Cry Out To The LORD !!!


On a gloomy day in 1857, a man in New York City, Jeremiah Lanthier, scanned the morning newspaper. He was distressed to read that the depression gripping the nation was causing fear and panic among the people. Factories were closing and thousands were unemployed. Although Lanthier didn’t know what to do, he knew who did! That day he sent a note to all his business acquaintances, telling them that at noon a prayer meeting would be held in his office.

On the first day no one came. All alone he prayed fervently that God would bring about a great change in him and in America. The second day a few friends joined him. A short time later similar gatherings were started around the city. Then like wildfire, the movement spread to all parts of the country. Some historians say that this effort of united prayer and faith was an integral part of the improvement in the economy that soon
followed.

What do you do when you don’t know what to do? Follow the example set by other godly people—cry out to the Lord and He will answer. If you are willing to follow His instructions, you will never be left without the right answers.

It’s not what you know but who you know that counts.

www.amazingfacts.org

THE RESUME OF JESUS CHRIST

Address: Ephesians 1:20
Phone: Romans 10:13
Website: The Bible. Keywords: Christ, Lord, Savior and Jesus

Hello. My name is Jesus - The Christ. Many call me Lord! I've sent you my resume because I'm seeking the top management position in your heart. Please consider my accomplishments as set forth in my resume.

Qualifications
- I founded the earth and established the heavens
(See Proverbs 3:19)

- I formed man from the dust of the ground (See Genesis 2:7)

- I breathed into man the breath of life (See Genesis 2:7)

- I redeemed man from the curse of the law (See Galatians 3:13)

- The blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant comes upon your life through me (See Galatians 3:14)

Occupational Background
- I've only had one employer (See Luke 2:49).

- I've never been tardy, absent, disobedient, slothful or disrespectful.

- My employer has nothing but rave reviews for me
(See Matthew 3:15-17)

Skills Work Experiences
- Some of my skills and work experiences include: empowering the poor to be poor no more, healing the brokenhearted, setting the captives free, healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind and setting at liberty them that are bruised (See Luke 4:18).

- I am a Wonderful Counselor, (See Isaiah 9:6). People who listen to me shall dwell safely and shall not fear evil (See Proverbs 1:33 ).

- Most importantly, I have the authority, ability and power to cleanse you of your sins (See I John 1:7-9)

Educational Background
- I encompass the entire breadth and length of knowledge, wisdom and understanding (See Proverbs 2:6).

- In me are hid all of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge
(See Colossians 2:3).

- My Word is so powerful; it has been described as being a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path (See Psalms 119:105).

- I can even tell you all of the secrets of your heart
(See Psalms 44:21).

Major Accomplishments
- I was an active participant in the greatest Summit Meeting of all times (See Genesis 1:26).

- I laid down my life so that you may live (See II Corinthians 5:15).

- I defeated the archenemy of God and mankind and made a show of them openly (See Colossians 2:15).

- I've miraculously fed the poor, healed the sick and raised the dead!

- There are many more major accomplishments, too many to mention here. You can read them on my website, which is the Bible. You don't need an Internet connection or computer to access my website.

References
- Believers and followers worldwide will testify to my divine healings, salvation, deliverance, miracles, restoration and supernatural guidance

In Summation
Now that you've read my resume, I'm confident that I'm the only candidate uniquely qualified to fill this vital position in your heart. In summation, I will properly direct your paths (See Proverbs 3:5-6), and lead you into everlasting life (See John 6:47). When can I start? Time is of the essence (See Hebrews 3:15).

Please forward my resume, you never know who may have an opening!

Thanks for your help and may God bless you!

Wow........., last week was interesting for me I must say, .... why you ask.....  well i have spent the greater part of it waiting  to watch the Vice Presidential debate. It has been rather interesting in many aspects that I will point out below. 

I have had an open mind these past few months as who I think is best suitable to be President and Vice President of the US, but looking at facts and figures i think I can safely conclude that my mind is made up. But before that we need to understand the reasoning behind this conclusion. 

It is not based on gender or race but on pure substance and what people need to look for when making a decision in the ballot box.

but first the VP debate. hmmmmmmmmmmm no doubt Sen. Joe Biden won he had more substance, he looked more president material than Gov. Sarah Palin. The reasons that policies fail is because there is not enough explained about them as to their benefits and draw backs. Sen. Joe Biden had that he clearly pointed out and stated where he stood personally and for the Obama camp and went further to explain why he took the stand he did. He hit hard on Sen. John McCain and his connection to Pres. G W Bush and drove home that their fundamental principles where the same. They might go about it differently but the fundamental effect would be the same. I believe that is why Sen. John McCain has not come out and put his policies in the open for people to scrutinise fully. 

Gov Sarah Palin, I think she did well not to embarress herself but substances was lacking. I mean in large proportions. She must understand that this is not a popularity contest but an election for the two most powerful positions in the world. I admire her values except the gun one. as the rest are similar to mine however she has no clue of the fundamental principles to run government, she doesnt even know the VP job discription. as she correctly put it "I have only been at this for 5 weeks" need we conclude what she knows. Govn. Sarah Palin failed to even answer the questions. she talked alot about energy which I think she tried to make a case but failed to really pull it off as she was met with the issue of climate change and the impact of fossil fuel on it. She had rehersed for specific questions and they didnt come out as she had expected them so she had to try her best to somehow bring divert to what she had prepared for. 

My verdict is nah I don't she is ready for this.  Today I am watching the 2nd Presidential Debate and well all eyes are on Obama he is under a lot of pressure to close the deal on this one, but it wont be easy.

THE CREDIT CRUNCH WHO IS TO BLAME

This is some what an odd question, but in recent weeks or months its been a subject of much debate with even the US Election weighing in on it for political gain. But the answer is so simple but most people do not want to acknowledge it. 

In the words of Barack Obama,  "everybody needs to take responsibility for their actions...... Government will do its part and you have to do yours" , a lot of people didn't get what he meant in its full context. Now I will try to explain. 

When we were kids there was a time when if we wanted something we would save up our pocket money to buy it, for others we had to work for it in one way or another e.g. wash dads car, do the dishes or mow the lawn for the kids in the US. We were taught that if you wanted something you had to work for it and if you didn't have the money you couldn't have it, ahhhhhh the good old days. 

I think this is the problem we didn't take those principles and embed them in our  way of life. The idea of easy money has always attracted people I don't know why. As to the question above who is to blame for this mess it is us. the people not the investment banks or Wall Street or Government. It is us the people. We have grown to love easy money and the easy life to the extent that we are willing to sacrifice sound principles to get the next best thing on the market.

