Slippery Slopes

I think it is safe to say that most everyone, at sometime in their life, has slipped and perhaps fallen, because of slippery slopes.  This is quite common in higher elevations where snow and ice are more prevalent than lower elevations.  

The probability of injuries is higher when dealing with slippery slopes of any kind.  Statistics claim that falls are the number one cause for injuries in senior citizens.

In the winter months when my wife and I visit our son and daughter-in-law in another city, just north of us, I am always attentive to slippery roads and icy sidewalks.  Their home is located in a mountainous region of our state rather than at sea level where we live.

Black ice is always a concern when driving the windy roads to their place, and caution is exercised with regard to proper tires or chains, and traction devices that attach easily to the bottoms of our shoes.  These precautions help prevent slipping on wet and icy surfaces.

There was a time when slippery slopes were the objectives of having fun.  When I was a kid, I rode on large pieces of cardboard down grassy hillsides.  It was fun, but dangerous at times.  I remember at the bottom of this one particular hill was a fairly large drop-off that I avoided at all cost; stopping my descent in plenty of time to bail before reaching the point of no return.  

Had I plummeted over the edge, it would have spelled Trouble with a capital T.  I was naïve, invincible, and having fun.  This is what boys and girls do.

I shudder to think what could have happened, because of my foolhardiness.  I was not concerned with the consequences that were awaiting me had I gone over the edge.  I trusted my ability to stop the momentum when I needed to.  I was having fun and it was worth the risk. 

This lack of common sense reminds me of the slippery slopes of temptation that often have disastrous consequences at the bottom of the fall.  People think they are able to stop in time and not sin through their own strength and volition, but too often they fail as a result of stupidity.

When Satan tempts a person to sin and they find themselves in areas where slipping will most likely occur, it is good to know that God always provides a way out of the darkness of temptation; an easier, less strenuous path that leads away from the slippery slopes of their undoing.

I used the word ‘undoing’, because that is exactly what sin does to a person that fails to exit temptation.  Satan is in the business of trying to undo all of the good that God is doing in their life—happiness; peace of mind; joy in living.

The devil is a hard taskmaster and quite deceptive; making people think they are having fun and that it is okay to play on slippery slopes, when all the time he is leading them into rough terrain; closer to the edge of no return.

The manner in which Satan leads a person deeper and deeper into uncharted, unfamiliar surrounds; attempting to get them lost and turned around in their walk of faith, brings back memories of when I was a youngster going on outings with my dad, especially when deer season rolled around.  I am reminded of the areas that we hiked through in search of a buck (male deer).

Having taken and passed the state required course on gun safety made it possible for me to hunt a variety of diverse game.  I think deer hunting was my favorite as was my dads.  Determination was his middle name and hunting was his game.  Dad took me places in the mountains where few people hunted; off the beaten track as it were, where the big bucks hung out.

The hiking boots that he bought for me made it less difficult to trek through the dense undergrowth of water-soaked ravines and climb slippery inclines.  I can only imagine the lack of traction that common tennis shoes would have failed to provide.

I was always conscious of each step that I took, while remembering the importance of solid, safe footing when carrying a rifle; as was taught in the gun safety course.

When the going got tough and Dad saw fatigue beginning to take its toll on me, he opted to take an easier, less strenuous path of travel having flatter terrain; not as steep and slippery from the morning dew and moss that had built up on the moist ground under the trees.

When the sun was setting and dusk was upon us, I remember him saying, “Let’s head back to camp.”  Dad had a keen sense of direction and never got us lost.  In that I was looking for a deer and not paying attention to landmarks, I thought we were heading deeper into unfamiliar areas, while all the time we were just outside of camp. 

I was sure that Dad was going in the wrong direction, but he knew the way out of the darkness.  I hollered, “Camp is this way!” as I pointed in the opposite direction.  Dad smiled and said, “Follow me son.”  I did what he said, because I trusted him, and yes, camp was there as he knew it would be—the place where I could rest from my travels.  I was completely turned around.

Looking back at the ventures we had reminds me of our Father in heaven and how He watches over His children when the going gets tough and tiredness of the journey begins to set in, which can weaken their spiritual walk with Him.  He always provides a more easily traveled path where the slippery slopes of temptation can be avoided.

God provides adequate footwear, which is part of the Whole Armor of God, as we continue our journey on the straight and narrow path of righteousness.  You can read about the amazing protection that this armor provides in (Ephesians 6:10-18).

God knows when we are in a dilemma and says, “Follow me.”  When we trust Him, He leads us to a place of rest, called heaven.  If a person fails to keep their eyes on the landmarks of early teachings about God, because they are too busy looking for games that take their mind off of the essential things that show direction, they can get turned around and head down the wrong path. 

We must stay alert with our eyes opened wide; taking note of important landmarks so that we do not get lost in the devil’s rough, unforgiving terrain.

(1 Peter 5:8), “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”

Our adversary wants to injure and devour us physically and spiritually if possible.  He wants us to fail and become turned around in our belief in God Almighty.  Satan tempts us with things that appear to be fun and lighthearted, but they produce a demoralizing result at the end of the journey, called hell.

(Proverbs 16:25), “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.”  

God gave His Son to die on the cross for our sins.  When we call out to God for forgiveness, He forgives our transgressions and cleanses us from all unrighteousness.  Jesus is the way, the truth and the life; in Him only, we find eternal life.  When we follow the truths of God’s Word—the Holy Bible—our path is illuminated, which provides the necessary light to see where to place our next step.

(Psalm 119:105), “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

The slippery slopes of temptation will not affect those that are looking for God’s provision of escape and then taking it.  Guarding against playing in the devil’s wetland of deception is the sure way to keep our feet firmly planted on a non-slippery surface, which is Jesus Christ—the solid, unmovable rock.

(1 Corinthians 10:13), “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

No Ifs, Ands, or Buts

We live in a society of non-responsible people that lack accountability.  I suppose it is the nature of the beast to blame everyone else for their station in life if they feel less than adequate where success is concerned.  Or they consider it God’s fault for their lack of not measuring up to the general self-sufficiency of others.

Responsibility, since Adam and Eve, is the hardest lesson to learn, because it is easier to play the blame game than submit to accountability, which takes effort and a dedicated mindset to accomplish something good in life.

In the beginning, God warned Adam to not eat the fruit that the “tree of knowledge of good and evil” produced in the Garden of Eden.  God was abundantly clear and concise as He instructed Adam that if he were to disobey Him, he would surely die.  It was a nonnegotiable commandment; no room for compromise.  God meant what He said—no ifs, ands, or buts.

