Solidity of Purpose I

This book has been written with one sole purpose. It is an attempt to talk about life. I want to introduce you to the underlying truth. However, as I begin, I would like you to remember one thing, no one is righteous not even one. For life is not a struggle because of work, for it is a struggle because we all make life a struggle.

Chapter One: Decline of Morality

In our society people aim to be morally correct, so why is the state of today's morality worse than that of Sodom and Gomorrah? Does Morality decline without ethics? How far have we come from the beginning; why is society slowly digressing morally? Has our society become worse than Sodom and Gomorrah? Obviously, when ethics are subtracted from morality, morality starts heading for a decline down the steep pit called human nature.

Why does morality decline without ethics? Simply put, ethics are a baseline or the true standard. Ethics are God's truths, those things we know in our heart to be unjust, pure untainted desires (i.e. marriage), fear of God, and unconditional love for all. Morality is the current view of our society, an agreed upon group standard, that may have, or may have not been derived from ethics. Ethics are often referred to as a higher morality, where as morality is often called societal morals or group mentality. Morality derived without ethics is very dangerous because societal morals shift with newer laws or ideas, or society creates a legalism that is far stricter than ethics, and it often forgets the basic truth of why they made the law in the first place. These are the reasons why our morality has declined worse than that of the past when the beginning was so perfect.

For in the beginning, when God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1), God had created man is his own image (Genesis 1:27), and man only had one commandment to follow (Genesis 1:17). Sadly, man couldn't follow that one command. For man's excuse was, "the woman you put here with me- she gave me some fruit from the tree and we ate it (Genesis 3:12)." The woman was deceived by the serpent she said. Despite all of the facts and reasons, the major most important fact is that man was given a commandment; man could not keep this one commandment. Why did man fail? Because man added to God's truth by saying to not even touch the fruit, when all God said was not to eat it, the serpent easily deceived woman by playing to her moral rationalization of the ethical command given by God. A good example of this can be found in Genesis chapter 3 verses 1-10; this demonstrates the serpent using this process to deceive Eve. This brings us to the meat of the matter, in that society, man added more rules to God's command by saying not to touch the fruit, but God commanded man merely to not eat of it; ultimately, the society had found that disregarding the first rule that it had created was not harmful, so forgetting that one ethical command that God had given, that society rationalized doing worse continuing on the path of moral declination, moving further and further from the truth of God's ethical command.

Eventually, as we moved further and further from the truth, society had become the same or even worse than one could ever imagine. The world had become so wicked that God had destroyed all but one family by flood. Even after God had cleaned the Earth by flood, leaving only Noah and his sons (Genesis Chapter 6-7), society continued to move further from the ethics of the beginning again by constructing the Tower of Babel (Genesis Chapter 11); eventually, Sodom and Gomorrah came to being (Genesis 13:1-18). This land had started out great, but time passed by, and the society started to morally decline. Soon, this society indulged in materialism, rape, and homosexuality amongst other atrocities and sins (Genesis Chapter 18-19). The society had fallen so much that God, with all his mercy, could not bear the stench of its declination, and so he had to destroy it; now, the acts it committed were so bad that the world has named specific acts after that land, acts such as sodomy. So, how has our society become worse than this society?

Our society has started out just like Sodom and Gomorrah, knowing what was right and wrong; our constitution was based off of the Ten Commandments, as well as the Bible. The forefathers also believed in having the Bible in the laws and schools. But once again, we had started adding conditions to the ethical basis. As a result of these additions: slavery, witch trials, prejudice, legalism, and other foolishness came about, many had revolted against the laws of the society. These conditions were then abolished, as they should have been, and society could not remember the ethical basis. Society had then proceeded to blame God for these atrocities, when it was his believers that stood against slavery, fought injustice, and took to battle against whatever wickedness arose at these troubled times. Now, there are more problems, and there are broader issues such as homosexuality, destruction of the ethical truth through rationalization, sodomy, abortion, hate, murder, reverse legalism, legalism, adultery, divorce, abuse, addiction, materialism, and far more than can be mentioned at this time.

What can bring about an end to such an unfortunate dilemma? The only answer would be to go back to the truth. For if morality is based on society's shifting views, and ethics are based on the unchanging commands or standards that were given by God, then in my opinion the only way to fix this problem permanently would be to accept the truth. By trusting in God, developing a strong relationship with Christ, and going back to the beginning we can change this chaos caused by the sinful nature of man. If we can live by the ethical truth, with no additions or subtractions, then this world would be like a Utopia. Imagine a world with no untruths, that is just, that leaves no open gaps or desires in your life, one where people want to do what is right, and everyone does what is best for his brother and himself. This is the call to action we need. In the end however, it is up to you and I to individually make the right or wrong decisions, such as forgiving your brother one-hundred times for his sin against you, or accepting him for who he is, and showing him the love of God while being an advocate of the truth. For what sense does it make to kill your brother, who is not saved, for his sin, and condemn him to face the lake of fire. So what decisions do you make? Are you an ethical person or do you shift like the desert sands in the wind demonstrating and following societal morality?

Chapter Two: Everything is Meaningless

While you sit in your room, at work, or wherever you read, you are to be left with only one question. If society is so unjust then what is the meaning of life? In this question you come to another dilemma. What does a man gain from all of his labor at which he toils under the sun? You are left with these questions because inevitably, no matter what one does to end the vicious cycle of moral declination, human nature will bring it right back to the point of disgrace. The main reason this happens is because life goes in cycles, and until Jesus Christ comes back again, these cycles will never end, in fact they will continue to get worse. So is everything meaningless?

Let me first say that wisdom is meaningless. It is a heavy burden among men to have wisdom. To chase after wisdom would be merely chasing after the wind. I say this because just as the writer of Ecclesiastes had found, I had also found that with much wisdom comes great sorrow. To have wisdom is to understand yourself as well as others. In this you learn how truly depraved man is. As you learn of this you wish to rest and go to heaven, but then you realize that the workers are few, and God has a task for you.

One would later think, "if chasing wisdom down is meaningless, then let me indulge in every pleasure my heart desires." But then you realize, emotions come and go. They are like the changing of seasons. And the only reward you receive is a good feeling. Thus when you continue to survey all that you have done, you realize that you have gained nothing under the sun. All that your hands had done was meaningless.

Later, you weigh out the benefits of both wisdom and folly. Obviously wisdom was worth far more than folly could ever imagine being. For the wise man has eyes and can see, while the fool is blind walking in the darkness. Then you realize something, "This too is meaningless. For the wise man like the fool, will not be long remembered; in days to come both will be forgotten. Like the fool the wise man must die (Ecclesiastes 2:16).

As you reflect upon the meaning, what you can toil after, you come to realize that even your toil is meaningless. For your reward is great sorrow, a mixture of emotions, and death. You can't complain because you aren't even worthy of your own life, and you know you deserve death. Past all this you come to think, "If I work hard then my son will be rich enough for ten or more sons further down the road called "the future". Then you face the realization that your son could be wise or foolish, or you could be overtaken by a man who has not toiled, and you must leave your life long labor and hard work to a man whom you neither know to be wise or foolish.

A last, there is a time for everything. In life everything has its cycles, but in the end those cycles will mean nothing. In the end, God will only care about whether you accepted him or not. God will bring judgment to both the righteous and the wicked. For he who has gained the whole world still dies to be judged.

As you grow you soon realize that there is something that might mean something. This thing is true friendship. However, you understand that this too is meaningless, but you are better in life with friendship. It is a commonly known fact that two cords are stronger than one. Therefore, two men can carry a heavier burden. Two men toil less, and they stand stronger against an attack. So you try to make friendships because to be an oppressor you come to realize that you will later be oppressed.

Then you see more things arising. You say, "If I can be king things would be much different, I'd be so rich." Unfortunately you fail to notice that the way of the world is foolishness. And even if you are the best in the world, you are still surrounded by foolishness. This is important because you must comprehend that if you are with a fool you too will be hurt. Therefore, advancement is meaningless.