I will give you an example, Say I want to buy a house, what should be the things that decide what size of house I can buy and which neighborhood the house situated. Should it be "my wanting" to live in a high class neighborhood or is it my wallet. This is the problem that hit the housing bubble in the US. People where buying houses that they couldn't afford so that they could resale them and make a profit while some just wanted to live in places that they couldn't afford. The credit crunch is a classic example of not living within our means. 

The US situation is very simple yet very complex in that there are things that need to be set right as a fundamental principle that every American needs to acknowledge. Americans need to live within their means to fix this mess. When you don't have the money to pay for something don't borrow to buy it unless it is a necessity and all other options have been exhausted and if you borrow don't refinance it unless you are getting a better deal but rule of thumb always pay up the 1st debt before taking another.

I know a lot of people would ask what do i mean. Well it is simple I believe that say for example you need to buy a house, first and for most look at what you have saved as down payment, then consider your fixed income which is your salary or wages, deduct all your fixed expenses which are not optional ( water, electricity, taxes etc) then consider the balance is it sufficient to meet mortgage payments. Remember that you must always leave some cash for emergencies.

I was listening to one guy in the US on CNN who was talking about how the credit crunch is affecting him badly, this is because he was paying his mortgage using his credit card, I mean that is totally insane. Short term debt is the most expensive and to use short term debt to pay for a long term project is asking for trouble ( Basic level Accounting 101). Then there is the remortgaging your home to buy a car, 2nd home, boat etc, the last thing you need to put your primary home up as collateral especially if your income is erratic. This is what was happening in the US. a vicious cycle of credit and these are the effects. So when you can no longer pay (from loss of employment etc) you are stuck and the bank forecloses on you and you lose your primary residence and what ever it is you had set out to buy.

For my Christian friends its like this on the day of Judgement you have to stand up and answer for yourself and your actions, you can not say someone forced you to do bad, or you couldn't’t resist. You can’t blame the bank for having the financial Instruments they do. They are in this to make money, which means we the people have to be prudent to ensure we are not caught up in the craze of being discontent with what we have and wanting the next best thing. We should be vigilant and not be like a moth being drawn to the light that will zap you.

Simple rule if we lived within our means and were content with what we have things will have moved well. If you need something but cant afford save for it, you may also try to negotiate with your employer for a raise. Do not go and borrow or use your credit card as a 1st option.

Today I had an interesting discussion with my Sabbath School Class based on this weeks lesson "Paul all things to All People". Its is really difficult to really fathom the consequences of our actions sometimes but it is interesting to get a real perspective on the ideas that we sometimes think are harmless. There are a few ideas that where brought up and I will put them as we discussed them and give the insight I have on these issues.

- Firstly I am of the idea that we are not in the business of converting people to the church we go to, no no no..., we are in the business of telling people about God, His love, character, Jesus and the Sacrifice He made for us. This is done in a number of ways i.e interactive study of the scriptures, our life styles, and our characters. Hence we are responsible for our method of delivery.

-Conversion is the work of the Holy Spirit and has very little or nothing to do with us. Once conversion takes place we are entrusted with nurturing the converted souls in the way of the Lord helping each other in our walk of faith through fellowship and this is the business of the church as a whole.

Adapting to your audience,

This sounds like something very simple and harmless right, yea..... I have heard this many times and usually from Adventist young people. There are many dangers in this idea. Some how we tend to believe that doing things in the church the way the world does them will some how bring people to the church. Yet there maybe some truth to this argument i would think that it is flawed in a number of ways. It will bring people to the church but not to God.

-The idea of changing our style of worship to attract more people to the church is not an idea that I advocate in the sense that worship is not meant for us ( this we learnt in last quarters lessons). When we go to worship God on a Sabbath it is directed to God and not for us, "......the Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath" Mark 2 v 27, yes this is very however, worship is meant to be reverent and if we read the Bible on the way God is worshiped in heaven in the book of Revelation chapters 4 & 5 we see to whom worship is meant to concentrate on. It is not about us but about God, and blessings are just a by product of our worship.

-God prescribes reverence in worship and that what we do and say should be understood and must have a bearing in our lives. I likened this with a custom made product that you go and get made to your specific instructions, if the manufacturer makes it in a different way we usual throw a tantrum and threaten all sorts of legal action. God custom made the Sabbath, worship, marriage etc to His specifications and anything that is not according these specs I would deem unacceptable. Why then do we think our way is better than Gods way?,

-We young Adventist people some how want to justify doing the wrong thing as something right so as to increase our numbers in the church. This is not right and is unacceptable. We are a called to be a peculiar people Titus 2 v 14, then why do we want so much to be like the world around us in the way we do thing even in the church.

-Usually this is in the issue of music, what is acceptable and what is not. Hrmmm well I think personally with music that if the beat of the music makes you forget reverence that it is not right. I have heard alot of people defend worldly style of music in the church and it has always bothered me in the sense that why do we want this style so much. Well truth is that it is not really about worship it is about trying to make ourselves the focus of worship. We want what we like, we want things done our way so as to make ourselves comfortable in the church and make it more enjoyable. Dont you think there is something wrong with this way of thinking, .....isn't it flawed in a many ways. Isn't Gods way of doing things good enough, why then do we insist on our way.

-I have also heard the argument that "times have changed so we must change also" God hasn't changed the way He does things has He. The last time I check the bible and all doctrine that I have studied it is still the same. So what is the basis of this change.

-What is acceptable and not acceptable you may ask me, well very simple I would say does what ever it is that you do move the focus off God onto something else other than God, e.g. when a song is sung what do you remember most the words and their meaning or the rythm and beat that goes with it, .... the carisma of the pastor and how powerful he was or the message he preached and what it really meant. Yes this is serious, so I would urge that we young people look at our hearts and our motives before standing up to speak or challenge the elderly on some issues.

When the early church started and grew gradually the did things the way God priscribed and when they started to entertain ideas to make themselves comfortable in the church and make church convinient what happened, it set in mortion events that we feel the effect today. How do you suppose we ended up with so many different religious faiths, it all starts with small compromise and we might not feel the effect now but the future generations will feel the effects deeply.

Well having said all this what does it have to do with this weeks Lesson well very simple if you look at Pauls sermons mentioned in the Lesson this past week, Acts 13 v 13 - 41 and Acts 17 v 16 - 33 we see the same message being preached to two different groups of people.

Acts 13 v 13 - 41 is focus towards the Jews, even the angle that Paul appoachs the people is that of the Jewish historical events and their significance. He slowly brings in the idea of Jesus and why He is the Christ. NB remember here Paul was talking to people who knew scripture and since Paul was well educated under the instruction of the great scholar of that time Garmalial, so Paul knew his stuff. What does that mean for us Adventist young people. Well firstly it means we should study the bible diligently and put all doctrine through its paces to ensure that it is sound. We can not stand up to speak if we do not even know and understand what it is we believe and are speaking about. I am not saying go and study theology no no no, but we are called to such the scripture diligently that we may find God, This also means that when you hear things even on the pulpit go back and check them out. Secondly it means that when you talk to people chances are that they know stuff and your account should be accurate and correct.

