tag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:/blogs/blog?p=2Blog2022-03-15T07:38:54-04:00brianmarkweller.comfalsetag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/69225962022-03-15T07:38:54-04:002023-10-16T10:54:35-04:00Trust God through seasons of change! <p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/dcfc19d3e1bd756a344e94f3d05a3b48d12e2464/original/followers-of-jesus-christ-trust-god-through-seasons-of-change-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Followers of Jesus Christ, trust God through seasons of change! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"Walk by faith, not by sight." (2 Corinthians 5:7) </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Why doubt the promises of God? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Why doubt the efficacy, truthfulness, and reality of God's Word? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Why doubt God is in control? </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus Christ was Lord, is Lord, and will always be Lord. He is supreme in authority! That's what the word Lord means! Isaiah 9:7 says, "Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end." I believe that, don't you? Yes, there will be no end of His Kingdom and power, and we must continually dwell upon and meditate on that! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We must live each day recognizing we are heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ Jesus, who is Lord of Lords. The most supreme in authority! We have trusted Him for salvation, and our names were inscribed with our Father's heavenly pen in the Lamb's Book of Life. In the Bible, we are called the Ambassadors of Jesus Christ. We represent a Kingdom for which there is no end, and there is no end for us! We will live forever with Him in His glorious kingdom! That thought alone should release a flood of joy and peace into our souls unlike any other this world could give! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Yet until God's Heavenly Kingdom comes, we must spend our time on planet earth as sojourners, pilgrims, as those who belong to and are servants of Jesus Christ, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords. We must live for the glory of our glorious God and Heavenly Father. we must "go out in joy and be led forth in peace." (Isaiah 55:12) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So let's continue to faithfully trust God as disciples of Jesus Christ with an allegiance like no other. Let's put our hands to the plow and not look back at seasons that have already passed. Those seasons are gone, and we cannot change anything about them, whether good or bad. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">We must live in the now! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We must look forward! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We must press on leaning on and into the promises of God! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We must believe God's Word fully! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We must run the race and finish the race by the grace and power God gives us through the Holy Spirit. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Let's trust him in all things! Amen!! </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Let's not forget God is aware of everything happening in the world, and He also knows what is to come. Not all of it will be pretty and full of earthly comfort. Jesus made many promises, including the promise of trouble! Jesus said, "In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." (John 16:33) Yet, in the end, Jesus wins! If we stand with Him, we win too! Amen and amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So let's trust and abide in Him! Let's rest and remain in the glorious love of Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father. There is no sweeter, no more excellent place to be than resting in the arms of God, the Almighty One, the Omnipotent One, the Omniscient One, the Omnipresent One! He is Jehovah Jireh! He is Jehovah Shalom! He is Jehovah Rapha! Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In ending, I share with you what the Apostle Peter wrote about us, the people of God, the followers of Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." (1 Peter 2:9) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now, let's go out today with our hearts full of heavenly confidence, God's divine love, power, and in the name of Jesus Christ as light-bearers, representing God our Father, our Lord Jesus Christ, and the Kingdom of God! Amen!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/69015212022-02-18T17:20:40-05:002022-02-18T17:22:26-05:00Darkness is Coming - But Light Will Win!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/ce6239e9bfdde5b30a0ea26771af8dbc2a62d2d5/original/darkness-is-coming-but-light-will-win.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Right now, I feel compelled to issue a warning. I believe it comes from the Lord. He wants us to know that darkness is coming. Almost two thousand years ago, Paul warned it would come: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">“Know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good,traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!” (2 Timothy 3:1-5 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I genuinely believe this is being fulfilled in our lifetime. Because of these practices, the dark will get darker. The enemy of our souls will not give up his fight to keep souls trapped in darkness. He’ll do all he can to blind the world to God’s message of eternal life. But God’s light will shine ever brighter than the darkness. </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>The Coming Darkness </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Satan is going to unleash his fury on the world. For one, he will launch an attack against Christians. He will use the darkest of deceptions; the worst that hell can muster against God’s people. Paul warned Timothy, “The Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons” (1 Timothy 4:1 NKJV). Even now, the enemy is mounting an assault against God’s people. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The devious darkness that is coming will throw all it can at the world and the Church. This darkness will come with fiendish fiery darts of deception against Jesus’ Word and true disciples. Lukewarm “churches” will cave into worldly ways and false gospels, and yet proclaim “We’re the real church!” Many lukewarm leaders will know their error, but still, follow the father of lies and his sinister deceptions. The temptation of worldly acceptance will overcome them. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As this darkness settles in, many in our society will be duped. Satan will spread lies about the integrity of God’s word and God’s design for families with a father and mother. Many will embrace these lies like never before. The deceived will mock the real Jesus and His ways. That will become normal to the false church and to those who hate God. This will cause a spiritual pandemic of sin to spread in the Church. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Droves of so-called Christians (many who are really merely unsaved churchgoers) will tragically surrender to this darkness under the false banner of love. They will proclaim, “We must love everyone!” But they’ll say this to excuse the sin in their midst. That’s right, they won’t just embrace sinners—they’ll embrace sin. </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span class="font_large">Voices in the Wilderness; Lights in the Darkness </span></strong></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But the darkness won’t win. Why? At the same time, there is a stirring in the heavenlies. God’s angels are going forth at lightning speed to help finish the work God planned from the beginning. These angels will assist God’s Church in the fulfillment of the Great Commission. He is speeding things up to get the message of the gospel to the whole world. This work will usher in Jesus’ glorious return. All the while, the demons of darkness will furiously fight God’s angels, seeking to frustrate His plan. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">During this time, God will raise up voices—wise, God-fearing leaders who will proclaim His truth. God’s true children of light will also arise and shine brighter than ever before. They will realize we can no longer stay hidden in our safe worship circles claiming revival while darkness consumes the masses. That’s not revival—true revival always invades the darkness to bring people into the light. The Apostle Peter called us to “save others by snatching them out of the fire” (Jude 1:23 ESV). That’s a very visual and soul-stirring statement from Peter; one that we must all embrace. We must snatch the lost from the future fires of hell, not mock them while they burn. </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span class="font_large">Raising a Standard Against the Darkness </span></strong></p>
<p><span class="font_large">How should we respond to this invasion of darkness? God’s word tells us: “When the enemy comes in like a flood, The Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him.” (Isaiah 59:19 NKJV). It’s no time to shrink back in fear—God has promised to raise up a standard! Brothers and sisters, we are part of that standard! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">A flood of filth cannot deter God’s merciful plan of redemption, for Jesus can part the seas of evil. God has called us to stand in the gap and be the light of the world. We are God’s army of light sent to dispel Satan’s devious delusions, and our generation needs us to shine more than ever. The time to play Church or merely hide in the illusion of God’s presence is over. God has called us to go out! Let me explain what I mean by that. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Many years ago, the Lord spoke to me: “If you come into my presence, you will go out with my presence.” God’s presence doesn’t leave us stationary. We need to move with God’s presence! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God launches us out from his presence, and the world needs us to live propelled by God’s presence more than ever. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Yes, God calls us to go, and to go with joy. Isaiah 55:12 (NKJV) says, “For you shall go out with joy, And be led out with peace.” That means we will break out of our safe circles and go out to rescue the perishing, thundering with the joyous and victorious heartbeat of God. God needs soldiers to do that. Will you lift your hand to God and say as Isaiah the prophet, “Here I am Lord, Send me?” Those who don’t will look back later with much sadness and regret. Which will you be? If you claim Jesus as your Lord, but really only want spiritual pampering, you need to change or get out of the way! </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span class="font_large">Time for Fresh Direction </span></strong></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In light of the darkness the world is facing, we need to refocus on God’s call. You see, too many of our efforts as Christian leaders are misdirected. Jesus said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). That’s the plan from the throne room of God—and any other strategy will fail to fulfill God’s Kingdom purpose and will allow the darkness to spread like hellfire. But many believers and leaders spend much of their time coddling half-hearted believers. That’s why so many Christian leaders are weak and weary. Enough of that! Instead, embrace God’s Great Commission and go to rescue the perishing. God won’t strengthen us to do things He has not ordained and directed us to do. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The modern Church has made many bad decisions. For one, we’ve impaired God’s work by misdirecting our efforts and focus on lesser things. Many say, “The enemy of the best is the good.” Good works can get in the way of God’s best works. Many people practically work themselves to spiritual death doing things God never called them to do. Their light dims as their spiritual power wanes. It’s time to come into God’s presence and fully recharge so we can go out in power. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The truth is that the devil has sent people into our midst to consume our time with their self-centered motives. We give advice, and they don’t receive our counsel—to their own damage. They come back, and the cycle continues forever. It tires the person offering help as much as it tires the person resisting their help. See it for what it is, and invest in those who genuinely want to follow the Lord. Paul wrote, “The things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others” (2 Timothy 2:2 NIV). Pastors, leaders, and discipleship-minded Christians—which are you focusing most of your energies on? </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span class="font_large">What Happened to True Discipleship? </span></strong></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Remember—Jesus told his disciples, “He who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me” (Matthew 10:38 NKJV). No coddling there. Then why do so many pretend Jesus’ command has changed? They seem to think He now says, “Do what you want! God’s Grace will cover your sin.” Many have even denied the existence of Hell, even though Jesus spoke about this place of torment more than he spoke of Heaven. But Jesus’ words are unchangeable. Our perception may change, but the truth is the same today as it was when Jesus first spoke it. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So why have we altered the rules? Why have we lightened the load? Yes, I know Jesus said, “My yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:30 NIV). He carried a tremendous weight with great ease through the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit can make the weightiest matters seem light as a feather when we embrace the way of the cross. But why have we tried to change the way of the cross to something other than what Jesus commanded? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">It’s time for us to speak the truth in love regardless of personal consequences. Isn’t that what Jesus did when he came into this world? Didn’t He suffer much for the truths He spoke to set people free? Didn’t Jesus say, “As the Father has sent Me, I also send you” (John 20:21 NKJV)? Finally, didn’t He call us to “go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15 NKJV)? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Then why don’t we obey his command? How can we sit around in our comfortable, complacent Christianity while over 3 billion people have never even heard of Jesus Christ? How can we hide in the light instead of sharing it? How can we pretend to be “on fire for God” while we let darkness have its way? The whole world—including billions of unreached souls—live doomed by the darkness of Satan’s demonic and destructive heresies. Those heresies abide in the heart of every false religion on this planet. Those religions offer no redemption or eternal hope. Billions in those religions have never clearly heard of Jesus. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God’s ultimate plan is to reach those unreached masses (most of whom live in the 10/40 Window). Without the gospel, those untold billions will spend an eternity separated from God in eternal hellfire. Why? Largely, because we didn’t care enough to send the gospel to them. I don’t want that on my eternal record, do you? When I get to the judgment seat of Christ, I don’t want to hear God say, “Well, you made it.” I want to hear Him say, “Well done good and faithful servant!” Don’t you? </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span class="font_large">Jesus Will Win—So Let’s Stand Up or Get Out of the Way </span></strong></p>
<p><span class="font_large">To end, I want to share good news. In the end, the darkness will not win—Jesus will! The Kingdom of God will come through victoriously. Those who fight with God win with God! So go and fight as faithful ambassadors and warriors of the Kingdom of God. Heaven will speak of these last day battles for billions of years in the future. Be a part of His-story! Be a part of His solution! Be a part of Jesus’ army of light against the darkest legions of demons ever unleashed on this planet. The time is now to stand up and go, or get out of the way! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">You heard me — now’s the time to stand and be counted. If you won’t stand as a spiritual soldier in God’s army, please get out of the way. Just move to the side, and don’t spend God’s resources for your own selfish and vain plans. It’s time to invest our time, resources, and energies into fulfilling God’s Great Commission, not some pastor’s second rate lesser vision to “build their church.” </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Yes, the darkness is coming in like a flood, and God is raising a standard against it. Do you want to be a part of that standard? Do you want to be a part of God’s end-time salvation army? Or will you sit idly by while this darkness blinds untold masses to God’s light? Jesus said, “The thief comes to kill steal and destroy but I have come to give them life abundantly” (John 10:10). Let’s give life by proclaiming it to those nearby and sending it to those far away in unreached lands. </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span class="font_large">A Prayer to Join the Army of Light </span></strong></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Right now, I pray everyone reading this will get motivated by the power of the Holy Spirit to get ready to go, do, and be all God has called us to be. If you want to surrender to his will and purpose, please pray with me. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus Christ, I confess that I have lived a somewhat selfish and self-centered life. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I want to change that now. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I confess that my vision has been blurry, and I thank you for opening up my eyes to see your heavenly point of view. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">From this day forward, I surrender myself to your purpose and your plans for my life. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I will no longer live for myself. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I will no longer spend most of my resources on myself. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">From this day forward, I will invest in getting your gospel to all people—and especially to those who have never heard before. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">From this day forward, I will proclaim your word boldly as an ambassador of Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I will no longer bow to the idols of the age! I will bow to you and you alone, Jesus Christ, my Lord, my Savior, and my God. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Thank you for hearing my prayer. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I receive forgiveness, empowerment, and boldness in Jesus’ name. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Thank you for hearing my prayer and for sending me out with the power of the Holy Spirit to be your light to this world. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In Jesus’ name, amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now, let’s go forward in the power of the Holy Spirit!</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em><span class="font_large">(This was written in May of 2020. For some reason we forgot to post it here.)</span></em></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/66262952021-05-10T08:29:08-04:002021-05-10T08:47:05-04:00What happens when the "church" is not the Church? <p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/97cda9d03fce502c48f59c23a851ffa0b08ae76c/original/what-happens-when-the-church-is-not-the-church-2.png/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.png" class="size_l justify_right border_none" alt="" />Let me start by quoting Jesus, who said, "I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." Matthew 16:18. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus is building that church, and we see the reality of it sprinkled across the land, and I praise God for that. I also praise God for the pastors and Bible teachers who teach God's Word faithfully the way God wants it taught. God bless you greatly! But what happened with the rest that call themselves a "church" but embraces a watered-down version of the gospel, the world's woke philosophy, and anti-biblical rhetoric? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus' church is supposed to be a bulwark against Satanic, hellish ways and teachings. Right? So what happened that caused many to lose their way and backslide to be nothing more than social gatherings with a few Bible verses and good deeds thrown into the mix for good measure. (It would take a few pages to detail how this is happening around the nation.) Look, when a church is in a state of mind and heart where they are more worried about offending those who embrace sinful ways than offending God, there is a significant problem! Don't you agree? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let's be honest and say it, one reason the world is the way it is now is because of the passivity and lukewarm ways of a good portion of the modern church. History shows us that when the church is weak, lukewarm, and passive, the world grows colder, more liberal, and less godly. The only thing that can change that is to reverse the cycle. How? By embracing God's truths and getting focused on living out what and who Jesus called us to be. Those who "identify" as Christian must get back to holy living and embracing Jesus Christ as Lord of Lords and King of Kings, and not just as a Savior who offers a free ticket to heaven. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/4da0cc2dcadb7aaf65f89f0437572a2be26c2a97/original/i-will-build-my-church-and-the-gates-matthew-16-18.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Unfortunately, many who think they have that so-called "free ticket" to heaven are on the road to hell and don't even seem to know it. Some of them don't even believe there is a hell anymore. They are in for a terrible surprise, and shouldn't we warn them? The lukewarm church's watered-down, inaccurate expression of the gospel is one reason they are in that condition. Once some preachers started teaching God's Word as no more than some pretty good suggestions for life, it began to lose its punch in many Christian's lives. The apostate church altered Jesus' message under the guise of loving everyone and left out an essential ingredient of Jesus' message, which includes repentance of sins and embracing Jesus Christ as Lord and not just as the loving Savior. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Aren't the disciples of Jesus Christ supposed to speak the truths that Jesus spoke? Instead of trying to comfort people in rebellion against God under the guise of loving them, God calls us to proclaim the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ, who said, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel." Mark 1:15. You mean we should tell people to repent and not just believe! Yes absolutely! Isn't that what Jesus did, and He truly loved everyone and gave His life on the cross to prove it! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Followers of Jesus Christ, to turn the tide of what we see going on around us, we must stand in the truth and proclaim God's truth in love, fearlessly and with the boldness of a lion. Only the Holy Spirit can give us that kind of powerful, prophetic boldness launched through a heart of love to proclaim as Jesus did, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!" Luke 11:28. Not, "Close your eyes, pray this simple little prayer, and you will be saved." Who came up with that idea anyway? Please share the verse and clarify it for me. Perhaps I missed something along the way. I thought Jesus said,"If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me." Luke 9:23. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Much of what passes as the church nowadays would be considered an embarrassment by our first-century counterpart. So let's wake up and set sail on a new course, which is actually the old course Jesus established when He said, "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone." Mark 16:15. But remember, to preach His gospel, we must know His gospel and then go and proclaim it accurately, passionately, and lovingly. Then, leave the results to God; only He can activate His Word to accomplish what He wants it to do. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In closing, let me advise you that if you are in a church that treats Jesus as no more than a friend and pal and teaches God's Word like a book of suggestions instead of God's ways and commands, it's time to defect and get into a church that teaches God's Word as the truth that it is. Remember, Jesus said, "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." John 8:32. Without Jesus's truth, there is no freedom or salvation.</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833822021-03-24T10:25:39-04:002022-01-13T16:39:47-05:00Remember the Name of the Lord our God! <p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/7134ae7ec942f0ad5f0a654eb9a0be2f36f3196a/original/psalm20-7.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><em>"Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the Lord our God." Psalm 20:7.</em> </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">When King David wrote Psalm 20, he wrote it to be sung as a declaration of God's faithfulness and saving power at any time, but especially in times of war. This Psalm and verse are very appropriate at this time in history because we are in a spiritual battle of the ages! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In Psalm 20:7, King David instructs the people to never trust in the chariots and horses they rode into battle, but rather to remember the name of the Lord our God. Remembering implies we must trust in God and His divine ability to save and overcome any enemy. God had done it many times before when they didn't have much of an army. Yet God gave them victory after victory. Remember the Jewish nation as they left Egypt and were chased by Pharoah and his army. They were a reasonable distance ahead when they stood before the Red Sea. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Then in the distance, they heard the thundering hoofs of horses and chariot wheels. Imagine the fear that gripped their hearts as they wondered what would happen next. They decided to remember the name of the Lord and prayed. Exodus 14:10 affirms that.<em> "And when Pharaoh drew near, the children of Israel lifted their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians marched after them. So they were very afraid, and the children of Israel cried out to the Lord."</em> </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Moses also remembered the name of the Lord God, prayed to Him, and was directed in what to do. Here is the account of that in Exodus 14:13-16. </span></p>
<p><em><span class="font_large">"And Moses said to the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. 14 The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace." 15 And the Lord said to Moses, "Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward. 16 But lift up your rod, and stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it. And the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the midst of the sea. And I indeed will harden the hearts of the Egyptians, and they shall follow them. So I will gain honor over Pharaoh and over all his army, his chariots, and his horsemen. 18 Then the Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord, when I have gained honor for Myself over Pharaoh, his chariots, and his horsemen." </span></em></p>
<p><span class="font_large">They remembered and called on the name of the Lord, and what happened? God delivered them miraculously! We serve the same God, and now every disciple of Jesus Christ has access to Him through Jesus's throne of grace. We need to do what they did when we hear the thundering of spiritual horses and chariots chasing after us. Remember and call on the name of the Lord and trust He will fight for us! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Unfortunately, many Christians today trust in things that make us comfortable only in this life. Whether rich or poor, sometimes we get distracted and look more to life's little comforts for rest and confidence instead of to God. Those things represent the horses and chariots David wrote about in Psalm 20. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We must remember, we are in a constant spiritual war with an enemy who never lets up. The only way to win spiritual conquests in this spiritual war is to trust in the Lord our God. Revelation 12:11 says, <em>"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death." </em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">After living through the last couple of years, we all know the world around us can change rapidly and without warning. If we trust anything besides God our Father, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, we will be rattled, rolled, and spiritually ransacked. Has that happened to you or anyone you know? If so, God calls us to get on the right path, His path! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So let's take a little time right now and refocus our trust in and on God. Let's take our eyes off the calamities in the world around us and praise God for who He is, what He has done, and what He will do! Let's praise God for our salvation through Jesus Christ and the other promised heavenly blessings we can access at His throne of grace. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let's take some time to thank God and proclaim to Him; You are my strength, my hope, and my peace! Proclaim Jesus Christ is Lord as the child of God that you are. Proclaim it in faith and trust in Him and Him alone! Then, as Moses prayed at the Red Sea and received direction from God, pray to the Father in Jesus' name. Ask Him, What should I do as I march forward as a soldier in your spiritual army? Proclaim Romans 8:37 as you defy any fear in your life. Say it out loud, <em>"Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us."</em> Then ask God to use you to rescue the perishing lost souls and to proclaim liberty to the captives as Jesus did. Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let's close with the verse we started this devotional with and say it as a spiritual declaration. <em>"Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the Lord our God." Psalm 20:7.</em></span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833672021-03-24T10:13:44-04:002021-03-24T10:13:44-04:00I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/58fd1858d1bd943e8c282098c4b7ccb18e3910cf/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-10-13-07-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />This verse is a declaration from the Apostle Paul regarding his life of commitment and dedication to God‘s call and purposes. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">He was finishing his race, a spiritual race he ran with courage and wholehearted commitment to His Lord Jesus. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">This verse shows Paul’s clear understanding that God had a crown of righteousness awaiting him in heaven at the end of that race. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I’m sure he looked back at all he went through, including the numerous persecutions and extremely trying moments. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But he was at peace knowing he ran his race with powerful perseverance and would receive a very rich welcome into the eternal kingdom. Gloria a Dios! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Paul also wanted to remind all dedicated followers of Jesus Christ they too will be rewarded by the righteous judge, God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So take comfort in these words and continue to run the race with perseverance and patience, knowing God will reward you in the end! Amen!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833652021-03-24T10:08:29-04:002021-03-24T10:08:29-04:00All Scripture is Given by Inspiration of God!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/3ce1f1f6fa51d7985b8cb5a99ec38a9f3f5608a5/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-10-07-26-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Followers of Jesus, we must never forget the truth found in 2 Timothy 3:16-17. Many Christians struggle terribly in their faith walk with Jesus Christ because they neglect following the instructions found in God‘s Word and instead embrace the counsel of the ungodly. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The words found in the Bible were given by inspiration from the Holy Spirit. God provided them to guide us in our decision-making on planet earth. When we stray from it, we can easily get pulled from light into darkness. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We should always examine the decisions we make in light of God‘s Word. That will help us stay on the straight and narrow path Jesus calls us to walk. I know by my past failures that many pitfalls await us when we stray from the His path.  <br> <br>Let’s remember God’s plan is to wholly and thoroughly equip us to accomplish every good work He has called us to accomplish. God loves us more than we will ever know in this life as He will in eternity. For that reason, we live to seek and to obey Him. May God bless you as you do that. Amen! </span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833642021-03-24T10:02:08-04:002021-08-09T10:26:54-04:00Tell them what great things the Lord has done for you!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/b36c58d5dd96d873cada5676484524cfb13a774b/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-10-01-06-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />These are the words Jesus spoke to the man He had just delivered from demonic possession. This new Jesus follower wanted to get into the boat and follow Jesus to wherever He was going. That was not what Jesus wanted him to do, so He told him, "Go home to your friends, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had compassion on you." (Mark 5:19) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Followers of Jesus, we need to follow the same example! God has done great things for us and continues to do great things. We, in response, need to GO and joyfully tell the story of God's impact on our lives to our family and friends. They will listen, and God can touch their hearts. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">That reminds me of another story in the Bible, the story of the ten lepers Jesus healed in Luke 17:11-19. I encourage you to take a moment to read that now. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In this remarkable story of Jesus' compassion, He healed ten lepers, but only one returned to give thanks to Jesus. Only one out of ten who received that miracle of healing returned to give thanks to the Lord! That is very disappointing! Are we like that thankful one or like the nine who just went on their merry way? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">When God does something great for us like saving our souls from eternal damnation, healing us from sickness or demonic oppression, we need to continually thank God and GO proclaim what He has done to our family and friends. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We need to GO and share the Good News of Jesus Christ and how he has affected our lives for the absolute best. Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I encourage you to take a moment now and think of what you can say and how you would say it to your family and friends. I assure you God will use your testimony of our Savior's grace and goodness in our lives to bring others to Him. Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you as you GO and tell His story!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833622021-03-24T09:58:19-04:002021-03-24T09:58:19-04:00Why Are You So Fearful?<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/36d51e7915871c83b07ddf9ce04dcfeff582a31b/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-9-57-38-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"But He said to them, "Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?" (Mark 4:40) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus made that statement to His disciples amid an extremely stormy sea. They were frantic and afraid, and Jesus was totally at peace sleeping in the stern of the boat on a pillow! That's my God, never distraught and always at peace. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The disciples seemed very annoyed with Jesus for not joining in on their fearful rant and said the following to Jesus. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"And they awoke Him and said to Him, "Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?" (Mark 4:38) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus walked by faith and expected His disciples to display at least some measure of faith in Him. They didn't! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Most of us have had our "raging sea" life experiences and probably acted similarly as the disciples did in this story. I'm sure we learned from those experiences that God is always in control and have decided to choose faith over fear. We learned our God could calm us amid any sea of trouble and even calm the sea. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So the next time we face overwhelming feelings of fear and desperation, let's remember, God expects us to have faith and trust in Him. He will be with us and see us through to the other side, no matter how bad things seem to be! Amen!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833612021-03-24T09:53:22-04:002022-06-08T10:54:14-04:00Jesus' Words Will Not Pass Away!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/f2447c904cb2b6eb7da3af83d31bf1dbd9454b3c/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-9-52-27-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />God keeps His promises like the one in Matthew 24:25. It won’t matter what any government official, newscaster, false preacher, or even the Supreme Court said in eternity. God’s Word is right, period! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God’s Words will be at the center of the Great White Throne Judgement Seat, where He alone declares who is guilty and who is not. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus said, “There is a judge for the one who rejects Me and does not receive My words: The word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day.” John 12:48 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">With that in mind, grab a Bible and read the words of Jesus Christ in the gospels closely. Everyone can be prepared for Judgement Day by relying wholly and solely on Jesus Christ for salvation, righteousness, and holiness. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Read His words now and follow God’s instruction manual we call the Bible. If we do, I guarantee we will not regret it throughout eternity!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833592021-03-24T09:43:26-04:002021-03-24T09:43:26-04:00Beware of False Prophets!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/b0420528a618d0a4314104a2fe1bbb9a80c0a8d1/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-9-42-35-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Followers of Jesus Christ, stand your ground in the truth of God’s Word. Don’t be deceived by those who don’t take God’s Word seriously and whose hearts have become spiritually cold.<br><br>They have no endurance and have fallen prey to the deceiving spirits presently being unleashed on this land. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God has not changed and will not change. His Word is forever, and those who stick to it are those who endure to the end.<br><br>Unfortunately, many have lost their way and now echo the words of the deceiving spirits who came to blind them. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Pray for God’s wisdom and don’t listen to the loudest of voices, instead listen to the still small voice of the Holy Spirit who constantly affirms the eternal truths of God’s Words found in the Bible. Amen!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833582021-03-24T09:39:24-04:002021-03-24T09:39:24-04:00Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/6eb9f2b567978dd57ade9b8e643913861d90e990/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-9-38-46-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /><span class="font_large">Jesus loves everyone but bows to no one! His Words are unchanging and we’ll all face that reality at the great white throne judgment of God mentioned in Revelation 20:11. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus calls us now to follow Him and His teachings the same way He asked His early disciples to in Matthew 16:24. “When Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus’ expectations have not changed, unfortunately, many of the modern churches' expectations have, and that my fellow Christians is wrong. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let’s make the necessary changes in our lives to display to God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ that we are most interested and dedicated to following Him, and not the ways of this ever-changing world. Amen!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833572021-03-24T09:34:56-04:002021-03-24T09:34:56-04:00Jesus' Message to the Church at Smyrma.<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/092c298cfaf811b376a8b7a34949ce3027e1e471/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-9-04-28-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /><span class="font_large">What can we take from Jesus's message to the Church at Smyrna? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">What cautions and warnings should we take to heart as followers of Jesus Christ in this time of rebellion against God and His laws? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">What does it mean to be an overcomer that the second death will not hurt? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Is there anything happening in society today that parallels what was happening with this ancient church at Smyrna? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Are we willing to stand strong in the Lord and the power of His might? Are we able to stand firm against the devil's attacks regardless of where they come from? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Are there false apostles in the modern church peddling lies and deceptions to gain power and be more acceptable in a new world system or order? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Are there "churches" that are Christian in name but actually more like Satan's synagogue described in the verse below? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Are you spending time with the Lord and in His word so you can be strong against the devil's attacks? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If so, the devil and his cohorts hate you and will do all they can to weaken your relationship with God through distractions and deception. Please don't let that happen! We need Jesus now more than ever! The world needs Jesus now more than ever! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So be strong in the Lord and the power of his might. The ability to stand is inside of us through the power of the Holy Spirit! Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Revelation 2:8-11: <br>And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write, <br>'These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life: "I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death."</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833492021-03-24T09:28:17-04:002021-08-09T10:27:34-04:00He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/27500cac47e744d5d7698e716418aec9af2f14f5/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-9-27-35-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." Revelation 2:7 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As we continue to read through the book of Revelation, we must take note of this admonition from the Lord Jesus Christ about hearing. For a good reason, Jesus ends each letter to the seven churches with this call to hear. Why? Because He genuinely wants us to listen and to respond reverently! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Sometimes we read God's Word but fail to listen with our spiritual ears. We take it in line after line but fail to digest its depth and meaning. Unfortunately, some Christians don't even make time to read it! That's a giant mistake that brings about catastrophic spiritual consequences in their lives. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Other Christians read God's Word but treat it as words of some unimportant novel. They miss the dynamic depth and tremendous truth of what is written in this heavenly gift, the Bible. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Still, others take things that are clearly stated as God-given directives and commands and relegate them to the level of mere suggestion. That's a big mistake, which also brings about revival-less results! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Each letter to the seven churches in Revelation ends with a clarion call to hear. What are we to hear? We are to hear, to listen closely to the instructions He gave in the previous lines. I encourage you to go back and read the exhortation and encouragement Jesus gave to the church at Ephesus in Revelation 2:1-6. Let's meditate on those words and see how they apply to our lives now. Then reread Revelation 2:7 and take it to heart. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God." Revelation 2:7 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In heaven, I want to be listed with those who overcame, not with those who were overcome. How about you? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God's kingdom is eternal, so let's live for that King and that Kingdom, not this present earthly kingdom which will pass away one day in the fiery judgment of God! Jesus Christ is Lord! Amen!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833442021-03-24T09:13:02-04:002021-03-24T09:13:02-04:00Jesus' Message to the Church at Ephesus<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/448785b7b3b470b26ad1dfb24b7c3eacfe315a30/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-9-12-11-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Today's bible graphic is Jesus's word of correction and exhortation to the Church at Ephesus. This message was given through the Apostle Paul while exiled on the island of Patmos. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">There is a powerful word of warning in these two verses. Warnings every confessing Christian needs to take to heart. All of us! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The main appeal is to return to our first love, Jesus Christ! Put Him first in everything, including financial and significant life decisions. Many American Christians spend a lot of time building into their own little personal kingdoms and not God's. If our main focus in life is that, in eternity, we will see the waste of energy that was. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Many American Christians spend their lives on entertainment while spending very little time in God's Word, prayer, and active service in God's Kingdom. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We need to repent and go back to serving God wholeheartedly and surrendering all to fulfill God's plan! That includes preachings the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ to those around us and sending it to those who have never heard it in places like the 10/40 window. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Start today because procrastination is the devil's tool to put off God's will in our lives to a future time. What if the Lord comes for you or me tonight? Then it will be too late! I don't want to hear the Lord Jesus Christ say, "Well, you made it." I want to hear him say, "Well done, good and faithful servant." How about you?</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833412021-03-24T08:57:33-04:002021-03-24T08:57:33-04:00Run the Race with Faith, Courage, and Determination!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/46c1b2076edbc97f8d702e01e65c6b8a6d09efdd/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-8-56-01-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Followers of Jesus Christ, are we running the race with hearts overflowing with faith, courage, and determination? Or are we crawling through life trying to merely hold on to one or two of God’s promises in difficult times? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God has called us and empowered us by the Holy Spirit to be “more than conquerors” in Christ Jesus, and that is who we must be. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God has called us to run the spiritual race as those who triumph in Christ Jesus. It’s time for every believer to run with faith-filled perseverance into the center of God’s will as described in His Word, the Bible. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Hebrews 12:1-2 describes the kind of Christian that runs on and into the grand plan God has for His people. They are determined to be salt and light in darkening times.<br><br>They bow their knees to Jesus Christ and submit to the truth written in His Word.<br><br>They know there is a great cloud of witnesses cheering them on in the heavenly places and are inspired by those who forsook the world to embrace the cross and their Lord Jesus Christ.<br><br>They run the race to win and forbid themselves from lagging behind or getting off course.<br><br>They know Jesus Christ as not only the author of their faith but the finisher too!<br><br>They live with their eyes focused on their God and His ways and long to hear Him say, “well done, good and faithful servant.” </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">That should describe every follower of Jesus Christ, and if it doesn’t, let’s get right with God, get off the sidelines, and start running the race to win again. Amen!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833402021-03-24T08:50:24-04:002021-03-24T08:51:09-04:00We Are in the Spiritual Battle of the Ages!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/9e4a921f05e3723358995c4eb4186908b636966c/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-8-49-14-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Followers of Jesus, we are in a spiritual battle of the ages. The enemy is doing all he can to cripple God’s people spiritually. He doles out demonic darkness to combat the light of God’s love in our lives. He attacks the truths of God’s Word and does all he can to annihilate the followers of Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The good news is, “The weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds.” (2 Corinthians 10:4). God has given us all we need to get and walk in victory over the world, the flesh, and the devil. