Saving Our Spirit and Our Soul By Angel Jr. Ancheta

(A reminder for the beginning Christian, including myself)

Within each person lies a spirit and a soul. Both were given by God, and both have different functions. The spirit, or pneuma, is our whole essence, the "breath of life" through which we were created. Through our spirit, we are connected to God's spirit and are able to feel His presence. In contrast, the soul is a part of our spirit, and it contains and defines our personality, meaning our intellect, our will, and our emotions.

When this world ends, and our spirit stands before God, we shall be judged by passing through fire, and the outcome shall be based on two things: the worthiness of our spirit, and the worthiness of our soul. If we have truly accepted Jesus during our life, then our spirit is already worthy, and we are not thrown into Hell. Moreover, if we have diligently obeyed God's commands, our soul is also saved, and we enter His Kingdom as a whole person, intact.

However, if we did not make enough effort to obey God, then we suffer loss, as Paul said. And here there are also two kinds: the loss of reward, and the loss of privilege. If we have accumulated enough "treasure" as Jesus said, through our obedience, then we shall enter the Kingdom with much reward. It then follows that a little "treasure" saved would amount to only a little reward.

But if we have no invested "treasure" at all, or the things we consider "treasure" has been burned in the judgment fire, then even our privilege to enter the Kingdom is in jeopardy. We then risk being thrown out of the Kingdom, not into Hell, but as Jesus Himself said a few times, into the "outer darkness", where there will be "weeping and gnashing of teeth". For clarity, we recall that in the book of Revelations, the Kingdom of God has real dimensions, complete with height, length, and wall thickness. And this Kingdom is located on the new Earth. Taking things into context therefore, the "outer darkness" that Jesus described is outside the walls of the Kingdom not in Hell, but on the new Earth.

In short, there is really no room for complacency. Our acceptance of Jesus Christ is a guarantee of salvation from Hell, but it is in no way a guarantee of entrance to His Kingdom, as He himself said. Therefore, since our lifespan on Earth is unknown, as Christians, let us make each day an effort to earn as much treasure as we can in Heaven. Besides saving our spirit through faith in Jesus, let us try our best to save our souls as well, so that we can enjoy the full glory that He has promised us in the Kingdom.

Angel Ancheta Jr.
31 year old male, married, no children
Lives in the Philippines



Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com CHRISTIAN WRITERS



compiled by Jeremy

A Message Within The Message By Dale Linton

This article is a continuing discussion of what Gods word is performing in us.

Hebrews 11:3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.


By Gods design we live on a word planet. We know the worlds were framed by the word of God, Hebrews 11:3. We also are given to know from Hebrews 11:3 that things which appear come from something which does not appear. This creative force that created all things traces back to Gods word or truth.

This is all to say, Gods words have so much creativity flowing from them, that a single sentence, quite possibility contains infinite layers of meaning. Most definitely, what is being communicated in Gods word goes much deeper than what is on the surface,containing mysteries we yearn to know more about.

As an experiment, if you will, read the following sentences understanding that the sentence structure has messages within it's message.


It's a fact, taller people sleep longer in bed.

If you lose your memory, you can forget it!

As the shoe said to the hat, 'You go on ahead, and I'll follow on foot'.

A small boy swallowed some coins and was taken to a hospital. When his grandmother telephoned to ask how he was a nurse said 'No change yet'.

Those who throw dirt are sure to lose ground.


Each one of these sentences contained more than one message. The point is, this type of sentence structure stimulates us and reveals levels of happiness we express through laughter. Consider why it is we find this amusing. We all seem to be designed to react the same way to the layering of meaning within communication. It may be said this expression of laughter is evidence of something within us being brought to life.

The verse this article began with has identifiable layers of meaning.

Hebrews 11:3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.

Here are two possible messages contained in just the first part of this verse:

Through something called "faith" we can have the understanding that God made everything.

The second meaning is, we can understand that the "method of operation" God used to frame the worlds was something called "faith".



Hebrews 4:12 is a an excellent verse to see a messages within a message.

Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

There are three sets of things with where God says His word can "divide asunder".First,Gods word isn't claiming a division in the negative, rather the "dividing asunder" is a gifting or a distribution which gives life to the working order of the sets. In order to better see the truths hidden in the mysteries of how these pairs relate one to the other, allow me to suggest that Hebrews 4:12 would be better understood if we viewed the three sets this way:

A mouse is to a cat, as a cat is to a dog.

Now say this:

Joints are to marrow, as soul is to spirit. Hows that?

In each of these sets, one gives life to its partner. Marrow is the life giving substance within our bones. Not only is bone marrow the
life of bone, but marrow produces red blood cells, hence bone marrow transplants for certain types of cancer. So bones contain marrow, marrow performs blood production,which is life to the bone and the entire body. Bones are used to join other bones by what we call joints. Joints are comprised of mainly smaller bones.

As remedial as this may appear, take note of the listing order of joints and marrow. The life giving substance is listed second. So if that
is no accident, the listing order of soul and spirit has spirit being the life giver. How then is joints to marrow, as soul is to spirit?

Bone marrow and joints are in the same class, the skeletal family. Our spirit and our soul have like characteristics putting them in the same class; they are and have spiritual connection. Joints rely on marrow for their existence. Our soul relies on our spirit for its
existence. Marrow and joints are extremely close in relationship. Our spirit and soul exist in an extremely close relationship. Joints express themselves in bodily function as movement. Our soul expresses itself through our bodily functions by speech,laughter,
sorrow and so on. Through bodily expression of joints and soul, the real life giving force of our marrow and our spirit exsists behind the scenes, always in operation but not blatantly apparent.

Following the modeled structure of Hebrews 4:12, it is the intentions of the heart that give life to the thoughts of the heart. In other words, the goals we have in mind are what consumes our thought life. It's also true that intentions which give life to thoughts, are
eventually expressed in bodily actions. As marrow and spirit may lurk inwardly and not be a parent in their life giving roles, likewise true intentions can be camouflaged appearing as something totally different.Of course,intentions and thoughts are in the same basic category and coming forth through the same mechanism, the heart.

Obviously, this article could turn into a book on Hebrews 4:12, so we'll stop here. The point is Gods word is saturated with subliminal messaging that once seen only serves to prove the infinite depth of His nature. As was seen in the beginning of this article, one of our designed reactions to this form of communication is amusement. As we as Christians feed on Gods word, there are operative forces at work to which we have yet to realize.


Proverbs 16:20 He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy is he.

Psalm 144:15 Happy is that people, that is in such a case: yea, happy is that people, whose God is the LORD.

I have a desire to see the body of Christ edified. Within the broad spectrum of edification I feel there exists a great need and opportunity for spiritual education at foundational levels. Please contact me about speaking at your church. Dale Linton 410-378-5035



Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com CHRISTIAN WRITERS



compiled by Jeremy

Wallpaper for you. ;)

A gift of encouragement to all the SPM and STPM candidates out there. God is with you..! :)




compiled by Jeremy

Anchored Soul - Louis Gander

If the sea is the world - the ship your soul,
where are you at - and what's your goal?
When storms surge up and darken the skies,
do you know where you're at? Is there fear in your eyes?

Do your troubles seem endless and so overwhelm?
Tell me, "Are you standing alone at the helm?"
Where's the foundation when you're on a ship?
Do you hold to life with a white-knuckled grip?

When the world seems dark, dangerous, cold,
in the storms of life, will your anchor hold?
When shivering rain - sends you into shock,
is your faith secure? Is it in the Rock?

When the cold waves slap at your straining hull,
are you dazed, confused - in your empty skull?
Though the sharp winds slice as a piercing knife,
is your anchor firm from the storms of life?

Do you stay near the shore where it's not so deep?
Are trials so great, you cannot sleep?
When the waves surge over your fragile deck,
I think, overdue - your reality check.

Don't hide down below afraid of the facts.
With Jesus beside you - always relax.
Be bold and set sail! Your life is in hands,
that calms the waters - as He commands....



Copywrite 2004-2010 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
Written 2-13-09 by louis gander. FREE to print and use only WITH copyright information attached - NOT for resale.

Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com CHRISTIAN WRITERS



compiled by Jeremy

*still*

Be still and know I am God
Be still and know I am God
Be still and know I am God

7 words and yet It is such a meaningful song.
Have you every thought why we must be still and know He is God?
Why cannot jump around or head stand?
Why not "jump around and know I am God...?

Think for a moment.
If we are not still, will we focus?
Can we meditate on His word unless we are still?
Or can we clear our mind when we are jumping around?
No we cant. (if were jumping around all we think is when are we falling down)

And so
Be physically and mentally still so that we can feel His presence among us.
And also receive the glory of His
and all blessings He gives.

Everything's Going to Be Okay By Bob Valleau

Long before the iPod, iTunes and the iPhone, there was -- the music box. It was a simple, mechanical device that delighted many during the 1800s. Women adored men who gave them one as a token of their love. Little girls giggled upon hearing the music and pondered how something so grand could come from something so small.

I had an idea once to write about a homeless mother and her daughter who wandered the streets of a big city during the Great Depression. One day, while begging people for money to buy food, a stranger stops to give them a small box with a unique power -- it plays music when opened. The mother and daughter are unfamiliar with the song coming from the box, but it brings them peace and hope every time they hear it.

I hope the following story reassures you of God's love and inspires you to have faith to face another day.

The cold Chicago wind whipped Molly's wool scarf like a worn rag about to be ripped in two. She quickly grabbed both of its frayed ends and yanked it tighter around her neck.

"Is this going to be a bad winter, momma?" ask eight-year-old Molly.

Molly smashed her dirty pink knit hat more securely to her head before grabbing her mother's hand to cross the busy street.

"I don't know, honey. But it sure is beginning to feel like it."

When they had safely crossed the street, Crystal, Molly's mother, turned her focus to the source of their next meal. She knew the streets were a wicked playground with evil men lurking everywhere since the stock market crashed not too long ago. Every stranger they approached for money posed a potential threat for many felt the pain of hunger just like them.

"Excuse me, sir, could you . . ." begged Crystal to someone passing by.

"Get away from me woman! I'm out of work and can't even feed my own children," bellowed the man as he quickened his pace to hurry away from her.

Crystal hung her head in defeat.

As she had done so many times before, Molly squeezed her mother's hand and said: "Everything's going to be okay, momma. You'll see."

If only she had her daughter's faith, Crystal thought. Then, Crystal tried asking a few more strangers with no success. Suddenly, a man approached them out of nowhere.

"Miss, I noticed you and your daughter are in a dilemma. We are living in dark days, and I fear they are only going to get darker. I have no money or food to give you, for I am a beggar like yourself. But years ago, a man gave me a musical box that has given me hope on many occasions. I'd like to give it to your daughter to keep and open whenever she feels sad, lonely or afraid. Would that be okay?"

After hesitating for a moment, Crystal said, "I suppose it would be okay. I don't see any harm in it."

The man reached into his pocket and brought out a small wooden box. He opened it before giving it to Molly, and the most angelic tune began to play.

"Wow," said Molly, eyes wide open. "Thank you so much, mister."

Before the stranger turned to leave, he had one last thing to say, "Always remember little one: Jesus loves you."

Crystal and Molly were mesmerized by the gift. Never before had they heard such a beautiful tune and wondered what it meant. And the peace it brought to them was indescribable.

A month passed, and some days were better than others. One day, however, Crystal and Molly were unable to collect money for food, so they ate whatever they could find hidden in the piles of garbage that dotted the city's landscape. Crystal's spirit and passion for life began to wane. In addition to her feeling inadequate, winter was beginning with a vengeance. The temperature dropped considerably, and a light snow blanketed the slabs of concrete beneath their feet. The begging duo sought warmth by joining others who gathered around a fire burning in a rusty trash can nearby.

As they approached the small band of beggars, a woman said to them, "We've been singing songs to distract the little ones from the cold and lack of food."

After wrapping her arms around a young boy by her side, the woman continued: "You're welcome to join us. Do you have a song you'd like everyone to sing?"

"I . . . I . . . don't really have one," said Crystal.

"Oh, but we have something musical to share," said Molly as she opened her box that chimed a heavenly tune.

The young boy, at his mother's side, smiled. "I know that song," he said. "Can we sing it, mommy?"