The second Sermon is to the people of Athens (mainly Greeks), Acts 17 v 16 - 33, here Paul is talking to non believers ( or Non Jews). This is were most people get things wrong. Paul did not change his style, he took is time to understand the people around him without becoming like them. When he knew what the people where like what they believed in, he took that knowledge and used it to show them the flaw in their way of thinking without condemning them. He told them of the Unknown God that they worshiped and who He really was and what He stood for. This is a common mistake amongst us Adventist, we are quick to point fingers without taking time to understand why other people believe the way they do. Taking time to know people and their faith is very important in the work that we do of sharing our faith. But I must warn you that Paul knew what he believed and would not be swayed by understanding what his audience believed. Hence my warning, if you have not studied diligently and understood what it is that you believe, I would be carefully about trying to understand other people as this might cause you to fall. Hence the significance of true study ( not study because yo want to win an arguement but study because you want to know God and to affirm the faith that you have)

Now the message in the sermons above are essentially the same, Paul didnt change his style just because he was talking to non Jews, no on the contrary he did the exact same thing in both instances he took time to understand the people and based on what he understood and believed he showed the true way to salvation. So it is not about changing our method of worship or our style of music, no once the people see that you are really making the effort to understand why they believe the way they do, they will be more open to allowing you to share what you believe in without you undermining the intergrity of your faith and the way we do things. Remember we are a peculiar people and that is what the people want to see and understand why we are the way we are.

Stay Blessed

I've tried to depict just a few of the things that the Holy Spirit does in renewing our inner man: our hearts. And it is also good to know that He will one day also renew our outer man: our body.

In 1812 Napoleon proposed to invade Russia and bring its people under his
control. When the plans were laid out, someone ventured to say, "Man
proposes, but God disposes." On hearing that remark, Napoleon replied, "I
propose, and I dispose." His pride, however, proved fatal.

Using one of His tiniest, most fragile creations—the snowflake—God brought the proud
general to his knees. Bogged down in heavy snow, Napoleon ordered a
retreat. His army of 600,000 men was decimated, with fewer than a 100,000
making it back home again. Ultimately, this disaster weakened his armies
and brought about his final defeat in 1813.

When God wills it, no one can stop it.

It's a great comfort to those who love the Lord to know that He can be
neither intimidated nor defeated. If they are from the Lord, whatever
plans we have will unfold no matter who opposes them. Jesus said, "See, I

have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it" (Rev. 3:8).
Conversely, if your plans are not from the Lord, they ultimately will fail
no matter who proposes them.

Prayerfully place your plans and desires into God's hands. Be assured that

if they are His will, He will bring them about. Nothing can stop God's
will.

No matter what man proposes, it's God who disposes.

The Need for a Reformation

But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Rom. 6:22, 23.

Paul felt that the Lord's requirements must be obeyed, His judgments avoided. Like Paul, we must make every effort to obtain the crown of life, which brings eternal honor to every victor. We must not be content to live useless lives.

What is humility? That sense of sin and unworthiness which leads to repentance. But we must be assured of the malignity of a disease before we feel our need of a cure. Those who do not realize the sinfulness of sin are not able to appreciate the value of the atonement and the necessity of being cleansed from all sin. The sinner measures himself by himself and by those who like himself are sinners. He does not look at the purity and holiness of Christ. But when the law of God brings conviction to his heart, he says with Paul, "I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died" (Rom. 7:9). . . .

God created man for His glory. He will not, cannot endure the presence of sin in His dominion. If there are in the church those who are willfully sinning against God, every possible means should be used to bring them to repentance. If this is not done, God's name is dishonored. He is too pure to look upon iniquity with favor. . . .

Adam's sin would be regarded by the churches of today as a simple mistake, to be at once forgiven and no more thought of. But God's standard is high and His word immutable, and all selfish, covetous practices are an abomination in His sight. The hearts of believers need to be purified, sanctified, refined, ennobled. . . .

Look up, my brethren. Has the gospel lost its power to impress hearts? Is it because the regenerating influence of the Spirit of Christ has died away that hearts are not purified, sanctified, and prepared for the Holy Spirit? No; the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of the living God, is with us yet; but it must be wielded with earnestness. Let us use it as did God's sanctified ones of old. By its living, quickening power it will cut its way to hearts. . . .

The Lord calls for a reformation all through our ranks. . . . When the church is awakened, decided changes will be made. Men and women will be converted, and so filled will they be by the Spirit of God that they will pass from country to country, from city to city, proclaiming the message of truth. With hearts filled with earnest love for souls, they will open their Bibles and present the Word.

From Devotional: Our Father Cares, p. 253.

The Holy Spirit--The Gift Of Gifts

And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Phil. 2:8.

In proportion to Christ's humiliation and suffering is His exaltation. He could have become the Saviour, the Redeemer, only by first being the Sacrifice. What a mystery there is in the godliness of Christ. Having magnified the law and made it honorable by accepting its conditions in saving a world from ruin, Christ hastened to heaven to perfect His work, and to accomplish His mission by sending the Holy Spirit to His disciples. Thus He would assure His believing ones that He had not forgotten them, though now in the presence of God, where there is fullness of joy forever more.

The Holy Spirit was to descend on those in this world who loved Christ. By this they would be qualified, in and through the glorification of their Head, to receive every endowment necessary for the fulfilling of their mission. The Life-giver held in His hands, not only the keys of death, but a whole heaven of rich blessings. All power in heaven and earth was given to Him, and having taken His place in the heavenly courts, He could dispense these blessings to all who receive Him.

Christ has said to His disciples, "It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you" (John 16:7). This was the gift of gifts. The Holy Spirit was sent as the most priceless treasure man could receive. The church was baptized with the Spirit's power. The disciples were fitted to go forth and proclaim Christ, first in Jerusalem, where the shameful work of dishonoring the rightful King had been done, and then to the uttermost parts of the earth. . . .

How full and free are the blessings to be bestowed on all who come to God in the name of His Son. If they will observe the conditions laid down in His Word, He will open to them the windows of heaven, and pour them down a blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it. . . . If God's people will sanctify themselves by obedience to His precepts, the Lord will work in their midst. He will renew humble, contrite souls, making their characters pure and holy.

From Devotional: Our Father Cares, p. 249.

Christ Lived a Life of Humble Obedience.

Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him. Heb. 5:8, 9.