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So don’t be discouraged and don’t be deceived. God is on your side! He loves you! So leap out of that spiritual foxhole and “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” (1 Timothy 6:12). </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As a follower of Jesus Christ, you are a winner! You are a soldier in God’s eternal, faith-filled spiritual army. God calls us to go forth and conquer the enemy of our souls and set the captives free through the life-changing, soul-saving message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. So cast off the shackles of fear, doubt, worry, anxiety, hatred, unforgiveness, and move forward in the mighty power of the Holy Spirit! Remember! “Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus Christ is Lord, and one day, “As I live, says the LORD, Every knee shall bow to Me, And every tongue shall confess to God.” (Romans 14:11) <br><br>Say it out loud with me now, Jesus Christ is Lord! Amen!!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833382021-03-24T08:45:58-04:002021-03-24T08:45:58-04:00Don't Abandon the Ship of Pure Gospel Truth!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/6e5b7169c15830d49e075f296f57d8f818218738/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-8-45-18-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Followers of Jesus, we live in a day where far too many are abandoning the ship of pure gospel truth. These people listen to preachers who pollute the well of God's absolute truth with the deceptive lukewarm water of heretical teaching. They seek to be too culturally relevant and in doing so, have become less relevant to God and His Kingdom. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">These preachers and their disciples appeal to people's senses and feelings. Instead, they should be steering a straight course into the perfect will of God by rightly dividing and teaching God's Word. <br>Here, I want to say that I praise God for the preachers who still teach God's pure truths with hearts of sincerity, honesty, and integrity. They are well worth listening to and will continually inspire us in the right direction. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God expects His people to read His Word, and follow, teach and obey it. He expects His people to think clearly, and let their minds be washed clean and clear by reading and meditating on His Word, which in turn helps the Holy Spirit do His work in us, leading us into all truth. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come." ( John 16:13) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God's people can't fall prey to being so feeling-oriented. Feelings can be very deceptive and can change overnight and be manipulated easily by cunning preachers. So let's take the Apostle Paul's admonition to Timothy seriously and "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So right now, if you haven't already read His Word today, shut this Facebook app and pick up your Bible or open your Bible app. Then, God will fill your heart with Heavenly manna as you read, which will make you much more potent in your faith and fill your heart with His peace, His vision, and His purpose. Amen!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833282021-03-24T08:38:30-04:002021-03-24T08:38:30-04:00Perilous Times Will Come!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/c7712c3c7171beecfa66d2df6dc374363bb5ec5f/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-8-37-21-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Follower of Jesus, we must keep in mind that the perilous, dangerous times Paul describes in this letter to Timothy come from godless people living out their carnal desires. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">They put themselves first, love money, boast about themselves with arrogant words, blaspheme God with their words and actions, despise parental authority, and slander people with their unforgiving, hate-filled words. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The people Paul describes in this letter are complainers, never thankful for anything. They hate people who stand for the truth of God's Word while claiming to have a form of godliness, all the while resisting God's Word and power in their lives. They are self-righteous deceivers, traitors to God, and the truth of God's Word. Paul warned Timothy and, in turn, warns us to turn away from this kind of people. He instructs us to be wise and not let them infect our thinking with their heretical brand of beliefs and teachings that deny the very truths of God's Word! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Instead, stand in God's truth and be most interested in getting a "like" from God rather than these worldly thinkers! That includes those who claim to be Christian and at the same time deny the teachings of the one they claim to follow. Stand your ground, and if you can't win them over to the truth, distance yourself from them. God will deal with them just like He has dealt with all of us in our times of ignorance and sinfulness. If their hearts are open to correction, the Holy Spirit will guide them back to Him. <br>These days, heretical teachings are spreading like wildfire, and more are embracing these lies from the pit of hell. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">These teachings include things like, there is no hell, all are already saved, abortion is okay, God approves homosexuality, you can change your gender, immorality is acceptable to God, and more evil thinking like this. Even a baby Christian can read God's word and perceive these things as demonically inspired deceptions. Don't let go of the truth or be afraid to speak it boldly and in love! Precious souls are at stake for all eternity! If they respond to the truth, they will thank God at the Great White Throne Judgement Seat, and thank you too for not being afraid to give them the truth! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We must continually read God's Word. That will help us stay on the straight and narrow path Jesus calls us to walk on. Don't listen to those secular theorists or so-called bible teachers who walk deeper into darkness and away from the light. Instead, remember these words from the Apostle John regarding being a follower of Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked." (1 John 2:6) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin." (1 John 1:7)</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833262021-03-24T08:31:51-04:002021-03-24T08:31:51-04:00The Godly Will Suffer Persecution!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/6ad7a7d8de18f01268f206ef4e6a3daf2d33e637/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-8-30-38-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Follower of Jesus, here is another one of many promises found in God’s word, and this promise is as real as thousands of others. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Persecution is a promise to those standing in and for God’s righteous ways. Walking the way of Jesus Christ is to take up our cross, deny ourselves and follow Him regardless of the response we get from those who don’t. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As the world changes around us, and more and more people (including those who profess to be Christians) call good, evil, and evil good, this verse becomes very comforting as an affirmation of our faith in Jesus. Trust me, I don’t look for persecution, but I am not surprised when it comes! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In the last part of this verse, Paul writes about evil men and imposters growing worse. Can evil and those who embrace it get worse than it is now? Unfortunately, yes, they can, and it can and will! Why? Because those who embrace evil, godless ways will go farther and farther into the dark abyss of sin unless they, like us repent and see the light of God’s truth. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I like what Leonard Ravenhill once said about sin, “Sin will take you farther than you want to go, keep you longer than you want to stay, and cost you more than you want to pay.” </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I can tell you firsthand that statement is accurate, and I certainly don’t want to walk that path ever again. How about you? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Here’s an example of what that statement means. Suppose someone is hooked on drugs; after a while, their starter drug no longer satisfies, so they use more of their starter drug or move on to something more robust. It’s the same with alcohol addiction or anything else. Because those things can never truly satisfy the soul, they fall deeper into addiction and lifeless living. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The good news is Jesus can save anyone from such a deadly grip of addiction because of His great love and power. He didn’t come to condemn but to save! Thank you, Lord, for rescuing and saving me! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Follower of Jesus, our soul strength comes through our faith in Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. He gives us the ability to stand firm in love despite any persecution that comes our way. He also provides us with the wisdom and strength to stand against the tide of evil rolling in. So let’s stand in His grace and power and continue to be His light to the world, in word and deed. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Remember these words from the Apostle John. “You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65833212021-03-24T08:07:34-04:002021-03-24T08:07:34-04:00Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Romans 12:22<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/9a03c9cab4a63e88aba2463257653b181da143d1/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-8-06-41-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” Romans 12:22 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God wants us to learn to rejoice! He not only expects us to rejoice but to rejoice in hope. That implies our hearts should constantly be incredibly thankful and joyful because of the everlasting hope God has filled our hearts with. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If we could learn to swap all complaining for rejoicing, the people around us would be affected for good. That doesn’t mean we ignore the realities and disappointments of life. It means we practice seeing them differently because we’ll see them through the lens of God’s providence, infinite love, tremendous power, and amazing grace. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If our hearts are overflowing with God’s joy and hope, we will also be patient in the tribulation and trials of life. Why? Because we know our God will do valiant things on our behalf. Our rejoicing heart will assist us in seeing how God always steps in at just the right time, and with a heart of rejoicing, we wait patiently on the Lord, trusting in His divine providence. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">To help in this process, we pray without ceasing! Yes, we are constant in prayer, conversing with our Heavenly Father throughout the day. That helps us discern everything from a heavenly point of view. It helps release everlasting joy in our hearts as we joyfully proclaim God is in control. Throughout this joy-filled process, we bring every worry, every care, and every problem to the throne of God‘s grace. Then, at the throne of grace with a prayerful heart, we cast our cares before the Lord and the concerns for others we are ministering to. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I encourage you to take the next 24 hours and put this into practice. In doing so, we will begin a discipline that causes us to see everything from a heavenly point of view rather than through the heavy eyes and heart of disappointment and wrong expectations. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So rejoice in the majesty of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of our Heavenly Father, and the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives! Leap for joy, recalling the painful sacrifices Jesus made to bestow on us a new covenant packed with great and precious promises to those who devote their lives to Him! Amen!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65747492021-03-15T19:19:57-04:002022-01-13T17:08:16-05:00Without Repentance and Revival Our Nations Future Will Be Very Dark!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/8cd9233d02fcc84557360855d1ec606af0aeffa8/original/without-repentance-and-revival-our-nations-future-will-be-very-dark-3.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_none" alt="" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Follower of Jesus, one of the saddest things I've seen recently in the USA is how easily people are so easily deceived, manipulated, and controlled. It's disheartening but not surprising to see how the fake news media and self-interested politicians have divided and separated the people. They work hard to divide us by class, color, gender, and whatever works for their evil purposes. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Sadly their plan seems to be working, as they throw simple long-held moral logic to the wind. These evil propagandists don't seem to realize they will be part of the demise coming in the future if things don't change quickly. I know that sounds dark, but unless God steps in, that is the direction the USA is heading. It is not good, and yes, this is a warning. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Christians, it's time to wake up! It's time to speak up! It's time to get on our knees and pray! It's time to ask God to pour out his Holy Spirit on seeking souls and bring an authentic and genuine revival to the church and an awakening to our culture. I'm not speaking of the kind of revival that depends on smoke machines, light shows, great musicians, singers, and self-centered showboat preachers. I'm talking about a revival that comes because of the humility and honesty of God's praying people. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I'm writing about a revival that preaches truth instead of humorously pandering to the crowd while avoiding hard truths that should be preached from God's Word. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The church needs a revival of repentance! It is the kind that sees damned humanity heading to hell and will do all it can to save some regardless of personal consequences from the cancel culturists and others. God will deal with rebels who refuse to repent after hearing God's Word repeatedly. He is a God of love but also a God of judgment and will judge when the time is right. He is to be honored with holy and reverent fear, not treated as a has-been God that does not matter. That is a fearful thing to do! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We need a heaven-sent revival led by the Holy Spirit and God's chosen vessels who walk with Him daily, not just when they step on a stage. That kind of revival reaches into hearts and brings ever-lasting change even to the darkest of souls. Friends, that's what we need at this time in our nation's history, and we must earnestly pray and dedicate ourselves to that end. We must be devoted to settling for nothing less. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God can still save us! God can save this nation if we confess our sins, humble ourselves and pray! I can't say this strongly enough! I hope you are listening in your spirit! We are at a crisis moment in our nation's short history. The writing is on the wall, and the script revealed, we need national repentance, and we need it now! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I pray now those who have eyes to see and ears to hear will respond to God's call to pray, pray, and pray. Pray in the morning, throughout the day, and at night. Pray without ceasing, and don't let anything turn you away from seeking the Lord in sincerity and truth. God will use you to intercede. He will hear your prayers as they ascend to the throne of grace with thousands of others! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I leave you with this directive from God on how to save a rebellious nation from self-destruction. Let's take it to heart! Now is not the time to be on spiritual cruise control. These are serious times that require a serious response from God's people. Souls are at stake! Will you stand with me and pray? </span></p>
<p><em><span class="font_large">"If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV) </span></em></p>
<p><span class="font_large">PS - I am not fearful, just highly concerned, as we all should be. However, God's people should not be scared; God is with us! We are to stand in the gap and be God's ambassadors and intercessors, always filled with His supernatural faith, hope, love, peace, and courage. God bless you as you follow Him.</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65741302021-03-15T08:26:16-04:002021-03-15T08:27:34-04:00They Turn Their Ears Away From The Truth!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/2514c5276cfef925c831db9b60b860cc5308e307/original/they-turn-their-ears-away-from-the-truth.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" />2 Timothy 4:3-4 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Followers of Jesus Christ, we are living in the time described in this verse. The Apostle Paul saw it coming way back then when it first began to happen. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">There have always been false teachers and those who teach God's word incorrectly. But it seems we live in a time where we see that on a massive scale, and it looks even more heretical than in times past. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Why is it happening more and more now? One reason is more Christians are willing to listen to these false teachers and even embrace what they say, even when it's clear to anyone with even a simple grasp on the Bible that it goes against the teachings of Jesus Christ and his apostles. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Another reason is that the followers of Jesus Christ spend less time in God's word, prayer, and fellowship with other believers. Or their connection with other believers is mainly on a social level, discussing natural things, not on a spiritual level discussing spiritual things like it was in the early church. "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." (Acts 2:42) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">It happens more because a more significant percentage of Christians are led by feelings and emotions, instead of walking by faith, in communion with God and the teachings of His Word. They cave in to the godless social norms of the day to be accepted by the world and make <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/65ed1f9ae7ad4232cee4027258c2cd2269c76525/original/screen-shot-2021-03-15-at-8-25-33-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />people feel accepted by God, even while they reject God and His commands. This grave mistake will cause many unbelievers to go to their graves without any hope of eternity with Jesus Christ. They must be warned, not comforted! If they reject the warning, so be it. But at least they will have been given an opportunity as we had to repent of sin and receive the promise of God's eternal hope, found only in Jesus Christ! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So, I'll repeat it today as I do almost every day. Let's take God's word in our hands and read it, meditate upon it, and let it be a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. If not, there's a greater chance of slipping to the dark side as backsliders. Because the less of God's light we have in our lives, the more the darkness descends in. Believe me when I say that it is not the way we want to go! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In ending, let me say following Jesus Christ faithfully and fearlessly takes discipline and a heart fully dedicated to him. We have all failed at that at times, but now is the time to make things right with God, and it will be more than worth it in the end! God bless you as you follow Him!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65652662021-03-04T20:00:52-05:002021-03-04T20:04:28-05:00As It Was In The Days of Noah!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/c559228ca61b50124b732d2c0ef0bbdde31f7887/original/as-it-was-in-the-days-of-noah.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_medium" alt="" /><span class="font_large">In this statement in Matthew 24:37, Jesus describes briefly what the world will be like when He returns. It will mirror the days of Noah. Remember Noah? He was that great preacher of righteousness who warned people of the impending judgment to come because of their rebellion against God and His laws. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Unfortunately, the people never heeded Noah’s warnings, but he preached them anyways, year after year while the ark was being built. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Noah obeyed God’s command and warned people over and over to save themselves from the impending judgment. He urged them to repent of their sins and enter the ark of God’s safety, which would save them from the flood. Unfortunately, no one listened. Why? They had accepted what was wrong as right. They rejected God and His ways for their own gods and their own ways. Noah was no more than a nuisance to them! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Noah was preaching to the ultimate party animals obsessed with eating, drinking, and indulging in every evil sin. The people of his day totally disregarded the laws of God, and instead opted to “enjoy” their season of sin and pleasure. At the right time, God stepped in and did what Noah warned God would do, bring judgment on the earth. That judgment came in the form of The Flood. You know the rest of the story! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">It seems to me today’s society is headed in the same direction. More and more people easily embrace the sins of the days of Noah. Those sins stemmed from their rejection of God’s commands and laws. Which stemmed from their lack of respect and honor of God Himself. Sin and evil always spread fast where there is no honor of God. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God warns people today through His ambassadors to repent from what the Bible calls sin. He calls us to enter the ark of God’s safety through Jesus Christ who died on the cross to pay the penalty of our sins. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Today, if you are living in sin apart from Jesus Christ, today is the day of salvation. Come humbly before God, repent, and ask for His divine mercy. He loves you and has a better way for you! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/de1e674c2a05af865e9586380a4f6a5bdc5070b1/original/screen-shot-2021-03-04-at-7-45-47-pm.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.png" class="size_l justify_right border_none" alt="" />If you are a believer but living in deliberate sin, scoffing at God’s commands, repent, and ask God for mercy. Don’t despise His grace and spit in the face of God’s love and mercy. Follow Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord. If not, in His love He will send His discipline to call you back to Him, and His ways. Why? Because He loves you and wants to bring you into a life of true freedom and liberty which comes as we walk closely with the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen!</span></p>
<p> </p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65636702021-03-03T08:56:13-05:002021-03-03T08:57:58-05:00Be a Worshiper and Praiser!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/ca13947a63db1ce41c7ba3493cc145ee6fe954ad/original/be-a-worshiper-and-praiser.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" />"Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name." (Hebrews 13:15) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">One of the best things we can do to remain close to God is to praise Him continually, and especially when things are difficult in our lives or society as a whole. Being a grateful worshipper is part of being a fruitful ambassador of the Kingdom of God. I want to be like that, don't you? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">For many, our natural human tendency is towards complaining. We complain about people who have wronged us, about injustices, about life's disappointments, and more. We complain when things don't go the way we think they should have. Not all do, but many do, and some do it without ever speaking a word. Suppose our minds are full of murmuring and complaints reverberating over and over, isn't that murmuring and complaining too? I have done that have you? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As disciples of Jesus Christ, God calls us to offer the sacrifice of praise, the fruit of our lips, even when we feel the urge to complain. That would undoubtedly<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/22137f00485b05e97c371db413c72ceadc6de34d/original/screen-shot-2021-03-03-at-8-50-04-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /> put a smile on our Heavenly Father's face to see His children look beyond what they see and feel and instead look into the beauty of His holiness. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Does that mean we can't point out injustice and wrong? Of course not! Jesus did that a few times when addressing the hypocrisy of the scribes and Pharisees of His day. The difference was He didn't do it with bitterness and unrighteous anger in His heart, and neither should we. Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">It's hard to praise God when we've let bitterness, hate, and unrighteous anger fill our hearts. So instead, let's learn to praise God first, foremost, and continually before speaking about matters pertaining to our lives or even our nation. Then we can talk about the truth of God's Word with righteous judgment and a Christlike attitude. I am personally going to work on that in my heart and life. Follower of Jesus, will you join me?</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65191682021-01-12T16:31:27-05:002021-01-12T16:34:22-05:00We Need a Spiritual Revolt!<h2><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/3f9ab4cedf349af30128240830f44dafdd631b5e/original/we-need-a-spiritual-revolt.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_xl justify_center border_" />We Need a Spiritual Revolt! </span></h2>
<p><span class="font_large">It’s time for a spiritual revolt! I don’t mean we should revolt against anyone else. We need a revolt against the callousness in our souls. We need a revolt against casual Christianity. We need a revolt against laziness. We need a revolt against selfishness and self-centeredness. We need a revolt against lukewarm living. We need a revolt against wickedness in high places. We need a revolt against closing our eyes to the needs around us. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Christian brothers and sisters, we are entering a serious time in history, and our lamps need to burn and glow bright before God and the world. Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden!” (Matthew 5:14 NKJV). God's light through us should be bright and unmistakable. Are we shining? As the old song says, we must "rise and shine and give God the glory!” Now is not the time to casually float down the river of life or fuel ourselves on past spiritual memories. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Instead, now is the time: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">To set our hearts on things above, not on things of the earth. <br>To get strong in the Lord and the power of his might. <br>To work to fulfill our part in God's Kingdom call. <br>To let our roots grow deep and wide in God's river of life. </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">Are we Oaks, or Saplings? </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">Isaiah wrote of God’s people: "They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor." (Isaiah 61:3 NIV) This verse describes Christians as oaks of righteousness— but many of us live like little saplings straining to hold on. It’s time to live up to this verse, because we can't much display the Lord's splendor if we remain struggling spiritual saplings. We can't stand tall for God if we have shallow roots in God. We can't show the Lord's splendor if we need propping up all the time. Sapling Christians tend to get washed away in the flood of life’s struggles. We need to revolt against shallow and self-centered Christianity! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jeremiah wrote this great description of the person who follows God: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"He shall be like a tree planted by the waters, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Which spreads out its roots by the river, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And will not fear when heat comes; </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But its leaf will be green, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And will not be anxious in the year of drought, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Nor will cease from yielding fruit." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">(Jeremiah 17:8 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">King David the Psalmist echoes the same promise: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">That brings forth its fruit in its season; </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Whose leaf also shall not wither; </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And whatever he does shall prosper." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">(Psalm 1:3 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Oaks of righteousness—fruitful trees planted by the water—these are the right and true descriptions of God's people! And we can become like trees planted by the water, but first, we need to revolt against any complacency infecting our hearts. If we do, these biblical promises of fruitfulness can become our heritage in the Lord. </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">How to Revolt Against the Darkness </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">God calls us to prepare our hearts for anything we may have to face in the future. The time to prepare is now! I don't claim to know what's ahead, but I do know that the Lord instructs us to be ready and to brightly shine in whatever darkness comes. It’s time to revolt against the darkness with God’s light. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">How can we shine bright in darkness? By making a public statement of our allegiance to Jesus by our words and deeds. Yes, we display God's glory by living His commands and faithfully proclaiming His message. Isn't it a shame, then, that while the unrighteous unashamedly blast us with their confused ideas, many Christians sit timidly on the sidelines, embarrassed of their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? Many professing Christians are embarrassed to say or post anything pertaining to true Biblical righteousness. Is that faith-filled living? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Of course not. But it’s not too late to revolt. Today, God calls us to live like Paul the Apostle, who said, "I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.” (Romans 1:16 NKJV). We need to revolt against fear and live by faith! </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">Devotion, or Distraction? </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">How? There are many ways, but one is to spend time with God in prayer and the Word. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Tragically, many Christians remain distracted. They’ve received constant encouragement to spend time with the Lord, but they’ve never followed through. Because of that, they still cower in fear and defeat, and their witness remains very weak. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">They may be courageous in their businesses—and even in their families—but not with God's call. It's like they're afraid to step into Kingdom living because of what it might cost! Well, Jesus commands us to count the cost! Until we do, we’ll likely stay nestled in our cozy little corner of life. If we claim to be Jesus’ disciples, the Holy Spirit will eventually invade our cozy corners with His loving conviction. </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">Revolting Against Selfishness </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus said, "For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it" (Matthew 16:25 NKJV). We must decide whether we want to die to our will and plans and live for God or not. God will take it from there and lead the way! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If we haven't done so already, when will we: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Revolt against our own emotions that hold us back? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Revolt against the desires that steer us in the wrong direction? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Revolt against the enemy of our souls and his demonic forces? Will you send them away in defeat in the mighty name of Jesus? </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Let's be honest; we all need a little spiritual coaching now and then. That's why God “gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13 ESV). </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Only with spiritual coaching will we “no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love” (Ephesians 4:14-16 ESV). But are we willing to receive spiritual guidance? </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">Revolting Against Immaturity </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">God is calling His people to spiritual maturity. We all need to start growing in the faith—even if you’re a spiritual newborn in God’s family. Can you imagine seeing a thirteen-year-old still walking around sipping on a baby bottle? We would think, “What is wrong with that child’s parents? How could they allow that at age thirteen?” We would also believe the thirteen-year-old should know better. Right? Let's apply that now to spiritual growth. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Many believers continue as babes in Christ when they already ought to be teachers. God calls leaders in the body of Christ to make true disciples—but many leaders only comfort lazy Christians in their compromise. That's no laughing matter. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The author of Hebrews addresses this very issue. He exhorts us: "Though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil." (Hebrews 5:13-14 ESV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Notice the phrase "trained by constant practice." Recently my three year old grandson learned to swim on his own. He got tired of having to be held in the water or needing a floating device. He wanted the freedom to explore the pool on his own, so he practiced until he got it! Now he speedily goes all over the pool with a smile that shouts—FREEDOM! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Spiritually speaking, some Christians refuse to practice and learn to swim. Many feel happy to merely dip their toes in God's river of life. Others feel satisfied to tread water — stuck in one place, not advancing — only surviving. Instead of swimming forward as conquerors on a mission of divine purpose, they stand still, going nowhere of importance. That's an incredibly dull life compared God's courageous call. God has so much more in mind for His people. He calls us to live as victorious soldiers in His army. To become such soldiers, we must advance in faith, rescuing those lost in the day's demonic darkness. </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">Ready to Revolt? </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">Dear friend, today is the day to revolt! Revolt against your stubbornness and rebellion and run into the purpose and plan of God. Revolt against deadly spiritual detours and take hold of your God devised destiny. Revolt and take hold of God's promises and leave behind everything that shackles you to the things of the world. Revolt—and walk in freedom! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As you go forward, remember Jesus’ words: “If the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed" (John 8:36 NKJV). If that's your desire, pray with me right now. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Father God, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I come to you in the mighty name of Jesus. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I come humbly yet boldly into your presence. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I come with complete confidence in your love for me. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I come asking for your power to deliver me from evil. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Deliver me from the evil of compromise. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Deliver me from the evil of selfishness. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Deliver me from the evil of neglect. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I ask you now to forgive me and cleanse my soul. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Make me clean in your presence once again. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I pray as David the psalmist: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"Hide Your face from my sins, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And blot out all my iniquities. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Create in me a clean heart, O God, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And renew a steadfast spirit within me. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Do not cast me away from Your presence, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And uphold me by Your generous Spirit." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">(Isaiah 51:9-12 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I ask you to renew my relationship with you as I revolt against the evil in and around me. I pray in your name Jesus Christ, my Lord, Savior, and King. Thank you for reviving me into your call and thrusting me forward into your plan. Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now brothers and sisters, go forward in faith. God is with you! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Brian Mark Weller</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65175102021-01-10T08:52:20-05:002021-01-10T08:52:20-05:00Repent and Do the First Works<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/323b7314cd5c24ec4f9e744c36f1fc48d3a76ea8/original/6de1a8bd-e911-4bda-a5bf-6be0dfff5c79.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Today's bible graphic is Jesus's word of correction and exhortation to the Church at Ephesus. This message was given through the Apostle Paul while exiled on the island of Patmos. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">There is a powerful word of warning in these two verses. Warnings every confessing Christian needs to take to heart. All of us! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The main exhortation is to return to our first love, Jesus Christ! Put Him first in everything, including financial and major life decisions. Many American Christians spend a lot of time building into their own personal kingdoms and not God's. If our main focus in life is that, in eternity, we will see the waste of energy that was. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Many American Christians spend their lives on entertainment while spending very little time in God's Word, prayer, and active service in God's Kingdom. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We need to repent and go back to serving God wholeheartedly and surrendering all to fulfill God's plan! That includes preachings the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ to those around us and sending it to those who have never heard it in places like the 10/40 window. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Start today because procrastination is the devil's tool to put off God's will in our lives to a future time. What if the Lord comes for you or me tonight? Then it will be too late! I don't want to hear the Lord Jesus Christ say, "Well, you made it." I want to hear him say, "Well done, good and faithful servant." How about you? Sharegodshope.com</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65138552021-01-05T08:29:33-05:002021-01-05T10:30:01-05:00Are we, Spiritual Wimps, or Warriors?<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/73321a27dfaf8bb0088ce03e00d82e0de6d27ba0/original/are-we-spiritual-wimps-or-spiritual-warriors-2.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Followers of Jesus Christ, may our confidence always be in God our Father, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit's ability to lead and guide us. Also, to give us the spiritual power needed to stand against the vicious onslaughts, the enemy of our souls is mounting against the people of God. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Know this, at just the right moment; God will step into human history and bring judgment upon the wicked who totally disregard God's commands. That judgment will include the wolves in sheep's clothing who knowingly deceive Christians who have little or no biblical understanding of God and His ways. Don't be duped by these self-righteous "ministers" of the kingdom of darkness. God will shine His light on them one day and expose the evil intents behind their religious masks. These are the people Paul warned Timothy about in 2 Timothy 3:5 "Having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The truth is if anyone claims to be Christian while denying the teachings of Jesus and the truths found in the apostolic epistles, they are not really Christian. Christian means nothing but religious affiliation to them, not the take up your cross, deny yourself, and follow Jesus' brand of biblical Christianity. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If we deny Jesus' words and His call to full-blown discipleship, we deny Him! That is the truth, plain and simple. And if we willfully choose the way of rebellion against God's teachings with no desire to submit to God and rise above the ways of the world, can we be a Christian from a biblical perspective? I think not! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The truth is every Christian has failed the Lord in different ways, some in many ways. I know I have. But the true believer comes to a place of repentance to get right with God once again. We receive the Holy Spirits' conviction, which brings us to a place of repentance, restoration, and revival. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I am not talking about perfection here; I am talking about embracing the full gospel of Jesus Christ. "He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me." Luke 9:23. Then the Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 6:20, "For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If I claim to be Christian, that claim includes being purchased by God through the blood of Jesus Christ and brought from darkness into His marvelous light! God does not intend for us to be a friend of the world! The Apostle James stated it well in James 4:4. "You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Unfortunately, doctrines of demons have duped countless millions, and the number is growing while Satan picks them off with flaming arrow after flaming arrow from his loft in the atmosphere. It is surprising how many seem oblivious to his attacks and fall prey to the devil's wicked schemes. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The Apostle Paul warned us in Ephesians 6 about Satan's onslaught and showed us how to stand against it and be victorious. If we don't heed that warning to use the weapons of our spiritual warfare, which are mighty, we can become a victim of his spiritual attacks. Take notice that Satan is unleashing all he can at this time in history against God's people. Followers of Jesus, we can prevail, and we must! God is with us! We must rise up and be spiritual warriors! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">2 Corinthians 10:4 "For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Don't be deceived, and please don't put down your shield of faith or take off your spiritual armor for even a moment. You have the divine ability to put out every demonic fiery dart propelled against you in simple childlike faith and the power of the Holy Spirit! We must stand and be counted as spiritual warriors in the Kingdom of God! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Remember this, the more in love with Jesus we are, the more the enemy of our souls hates us and will do all he can to destroy us. But praise God, we can be victorious if we have done everything to stand. Help us, Lord Jesus, you are the mighty conqueror, and we stand in you and with you! Amen! </span></p>
