Living Church of God http://swlcg.org Arizona, New Mexico, and El Paso Church Areas Sat, 11 May 2013 03:58:09 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5.1 Sabbath Greeting 05/11/2013 http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-05112013/ http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-05112013/#comments Sat, 11 May 2013 03:58:08 +0000 denny http://swlcg.org/?p=977 Continue reading →]]> Good evening Brethren! Hope all are well or getting well. We heard some encouraging news late yesterday on Mrs. Torrance and Mrs. Connie Cooper. Keep praying for everyone! This is a Work of faith. The Bible was also so right again, on fruit trees, as we shall see in a moment.
We substantially fertilized and worked hard on our apricot tree. Now the tree is loaded with delicious apricots. These came in so fast, ripening daily, it is still a race between the birds and us, to see who will get the most apricots; but there seems to be enough to go around. The lemons just finished their season this week, with some lemons so big it is incredible. Makes you realize when God’s laws are fully observed around the world, what beauty and love will completely encompass this world. However, will you be there not only to see it, and enjoy all; but to make it happen? Sobering thought tonight!
This is our first harvest of fruit right before Pentecost. In each season we are to worship God on His Holy Days. Pentecost is Sunday May 19 and as another holy day season (summer) approaches: but are you perfect yet? I mean are each of us really perfect, right now, today? The perfection of attitude necessary to be in God’s kingdom, above reproach and totally God-like in every action, word and deed every day of your life? Think now before you answer. I was struck recently with this concept; because it takes faith to do 1 Corinthians 16:1 “Let all that you do be done in love…” or Romans 13:9 “…”You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (NAS) especially if we are not acting like God now! If like our self, that will not gain you entrance into the Kingdom of God. That is a fact. The word “neighbor” ??????? plesion {play-see’-on} in the Greek means: a neighbor, a friend, any other person, and where two are concerned, the other, and according to Christ, any other man irrespective of race or religion with whom we live or whom we chance to meet.” That is clear.
There is no room for hate toward anyone; period, end of discussion. So, “Where do [these] wars and fights come from among you?” James answers: “Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? 2You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet1 you do not have because you do not ask. 3You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures.” (James 4:1-3 NKJ)
Strong language, yet James minced no words; because this is such an important subject, that we must understand. Our salvation is at stake. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2Ti. 3:16-17 NKJ)
Not, for bad works and when we do bad works no matter how justified we feel we are, we are not working on behalf of God and must repent totally. That said, then, we can’t we hate our neighbor or carry grudges toward anyone; or even think thoughts lacking in love toward others. Who is our neighbor? Could he or she be our President, someone in Congress, anyone in local government, someone across the street or next door to you, in your family, your boss or co-worker on the job or someone in the Church?
No, not one person can hold this kind of thinking in their hearts and think they do God a service. Christ hates no one and even the angels must show respect to Satan! We do not have a prerogative or “right” to act apart from what Christ said for us to do. So why then are some that way? Christ answered: “Why do you not understand My speech? Because you are not able to listen to My word. 44 “You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do.” In other words we do the works of whose father we are. “He [Satan] was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth […do we “stand” the truth?], because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it. 45 “But because I tell the truth, you do not believe Me. 46 “Which of you convicts Me of sin? And if I tell the truth, why do you not believe Me? 47 “He who is of God hears God’s words; therefore you do not hear, because you are not of God.” (John 8:43-47 NKJ)
The fact is: “Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” (Rom. 13:10 NKJ) And, “See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.” (1Th. 5:15 NKJ) Notice, it is for our self as much as it is for the other person [to forgive in love] because we could develop a root of bitterness and we will lose out if we do not repent. There are no excuses. We can’t blame others and expect God to give us something we have not done our part in.
However it takes faith to return love for hurt. Notice Hebrews 12, verse 12. Paul admonishes us to be strong and pick ourselves up when we drop low in spirit. We must be on guard and in verse 14 to: “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled; Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright. For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.”
We had better start by believing what this says. Keep in mind, it does not trouble the other person, it troubles the one with the root of bitterness. A root of bitterness is an offshoot, a root of “pikria” the Greek for a bitter root, that produces a bitter fruit, bitterness, bitter, hatred. Conversely, the apricots are sweet and beautiful so that tree responded to correction.
However, remember the other tree I spoke of, that without warning, one day with a strong wind, just fell over? It was so green on top, beautiful. It had a top that no one would suspect, it had no root! This tree had everything perfect, yet in the end, all of its roots were just wrapped together around the bottom of the trunk, in one big ball. It had never gone down deep in, for good soil and deep water, or even out stretched for at least the surface water. I spoke later with some gardening experts and this is what happens sometimes. Some plants just never take root in the soil. Such was the case with this beautiful tree. One day it just fell over and was gone just as some members who never take root, producing nothing.
Instead the apricot tree is producing so fast we can’t keep up with it, after it was almost given up on, substantially cut, strongly course corrected, dug completely around and deeply fertilized. It took that kind of correction. It responded and is growing great. It is also a beautiful green shade tree now too and we never expected that. The birds see and know. Do we in God’s Church see and know what we need to be all about?
Satan looks for opportunities to drive wedges in your life. When God speaks through His ministers He is sending US ALL rain to grow our crops, to strengthen our roots in Him; and also someone to deeply fertilize, correct and “grow” us into a mature Christian. These actions challenge us and give us food for thought. God expects us to stretch our roots out or down deep into very good soil and get the water and nourishment of His righteous truths.
Are any of us one big ball of roots or worse yet putting roots down in poisonous territory to draw up that poison into our tree? We do that when we allow Satan to get to us. Don’t let that happen! Push the wedges away and God will bless you!
Tomorrow services are in Tucson, Santa Fe and Prescott at 10:30 AM; 2:30 PM in Albuquerque; 3:00 PM in Phoenix and for El Paso/Las Cruces at 4:00 PM Phoenix Services via telephone and Skype in our Arrey NM location.
There will be no Bible Study in Prescott tomorrow after Church Services because our Spokesman Club Ladies nigh Dinner will begin at 6 PM for refreshments and dinner served at 6.30 PM with Club to follow. There will be no business portion of the meeting. Hope to see all Spokesman, Ladies and guests who have pre-reserved space, at the meeting. It will be a wonderful event!
Happy Mother’s Day this Sunday, enjoy!
Sincerely,
Rodger L. Bardo, Area Pastor
]]> http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-05112013/feed/ 0 Sabbath Greeting 05/04/2013 http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-05042013/ http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-05042013/#comments Sat, 11 May 2013 03:57:09 +0000 denny http://swlcg.org/?p=975 Continue reading →]]> Greetings Brethren! Terms as: team-play, team-sports or team-players are interesting sounding buzz words of the day but the actual meaning is usually misunderstood by even those who use such terms to define certain group actions and efforts.
 
