A Savior, Which is Christ the Lord! (and Personal Update!)

Lately there has been so excitement in our lives that I can hardly stand it!! I thought I'd just give a little update about our lives, and share a few Christmas thoughts. The past few months have been absolutely crazy and amazing for us! My husband is now completely done his classes and in a few short days will be done final exams for the last time! What an amazing feeling! He has done 6 years of post secondary school, and it is finally coming to an end. My husband is in a very tough professional college, and has worked extremely hard to get this far!! I am so proud of him! He studies sooo hard--about 15 hours a day for the past few weeks. Of course, I would be proud of him no matter what. I am sooo blessed to have such a wonderful husband. He's so smart, so loving, so kind, and so much fun to live with! He can figure out how to do just about anything! I love him more and more every day and we have a terrific marriage! Even though many people thought that us marrying young was a bad idea, I am SOO glad we did, and I wouldn't change it for anything! I had a lot of growing up to do (and still do!) our first year of marriage, but we have learned so many things, and things have been absolutely wonderful the past couple years as we learn to not be so selfish.

Another exciting thing is that we will be moving (again!) soon much closer to family and friends. We have moved SO many times in the past few years, but eventually we will settle down ( I think). I really don't enjoy the process of moving but am learning to just go with the flow. We just rented a really cute little house that is almost cottage-like, and I can't wait to move in soon! By next spring my husband will have completed his internships and be officially done. The Lord has already provided him a job for when he is done, which we are so thankful for! We have a really busy few weeks coming up as we are going on a holiday to a warm and tropical place with my husband's family. Then we are heading on a trip with my family to visit some relatives I rarely see. Then we will be busy packing and moving!

I feel extremely blessed to have a husband who wants me to stay home instead of working outside the home full time. I cannot describe how wonderful it has been to be able to be home helping him study, cooking, and cleaning. When I was working full time we ate out soo much and ate so many hot dogs and mac n' cheese. We haven't had hot dogs in months and save a lot of money by not eating out near as much. Plus our home is just a lot happier, relaxed, and cleaner. I have so much to learn yet about managing a home, but I am learning bit by bit everyday. I have enjoyed learning how to make pies, bake bread, and roast chicken. The one day I made a meal of roast chicken, mashed potatoes, dressing, gravy, cabbage salad, and apple pie for the first time. Wow, was it a lot of work, but so worth it! Anyways, that's about all for my personal update. Just one more personal thing--My health hasn't been great for the past 5 weeks or so. Nothing too serious, but just generally not feeling well for the past while. I have been to the doctor a few times for checkups and bloodwork, and they can't seem to find anything wrong with me, which is good. It is very off and on, and I think I am on the up and up now (maybe it was just a weird virus), but if you think of it, you can pray for me. My body has been acting a little weird lately.

Okay, so it is the "Christmas season", as people call it, and I just had a few thoughts about it lately. My husband and I don't make a huge hullabaloo out of the season by decorating or anything, which some people think is crazy. in fact we don't have a single decoration up and I haven't started doing the little Christmas shopping I have to do. We tend to enjoy being simple and reflecting and rejoicing that the Lord Jesus came to save us and is coming again soon! Our hearts should be rejoicing year-round that our Savior came to earth, but this time of year does serve as a great opportunity to share with others. One thing that is especially nice about this time of year is that we get to spend lots of time with family, many who are not saved. It provides a wonderful opportunity to talk about "spiritual things" and to share the good news of the gospel. Please pray we will have opportunities to share with our extended family this Christmas season.

During the Christmas season, we tend to focus on the Lord Jesus coming as a little baby, while forgetting why He came. For unto us is born this day in the City of David, a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. This is the reason why He came to earth—to be our Saviour, to “give His life as a ransom for many,” as the Gospel of Mark tells us. It is truly amazing that the God who created the universe loved us so much to come to the earth as the Lord Jesus Christ, fully God and fully human, to offer Himself as a sinless sacrifice by shedding His blood on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins. His sacrifice was proven to be the sufficient once-and-for-all payment for sins when He victoriously rose back to life on the third day! This is good news to those who repent of their sins and receive Him by faith as Saviour and Lord.

May you enjoy spending time with friends and family this Christmas season and take time to consider why the Lord Jesus came to earth two thousand years ago. How blessed we are to be living in these last days, anticipating the Lord's soon return not as a baby this time, but as the mighty King!!

(Due to the busyness of the next month for us, I probably won't be blogging much until we settle into our new home. Lord-willing I will be back to blogging in a month or two.)

Leisure Options? Yikes!

Hate to be so negative again....

I just got my free publication showing leisure activities/classes available in my area, so I gave it a flip to check out the current prices for going swimming, skating, etc. To my surprise, or non-surprise I should say, this publication seemed more like a world religions 101 textbook than a leisure book designed to promote fitness and activity.

Reiki, Taosism, yoga, and Buddhism, and even a "history of Christianity" class. Hmm.... the "history of Christianity" class is taught by the same folks who host the sacred ground yoga, bellydancing, and meditation class that openly claims to be based on "Buddhist psychology". Plus, it is hosted by an Anglican church claiming to be an "arts and spirit centre" (?). Wowsers. I wonder what kind of "christianity" will be taught there?

And...I think it's fair to say that yoga has invaded my neck of the woods according to this "leisure" publication.

...chair yoga, aqua yoga, fitness yoga, bellydancing yoga, preschool childminding yoga, sacred ground yoga, specialty yoga, laughter yoga, dance yoga, yoga fusion, flow yoga, mom and baby yoga, abilities yoga, yoga and ballroom dance, yoga for men, yoga for runners, prenatal yoga, gentle yoga, and on and on it goes.

I kid you not, I did not even come close to listing all the yoga types or classes available in my area according to this little magazine I got in the mail just recently. Well I don't want to rewrite again what has already been written, so here are a few related posts about why yoga is not simply stretching and why Christians should not participate.

Here http://www.ankerberg.com/Articles/new-age/NA1101W1.htm

Good article and many relevant links here


Okay so here was a bit of a shocker found in this publication, although not much shocks me these days. An ad in the leisure publication invites those interested in taoism to sign up for classes and information....where?? at the church... just down the road from us. Huh??? Okay okay, so the church is of the apostate "united" kind and has even made the local news for its animal blessing services aka bring your pet to church day, so not too shocking after all. But still.

* A bit of a side note *

I find it somewhat interesting that the only protestant church hosting any of the leisure activities (that I noticed anyway-I only did just skim the thing) was my former church that we left about a year or so ago. No, no, it is not hosting yoga, bellydancing, or anything like that, thankfully. Just some "creative" playtimes (??), services for preschoolers and preschooler moms, and teen drop in times. Perhaps not too harmless. I am fairly sure from my previous attendance there that the intent behind these things is to draw people into the church in hopes of them becoming saved. Same reason they hosted a giant Grey Cup party one year, decorated the sanctuary, and projected the game onto the big projection screen (the party in the church made the local news). Same reason they host a Halloween party with the community association. By the grace of our God, some may very well end up hearing the gospel message this way, by making Christian friends who will share the Good News with them eventually. I just kinda sorta wish that churches would spend more time "equipping the sheep rather than entertaining the goats" as I heard once from someone. When the sheep get a watered down message at church, you can't really expect them to be able to present the clear gospel message to their friends.