<p><br><span class="font_large">Here are a few Bible verses to encourage us as we make our stand to be spiritual warriors in the Kingdom of God:</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place." 2 Corinthians 2:14 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"Through God we will do valiantly, For it is He who shall tread down our enemies." Psalm 108:13 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand." Ephesians 6:13 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one." Ephesians 6:16 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death." Revelation 12:11</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/65044852020-12-21T08:50:02-05:002020-12-21T08:50:38-05:00What About Judgment and Judging?<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/5df977e183ccbd6f63959571194dae4b4b59fbf5/original/what-about-judgment-and-judging.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" />For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God?" 1 Peter 4:17 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Followers of Jesus Christ, the word judgment has been improperly used for many years. I hear people say, "don't judge me" or "you should not judge anyone." The reality is that judgment is real and is something God implements when necessary to bring people to Him, back to Him, or punish those who stand against Him. God warns of His impending judgment through His Word. He also warns through His people, the ambassadors of Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus tells us the proper way to judge in John 7:24, "Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment." The only way to judge with righteous judgment is to use God's Word. We apply it first to our own lives and then to those around us. In this process, we must be careful not to be fooled by those who appeal to the natural senses instead of God's truth and spiritual wisdom regarding what's right and wrong. Through their deception, they tell you not to judge what's right and wrong, while in the same breath, they judge without mercy. To them, compassion should only go to the worldly sinner or Christian sinner who despises or has little respect for God's laws and commands. That is backward! God's mercy goes to those who humbly call on Jesus Christ with a heart of repentance, not those who mock His commands! If you are walking in sin now, God will forgive and deliver you if you come to Him on His terms, not your own. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/d9d828c0365dcc3b26e972bd54e0032b7b7b9b3d/original/1639d166-ce3e-41c8-9a53-03809d47a371.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />The misunderstanding with God's judgment comes from the word itself. There are different Greek words used in the New Testament for judging and judgment. One refers to making a final judgment on someone, and the other refers to judging what is right or wrong but not the person. For instance, looking at someone and saying, "they are ___________ and will always be ____________," is incorrect. That is not our judgment to make; that is making a final judgment on that person. We have no idea whether that person will repent and come to Jesus Christ or not. As Christians, our call is to offer God's solution to that person and pray they repent and turn to God for help, grace, and mercy found in Jesus Christ. If they do, we provide support in the process. If not, we continue to warn them as God provides the opportunity. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Another word regarding judgment refers to judging what is right or wrong according to God's Word; this can be with an unbeliever or someone who confesses to being Christian. With a Christian brother or sister who is or has strayed from God and His Word, we are to "judge righteous judgment," not by personal opinion or feeling. We are to use God's Word in a humble, caring, and sometimes in a very declarative way to lead them back into the light of the Lord. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Unfortunately, many have been affirmed in sin because other Christians have consoled them in their sin to make them feel better about themselves at the moment. That will not help anyone in the long run; it just puts off dealing with it at a later time. Let me say here, I am glad in my time of need; I was rebuked and corrected in a loving yet stern way to help me see the error of my way and get right with God. I can tell you first hand, that is what a straying backsliding Christian needs! That is the way of love! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Sometimes God sends judgment on individuals, and other times He sends it on nations who refuse to repent and receive His mercy. The only thing that can hold back God's judgment or stop it is His mercy and grace, which comes to us through our honest humility and repentance before God. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Christians, in 1 Peter 4:17, Peter reminds us very definitively that judgment will come first to the church and then to the world. Why will it begin with the church? Because God expects more of us since we have the Word of God and the Holy Spirit. Plus, others have taught us what it means and how to apply it to our lives. That is a divine advantage in our lives, and God knows it. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The Apostle Paul tells us what to do when someone has fallen into sin, "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression (sin), you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted." Galatians 6:1. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In ending, let me say, God wants to bring people into a beautiful and loving relationship with Him. For that to happen, we must yield to God and His ways and make Jesus Christ our Savior, Lord, Master, and King. His plan is great, so let's follow Him! He truly does love us! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." Matthew 16:24 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">PS - Obviously, this is not complete teaching on judgment. In this short devotion, we just scratched the surface on this most important biblical theme. Perhaps I will write more later.</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/64933132020-12-07T08:54:46-05:002020-12-07T08:54:46-05:00Let This Mind Be In You, Which Was Also In Christ Jesus<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/f914b768ac3ee48dcb54186e420ba0c834fc93e6/original/philippians-2-5.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" />An exhortation and warning to all of us who claim to be Christian! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In 1 Peter 3:8, Peter writes the followers of Jesus Christ, saying, "Finally all of you be of one mind." Is he serious about this? Is this possible? Was this some type of spiritual pipe "dream"? No, of course not! The Apostle Paul wrote about it as well in Philippians 2:5 "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Peter was inferring that every believer needed to make decisions in life based on the teachings of Jesus Christ and the holy scriptures. The New Testament gospels and epistles are focused on clarifying the teachings of Jesus Christ, thereby establishing New Testament church doctrine. These teachings and doctrines are what the true Church must follow, and they do not adapt to the times! The faithful disciples of Jesus Christ don't cave into fallacies presented as truth by heretic Bible teachers and preachers whose consciences are seared. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Paul wrote this warning to Timothy regarding this very thing: <br>"Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths." 1 Timothy 4:2-4 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Unfortunately, we are living in that time Paul warned Timothy and us about it. The list of false teachers is growing as they cave to "popular" demand. Don't listen to these glassy-eyed preachers who appeal to people on an emotional level and not a truly spiritual one. They want your money and adulation! They are not concerned that your mind and soul be purified by God's holy fire of conviction, purification, and restoration. They have lost their way! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In many instances, what these teachers taught ten years ago is different than what they teach today. Why? Because they are like chameleons constantly adapting to deceptive mainstream thought, leading them and their followers deeper into the deceptive dark tunnel of apostasy. Run from them and get back to running the race for God! <br> <br> If that describes your pastor, get out of that Church before what they say seems to make "sense" to you, and you fall prey to their deceitful manipulation of God's Word. Like worldly leaders, they constantly appeal to your emotions instead of your spirit, which needs to align with the Holy Spirit, not the spirit of the age! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">What they are teaching is obviously and adamantly against the teachings of Jesus and the first Apostles when they condone immorality of all sorts, abortion, drunkenness, and more! We are all called to repent of these very things throughout scripture. Real Bible teachers encourage us with a heart of Godly passion to repent of these and other sins that lead us into darkness. Real bible teachers don't try to comfort us in our sins; they urge us and help us overcome them and put on the mind of Christ! "Who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?" But we have the mind of Christ." 1 Corinthians 2:16 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As I close this out, the Holy Spirit reminds me of Jesus' stern warning of repentance to the Church at Laodicea in Revelation 3:16. "So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth." Wow! Did Jesus actually say that? Yes, He did! We should take that to heart! <br> <br> The Laodicean Church had lost its way, and Jesus, in His great love and mercy, was commanding them to repent before it was too late. If He would give such a stern rebuke to that ancient Church, why would we think He would not do the same to the Church and Christians of today? Are we a select group of people, given an extraordinary reprieve and license to sin by God? Of course not! God's mind has not changed from what it was over 2,000 years ago when He established the New Covenant through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. So the same standards that judged the Laodiceans will judge us. So let's wake up from our spiritual slumber and get back to the fundamental truths of God's Word. Let's put on the mind of Jesus Christ and get right with God before it is too late. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">He loves us with steadfast, immovable love, and like the loving Lord that He is, warns us in a straightforward and honest way. If we love Him, we need to take His warning seriously. It's time for that “come to Jesus” moment for many. So let's take it while He offers it, and one day according to the Apostle Peter, "You will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 1:11 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/64928012020-12-06T09:09:28-05:002020-12-06T09:14:33-05:00Followers of Jesus Christ, This World is Not our Home<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/265a76236ed9bc5de2e9cad57f51f4e9e7852987/original/7017813f-74ab-4a34-b137-78fa5818a35b.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Followers of Jesus Christ, this world is not our home, and by God's grace and power, we should live with that in mind each and every day of our limited time on planet earth. The following verse helps me to remember that. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"Do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day." 2 Peter 3:8 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We should always reflect on the fact that our time in eternity with Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father will be centillions of years longer than our brief stint on planet Earth as sojourners and pilgrims. How disappointed we will be if we arrive at heaven and the realization of our frivolous living comes to light. How disappointing that would be for any of us! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">At that moment, we would fully realize how rebellious and foolish it was to "seek first" the things and ways of this world instead of seeking first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and reign in our lives.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In retrospect, let me honestly say that a desperately empty feeling engulfed me when I lived for the things and ways of this world. Desolate darkness prevailed inside of me, and that darkness sprung from the absence of God's presence in my life and my disobedience to His commands found in God's Word. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God made us for a relationship with Him, and without Him, we cannot attain any real and lasting satisfaction in life. Worldly satisfaction is so brief and temporary and leaves us empty and continuously wanting more. Without Jesus Christ as Lord in our lives, there is no end to that cycle! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God loves us with incomparably great love. There is nothing in this world that could ever even come close to the Love of God. Let me urge you never to push away from that love or reject His commands! Believe me when I say; you will regret it and wish you had those times back to live again. That's not possible! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The Good news is God can and will take us from this moment in our lives, regardless of where we are, and bring us to where we need to be if we humbly and sincerely ask Him in the name of Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If we truly believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, there is a longing inside us to be spiritually fruitful and obedient to His commands. God will help fulfill that longing in our life so that when we arrive at God's great judgment throne, we will happily hear Him say, "Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master." Matthew 25:23. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">To hear those words will be the most beautiful moment in our lives and will spring us into an eternity enjoying the pleasures of heaven and the rewards God bequeaths to us. I pray that this little devotional helps us prepare for that moment by taking God's Word with all seriousness and spring-boarding us into a faithful and fruitful life with our Lord Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you today as you follow Him!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/64916122020-12-04T09:18:54-05:002020-12-04T09:18:54-05:00Are you weighed down with a heavy heart?<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/d88ff36e4b7810ec61bef0d36800ec371b545aad/original/psalm-27-8.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" />I believe this is for someone today! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I was enjoying my quiet time with the Lord this morning. Determined just to read His word, spend some time in prayer and worship, and not write anything to share. Amid that time, the Lord put the following on my heart to share. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Many of His people are sinking in the muck and mire of this world. Their blessings are great, but they are weighed down with heavy hearts because they have not come near to God. They feel a kind of misty darkness hovering over them and wrapping around them. That darkness they feel is simply the lack of God's light that shines brightly in His presence. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The clouds of anxiety are hovering over them because they have avoided times in the fiery, cleansing, and loving presence of God. That holy place where the fogs of worry and doubt are burned away like the morning fog in a mountain valley melts away in the presence of the rising sun. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">These believers seek to satisfy themselves with "things" and entertainment instead of God's manifold spiritual blessings. They hardly seem to miss the times they once had with God back when they first believed in Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">They wonder why they are not satisfied and have seemingly forgotten the refreshing times they once had in their quiet times with the Lord as newborn babes in Christ. Back when they spent hours reading the Bible, in worship and prayer, and fellowship. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If this is you, the Holy Spirit says to you today through the words of Jesus Christ. "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We must then respond and say, "When You said, "Seek My face," My heart said to You, "Your face, Lord, I will seek." Psalm 27:8 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Remember, there is a wealth of spiritual inheritance waiting for you in the presence of the Lord. So let's take the admonition given to us in James 4:8. "Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you today as you follow Jesus!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/64916052020-12-04T09:14:57-05:002020-12-04T09:14:57-05:00Jesus Christ the King Eternal, immortal, invisible!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/40c1dbb031603815c18ff16e300da72549b21808/original/fc2bc03d-9d7d-47fb-a358-469851fbd18b.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" />The King Eternal, immortal and invisible, that the Apostle Paul writes about in this verse is the Lord Jesus Christ! He was not voted in and cannot be voted out. He is God! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">His Kingdom is an everlasting Kingdom, and He rules it with righteousness and justice. Those who accept Him as King, Lord, and Savior now are warmly welcomed into His eternal family now and forever. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">On the other hand, those who reject Jesus Christ now will be rejected by Him later. They will kneel at His Great White throne judgment in fear and trembling to receive God's eternal judgment on them. A judgment they choose by rejecting God's loving plan of redemption through Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The good news is that those who call on the Lord Jesus Christ in humility, honesty, and with a repentant heart are instantly welcome in His holy presence. Our King Eternal sits at the right hand of God the Father, dispensing blessing and applying righteous judgment in the lives of all those He created! So call on the King Eternal, the Lord Jesus Christ, and entrust your life to His loving ways!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/64899822020-12-02T08:45:25-05:002020-12-02T08:45:45-05:00Desire the Pure Milk of God's Word<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/3ec491b1882c1405051964746b5f2db11c5d5366/original/screen-shot-2020-12-02-at-8-44-03-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /><span class="font_large">1 Peter 2:1-3</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">“Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, 2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.”</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Followers of Jesus Christ, in this verse, the Apostle Peter urges us to lay aside the things that harm us and others. He includes things like malice, deceit, hypocrisy, and evil speaking. These things have possibly taken up residence in our hearts and are presently flowing out of our hearts as evil speaking and resentful and wrong attitudes. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Then Peter instructs us to have the kind of desire and passion for God's Word that a tiny newborn baby has for milk. If you've spent any time around a newborn baby lately, this illustration really hits home. Any newborn baby craves milk so much that they will not stop crying until they get it. Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In this letter, Peter tells us we need to have that same type of desire and craving for the milk of God's Word. We should have a passion for God's Word that is so strong that we have to have it before starting our day. Then throughout the day, we meditate on God's Word, including what we read earlier. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Without a doubt, one of the best ways to grow in spiritual strength and vigor is to "eat" the real breakfast of champions, which is God's Word. If we miss that spiritual breakfast, we start our day on the wrong foot, instead of being in step with our Lord Jesus Christ and being led by the Holy Spirit. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So in ending this short devotional, let me share a couple more key essential things. If you're struggling in your walk with the Lord Jesus Christ and any sin issues, it quite often traces back to a lack of time spent in God's Word and in prayer. God loves you and wants you to taste that He is good, gracious, kind, loving, and merciful. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So be sure to take the time to lay aside the things that injure others and ourselves and damage our relationship with God, our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit will lead us in this! So go now, pick up God's Word and have a spiritual feast that satisfies your soul with the good things God wants to fill our hearts with! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you as you follow Him!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/64891902020-12-01T08:35:17-05:002020-12-01T08:35:17-05:00The Word of the Lord Endures Forever!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/ce0e49a64e6f0c992d4e9f9aad6a5c989a769471/original/screen-shot-2020-12-01-at-8-34-05-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"The Word of the Lord endures forever." That phrase declares how vital God's Word should be to everyone who believes in the Lord Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God's Word is a precious gift left unread or read very little by many who claim to follow Jesus. My question is, how can we genuinely follow someone we don't value enough to take the time to know? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">How much do we really love God if we don't invest time in our relationship with Him through communication (prayer), worship, and the study of God's Words found in the Bible? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let's be real, if we don't value God's Word, including His admonitions and commands, are we really a Christian by God's Biblical definition and standard? Perhaps we are a good religious person, but not a Christian by biblical definition. A Christian is someone who relies wholeheartedly on Jesus Christ for Salvation and then seeks to obey His commands. These followers of Jesus are not perfect people, but they do seek to put God first in everything. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The following verses help clarify what it means to be a Christian after an initial belief in Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">"Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." Matthew 6:33 </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">"Jesus said to him, "'You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.'" Matthew 22:37 </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">"Then He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me." Luke 9:23 </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">"If you love Me, keep My commandments." John 14:15 </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Sometimes people focus so much on the "salvation" passages that we forget what comes after we embrace the Good News of the gospel found in John 3:16 and Ephesians 2:8, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The Apostle Paul wrote this: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">"Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body." 1 Corinthians 6:19-30 </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Yes, Salvation is a free gift given to those who "believe" in the Lord Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, many have a misunderstanding of what it means to believe! The Word believes in the original New Testament context means to adhere to, rely upon, and cling to Jesus Christ. Meaning we put our total reliance on Jesus Christ and then work on sticking to His commands in humility and simple faith. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">He loves us all and wants us to discover who He really is! Not the world's definition of God, but God's description found in the Bible. One way to do that is to read His Word to discover who He truly is and what God expects from us. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If you have not been reading it much, I recommend you start in the book of John. Pay very close attention to the words of Jesus Christ that are found in red in many Bibles. God bless you today as you seek to know him and serve Him!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/64883692020-11-30T08:48:44-05:002020-11-30T08:48:44-05:00Maintaining Good Works and Meeting Urgent Needs<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/3aa9cdec9e98fc174b783a7f4261ce941d33d439/original/titus-3-14.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Follower of Jesus here is another verse from the Apostle Paul's letter to Titus reminding us of the importance of good works. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"And let our people also learn to maintain good works, to meet urgent needs, that they may not be unfruitful." Titus 3:14 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In this verse, Paul clearly implies that not to maintain good works and meet urgent needs is to be unfruitful. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now don't mix up what he is talking about here! He is not referring to purchasing unnecessary things for your church; in many cases, that's not an urgent need. I hate to say it, but some church leaders are great at spending God's money, given by His people, on frivolous things. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In this verse, Paul is writing about meeting real needs in real people's lives. Some churches and church leaders do this really well, and I commend them for that. Some Christians do too, and God will reward them in heavenly ways! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Unfortunately, many Christians close their eyes to the needs around them and on the mission fields of the world. That's why they consistently feel unfruitful. Let's face it; whenever we focus on building our own kingdom instead of God's Kingdom, life remains dull and unfruitful. Living for God is supposed to be somewhat daring, dangerous, and difficult! It is supposed to involve some level of sacrifice! Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The good news is that regardless of our economic status, we can do the things Paul talks about in this letter. Good works aren't always about money and providing things. It is often about investing time in people's lives or doing practical things by volunteering our time to do what others can't do for themselves. God provides these opportunities for us all! When He does, we must learn to say yes even when it is inconvenient to us. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let's take a moment and examine our hearts regarding good works and meeting urgent needs. Then, let's make a God-directed, Holy Spirit enabled, Jesus loving effort to be fruitful with our time and all that God has entrusted to us. God bless you today as you love and serve the Lord Jesus Christ!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/64878942020-11-29T08:09:39-05:002020-11-29T08:09:39-05:00What About Good Works!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/cee2d4ee374e889138d60f0fb4fd17338b37fabf/original/titus-3-8.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Followers of Jesus Christ, this verse emphasizes the importance of good works in our lives. Every true believer knows we are not saved by good works; we are saved by God's grace found only in and through the Lord Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Our good works are simply an extension and reflection of our relationship with Jesus Christ. But when we fail at being actively involved in preaching the gospel, caring for the poor, the widows, and orphans, we neglect the good works God has called us to do. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We live in a "Christian" age where many believers seem to embrace the "free" gift of salvation while neglecting the call of God to take up our cross, deny ourselves and follow Him. Also, ignoring God's call to serve and freely give to needs associated with winning the lost to Jesus Christ. This includes supporting mission outreaches to the poorest places on the planet. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Are we living selfless or selfish lives? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Are we living God-centered or me-centered lives? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Are we quickly offended when others forget to serve us? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Or are we consistently and humbly looking for opportunities to serve God and others for the glory of God? </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus said, "The greatest among you shall be your servant." Matthew 23:11. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">For this to be real in our lives: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">We must learn to humble ourselves to serve God and others. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We must prioritize the needs of others more than our own. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We must seek first God's kingdom and let our personal "kingdoms" be consumed into His. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">In doing this, we will find our place in the Kingdom of God under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Start today with the opportunities at hand, you most probably know what they are. God bless you as you seek first His Kingdom and righteousness.</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/64878932020-11-29T08:06:07-05:002020-12-03T12:33:16-05:00Fight the Good Fight of Faith!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/a13a4c1520ed5337121b2092fd0375bc4b686c18/original/1-timothy-6-12.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Followers of Jesus Christ fight the good fight of faith! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Life is full of all kinds of battles that continually war against our souls. Some battles are spiritual. We must fight against the demonic enemies of our souls that never cease working to deceive and entrap God's people in their net of evil and deception. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Other battles are emotional and mental. We must fearlessly fight against discouragement, fear, anger, unforgiveness, doubt, worry, and a host of other emotions and thoughts. Our God is valiant, and He will help us gain the victory! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Some battles are physical, where we fight against sickness and disease attacking our physical bodies. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Regardless of which battles we're facing and fighting at any given moment in our lives, we are to fight the good fight of faith and lay hold of eternal life. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">How can we do that successfully? </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">First, we confess and profess Jesus Christ as Lord regularly and with bold confidence in His ability to save. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Second, we confess and profess the Word of God in every battle we face. We speak it out loud, boldly, and unashamedly! We lay hold of God's promises found in the Bible. We do that consistently moment by moment, remembering that we've been born again to be God's army of over-comers! </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">God's word declares we are more than conquerors through Jesus Christ, who loved us and gave His life for us. Amen! Don't ever forget that and fight to walk in that promise! All things are possible to those who believe and trust in Jesus Christ! Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So fight my brothers and sisters in the faith! Don't give up! Don't yield to discouragement and disillusionment! Don't let demonic foes steal your courage and fill your minds with thoughts that throw you into confusion and doubt! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Fight the good fight because your commanding officer is Jesus Christ, and He has destined us to win by and through the power of the Holy Spirit! Amen!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/64383442020-09-19T18:04:32-04:002022-01-18T16:18:53-05:00It's Time to Make a Stand! <p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/f66f0d6339de30735fdb796f3bc38717c55ab53f/original/3cbc2819-07d9-42e7-bb71-280456ea67d1-2.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Followers of Jesus Christ, it's time to make a stand! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We are in a time of war; it's a spiritual war, unlike anything in our lifetime. It's a battle of light versus darkness, right versus wrong, truth versus lies. We are in a battle with Satan, the father of lies, and his spiritually criminal demonic cohorts. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Right now, Jesus Christ calls His church, His people, to arise with the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. God calls us to speak truth to the lies the enemy of our souls propagates on the people of this planet. It's time to stand and be counted! The question is, will we heed God's heavenly call? Or will we say no to Him either in word or deed through our lack of response? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">There are only two choices in this spiritual war. One is to stand armed with our spiritual weapons and fight with all of our might in the Holy Spirit's power representing Jesus Christ and his Eternal Kingdom. The Apostle Paul wrote about the power of those weapons in 2 Corinthians 10:4. "The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds." If we are unwilling to stand and fight, our other choice is to cower in fear as we run and hide. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">With that in mind, I want to ask you a question! Is it right to hide from the injustices and lies perpetrated on our families and friends by people with darkened hearts who have rejected God and His ways? These are people that not only despise hearing about the one true God but reject God and even deny His existence! Others claim to know God but don't. We see clear evidence of that through their lack of respect for God and His Word. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">There is another group reaping havoc on our society. It is the apostate church that falsely claims to represent Jesus Christ. But all the while, they deny His Word and, in doing so, spit in the face of Jesus Christ. Their unbiblical declarations falsely represent Jesus Christ and His church. I do pray they come to their senses, or one day they will hear Jesus say, "I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness." (Matthew 7:33.) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">These are those who clothe themselves in religious words as the Pharisees did and speak religiously to anyone who will listen. Some are "pastors"; some are politicians; some are news anchors; some are everyday people. Fortunately, anyone with the Holy Spirit sees right through them and their lies and distortions of God's Word, which come from the pit of hell. Every God-fearing, Bible-believing follower of Jesus Christ on this planet should reject their words and their unrighteous endorsement of ungodly ways and things. The Apostle Paul warned about these spiritual derelicts in 1 Timothy 4:1-2.<em> "Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron." </em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So today, let's count the cost. Let's choose whether we'll take a stand for Jesus Christ or just watch as God's end-time army forcefully fights the deceptive demonic forces of hell. We are now in a spiritual and moral battle that appears to be one of the greatest spiritual showdowns; in all of human history! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Will you stand and be counted with the soldiers in God's army of truth? Will you go in love as an ambassador of Christ proclaiming His Word fearlessly and valiantly, or will you cower in fear? The choice is yours and mine to make! What will it be? The Apostle Paul gave a clear directive regarding what we must do. Listen to what he wrote the church at Ephesus and to every Christian who has lived since that time. </span></p>
<p><em><span class="font_large">"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12 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. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. (Ephesians 6:10:18) </span></em></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let me assure you God will empower those who say, "Here I am; send me." God does not hide in fox holes of fear and doubt with His people! Instead, He leads His people in power and love under the banner of truth to rescue the perishing and enlighten those lost in darkness. So arise, stand and be counted, speak the truth in love, and never submit to the enemy's lies. And at all cost, don't forget; God has called us to be <em>"More than conquerors through Him who loved us." Romans 8:37 </em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In ending, here are some words of exhortation from Paul the Apostle! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Romans 8:31-39 NKJV </span></p>
<p><em><span class="font_large">"What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: </span></em></p>
<p><em><span class="font_large">"For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter." </span></em></p>
<p><em><span class="font_large">Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." </span></em></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now go forward with a fathomless faith, filled with Holy Spirit power to be the more than conquerors God calls us to be! Let your prayer be the same as our Lord Jesus Christ, who said, "Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you as you share God's message of hope! </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large"><em>You can find more video devotionals on subjects like this at www.youtube.com/messageministries.</em></span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/64349662020-09-16T10:51:06-04:002020-09-16T10:51:06-04:00Pull Out the Weeds of Anger and Unforgiveness<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/1b59779395c34cdd983be8709309d08ed5212064/original/119645494-10160217187672598-2827705795904621191-o.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" />The Lord showed me a picture of what looked like a good-sized plant in a garden. But then I heard the Holy Spirit say, "Pull out the weeds of anger and unforgiveness." It was so clear! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">He was saying, "These spiritual weeds are growing fast and overtaking the beautiful fruit of the Holy Spirit in my people's lives." As I heard it, I first examined my own heart for these spiritual weeds. But it was also clear that the Lord wanted me to share this for someone else as well. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If the Holy Spirit touches your heart with this, I encourage you to examine your heart too! Then go to the Lord in prayer and release that anger and unforgiveness to Him. It is choking out the growth of the Fruit of the Holy Spirit in your life. God's incredible Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Gentleness, Faithfulness, & Self-Control have been stifled. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Through the Holy Spirit's power and by God's grace and mercy, pull up those weeds in the garden of your heart by the root. God, your Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ love you dearly and want you and me to be fruitful in every way. Through admission, confession, and repentance, there is restoration and freedom! Just take a few moments and pray now. Forgiveness, cleansing, and restoration is only a prayer away! Thank you, Lord!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/63700092020-06-29T11:34:31-04:002020-06-29T11:40:10-04:00What About God's Cancel Culture?<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/36a7dd2603ef37e1a7aa71f7006afc83e7e18e15/original/does-god-embrace-the-cancel-culture.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />I keep hearing the term CANCEL CULTURE. How about you? I know what it means from a worldly perspective, and will say we are seeing far too much of it nowadays! Generally, it is false judgment on steroids! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let me describe God's grace-filled version of CANCEL CULTURE! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In God's version, He is willing to CANCEL the debt of our sin if we confess and repent of our sin and ask Jesus Christ to be our Lord and Savior. That my friends is a beautiful thing! It is nothing like the worldly version, which heaps condemnation and guilt on the object of their disdain. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Paul the Apostle described what happens when we call on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ in Colossians 2:13-14: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having CANCELED the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, NAILING IT TO THE CROSS.." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God, in His great mercy, instead of eternally tagging us as CANCELED or condemned, sent His only son Jesus Christ to offer to all the way of redemption. Jesus paid the price on the cross! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus said, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God." John 3:17-18 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In God's version of heavenly cancel culture, anyone who calls on the name of the Lord is released from condemnation and given new life, eternal life! This is not a fairy tale! Those who believe, trust, and rely on Jesus Christ become a new creation in Him, putting on the mind of Jesus Christ and casting off worldly thinking. The debt of their sins is CANCELED and removed as far as the east is from the west. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Then these new believers begin to live by the commands of God found in His Word, the Bible. They do that as a loving response to their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and their Heavenly Father. They are so filled with gratitude at the CANCELING of their debt of sin, they want nothing but to serve God and put a smile on their Heavenly Father's face! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Paul said this about these new believers, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new." 2 Corinthians 5:17 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I urge you to come to Jesus Christ and be freed from the eternal debt of your sin. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Come receive God's wisdom and be set free from the evil, ever-changing thinking in the world. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Come embrace the light and run from darkness. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Come walk the right way and reject the wrong way. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Come and be filled with the love of the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved! </span></li>
</ul>
<p><br><span class="font_large">The eternal debt of your sin will be CANCELED, and you can enjoy the goodness of God with God's people now and forever!<br><br>Don't put it off! God warns us in His Word, "It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment." Hebrews 9:27 </span></p>
<p><br><span class="font_large">God bless you! Brian</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/63635202020-06-23T12:06:47-04:002020-06-29T11:34:47-04:00Is it Time for the Protests to Morph into Something Else?<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/9fb0ffa5b2c1629846bfb5f07cf9f8cfe09fbbcb/original/102937694-10159869346217598-635410527060754432-o.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" />I am mainly writing this article to Christians who have been a part of the George Floyd protests or have been moved to action by them. Please read the whole article before you comment. Thank you for your courtesy! <br><br>The peaceful protesters have made a strong statement across this nation. Perhaps IT'S TIME to turn the protesting into something else that makes a difference, VOLUNTEERISM. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Maybe, IT'S TIME to take it to another level and begin VOLUNTEERING in places of need. That will make a big difference in the process of healing any racial division in our country. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">People of the human race, all skin colors, praying, serving, and worshipping together, helping one another, and those in need all in the love of Jesus! That's a beautiful thing! <br> <br>Jesus said, "Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets." Matthew 7:12. When Jesus walked into a community, he changed things. He loved people; He healed people, fed people, delivered people. Jesus spoke the truth to people. He gave them freedom! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I've found over-the-years there is nothing that brings people closer together than working side-by-side and helping people in need. It is a beautiful experience for the VOLUNTEERS and those receiving God's love and assistance through our service. By God's grace, I've been a part of many opportunities with many wonderful people in the USA and other countries around the world. It is amazing! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The problem is many people do it for a day or a week once a year, and that's it. VOLUNTEERING outside of our homes, churches, and communities regularly keeps us connected to what is essential to the Lord and us and meet a significant need in others. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">With that in mind, I want to encourage peaceful protesters who want to keep making a difference. IT'S TIME to leave the streets, organize, split into small groups, and head to the inner city to HELP families in need and more. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The peaceful part of the protests will soon be over, and many will want to stay involved and make a difference in people's lives. So what's next? How do you stay connected to something so dear to you? VOLUNTEER in the name of Jesus and share the gospel as you GO! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/4f41da8e18e1141b6431fe87499a29b472b29898/original/do-to-others-whatever-you-would-like-them-to-do-to-you-this-is-the-essence-of-all-that-is-taught-in-the-law-and-the-prophets-matthew-7-12.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />"Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets." Matthew 7:12 <br><br>Do you want to live out the anthem of hope shouted on the streets? If you answered, yes! It will require an investment of time, but it will be well worth it. Go and serve saying, "Know Jesus, Know Peace." You can make a difference! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I encourage you to get your friends together and become VOLUNTEERS in places of need. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">To get started, pray together and perhaps ask the pastor of your church if they know a pastor in the inner city that would welcome VOLUNTEERS. <br>Perhaps you met someone at the march that is part of a church you can connect with to help. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Pastors, you can form partnerships with Bible-believing churches in the inner cities! Then GO and serve! Proclaim the gospel message of Jesus Christ together as you serve and help one another! Do joint worship services together. I know some already do that, and I praise God for you! </span></p>
<p><strong><span class="font_large">Here is a list of other suggestions: </span></strong><br> </p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Contact the pastor of a Bible-believing inner-city church and ask how you can help. You can offer to help encourage children and youth to follow the Lord Jesus Christ. Help them with their homework. Be a mentor to those younger than you. You can also offer to clean or help paint the church if needed. Go to a church service there!</span></li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">VOLUNTEER, through that church, and the pastor will know if any widows or widowers need help in the neighborhood. You and your friends can help fix things around their homes or mow the lawn etc. You could even help with their groceries and then sit and listen to their stories. Hear their life stories, you will learn so much! </span></li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">VOLUNTEER, to help any single-parent families in the church who are struggling and need help. Be mentors for their kids and help them around their houses or apartments etc. </span></li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">VOLUNTEER to help repair small, locally owned businesses that were hurt during the COVID-19 crisis or damaged by the rioters during the protests. </span></li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/873e27a9a128e42cf4cf0fe07d63fcdb4b915d4d/original/your-kingdom-come-your-will-be-done-on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven-matthew-6-10.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_" />These are just a handful of ideas, and I am sure there are many more! These ideas are ways you can make a long term difference by VOLUNTEERING. Every Christian youth should do it. God will use it to make His people more Christlike. It sure helped me to grow in so many ways and still does! I have learned so much from people all over the world and in the USA! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Lastly, resist the temptation to think you've done your part because you marched for a few days. That was the easy part! Many were out of work anyways because of COVID-19 shutdowns. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The hard work is ahead, and if you really believe what you're marching for, or writing about, show it by what you do next! VOLUNTEER! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I hope these ideas help as we walk together into the future and be who God wants us to be, loving and serving God and one another. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Father God, we pray as Jesus prayed, "Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." Matthew 6:10</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/63103352020-05-09T11:15:40-04:002020-05-09T17:12:53-04:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - Don't Practice God Distancing! <p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/027f2dfe0b47a3275b5eb472189d1cf0b984c623/original/in-times-like-these-dont-practice-god-distancing-2.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /></span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">Don't Practice God-Distancing! </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">I was thinking this morning about the term “social distancing.” Few had ever heard of it before the COVID-19 Crisis. Now everyone knows the term, and governments everywhere encourage us to practice it. But I’m not talking about social distancing in this devotional. Instead, I want to introduce a little-known practice that the whole Christian community should avoid. I call it “God-distancing.” What is it? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The dictionary doesn’t have a definition for God-distancing, so I’ll define it. But first, let me say—no Christian should ever knowingly practice God-distancing. Please believe me when I say that it is crucially important to our spiritual health! I must warn you—if we engage in this practice, we will get infected by a very sneaky and destructive spiritual virus. </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">So what is God-distancing? </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">Defining God-Distancing, and Five Steps to a God-Distant Life </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God-distancing is the practice of staying distant from our all-powerful, loving creator God, and our Lord Jesus Christ, despite our great need for fellowship with them. We’ll call those who practice this, “God-distancers.” </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God-distancers aren’t necessarily outright rebels. They may want to hear God’s voice and be led by the Holy Spirit, but they aren’t willing to pay the price. These Christians may want the blessings of God’s Kingdom but remain too distracted to invest time with the King, Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Unfortunately, far too many have indulged in God-distancing for years on end. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">To practice God-distancing, here are five steps to follow: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Keep a safe distance from your Bible. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Regularly skip times of personal prayer and worship. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Avoid church services and passionate Bible teaching. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Avoid fellowship with dedicated Christians. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Spend very little time talking about God and his purposes. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Don’t take the time to share the gospel with anyone. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">That’s how most practice God-distancing, and it truly works! The more you do these things, the more distant from God you will become, and the less will God’s fiery love and passion burn in your heart! </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">The Symptoms of God-Distancing </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">Let me say, God-distancers may master these steps while maintaining a reputation as a Christian. I know because I’ve done it before. It’s so terrible for the soul! It left me empty and cold! Maybe you’ve done it before, too, and know that awful feeling. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Yes, God-distancing is a dangerous spiritual practice, but many lukewarm churches accept it as normal. They distance from God almost religiously, and they inevitably gain the desired result—a life devoid of God’s presence. Tragic but true! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Believe me when I say—the empty feeling that comes with God-distancing is heartbreaking and miserable. God-distancers experience the following tragic side effects: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">A weary and weak faith to face day to day struggles. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">A deep doubt in the validity of God’s Word. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">A lot more money in their pockets to spend on things they want instead of on God’s purposes and plans. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Another free day on the weekend to do what they want. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">(Add yours here)_________________________________________. </span></li>
</ul>
