Daniel 7:25–28 NIV [25] He will speak against the Most High and oppress his holy people and try to change the set times and the laws. The holy people will be delivered into his hands for a time, times and half a time. [26] “ ‘But the court will sit, and his power will be taken away and completely destroyed forever. [27] Then the sovereignty, power and greatness of all the kingdoms under heaven will be handed over to the holy people of the Most High. His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all rulers will worship and obey him.’ [28] “This is the end of the matter. I, Daniel, was deeply troubled by my thoughts, and my face turned pale, but I kept the matter to myself.”

What must happen regarding the oppression of God’s people must take place. “BUT,” the Heavenly Court will be seated, then judgment handed down on the evil king who harassed the people of God! His kingdom will be destroyed forever! Amen! “Then the sovereignty, power and greatness of all the kingdoms under heaven will be handed over to the holy people of the Most High. His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all rulers will worship and obey him.’” Oh what a great existence we will have for all eternity!

Before this eternal bliss comes we must go through trials just as Job, Jeremiah, Jesus, and many others have. And just as they proved faithful and showed the way to victory, God’s true children today will prove faithful, and be victorious:

Revelation 15:1–4 NIV [1] I saw in heaven another great and marvelous sign: seven angels with the seven last plagues—last, because with them God’s wrath is completed. [2] And I saw what looked like a sea of glass glowing with fire and, standing beside the sea, those who had been victorious over the beast and its image and over the number of its name. They held harps given them by God [3] and sang the song of God’s servant Moses and of the Lamb: “Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations. [4] Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed.”

Yes! God’s people will be forever victorious! But things will seem to get worse before they get better:

Daniel 11:33–35 NIV [33] “Those who are wise will instruct many, though for a time they will fall by the sword or be burned or captured or plundered. [34] When they fall, they will receive a little help, and many who are not sincere will join them. [35] Some of the wise will stumble, so that they may be refined, purified and made spotless until the time of the end, for it will still come at the appointed time.

Daniel 12:9–10 NIV [9] He replied, “Go your way, Daniel, because the words are rolled up and sealed until the time of the end. [10] Many will be purified, made spotless and refined, but the wicked will continue to be wicked. None of the wicked will understand, but those who are wise will understand.

Just as wickedness will increase in the time of the end, (Matthew 24:12–13) the purification and refinement of God’s Holy people will also increase. It will appear that evil is winning, but In reality God is:

Revelation 19:20 NIV [20] But the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who had performed the signs on its behalf. With these signs he had deluded those who had received the mark of the beast and worshiped its image. The two of them were thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning sulfur.

Revelation 18:19–20 NIV [19] They will throw dust on their heads, and with weeping and mourning cry out: “ ‘Woe! Woe to you, great city, where all who had ships on the sea became rich through her wealth! In one hour she has been brought to ruin!’ [20] “Rejoice over her, you heavens! Rejoice, you people of God! Rejoice, apostles and prophets! For God has judged her with the judgment she imposed on you.”

Ecclesiastes 7:8 NIV [8] The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride.

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There are people who think being a Christian means you never sin, make mistakes, or get afraid; that life will be smooth sailing. But What Does God Say?

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 KJV

“For all of us make many mistakes. If someone does not make any mistakes when he speaks, he is perfect and able to control his whole body.” James 3:2

“So the trouble is not with the law, for it is spiritual and good. The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin. I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate. But if I know that what I am doing is wrong, this shows that I agree that the law is good. So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. But if I do what I don’t want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. I have discovered this principle of life-that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love God’s law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God’s law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin.” Romans 7:14-25 NLT

“You must realize, however, that in the last days difficult times will come.” 2 Timothy 3:1 ISV

