Going to Heaven

When I was about 5 or 6 years old, I begin to learn about Jesus, heaven, and hell. I was told that Jesus loves me so much that he came and died on the cross for my sins. I learned that 3 days later he came back to life. Later he went to heaven to create a home for everyone who believes in him. In heaven, there is no sickness, pain, or suffering. Someone said that hell is 10 times hotter than Georgia is in the summertime. I had been to Atlanta, Georgia in December and it was hot then. I did not want to go anywhere that it was hotter than Atlanta, Georgia.

During this time, I was also very sickly. There were many foods that I could not eat and playing with animals caused me to have an asthma attack. Someone said that there were animals in heaven. Therefore, I got it in my head that I wanted to go to heaven. You have to understand, I was tired of always being sick. I wanted to play with animals. The preacher had said no one is sick in heaven. Therefore, I got a few toys together. Then I sat in a corner and told Jesus that I was ready to go to Heaven. I did this every day for about 2 weeks. My mom thought that I was playing either school or church. She did not know that I was waiting on Jesus to come get me and take me to heaven.

Finally, one night I had a dream. In the dream, Jesus came and took me to heaven. It was wonderful. I was able to eat all of the food that grew in the garden. This included tomatoes and butter bean. Both of which normally made me sick. I was also able to drink milk from a cow. In addition, I was able to play with the dogs, cats, lambs, horses, and goats. I had so much fun. Just being able to run in open fields without having an asthma attack gave me great joy.

Then Jesus talked to me. He explained that I still needed to live on earth. However, things would get better. He said that I could come back to heaven to live one day.

With time I outgrew my childhood food allergies. Now I am able to eat whatever I want to. In addition, I no longer have the server asthma that I had as a child. Yes, it was several years before I outgrew these problems, but Jesus was right things did get better.

As a child, I did not have perfect understanding of the Bible, but I understood enough to know that heaven is where I wanted to go. Hell is too hot, but heaven is perfect. I also understood that I had to talk to Jesus in order to go to heaven. Therefore, I persistently ask Jesus to take me to heaven. He answered my prayer in the best possible way. I know that whatever you may want or need, if you persistently ask Jesus, he will answer. The answer may be wait, yes, or no.

What Name to Baptize?

I want to touch on an issue of division within the Church. I have never understood how two people that are filled with the Holy Spirit can argue about the Bible. I believe that the devil has placed divisions in the church. Even Jesus says, “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). In addition, Jesus says, “If a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand (Mark 3:25). The devil knows that Christians would be stronger if we all stood together. The Bible is true and all scriptures are given by the inspiration of God. In addition Hebrews 6:18 and Titus 1:2 both tell us that God cannot lie.

One major issue it what name to baptize the newly won souls. The Bible does not lie nor does it contradict itself. Therefore, any of the phrases that the early disciples said is more than likely a good choice. However, I am one that likes the words in red, Jesus’ words. He is the only one that can save me. In Matthew 28:19, Jesus says, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the son, and of the Holy Ghost:” For those that would like to study more about this, here are some scriptures to get you started.

1. Acts 2:38 says, “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”

2. Acts 4:12 says, “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

3. Acts 8:16 says, “(For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)

4. Acts 10:48 says, “And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

5. Acts 19:5 says, “When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.

Some were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus, in the name of the Lord, and in the name of Jesus Christ. Study for yourself which phrase is best. Just remember the phrase does not save you; you are saved because of your trust in Jesus. That may be the meaning of being baptized in the Name of Jesus. In addition, this is just another ploy by the devil to confuse people and cause division. Think about how many people have became so confused by one church saying you must be baptized in the Name of Jesus to be saved and another one says you must be baptized in the name of the Father, the son, and the Holy Spirit to be saved. The last time I checked baptism in water does not save you. Jesus does the saving. The water baptism is just a simple act of obedience that symbolizes the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.