Christ came to our world, and lived in the home of a peasant. He wore the best garments His parents could provide, but they were the humble garments of the peasants. He walked the rough paths, and climbed the steeps of the hill sides and mountains. When He walked the streets He was apparently alone, for human eyes did not behold His heavenly attendants. He learned the trade of a carpenter, that He might stamp all honest labor as honorable and ennobling to all who work with an eye single tothe glory of God. . . .

Christ, the Lord of the whole earth, was a humble artisan. He was unrecognized, neglected, and despised. But He held His commission and authority from the highest power, the Sovereign of heaven. Angels were His attendants, for Christ was doing His Father's business just as much when toiling at the bench as a carpenter, as when working miracles for the multitude. But He concealed the secret from the world. He attached no high titles to His name, to make His position understood, but He lived the royal law of God. His work must begin in consecrating the humble trade of the craftsmen who have toiled for their daily bread. Had Christ passed His life among the grand and the rich, the world of toilers would have been deprived of the inspiration which the Lord intended they should have.

Meek and lowly was the life of Christ. He chose this life that He might help the human family. He did not take His place upon a throne as Commander of the whole earth. He laid aside His royal robe, He laid off His kingly crown, that He might be made one of the human family. He took not on Him the nature of angels. His work was not the priestly officeafter the appointments of men. It was impossible for man to understand His exalted position, unless the Holy Spirit should make it known. For our sake, He clothed His divinity with humanity, and stepped down from the royal throne. He resigned His position as Commander in the heavenly courts, and for our sakes became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich. Thus, He hid His glory under the guise of humanity, that He might touch humanity with His divine, transforming power. . . .

Those to whom Christ has given a probation in which to form charactersfor the mansions He has gone to prepare are to enter into His life example.

From Devotional: Our Father Cares, p. 257.

Its been a while since i have blogged, due to killer exams that were as difficult as you would expect ACCA to provide. Well I can safely say I am on break I cant even call it a holiday bcoz its only 2 weeks then its will be back to the grind.



Anyway I would like to say share with you a picture of my best friends Pres baby this is is the joy of Mr and Mrs Makho and Pre Madubeko. Her name is Siphiwe isnt she so cute. Congrads guys I really wish you guys Gods blessings for your new family.

Well its has been a disappointing beginning to our season, and well things have not looked like they will go our way. But there has been times when we have produced shear brilliance like this just look at the score line need I say more, welcome to the Liverpool the club that makes history. The largest ever winning margin in U.E.F.A. Champions league history from non other than the Reds. Need I say more......................

Well I know this has been long awaited sorry for taking so long but hear it goes,

Part 3 LIFE AS A TEMPORARY ASSIGNMENT, Well this part is basically what the title says, life is a temporary assignment. Have you ever felt that there is something missing and that there is more to life than what we have on this earth. "Well to fully understand this the book, asks us to never forget two truths, 1. this earth as it stands now is only our temporary residence, and 2. compared to eternity this life is very brief." It highlights the fact that we wont be here long so we shouldn't get too attached to the things of this world. The Bible compares this life to us temporarily living in a foreign land (for those living oversea like Zah and myself can relate), how ever the bible uses words like alien, pilgrim, foreigner, stranger visitor and traveller to describe our brief stay on earth.

Rick Warren goes on to highlight the fact the we as Christians need to get serious with our Christianity and our identity as Christians, as our home land is in heaven and not this earth. God is very blunt says the Rick, He is very blunt about the danger of living for the here and now, and adopting the values, proprieties, and lifestyles of the world around us. When we flirt with temptations of this world , God calls this spiritual adultery. James 4v4 puts i very bluntly and clearly " Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. " Very sobering isn't it, I know but that is just what it is. The Lord put it very clearly you cant serve two masters its either you will love one and hate the other. Rick goes on to give an interesting example, he says, "Imagine you are asked by you country to be an ambassador to an enemy nation. You would probably have to learn a new language and adapt to some customs and cultural differences in order to be polite and to accomplish your task. As an ambassador you would not be able to isolate yourself from the enemy. To fulfill your mission, you would have to contact and relate to them. But suppose you become comfortable with this foreign country to the extent that you fall in love with it, preferring it to your homeland. Your commitment would change. Instead of representing your homeland, yo would start acting like a the enemy, and the word used for that is you would become a TRAITOR"

In 2 Corinthians 5v20 (NLT) " Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, ..........." we are called Christs ambassadors and sadly many Christians have betrayed their King and His kingdom. 1 Peter 2v11 (Msg) says"Friends this world is not you home. so don't get too cozy in it, Don't indulge your ego at the expense of your soul." Life in this day and age has never been easier which is very true, we are well entertained, well informed, and well catered for, the media keeps things following to us to the extent that we have 24hr media and basically the devil has made certain that every facet of our life is filled with something to do that will distract us from our God and the mission before us. Only when we remember that life is a test, a trust and a temporary assignment will we realise the devices of the devil and can we be loosed from his grip by making a conscious decision to follow the Lord and His will. The Lord is preparing us for something better, the things we see here can be gone tomorrow but the good things that are hidden from our site will last forever.

At this point it would be wise to sit back take a deep breath and reassess our values, our goals and the things that drive us to be who we are and define us. Are these things that you would consider something that brings joy to the Lord or would you feel ashamed when the Lord asks you at the end of time for an account of the time that He gave you. I would like to draw your attention to the story of the rich young ruler, in Matthew 19 v 16-25, getting too attached to that which is of this world world can be dangerous, and you could lose eternity. Let God bless you as He sees fit based on that which He knows you are capable of handling and don't get too attached to it it is only temporary. Take stock of your life and see what is it that could make you miss eternity.

Part 2, LIFE AS A TRUST, As promised I will continue with where we left of yesterday, this is the 2nd metaphor the we are given by the Bible. Our time on earth, energy, intelligence and resources are all gifts from God that He has entrusted to us. This is not an uncommon teaching in the Christian community but I hope it may bring about a change in attitude and heart amongst us.

The concept of stewardship is what this part of the book talks about, I know most people especially Adventists when the talk of stewardship arises its about money, well it is more than that but yes money a also a part of it. We will get to money later, however the underlying principle is God has entrusted us with that which we have, the bible says in Psalms 24v1, (T.E.V) " The world and all that is in it belongs to the Lord, the earth and all who live in it are His." We never really own anything in this world during our short stay, God loans us everything including life itself. Think of it the earth and all its riches was here before you and it will be here still after you are long gone and are just a memory. We just get to enjoy the earth and its riches as a gift from God.

When God created man He entrusted to them everything that He had made, well I am tempted to think that is why we were created last. So we couldn't calm or boast to have taken part in something our minds cant even fathom like creation. We are trustees appointed by God to manage that which is His. that is why God gave man dominion over everything that was created and this is a roles that God has never taken back. The bible says, in 1 Corinthians 4v7b (N.L.T) "What do you have that God has not given you? And if all you have is from God why do you boast as though you have accomplished something on your own?" Its a sobering thought to think that every time we achieved something truth is we had very little or nothing to do with it. I know we have been conditioned to the "I", or "Me" Factor, where everything is about me and what I can get out if life and everything I do. But God says we should realise that with out Him in the mix basically we are useless.

