03/07/26 NEW CREATIONS
People judge a person's parents or church based on the attitude and actions of that person. Once an impression is made, it cannot be completely corrected.
Sadly, God and local churches are misrepresented because people who call themselves "Christian" choose to live in the "natural" rather than the "spiritual," they choose to walk in the flesh rather than in the Spirit, they choose to stumble in the darkness rather than walk in the light, they choose to linger in the lowlands rather than ascend to the heights.
Being Christlike is a choice. It is not simply a choice of human will (you cannot "will yourself" into Christlikeness), but you can choose to surrender to God's will (and God will transform and conform you into the likeness of Christ).
People hold on to habits, desires, culture, beliefs, training, optics, politics, materialism, and relationships that are contrary to growth in grace. This is why it takes "the death" of the Old Man (an instantaneous crisis event), and deliberately following Jesus, through growth in grace and knowledge (a progression in light and life).
We are the only witnesses of Jesus that some people will ever see.
Never give a negative representation of your heavenly Father.
Never be the kind of "Christian" for whom others need to make excuses.
God calls believers "New creations." A Christian is a New Creation who has been reconciled to God, through faith in Christ, and a person who continues in Christ, being renewed as they walk in the light as Christ is in the light.
Don't be the person who was renewed but failed to move forward in newness of life.
Don't be the person who has the label of "New Creation," but wears the old garments of carnality, self-orientation, bitterness, anger, greed, pride.
Don't be the person who professes to be born of the Spirit but refuses complete transformation. You will come across to other people as defective.
It takes no grace for us to judge the sinner.
We are to love the sinner (remember God loved us when we were yet sinners).
We are to forgive others as God forgives us.
We are to be kind, tenderhearted, patient.
We are to do to others what we would have them do to us.
Be a stepping-stone, not a stumbling block.
Be a help, not a hindrance.
Be a blessing, not a burden.
Be a reconciler, not a reviler.
Think more highly of others than you think of yourself.
The hurt we feel because of the sin in someone's life is nothing compared to pain in the heart of a Christian parent for their wayward child.
God's hurt for our sin was manifested on the cross.
When we seek to please God, we will be willing and eager to be conformed to His image. There will be no price that is too high.
Listen closely to teaching, preaching, encouragement, confrontation, correction, instruction in righteousness, admonition, and follow fully, faithfully.
Saturday, March 7, 2026
03/07/26 POWER MATTERS
03/07/26 POWER MATTERS
Imagine what it would be like if Russia, China, North Korea, Somalia, Iran, Pakistan, Cuba, or any other country besides the USA had the same military power as the USA. The world should rejoice that the USA has this power, or the world would be Communist, Socialist, Koranic Islamicist, or run by Drug Cartels and Human Traffickers. Funny (weird, not haha) how these corrupt systems align against America's Christian history and culture in America. Don't forget the old saying, "the enemy of my enemy is my friend." America's values and heritage (Christian and Biblical) are the enemy of all these sick systems, and they will gladly unite against us. Consider the uniting of Communists and Islamicists in NYC as an example, and the ever-sleeping WOKE crowd as they join Muslims with the Homosexual community. Sin really does make you stupid.
Not that the USA won't or can't become like those godless systems. In fact, it will if it does not repent and turn to Christ.
Imagine what it would be like if Russia, China, North Korea, Somalia, Iran, Pakistan, Cuba, or any other country besides the USA had the same military power as the USA. The world should rejoice that the USA has this power, or the world would be Communist, Socialist, Koranic Islamicist, or run by Drug Cartels and Human Traffickers. Funny (weird, not haha) how these corrupt systems align against America's Christian history and culture in America. Don't forget the old saying, "the enemy of my enemy is my friend." America's values and heritage (Christian and Biblical) are the enemy of all these sick systems, and they will gladly unite against us. Consider the uniting of Communists and Islamicists in NYC as an example, and the ever-sleeping WOKE crowd as they join Muslims with the Homosexual community. Sin really does make you stupid.
Not that the USA won't or can't become like those godless systems. In fact, it will if it does not repent and turn to Christ.