It seems that we have taken the simple message of salvation and turned it into a bunch of legalisms. While we as Christians are fighting over this, people are dying and going to Hell. The Devil is laughing at us. We should not be fighting over the correct phrase to use. Instead, we should unite and go as Jesus said, and teach everyone about him. Jesus gave us a very simple command in Matthew 28:19. Yes, it is difficult enough to get moving because of the opposition from the world. Why should we ourselves add to the problem? In Matthew 4:19, Jesus says, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” I believe that Jesus is still saying the same thing today. I am just glad that He does all of the cleaning. All we have to do is teach and allow Jesus to move in their lives. When they accept Jesus, then baptize them, not confuse them especially since there are many different phrases used in the Bible for baptizing. I have seen churches argue over the difference between baptizing in the Names of Jesus and baptizing in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. It doesn't matter so long as they understand that the only one who can save them is Jesus. The most important name is Jesus. 

Nothing New

“The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.” (Ecclesiastes 1:9).

Some people find this hard to believe. Others do not see how they can find an example of their specific problem in the Bible. Everyone is always looking for the “newest” thing. However, there is nothing new. How is this possible? There have been so many inventions, new ideas, and new technology. Is there really nothing new?

Let’s look at some different issues that we face today and see if there is any examples of those same issues in the Bible.

1. Food- everyone needs food. The problem is how to get it. Today the issue is no money no food. Money is the means by getting the food. People have  always needed food to eat. How did people get food in the Bible?
They planted the food. “I made me gardens and orchards, and I planted trees in them of all kind of fruits” (Ecclesiastes 2:5)

They bought the food. Jacob said, “Behold, I have heard that there is corn in Egypt: get you down thither, and buy for us from thence; that we may live, and not die” (Genesis 42:2).

They worked for charity. Back then the poor was allowed to go behind the field workers and collect some food to eat.  “When you reap your harvest in your field and have forgotten a sheaf in the field, you shall not go back to get it; it shall be for the alien, for the orphan, and for the widow, in order that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hands. When you beat your olive tree, you shall not go over the boughs again; it shall be for the alien, for the orphan, and for the widow.” (Deuteronomy 24:19-20).

Today we buy the food, plant the food, or receive charity. Not much has changed.

2. A Place to live- people has always needed shelter.

People in ancient Israel used two types of housing:
tents for nomadic or semi-nomadic herders

houses, either large or small, in villages or cities

 

Today will live in houses, mobile homes, or apartments. Some houses are large and some are small. Some people live in the city while others live in some communities. 

3. Sibling jealousy

Today anyone that has more than one child knows that siblings can be jealous of one another. This problem can reek havoc in families. Did this problem exist in the Bible? 

Yes, just look at Esau and Jacob. They wanted to kill each other. Does that sound familiar? “And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing wherewith his father blessed him : and Esau said in his heart, The days of mourning for my father are at hand ; then will I slay my brother Jacob.” (Genesis 27:41)

Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers. 

“Judah said unto his brethren; What profit is it if we slay our brother, and conceal his blood? Come, and let us sell him to the Ishmeelites, and let not our hand be upon him; for he is our brother and our flesh. And his brethren were content.” (Genesis 37:27).

4. Difficult Boss

So, you think that your boss it difficult; try working for some of the bosses in the Bible.

Have you ever been put into prison for offending your boss? 

Genesis 40:1-3 says, “And it came to pass after these things, that the butler of the king of Egypt and his baker had offended their lord the king of Egypt. And Pharaoh was wroth against two of his officers, against the chief of the butlers , and against the chief of the bakers. And he put them in ward in the house of the captain of the guard, into the prison , the place where Joseph was bound.”

Have you ever been thrown to the lions for breaking the rules? 

Daniel was thrown to the lions by his boss after getting caught praying. 

Daniel 6:1-28

5. Unruly Children

David’s son raped his sister (see 2 Samuel 13:1-19)

“And when she had brought them unto him to eat, he took hold of her, and said unto her, Come lie with me, my sister. And she answered him, Nay, my brother, do not force me; for no such thing ought to be done in Israel do not this folly…Howbeit he would not hearken unto her voice: but, being stronger than she, forced her, and lay with her” (2 Samuel 13:11-12 & 14)

Samuel’s children took bribes  

“And his sons walked not in his ways, but turned aside after lucre, and took bribes, and perverted judgment.” (1 Samuel 8:3).

  

6. Trouble with N-laws

David’s father-n-law sent an army to kill him. (See 1 Samue124:1-22; Psalm 57).

7. Homelessness

Son of man does not have a place to lay his head.

“Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head” (Matthew 8:20).

