Stress, distress and no rest. Still!.. and for so many people.

Why has God allowed such interference from China etc? Why are so many people living with fear, confusion, misinformation, emptiness, loneliness and pain? Why have so many people lost their jobs and now can't find other work? Why are so many businesses still closed down and going away? Why has God allowed Covid 19 and all the other junk during 2020? Have ya been through some trouble and distress lately?  

Times have been pretty weird huh. Reminds me of this verse... “They were broken in pieces, nation against nation, and city against city; for God troubled them with all adversity.” 2 Chronicles 15:6 (See the whole context). 

“…city by city, for God troubled them with every possible distress.”

That does sound kind of like our day huh. What's it been like in your part of the world.. lots of distress, disruption, no peace, chaos, lots of lies flying at the masses?  

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

The false teachers here today, and there are many of them even inside some so called Christian churches..would never tell you that. They'd say if you have enough faith, you'll never have any trials or hardships. 

But Jesus, Paul, all the other disciples, and many saints today have experienced such. Remember not long ago seeing all those Christians beheaded on the beaches?    

Hey, God hasn't sinned any and sin is why viruses and suffering are here. 

Sin is why there is distress, sorrow, depression, chaos, death, disease and illnesses are in our world today (I'm not saying that your own personal sins always cause you such trouble now). 

God does love you and has a good plan for your life for sure -- that hasn't changed any. He does allows this stuff to happen in our world so that we will ditch all idols, wrong-doin's and simply come close to him. Let’s make this Christmas more about His presence than anything else. Yeah, more so than about temporal presents that soon wear out, rust, break or become obsolete. Come to.. come back to God. Have you never come to Christ as you are? Have you somehow drifted away? 

“My eyes are dry

My faith is old

My heart is hard

My prayers are cold

And I know how I ought to be

Alive to You and dead to me

But what can be done

For an old heart like mine

Soften it up

With oil and wine

The oil is You, Your Spirit of love

Please wash me anew

With the wine of Your Blood “ ~ Keith Gordon Green (Lyrics) 

So much stress and distress here, but you can enter His rest. Walk with Jesus today. 

How can I trust God's word? Aren't there contradictions in the Bible.. in following Jesus the living word. Nope, not one. 

One Gospel account has two thieves on crosses mocking Jesus on his cross.

Another account has one Center mocking Christ on the cross while the other one believes in Jesus.

Hah, a contradiction in the Bible? Nope, a conversion. It was a deathbed conversion ...or rather a death cross conversion.

You too can gain an assurance of your salvation in just a moment as well. What would prevent you from coming to Christ as you are.. right here and now? He's only a simple prayer away.

What does God in the Bible have to say about Covid 19 and such?

What does God have to say about pandemic diseases and sicknesses?  Does He really still care about people? Yes He does.  He actually loves you more than my words and ability to communicate can describe.  

The Bible doesn't mention Covid 19, but it does give you as much info that you'll need regarding this international challenge that we all are facing.  

Various outbreaks of pandemic diseases, such as the coronavirus, have prompted many to ask why God allows—or even causes—pandemic diseases and whether such illnesses are a sign of the end times. The Bible, particularly the Old Testament, describes numerous occasions when God brought plagues and diseases on His people and on His enemies “to make you see my power” (Exodus 9:14, 16). The Bible speaks of how God used plagues on Egypt to force Pharaoh to free the Israelites from bondage, while sparing His people from being affected by them (Exodus 12:13; 15:26), thus indicating His sovereign control over diseases and other afflictions. God also warned His people of the consequences of disobedience, including plagues (Leviticus 26:21, 25). On two occasions, God destroyed 14,700 people and 24,000 people for various acts of disobedience (Numbers 16:49 and 25:9). After giving the Mosaic Law, God commanded the people to obey it or suffer many evils, including something that sounds like disease: “The Lord will strike you with wasting disease, with fever and inflammation . . . which will plague you until you perish” (Deuteronomy 28:22). These are just a few examples of many plagues and diseases God caused.

It’s sometimes hard to imagine our loving and merciful God displaying such wrath and anger toward His people. But God’s punishments always have the goal of repentance and restoration. In 2 Chronicles 7:13–14, God said to Solomon, “When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command locusts to devour the land or send a plague among my people, if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” Here we see God using disaster to draw His people to Himself, to bring about repentance and the desire to come to Him as children to their heavenly Father.