Bob Briner in his book the “Management Methods of Jesus” stated something very interesting under his chapter entitled: “Establish Authority” which may help us understand these terms in relation to God’s Church. “Jesus did not run a democratic organization [the author’s words not mine]. Not once did he [Jesus] call for a vote on the course that should be followed. He was in charge. He based His authority on the Scriptures and on the commission that he had from His Father. Even He submitted to a “higher” authority – “not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42).
 
He goes on to say: “in this day, when non-authoritarian leadership is lauded at every turn, it is important to note that no successful organization is ever built, or maintained without strong authority. Ask any of the great corporate leaders. Was there any doubt who was boss? When Iacocca was at Chrysler, Watson, at IBM, Perot at EDS, or Buffet at Berkshire Hathaway? Who ran Wal-Mart? You can bet Sam Walton did.”
 
At times members may question church decisions when difficult decisions are made. Yet, as in any good team, realistically, there can only be one team captain, making those difficult decisions. We see this in many aspects of society. For instance in sports, we have one head coach reporting to an owner. An owner’s team usually belongs to a league that sets the rules but ultimately the decision-making on the actual plays of the game are at the digression of the coach, his staff and all under the direction of the owner and his executive management team. This may be a simplified view, to an extent I have space to write; but I think you see the point.
 
If a player, then, were to be thrown off the team for misconduct unbecoming to his profession as a player, he would likely be banned from the league and not be allowed to play for a period of time. Unfortunately today personal morals may not be a reason for banning a player (perhaps a subject for another discussion); but substance abuse and point shaving would still be a few reasons where a player could be suspended from play and rightly should be out.
 
In similar fashion, in God’s Church Paul commands us to deal with immoral behavior in Romans 16:17, 18 and in other places. “Immoral” can be translated: wicked, depraved, corrupt, dishonest, sinful and morally wrong actions. So within God’s Church, when individuals engage in such and truly do not repent, God shows His management team (ministry) through His apostles, that something must be done. Course correction is never easy to do or accomplish. Yet if a pilot were off-course and you were on that jet heading to some place you did not want to go, anyone of us would want a correction to be done immediately!
 
Perhaps you’ve never thought of it this way, but in the same way, each of us is part of the team. God loves us. He cares for us. He teaches us. He helps us. He gives us his Holy Spirit; yet He puts us under the authority of individuals and situations, on our job, with governments and in the Church. We are to learn to respect those in positions of authority. Christ was under authority. Yet He also had authority which He exercised properly. Mr. Briner continues the thoughts of this with: “Participatory decision-making may be okay to an extent, but only when there is real, ultimate, final authority at the top.”
 
God placed us under authorities now for one major reason: that we learn to rule, the right way. That is why God instructs us to pay our taxes, respect and obey our bosses on our jobs or in government and so forth. All these situations and individuals may be imperfect; but then we learn one very important lesson with our right behavior, as a team player, how to rule. This world is the training ground for big power and responsibility later in God’s Kingdom.
 
This world is full of, both good and bad examples, of leadership. So a “team-player” is a person who(Webster’s New World College/On-Line Dictionaries definition) “…willingly works in cooperation with others or someone who puts aside his personal goals and works well with others, doing what he needs to do to strive for a common goal. An example of this is someone who plays basketball but who doesn’t hog the ball; he instead passes it when it makes sense to do so; or a team player is someone working on a team project for school or work who does his fair share without complaining.” That is what the world says and you all know God says we are to go even the extra mile, not in compromise of Christian values but in honest loving effort to honor God and respect those with responsibilities.
 
You see, we know what “being on the team” means. We can get angry and leave the team or do something bad and have the team leave us; but ultimately the real point is, when the difficult times occur, are we a “team-player” — that is, one who understands authority and “subordinates personal aspirations [as Christ did] and works in a coordinated effort with other members of a group, or team, in striving for a common goal…” which is still another on-line definition. You see the world knows the truth. How about all of us in God’s Church?
 
I think that is one of the reasons I enjoyed watching the Suns basketball team in times past because the players exhibited a great deal of team ball. Each player put aside certain personal aspirations and worked in a coordinated effort with the other members of the group or team in striving for common goals. It was great to see that on the court and even though you knew who were some of the better players, the group worked together to help each other achieve common goals. If that is not, one, of the most beautiful things to consider, I don’t know what is.
 
Yes, it is fun to see star players do a job and do it well; and probably it’s true what the “old” saying says: ‘everybody loves a winner.’ Yet in spite of this, when a team works together for a common good, collectively, there’s really something special about that effort. In many ways, that’s what we are doing, Brethren. We in the Church of God are working together for the common good to achieve a single purpose. It takes leadership within the church to make that happen and team players as us all who understand that without leadership there would be chaos. Not everything is as we would do it and then maybe that is why we are not in the job to make those kinds of decisions (smile). Just a reality check!
 
So we all together, work for the common good of the church and the members individually and learn to rule for the future at the same time. Now that is positive! Sometimes we don’t always see it that way and sometimes our own personal aspirations have to be put on hold for the common good of the group. I was saying that very thing to the Spokesman’s Club last Saturday evening, with my own personal situation which had to be changed to conform to the supreme leader, the Father, for the common good of the group. Many of you have written me later and said the same thing. Each of us has, at some point in our Christian calling, had to come to grips with the reality of this way of life. We have more to achieve than simply a personal goal of salvation. That is primarily the world’s view, even in religion, which is self-centered.
 
We must be beyond that, to a God-centered approach. Personal salvation is certainly part of the picture, but not an end in itself, when we really understand. It takes a group, a team, full of team players, filling positions in the family of God, to make this all work together for the common good, the Kingdom of God soon to come. Each of us may have our own personal ideas on things; but somehow the job gets done in spite of weaknesses, personal ideas, challenges and issues when real team players understand and live by this all important management method of Jesus Christ.
 
Betty and I hope to see our Las Cruces-El Paso Brethren this Sabbath at 9:00 AM tomorrow; and later in Albuquerque at 2:30 PM Sabbath Services. As usual Church services are at 10:30 AM in Tucson, Santa Fe and Prescott at the regular times and locations. We have not changed halls yet in Tucson but stay tuned for further developments. There will also be a potluck and Bible Study this Sabbath following Church Services in Tucson.
 
