THE UNITED STATES OF WHAT?

Many people, in addition to Bible commentators, Bible teachers and theologians are asking, “Is the United States mentioned in Bible prophecy?”, specifically in the End Times, (also known as The Last Days which precede the End of the World).

If you are not acquainted with End Times scenarios or are not familiar with Bible eschatology, it is a time in which the age we live will cease. According to some traditions, the world will not cease to exist, but will be radically altered. According to the general Christian view, it is a time when Jesus Christ will return from heaven, gather His ‘believers’ and take them to heaven, whereupon, God will judge the earth with horrific and cataclysmic cosmic and terrestrial judgments. He will defeat Satan and his armies of demons, wipe away all the evil on earth and sentence Satan, the Beast of Revelation all those who do not follow Christ and have received the “mark” of the Beast, (which is the symbol 666), to be sentenced to hell – a lake of fire and brimstone – for eternity.

The United States of America is never explicitly mentioned in the Bible, and there are no biblical prophecies that point with certainty to the United States. As far as we can tell, the United States of America is not mentioned in biblical prophecy.

The answers given to what happens to the United States of America in the End Times are most universally:

1) Perhaps in the end times, the United States will be weakened to the extent that its influence in the world suffers, and America does not play an important role in end-times events.

2) Perhaps in the end times, the United States has ceased to exist altogether.

3) Perhaps the United States is simply one of the other nations of the world that reject God in the end times and becomes one of the select nations to rule under the one world confederation. (see Revelation 10:11; 11:18; 12:5; 14:8; 15:4; 16:19; 17:15; 18:3,23; 19:15).

If any of these scenarios are true, what does that mean for us, the people who live in the United States? That is unclear and uncertain. But if you extrapolate the current political and social declining trends in the U.S., there is a good chance of a national collapse, or of external forces invading and conquering America; or that America becomes so decadent and weak morally, spiritually, politically, economically and socially, that we descend into an irretrievable internal chaos and become irrelevant. (see Brookings Institute, or The Guardian).

Additionally, there are forces rising across the globe, and they are uniting in an increasingly successful effort to reshape and remake the world into a one-world system. The Commission on Global Governance has publicly stated that when their Agenda-21 plan (which has been renamed in its final stage as Agenda 2030 – and the 2030 represents its completion date), is fully implemented, “it will bring all the people of the world into a global neighborhood managed by a world-wide bureaucracy, under the direct authority of a minute handful of appointed individuals, and policed by thousands of individuals, paid by accredited NGOs, certified to support a belief system which contains ideas that are foreign to the American experience, and ignores other values and ideas that are precious to the American experience.”

What are we as Christians to do in response? We are to stand firm. Stand firm in our beliefs and convictions. Which sounds a lot easier than it must be to really do. I say that because very precious few Christians actually live according to what the Bible teaches. Christians are pretty good at parroting scriptures, but not so good and actually living them, according to Pew and Barna research.

The time has come, however, that the Church is being shaken. God is preparing His Bride (The Church) for His return. When this shaking (or judgment) begins, it will begin in the Church before spreading to the rest of the world.

Church members have largely been convinced that God will protect them from any of the coming judgments ‘just because we say we are Christians’ and have prayed some insignificant recitals of acceptance and then gone on to live in some modified version as we have always been.

Salvation is radical. It is a death. It is a rebirth. It is a submission to the teachings and life of Jesus.

It is a transformation of extreme proportions. And don’t be deceived – it can be frightening at times. But it is the only way out of the ‘curse of sin’ which can and will condemn even the nicest and most sincere person to ‘an eternal darkness where there is wailing and gnashing of teeth’.

We are now to stand firm, protected by the Blood of the Lamb and by our testimony!

So, where is America headed? Let’s be clear: DOWN.

Where are you headed? Just because you say you believe, but do not do the things He has command you, why do you think you will be saved from the wrath to come?

Jesus spoke directly to this matter in Matthew 25:31-46. It is time.

Please consider watching this video sermon by pastor Gary Hamrick of Cornerstone Chapel, Leesburg, Virginia titled “STOP LISTENING TO THE MAJORITY” taken from the book of Acts 27:1-25.

Additionally, here is an introduction taken from Pastor Hamrick’s and Cornerstone Chapel’s web page:

“There is a lot of cultural pressure today to conform to the latest majority opinion. Groupthink can be intimidating, and the “majority consensus” often causes people to either go silent in order to avoid ridicule, or to conform in order to fit in.

But Paul said in Galatians 1:10, “If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” In other words, we can’t be a God-pleaser and a man-pleaser at the same time. Godly men and women in the Bible have always been willing to stand alone when necessary. Join today’s Bible study as Pastor Gary encourages us to stop listening to the majority and to start honoring God”.

Dear Friends, if you have been following this website, Whitestone Fellowship 2020 for any time you have seen my pleas and warnings that we must Get Ready and Stay Ready, to be found doing what Jesus has directed us and commanded us upon His return.

Pastor Hamrick emphasizes that this can be costly but is the price of being a Christians and a disciple of Jesus – or as many churches like to say, ‘becoming a fully devoted follower of Jesus’.

The time has come and is upon us when we must pick up our banner and follow Jesus into the spiritual battle.