In the New Testament, Jesus healed “every disease and every sickness,” as well as plagues in the areas He visited (Matthew 9:35; 10:1; Mark 3:10). Just as God chose to use plagues and disease to show His power to the Israelites, Jesus healed as an exhibition of the same power to verify that He was truly the Son of God. He gave the same healing power to the disciples to verify their ministry (Luke 9:1). God still allows sickness for His own purposes, but sometimes disease, even worldwide pandemics, are simply the result of living in a fallen world. There is no way to determine whether or not a pandemic has a specific spiritual cause, but we do know that God has sovereign control over all things (Romans 11:36) and will work all things together for the good of those who know and love Him (Romans 8:28).

The spread of sicknesses such as the coronavirus is a foretaste of pandemics that will be part of the end times. Jesus referred to future plagues associated with the last days (Luke 21:11). The two witnesses of Revelation 11 will have power “to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they want” (Revelation 11:6). Seven angels will wield seven plagues in a series of final, severe judgments described in Revelation 16.

The appearance of pandemic diseases may or may not be tied to God’s specific judgment of sin. It could also simply be the result of living in a fallen world. Since no one knows the time of Jesus’ return, we must be careful about saying global pandemics are proof that we are living in the end times. For those who do not know Jesus Christ as Savior, disease should be a reminder that life on this earth is tenuous and can be lost at any moment. As bad as pandemics are, hell will be worse. The Christian, however, has the assurance of salvation and the hope of eternity because of the blood of Christ shed on the cross for us (Isaiah 53:5; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 9:28).

How should Christians respond to pandemic diseases? First, do not panic. God is in control. The Bible says the equivalent of "do not fear" over 300 times. Second, be wise. Take reasonable steps to avoid exposure to the disease and to protect and provide for your family. Third, look for opportunities for ministry. Often when people are fearful for their lives, they are more willing to have conversations about eternity. Be bold and compassionate in your sharing of the Gospel, always speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).

Thanks.. GotQuestions. Recommended Resource: The Book of Signs: 31 Undeniable Prophecies of the Apocalypse by David Jeremiah

Man, What does God in the Bible have to say about pandemic diseases and sicknesses?

Kinda Curious on That? Got Questions?

Islamic State Asks Allah to ‘Increase Coronavirus Torment’ of Infidels

Yikes, so much hate and weirdness in this world here. Various outbreaks of pandemic diseases, such as Ebola or the coronavirus, have prompted many to ask why God even allows—or even causes—pandemic diseases …..and whether such illnesses are a sign of the end times. 

God ain’t mad at you, caught off guard, anxious, surprised, or mean to people–He loves you and has a good plan. He didn’t bring sin with the fall out into this world. 

The Bible, particularly the Old Testament, describes numerous occasions when God brought plagues and diseases on His people and on His enemies “to make you see my power” (Exodus 9:14, 16). He used plagues on Egypt to force Pharaoh to free the Israelites from bondage, while sparing His people from being affected by them (Exodus 12:13; 15:26), thus indicating His sovereign control over diseases and other afflictions.

God also warned His people of the consequences of disobedience, including plagues (Leviticus 26:21, 25). On two occasions, God destroyed 14,700 people and 24,000 people for various acts of disobedience (Numbers 16:49 and 25:9). After giving the Mosaic Law, God commanded the people to obey it or suffer many evils, including something that sounds like Ebola: “The Lord will strike you with wasting disease, with fever and inflammation … which will plague you until you perish” (Deuteronomy 28:22). These are just a few examples of many plagues and diseases God caused.

It’s sometimes hard to imagine our loving and merciful God displaying such wrath and anger toward His people. But God’s punishments always have the goal of repentance and restoration. In 2 Chronicles 7:13–14, God said to Solomon, “When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command locusts to devour the land or send a plague among my people, if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” Here we see God using disaster to draw His people to Himself, to bring about repentance and the desire to come to Him as children to their heavenly Father.

In the New Testament, Jesus healed “every disease and every sickness,” as well as plagues in the areas He visited (Matthew 9:35; 10:1; Mark 3:10). Just as God chose to use plagues and disease to show His power to the Israelites, Jesus healed as an exhibition of the same power to verify that He was truly the Son of God. He gave the same healing power to the disciples to verify their ministry (Luke 9:1). God still allows sickness for His own purposes, but sometimes disease, even worldwide pandemics, are simply the result of living in a fallen world. There is no way to determine whether or not a pandemic has a specific spiritual cause, but we do know that God has sovereign control over all things (Romans 11:36) and will work all things together for the good of those who know and love Him (Romans 8:28).