<h3><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/3903ea3ebe10c1a950c70d84a7914617228f3a85/original/if-we-confess-our-sins-he-is-faithful-and-just-to-forgive-us-our-sins-and-to-cleanse-us-from-all-unrighteousness-1-john-1-9-nkjv.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />God’s Antidote for God-Distant Disease </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">If you’re experiencing these symptoms, the Word of God provides a straightforward antidote. I know, because I’ve needed it before—and God’s prescription truly works! It is time-tested and comes straight from God’s throne of grace, where Jesus sits as our High Priest. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I praise God that He has filled the Bible with remedies for God-Distant Disease. To reverse your symptoms, start with the Apostle John’s conditional promise: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9 (NKJV). Take a moment and do it now. God is listening! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Then follow up by obeying these words from Jesus found in the Gospel of Matthew: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33 NKJV). Ask God right now to reveal His plan for your life, and commit to following Him! Go ahead, He’s listening! Praise God; the large distance is closing! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now, from this day on, be sure to take your gos-pill (gospel) every day! We need God’s words to keep us strong in the faith found only in Jesus Christ. The Psalmist declares that God’s words “are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh” (Proverbs 4:22 ESV). Don’t you believe that, too? If so, embrace God’s Word, don’t distance yourself from it! </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">God Isn’t You-Distancing </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">If you’ve been practicing God-distancing, remember that God never distances Himself from us. Hebrews 13:5 says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (NKJV). Our God longs with eternal love to fellowship with us. He waits for us to close the gap we’ve created through God-distancing. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Remember, God never forces us to come to Him—but He truly wants us to! If we don’t, He knows we’ll likely become like the prodigal son described in Luke 15:11-32. Even if we do, God will receive us back if we but ask Him to forgive and restore us. He doesn’t want us in such a dire spiritual condition. Jesus doesn’t want us to miss out on the abundant life He offers by His love, mercy, and grace. Jesus paid for our redemption on the cross. Praise God! </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">Gambling with God, and a Word of Encouragement </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">If a professing Christian prefers to continue in God-distancing, they will undoubtedly continue to experience the tragic side effects. But they’re making a big gamble! None of us know when our lives will end—the only invincible being is God! In the parable of the rich fool, Jesus warned, “‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God” (Luke 12:20-21 ESV). I want to be ready, don’t you? We can be! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let me finish with a word to those of you who walk in faithful fellowship with God. I encourage you to keep walking close to Jesus. Keep relying on Him! Keep drawing close to Him in quiet times and throughout the day. The Holy Spirit will lead you! God will continue to dispense His supernatural fruit and gifts to you and provide your every need according to his riches in glory. He loves you with an everlasting and steadfast love and always will! That’s another reason why I say—no more God-distancing! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you today as you draw close to the Lord, </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large"> Brian Mark Weller</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62998252020-04-30T08:31:15-04:002020-06-22T15:07:21-04:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - Take a Deep Breath! <p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/e0f088cfa1e99fb9606ee3e6d5feaa1d92884097/original/take-a-deep-breath.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />This morning I woke up from a very vivid dream. To be honest, I generally don't remember dreams. When I do, it usually contains a message for me or others from the Lord. This has happened a few times in the last couple of months. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In this short dream, a person was lying facedown on some stairs going downward. I could see they were gasping for air and sensed their terror. In the dream, there was another person in the room at the very bottom of the stairs. That person was encouraging the desperate one to breathe. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In this dream, I was there but was unseen. After observing the situation, I walked to the other side of the room, to a table. I looked closely and saw a Bible on it. I then looked back at the person lying facedown on the stairs and suddenly woke up. When I woke out of that deep sleep, I realized this dream had some spiritual significance to it. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">At first, I began to think of the people around the world gasping for natural air during this pandemic. I thought about how terrible that would be and prayed for God's mercy on those that are sick in that way. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Then the Lord showed me the meaning behind this dream. He showed me that the person in this dream was not gasping for natural air but for pure, supernatural air. I could sense the dark desperation in their heart, and the fear and anxiety overwhelmingly them. I asked the Lord what He was saying to me in this dream. His answer was clear, "Take a deep breath." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">At first, I was a bit puzzled, so I began to pray about those words and their possible meaning. I then realized that the person lying facedown on the lower stairs represented someone going down in their relationship with the Lord. They had descended step by step to a place of total weakness and desperation. They needed God's spiritual help and healing through the Holy Spirit o rise. Within moments the Holy Spirit reminded me of some Bible verses for clarification. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">First, I want to lay a foundation for what I'm going to write by saying true believers believe God's Word found in the Bible is God's Word. They don't change what scripture means to fit secular judgments or the apostate beliefs of so-called Christians. They believe, like Paul the Apostle, who said: "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:14-16 NIV). </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">For instance, Bible-believing Christians: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Believe in the biblical account of creation. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We believe God created the heavens and the earth, and the first human, Adam. They don't believe we evolved from something else. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We believe God created Adam for fellowship from the dust of the ground. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We believe the first breath Adam breathed came directly from God. Genesis 2:7, "And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being." (NKJV) </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We believe without God's breath of life, there is no life! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We believe Adam would have never breathed his first breath if the Lord God hadn't blown His own breath of life into his nostrils. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">We understand the natural air we breathe keeps us alive physically, and once that breath is gone, life ends. We believe after that, we either live eternally with God in the Kingdom of Heaven, or we are separated eternally in hell. Our eternal destination is dictated by our acceptance or rejection of salvation through Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Think about this! Just as we need natural air to stay alive physically, we undoubtedly need God's "breath," His Holy Spirit to sustain us spiritually. God initially breathes spiritual life into us when we're born again. Jesus made that clear. "Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." (John 3:3 NKJV). </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus said those words to Nicodemus, one of the religious leaders of the Jews. He tells this very knowledgeable Jewish leader, you must be born again if you want to see the Kingdom of God! It's the same for us! To be saved, we must take that first breath of spiritual life and be born again. God breathes spiritual life in us through His Holy Spirit. Jesus promised this in John 5:24 "Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life." (ESV). We believe and are saved! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">That became my reality when I was saved at the age of 18. I remember confessing my sins, asking Jesus to forgive me and become my Savior, and He did. I admit it was months later when I was 19 that I asked Jesus to be the Lord of my life. However, at the moment I believed in Him, Jesus saved me! It was at that moment I took my first spiritual breath of life. Before that, I had gone to church until I was 15 years old but was still dead spiritually. I tried following religious protocol for much of my young life. Yet, I had never repented of my sin, trusted in Jesus, been born again, and brought from death to life. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If we've been saved, born again, we have to remember God has provided ways to sustain us spiritually. First, He sent the Holy Spirit, who is now in us, to lead us into all truth as Jesus said in John 16:13, "The Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth." (NKJV). God has also provided the Book of truth, we call the Bible. We need those words of truth to grow spiritually. God's Word is heavens milk for newborn babes in Christ. The Apostle Peter wrote about this very thing, "Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation." (1 Peter 2:2 ESV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The Word of God is a primary way God gives the spiritual breath of life to His sons and daughters. His Word is full of spiritual life because it is God-breathed. It came from the heart of God and was spoken audibly or directly to His servants like Moses and others in the Old Testament. The New Testament contains the divine words Jesus spoke. Words like, "And the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father's who sent Me." John 14:24 NKJV). It also contains the letters of the Apostolic writers. They wrote what they heard from Jesus and what was revealed to them by the Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now read what Paul the Apostle wrote to Timothy about the Holy Scriptures. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"But as for you, continue in the things you have learned and firmly believed, since you know from whom you have learned them. From infancy, you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:14-16 NIV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/779a23985f69106ad5bb2d0a5a2f633806d8ea4b/original/all-scripture-is-god-breathed-and-is-useful-for-instruction-for-conviction-for-correction-and-for-training-in-righteousness-so-that-the-man-of-god-may-be-complete-fully-equipped-for-every-good-work.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />We have to remember that all scripture is God-breathed! God speaks life to His people through it. Jesus said, "It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life." (John 6:63 NKJV). For instance, when we read the words of Jesus or speak them out loud, they are spirit, and they are life and will have a profound spiritual effect on us, which also affects our whole being! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Remember this! You can't kill spirit, because spirit lives forever. Jesus said His words are spirit, and they are life. That means they will live on forever! No human court or anyone can minimize the importance of God's Word by their unbelief in it, it stands forever! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Listen to what the Apostle Peter wrote in 1 Peter 1:22-25: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart, having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever, because </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"All flesh is as grass, And all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, And its flower falls away, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But the word of the Lord endures forever." Now this is the word which by the gospel was preached to you." (NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The truth is, over two thousand years later, Jesus' words still have power! That's why the enemy of our soul tries to keep us from it. Spiritually speaking, he wants to knock us down a few flights of stairs. He doesn't want us ascending in our relationship with God, he wants us descending. He doesn't want us taking in doses of the breath of life by being led by the Holy Spirit. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The godless defy God's word and ridicule it because they just can't discern it. That's also why "religious" people who are not truly Christian dismiss it and accept blasphemous demonic doctrines instead of embracing God's real truth. The Apostle Paul wrote the following in 1 Corinthians 2:14 to help us understand that. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned." (ESV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Reading and meditating on God's Word is like taking deep spiritual breaths. It's also like eating spiritually! When we ingest God's heavenly manna, the Holy Spirit consistently injects strong and healthy doses of spiritual life in us. As we read and study to show ourselves approved with God's Word, we become strong in the Lord and the power of his might. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Christians who don't take time to read and dwell on His Word become weak, unstable, double-minded, and unable to stand and fight against the enemy of their soul. They fall prey to the ways of the world, the flesh, and the devil. They're gasping spiritually for air but are so distracted; they don't even seem to notice! They don't seem to see that pure spiritual oxygen that comes through God's Word sits on a table right next to them in the form of a Bible. They've become so spiritually disoriented they don't pick it up and seek God's answers to life! Or it's right there on the screen of their phones nestled in-between various apps like Facebook, Stock Updates, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, etc. but rarely opened. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If you're gasping for spiritual life and breath, just pick up a Bible or push that Bible App button and take in a delightful dose of the milk and meat of God's Word. Otherwise, nothing will change! </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Discouragement will continue to reign over encouragement. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Anxiety will push away from God's peace like a supernatural plow. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Worry will reign in us over triumphant trust in God, and the list goes on. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>What will it be for you today?</strong> </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let me say, I'm a very compassionate person, and I love encouraging God's people. I truly do! But I'll be honest with you; it's very frustrating to see a Christian struggling in their faith, who's been discipled for a long time but won't do the obvious. I have to admit I don't feel a lot of compassion for them. It would be like feeling bad for a child whose mother prepared their favorite meal, and there it is sitting on the table, but they never come to the table to eat it. Then later they come complaining that they're hungry! Well, God's dinner bell is ringing, and He says, "Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price." (Isaiah 55:1 ESV). The price has been paid by the Lord Jesus Christ! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God has provided the meal, but we must come, sit at His table and eat. "Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good" (Psalm 34:8 NKJV). </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">No matter what condition we're in spiritually, God welcomes us to His table. We just need to come with a heart of repentance, humility, honesty, and thankfulness. He will provide the food and the spiritual breath through the power of the Holy Spirit! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Nows the time to quit gasping for pure spiritual air and rise above what's got you desperately down. Come to the Lord and receive the life of God through the power of the Holy Spirit. Don't accept your present spiritual condition, rise above it by faith in God. Then your mind will be washed with the water of God's Word and be filled with power soaked heavenly thoughts. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">For they are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh." (Proverbs 4:20-22 ESV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Every single day as I read and meditate on God's Word, I sense God's spiritual life-breath blowing inside me. Even now, I'm reminded that when the Holy Spirit first came to the first Christians, He came with a mighty rushing wind. Acts 2:2 says, "And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting." (ESV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In ending, let me say, let's not live distracted from God's Word any longer! It's God's gift to us. "Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path." (Psalm 119:105 NKJV) Let God's Word light the way, and let's not divert from His paths. If we get diverted and distracted, we won't have the spiritual power to overcome the enemy. So what will it be? Are you ready to take a profoundly soothing, faith-filled spiritual breath and embrace the leadership of the Holy Spirit in your life? I am too! </span></p>
<p><strong><span class="font_large">Let's pray: </span></strong></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Father God, I come with anticipation and expectation to your throne of grace. I come in the name of Jesus Christ, my Lord, Savior, and High Priest. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In many ways, I've been a stranger at your throne of grace. I come today to reconnect and renew my dependency on you. I've come to be filled by the Holy Spirit and to exhale the unpurified spiritual air of the world. I've been breathing that way too often and way too much. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I come to put my dependency back on you and your loving ways. You are my source of life, and apart from you, I would still be dead in my trespasses and sins. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus, in John 20:22 it says you "breathed on them, and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit." I want to receive that promise in my life, so I ask you now to breathe your Holy Spirits' power and anointing on me. I want to be your disciple and walk in your ways. I know I need the Holy Spirit to do that. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">It's by your grace alone that I stand humbly before you with this request. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer! I pray this from my heart in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you, Brian Mark Weller</span><br><br> </p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62956682020-04-27T07:51:26-04:002020-06-22T15:12:10-04:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - Do not fear!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/dd60a1799b0821371879535d0534fafcbe6629c8/original/i-sought-the-lord-and-he-heard-me-and-delivered-me-from-all-my-fears-psalm-34-4-nkjv.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Fear is spiritual cancer; one of the most vicious enemies of our souls. It works with horrendous strength to invade our minds with uncertainty. Fortunately, fear is no match for the Holy Spirit’s power. David testifies: “I sought the Lord, and He heard me, And delivered me from all my fears.” (Psalm 34:4 NKJV). Yes, fear doesn’t stand a chance when we seek God in worship and prayer, and meditate on His biblical promises. In this short article, we’ll explore how Satan uses fear, and how God’s promises can embolden us against its attacks. </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">Fear: Every Christian’s Enemy </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">Fear is every Christian’s enemy. Satan has promoted fear since the beginning of time. Satan taunted Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden, tempting them to fear what they’d miss if they didn’t eat the fruit of the forbidden tree. This enemy attacks with its demonic sidekicks, doubt and unbelief. Together they loudly shout the “what ifs” of life. Fear’s favorite lines are, “What if this happens?” and “What if that happens?” What if? What if?! What if?! Fear drones on like a broken record; repeating the same phrases and hoping we’ll join in on its seditious song. It aims to level the mountain of hope God has built in us. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Our thoughts face a constant onslaught from this egregious enemy. Fear does all it can to make our minds its playground. It steps on the scene with arguments that seem to make sense—then it fervently strives to push us down the slides of worry and doubt. It works tirelessly to silence the Holy Spirit’s voice within, knowing God can obliterate anxious thoughts with a word. But that spirit of fear also knows he can gain victory if he can get us thinking more than praying and listening to God’s leading. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Right now, fear is viciously attacking the hearts of God’s people. It’s doing all it can to nibble away at our confidence in God. People of God, we must stop, listen, and hear God calling us to turn the tide of fear that rolls in against the safe harbor of our faith. God is calling us to overcome it by the power of the Holy Spirit! </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">Victory Over Fear by God’s Promises </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">If we want victory over fear, we have to fight for it. We cannot cave into fear’s loud and demanding voice. We need to exercise decisive discipline, because fear speaks ludicrously loud, and will do all it can to rain devilish disillusionment on our souls. Fear presents its arguments with extreme detail and enthusiasm and we must fight it with stiff resistance. It presses in to sell its hellish hallucinations with the ability of a lifelong salesman. These demonic agents come in hard and fast to demolish our firmly held beliefs by questioning God’s promises and ability to accomplish them. The good news is that God has provided a solution to stop fear! I believe that, do you? “Jesus said to him, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes” (Mark 9:23 NKJV). </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Yes, to overcome fear, we must remember God’s fear-shattering promises, like: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">“God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV) '</span></li> <li><span class="font_large">“When the enemy comes in like a flood, The Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him.” (Isaiah 59:19 NKJV). </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">“You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4 NKJV) </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Yes, that is our heritage in Jesus Christ; power, love, and a sound mind, free of the spirit of fear. Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">See, God has provided the victory through Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. We need to walk in it, and we can! Say with me, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But to walk in that victory, we need to overcome fearful thoughts with faith thoughts. That’s why the Apostle Paul commanded: “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy, meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:8-9.NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If we discipline ourselves to think like that, we’ll soon eradicate the strongholds of fear. You might object, “but David said God ‘delivered [Him] from all [His] fears’ ” (Psalm 34:4 NKJV). Yes, and God did! But David also promised God’s blessing on those who “delight. . . in the law of the Lord, And in His law. . .[meditate] day and night.” (Psalm 1:2 NKJV). Are we willing to fulfill the condition and dwell on God’s words and promises? </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">Fighting the Forces of Hell, or Hiding in Foxholes of Fear? <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/78db04f59dd6931820825586eb80e55479cbac6d/original/do-not-fear.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /></span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">I praise God that many Christians are trusting God now more than ever before. They’ve wrapped themselves in their heavenly armor, and are glowing bright against this present demonic darkness. They’re standing firm in the faith, and fear is turning on its heels and fleeing like a coward. They’ve experienced God’s promise: “Submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” (James 4:& NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But regrettably, many of God’s soldiers have huddled into the fearful foxholes of doubt and disbelief. If that’s you, it’s time to arise and cut that spirit of fear to pieces with “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit.” (Ephesians 6:17-18 NKJV). It’s time to blast fear from the battlefield of our minds by speaking the Word of God with bold and fearless faith. </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">Victory, or Defeat? You Choose </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">There are only two possible outcomes in our battle with fear. One is to walk away as a triumphant champion and conquerer in Jesus Christ. The other is to be laid waste on the battlefield as fear stands over us with its foot on our back and our face in the mud of defeat. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So what will it be for you and I? Will we “stand. . .having girded [our] waist with truth. . .taking the shield of faith with which [we] will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one” (Ephesians 6:14, 16 NKJV)? Or will we miss the triumph God promised by stepping on the spiritual landmines of fear? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Together let’s take our stand in prayer for one another! Let’s abandon the beaten-down fields of fear and run to the flowering fields of faith, where the promises of God produce rich, bountiful, spiritual fruit. Then we too will proclaim as David did, “I sought the Lord, and He heard me, And delivered me from all my fears.” (Psalm 34:4 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you as you go forward in faith and victory in Jesus Christ!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Brian Mark Weller<br><br><a contents="Do Not Fear! - Audio" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://podpoint.com/message-ministries-and-missions-podcast/do-not-fear" target="_blank">Do Not Fear! - Audio</a> </span><br><br><a contents="Do Not Fear! - Video Link" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/D75Sjr17kXg" target="_blank">Do Not Fear! - Video Link</a><br><br> </p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62942442020-04-25T09:09:44-04:002020-10-09T10:53:44-04:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - Seek the Lord or What?<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/4797d8e9f58f1e404731450b06d41f0f7a31a6be/original/seek-the-lord-or-what-copy.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />"Seek the LORD while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near." (Isaiah 55:6 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Amid this pandemic, God has provided an obvious opportunity for believers in Jesus Christ to get connected or reconnected with Him like never before in recent history. It's a season for God's people to refuel their spiritual tanks. During this time, many have jumped from believer status to discerning disciples of Jesus Christ. I praise God many have done that and are closer to God than they've in years. They've latched on to God's promises and are seeking God's will and purpose through all of this. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I sincerely rejoice that multitudes of God's people have invested hours of extra time drawing close to the Lord. This pandemic fueled a desire to get back where they once were in their relationship with the Lord, and they have done it! Now they are enjoying times with the Lord like they haven't in years! God is pleased! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Unfortunately, others have not used their downtime in constructive and biblically wise ways. They've wasted countless hours catching up on TV series, movies, and spending so much time on social media their thumbs hurt from scanning the latest posts. These believers have a lot of unrest in their souls. And instead of peace filling their souls, they're being drained of it slowly day after day. Some of these Christians are totally up to date on the latest pandemic conspiracy theories but haven't even dusted off their Bibles much less read them. Is that what Isaiah meant in this verse "Seek the LORD while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near." (Isaiah 55:6 NKJV). Of course not! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I sincerely believe that out of this pandemic, God is initiating a spiritual revival. It will be different than previous ones, but perfect for this time in history. Even now, He's waking His people from spiritual slumber, and stirring something deep inside us. He's stirring expectation as He prepares us for what is ahead. People of God, we must get ready! He will soon sweep a multitude of unbelievers into the family of God. We need to be prepared to receive them and disciple them. Our God will even peel the scales off the eyes of many who presently identify as atheists, and they will see the glorious light of the gospel. It's easy to be atheist when all is well, but when God shakes things up, and things are unsettled, atheistic theories don't bring much comfort. God has a way to use calamity to bring people to Him. He also uses it to bring His people back to Him. "Seek the LORD while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near." (Isaiah 55:6 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Again, I praise God that many Christians have used this time to prepare for what's ahead in a spiritual sense. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">They're enjoying fruitful times reading their Bible. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">They're enjoying glorious times praising and worshiping God. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">They're fervently praying for the needs of others. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">They're following the leading of the Holy Spirit found in Isaiah 55:6. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/9aa647da9e90aabfd76ad667abf74c72f7a82726/original/seek-the-lord-while-he-may-be-found-call-upon-him-while-he-is-near.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Before this pandemic, their faith was weak and unstable, but now during this time of unsureness, they're more robust in their faith than ever before, and they're thrilled they've spent time seeking and calling on the Lord. Praise God! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If you're reading this and you've missed out on this opportunity, it's not too late! Start right now and springboard into one of the most spiritually significant times in your Christian life. First, take a moment and think back to when you felt the closest to the Lord. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Remember when you prayed, and you could sense God listening to your every word? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Remember when you sang worship songs to Him and felt His presence right there with you? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Remember when you read the Bible and words joyously jumped off the page at you? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Remember that, there you were alone in your prayer closet, and you felt like shouting Hallelujah, and you did? </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">God wants to bring us all back to those spiritually intimate times with Him, and right now is an excellent opportunity to do just that! In times like these, we desperately need that connection with our all-powerful and loving God. We need that connection with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So what's it going to be for you as you go forward? Will you continue to set your course on distractions? Or will you follow God's way and "Seek the LORD while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near." (Isaiah 55:6 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God leaves the choice with us! He's calling us to that place where seekers find, and those who call hear. It's a glorious place overflowing with God's love, grace, wonder, and presence. You can start right now, and God will reveal or reaffirm His heavenly treasures of wisdom to you! It's time to seek! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So what's it going to be? Will you make a choice and say yes to God? He's listening now because He loves you and hates watching you sink deep in the raging river of your anxious thoughts. He hates seeing you unsettled in your heart just because you failed to draw deep from the wells of salvation. He truly does! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If you're ready, turn off the background noise in your house. Find a quiet place somewhere. Don't make an excuse why you can't; if you do, nothing will change. You need to change, and you know it! Right? We all do! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now, begin your quiet time with your heavenly Father and your Lord Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit will help, and as you seek, you will find. That's God's promise, and God always keeps His promises. Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you today as you go forward into the center of His will, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Brian Mark Weller</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62918332020-04-23T12:44:15-04:002020-04-23T12:47:05-04:00Did You Hear the Knock?<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/f5f491a709e67028b0d8c6f24ab5b076d6e1d47c/original/did-you-hear-the-knock.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />This morning I woke suddenly out of a deep sleep. In my dream, I heard one loud knock on the door. The visitor didn’t knock twice or in series. Just once—loud and clear. Then I awoke. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The knock came from someone expecting to be heard. I knew it was the Lord waking me up, so I got up immediately and began to pray and seek Him. I sensed He had something specific to say about that knock. Was it a message to me? Was it a message to His people? Was it a message to unbelievers? Was it a message to everyone? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Suddenly the light came on, unlocking the mystery. The Holy Spirit reminded me of Revelation 3:20: “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20 NKJV). I knew that God is sending a wake-up call to the church. </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">When Jesus Knocks Your Door </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">“Behold, I stand at the door and knock” (Revelation 3:20 NKJV). Evangelists have used this verse in crusades for years. But to be honest, they’re misusing it. In context, Jesus sent this message to Christians. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The Laodicean church had lost its way. Their hearts were far removed from God’s will and plan, and they were about to get a wake-up call. That wake-up call came with a heart-pounding knock and a message that could alter their destiny. They found themselves on the receiving end of Jesus’ loving, direct disdain, and correction. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Less than a century had passed since Jesus’ resurrection. Yet this church had already forgotten Jesus’ promise: “I will build My church, and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18). In a few short decades, they had already become far less than what Jesus intended. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Unfortunately, Laodicea wasn’t alone! Five other churches received a strong message from the Lord. Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, and Sardis also needed correction. In reality, only one of the seven churches received unqualified praise from Jesus—the Church at Philadelphia. Jesus said to them, “I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.” (Revelation 3:8 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Unlike the Philadelphian church, the Laodiceans had lazily drifted from their first love. Jesus Christ no longer held first priority. According to Jesus, they had become lukewarm. Not cold; lukewarm. Cambridge Dictionary defines it this way: “Only slightly warm . . . not enthusiastic or interested.” </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">“At Least We’re Not Cold!” </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">Unfortunately, many in the 21st-century church feel at home in lukewarm waters, just like the Laodiceans. Many even see lukewarm living as an acceptable form of Christianity. Some might even say, “Well, at least we’re not cold!” If that’s what you’re thinking, listen closely to Jesus words: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">“I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.” (Revelation 3:15-16 (NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Ouch! That hurts! How could Jesus speak so harshly? How could meek and mild Jesus speak to a church and its leaders in such demeaning tone? How could the God of love ever speak so directly? I’ll tell you why! He was talking to His church—a group that claimed to represent Him. God wasn’t happy about the image they conveyed. (He’s not happy when the 21st-century Church misrepresents Him, either). I believe the Laodicean church manipulated Jesus’ words to benefit themselves more than God. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">There was too much at stake to comfort them in their callous-hearted compromise. Think about it. Jesus didn’t only deliver these piercing words—He commissioned John to send them in a letter. He wanted it etched in the annals of history—“If you are lukewarm, I will spit you from my mouth.” He wanted to warn future Christians not to follow the Laodicean pattern. </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">The Anatomy of Apostasy </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">Then let’s consider their example. How had the Laodicean Church become so lamentably lukewarm? Their problem wasn’t mere spiritual distraction. They had fallen prey to spiritual pride and materialism. As Jesus said, “You say, I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing, and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked” (Revelation 3:17). </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Realize—Jesus had heard them say, “We have need of nothing.” Consider how those words sounded to Jesus as He sat on His heavenly throne of grace. Perhaps He thought, “Is this what the gospel means to this church?” In reality, they desperately needed honesty and holy humility (just like many of us). They desperately needed a fresh dose of divine purpose beyond mere material blessing. How quickly they had forgotten Jesus’ famous instruction: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Yes, the Laodicean Christians had become spiritually blind during a time of economic prosperity, and fell into a false gospel of wealth and self-indulgence. They likely proclaimed, “Look at how God is blessing us!” In reality, they’d moved from “the heavenly places in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:6 NKJV) to “friend of the world . . . enemy with God” (James 4:4 NKJV). Over a short time, they’d become more interested in God’s “blessings” than the God of the blessings! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">History tells us that Laodicea was a businessman’s paradise. The city had three booming enterprises to distract the church from its calling: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">It acted as the banking center and gold exchange for Asia Minor. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">It had a major textile center and a world-renown medical school. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">They exported an eyesalve called Phyrigian powder that people around the known world wanted and were willing to pay for. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Business boomed, Christians prospered, and spirituality declined. Church donations soared high, and perhaps the church leaders got distracted. “What can we do with all this money?” They lived in a very prosperous society, and money had become more important to them than God’s call. Their desire for riches far outweighed their desire for spiritual growth. They had transitioned from hot to lukewarm, and Jesus came knocking to bring order to His church. You know, the church that the gates of hell are not supposed to prevail against! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now, in their palatial prosperity, they didn’t even notice their spiritual health had sunk to an all-time low. The Laodicean Christians still saw themselves as seated in heavenly places! Perhaps they had fooled themselves by their own high-mindedness. In actuality, they’d already slipped far below their original calling, and instead resided in the spiritual slums of sloth. They’d sunk so low that Jesus was ready to spit them out. Think about that for a moment. How could they have fallen so far so fast? How could we ever do that? Have we? Have I? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Perhaps they believed they’d climbed to the top. Perhaps they thought their material possessions proved God’s affirmation; that God’s financial blessings proved God’s favor. Perhaps, believing this, they concluded they’d attained a spirituality far higher than the other churches. We know they were backslidden; but did they know? Could it be that the Laodiceans had founded the first charter of the Church of Name it and Claim It? Could they have fallen for a first century prosperity gospel? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Regardless of my speculation, the truth is, the demons of deception used Laodicea’s shallow, self-centered devotion to trap them in casual Christianity. They embraced the deadening doctrine of me, myself, and I. Now self had become their highest priority. </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">Jesus Disrupts the Laodicean Lifestyle </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">Then, suddenly, the Laodicean church received a knock that could turn everything around. Would they hear it and wake from their slumber? Jesus loved them and longed for their repentance. He knocked with high expectations for His church and His people. The question is, would they open the door and welcome His loving criticism and correction? Or would they disavow the knock, reject Him and listen instead to the anti-Christian voices of the world around them? Were they more interested in God’s embrace, or that of the world system? Did they want to hear the ungodly world say, “Well done, good and faithful conformist,” or hear Jesus say, “Well done, good and faithful servant?” What do we want? What would today’s liberal, lukewarm, Laodicean “churches” want? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus’ appeal was real and authoritative. Looking from heaven, Jesus gave His clear perspective of Laodicea: “[You] do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked” (Revelation 3:17 NKJV). That’s a sad state— I know because I’ve been there before. If they wouldn’t repent, Jesus promised a sure judgment: “Because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.” (Revelation 3:16 NKJV) Jesus announced, “The day of reckoning has arrived! Repent now, or I’ll spit you out and remove your lampstand!” </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">The Offer of a Lifetime </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">Then Jesus turned the corner on this much-needed rebuke and offered Laodicea the opportunity of a lifetime. He incorporated their three greatest economic distractions into his offer of restoration: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">“I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.” (Revelation 3:18 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">When Jesus invites us to buy gold refined in the fire, He calls us to count the cost and pay the price to pursue God and fulfill His plan. God calls us to walk with Him through life’s fiery trials, including rejection and persecution. He calls us to grow an eagerness for purification so we can reflect His light and send His glorious gospel to the world. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">By inviting us to buy white garments, Jesus calls us to recover our identity in Jesus Christ and His righteousness. He calls us to return to the pure reality that our identity comes from Him, not our possessions or appearance. Our outer appearance has no heavenly value to God—without Jesus’ righteousness, we’re found naked before Him. “For He has clothed me with the garments of salvation; He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness.” (Isaiah 61:10 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Last but not least, Jesus called, “anoint your eyes with eyesalve, that you may see.” I love how Jesus calls using illustrations we recognize. The Laodiceans knew the value of eye salve—specifically Phyrigian powder. People around the world paid good money for it. They exported it everywhere. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Were they now willing to sacrifice non-essentials to gain back their spiritual fire, so they could see again like when they first believed? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Were they willing to export their faith to the rest of the world and make that their priority? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Were they ready to use their wealth for God’s purposes and not just for their own satisfaction? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">History tells us they were. Are we? Are we willing to lay aside our greatest idols to recover our spiritual vision and receive the Holy Spirit’s blazing fire once again? Are we ready to get back to seeking first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness? </span></li>
</ul>