“In conclusion, be strong in the Lord [draw your strength from Him and be empowered through your union with Him] and in the power of His [boundless] might. Put on the full armor of God [for His precepts are like the splendid armor of a heavily-armed soldier], so that you may be able to [successfully] stand up against all the schemes and the strategies and the deceits of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this [present] darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) places. Therefore, put on the complete armor of God, so that you will be able to [successfully] resist and stand your ground in the evil day [of danger], and having done everything [that the crisis demands], to stand firm [in your place, fully prepared, immovable, victorious]. So stand firm and hold your ground, HAVING TIGHTENED THE WIDE BAND OF TRUTH (personal integrity, moral courage) AROUND YOUR WAIST and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS (an upright heart), and having [c]strapped on YOUR FEET THE GOSPEL OF PEACE IN PREPARATION [to face the enemy with firm-footed stability and the readiness produced by the good news]. Above all, lift up the [protective] shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.

“With all prayer and petition pray [with specific requests] at all times [on every occasion and in every season] in the Spirit, and with this in view, stay alert with all perseverance and petition [interceding in prayer] for all [e]God’s people.” (Ephesians 6:10-18, Amplified version).

Your Brother and Friend in Christ Jesus,

Mike Young

I am reposting a ‘sermon’ by pastor Gary Hamrick of Cornerstone Chapel, Leesburg, Virginia titled “STOP LISTENING TO THE MAJORITY” taken from the book of Acts 27:1-25. (click on the image above or the green text above here to view).

Here is an introduction taken from Pastor Hamrick’s and Cornerstone Chapel’s web page:

“There is a lot of cultural pressure today to conform to the latest majority opinion. Groupthink can be intimidating, and the “majority consensus” often causes people to either go silent in order to avoid ridicule, or to conform in order to fit in.

But Paul said in Galatians 1:10, “If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” In other words, we can’t be a God-pleaser and a man-pleaser at the same time. Godly men and women in the Bible have always been willing to stand alone when necessary. Join today’s Bible study as Pastor Gary encourages us to stop listening to the majority and to start honoring God”.

Dear Friends, if you have been following this website, Whitestone Fellowship 2020 for any time you have seen my pleas and warnings that we must Get Ready and Stay Ready, to be found doing what Jesus has directed us and commanded us upon His return.

Pastor Hamrick emphasizes that this can be costly but is the price of being a Christians and a disciple of Jesus – or as many churches like to say, ‘becoming a fully devoted follower of Jesus’.

The time has come and is upon us when we must pick up our banner and follow Jesus into the spiritual battle.

“In conclusion, be strong in the Lord [draw your strength from Him and be empowered through your union with Him] and in the power of His [boundless] might. Put on the full armor of God [for His precepts are like the splendid armor of a heavily-armed soldier], so that you may be able to [successfully] stand up against all the schemes and the strategies and the deceits of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this [present] darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) places. Therefore, put on the complete armor of God, so that you will be able to [successfully] resist and stand your ground in the evil day [of danger], and having done everything [that the crisis demands], to stand firm [in your place, fully prepared, immovable, victorious]. So stand firm and hold your ground, HAVING TIGHTENED THE WIDE BAND OF TRUTH (personal integrity, moral courage) AROUND YOUR WAIST and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS (an upright heart), and having [c]strapped on YOUR FEET THE GOSPEL OF PEACE IN PREPARATION [to face the enemy with firm-footed stability and the readiness produced by the good news]. Above all, lift up the [protective] shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.

“With all prayer and petition pray [with specific requests] at all times [on every occasion and in every season] in the Spirit, and with this in view, stay alert with all perseverance and petition [interceding in prayer] for all [e]God’s people.” (Ephesians 6:10-18, Amplified version).

Your Brother and Friend in Christ Jesus,

Mike Young

JUST TRYING TO MAKE OUR WAY – THE SOURCE

We, that is, all of us, are just trying to make our way. And most of us know the difficulties we will face every single day. Most of us put on a brave face and try to muster hope as we struggle to get through this life. There are a few of the privileged who don’t deal with or worry about such things, but even they will face the ultimate test – and they know it – as we all know it. The question that remains is HOW? How or what is the best way to move forward? How are we to successfully proceed in life? Which way will give us the most safety, sanctuary and some modicum of peace and success?

We Live In A Jungle

A cursory look at history will tell you about the wild swings between humanity’s proclivity for savagery toward one another and brief attempts at civility, decency and peace. I would suggest that reading a contemporary worldview (anything less than several thousand years old) of how to attain or achieve peace among people would be very shortsighted and myopically flawed.

On the other hand, a credible source of immense value would be a study covering tens of thousands of years with the main stated goal of discovering and finding a way for humanity to live in a truly peaceful coexistence – as impossible as that sounds, that is such a ‘Source’.

This “Source” as I shall call it for now, has gained widespread attention and millions of adherents over the centuries seeking to appropriate the grand promises of peace, safety and health.

Unfortunately, it has been misused and abused by many so-called leaders and teachers for selfish and self-appointed reasons, which ended by largely discrediting this “source” and harming millions of people in the process.

These men and women who would interpret this “Source” by their own standards and frail human worldviews, will do so, sometimes out of sincerity, sometimes out of ignorance and sometimes for personal gain. Whether it is for financial, political or social advantage, some will deliberately twist the teachings of this “Source” in an attempt to appeal to the masses while hiding their selfish, ignorant or dark agenda.

This ‘Source’ has been physically traced back over 2,700 years by ardent and dedicated followers and disciples of the “Source’, and the history recorded in these scribe’s and disciple’s writings has shown that when the principles and teachings of the ‘Source’have been correctly understood, applied and followed, success in terms of peaceful coexistence, material and financial success, social and racial integration, political and geopolitical, religious, educational and health reason have seen remarkable advances.