The spread of sicknesses such as Ebola and the coronavirus is a foretaste of pandemics that will be part of the end times. Jesus referred to future plagues associated with the last days (Luke 21:11). The two witnesses of Revelation 11 will have power “to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they want” (Revelation 11:6). Seven angels will wield seven plagues in a series of final, severe judgments described in Revelation 16.

The appearance of pandemic diseases may or may not be tied to God’s specific judgment of sin. It could also simply be the result of living in a fallen world. Since no one knows the time of Jesus’ return, we must be careful about saying global pandemics are proof that we are living in the end times. For those who do not know Jesus Christ as Savior, disease should be a reminder that life on this earth is tenuous and can be lost at any moment. As bad as pandemics are, hell will be worse. The Christian, however, has the assurance of salvation and the hope of eternity because of the blood of Christ shed on the cross for us (Isaiah 53:5; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 9:28).

How should Christians respond to pandemic diseases? First, do fear or panic. God is in control. The Bible says the equivalent of “do not fear” over 300 times. Second, be wise. Take reasonable steps to avoid exposure to the disease and to protect and provide for your family. Third, look for opportunities for ministry. Often when people are fearful for their lives, they are more willing to have conversations about eternity. Be bold and compassionate in your sharing of the Gospel, always speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).

Recommended Resource: The Book of Signs: 31 Undeniable Prophecies of the Apocalypse by David Jeremiah

Sup with Christian Church Worship and the COVID-19 virus? Let's keep on with it..online only for now. With Him who loves you and is Lord of all. Always will be. “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” James 4:8

https://fish4souls.org/post/612568839334543360/sup-with-christian-church-worship-and-the-covid-19

Have you been ill and feelin' hopeless in what looks like an impossible situation? There sometimes comes a time when a person might just need more than what a mere doctor or their hospital can do. Be encouraged in the Lord! God can still make a way where there is none.

http://kurtwvs.tumblr.com/post/160287851433/have-you-been-feelin-kinda-sick-latelyor-been

Happy New Year, and be encouraged. H.O.P.E. Hold On, Pains End.

It's a new year with 365 new chances and we can have hope in Christ.. despite our specific needs, hurts, or current longings. I want to commend you to our anchor of the soul--the God of hope.

God says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

"And you will feel secure, because there is hope; you will look around and take your rest in security." ~ Job 11:18

Whatever God does or allows in your life is motivated by his love for you and for others. It can all work out and together for good if we believe and love Christ in return (see Romans 8:28-29). Most false teachers outside and inside the church, cult leaders as well as so called word-faith prosperity preachers won't tell you what I will tell you here. 

Life here has some pain, bummers, sorrow, afflictions, troubles, and death. So many people think that they will get a pass on this stuff. But it happens to everyone. It might start with the passing of your grandparents.. not an easy time. 

And so many word-faith (false, off base) teachers within the church with their aberrant doctrines (so called Christian minsters) keep telling us that if we have faith and give to them then we will get the hundredfold blessing and find ourselves out of debt and rich.. like them cuz so many fools gave to them even when they didn't have enough for their bills. Some even used their credit cards to give to em.. presumptuously expecting to get rich (go read Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis. Go hear the audio book Christianity in Crisis and Counterfeit Revival by Hank H). 

We have a living hope, but there are struggles. Hey, even the best of marriages or businesses have problems. And Christians can learn through trials and struggles. We / They will grow through the hardships as we press in to know the Lord--yes, hope can be found and can develop through the troubles or tribulation. 

Christians will have more trials ahead and some with suffering that will yes.. actually work for rather than against.. them. Sure, as they look to, worship, serve, and get closer to the Lord.

"Hope is called the anchor of the soul (Hebrews 6:19), because it gives stability to the Christian life. But hope is not simply a ‘wish’ (I wish that such-and-such would take place); rather, it is that which latches on to the certainty of the promises of the future that God has made." ~ RC Sproil

Sometimes it seems like we are being refined by fire until we are more pure like pure gold. God likes us holy--He loves us and want us mature, strong and pure. Notice what the Bible tells us of Paul the Apostle and his missionary team.. "They preached the Gospel to that city and made many disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples and encouraging them to continue in the faith. 'We must endure many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God..'" Acts 14:21-22

Jesus basically told us that in this world you will have some struggles. Why? Man’s sin, his bad choice in the garden of Eden and later other sins elsewhere because we've all sinned.. they have changed this planet and the people here. But no worries.. God loves you anyway. He sent Jesus who died in your place on the Cross. And He's alive again.
  