Don't want to be too too critical, but I noticed with the decrease in biblical preaching and teaching came increased worldliness, decreased focus on eternity, almost zero prophecy teaching, watered down gospel message, increased marketing strategies and diagrams, and yes.... increased attendance (which does not necessarily mean an increase in believers). Just goes to prove that marketing strategies in the church do work...if you want to fill seats., that is.

Haven't been there since we left, and I know there are several biblically sound people there still. I hope and pray some are still hearing the gospel message and growing in godliness. But I keep hearing of more and more of those biblically sound people finding a different church who, after meeting with pastors and elders to discuss their concerns, are secretly labeled as divisive and legalistic. You stick around a little longer and maybe try talking to a few more people. But eventually you get the feeling that you are no longer welcome. Happened to us and has happened to many.

So, I know this was negative again. Next once will be more positive, I promise.

Marketing Madness

I find this so maddening. This article comes from one of the "latest headlines" from BBC world news. Here's an excerpt.

The images are by turns beautiful, violent, oblique and provocative - much like the book itself.

The text "She will have a son, and you will name him Jesus" is illustrated with a veiled Muslim. One verse has a photo of a pair of knickers draped over high-heeled shoes, sending you back to the passage to find out what it's really about.

The person behind this remarketing of holy writings is Dag Soederberg, a Swedish businessman. And contrary to expectations, he is not a Christian hoping to convert anyone. "I'm not on a mission from God," he explains. "I'm not particularly religious. I'm not telling anyone they should believe."

Find this article here.

This just makes me sick and angry. I'm sort of at a loss for words, so I'm not going to comment any further.

Buddhism Coming to a Classroom Near You?

Sad, but true. Is Buddhism coming to a classroom near you? Maybe. Read all about it here.

I found out about this by reading a commentary here.

Parents, it is high time to wake up and find out what is going on in your child's classroom. That is, unless you don't care if your child is practicing Buddhism while learning his A-B-Cs.

This doesn't surprise me one bit. Last year I was being trained to teach that exact thing in my "health" class. I cannot even count the number of times I was introduced to "mindfulness", "yoga", "deep breathing exercises", "visualization", etc. etc in my days training to be a teacher at university. From what I hear, many of my nursing friends are learning the same things. They even get to go walk labyrinths and try hypnosis.

Well, I guess what can a person expect when future teachers are being taught to introduce these things into the classroom?

Did I forget to mention just how thankful I am not to be in university anymore?? :)

The Sky is Falling

This morning I learned that I missed an incredible sight last night--a massive fireball that flashed across the sky. I would have loved to have seen it! I saw some video footage of it, and I must say that it was quite incredible.

To see a video footage of it, click here.

Did you notice the astronomer said, "...you should always be outside looking up." Well I'm not sure if being outside is necessary, but looking up....most definitely!

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

**As for 4 and a 1/2 billion of years old, however....I think not. For several articles about that, click here.

Your Best Life...

You've probably heard of the book "Your Best Life Now" . I have not read the book, but from the title it seems the author believes we can all truly live our best life now (as opposed to later). But for Christians, is this true?

Today I watched a sermon by John MacArthur titled "Your Best Life Now...or Later? which explains that the Bible clearly teaches that for Christians, our best life begins when this life ends. It served as a good reminder that we need to cling to our living hope.

To listen to MacArthur's message, which was especially encouraging to me today, click here.

For some related reading, read an article from Apprising Ministries here

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. "
1 Peter 1:3-5

America Cries, "Give Us a King!"

Although I am saddened by the outcome of last night's election in the USA, we can rest assured that God is in control and will accomplish his purposes. As I was skimming some blogs that I follow, I was directed to an article this morning by Jan Markell called "America Cries, "Give Us a King!" regarding the presidential election. Here is an excerpt.

None of the candidates who ran in "Campaign 2008" can save us! Only the Lord God of Israel can do that! But as in Samuel's day, God is not good enough for America. Thus, I believe He has allowed "strong delusion" to filter across the nation and around the world. It says in Isaiah 66:4, "I will choose their delusions." Thus, all has happened for a reason. God removes kings and establishes kings for His own purposes. (Daniel 2:21)

Read the rest of that article here.

For an interesting article regarding the theme of "change", click here.
.............................................................................................................................

And now, a few of my own scattered thoughts.

As I watched the whole event last night, I must say I was not really surprised by the results, given the times we live in. As I watched, I was disturbed by was the worship-like admiration displayed by so many of Obama's supporters.

I also wondered what Obama meant by parts of his presidential victory speech: What did he mean by "our destiny is shared"? I also wondered who he will interpret as "those who would tear this world down" versus "those who seek peace and security." It seems evident to me that he is very much pro-globalization. Here's the part I'm referring to:

And to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of our world – our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand. To those who would tear this world down – we will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security – we support you

Anyway, I know my thoughts here are scattered, but I must get back to my bread-baking. I tried out a new recipe today; I hope it turns out!

A Challenging Message This Morning

The one thing I most certainly will miss when we move again in spring is the congregation at the little church we currently attend. What an incredible blessing that church (and by church, I mean the people) has been to me and my husband. I firmly believe that God has used several families in that church to encourage us and challenge us to grow in our faith. Being conservative in our beliefs, we find it very difficult to find like-minded friends our age. Most professing believers from our generation prefer to have one foot in the world and one in the church. Having grown up in this post-modern age, my husband and I are constantly being challenged to keep ourselves separate from the world. Age is no longer very important when you share fellowship with like-minded believers. Some of our dearest friends are more than a decade older than us and have several children.

At church this morning another challenging message was preached by a friend of ours. We are currently going through the book of Luke. The message this morning was from Luke 6:27-49. The message addressed loving our enemies and also looked at Stephen's response when he was martyred and our Lord's response when He was on the cross. The message also addressed righteous judging versus hypocritical judging and the foundation on which our faith is built (true vs false conversion). I really thought the speaker did a good job of explaining that ever-so-misused verse "Judge not lest you be judged." One should not base one's doctrine on one single verse, but needs to look at the context of a verse. He looked at several passages about judging. It is clear that we are not to judge hypocritically, but we are to judge righteously.

Anyway, the verse that especially stood out to me this morning was verse 46.

"And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?"

This verse is specifically addressing professing Christians. As our speaker pointed out, the Bible often makes the distinction between true and false converts; wheat vs tares, sheep vs goats, wise virgins vs foolish virgins, those with a foundation built on the rock vs those with a foundation built on sand.