This “Source”, as you may or may not have guessed, transcends the physical and psychological realms and originates in the unseen spiritual world. This ‘Source’ is not from some ‘spooky, hocus-pocus world’, but is from the realm of what is known as the Kingdom of Heaven – the Kingdom of God.

Let there be no mistake, however. Simply reading, knowing and applying principles is not enough. It takes complete submission and surrender of one’s own attitudes, ways and even one’s own life to gain entrance to this Kingdom – this Realm.

Jesus said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God”. (John 3:5)

Again, the Bible in Galatians 5:19-21 says, “Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

This is a Realm that benefits every person who believes in “The Source”, which is Jesus Christ and the written version, which is the Bible. It is found by the earnest seeker, by their faith, that He exists and is willing to follow and obey His teachings.

“There is a way that that seems right, but in the end leads to death”, (Proverbs 14:12).

The Bible is clear that a person must not change ‘one dot or iota’ of its teachings and fully receive the promised results. These teachings are really instructions on a way of thinking, acting and living. They must be followed, by faith, first in Christ Jesus, then in the way they are written and spoken.

It should be said that the results gained may come instantly for a few, but for most the results will manifest over a longer period of time.

You see, the main objective is not in the ‘getting of the promises’ but the primary outcome is to prepare you, the waiting recipient, to be able to receive the promises.

Unless one is properly grounded in faith and in mature spiritual humility, they cannot possibly receive all that God has promised. God is a gracious, loving and forgiving God, but He will not be fooled. Your commitment to Him must be genuine.

(Please note that this is not a ‘system, a procedure or a formula’. There is nothing magic. This is about becoming a child of God, and He will make you a brother, a friend and a joint-heir of Jesus Christ – provided for by a loving Father.)

It Is Not About Gratification – It Is About Sanctification

Again, the getting and receiving from God, Who is The Source of all things, is not the main point in successfully living your life. Receiving the promises and gifts of God are merely a means to aid you as you travel your brief time on this earth.

It is vital to know that by way of your life’s journey, you are either being made into the image of Christ, (Who is the perfect and exact representation of the Father), or you are perishing.

It is by seeking and following Him that you are being prepared – made suitable and ready – for a home which the Lord has prepared for you ahead of time. A home where you can spend all eternity with Him, in a wonderful and remarkable new heaven and new earth.

Now it is your turn: THINK.

Are you the one who says, “I am not here for a long time. I am only here for a good time!”

Or, are you the one who says, “I will be here for a short time – and the best of time is yet to come!”

So, should you ‘pay now’ and get the greatest of rewards, or squander your time now and lose it all?

Please, please, please dear friend. Choose wisely and join The Rising! You have heard it before: Jesus is The Only Way, The Life and The Source. Run to Him. Collapse in His Arms. Give yourself over to Him. He is eagerly waiting for you.

Your Brother and Friend in Christ,

Mike Young

        IS CURRENT DAY ISRAEL the same as the BIBLICAL ANCIENT ISRAEL?          

There are many convincing and credible essays, sermons and commentaries asserting, or claiming, that ancient Israel is not the same – and cannot be equated with – the modern nation state and geographical land of Israel.

This can be, and is a controversial topic especially in light of world conditions and the appearance that we may be near the End of Days as spoken of in Bible Prophecy.

I believe these arguments which say modern Israel is not the same as Biblical ancient Israel are correct on many points. However, there is one glaring element that is being ignored which cannot and should never be ignored.(click green text for a detailed Bible reference): The destruction and restoration of Israel, as foretold in prophetic scriptures, which occurred, the first time in 586 B.C., (the destruction of the first Jewish Temple) and served a dual role as a foreshadowing of the destruction of the second Jewish Temple, which also serves as a foreshadowing of the rebuilding of a third temple which is neceeary for the ‘abomination of desolation’ to occur.

Then most importantly was the regathering of Jews from all over the world for the reconstitution of Israel as a nation within the boundaries of their ancient homeland, which occurred in 1948, IN JUST ONE DAY, as was also prophesied in  Isaiah 66:8.

(Please note: the colored text contains important links in the matters being put forward or you can read the reprint fronm Biblegateway.com at the end of this article.)

Regardless, neither a temple nor a geographic piece of land proves or disproves that ancient Israel is or is not the same as current day Israel. Besides no Temple, as of this date, has been rebuilt, but scriptures say it will be rebuilt, and when that  happens, according to the Bible, the sacrifices will be re-instituted and there is strong suggestion within scriptures that Israel (or at least a part of the population and government) will re-enter a covenant relationship with God – as it was with ancient Biblical Israel as the groundwork for the recognition of Jesus as the Messiah within Israel and the acceptance of the final covenant given by God through the Son.

I am saying that we are seeing the formative stages of (#1), Israel returning to a covenant relationship with God, (#2), the government of Israel will once again become a Covenantal theocracy, and (#3), the nation will come to recognize Jesus as their long awaited Messiah. It would seem this must occur to correctly set the state for the events of the coming Great and Terrible Day of the Lord and specifically the 3 ½ year period (the first half of the Great Tribulation period) prior to the 6th tribulation trumpet which will mark the second 3 ½ years of the Wrath of the Lamb, the blowing of the 7th tribulation trumpet followed by the pouring out of the wrath of the seven tribulation bowls.

Theologians and Bible teachers have often prematurely connected Bible prophecies to current day events, only to revise or recant their predictions as the day of fulfillment drew closer and more facts were known. And, I believe that is the case here.