Phoenix Church Services will also be at the usual time of 3:00 PM with a potluck and Bible Study to follow in the social hall of the regular meeting location (tomorrow May 4). Next Sabbath, May 11, there will be a potluck and Bible Study to follow Church Services in Prescott. As well in Phoenix on next Saturday evening May 11 will be our Spokesman Club Ladies night dinner meeting. Please check with Mr. Grant our club president for further details. Safe travel to you all and a peaceful Sabbath evening!
 
Sincerely,
Rodger L. Bardo, Area Pastor
]]> http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-05042013/feed/ 0 Sabbath Greeting 04/27/2013 http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-04272013/ http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-04272013/#comments Sat, 11 May 2013 03:56:07 +0000 denny http://swlcg.org/?p=973 Continue reading →]]> Greetings Brethren! In I John 3:22 we read: “And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight.” As Pentecost approaches we again begin to look deeply on these subjects in God’s word of His law and of God’s Holy Spirit: meat in due season!
Our doing of God’s ways cannot be “contingent” on what God should or must do for us, before we do His will. It must not come with strings attached. We read in Matthew 21:22 that: “….all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.”
Yes, we have to “believe” but we can’t expect to receive if we ask for things God is not prepared to give us or that we are simply lusting after. Then we really are not obeying or being faithful. It all involves a proper fear of God to do what is right in His sight; because God “rewards” those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6) and so when we do, we must also believe He will respond to any genuine need.
Notice I said “need” — not things lusted after. In fact He already knows what we need and He provides all our needs (Matthew 6:31, 32; Phil. 4:19). Yet, in that same verse, it also says we must have faith in Him to do it. He expects us to do our part too, even in the believing He will provide.
When we get to James 4:13-17, we see more of what God says on this subject.  “Come now, you who say, Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.”
God knows what is best; therefore our approach must be: “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that. But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.” (Verse 17)
In I Corinthians 12:11 we also see that “…the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.” There it is, as HE WILLS!
So for example, someone can “say” they will do something or take a job or go on some trip; but really it is it really up to God and His will because we are His now and we are to obey Him. Let’s assume then (we use that word carefully) that our motives are free of lust and very pure in any situation. Is God then obligated to give us that job or trip or car or whatever?
You may have heard it said how someone would be just “perfect” for a job and “we just can’t understand why it’s not yours.” Maybe it’s simply not God’s will; because God can do anything. He really can. This then is where faith, trust and actually, when we understand, where a really deep “fear” or respect for our God comes into the picture. We can’t assume that we should be in a job; or do a certain thing, whatever it is, unless we seek God’s will in the matter. He knows best. Remember the very old black and white comedy “Father Knows Best”? Well your Father in Heaven really does know best. So if we seek God in the right way, doing those things that are pleasing in His sight, He’ll show us if something is right for us.
We may not like the answer. It could be no; but He’ll show us. So can we be satisfied with the answer? God is the one who chooses. He is the boss. A righteous man named Job had to learn that HARD lesson: “no purpose” of God’s can be restrained. So IF something is right, then God will make it so. If it’s not, then, are we satisfied with not now or no? Point is again, if we are doing what we should be doing, it should not make a difference in our Christian service. That is, if we are really sincere.
My latest sermon series will discuss these and more points as we test ourselves on whether we are living in the spirit or carnally, in the flesh by sight. You see, it does depend on us, to “do” something. God instructs us to believe, to love, to keep His commandments, to follow Him, to ask for His will in any matter; and then we shall receive, again, if it is His will. God also says He will not leave us or forsake us and He will never put too much on us, where He does not provide a way of escape. So we really can’t lose with a commitment like that.
He is willing; but are we? We are when we do His commandments. God help all of us to see this glimpse into His vast will and move forward doing what is pleasing in His sight.
Tomorrow, Church Services will be in Santa Fe, Tucson and Prescott at 10:30 AM; Albuquerque at 2:30 PM and Phoenix at 3:00 PM with Las Cruces-El Paso on phone-Skype hook up at 4:00 PM MDT, all in our usual locations. Tomorrow, as well, there will also be: a potluck and Bible Study in Prescott following Church Services at 1:00 PM, a Bible Study following Church Services at 5:00 PM in Albuquerque and Spokesman Club tomorrow evening at 7:00 PM in Phoenix for our Arizona Club.
Please remember, next Sabbath there will be our monthly Church Service at the Golden Mesa in Las Cruces for our Las Cruces-El Paso Congregation at 9:00 AM. Hope to see you there! Next week as well there will also be a Bible Study and Potluck following Church Services in Tucson and Phoenix. Please do not miss these wonderful opportunities to learn more in God’s word and fellowship with brethren of like mind!
Have a peaceful Sabbath doing what is pleasing to God as we observe His fourth commandment with renewed enthusiasm!
Sincerely,
Rodger L. Bardo, Area Pastor
]]> http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-04272013/feed/ 0 Sabbath Greeting 04/20/2013 http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-04202013/ http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-04202013/#comments Tue, 23 Apr 2013 12:35:28 +0000 denny http://swlcg.org/?p=965 Continue reading →]]> Hello Brethren! Today, the mail was delivered, the trucks to the stores on the corner near our home delivered a host of food of all different kinds and the local coffee shop was serving hot coffee.
The jets were taking off early as usual. I “filled up” the gas tank for more travel this Sabbath to Prescott and even though gas is 3.73 per gallon now (when just a few years ago it was about half that) who “really seems to care” because we have plenty and it is peaceful and quiet where we live, at least right now.
Another beautiful Sabbath day is almost here and even we in God’s Church can become complacent, off our guard and almost lulled to sleep thinking we can escape on our own power what is sure to come. Yet in Boston, it was a night filled with violence, as the 2 suspects now identified as associated with the bombings at the Marathon earlier this week were chased around the metro area, in what became a violent crime spree.
“We believe this man to be a terrorist,” said Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis of the last remaining suspect still at large (of those we know of right now), encouraging all to stay inside and lock your doors. “We believe this to be a man who’s come here to kill people.” He continued, as a house to house search is on-going as I write this message to you.
Surely chilling events to most Americans, who really have no idea of what some countries live with daily: people who specifically “come to kill” — the young, old and everyone in between – indiscriminately, for the express purpose to terrorize.
Years ago I spoke about an uneasy July 1942 early morning in Amsterdam, of war, hate and terror beyond anyone’s imagination of that day, when an average professional family back then, the Franks, decided to go into hiding. This to escape terror and hiding in what was originally his own business secret annex, above the office. Jews were no longer allowed to own businesses by then or do or engage in a whole host of activities. We in America have no concept of this kind of wholesale terror. Mr. Frank was able to transfer his firm to his non-Jewish Dutch associate when the Nazi terrorists took over Holland. Jews and “undesirable” people from all walks of life everywhere in Holland were by now being deported in train loads to “work camps” or otherwise known as death camps.
Two years earlier, all hope of rescue was dashed, when about 400,000 British, French and Belgian soldiers, were rescued off the beaches of Dunkirk by various water crafts from the oncoming Nazi military. Yes, an incredible miracle; but those left behind faced the worst of it, which was about to begin. Too late to leave now, all Jews were required to wear a six pointed yellow star on their clothes signifying who they were. Hate was being poured out everywhere; and while the Franks had so far managed to avoid deportation to the death camps, Margot (one the daughters) suddenly got her deportation notice. You know the story. They hid themselves for a while but were finally caught proving there really is no place to hide.
After Monday’s horror it is also clear there is no place to hide from what is coming except in the arms of an almighty God who loves us and will protect those who serve Him. Having stayed on in Holland however, the Franks had thought they were safe after escaping Germany in 1933, they never dreamed this day would come. In hiding they lived in constant terror for fear of discovery. If only we had believed the warnings, one in hiding says. Yes, if only! Too late, was an understatement of the terror they now lived with daily.
A few years ago we visited this hiding place of the Franks, made famous now through “Anne Frank’s Diary” which we again saw part of the movie on television recently. Each time we see this I am riveted by the reality, there really is no place to hide. Anne was the youngest daughter and as we climbed the stairs into the attic where three families hid, in cramped quarters, pale white from never being allowed to go outside, it was easy to see why they cowered in fear and terror daily.
Brethren, the future holds incredible tyranny for mankind. “For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world [even the 1940's] to this time, no, nor ever shall be. And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.” (Matthew 24:21-22). Why?
 