When Adam and Eve ate the fruit, they dishonored themselves and God, causing their sin nature to extend to all humanity.  And because it was visited upon each individual, it is the base reason for deceitfulness to rule a person’s life.  People try to get by with things without being discovered; not wanting to pay the penalty for their actions.

I believe carnal (fleshly) Christians (fence riders between right and wrong) justify their lack of obedience to God, because of the scripture in (1 John 1:9).  They think it is an escape clause to excuse them from accountability in the present.  I also believe that they use it as an excuse to exempt themselves from towing the line regarding the 10 Commandments and obeying them.

(1 John 1:9), “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Every time a Christian sins, they are acting carnally.  Do I believe that true Christians remain in a carnal state?  No.  Until we are delivered from our sinful flesh either by way of the rapture (Christ’s second coming) or through death, there will be outbreaks of carnality.

Christians who become carnal in their behavior can expect God to lovingly discipline them, because He does not want anyone to perish in hell, but to come unto repentance and learn to abstain from sin.  It is a learning process of how to put off the old nature and take on the new character, temperament, and attributes of Christ.

Does God truly forgive sin, and should He forgive the violist of sinners?  Who am I to ask such questions?  I, like Paul in the Bible, was chief of sinners.  I was on a fast track to hell with a one-way ticket.  Were it not for God’s amazing grace, there go I, perhaps the violist of sinners. 

I was lost and without a Savior; sinking in the mire of sin, but God reached forth His hand of mercy.  Grasping my soiled hand He pulled me to safety, because of His great love for me.  He loves you with this same kind of love—Agape Love. 

Though lost, I am now found, because of Jesus Christ, God’s Son, who set me free from the bondage of sin.  I was redeemed and cleansed from the filth of unrighteousness when I cried out to Him in desperation.  He forgave me of my sins and set me on a new path of righteousness. 

Does God forgive sin?  Does He truly forgive?  Yes, I trust God’s Word.  I know what my disposition was like before the transformation, compared to the joy that I now possess, because of the “born again” experience.  

Do I battle sin?  Yes.  But greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  I have found the way.  Jesus is the way, the truth and the life.

(Ephesians 2:8-10), “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God,” vs.9 “not of works, lest anyone should boast.”  vs.10 “For we are His workmanship; created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.”

God would rather a person be hot or cold and not lukewarm; otherwise, the Bible says that He will spew them out of His mouth.  I am convinced that when people sin, they have the idea that when they ask God to forgive them later, He will do so.  They believe that everything will be kosher and hunky-dory with the Lord at that time, because of all the other times they sinned and then repented. 

Personally, I believe that they are walking on thin ice with God.  Like Adam and Eve, people that willfully sin are being deceived and seduced by Satan; beguiled by the devil to commit sin.  Justifying their actions, after the fact, only leads to heartache and a hardening of the heart.

I truly believe that God forgives sin, but when a person knowingly sins, they will most likely have to reap what they sow.  No ifs, ands, or buts, means just that—sin is sin—there is no getting around it.  There are no in-between levels that give latitude to justify the act of willful sinning; having the idea of asking God to forgive them later after they have (tasted the fruit).

If I didn’t believe that God forgives sin, I might as well throw in the towel of defeat and go on my sinful way; surrendering to Satan, because all hope of eternal life in heaven would be missing in my soul.  But I do believe, because of grace! 

Humanity is in the dispensation of grace, not under Old Testament law that God gave to Moses on Mount Sinai.  Jesus paid the price for sin when He willingly died on the cross for you and me.  And because of His death, grace was born.

It is to our benefit that we not sin, both spiritually and physically, because of the dreadful things that lurk in the devils playground of wrongdoing.  If a man or woman slips and commits sin, God’s grace is sufficient to forgive them of their transgression and cleanse them from all unrighteousness; however, the domino effect of sinning may remain, perhaps infecting the body with irreversible diseases.

Premeditated sin with the opposite sex, whether an act of fornication or adultery, and then asking for forgiveness later will no doubt be forgiven, but individuals that practice this reprehensible behavior may have to endure the consequences of their actions.  They run the risk of contracting Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), which is a late stage of HIV.  Other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are also possibilities of immoral activities.

The consequences of getting hooked on pornography and other filth that is found on computer websites can ruin family relationships and lead to divorce.  Disobedience to God will take its toll one way or the other.

Committing crimes of passion, or yielding to a raging temper and then hurting someone because of it, can land a person in jail; the price they must pay for disregarding the law.  The reason God forgives sin is that the penalty for a person’s sinful actions was paid for, in full, at the cross where Jesus shed His blood for the sins of mankind.

Does God forgive sin?  Absolutely, but Adam and Eve were expelled from the garden after sinning and suffered the effects of breaking the rules of a (no ifs, ands, or buts) God that expects compliance to His rules.  Any person that thinks they can sidestep God and continue to sin, without facing repercussions, is only fooling themselves.

Children of God; true Believers and members of God’s family; reject sin in any form.  They strive to abide in truth.  And if they should fall, while serving God in their daily walk with Him, it is essential to immediately ask for forgiveness and pray for strength to overcome temptations the next time they come around.

Christians who lean on the Holy Spirit for strength to face trials of life, and allow Him to make them perfect in the sight of God, will walk victorious with their head held high, because they know all is well with their maker.

God sees the heart of each individual that serves Him and knows when that person is tiptoeing around sin or running from it; taking the escape route that God provides with every temptation.  He knows when we stumble and commit wrong doings in fits of anger, or when we have bouts with vanity and pride, or fail to forgive others of their trespasses against us.  And He sees our pettiness, yet forgives us when we ask Him to do so, because He is patient and long-suffering.

God desires that we abide in truth and not partake of unnecessary obsessions that harm the body; like alcoholism, which can cause cirrhosis of the liver; tobacco usage that has been proven to cause lung cancer and other types of cancer; and drug abuse that destroys brain cells.

When habits are overcome, and they can be with the help of the Holy Spirit, abstaining from such things enable abundant living to thrive.  When we give God a “no ifs, ands, or buts” kind of obedience, it provides the Father-son / Father-daughter relationship to flourish.  God opens the floodgates of heaven and pours out blessings that cannot be contained.

(Luke 6:38), “Give, and it will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom.  For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”

When we draw nigh to God, He draws nigh to us.  Our obedience to His commandments allows us to live in health, both physically and spiritually. 