These things are coming to pass. Where does Israel fit in? Is it just the ‘Bloodline Jews’ who are the Biblical Israel? Or is it the state Nation of Israel? Or is it the Spiritual Israel? Or is it all who have confessed the Name of Jesus and have been grafted into the Olive Tree?

Your Brother and Friend in Christ Jesus,

Mike Young

(I realize that this short essay needs additional citations, footnotes and references, which I have omitted for brevity, but are available upon request. If you have any comments or questions, please use the reply or comment box and let’s talk.

REPRINT of detailed information on the ‘final element’ proving that the ‘current-day Israel will be converted to a Covenantal Theocracy once again:

THE FLOOD GIVES THE PATTERN FOR OUR SALVATION

Now after Noah was five hundred years old, Noah fathered Shem, Ham, and Japheth. Genesis 5:32.

Noah: The Hebrew word for Noah is “Noach”, which means “Rest”. (The Ark came to rest on a mountain); a patriarch who survived the flood. (God had given Noah his name before the flood. This was preordained to happen. I.e., God planned this and knew of this before mankind became manifestly corrupt. THIS WAS GOD’S PLAN ALL ALONG!)

His sons were named Shem = Memorial; Ham = Hot; Japheth = Opened. They were given these names BEFORE the flood. THIS WAS GOD’S PLAN ALL ALONG!

(A rainbow was given as a memorial (Shem); They landed in a place warmed by the sun (Ham); The doors of the ark were opened (Japheth).

How is it possible that God planned for mankind’s corruption and destruction from the beginning? God created mankind (men and women) with a deliberate flaw in their character and nature.

AN ODD THING

In the midst of His creation work, an odd thing occurs.  This is an event, an occurrence in the creation of mankind, which is completely overlooked by the vast majority, if not all, Bible teachers. This is a bit technical, but please pay particular attention, as this is a game-changer.

Genesis 1, Verse 27. So, God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.”

The wording of this verse, as it was written in the original Hebrew language, would be aligned as such:

Verse 27. “So created God, man in His own image, in the image of God, He created him, male and female, He created them.”

So created = bara’ = to shape, create, a formative process, to make fat.

 God = Elohim = God; very great, mighty; Plural of ‘elowahh; gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used in the plural. Signifying, God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.

 man = adam = from ‘adam’; man, mankind. ruddy, i.e. A human being (an individual or the species, mankind.

 In Him own image = tselem = an image; a mere, empty, image, semblance; image, vain show, from an unused root meaning to shade; a phantom, i.e., an illusion, a resemblance; hence, a representative figure, especially an idol, an image, a vain shew, of dubious character.

In the image = tselem = an image; a mere, empty, image, semblance; image, vain show, from an unused root meaning to shade; a phantom, i.e., an illusion, a resemblance; hence, a representative figure, especially an idol, an image, a vain shew, of dubious character.

What we see:

1. God, used in plural, representing God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit, created, shaped and formed mankind.
2. God created mankind ‘in His Own image’ but, as a mere image of Himself; a vain show, just a shadow of the Original; an image, in icon, a phantom pattern, an illusion, a mere resemblance; a being of dubious nature.  (God has deliberately made man and woman with a flaw, destined them to fail.)

1. • God, has always existed and He is eternal.
   • He is the creator of life.
   • He creates with purpose and on purpose.
   • This creation has all the imagery of childbirth: ruddy, squeezed, passionate, violent, painful, raw and costly.
   • A being of passion with a wild nature and base appetites is created. Mankind is created with flaws, destined to fail, condemned to death and separation of God.
   • Then God provided a Savior – Jesus Christ, to redeem all who would believe on His Name.

Genesis tells us of

• The corruption of humankind
• The destruction of humankind
• The salvation of humankind
• A time which is coming when all the heavens and earth will be judged for humankind’s corruption and those who have not called on the name of Jesus will perish, but those who call in the name of Jesus will be saved.

THE PATTERN

• The corruption
• The judgement
• The salvation of believers
• The destruction of non-believers
• The creation of a new heaven and a new earth

Matthew 24:36–47, “But about that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone. For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah. For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and they did not understand until the flood came and took them all away; so will the coming of the Son of Man be. At that time there will be two men in the field; one will be taken and one will be left. Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken and one will be left”

Be Ready for His Coming

“Therefore, be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming.

“But be sure of this, that if the head of the house had known at what time of the night the thief was coming, he would have been on the alert and would not have allowed his house to be broken into.

“For this reason, you must be ready as well; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will.

“Who then is the faithful and sensible slave whom his master put in charge of his household slaves, to give them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that slave whom his master finds so doing when he comes. Truly I say to you that he will put him in charge of all his possessions.”

Give your life to Jesus. The day of His return and the Great and Terrible Day of the Lord is near.

Get your family ready.

Be found doing what God has instructed when that day comes and inherit His blessing.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

WHAT IT MEANS TO GET READY

GET READY AND STAY READY

AVOID

ESCAPE THE PIT

KNOW THIS – IT WILL SAVE YOUR LIFE AND YOUR SOUL

We can actually DO this for our benefit – and for God’s glory!

Psalms 103:1-4, (A Psalm of David)

Bless the LORD, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless His holy name.
Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget none of His benefits;
Who pardons all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases;
Who redeems your life from the pit, Who crowns you with loving kindness and compassion;

So, what exactly is THE PIT, God rescues us from?