So I tell you stay in awe of God. Don't let riches entice you for they are meaningless. Seek true wisdom from Christ, because a good name in Christ is better than the finest wine in the universe. Obey God, for there is a common destiny for all, and we all know we can not escape it. Let wisdom impact your life, for it is better to die with your eyes open, than to die blind to the Truth. Work hard, so that you may reap the first fruits of your labor; in your youth give these first fruits to God and be blessed, because God will remember you if you love Him.

I tell you the truth, a relationship with God is worth more than anything. The meaning of life itself is to be with God and love others. It is your relationship with others that define your character and give you a name. So make your relationships strong give blessings, honor, and forgiveness to all that you know. God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.

Chapter Three: Relationships

Before making relationships strong, one must prioritize. Build your relationships in this order: God, wife, family, friendships, authorities, supervisors, associates, and enemies. You must prioritize because often you will have to chose between one or the other and you must chose the right one or you will be pummeled.

With your relationship with God you must know why you love him. Ask your self, "What did God do for me?" Well, I must go to describing a movie that reminded me about what Christ went through to save my soul. Rarely do I use movie examples because very few of them touch my heart.

Very few movies emotionally affect me, but "The Passion" not only affected me, it touched me and inspired me to do right. This movie had touched me because it had started with the verse, "he will be wounded for our transgressions." So, as I watched the movie this verse had alerted me that any wounds he received are from my sin. Then, as the movie continues, Jesus Christ is arrested, immediately showing me who "he" is. As the movie played out, this man was hauled away, falsely tried, bashed around, and mocked. Later, as I stared more, I realized that nothing had held Christ down as he was gruesomely tortured; he could have escaped the horrid and terrifying fate he was faced with, but as I pondered more, I came to realize that my sin had held him there. Suddenly, when the realization clicks in my mind, the Romans begin to punish and beat Jesus. While I watched the whip slashing his body, consistently shredding his already bleeding flesh like a cheese grater shreds cheese, I was sad because he underwent this torture and pain for me, knowing the cost. Finally, during the crucifixion, I'd come to understand that my sin had equated to his death. Seeing and knowing this had emotionally affected me, touching my very bones, while inspiring me to do what is right. For if God thought that one good man's life was worth mine, and God was willing to come down in my shoes, bearing my sin and punishment, then I needed to love God and be inspired by his sacrifice to love and do what is correct, for I was touched and emotionally affected by these aspects and concepts from the movie.

Why begin with this illustration? What does this movie have to do with my point? I begin with this illustration because it is the best way to explain what a good friend would do for you. For God so loved the world that he sent his only begotten son to die for us all. Christ was blameless, and he kept his ways pure. He did well to His servants so that they may live, while demonstrating unfailing love; He remembered the word for He was the Word made flesh. He remembered His word to His servants, while taking our portion of sin and donating His portion of righteousness. Teaching us knowledge, He made and formed us; His words were eternal and we could meditate on His statutes. Christ had told us not to stray, and He hated double-minded actions and thoughts. Doing what was righteous; He lived by the true law, called to our hearts, took upon our suffering, and delivered us all, despite the persecution He received. This is what a true friend is.

To sum it up, God is righteous and faithful. None of us are righteous not even one. Our righteousness is attained through faith in Christ. Just as Abraham was justified through faith so shall we be. In this love for Christ we must forbid favoritism, and our deeds shall demonstrate our faith. We can find peace and joy in Christ's salvation. For through Adam (one man) sin had entered the world, and through Christ (one man) life had entered the world. So then, we must be dead to sin and alive in Christ. Let us be slaves to Christ, and enjoy the wonderful rewards of the righteousness that Christ has given us.

In fact, be like David in wanting to seek to have God's heart. Better yet be like Christ a salt and light to the world. Be honest with yourself and God, do not be a hypocrite, and do what you say. Pray with your doors close so that your prayers are between you and God, as well fasting in secret and looking happy when you do these things knowing why you do these things, keeping your goals in mind.

Always remember these words however, and avoid becoming like this church in Laodicea. This is the message from Revelations Chapter 3 verses 14-22: "These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, and the ruler of God's creation. I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm- neither hot nor cold- I am about to spit you out of my mouth. You say, 'I am rich; I do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked. I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. He, who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." The just being, that our relationship with God should always be hot and not cold or lukewarm. God should be our top priority.

As for our relationship with our wife, it should be the next position of honor in our relationships. However, remember this quote: **Adam was sleeping when God created Eve. ** Why? I don't know, but I also know men tend to sleep when their wives say something. When I say sleep I am referring to ignore, neglect, not care, or understand where their wife is coming from. Whether the two are related, I do not know, and I do not care. This now brings me to another thought.

Often, the biggest cause for disagreement between men and women is a lack of knowledge between the two sexes. My first example would have to be when this man, a close friend of mine, did his best to be friends with this woman. He had tried to be a good friend to her, but he treated her like a guy friend, by burping, hitting her arm, and talking about farting. Meanwhile she wanted to do female endeavors. She wanted to do female things like dancing, talking about relationships, and watching soap operas. They argued endlessly because they did not know how to treat each other. She wanted a friendship different from what they had. My next example would have to be my friend Man 2, as he was courting Woman 2, he struggled with the fight of keeping abstinent, and at the same time making Woman 2 feels special. Sadly however, they got into arguments because he had stopped complimenting her verbally, and he still cared about her, but she did know that he still cared. He did not realize that women need to get, at a minimum, some type of verbal attention that demonstrates his feelings for them. Finally, my one friend used to get in arguments with his wife, because after being married, they got used to each other and stopped dating. It was like a double communication fault. She wanted the attention that she was getting when he was dating her, and he wanted her to be similar to the way she was when they first met, such as massages and so on. In this, all of these problems would have been resolved with a little knowledge of the opposite sex.

So how does one understand his wife, or the one he is courting to consider for this honored position? First, one must be content with one's relationship with God, because God must be the center for every relationship one has. One must always focus on God first. Second, one must be content with himself, for if one is not content with himself then how can one be content with someone else? As well he must find someone who is equally yoked with himself, such as another Christian. What purpose does good have with evil? Can you mix fire with water? So if this is the case then what does one look for in a woman?

Well I thought Proverbs 31:10-31 was self-explanatory. It says, "A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls. She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers. She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all are clothed in scarlet. She makes her coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple. Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate." Does this not describe plain as day what a man should look for in a wife?

In 1 Corinthians Chapter 7 it starts off saying that it is good for a man not to marry, but since there is so much immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband. Both are one flesh, and both must fulfill marital duties. A husband and wife should be devoted to God, prayer, each other, and honesty. Also the married should never divorce, and the married should never commit adultery. They must also not look at another with lust burning in their eyes or heart. I must add that the best way to understand your loved one is to practice love, patience, compromise, listening, respect, devotion, and loyalty.

Make your wife feel appreciated. Wake up in the morning and make her breakfast. Try not to rationalize her problems, merely find out how she feels about specific issues, and listen well to what she says while providing comfort. Hold her and kiss her, give your wife massages, poor your love on her. Love your wife for who she is, and thank your wife for what she does. Remember the little thing she does for you, be sensitive to her needs. Make your wife the apple of your eyes. Surprise her often, and make for her a beautiful gift that she will enjoy. Don't buy her diamonds, make her a card. Write her poetry, and then buy her diamonds. Give her that candle light dinner by the seashore. When her feet are tired, and she can't go on any longer carry her. When she is injured, or broken then tend to her. Show her the love that you always wished you received. Make her feel like the only person in the world for you. Let her feel closer than your blood family because she has become your immediate family. Now I am brought to the next thought about family.

Close family should be third. By this I mean that one should respect his parents. One should love his brother or sister, as well as watch over his other family members. As it says in Ecclesiastes, family is a blessing. If one's family sticks together it is harder for the world to destroy that one. In this same fashion, true friends must be held up in these positions. A true friend will accept you for who you are, and he will do what is best for you and him. However, authorities, supervisors, associates, and enemies fall into a different category.