Though our Heavenly Father is a “no ifs, ands, or buts” God, He loved us so much that He died a cruel death on the cross after being incarnated into Jesus as a babe in the manger.  There was no other way to restore son-ship with lost man except the death of His Son at the age of 33.  Jesus was God-Man; God in flesh.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Miracle on Lonely Street

For years I wandered down a path of indecisiveness; having questions about the unfairness that life presented.  It seemed that everything I tried ended in disappointment or frustration, which created more questions regarding what was missing in my immediate surroundings and deep within my inner consciousness.

Happiness was always slipping through my fingers like sand; never sticking around to give me lasting solace and gratification.  It was here one moment and then gone before I knew what happened; producing loneliness, which was no stranger.

Experiences were okay in the moment, but the reality of a meaningful encounter took flight faster than a frightened bird from its predator.  The only difference between the bird and me was its comfort zone in flight, opposed to the comfort level that was lacking in my world of alarm when I allowed sin to infiltrate my life.  Peace of mind diminished quickly.

Sin has its moments of pleasure, but like a person stranded in the desert-of-life, one sip of water does not completely satisfy the thirst that is manifested from the scorching, unbearable heat that the act of sinning produces, whether with friends or solo encounters.

Though I was in the midst of several buddies at get-togethers, jamborees, or beach parties, my world of loneliness was that of my own making; emotionally bleak in a crowd, because of the warfare going on inside me.  It was a spiritual battle between right and wrong; good and evil.

The training I received in my youth from Christian parents conflicted with the lifestyle that I was living as an adult.  I knew the choices being made did not line up with God’s expectations, yet I pursued my desires anyway.

I wanted to be happy, but was not willing to go the way of the cross to find it.  Satan’s counterfeit for happiness quickly faded.  That which I perceived would bring contentment, always failed to do so; nothing lasting. 

Though I had money, a new car, and the freedom to do as I pleased, the reality of Easy Street living was always reduced to Lonely Street drudgery each time the high of the moment wore off.  At the end of the day I was left alone with only my conflicting thoughts to keep me company and a desire for more ventures to try and satisfy my longings, which I hoped would soon materialize.

I knew that God was peace and that through Him I could have fellowship with His family as a born-again Believer, but I spurned God’s love; not wanting to compromise my standard of living to bow to His authority or give Him power over me.

I wanted my way, not God’s way.  And so it went.  My choices left me thirsting for more, because I was headed down the path of least resistance.  Giving into temptations was easier than taking a stand against them, which produced negative results the more I refused God’s clemency.

Newton’s Third Law of Physics was certainly at work in me.  “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction force.”  The more I involved myself with sin; the consequences of my actions slapped me in the face; showing little mercy.

After a long period of time running from God, I finally came to the realization that sin did not pay.  I could not find contentment through my inadequate efforts.  The ongoing rebellion against the principles of God produced much loneliness.  I was falling deeper in debt, spiritually bankrupt, with no solution of how to break the firm hold that sin had on me.  I needed a Savior to calm the angry waves in my life.

In desperation I prayed for help and asked God to forgive me of my sins.  A miracle took place on Lonely Street that night.  I was set free from the bondage that sin had caused.  I began to fly in a safer, more favorable environment where peace and serenity abide.  Like an eagle soaring high above the dangers of congestion and woes that Lonely Street presented, I experienced the New Birth through Jesus Christ.

I drank of the living water that flows from God’s throne.  It quenched my thirst as my parching tongue tasted of its splendor and undeniable purity, which satisfies forever.  No longer do I find myself wishing for more, unsatisfying ventures, because God gave me His Son, Jesus, so that I may have life, and have it more abundantly.

God is no respecter of person whatever your status in life may be.  That which He did for me He will do for you when you make up your mind to accept Him as Lord and Savior of your soul.  He is standing at your heart’s door knocking.  All you need to do is turn the knob and open the door; Jesus will come in.  It’s that simple.

(John 10:10), “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.  I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” 

(Jeremiah 29:11), “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

(Romans 12:2), “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Muddy Water

The muddy water that I am referring to in the title is not a cocktail drink called, Muddy Water that is made with Italian liqueur; mixed with orange and lemon juices, nor is it the thirst quenching iced tea—Betty Crocker’s Muddy Water; tea mixed with water, lemonade concentrate, and orange juice concentrate.  Muddy water that I am writing about is just that, water that is unfit for human consumption.

Not far from my parents’ house was a large marsh that was nestled amongst cattails; reeds of which were tall, slender grasses with plume-like inflorescences that grew along the water’s edge; quite dense in some areas around the perimeter.

When I was a youngster in preadolescence, tween as it is now called, I would walk or ride my bicycle the three miles to play there; my favorite spot to hang out with my friends.  Like most kids my age, I was naïve and somewhat mischievous; tempting fate at times without really knowing it.

The body of water had no outlet.  It was without motion or current, and foul from lack of movement, which produced stagnation.  There was no aeration system that would shoot streams of water high into the air through fountains; keeping the water oxygenated like ponds around office buildings that were incorporated with beautifully, landscaped surroundings. 

The muddy water of the marsh in this story was a breeding ground for mosquitoes, amoeba, and a host of other parasitic protozoa that lived in the quagmire.  It was a dumping place for all types of contaminants and, no doubt, feces from septic tanks of older houses that overlooked the swamp on the Southeast ridge.

My parents would have had a conniption if they were privy to what I was doing, because of the unsanitary conditions of the bog.  Places such as this encourage the acute viral disease of polio, which is manifested by means of contaminated feces.  Polio can produce temporary or permanent paralysis and even death, and enters the body through the mouth. 

Little did I know I was in harms way when I played pirates with my buddies as we floated on a makeshift raft that we commandeered from a couple of other boys.  We maneuvered the raft around the marsh by pushing long sticks into the mucky sediment, which stirred up the dregs; producing a higher intensity of muddy water.

It is a miracle that we didn’t step on broken glass or other unseen hazards when we pushed the raft away from shore to deeper water that would accommodate the weight of all us boys.  We were oblivious to potential danger as we sunk deep into the mire, feeling it squish between our toes as we waded knee deep in filth.  This was part of the excitement and adventure of having fun.

The saying, “Kids will be kids” can apply to adults as well.  How many times has God protected us from unseen perils and pitfalls that Satan placed in our pathway, which were meant for our demise as we unknowingly trekked through the devil’s cesspool of danger? 

