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What must I do to be saved? How can I gain peace of mind today and heaven “tomorrow”? We must come to God for the answer to these questions. Here is what the Bible says about God and how to find salvation. God is supreme. He is the creator of the universe. He is also an affectionate father who loves his children and wants their obedience and devotion. He disciplines them when they disobey, but is ready to forgive when they repent. CREATOR—In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth (Genesis 1:1). Revelation 4:11, Hebrews 11:3, Colossians 1:16-17
Life brings man to the point of decision many times. In fact, choices are made every day. Some choices are made with very little thought. At other times the choice demands much thought and consideration. The ones considered important are made with greater care. The question might be, what do you consider important? God, when He created man, bestowed upon him the privilege of choice. We cannot sidestep this responsibility nor the results of our choices, for many will have eternal consequences.
I have a friend. He is the best friend I have ever had. He is so kind and true that I would like you to know Him, too. His name is Jesus. The wonderful thing is that He would like to be your friend. Let me tell you about Him. We read this story in the Bible. The Bible is true. It is God’s Word. God is the one who created the world and everything in it. He is Lord of heaven and earth. He gives life and breath to all things.
The Bible gives us the blueprint for a home that is beautiful in design, solid in structure, and pleasant in atmosphere. Home can be a place of harmony and contentment, or one of tension and strife. Is your home happy, strong, and able to survive the storms of life? Home is an important social unit. It is divinely ordained for our spiritual development, emotional happiness, and physical fulfillment. God’s plan has always been that members of the home should bring happiness one to another and that families should live in harmony.
In the beginning God created the world. He created the sun, moon and stars, the animals and plants. On the sixth day He made man in His own image and breathed into him the breath of life.
Are you a happy person? Fear and the guilt of sin can take away your happiness. You may wonder, “How can I be happy?” I have good news for you! There is someone who can help you. He can forgive your sins and give you lasting happiness. His name is Jesus. Let me tell you about Him. His Father, God, is the One who made the world. He made everything in the world. He made you and me.
In the beginning, after God had created Adam and Eve, He loved to fellowship with them while they walked together in the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve did not know about sin and evil because they were innocent and pure. God gave Adam and Eve only one commandment to obey. They were not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. From the beginning, God has given mankind the power of choice, and He has never revoked it.
At this moment you are alive, you breathe, you move about or work. You may be living in comfort or existing in misery. The sun rises and sets; somewhere a child is being born; but also somewhere, someone is always dying. ALL OF LIFE IS ONLY A TEMPORARY ARRANGEMENT. BUT WHERE WILL YOU GO AFTER DEATH? Whether you are religious, or simply do not believe in any religion. You still need to settle this most important question, because after a brief earth-life, man goes to his eternal destiny (Ecclesiastes 12:5). BUT WHERE?
What is the cost? Is it only what I have paid? What about the long term effects? Do I care? Much sorrow, strife, and loss of family and property should be included in our calculation of the cost. Are you willing to pay the total cost?
Judging-What does it mean? Is it right to judge? Have you ever pondered these questions? “Judge not that ye be not judged” (Matthew 7:1), has led many Christians to conclude that they have neither right nor responsibility to judge what they see and hear. Yet this conclusion leaves them at a loss to know how to cope with life about them. A study of God’s Word will show that His children do have a responsibility to judge.
In the heart of every person there is a desire to be safe and secure. Little children are often afraid of being left alone. They also may fear the dark, or the unknown. Children crave the security of being held in the loving embrace of their parents. There they feel confident and protected. As we mature, the desire to be safe and secure never leaves us. This inborn desire was given to us by our Creator. While some men act fearless, in their hearts they may fear the unknown, suffering, accident, or sickness. They may also have an uneasy feeling about what might happen to them after death.
Do you know that the Bible teaches that all men are born in sin and are naturally inclined to do evil? Thus all men are in a lost state and condition. “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way” (Isaiah 53:6). “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness” (Mark 7:21-22). Psalm 51:5.
The Bible is a precious book that fills the need of every soul. The messages found in it provide spiritual nourishment. There are chapters exactly suited for your particular need or inquiry.
The following are some of the features and manifestations of the self-life. The Holy Spirit alone can interpret and apply this to your individual case. As you read, examine yourself in the very presence of God. Are you ever conscious of: • A secret spirit of pride or an exalted feeling in view of your success or position; because of your good training or appearance; because of your natural gifts and abilities; an important, independent spirit? Proverbs 16:18; 20:6; 25:14; Romans 12:3; James 4:6.