This verse poses a challenge for all professing Christians. If we truly believe, we should be obeying His commandments.

This is not a works-based gospel. We are saved by grace. What the Bible says is that if we truly believe and have received the Lord Jesus, obedience will follow. If you call someone "Lord" but do not obey him, then he is not truly your Lord.

I am attempting to memorize the book of 1 John, which also talks a lot about the evidence of our faith.

"And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments." 1 John 2:3

I am looking forward to next Sunday when we will hear another Bible-based message froma dear brother in Christ and fellowship again with these wonderful people who love the Lord.

A New Look

Since my blog is broadening its horizons a bit, I am trying out a new template. I have to decide whether or not I'll keep it.

Where Did the Time Go?

Most of you (if there is anyone out there who still reads this) will have noticed that I have not blogged very much in the past 6 months. There are several reasons for this, and I'll try to touch on a few in this post. At this point, I plan on continuing this blog, but perhaps broadening the topics a bit and posting not quite so often--perhaps every couple weeks? My previous posts have focused on several things but mostly about things surrounding these last days. Things I came across in university, politics, Laodicean churches and leaders, discernment, etc.

I think it was exactly a year ago from last Sunday that the Holy Spirit revealed to me and my husband that something was very wrong with the church we attended at the time. That basically launched me into a massive researching spree and led me to start this blog to post some of my research and findings. I had thought we were the only ones who noticed things were not right, but I have since learned that a few others have left that church after trying to warn the pastors. I praise the Lord and rejoice that we have found a terrific little church that recognizes the times we live in and desires to follow the Bible in every way. I have realized that nothing I write or say will convince anyone of anything. The Holy Spirit must reveal the truth to those who are seeking the truth.

Although I will likely still post about discerning the times, I think my blog may broaden its horizons. I don't know exactly what I will post about in the future, but a lot of changes have taken place in my life over the past 6 months. Here is a small sketch of how God has worked in our lives in the past 6 months.

In the summer, I started to feel very uncertain about continuing my university education. After much prayer, my husband and I decided that I would quit university. We realized that a secular education was not necessary in order to educate our own children some day. Today, I am so very thankful that I am no longer attending university.
We moved closer to our family for 4 months during the summer, and we did not have internet access. Thus, I did not blog much during the summer. I had a very good summer job and had the opportunity to apply for a permanent position for the future. After 4 months we moved back "here" so that my husband could attend school again.

I began the hunt for a job outside the home and found a very good full time job almost immediately. I thought this was what I would do for the next year or so. However, after starting the job, I found myself nearly miserable for 2 weeks. I worked with all women, most of whom were feminists and "career women." I dreaded having to get up, put on my business suit, and act like a career woman all day. I felt like a fraud. My co-workers thought I was crazy for wanting to be a stay-at-home mom some day. I began to question why I was working full time outside the home. Was it out of necessity or to live a more luxurious lifestyle? I spent every noon hour praying in my car that God would make it very clear as to whether or not I should stay at this job. After two weeks, my husband and I had a long talk and both of us had had a changed perspective and decided that I would quit my job and stay home. I would support my husband by helping him through his last year of studies, cooking, packing his lunches, keeping a tidy home, and just simply being there for him. I would have much more energy to do this if I was not working full time outside the home.

Shortly after I quit that job, I received a job offer from my place of employment from my summer job. (I had applied for that position in July.) Originally, my husband and I thought that I would most definitely accept this job if I was ever offered it and work there until we had children. This job was a very very good paying job and was Monday to Friday 8-5. The offer was very tempting, but after much discussion and prayer, we turned the offer down. I would be a stay-at-home wife instead. For the past 2 weeks, I have been a full time stay-at-home wife, and wow, are we ever loving it! I made an apple pie for the first time last week, and I am learning how to crochet! I have plenty of time to support my husband now, and we have never been happier. I am now officially a homemaker!

So that is what I have been up to in the past 6 months. We shall see what happens to this blog, but right now I need to get back to painting my ceiling and start making supper!

It's Been Over a Month!

It has been over a month since my last post. I have to admit that over the next 3 months, the posts will be few and far between as we have very limited internet access for the time being. I have settled into my summer job and am enjoying it very much, but it is very busy and stressful at times. Just to catch everyone up on a few personal things.

I have been struggling a lot lately about continuing my studies in education towards "becoming" a teacher. I have felt unsettled about continuing my education degree for a few months now, and it has intensified in the past few weeks. In fact, I am quite sure that the Lord has laid it on my heart that I should not continue my studies in this area. There are several reasons for this. At this point, I am struggling with this because I much prefer going to school than being out in the work force until we have children. The fact is that I want to be a stay-at-home mom and will likely homeschool my kids (that I do no have yet!!). I thought maybe getting a degree in education would help me with homeschooling some day, but I'm starting to see the absurdity of that. Most everything they teach us to teach is so secular and unbiblical that I would barely use any of it if I chose to homeschool some day.

Please pray that I will be obedient to the Lord. I always said it was possible that I may not complete my education in order to receive my teaching degree, but I didn't really think that it would happen. There are so many typical "teacher" things that I would not be able to do, having been convicted by the Holy Spirit. For example, I could not teach my students the earth is billions of years old or that dinosaurs became extinct billions of years ago. I also could not promote Halloween, Santa, Elves, Easter bunnies, etc. I cannot teach grade 5 students "sexual health" in the way that teachers are requested or required to teach it. I keep hearing so many things from potential teachers about what they are learning and taught to teach, and I keep thinking, "I could not do that." God's word has reminded me of how serious it is to cause a little child to stumble.

It has practically been decided by me and my husband that I will not be finishing my degree in education. The question is now whether or not I should study something else, or not bother at all. I find my pride getting in the way so many times. I tend to concern myself with man's opinion rather than God's---I wonder what people will think when they found out I "quit" something without finishing it. I also worry about what will happen if I have no university degree--a worldly security blanket, I know.

Please pray for us that we would be obedient to the Lord.

Another Personal Note

I have had a very busy/stressful/crazy day today. I have a final exam tomorrow, and I have barely studied for it at all yet, but I do have a decent reason for that. I made the short list for a job 2 days ago, and then after preparing a presentation and emailing it away, I had a phone interview today and was offered the job for the summer. The job will be fairly challenging, I think, but it should be good experience for the future. It does involve a bit of traveling, which I'm not crazy about, but I think it will be okay since it's mostly day trips and not usually overnight. I also get sent away for a few days of training with a bunch of strangers, which makes me a bit nervous, but it should be a good experience. I won't go into the details of it here, but if you know me and are interested, just drop me an email at abideinthedoctrineofChrist@gmail.com or any of my other addresses you might have.