<h3><span class="font_large">Jesus’ Call to Restoration </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus ends this short letter to the Church at Laodicea with a call to restoration: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also 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.” (Revelation 3:21-23 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">There are three stages to this invitation. First, hear Jesus knock. Second, don’t just sit there. Get up, open the door, and listen carefully to His voice! Welcome Jesus back to His rightful place in your life as Lord and King. Lastly, receive the place Jesus promised you at His side: “I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne” (Revelation 3:21 NKJV). </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/c318f83c6d9f1de9d64d583228883c5cc4fd9d0c/original/behold-i-stand-at-the-door-and-knock.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Jesus Has Knocked. Will We Open the Door? </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">I can’t rail on the Church at Laodicea from some lofty position of spirituality. When I read this passage, I take it to heart too. I confess that I’ve lived like Laodicea more times than I’d like to admit in my 45-year relationship with the Lord. How about you? Thankfully, Jesus came knocking at my door, got my attention, and delivered the conviction that plunged me into the river of God’s redeeming restoration. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The truth is, many of us have lived much like the Laodicean church. Maybe you’re in that category. God is asking, did you hear the knock? Jesus’ knock—the knock that calls us to repentance and restoration? If so, what will you do? Will you have an ear to hear what Jesus is saying? Could this be your last opportunity to respond? Maybe, maybe not! Only God knows what our future holds, and what lies ahead for each of us. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We do know one thing for sure: Jesus loves us enough to send a loud knock to the doors of our hearts. Then, Jesus leaves us to decide whether we will respond or not. He knows what’s ahead for us if we respond or if we don’t. I want God’s will for my life. Don’t you? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">After reading this article, have you decided to remain distant from God and continue in sin? If so, I want you to contemplate Jesus’ warning: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">“When once the Master of the house has risen up and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open for us,’ and He will answer and say to you, ‘I do not know you, where you are from” (Luke 13:25 NKJV). Please think seriously about Jesus’ warning. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But if you’re ready to answer the knock, let’s pray. </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large">A Prayer of Repentance and Restoration </span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">Heavenly Father, I come to you in Jesus’ name and grace alone. I confess that I have no righteousness of my own. The only righteousness I have is what you have given me through your Son Jesus—my Lord, Master, and King. Father, forgive me of my selfishness, self-centeredness, and lack of spiritual discernment. Like the Christians at Laodicea, I have lost my way and have become distracted. Father, I need your forgiveness, strength, divine mercy, and grace. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus, I confess that I have misrepresented you and your Kingdom, and I am genuinely sorry. Please forgive me! I have heard your knock, and am opening the door wide. Please come in and teach me your new and living way. I come to be reconciled with you. I come to be washed clean. I’ve come to buy the gold you spoke about—the gold of your Kingdom; the riches of your grace! I want to wear your robes of righteousness. I want your heavenly eye salve so I can see spiritual things clearly and vividly. I want my relationship with you to come alive once again. I want to seek you with my whole heart. I want to love you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. I want to serve you with everything within me through the power of the Holy Spirit. I want to humbly, boldly, and accurately proclaim the good news. I want to dedicate myself to getting this message to every person on this planet. Thank you for hearing my prayer! Thank you for your cleansing! Thank you for renewing and reviving me! Thank you for knocking on the door of my heart! I pray all these things in Jesus name. Amen. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now, family of God, it’s time to press on with our hands to the plow. March forward! Resist the temptation to look back at past failures except to remind you not to plow that path again. He loves you and will take you into the future He has planned. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you as you follow Him, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Brian Mark Weller</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62891472020-04-21T11:35:14-04:002020-06-22T15:47:14-04:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - We Need Faith that Prevails! <p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/0b2d63ada9347dc3d5eb1d46fef7b57fabf0a3aa/original/we-need-faith-that-prevails-main.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />IN TIMES LIKE THESE - We Need Faith that Prevails! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Christian brothers and sisters, in times like these, we need faith that prevails. We need a faith that can find our rest and comfort in the arms of God. A complacent, halfhearted faith just won't do in times like these. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God's brand of faith walks through fiery trials with the heart of a heaven-strong, willful warrior. We must have that brand of faith! Not the kind that only flourishes when everything's "good" around us! With God's help, we can have it! He will definitely help us look past the confusion brought on by this present crisis and help us rest in the plan of God. After all, He is Emmanuel, God with us! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We must see that true God-sent faith breeds heavenly confidence in the hearts of His people. God made it that way! It's a faith that prevails, no matter what! </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">His Word teaches that through faith in Jesus Christ, we can stand through the toughest of times. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">His Word teaches us how to beat back even against the punches of pandemic and be victorious in Him. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">His Word teaches us to rise like vibrant, victorious, willful warriors bent on nothing but victory in the now and in the future. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">This brand of faith hits the fastball of fear out of the park every time it's thrown at them. A half-hearted faith can't and won't produce that type of result, and God wants that brand of faith to be active in us now. So forget about how we did in the past. These are different times, and God hasn't called us to be statue-warriors resting on the successes of the past. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Honestly, it's in times like these we see what brand of faith we really have inside us! Because it's easy to talk about "faith" when everything is good! Right? So from this day on, we need to be faith-walkers, not faith-talkers? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I've said this a lot recently, but I'll repeat it! God has seen His people through much worse things than this present pandemic, and a brief journey through church history will prove that, to the most scurrilous of skeptics. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let's face it, in recent years, Christians in the USA have had it very easy overall. We've lived in comfort with the freedom to worship God openly. We haven't experienced the persecution our brothers and sisters have faced in persecuted countries through the ongoing pandemic of anti-christian bias. Those dear saints of God have seen family members beaten and even beheaded for their faith. Some have experienced expulsion from careers, families, and even their hometowns because of their association with Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let's be honest a little pushback on social media over a biblical quote would not be considered persecution by those Christians. Neither would it be by those first-century Christians who were mercilessly marched into the Roman Coliseum and eaten by wild beasts. Or compared to Blandina, the 17-year-old Christian slave girl who was martyred. This girl Blandina was finally killed after surviving being thrown to a wild bull in a net and being tossed around for sport. She was martyred after surviving being made to sit in a red hot iron chair for not renouncing her faith in Jesus Christ. That happened during the first-century persecutions against Christians. That is a faith that prevails! Do we have it? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Can you imagine telling our stories of persecution to those early Christian martyrs or even modern-day ones? There we are dramatizing how bad it was for us when they shut down our drive-in church service? Here again, let me clarify that I am not saying we shouldn't stand up against having those drive-in services being shutdown. But let's be honest, that's child's play compared to what many of our brothers and sisters are experiencing even now in other places around the world. Most reading this have never faced persecution like that. I haven't! Have you? If you have, feel free to comment and help build in me and us a faith that prevails. We all need it! I know I need it, and I want it! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/8176dfd286d62e26cfef8ec8df126dd40d963ebe/original/hebrews-11-6-but-without-faith-it-is-impossible-to-please-him-for-he-who-comes-to-god-must-believe-that-he-is-and-that-he-is-a-rewarder-of-those-who-diligently-seek-him.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />What I'm saying is this, Christians need to toughen up more than just a little! We need to grow in our faith in Jesus Christ so we can withstand what they withstood if and when that becomes necessary. I know God will give us a very special grace when that happens if we're prepared to receive it. So let's get ready. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Are we ready to do that in our present spiritual condition? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Are we living with a baby-wipe brand of faith; or with a whimsical-warrior brand of faith? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Are we living with a defeated victim mentality type of faith; or with the faith that prevails? </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">The measure of faith God gives us is the heavenly brand that prevails. It's the kind of faith that helps us see past problems to the comforting and victorious voice of God. God's brand of faith doesn't tell us to hide until the coast is clear! It tells us to stand and be counted! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Here's some excellent advice from the Apostle Paul that all of us should take to heart. "Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one." (Ephesians 6:13-16 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Any other brand of faith than this is what I call fruit-loops faith. It tastes good, looks good, but has no spiritually nutritional value to it. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">I don't want to hide and just try to feel good, do you? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">I don't want to spend these days just trying to get God's peace and hope! Do you? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">I want to have the brand of faith that gives. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">I believe you'll agree with me that the kind of faith we want is the kind that finds a need and meets it. Right? We want and need the brand of faith that looks beyond our needs, to the needs of others. The kind of faith Jesus had! Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">True disciples and followers of Jesus want to hear God's voice loud and clear. We don't want to miss out on God speaking prophetically to His people during this hour of crisis. God is speaking, and the seekers are hearing God's words of encouragement, exhortation, and comfort. The reality is, when God speaks, we get energized and want to walk out what we're hearing and seeing. Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Paul said, "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." (Romans 10:17 NKJV) Jesus gave us that example to follow in John 15:19. He said, "Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner." Jesus saw what the Father wanted to be done! Jesus heard and saw God's directives. If we take time to listen, we will too! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Faith that prevails looks and lives with expectations! Faith that prevails longs to hear God's voice and do what God wants to do! The truth is God always does greater things through those who believe! Jesus said, "So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you." (Luke 11:9 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Notice, Jesus didn't say: it might be given to you, you might find, or it might be opened to you. He said it will be! That's very clear and simple, right? If I focus solely and negatively on what's going on around me, my prayers are going to be diminished, my fearless faith will become somewhat faith-less. Let me say, I do keep up with what's going on so I can pray accurately and precisely as I go forward. Certainly not to be overwhelmed with fear, doubt, and anxiety! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If I perpetually launch my thinking in a downward angle towards impossibilities, my faith will be weak and futile, not faith that prevails. On the other hand, if I propel the thoughts of my mind and the meditations of my heart upward to God, into His Word and the promises He gave, I will have a faith that prevails. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As I said before, living this way won't change everything around me. John 16:33 (ESV) is a promise too, "In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world." However, it does change my perspective on what's going on around me. The faith that prevails helps me see myself as victorious with God in Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Faith that prevails opens my eyes to seek God's Kingdom for what it is, not what others say it isn't. And that helps release God's Holy Spirit power in me. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Faith that prevails assists me in looking at the future with the heart of a full-blown optimist and not a blown-up pessimist. Pessimistic people like to obliterate the faith in others. They take every opportunity to blast their faithless streams of not so living water on the fiery-faith of those around them. Faith-less, pessimistic people are nearly always ready to tear your words of faith apart with their ballistic missiles of doubt and unbelief. Fortunately, their words are no match for the power of God's Word or for the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Jesus Christ. Their words drop like flies when they hit the shield of faith that protects our soul! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Take a few minutes and read the great faith chapter in Hebrews 11 for further verification of this. Every follower of God mentioned in this chapter had the faith that prevails intertwined with an eternal trust in God. It was set like concrete in their hearts and could not be broken even with the sledgehammer of persecution. It was so much a part of them that not even the worst torture could not wrestle it away from them. Read it for yourself! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Here is part of it, "Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection. Still, others had trial of mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword. They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented” of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, in dens and caves of the earth." (Hebrews 11:35-38 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now, what's it going to be for you and me? </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Will we walk through this crisis and beyond, contemplating what could've been if this didn't happen? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Will we be people overflowing with the faith that prevails looking into the future with a heart of hope and dependency on God? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Will we see this birth pang in history as an opportunity to cataclysmically change the spiritual lives of people around us? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Will we see it as a chance to give hope during a crisis? </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">* Or will we see it as an opportunity to also share the hope and promise of eternal life found in Jesus Christ? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We all have to admit that when things are comfortable and going well in society, the sincere faith-filled person is not as necessary as they are in times of crisis. In times like these, they stand as God's Warriors! They beat down the attacks of the enemy and cut to pieces the words of the naysayers saying as Jesus said, "O you of little faith" (Matthew 6:30 NKJV). </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In times like these, we need to hear from these legendary warriors of purified faith. They've gone through many fiery trials in the past and remain standing strong to encourage others to do the same! Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Stop and listen to those voices as they echo the Word of God amid the battle saying, "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." (Romans 8:37 ESV). </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The Christians Paul was writing about here were and are battle-tested spiritual conquerors! They don't pretend there's no battle going on, and they don't hide from the battle! Instead, they see through the eyes of their all-conquering King Jesus, and they press on to defeat the enemies of their souls. They see problems as something to be conquered through the power of God and the promises He made. Their song is "Onward Christian soldiers, marching as to war. With the cross of Jesus, going on before." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So look to your King, Jesus, seated in heavenly splendor, on His glorious throne of grace! Look to your God, who created everything with His words. Begin to thank and praise Him that He will see you through. Praise him for His faithfulness! Let His faith, His confidence rise up inside you! Can you feel it! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If faithless people laugh at the Godly spirit and confidence residing inside you, who cares? God is greater than people! God is greater than wicked politicians! God is greater than pandemics! So why should the followers of Jesus Christ spend more time thinking about the evil in the world than the greatness of our God? Great people overcome evil with good. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Now is the time for the people of faith to rise up in the faith. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Now is the time to be His luminous light in a world that's retreating in fear and darkness. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Now is the time to be the church that Jesus said gates of hell would not prevail against. Right? </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">In ending, let me say this exact type of crisis and the way it's happening has never happened before in history. It indeed has not occurred before in this digital age of information and communication. In the midst of this, I praise God He has put in place many tools to preach the gospel through the Internet. We can declare the gospel on websites, blogs, youtube, online radio, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, texts, and more. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God's people must embrace the faith that prevails through Jesus Christ and use these tools to proclaim His message of salvation. We must use these tools to inspire people to look to Jesus Christ for help, encouraging people to call on God and ask for mercy. If we don't, possibly one day, we'll look back at the Judgement Seat of Christ and gasp at our lost opportunities to fulfill God's Great Commission. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">A time like this will never again be repeated in history. Every calamity, every pandemic, is different, and with it comes various opportunities for the people of God. Let's take this opportunity seriously and "Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might." as Paul said in Ephesians 6:10 (NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Be a faith warrior and walk in the faith that prevails! Lean on God and His pillars of faith, hope, and love. Lean heavily on the delivering power of the Holy Spirit. But most of all, lean on Jesus Christ, your Saviour, Lord, and King! Remember, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever." (Hebrews 13:8 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you as you follow him in Jesus name, Brian Mark Weller</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62864432020-04-18T12:20:03-04:002020-06-22T15:20:38-04:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - Surrender! <p><span class="font_large">Surrender! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/d0ac7a4042feb44d549c9e36198e2577dfe17952/original/surrender.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /><br>You probably saw that headline above and thought, "What's going on with Brian! He's been encouraging us to press on in faith and victory, and now he's advising us to surrender!" Let me explain what I mean by surrender. I "ll use some words from the Apostle James to launch into this theme. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded." (James 4:7-8 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">This word submit comes from the Greek word hypotassō. It means to be under obedience, to be obedient, to be in subjection, to be under authority, to submit. It other words, surrender to God's authority! Please keep that in mind as we go forward. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I've noticed that many during this pandemic are dwelling on how life won't be the same again. Conversations include how different things are now and wondering if they will ever return to "normal" in the future. A question resonates throughout the land, "What will the new "normal" be?" I think we could safely say, at least for the near future, what was once considered "normal" will be no more. Most have at least temporarily surrendered to that. Do you agree? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Spiritual speaking, I'm hoping things most definitely don't return to what we considered "normal" before. Let me clarify what I mean! Before this pandemic, most people were at rest economically. The economy was going full steam ahead like a freight train, and it seemed unstoppable! The store shelves were full, and except for the political shenanigans going on, our nation was at rest, and life was good for most in a natural sense! But how were things going spiritually? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">What was "normal" for most Christians during that time? Let me give you some personal perceptions. First, Christians didn't pray all that much. Many prayer closets were eerily empty, and prayer meetings at churches were sparsely attended. They could have continued those during the quarantine because so few attended anyways! You could have put these prayer warriors six feet apart and still have ample room in the building. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Also, many Bible-believing Christians didn't read the Bible much before. And this lessened their ability to walk by faith and not by sight. By the way, how can you be a Bible-believing Christian if you don't read the Bible? I've heard that people have been buying Bibles at a historic rate. That's a good sign of change! Hopefully, they read them! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Many didn't listen to preaching much except on Sundays, maybe! Few had an interest in world missions and sharing the gospel. Plus, many churches had cut their church service times down by 30 to 45 minutes over the last ten or so years. They did this to cater to those who couldn't sit that long, even with their comfy cushions. I ask you, is that a sign of spiritual maturity or immaturity? I hope you answered that question correctly by God's standard! Maybe, we need to get off our butts and get on our knees to change that! Do you agree? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Think about it! People could surrender their time to sit joyfully through a three-hour football game, sports event, play, or two-hour movie but not a two-hour worship service. That's spiritually wimpy, in my humble opinion. How about you? That's not the way of the Way Maker, Jesus Christ! My friends that's not supposed to be the "normal" Christian life for a God-fearing, New Testament church. Am I right? If you agree, then let's begin to surrender! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Before this pandemic, "normal" to many Christians was average, routine, or even lukewarm. Hopefully, that will be no more! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Christian brothers and sisters, we've entered a time where our dependency on God is more important than ever before. I praise God, that many have surrendered to that notion and have begun looking to God's Word for answers. Many have embraced Psalm 91 as a great starting place, but don't let it stop there. Read on through the multitude of God's commands and promises found in His Word, the Bible. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Christians, Jesus said of us, "They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world." (John 17:16 NKJV). That's a fantastic statement Jesus made about His present and future followers! So let's not surrender to the world and its wearisome ways, but rather to God and His magnificent ways! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">When we surrender our old way of life to God, He breathes new life into our spiritually dry bones. He takes us from "normal" to supernatural. He gives us heavenly revelations that help us adapt to the "new." The new is actually getting back to the "old," which is the original New Testament pattern for His people and His church. The Holy Spirit helps us surrender our wills to His will and releases in us the vision and power to live it out regardless of our circumstances. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I encourage every believer, including me, to surrender to God amid this pandemic. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Surrender to the possibility that God can do greater things in you and for you and your family than ever before. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Surrender, to the possibility that God can grow more fruit in and through you now than he did before. This is especially important for pastors and leaders. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Surrender your fears to the Lord and watch Him replace them with faith and courage. That's the work of the Holy Spirit! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Surrender your anxieties to the peace of God and the hope found in His promises. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Surrender now and watch what God will do in us and through us. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Remember, surrender is not praying a half-hearted, lukewarm prayer during television commercials, novel reading, or scanning social media feeds. Come on, take an hour, two, or more in God's presence! Don't try to live off quick spiritual charges of your faith, as we do with cell phones to get us through the next few hours. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I'm talking about true surrender and showing God that we're really serious about this. Displaying to God that we don't want "normal" anymore. Instead, we want total surrender! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As we do this, let's be reminded that throughout history, God has done some of His most significant work during the worst of times. God's great things happen when the people of God pray, surrender to His will, and call on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Throughout time God has made beautiful things from nothing. He displayed that from the very start when He created Adam from the dust of the earth, and when Jesus healed the blind man with a little bit of dirt mixed with spit. Don't forget when He fed the 5000 with a few fish and loaves of bread. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I encourage you to: <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/17598080293f75100f80588f2d2e882479095239/original/therefore-submit-to-god-resist-the-devil-and-he-will-flee-from-you-draw-near-to-god-and-he-will-draw-near-to-you.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /></span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Go now and convene a quiet time with the Lord. Turn off the distractions and go! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Go, surrender your disappointments, fears, burdens, and your hopes and dreams too! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Go, listen to the voice of your King Jesus, declare the mysteries of heaven to you through the Holy Spirit. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Go, listen as He reveals the truths in His Word, the Bible. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Go now, surrender faithless thoughts and receive God's faith-filled inspiration as He reveals a fuller understanding of His greatness to you. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">After a quiet time with the Lord, I want to ask a question. What will your new "normal" be? </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">I believe you would tell me, "God has not called me to be "normal" but to be supernatural." </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">I think you would say to me, "God has called me to live above the rising tides of doubt and confusion." </span></li> <li>
<span class="font_large">I believe you would say, the Lord told me to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, </span><span class="font_large">And He shall direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV) </span>
</li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Let's pray now and verbalize to God our desire for His supernatural to be the "normal" in our lives. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">It's going to take some dedication and time to do this because to walk in the fullness of God's true grace, it takes a supernatural spiritual grit! Praise God, He will supply that through His amazing love and grace. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let's pray: <br>Father God, I come to you in the mighty name of Jesus. I come waving the white flag of surrender, and I bow my knees to you, O God, my Lord. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I come in humility and homage to your greatness. You are a great God, and I am yours. You bought me with the blood of Jesus, and I am not my own. I belong to you! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I come to surrender to you, plus your plans and purposes for my life. I have counted the cost and long to be your disciple. I want to be your reflection to the world around me. Forgive me for disregarding you in my decision making. Forgive me for ignoring you with my time. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As I go forward, I commit myself to know you and making you known to those around me and around the world. Let your purpose be my purpose. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I love you, Lord, and thank you for hearing me, forgiving me, restoring me, and reviving me. I am so grateful for your grace and mercy. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now children of God, let's go forward in total victory in the power of the Holy Spirit! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you, Brian </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's." (1 Corinthians 6:20 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">https://brianmarkweller.com/blog/blog/in-times-like-these-surrender</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62808362020-04-13T09:33:58-04:002020-06-22T15:36:09-04:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - Visit a Spiritual Rest Area!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/fd729fceded0c6c950ac2a26f6a8793161094c3c/original/my-post-main.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />In times like these, many people are incredibly eager for information regarding this virus. Unfortunately, in our effort to be informed and updated, we have been inundated and overwhelmed. We need some rest from all that!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. <br>Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken." (Psalm 62:5-6 NIV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As Christians, we know that all spiritual rest flows through the grace given to us in Jesus Christ and through the power of the Holy Spirit. If you have received that rest in Jesus Christ for salvation, there is a deep spiritual rest available to you. You can read about that in Hebrews 4:1-10. It is far above and beyond anything a non-believer can ever receive until they receive God's gift of salvation found only in Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">With that in mind, I want to encourage you to take a day, today, or tomorrow and fast from the news. Take a rest from consuming information if that's what you've been doing. Include in that rest, a one day fast from social media. Yes, you can do it, we can do it! Take one day focused on nothing but our God, His Words in the Bible, on praying, on praise and worship, and casting your cares before the Lord. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We can do this even if we're on the job! How? During our breaks, instead of checking social media updates, we can read God's word from the bible app on our phone, listen to worship music, pray, and thank God. We can meditate on God's promises throughout the day. We can "Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Here's a short story I'll use to illustrate God's rest. Last year my wife Anne and I took a trip out west to Arizona. It was a wonderful trip exploring the Grand Canyon and the Red Rocks of Sedona. There are so many beautiful sites to see there! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">At the end of the trip, we were driving down the highway speedily toward Phoenix to return home. I intended to stop briefly at a highway rest area and quickly resume our journey. While waiting for Anne, I walked behind the building and saw a stunningly beautiful mountain range in the distance. Leading up to the mountains was this incredibly peaceful looking valley. I began to take pictures trying to capture the beauty of it with the sun setting behind it. I took photos from various angles and every angle of those mountains with the valley before it was so serene and beautiful. One of the photographs is on the cover of my new worship music EP called Quiet Times. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/4612dee9a9ab9a6ef1894e546aa57bd21f64e7f3/original/b9029064-6180-4100-ae4c-49e66555c6c8.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Now, remember we had just been to the Grand Canyon and seen some of the most incredible sights in the world. We could have left there thinking we've seen all we needed to see, but then at the most unexpected place, a highway rest area, we saw more! That's how life is. God has beautiful things all around us, but we have to stop at the spiritual rest areas of life to enjoy the sites and His revelations. Moments when we take breaks from the physical realities around us and enter a time of heavenly rest with our God. Times when we get off the high-speed highway of information, mind-boggling thought and activity, and rest in the Lord! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In those moments, God allows us to see His magnificence and the beauty of His creation. He can show us these things even as we look out the windows of our cars, homes, apartments, or workplaces. We don't have to travel somewhere else, to another city, state or nation. Just take a moment right now and look at the leaves blowing in the wind, the fluffy white clouds gliding by in peaceful procession, or listen to the birds chirping in the distance. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If you're reading this at night, take a few moments and look up at the moon and the stars in the sky and remember your God created them with His words when He said,<span class="font_large"> </span>"Let there be light," and there was light." (Genesis 1:3 NKJV)</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As we enter these special moments of spiritual rest, we will see farther than that. God will awaken in us the beauty of His holiness, His Heavenly rest, and perpetual peace in our hearts. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In ending, let me suggest we all go to that spiritual rest area right now! Don't wait until later! If you do, later may not be soon enough as you kick the "rest can" down the road. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">That beautiful spiritual destination in the presence of God is available with Him now! Don't live, hoping it will come one day in the future. The future is now if you will take it! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So take a break, a quiet time in the presence of the Lord, and let God's peace find a place in your heart. Let God's love, hope, and joy fill you to overflow as you gaze at the beauty of the Lord. "Yes, my soul, find rest in God." (Psalm 62:5 NIV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you and may He fill your heart with His heavenly rest, Brian</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62783932020-04-10T08:57:41-04:002020-10-11T17:04:22-04:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - Stretch Out Your Hand! <p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/93e389675fb29d0273cdadd8424e9f0799ad5c58/original/stretch-out-your-hand-main.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_" />As I walked into my quiet time area this morning, I heard the Holy Spirit say, "Stretch out your hand." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">He immediately reminded me of the time Jesus made that statement. The story is in Matthew 12:9-13. This brief story starts in verses 9 and 10, "Jesus entered their synagogue, and a man with a withered hand was there." In verse 13, Jesus said to that man, "Stretch out your hand." So he stretched it out, and it was restored to full use, just like the other." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Do you wonder what would've happened if that man didn't take a step of childlike faith and stretch out his hand to Jesus? Would he have walked away in the same condition that he walked in? Would he have missed out on an opportunity of a lifetime to have full use of his hand again? The good news is he did stretch out his hand, and God honored his simple childlike faith to respond to Jesus' command. He will honor your childlike faith too! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus is saying to us today, "stretch out your hand." Reach out and receive what you need from the throne of His grace! The man in this story needed healing, but what is your need today? Is it healing, or finances, or something else? Is it the restoration of an estranged family member. </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large">Whatever it is right now, do what I just did. Stretch out your hand to God. Stretch out your hand to your Father, in<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/8fba7f8283bbb2b1bc1ba6f7865983ddf921c161/original/stretch-out-your-hand.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /> the name of Jesus Christ. Do it in faith! He will respond to you. God answers prayers! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God is your provider, your healer, and your help in time of need! He is Jehovah Jireh! Paul said this! "And my God will supply EVERY NEED OF YOURS according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19 ESV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus said this! "And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith." (Matthew 21:22 ESV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In times like these, the temptation for many is to look first to their government for help. I'm not saying it's wrong to take that help; what I am saying is this! God, first and foremost, always wants us to look to him for help. So stretch out your hand in humility and childlike faith. God will meet you where you are! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now, perhaps you're reading this, and you don't have any immediate needs. Praise God, He has already provided all that you need! If that's the case, let me present this to you. As others stretch out their hands to the Lord in needful prayer, God simultaneously calls His people to go as ambassadors to meet needs. Sometimes in the case of healing, God meets needs directly, with other things He quite often uses people. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Some Christians have been blessed with an overabundance of provision. Praise God for that! If that's you, God wants you to share that provision with those he directs you to. Perhaps it's a person or family in desperate need. Maybe it's a church or ministry that helps people in need, and you can help others through them. As the Holy Spirit leads, stretch out your hand to those He directs you to. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you today as you stretch out your hand, Brian</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62760112020-04-08T11:02:07-04:002020-06-22T16:04:59-04:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - Triumph in Christ!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/97c0f8cd367f2a9fedcbbb82b3862b1847ac6bb3/original/2-corinthians-2-14-now-thanks-be-to-god-who-always-leads-us-in-triumph-in-christ-copy-2.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />"Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place." (2 Corinthians 2:14 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">This verse encapsulates what God wants to do in us and through us in times like these. According to the Apostle Paul, God "always leads us in triumph in Christ." If I'm reading this correctly, our routine is supposed to be "Victory in Jesus, our Savior forever" as the old hymn proclaims. Our "normal" is supposed to be God diffusing the fragrance of His knowledge and love to us and everyone we encounter, anywhere. That's what this verse says, Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now I'll admit I tend to be a pretty positive and optimistic person, but this does seem extremely plain to me. Does it to you? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now let's examine how Christians, the disciples of Jesus Christ, the Church of Jesus Christ, are called to be during a pandemic type situation and always. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">When this pandemic first hit, the first questions that surged through many Christian's minds were: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">How is this going to affect my immediate and extended family? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">How will it affect my close friends? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">How will it affect me physically and financially? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">How will it affect my job? </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Then as faithful followers of Jesus Christ, we came to our senses and started praying triumphantly! We started remembering the times our God had gotten us through difficult times. Mentally we replayed the great stories of deliverance we'd recently read in the Bible. Those very same historic and heavenly headlines flashed through our minds like a Times Square billboard in the dark of night! </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">"Moses Parts Red Sea, Israelites Walk Through!" </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">"Walls of Jericho Shattered with Shouts of Praise!" </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">"David Topples Giant Goliath With Slingshot!" </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">"Jesus Prays, Lazarus Raised!" </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">"With Mud Salve, Jesus Makes Blind Man See!" </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">"Tomb's Empty, Body's Missing, Jesus Rises from the Dead!" </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">and the list goes on and on and on! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Then, possibly demonic doubts chased us down like a master thief focused on stealing our triumph, courage, boldness, and Godly confidence. Those fiery demonic darts come at us with the fury of a phantom. That spirit of fear, whether satanic or our own thoughts, said with the assertiveness of a sinister salesman: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">"But it's different this time." </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">"This is affecting the whole world!" </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">"There's no way this won't affect you in terrible ways!" </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">"What can your God do to help you now?" </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">"How are you going to triumph in this?" </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Possibly, a spiritual microbe of fear and anxiety wiggled its way into our minds, through our hearing, and suddenly, we were infected with the vicious virus of defeatism. But then, the answer arrived like a wave of lightning flashes, and God arose on the scene like the champion He is! Along with Him came faith and its faithful partner, the Word of God, which is the sword of the Spirit! Valiantly the Word of faith rose up inside us like a God-sized geyser getting ready to blow! Then with the anointing of God and the recollection power of the Holy Spirit, we proclaimed the Word of God to that fear, doubt, and unbelief! Then suddenly but very expectantly, it vanished away like a vapor. Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I know my description sounds overly dramatic, but to be honest, that's how it's supposed to be. Precisely, maybe that's what happened to some of God's people! According to Romans 8:37, "In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." That's our spiritual heritage through the saving grace of Jesus Christ. That's our heritage as children of God. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Paul wrote in Romans 8:17 NIV, "Now if we are children, then we are heirs--heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory." Victory even in suffering times, that's the promise, so "we may also share in His glory"! Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Unfortunately, many fall prey to the pessimistic vultures of fear and calamity, instead of mounting up with wings like eagles as described in Isaiah 40:31 (NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"But those who wait on the Lord, Shall renew their strength; </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">They shall walk and not faint." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We can never forget that despite the circumstances around us, we're walking behind the Lion of the Tribe of Judah! Jesus Christ the Prince of Peace, the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, the Lord of Lords and King of Kings. Revelation 5:5 says, "Stop weeping; behold, the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome so as to open the book and its seven seals." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus is the victor, and we are with Him! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now, let's go back to the word triumph in 2 Corinthians 2:14. Triumph is translated from the Greek Word θριαμβεύω thriambeuō. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">It also means to celebrate the triumph. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">It means celebrating the victory already won. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">It means He causes and leads us into triumph. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">The Holy Spirit leads us into a fuller understanding of what Jesus triumph on the cross means to every disciple. 2 Corinthians 2:14 is a powerful promise that needs to become our spiritual reality, but how can that happen? </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_xl"><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/7e1d16de225163548d23ce9319502e26ccf85eb5/original/2-corinthians-2-14-now-thanks-be-to-god-who-always-leads-us-in-triumph-in-christ.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />An Exhortation</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">How can that happen? The solution is simple enough for a child to understand. God made it that way, so any of us can receive it. Jesus said this in Luke 18:17 (ESV), "Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So regardless of the spiritual level of your life at this time, Paul writes: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15 NKJV). God wants you to grow in the knowledge and understanding of His Word. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The question is: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Do you want to walk in the triumph we read about today? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Do you want to walk in the victory Jesus already paid for on the cross at Calvary? </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">If you do, take time to study God's Word. Take time to meditate on God's Word. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">You'll need to go beyond a five minutes a day Bible reading plan. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">You'll need to go deeper than a ten minute prayer time, and sending half-hearted requests to the throne of grace. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">God is looking for prayers of faith! He is looking for men and women of faith. He can transform us into one if we ask Him and dedicate ourselves to that purpose. There is so much more for us all to discover! Believe it, and seek it out! God rewards seekers! He promises they will find! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you." (Matthew 7:7 NKJV) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In closing, if you truly want God's spiritual power flowing through you like a dynamo? You'll need to plug into God's Holy Spirit power source and sit in His presence. If you distract easily, you may need to take the clock off the wall, take the watch off and turn the phone off. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In times like these, we have to train as soldiers of Jesus Christ to walk in the triumph! If we don't, we won't experience the kind of victory we've talked about today. That my brothers and sisters would be a terrible waste of an already provided promise from God. Right? It would be a shame to have victory in our grasp and not take it, all because of some minor and unimportant distractions! Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If you haven't done so today, get up now, go to your quiet place and meet with God. He's been patiently waiting for you! He loves you and wants to bless you with His triumphant power! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">May God bless you triumphantly, Brian Mark Weller</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62735792020-04-06T15:40:45-04:002020-04-06T15:40:45-04:00Are We Snoozing God's Alarm?<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/5fa8f1871a383e5bdd937e715377ddafa4292c4a/original/are-we-snoozing-gods-alarm.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />During this pandemic, I’ve written much about God’s hope, joy, and peace. Today, the Holy Spirit has directed me differently. I pray this article will stir revival in your heart and the hearts of God’s people. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Someone once said, “The Christian life is less about our comfort and more about our contribution.” God wants our lives to be a contribution to the fulfillment of His plan on planet Earth. To do that, we must be aware and awake. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In this crisis, the Holy Spirit is calling His people to wake up. We can’t hit the snooze button on His heavenly alarm. In Ephesians 5:14, the Apostle Paul wrote, “Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light” (NKJV). I want to apply this verse to both our natural and spiritual lives, because they are both intertwined. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let’s start with the natural. There are three types of morning people: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Those who wake up automatically without an alarm clock. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Those who set an alarm clock and get up right away. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Those who set an alarm clock and proceed to hit the snooze button once or many times before finally getting up. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">I have lived all three ways at different times in my life. At this time, which most reflects you in a natural sense? What about spiritually? How long does it take for God to wake you up? Answer this question honestly. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_xl"><strong>Slumbering in the Spirit </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God is calling His people to live life fully awake. Unfortunately, many Christians still slumber away in a deep spiritual sleep—nodded off because of physical laziness, spiritual laziness, or both. They live unaware of God’s purpose to transform and use them. Why? Because they keep hitting the snooze button on God’s alarm—and in doing so, they’ve put a giant pause on their relationship with God! They’ve advanced no farther than they had 1, 5, or 10 years ago. Stuck in the ditch of dormancy, many sleep on unaware because many in their “Christian” social circle live at the same mediocre level of discipleship. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">These Christians are snoozing through God’s plan and don’t even seem to know it. God has sent them divine appointments—“good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10 ESV). But those heavenly opportunities fly by at breakneck speed totally unnoticed and unused. How about us? Are we walking out God’s divine appointments? If not, what will we do to change that? If we want to advance, we need to get fully awake, aware, and alert! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_xl"><strong>God’s Alarm Clock</strong> </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In Ephesians 5:14, Paul said, ”Awake, you who sleep, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light” (NKJV). The Greek word here translated awake comes from egeirō (ἐγείρω), which means “to awake figuratively, from obscurity, inactivity, ruins, nonexistence): — to awake, lift (up), raise (again, up), rear up, (a-)rise (again, up), stand, take up” (Strong’s Concordance). </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If we’ve silenced God’s alarm and wake-up call, we need to egeirō. We need to awake, lift up, rise up, rise again, arise, and stand! We need to wake up out of inactivity, ruin, and obscurity! These are powerful words that demand action on our part. Are you ready for that type of response to Paul’s admonition? The results will be life-altering! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_xl"><strong>We’ve Confused the Call </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Sometimes we ask God to do things that He wants us to do. Yes, there are things God wants us to do to jolt ourselves out of spiritual slumber. If we’ve fallen prey to the lackadaisical landmines of apathy, we must change how we pray. We need to put aside prayers like, “God, if you want me to serve you, give me a servant’s heart.” No, the word of God already demands that His disciples develop a heart for service. If we love God, we will serve God and do what He says. Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commands.” (John 14:15). That’s clear, plain, and direct. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Consider a few more examples: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Jesus already commanded us to preach His word in Mark 16:15. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Jesus already instructed us to take up our cross daily and follow Him in Luke 9:23. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Jesus already urged us to be generous in Luke 6:38. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Jesus already told us to forgive in Luke 6:37. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Jesus already said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength” (Mark 12:30). </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">I could go on and on, but more biblical examples are probably already coming to you. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Remember, Paul, charges us — ”Awake, you who sleep” (Ephesians 5:14 NKJV). He never instructed us to ask God to wake us up; rather, he called us to wake ourselves up! Plain and simple, God has provided the alarm, and we need to respond to it. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Of course, we’re going to need God’s help. Without His saving grace and power, we’ll never thrive spiritually. Without the power of the Holy Spirit, we’re mere spiritual imps in a world of giant obstacles. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">At the same time, we must remember that the Holy Spirit has already come to live in us, enduing us with power. The Apostle Peter wrote about the effect of that power in us with some very potent words, reminding us of our inheritance in Jesus Christ: “His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue” (2 Peter 1:3 NKJV). God has already provided the needed power through the Holy Spirit. We can tap into His power at any time. But first, we need to wake up from our spiritual slumber. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_xl"><strong>The Faithful Few </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I praise God for the many Christians who are living life wide awake. You’re a witness and an example of Paul’s promise to the wakeful Christian: “Christ will give you light!” (Ephesians 5:14 NKJV). Keep your passion for God hot. Keep your light shining profusely bright. We need your witness to continue to inspire other believers in the ways of God. Thank you for counting the cost and living life in the presence of the Lord and reflecting His glorious light. Thank you for dwelling on the Word of God and sharing His message of hope. We need you to continue in that narrow way, shining Jesus’ example to us all. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_xl"><strong>Asleep in the Light </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The on-fire few are not my concern in times like these. Right now, I’m most concerned about a group Leonard Ravenhill and Keith Green warned about decades ago—Christians who are asleep in the light. Right now, many Christians are walking through life half asleep, lukewarm in their faith. They sip on the Holy Spirit and occasionally snack on God’s Word while gorging themselves on social media and entertainment. That deeply concerns me. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Brothers and sisters, this is the wrong time to be ‘napping in the Spirit.’ Christian nappers don’t get up early enough to spend time with the Lord but stay up late binging on TV, Netflix, and the like. They scrape through the day, hoping God will bless them despite their meager pursuit of God. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">These believers hope God will bless them regardless of their chosen spiritual state. Yes—their chosen spiritual state! God didn’t choose that for any of His people. Jesus promised an abundant spiritual life in John 10:10. But the devil came to kill, steal, and destroy. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Those believers will never truly lead in God’s kingdom. They can’t, because they consistently hit their spiritual snooze buttons. They don’t seem to care what God wants to say to them. They have little spiritual appetite — they feel satisfied with their Pastor’s 45-minute message online last Sunday. They don’t have time to worship God, read the Bible, or pray because, well, you know—just because! They know there is no acceptable excuse, so many don’t even make one anymore. It’s spiritual slumber, plain and simple. Unfortunately, it’s to their detriment. Since they don’t take quiet times with God, they walk in fear, doubt, and unbelief. Walking by faith is no longer their goal or reality. Perhaps they experienced that faith for years, but now it’s dissolving as rapidly as ice in the scorching sun. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_xl"><strong>Good News for Sleepy Servants </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now for some good news! After all, that’s what “gospel” means. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">He Did I just describe your life—even in part? God wants you to know that can wipe it all away in His presence. He’s calling you to precious moments at His side; a season of awakening with your Heavenly Father and your Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. He’s calling you: “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters” (Isaiah 55:1 NIV).Are you ready to wake up and walk in the light of the Lord? Are you tired of living a spiritually apathetic life? Are you weary of living life devoid of God’s presence? Are you ready to wake up and experience God’s divine appointments daily? Are you ready to dive into the depths of the knowledge of God, as revealed by the Holy Spirit? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God is ready to receive, renew you, revive you, embrace you, and shine His light on you. God is ready to renew you! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Commit to wake up now! There is no better time. Pray with me. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Heavenly Father, I come to you in the name of Jesus. I come humbly trusting in your love, grace, and mercy. I believe in your promise to forgive, renew, revive, and restore. I come to you in brokenness and humility like the prodigal son returning to his father. I’ve been just like him; in many ways, I’ve followed the world. I’ve fallen asleep to your goodness and grace. I’ve walked away from your ways, God. I am truly sorry, and I repent of my sin. Hear my prayer, O God! I pray as David the Psalmist prayed, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Your generous Spirit. Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, And sinners shall be converted to You.” (Psalm 51:10-13) Thank you for hearing my prayer, O God. Thank you for sounding this life-changing alarm. I love you and will walk with you in holiness by your grace, power, and love. Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_xl"><strong>A Final Word of Encouragement </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Did you just refresh your commitment to the Lord? Then it’s time to go forward by faith. You’ve heard the call of God to awake, and God heard your prayer of confession and repentance. Now, remember Jesus’ warning: “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62 NIV). Put your hand to God’s servant plow and go forward; don’t look back and get distracted again. He will lead you and guide you. Don’t look back on your sins of commission and omission—except to remind you to stay awake and to not fall asleep spiritually again! God will bless you as you seek His Kingdom first (Matthew 6:33).</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62715932020-04-04T09:27:53-04:002020-12-04T09:19:13-05:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - Walk by Faith!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/48a98bb1fbe9857cf3a98e1b504299efe134346f/original/walk-by-faith.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />IN TIMES LIKE THESE - Walk by Faith! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The word for today is faith, and the verse the Holy Spirit put on my heart is "For we walk by faith, not by sight." 2 Corinthians 5:7 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Before we talk about faith, I want to share a personal story and illustration of something I learned many years ago. Back in 1970, when I began to drive, I learned that if I wanted to go straight-ahead, I could not look at that yellow line in the middle of the road on my left or my right. I found out quickly that if I kept looking at that dividing line to stay between the lines on the road, I would always veer towards that line. And could not drive straight. Did that happen to you? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Faith is a lot like that. To walk by faith, we have to look forward and not look to the left or to the right. Except to enjoy the "scenery" in our walk with God or to see some potential hazards up ahead. Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In Hebrews 12:1-3 says: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">To walk by faith, we must: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Fix our eyes on Jesus Christ. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Fix our hearts on the love of our Heavenly Father. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Fix our listening ears on the Holy Spirit's message to us, not on the "lines" in the road of life. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">We must train ourselves to not use an abundance of time looking at the evil going on around us. To not invest lots of time looking at the fearful things! We don't and won't pretend they aren't there; we just won't focus the majority of our attention on them. The Holy Spirit will make us aware of the "danger, toil, and snares" ahead, but they can't be our primary focus. If they are, we will notice ourselves drifting from faith to fear. Instead, let's get determined to focus our attention on our God, knowing He will prepare us for what is ahead. That is walking by faith, not by sight! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/75515edf8af2ae3f9e405373355ba8a55bc2594a/original/for-we-walk-by-faith-not-by-sight-2-corinthians-5-7.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />We're told in Proverbs 4:27, "Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil." You see, when we start swerving into fear, doubt, and unbelief, we aren't turning our feet away from evil but rather driving right into it! It's like we're speeding towards a head-on collision with doubt and fear, and an emotional and spiritual collision that can be dangerous to our spiritual and mental health. Christian, I believe you would agree that anything that turns our hearts away from faith and trust in God, is not a good thing, to say the least. That's why Paul warned us in Romans 14:23, "For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let me end with this bit of advice. If, during this pandemic, you're spending so much time watching and listening to the news that you feel your joy and peace leaking out of you like a tire going flat then: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Turn off the TV news and just look at occasional updates. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Quit scanning Facebook and Twitter looking for the most recent Pandemic horror stories. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Enjoy time with your family </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Enjoy time talking with people in your home and not just on Facebook, Instagram, etc. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Enjoy time reading His word and things that inspire your faith instead of draining it from you. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Enjoy time listening to worship music and praising God. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Enjoy time talking to God in prayer. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Enjoy time catching up on things around the house you have wanted to get done for a long time. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Call someone that you know is alone and cheer them up. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">If you are alone and feeling lonely, call someone on the phone or through Facetime or Messenger. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Spend some time praying for those most hurt by this pandemic. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">There are just a few ideas of how we can better "walk by faith, not by sight." I pray they are helpful! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God's light is shining forth like a lighthouse in the distance on this "road" we are all traveling on. Be encouraged today and know that God is with us and will not leave us or forsake us. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Take a moment now to call on the name of Jesus! Be assured He is listening and ready to fill your spiritual tank with Heavenly blessings as we walk by faith! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you, Brian</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62704322020-04-03T10:09:22-04:002020-12-04T09:19:27-05:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - Listen!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/ff11d16bdbc3b59795df55778312672598c78304/original/look-up-3.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />We are living in very uncertain times, and it is ever so important that we listen to the still small voice of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will speak the words of encouragement, exhortation, and comfort that we need as we walk through these times. He will also speak words of direction and expectation. But we need to listen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"> Jesus said, "However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come." (John 16:13) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In this verse, Jesus tells his disciples about the coming of the Holy Spirit and describes plainly how the Holy Spirit will lead them into all truth. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">That truth includes the revelation of who Jesus Christ is. It includes the truth regarding the things Jesus said, and it includes leading us into the truth that sets us free. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God will give us: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">The truth that sets us free from overwhelming fear, anxiety, worry, doubt, and insecurities. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">The truth that sets us free to believe and trust in God. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">The truth that we are bought with the blood of Jesus Christ, and we are not our own and that we belong to God! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">The truth that God loves His children and, like any loving Father, speaks to His children and brings them encouragement, exhortation, and comfort. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">But we have to listen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The Holy Spirit does not speak on His own; He speaks what He hears. The Holy Spirit hears what the Father and the Lord Jesus are saying and relays that to us if we are listening. Are we listening? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If we aren't listening, we're missing out on hearing the Holy Spirit whisper God's sacred secrets direct from the throne of His grace. Jesus also said, "He will tell you things to come." (John 16:13). I want to hear those things from the heart of God, don't you? Don't you want to have some heavenly mysteries solved in your heart and mind? I do! But will we take the time to listen? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/c4f5865ffdd9f0796aa53f483d98ecefb23bb370/original/john-16-13-however-when-he-the-spirit-of-truth-has-come-he-will-guide-you-into-all-truth-for-he-will-not-speak-on-his-own-authority-but-whatever-he-hears-he-will-speak-and-he-will-tell-you-things-to-come.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />The truth is many of us are not very good listeners. Many of us are great talkers but terrible listeners! If that describes us in our personal relationships, then that is probably true in our prayer lives as well. In your prayer time, I am presuming you have one, are you just asking and asking but never listening? Is your prayer life consumed with many requests but no time to listen to God's answer, no time to hear God's warnings and God's leading? If that's the case, we need to learn to listen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In times like these many voices are speaking loudly and clamoring to get us to listen. Some of them are what we call talking heads, they just repeat what everyone else is saying. That is true of some Christian voices as well; in their effort to get listeners, they aren't taking the time to listen to what God is saying. It's easier to just repeat the talking points. Christians have talking points too! Just repeating Christian talking points will not have a significant impact on people's hearts. Do you agree? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In times like these, many people have a lot of free time on their hands. They spend a lot more time listening than they have in the past. What and who are they, are we, listening to? Are we seeking first to hear God's voice amidst all the noise? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The followers of Jesus Christ must be extremely focused on listening first and foremost to the voice of God. One way to tune into the voice of God is to read His Words in the Bible. Reading God's Word has a way of getting us refocused each and every day. It rescues us from the tailspin of racing thoughts and places us firmly in God's holy resting place in His presence. I can't tell you how many times when I am reading His Word that the voice of the Holy Spirit breaks through with some phenomenal heavenly thought, reminder, or revelation. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Things like this pandemic have happened many times throughout history. That means numerous lessons have been learned in the past that can help us in the present. And in the future. The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 10:11, "Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The Bible is God's instruction manual and has many examples for us to learn from. For instance, what was going through the minds and hearts of the Jewish people when plague after plague hit Egypt? There they were sitting in the middle of it all! God's plan was to deliver them, but many had some uncertainty in their hearts. How about you? Do you feel that uncertainty, or do you feel a flood of faith in your soul? God wants to fill us with faith, hope, and power in times like these, and He can! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The followers of Jesus have gone through things like this many times throughout history. Things like pandemic's don't weaken the gospel in society, they actually strengthen it. If God's people are listening to the still small voice of the Holy Spirit, God will give supernatural strength to face the situation at hand. That strength in the hearts and minds of God's people can be transferred through our life witness and testimony to the unbelievers around us who will listen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If the disciples of Jesus Christ have the right response to God's voice of deliverance, others will see the power of God resting upon us and find rest. How? </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">They will see the hope of God still strong inside of us while others are falling into fear. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">They will see the joy of God flowing through us when others are falling into despair. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">They will see a supernaturally strong peace in us while others are being overwhelmed with worry and anxiety. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">They will wonder how we can have courage in a time like this. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">That my Christian brothers and sisters is a witness of the gospel to those around us. They will begin to wonder, maybe Jesus is real! Perhaps what they believe is what I need! Perhaps they aren't just simple-minded foolish people, who are so weak they have to lean on the crutch of faith. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">There's an old song we used to sing back in the '70s during the height of the Jesus Movement called "Turn your eyes upon Jesus." Some of you will remember the following verse from that song. "Turn your eyes upon Jesus look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and grace." That's what we need to do right now! We need to turn our eyes upon Jesus and look full into His wonderful face! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We need that to become our reality, our way of living. We need to do it now! </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Let's turn our eyes upon Jesus! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Let's look into the heavenly realm where Jesus Christ rules and reigns as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Let's look into the face of God and not the face of fear. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Let's listen to the voice of God and not the voice of fear! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Let's do it right now! </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus said this in John 10:10, "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." The enemy of our souls, the Devil, has come to kill steal and destroy, but we don't have to let him! 1 John 3:8 says, "The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work." Good news, Jesus wins! Remember that in these times, Jesus won, and Jesus wins, always! Listen to the Good News of the gospel! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In times like these, the followers of Jesus are being led by the Holy Spirit back to God's reality. The reality that abundant life isn't about the measure of our earthly possessions and things. Jesus said, "For one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." Luke 12:15. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If we are listening to the Holy Spirit, we will: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Get back to biblical, God-fearing basics. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Get back to calling on the name of the Lord in prayer. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Get back to praising God throughout the day. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Get back to spending more time with the Lord. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Get back to the task of world evangelization. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Get back to where we should've been the whole time, focused on God and seeking his purposes of plans. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Get back to hope in God, and not living distracted lives, lost in materialistic and vain ventures. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">My friends, this pandemic will pass just like it has before in history. Will there be something else in the future? Yes, I'm sure there will be, but our faith in Jesus Christ can get through those too. We will need to listen to the Holy Spirit to guide us! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If this is one of the birth pains mentioned in Matthew 24:8, then there will be more in the future, and God will lead us through those too! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If this pandemic is a birth pain, then the Holy Spirit will be reminding us that after the birth pains come the birth. That birth will be a glorious moment! With the new birth comes the new heavens and the new earth void of sorrow, suffering, death, and dying. Glory to God! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In closing, let me pray with you! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Heavenly Father, we pray now in the glorious name of Jesus Christ. We pray that you would: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Help us to hear your voice amid all the shouting voices of the world. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Help us to listen to you speak your sacred secrets through your Word and through your revelation of the truth that can set us free. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Help us, God, to rely on you in all things. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We thank you for your health and healing! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We thank you for supernatural provisions. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We thank you for being our light in the darkness. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We thank you for revealing your steadfast love to us! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We thank you for helping us learn to lean on you in all things. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Help us, Lord! Help us, Father, to love and trust you with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength! Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you today and always, Brian</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62693682020-04-02T09:45:31-04:002020-06-30T14:24:36-04:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - Look up!<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/4cfae0109d6e8da5a5ac10da8e5f08f4c4647b58/original/look-up.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Today, The Holy Spirit put the words "look-up" on my heart, and here is the Bible verse I was reminded of to share with you. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God." Colossians 3:1-4 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">This is an excellent exhortation and word of encouragement from the Apostle Paul to God's people! He tells us to set our hearts and minds on things above where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. He knew if we did that, it would be much easier to not set our minds on earthly things that could drown us in the cesspools of fear, anxiety, worry, and addictions. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let's take some time right now and think about Jesus Christ, the Lord of Lords and King of Kings sitting at the right hand of God our Father in heaven. Do you see Him with your spiritual eyes? There He is, in all His splendor and glory, ruling and reigning in omnipotent power and might at the right hand of the Father. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">He sees all things! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">He knows all things! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">He hears every prayer and sees and feels every tear. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">There He is, Jesus the Christ sitting in Heavenly glory: our High Priest sending comfort, hope, peace, provision, love, and power to all who humbly call on His name, and turn to Him for help. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Can you hear Him reminding us that: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">He loves us and is committed to us. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">He treasures our attempts to trust Him in childlike faith. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">He smiles over us as we receive His heavenly gifts. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">He delights in helping us turn away from fear and anxiety. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Do you hear Him in your heart, reminding us that He also loves those around us who don't know Him yet! Telling us to keep in mind there is a lot more at stake here than just our peace, hope, and comfort. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">There are multitudes of people who don't know who to turn to in times like these! They don't know our God yet, and He will use times like these: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">To call people into His arms of love! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">To invite people into His refuge of eternal salvation found only in and through Jesus Christ. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">That is the truth, and we can't miss the opportunity before us to be the Ambassadors of Jesus Christ. As we set our hearts and minds on Jesus, we see very clearly that He has called us to be His conduit of salvation and Heavenly hope to others. We understand how God wants to make us a reflection of who He is to others. We know we can never totally mirror who Jesus is because we are imperfect. Still, we commit to giving it our best attempts knowing that with God, all things are possible! Right! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">A great missionary friend of mine once said to me, "We can't give away what we don't have." That statement has stuck with me for many years, reminding me that I can't give away heavenly gifts if I don't have them in my own heart. Right? </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">It's hard to give hope to others if I am acting hopeless. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">It's hard to inspire faith in others if I am acting faithlessly. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">It's hard to share God's joy if I am living a joyless life. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">It's hard to display God's love if I am acting unloved. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Let me say if right now, you're feeling overwhelmed by the calamity of this pandemic or the turmoil on the streets. Perhaps the physical and financial effects on people are weighing heavy on your heart, look up! Resist setting your eyes on those things, instead set your heart and mind on Jesus and on heavenly things. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/860591fb9a198aad33dcc92a69104b26965807e8/original/colossians-3-1-2-since-then-you-have-been-raised-with-christ-set-your-hearts-on-things-above-where-christ-is-seated-at-the-right-hand-of-god-set-your-minds-on-things-above-not-on-earthly-things.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Please listen carefully to what I am saying! I'm not talking about denial, that would be foolish. These things are real! There are real heartaches and actual sickness and death happening in our communities. I'm talking about getting "strong in the Lord and in the power of His might" so that we can help people spiritually and in other ways. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">When we look up to God, we are much more prepared to reach out and help people in need. What I'm talking about is the importance of not losing our own hope. If we do that, it can sideline us from being any help to anyone else. These are the times that the disciples of Jesus Christ can do the most good, and be the most help. Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We are the ones that can help spread God's hope and faith to fight some of the side effects of this pandemic. Including fear, hopelessness, anxiety, and depression. These can do a lot of damage to the human heart, and we have the antidote for these things in Jesus Christ! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I also believe as we set our hearts and minds on things above, we need to be praying for health and healing for ourselves, our families, friends, and acquaintances. Even before this pandemic, I prayed for health and healing almost every day. I do it now more than ever before! I start my day after some time in God's word, praying for my family, friends, and anyone else the Holy Spirit puts on my heart. Don't be afraid to ask God for physical protection as well as spiritual. He is all-powerful and loves you with an everlasting love that never changes! Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So look up, see Jesus Christ as He is! The Lord of Lords, the King of Kings, the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the End, the Great Shepherd, and our Great High Priest. He is our refuge and our strength! He is the only wise God! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">He is: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Jehovah Rapha - God, our Healer. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Jehovah Jireh - God, our Provider. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Jehovah Shalom - God, our Peace. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Jehovah Nissi - God, our Banner. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">May God bless you today with His peace, hope, joy, protection, love, and presence as you walk through these times. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Brian</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62672632020-03-31T10:35:10-04:002020-06-22T15:56:41-04:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE, Trust in the Lord! <p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/3707d7eba304842b876fd5a2df962270212a943c/original/trust-in-the-lord-with-all-your-heart-and-lean-not-on-your-own-understanding-in-all-your-ways-acknowledge-him-and-he-shall-direct-your-paths-proverbs-3-5-6-copy.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />IN TIMES LIKE THESE, Trust in the Lord! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">This morning I sat down to spend time with the Lord, and He very clearly whispered the word "trust." Immediately two of my favorite verses flooded my heart. Let me share those verses with you. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">These verses contain tremendous pieces of advice combined with wonderful promises! There are things in these verses that every dedicated disciple of Jesus Christ must remember. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">First and foremost, "trust in the Lord." In Hebrew, this word for trust is בָּטַח ḇâṭaḥ, and it means to be boldly confident, to be secure and sure. In other words, we need to meditate on the greatness of our God! </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">That will build in us bold confidence in the character and faithfulness of God. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">That will develop in us the knowledge that God will always do what is right. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">That will instill in us the security to know deep down in our spirit, that "all is well" despite uncontrollable surroundings. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">The second part of Proverbs 3:5 says, "lean not on your own understanding." That's excellent advice to every follower of Jesus Christ! He's telling us to never lean on our "humanoid" perception of things. We are limited in our view; God is not! </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Sometimes our perceptions are built on a false foundation. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Sometimes our perceptions and opinions are built on other people's false premises, calculations, and wrong views. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Sometimes our perceptions are built on our overconsumption of the news, social media, or friends, family, and acquaintance's negative attitudes. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Some of the understanding he is writing about here represents ideas that come from people's fearful thoughts about the future. Not God's! </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">In times like these, many are turning to the news for information. Don't get me wrong; I keep up with the news to be informed on what is going on. However, we must remember that the people who control the "news" are a tiny group of people. Many of these people are not Godly in any sense of the word. Unfortunately, some of them try to manipulate the masses, not with news, but with their own opinions of the "news." Some of them have their own agenda in doing what they do, and it is not to inform us, it is to influence us to their view of things? I will leave that thought there and move on but think about that the next time you listen to them and don't overreact to what they say. Instead, trust in the Lord with all your heart! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Do you want to live life trusting and relying upon the Lord? If you answered yes, then some things will have to change. You probably already know what they are, but let me throw out some suggestions. One of the main things is how we spend our time. Honestly, I find that very few people are spending an hour or two with the Lord every day in prayer and Bible Study. Many Christians spend hours watching the news or sports or consumed in the world of social media. Facebook gets more time than God's book in their daily schedule. That includes Twitter, Instagram, etc.! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">It is no mystery why: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">They don't have God's peace in their hearts. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">They don't have faith and confidence in God. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">They are having trouble trusting in the Lord! </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Let's be honest: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">How can I trust the Lord in a truly biblical sense if I am not reading His word and talking to God in prayer daily? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">How can I expect to have peace that passes understanding if I'm allowing my heart and mind to be inundated with wrong voices? </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">How can I trust in the Lord when I listen more to the words of lukewarm Christians and unbelievers than those who are genuinely seeking God. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Let me say this; </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Nothing will change if we don't change! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Nothing will change if we don't change what we are inputting into our hearts and minds! </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/d5d927d570171ea505da009571cfb437505b94ea/original/trust-in-the-lord-with-all-your-heart-and-lean-not-on-your-own-understanding-in-all-your-ways-acknowledge-him-and-he-shall-direct-your-paths-proverbs-3-5-6.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />What goes into our hearts will come out of our hearts and mouths. If we fill our hearts with the amoral or immoral, non-spiritual ways of the world, the worldly attitudes of fear and anxiety will come out. That is the truth! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus said in Luke 6:45, "A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let's move on to Proverbs 3:6, which says, "In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths." What does it mean to acknowledge Him? The word for acknowledge in the Hebrew is יָדַע yâḏa. It means: to acknowledge, be acquainted, be aware of, to comprehend, to discern, to discover, to know as a faithful friend. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In other words: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Acknowledge God as your faithful Father. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Acknowledge God by seeking Him in the pages of His book. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Acknowledge God by talking to Him in prayer and listening for His response! </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Acknowledge Him in those ways, and: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">He will direct our paths. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">He will make the way clear before us. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">He will give us bold and Godly confidence and faith. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">He will remove the clouds of uncertainty about the here and now and the hereafter. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">He wants to do that for us! He wants us to rest in Him! But there is a biblical and heavenly way to receive that rest. It doesn't just happen; it takes some changes in direction, to live that way! Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We will need to acknowledge the greatness of our God, our Father, and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! We will need to be acquainted with His way of redemption found only in Jesus Christ! </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Let's remind ourselves and each other of God's ability to deliver His people. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Let's remind each other of the grace given to us through Jesus Christ. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Let's remind each other of the precious promises He gave to us! </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">It's so vital that we spend time doing these things and less time listening to the news, binging on sports, Netflix or Youtube, and being overwhelmed by what's going on around us. Instead, let's be overwhelmed by God's goodness, grace, and love. Let's be overwhelmed by God's strength and power to save, deliver, and heal! Let's do that! Let's spend some time voluntarily quarantined in His presence! Yes, let's do that! Will you do that? If you do, things will begin to change in your heart for the better. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Our God truly is awesome, and I pray He blesses you today as you seek Him and call on His name! He loves you with an everlasting love. Don't ever doubt that! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Brian</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62661622020-03-30T08:20:46-04:002020-12-04T09:19:43-05:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - Follow Jesus, the Good Shepherd!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/72c496dfd8e8ff8796821d137830eae0e725b1dd/original/john-10-11-i-am-the-good-shepherd-the-good-shepherd-lays-down-his-life-for-the-sheep-john-10-11.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><span class="font_large">Today, I believe the Lord wants to remind us that He is the Good Shepherd. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus said: <br>"I am the good Shepherd. The good Shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." (John 10:11) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">"I am the Good Shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father, and I lay down my life for the sheep.” (John 10:14-15) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">A good shepherd in the natural sense guides their flock of sheep through danger to safety. A shepherd can't remove the threat, that would be impossible. There are times wild animals lurk in the distance, ready to pounce on the sheep. However, a good shepherd is attentive and leads the sheep through the danger and to a safe place. The danger, the threat is still there; they're just overcoming it by leading the sheep through it. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In the same way, Jesus, the Good Shepherd, leads His people through danger. Sometimes the danger cannot be removed, it has to be faced directly. Then we walk through it by faith because we know the Good Shepherd is with us every step of the way. Jesus Christ is our Good Shepherd! </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Jesus Christ is also King of Kings and Lord of Lords. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Jesus Christ is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning in the end. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Jesus Christ is omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Jesus Christ is in all places at all times through the Holy Spirit!</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Nothing escapes the watchful eyes of our Good Shepherd. Nothing and no one is more powerful than our Good Shepherd. As we walk through these times, it is a must to keep our eyes on Him. It is a must that we listen to the voice of the Good Shepherd! If we do, we will have confidence that our God will see us through. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">For a moment, imagine walking through a dangerous place, and Jesus Christ turns around and says to you, "Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.” (John 14:1). Wouldn't that relieve your fears? It definitely would for me! In reality, that is what Jesus is saying to His people now! Believe in me, trust me, rely on me, do not fear, do not doubt my promises! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">To hear the voice of the Good Shepherd, we have to be still and listen. We have to stop listening to the voices that would lead us into fear and discouragement. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Listen: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">I am not saying disregard the realities of this pandemic. They are real, and no one can say "everything is normal, nothing has changed"! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">I am saying, we can't let the pandemic of fear and panic grab our hearts. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">I am saying, don't allow the virus of fear to take hold of our hearts and destroy us from the inside out. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">I am saying, don't let it take our joy, our faith, and make the promises of God to no effect in our lives. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">We must remember, the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, wants us to follow Him through the days ahead, trusting that He is greater than anything we might face in the days ahead. 1 John 4:4 says, "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world." Amen and Amen! Do you believe that? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We need to let the Holy Spirit affirm these things in our hearts. It's good to be reminded of that from other people. Still, ultimately as a sheep, I need to listen directly to the Shepherd. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">How can I do that? </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">I can do that by reading His promises in the word of God. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">I can do that by listening to the Holy Spirit. He will remind me of things He has revealed to me in the past. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Jesus said, "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you." John 14:26 </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">This pandemic, we are all going through worldwide may not go away immediately. We have no idea how long it will go on, and we have no control over that. If there is an evil intention behind it, besides the devil himself, we have no control over that. God does! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">All we can do is: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Pray to Him. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Rest in Him. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Rejoice in Him. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Trust in Him, knowing that his faithfulness and power does not change with the ebb and flow of human events. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">I'm reminded of a couple lines from that great hymn Amazing Grace. it says: "Through many dangers toils and snares I have already come; 'Tis grace that brought me safe thus far and Grace will lead me home." Amen! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus urged us to trust in him one day at a time. Only the great Shepherd knows what's around the corner. We can read the signs of the times, but we don't entirely know how all that will play out in our lives. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The good news is: </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">We know the one who can stop evil in its tracks. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We know the one who speaks a word, and it comes to pass. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We know the one who loves like no other. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">We know the one who promises to Shepherd us now and throughout our lives. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">So listen to His voice. He is the voice of supernatural reason! He will bring clarity to our hearts and minds, and with that, He will bring peace. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In ending, let me say this! When worry and fear attack you like a ravenous wolf, remember the Good Shepherd is with you and speak God's word out loud! Proclaim the name of Jesus to it! Say Jesus Christ is Lord! Yes, like that, say, "Jesus Christ is Lord." Demons tremble at the sound of that name. Fear falls to its knees at the remembrance of who Jesus Christ truly is. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">He loves you with an everlasting love, yes that's the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you, Brian</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62636032020-03-27T09:17:59-04:002020-04-05T12:46:58-04:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - We Are More Than Conquerors!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/9fa70374366f3e53518d31e3e015cdeb6e00a269/original/1cb8f019-f0f3-4ce2-b1a3-8fef35569df5-2.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><span class="font_large">In times like these, some believers in Jesus Christ are struggling with uncertainty and worry. Many hearts seem to be overwhelmed with what's going on in the news. They are giving way to fear! If that's you, I want to encourage you! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Today, I am being reminded by the Holy Spirit about what the Apostle Paul wrote to the followers of Jesus in Romans 8:37. He wrote this "Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." More, he said, "more than a conqueror"! That sounds like a powerful spirit-filled person, doesn't it? In the latter part of that verse, what things was he talking about? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Before he made that statement in Romans 8:37, he asked a question in Romans 8:35. Here is the question: "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?". This question demands an answer from each and every one of us! But before you answer, think about it for a minute, meditate on that verse. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now let me ask you, is there anything in this world or in this life that is greater than our Heavenly Father, more magnificent in splendor than our Lord Jesus Christ? Is there anyone or anything more powerful than God the Holy Spirit? Of course not! We must answer with a resounding no! Jesus Christ is Lord of Lords and King of Kings! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Paul then goes on to write in Romans 8:38-39. "For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now meditate on those words for a few minutes. Those words are supposed to be our reality. That is the spiritual plain that Jesus disciples are supposed to be living on. That is our destiny! However, let me clarify something, I'm not telling you that our destiny is a life devoid of sorrow or pain, troubles or trials. But I will tell you it is supposed to be a victorious life. A life built on Jesus the firm foundation, one that can go through anything and be more than a conqueror through it. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Think of this, no one has ever been called a conqueror who has not won a battle or two! Right? Part of our destiny is to win the battles we face by the power of the Holy Spirit! Jesus won the ultimate battle on the cross and said: "It is finished." Then he ascended into heaven and sent God the Holy Spirit to us, to be another comforter to us. Let Him comfort your heart today that is part of His mission to God's children. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let me ask you a question. What is your spiritual reality today? Do you have God's peace? Do you feel God's comfort despite what's going on around you? If not, we definitely need to make some adjustments and make them quickly. We need to reset our thinking and place it firmly on God's word and His faithfulness. We need to remember that God's power flow doesn't change with the ups and downs of the stock market, world economies, or this or any future pandemic. He is forever strong and steady. I encourage you to take some time, read through the Bible, and see the true stories of God's deliverance for His people. These days, while many are spending more time at home, we should be spending much more time in God's book than on Facebook. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Many people who struggle with fear, worry, and anxiety are investing to much time on the wrong things. They are watching too much news, scanning too much Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. and spending very little time in God's Book! Yes, God uses what others say through things like this devotional. Still, ultimately, He wants to encourage us directly through our times of prayer, and times in His written words in the Bible. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">When you finish reading this, go right to His Word! If you don't know where to start, start by reading the red letters, the words that Jesus spoke in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Those words are eternal; they are life-giving and full of heavenly inspiration. Will you do it? God is waiting for you in your quiet place. I can promise you if you do it, you won't be disappointed, and God won't be either! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"> He loves you and longs to give you that peace that passes understanding!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Brian</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62629722020-03-26T17:24:23-04:002020-06-22T16:14:01-04:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - Rejoice in the Lord! <p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/9948559edd2190961bc094f1615cd4a55b7cfbea/original/rejoice-in-the-lord.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />The Holy Spirit put these verses on my heart this morning as I prayed for something to encourage His people. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">1Thessalonians 5:16-18 <br>"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I have said for years that if God's people are not sure of His will for their lives, this is one of the best places to start. This is especially true in times like these! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I want to encourage you right now to begin rejoicing in the Lord. Forget about the circumstances you are facing for a few moments and begin to rejoice in the Lord. Rejoice in who Jesus Christ is! Rejoice that your name is written in the Lambs book of life! Rejoice that you have an eternal home in heaven. Rejoice in the faithfulness of God! Rejoice that He has gotten you through everything up to this point in your life! Rejoice! Rejoice!! Don't wait for a feeling to overtake you but rather overtake your feelings and emotions as you rejoice in God's love, grace, mercy, and power! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Then after spending some time rejoicing and remembering the power, grace, and mercy of God. Begin to pour out your heart in prayer to him. Cast your cares before him and give him your worries and concerns. Spill it out before the Lord the best way you know-how. He can read between the lines to see what's really in your heart! Give him your fears as you stand at the throne of God's grace and receive his courage. Receive his love, joy, and peace. Receive the answer to your prayer by faith, knowing God is faithful and will do what needs to be done. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Then, begin to thank God. Thank him for his mercy! Thank him for his grace! Thank Him for His power to deliver you even as He delivered the Jewish people so they could walk through the Red Sea on dry ground while being chased by the Egyptians. Thank him that He's going to get you through any sea of trouble and bring you to the other side! Thank him for the gift of faith to believe in Him and his promises. Thank your Lord and Savior Jesus that he purchased you with His blood when he sacrificed Himself on the cross for our redemption. Thank him for everything you can think of and then rejoice some more! Rejoice in the Lord, that was Paul's admonition to God's people! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We have just described God's prescription and approach to the difficult things in life. God's Biblical antidote to anxiety, worry, and fear! If we take this approach, everything will look different to us. Like I have said before, it won't necessarily change what's going on around us. It will change how we see things that are going on around us. That's what we need in times like this! With this approach, we will be looking for God amid trouble instead of being overwhelmed by the crisis we are facing. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/b25788e1c0956a88d8617b6e1c67f8201b8e82b4/original/f572f31a-7ec9-4968-817d-af85e935507d.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />In closing, let me say we need to remember that the advice given to us in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 didn't come from someone who had lived a comfortable life. These words come from the Apostle Paul, who was told by Jesus during His God encounter on the road to Damascus that he would suffer many things for Jesus's sake. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In 2 Corinthians 11:24-29, we read some of the things Paul experienced as He faithfully followed the Lord. "Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. Who is weak, and I do not feel weak?" </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Through all this, he continued to trust and believe in God's faithfulness. Most of us will never experience hardships like those mentioned above. But they do give us a glaring example from one of God's great servants how to walk through difficult times. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">At the end of Paul's list of dangers and toils, he says, "Who is weak, and I do not feel weak?" Those are powerful words that remind us that God makes us stronger as we walk with Him through any trial in life. We grow stronger, not weaker! I want to rejoice in that! How about you? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So remember to "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1Thessalonians 5:16-18 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">May God bless you today in heavenly ways as you follow Him! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Brian</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62629712020-03-26T17:22:47-04:002022-01-31T17:03:36-05:00IN TIMES LIKE THESE - Don't Let Your Heart Be Troubled! <p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/f8efe4f96f54745af1c39d5c9304013eab9304e4/original/john-16-33.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In John 14:1-4, Jesus gives us some precise instructions on how to react in times like these, in times when trouble strikes. Let's look at that together. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus said: <br>"Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go you know, and the way you know." John 14:1-4 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In this passage, Jesus instructs us not to get stuck on being overwhelmed at the trouble around us. He teaches us instead to look at the everlasting promise of eternal life. The everlasting promise of an eternal home void of trouble, sickness, sorrow, or pain! In John 16:33, Jesus says, "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation (trouble); but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus never says we are going to live a life devoid of tribulation or trouble. On the contrary, He says tribulation and trouble will occur and then tells us to not let our hearts be troubled when it happens. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">For many, the last few years have been good. Now all of a sudden, the tide has turned, and trouble has hit us like a sledgehammer. We have to remember as God's children that he is still God, He is still in control, and He is not surprised by what is happening around the world in this pandemic. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">At this moment, God is not scurrying around, trying to figure out how to respond! He has already given His people the answer, and they are in His Word. "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me." and "be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." If we do those things, we will see God's response to our childlike faith and simple trust in His faithfulness. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">That doesn't mean everything is going to change around us. </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">It does mean things will change inside of us! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">It does mean He will give us the spiritual power and peace to walk through it with heavenly confidence born out of our faith and trust in God. </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">It also means we can pass that on to others around us that don't have the answer. We can spread peace and hope to those overwhelmed by fear and defeat! </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">In times like these, we must listen carefully and respond accordingly to the directions Jesus gave us ahead of time. He knew there would be times like these, and we would need His inspiration! He knew we would need His promises to lean on! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">There have been times like these throughout history. There have been times much, much worse than anything we are going through right now. So let's take a deep spiritual breath and remember that our God is not only the great God of the past. He is also the God of the present, and God of the future, and if he is telling us to not let our hearts be troubled but to keep believing, then that is what we need to do! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus knows what's on the other side of this trouble and tells us to "be of good cheer." Good cheer is far greater than just struggling through; it is seeing by faith that God has the answer and will implement it in our lives as we trust in Him! </span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">His words are eternally inspirational and never change in meaning, power, or influence! </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">His promises are yay and amen, and we can't forget that in times like these! </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">I encourage you right now to take a few moments and meditate on the eternal promises of God. Meditate on one the Holy Spirit puts on your heart or on one that we just read in this devotional. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you, and may God protect you with His healing power and grace and provide your every need according to His riches in glory! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Brian </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">www.sharegodshope.com</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62629702020-03-26T17:20:35-04:002022-03-31T18:07:53-04:00Don't be Afraid of What's Ahead<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/1943283a48fcded0966a10019e3ea23aec35fcb0/original/dont-be-afraid-of-whats-ahead.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />God's Word is full of wonderful promises to his people, and in times like these, we must look to Him in all things and trust in the words He has spoken to us through his Word. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Today I read some very encouraging words in Psalm 112. Verse one says, "Praise the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandments." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In the following verses, we read the blessings that come to those who fear, revere, honor the Lord, and delight in His commands. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let's focus on two specific verses. In Psalms 112:4, we read, "Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous." Here we learn the promise that even in dark times, God's light will shine on those that are upright, gracious, and compassionate. These are people who aren't just looking out for their own welfare and comfort before God. They're also concerned with what's going on in the people's hearts around them. They are gracious and compassionate people! They don't mock people who are fearful. Instead, they seek to bring God's comfort to them by sharing the promises of God with them and encouraging them. The people described in this verse honor God and care about people simultaneously. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Then in Psalm 112:7-8, we read, "He is not afraid of bad news; his heart is firm, trusting in the LORD. His heart is steady; he will not be afraid." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">That's a beautiful promise for those who honor the Lord and delight in his commandments. These men and women are not afraid of what's ahead because they know God is already there and has already provided a solution for them. These people trust that God will be faithful, so they don't live in fear. When fear comes their way, they remind themselves of the promises in God's Word and walk on in victory. That is God's will for every one of us. Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I pray that today and in the coming days, our Heavenly Father and our Lord and Jesus Christ lift you through the power of the Holy Spirit. I pray He makes these promises a reality to us all! And that we always remember, our God loves us with a passionate, everlasting love and is always by our side. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So Remember, "Praise the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandments." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you and thank you for listening!</span></p>3:22brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62629692020-03-26T17:16:55-04:002020-04-05T12:48:36-04:00May the God of Hope Fill you with all Joy!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/1ea13e30a26cba06ddd1715a87f65cb187552094/original/b43f7ba6-04bd-470d-9d6e-2d4edf9a042f.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><span class="font_large">God wants us to trust Him at all times. He wants us to trust that His faithfulness and power are not limited by our present circumstances. Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In this verse, the Apostle Paul reminds us that the God of hope will fill us with all joy and peace as we trust in Him. He teaches us that the result of that trust will be an overflowing of hope! That my friends is a wonderful promise! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We need the four things Paul speaks of in this verse in our lives right now. We need trust in God, we need the joy and peace of God, and we need an abundance of hope. Right? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">My friends, there is only one place to get those things, and that is from our God, and His word points us in the right direction. In Isaiah 12:3, we read, “With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.” </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God’s wells of salvation are always full; they don’t go up and down like the stock market. So come now to the wells that never run dry and draw deep from those wells! Don’t just skim the surface! Reach down deep and let God refresh you! Then our hearts will be full of God’s hope, peace, and joy. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Peace, joy, and hope are three heavenly gifts that are evidence of our trust in God, especially in times like these. God will bless you today as you draw deep and trust in the Lord and in the power of His might! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">He loves you with an everlasting love and will never leave you or forsake you! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you, Brian</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/62629652020-03-26T17:14:06-04:002022-01-25T15:42:27-05:00Peace in Troubled Times<p><span class="font_xl"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/f3720c520ee3eb8d2e9ab686dda53345131654ac/original/89518251-10159506128437598-4209710133590097920-o.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid." John 14:27 </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God's peace is a supernatural gift and is meant to have a supernatural effect on God's children and to bring calm into the most difficult of situations. It is heavenly, a fruit of the Holy Spirit. God's peace cannot be affected by anything in the natural world; it is a God-sent gift! God's peace is spiritual; it is supernatural! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I believe it is the same peace Jesus received in the garden after praying to the Father in anxiety over the suffering that was ahead of Him. With a heart of heaviness, Jesus confessed to the disciples with Him, "My soul is consumed with sorrow to the point of death." Matthew 26:38. Then "Going a little farther, He fell facedown and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will." Matthew 26:39. Jesus humbled Himself and prayed three times regarding what was ahead of him. After the third time, He received the answer He needed and was ready to leave the garden to fulfill God's plan of redemption. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">It was God's heavenly peace, power, and love that got Jesus through the beatings, the scourging, the nailing to the cross, and to proclaim, "It is finished." John 19:30. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">This fruit of peace comes through the Holy Spirit, who Jesus said would be "another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever" John 14:16. This peace does not fly away when the hard times come. It's presence becomes more potent than ever before when things are the most difficult. This peace is an eternal fruit of the Holy Spirit and is provided to us through the promises in God's word. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I want to encourage you right now amid this thing the world calls a pandemic to embrace this heaven-sent peace of God. Start by thanking God for it! Then believe God for it! Believe it is part of your heavenly heritage as a believer in Jesus Christ and as an ambassador of Jesus Christ. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God wants us to be a witness of His power and His grace through difficult times. We have been called by God to bring peace to others in the storms of life that cause others to fall into the sea of fear. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In Mark 4:39, Jesus said, "Peace be still!" and He brought the peace and calm of God into a very frightening experience. That's precisely what He wants to do for His children right now! That's what He wants to do for you! He is saying, "Peace be still!" Can you hear the still small voice of the Holy Spirit speaking to you, reminding you of the promises in His Word? Telling us that God is greater than anything this world can throw at us! Do you believe that? If we do, let's live it as God's salt and light to the world! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Our Heavenly Father and Lord Jesus Christ love us more than we can ever know! He has not called us to fear and panic but rather to peace, faith, and power. So let's embrace that heavenly calling and be a reflection of these things during these troubling times. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you, Brian</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/60562052020-01-02T09:43:22-05:002020-04-05T12:48:57-04:00Take Time to Pray<p><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/0e8c4d7e2f78def5f2f309522243da4efcdefc8f/original/take-time-to-pray-4.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><span class="font_large">I've had people get honest with me over the years and tell me, "I just don't have time to pray." and I have to admit that I was one of those people in the past.</span></strong><span class="font_large"> The type of person that is just so busy with really "important" things that I didn't seem to have time to take time to pray. I sacrificed the most important for the less important — the most needful for the less needful. Since then, I have learned that if I am too busy to take time to pray, I am just too busy! I have learned that the amount of effort I have to put into things without humbly asking God for help cannot make up for the time it takes to pray about everything. Plus, walking through the day feeling disconnected from God is not a pleasant, peaceful, easy feeling! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>God's word tells us to "pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17). That means throughout the day and regarding all things.</strong> We are also taught by the Apostle Paul in Philippians 4:6 "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God". That tells me to come into the presence of God with confidence and with a thankful heart, knowing God will do what is needed if I ask Him. <strong>Jesus said, "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you receive it, and you will." (Mark 11:24). </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The Word of God is full of scriptures like the ones we just read admonishing us to pray. <strong>Yet, many Christians seem to function with very little prayer or just throwing up a prayer or two as they go through each day.</strong> I pray throughout the day to stay in constant communication with my Heavenly Father. Still, I also know the necessity of taking a special, spiritual "closet" time for prayer each day — the importance of taking time where it is just me alone with God in my prayer closet. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>I want to share two extraordinary things that happen during those times. First,</strong> it helps me to shut out all the other voices, including the digital voices coming at us through our cell phones, TVs, the internet, and it is just me and God alone together. He listens to me as I ask for His help with my character and commitments, help to walk in holiness, obey His commands, and overcome evil. <strong>Secondly,</strong> it is a time of me asking God for help with the practical needs of life and the ministry He has called me to do. It's a time to say, "God, I will do what you ask, but this is what I need to accomplish your calling." <strong>I ask in childlike faith and humility, knowing that "God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble" 1 Peter 5:5. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Please don't be like those who come into His presence demanding He does what He promised.</strong> I never demand anything from God; I ask humbly. If you don't want God to listen to your prayers, start demanding He does what you want! Instead, come as a child, in childlike faith, asking God your Father for the help you need, and always praying in the heart and character of Jesus, who said: "Whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive." Matthew 21:22. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In closing, please don't be one of those people that don't have time to pray! <strong>If we don't have time to humble ourselves and pray, we'll have to make lots of time to deal with the loss of not having God's help.</strong> The help that He lovingly waits to give if we would only take time to ask in humility, honesty, and childlike faith.<br><br><strong>A good step of faith to take today is to step into your prayer closet and begin communicating with your maker. He loves you and is waiting to listen and to give guidance and help you not only need but genuinely desire!</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God bless you today and always, Brian Mark Weller</span></p>
<p> </p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880422017-08-28T20:00:00-04:002020-04-05T12:49:24-04:00Contemplating the What If's!<div align="left" class="p1"> </div>
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<strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/1f5c9b02cfba0d5b6ce6e5d990ed44c2ec99e27b/original/contemplating-the-what-ifs-header.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><span class="font_large">In the last few days, I've been contemplating whether or not I've consistently counted the cost of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. </span></strong><span class="font_large"> I've asked myself some difficult and challenging questions. Have I truly considered giving all for the sake of God's call or am I compromising God's will and call on my life for my own comfort and desires? <strong>Have I gotten so comfortable in this life that I am living more for me and "my" world, than for God and His eternal Kingdom?</strong></span>
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<div align="left" class="p1"><span class="font_large"><strong>If Jesus Christ truly is my Lord, Master, Savior, and King, then my life should be a verification of that. </strong> My life's motto should be the same as the Apostle Paul who said in 1 Corinthians 6:20 "You are not your own; you were bought with a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies."</span></div>
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<div align="left" class="p1"><span class="font_large"><strong>When it is time to go home to be with the Lord, I don't want to go with a bunch of "What if's" in my heart, such as:</strong></span></div>
<p align="left" class="p1"><span class="font_large"><strong>What if </strong>I had truly done unto others, as I would have them, do to me</span></p>
<p align="left"><span class="font_large"><strong>What if </strong>I had forgiven everyone that had offended me and let go of the residue of those offenses in my life?</span></p>
<p align="justify" class="p1"><span class="font_large"><strong>What if</strong> I had truly counted the cost and surrendered everything to the Lord including my time, my resources and my talents?</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>What if</strong> I had risked everything no matter what the cost to help get the gospel of Jesus Christ to every person who has not heard?</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>What if</strong> I had faithfully lived a life of faith and went beyond taking steps of faith to take leaps and dives of faith?</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>What if</strong> I had lived every moment in light of God's mercy seat and God's judgment seat?</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>What if</strong> I had done what I did for the glory of God alone and didn't look for affirmation from others for serving God?</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>What if</strong> I had actually believed the promises of Jesus and acted on them?</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>What if</strong> I had truly lived the commandments of Jesus?</span></p>
<div><span class="font_large"><strong>These are just a few questions I am asking myself as I seek to challenge "me" to "Press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" as admonished by the Apostle Paul in Philippians 3:14.</strong> Wouldn't you agree that our God is worthy of all our love and service? </span></div>
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<div><span class="font_large"><strong>It is a good thing to evaluate where we are spiritually in our lives! </strong> We don't do it to condemn ourselves for what we haven't done or to lose heart over what we could have done better. We do it to exhort ourselves to go deeper in our relationship and service to the Lord Jesus Christ. After all, He gave His life so we could be saved from our sin and spend a glorious eternity with Him in heaven. <strong>Our worship and service are our response to the great and amazing love </strong><strong style="font-size: 12px;">our Heavenly Father and Lord Jesus Christ have already given us. </strong></span></div>
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<div><span class="font_large"><strong>Why not, take a few minutes and ask yourself the "What if's"? If some changes need to be made, make them now!</strong> Don't procrastinate - or days, weeks, months and years could slip by before those changes are made. Or worse, they never get made at all! We don't want to waste any time in this life for things that don't matter. Right? </span></div>
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<div><span class="font_large"><strong>Let's pray for one another as we seek God's will for our lives and then go forward to fulfill it by His grace and power.</strong></span></div>
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<div><span class="font_large"><strong>God bless you, Brian Weller</strong></span></div>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880412017-02-05T19:00:00-05:002020-04-05T12:49:45-04:00What is a Step of Faith?<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/c95170349755a38d3e96c281ebcd6dec78bb008d/original/what-is-a-step-of-faith.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><span class="font_large">THINK ABOUT IT - What is a Step of Faith?</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>We hear the term "Step of Faith" all the time in Christian circles, but what truly is a "step of faith"?</strong> Here is my definition! A step of faith is a step we take into the will of God, in order to accomplish God's purposes and plans. We take those "steps of faith" trusting God to meet the needs he has asked us to meet without having the resources available at the time He gives the command. As we live our lives taking steps of faith e<span class="text_exposed_show">ventually we can truly say as Paul did, that <strong>"We walk by faith and not by sight." 2 Corinthians 5:7.</strong></span></span></p>
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<p><span class="font_large"><strong>To accomplish God's will we must take steps of faith, otherwise, we are only accomplishing what is humanly possible and not what is supernaturally possible by God's power, grace and provision.</strong> Also please keep in mind that steps of faith are always most meaningful when they are taken in order to meet the needs of others and not our own.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>The problem is many focus their "steps of faith" on bettering their own lives instead of those who are really in need of help and of God's help.</strong> There are hundreds of millions that need us to believe God on their behalf, to help get them the Word of God and to help in practical ways as well. Especially those living on the unreached mission fields of the world like in the 10/40 window.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>When this world is over God will not be impressed with those who would like to say "God I believed you for that really fine luxury car or that beautiful piece of jewelry, or that mega house, or that yacht or that ___________ (fill in the box).</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>God is blessed when we take steps of faith to reach those Jesus came and died for. </strong>We can all do it by God's grace and power. Remember these words from Zechariah 4:6 "Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts." And the words of Paul the Apostle in Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me." I can, you can, we can and we must! <strong>There is a lot at stake!</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Take a "Step of Faith" today not for you but for someone else.</strong> God is in the business of meeting needs and is especially pleased when we ask Him to use us, to meet the needs of others!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>God is going to meet your needs as you walk by faith, that is a no brainer! </strong>Paul reminded us of that in Philippians 4:19 "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus." Take a step of faith today and doubt will flee away as you see God step into situations all around you with His heavenly responses. Think about it!</span></p>
</div>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880402016-11-22T19:00:00-05:002020-04-05T12:50:52-04:00Thanks Living!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/ffb7ccaff6f24f4be4dc05de6585aab65c8b7459/original/thanks-living.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><span class="font_large">THINK ABOUT IT:<br><strong>If we really want to be full of THANKS LIVING this THANKSGIVING we must seek to remember and live out a few very important things!</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">(Please note: These are meant to be declarations so they are written in the first person because I for one need to remember these things and live them out.)</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>#1 - LIFE from a heavenly perspective is not about me and my happiness.</strong> It is more about the smile I can put on God's face through my times of fellowship with Him, my heart to seek Him, my willingness to surrender to Him and my desire to serve those He calls me to serve in humility and with sincere gratefulness for being entrusted with such amazing opportunities.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>#2 - LIFE is not about me feeling fulfilled at what I do, with the title I do or don't have, or how much money I make or don't make.</strong> It is more about me fulfilling His plans and purposes with the life He has given me while here on planet earth. It is about living with the hope of hearing Him say one day 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!'"</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>#3 - LIFE is not about my popularity or lack of it.</strong> It is not about Facebook likes, Instagram feeds, Twitter followers or the lack thereof. It is more about the likes that I get from the heart of God in response to how much I seek to proclaim His name and share His love with others. Life always goes into overdrive when I am not at the center of everything, but rather when God has center stage in my heart and mind.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>#4 - LIFE is about God my Father, Jesus my Lord, and the Holy Spirit indwelling me as the temple of God.</strong> It is about living for Him and remembering that to know Him is the greatest privilege known to any man (or woman).</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>#5 - LIFE is about loving the amazing family God has given me, spending great times with them, creating memories with them and always being grateful for them.</strong> After God, they take the biggest place in my heart and I treasure the countless memories we have created together. Lord, help me to give more than I take from them.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>In closing, let's remember that life is not about me or you, or just our families and friends.</strong> If that is all we live for, chances are we are going to feel somewhat empty and will lack a greater sense of purpose and destiny that God wants us all to have.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>As I said before, true life is knowing God and making Him known, which includes</strong> caring about, and ministering to the poorest of the poor and ministering to those that are totally lost, hurting and without hope in the darkest corners of the world.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>If we want to do some Thanks Living and put a smile on the face of God this Thanksgiving (and Christmas) let's look out on the vast unreached harvest fields of the world and ask God what we can do. </strong>Say to Him "I want to do more than I am doing now." Then let's do it and never even consider making an excuse or think to ourselves that someone else will step up to get the job done that He has entrusted to me. He is counting on every believer, so let's quit being religious and playing church. Talk is cheap and accomplishes very little if it isn't followed up by actions! Let's do the first works that Jesus called us too! There is an exciting walk of faith God has called us too. A new adventure for us to fulfill. Let's say "Here I am LORD, Send Me, I will do it!!!"</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Say this verse over and over " I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Philippians 4:13.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Remember this, Thankful people are people who serve, they are people who care and share, they are the doers of the Word.</strong> Let that be me and let that be you and together as the children of God we will put a smile on the face of our Heavenly Father, our Lord Jesus Christ and on the faces we reach through our hearts of Thanks Living and Thanks Giving!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">PS - During your Thanksgiving meal talks to your family about how you all together can make a difference. Make a plan and do it!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880382016-10-17T20:00:00-04:002022-01-06T20:43:39-05:00Lukewarm!<p><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/6d4819151651ab9ce4f36c0f2784810187cec5ea/original/lukewarm-christianity.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></span><span class="font_large">Lukewarm is a word Jesus used to address the Laodicean church in Revelation 3:16, where He says, "So because you are lukewarm--neither hot nor cold--I am about to spit you out of my mouth." These words from Jesus were not a compliment, and yes, this was Jesus speaking to the church in Laodicea! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Some might say: Would Jesus really talk to His church that way? or Why would Jesus say such a mean thing? In reality, it is no meaner than the father who tells his son, "If you do that again you are going to get punished." The father teaches his child life lessons to help him grow up and be ready for life. In Hebrews 12:6, we are told, "The Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son." I am so glad the Lord disciplines me when I need it, and believe me, I have needed it! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Unfortunately, today we accept the lukewarm church as the normal church and often don't want the Lord's discipline. That is truly sad! It means we are missing out on God's best and walking in disobedience and rebellion to God's plans and purposes for His people and His church. God's plan for His church is beautiful and powerful and meant to display His glory and His message to the world, not the glory or message of a man or woman. It is supposed to be His Church, not ours! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We like it HOT! Isn't it strange that most of us won't accept lukewarm food at a restaurant - and we don't want our soup, coffee, or tea lukewarm? Yet, for some reason, many are willing to accept the lukewarm church of today as an example of New Testament Christianity, and some even imitate and applaud its so-called success in a world that rejects the Truth as Jesus spoke it. I can understand the world not receiving the words of Jesus, but how can we - the church - reject His words? Isn't it Jesus' Church? It is foolish and ungodly to use Bible verses to make them fit our lukewarm lifestyles and to affirm our rebellion against God. Jesus warns us in Revelation 3:2 to "Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God." He warns us because He loves us! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I want to encourage you to read Revelation 3 and pay close attention to the Church at Philadelphia described in verses 7 to 13. The church in Philadelphia is the church we should model the modern church after. Here are the words Jesus spoke to that church and to all those who seek to follow Him. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Revelation 3:10-11 "Since you have kept My command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth. I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have so that no one will take your crown." THINK ABOUT IT! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">PS - What part of the unreached world should we take out of the Great Commission so that we can sustain the selfish appetites of the lukewarm church? God's answer would be none!</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880392016-10-10T20:00:00-04:002021-03-24T10:40:26-04:00At the Risk of Being Controversial #2<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/c035e193c1e1e625c59b412404d7b0deda4ac01b/original/screen-shot-2021-03-24-at-10-38-11-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" />At the risk of being controversial, I will share these thoughts and questions that came to me during my quiet time regarding the state of the "Church" in the USA. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">#1 - Why do many Christian leaders put more time and effort into our Sunday morning services than we put into reaching the unreached parts of the world with the gospel of Jesus Christ? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">#2 - Isn't the purest form of worship displayed to God through our obedience to His commands and not how well we can preach, sing or play worship songs? Mark 16:15 "He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">#3 - Did you know that many churches put more money into their worship, audio, and video departments than they do into world missions? Isn't that sad? All this happens right under our noses while over 1/3rd of the world's population have never heard the gospel of Jesus Christ for the first time. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">#4 - Why do many of us put more time and effort into planning out the entertainment in our lives than we do on fulfilling God's Great Commission? And many of us spend more on entertainment than we do on giving to world missions. Time to change, don't you think? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">#5 - What are we going to do to make the necessary changes? Think about it, and let's do something now! When we stand before the Lord, would we rather hear God say 'Well done, good and faithful servant!" (Matthew 25:21) or "well, you made it."? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God saved us by grace, but that same grace compels us to serve and obey the one who gave His life for us. 2 Corinthians 6:1 "As God's co-workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Luke 11:28 "He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">LET'S PRAY: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Hear our prayer Lord Jesus and help us to not only read Your Word but to Obey it as well. Help us so we can Do Your Will and Fulfill Your Purposes in this World that You Gave Your Life to Save! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I know I have been bought with your Blood, and I am not my own, so I say to You today - Here I Am, Send Me! Let Your Will be Done on Earth as it is in Heaven! I pray this in the all-powerful name of Jesus!! Amen</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880372016-09-14T20:00:00-04:002020-04-05T12:53:04-04:00ADONIRAM JUDSON: Following God Through Trials<div><strong><img src="http://www.messagemissions.com/hp_wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Adoniram-Judson-Following-God-through-Trials-1024x341.png" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="adoniram-judson-following-god-through-trials" height="277" width="832" /></strong></div>
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<div><span class="font_large"><strong>I love reading inspirational things that not only inspire and encourage but also challenge and exhort.</strong> Living in the USA, it is so easy to get distracted and to prioritize our personal comfort over our contribution to the purposes and plans of God. Many get sucked into the vacuum of self and spend far too much time chasing after their own dreams and desires. All the while, the plans of God are put on the shelf for a more “opportune” time. Have you ever lived that way? Are you living that way now? Wherever you are today, I pray that this newsletter will be a blessing to you. <strong>May God use this to either get us back on track with Him or to help us stay on track with Him and His Kingdom plan.</strong></span></div>
<p> <span class="font_large"><img src="http://www.messagemissions.com/hp_wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Adoniram-Judson-Quote.png" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="adoniram-judson-quote" height="204" width="359" /></span></p>
<div><span class="font_large"><strong>Since we are now working in Burma (Myanmar) I recently re-read the biography of the first American missionary, Adoniram Judson, who spent his life serving the Burmese people.</strong> I was inspired as I read about all the trials that he, his wife Ann, and their family faced in order to fulfill the Great Commission. When they left for the mission field on February 19, 1812, they only had a slight idea of the difficult things that awaited them. <strong>Like the faithful missionaries before them, they counted the cost and went on their way. They died up front — choosing to suffer in order to live out God’s call on their lives rather than to live in comfort at home.</strong></span></div>
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<p><span class="font_large"><strong>The Judsons would go through trials that make ours seem like a vacation.</strong> Adoniram was beaten and hung upside down every night by his feet in prison for being a Christian. He was rejected, whipped, slandered and oftentimes starved. His children and his wife died from disease. But through all this, he never gave up on Jesus, and he never gave up on the call to bring the gospel to unreached Burma. God had not only placed a call in Adoniram’s heart. God had given him a loving burden for the lost souls he was sent to reach.<strong>Because he saw the people through the eyes of God’s heart of love, he kept his hands to the plow of Kingdom service in the face of unbearable trials.</strong> Over Adoniram’s many years in Burma, he translated the Bible into Burmese. From what I am told, that translation is still the only one available in the country.</span></p>
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<div><span class="font_large"><strong>God may not be calling us to take the same dives of faith that the Judson’s had to take, but He is calling us to do our part to get the gospel of Jesus to those that have not heard.</strong>Thank you to those who are helping us to do our very small part in fulfilling God’s command. Together we can make a big difference — and if we refocus on what is most important, we can make an even bigger difference. Please think about the stats I am including in this newsletter and respond with God’s love.</span></div>
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<div><span class="font_large"><strong>Let’s “up the ante” from taking steps of faith to taking dives of faith. It’s time to dive into the very center of God’s plan to reach every soul with the life-saving message of Jesus Christ.</strong></span></div>
<div> </div>
<div> </div>
<div><span class="font_large">In His Service, Brian Weller</span></div>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880362016-08-31T20:00:00-04:002020-04-05T12:53:25-04:00God Help Us!<p><span class="font_large"><strong>God help us!</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/6bcb46d45b4fb66fa4ea205d7fc54a6b2b16ddda/original/god-help-us.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><br><strong>1) Help us to be true to you.</strong><br><br><strong>2) Help us to always hold </strong>your Word as Ultimate Truth and to never compromise its meaning for the sake of political correctness.<br><br><strong>3) Help us to always seek</strong> to walk in holiness and to not abuse your grace in any way, shape or form.<br><br><span class="text_exposed_show"><strong>4) Help us to cling</strong> to you in a world where so many are letting go of You and substituting You in their lives with lesser gods.</span><br><br><span class="text_exposed_show"><strong>5) Help us to always love</strong>, while realizing love isn't affirming each other when we are wrong, but rather speaking the truth in love as an ambassador of you and Your Kingdom.</span><br><br><span class="text_exposed_show"><strong>6) Help us to remember,</strong> it is you who is our judge and not a human court. </span><br><br><span class="text_exposed_show"><strong>7) Help us to always consult</strong> with you and your Word in making decisions regarding our lives.</span><br><br><span class="text_exposed_show"><strong>8) Forgive us for the times</strong> we have fallen short in these things and have even committed deliberate sins against you and each other.</span></span></p>