In ignorance, we sometimes act like kids having fun; failing to notice the muddy water that we are playing in; totally unaware of the dangers that lurk within our environment, because Satan blinds us with desire and the thrill of having fun.  I believe that we would be shocked to know of the things surrounding us that God does not permit to touch our lives.  We should thank Him daily for His protection.

(1 Corinthians 10:13), “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to ma; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”

When a person fails to examine the substandard conditions that they are amidst; trying to satisfy their curiosity, or quench their thirst for fulfillment, excitement, and adventure, and perhaps searching out reasons for living, they can easily ingest muddy water, which contains a multitude of impurities that, like polio, not only affects their ability to walk a Spirit filled life, but can kill them physically and spiritually as well.

Death lurks in the filth of muddy water, whereas, life resides in the purity of the springs of living water that flow from God’s throne.  This unpolluted water is health to body and spirit; rich and most vital to our well-being.

When I was living in sin, my immediate surroundings were that of muddy water; full of unclean things.  I was sinking deeper into sin; over my head in waste; going down for the third time as pollutants filled my mouth and inner being.  In desperation I thrust my hand upward, and to my surprise someone grabbed it and pulled me to safety.  It was Jesus, the Son of God.

He revived me by doing CPR (Christ Paid Redemption) on me.  Jesus removed the contaminates from my body that were killing me, which was sin, as I lay prostrate before Him.  He put His loving arms around me and said, “I give you life, because I gave mine for you on the cross.”  No longer would I muck my way through life in the fecal sediment of muddy water.

Jesus Christ cleansed me of the filth that worldly living produced.  My soul was set free from the muddy water of sin.  No longer need I wallow in the quagmire of unclean living as a child of darkness; a place where my vision was blinded by Satan.  I now reside in the light and health of forgiveness and the purity of God’s love, through Jesus.  I am washed clean by God’s fountain of grace.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

But I Want It

Have you ever given thought as to the age of Eve when she disobeyed God and allowed the serpent to deceive her in the Garden of Eden?  Was it immediately after God created her that sin entered the garden, or was Eve in her 30’s, 40’s, 50’s; or perhaps one-hundred or one-thousand years old?  How long did it take Eve to give into temptation and allow the devil to beguile her?

The sin-nature that Adam and Eve passed down to humanity is the same driving force behind every obsession that mankind deals with when told they cannot have something.  It only fuels the fire of impetuous behavior. 

When some individuals are denied their impulsive desires, it creates a self-centered, self-indulgent attitude deep within their psyche.  Their rebellion says, “But I want it by whatever means possible, fair or unfair; by hook or by crook.”

God forbid if someone else wants the same thing they do, especially if there is only one item available.  If you don’t believe it, think back to the craze of Cabbage Patch Kids; they were the rage.  People were literally fighting each other to obtain one of these dolls to satisfy their obsessive and uncontrollable behavior.  Some store employees were trampled as they opened the doors for business. 

E-bay is an example of uncontrolled bidding at times when others want the same thing.  It amazes me when one person starts bidding and then someone else jumps in with their bid and on it does until the highest bid takes the auction. 

Many times the item sells for more than it is worth, because of bidding wars between people that refuse to submit to better judgment.  They wanted it whatever the cost, because someone else was obsessing over the same thing they desired, which made the craving all the more intense.  

Bidding brings out similar emotions as if someone is saying, “You can’t have it.”  It intensifies the quest to obtain the item; causing the heart to palpitate faster and blood pressure to rise; all because of the drive to obtain.  Good sense should have taken precedent, but the desire to acquire raised its ugly head, which surpassed the capability to say, “No, it’s not worth it.”  Adam and Eve fell as a result of a similar temptation. 

Like Eve, people get caught up in the momentary frenzy of decision making, which is stimulated by ongoing cravings that a covetous heart generates, thus, producing regrets at a later time.  This temporary insanity says, “But I want it.”  I think that most people can relate to comparable fixations at times.

Buying a new car that exceeds the household budget is a good example of wanting something so badly that failure to consider the hidden, negative aspects that encompass indebtedness is overlooked—exorbitant, monthly payments for one.  A person living from paycheck to paycheck should not give into temptations that obsession and the longing of their heart produces, until such time that they can truly afford the plunge.

Plastic money makes it easy to achieve ‘wants’ that people brood over, especially those individuals that are unable to kick the craving out of their yearning mind.  The penalty for their fixation is high interest rates and possible late fees; making the item cost more than it is worth; if in fact all of the required payments are made on time.  Stress accompanies the lack of money when payments are due, which is another factor of bad decisions.

A shortage of money will tear at the very foundation of marriages and personal self-worth when creditors start calling, because of a past due accounts.  Financial woes of indebtedness produce anxiety when people exceed their maximum limit of what they can afford to buy; all because of the “But I want it” nature.

As I said earlier; desire can overshadow good judgment.  When a person continually obsesses over something that they want, even having the knowledge that they should not involve themselves, sooner or later, because of over zealousness and a weakness of moral fiber to say ‘no’, they give into their aspiration and make irrational decisions that can affect every part of their living, depending upon the degree of the blunder they made.

I wonder how long it took the serpent to persuade Eve to eat the fruit of the tree that God placed in the midst of the Garden of Eden.  How many days passed after God told Adam not to eat the fruit that Eve gave into temptation and then encouraged Adam to do likewise. 

I believe that she made a point of walking past the tree each day, because the fruit was pleasing to the eye.  I have no doubt that she touched the fruit; squeezed and smelled it rather than directing her mind elsewhere and leaving it alone.

I think Eve toyed with the idea of taking a bite even though she must have remembered what God had told Adam.  No doubt she thought she was strong enough to resist fleshly desires by getting as close to the forbidden fruit as possible without fulfilling her throbbing desire to taste it. 

This is typical of present day fence sitters that tempt fate by straddling God’s line of demarcation that separates good from evil; a place where angels fear to tread.  Let’s face it, curiosity and rebellion affect good sense, thus, enticing a person to get as close to sin as they can without doing the deed.  It is trouble knocking at the door when this occurs.  Lust usually wins out and sin is realized, which brings remorse, condemnation, and regret.

If it actually took a period of time for Eve to yield to temptation, it stands to reason that she must have reluctantly left the tree each time, only to return another day with her heart racing in her chest, because of obsession, weakness of flesh, and a mouth that salivated at the very thought of the fruit. 

Assume, for the sake of argument that Eve continually reflected upon the fruit and how wonderful it would be to taste.  The end result, however or whenever it happened, was that she allowed the relentless urge to defeat her, while listening to the serpent (the devil) tell her that it was okay to do so.  Eve finally gave into temptation and sinned.