Rick Warren goes on to give an example of how some friends of his lent him and his wife a beach front property for the holidays, he says that they were given the go ahead to do to it as they wished and to be at home, so they did. they ate the food in the fridge, they used the towels they swam in the pool they even jumped on the beds, but in all that they took extra care so that they did not damage anything. They enjoyed the benefits of being friends with the owners but they knew hat the property was not theirs. The human culture is that of "if something does not belong to you, you should not take care of it" But as Christians we live by a higher standard and because God is the owner we must take better care of what ever we have been entrusted to us. This is seen in the parable of the talents, Matthew 25 v 14-29, when the master came back he required the servants to give an account of what ever they had been given, and you know what happened right. God in 1 Corinthians 4v2 (N.C.V) says "Those who are trusted with something valuable must show they are worthy of that trust"

At the end of our lives we will be evaluated and rewarded according to our performance as stewards of what we have been entrusted with. Now comes the money bit, well this is the biggest challenge for most people and I must admit even for myself, but i would like to draw your attention to the fact that money is both a test and a trust. God uses finances to teach us to trust Him, and to most people this is the greatest test of all. The Lord watches how we use the money He gives us to test our trustworthiness. the Bible in Luke 16v11 (N.L.T.) says "If you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches in heaven" This is an important truth Rick says. God says there is a direct relationship between the way we spend our money and our spirituality. How we manage our money determines how much God can trust us with spiritual things.

Well there is an extra part I would like to add to this it is not found in this Book, but it is something a I got from a sermon by Pastor Dwight Nelson, he says that as the three servants in Matthew 25, everyone has not been given the same amount of resources yes this is true, because God knows how much we can handle comfortably. However he says that we can ask for more but we must be careful when we ask. Because the Bible says in Luke 12v48b (N.I.V.) " From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded, and from one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked" so I say when you ask be careful for what you ask for because it may end up being a the very thing that cold stop you form have eternal life.

Tomorrow will be the last part of this three part series, it is entitled ............

LIFE AS A TEMPORARY ASSIGNMENT............

The other night i was talking to my love, and we were discussing something that......well i had read it and understood it but had never shared it with anyone. Well its on the subject of Trails and Tests.

I read the book "The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren, although he isn't an Adventist I sincerely believe that we (Everyone) can learn a lot from his work. The one chapter that I want to share with you for those who have not read the book, is the entitled "Seeing life from Gods view" this is by far the most challenging idea that I have come across in my entire life. Is it possible to see life through Gods eyes?, well Mr Warren believes so.

He says that, " the way we see our life shapes our life" this is very true and can be seen in today's world. The way you see your life defines who you are and your destiny, your perspective influences the way you invest your time, spend your money, use your talents and value your relationships. Just by asking someone how do they view their life you can tell what kind of a person they are and their values. People have come up with many metaphors as to what life is according to the book, "some view life as a roller coaster, a puzzle, a journey, or even a dance, these are then held in our conscious or unconscious mind, and are translated into our everyday lives into clothes or jewelry we wear, tattoos , hair styles and even bumper stickers. "

Our unspoken life metaphors influence our lives more than we really think. They determine our expectations, relationships, goals and values. "for example, if you think life is a party, you primary value in life would be to have fun, If you see life as a race, you will value speed and you would most likely be in a hurry most of the time, If you see life as a marathon you will value endurance, and if you see life as a game you will value winning at all costs." Now I want you to think about it, what is your life metaphor? and you will see what your values are.

Now to fulfill the purpose for which the Lord made us we are challenged to divert from conventional wisdom or earthly wisdom and to tap into the wisdom from the Lord. The Bible says in Romans 12 v2 (TEV), that "Do not conform to the standards of this world, but let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind. Then we will be able to know the will of God". What a challenge, don't you think, well the bible offers us three metaphors that teach and show us what God's view of life is, and how we should go about it. Today we will consider one then another tomorrow

Firstly, LIFE AS A TEST, this can be seen in the stories you find in the bible, God continually tests His people's character, faith, obedience, love, integrity and loyalty. This is seen in the words, trails, temptations, tribulation, refining and so on. the book goes on to add, God tested Abraham when he asked Abraham to sacrifice his only son, God tested Jacob when he had to work and extra 7 years for Rachel. Some sadly failed their test the most notable of course is our first parents Adam and Eve, then there was David who failed his tests a number of times. But there are these who passed with flying colours, Joseph, Ruth, Esther, and Daniel to name a few.

"You see character is both developed and revealed by the tests that we face, and all of life is a test. We are constantly being tested to reveal that gem in us, to be refined more than fine gold (1 Peter 1v7), God watches how we respond to people, problems, success, conflict, illness, disappointment and even the weather. God watches the simplest actions such as when you open the door for others, when you pick up the trash, or even when you are polite to a clerk or even a waiter or waitress"

We don't know all the tests that God has in store for us but we can predict some of them according to Rick Warren. We will be tested by major changes in our live e.g. marriage, also by delayed promises, undeserved criticism, impossible problems, what seems like unanswered prayers, and even senseless tragedies. But the greatest test of of all is how you react when you don't feel the presence of the Lord near you. his can be seen in the life of King Hezekiah, 2 Chronicle 32v31 the bible says, "God withdrew from Hezekiah in order to test him and see what was really in his heart" we all know the story Hezekiah had a close relationship with the Lord and well God left him at a crucial point of his life, to test his character to reveal his weakness and prepare him for a greater work and responsibility.

When we understand that life is a test, we will realise that there is nothing insignificant in our lives no matter how small it is every situation we find ourselves in is for our character development. Every day and moment is crucial and vital, to deepen or character, to show love, and to depend on God. yet in very test God always provides a way of escape when it becomes overwhelming and too much to bear.

Secondly, LIFE AS A TRUST,......

to be continued......................................................

I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread. Psalm 37:25

The plan of life that God gave to Israel was intended as an object lesson for all mankind. If these principles were carried out today, what a different place this world would be! Within the vast boundaries of nature there is still room for the suffering and needy to find a home. Within her bosom there are resources sufficient to provide them with food. Hidden in the depths of the earth are blessings for all who have courage and will and perseverance to gather her treasures. The tilling of the soil, the employment that God appointed to man in Eden, opens a field in which there is opportunity for multitudes to gain a subsistence.

"Trust in the Lord, and do good; So shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed." Psalm 37:3.