In dealing with authorities God gives us Romans Chapter 13. The just of this chapter is that we must submit to authorities, and we must give our unconditional love to others no matter what. We should know that to rebel against the authorities is to rebel against God, for no one gets power unless God gives it to them. Do what is right because the government is God's servant to bring wrath and punishment on the wrongdoer. Always remember in your dealings to show integrity. In all your performances, do your best. If you are asked for one mile then give two miles. Think of others before self and you will be loved by the hands of justice. For the hidden reward is only hidden to those who are blind, and I'd rather receive protection provided by God's principals, rather than all the treasures of the world. Humility is what we should all live by. We should be unafraid of the world, and we must know that world can only physically wound us. Be humble, and accept God's grace, die on the cross, be tortured, and you will be blessed for the persecutions. God bless the man who is crushed by the world and resurrected by Christ. But I say woe to the man who gets scared and sales his soul for money, what is it to gain the whole world and lose your very soul. Remember, all that happens on this world is seen by one Master, and he will pay us all what we deserve. If we have not Christ then what will protect us from the wrath of God. Just do what is right and give the consequences to God.

As for supervisors, obey them. Treat your associates fairly, and give them a loving respect. With your enemies love them. As it says in the Bible, "You have heard that it was said, 'love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." (Matthew 5:43-48)

Chapter Four: To Live Your Life You Must Lose It

"A voice of one calling in the desert, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, and make straight paths for him.'" (Matthew 3:1) Is there a voice calling you to do something for God? Well you'd best listen! I say this because I want you to realize what you are getting into. The following poem I wrote explains it best:

IT WASN'T MEANT TO BE EASY

I talk with my brothers and sisters.

They cry asking, "why isn't this easy?"

"We should have the good life."

Well do you think it was easy for Jesus to die on the cross?

Was it easy for the Israelite to destroy nations for God?

Was it easy for Saul to become Paul and give up his crown?

Is it easy for the Chinese and the Middle East?

Was it easy for Peter to be crucified?

Was it easy for Stephen to be stoned?

Was it easy for John to have his head chopped off and served on a platter?

Was it easy for Isaiah to be sawed in two?

Was it easy for Noah to build an ark?

Was it easy for Jonas being swallowed by a whale?

What about Moses talking to pharaoh.

Before you say it isn't easy to be a Christian you took the vow to accept Jesus and pick up your cross.

It was never meant to be easy.

Before you pity yourself think about the ones above.

It was never meant to be easy. When John the Baptist was preparing the way for Christ the world had mocked him and questioned his every step. John was even asked to baptize Jesus, knowing what I know now I would not even feel worthy to look at Christ's face. Despite everything however John did what had to be done. Sadly, despite his devotion to fear God, he was beheaded (Mark 6:14-29). Even Jesus had his share of strife, like the time when he went into the desert. Satan had tempted Jesus, but as persistent as Satan was against Jesus, Jesus had never given in. Even upon the news of one of his people he pressed on with devotion to his father. His first disciples were found at the Sea of Galilee, he asked them to cast their nets down, and he said he would make them fishers of men. These men decided to leave their old lives behind and to follow Christ.

How can we follow Christ like these men did? Christ had healed the sick; became the salt and light of the earth and the world. He fulfilled the law; and he taught us that fulfillment of the law would be accomplished in our love for each other. He did not have hate, and he did not advocate murder. Jesus had shown us the first step to adultery was lust, demonstrating that sin starts in the heart. The world says it is okay to divorce, but God says do not divorce. We are taught to not make oaths and let our yes be yes, and our no be no. When slapped we are told to turn the other cheek. We must love our enemies, and we are charged to give to the needy. We are urged to pray and fast in secret and to search for treasures in heaven. We are not supposed to worry, and we are asked to be careful in our judgments. More than daily we are asked to always be prepared to witness and seek opportunity. And still people hate us for our love; they wish to have us go with them to destruction.

In God's wisdom, we are taught of the wide road to destruction and the narrow road to life. We must not follow them to the road of destruction. They have their trees bearing no fruit, but we mustn't be deceived. Following this narrow road means putting God's words to practice and staying on the narrow road. We are the man with leprosy, only God has healed us. All of us must have faith because Jesus has healed many. Following Jesus means no home to lay our head in. Jesus knew to stay calm during the storms. And Jesus had still healed many. If that's not enough, the workers are still very few, this meaning that you must carry the work load of ten men. It also means that you must stand on top of your game daily, like always setting the example, being honest, and most importantly developing your relation ship with God.

Among these things, you must also be waiting for Christ, knowing that he can return any day like a thief in the night. You are the bridegroom, and he is the head of your life. Never forget that... We must not squander the gifts God gives us either. If you do not trust God, and you are not faithful with the little you are given then he will give it to another, and those things you were given will go far from you, as you are tossed outside in the darkness. Also remember that whatever you do for the least of your brothers you did for God. So you are to do for others with a joyous, thankful, forgiving, and loving heart.

You must shed your old life. Repent or perish. Be set free from your infirmity. Have faith like that of a mustard seed, even though things may seem to be falling apart around you. For the world will hate you for loving Christ, and its persecution will let you know that you are doing right. You must be ready to die in your home town, in a far away land, or by some enemy that hates you and wants to destroy you. You will go to the houses of the worst of sinners. As well, if you are not willing to do these things then your master will go among those who you consider worse, and he will always find someone else out of that group. For if you don't need him then why should he waste his time with you either. Ignoring his call to the banquet will leave you locked out of his home.

Looking past all of those things above you must be like the good Shepard, and gather the lost sheep. Certainly, if you lost one coin will you not hold the money you have and look for that one lost coin. All of heaven will rejoice when the lost return, but you are to always be there. Don't be jealous for your brother that heaven has rejoiced for because God has given you an inheritance, and he has lost a lot of what he had. God has different things for different people. You must also not be shrewd; once again you have a master in heaven. Teach the world the truth, this is your mission. There is no place for jealousy, and there is no place for self seeking. One must die to their thoughts and be God seeking.

Remember that if you trust in God, he often has the choice wine. If you mock Jesus then you will gain money in the world, but God will account for that which you did not account for, and you will pay it back ten fold. So account for your sin by repenting and accepting Christ. Let God hold you, I tell you the truth, you must be born again of the Holy Spirit to be saved. For you are not even worthy to look upon the face of God, but this is what Jesus died for, your sin that separates you from God. Also, remember your roots, talk to all making no exceptions, go to the worlds forbidden people.

Know that the day is coming... Address the crowds, look on toward Christ. You must go before the courts of the Devil himself, and pull God's chosen away from him. In doing this, nations will plot against you in vain, kings will stand against you, and you will be hated. There will even be disagreement among your brothers and you. You must not pull lawsuits amongst others for ill gotten gain, and you mustn't give to the desires of the flesh.

There will be trials and temptations. Listen to God's word, and act upon it. Avoid favoritism while demonstrating your faith in your deeds from your heart, because even the demon's hear God's name and shudder, it is the wants of your heart that shows God you love him. Put your tongue on a leash, while gaining wisdom and understanding. Submit to God's power, for God opposes the proud, but gives to the humble. Once again do not boast about tomorrow, for it is not guaranteed. As well do not oppress others, while maintaining patience in suffering. In your troubles do not run to the world, get down on your knees and pray, for the world will laugh, scoff you, and take your life.

Remember that when Jesus told the truth the Pharisees had plotted against him. Judas had betrayed him. He was arrested at Gethsemane, and then taken away while being mocked, beaten and so much more. In fact his closest disciple Peter, denied him three times, as the others ran like cowards. You and I probably would have done the same thing. The world did everything in its power to slam Jesus, and then it happened. Christ was crucified for all of the love and truth that he shared with us. He did his father's will first and he was hated from the beginning of time for it by Satan. So I ask you, if they hated Christ who came before you, and they took his life, then what do you think they are going to do with you.