Eve should have ran in the opposite direction just like humanity should do today rather than allowing themselves to be deceived by Satan into sinning.  They should not take time to reason with self and the devil as to why they should be denied certain things that God says in His Word is sin.

Temptation is not sin of itself, but it becomes sin when individuals permit themselves to be manipulated by uncontrolled urges, while listening to the lies that Satan tells them, and then doing what they know is wrong in the eyes of the Lord.  So why did God create us in the first place?

God wanted to commune with mankind so much that He created man in His own image to walk and talk with in the cool of the evening.  I believe the body was made to live forever, because of the magnificent ability that God gave the brain to regenerate itself, and the rest of the cells throughout the body to reproduce.  

God’s plan for humanity was perfect until sin entered the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve disobeyed God and ate of the fruit that the ‘tree of the knowledge of good and evil’ produced.  At that moment, man’s physical lifespan was altered, which sealed their fate—death.

They chose to sin rather than keep themselves pure before God.  It was they, not God that made the choice, which I believe, at that moment, their bodies began to die.  Immediately thereafter they were ejected out of the garden after God confronted them regarding their sin.

(Genesis 2:16-17), “And the Lord God commanded the man saying, ‘Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat;’ ”  vs.17 “ ‘but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.’ ”

From the beginning of time to present day living, people are trying to figure out ways to lengthen their life of the seventy or so years that God limited mankind to, yet, every person born in the world, since Adam, will die one day, because of sin. 

The Fountain of Youth is nonexistent, though the development of new drugs and the advancements in surgical procedures have, without a doubt, lengthened our years.  What we do with this limited time matters most in the end.  Whether we abide in the Truth of God’s Word or yield to sin, our decision to serve God or Satan ultimately determines our final destination of heaven or hell. 

Two things are certain in life; death and taxes.  Don’t you wish you could live forever without having to die?  I know I do, but thanks to Adam and Eve and their “But I want it” attitude, my body will die just as theirs did, because of the sin-nature that befell me by proxy. 

My hope is not in things of this world, but in Jesus Christ only, of whom I have accepted as Lord and Savior.  Because of the price He paid on Calvary, my soul will live for eternity in heaven.  The blood that He shed on the cross for my sins, bought my salvation and the salvation of mankind.  All they need to do is invite Him into their heart, and they will be saved.

The most significant thing that separates the spiritual realm from the physical world of flesh and blood is simply this; eternity is just a heartbeat away.  Even though scientists have lengthened our lifespan, sooner or later, even if we live to be a hundred, the end will come.  This body will return to the dust from whence it came. 

I am delighted, beyond words, that I asked God to forgive me of my sins and invited His Son into this life form.  I need not fear what tomorrow may bring, because I have the assurance that I will awaken in heaven when I close my eyes for the last time on earth.  You too can have this confidence in God through Jesus Christ.

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Window Between Two Worlds

It is not always clear or distinct which door a Christian should walk through when decisions are needed.  For this reason, prayer is the key in finding God’s direction; remaining prudent and steadfast until such time that visibility is made clear where to place our next step, and then move with caution, while listening for God’s voice to speak to our heart.  It is a walk of faith.  

I've heard my Father-in-law use this illustration more than once.  He said, “When a person gives their life to God they are in His perfect will, but finding direction takes prayer.”  My dad believed that a person could, as he put it, “Pray through on things.”  He too believed in prayer and the positive results that praying brought about.

My wife and I just left McDonald’s where we go once in a while to just hang out and enjoy each other’s company.  This particular restaurant is kept immaculate in every way.  The restrooms, floors throughout, and tables are always clean.  The windows are free from children’s syrupy hand-prints; super spotless, so much so that I had to wear my sunglasses; sparkling clean.

Some restaurants are disgusting when it comes to cleanliness and the general appearance of things, which, in my opinion, speak volumes about the quality, or lack thereof, regarding the food that’s prepared in substandard kitchens.

I have walked out of establishments like these after visiting the restroom and seeing the lack of good housekeeping practices.  You know what I mean.  The thought of eating in places like this turns my stomach, but a person must open their eyes to see, rather than being blinded by the establishment’s name or chain of restaurants that they are a part of; which brings me to my thought for today.

What do clean windows or obscured, filthy windows have to do with anything in the light of God’s Word?  To see through a glass darkly, or in other words, difficulty in seeing through a pane of glass is indicative of the lack of clarity and good visibility.

The ancients of old used polished stone and metals such as brass to serve as mirrors.  They were nothing like today’s mirrors, which show exactly what we look like at any given time, while peering into them.

Sometimes I wish my vanity mirror was obscure and outdated like those in the past, because the older I get the more I see my dad, now in heaven, staring back at me—balding head, wrinkles, and jowls that are covered with gray whiskers each morning.  It is amazing what clarity reveals.

The scripture verse in the Bible that refers to the non-clarity of glass is found in (1 Corinthians 13:12).  For all intents and purposes, as I understand it, the analogy presented in scripture refers to a mirror that is not distinctive; having characteristics that are blurred and unclear to the beholder; not being able to see visibly the reflection that it is limited in providing.

(1 Corinthians 13:12), “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face:  now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.”

Another translation of this same scripture reads:

(1 Corinthians 13:12), “For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face.  Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known.”

Generally speaking, Christians desire to abide in truth and see the manifestation of God’s Spirit in their life, but too often, things have a way of getting in the way; an enigma or mystery as to how vision has become impaired and hampered to the point that dedication to God becomes a challenge. 

Christians need to keep their eyes on Jesus so they can see more clearly the way that leads to heaven…like the chorus, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus; look full in His wonderful face; and the things of earth will grow strangely dim; in the light of His glory and grace.”

As long as we are in this world, we see in part and we know in part.  But when Jesus returns to earth and receives all Christians unto Him, no longer will vision be impaired or hampered.

(1 Corinthians 13:9), “For we know in part and we prophesy in part.”  vs.10 “But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away.”

Temptation can interfere with good vision when a person yields to it.  It is as if temporary scales or cataracts form on inner, spiritual eyes that cause momentary blindness, which the devil strives to accomplish, until such time that sight is restored by the Holy Spirit when repentance is put into action through prayer.

It is like the flash of a camera that affects the natural ability of a person to see.  It is most difficult after the bright flash enters the eyes.  All that is seen is the brilliance of the bulb and its temporary affect that the flash has on the retina.  But when the eyes are closed, little by little, vision is restored.