“But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you.” Psalm 56:3 NLT

“When a gentle south wind began to blow, they saw their opportunity; so they weighed anchor and sailed along the shore of Crete. Before very long, a wind of hurricane force, called the Northeaster, swept down from the island. The ship was caught by the storm and could not head into the wind; so we gave way to it and were driven along. As we passed to the lee of a small island called Cauda, we were hardly able to make the lifeboat secure, so the men hoisted it aboard. Then they passed ropes under the ship itself to hold it together. Because they were afraid they would run aground on the sandbars of Syrtis, they lowered the sea anchor and let the ship be driven along. We took such a violent battering from the storm that the next day they began to throw the cargo overboard. On the third day, they threw the ship’s tackle overboard with their own hands. When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and the storm continued raging, we finally gave up all hope of being saved.” Acts 27:13-20 NIV

“We think you ought to know, dear brothers and sisters, about the trouble we went through in the province of Asia. We were crushed and overwhelmed beyond our ability to endure, and we thought we would never live through it. In fact, we expected to die. But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God, who raises the dead. And he did rescue us from mortal danger, and he will rescue us again. We have placed our confidence in him, and he will continue to rescue us.” 2 Corinthians 1:8-10 NLT

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” Matthew 7:24-27 NIV

ENCOURAGEMENT

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:23-24 NIV

“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.” Romans 8:1-2 KJV

“Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.” Psalm 34:19 KJV

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NLT

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 NIV

“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:31-39 NIV

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“And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; AND LET THEM BE FOR SIGNS, and for seasons, and for days, and years.” Genesis 1:14 KJV

“And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. AND THEN shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.” Luke 21:25-28 KJV

Do we not see these signs going on today? Including the signs in the sky with the sun and moon? It means Jesus is about to reveal Himself to the whole world. And our (believers) redemption is so near! Jesus also said when these things begin to happen, “then look up,” which means to lift one’s body and soul up; to be elated, and exalted, to confidently rise up! 😀😁😂

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“What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” Mark 8:36 NIV

A lot of folks are losing their jobs today. Some folks have lost or are losing their jobs because they are Christians. That’s what this article is about. The first thing I’d like to say is congratulations! That’s right. Because you lost your job, not your faith, not your God. You didn’t lose your soul. You can get another job. But who can get another soul if they lose it?

YOU STILL HAVE WHAT MATTERS MOST

“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked. If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent. “Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.” Psalm 91:1-16 NIV

WOW! Wasn’t it comforting as you read the awesome protection we have in our Father? The first step to overcoming unemployment is to trust God. Not just getting another job. The same God who gave you your last job will safely bring you to your next occupation as you trust in Him. But if we panic and don’t seek His will in this, we’re asking for trouble.

DON’T PANIC

To illustrate: I recently became unemployed due to my faith. As I began looking for work I got a job offer from a company that was new at doing something I had done for 20 years. I was excited at first. But the job just didn’t come near enough to make a living so I had to turn it down and keep looking. A week later the CEO called me with what seemed like a better offer. I accepted, and requested this new offer in writing (an offer letter). When I got the email I received what he called, “A Compensation Package.” In it there was some very tricky language stating bonuses or commissions paid on a previous check can be deducted on a future check, “For any reason,” he deemed necessary. Basically, I could think I’m getting paid one thing and wind up with a lot less. Of course I was done with these guys after that. But what if I was desperate thinking, “I can’t get another job?” What if I decided not to trust the Lord and instead trust this evil CEO who’s clearly a crook? That would be panicking. And I would pay for it probably sooner than later.

“A shrewd person sees danger and hides himself, but the naive keep right on going and suffer for it.” Proverbs 22:3 NET

Merriam Webster’s Definition of the word, “Panic,” is:

“A state or feeling of extreme fear that makes someone unable to act or think normally”

“A situation that causes many people to become afraid and to rush to do something”

Panicking is from Satan. How do we know this? Because God’s word says:

“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 KJV

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 NIV

So when you feel panicky know who’s trying to influence you, and shake him off! Our Father doesn’t make us panic. He gives us the spirit of Power, of Love, and of a Sound Mind.