The Bible defines “THE PIT” as

• corruption,
• destruction,
• a ditch and
• a grave.
• It is also referred to as a “pit of hell”.

This definition is from the Hebrew language and comes from a root word or meaning

• “to sink down,

• be bowed down,

• be humbled;

• depression of the mind.

(taken from Psalms 103:4)

What is the PIT we can fall into which become our corruption, our destruction, a ditch a grave and a “pit of hell”? What are these PITS which cause us to sink down, to be bowed down, humbled and depressed in our mind? Here are a few:

The PIT of fear.

The PIT of anger.

The PIT of poverty.

The PIT of hatred.

The PIT of anxiety.

The PIT of lack and want.

The PIT of revenge.

The PIT of selfishness.

The PIT of resentment.

The PIT of addiction.

The PIT of lust and perversion.

The PIT of self-pity.

The PIT of envy.

The PIT of pride.

The PIT of self.

These and many more can become (or have become) a snare to our soul and mind. They can dictate our every thought and act and lead us into daily captivity of depression, destruction. A living hell. An above ground grave.

ESCAPE THE PIT!

Avoiding the PIT takes discipline and work on our part. We must consciously tell our soul to Bless the LORD. The Bible tells us to “Bless the LORD, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget none of His benefits”

If we follow this command – in other words, actually DO this – God redeems your life from the pit, and will crown you with loving kindness and compassion

Do it now. You will see, if you DO IT NOW. SAY THESE THINGS, NOW!

“I Bless you LORD with my soul,

“I Bless you LORD with my mind, will and emotions.

“My soul says ” I Bless you LORD for you have rescued me, and You give me Your peace.

“You give me Your Joy.

“Today, I am full of Your Peace and Your Joy.

“Today, I am redeemed.

“Today, You have given me a strong and sound mind. I Bless you LORD for You are my redemption.”

I AM FREE

I am FREE of fear.

I am FREE of anger.

I am FREE of poverty.

I am FREE of hatred.

I am FREE of anxiety.

I am FREE of lack and want.

I am FREE of revenge.

I am FREE of selfishness.

I am FREE of resentment.

I am FREE of addiction.

I am FREE of lust and perversion.

I am FREE of self-pity.

I am FREE of envy.

I AM CROWNED

I am crowned with the courage of God.

I am crowned with the peace of Jesus.

I am crowned with all of God’s provisions of plenty.

I am crowned with God’s Love.

I am crowned with the confidence with comes from knowing God.

I am crowned with all the riches of Christ Jesus.

I am crowned with God’s reconciliation.

I am crowned with freedom in from the flesh.

I am crowned with God’s contentment.

I am crowned with a pure heart and a clean mind.

I am crowned with God’s satisfaction in my soul.

I am crowned with the gift of giving.

Bless the LORD, Oh my soul, and all that is within me. Bless His Holy Name!

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

I don’t know exactly how to explain what I experienced yesterday.  So, I will just guess at how to say it. (And I hope this finds a listening ear).

Call me crazy.

Call it an ‘epiphany’.

Call it a vision (I really don’t like that description, but…)

I was simply sitting on our lanai (that’s a screened patio area, for you who are not familiar with Florida patio names) drinking a cup of coffee, taking in the scenery across our pond and thoughts or visions began to flash across my mind.  They were so vivid that they almost seemed visible (notice, I said ALMOST).

These images were reminiscent of scenes from “The Lord of the Rings” movies.  The images were not of the ugly distorted creatures or monstrous figures like in the movies, but they were people with hatred and anger distorting their expressions.  They were charging across a landscape, destroying everything in their path.

But, this was not a movie.  I thought, perhaps these are just images from the news media of the recent riots which my mind is recalling.  Maybe it was as simple as that.

But, I couldn’t shake the realism.  And, it was easy to relate what I was “seeing” to what is happening in our world.  I kept thinking, “How could the people of our nation go from law-abiding citizens to domestic terrorists in such a short time?

How could almost half the population, in the year 2020, endorse a political party espousing godless Socialism and Communist style rule?  How could so many people endorse desecrating our religious institutions, our history and legacies, going about indiscriminately killing our police and first responders?  They are destroying business, killing the owners, looting, stealing and rioting saying it is for justice?  How could the Democrat Senators, Governors, mayors and public officials allow and even encourage this anarchy?  Have they lost their minds? As I pondered on the thought “Have they lost their minds?”, I wondered, “Or, is something more sinister occurring?”

I asked myself, “What would cause so many people to begin to call what been considered as ‘good’, for centuries, now call it ‘evil’ and call evil as being good?

They murder babies for body parts, kill our police out of anger, disparage and attack those who don’t agree with their points of view.  These people loot, steal, threaten, murder for no real reason or for any reason.  Dishonesty is rampant is all areas of society.  Immorality, perversion and pornography is so prevalent and pervasive that one cannot escape it.

I’ll spare the continuing long-winded review of this upside-down world-wide phenomenon, but the one thought that struck me:  “Something is going on that is just not right.  It is not of this world.”

That’s when the lights came on in my head.  “It is not of this world”.

Read Ephesians 6:11-12:

(verse 11)  “Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.  (verse 12)  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.”

What we read in Ephesians 6 is nothing new.  But, the trouble seems to be intensifying, just like Jesus said it would intensify.  It has become just like in the days of Noah, before the flood.

Genesis 6:5-6 tells us what was going on in the days of Noah. “God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.  The LORD was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart.”