(1 Corinthians 10:13), “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”

The ability to observe God’s plan in one’s life can be clear as long as they walk by faith and put their trust in God, even in the midst of the brilliance and temporal flash that temptation may create.  Though sin exists and there is a temporary lose of sight for the goal ahead—heaven, sight can be brought back by closing eyes in prayer and asking God to forgive them of their transgression.  Vision and the purpose of a Christ-filled life are restored. 

(2 Corinthians 5:7), “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”

(1 John 1:9), “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

When Christians enter heaven, the imperfections that accompany visibility on earth become visibly clear; and the lack of knowledge is transformed into total understanding.  Faith is no longer needed; it is swallowed in actual sight, and hope is replaced with enjoyment.  There is no room to believe and hope when we see and enjoy the excellence and perfection of heaven.

The window between two worlds, the spiritual and natural realm, is no longer a mystery, nor is it a challenge to see through, because we will see God face to face.  And when we see Him we will be like Him.

(1 John 3:2), “Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd 

The Fear of Dying

Though I have limited understanding in the realm of psychology, I still believe that most people, if they were honest, would say that dreading death is the number one fear they have.  To protect their innermost psyche, they bury the thought of it in the deepest recess of their subconscious, because they are uncomfortable talking about the unknown.  The only time it surfaces is when someone they know passes away. 

The realization of dying, when brought to the forefront of one’s thinking, produces fear.  People, in general, prefer living on the non-reality side of life where fear seldom shows its ugly face.  It is a fear of the unknown that people shy away from.

My wife just shared with me that when she recently went in for a medical procedure, she was fearful that she would not wake up from the general anesthesia.  This possibility is certainly in the back of most of our minds when going under any type of anesthetic.

The other day a young man emailed me regarding the trepidation that accompanies the mystery of dying and hell, of which I had touched on in one of my previous writings; “Messengers of God.”  I appreciate his sincere candor concerning my position on the subject matter of hell, whereas, his opinions inspired me to write these thoughts for today.

I would like to share a few of his viewpoints if I may.  He wrote, “People are already freaked out about death.  Sometimes hell feels so far away or non-existent, but death is ever-present.” 

He continued, “I know that the Word is clear about the consequences of sin is death, however, I feel that non-believers are more afraid of the unknown; the certainty of death and if there is a life after death.  That alone is cause for someone to believe in Christ that will give them hope.”

His perspective was thought provoking when he said, “I know that hell is reality, but when a person is afraid of death, in general, that is more frightening than hell, in my opinion, because we see death all around us.”

His remedy for combating the fear-factor of death was encapsulated in his following sentence:  “It is simple—admit that you have sinned (made bad choices), believe that Christ died on the cross for you and rose again, and confess that Jesus is Lord in your life—then you will not worry about death or the afterlife—God will take care of you.”

In that the devil is deceitful and the father of all lies, he is deceiving people everywhere with his deception; telling them that there is no hope for their station in life, especially the youth of our land.  The suicide rate of young people is staggering, because they lack hope.

It is not natural for people to harbor a death wish rather than enjoying life at its fullest unless they are perhaps suffering from a chemical imbalance in their body or enduring peer pressure or facing dismal circumstances that have removed all hope, which has caused them to give up on living.

It is a terrible thing when a person lacks hope, then nothing seems worth living for.  I can relate to this notion.  When I was younger I was quickly approaching an area of instability, like thin ice; living in sin with hope slipping through my fingers like sand. 

Satan was making me question, “Is this all there is to life?”  But Jesus gave me hope to face another day when I asked Him to forgive me of my sins.  The moment I invited Him into my heart He spoke peace to my trouble soul.  Now, everyday is new and exciting, because of the hope I possess.

I knew an individual that despised growing old.  When he was alive, if he heard a clock ticking, it disturbed him, because he felt that each tick of the clock was that much closer to him dying.  I think he was obsessed with the finality of death, and the thought of dying terrified him.  I believe that he feared dying more than anything.

Another person I knew also hated the thought of dying.  When turning thirty years old it devastated him and forty was worse.  It wasn't until the half-century mark was knocking at the door that something wonderful happened.  His friend said these words to him, “When you consider the alternative of having another birthday, it’s not so bad growing old.  Six feet under or another year older; what do you want?”  It put things into right prospective.

We need not only look at the beauty around us; we need to stop and smell the roses; to enjoy every moment of every day.

Like so many other people around us, another fellow that I knew was living so far from the peaceful shore of a Christ filled life that the darkness surrounding his topsy-turvy vessel was unbearable.  It was like being caught in a horrific whirlpool that was sucking him under for the third time; life ebbing away.  He did not want to die for fear of the unknown and what it held for him.

This man lacked the peace that being a Christian brings; peace that produces hope through Jesus Christ.  He was afraid to sleep at night for fear that he would die before morning light.  He knew that if there was really a hell he would end up there.

Remember the young man that emailed me?  I agree with his concept concerning death and the fear that the mind can produce regarding the certainty and finality of death; being afraid of the unknown.  But God can take away all fear.

I have heard of people dying and then coming back from the dead; telling others of their experience.  I will not comment on these stories.  As for me, I believe the moment that I am pronounced dead, I am already in the presence of God.  This is my hope, just like the thief on the cross next to Jesus on the day they were crucified.

(Luke 23:42-43), “Then he said to Jesus, ‘Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.’ ” vs.43 “And Jesus said to him, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.’ ”

The words of the young man that emailed me, resonates in my head.  “People are already freaked out about death, and that hell feels so far away or non-existent, but death is ever-present.”  Please allow me to end these thoughts with the following, loving remembrance. 

My mother-in-law, a mighty woman of God, passed on to her reward in heaven a short time back at the age of Ninety-three.  She was a prayer warrior that arose early each morning to pray for her family members, grandchildren, and those people needing God’s touch that were on her prayer list.  She then read the Bible and did her devotions. 

Just before she went to be with the Lord she came out of the comma that she was in; in her right mind and asked for the telephone.  She called each of her grand-kids and emphasized the importance of serving God and possessing the hope that He provides.  She quoted scriptures, prayed for them, and blessed each one.  She turned to those around her bed and bid each one goodbye and told us not to grieve her departure. 

She had no fear of dying, because perfect love casts out all fear.  Her hope was in whom she loved—Jesus Christ.  Mom knew where she was going, because she was made perfect in love.  There was no doubt in her mind, whatsoever, where her destination would be.  She had fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.  There was laid up for her the crown of righteousness in heaven.

