Psalm 96

1 O sing unto the Lord a new song: sing unto the Lord, all the earth.

2 Sing unto the Lord, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day.

3 Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people.

4 For the Lord is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods.

5 For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the Lord made the heavens.

6 Honour and majesty are before him: strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.

7 Give unto the Lord, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the Lord glory and strength.

8 Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts.

9 O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth.

10 Say among the heathen that the Lord reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously.

11 Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof.

12 Let the field be joyful, and all that is therein: then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice

13 Before the Lord: for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth.

As The Days Of Noah Was

Another reason to live as a Child of God

There is a lot of talk right now, both in this country, and around the world. Is this the "End Times?" Seriously, Ebola, Marburg, Enterovirus and Chikungunya? These diseases were not even on the radar of most people coming into 2014, yet now a days, they are main news topics, and fodder for Right Wing Radio Show Hosts to Blame Obama.

This also has lead many Preachers and TV Hosts to speculate, "Are these God's Wrath poured out onto the World for the Sins that the World has committed. Is the End Near?"

I have heard people quote Verses such as:

"And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God."{Revelation 19:15}

"In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:"{2 Thessalonians 1:8}

" Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them."{Ephesians 5:6-7}

Let me start out today with the Words of Jesus Himself..

"But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be."{Matthew 24:36-39}

Anytime, ANY person, including me, ever, comes to you as says the End of Time is upon us, they are lying. Any time ANY person comes to you and gives you a date, time, or even just a time frame, of when the World is going to end, they are guessing at best. Why? Because Jesus said "But of that day and hour knoweth no man." The World as we know it, will come to an end, when GOD says so.

Jesus tells us plainly, that as in the days of Noah, so shall be the End Times. People will be going about their daily lives. What are your plans today? What are your plans in the near future? Are you planning out a Vacation? Looking forward to the Holidays? I Challenge you to go to the Mall. Look around. See all the people coming and going. Actually see them. Families. Kids. Teens holding hands. An old couple holding hands. People happy. People sad. Go somewhere during the week, watch the traffic. See all those coming and going. Some to Work. Some to School. Some going nowhere in particular. Just watch them.

Now imagine this. All of a sudden, it all ends. EVERYTHING. Will it happen as some think called the Rapture? Some of these people just disappear? Diverless Cars crashing. Plane falling out of the sky. Explosions all over the place. Or will you look up and see Jesus coming in the Clouds? Or will you turn on the news and see that our President signed over our Sovereignty to the UN and we become a One World Order, with the Antichrist rising to Power?

Jesus told us..

"Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.

For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows. Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake. And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.

When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains: Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house: Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes. And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days!

But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day: For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world 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.

Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not. For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. Behold, I have told you before.

Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not. For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together.

Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors."{Matthew 20:4-33}

So it is easy, and very tempting, for people to look around and see the things going on in the World today, and point to this and say "See the End is near." However, by doing so, they are totally discarding Paul's warning...

"But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape."{1 Thessalonians 5:1-3}

Peter's warning..

"But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up."{2 Peter 3:10}

And of course, Jesus's own warning to us..

"But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be."

When issuing this warning, Peter said this..

"Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness."{2 Peter 3:11}

Translation? "Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness," "For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night." "Take heed that no man deceive you." "Behold, I have told you before." In one of His parables, Jesus used this phrase.."Occupy till I come." {Luke 19:13}What does it all mean?

Simply put, we do not know when the Lord will return. We have no idea when it will take place. Anyone telling you they do, they are wrong. We must simply live our lives being the Child of God we are. We are not to fear. We are not to doubt. We are not to be mislead. We are to spend the wealth, our Master, The Lord, gave us wisely, until He comes back. In other words, share the Gospel. Create a profit for the Kingdom. Be Sowers of the Seed. Be good Stewards

See God tells us these things are coming. He tells us..

"Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him."{Jude 1:14-15}

He tells us these things so we are not caught off guard. So we are not tricked into believing anything contrary to what He is telling us. So we are NOT one of those He is coming against. He wants others to know what is coming, and that HE, Jesus, is the only Salvation. As in the days of Noah, people will be living their daily lives, coming and going, working and playing, eating and sleeping, Sinning, rejecting and forgetting God, He WILL return. Are you waiting? Are you looking? Are you Saved? Are you sure?

Do you know Jesus as your Savior? Have you been adopted into the Family of God? If not, say this Prayer. Right now. Wherever you may be. Say it in your own words, and do not doubt in your heart. God will hear you. He will send the Spirit of Life to you. Let us Pray..

"Oh heavenly Father, Lord God. I am a sinner. I know this. I know there is nothing I can do to change that. But I know you can. I accept Jesus's sacrifice for me. I repent my sins. Please send the Spirit of Adoption into my life. Help me to get to know the real you. Save me. Please. In the name of Jesus, Amen!"