We read in Genesis 6:11 that “the earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence.” Pick up the newspaper, and you will see the hostility that fills the earth.

For those who have read (or have not read) the “White Stone” articles on the Tribulation, maybe this will bring you “to the table”, so to speak.

1.  We MUST recognize where we are in “eschatology“.

2.  We are at the 12th hour, we are seeing the opening of the 5th Tribulation Seal of the “eschatological clock“.  (There is only one more Seal left)

3.  There is only ONE WAY we can deal with what is upon us, until our Lord returns.

4.  And we are called upon to BE READY!

This is URGENT, dear friends.  If you have come this far in this letter, thank you!  Now, please click and read the links. We must be ready.  Please, call, email or text me if you want to talk further.  Let’s join together and get this word out.  Christ is our BEST and ONLY HOPE! Your Brother and Friend in Christ,

Mike Young

Additional Reading:

THESE LAST DAYS

CLUES THAT WE ARE IN THE LAST DAYS

Today I was to begin a personal Bible study time in the book of Hebrews (please, no jokes about coffee here 😉)

And, as often happens, I don’t get very far because of the depth of hidden oracles of God’s Word cause me to stop and wonder in awe.

For example, Hebrews 1:3 And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power…

1. “He is the radiance of His glory”. Think on this. Let it sink in.

Jesus needs no introduction, no external explanation, there is none other and nothing in existence to compare to Him. “He is the radiance of His glory”.

2. “and the exact representation of His nature…” Meditate on this.

There is no doubt, no ‘shadow of turning’, no second guessing:

He is dependable, He is faithful, He is merciful, He is long suffering, He is All Powerful, He is compassionate, He is Loving, He is forgiving, He is gentle, He is humble, He is courageous, He is Holy, He is pure He is all wise He is … “the exact representation of His Nature”.

3. “He upholds all things by the word of His power…” Dwell on this.

(Note: These dependable versions of the Bible say “…by the word of His power: ESV, NASB, KJV, NKJV, Aramaic Bible in plain English, ERV.)

(Note: These ‘easy to read’ versions of the Bible change the meaning to say “…by His powerful word” or “by his powerful command)

These distinctions seem small, but, the change is a huge shift in paradigm.

One version suggests that this is exclusive to Jesus, while One version tells us the power is in His Word and that Word dwells in us.

One tells us that His Power is in His Word = RHEMA, which is the Spoken Word of God (as contrasted to LOGOS)

The Word of God further tells us: “If you abide in Me, and My words (RHEMA) abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” John 15:7

ASK – according to the Word

SEEK – according to the Word

KNOCK – according to the Word

SPEAK – the Word

Matthew 21:21 And Jesus answered and said to them, “Truly I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and cast into the sea,’ it will happen.

22 “And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”

Let’s draw near to God and He will draw near to us, in these days.

Let’s be diligent to present ourselves approved to God as workmen who do not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. THE DAY IS AT HAND

THAT THIS WILL BE OUR FIRST LINE OF DEFENSE

AND

OUR BEST OFFENSE

TO THE GLORY OF GOD AND FOR OUR SALVATION

LET’S DO THIS, TOGETHER!

Your Brother and Friend

Mike Young

WALK IN THE SPIRIT?

You hear people say things like, “are you in the Christmas spirit yet?” Or, “You need to lift your spirit”.  I suppose this refers to one’s attitude or mood or feelings.

The Bible speaks of the Spirit, and although it does have to do with an effect upon one’s spirits, it is much more.

The Bible says this: “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:25). You might hear some Christian say something like ‘I am moved by the Spirit (emotionally); or, I can feel (or sense) the Spirit, usually in response to a mood, an emotion or feelings. But the Spirit of God is not an attitude, mood or a feeling. The Spirit (of God) is the Third Person of the Holy Trinity of God.

So, what does it mean, live and walk in the Spirit? Is it a metaphor? Is it a simile? Or, is it literal? And if it is literal, what exactly does that mean ? And, how does a person “walk in the Spirit”? And what is the outcome of ‘walking in the Spirit’?

First, Jesus tells us, in John 16: 5–15, about the Spirit of God: “But now I (Jesus) am going to Him who sent Me; and none of you asks Me, ‘Where are You going?’ But because I have said these things to you, grief has filled your heart. But I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I am leaving; for if I do not leave, the Helper will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you.

“And He, when He comes,

• • will convict the world regarding sin,
  • and righteousness,
  • and judgment:
    • regarding sin, because they do not believe in Me;
    • and regarding righteousness, because I am going to the Father and you no longer are going to see Me;
    • and regarding judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged.

 “I have many more things to say to you, but you cannot bear them at the present time.

But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes,

• • He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own, but whatever He hears, He will speak;
  • and He will disclose to you what is to come.
  • He will glorify Me, for He will take from Mine and will disclose it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; this is why I said that He takes from Mine and will disclose it to you.”

Romans 8:9 tells us, that if you are truly saved and a Christian, “You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.”

And furthermore, 1 Corinthians 6:19 tells us, “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own…”

Romans 8:11 reminds us one more time, “If the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.”

We can know by these verses (and a little study in the Greek) that this is literal, with metaphors and similes used to help us understand.

Jesus is literally saying that The Holy Spirit of God is real; that He literally indwells you (your body, heart, mind, soul and spirit).

We are to literally ‘walk by way of the Spirit’, and ‘walk in the Spirit’.

So, I ask, how are we to DO this?

I believe the answer is that ‘we both DO and DO NOT do this’ in and of ourselves.