Her demeanor and expressions were like she was saying, “Let’s get this show on the road” because she was ready to meet her Lord and Savior.  She closed her eyes; slipped back into a comma, and peacefully went home to be with Jesus. 

What a legacy Mom left!  Her example of a Christ-filled life will live on in the hearts and lives of her children, grandchildren, and their children’s children.  We need not fear death when hope of the resurrection is within us, because perfect love casts out all fear.

(1 John 4:17-19), “Love has been perfected among us in this:  that we may have boldness in the Day of Judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world.”  vs.18 “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment.  But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.”  vs.19 “We love Him because He first loved us.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

The Collapse of Readiness

I sometimes wonder if removing the televisions out of my house would be a wise decision, because of the muck that is being televised.  I believe that old time evangelists from the past had the right message after televisions made their debut when I was a youngster.  They preached with fervency that televisions were instruments of the devil, which I now, wholeheartedly agree with.  Their prediction has become a reality in this day in which we live.

Trying to find a halfway descent show to watch is certainly a challenge.  Immorality and the decay of decency are on the increase and have found their way into most everyone’s place of abode via television and personal computers.  Little by little the negative influences of viewing ungodly programs are becoming more acceptable in today’s homes than ever before in the history of television. 

(Solomon 2:15), “The little foxes that spoil the vines, for our vines have tender grapes.”  

When moral decency was recognized as a good thing and scrutinized to protect young, innocent minds, advertisements like “Cross Your Heart Bras” used a manikin to demonstrate the features of the bra.  Young eyes were not filled with lewd vulgarity.  But these precautions are gradually being eliminated; a thing of the past when modesty was considered respectable.  

Beautiful, well endowed women are the focal point of advertisements in the present, because “sex” sells.  This is only one, small aspect of corruption that is taking over programming, because producers know that filth is what most people want to see.  How far has society fallen?  Ads and shows on TV reveal the depth of degradation.

When I watch heartbreaking news on television, it exposes exactly what our nation and other nations throughout the world are becoming; countries accepting the statuesque of sin.  It is an ongoing, calculated erosion of principled living; turning it into unprincipled slavery. 

Satan is on the rampage to deceive and devour as many people as possible in the time that remains before the end of the world takes place.  I call this erosion, “The Collapse of Readiness.”

When I was a boy, very seldom did I hear disheartening words like kidnapped, molested, and murdered.  Drive by shootings and “wilding” (where a group of non-empathetic thugs attack and brutally beat innocent victims) were not commonplace, because the consequences of such actions was dealt with severely at home by dads or one of dad’s neighbors or police officers on the beat or the judicial system. 

Disrespect and disobedience were not tolerated.  Children were expected to tow the line and do what was right in the eyes of the law, at school, and at home.  Most children feared the “woodshed experience.”

The long and short of today’s societal problems is that kids and adults are out of control, because accountability has fallen by the wayside.  They lack the trepidation that I was raised with and have little fear of retribution for their actions.  No-one seems to know the solution for such degenerate tendencies, yet, the Bible gives straightforward guidelines pertaining to disobedient children if only they were applied.

In my day the hands of public school teachers, police officers, and parents were not tied as they are today.  They must abide by strict guidelines of restraint that have ultimately allowed misguided and hell-bent adolescents to do what they please with little self-control or respect for authority, which has been prophesied in the New Testament would happen.

(2 Timothy 3:1-5), “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come:  vs.2 “For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,” vs.3 “unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good,” vs.4 “traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,” vs.5 “having a form of godliness but denying its power.  And from such people turn away!”

I believe that we are in the last days spoken of in the Bible.  Look around you.  It is a distasteful, eye opening truth of what’s happening in every neighborhood, because hoodlums do not fear the consequences for their blatant disregard for law and order, while discounting the rights of others.

Fear is not in the vocabulary of perpetrators that commit wicked crimes against children, because they are protected from the general population of other prisoners, while incarcerated in prison. 

Being separated from freedom is not a deterrent anymore, because prisoner’s rights groups go above and beyond what is reasonable to make sure that privileges are adhered to.  Prisoner’s unions also look out for the rights of inmates, even those of the worst kind.  You would think that the forfeiture of rights should take precedence the moment unlawful behavior is carried out.

Inmates have all the comforts of home and more in some cases; carpeted weight rooms to workout in, basketball courts, and televisions to watch at their leisure, while eating three square meals a day.  But God will have the final say on Judgment Day if these men and women do not accept Jesus as Lord and ask God to forgive them of their sins.

The collapse of goodness, decency, and fare play is at an all-time high.  Integrity is quickly becoming less and less fashionable in this generation of thrill seekers.  But we do not have to throw up our hands in defeat or give into feelings of helplessness or live in fear. 

God cares about the welfare of His children and is touched by the feelings of their infirmities.  A Believer’s inner strength and the wherewithal to deal with today’s rising crime rate come from the Father above.  He hears us when we pray and speaks peace to troubled souls when answers seem to evade our questions. 

Though we live in the midst of chaos where young bullies and hardhearted adults commit heinous crimes against people of all ages, we must not lose sight of where our protection lays—the Holy Spirit.  We need not yield to the collapse of readiness like those around us are doing, but we have the ability within us to remain true to Jesus and keep our eyes ever looking for His second return in the clouds.

I was raised that this phenomena of Jesus’ return will happen when the inhabitants of earth least expect it.  He will break the eastern sky and with a trumpet sound and shout from the archangel, the Lord will come back for those that are waiting and looking for Him.

A collapse of readiness is overshadowing humanity worldwide.  People would rather go to a baseball game or watch weekend football than attend church.  The collapse of moral values and sensitivity to God’s Spirit is all around us, from actors and producers in Hollywood to individual homes where loved ones and friends are seeking pleasure rather than a closer walk with God.

The saying, “If it feels good do it.” is quickly surpassing scriptures that warn against doing such things.  It is becoming more and more the norm to seek gratification than abiding in truth for those lacking readiness to meet Jesus.  This choice of lifestyle does not change what is or what will be.  Though people change, God’s Word is unchanging—truth is truth and sin is sin.

(Romans 6:23),  “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

(Galatians 6:7-8), “Do not be deceived; God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.”  vs.8 “For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.”

Sadly, the expectancy of Jesus’ return is growing colder and colder in many people.  It behooves us all to take note of where our priorities are.  Indifference coupled with complacency is becoming the rule everywhere rather than maintaining a readied spirit to meet the Lord. 