Jesus established his kingdom when He was on earth. We who have entered it have found it to be a place of deep pleasure and lasting satisfaction. It is a peaceful kingdom. In it we do not make instruments of destruction, neither do we learn war any more (Isaiah 2:4). Earth has had many kingdoms in the past, but they have risen with the strength of their kings and warriors, and they have fallen with their weakness.
Christianity is based on God, his Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible, which is the Word of God. A Christian is one who believes the Bible and lives the teachings of Jesus Christ. This way of life brings peace and contentment here on this earth and prepares us for a home in heaven.
There are numerous reasons that people start smoking. Some may smoke because their parents did and to them it is just a fact of life. Some may smoke because their friends do and they don’t want to feel “left out”. Others probably started out of rebellion. Rebellion to something their parents told them and they want to prove to their parents that they can do whatever they want to. Read on for some encouragements on breaking this vice.
One of man’s principal goals in life is happiness. Happiness can be elusive. Many are seeking happiness in pleasures and entertainment. They seek to satisfy themselves by doing what “feels good.” What feels good may actually be detrimental to one’s character and inner spiritual well-being.
I can remember as a child living in a very small house on a reserve with my father, mother, and baby brother. The house had two small rooms and an attic. I can remember being by myself on several occasions with my baby brother, eating raw porridge and giving my brother canned milk in his bottle. My mother and father would take off to town to go drinking and not return for a day or more. Many times we sat in a vehicle outside the bar until late at night waiting for my parents. They would come out and give us chips and pop and go back in.
The salvation of the soul is the greatest issue that anyone will ever face. It is the question of where each one will spend eternity. Jesus Christ put it into perspective. “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” (Mark 8:36). This should move us to urgently address this issue.
Eternity defies man’s imagination and comprehension. It is not an object, nor a place; it is not a period of time. It has no beginning and it has no end. Everyone from Adam to the last one born will be in it.
Does the Bible give an answer to the often asked question whether or not a person can have an evidence of salvation? Can a person know if his sins are forgiven or not, or must he wait until Judgment Day to find out? It would be most unfortunate and risky to leave this most important question unsettled until then.
Are you forgiven? Your eternal future depends on the answer to this serious question. The Bible teaches us that “there is none righteous, no, not one” (Romans 3:10). Verse 23 of the same chapter states, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” We must find God’s forgiveness if we want to be saved from the consequences of sin. Someday we will meet the Lord in judgment. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad” (2 Corinthians 5:10). We are facing eternity, and this makes it imperative that we know if we are forgiven. If forgiven, we will be accepted into heaven. If not forgiven, we will be sentenced to eternal hell with the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:31-34, 41).
John N. Reynolds One of the most interesting cases of resuscitation that ever came to my knowledge was that of George Lennox, a notorious horse thief of Jefferson County. He was serving his second term. Sedgwick county sent him to the prison the first time for a similar offense-stealing horses.
What Is Fear? The Fear of God The Fear of the Future The Fear of Failure The Fear of Suffering The Fear of Death Fear, a secret enemy, invades men of every age and race and every walk of life. It is subtle and devastating, poisoning our thinking, robbing our inner peace, and squelching our zest for living. It makes us nervous, uneasy, alarmed, disturbed, upset, and fainthearted—what unpleasant, unwanted feelings!
In our society, social and financial pressures are creating lifestyles that are challenging God’s blueprint for women. Because of these pressures, the traditional role of motherhood and a woman’s place in the home is being compromised. Many feel forced to seek a career outside of the home and family, or may do so because of a desire to be independent. As a result, many women are trying to manage a career and family at the same time. They find it difficult to do justice to both, even with the help of a day care or a baby sitter. Mother is unable to be there when her child needs her, and she is not fully able to enjoy the special years of the child’s development.
It is natural for man to desire a full, exciting, and rewarding life. Some people find fulfillment in achievement and education. Others spend their time and energy trying to get rich. Still others find a certain thrill in risk-taking. Some are willing to go to extreme ends for excitement. Betting and other forms of gambling are especially alluring to some. The lure of hitting the jackpot or winning large sums of money can be very addictive. Many homes have been brought to ruin by a father or mother who chose to gamble. Hearts have been broken and neglected because someone could not stay away from the bright lights of a casino.