It is ironic; I had remembered how it was when I got saved. I was reading the Bible, and then when I got to Matthew Chapter 25 and onward it was like I could see the pain Christ had went through. I remember so vividly God facing the crowds and being mocked, as well as seeing the crucifixion and feeling each nail pierce through the hands of Christ. Strangely enough, nails and the whips are not mentioned in Matthew Chapter 27:32-46. So why did I come to understanding as I read that book. I didn't know, but as I searched more, I had fallen asleep. When I felt asleep, I had a weird dream that somebody needed a ride to a Bible study, and I had just got through with the other one. In that dream I had played my music in the car, and I could barely hear it outside the car. I had then walked into the house and a greeter, an older female, had yelled at me for playing my music loud. However, in the dream it was mentioned that I could barely hear it outside the car. She had later said, "I can careless about hearing the music it was the type of music." She had proceeded to tell me about how the music I was listening to was not bad because of its volume, it was bad because it was rock, and what could rock teach someone about Christ. In fact, she said the words were so loud and jumbled together that she could barely understand them.

I then said to her, "What about Rebecca St. James and DC Talk." She still did not like the music and she said that it was evil for me to listen to, and she had proceeded to dislike anything I said or did. And her crowd, whom was sitting far from the master's room, had scoffed me and told me to leave and be on my way. But as I walked away, the master of the house was watching sports on TV, and he commanded me to come into his room with his friends, and my friend was amongst the group. He had asked, "Why are you leaving my house?" I had explained to him what I was told by his other house guest. He had then said to me, "Who cares about what they said. You aren't damaging my house, and I like having you here. Just don't damage my door." I then looked behind me thinking I damaged the door, but the chair was placed almost perfectly so I couldn't hit the door; in fact, the more I think about it I could not see the lady's crowd outside the door, all I could see was the house master, his friends, and my friends. Just as the chair was placed at the door I had remarked about how everything was perfectly setup just for me to come in and sit down. It was as if I was meant to come into this room and stay with the house master. I had then wondered why everyone could see in here, but I couldn't see out there, and yet none of them ever came in. Then I had realized that they did not care or even have any desire to come in with the house master. It was because they had so much fun sitting outside talking and scoffing or yelling at those who had come in I now wonder about this dream, how many people went back into the cold night to be alone, and how many people stayed at the doorway only to never enter. As it was said, "every inclination of man is evil and they only come to Christ because of the grace from the God." It was the Holy Spirit that had given understanding of the truth that was written everywhere in the Bible and history, but in the verses I was reading that day. As well it was an invitation from God that I had to accept, and I would have ignored it to walk in the darkness alone had God not pulled me into his room.

What is the point of all this? It is plain as day... It wasn't meant to be easy; if you call yourself a Christian, then you had better listen to God's principals and teachings. However, know this, if you follow God's law then you will be scoffed, and you will face persecution. But one must die to himself, meaning that one sacrifices all that means anything to one's self, and one accepts the new life Christ has for him or her, in this same light he or she will be blessed for loving God; one would be able to live finally. Eventually, one would lose their life again, most of the time by physical crucifixion or dying of age, in his or her bed. For the final sacrifice a Christian will make is his or her physical life. Let me end this chapter with a poem.

Christians

Where have the children gone.

Those who trust in God.

Down lone dusty roads.

Chewed up by lions.

Crucified by cross.

We follow the narrow path.

Put through torture and transgressions.

Now the world hates all that is Christian,

But we still stand strong.

We realize that we are wicked.

We understand that we need Christ.

We trust in God only.

We need God.

Only God can correct us flawlessly.

Only God can rebuke us innocently.

Only God can teach us everything.

Only God can feed us the food to grow spiritually.

Only God can save our soul.

Where have the children of Christ gone.

Thankfully they are all around us.

Christ holds us together.

As Christians die we must embrace death,

For what comes later is better,

It is beyond belief.

The world is not Christian,

For it claims their lives,

As it takes the souls of the wicked.

We must trust in Christ,

God is awesome,

And he knows us all,

We must love Christ.

Following Christ through even the darkness.

Chapter Five: Rebirth

"As evening approached, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who had himself a disciple of Jesus. Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus' body, and Pilate ordered that it be given to him. Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb. The next day, the one after Preparation Day, the chief priests and the Pharisees went to Pilate. "Sir," they said, "we remember that while he was still alive that deceiver said, 'After three days I will rise again.' So give the order for the tomb to be made secure until the third day. Otherwise, his disciples may come and steal the body and tell the people that he has been raised from the dead. This last deception will be worse than the first." "Take a guard," Pilate answered. "Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how." So they went and made the tomb secure by putting a seal on the stone and posting a guard.

After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you." So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples."

-Matthew Chapter 27:57-66 & 28:1-8

What must we do after dying to ourselves? I don't have much to say because the answer is obvious. But rather than use my words I will take a break and let God's word explain this.

The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20):

"Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshipped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

Let these two poems and the next paragraph explain the difference between whom I was and who I am after my rebirth.

Diamond in the Rough

Diamond in the rough...

Diamond in the rough...

What is a diamond in the rough?

Is it when an ugly duckling becomes a swan?

When a caterpillar becomes a beautiful butterfly?

May be there is no answer.

What is a diamond in the rough?

Is it you, is it me, is it all of us,

What is a diamond in the rough?

May be it's when a weed becomes a rose.

What is a diamond in the rough?

It's when a man becomes Christian,

When the world changes.

It is when religion and tradition fades.

It's when Jesus Claims a world that's rightfully his.

Hope in the night...

So if to sin is to, in a number of ways, break every commandment.

Where does one turn?

Jesus Christ is the only solution.

Our hope in the night.

He can cure us of all transgressions.

Jesus is truly our hope in the night.

As I look at my life, I realize that I am a very different person from what I was before; the difference between who I was and who I am now is like night and day, and it is just as they say, "I once was lost, but now I am saved." I remember before I was saved, I used to struggle with hate of the world and everything in it, but now I love life and everything in the world, with the exception of sin. Once upon a time, I used to hate God, and I wished for death. However, I have come to realize that God is to be loved for He is my very reason to want to be. Slowly but surely, all of the sins I struggle with dwindle away from me as far as the east and west. I say this because a time ago I used to indulge in a lot of sins, the worst being idolatry, and now I have put aside this sin, finding it repulsive for someone like me who knows better than to worship a dead object. Later, I struggled with lust more and more, but now the battles are won, and I am a much better guiltless person. I call these two the worst sins because they are like pin pricks, and slowly they eat away at your heart taking away from your life, quelling those things you consider sacred, while they defile your mind and turn your heart against God. Then of course, I would have never known these things if it weren't for Christ making right what was wrong in my life, for I would have thought that these things were a part of normal healthy behavior. Because of my change, I have come to realize the difference between right and wrong, and now I understand how truly deprived humanity is, for our morals often change from society to society; we often do what we feel is right. But now that I understand my sinful nature, I live not by the changing morality of society, which changes like the waves in the sea, demonstrating the stability of a "wishy washy" building with no foundation, constantly shifting like time itself and the sands in the desert, for I live by a higher code, and it is called "ethics". To this very day, the ethics of God have carried me better than the morality of society, and since this change I have been a far better person than I once was, only struggling with guilt on occasion from the past sins, the sins I had done as I lived under society's morality. Because my life is structured around the ethics of God, I am a very different person from what I was. Now as I finish, I reiterate that which others have said that applies to my life incredibly, "I once was lost, but now I'm saved;" as of now, the life of my past is as different from my current life as the difference is between night and day. For I realize the difference, between who I am now and who I was in the past, every time I look in the mirror.

Chapter Six: Freedom & Gifts

"If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me." (John 21:22)

In our life we are given one mission. This mission is to develop a relationship with God and to tell the world about Christ. The means however change. For example in the verse above Jesus was telling Peter not to worry about what everyone else was doing or what God is doing for them, only worry about what God has for him. Long story short, everyone is given their own spiritual blessing in Christ. With these blessings we must give thanksgiving and prayer. For we were made alive in Christ, and all of our gifts help to comprise the body of Christ; therefore, we are one in Christ. Just as Paul preached to the Gentiles and prayed for the Ephesians, we must also preach to the lost and pray to God for others knowing that Christ has a specific task for us all, and we are to be individually accountable for those gifts that God gave us. It is to be realizing that there is unity in the body of Christ. "We must be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love, because there is one body and one Spirit- just as you were called to one hope when you were called- one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ appointed it." (Ephesians 4:2, 4:4-7) We must be living as children of the light, or imitators of God. We must live a life of love just as Christ loved us, while submitting to Christ, as a wife must submit to her husband, and a husband loves his wife. We must obey God, as children must obey their parents, and know that God will not provoke you.