03/07/26 NICE TO REVISIT OLD FRIEND
03/07/26 NICE TO REVISIT OLD FRIEND
These days remind me of the time when the USA was recognized as the VOICE and STANDARD of FREEDOM, the world's number one Superpower with unequaled Peace through unchallenged Strength.
We had our troubles, but at least we still recognized Christian morality and culture, family values, Bible-based government, and the Constitution as the rule of law.
I am glad we have an Administration that is resisting the enemies of freedom, the wicked bullies of blood thirsty religion and governments (FINALLY). Forty-seven years of bowing before our enemies was shameful. We even had Presidents that paid protection money to them (which we had not done since the days of Thomas Jefferson).
Still, stopping enemy madmen is a reminder of the America we were when I was born and grew up.
We had the insane Communists of the day, but most Americans boldly opposed Marxism. Now, true patriots are a rarity. In fact, we have Communists and Socialists (same thing; like a skunk and a polecat) and self-proclaimed enemies of Christ leading our government away from Biblical law to Koranic law (not to mention the rampant perversion and sexploitation of our children, families, educational system, laws, and health system). This is what a generation without God and His word has done to America
Still, for however long or short it will last, it was a good feeling to see America be America again. But sadly, without Christ, America is "rotten to the core and the core is rotten too." Without a spiritual renewal, America is only a fading image of what it used to be.
In reference to Christians taking a stand against the evil that the world is trying to force Christians into, some of my church folks wrote a song years ago, which is still timely. This is the chorus. The verses are a very strong call to total commitment.
"We ain't taking no stuff from the devil,
We ain't taking no stuff from the world,
We ain't taking no stuff from the Humanistic Educators (or Legislators)
Telling lies to our boys and girls.
(or trying to tell the churches what to do)
Though we will not see the Kingdom,
'Til the King comes back Himself,
As long as we're here,
We'll say it loud and clear,
WE AIN'T GONNA TAKE NO STUFF."
Whatever our nation decides, we as the people of God (Christians) should be determined that we will not compromise our relationship with Jesus. We will follow Him fully.
These days remind me of the time when the USA was recognized as the VOICE and STANDARD of FREEDOM, the world's number one Superpower with unequaled Peace through unchallenged Strength.
We had our troubles, but at least we still recognized Christian morality and culture, family values, Bible-based government, and the Constitution as the rule of law.
I am glad we have an Administration that is resisting the enemies of freedom, the wicked bullies of blood thirsty religion and governments (FINALLY). Forty-seven years of bowing before our enemies was shameful. We even had Presidents that paid protection money to them (which we had not done since the days of Thomas Jefferson).
Still, stopping enemy madmen is a reminder of the America we were when I was born and grew up.
We had the insane Communists of the day, but most Americans boldly opposed Marxism. Now, true patriots are a rarity. In fact, we have Communists and Socialists (same thing; like a skunk and a polecat) and self-proclaimed enemies of Christ leading our government away from Biblical law to Koranic law (not to mention the rampant perversion and sexploitation of our children, families, educational system, laws, and health system). This is what a generation without God and His word has done to America
Still, for however long or short it will last, it was a good feeling to see America be America again. But sadly, without Christ, America is "rotten to the core and the core is rotten too." Without a spiritual renewal, America is only a fading image of what it used to be.
REPLY TO COMMENT...
Howard, greetings. I am not sure what you are saying, but I am guessing that you have seen that I try to use every opportunity to turn anyone I can to Jesus, which is to the good of all nations.In reference to Christians taking a stand against the evil that the world is trying to force Christians into, some of my church folks wrote a song years ago, which is still timely. This is the chorus. The verses are a very strong call to total commitment.
"We ain't taking no stuff from the devil,
We ain't taking no stuff from the world,
We ain't taking no stuff from the Humanistic Educators (or Legislators)
Telling lies to our boys and girls.
(or trying to tell the churches what to do)
Though we will not see the Kingdom,
'Til the King comes back Himself,
As long as we're here,
We'll say it loud and clear,
WE AIN'T GONNA TAKE NO STUFF."
Whatever our nation decides, we as the people of God (Christians) should be determined that we will not compromise our relationship with Jesus. We will follow Him fully.
03/07/26 4 FAVORITE SOUNDS
03/07/26 4 FAVORITE SOUNDS
FOUR OF MY FAVORITE SOUNDS
Bogue,
Pamilico,
Core,
and
Sound of Freedom.