“Then My anger shall be aroused against them in that day, and I will forsake them, and I will hide My face from them, and they shall be devoured. And many evils and troubles shall befall them, so that they will say in that day, `Have not these evils come upon us because our God is not among us?’ 18 “And I will surely hide My face in that day because of all the evil which they have done, in that they have turned to other gods. (Deut. 31:17-18 NKJ)
 
We obviously should not fear the future; but we must wake up now so we can properly face it spiritually! Tribulation, oppression, affliction, distress, such as the world has NEVER seen, is coming again. Revelation 3:16 is also reflective of those who have one foot in the Church and one foot in this world (Matthew 25:1-13).  Can we really afford that kind of lukewarm attitude by compromising in our actions and attitudes? We can’t “play” at Church, as Dr. Meredith has so often said.
 
These people in the true story above thought they were safe. They thought they could actually hide themselves from what was coming and later wished they had taken the warning, had listened. We are blessed with the truth; and the time, is now, to take precautions. God will provide (Isaiah 16:3; Revelation 3:10), if we remain faithful. That’s the key, remaining faithful with our trust firmly in the true God, to believe Him and do what He says to do, daily. We in God’s Church have so much to be thankful for. “For the scripture says, whosoever believes [places confidence in, trusts, has conviction and faith in] on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
 
Yes some will laugh at this message or others, complain about the messenger and that he is too loud or bold in this message; but the wise will listen and heed (Proverbs 10:14; 14:17; 15:7 — why we do this Work — Matthew 7:24-29; Gal. 6:9; II Thess. 3:13). For surely, we, of all people, have been warned and there will be no place to hide, apart from God’s love and protection. So resolve now to “put on Christ” in faith (Hebrews 13:5). When you are tempted to say “tone it down” — don’t. Realize the times you now live in and go forward!
 
Tomorrow, in the sermon in Phoenix and later I hope to go into some more details of end time events, as we continue our study in Deuteronomy 28 in Bible Study and Potluck that follow Phoenix Services. Please plan to stay, learn, grow and change!
 
Church services are as follows: 10.30 AM in Santa Fe, Tucson and Prescott; 2:30 PM in Albuquerque; 3:00 PM in Phoenix; and 4:00 PM in our Las Cruces-El Paso Congregation via our phone in or Skype on-line service.
 
The two Tomorrow’s World Lectures originally scheduled this month in Arizona have been moved to November due to lack of a suitable hall. We think now we have located an appropriate hall in Tucson for both the lecture series and also Sabbath Services. We hope to be able to proceed ahead with our plans shortly. Please continue praying about this situation. Please also continue to remember Mrs. Nancy Hall in Texas in your prayers!
 