Songs and Their Rich History

Songs tell stories about the way that we feel. In the 1950’s - 1960’s the people came to church early. Also many people  went to the backside of the field to pray.  Often they sung the song “Sweet Hour of Prayer”. They prayed an hour of more each and every day. During this time, people saw God work in mighty ways and people frequently came into the church and gave their lives to Jesus.

Now we sang “Just a Little talk with Jesus”. Most people are too busy to pray an hour a day. It is funny that now we are too busy when we have modern technology that is suppose to make our lives easier and save time. Examples are wash machines, dryers, and microwaves. How is it possible that we are too busy and the people back then had time?

I sometimes wonder if you think to pray. Now a few people sang “Do You Think to Pray?”. Most people now days only call on God when trouble comes. They never think to pray. They seem to forget God and his blessings.

One day your life will end. Did you think to pray or will it be too late to pray? “Too late to Pray” is the title to another song that some people sang. It explains how that when your life is over it will be too late to pray. Some people live like they are indestructible. They seem to not realize that God does not promise them a tomorrow. Babies, children, teenagers, young adults, and senior citizens die. This is evident by the fact that there are small, short and long graves. God sets your time here on earth. It is only too late to pray after you are dead. While you are alive think about your blessings and who gave them to you.

“Sweet Hour of Prayer” is better than an hour or so praying after something has gone wrong. Many times God allows bad things to happen so that we will remember him. If you are one that prays only after trouble comes, then God will allow you to experience more problems.

Please pray or talk to God each and every day. Then when problems come, God will know you and you will know your Heavenly Father. You will be able to “…come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16).

Easter

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Every year we celebrate Easter. When you think about Easter, many things come to mind. However, I wonder if the most important reason for celebrating Easter makes the top of your list. Easter should be a time of reflection. We should think about what Jesus did  before, during, and after the cross. Some of his greatest work was done during this time.

1. He fulfilled the requirement of Passover.
A spotless lamb was required to atone for sin. He paid the price permanently. John 1:29 “The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”

2. He chanced the way Passover is celebrated.
I Corinthians 11:24-26 “and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” In the same manner, He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes.”

3. He took away the fear of death
I Corinthians 15:54-57 “So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.”  “O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?” The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

4. Through his stripes (beating), we are healed.
I Peter 2:24 “who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.
Isaiah 53:5 “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.”

5. Through him, we can boldly approach the throne of Grace
Hebrews 4:16 “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”

6. On resurrection morning, his rose again. Now we can have eternal life through him.
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”


As you are making plans to celebrate Easter, remember that there would be no Easter without the work of Jesus. Let us lead others to Jesus by putting Jesus first in all of our celebrations.

Mardi Gras: What is it?

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It is the time of the year when Mardi Gras is being celebrated. Here in Baton Rouge, LA, it is a holiday that many people celebrate with great zeal. I was not born or raised here in Baton Rouge, LA. I was born and raised in Mississippi. In that part of Mississippi, we do not really recognize Mardi Gras as a holiday that is greatly celebrated. I understand that on the Gulf Coast they do have some celebrations. I really did not understand the point of Mardi Gras. Therefore, I have done a little bit of research into the origins of Mardi Gras.

Mardi Gras started out in Rome as a pagan celebration. Mardi Gras was originally called Lupercalia. Having never heard of that pagan celebration, I looked in an online encyclopedia  to find out information about the celebration.

According to The Columbia Encyclopedia, 6th ed., Lupercalia is an “ancient Roman festival held annually on Feb. 15. The ceremony of the festival was intended to secure fertility and keep out evil. Two male youths, clad in animal skin, ran around the city slapping passersby with strips of goat skin. Because the youths impersonated male goats (the embodiment of sexuality), the ceremony was believed to be in honor of Faunus . The festival survived into Christian times and was not abolished until the end of the 5th cent.”

Later when the Christians brought Christianity to Rome, they decided not to completely abolish all of the pagan rituals. This ritual was turned into a time of Pre-Lent celebration. The people would have carnival style fun before the day of Lent.

Later the French explorer, Iberville, brought the celebration of Mardi Gras to Louisiana when he came in 1699.

For more information on how the customs of Mardi came to be go to http://www.eastjeffersonparish.com/culture/MARDIGRA/HISTORY/history.htm.