Also, the Philadelphia Flyers are onto round 2 in NHL playoffs, and this household (especially the other member of this household!) is a huge Flyers fan, so if I want to catch a bit of the game tonight against Montreal, I better get back to the books!

What a whirlwind day it has been. I am thankful for today, and I really hope I made the right decision with accepting this job. I guess I will find out soon enough. I have prayed about it, but it there is not always an obvious answer, and sometimes a person just has to decide one way or the other when there's a deadline.

There might not be many posts in the next while as I finish exams, take a short break, and then start my new job. Let the adventures continue!

Fresh Fire Ministries, Being Slain in the Spirit,

Here is a good article I just read about the FreshFire ministries. It includes some videos of a certain someone doing his "ministry", and I must say I was really disturbed by most of what I saw and his general attitude, which seemed so irreverent. One of the most disturbing things is when he starts saying "blah blah blah blah...etc." and something like "...I'm not done messin' with her yet". His attitude and language seems like he's mocking or something. It is quite disturbing. I recommend you read that article.
Pentecost (Acts 2) was a special and significant time when the Holy Spirit was first given to the apostles a few days after Jesus had been taken up to heaven (Acts 1). Yes, some at Pentecost thought the Christians were "drunk", but this is because the Christians were speaking in different (but interpretable) languages (tongues) that were understandable to others. Not only was this a unique time but there was also no mention of the type of behavior like twitching, uncontrollable laughing, slain in the spirit, etc. that is so common with this ministry. In fact, that type of erratic and uncontrollable behavior could possibly be associated with demonic influence. Here are a few passages about what that might look like.
Luke 8
Luke 9

I am no expert about these things, but there is something in the way that this person carries himself in those videos that makes me very uncomfortable. And the Bible is clear that there is a different spirit. I also can find no evidence in the Bible for some of the things he does such as slaying people in the spirit. Yes, God can heal people and perform miracles, but we should remember that Satan can perform counterfeit signs and miracles as well. My friends, please examine things closely and exercise biblical discernment.

**One more thing-the more books and things blog had an excellent link to an article by Warren Smith about this "holy" laughter business. **

Blog Break

In case you have been wondering...my posts have been few and far between for the past few weeks as I have not been feeling the greatest for the last little while. I have been having really intense headaches, a few dizzy spells and have been sleeping very poorly at night. I'm not sure if I have a bug or if it's just from the stress of exams. I am beginning to feel a bit better now. I am in the middle of exams right now and then will be switching gears as I start a summer job in the next few weeks, so I likely won't be posting much for a few weeks until I get settled into my new routine. I have finished 3 exams and have 2 left to go. My husband and I will be going through some changes in the next few weeks with jobs and also with some other things that will likely be quite stressful and busy (that I will tell you if I know you!), so if you think of us, we would appreciate any prayer you can offer up to our Father. until next time...

7And they asked him, saying, Master, but when shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass?

8And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them.

9But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by.

10Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom:

11And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven.

12But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake.

13And it shall turn to you for a testimony.

14Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer:

15For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.

16And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death.

17And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake.

18But there shall not an hair of your head perish.

19In your patience possess ye your souls.

20And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh.

21Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto.

22For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled.

23But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people.

24And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.

25And 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;

26Men'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.

27And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.

28And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.

29And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees;

30When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand.

31So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.

32Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled.

33Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.

34And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.

35For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.

36Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

37And in the day time he was teaching in the temple; and at night he went out, and abode in the mount that is called the mount of Olives.

38And all the people came early in the morning to him in the temple, for to hear him.

Luke 21:7-38

New Spirituality on Popular Talk Show

The Queen of Talkshow tells her audience, "I am a Christian."

Friends, do not be deceived. The Jesus she speaks of is NOT the Lord Jesus Christ of the Bible. The Lord Jesus Christ of the Bible came to die upon a cross and pay the penalty for our sins--a debt we could never pay because the payment required was a perfect, sinless Lamb--Jesus Christ who was both man and God was the only One who could fulfill the payment in full--He is the Lamb of God and is now exalted and seated at the right hand of the Father. So, by Jesus's shed blood, we can have the forgiveness of sins and not receive the punishment we deserve, which is eternal separation from God in Hell--a real, literal, hell--the lake of fire. Because Jesus paid the price for our sins by shedding his blood on the cross, we can now have forgiveness for sin. But in order to have our sins forgiven, we must accept His payment, we must believe in Him and the words He spoke. And the Father showed his approval of his Son's sacrifice when he raised his Son from the dead. This showed Jesus was indeed fully God and fully man. We must believe Jesus is the only way to the Father, which is the words He spoke!

--She says that there are many ways to God. Jesus said there is only One Way--through Himself and through Himself alone!

Don't be deceived. One cannot both believe Jesus is the only Way and also believe that there is more than one way to God. One cannot believe what the Bible teaches, which is that there is a literal Heaven and Hell and that we should be concerned with eternity and then also believe the new spirituality that teaches not to be concerned about the future or death because all that matter is now, the present moment and nothing else.

Do not fall for the lie that you can believe this spirituality taught be this talk show host and also be a Christian. This is impossible. There is no reconciliation between Christian doctrine and this 'new spirituality' preached by Oprah and friends.

What fellowship can light have with darkness or what concord hath Christ with Belial??

None.

Tony Blair Gives His Life to Religion

Just read this news article here called "Blair gives his life to religion"

The article says Tony Blair is hoping to make his Faith Foundation into a global foundation. The article quotes Tony Blair saying, "I see this over time as the rest of my life's work."

Blair claims that his Tony Blair Faith Foundation is not meant to meld all religions into a world religion, but I think it's quite possible that his Faith Foundation will be just one more step toward making a world religion a reality some day.

....A Personal Note or Two

First, I have to say it has been a whirlwind past 6 days for me. I have just woken up from a 2 hour "nap" only to realize that it's nearly time for me to go to sleep for the night. Here are some of the things that have been going on in the past 6 days.
Last weekend a few interesting things happened that I would like to share about.

To start, while my husband and I were waiting in the doctor's office waiting room, my husband was suddenly struck by a car---now, before you become alarmed, I will tell you that he's just fine-not a scratch, not a bruise. How did this happen, you might ask? Well, we were sitting inside the doctor's office with our backs against the outside wall when suddenly a car from outside backed right into the wall of the doctor's office.( I guess she didn't technically back "into" the wall), but she hit the wall hard enough where there was a window (that miraculously didn't break), that the window and wall flexed so much that my husband and his chair were pushed a good 6 inches forward by the car. Bizarre, isn't it? It's hard to explain in writing what happened, but once we, and everyone else, got over the initial shock of the situation and were thankful everyone was okay, I got a case of the giggles-a completely inappropriate way to respond to the seriousness of the situation, I know! But really, the irony of it all. Here we were to see the doctor for a very very minor problem, and while we are waiting in a "safe" place inside, we are basically hit by a car.