We DO this in of ourselves by submitting our lives to God through faith in Jesus and by becoming His obedient followers. It is at that point the Holy Spirit comes into us. (see GotQuestions.Org).

On the other hand, we DO NOT do this in and of ourselves, because we are saved and being sanctified by God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable, undefiled, and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you. (see 1 Peter 3-4).

Then we listen, submit our will, obey and learn. The Spirit of God will speak to us in various ways and at various times to teach us, to warn us and to guide us; to convict us of sin, and to comfort us. He will also give us words to say at the right time and in the right circumstances.

It is by our obedient submission to Him – minute by minute and day by day – that we walk in and by the Spirit.

What is the outcome of walking in and by the Spirit of God? (The following is taken from GotQuestions.Org):

The Apostle Paul writes, in Galatians 5:16, “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” The way in which believers are called to live is can be found in (Romans 6:4; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Ephesians 2:10; 4:1; 5:15; Colossians 2:6).

Apart from God’s saving grace, we could not walk by the Spirit. Indeed, we were spiritually dead and could only “gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16; cf. Ephesians 2:1–3). In this context, the word flesh refers to the sinful state of humanity, often presented as a power in opposition to the Spirit. This includes things like sexual immorality, impurity, idolatry, hatred, jealousy, envy, drunkenness, and other sinful behaviors (Galatians 5:19–21). Paul assures us that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God (verse 21; cf. 1 Corinthians 6:9–11).

Despite our sinfulness and rebellion, God “made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved” (Ephesians 2:5). The grace of God completely transformed our lives. We were dead in sin. Now, we are alive in Christ.

As believers, we are to called to walk by the Spirit: “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit” (Galatians 5:25, KJV). The Holy Spirit gave us new life (John 3:6; 6:63), and we must yield to His sovereign control and influence over our lives. In other words, the Holy Spirit should direct all of our thoughts, actions, and decisions (cf. Romans 12:1–2).

In Galatians 5:13–26, Paul contrasts the flesh and the Spirit. The flesh is characterized by selfishness (verses 13–15; verse 26), sin (verses 19–21), and death (verse 21; cf. Romans 6:23), but the Spirit is characterized by love (Galatians 5:13–15, 22), righteousness (cf. Romans 6:22) and life (Galatians 5:25).

Because the flesh and the Spirit are opposed to one other (Galatians 5:17), we cannot live according to both at the same time. We must choose one. If we choose to live according to the flesh, we will experience the consequences of sin, which is death. But if we choose to walk by the Spirit, we will produce godly fruit (verses 22–23).

Unlike the works of the flesh, which lead to sin and destruction, the fruit of the Spirit leads to love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Here is a breakdown of each fruit and how we can walk by the Spirit:

1. Love: Our lives are characterized by self-sacrificial service to God and others.

2. Joy: We will delight in knowing God and having a personal relationship with Him.

3. Peace: We will be free from anxiety and worry (cf. Philippians 4:6–7).

4. Patience: We will not lose our temper – and if we do, there is a remedy to put us back into the proper state and relationship with God and others.

5. Kindness: We will genuinely consider the needs and concerns of others.

6. Goodness: We will be holy as God is holy (cf. 1 Peter 1:16).

7. Faithfulness: When we endure trials and tribulations, we will not forsake God or turn our backs on Him.

8. Gentleness: We will have a spirit (or attitude) of grace and humility.

9. Self-control: We will not be controlled by sinful impulses (Galatians 5:24).

In short, the fruit of the Spirit is evidence that we belong to Christ and are no longer controlled by sinful impulses; instead, we are led by the Holy Spirit to live according to God’s will (cf. Romans 12:2). We must continue to walk by the Spirit and crucify (or put to death) the desires of the flesh. This is a daily journey that requires consistent effort, but God will complete the work that He began (Philippians 1:6).

(Note: Every Christian, at some time, may find themselves pulled by the desires or passions of the flesh to sin. But 1 John 1:8-10 says, “If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. (But) If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous, so that He will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us.”

These are not a list of ‘religious dos and don’ts’. This is the power of God, His gift to us as Christians, to live and to be as He designed us to be.

One day, at the end of all things, when we are finally at home with God in the new heaven and the new earth, we will be like Him. Until then, live and walk by the Spirit of God and have the attitude which was also in Christ Jesus – and be truly alive!

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

PS:  The Holy Spirit will never – I say, NEVER – tell you anything that does not conform to the Word of God (The Bible). Beware of false teachers who say otherwise or come up with “a word from God” that is not found in the Word of God.

One Man

Israel, during the period of 63 B.C. and 135 A.D. described in the simplest of forms, was ruled over by Rome and ruled internally by the Sanhedrin, which the supreme court of ancient Israel. Both Rome and the Sanhedrin were powerful and influential and dangerous groups to cross.

Rome would use lethal means to rule over Israel if they deemed it necessary, and the Sanhedrin were directly responsible for the crucifixion of Jesus, His disciples and many thousands of His followers.

Still, one man, without any visible means of financial or political support, stood in the face of Jewish custom, Roman law and the Sanhedrin to proclaim a long prophesied and radical notion that He was the anticipated Messiah. His name is Jesus.

There are many who choose to build grand churches and make millions of dollars to ‘spread the Gospel’.

Stand With The ONE

But “Jesus was going about in all of Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every sickness among the people.” Matthew 4:23.

Jesus taught His disciples to be like Him and to do like Him.