Thousands and tens of thousands might be working upon the soil who are crowded into the cities, watching for a chance to earn a trifle. In many cases this trifle is not spent for bread, but is put into the till of the liquor seller, to obtain that which destroys soul and body. Many look upon labor as drudgery, and they try to obtain a livelihood by scheming rather than by honest toil. This desire to get a living without work opens the door to wretchedness and vice and crime almost without limit.

(taken from www.bibleuniverse.com)

OH !! OCEAN OF SAND

there is no word to discribe it,

gasping for air, gasping for air,

feels like I am drowning,

drowning in my own dispare

what have I done, what have i done,

oh no i have done it again

,so near yet so far, oh my!! oh my !!

why didnt i see this end.

water, water , water

i see a spring, oh water,

dellusional, oh no!!!

it turned to sand again.

oh desert, oh desert

oh ocean of sand,

oh swallow me and my dispare,

oh hide my grief if you can.

Latest Addition the MAGAGULA FAMILY

I am so happy to let you know that my little bro Bongani is a DADDY, yes you heard me he is a father. I am so proud of him and Joanna. I pray that she grows up good and strong. Congradulations I am so happy for you guys. I pray for your happiness. and that God protect you and the little one.

Seventh-day Adventist 28 Fundamental Beliefs Seventh-day Adventists accept the Bible as their only creed and hold certain fundamental beliefs to be the teaching of the Holy Scriptures. These 28 fundamental beliefs constitute the church’s understanding and expression of the teaching of the scripture. Today’s belief number ten, is “The Experience of Salvation.” In infinite love and mercy God made Christ, who knew no sin, to be sin for us, so that in Him we might be made the righteousness of God. Led by the Holy Spirit we sense our need, acknowledge our sinfulness, repent of our transgressions, and exercise faith in Jesus as Lord and Christ, as Substitute and Example. This faith which receives salvation comes through the divine power of the Word and is the gift of God’s grace. Through Christ we are justified, adopted as God’s sons and daughters, and delivered from the lordship of sin. Through the Spirit we are born again and sanctified; the Spirit renews our minds, writes God’s law of love in our hearts, and we are given the power to live a holy life. Abiding in Him we become partakers of the divine nature and have the assurance of salvation now and in the judgment.Supporting scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17-21; John 3:16; Galatians 1:4; 4:4-7; Titus 3:3-7; John 16:8; Galatians 3:13,14; 1 Peter 2:21,22; Romans 10:17; Luke 17:5; Mark 9:23,24; Ephesians 2:5-10; Romans 3:21-26; Colossians 1:13,14; Romans 8:14-17; Galatians 3:26; John 3:3-8; 1 Peter 1:23; Romans 12:2; Hebrews 8: 7-12; Ezekiel 36:25-27; 2 Peter 1:3,4; Romans 8:1-4; and Romans 5:6-10.

WISE WORDS, from a someone dear to me, Sandra Mnkandla.

Psalms 37:9 and Jeremiah 49:11

There are times when it appears as though you are holding onto the wrong thing. You ask yourself a million questions that you can not seem to find answers for because nothing seems to make sense. You question your sanity because every time when you fully trust in God, you get the most of life’s disappointments, when you look up to him in total faith it appears as though he turns his head away form you and his ears are closed to your cries. You claim all the promises but they hardly ever come through for you but for they that do not believe in him, the pour like running water form a tap. The harder you claim the more they are blessed and the less you see any progress in your own life. You take time to worship God and thank him for being you but all you ever get in return is heartache and pain. When you look at all this you then ask but why do I trust so much in God? all he has ever done is disappoint me, get my hopes high and drop me like a worthless piece of property living me to shatter to pieces, there after he says come and I will mend your broken spirits. It is almost like he enjoys seeing me down and finds pleasure in mending me. Just when the job is about done he drops me again. I must be insane! He says ask and it shall be given thee. How many times shall I continue to ask and it not be given to me? I ask for prosperity but none do I get, I ask for knowledge and wisdom because he says let him who desires knowledge ask of him but none do I get, my performance at school is pathetic to say the list. Those who do not devote their time to him are very bright. He says come let us reason together though your sins be as red as scarlet they shall be as white as snow but I feel more sick of sin every time. He says carry my yoke for it is light but wait a minute it is heavier than the one I had. I ask for a life partner and all I seem to be getting are disappointments, I ask for financial break through and all I see is debt in my life. Does this sound familiar to you? I mean does any of this apply to your life. I know some of them apply to mine. Well if it does let me take this time to enlighten you on one of two things that you seem to have forgotten, when you are at your lowest that is when you are at your pick in your spiritual life because you are at break point that is when you experience the truth in what God went through for you and me and then you appreciate cause he says they have persecuted me and they will do the same to you never think any less will happen to you. this road you walk on his not easy but you have to walk it all the same he says I am there to help you when you need me to carry you through even though at times you forget me I forget you not. You are not insane and the Lord has not closed any doors on you. Endure a little longer and it shall be over soon. Point of reality the road has never been easy and it shall not be any lighter because you are walking it. If Jesus was persecuted what more worse you who chooses to follow in his foot steps. Bare in mind you are not him but you desire to be like him so it is a much harder task cause you are denying who you are and adorning yourself with another’s personality. Self will always want to rise but you have to deny and suppress it and all God to rise. When Paul said it is not I that lives but Christ that lives in me he meant a lot more than you think he did. When you come out victorious of the battle that we all have to fight against self then you will understand what he meant. That is why we need him to help us through this cause on our own we can not make it. The devil will always make it appear as though you are not prospering so that you forsake God and follow him. The more that follow after him the better it is for him cause then he perishes with many more. God is not man that he should lie or change his mind. One other thing we aught to remember is that Gods timing is perfect not a min too early and none too late, he is always on time to manifest his power and authority in your life. Do not weary to ask be patient upon him. I mean the devil will give you what appears to be gold from afar and once in your hands you realize it is just but dust. When it is God now it humanly appears to be dust but it is gold in his hands and in your hands. Seek first the kingdom of God and all these things shall be magnetized unto you. Psalms 37:9 says evil doers will be cut off. The ultimate goal is not to be too comfortable on this earth but to strive for eternity. To know that you are on a journey and were you currently are is a resting place and not the final destination. You are on a rest and not at the end of the road you need to continue soon so that you get there on time and not be left behind by the rest of the crew. All that glitters is not gold true that true that the devil will do all in his power to make it appear as though it is what it is not. All that happens has a purpose and a reason. When God answers your prayer he wants to increase your faith, when he delays he wants to teach you the lesson of patience, when he does not answer the way you wanted him to well he has a better plan for you. When it comes to God it is not just about faith but faith with works. Taking him to the point were he is God in your life and not just a God that you talk about but one that you know and are living in and through. When you talk of God you are removing all boundaries and limitations and allowing him to work to will in your life. He says try me and see if I will not bless you, see if I will not pour abundant blessings upon thee, see if I will not open closed doors. Do not tire and do not feel sorry for God. Tell him what you want, have faith and let him be God in your life and do what he does best. He says he has plans for you plans to prosper you and not to hinder you. He does not say you have plans for me. Let his plans prevail and you will be surprised at what you will achieve. Some of us are in jobs that are not ours because it was our plans and not Gods plans, we are in financial misfortunes because it was our plans that prevailed and not Gods plan for us. We are in spiritual shock because it was our plans and not Gods plans that took the first initiative. We are in miserable marriages and relationships because it was our plans and not Gods plans that prevailed. For as long as it is your plan then happiness will appear unattainable. Let go and let God. Who do you call? Who is there to listen? Gods desire has always been to give you eternity plus satisfaction in this life it has never been to see you miserable. Allow him that chance to be God and all else will sort itself out. Destined For Greatness!!!!!!!!! Even So Come Lord Jesus!!!!!!