My husband and I have also been busy with meetings and discussions basically all week to help us with some decisions we have to make in the near future, so this has been an added stress to the week.

Sunday was a really refreshing day for us as we spent the day fellowshipping with fellow believers, worshiping the Lord, and hearing from the Word of God. This is definitely something to praise God for. We have finally found a church that is teaching and rightly dividing the Word of God. Those who preach at this church and many of its attenders are also aware of, and not afraid to speak out about, the unbiblical trends sweeping through so many of the churches today. We really feel at home here and are amazed at the way God led us here. Also, we have met another couple here who left the same church we left, in the same month we left, for the same reasons we left. We had never met this couple until we started attending the church we now have been attending for a few months. God is so good and so faithful!

The past few days have been stressful for me as I tried to quickly scrap together a term paper for one of my more difficult classes. I have been up until nearly 2 am for the past three days in a row, trying to get this essay done. I finally finished it late last night and handed it in today. I'm very thankful to be finished that! Now, I have plenty of work to catch up on and studying to do as I will be writing exams for the next few weeks. Therefore, the posts here may be few and far between for awhile. But then again, they might not be. I just discovered some political tidbits that speak about extreme and exclusive religions, etc. that I'll blog about shortly.

Earth Hour-One hour of darkness

Believe me, I really am all for turning out my lights before I leave the house, not wasting electricity, and turning the tap off while I brush my teeth.

But consciously turning off my lights for one hour with the rest of the world in honour of Earth Hour? Something just seems weird and wrong about that.

I know I'm being cynical again. It's just that it being called "Earth Hour" sounds almost like a "let's take an hour to turn off the lights in the world to remember "mother Earth", as if the earth's a person. And yes, this supposedly has to do with "global warming".

On earthhour.org, it mentions Earth Hour being a "global movement". Go figure. Nearly all talk nowadays is "global" talk.

Terms Used in my Complementary/Alternative Medicine Lecture

This is the type of garbage they are feeding us at post-secondary school. Yesterday I listened to two guest lecturers on CAM (Complementary/Alternative Medicine), which was mainly about meditation, yoga, reiki, acupuncture, Chinese traditional medicine, bioenergetics, tai chi, etc. etc.

So, I had a feeling that these people were into a lot of the new-age spirituality stuff, and so I scribbled down like mad some of the things they said to try to make the connection between some things and be able to explain some terms to some of my friends in the class. I am simply going to post some of the things mentioned in this class. I'll try to comment on a couple of them later. It was one loaded 70 minutes of "learning" as you will see.

-Hypnosis
-"energy-based"
-Chakra systems
-acupuncture meridians
-biofeedback
-MBSR
-"times have changed"
-we are "swinging back the pendulum"
-TCM
-"this movement is just huge!"
-the "inherently mysterious component"
-"spirituality is expanding"
-yoga and the idea of information vs. knowledge, as in you can only understand and teach yoga if you've experience it
-ppl "like us" (not ME!) will "create the next change by being open-minded"
-The Institute of Noetic Sciences (Now..check THAT out! it is freaky! Notice all the "shift" talk-more about that later-sound familiar??)
-the IONS was founded by Edgar Mitchell (who practiced ESP by the way)
-The idea of the earth as one whole living organism (Sounds like Gaia hypothesis to me)
-the lecturer claimed he could "feel the good energy in this building" as opposed to sometimes he "feels bad energy in buildings"
-mind-body-spirit medicine
-the idea of us evolving (sounded like evolving consciousness idea to me)
-Reiki
-Ayurveda
-Tai Chi
-meditation
-"mindfulness"
-prana-to do with energy and has something to do with the underlying philosophy behind CAM according to the guest lecturer
-idea that we are energy
-idea of the "inherent flow of energy throughout the universe"
-idea of integration

What I am Sick of (unbiblical, new-age, and post modern ideas pushed in the post-secondary classroom)

Wow, what an intense and nearly overwhelming past few days at school I have had. I have to admit, the thought about possibly getting myself out of the toxic and ungodly university environment has crossed my mind over the past few days. I am going to write a bit of a personal post today about some of the things that have been on my heart lately and some of the frustrations I am facing. Frankly, I am getting really tired of a lot of things I have been hearing lately and how I am supposed to accept these ideas and be 'open-minded' and how 'far we have come' in society. Here's the specific breakdown:

I'm sick of professors trying to indoctrinate me and convince me about the benefits of yoga, reiki, mantra meditation, and healing 'mother earth', and telling me to be 'open-minded' about these new ideas.

I'm sick of hearing about how I need to accept and encourage 'sexual diversity' and acknowledge the 'great accomplishments' of the gay liberation movement and the sexual revolutions of the 60s and 70s and 'how far we've come' as a society in accepting and even encouraging the homosexual lifestyle and behaviour that God's Word clearly says is wrong.

I'm also sick of hearing about the 'wonderful accomplishments' of the feminist movements where women are no longer 'trapped' inside their homes or'oppressed' by the 'burden' and 'limitations' of simply bearing and raising children.

Here's what I endured in 1 morning at the university in 3 different lectures/classes

Class 1: all about sexual revolutions: All about 'sexual liberation', the gay and lesbian liberation movements of the 60s and 70s, and how our nation has 'come so far' in our ideas and notions about homosexuality. It also highlighted the 'accomplishments' of some well-known gay activists and we watched a movie about how his actions are an 'inspiration' to the gay community.
***note: I do not condemn homosexual people as I desire for them to be free from sin through Jesus Christ as I do for any other person, but I do not condone homosexual behaviour just like I do not condone lying, adultery, and sexual promiscuity since the Bible is clear that these things are wrong***

Class 2: more about homosexuality as portrayed in books

Class 3: all about environmentalism: how 'mother earth' is crying out, how the earth is overpopulated and therefore we are basically killing the earth, watching a green peace ad portraying the earth as giving 'life' to us and 'breathing', global warming, Al Gore, etc., etc.
***note: I do not believe we should litter, and I think recycling, composting, etc. is a good idea, but what I do not believe in is much of the ideology that goes along with so much of the environmentalist movement that often speaks of 'mother earth' as a living being and verges on earth worship.

So, that was one of my days at school. Today, I got to hear all about CAM (complementary/alternative medicine) in one of my lectures and pro-feminism in another lecture, but that will be a post for another day. Truthfully, I am almost exhausted from another day of hearing all this junk. Unfortunately, I will also have to take some time in the next week to write a term paper and study for a test before I get full-swing into exams.

To end on an encouraging and happy note, however, I am reminded that my home is not in this world but in heaven someday as I've learned in church as we studied in 1 Peter chapter 1.

I hope that 1 Peter 1 will encourage some of you others out there who also feel wearied by the philosophies, ideologies, and methods of this world and are trying to stand firm on the Word in the midst of so much darkness and error in the world.