Sincerely,
Rodger L. Bardo, Area Pastor
]]> http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-04202013/feed/ 0 Sabbath Greeting 04/13/2013 http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-04132013-2/ http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-04132013-2/#comments Sat, 13 Apr 2013 04:10:44 +0000 denny http://swlcg.org/?p=961 Continue reading →]]> Good Morning Brethren! As we make our way again to Santa Fe and Albuquerque, to spend the weekend with the Brethren in New Mexico, we hope you are having a very good Friday work day and are gearing up for a peaceful Sabbath evening.
Mistrust, pride, arrogance, disrespect for authority and lack of credibility are everywhere in society. These are attitudes of Satan, society and self, not of God. As an example, just recently one of the most famous British leaders known as the “Iron Lady” to some, died. Margaret Thatcher came into leadership at a time of great turbulence in recent British history. She was a strong leader with strong ideals.
Agree with her or not she did great service to her country with that strong leadership at a time of the “Winter of Discontent” in the UK. The USA is headed for similar if we do not change our ways and unfortunately the lessons of the past will also have to be relearned by the UK and all peoples everywhere, very soon. Still, some merely distrusted Mrs. Thatcher because of that strength of leadership; and still today some of those scars linger on, as her death was shockingly and disrespectfully “celebrated” by a few in the streets of London. “Glad you are gone” shouted some, even some news media outlets!
This is my point Brethren. These individuals could take great lessons from: “…Michael the archangel, in contending with the devil, when he disputed about the body of Moses, dared not bring against him a reviling accusation, but said, “The Lord rebuke you!”” Of course verse 10 really answers the question we are discussing: “But these speak evil of whatever they do not know; and whatever they know naturally, like brute beasts, in these things they corrupt themselves.” (Jude 1:9-10 NKJ) These are carnal, plain and simple; and “…Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. 8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God.” (Romans 8:7-8 NKJ)
We in God’s Church must be different. We can’t solve spiritual problems through carnal means. So many people on “both sides” of any issue can’t be pleased today because neither side is of God. They each have their own agendas and personal wants and desires. These then all fight against what is good and righteous. So, no physical decision of this world is ever going to make all people happy, unless it is based on God’s laws and God’s ways; because physical agendas are focused on selfishness, confused societal attitudes or worse yet, satanic ideas, direct from the deceiver himself.
These clearly are the snares Mr. Ames has spoken on, of Satan, Society and Self, which will so quickly ensnare us. Ways of: self-hurt, self-destruction and outright rebellion; and rebellion begins with disrespect for authority. Matthew 4:1-11 shows the temptation that Christ went through. We are also in these same temptations, today. We are really overcoming Satan, Society and Self, as Christ did throughout His whole life. Interestingly, we also really can’t know what is truly good for us, apart from God and His ways showing us the right way or direction to walk in. The: ‘I am going to do what I want, when I want it and no one will tell me anything, attitude, MUST GO’ from all Christians who follow Christ.
Instead, an attitude of humility, love, kindness, sincerity and sacrifice must replace the past. A trusting, believing, loving, kind and uplifting spirit, as shown in Galatians 5, where we see two spirits compared: “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” (Gal. 5:16-24 NKJ)
Even if change is hard, if it’s God’s ways we are changing to, then its right for us to do. And so we must do it! Do we pour over Matthew 5, 6, and 7 to make that our approach with each of our brothers and sisters in God’s Church? It had better be our whole focal point of love and respect; because no amount of getting out the physical pork in our food, as an example, will impress God; if we are swimming in the preverbal “lard fest” of this world’s ways and it’s arrogance of mistrust or disrespect for authority.
People may feel they have justification to hate, distrust or disrespect. God is judging that; but for us in God’s Church, whose Kingdom is not of this world, we had better be living rightly, today! For Christ will establish His Kingdom in a few short years. Time is running out for all those who refuse to repent of their wrong ways. When we live as a Christian should, to humble ourselves mightily, we gain vital opportunities to really change to God’s ways. God will not have someone in His Kingdom He cannot rule. May God grant deep repentance to us all, as we yield to Him.
Church Services are as usual: 10:30 AM in Santa Fe, Tucson and Prescott; 2:30 PM in Albuquerque and 3:00 PM in Phoenix. Las Cruces/El Paso and our scattered Brethren, please tune into the Skype and or phone “live church services” line into Phoenix at 3:00 PM AZ time or 4:00 PM NM time. If you need instructions on how to do so, please contact Mr. Napoleoni at: denapo@gmail.com. The next local service in Las Cruces at the Golden Mesa will be May 4 at 9:00 AM. There will also be a Bible Study and potluck this Sabbath in Tucson following Church Services. Have a peaceful Sabbath evening!
Sincerely,
Rodger L. Bardo, Area Pastor
]]> http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-04132013-2/feed/ 0 Sabbath Greeting 04/06/2013 http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-04062013/ http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-04062013/#comments Sat, 13 Apr 2013 04:09:41 +0000 denny http://swlcg.org/?p=959 Continue reading →]]> Good Sabbath morning Brethren!
Hope you are well and looking forward to another wonderful Sabbath day. Church Services are in each of the six congregations here in the southwest: Las Cruces-El Paso (9:00 AM); Santa Fe, Tucson and Prescott at 10:30 AM; Albuquerque at 2:30 PM and Phoenix at 3:00 PM.
Please be sure you are a part of what God is doing where He has placed His name.
It was a wonderful Days of Unleavened Bread. Betty and I had a great time seeing all of you this Holy Day Season in each of the Churches in our area. We also thank you for an enjoyable time where ever we have been and have seen growth in each of the churches.
One word for today that each of us needs to remember in these times as this world goes its own way, is, always: “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” (Deut. 31:6 NKJ)
That is one lesson that seemed to be the one to learn from all the messages given during the Feast as we move forward on our knees. Have a peaceful Sabbath day and be sure to spend time today with God!
Sincerely,
Rodger L. Bardo, Area Pastor
]]> http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-04062013/feed/ 0 Sabbath 03/23/2013 http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-03232013/ http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-03232013/#comments Sat, 23 Mar 2013 01:47:00 +0000 denny http://swlcg.org/?p=954 Continue reading →]]> Hello Brethren! Hope you are getting ready for a wonderful Spring Holy Day Season! Locations and times have been sent out previously. Please consult your schedule but if you have any questions please let me know.
At times, some of the messages you hear from Headquarters, your ministry, local teachers and speakers may seem strong and pointedly focused; and, well, you are right, these are and must be so, to meet the test of what our responsibilities are today in God’s Church. We are entering a time that has never been before; nor ever shall be.
That’s right. You are now traveling in unchartered waters historically. Those who speak to you each week and all those who serve you diligently are to have urgency as never before. As I said on the Sabbath and plan to say in New Mexico, time is short. It’s the night time and many are sleeping. Smoke is in the air. It is time to understand, wake up and urgently attend to our spiritual houses that, in some cases, may need serious work or worse be in flames, burning to the ground. Is that too strong for any of us to hear? Then listen: “…As they departed, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind?” (Matthew 11:7 NKJ)
Yes, this is the time to put the leaven out, as reflected by the spring Holy Day season we are in right now and keep it out by moving forward spiritually! “For in those days there will be tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the creation which God created until this time, nor ever shall be. And unless the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake, whom He chose, He shortened the days.” (Mark 13:19-20 NKJ)