The collapse of readiness is worse than ever, which should open the eyes of every Christian; causing them to pursue truth like never before; to be counted worthy to be called sons and daughters of Almighty God.

(Matthew 24:12-13), “And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.”  vs.13 “But he who endures to the end shall be saved.”

Though corruption is all around us, we can remain steadfast in our faith and not submit to things that would take our eyes off Jesus or the reward in heaven that He has promised to those that are faithful to the end. 

Though others may stray from truth, we through Christ can live in hope—the hope of God’s salvation—that one day we will hear Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things.  Enter into the joy of your Lord” (Matthew 25:21).

This hope is real to those that do not collapse under the load of temptation, while maintaining readiness for the Lord’s return.

This writing is an admonition to all Believers to resist the devil and keep minds centered upon Jesus.  The Holy Spirit gives the power to overcome all things.  In Him we stand without fear.

(1 John 4:18-19), “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment.  But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.”  vs.19 “We love Him because He first loved us.”

(James 4:7-8), “Therefore submit to God.  Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”  vs.8  “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.  Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double minded.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd

Messengers of God

Throughout the Bible we read about messengers of God that communicated His plan to mankind in diverse incidences and venues.  The frequency of their appearances were many, such as, angels that spoke to shepherds in the field regarding the birth of Jesus Christ, and the angel that told Mary and Martha that the Lord had risen from the dead on the third day after being crucified on a cross.

Numerous manifestations of God, by means of messengers, have been recorded in the Bible.  On occasion He spoke to humans in out-of-the-ordinary ways such as a disembodied hand appearing and writing on the palace wall in the presence of several of people at a banquet hosted by Belshazzar, king of the Babylonians.  This story is found in the Book of Daniel (Old Testament), Chapter 5. 

The message read, “Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin,” which was interpreted by the visionary Daniel as meaning the end of the Babylonian kingdom was near in time.  That night, Belshazzar was killed and the Persians sacked the city.   

There is an intriguing story in Numbers (Old Testament), Chapter 22, Verses 21-39 where a donkey spoke to a man named Balaam.  This animal saved Balaam from certain death.  Whenever there was a purpose and message that God wanted to reveal to someone, He used whatever means He felt necessary to communicate the message. 

God also used dreams to tell of future happenings and prophets that were filled with His Spirit to make upcoming events known.  Angels were sent to warn Lot that Sodom and Gomorrah were going to be destroyed with fire from heaven, because of the people’s willful disregard for the statutes of God.  Their sin was a stench in His nostrils. 

Messengers and messages come in many different forms.  The greatest messenger ever given to mankind was Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God.  All in all, God loves us with a never ending love and desires that we commit ourselves to Him and remain obedient unto death, which bonds God’s promises in the Bible with an inner hope that we will spend eternity in heaven. 

This expectation is a result of the faithfulness of God to forgive sin, coupled with the wherewithal in lost sinners to say yes to Jesus when He knocks at their heart’s door.  What could be greater than becoming a child of God (those that have accepted Jesus as Lord)? 

(John 14:1-6), “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.”  vs.2 “In My Father’s house are many mansions, if it were not so, I would have told you.  I go to prepare a place for you.”  vs.3 “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.”  vs.4 “And where I go you know, and the way you know.”  vs.5 “Thomas said to Him, ‘Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?’ ” vs.6 “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through Me.’ ”

Talk about messengers of God; have you ever stopped to consider the Angel of Death and the part he plays in the plan of God for our lives?  In every picture that I’ve seen, the Angel of Death is characterized having an evil-looking face, wearing a long, black-hooded robe, and carrying a crescent-shaped blade called a sickle:  a tool used for cutting down tall grasses and weeds.

I wonder if this angel is the same angel that casts sinners into the lake of fire after they have been rejected by God at the Judgment Seat in heaven, because of their sinful lifestyle, while on earth.

I do not believe that the Angel of Death is evil as portrayed in the movies or magazines.  He is God’s messenger and it is his responsibility to bring the reality of dying into alignment with scriptures.  It is our destiny that we shall all die unless taken by way of the rapture, which is the second coming of Jesus when He comes back to earth and receives all Christians unto Himself.

(Hebrews 9:27-28), “And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment,” vs.28 “so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many.  To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.”

Every person born of water (embryonic fluid) will die one time and then give an account to God for the things they did on earth.  Those that have been born of the Spirit (born again), having experienced the new birth through Jesus Christ, will not have to suffer everlasting punishment in hell.

Separation by death is always hard when we lose loved ones.  In that the Angel of Death is the messenger of God, I believe when our time comes that we must part this housing of flesh, God's messenger will lovingly, and with a smile, take our hand and lead us through the valley of the shadow of death into the presence of Almighty God.

(Psalm 116:15), “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.”

Is it strange that I would say the Angel of Death will have a smile on his face?  I think not.  He is smiling, because God is smiling.  All of heaven will rejoice as they did when one sinner repented of their sins, because a saint has crossed over into the place prepared for them.

Jesus will wipe away all tears, whereas, pain and suffering will be no more.  Perfect peace; perfect rest will be ours forevermore.  We need not fear what tomorrow may bring when we are secure in Christ today.

Though the ones left behind are deeply saddened when a loved one is taken, I am convinced that when born-again Believers pass from this life, they are rejoicing with the messenger of God as he leads them into the presence of their Savior.  That day is joy unspeakable and full of glory as they partake of their reward in heaven; all because they believed in the name of Jesus and accepted Him as Lord.

Those that die in their transgressions will hear the words of God, “I tell you I do not know you, where you are from.  Depart from Me, all you workers of iniquity” (Luke 13:27).  That horrific day will be filled with regrets and screams for mercy as the angel sadly and without a smile takes them to their punishment for rejecting Jesus Christ as Lord.

(Luke 13:28), “There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and yourselves thrust out.”

(Matthew 13:41-43), “The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and those who practice lawlessness,” vs.42 “and will cast them into the furnace of fire.  There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.”  vs.43 “Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father.  He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”

Jesus is our only means to inherit heaven and escape hell, because He is presently the Savior of lost souls.  But one day He will be Judge of those that turn their back on so great a salvation that God provided for all mankind—His Son.  Jesus died on a cross and paid the price for our sins.  We need only accept Him to be saved.

(John 3:16), “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”  vs.17 “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.  vs.18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.”

Please listen to the words from this messenger of God by way of this writing, while there is yet time to repent of your sins if you need to do so.

Written by,

Papa Boyd