I have loved being near these Sounds.
FOUR OF MY FAVORITE SOUNDS
Bogue,
Pamilico,
Core,
and
Sound of Freedom.
I have loved being near these Sounds.
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
03/03/26 OUR OWN CHOICE
03/03/26 OUR OWN CHOICE
You can't blame God for Adam's sin.
God judges each person according to his/her own deeds.
All are responsible for their own relationship with God.
Don't blame the parent for the offspring's sin.
The offspring of godly parents may choose not to follow Christ.
The offspring of ungodly parents may choose to follow Christ.
Being Biblical is a personal decision.
Christlikeness is a personal decision, despite parents or church.
Upbringing is one thing; personal choice is different.
The result of BEING a Christian is BEHAVING as a Christian.
The Bible warns us about professing without possessing.
2 Timothy 3:5
5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
(dlg) The power of God transforms us from darkness to light and conforms us to the likeness of Christ.
Salvation is both a "being" and a "behaving" reality.
"Being" is what we are (our spiritual condition, our nature).
"Behaving" is what we do (our thinking, speaking, and actions).
We will be judged for our thoughts, our words, and our deeds.
Being Biblical is a personal decision.
Salvation is an "Inner Man" and an "Outer Man" reality.
2 Corinthians 6:17-7:1
17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
Being a Christian includes walking in the Holy Spirit and bearing the fruit of the Holy Spirit.
You can't blame God for Adam's sin.
God judges each person according to his/her own deeds.
All are responsible for their own relationship with God.
Don't blame the parent for the offspring's sin.
The offspring of godly parents may choose not to follow Christ.
The offspring of ungodly parents may choose to follow Christ.
Being Biblical is a personal decision.
Christlikeness is a personal decision, despite parents or church.
Upbringing is one thing; personal choice is different.
The result of BEING a Christian is BEHAVING as a Christian.
The Bible warns us about professing without possessing.
2 Timothy 3:5
5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
(dlg) The power of God transforms us from darkness to light and conforms us to the likeness of Christ.
Salvation is both a "being" and a "behaving" reality.
"Being" is what we are (our spiritual condition, our nature).
"Behaving" is what we do (our thinking, speaking, and actions).
We will be judged for our thoughts, our words, and our deeds.
Being Biblical is a personal decision.
Salvation is an "Inner Man" and an "Outer Man" reality.
2 Corinthians 6:17-7:1
17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
Being a Christian includes walking in the Holy Spirit and bearing the fruit of the Holy Spirit.
Monday, March 2, 2026
03/02/26 KAYAKING AS A MICROCOSM
03/02/26 KAYAKING AS A MICROCOSM
As usual, this post addresses the subject of Christian living; (not the Divinely instituted Government responsibility of "protecting the righteous and punishing the wicked"). Don't confuse these two different principles.
When I see my Cover Photo or my Profile Photo, I relish the moments I have spent on my kayak (fishing, drifting, paddling, meditating, sharing with other kayakers, taking in the beauty of God's creation). Even on those occasions that I was struggling my way through a low tide marsh, or rushing to safety during a thunder squall, or fighting my way out of the grip of a dangerous Pluff Mud, I sought and sensed God's presence.
I kayak because it is fun. I kayak because it is restorative. I kayak because it is reflective. I kayak because it is good exercise. I kayak because it gives me time to share with other folks (friends, strangers, family).
Come to think of it, "kayaking" is somewhat of a microcosm of life. It is not always fun or easy. Actually, preparing to kayak and "squaring away" after kayaking can be unfun, but it is necessary if I am going to kayak. Also, the difficult times often have benefits. Challenges are beneficial, even when they are difficult. I learn about myself and about God's plan during the hard times.
There is an old saying, "It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness." We don't ignore the darkness, nor do we embrace the dangers in the darkness, but neither do we focus on the darkness. We look for the light; we trust the proven Guidance out of the darkness. We do not let the darkness define us or distort us. We do not honor the darkness.
As believers, we know that God's light in us is greater than the darkness around us. We also know that the darkness oozes out of the enemy of our soul, Satan. We know that we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but principalities and powers and spiritual wickedness in high places.