For example, in Matthew 10:5 tells us that, “These twelve Jesus sent out after instructing them, saying, “Do not go on a road to Gentiles, and do not enter a city of Samaritans; but rather go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near. ’Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those with leprosy, cast out demons. Freely you received, freely give. Do not acquire gold, or silver, or copper for your money belts, or a bag for your journey, or even two tunics, or sandals, or a staff; for the worker is deserving of his support.

“And whatever city or village you enter, inquire who is worthy in it, and stay at his house until you leave that city. As you enter the house, give it your greeting. If the house is worthy, see that your blessing of peace comes upon it. But if it is not worthy, take back your blessing of peace. And whoever does not receive you nor listen to your words, as you leave that house or city, shake the dust off your feet. Truly I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment, than for that city.

“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be as wary as serpents, and as innocent as doves. But be on guard against people, for they will hand you over to the courts and flog you in their synagogues; and you will even be brought before governors and kings on My account, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. But when they hand you over, do not worry about how or what you are to say; for what you are to say will be given you in that hour. For it is not you who are speaking, but it is the Spirit of your Father who is speaking in you.”

“Now brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death. And you will be hated by all because of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved.

“But whenever they persecute you in one city, flee to the next; for truly I say to you, you will not finish going through the cities of Israel until the Son of Man comes.”

Grafted into the Olive Tree

Later, after Jesus was crucified, died, then rose to life and ascended to heaven to reside at the Right Hand of the Father, another man named Saul of Tarsus, later renamed as Paul the Apostle, was commissioned by Jesus to take the Good News (The Gospel of Jesus the Christ) to the entire Gentile world.

Now, by God’s grace and through faith in Jesus and His finished work on the cross, those who were not Jewish by birth could be ‘grafted into the Olive Tree’ and be made part of God’s Elect and become disciples, friends and joint heirs with Christ.

The Meaning of Discipleship

Jesus explains, in Matthew 10, that, “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a slave above his master. It is enough for the disciple that he may become like his teacher, and the slave like his master. If they have called the head of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they insult the members of his household!

 “So do not fear them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. What I tell you in the darkness, tell in the light; and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim on the housetops. And do not be afraid of those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are two sparrows not sold for a penny? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all counted. So do not fear; you are more valuable than a great number of sparrows.

 “Therefore, everyone who confesses Me before people, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before people, I will also deny him before My Father, who is in heaven.”

Peace on Earth?

 “Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I came to TURN A MAN AGAINST HIS FATHER, AND A DAUGHTER AGAINST HER MOTHER, AND A DAUGHTER-IN-LAW AGAINST HER MOTHER-IN-LAW; and A PERSON’S ENEMIES WILL BE THE MEMBERS OF HIS HOUSEHOLD.

(Note: The idea that Jesus was to bring peace on earth has been lifted from Luke 2:8-14 when the Angels proclaimed at Jesus birth, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” It is for those with whom He is pleased – i.e., those who come to Him through faith in His Son, but a sword for the world at large!)

“The one who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and the one who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And the one who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. The one who has found his life will lose it, and the one who has lost his life on My account will find it.

“The one who receives you receives Me, and the one who receives Me receives Him who sent Me. The one who receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward; and the one who receives a righteous person in the name of a righteous person shall receive a righteous person’s reward. And whoever gives one of these little ones just a cup of cold water to drink in the name of a disciple, truly I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward.”

“When Jesus had finished giving instructions to His twelve disciples, He went on from there to teach and preach in their cities.”

And Jesus leads by example. We have no excuse if we are His disciples.

Now That You Know

Why, would God send His only Son to a world that had become hostile toward Him, to be killed? So that the world through Him could be saved from eternal damnation and destruction? Is that the whole story? It is true, but it is by no means the whole story.

Jesus came to seek and save the lost SO THEY WOULD

1. 1. Have the same mind which is in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 2:5)
   2. Do the works that Jesus has done, and even greater works. (John 14:12)
   3. Go into all the world and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28:18-21)

Jesus came to earth to do the Works of the Father, show the Wonders of His Kingdom and to send His Workers, His disciples into this world so Him might finish His Works through us.

• • We are kept weak in our own flesh for this very reason: When we are weak, He is strong!
  • We are destined to struggle in this world so we do not become self-reliant, but that we remain completely dependent on Him.
  • We are commanded to endure our present sufferings to the end, so that we might be saved by the word of our testimony and by the blood of the Lamb!

If your experience is ‘greater than this’ in terms of possessions, money, recognition, influence, power or fame, you might ask why. Why did are your methods different from Jesus’ methods? Are you comfortable in your ministry? Why is that? Why is your experience different from His? Are you wiser and greater? Or are you bringing worldly results? And, what does that say?

If you consider yourself a Christian, a follower of Jesus, and have no experience to relate to others, why is that? Are you not engaged in the Spiritual war that rages? Have you not put on the mantle of a disciple of Jesus? And what does that say?

When He returns as the Lion of Judah, the conquering ruler, we will be with Him. But for now, Jesus is the suffering Servant. We are to be likewise. Let’s put aside our pride, ego, the parading of our possession, our wealth and our abilities and serve Him. Anything less is failure.

Scriptures tell us to “test ourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you—unless indeed you fail the test?” (2 Corinthians 13:5)

Stand With The One. Be The One.

We are entering and have entered the End of Days and the time is short. Let’s be found doing what He has told us – prepared for His Return.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

PS: Please. Let’s pray for one another. We are living in treacherous and dangerous days. Let’s hold one another up as these days progress.