void law either. In fact, our constant breaking of the law establishes that holy piece of work!

Romans 4: Where there is no law, there is no transgression , for sin is the transgression of the law.

Romans 5: Sin was in the world before the law was given, but not imputed to man, not clearly defined, not placed in men's accounts. When it did come to us, it was to expose sin for what it is. This is still its purpose. It teaches us our need and brings us to Jesus.

Romans 6: Now we are not under the law. But law lives. Sin shall not have dominion over us. But sin is a possibility. Sin lives.

Romans 7: We are dead to the law (which lives) through the Body of Christ. We are delivered from the law, this fearful taskmaster that kept us in bondage. But now, as prophesied by Jeremiah we serve in the newness of the Spirit, who does God's law in us. The law is not sin! But we know sin through the law. We are "alive" without the law. But when the law comes, we are exposed, we "die". The law is holy and we delight in it with our mind. No one should hate the law of God and consider it a thing to be destroyed! Jesus never did. No one should pray to be delivered from the law of God, but from the curse connected to it. One who is without law is lawless , and there is nothing but contempt in Scripture for the spirit of lawlessness, II Thessalonians 2. What we want is freedom from its curse, not its righteousness! Though I do delight in it, there is another law inside me against the original law: it's called sin.

Romans 8: My flesh makes the law seem weak. But Jesus condemned sin in the flesh. Now the requirement of the law is fulfilled in those who walk by the Spirit, just as Jeremiah and Jesus both taught.

Galatians: Galatians 2. No flesh will ever be justified by the works of the law. Through the law we died to the law, and there is no righteousness to be gained through trying to keep law, whether Sinai's or the expanded revelations of Jesus and the apostles.

Galatians 3. One cannot receive the Spirit or any of His gifts by keeping the law. To be "under" the law is to be under a curse, for, as he quotes from Deuteronomy 27:26, "...cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things written in the book of the law." But Jesus became the curse for us and sets us free to keep the law's requirements.

Galatians 5. We are to maintain our liberty by not being entangled with the curse again. Yet he says in the same chapter that all the law is fulfilled in the love of neighbor that flows from the Spirit-filled believer. He tells us to walk in the Spirit and we will not fulfill the lusts of the flesh, to be led by the Spirit since we are not now under the law.

So the connection between law and believer is not as simple as we might have suspected. The law lives, and through the Spirit expresses itself in a righteous life, pleasing to God the Father.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. I have created over 200 blogs and the site features a live news feed , lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together! Contact me any time at diakonos5@yahoo.com

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. I love to write Scriptural works. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond .

Luck Is What Happens When

The Antichrist - Does It Matter?

Who will the antichrist be? "Who cares?" is surely a response to my question on some Christian fronts. But my answer is that the Holy Spirit cares. Through Daniel, John, Paul, and the very Son of God, He has given us an answer to the question asked by some of the first disciples. Do you remember the incident? It is recorded in Matthew 24:3. They wanted to know specifically when Jesus would return to them, and what would be the sign of that coming. Jesus gave them a very specific answer. But we have been locked in a traditional interpretation for so long that we are afraid to venture out and listen to what He really said. His response was clear and understandable. And knowing that response is the first step in knowing the "who" behind the "what" that is coming.

We'll talk about all that later. My point here is to respond to the somewhat lazy attitude of many western Christians to the Word of God. Some of it comes from teachings disseminated by those opposed to the literal meanings of Scripture. For them, antichrist is a force, or a church system, and the question that I raise is preposterous. They believe that narrowing everything down to one man in one short period of time is not an option. But in the end, Scripture reveals such a man and his personal demise in the Lake of Fire (Revelation 19:20). Empires and church systems are not normally thrown into perdition all at once. But men are.

I am not yet quite as old as was Daniel, who was physically overwhelmed when he received the messages we will examine. But even at my age, dealing with the revelations he saw (and we need no new ones, thank you!) is a bit draining. The implications raised by the facts I have discovered are mind-consuming as well as time-consuming. The pictures conjured up because of the staggering truths of our future tend to crowd out lesser thoughts. And this too is an answer to those who would still say, Who cares?

I care, for one. The Spirit told us all in Revelation 13:18, "Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast..." and in Matthew 24:15, "...whoever reads, let him understand." Wisdom, knowledge, understanding, are not forbidden by Scripture, especially knowledge of His Holy Word. Only a love-less proclamation of that knowledge or an attempt to bring pride and glory to self because of that wisdom are condemned in the Word (I Corinthians 13).

Would so many chapters of the Bible be devoted to the end-time theme if God meant His people to remain blind and ignorant? No, let's give to the study of every detail of the Word the same time and energy we might otherwise spend on true vanities, such as sports activities, the media in general, and all else the world has to offer for our distraction. Those who say "Who cares?" need to be asked what their own priorities are.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. Just about every day I'm writing a blog featuring some news, a book, or a story of North Korea. There's a live news feed on the site, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together!

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond on my site.

Luck Is What Happens When

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You Have the Power

Matthew 18: 19-20 I say to you, that if two of you agree on earth about anything that they make ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven. For where two or three have gathered in My name, I am there in their midst.

There is power in the name of Jesus. There is power in fellowship and in numbers. Power to live the life promised to you comes in fellowship and agreement with others. Dont isolate yourself from other believers.

When you come into agreement with other believers, Satan has to flee. He cant stand it when two or more believers in Jesus get together in prayer. For many years, Satan has tried to stop the movement of Jesus but like a mighty army, the church keeps moving onward.

We have the power in the name of Jesus. Though Satan rages, you cant be defeated because you have the power in the name of Jesus Christ. Use His name when you face battles you cant win.

Remember Jesus promised that when two or more of us get together in His name and ask for help He would answer. Today find another Christian and ask Jesus to give you the power to overcome whatever obstacle stands in your way of victory.

The battle has already been won all you have to do is walk in that victory. You will not be defeated in the name of Jesus. You will soar like an eagle today in the name of Jesus. In the name of Jesus, you will see mountains moved. In the mighty name of Jesus, you will see your life change.

Today be determine to find other believers and join hands with them in prayer and power. You dont have to go through this life alone, find others, and find power in the name of Jesus Christ.

Prayer Focus: Lord, lead to me to others who share my faith in You. Teach me how to use your power to overcome obstacles in my life.

Dr Bob Wilkerson is author of the book, "I Will Not Be Defeated Anymore". He is dedicated to helping others recover from life altering circumstances. Dr. Bob is a motivational speaker/singer with a true life story of God's power to change any individuals life. If your Church or organization is looking for a dynamic speaker/singer please email him today. challenger7777@gmail.com

Hope In Religion

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Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a christian Ideas library filled with great movies on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world.

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