We don't love the enemy of our soul but we do love our enemies. (Remember, Christian love does not exempt a criminal from legal punishment or tyrants from justice). We reach out to others, even when we are despised, and lift others up, even when it is costly.
Jesus is not only our Savior and Lord He is our example, our pattern. We are to walk in His steps. This includes our attitude as well as our actions. Our possession of grace should align with our profession of faith. The root produces the fruit.
As we sang yesterday...
"My desire, to be like Jesus,
My desire, to be like Him!
His Spirit fill me,
His love o'rewhelm me:
In deed and word,
To be like Him."
"Let the beauty of Jesus be seen in me.
All His wonderful passion and purity!
O Thou Spirit Divine,
All my nature refine,
Till the beauty of Jesus is seen in me.
We also sing...
O to be like Thee! O To be like Thee,
Blessed Redeemer, pure as Thou art!
Come in Thy sweetness,
Come in Thy fullness,
Stamp Thine own image,
Deep on my heart.
This is what I preach, this is what God requires, this is how Christians live.
As usual, this post addresses the subject of Christian living; (not the Divinely instituted Government responsibility of "protecting the righteous and punishing the wicked"). Don't confuse these two different principles.
When I see my Cover Photo or my Profile Photo, I relish the moments I have spent on my kayak (fishing, drifting, paddling, meditating, sharing with other kayakers, taking in the beauty of God's creation). Even on those occasions that I was struggling my way through a low tide marsh, or rushing to safety during a thunder squall, or fighting my way out of the grip of a dangerous Pluff Mud, I sought and sensed God's presence.
I kayak because it is fun. I kayak because it is restorative. I kayak because it is reflective. I kayak because it is good exercise. I kayak because it gives me time to share with other folks (friends, strangers, family).
Come to think of it, "kayaking" is somewhat of a microcosm of life. It is not always fun or easy. Actually, preparing to kayak and "squaring away" after kayaking can be unfun, but it is necessary if I am going to kayak. Also, the difficult times often have benefits. Challenges are beneficial, even when they are difficult. I learn about myself and about God's plan during the hard times.
There is an old saying, "It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness." We don't ignore the darkness, nor do we embrace the dangers in the darkness, but neither do we focus on the darkness. We look for the light; we trust the proven Guidance out of the darkness. We do not let the darkness define us or distort us. We do not honor the darkness.
As believers, we know that God's light in us is greater than the darkness around us. We also know that the darkness oozes out of the enemy of our soul, Satan. We know that we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but principalities and powers and spiritual wickedness in high places.
We don't love the enemy of our soul but we do love our enemies. (Remember, Christian love does not exempt a criminal from legal punishment or tyrants from justice). We reach out to others, even when we are despised, and lift others up, even when it is costly.
Jesus is not only our Savior and Lord He is our example, our pattern. We are to walk in His steps. This includes our attitude as well as our actions. Our possession of grace should align with our profession of faith. The root produces the fruit.
As we sang yesterday...
"My desire, to be like Jesus,
My desire, to be like Him!
His Spirit fill me,
His love o'rewhelm me:
In deed and word,
To be like Him."
"Let the beauty of Jesus be seen in me.
All His wonderful passion and purity!
O Thou Spirit Divine,
All my nature refine,
Till the beauty of Jesus is seen in me.
We also sing...
O to be like Thee! O To be like Thee,
Blessed Redeemer, pure as Thou art!
Come in Thy sweetness,
Come in Thy fullness,
Stamp Thine own image,
Deep on my heart.
This is what I preach, this is what God requires, this is how Christians live.
Sunday, March 1, 2026
03/01/26 MAYBE IT'S NOT TOO LATE
03/01/26 MAYBE IT'S NOT TOO LATE
FINALLY, after 47 years, the USA cuts off the head of a madman, bully, bloodthirsty regime. Not only have previous Administrations failed to protect America, but some even financed and encouraged our enemy.
MAYBE IT'S NOT TOO LATE.
FINALLY, after 47 years, the USA cuts off the head of a madman, bully, bloodthirsty regime. Not only have previous Administrations failed to protect America, but some even financed and encouraged our enemy.
MAYBE IT'S NOT TOO LATE.
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