Do you sincerely want to be a man of God? Are you looking for true fulfillment in your life? Have you tried, but failed, to be an honest and trustworthy man? Have you tried to be a kind and understanding father, but struggle with anger and impatience with your family? Is it difficult to work with other people? If you have tried and failed, God can help you.
The Bible is the word of God, the everlasting truth. It contains the account of creation, man’s disobedience to God, and the agony which came upon man because of sin. It also tells us of God’s love for man in making a plan to redeem him. It tells of a Savior who was born, died for man’s sin, and was raised from death for man’s salvation. Whoever believes its message will experience forgiveness of sins, peace of mind, love for all men, power over sin, and a living hope of eternal life.
Before time began there was God. He created the world and everything in it. In his love, God created man in his own image and placed him in a beautiful garden. Man disobeyed God’s instructions. This disobedience was sin and separated man from God. He told them that they should sacrifice perfect young animals for their sins. These sacrifices did not pay for their sin but only pointed forward to the ultimate sacrifice that God would provide. Someday God would send his Son Jesus to this earth to be that ultimate sacrifice for the sins of all people.
We often hear these words as we part from friends or from places of business. What does it take to have a really good day? Would it be a day without trouble and conflict, a day when everyone would treat us just right? Many years ago the common words on parting were “God be with ye.” As time went by this became shortened to “goodbye,” and the meaning was lost. However, the fact remains that the only way to truly “have a good day” is to spend it with God.
Many people today are like the man who said, “I am not good enough for heaven and not bad enough for hell.” They think they are pretty good and God will somehow give them a home in heaven.
Who can think about the future without considering whether there is another existence after this life? Man cannot escape the thoughts of his state after death, but is inclined to put them out of his mind. He busies himself with the things of this life, placing thoughts of death, heaven, and hell into the distant future (Matthew 24:48, Ecclesiastes 8:11). The reality is, however, that a choice must be made. To do nothing will mean being eternally lost.
There are only two eternal destinies—the blessed abode of the saved and the flaming abyss of the lost. The Bible speaks of paradise and of the pit of hell, of glorious light and of total darkness. On the Judgment Day, only two groups of people will step forth, “they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation” (John 5:29).
These and many other situations befall humans of every nationality and culture. Many people, young and old, face health issues that have no cure. Terminal illness claims the lives of many every year. The lack of food, water, clothing, and adequate housing are very real circumstances that trouble millions of people. Many people have rejected God to pursue earthly relationships and tangible goals. This leaves the body and soul restless and empty. Often people blame God for their troubles. Broken dreams, failed marriages, financial ruin, abuse, rejection, drugs, and alcohol contribute to the depression and suicide in the world today.
Honesty is the virtue of truthfulness in relating to all the issues of life. Honesty is really a heart matter. It is a fundamental part of the gospel of Jesus Christ. God knows the thoughts and intents of the heart. He regards truth as a most important principle because He is a God of truth (Deuteronomy 32:4). He will surely bless the complete honesty of our heart. Some questions for your consideration: Do you tell the truth when you might be found out, but are less than honest when no one will know?
“If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed” (John 8:36). Everyone wants to be free. The freedoms of speech, thought, religion, and press are basic to many societies in the world today. Society has found it necessary to restrict the freedom of lawbreakers, so as to allow others the enjoyment of their rightful freedom. That is why prisons exist. People who break the laws of the land may well find themselves in a literal prison.
Is there a God? Is there a supreme being or ruler of the universe? How can I be certain? The answer to this question is of utmost importance because, if there is a God and I ignore Him, what will the consequences be? There are searching questions that demand an answer. Why am I here? From where did I come? What will happen after death? What is the purpose for my life? There must be a reason for my existence.
Approximately 2,000 years after creation, God destroyed mankind with a great flood because they had become so wicked that the imaginations of their heart were evil continually (Genesis 6:5). Just as the people of Noah’s day were not expecting a flood to come, many people today are not expecting Jesus to come again. His return will be unexpected—as a thief in the night (2 Peter 3:10). Why do we believe it will be soon? Look around you; what do you see?
“And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul” (Genesis 2:7). There is something comforting about the realization that God brought each one of us into existence. God is the giver of life; not only to Adam (whom this scripture is referring to), but to every child born into this world. You are special because God created you!
This world is a restless place. We see people dashing about trying to find fulfillment in activity. Many dedicate themselves to gather riches. Others want all the pleasure of the sensual life. Still others want more leisure and arrange to work less and play more. Yet their spirits are not satisfied. Gadgets, pleasures, and possessions eventually lose their attractiveness. Every new diversion fills in for a time but quickly loses its appeal. Something seems to be missing.