Ephesians leaves us with this message, "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the Devils schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." (Ephesians 6:10-12)

Yet, there is always more... I must thank God for He blesses us with wisdom, knowledge, and insight in his word. Let them place us in chains; it will only make our message stronger, for I will imitate Christ's humility. I want be the one who cheers on the believers, and I will have no confidence in the flesh, but in the solid fact that we can do God's will through Christ's sacrifice. This means we must be ever vigilant pressing on toward the goal, and we must agree with each other in the Lord. We must also rejoice greatly for the gifts God has blessed our brothers and us with, for these gifts are given to glorify God and not ourselves. Breathe in and ask for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with all of our spirits.

This is said because the Son is superior to all, as well as the angels in heaven and much more. So pay attention to the warnings of the Holy Spirit. Even Jesus humbled himself to God's will, and He was and is and will always be God, He greater than us all, even His prophets such as Moses humbled himself before the throne. Be warned about unbelief, because this is a dangerous game that you will lose. How can one be rewarded if he or she does not realize the gift God has given him or her? Also take some time to rest; in fact, enter His rest, and to be found to have fallen short. Love God for the gift of salvation that He has given you. Know that Jesus was the Great High Priest, and He will keep you from falling away. Know the certainty of God's promise; for He is of the order of Melchizedek, as well as The High Priest of the New Covenant, He is the most trusted of the entire universe. The blood of Christ saves, and Christ sacrifice for all is the greatest gift that we could ever receive. Therefore, remember your gifts, and persevere as you hold your faith of being sure of what you hope for and certain of what you do not see. Do not be entangled with sins, for God disciplines His sons, and refusing God would be refusing the gifts He has for you. I also say greet all of your leaders and all of God's people.

When using your freedoms and gifts you must never become a false teacher of the law. Receive strength from the Lord's grace, and worship as you were instructed. If you set your heart on being an overseer or deacon then manage your family first. To serve your family obligations you must first walk with God. This means to put God first and love your family the way God would have you love it. Do not abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits. Respect the widows, elders, and slaves for they have lived, and they have learned hard lessons that God had to teach them. Their experience and wisdom is invaluable. Do not sway from God for anything, not even if an angel from heaven comes down offering all of the money in the world, for the love of money is the root of all evil. Pursue righteousness children of God, and open the gifts that God which God gives to us all graciously for loving Him. I say this because the gifts from God are worth more than any treasure.

Know that there are many who are wild and disobedient, but we must be orderly. We must teach what is in accord with sound doctrine. We must be subject to the rulers and authorities, doing things that are good. Do everything you can to help other Christians stay on the path.

So I must give thanksgiving to God. There mustn't be any divisions in the church. For Christ is the wisdom and has the power of God because he is God. We must ask for this wisdom He has from the Holy Spirit while being able to eat spiritual meat. We are to be the apostles of Christ. As well, if there are those who are sexually immoral among you, expel them to bring them the truth of the wickedness that they have enticed.

Here are some examples of immoral behavior:

Leviticus Chapter 18:

The Lord said to Moses, "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'I am the Lord your God You must not do as they do in Egypt, where you used to live, and you must not do as they do in the land of Canaan, where I am bringing you. Do not follow their practices. You must obey my laws and be careful to follow my decrees. I am the Lord your God. Keep my decrees and laws, for the man who obeys them will live by them. I am the Lord.

Do not have sexual relations with:

Any close relatives

Your mother

Your grandchildren

Your sister or brother

Your aunts

Your uncles

Your step mom/father

Your children in law

Your brother/sister's wife/husband

A mother and her children

Your wife's sister while your wife is living

With a woman during her monthly flow

Your neighbor's wife

Animals

Man with man, woman with woman

Do not sacrifice your children to Molech, for you must not profane the name of your God. I am the Lord. (Read further in the new text it speaks of prostitution of the church by worshiping other Gods. Also in Exodus it speaks of NOT worshipping idols. In my opinion, a Christian who follows idols or worships things other than God is like a man's wife sleeping with another man. If you are a Christian and accept false doctrines as okay, then you are like a prostitute, or the woman who slept around, please throw your false things away [idolatry] please turn away from the worship of anything other than Jesus Christ, if you accept false doctrines learn to use the bible to reject and rebuke these things. Please turn away from them. I have no right to judge you but God does and what he says goes.)

Do not defile yourselves in any of these ways, because this is how the nations that I am going to drive out before you became defiled. Even the land was defiled; so I punished it for its sin, and the land vomited out its inhabitants. But you must keep my decrees and my laws. The native-born and the aliens living among you must not do any of these detestable things, for all these things were done by the people who lived in the land before you, and the land became defiled. And if you defile the land, it will vomit you out as it vomited out the nations that were before you.

Everyone who does any of these detestable things-such persons must be cut off from their people. Keep my requirements and do not follow any of the detestable customs that were practiced before you came and do not defile yourselves with them. I am the Lord your God.

However, I tell you the truth; if we were to repent these things and turn to Christ we can be forgiven. Do not bring lawsuits against believers, or indulge in sexual immorality. In marriage do not separate from your wife. Love her as Christ loved the church. This should be a dead issue; we should know these rules by now, even some pagans know the importance of marriage despite its failure in America. If your brother struggles with a sin then in love do not tempt him. For as Disciples of Christ we are all free to do what we want, but we must make our self a slave to everyone to win souls. Learn from the sins of the past, flee from idolatry, and cherish Christ's sacrifice.

Remember that in Christ, everything is permissible, but everything is not beneficial. Once again love your brothers and sisters. There are also many other gifts such as prophecy, tongues, and much more, but I don't want to go into detail over everything under the sun, I merely want to say use your freedom correctly, and bless others with your myriad of gifts.

Chapter Seven: Conclusion

In my life I had started out a wretched man, born once of my mother into my flesh, a sinner with no hope of anything on the path to Hell. Then one day learning of Christ sacrifice, receiving understanding from the Holy Spirit, and repenting of my sins, I had given up my evil ways. Now, I am saved, and here I am flying on my Father's wings. The One who died on the cross for my sins... Forever I will be upon his hands, and when I can no longer walk, He will carry me with His love. For I am a child of Christ and that faith at which I lack I beg God for, so that I may have faith like a mustard seed that starts small and grows larger than the mountains. God shall protect me so that in the end times I will not be deceived by the false prophet.

At the end, when God decides to reveal himself, this world will be ripe for His judgments. It will be one like a Son of Man who will reveal Himself. Remember the seven statements. Do not forsake your first love, remembering the height at which you will fall; if you do this then repent and do the things you did first. Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer, for the Devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for a number of days; if this happens, then be faithful, even to the point of death, and you will receive the crown of life. Nevertheless, do not have people hold to the teaching of a false God; if this is happening then rebuke the teaching and repent, otherwise, when He comes God will take the sword of His mouth to these people. Once again, do not take the teachings of false prophets, for they will mislead, and they will be cast upon the bed of suffering, as well all those who have followed they will meet unfortunate ends because of their sins; if you fall into these things you can turn around and repent for your sins, God will forgive. As for others, awaken and strengthen what remains and is about to die for your deeds may not have been found complete in God's sight; remember, therefore what you have received and heard; obey it, and repent. For those who have lasted, keep God's command to endure patiently; hold on to what you have so that no one will take your crown. And those who are lukewarm, be hot, or you will be spat out of His mouth; if you are lukewarm then buy from Him gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich, and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness, and salve to put on your eyes so you can see.

As you remember these things, know that there is a throne in heaven. Day and night, the four living creatures that guard the throne say, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come. The living creatures give glory, honor, and thanks to Him who sits on the throne and who lives for ever and ever. Know that the scroll of the lamb exists, and a mighty angel will proclaim in a loud voice, "Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?" But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth can open the scroll or even look inside it. Only the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals. This is the lamb that was slain, who is standing in the center of the throne, which is encircled by the four living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice the creatures will sing, "Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!" It will be a glorious moment when Christ comes again. The seven seals will be opened, and there will be 144,000 sealed. A great multitude that no one will be able to count, from every nation, tribe, people and language will be standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. In a loud voice they will cry out, "Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb."