A TIP THAT WORKS

It’s interesting how all sorts of crazy thoughts come into our minds when we lose a job. Everything from feelings of worthlessness, loneliness, depression, etcetera. I’m sure you know who puts these thoughts into our heads? That’s right, Satan. Hence we must fight back.

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Ephesians 6:12 KJV

I would like to share with you a tip that works for me and helps keep the negativity out. I recently started doing this while job searching and it works. Before I send out a single resume I first pray to God and watch an encouraging short video or two. I go on YouTube and do a search like, “Christians out of work,” or “God still loves me though I lost my job,” etcetera. Just type in the search bar whatever you’re feeling. After watching an encouraging video or two I then start sifting through jobs and send out my resume. Starting the day with some positive Biblical encouragement makes the process so much easier. Whether you watch a video first or just read your Bible this will give you a positive outlook as you start your day and job search. Remember, God is in control of everything. He knows what we need even before we ask Him. He knows where our next job will be. So lets trust Him, that’s the key. Do not panic.

In conclusion I wonna leave you with the words of our Master Jesus:

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:25-34 NIV

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“But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.” 2 Timothy 3:1-5 NIV

There are more bullies now than ever: unholy people, without natural affection. It’s like they’re not even human some of them, hmmmm? But we know God can change any heart He chooses to. He changed us, didn’t He? And He forgave us too. That’s my consolation when I think of bullies. Some of these coldhearted folks really belong to God. They just don’t know it yet.

God desires that we work with Him in saving souls, not work against Him by returning evil for evil.

“On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:20-21 NIV

Who knows if a bully we know will become like the apostle Paul? Paul (who’s name was Saul) went around persecuting the church of God in the first century? He went from House to house snatching believers out of their homes and throwing them in jail. He also approved of their murders. This same guy who so zealously persecuted the church later became a bold Christian himself! You can read about him in the Bible book of Acts.

Stories like Saul’s (who​ later became the Christian known as Paul) give me comfort when I think of the bullies I encounter. No wonder Jesus says to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. (Matthew 5:43-48) Some​ of them are us, they just don’t know it yet. They too will one day know what it’s like to be bullied or persecuted because of their faith in Jesus Christ:

“In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!” “Yes, Lord,” he answered. The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.” “Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.” But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.” Acts 9:10-16 NIV

Of course every bully will not repent and come to Jesus like Saul did. Most bullies are who they are: children of the Devil. They have all of their father’s evil traits. They always lie, love to harass people, and use fear tactics to control others. Fire and sulfur, eternal torment in the lake of fire will be their reward:

“But cowards, unbelievers, the corrupt, murderers, the immoral, those who practice witchcraft, idol worshipers, and all liars-their fate is in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.” Revelation 21:8 NLT

Yes, the Devil has children too. We are not all God’s children like some say. That’s a lie:

“This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.” 1 John 3:10 NIV

Jesus told a group of religious folks this:

“You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 8:44 NIV

So you see the scriptures testify that there are children of God and children of the Devil.

Do not be surprised at how evil people are today. It is written that it would be this way. (2 Timothy 3:1-5) We are very much in the last days. And remember, some of those same bullies are us, they just don’t know it yet. But who will tell them about Jesus’ love and forgiveness? That’s where you and I come in. We have the awesome privilege of being fellow workers with almighty God! Be very careful not to let their conduct cause us to grow hateful. If our love grows cold Satan has gotten the victory over us.

“Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” Matthew 24:12-13 NIV

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“Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil and his brother’s were righteous. Do not be surprised, my brothers and sisters, if the world hates you. We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love each other. Anyone who does not love remains in death. Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life residing in him.” 1 John 3:12-15 NIV

Do you love your brothers and sisters? That is why you are so hated. You and I live in a world where the love of most has grown cold. (Matthew 24:12) We live in a world where most have the spirit of Cain who hated and murdered his brother. Only a few have the spirit of Abel who loved God and his brother. Yes, it’s that cut and dry. People either belong to God or they belong to the Devil:

“This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.” 1 John 3:10 NIV

To God there are only 2 classes of people: those who are already dead, or those who have passed from death to life through their faith in Jesus Christ. If you are truly alive you will always be attacked and harassed by the walking dead because of your faith in Jesus. If you are never attacked you need to examine yourself to see if you are truly in the faith. (2 Corinthians 13:5) The Bible says that all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted:

“Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12 NLT

But remember, when you follow Jesus and love the brethren (and even your enemies) this shows that you have passed from death to life. You are alive indeed. You have eternal life! How great is it then that you have the privilege of suffering for Jesus Christ and are being persecuted because of Him:

“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:10-12 NIV

“For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him.” Philippians 1:29 NLT

“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.” 1 Peter 4:12-13 NIV

“It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us.” 2 Timothy 2:11-12 KJV

Jesus wants us to turn our focus on what being persecuted for Him means not on how it feels. And I can tell you from experience that when we do this it doesn’t feel as bad anymore. But when we focus on what others are doing to us our problems get magnified like looking through a magnifying glass, and it hurts way more. To illustrate, take a small dime and hold it close to your face. It’s now big because you have it up close in focus. Now move that dime as far away from your eyes as your arm will extend. It’s quite small now, isn’t it? Because it’s out of focus. That’s how troubles are. Whatever we focus on the most becomes bigger. And anything out of focus becomes significantly smaller. You and I must learn to focus on the right things and not on the wrong things. Let’s focus on how big our God is by holding Him up close to our eyes; by studying and meditating on His words, His faithful dealings with us in the past, and His awesome promises.

You believe God, right? You believe that He can’t lie, correct? Then listen to what God says about our troubles:

“For our LIGHT AND MOMENTARY troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NIV

God says that our troubles are light and momentary. So if they feel super heavy, and like they will never end, can it be because we are focussing on them, or viewing them the wrong way? Shouldn’t we pray to God to give us His view, His perspective when it comes to our trials? He will help us if we ask Him. (James 1:5-8)

Everything I’m encouraging you to do I am guilty of not doing. Like you I am learning and fighting to do God’s will every day. I also know from experience how terrible things go when I don’t obey God and keep worrying about stuff. I don’t want to be stuck on stupid so I’m fighting hard to do things God’s way, the much better way. When you think about it, is it wise to compound problems we already have with another heavy load called WORRY?

JESUS SAID DON’T WORRY

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:25-34 NIV

One of the most coolheaded people I know is my son. He is not easily excited about anything. There are times I wish I was more like him. Recently I was facing a trial and pondering the way my son handles things. Then I heard a small still voice inside me say, “You taught him well. Now do what you taught him to do. Don’t worry.” Guys we must fight through prayer and study of God’s word to keep our eyes focussed on Jesus Christ, not on our problems. They will appear bigger than they really are if we focus on them. We will be doing ourselves much harm if we don’t obey Jesus who says, “Don’t worry.”

In conclusion I would like to leave you with a quote I once heard on someone’s voicemail greeting. The lady wished whoever was calling her a good day and said, “Instead of looking at your problems and how big they are, look at your problems and tell them how big your God is.” Wow! That stuck with me for years. It’s one of the greatest quotes I’ve ever heard because it agrees with something Jesus said. It goes like this:

“He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:20 NIV

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“We know, dear brothers and sisters, that God loves you and has chosen you to be his own people. For when we brought you the Good News, it was not only with words but also with power, for the Holy Spirit gave you full assurance that what we said was true. And you know of our concern for you from the way we lived when we were with you. So you received the message with joy from the Holy Spirit in spite of the severe suffering it brought you. In this way, you imitated both us and the Lord. As a result, you have become an example to all the believers in Greece-throughout both Macedonia and Achaia.” 1 Thessalonians 1:4-7 NLT

