To all of my friends & fellowship of writers on Substack, as a writer, I understand the importance of words and how they can convey impactful emotions, beliefs, and a worldview. Each of us is a game-changer. May your pen never run out of ink, your keyboard remains filled with inspiration, your paper never run out of space, your mind never run out of ideas, and may your heart never run out of love, compassion, and ministry. I pray that the blessings of our Christ-as-Life Christmas bring you the joy of the greatest author of eternity – God the Father. Merry Christ-as-Life!
You story is incourraging, thank you. I believe Jesus is coming very soon. This nation will not withstand another election. I came to Christ as a teenager and now at 60 years old I don't see the intensity of struggles getting any easier, my mistakes continue to curve my hope, and the deeper I reflect into my heart the wider and more numinous valleys of dry bones are revealed. The enemy of our souls is relentless. Struggles from within and from with out. If it were not the gentle familiar presents of God's Holy Spirit living inside the wretched temple and for the redemptive cross of Christ and the boundless love of the Father this life would be hopeless. Ypu mentioned Eternal Life, yes, this is our hope and reward. Jesus promised! He promised he will soon return and He's not coming empy handed.
Jose, thank you for these words. Each word is most likely birthed through your own suffering. Praise God! I, too, eagerly await the fulfillment of Jesus's promise of a New Heaven & New Earth.
What you said is very true: "If it were not the gentle familiar presents of God's Holy Spirit living inside the wretched temple and for the redemptive cross of Christ and the boundless love of the Father this life would be hopeless"
Indeed Christ is coming very soon, but not as soon as we all want.
Revelation 11 talks of a time of 3.5 years when there are two witnesses who preach his truth to the world, and perform miracles and are eventually killed just a few days before he returns.
These two servants of God are not here yet, so we have at least 3.5 years to go!!
We need to remember that "God is faithful, and he will not allow you to be tempted (tested) beyond your strength. Instead, along with the temptation (trail) he will also provide a way out, so that you may be able to endure it. (1Cor 10:13)
We need not be overcome by fear and worry, God is in charge, he will let things play out the way he wants, for his purpose.
He has warned us, and we need take heed of his warning, but also of his encouragement, for he will not return until the following has occurred:
"And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draws near!
(Luke 21:25-28)
Faith and patience are essential or we will be led astray by false prophets telling us the time has come, and shall be deceived.
Watch therefore, praying in every season that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things which shall occur, and to stand before the Son of Man.
Bless you, Kathy. Little did that babe in the manger realize the level of suffering needed to save a lost world from the clutches of His greatest enemy - Satan and his followers.
To all of my friends & fellowship of writers on Substack, as a writer, I understand the importance of words and how they can convey impactful emotions, beliefs, and a worldview. Each of us is a game-changer. May your pen never run out of ink, your keyboard remains filled with inspiration, your paper never run out of space, your mind never run out of ideas, and may your heart never run out of love, compassion, and ministry. I pray that the blessings of our Christ-as-Life Christmas bring you the joy of the greatest author of eternity – God the Father. Merry Christ-as-Life!
This is such an uplifting and beautiful post . It reminds me to be grateful every day .
Thank you, Tamara. Life is sweet when we share in the fellowship of His sufferings.
You story is incourraging, thank you. I believe Jesus is coming very soon. This nation will not withstand another election. I came to Christ as a teenager and now at 60 years old I don't see the intensity of struggles getting any easier, my mistakes continue to curve my hope, and the deeper I reflect into my heart the wider and more numinous valleys of dry bones are revealed. The enemy of our souls is relentless. Struggles from within and from with out. If it were not the gentle familiar presents of God's Holy Spirit living inside the wretched temple and for the redemptive cross of Christ and the boundless love of the Father this life would be hopeless. Ypu mentioned Eternal Life, yes, this is our hope and reward. Jesus promised! He promised he will soon return and He's not coming empy handed.
Jose, thank you for these words. Each word is most likely birthed through your own suffering. Praise God! I, too, eagerly await the fulfillment of Jesus's promise of a New Heaven & New Earth.
Hi Josie
What you said is very true: "If it were not the gentle familiar presents of God's Holy Spirit living inside the wretched temple and for the redemptive cross of Christ and the boundless love of the Father this life would be hopeless"
Indeed Christ is coming very soon, but not as soon as we all want.
Revelation 11 talks of a time of 3.5 years when there are two witnesses who preach his truth to the world, and perform miracles and are eventually killed just a few days before he returns.
These two servants of God are not here yet, so we have at least 3.5 years to go!!
We need to remember that "God is faithful, and he will not allow you to be tempted (tested) beyond your strength. Instead, along with the temptation (trail) he will also provide a way out, so that you may be able to endure it. (1Cor 10:13)
We need not be overcome by fear and worry, God is in charge, he will let things play out the way he wants, for his purpose.
He has warned us, and we need take heed of his warning, but also of his encouragement, for he will not return until the following has occurred:
"And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draws near!
(Luke 21:25-28)
Faith and patience are essential or we will be led astray by false prophets telling us the time has come, and shall be deceived.
Watch therefore, praying in every season that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things which shall occur, and to stand before the Son of Man.
(Luke 21:36)
Martin, thank you for this encouraging comment.
Thanks Stephen as always I am deeply touched by your honesty.
The podcast with you and Frank
have been so helpful healing in many ways. Thank you
I want to wish you and your family a wonderful Christmas
as I appreciate Jesus coming and living in a manger. Our holy King.
May we experience this wonder in our suffering . Thank you 😊
Bless you, Kathy. Little did that babe in the manger realize the level of suffering needed to save a lost world from the clutches of His greatest enemy - Satan and his followers.
Thank you Stephen I am deeply honored always for a response means soooo much.
Your though on James 1. 17 yesterday was so meaningful and so is verse 12 healing in many ways. It's been a evil week .
,thankful also for Lamentations in my bibel highly underlined.
Psalm 44 and 45 why are you in despair oh my soul.
Sharing this as a reminder how your ministry encourages me. Thank you.
Thanks Stephen
Very inspiring, interesting and well written.
Martin, thank you for your kind words. It is a story birthed through the fellowship of Christ's sufferings. Amen?
Thank you for sharing your powerful testimony.
https://youtu.be/oFRHGEPtOLE?si=NHD58Q3Cz2yfOruT
Merry Christmas to you and your family, Dr Phinney!
Thank you, Kelliann. That means a lot to me. Bless you, sis!