"The Christian Message is that there is hope for a ruined humanity–hope of pardon, hope of peace with God, hope of glory–because at the Father’s will Jesus became poor, and was born in a stable so that thirty years later He might hang on a cross." ~ J.I. Packer

Christ in the Bible says, “Look, an hour is coming and has already come when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and you will leave Me all alone. Yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!” John 16:32-33

"The hope that God has provided for you is not merely a wish. Neither is it dependent on other people, possessions, or circumstances for its validity. Instead, biblical hope is an application of your faith that supplies a confident expectation in God’s fulfillment of His promises. Coupled with faith and love, hope is part of the abiding characteristics in a believer’s life." ~ John C. Broger

"Without Christ there is no hope." ~ Charles Spurgeon

The fall (of man in the garden) has marred this sin-cursed earth. There should have never been aging, obesity, sickness, baldness in women or men, poverty, disease and or death in this place--it wasn't part of His original plan and design. He was well acquainted with sorrows, temptation, sufferings and grief--He knows. Through the trials, through the dark and stormy night, (biblical) faith holds a light up if you will. No matter the size of the storm. Ever seen a light on a ship, or from a light house -- when you do it's time for hope. And that shines out in the blackness of night to help guide to hope and safety. We want to shine out basically reflecting His light out, because so many people still need to hear the Gospel of hope. So many need that living hope in Christ and they can enjoy Him today.

"Faith has to do with things that are not seen and hope with things that are not at hand." ~ Thomas Aquinas

"The law works fear and wrath; grace works hope and mercy." ~ Martin Luther

"Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation." Psalm 42:5

Check it out in the Bible--God loves you as much as He loves His own Son Jesus. This hope we have is kinda like an anchor of the soul in this life of turbulence. Hey, if it has troubled your heart, it troubles his. Christ weeps when we feel the pain.. yeah, when we hurt.. He hurts. But He allows things to happen so that we will turn from sin..so we might turn to Him. It’s because he really loves us. 

Death is not the end of existence for people, it is just a change in your existence and location. Turn from sin. Call out to God in faith. Listen, the Bible is filled with an eternity’s worth of reasons for us to have hope in Christ. facebook.com/shareJesus

Are you sick and tired of bein' sick and tired? It's been a while but I've been there before.

Q. What brought sickness and disease into this world?

A. You already know. Wrong-doin’s did–ours. Yup, sin. 

And now there’s officially 70,000 ways to get sick or die….yet Christ can still heal anyone. He is the same yesterday, today, tomorrow, the day after that, and forever (see Hebrews 13:8). What He did in love, He will still do for people until we're home with Him and there is no more need. Put your faith in Him for He is no respecter of persons in the sense that He loves us all the same.

It’s true (Man, why am I all caps here, this non-techy-blogger doesn't even know how to change it away from caps. Hah! Oh well...), but for some people who know the Lord; they wait kinda long and then "catch" if you will.. the ultimate healing when they arrive in heaven. Sure, when they see their Healer face to face. False teachers (even within some quasi Christian churches) will say it's cuz they lack faith or don't give to their so called ministry. Go closely check out the doubting and faith of those healed in the Bible. 

Me? I'm not exactly sure why God doesn’t heal all those who ask Him at the time that they ask, but He knows best and does heal some people. #Ask #Seek #Knock

Exodus 23:25  And you shall serve the LORD your God, and he shall bless your bread, and your water; and I will take sickness away from the middle of you.
Psalms 103:3  Who forgives all your iniquities; who heals all your diseases;
Psalms 107:20  He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.
Jeremiah 30:17  For I will restore health to you, and I will heal you of your wounds, said the LORD; because they called you an Outcast, saying, This is Zion, whom no man seeks after.
Matthew 4:23  And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.
Matthew 9:12  But when Jesus heard that, he said to them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick.
Matthew 10:8  Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely you have received, freely give.
Matthew 14:14  And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.
Mark 16:17  And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;
Acts 10:38  How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
James 5:14  Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:
James 5:16  Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that you may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
1 Peter 2:24  Who his own self bore our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live to righteousness: by whose stripes you were healed. (Be sure to look at these verses in their entire context.)
I say, go share the Gospel and pray for people. Jesus did that and He's still our Example. 

When your hearers are willing, God will indeed save em and He might even pre-rapture.. heal them. Why? Cuz their concerns are on His heart. He is very concerned about their concerns, cuz He loves them. He loves you!!