Those who will have come out of the great tribulation; they will have washed their robes and have made them white in the blood of the Lamb; they will be the great multitude. Therefore, they will be before the throne of God and serve Him day and night in His temple; and He who sits on the throne will spread His tent over them. They will never hunger or thirst again. The sun will not beat upon them and there will be no scorching heat, because the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their Shepard; He will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. In the times to come so much will have happen and there will be judgment everywhere. When the war reaches its final battle, whose side will you be on? Yes, He is coming soon, where do you stand?

What do you believe in? Whom do you love? Are you doing what God called you to? I know I am a sinner, and I trust in Christ, for He has made me clean through His blood, and I love Him more than anything for that. Who has cleaned you, who has taken your burdens? Think not about what I do, or what your brother does, but ask what does God ask of you? What is it to you if God wants your brother to live, and you to die; what is it to you for God to let another man be rich and you poor? Isn't it said that the love of money is the root of all sin?

What is the purpose to life? Isn't it obvious? The purpose to life is to serve God and develop a relationship with Him. Also one should live in love for there is also the Great Commission. And this commission is to tell the world about Christ and all that He has done for us. We do this so that we testify to the glory of Christ, and this is because He is worthy to be praised.

For in life to chase after wisdom is meaningless. Chasing after pleasure is also meaningless. As well, when you measure wisdom and folly you will find that wisdom is greater than folly, but you will find that chasing after either is merely a chasing after the wind. Even the toil or hard works you have accomplished you will find to be meaningless. You will find that there is a time for everything under the sun. You must also know that oppression will be returned as well as your toils and friendships. You will also come to realize that advancement and riches are meaningless. Be in awe of God in your life. Wisdom has its lasting effects, therefore, sow your seed in the morning, and at evening let your hands not be idle, for you do not know which will succeed; remember your creator while you are young, and obey God, because there is a common destiny for all. One must say that the wisest thing to do in life is to fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the entire duty of man. God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil. Everything else is meaningless...

Among other things you need to know, if you plan to live this life following God, that to live your life you must lose it. If they hated Christ how much more will they hate you? For you must be born again to live again. Also at the end of your life you will be standing before the throne of Christ. Will you be washed by His blood or will you rely on your own deeds that are as good as filthy rags? Please trust in Christ the only person who was willing to bear our burdens and die for us all. After you have come to Christ know that your freedom and gifts are from God to you; what is it for you to be jealous of another's gifts given from God? Don't you have your own relationship with Christ? Stop being lazy and jealous and take care of your home before you worry about another's. Only do things for your brother in love, and not of hate, jealousy, malice, foolishness, or evil intent. Also, never let your gifts hinder another Christian into temptation, show compassion for the weaker brother, and be a leader so that he may come to grow in Christ, and he may sharpen you; be like metal sharpening metal.

The conclusion of this matter with morality declining the Bible is the one solid book of laws that we have. Fear God and love your brother, everything else is meaningless. In your relationships, foster love and integrity in all of them. Once again I repeat that to live your life, you must lose it. Also I must say that salvation is found through rebirth in Christ. Among other things don't be jealous of other's gifts, and use your gifts the way God's will wants you to. Hinder none in your freedom, and cause no temptation to your brother. Repent for all of your sins, and love God as well as your fellow brother. Foster honor around your relationship, and hold your relationship with God higher than any treasure, because in the end you will be answering to Him. Are you ready to stand before His throne, or when comes like a thief in the night will you not be known. I can't think of nothing greater than to stand before God and hear, "I know you, my blood has cleansed, you have been reborn, and written in the book of life because of my sacrifice, well done, welcome home my child." I also can't imagine a worst fate than to meet my end, and to look at the face of Christ who died for me to just come to realize the truth and hear, "I know you not, be gone, I shall throw you in the darkness of the pit, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." What will God say to you?

Epilogue

I do want to end with the Bible, however, I will use some well thought out opinions based on God's word. You may ask who cares about the Bible. The truth of the matter is that I care. For the Bible means a lot to me.

What is the Bible and what are some things one can learn? The Bible is the handbook to life, and it tells one how to live his or her life properly as it gives examples of wisdom. This is the greatest book in the world for inspiring minds, for it inspires mine, while it also shows Christ's love for us all. One can also learn application of multiple principles in life as he or she gains this wisdom. For example, I remember before I was saved as I wondered around with no hope, and hating the world. Despite my frustration, depression, and filthiness, God had given me the desire to read the Bible. As I read, I was able to relate to Job, while Matthew's book had become vividly alive to me. It was as if this book was speaking to me this book was alive. Every image from Jesus prophesying his death to the crucifixion, as written in the book of Matthew and onward had become very real; it was almost like I was there. I could feel the whips, taste the sweat mixed with blood, hear the nine inch nails, and imagine the excruciating pain. As I read on, I realized Jesus Christ had died on the cross, out of love, for mysin as well as yours, and those few tiny chapters in a book had affected my life drastically forever. Later on, after building a foundation in Christ, I had continued to read the entire Bible, and no matter how much I read this book, I am still gaining practical wisdom with an extensive amount of knowledge. Therefore, through my personal experience, I know the Bible is the handbook to life because it not only teaches wisdom, application, love, inspiration, and honesty, which are the keys to life, but it also gives these things to me along with a great deal of peace received from its plethora of wisdom.