<p><br><span class="font_large"><span class="text_exposed_show">In the mighty all-powerful name of Jesus, Amen</span></span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880312016-08-27T20:00:00-04:002020-04-05T12:53:56-04:00Are You A Fisher of Men, or a Keeper of the Aquarium?<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/70efab947581c1a3886e8c8b9d2e8b6c83cc4f8a/original/are-you-a-fisher-of-men-or-keeper-of-the-aquarium-2.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><span class="font_large"><strong>Paul Harvey the great radio and television commentator once said to his audience, and to Christians throughout the United States: “We’ve strayed from being Fishers of Men to being keepers of the aquarium.”</strong> Unfortunately, his statement is even truer today than it was when he spoke it many years ago. In light of this, it is truly time for Christians and Christian churches in the USA to make some big changes before it is too late.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Did you know that on average churches in the USA spend 85% of all donations, on salaries, building expenses, and supplies?</strong> That is a very sad reality and one that doesn’t seem to bother many believers; which makes this statistic even more disheartening. We must all ask ourselves, “Is this what Jesus meant for us to do when He commanded us to “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” Mark 16:15. Most of the world lives outside of the United States. <strong>Only about 5% of the population of the world lives in the USA. Did you know that approximately 2.9 billion people who live outside of the USA have never even heard about Jesus for the first time?</strong> Most of those people live in the 10/40 window. As a matter of fact, 85% of all unreached people groups live in the 10/40 Window.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>The question is, what are you and I going to do to help initiate some changes.</strong> It has to start with us! We can’t just wait hoping someone else will step forward and make the necessary changes. We must do something now! Yes, we have to start today and we have to put many other things on hold so that we can do the most important thing. The most important thing is working toward the fulfillment of God’s Great Commission to Go into All the World!! John Piper said we must “Go, Send or Disobey!”</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Don’t wait for someone else to lead the way.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Don’t wait</strong> for the building program at your church to be completed. <strong> </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Don’t wait </strong>until your car or house is paid off. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Don’t wait</strong> until your pastor gets a world vision. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I hate to say it, but that may never happen! Are we supposed to let people die in their sins in parts of the world, without ever warning them by sending them the gospel? Of course not! God’s commission always trumps a man or woman’s vision that does not line up with God’s. <strong>Read the Word not your church's vision statement, unless it lines up with God’s.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>There is no time to waste.</strong> Do something now! Do you know of a missionary working in the 10/40 window? Step forward and offer to help. If you don’t know of anyone, write to me and I will get you connected with people that are living and dying to complete God’s Great Commission in that part of the world.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Do it now or the cares of this life will come and distract you once again.</strong> By God’s grace, power and authority we must Go forward saying “I can do <span class="criteria" id="yui-gen38">all</span> <span class="criteria" id="yui-gen37">things</span> <span class="criteria" id="yui-gen36">through</span> <span class="criteria" id="yui-gen35">Christ</span> who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 We can and we must!</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large">In His service, Brian Weller</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><a href="http://www.messagemissions.com/" target="_blank" title="Missions Opportunities">www.messageministries.org</a></span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880342016-08-09T20:00:00-04:002020-04-05T12:54:21-04:00Isn't It Time?<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/e04852621c598f785f7861ef950c67bb4cca9bce/original/isnt-it-time.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><span class="font_large"><strong>As I sit at my desk today, the Holy Spirit has filled my heart with some thoughts.</strong> Please let me share with you what God is challenging me with this morning!</span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large"><strong>I’m thinking about</strong> the almost 3 billion unreached people in the world today.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large"><strong>I’m thinking about</strong> those who have no hope and have not even heard the message of salvation found in Jesus Christ.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large"><strong>I’m thinking about</strong> how so much more could be done if we would just get our eyes off ourselves, our own desires, our own things, and truly surrender all to Jesus Christ.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large"><strong>I’m thinking about </strong>how much more we could accomplish if we could come to the place where we only kept for ourselves what we truly need and rose to the level of giving the rest away to reach the unreached peoples of the world and help those who live in squalor.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">The true spiritual reality is that God “made us alive together with Christ (“by grace, you have been saved”), raised us up together, and brought us “to sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:5-6). <strong>If we would seek to see things from God’s heavenly point of view, our whole way of thinking would change and we would be all about fulfilling God's plan – most of the time and not just some of the time.</strong></span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large"><strong>Isn’t it time</strong> we begin to live that way?</span></li>
</ul>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large"><strong>Isn’t it time</strong> we begin to count the cost of what it means to truly be His disciple?</span></li>
</ul>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large"><strong>Isn’t it time</strong> we begin to take up our cross in truth, deny ourselves, and follow Him daily?</span></li>
</ul>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large"><strong>Isn’t it time</strong> we begin to let go of the things of the world that give us too much comfort and distract us from God and His purposes?</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Jesus said, “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32). Isn’t it time for us to live in freedom!</strong> I have lived in bondage and I have lived in freedom and freedom is always better. To live under the Lordship of Jesus Christ instead of the Lordship of myself and my desires is so much better. It’s better for me, for those directly around me, and for those God has called me to reach.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>As believers, we have been saved by grace, yet we will all give an account of our lives before our Heavenly Father.</strong> At this point, we should ask ourselves an important question: “Will I be embarrassed before the Lord regarding my service to the one who gave so much to gain our freedom and salvation?” Let’s think about it now and ask ourselves: “What would we change if we knew Jesus was returning in the next day, week, month or year?” Write it down, and then move towards change. We all must repent of our spiritual sloth and laziness.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>The precious life God has given us is meant to be spent – poured out – on Him and His divine purposes.</strong> Remember the words of Jesus in Luke 22:42: “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” To live for anything else is futile; it will only bear fruit that is rotten and worth little or nothing. I have lived that way at times in my life, and in those times I was filled with anxiety, worry, fear, and selfishness. I accomplished very little for the glory of God. Can you identify with that? Is that where you are now? If it is, what will you do to make the changes necessary to see the fulfillment of God’s will for your life?</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Matthew 6:33 tells us God’s will: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” <strong>When we seek first His Kingdom, it means we have to deliberately dethrone ourselves from the Kingdom of Self. </strong>We truly have to give it all to Jesus. That is when things change and when we realize that our time is God’s time, our resources are God’s resources, and all of our gifts from His throne of Grace. Will we release them back to Him or grasp them tightly until He comes? Is Jesus going to be Lord of my life, or am I going to stay seated on the throne making my own life decisions based on what I want instead of what He wants? We are free to choose our paths. The Holy Spirit will lead me, but He won’t “make” me change!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I pray sincerely that every one of us will choose His will as we move forward in life.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Brian Mark Weller</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880332016-07-05T20:00:00-04:002022-01-31T17:14:58-05:00At the Risk of Being Controversial<p><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/48c4fa6f6d1d1255a4601bb547ec66f821680587/original/at-the-risk-of-being-controversial.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /><span class="font_large">At the risk of being “controversial”, I am going to share this!</span></strong></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>I received a letter in the mail today from a church here in Florida.</strong> I opened it to see what it said and was drawn to the colorful insert inside, the half sheet piece of paper with the title “It’s Time to Shine”. I thought “that is awesome”! Every believer and church wants to shine and wants to make an impact in the lives of others and in their communities. When churches want to shine, I get excited!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>However, my heart sank as I began to read what “It’s Time to Shine” was about.</strong> I honestly thought it was going to be about “world mission opportunities” or to help some families in need, but it wasn’t. To my surprise, it was to raise funds for their new sound system. It must be a really nice sound system because they are trying to raise $215,000 to get it. This is so sad for me! How can anyone in the church think this is OK?</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>It is sad to me because I know they could get by with what they have, or could buy something used or much cheaper.</strong> Matthew 6:21 says “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” For some reason, I just can’t imagine Jesus, as King of the Kingdom of God authorizing these kinds of purchases and sales pitches when there are so many real needs around us and in the world. Can you imagine this “Jesus, I know people are dying of starvation, and millions are </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">At this point, I could give you a whole list of statistics but instead, I will provide a link where you can read as many or few as you like. The point is this is wrong! People need to hold leaders accountable for how they choose to spend God’s money. That’s right! It is God’s money, not ours and we will give an account to Him for how we spend it. This means we need to think about what you give towards.<a href="http://www.messagemissions.com/mission-statistics/" title="Mission Statistics">http://www.messagemissions.com/mission-statistics/</a> dying every year in the world who have never heard about you but with a new sound system, a really good sound system, we could reach the world.” <strong>Can you imagine how Jesus would answer that question? It should seem pretty plain to us too.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>It’s sad to me because the average church in America only gives about 5% to world missions while spending 85% of all its funds on internal operations which include salaries, rent or mortgage, sound systems, supplies, etc. Are there others who feel the way I do?</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>My heart truly breaks over the mindset we have in the American Church.</strong> Let me say I am so far from where I need to be, I still have a selfish heart that I am trying to get free from, but I do know what is right and what is wrong and want to do what is right.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>“It’s Time to Shine” should mean it is time to get the gospel</strong> to the unreached parts of the world, to the billions who have yet to hear.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>“It’s Time to Shine” should mean it is time to care</strong> for the widows and the orphans, here and around the world.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>“It’s Time to Shine” should mean we want to care</strong> for the millions who live without a home and/or are on the verge of starvation and malnutrition.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>“It’s Time to Shine” should mean we want to pull out the stops</strong> to help the persecuted Christians around the world.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Please hear my heart as I share, and know that I am not pointing fingers at people or churches, but rather pointing at the inconsistencies and misconceptions we have embraced in the American church.</strong> God s plan is so much bigger than $215,000 sound systems, beautiful church properties, and church staffs that are big enough to run a midsize corporation. When we begin to embrace His plan, those things just won’t matter to us. We will see through the heart of God and with Kingdom lenses and our old ways will become obsolete. We will go from being like the Church of Laodicea to being the Church of Philadelphia in Revelation 3. Then we will truly know what “It’s Time to Shine” truly means.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>It’s time to follow the examples set by the churches who sacrifice on a regular basis to get the gospel to the world.</strong> Their pastors, leaders, and volunteers work overtime to fulfill the Great Commission for little or nothing. Many of those pastors and leaders work other jobs so they can do what they do. Some of their churches give 30%, 40% and 50% of their donations to world missions. These are the examples we need to follow! Will we?</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Jesus said, “I will build my church, and the gates of Hell will not overcome it.” Matthew 16:18-20.</strong> That is the church we want to be a part of, the church worldwide that is focused on fulfilling the divine call wrapped in the Great Commission that Jesus gave in Matthew 28:17 <em>“</em><em> </em><em>“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.</em><em>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,</em> <em>and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”</em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Thank you for taking the time to read this. You may or not agree with me and that is ok. I just ask that you think it through, match up what I am saying in His Word and then come to your conclusion, and remember “It’s Time to Shine.”!</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Brian Weller</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880322016-06-13T20:00:00-04:002020-04-05T12:55:24-04:00A Note to Fathers<p class="entry-title"><strong style="font-size: 12px;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/1e2c54995c37c01d98cd380192488451eaf5f1ef/original/a-note-to-fathers.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /></strong><span class="font_large"><strong>If you are like me, your children are on the top of your list of what is and who is most important in your life.</strong> They bring us so much joy, and have added and still add so much to our lives.</span></p>
<p class="entry-title"><span class="font_large"><strong>They love us even when we have failed them, misjudged them or overreacted in anger or criticism. They know we are imperfect, just as we know we are!</strong> They know our strengths and our weaknesses but mostly they know our hearts! They know and can sense that our hearts are for them, that we are standing with them, and that we are their biggest fans!!</span></p>
<div class="entry-content">
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Sometimes God gives us opportunities to bring a word that comforts them in a trial or challenges them when they need to just keep pressing on in the face of adversity or rejection.</strong> Our calling as Father’s is a high calling and one that we count as a privilege and honor to have.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Being a bit older now, I admit I would have done some things differently when my children were younger. There are so many things I wish I would have learned over 30 years ago when our first wonderful child was born.</strong> But that isn’t how life works! We don’t know all the answers! We have to seek them in God’s word and from others who have gained wisdom on Fatherhood from walking the path of life with their children. Fatherhood is about loving, growing, sharing, changing and learning what is most important in life. I for one, still have so much to learn! How about you?</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Before I end up writing a whole booklet here, I just want to say to you Father’s, let’s grow close to our Heavenly Father and seek to know His heart of love for His children, that includes us.</strong> That’s the example we need to follow, and in doing so, our children will grow to be who God has called them to be and we will be the Father’s God has called us to be.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Lastly, let me say enjoy your children, they truly are a gift from the Lord! <strong>For you younger fathers, please remember, they are going to grow up and be gone from your house just as quickly as “older” people say they will.</strong> Let’s take every opportunity to love on them, build them up, encourage them, discipline them in love when they need it, and to always be their biggest fan.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Take it from me, don’t speak things to quickly or harshly. If you do, you will say things you will wish you had never said.</strong> Our words have a bigger impact than we realize in our children’s lives. So let’s do our best to give them the best of our time, our energies and our focus, just like God gives us His!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>I pray you to enjoy your Father’s Day with your children, let them love on you as you celebrate their lives and while you’re at it, thank their mother for being so amazing and for their part in making such wonderful children!</strong> Most of all thank God for giving you those amazing children and for you loving you with His whole heart.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Blessed to be a Father,</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Brian</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">PS – <strong>To you fathers who have lost children on this side of life, my heart breaks for you, but please remember that because of you and your child’s faith in Jesus Christ, one day you will be reunited, and you will give each other the biggest hug ever.</strong> God is going to give you an eternity together, one that will truly wipe away all your tears. That is the same for you children who have lost your fathers. I pray God’s comfort and grace to fall upon you today as you reflect on your lives together.</span></p>
</div>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880302016-04-19T20:00:00-04:002020-09-16T10:52:14-04:00"It is I; Don't Be Afraid."<p><em><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/a94e474fa57c9a335ade671aa687e1c66c06bff2/original/it-is-i-dont-be-afraid.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /><span class="font_large">But He said to them “It is I; don’t be afraid” John 6:20</span></strong></em></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>This is what Jesus said to His disciples who were caught in a terrible storm while going across the lake to Capernaum right after the feeding of the 5,000. </strong> In John 6:19 it says “<em>they had rowed for three or three and a half miles”. </em> They were caught in the middle of a giant lake, in the middle of a giant and violent storm. The day before they had experienced the spiritual high of watching Jesus provide food for the multitudes from a measly supply of two small fish and five barley loaves. Now they are caught in the middle of this lake! It is interesting how John makes a point to let us know that as <em>“they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on water …</em> <em><strong>they were terrified</strong>.”</em> <strong>Terrified is a pretty strong word, way beyond everyday fear! </strong>Jesus knew the depth of their fear! He saw it on their faces, He heard it in their voices and had come to rescue them.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">He came to them during this storm because He cared for them and He simply said to them <strong><em>“It is I; don’t be afraid.”</em> </strong>No big lecture just; <strong><em>“It is I; don’t be afraid.”</em> </strong>He knows what we need to hear and when we need to hear it. There are times when we need more but sometimes the simple loving words of Jesus are more than enough.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Maybe that is why you are reading this right now because you need to hear His simple words of comfort and encouragement. </strong> After they heard His words, it says in John 6:21<em>“Then they were willing to take Him into the boat and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading.” </em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Jesus loves you, He knows the storms of life you are going through! He knows you are “three miles” out on the stormy lake of life.</strong> He knows you are being overwhelmed by financial pressures, or being inundated by fear, or overcome with sorrow from the loss of a loved one. Maybe your life as you have known it has just been drastically altered by some unexpected event. Just let Him into your situation, just cry out to Jesus. Then listen to His words, read His words, they are in His Word to encourage you, to build you up and to bring you immediately to His shores of peace and hope.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>He loves you more than you will ever know; this side of heaven.</strong> He came to this world to save us and to destroy the works of the devil. We just have to learn to quit looking at the storms raging around us and to start looking at Jesus and to let Him into the “boat”. He may or may not calm the sea but if He doesn’t He will certainly bring us immediately “to the shore” and He will be there with us the rest of the way!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In His love, Brian</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880262016-04-12T19:00:00-04:002021-03-31T20:20:36-04:00The Truth Will Set You Free<p><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/5aad993c403332623afbed4b0ac70546ae2780dc/original/the-truth-will-set-you-free.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_right border_" /></strong></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Jesus said in John 8:32, "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." That is a great promise from the heart of Jesus to His people.</strong> But we must hear it in the context of the first part of this passage! In John 8:31, Jesus says, "To the Jews who had believed him, if you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>There is a connection between holding to or obeying the truth and the freedom Jesus promised. He loves us and wants us to walk in freedom.</strong> However, the freedom Jesus promised only becomes a reality in our lives as we walk in the truth God has given us and that His word prescribes for us. In this quest to walk in God's truth, we sometimes take baby steps and sometimes take giant leaps of faith. With our eyes on Jesus and seeking to walk in His commands and promises, we must keep moving forward. Then we will experience the freedom God promises us! It is all by God's grace and power that we can do these things, but it is something God expects of us because there is too much at stake for us to just exist in this life falling prey to the pressures and temptations of this world. I have lived parts of my Christian life that way, and they are certainly not the high points of my life! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>I believe every believer would agree that when we walk in His truth, we experience His freedom, power, love, and grace in a fuller capacity. When we don't, we experience a sense of being distant from God and a lack of freedom to walk out and in our divine destiny.</strong> That's not because God has walked away from us but because we have distanced ourselves from Him through the wrong choices we have made. God loves us with perfect love, and in His perfect love, He desires to bring us into the freedom that allows us to walk in this world above the rising tides of temptation, fear, and worry. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I love singing songs that declare God's freedom, like "I Am Free" by The Newsboys. However, I like it a whole lot more when that freedom is a reality in my life! <strong>For these verses to become a reality in our lives, we must invite others into our private world. Maybe a pastor, a mentor, a close friend, or an accountability partner who knows our areas of weakness can help us in our quest to follow Jesus.</strong> We all need someone that can inspire us, exhort, and encourage us. I used to think I was weak if I couldn't walk in freedom on my own. I later realized how weak and prideful I was if I couldn't ask for the help I needed to reach higher heights in my quest to walk in God's love and freedom. We need each other! We are the family of God, and together we can overcome the world. Maybe your weakness is worry, fear, doubt, or some secret sin. <strong>There is help for you, just like there was for me, but we need to ask for it! Ask God and ask someone near and dear to you. Please don't put it off! Do it today, and you will be closer to walking in that freedom you have been dreaming about! </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Please remember that wherever you are in your relationship with the Lord, He loves you with full and perfect love.</strong> He is your biggest fan and will give you that desire of your heart to know Him and to make Him known. Freedom awaits, Jesus, paid for it on the cross and will gladly show us by the power of the Holy Spirit how to walk in that promised life of freedom! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Your brother in His Eternal Kingdom, Brian Weller </span></p>
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<p><span class="font_large">Hebrews 10:24 says, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Philippians 3:14 "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880292016-04-03T20:00:00-04:002020-09-16T10:52:36-04:0010 Things We Are in Jesus Christ<p><a href="http://www.messagemissions.com/"><img src="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/10thingsweareinjesuschrist.jpg?w=636/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg?w=636" class="size_xl justify_inline border_" alt="10 Things We Are In Jesus Christ" style="display: block;" /></a></p>
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<p><span class="font_large">The Bible is full of the promises of God. God has seen to it that we would have these promises to help us be at rest in Him in a world that for the most part, does not seek after Him. Some of these promises in the New Testament/New Covenant are there to remind us of who we are according to God’s point of view as members of His holy family. He wants us to stand in Him as we live in this world and these promises are sure reminders of His ways and His calling upon our lives. He loves us and wants to affirm that love in our hearts. One way He has done that and continues to do that is through the promises He has placed in His Word, the Bible. I hope and pray these are a blessing to you! Brian</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880282016-03-23T20:00:00-04:002020-04-05T12:57:52-04:00Sign of a Great Church<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font_large">All I have for today is this very simple thought:</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>The sign of a great church</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>is not what happens within its walls</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>on a Sunday morning</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>but rather what it does outside its walls</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>the rest of the week.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><em>In His service, Brian</em></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large">Check out this link regarding church mission statistics:</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><a href="http://www.messagemissions.com/resources/missionstatistics/" target="_blank" title="Mission Statistics">Mission Statistics</a></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">“He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” Mark 16:15</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">“The mark of a great church is not its seating capacity, but its sending capacity.” – Mike Stachura</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880272016-03-04T19:00:00-05:002020-04-05T12:58:21-04:00God's Way is Always the Best Way<p><span class="font_large">The statement below has been an inspiration to me over the years, I pray it inspires you too. It is from a book by Erwin McManus called The Barbarian Way (Unleash the Untamed Faith Within).</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><a href="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/takeupcross_slide1.jpg"><img src="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/takeupcross_slide1.jpg?w=300&h=225" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="TakeupCross_Slide1" height="178" width="237" /></a></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">“Instead of finding confidence to live as we should regardless of our circumstances, we have used it as justification to choose the path of least resistance, least difficulty, least sacrifice. Instead of concluding it is best to be wherever God wants us to be, we have decided that wherever it is best for us to be is where God wants us. Actually God’s will for us is less about our comfort than it is about our contribution. God would never choose for us safety at the cost of significance. God created you so that your life would count, not so that you could count the days of your life.” Erwin Raphael McManus</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” Matthew 16:24</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880352016-02-27T19:00:00-05:002020-07-11T07:06:18-04:00My Eyes Were Opened in SE Asia!<div><span class="font_large">I am back in the USA and trying to process all God allowed Ron Bouvier and I to see. We met some amazing people on our mission to Southeast Asia with Jim Randall. We visited Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia. <strong>Instead of writing a report on the trip, I decided to post something that I wrote on the trip, which best expresses what is on my heart right now.</strong></span></div>
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<div><span class="font_large"><strong>Day #7 – Thailand </strong><br>Would you please pray for wisdom and provision? I have been praying and seeking the Lord for His direction in regards to what our response should be to the needs (spiritual and material) that we have seen in Southeast Asia. The smiles of the children at the children’s homes we’ve visited flash through my mind, bringing both smiles and tears. <strong>The lost and hopeless look on the faces of </strong><strong>people on the streets is continually streaming through my mind. I feel an urging to tell them about Jesus.</strong></span></div>
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<div><span class="font_large"><a href="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/2015-se-asia-message-ministries-519.jpg"><img src="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/2015-se-asia-message-ministries-519.jpg?w=300&h=169" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="A child in the slums of Pnomh Penh looks out the door of his shack to greet us!" height="130" width="231" /></a></span></div>
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<div><span class="font_large">We can’t just walk away and do nothing! We can’t leave here without doing all that we can to bring the light of the gospel to these darkened nations. They have so little of the light of the gospel of Jesus. <strong>To walk away and do nothing would be spiritual treason toward our Heavenly Father, our Lord Jesus Christ, and His’ Great Commission to reach the world that Jesus loves, and gave His life for.</strong></span></div>
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<span class="font_large">This is one of the neighborhoods we visited in the slums of Phnom Penh. In the rainy season, the water will flow beneath all of these homes. It is very unhealthy here!</span>
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<div> </div>
<div>
<p><span class="font_large">Honestly, my brothers and sisters, my heart aches over all that I’m seeing, and a lot of what needs to be done seems impossible. Yet, I know that all things are possible to him who believes. Will you pray and believe with me? <strong>We aren’t just there to see! We know that with the seeing comes a divine edict to do something. By faith, we can and will do it!</strong></span></p>
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<p><span class="font_large"><a href="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/2015-02-06-11-13-32.jpg"><img src="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/2015-02-06-11-13-32.jpg?w=300&h=225" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="This is one of the neighborhoods we visited in the slums of Pnomh Penh. In rainy season the water will flow beneath all of these homes. It is very unhealthy here!" height="177" width="236" /></a>We all must go beyond just believing God to meet our own needs, and believing God to bring more comfort to our already comfortable “world”.<strong>We must stop spending so much time asking God for more blessings just for ourselves.</strong> We must open our eyes, look on the unharvested fields of the world, and see how bright white and ready they are for harvesting.</span></p>
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<div>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Let’s flee from the desire to build our own personal kingdoms, and let’s work with all our might for the Kingdom that will never end. God is counting on each and every one of us to do our part!</strong> If we will seek first the Kingdom of God, we will be seeking God's will, and not only will we be able to accept the dismantling of our own personal Kingdoms, but we will embrace it for the sake of a Kingdom that is eternal. Then our focus will be to know God and to make Him known! The two are inseparable. Can I truly know God intimately, yet refuse to help proclaim His name boldly, especially to those who have never heard it? We do this by either going, sending others in our place or both.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<span class="font_large"><a href="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/2015-02-06-11-09-58-copy-1024x768.jpg"><img src="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/2015-02-06-11-09-58-copy-1024x768.jpg?w=300&h=225" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="These children followed us through the slums and smiled the whole time. James ministers to these kids on a regular basis. Please pray for them!" height="168" width="224" /></a></span>
</div>
<div>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Only 1% percent of the people here know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. A majority of the people have never heard the gospel. The indigenous leaders we have met here and in India are ready to go! Let’s help them! Let’s be their senders! Let’s all do something!</strong> To not do something is selfish and self-centered. Isn’t it? I may be offending some by now, but I do it in the hope that others will be motivated and perhaps convicted by the Holy Spirit of God. He is the one who leads the army of God, as we reach into these bastions of darkness, where the devil has held the lost in chains for centuries, while we sit “In a land flooded with light”, as Falconer said.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<span class="font_large">We ministered in this village and shared the Good News of Jesus. Some gave their hearts to the Lord Jesus. James S. will be returning to minister to them!</span>
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<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<span class="font_large"><img src="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/2015-se-asia-message-ministries-653-copy.jpg?w=300&h=216" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="We ministered in this village and shared the Good News of Jesus. Some gave their hearts to the Lord Jesus. James S. will be returning to minister to them!" height="165" width="229" /><strong><strong>Are you a pastor or leader? Are you holding back the people you lead from </strong>fulfilling God’s great commission to reach the whole world?</strong> If so, it is time to repent. It’s not too late! God’s army is going forth! You can be used to lead God’s people out of spiritual slumber and into the great call to worldwide evangelism. Let go of the vision that sees no further than your own family, church family, country, continent or hemisphere. Some of you have read this far and I thank you for hearing what is on my heart.<strong> My goal is not to bring us into guilt and condemnation, but to help us to find freedom from the prisons we have built for ourselves. There is so much more that God wants to do in us and through us. My prayer is that we will all cry out to God with the words of Isaiah 6 “Here I am Lord, Send me”.</strong>This family lives on their fishing boat on the Mekong River in Cambodia.</span>
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<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Let’s work together to fulfill the Great Commission of God, who loves the whole world, and wants them to know the truth that is only found in Jesus.</strong></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large">Your brother in the Family of God,</span></p>
<span class="font_large"><img src="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/2015-se-asia-message-ministries-794.jpg?w=300&h=169" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="This family lives on their fishing boat on the Mekong River in Cambodia." height="127" width="225" /></span>
</div>
<p> </p>
<div><span class="font_large">Brian Weller</span></div>
<div> </div>
<div><span class="font_large">If you would like to help with the ministry we are doing in Southeast Asia. Please follow this link to the newsletter page on our <a href="http://www.messagemissions.com/2015/february-2015/" target="_blank" title="Message Ministries - Ways You Can Help!">Message Ministries and Missions website. Hit here to find out how you can help!</a></span></div>
</div>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880242016-01-31T19:00:00-05:002020-04-05T13:01:15-04:00God's Policies Never Change<p><span class="font_large">THINK ABOUT IT:<br>I believe in the eternal policies of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. They are explained clearly in His Word, aka The Bible.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><a href="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/gods-word-speaks-truth-hd_scripture.jpg"><img src="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/gods-word-speaks-truth-hd_scripture.jpg?w=300&h=167" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="God's Word Speaks Truth HD_scripture" /></a></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As believers, our goal is to follow Jesus, the Eternal King whose rule is forever. Not earthly ones whose power is limited, only for a season and whose ideas and policies sometimes change with the weight of public opinion</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">God’s Word and His policies never change! “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” Hebrews 13:8. He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and it is to Him and to His Kingdom we are to pledge our allegiance, first, foremost and always.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">GOD’S WORD SAYS:<br>Isaiah 9:6-7 says “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Of the increase of [his] government and peace [there shall be] no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.”</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We must continue to pray for our leaders as instructed in the Bible and we must continue to trust that God is always in control!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">1 Timothy 2:1-2 “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for everyone–for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880212015-12-31T19:00:00-05:002020-04-05T13:02:12-04:00$1.25 a day!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/395577/576620a9a2a4317eca4f770353337c8e28842b68/original/matthew-6-21.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6MTk3eDI1NSJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="" height="255" width="197" /><span class="font_large">THINK ABOUT IT:</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">1.4 billion people in the world live on $1.25 a day or less.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Imagine what a difference we could make if we shared a little bit more of what we have with those in need!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Matthew 25:34-36 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'”</span></p>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880222013-12-29T19:00:00-05:002020-04-05T13:03:40-04:00My First Post<p class="entry-title"><span class="font_large">Hello Friends,</span></p>
<div class="entry-content">
<p><span class="font_large"><a href="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/dscn1624.jpg"><img src="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/dscn1624.jpg?w=300&h=168" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="" height="168" width="300" /></a>I am a follower of Jesus Christ. He loves me with all His heart and I am doing my best to love Him back. He is perfect and I am not, but by His grace, I am saved and seeking to fulfill the divine destiny He has for me in this life.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I have been married to Anne for 36 years and she has been the biggest blessing in my life besides the Lord. Together, we have three amazing and wonderful children, Megan, Katie, and JJ. My family makes me smile with gratitude that God loves me so much that He not only saved me but gave me the greatest family in the world!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I am the founder and Director of Message Ministries and Missions Inc. We do mission work in Third World areas of countries like Peru, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, and India. I have a big heart for the different aspects of world missions and feel that God’s call to “Go into the world” and preach the gospel needs to be at the top of our list.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I will be writing about things that inspire me, motivate me and sometimes trouble me. I will write honestly and seek to always speak the truth in love and with a heart that does not point a finger but rather reaches out a hand. My desire is to see the followers of Jesus Christ fulfill their divine destinies in this world. Time is short and there is little time for us to be distracted by meaningless things. I’ve spent way too much time in my life wasting precious moments, missing divine appointments and looking to other things for satisfaction instead of my Heavenly Father, my Lord Jesus Christ, and the precious Holy Spirit.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">There are times you will say “amen” to the things I write, and at other times you may say “why did he write that?” Like you, I am imperfect and sometimes have a hard time expressing what is on my heart in just the right way and with just the right words. I will do my best to proclaim what I believe is His message. Feel free to disagree with me, only God knows all things and understands all things. Perhaps He can use us in each other's lives to bring a greater understanding of His love, His grace and His plan for our lives.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let me say in closing, that I do believe that The Bible contains God’s Words to us and I see and use His Word as my guidebook for life. I do not understand all of it and do not claim to be a scholar, but I hold to it and the truth that it holds within its pages. I have been a follower of Jesus Christ since 1975 and He has never failed to reveal the truth I needed when I needed it while seeking Him through prayer and bible study.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In His service, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Brian Mark Weller</span></p>
</div>brianmarkweller.comtag:brianmarkweller.com,2005:Post/59880252013-02-09T19:00:00-05:002020-04-05T13:09:25-04:00God's Great Bailout Plan<p class="entry-title"> </p>
<div class="entry-content">
<p><span class="font_large"><a href="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/how-deep-the-fathers-love_main.jpg"><img src="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/how-deep-the-fathers-love_main.jpg?w=300&h=225" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="How Deep the Father's Love_main" height="225" width="300" /></a></span><span style="font-size: 1.4em;">I wrote this in 2008 or so when there was so much talk about government bailouts, financial rescues and the like. I got me thinking about the GREATEST BAILOUT PLAN in the history of humanity! I am talking about GOD'S GREAT BAILOUT PLAN described in John 3:16-18.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">(16) “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (17) For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. (18) Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.”</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In these verses, Jesus in His own words describes the HEAVENLY BAILOUT PLAN. His plan to reach into a world of people who He so lovingly created for fellowship and relationship. To reach out to a world of people who were eternally lost, who’s souls were bankrupt and in desperate need of THE TRUTH and Eternal Life. Just like people are today!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We see in God’s Word that GOD’S BAILOUT PLAN was initiated by love and delivered by mercy through the life, death and resurrection of God the Son and made available to all who would receive it by Grace. Ephesians 2:8-9 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith–and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God– not by works, so that no one can boast.”</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The problem is many aren’t willing to admit SOUL BANKRUPTCY and keep trying their own SPIRITUAL BAILOUT PLANS by: </span><br> </p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">Attempting to be good enough. </span></li> <li>
<span class="font_large">Attempting</span><span class="font_large"> to do enough good deeds. </span>
</li> <li><span class="font_large">Attempting to earn value points before God. </span></li>
</ul>
<p><br><span class="font_large">The good news is GOD ALREADY VALUES US and that’s why He sent His Son to BAIL US OUT! We just have to receive the BAILOUT, which is found in the promise that comes through Jesus Christ! There’s no hidden agenda and everything is written in RED and BLACK ink found on the printed pages of God’s word, the Bible. It’s there for anyone who wants to receive it! Jesus said in the latter part of John 3:16 “Whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Jesus, the Son of God was sent by the Father to be the way back to the Father. Jesus said in John 14:6 “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” The way is Jesus Christ who came to offer the way of hope, the way of restoration, the way of spiritual prosperity and the way of Eternal Life. Jesus is both God the Son and the Son of God. He is the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords and Savior to all who will accept His offer of forgiveness, restoration, and salvation.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Through Jesus Christ, God offers us THE GREATEST BAILOUT PLAN IN THE HISTORY OF MAN!! It was signed and sealed in His Blood and confirmed through the bodily resurrection of Jesus<a href="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/how-deep-the-fathers-love_scripture.jpg"><img src="https://brianmarkweller.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/how-deep-the-fathers-love_scripture.jpg?w=300&h=225" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="How Deep the Father's Love_scripture" height="225" width="300" /></a> from the dead.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I know many reading this have already received this gift from Heaven and know the reality of GOD’S BAILOUT PLAN. We know His plan holds its full value throughout Eternity for God has shown us in His word and has sent His Holy Spirit to affirm these heavenly promises. But many still don’t know the gospel and God wants to send us to them. By His grace, mercy, and power we must continue to surrender ourselves to His Eternal purposes and plans while living out our lives here on planet Earth. We’ll have an eternity in heaven to enjoy the full blessings of His Eternal Kingdom.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large">For now, we must remain committed to spreading this Good News of the gospel no matter what the cost. This is our calling, our purpose, our divine destiny! We are to hold up the banner of His Truth and the promise of salvation so that others may receive the same gift we have. We must always remember, God still “so loves the world” and has chosen all of us as His people to communicate and display that love through! We must GO to whom God calls us to and be who God calls us to be as we go to share the GOOD NEWS of GOD'S GREAT BAILOUT PLAN!</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large">Celebrating God’s goodness with you, Brian</span></p>
</div>brianmarkweller.com