After reading the information, I still do not understand why Christians celebrate Mardi Gras with such zeal. It really does not have any good spiritual signification in my opinion, because it started out as a fertility ritual to a pagan god. Also they changed it to a time of merry-making before that went into a time of abandonment. This abandonment is suppose to be a time of denying something that you really want in order to grow in your walk with God.

Citations:
1. "Lupercalia." The Columbia Encyclopedia, 6th ed.. 2008. Encyclopedia.com. 20 Feb. 2012 . 

Training Children

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Training children is a great responsibility that is given to parents by God. He has many things to say about the subject. One of my favorites is (Proverbs 22:6) “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart.” Notice the words “train up a child”. Train is another word for teach. Therefore, you are suppose to teach children not raise children. If God had intended for us to raise children, he would not have said teach or train a child. My mom has always explained it this way, you raise tomatoes, and you teach or train a child. The major differences between raising tomatoes and teaching children are this, tomatoes only need water, sunlight, dirt, and fertilizer while children need love, mercy, discipline, food, clothing, shelter, and guidance just to name a few things.  In addition, tomatoes cannot walk, talk, or learn.

God is not silence on the reasons for teaching children, what to teach children, or how to discipline them. He will give additional help if you simply ask him. Remember he is the only perfect parent. It is amazing to me how man who is imperfect has decided that one of the main forms of discipline talked about in the Bible is wrong. I am referring to corporal punishment or a spanking. It is spoken of many times in Proverbs. One notable place is (Proverbs 13:24) “He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.” The verse does not give anyone the right to beat a child, but it does say correct the child. In other words, making children listen and obey shows that you love children. Think about it this way. If you love a young child, you will not let him touch a hot stove. You will instead make the child however necessary get out of the kitchen. So why would you allow a child to talk on the phone half the night or hang out with friends who are a bad influence. There are many ways of making children obey such as talking to them, grounding them, and spanking them. Who cares if the child says, “I hate you.” Just smile and say, “I love you.” However, even though we are the parents, and we have the right to discipline our children and train our children in the way we see fit, we should always remember that Jesus says “Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.” (Colossians 3:21). This means that we should not put so much pressure on them to be prefect that it is impossible for them to be successful. Basically, remember that just like you, they are still human, and they will make mistakes sometimes.

There are several things that God commands parents to teach to children. Notice that God commands the parents to teach the children. I have recently heard someone say parents are only responsible for 20% of teaching children and teachers are responsible for the other 80%. Is this what God’s commandment saying? Why is it that God does not give this commandment to the schoolteachers or government? Maybe it is because children learn many valuable skills before going to school. Think about it. Children learn to walk, talk and play before the age of 4. They do not go to school until at least the age of 5. Therefore, parents are responsible for teaching children's manners before they go to school. In addition, parents are responsible to make sure that their children are getting a good education on reading, mathematics, science, history, language arts, and any other important school subjects. Yes, teachers may be able to teach mathematics to children better than parents, but that does not release them of their God given responsibility. There are still many things that the parent must do to help ensure that their children are learning math. Those things include making sure their children get to bed on time, get up on time, do their homework, listen in class, have all necessary materials, ect. Some may say that they can not make sure that their children listen in class. That statement is false. Children  will behave on average better at school than at home. Therefore, if they are made to listen to instructions at home, they will listen at school. Parents need to remember that children learn the meanings of words by listening to and watching those around them. A child has never said anything that he or she did not hear somewhere. Therefore, if you want your children to be respectful to others, you must act respectful at all times in front of him or her. If you want your child to learn about Jesus, you must tell them about Jesus. Remember that God commands that you teach your child his commandments. A great suggest is to teach Proverbs chapter 3 to them. This proverb explains how they can live a long healthy prosperous life. Notice how it starts out with obedience, “ My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:” (Proverbs 3:1).

Here are some more reasons to train up a child in the correct way. All children are
the future generation. For example a 5-year-old will be 21-years-old in 16 years. That means that he will be consider legally an adult. He or she will have all the rights of an adult. Our children will be able responsible for the running of this country. So think about our children’s behavior. Do you really want some of the children in this country to be in charge? Why or why not? I suggest praying and then taking a good long look at your own children. If you like want you see, praise God. If you do not like what you see ask God for help and then follow his instructions.