Christian

Poetry

Section:The Sun, the Moon, and the StarsBy Yusun Y. Beck August 12, 2004Yesterday, I asked God for the sun, the moon, and the stars.However, He did not give them to me.I asked Him why.But He did not give them to me.So I begged and I begged.But still no sun, moon, or stars...Then one day I was driving my car.Drowsy and of ill health I was.Right in front of me,A car just hopped the lanes without a turning signal.Then it braked like brick stopping from a fall.On its tail I hit it.Spinning and spinning like a top in the middle of two lanes.I bumped from shoulder to shoulder like a ping pong ball.All the while cars drove right by me,As I was going from shoulder to shoulder on this main freeway...Oh, how scared I was.But not one car had hit me.At the end, I thanked God for his protection.Then, once again I asked for the sun, the moon, and the stars.Finally, in my dream He said, "No."So I begged, "Why oh why, please Lord give me the sun, the moon, and the stars."He then said, "Have you not already asked for wisdom?"Next He said, "Have I not given you my own Son on the cross?"Then He said, "I love you dear, but there will be a time where you will have things.Things that are far greater than the sun, the moon, and the stars.For now, I give you writing and wisdom."I said, "I thank you for the wisdom and the writing, but I need the sun, the moon, and the stars."He then said, "Do not ask me for the sun, the moon, and the stars anymore this day, for I have given you something greater than those gifts. Something you really do need."I then apologized and went away, saddened.He then said, "Ye must know, my grace is sufficient."For God knew I wanted not the sun, the moon, and the stars...I merely wanted to be as beautiful as the sun, the moon, and the stars.I then had a spark of wisdom, I should be thankful for the little things like God saving my life earlier.I should also be thankful for the very basic point of my faith and belief which is greater than any gift; it is called God's grace.Then I finally realized again, in Christ we are saved: loved, beautiful, righteous, and perfect.Now I praise God even more because He had already given us the sun, the moon, and the stars and so much more...And this is why His grace is sufficient.In Your HandsBy Yusun Y. Beck August 13, 2004 In your hands my times are.They have hunted me down.Bleeding and battered I am inside.Night after night I cry.My enemies come to bring ruin upon my life, but you say no.They prick my hand, steal from me, and drain my life.Yet I persevere because you deliver me from my enemies.Those who pursue me you crush.I think that my end is abounding.But you told me not to worry and be free.Free from my sin I am because my times are in your hands.Free from my human enemies because my life is in your hands.Free from my spiritual enemies because my soul is in your hands.Free from death because my spirit is in your hands.So, I will rejoice in the light.For His hands were scarred for my sake.To reign with Christ is what I want.God will surely be found when the mighty waters rise.So I say let your face shine upon your servant.For your grace is greater than anything in the world.While your justice cuts to the inner core of a persons being.Bring justice, you said you would.If I succeed in life, you lift me up.If I fail in life, you hunt down my trouble and take it away.And when you break me, I needed it, for my head was getting too big.So heal me and take away my transgressions.Display your justice on those that never want your healing.For I wish the whole world would be saved, but not everyone can be saved.Because people can't accept the truth they fall down, but without Christ I wouldn't see the light either.But my enemy hurting me causes me no real injustice, for the real injustice is not accepting Christ.For Christ died to take away our sins.He wanted to deliver us from our mortal enemies and shield us from our immortal enemies.He beat death and gave us the light and truth, for he wants us all to rejoice in the light with his son.He will lift us up, take away our troubles, and break us down.If God is the maker of the sun, moon, and the stars then not even the ocean can stand against us, for He has dominion over everything.To Hell with this world, let God burn it down and build a new world when He is ready.I want no part of a sinful world, for sin has been the only cause for my hindrance. Know that God's justice cuts to the core; let it also be known that the true injustice is not accepting Christ, for the truth is in His hand.InvisibleBy Yusun Y. Beck August 13, 2004 I wish I were invisible sometimes.If I were I could see where others come from, and I could know what others say.But wait I already am invisible.I sit and I cry day after day but no one hears.The pain in my heart is too much to bear.My life, heart, and soul cry out for this world to be set free.However, only God hears my cry; so I cry louder, yet no one hears.People continue to have sex before marriage without spiritual conviction.They murder, hate, and lie... They feel that they are invincible...People have indulged in their transgressions.They enjoy the lusts of their own sin.A lust for power, money, and earth they harbor.But in the end they are strangled by their own cords.Their sin entangles them like a web.Laughing and mocking those righteous by Christ only entangles them more.For when I watched people jump from partner to partner, they all acquired AIDS or STDs.They worry that they may be killed by those they stabbed in the back.They have a door to escape through in Christ.But their dreams are still for the sun, the moon, and the stars.They juggle with death like it is a joke, and to them it is...Unfortunately they realize nothing, for don't they realize that they die twice?Without Christ they can not beat death, receive salvation, or bless others.All they can do is wallow in their sins.Let the pool of their sins not swallow them.I know you have us warn them, but Lord please save them all.My compassion goes out for those without the love of Christ.I know they are unjust and you punish the unjust, but Lord save them please.I know our words seem to be invisible to those who love you not.Even though we pray for them however, they still suffer through.They would rather burn than love Christ. And true love is letting people choose to love you, so Christ does not force them to love him.I then realize I am sometimes thankful to be invisible to them.This gives me the chance to watch them.I just wish I could guide them to the truth.In their eye though, I am invisible.Was the world ever ready to be honest?Is being invisible that bad?Apparently not, for to be unseen by the world and seen by God is the greatest glory one can receive. So do I like my invisibility?I most certainly do; for I am not simply invisibleI am seen by Christ, and that is worth more than my own visibility.Give It to Me NowBy Yusun Y. Beck August 14, 2004 "I want it now, God..." "Please give me everything I want Lord," I say aloud."I want to be free now," I say aloud. "Give me everything you want for me now Lord," I beg and cry. Right then is when everything slows down.I get stuck on an island never to see home again, or so it seems.I end up paying more money than I needed to for necessities.Finally, I can't give others the nice gifts I want to give them because I go poor.What do I do now? I cry for God to help.But He says, "One moment you ask for your 'necessities' and then the next moment you cry for help in managing them."I then apologize, "I know I beg for these things, but the burden is far too much for me now. I didn't know that there was so much you put aside for me."God then says, "If you were patient and waited in due time then you would have been given everything in the course of time that would help you."I then realize that God's time is perfect timing.For if I was to receive a blessing out of season it would truly become a burden and a curse.I praise God for the pain and suffering for as much as I hate this pain and trouble, I know that I will be much happier when God delivers me from them.When I was a child with no job I had joy and I was rich.When I was lacking wisdom and filled with energy I was comfortable in not knowing.When I was young I had so little but again I had fun; now, I am an adult.I am blessed with a job that pays money, but I have bills.I am blessed with knowledge and wisdom, yet I have struggles and hardships.I am blessed with advancing of age and more adult rights, but I also have greater responsibilities.These seem like curses to a little child, but since God had me wait, I am blessed with satisfaction, insight, and fun.For it is meant for God to give man a lot, but man must be ready for those things God has to give.Do you really want that nice house in your youth when you make very little to pay for it.Would you really want the responsibility of having millions of dollars and spending it all because you don't know what to do with it?You beg for so much, and so do I, but do we really need the things we are in want for.What if God were to give you the sun, the moon, and the stars right now?You would be burnt for your weak mortal body could not even look upon the face of the sun, much less hold and have it.Now is not always the best time to have whatever you want; sometimes it is better to wait for God to give it to you tomorrow because you may not be ready today; however, do those things you know to be right.You must know this: deferring off the path of righteousness may also delay your progress to those blessings that God wants to joyously give you. So what if you must wait until you die to receive a blessing for doing right. Doesn't God offer better rewards to the poor who suffer and believe as opposed to the rich who were lazy and did nothing to advance God's kingdom and believed because they did not suffer. Death before DishonorBy Yusun Y. Beck August 15, 2004 Forty days and forty nights He spent fasting.In His weakest moment the devil came to tempt Him."Stones to bread!" The Devil said. "Man does not live on bread alone," He replied.