In the verse above it is clear who really gets the gospel message and are truly saved. First of all they are God’s elect or chosen. This is a work done by the Holy Spirit. It does not originate with man. When the Holy Spirit is speaking to someone being saved He gives them full assurance that what he/she is hearing is the truth. The Spirit demonstrates this not only with words but also with power:

“And the disciples went everywhere and preached, and the Lord worked through them, confirming what they said by many miraculous signs.” Mark 16:20 NLT

“God also testified to it by signs, wonders and various miracles, and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will.” Hebrews 2:4 NIV

Those who are truly saved receive the message with joy, and don’t let it go in spite of persecution that comes because of believing in God’s word. This is in contrast to the many who are called but are not chosen:

“For many are called, but few are chosen.” Matthew 22:14 KJV

“The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message about the Kingdom and don’t understand it. Then the evil one comes and snatches away the seed that was planted in their hearts. The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. But since they don’t have deep roots, they don’t last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God’s word. The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced. The seed that fell on good soil represents those who truly hear and understand God’s word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!” Matthew 13:19-23 NLT

Jesus makes it very clear who is really saved. If we want a relationship with Almighty God we can repent while there is yet time. God will forgive us for all of our sins. All we have to do is ask him. All we have to do is confess to Him that we have not lived up to His righteous standard, and repent from our hearts. Let him know that you do want to live for Him and ask Him to guide you. The benefits of doing this are staggering! Jesus will give you a new life. He will help you build your life the way God wants it to be; a life filled with love, joy, peace, and many good things. More than that the moment you repent you now have eternal life. That’s right! When you breathe your last breath on earth you will be with God in heaven forever, never again to experience any more pain or sorrow. Repent to God. Accept Jesus’ sacrifice for your sins. He loves you so much and doesn’t want anyone to perish. He will forgive you no matter what you have done. Just bring it to Him in prayer. And don’t worry, He will show you what to do next.

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“And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness.” 1 John 5:19 KJV

“In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.” 2 Corinthians 4:4 KJV

“Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience.” Ephesians 2:2 KJV

“This great dragon-the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, the one deceiving the whole world-was thrown down to the earth with all his angels.” Revelation 12:9 NLT

“Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’ ” Matthew 4:8-10 NIV

“When the seventy-two disciples returned, they joyfully reported to him, “Lord, even the demons obey us when we use your name!” “Yes,” he told them, “I saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning! Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy, and you can walk among snakes and scorpions and crush them. Nothing will injure you. But don’t rejoice because evil spirits obey you; rejoice because your names are registered in heaven.” Luke 10:17-20 NLT

“Now is the time for judgment on this world; now the prince of this world will be driven out.” John 12:31 NIV

“Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:13-14 KJV

All the verses above prove that the whole world system is ran by Satan the Devil, and he rules everyone in it except those who have been set free by Jesus Christ. (John 8:31-32) That’s why the world we call reality is so fake. It takes after it’s master; the angel who so desperately wants to be God. This world is filled with every imagined and unimaginable falsehood. Let’s examine just a few.

Our political system is fake. The religious system is fake. The medical system is fake. The entertainment industry that makes people look more beautiful than they really are is fake. The news isn’t real. The banking system is fake. The economy is fake. Your food is fake. Your water is fake. Jewelry is fake. Artwork is fake too. Knowledge that people are given about the origin of life and our physical world; that it all came by a big bang, all fake! Explosions don’t create meticulous order. They produce chaos. Men today are fake and women are fake too. Hair is fake. Body parts are fake. All the supposed history in the history books of the world is fake. People we praise as heros are really villains, hence fake. Your friends are fake. So are your enemies. Contracts are fake. Insurance policies are fake. Craftsmanship is fake. The education system is fake. Wars are fake. Not that people don’t die in them, but the reasons we’re given for having wars are fake. I can go on and on and on. This entire world system of things is fake! It’s garbage! And no wonder, it’s ran by Satan the Devil, the epitome of fakeness.