"Sure, Johnny."

And with that, everyone belted out a familiar song to the musical box's chimes:

Jesus loves me this I know
For the Bible tells me so
Little ones to Him belong
They are weak but He is strong
Yes, Jesus loves me
Yes, Jesus loves me
Yes, Jesus loves me
The Bible tells me so

Crystal and Molly looked at each other for a brief moment before bursting into laughter and tears. God's love flooded their souls, and they were overjoyed upon discovering the words to the musical box's tune. No wonder it brought them peace in the midst of their darkest hours. No wonder it gave them hope when they couldn't see how they were going to make it another day.

"See," said Molly, squeezing her mother's hand more tightly. "I told you everything was going to be okay."

Whatever you are facing right now, dear reader, remember that Jesus loves you. Let the warmth of His love caress your weary soul. Are you sad? Jesus loves you. Are you lonely? Jesus loves you. Are you afraid? Jesus loves you. There is nothing too big or too small that He cannot handle. As you place your hand of faith in His, may you sense His peace that far surpasses any of your understanding. And above all, may you hear Him say, "Everything's going to be okay."


Copyright 2010 by Bob Valleau. Bob has over 25 years of writing experience for the Christian market. He was once named Christian Writer of the Year by the American Christian Writers Association. Currently, he freelances and lives in Texas.

Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com CHRISTIAN WRITERS




compiled by Jeremy

Purity

Hrm...

What does google define purity?

One being undiluted or unmixed with extraneous material.

Then, how about a "panjang lelaki" (longman) english dictionary?

The quality or state of being pure.

Most importantly, How GOD defines it?

TEENAGERS NOWADAYS are widely promoted to sexual abstinence.

Being pure isn't just about sex. To have or not to have it isn't something we should think about.

We always hear about The Word saying about living a Godly life and what TRUE PURITY is.

Back in the old days, the people live their lives with laws written by the religious leaders, yet

the Lord has rebuked them for not being entirely pure. And these religious leaders are just simply

appearing to be holy. Anyhow, Jesus talked about the spirit of Law.

Let us refer to the Bible:

Matthew 5: 21-22

Murder

21You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder,^{a]" style="line-height: 0.5em; ">[a]}and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.'

²²But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother^{b]" style="line-height: 0.5em; ">[b]}will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, 'Raca,^{c]" style="line-height: 0.5em; ">[c]}' is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell.

I believe everyone reading this disliked/ hate someone before.

Sometimes, we even use some phrases like " I dont hate, I dont really like him/ her"

" I dont hate, I just dont find favour in him/ her" " I am not angry with him/ her, hes/ shes just unbearable sometimes" "Oh, thats not a very big deal"

Those are NOT EXCUSES people.

No matter how, you have sinned.

Jesus is passing across the message: Sin can occur in our minds and hearts, even id we dont commit the physical act.

Moving on to Matthew 5: 27- 28

Adultery

²⁷"You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.'^{e]" style="line-height: 0.5em; ">[e]}

^{e]" style="line-height: 0.5em; ">} ²⁸But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

Do you see now the definition of purity>

Through this verses, it is rather obvious God tells us His perspective in life and redefines how we should live,

Godliness and Purity is as much as about attitude while motives as it is about outward actions.

Let us keep our heats pure for God and His ministry.

Let us keep our minds pure for His Word.

Let us keep our body pure for Him.

till then.

thats all for this short purity

Eye-Test..

What do you see when you see the cross..?

I see a battle won.

I see sins being forgiven.

I see a redeeming sacrifice.

I see a future.

What do you see when you 'see' Jesus..?

I see God.

I see a winner.

I see a promise and dozens of centuries-old prophecies fulfilled.

I see a Saviour.

I see the only person who can love and sacrifice even His own life for everybody.

I see mercy, I see peace, I see grace.

And last but not least, what do you see when you see the Bible..?

I see hope.

I see God's Word.

I see lives being changed for the better.

I see joy.

I see love.

I see both the cross and Jesus.

I see promises yet to come.

I see truth.

I don't know why but something prompted me to post this. Maybe.. it was Him. :)

compiled by Jeremy

The Young Man and The Keys

compiled by Jeremy