Gospel of John 10:1-18 Have you ever heard someone calling your name and you did not know where the voice was coming from? Or maybe you could hardly hear the voice, because there was too much noise all around. Listen, a voice is calling you. You! Who are you? What is your name? Where did you come from? Where do you live? Where are you going?
Love… a beautiful word in any language. What does it bring to mind: affection, care, warmth, kindness, understanding, security, and mother? But think for yourself, what does this beautiful word really mean? Do you want to be loved? Do you love?
Purity Love Happy Homes Confidence Lust Shame Fear Broken Homes Loneliness Purity of mind, conscience, and body is a tremendous personal asset, a Christian virtue, and a blessing to mankind. Declining moral values of today cause men and women to accept and indulge in behavior that the Bible clearly defines as sin. This behavior has become an accepted way of life for many people. That which God calls sin is often accepted as permissible. What will be the result of this departure from the beautiful plan of God?
“Peace, where is peace—for our nations, our homes, and most of all for our hearts and minds?” This desperate cry has been heard through the ages. Is it also the cry of your heart? People are weary and worried. Without a doubt there is a need for direction and counsel, security and confidence. We need, and want, peace of mind. Peace of mind—what a treasure! Can this treasure be found in a world of so much conflict and despair, turmoil and trouble?
Have you ever thought, “If I could be perfectly free, I would be happy; I would have peace”? Many people have sought complete freedom in order to have happiness and peace. People desire to be free of all restraints, somehow believing that if they could do just as they please, this would bring happiness. Does it?
The Bible says: “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh” (Luke 6:45).
Do you know that man has been found guilty of sin by a holy God, and sentenced to death? If he is to escape this eternal death and be eternally saved, he must receive God’s mercy. Mercy in this respect is God withholding from man the penalty which he deserves. But God does not bestow his mercy on people without condition, even though salvation is free, without price, and cannot be earned. The condition upon which God grants mercy is repentance.
“God, where are You?” “I need You.” “I want You.” “How can I find You?” Is this the sincere cry of your heart? Is your whole being reaching, searching, longing for God? But somehow you do not seem to find Him.
The security of all Christians is in Christ. He died for us, forgave us, and promised a home in heaven to those who are faithful. There we will be eternally secure in his radiant presence. Even today Christians can have a calm assurance of salvation as long as they are faithful, for while they live, they have the Holy Spirit’s guidance, and when they die, they have the promise of a future home in heaven.
Constructing a proper and reliable building is possible using a tool called a plumb line. Without such a tool, the builder, however well-meaning and sincere, is likely to make serious errors. Likewise, our lives and beliefs need to be guided by the plumb line of God’s Word. Read Psalm 119:105; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; Amos 7:8. A popular concept is, “It doesn’t matter what you believe, as long as you are sincere.” However, one must be sincere in believing and doing the right thing.
Prayer is a humble plea directed to God the Father in the name of Jesus. Prayer is expressing ourselves to a loving father in heaven. In prayer our spirit communicates with God either through words spoken or even in our thoughts. God wants us to speak with Him. We may come to Him with our thankfulness, requests, and disappointments.
Do you know that there is Someone who knows everything about you? It is God who created the world and everything in it. Jesus, God’s Son, also knows everything that you have ever done. He knows the past, present, and future. He loves you and came to this world to save you from sin. He has a plan for your life to bring you happiness. One day Jesus was traveling with his friends. He came to a village in Samaria. Jesus sat down by a well to rest while his friends went to buy food.
Do you have feelings of loneliness, or a sense of guilt and fear deep inside your heart? Do you wonder about the purpose of your life? Many people are trying to find the answer to these feelings. You may find entertainments or other activities that may relieve you of these feelings for a short time, but then they return, perhaps stronger than ever before.
Some of the greatest battles in life are fought within the heart. Many leaders throughout history have been intent on conquering other nations. Some selfish rulers and leaders have even entertained thoughts of ruling the entire world. Those leaders have forced thousands of soldiers into battle because of their personal desire for power, wealth, and fame.
Once there was nothing in this world. No fish. No stars in the sky. No seas and pretty flowers. All was empty and dark. But there was God. God had a wonderful plan. He thought of a lovely world, and while He thought, He made it. He made it all out of nothing. When God made anything, He just said, “Let it be made,” and there it was! He made light. He made the rivers and seas, the grass-covered earth, the animals, birds, and trees.