Please look carefully at this scriptural passage. Notice the only reason these terrible times will be shortened is for the elect’s sake “whom He chose.” At some point, those who are faithful will be deemed, not only worthy to escape the physical trouble soon to happen here on earth; but be the very reason God shortens these upcoming world trials. These special ones are His elect, chosen to receive salvation.
For no other reason other than the elect’s sake will future events be shortened. So yes it does matter what you do now. It does matter! In one way of thinking, we of all people need to think outside of ourselves to all those who may not be called now; and to do our jobs as Christians now, for their sakes as well as our own. True selflessness, looking to Christ “…who, in exchange for obtaining the joy set before him, endured execution on a stake as a criminal, scorning the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2 CJB)
That is a great translation of that part of scripture. Yes indeed, no flesh will survive the upcoming days unless God intervenes and the times will be worse than ever known, times as in Noah’s days but worse. Does that still shock you or cause you to wish the messengers would just “tone it down” a little? Not this messenger.
Brethren, my dear friends, these times should at least sober us somewhat, don’t you think? Come let us reason together. For God says clearly we are to: “Cry aloud, spare not; Lift up your voice like a trumpet; Tell My people their transgression, And the house of Jacob their sins. (Isa 58:1 NKJ)
Who are God’s people? Are you? He covers our country and so forth, in the second sentence. Who are God’s people?
So a trumpet, trumpets; and the words “spare” from ??????? chasak {khaw-sak’} in Hebrew coupled with “not” means: do not withhold, restrain, hold back, keep in check or refrain; do not keep back and do not keep for oneself, or keep from anyone, hold in check, refrain or spare from anyone. Do not! This is not a private little world we have been given; but a responsible job to do. All of us, must do, this job.
The trumpet is blowing to the world and also to each of us individually. Do we cover our ears? Do we restrain even ourselves from listening? Dr. Meredith’s latest member letter is clear. We as God’s people need to humble ourselves before our God. Never in times past have we been ever closer, than now, in prophecy; but are we sleeping soundly or awake and doing the responsibility God has given us? One member recently wrote that in times past he may have taken some things for granted; but not again. Now this is the right attitude. He is awake; as we all must be, right now!
So today, really is, that time, that quite frankly, is the beginning (if you please) of either your spiritual life or death! That is strong meat; yes, I know and I also know some do not want to hear it. Speak smooth words. Put me to sleep; or wake me up, which? If then, we in God’s Church refuse the warning, how do we expect any in this world to heed our message? That is my point.
For 6000 years, life, as we knew it in some form, somehow staggered on, in spite of horrible ills perpetrated on others, degenerate morals that were expressed contrary to God’s words, despicable hate crimes against all of God’s creation and disgusting words, actions and doings toward people of all races, colors and backgrounds; but now, the world is changing. Could it get even worse? I think you know that answer and the stakes are too high. Satan knows he has a little time left.
He will become so desperate, that he will eventually, once again, literally attack God’s throne in heaven. The snake will be cornered and will strike. Again, he will be repelled back to this earth and then, in incredible hate, Satan will “go after” those very individuals who will replace him in Tomorrow’s World, with a vengeance.
This is said, not to “unnerve you” but quite the opposite, to wake us all up! Our protection is predicated directly on our willingness to yield ourselves to God now. This is then the time, now, for all to change and that change must be one of the heart.“So the heart of Pharaoh was hard; neither would he let the children of Israel go, as the LORD had spoken by Moses.” (Exodus 9:35 NKJ)
Pharaoh’s heart was “hard” or rigid, inflexible and unbending. During this time of the year which has a special meaning for these words: let God come in and change all the areas in your heart which still remain unyielding; but we must be willing! Someday for all people God says: “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. 27“I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them. (Eze 36:26-27 NKJ)
Allow God to FULLY do that for you, now. Matthew 24 and 25 show us clearly that we need to watch, stay awake and hold fast to what we have. Don’t let go because of selfishness, ignorance, lack of understanding or for any other reason. The ministry is to wake us all up. Yield to that wake up call.
Sure people have been saying Christ will return for 6000 years. And it has not happened yet; but by every stretch of imagination, we are at the end of the age as shown in nearly all prophecies even those of this world that have no Biblical basis. Even the Catholic prophecies say this may very well be the last pope. My e-mail inbox has been slammed with articles or many possibilities of the “end”from even a number of associates both inside and outside the Church, speaking of this very charismatic individual who they are looking toward to bring about world peace.
Yet, who of all people should be watching world events, getting a strong message out and growing spiritually with an even greater urgency? Each member in God’s Church, that is who, and we should never forget this or take it for granted. It is coming soon and we can ill afford to be asleep or worse; and your ministry wants to make sure you are not caught without your spiritual armor on, now, when it is needed the most. The Work of God both in our personal lives and collectively in Charlotte, should then be, the most important thing going. It should. It must and it has to be!
This Holy Day Season, drink in of all the messages in total, applying each individually. Don’t miss anything. Learn, grow and change.
Are the ministers speaking to you? Yes, each is: to all of us. So we, each of us, can eventually hear those beautiful words: “…His lord said to him, `Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ (Matthew 25:21 NKJ)
Sincerely,
Rodger L. Bardo, Area Pastor
]]> http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-03232013/feed/ 0 Sabbath Greeting 03/16/2013 http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-03162013/ http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-03162013/#comments Sat, 23 Mar 2013 01:45:05 +0000 denny http://swlcg.org/?p=951 Continue reading →]]> Hello Brethren! Hope you are getting ready for another wonderful Sabbath evening.
As I mentioned yesterday in my email for the prayer requests, we must never lose our focus in trails. We know that God exists; and “….the fool has said in his heart, “There is no God.”  (Psalm 53:1 NKJ)
Sometimes however, without even realizing it, our actions seem to reflect we aren’t so sure God is there.  Let me give you an example. If we pick up the telephone, we expect a dial tone, don’t we? And if there isn’t a dial tone or we if can’t make a call, especially when we really need too, we can become quite concerned or even upset, especially if it’s an urgent call. We would certainly contact the phone company, and request service and even ask for a refund of service, if the phones were out for any extended period of time.
So what about with God? God’s phone service is never out of order. Instead, we are the one that makes it out of order, causing the spiritual phone lines are down. We read this quite clearly in Isaiah 59:2 “But your iniquities have separated you from your God; And your sins have hidden His face from you, So that He will not hear.” So we see there is a way to separate ourselves from God by not asking God to forgive us for the sins that we have committed.
Each of us has a responsibility before Passover to examine ourselves clearly. Each of us must look deeply inside ourselves and see where the changes need to take place. It’s not a question of whether there are changes to accomplish; but what those changes are and that we must make the right changes to be in harmony with God because human nature is so deceptive. Many times we think we’re going the right way when in reality we are really going the opposite direction from God’s ways.
Trials help us face, reality: the reality of ourselves. It’s not easy to go through trials because it’s not easy to face, who and what we really are like, humanly speaking.
God really can do anything. That is a fact. We live that fact when we trust God to do as He says He will do, to take care of our every need.
However, He chooses the where, when, how and in what way to intervene. He is after that trust, total trust in Him. In our recent travel trails it really boiled down to: “God do you want us to get through it all and make it to our destination or not.”Again, simple, God, you are in charge and we are your servants. God answered and did so in amazing ways.