"Throw yourself down!" The devil said. "Do not put God to the test," He said."Bow to me, own the world!" The devil said. "Worship only God," He said.His friend was thrown in prison, He preached...He called new men to be fishers of men. He healed the sick.He blessed the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, those who hunger, those who thirst, the merciful, and the pure in heart, those who are persecuted, and the insulted.He decided to have His shoulders shine a light upon the world despite the moths that would be drawn to it to attack it.He came to fulfill the law. He taught us to live in love.He also loved His enemies who would eventually press for His execution.Finally, His life of honor seemed to be at an end when He was arrested at Gethsemane.Betrayed by one of His Twelve He was.They came upon Him with swords and clubs as if He was leading a rebellion.For the sake of the truth, He did not fight back.Even as He stood before the Sanhedrin, He did not resist.Abandoned by his closest of friends, He was alone and cold before a wicked court.Yet He still held to the truth.Before Pilate He stood, yet He still held to the truth.Stripped and mocked by soldiers of this weak world, yet He still held to the truth."Turn away," they say to the man who stands carrying two sticks of wood.They offered him wine mixed with gall at Golgotha that He refused after tasting it.They taunted, hated, and laughed at Him.Yet He still held on to His love for us, for He loved us so much that He chose to die for us.People think that He was weak, but He could have destroyed us all at a moments notice at any time. However, He said He loved us.To fulfill the prophecy of love He set down before us, He chose to be tortured and die on the cross for our sake.Death could not even hold Him because He rose up fulfilling prophecy.Now by His stripes we are healed. By His blood we are made righteous.His sacrifice had given us more than the sun, the moon, and the stars. Yet we yearn for more. Well as I say from what I learned, "Death before dishonor!"We want so much, yet we can never truly fathom the full scope of the pain that Christ had to go through to give us what we have.In this life, the things we acquire mean nothing; therefore, we must remember this term.I say this because this is the true key to receiving more than the sun, the moon, and the stars.Dishonor... In fact, one could sell their soul for the whole world; the world's treasure ends at death... Honor... One could die to the world and keep their honor; to die to a sinful world is to gain eternal honor. Now I ask, "What do you choose?"I choose honor. I choose death before dishonor.Dimensions of Eternal Purpose and GraceBy Yusun Y. Beck August 16, 2004 Grace and peace to all I pray...For in Christ we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, and much wisdom and understanding.For these things alone we should give Christ thanksgiving, prayer, and so much more as He deserves.We are to be made alive in Christ, for before He healed us we were dead in our transgressions and sins.We are made to be diverse, so that we may come together as one in Christ forming one body.Gentiles and Jews alike we would not have come to Christ if not for the will of God.We are all to be servants to Christ's will, and do what He will have us do whether it is teaching, correcting, rebuking, or anything else.I pray for us all that we may live in His will. For He is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.We must be that prisoner for the Lord; not a slave to sin.To each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.To this world we may be the only light they ever see, so we must live as children of the light are expected to live.To imitate Christ is to live the life of love and forgive others.Let the sleeping soul awake and rise from the dead and Christ will shine upon it.In this circle of love, wives should submit to their husbands, husbands should submit to God, and children should honor their father and mother. We should all submit and bow before Christ who is God.If we were slaves, then we should respect and fear our earthly masters with sincerity of heart as we would obey Christ.If we were masters, then we should treat our slaves with the same respect fearing God.For there are no favorites in heaven, and we all have a master who is higher than us and master over all that we know and command.In this short glimpse of truth it is apparent that we need not the sun, the moon, and the stars.We only need to be strong in His mighty power wearing the full armor of God:Standing firm with our belt of truth buckled around our waist, with our breastplate of righteousness in place, with our feet fitted with readiness that comes from the gospel of peace, with our shield of faith with which we can extinguish the flaming arrows of the evil one, with our helmet of salvation, with our sword of the Spirit which is the word of God, with our prayer in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and request, and finally with alertness in mind praying for all of the saints.I wish for us all to realize the dimensions of eternal purpose and grace.For me to explain everything would take an eternity, for in all we do there is more than one reason for it being like it is.Only God knows it all...Even this important bit of knowledge and wisdom only chips the iceberg of why we should love God and what our full purpose is.But we will never know everything unless God gifts us to know everything. Praise God! I: 53By Yusun Y. Beck August 16, 2004I believe the message, for He has come to past already and the Son was revealed.He grew like a tender shoot and like a root out of dry ground at a time where the children of Herod's rule were murdered.This man was average, not appearing to be the master of the sun, the moon, and the stars.This man was despised and rejected by men, yet he ran to heal those in sorrow and familiar with suffering.He was like one whom men hide their faces.Despised and not esteemed by us.Yet he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows; however, we considered him stricken, smitten, and afflicted by God.He was pierced by nails and a spear for our transgressions.Crushed for iniquities he was.He bore the punishment that brought us peace. By his wounds we are healed even now.Yet like sheep we have foolishly endowed upon our own path going astray.While he was oppressed and afflicted, he did not open his mouth; like a lamb to the slaughter he was silent.He was quiet like a sheep before its shearers.Taken away by oppression and judgment he was.Who can speak of his descendants? He was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgressions of us all he was stricken.He was hung next to the wicked, killed like the wicked, and put away like the wicked; he was assigned a grave with the wicked and with the rich in his death, yet he was innocent of violence and no deceit came from his tongue.It was the Lord's will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the Lord makes his life a guilt offering, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the Lord will prosper in his hands.So much that we do; we realize not the price.But even during the days of Adam, Noah, Abraham, and David the price was known.Adam knew as he stood before God facing the consequence of eating the fruit from the forbidden tree.Noah knew as he built the ark and watched the flood wash the wicked of the world away destroying everyone but his family. Abraham knew as God announced the punishment for Sodom and Gomorrah and time and time again as God demonstrated his will.David knew as he faced Goliath and led the Israelites.Even upon the days of their sin they all knew.Finally, Isaiah knew as he wrote the prophecies of Isaiah 53.How come we don't all know 2004 years after the birth of Christ?Christ died for us all because he cared.Well I care about Christ, and I know that if I were to die to give someone the gift of life, then they had better use it.I accept Christ's gift with open arms; in fact, I embrace his gift.Let others embrace this gift and be healed by his wounds. Praise God! My God My God: Complex HaikuBy Yusun Y. Beck August 16, 2004 Salvation is now.Today is the only day.Salvation is now! We are created.By God, from the dust of Earth.Breathe we do today. We have fallen hard.Doing those things forbidden.So He came to earth. My God, oh my God...Your son you gave to us, here.Prophecy fulfilled. To die, on the cross.He took the burden of sin.All of our sin carried. For us he did this.Repent I do, for you save.Cleansed by the blood of your son. Praise Jesus Christ now!For He rose from death for us.Praise Jesus Christ now! Curse the evil today.REBUKE Satan now with Christ!Holy Spirit protect. Embrace the cross, please.Embrace Jesus Christ oh please.Embrace God's virtue. Freedom in the end.Freedom from death, destruction...Even our worst fears. Slaves to sin no more.We are free from sin to love.And love Christ we will. The Battle LineBy Yusun Y. Beck August 16, 2004 Under the sun, the moon, and the stars they stand.A wounded wing broken and torn, the angel is unable to fly.His blade is dull, for he is fighting off too many demons.The angel keeps fighting, for he holds a message of Christ. The receiver of the message sits praying to God so faithfully.God heals the angel's sword and gives him new wings.Battered he is no more. Stronger and stronger he grows.The angel is healed once more. His armor is replenished.His sword is sharpened.His wings are renewed.His strength has returned. He grows stronger by the moment.Raising his blade he strikes his adversary.Attacking with indiscriminate strikes, he seems to be winning.His blade is lifted so that he may strike the demon down back to the demon master Satan. "Please spare me mercy angel of God.""Do not strike me down, for I only do my master's will.""I am sorry for holding you up; please go to God's servant.""But spare my utter defeat today please." "Smite you I should.""You are the treacherous demon that held up my other angels.""I am the angel of God, and you thought you had won against me.""Even if I were truly hurt by you I would get back up only to smite and forsake you." "But I shall keep you alive demon.""I came down merely to stop you, warn you, and shed you from my paths.""My job is to ward you away, not to send you to Hell before your time.""Leave this path demon and never come back.""For the battle line is drawn," "And if you try to hold up anymore of my angels, then you will be dealt with.""I release you, now run far away o' wicked one." When I Was a ChildBy Yusun Y. Beck August 17, 2004 "Listen my son, to a father's instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching."When I was a child, I dreamed about the sun the moon, and the stars.As I grew older I realized how out of reach they were.When I was a child, I was told to follow my dreams.So I followed them. I wrote and studied other religions because I wanted to be wise, strong, and powerful.But then I realized that physical strength meant nothing if it was of this world.I realized that power from this world meant absolutely nothing.As for wisdom, I decided to indulge myself in it.For Christ had instructed us to follow Him and be children of the light.So I did...I became His child through wisdom not of my own, but the wisdom that He provided for me. For if He did not open my eyes then forever blind I would be.Now that I am older, I understand so much more.But this is only because God had made me pay attention to His instruction. God had given me understanding and sound learning.And I did not forsake God's teaching.Now I have grown up a lot.If I did not listen to my Father's instruction, then I would still be a child.So praise God for teaching me.I now know the difference between darkness and light.I understand what I sought.I am keen to the displacement of details.I have learned to be compassionate and forgiving.I know that it is greater reward to give than to receive.Therefore, I thank God for teaching me.He taught me how to be a responsible man, a tough soldier, a good leader, a loyal servant, a free man, an elite person, a consummate warrior, a decision maker, a romantic gentleman, an honest brother, a watchful guardian, a stern father, a loving son, a tireless follower, a trustworthy disciple, a perfect creation, an imaginative creator, a precise strategist, an excellent writer, a game player, a wise man, an intelligent man, a discerning person, a close friend, a studious scientist, a safe driver, a dependable worker, a frontline student, a gift giver, an older brother, a younger brother, a medical assistant, a disc jockey, an understanding person, a joyous singer, an intuitive thinker, a strong fighter, a stylistic poet, a published writer and a quick learner.Yet out of all these gifts I am most thankful for Him teaching me how to be a saved man.For all of the status in this world means nothing.The only good it can be used for is to bring others to the will and glory of God.Why discount God when I know that He is the only truth.When I was a child He told me what I would be. God gave me a purpose.God showed me why I should stay alive in Christ, and for that I am thankful.As an adult I will stay alive in Christ and follow my purpose which is to serve God in all that I do forever because God is good, God is great, God is awesome. Praise God!