BOOK REVIEW

Life in the Spirit

Introduction

The greatest need of the church today is for a genuine spiritual revival and reformation. This is what true Christians have been praying for through the years - in the family circle, alone in the closet, and with the church body on Sabbath. There is a deep sense of inadequacy when we sit in a home giving a Bible study or stand before an audience where hundreds need to make a decision for Christ. We know that there is no human way to win a soul or convict of Truth. Only the Holy Spirit can really soften hearts for acceptance and stir the soul with conviction. So we pray as we reach out with weak faltering words that the power of God will break forth in that moment of sharing. Sometimes, of course, we see the answer to those prayers. People are converted, the sick are raised up, and decisions are made for baptism. But why don't we see it more often? Is this on-again, off-again witness of the Holy Spirit everything we can expect from God? Why doesn't it happen every time we pray and claim the promises? There are special seasons when our hearts burn within us, and we leave a prayer meeting rejoicing over the refreshing ministry of the Spirit. But how did God feel about that meeting? Was He able to accomplish His perfect will in that service? When the fullness of God's power is revealed no one will go out to talk about it in tame, lifeless tones. Like a fire from heaven the Spirit will flash and illuminate from heart to heart until the earth itself will be lighted with the glory of it. But why are we still waiting for the fulfillment of the promised Spirit in all its Pentecostal power? Probably not one knowledgeable Christian will contend that the fullness of that promise has been realized today. This is not to say that there have not been exciting glimpses and momentary revelations of that blessing which will bring all other blessing in its train. But hungry, longing Christians everywhere concede that we have only scratched the surface of God's promises. In fact, there is a general consensus that the church is standing on the threshold of its most unique, predestined mission. The "latter rain" of the Spirit is to provide an explosive entry into the final harvesting phase of the everlasting gospel. And if the exact time of that visitation is not known, there are scores of texts depicting the spiritual consequences of such a breakthrough. Many believe that the "times of refreshing" have arrived already and that our own lack of faith and preparation has held back the baptism of the Holy Spirit in its final manifestation. When we read the scriptural promises of God's willingness to work through His committed people there seems to be no doubt that the fault lies with us and not with Him. The inspired description of our assigned role under the Holy Spirit leaves us almost breathless. Words and phrases are used which seem utterly fanatical and super-exaggerated. Our minds are boggled by the incredible scope of the promises which apply to the people of God right now. We blink our eyes and think there must be a mistake, or else there has to be some secret meaning or hidden reservation in the words. Again and again the Bible uses superlative expressions in defining the victorious experience of believers. God does not say that we can be conquerors; He says we can be "more than conquerors." He doesn't merely say we can be saved, but rather "saved to the uttermost." He will not just cause us to triumph, but "always to triumph." Do those words truly mean what they say? I submit to you that God does not multiply euphonic phrases in order to make an impression. There is built-in, self-fulfilling power in every single promise of the Bible. No matter how extreme the text may sound to our ears, whatever is promised shall be precisely fulfilled as soon as we believe. No matter how impossible it may seem to be, we can believe because God says it. Consider the extravagant nature of the promise in 2 Peter 1:3, 4. "According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness." Please notice, first of all, that "divine power" is referring to the Holy Spirit. He has already been sent to continue the work Jesus did while here on the earth. The text does not say that the power "will give," but "hath given" already. We do not need to look for some possible future supply of power. It is ours now for the asking and claiming. We simply need to possess our possessions! But what has that divine power of the Holy Spirit already made available to us? The text says, "All things that pertain unto life and godliness." Doesn't that stagger your mind? It is like a blank check on the bank of heaven, isn't it? It is not for material things like houses, cars, and lands, but it absolutely includes anything and everything you might need to live a godly life. Have you longed for victory over sin, for sanctification, holiness, Christ likeness, purity, and perfection of character? It is included in the "all things" of this verse. And don't try to reason away the words and make them say something besides what they say.

by Joe CrewsCopyright © 1991

I recommend that you read this book you can get it on the Amazing Facts website the link is on the left under What I believe

I got some insight into this much debated topic while i was watching a sermon by Pastor Doug Bachelor, He gives a clear and reliable explanation to this topic and I hope you may think carefully and logically when u read this. This teaching is based on the text Luke 17: 31 to 36. I want to draw your attention to the the prophetic symbols in the bible.

Sleep = death ( if you read the bible in Mark 5:32-43 with special emphasise on verse 39, you will see that Jesus equated death to sleep, also if you read the story of Lazarus John 11: 1 - 44 with special emphasise on verse 11)
The Field = The world (read Matt 6: 24 - 30 and 36-43 this is the parable of the wheat and the weeds)
The men = Labours or what we call today men of God who work in the mission field
The woman = the Church ( read Rev 12 may need further study for some people, also Jesus calls Himself he bridegroom who is coming to get His bride which is the church of God)
Then there is 2 why is the number 2 so significant in these verse. now i will explain fully

there will be 2 kinds of people that will be dead when Jesus comes the dead in Christ and the not dead in Christ, The dead in Christ will be taken up to meet Jesus in the sky and the not dead in Christ will remain. There will be 2 kinds of Churches at the time that which is the church of God and that which is not the church of God both will be feeding the people with spiritual food. the 2 men in the field will be the 2 kinds of labourers, those who are labouring in this world for God and those who profess to be labouring for God but are not. Matt 21:31 - 46, in conclusion read Matt 7:21 - 23.

I say we must exam our lives and our hearts, examine the words we receive from those who preach to us, if they are not consistent with the Bible we better do something about it, for everyone in that great and terrible day of the Lord will be held accountable for the choices they have made and can not say like Adam "It is this woman you gave who made me eat of the fruit" or like Eve "it is the serpent that deceived me". In today's information age we have all the references to substantiate biblical truth which is consistent with most of unaltered history. Check it out and ensure that your faith is based on biblical fact and principle not new age theory.