That’s why God spoke so plainly to the disciples in Mark 8:14 “Now the discipleshad forgotten to take bread, and they did not have more than one loaf with them in the boat.” Clearly, we see here that the disciples had forgotten to bring proper supplies on board the ship. Maybe it was a lack of planning or a mistake or breakdown in the “human” organization or whatever. It certainly was not Christ’s fault. He was perfect but He allowed the situation to happen, to again, teach a lesson.
So we read that: “He charged them, saying, “Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” I really truly respect Christ’s love, kindness and patience. Don’t you see? He could have begun to search for the guilty party and why this did not go off as it should have; but I thought we were talking about not having enough bread? All of a sudden we read an object lesson being taught us!
You see, Christ uses every single opportunity to give us the lessons we need to succeed in this Christian life. Now notice what the disciples said next. “And they reasoned among themselves, saying, “It is because we have no bread.”
What are the two lessons here? First, they did not even have the courage to bring it to the management in charge, so that the problems can be resolved. That should be a lesson for us today. Sometimes I have heard: ‘don’t tell the ministry – we don’t want them involved.’ In fact, many times we don’t even tell God.
Well, some might say, He already knows. That is the point; and He always reveals the problems that remain unresolved — eventually — to those He is using to manage His affairs. Sin will find us out (Numbers 32:22). We have seen this time and time again over all the years we have been in the Church. How then can Christ or His servants help, if they have to hear a problem second or third hand? That, is, what happened here in our story. Best always to get the problems out in front and get them resolved quickly.
The second is that God the Father and Christ both use many real-life examples to teach us the lessons we need to learn, even from our own mistakes, in order that we will grow into the Christian each of us must be. So we can enter the kingdom of Heaven. They want us to succeed. Nothing is accomplished if we fail. Yet even the disciples still did not understand this.
So Christ went on to explain the lesson in verse 17: “But Jesus, being aware of it, said to them, “Why do you reason because you have no bread? Do you not yet perceive nor understand? Is your heart stillhardened? 18“Having eyes, do you not see? And having ears, do you not hear? And do you not remember? 19“When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments did you take up?” They said to Him, “Twelve.” 20“Also, when I broke the seven for the four thousand, how many large baskets full of fragments did you take up?” And they said, “Seven.””
You see He had to again remind them of the lessons they had been taught and accordingly He went on to teach those same lessons again. That is why we are to be reminded each year at this time of what these days mean; and true, at times, perhaps Christ says to us, as He said to them: “Howis it you do not understand?” (Mark 8:14-21 NKJ)
Through all the trials we have faced, and will face, we must never forget, there simply is no other way of doing anything but the right way, God’s way, to be precise and in that doing, we need to have faith to actually follow through, to do what we know is right. Death, trails or any sickness, each of these will never be final. God knows it all, can overcome all and He can at any moment change, anything: yes, ANYTHING.
So we need to get ourselves back in focus during this Passover season. Faith is the key (Hebrews 11:1-2). It is the actual evidence of things not seen or understood by us now, knowing full well that even though we do not understand why something is happening, that God is just and faithful to bring us through it all, a better person, if we allow the entire experience to mold us as God wills. When something does not happen immediately, of the things we would like or think should happen, hold on; and do not lose faith.
“He is the Rock, His work isperfect; For all His ways are justice, A God of truth and without injustice; Righteous and upright is He.” Contrast that now with this world: 5“They have corrupted themselves; They are not His children, Because of their blemish: A perverse and crooked generation.” (Deut. 32:4-5 NKJ)
God is faithful. This world’s ways are not. It is that simple. Do we want to be blessed? Then do things, God’s way. Believe Him. Hope in Him. Trust in Him. It is that simple.
Trust in the God whose work is perfect and knowing He will go all out for us in any situation even when we are wrong, to help us see the right way and then to help us do it. God is after change. That is why examine ourselves to ask God to change us totally as He wills. There can be no other way to follow for God’s people.
This Sabbath there will be a “Must Play” Passover sermon by Dr. Meredith for the main message in Albuquerque (2:30 PM) and Santa Fe (10:30 AM). Mr. Lozano will be speaking on: “To Him That Overcomes” in Tucson at 10:30 AM. We plan to be in Prescott (10:30 AM) and Phoenix-Las Cruces/El Paso on Phone hookup (3:00 PM) speaking on “What to do Before Passover?” for the main message. Las Cruces/El Paso will be on phone hookup with Phoenix at 4:00 PM MDT. This is a change from the schedule. Next week Dr. Meredith’s must play DVD will be shown in the Arizona Churches. There will be a potluck in Prescott but the Bible Study will be rescheduled for another time. Spokesman Club will follow at 6:00 PM in Phoenix.
Thank you again Brethren for your dedication and love for God’s Work, His Church and His people. Let’s hang in there and remain faithful!
Sincerely,
Rodger L. Bardo, Area Pastor
]]> http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-03162013/feed/ 0 Sabbath Greeting 03/09/2013 http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-03092013/ http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-03092013/#comments Sat, 09 Mar 2013 03:32:32 +0000 denny http://swlcg.org/?p=948 Continue reading →]]> Greetings Brethren! “Mr. Ames’ program the previous week, entitled “The Prophesied Day of the Lord,” drew 8,032 total responses. This was the second time we have received more than 8,000 responses to a program.”
What a wonderful statement to read in the World Ahead Bulletin. This is real. God’s words are getting out all over the world. Are we thankful to be a part of this great Work or are we focused on our own lives and the challenges, issues and situations we are facing now?
Yes it is easy to be side tracked by our own lives. Life can be like that in so many ways but remember what I have been saying: when these responses reach an average of 10,000 per month, things will likely happen; because we will be reaching an ever increasing number of people. It will not be “just” those on the fringe of life but those who know that something is really wrong.
At the moment, these same people may either lack the courage to step forward and be counted or they may not yet have the spiritual insight to make the changes necessary to reach out to their God in humility but God knows who He will call. We MUST be ready because it will happen and who knows it may happen in an even bigger way than we could have ever imagined. We can’t limit God by our own human ideas. We only limit our self.
So how are we doing in our growth and development today as Christians? Are we really making progress? And realize as well, God does not expect us to be absolutely perfect. He knows our frame and He also said through Christ: “But go and learn what this means: `I desire mercy and not sacrifice. ‘For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” (Matthew 9:13 NKJ)
But yes He also added, repentance. Sinnersto repentance; and so when these new ones come on board and they will come, will they find us weak and lacking in faith or substance? Not doing what they will know is right? God knows our frame; so He is ready to help us but we also have to be courageous and move forward.
Often I have spoken about Joshua who was told to be courageous! “After the death of Moses the servant of the LORD, it came to pass that the LORD spoke to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ assistant, saying: “Moses My servant is dead. Now therefore, arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, to the land which I am giving to them– the children of Israel. 3“Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given you, as I said to Moses. 4 “From the wilderness and this Lebanon as far as the great river, the River Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and to the Great Sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your territory. 5“No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you.”
Brethren, when we really think about it, God did not say don’t walk or don’t conquer. He said where ever we go no one can stop us from achieving the real goal of being in God’s family except our own selves. If we don’t walk with God how can He walk with us? Notice the warning:
“Be strong and of good [ have a lot of] courage, for to this people you shall divide as an inheritance the land which I swore to their fathers to give them.” We have an inheritance waiting for us. “He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son.” (Revelation 21:7 NKJ)
“Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go. 8 “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. 9“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:1-9 NKJ)
So let’s take the test of what a true Christian is. Christ made it clear that all He lived was a total reflection of what we read in the New Testament based on the Law and Prophets. The two great commandments are:“Then one of them, a lawyer, asked Him a question, testing Him, and saying…”
Ok now, this was a legal question, on the law posed to the one who will judge all in the not too distant future. Everything ever written in any form was now being “tested” and so Christ answered. Those many were not listening. Are we?
36“….Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” This question is vital and important because it answers what all the forgoing laws are based on and what God meant when He gave the law through the Word, the one who later became Jesus Christ.
37“Jesus said to him, “`You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38“This is the first and great commandment.” Total complete dedication to all that God in love. 39“And the second is like it: `You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40“On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 22:35-40 NKJ)
Some think they can do and say whatever they please and justify what they are doing, even though they KNOW; and KNOW that they KNOW, what is said or done is not a part of these two all-encompassing laws. God will not be mocked! “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” and “And if anyone thinks that he knows anything, he knows nothing yet as he ought to know. 3 But if anyone loves God, this one is known by Him.” (1Corinthians10:12; 8:2-3 NKJ)
That should make all take stock! We fall so short of these two very great goals because we are still human and we don’t want to give up our will to God. This is the problem in every situation where there is conflict, a lack of love, true love for God and also true love for each human being as we are supposed to love ourselves.
Has the law of love departed from us because we are lacking courage to step forward and be that truly humble individual, we need to be, to serve God with all our hearts and also each other as we would ourselves? Consider: I Corinthians 13 is a total commitment in love to do God’s will no matter the reasons not too. Psalm 51, a total and complete repentance, no holds barred, no excuses and no justifications. Let’s be about the business of being real Christians, now!
Sincerely,
Rodger L. Bardo, Area Pastor
]]> http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-03092013/feed/ 0 Sabbath Greeting 03/02/2013 http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-03022013/ http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-03022013/#comments Fri, 08 Mar 2013 04:04:40 +0000 denny http://swlcg.org/?p=945 Continue reading →]]> Greetings Brethren! This pre-Passover season has been amazing. One to “hold on” — as a roller coaster ride – similar to what former presidential candidate Romney said recently when asked how he is doing since the election. Both he and his wife agreed that it was an experience but also good when the “ride” was over, so they could get off. Interesting, that might fit how we feel, wondering when everything will calm down.
However, throughout this Christian journey, there will be some bumps in the road because all is coming together toward the return of Jesus Christ. From the Work moving forward with a worldwide live telecast, to more new people contacting the Church, to the sobering steps forward we see in prophecy and of course the many personal trials we all have been faced with recently, we know the “ride” is not over yet.
We also should be reassured that when God allows these tests in our lives, He is making us stronger. So we are better equipped to hang on! Maybe today is just one of those stressful days for you. Then remember, God loves you! Indeed, He loves each one of us as He loved Daniel. God also loved the king too as we shall see; and it just may be time to remind you of one of my favorite stories. I have been reading some of these lately.
Daniel faced the lions. Read the account carefully in Daniel 6. Notice verse 14, when the king heard the words, of Daniel’s accusers, he was “greatly displeased with himself.” Did you see that? The king knew he had been manipulated. He had been “had” as we might say in the vernacular. He was upset with himself for being “taken in” by his own vanity, carelessness or oversight but woe to those who did that trick on the king. Could anyone really think they could get away with that kind of subterfuge? People do think that, as the human heart is desperately wicked but God knows ALL. He will reveal all at just the right time as we shall see.
The king also realized that he had listened and acted without thinking. Yet he was sensible headed enough to realize this and tried to do something about it. So the king tried some legal maneuvers, to get Daniel free. He could not. He was stuck, but he still showed by his attitude that he was repentant. God loves this when we humble ourselves and try to do right even when it stings or we have to admit we are wrong. Repentance is the key. Consider this before Passover. Be sure to humble yourself before your God.
The king had to do what he had said; but God was strong enough to shut the lion’s mouths and bring Daniel through it all. Daniel prayed in verse 10. Even though he knew these men were trying to trap him; he kept doing what he knew was right.
He was not a Christian for a day, but for a lifetime. He didn’t just “like” God, today, because things were the way he wanted things to be. He kept on in spite of what was happening. In fact Daniel went above and beyond, opening the windows wide, so all would see, he, Daniel, would follow God, no matter what anyone did or said. Have you ever felt that way? In those moments, you almost can “feel” God’s presence with you!
It’s a good feeling. Too often when things go bad we tend to slack off or give up, instead of doing what we have been told to do. If we do, God will bless us. God does care. He is always there. He is not like those men trying to trap Daniel or even the king who got sidetracked for the time. It’s that simple.
In verse 15 the men who hated Daniel insisted that the king, do what was “lawful” — that through trickery had been “pushed” through the legal process. Even in this situation God was stronger than man’s law. Daniel could have “protested” — this is unfair and unjust. We really don’t see that at all. Daniel just put it all in God’s hands.
Daniel of course was found innocent. In old days, people were thrown into situations like the lion’s den to see if they were innocent or not. Obviously if they survived, it was deemed they were really innocent. How many survived? Not many. So this indeed was a true miracle. If you notice, when the bad individuals were thrown into the den, before they even got to the ground, they were crushed. In this, God was merciful as their lives ended in short order and it also proves these lions were hungry!
Jeremiah 17:9 says it all. The heart is “deceitful ABOVE ALL THINGS….who can know it?” Only God can. What is in our hearts? Is it a real willingness to change or deceit? Does it include respect and humility above all things; or something else not of God? I thought it was interesting that the king set his “heart” on Daniel. He really cared and yes, maybe we could say humanly he finally realized how much he valued Daniel. Still, it is good to hear, when someone does recognize their mistakes and proceeds to correct that mistake.
Luke 15:7 is clear: “…there is more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just or “upright” persons who need no repentance.” Here of course we have a play on words, because all mankind has sinned and has fallen short of God’s glory.
Where are we tonight in our spiritual development? A sinner who is changing or someone who has “made” it and does not need God? Daniel knew where his strength came from. From God! The king knew he was against the hard spot and that he needed to change too. How about each of us? Change is good if we change to be on God’s side even when it is not easy or comfortable. Yes, with that approach, we will be blessed and the ride on that coaster will be one that we can endure to the end.
Recognizing we need to change is the first step to change. Let’s get back to the basics of prayer, Bible Study, meditation and fasting. Let’s draw near to God now while He may be found!
Have a peaceful Sabbath evening!
Sincerely,
Rodger L. Bardo, Area Pastor
]]> http://swlcg.org/index.php/sabbath-greeting-03022013/feed/ 0