THE REAL LIFE

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 NIV

There’s the real life! It’s all found in Jesus. Whoever believes in Him has eternal life! Whoever does not will perish​ forever. There is nothing fake about Jesus. Of course there’s a whole lot of hypocrites out there who claim to represent Him. But nothing is fake about Jesus Himself. He’s so real that even His enemies strive super hard to prove that He doesn’t exist. And as far as the many religious hypocrites out there that claim Jesus with their mouths but dishonor Him with their lifestyles, Jesus said:

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’ ” Matthew 7:21-23 NIV

Jesus foretold there would be many religious people claiming to belong to Him. But, “I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!” is what they will hear on the day of judgment. So don’t pick apart Jesus Christ because of what these fakers do. Get to know who Jesus really is for yourself by studying the Bible accounts of the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. See for yourself if there is any fakeness about Him.

For those of us who strive to avoid all forms of hypocrisy and are convinced of who Jesus really is I leave you with this final encouragement:

“Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News. Don’t be intimidated in any way by your enemies. This will be a sign to them that they are going to be destroyed, but that you are going to be saved, even by God himself. For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him. We are in this struggle together. You have seen my struggle in the past, and you know that I am still in the midst of it.” Philippians 1:27-30 NLT

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“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.”

I love this passage because it conquers the flesh. It is everything opposite of human nature. It is God! You and I were born selfish. The problem is sin. It produces selfishness. No effort is needed to be this way it’s automatic. We inherited it from our first parent Adam along with a host of other evils:

“Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man [Adam], and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned.” Romans 5:12 NIV

UNSELFISHNESS

Because we are naturally inclined to be selfish God’s Spirit is needed to be the opposite.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23 NIV

Everything about God is unselfish. HE HAS DONE AND STILL DOES FOR US THINGS HE DOESN’T HAVE TO DO! God is so good He even takes care of His enemies:

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. HE CAUSES HIS SUN TO RISE ON THE EVIL AND THE GOOD, AND SENDS RAIN ON THE RIGHTEOUS AND THE UNRIGHTEOUS. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Matthew 5:43-48 NIV

God shows us the best way to live, it is by imitating Him. Those who have the faith to obey His commands know just how much following Jesus’ teachings benefits them. When we live by the Spirit and go against our flesh we always experience blessings, and some very pleasant surprises. If we hang in there with Jesus and do not give up we will understand what He means when He says:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NIV

SHOW KINDNESS TO THE UNTHANKFUL AND EVIL?

“But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.” Luke 6:35-36 KJV

Jesus raises the bar; He commands that we do good to others expecting nothing in return, even the unthankful and evil. Yes, that includes those who hate your guts. That’s a lot for the selfish flesh to digest sometimes. But we (God’s children) are growing into the image of Jesus Christ who is the epitome of unselfishness. Have we come to realize yet that our very existence is to glorify God? What awesome rewards and joys we receive when we obey Him! When we’re loving, generous, and compassionate, we are walking with God. Here are some wonderful verses to ponder regarding this:

“One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Proverbs 11:24-25 NIV

“And if your brother becomes poor and is not able to make a living, then you are to keep him with you, helping him as you would a man from another country who is living among you. Take no interest from him, in money or in goods, but have the fear of your God before you, and let your brother make a living among you. Do not take interest on the money which you let him have or on the food which you give him. I am the Lord your God, who took you out of the land of Egypt to give you the land of Canaan, that I might be your God.” Leviticus 25:35-38 BBE

“Blessed is the one who considers the poor! In the day of trouble the Lord delivers him; the Lord protects him and keeps him alive; he is called blessed in the land; you do not give him up to the will of his enemies. The Lord sustains him on his sickbed; in his illness you restore him to full health.” Psalms 41:1‭-‬3 ESV

“But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.)”  2 Corinthians 9:6-9 KJV

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