As u ponder on these words pliz ask the God Head, the Trinity to be with you so as you may fully comprehend Gods purpose for you.

Infallible Assurance

And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament;and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.Dan. 12:3.

Many, very many, will be terribly surprised when the Lord shall comesuddenly as a thief in the night. Let us watch and pray, lest comingsuddenly He find us sleeping. My soul is deeply stirred as I considerhow much we ought to do for perishing souls. The prediction of Daniel,"Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased" (Dan.12:4), is to be fulfilled in our giving of the warning message; many areto be enlightened regarding the sure word of prophecy. . . .

The salvation of souls should be our first consideration. I am troubledwhen I see many rejoicing in temporal prosperity, for those who possess worldly treasure seldom seek earnestly to secure the heavenly. They are in danger of falling into temptation and a snare, and into many foolishand hurtful lusts, which drown man in destruction. . . .

We need a more firm reliance upon a "Thus saith the Lord." If we havethis, we shall not trust to feeling, and be ruled by feeling. God asksus to rest in His love. It is our privilege to know the Word of God as asure and tried guide, an infallible assurance. Let us work on the faith side of the question. Let us believe and trust, and talk faith and hope and courage. Let the praise of God be in our hearts and on our lips oftener than it is.

"Who so offereth praise glorifieth me" (Ps. 50:23). Keep the mind stayedupon God, and know the love of Christ as the Word of God reveals it. This Word is life. Talk of Christ; call others to behold Him as yourRedeemer.

It is our privilege to rest in an active, living faith in Christ as theLife-giver. It is our privilege to comprehend with all saints, what isthe length and depth and height, and to know the love of God whichpasseth knowledge, and be filled with all the fullness of God. Let uscontemplate Christ as the One in whom all fullness dwells. Beholding Himas our personal Saviour, we shall appreciate the value of His savinggrace. We should think about Jesus more than we do. We should let Hispraise be in our hearts. We should speak of the love that has been soabundantly expressed for us. We certainly have every reason to praiseGod with heart and soul and voice, saying, I will praise the Lord forHis great love wherewith He hath loved me. . . .

Lift Him up, the Christ of Calvary; lift Him up, that the world maybehold Him. Talk of His goodness, sing of His love, and give Him thegrateful thanks of your hearts.

From Devotional: Our Father Cares, p. 255.

This was a great weekend, most of was spent at church, however Saturday evening was a special evening. As a special friend of mine called Paul Philbert invited me over to watch the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra. It was beautiful. Although this was in no means my first time attending the orchestra I just had to make mention this on my blog. For those visiting Malaysia this would be just one of those things you just can not leave without attending. These guys are just brilliant.

http://www.malaysianphilharmonic.com/index.php

Paul Philbert

(Timpani Principle)

I must applaud and thank Pastor Ivor Myers and his great wife for putting this set of shows together so as to benefit many people like myself.

Escape from the Black Hole is a touching series which everyone can relate to and covers most aspects of the media which are being used to numb our senses against that which is bad and evil.

The series has the following episodes:

1. The Black Hole

2. Sorcery

3. Star Wars

4. The New Face of Spiritualism

5. Moved By The Spirits

6. Video Games

7. Killing Us Softly

8. Music

9. Flame On

10. Martial Arts

11. The Battle of Two Hills

12 Exodus From The Black Hole

I will just give you an insight to the one that had a great impact in my life and that is Star Wars. Well I guess you thinking of the movie right... but it isn't what this is talking about. It is talking about how we as people and Christians have been worshipping the Stars (Hollywood Stars) by allowing them to dictate the way we dress, walk, the way we live, our social structure etc. It brings to light that the devil has duped us into this Hollywood frenzy that has got us hooked. He was the bright morning star and wanted all the attention and he and his angels (in some texts refers to them as stars) were cast out of Heaven into the earth. He also brings about the idea that also some of these things may seem harmless in actual sense they are very harmful, only but if you look carefully. For example why are are people in Hollywood called stars, It is a method to draw our attention away from God to these stars that the devil wants and he has used the place called Hollywood to destroy society. There is a whole lot more but you really need to get this the way Pastor Ivor Myers presents it is just good.

http://www.powerofthelamb.com/

Hallo all ....... I has been a while since I updated my blog but never the less I have a spoke but controversial topic to post today.

Religion vs/or Culture

I know most of my friends and fellow Christians would argue that the two are separate but I would like to bring about a difference in thinking and attitude toward the two.

Would influences the other and which should take more precedent in a persons life, I would like to bring about the idea that your religion is your culture. Now Now Now hear me out before you shot this out of the sky. I have come to realise one thing about religion be it any religion it has a specific blue print to the way the people who adopt it should behave or live it has everything one needs to build character. This is the same with so called culture.

If you wear to look closely at most cultures they are built on a basis of worship of something or the reverence of something. Which in turns becomes a religion and also has the power to define ones self, as well as build a character that suits it.

Now Christianity or to me Adventisim so to speak is a culture. If one was to look at the Christianity as whole I mean a total package we would see that it has everything a person needs to influence every facet of ones life to build a character that is up right and reflective of what true Christianity is. Yes I would like to insinuate that to be a true christian we must adopt it as a culture because in true sense it is a culture. Christianity is not a life style it is a way of life. It dictates to us the way we ought to live our lives and instills a value system in us that highlights what is important and what should be our priorities. Not only that but it also point to the God Head as our focus of worship.

Now I know a lot of people would say I am wrong about this but think about it logically, We have become spiritual Jews to be able to enter Heaven that is why we accept the teaching of the Bible which is a record not only of history but a record of Jewish culture and revolutionary new concept to the way we should look at following Christ, bought about by Jesus. Yes the feasts of Leviticus were done away with but God did not scrap the way He wanted His people to live. Hence now we have Christianity which is Christs way of life most of it similar to the Jewish way of life. For Adventist I would say almost identical except for the difference in that we believe that Christ has come the 1st time already.

Now I look at myself who is a Ndebele by birth and say OK what does this mean, Well I guess it does mean I have to stop identifying myself with being a Ndebele as being a Ndebele has aspects within the culture which do not agree with my being a Christian. You may say well this is an aspect that you cant change but i refuse to believe that because I have seen the impact this has had on my life. Having adopted Christianity as a culture it has made me see Christianity in a different light. and has helped me try to shape my life as it should be driven by the love of Jesus and molded by Biblical principle.

Hence I would like to challenge you take stock of your life is it consistent with what u call religion if not you are not treating it as your culture or way of life and hence will not influence major portions of your life or your character.

Think about it is your religion your culture or your life style.