Lack of Discernment

Before this past weekend when we celebrate and remember the Day of Atonement and the Resurrection, my husband and I were looking to see if there was going to be an "Easter" service in the city we were visiting for this past weekend. (For an explanation about why I choose not to call this weekend "Easter", read this that explains where this term came from and what all the bunnies, eggs, and all that jazz were originally meant to symbolize.) When doing this, we came across the website of a church that had a 'video of the week' posted. Curious, I watched this video that was played to the tune of some secular song that goes something like "So, you had a bad day...etc" and is sort of an America's funniest home video clip implying that if you think you had a bad day, watch this. So, as I watched this clip, there is this part where a man is malled by a bull and has his pants and his underwear taken off, exposing his bare backside.

This really angered and disgusted me. See, I try my best to avoid watching this kind of thing (nudity, etc.) when choosing what television shows and movies I watch, only to be exposed to it on a church website??.

There seems to be something lacking nowadays, and it sounds a lot like discernment

The Dalai Lama, Doug Pagittt, and Rob Bell

This is strange.

Rob Bell-author of the ever-so-popular Nooma videos shown in church youth groups

and

Doug Pagitt-emergent, self-proclaiming Christian leader

and

the Dalai Lama-Buddhist Tibetan monk

will all be together at the Seeds of Compassion event, whose purpose is to discuss how to bring awareness of spirituality and compassion to children in early life.

Read a bit more about it here.

I wonder..what is the purpose of Bell and Pagitt participating in this? Will they be declaring the truth to all the leaders of false religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism that salvation is found in no other name but the Lord Jesus Christ? I hope so, but unfortunately I very much doubt it.

There is a spiritual battle going on, and we are in it.

Let's remember to come to our Heavenly Father in prayer.

*** Update- Just thought I should clarify that I do not think Pagitt and Bell will be declaring the true Gospel since they sympathize with Eastern religious techniques and promote them in their own churches. And when I said we are in a spiritual battle, I mean that the Christian faith is under attack not just from the outside but also from the inside since true Christianity can be, and often has been, misrepresented by people like Pagitt and Bell. Furthermore, we need to continue to contend for the faith that seems to be compromised by so many of the mega- pastors***

Part 1--Spirituality in tv show "Lost"

I posted awhile ago a preview of my attempt to blog about the tv show "Lost". I had seen ads for this show now and then and heard a lot of "buzz" about it, but had never seen an episode until a couple weeks ago when I started researching it. What started this researching was when I found out about a church that was using this tv show sort of as a Bible study. They were getting together weekly to watch the show, discuss themes and theories about the show, and then try to see what they could learn about God from the show. When I read this, I was very surprised that a church would use a secular, hollywood-produced tv show to try to learn about God. After watching a few episodes and doing some research on the symbolism in the show, I have realized that this show definitely has a spiritual message in it...but the kind of message in it is definitely not a biblical one from what I can tell. It is full of mysticism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Roman Catholicism, New Age spirituality, greek mythology, and much more. It is a smorgasborg of all different beliefs intertwined and mixed together. More about that later.

From watching the show, I personally do not believe that a Christian should even watch this show for entertainment, let alone for a Bible study. Here's why:

1) In one episode, I counted at least 8 profane words used, and at least one blasphemous use of God's holy name.

2) In that same episode, one of the characters was in an adulterous relationship with another woman. They had been dating for a few months, not married, and then it was obviously implied that they had been sleeping together. (they are shown lying in the same bed together and the woman gives the man a key to her apartment)

3) In another episode, there was a scene with a VERY scantily clad female suntanning on a beach. And, in that same episode, a man accidentally walks in to see a woman bathing, and even though there is no explicit nudity, it is still a very suggestive scene.

4)) There is quite a bit of violence in it, as well. I had to turn my eyes a few times from some quite frightening and disturbing scenes. For instance, in one episode, a man was dying a slow death from an infection, and we see him in agony, and then another character goes in and shoots that man (this was not shown, but graphically heard) to "end his suffering" (a.k.a. murder him), and the man did not die from the gun shot immediately and his last cries were heard before he died. This was an extremely disturbing scene. This is just one example of some of the gruesome and disturbing and violent scenes.

What does the Bible say? This must be the standard with which we test all things.


8Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (Philippians 4:8)

27Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:28But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. (Matthew 5:27-28)

16 I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders,drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. (Galatians 5:16-21)

22 Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. (2 Timothy 2:22)

Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil.
(1 Thessalonians 5: 21-22)

33 Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.” 34 Awake to righteousness, and do not sin; for some do not have the knowledge of God. I speak this to your shame. (1 Corinthians 15:33-34)

13 The fear of the LORD is to hate evil;
Pride and arrogance and the evil way
And the perverse mouth I hate. (Proverbs 8:13)



So, based on this alone, a Christian should not be watching this for entertainment purposes, let alone for a sort of Bible study. We are to flee from temptation and youthful lusts, and I think choosing to watch a show with scantily clad women would not qualify as fleeing youthful lusts.

And, here's another question...would you feel comfortable if this show "Lost" was shown on a Sunday morning in church? If not, you shouldn't be using it for a Bible study on Thursday night.

Next time, I'll try to start to scratch the surface on some of the spirituality in the show and a brief description about the show from the few episodes I saw.

'Professor' Blair-on a global coalition

Here is my interesting political news tidbit of the day. And it has to do with Tony Blair.

Tony Blair will be teaching a course on faith and globalization, looking at religion in the modern world, at Yale University. But before he starts at Yale, he will launch his Faith Foundation. Read about that all here. Yes, that's the same Yale that wrote and published that letter about Muslims and Christians loving God together, which you can read all about in this post and this post.

And yesterday, Tony Blair gave a speech in Dallas about a 'global coalition' built on 'global values' that is needed. Read about that here

Different Religions to Meet with Pope to Foster "Peace"

Here we go again.

From this article here.

"Jewish, Islamic, Buddhist, Jain, Hindu Leaders to Meet with Pope Benedict XVI in Washington"
"This meeting denotes the Holy Father's belief in the need for religious bodies to stress the goal for peace which lies at the heart of all religions. It "exemplifies what must happen all over the world." The gifts symbolize the path to peace in the deepest teachings of each group.

Umm...by the way, there is only one who is worthy of the title Holy Father, and it is NOT the Pope!

And here's what the Bible says about peace.


34 “Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. 35 For I have come to ‘set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’; Matthew 10:34-35

27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. .John 14:27

33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will^[a] have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, 20 and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. Colossians 1:19-20

As should be evident by these Bible verses, peace with God is only possible through the blood of Jesus shed on the cross. And, true peace can only come from Jesus. In Him, we may have peace. Apart from Lord Jesus Christ, there is no peace.

By the way, interestingly, the Bible does talk about a FALSE PEACE that will occur during the last days...hmm....

1Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, 2for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3While people are saying, "Peace and safety," destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 4But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief.1 Thessalonians 5:1-4


I don't know about you, but I seem to be hearing a lot of global "peace and safety" talk lately.

Rob Bell quotes, Mandella quotes, New Age quotes.....all unbiblical quotes

So, I just read this quote by Rob Bell........where he claims he is quoting Nelson Mandella....but the nearly identical quote appears in New Age leader Marianne Williamson's book.....

But regardless if it came from Marianne Williamson or Nelson Mandella....the message in the quote itself is what's most disheartening. These quotes (by Bell, Williamson, and Mandella) says that there is greatness and power and glory that resides in every human being.

Read these 2 nearly identical quotes here.

This is simply not what the Bible says. The Bible says there is nothing good in our flesh (Romans 7), and Paul describes himself as a wretched man. The Bible says that there is none who does good, not one (Psalm 14), and that there is none who is righteous (Romans 3). The only One who is righteous and great and deserves all the glory is the One who gave His life as a ransom for many. And HIS POWER (not mine) is made perfect in WEAKNESS (2 Corinthians 12).

Pope Prays Toward Mecca with Imam

oh what is surprise----The Pope tries to make amends for his 2006 lecture that upset Muslims when he implied that Islam was a violent and rational religion.

So, to make amends, he visited a mosque in Turkey and prayed toward Mecca with its imam.

Just one more thing to add to the list of "101 Ways to Unite all Religions".

"Shifts" and The Moses Code Movie

I just read another really good post about the many "shifts" that are occurring around the world today. This "shift" word is being thrown around many circles--new age circles, emerging church circles, Willow Creek Community Church Conferences, Brian McLaren, Leonard Sweet, etc. etc. So, what is all this "shifting" about anyway? Where does it all seem to be heading?

Bob from Shofar Ministries has written an excellent post about the similarities between New Age Talk and Emergent Talk. I highly recommend you read Bob's article, which also touches on the blasphemous Moses Code movie, based on the Law of Attraction, that will be released in April.

At the end of one of the clips for this movie, a man looks into the camera and blasphemously states that "I am the way the truth and the life". Watch that clip here.

****NOTE***The previous clip has since been removed from Youtube, but I will try to locate it on another website******

Watch the movie trailer for the Moses Code here at its official website.

There is another post about the Moses Code from more books and things here.

And if you are really interested in this, here is another post about the Big Shift and the Moses Code from Christian Worldview Network

There is a major, deceptive "shift" underway. The question is, will you be swept away with it?

United Nations...then 'United Religions'?

I just read a couple of interesting news articles that Carla from more books and things has discovered and posted about.

The Italian Democratic Party leader has suggested that a place be built in Rome for all religions to come together-similar to the UN. He calls it "United Religions".

Read an Italian news article about it here

Prophecy News Watch also reports this here.

So many things seem to be happening all at once, don't they? With the direction everything seems to be heading, there's no doubt in my mind that we are living in the last days. I truly wonder sometimes how long it will be until the Bridegroom returns. And I pray that when He does return, He will find me and you both ready for Him.

Preview of future post about t.v show "Lost"

So, I have been on a blogging break due to the insane busyness in my life right now. Next week is looking to be much, much less busy so I hope to get a couple of posts up next week. I want to give you a short preview of something I have been researching only in the past 2 days really that I will be blogging about shortly (hopefully next week).

Have any of you out there heard of the t.v. show called Lost? Well I hadn't paid any attention to it until the past two weeks when I discovered that, sadly, instead of going to your Bible to learn about God's character, some church groups are using this show (which is sprinkled with profane language, blasphemy, violence, and some inappropriate sexual scenes) to try to learn about God. (there is even a book about the "biblical" messages one can pick out from this show). Well, I have watched one and a half episodes of this show, plus a "learn all you need to know about the show in 8 minutes 15 seconds" clip, and have researched a bit about it.

Well, there is no doubt about it-there definitely is a lot of "spirituality" in this television drama full of symbolism, significant names, equations, and puzzles. The question is...what kind of spirituality is it? Some things I have discovered and researched will hopefully help shed some light on the problems with the spirituality in this show.

Until then I ask that, if you think of it, could you remember me in prayer as I have a very important interview coming up this weekend? It has to do with my future post-secondary education.

And, in the meantimes, let's turn off "Lost", which angers God with its blasphemy-using His holy name as a curse word-and, instead, let's open our Bibles to discover everything we need to know about who God is.

Blogging Break

I plan on taking a bit of a break from blogging due to a large amount of schoolwork that I have to do in the next couple of weeks.We do have some time "off" this week from school, but it really is just time for us to try to catch up on some school work. So my blogs may be few and far between for the next few weeks, but I do plan on continuing them when I have some free time.

Until then, I must get back to my research, reading, essay-writing, and studying. If you think of it, any prayers offered up to our Father would be appreciated.

-pray for strength, patience, and endurance-my husband and I are very busy with school right now
-prayer about some fairly major decisions we will have to make in the very near future
-pray that we would trust that God will provide this summer

Rick Warren, Tony Blair, Global Religion & World Economic Forum

I recently watched the 75 minute Davos world economic forum clip from the "faith and modernization" discussion chaired by Tony Blair. This was a panel of Muslim, Jewish, "Christian", and Catholic leaders discussing faith in a modern world. Rick Warren was the representative for "Christianity". This was, indeed, a preview to the coming global religion.
Most of the talk was about "tolerance", "peace" (in the global sense), common ground, and interfaith dialogue.

Rick Warren took the opportunity to talk about how "successful" his "network" has been. He also stated that the future of the world was "religious pluralism" and that all faiths were needed to contribute to fighting the "5 Global Giants". RW also mentioned that he has met with Secretary General of the UN (Ban Ki-Moon), and in the clip RW admitted that he is a member of the USA's Council on Foreign Relations. Until watching this forum in its entirety I did not realize how politically and economically influential this guy is!

For anyone willing to take the time, it is definitely worth it to watch this forum. If you don't want to watch the entire thing, I would highly recommend watching the first 10 minutes of the video to get a good idea of what this forum is all about. And then, watch RW's speech which is from about the 40-50 minute mark. And, lastly if you have time, watch the last 15 minutes of the video with questions and comments.

You can watch the video of the forum here.

By the way, I found it very interesting that Tony Blair was the "host" of this forum. Here are some things about Tony Blair:

*Recently appointed Senior Advisor at JP Morgan Bank in the USA (paid $5 million/year)

*Is a Middle East peace envoy and represents Russia, USA, UN, and the EU

*And, is working hard at achieving a peace agreement

*Recently converted to Roman Catholicism

*Is a potential candidate for the EU Presidency (if the position comes with "real power")

*Is launching his own interfaith group (this is mentioned by Rick Warren in the Davos video clip also, but I can't remember at which part-maybe at the end of the clip when RW responds to questions)

Read a commentary about this Davos video clip here. It explains where this is all heading-------to a global religion.