The story of the birth of Christ, of all stories, lies nearest to the heart of Christians. It is one of the greatest miracles of all ages. In it is revealed the love of God to mankind. Man, through sin, separated himself from the fellowship of God. God promised Adam and Eve a Redeemer after their transgression in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:15). It was God’s plan to restore or bring back what was lost.
Do you know there is a book that explains how the world began? The first words of this book are, “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.” Following these words, it tells us how the world was created, and about the first man and woman who lived on the earth. Not only does it tell us about the beginning of time, but also what will happen after this life is over. Throughout this book, we read how we should live to be prepared for life after death.
There is a way of dress that complements the Christian and his high calling. Paul writes to the Philippians, “Only let your conversation [manner of life] be as it becometh the gospel of Christ” (Philippians 1:27). An individual’s manner of dress is like a window providing a look into his heart. It makes a clear statement of his estimation of himself and reveals who is the master of his life. God’s will is for the human form to be adequately covered, not displayed. The true disciples of Christ have always been known for their modest dress.
The church of God is not a man-made institution but is of the Lord. Jesus said, “Upon this rock I will build my church” (Matthew 16:18). Jesus knew that the church was essential to God’s great plan and declared it would endure for time and eternity. The church is the spiritual home for believers while they are here on earth; heaven is the home of the saved throughout eternity.
THE OLD LIFE of Bondage in Sin UNDER SATAN Before Conversion The Sinner Has: No God—Ephesians 2:12 No Christ—Ephesians 2:12 No Hope—Ephesians 2:12 No Peace—Isaiah 57:21 No Escape—Romans 2:3 BOUND FOR HELL Lost and THE NEW LIFE of Glorious Liberty UNDER CHRIST After Conversion The Believer Has: God as his Father—John 1:12 Christ—Savior—John 4:42 Holy Spirit—Guide—John 16:13 Everlasting Life—John 3:16 A Sure Hope—Hebrews 6:19 Peace—Isaiah 26:3; Romans 5:1 BOUND FOR HEAVEN Saved Now is the time to get on the right side. Tomorrow may be too late… (Hebrews 4:7) “YE MUST BE BORN AGAIN” (John 3:7)
Genesis 6-9 The Bible tells how, in the beginning, God created a wonderful world. It was full of beautiful plants and animals. The greatest creation of all was man and woman. God formed the man out of dust with his own hands. He breathed into him and he became a living soul. Then he made a woman to be his companion. They were named Adam and Eve. God planted a special garden for them to live in. He had a personal relationship with Adam and Eve and spent time with them in their new home.
There are many people with troubled hearts in the world today. There are many reasons why these hearts are troubled. Whatever the reason, we can be assured that God knows and stands waiting to give peace to every troubled heart who will come to Him in faith. God loves you and wants to live in your heart. The heart of man as used in this account means the seat of man’s affections, or the “real you.” The things that you are doing spring from your heart.
What means this throbbing in my breast? This constant search for peace and rest? This loneliness I feel? Even when I mingle with the crowd This aching void is deep and loud; Its cry is real! So real! Vain World, can you appease this quest? Do your vast stores supply this rest? Then quell this longing cry! Lo! Riches, laughter, pride, and fame, When claimed, are merely but a name! They fail to satisfy! Ah, ‘tis my soul! It is thy cry! Thou seest eternal death is nigh, Unless God gives thee rest? Entombed, thou art a part of Him;
Many years ago the children of Israel were traveling from Egypt to Canaan. They had become a nation of about a million people. God led them out of Egypt in a miraculous way, with Moses as their leader. By night He gave them light from a pillar of fire, and by day He shaded them from the heat with a cloud.
“What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost” (Luke 15:4-6).
“And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them. But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them” (Mark 10:13-16).
Everyone worships something. Some people worship objects, some worship a man, some worship an image, and others worship themselves. They reveal their devotion to their god in various ways. As the multitudes of people give their devotion to these gods, there still remains a longing and cry in their hearts. These people are able to find only a temporary relief for the cry of their souls and have little courage to face tomorrow. To their disappointment, the future is always the same as the past. The god they are serving is unable to fill the void in their lives.
“Come, see.” These words recorded in John 4:29 were spoken by a Samaritan woman with a sense of wonderment and awe. She had just met a Man at the village well who said He was the Messiah. Something about this Man convinced her that He knew all about her although not many words were spoken. She felt his love and compassion even though she was living in sin. With a sense of urgency she hurried back to her village, her water pot forgotten. “Come,” she said, “come see and hear for yourselves.”
The intent of the Holy Bible is not to focus on Satan and his work. However, we do find much in the Bible that exposes his character and works. Satan was at one time an angel, but he turned against God, his creator, and wanted to be like Him. The practices of the dark kingdom of Satan are not new. They are typical of his efforts through the ages to rival the kingdom of God. He is offering an alternative to what God, through the power of his Holy Spirit, is accomplishing.
It is the nature of parents to love their children. When children are small, parents diligently attend to their needs, giving them the best of care. They rejoice in their steady growth and happiness. When children become sick, a mother spares no efforts day or night to nurse them back to health. Parents delight to see their children achieve worthwhile objectives in life. All this and much more is the privilege and duty of parents toward their children.
In the Holy Bible we read, “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works” (Revelation 20:12). This is evidence that God keeps a record.
Ever since Adam and Eve disobeyed God, all people are born with a seed of sin. I have it. You have it. We all have it. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). As a child, I am happy. I am free. The blood of Jesus covers my sins. As I grow older, I don’t feel so free anymore. This seed is producing sinful thoughts and actions in me. I begin to feel uneasy. Sometimes I am confused or afraid.
Have you ever looked around you and wondered how everything began? There are many animals, birds, trees, and plants on the earth. Where did they come from? Have they always been here? What about man? Look at yourself and see how your body works. You use your eyes to see, your ears to hear, and your feet and hands help you do things and go places you want to go. Did all of these things just happen, or were they made by someone?
The Supreme Being, whom we call God, is in evidence the whole universe over. He is the creator of all things. His Word, the Bible, tells us, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork” (Psalms 19:1). Day and night, the sun and the stars show us God’s greatness.
The story of human history is darkened by conflicts, strife, and bloodshed caused by jealousy, anger, and hatred. Unresolved conflicts result in broken relationships and emotional scars. Many people live with fear and mistrust. Many become bitter because of their circumstances or the things they have suffered. Love resolves conflicts and builds bridges instead of walls. It helps to avoid clashes. “A soft answer turneth away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1). To be filled with the love of Jesus will empower us to forgive those who have hurt us and to love our enemies.
Trouble and problems are everywhere. Sickness, unhappiness, and many evils are a part of life. Where did it all begin? Has it always been this way? The Bible, God’s Word, has the answers to these questions.
For the wages of sin is death. (Romans 6:23) Let us face the facts. The awful monsters—drugs, alcohol, and immorality—are threatening and destroying that which God created noble and good. Like the tentacles of a mighty octopus, they grasp and draw both young and old into their embrace.
I started out in life so carefree and happy. I was like a little butterfly with beautiful wings and a world of flowers to see. Life seemed wonderful as I looked to the future. It didn’t take long and my views changed. I realized I had to perform to be accepted. Life seemed like a circus. There were hoops held out far into the future. If I jumped through the rings I received approval. If I didn’t—well—everybody else did.
Everyone should ask themselves the important question, “What must I do to be saved?” Many people believe they are saved, yet Jesus said, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21). To be saved, it is necessary to believe that Christ will forgive our sins. Then we must repent of them, live a holy life, and love one another. Because there are many teachings advanced by a multitude of religions, the question may well be asked, “What really is the truth?”
The journey of life has two roads and two destinations. The choice and decision of which road to take is yours.
Suffering is a part of our lives. Most people at one time or another experience physical illness. Hunger is frequently endured by a large percentage of the world’s population. Poverty is widespread. Still others suffer at the hands of people: in difficult marriages, with abusive parents, or with oppressive masters. As a result of greed and corruption, the political climate in some countries produces much bloodshed and war. Those with deep spiritual convictions have to suffer persecution because of their obedience to their beliefs. Millions of people around the world suffer daily. Why? What is the reason?
Jesus tells us that the gates of heaven are closed to us unless we are born again. Therefore, we ask: Friend, are you born again? Church member, are you born again? If not, then you are lost. For Jesus says, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3).
The Bible tells us that God knows everything, and that He is keeping a record of our lives. On the Judgment Day, we will be required to give an account of what He has recorded (Romans 14:11-12). “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works” (Revelation 20:12). When we stand before God in judgment, it will be too late to change our eternal destiny.