***Just a side note---I'm not saying Tony Blair is the Antichrist. I just see how the many things going on politically and religiously are preparing people to receive the Antichrist, whenever and whoever that will be.****

Here are a few passages describing the Antichrist, who will be the king of the "north", will confirm a covenant, end daily sacrifices, and then eventually declare himself to be god. Let's remember that we may very well be closer to these prophecies being fulfilled than we realize. Of course, the fulfillment of prophecy is often only recognized after it has been fulfilled, but we still need to study prophecy and ask the Lord God to help us understand. By the way, I am not saying that Tony Blair is the Antichrist; I'm just saying that the world stage is being prepared for the Antichrist. Who he is, and when he will be revealed, I do not know.

27 Then he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week;
But in the middle of the week
He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering.
And on the wing of abominations shall be one who makes desolate,
Even until the consummation, which is determined,
Is poured out on the desolate.” (Daniel 9:27)


21 And in his place shall arise a vile person, to whom they will not give the honor of royalty; but he shall come in peaceably, and seize the kingdom by intrigue. 22 With the force^[h] of a flood they shall be swept away from before him and be broken, and also the prince of the covenant. 23 And after the league is made with him he shall act deceitfully, for he shall come up and become strong with a small number of people. 24 He shall enter peaceably, even into the richest places of the province; and he shall do what his fathers have not done, nor his forefathers: he shall disperse among them the plunder, spoil, and riches; and he shall devise his plans against the strongholds, but only for a time.
25 “He shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the South with a great army. And the king of the South shall be stirred up to battle with a very great and mighty army; but he shall not stand, for they shall devise plans against him. 26 Yes, those who eat of the portion of his delicacies shall destroy him; his army shall be swept away, and many shall fall down slain. 27 Both these kings’ hearts shall be bent on evil, and they shall speak lies at the same table; but it shall not prosper, for the end will still be at the appointed time. 28 While returning to his land with great riches, his heart shall be moved against the holy covenant; so he shall do damage and return to his own land.

The Northern King’s Blasphemies

29 “At the appointed time he shall return and go toward the south; but it shall not be like the former or the latter. 30 For ships from Cyprus^[i] shall come against him; therefore he shall be grieved, and return in rage against the holy covenant, and do damage.
“So he shall return and show regard for those who forsake the holy covenant. 31 And forces^[j] shall be mustered by him, and they shall defile the sanctuary fortress; then they shall take away the daily sacrifices, and place there the abomination of desolation. 32 Those who do wickedly against the covenant he shall corrupt with flattery; but the people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits. 33 And those of the people who understand shall instruct many; yet for many days they shall fall by sword and flame, by captivity and plundering. 34 Now when they fall, they shall be aided with a little help; but many shall join with them by intrigue. 35 And some of those of understanding shall fall, to refine them, purify them, and make them white, until the time of the end; because it is still for the appointed time.
36 “Then the king shall do according to his own will: he shall exalt and magnify himself above every god, shall speak blasphemies against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the wrath has been accomplished; for what has been determined shall be done. 37 He shall regard neither the God^[k] of his fathers nor the desire of women, nor regard any god; for he shall exalt himself above them all. 38 But in their place he shall honor a god of fortresses; and a god which his fathers did not know he shall honor with gold and silver, with precious stones and pleasant things. 39 Thus he shall act against the strongest fortresses with a foreign god, which he shall acknowledge, and advance its glory; and he shall cause them to rule over many, and divide the land for gain. (Daniel 11:21-39)

MOPS (Mothers of Pre-Schoolers) Promoting Contemplative/New Age Book

I actually just bumped across an article from Lighthousetrails Research that mentioned something about the MOPS (mothers of preschoolers) organization promoting some contemplative/New Age/mystical books. This caught my attention because I know of one church that has a "MOPS" program and I actually had no idea that MOPS was an actual organization. This post is just for a reminder that we need to always be aware of what books are being used for resources in programs, organizations, or conferences, and to examine books closely before we promote them as a resource for programs such as MOPS.

President of MOPS, Elisa Morgen, recently endorsed a book by author Keri Wyatt Kent called Listen: Finding God in the Story of Your Life. Wyatt's books are also available for purchase from the MOPS website . Wyatt's book Listen: Finding God in the Story of Your Life can be purchased from the MOPShop as well as Gary Thomas' book Sacred Pathways, in which he teaches mantra meditation.

Here is an excerpt from the Lighthousetrails Research Article about Wyatt's book Listen: Finding God in the Story of Your Life. Click here to read the entire article.

*** In March 2006, it came to our attention that MOPS was part of CCN (Church Communication Network), a network of Christian ministries that promotes contemplative spirituality. However, and perhaps even more disturbing, MOPS is promoting (and selling) books that are pro- contemplative. The book that stands out among the others is Breathe. The author, Keri Wyatt Kent, is a writer for Willow Creek Community Church and often speaks on spiritual formation. Her upcoming book, Listen: Finding God in the Story of Your Life, teaches readers to "listen" to God through "spiritual practices," including the practice of silence. The author quotes extensively throughout the book both contemplatives and New Agers, including Henri Nouwen, M.Scott Peck, Sue Monk Kidd, Anne Lamott, Julia Cameron, Rick Warren, Richard Foster, Ruth Haley Barton, and Eugene Peterson (read A Time of Departing for more on the New Age and/or contemplative connections to these mentioned authors).

As with many contemplatives, Kent said (in her book) that she didn't really get a lot out of the Bible until she started practicing contemplative methods such as Lectio Divina: "When I was introduced to the ancient practice, Lectio Divina, everything changed" (p. 151). Kent encourages the use of breath prayers and quotes contemplative Jan Johnson to help build her case for this practice.***

***on the back cover of Listen: Finding God in the Story of Your Life sits an endorsement by Elisa Morgan, president of MOPS, which reads: "Keri offers insightful and practical help for all of us who are "hearing impaired" in our spirits. Ah ... what a relief!" ***

And here is an excerpt from Gary Thomas' book Sacred Pathways, also sold on MOPShop website. This is also from Lighthousetrails Research.

*** As we have shown in the past, Gary Thomas is an advocate for mantra meditation. In his book, Sacred Pathways, he states:

It is particularly difficult to describe this type of prayer in writing, as it is best taught in person. In general however, centering prayer works like this: Choose a word (Jesus or Father, for example) as a focus for contemplative prayer. Repeat the word silently in your mind for a set amount of time (say, twenty minutes) until your heart seems to be repeating the word by itself, just as naturally and involuntarily as breathing.(p. 185)***


So, for all you MOPS groups out there, make sure you are aware of their promotion of this New Age material, warn your MOPS moms about it, and even maybe consider not being associated with an organization that promotes some of these books and authors.