That's it. It really is that simple. Now go tell someone what you have just done. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." {Romans 10:9} You need to find a Church that God leads you to, and be Baptized the way Jesus said to be. You are now a Child of God. A new Creature. You "have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him." {Colossians 3:10}

If you want to tell me, or comment, question, give testimonials, or just say "Hi," the Email is opntalk@gmail.com

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. {2 Corinthians 13}

The Greatest Commandment Part 3

"Have no other God before God."

Now we have talked about putting God before your love of Money. We talked about seeing your Job for what it is, a Job. No matter how good you are, no matter how honored or respected you are at doing it, in the end, it is nothing more than a Job. You leave, or stop doing it, it will live on, and someone else will take your place. We talked about putting God before even your most Loved Love One.

Today, we are going to talk about Hobbies. What do you do for fun? Did you know that a Week is not really that long. Seriously. Did you know that a Week is only 168 hours long? Seven days is only 168 hours long.

40,50,to 60 of those hours, are most likely devoted to Work. Devoted to your Job. Then of course you have to factor in sleep. So let's look at 50 hours. Travel time and all that. 50 hours for your Job. That leaves 118 hours. Lets go with 6 hours of sleep a night. That is 42 hours a week. that leaves you 74 hours.

So in those precious 74 hours, what do you do? Do you like to Fish? Hike? Build Classic Cars? Do you spend most of the time when you are not spending it with your Family, on Social Media? Seriously, what do you do?

Now compare that with the Hour and a half, or Two Hours a week you spend in Church? Where does God really fit into your life? Jesus told us that the Greatest Commandment of all was this.

"Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment." {Matthew 22:36-38}

So what does "Have no other God before me." mean? "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind." Does this mean only on Sunday, if you feel up to going? Or does it mean you spend EVERY DAY with God?

Do you Pray to Him daily? I'm not talking about doing exercise. You know, you get down on one knee and say something like "Praise God. Forgive me of my Sins. Be with me today. Amen," jump back up, and then go about the rest of the 24 hours you got this day? Do you actually Pray, or do you risk throwing your back out? Going down and up so fast you may even break a sweat.

The Word declares we should...

"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."{1 Thessalonians 5:16-18}

You know, we've talked about this before. God requires, I repeat, God REQUIRES us to Tithe. That is give Ten Percent of our Salaries to Him. What do you think would happen if we started Tithing our time as well. Think about that. That would be 2 hours and 40 minutes in a day.

What? Too much? Let me ask you this then. How much time do you spend on Social Media? How much time do you spend with your Hobbies. How much time do you just waste? I'm not saying you should, although there would be nothing wrong with it, spend the whole time consecutively. You could Pray in the AM, say 30 minutes. Read the Word for 30 Minutes. On lunch you could eat and read The Word another 30 minutes. Pray on the way home. Read The Word or Pray before you go to bed. You could also use that time doing God's Will. 2 hours and 40 minutes a day? That is really not that long.

If you are truly loving "the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind." this should be pretty easy to do. Work, or anything else, will be mere distractions. If you are truly "Seeking the Kingdom of God first," these other things will be less important to you.

"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer." {Romans 12:12}

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." {Philippians 4:6}

"Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving."{Colossians 4:2}

We are to put God first in our lives. We are suppose to see Him as our Daddy, and ourselves, as His Children. How do you spend time with your Family? How do you spend time with your Earthly Father?

When growing up, you see him ever day. He loves you, teaches you, yes, even corrects you. You eat with, spend time with, and learn to obey him. His word is final.You see him when you go to sleep. See him when you wake up. You want him there for the important things. The celebrations. You go to him when you want to learn something. You run to him when you are sad or scared. You know that as long as Daddy is right there, nothing can hurt you, and all is going to be OK. This is how God wants you to see Him.

God tells us..

"Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee." {Deuteronomy 31:6}

As long as you allow God to be your Daddy. Your actual Father. He is always with you. He is working in your life. He is watching out for you, protecting you, comforting you. He loves you with all His Heart, He wants you to do the same.

Think about this. He brought your Mom and Dad together. He saw you, and wrote you in His Book, before your Mom even knew she was Pregnant. He wrote in the Book, you would have Brown hair, or Blonde. You would have this color eyes. You would be this body type. Then you were fashioned as He wrote you. God loves you so much that even the hairs on your Head are NUMBERED. The hair on your Head.

"But the very hairs of your head are all numbered."{Matthew 10:30}

"But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows."{Luke 12:7}

Then, God set up a Purpose and a Plan for you and for your life. Then He called you. You are reading this right now, because God lead you to it. You go to Church because God lead you there. You "found" Jesus because God lead you to Him. Remember...

"No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day."{John 6:44}

You did not find Jesus. One, He was never lost. Two, you would not even know where to look. God led you to Him. He called you and you allowed the Spirit to led you to Adoption.

"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God." {Romans 8:14}

This is why it is so very important that you get to know the REAL God. Not the image. Not the Statue. Not the likeness of. But the REAL God. The LIVING God. Oh that Cross around your neck may look pretty. That Picture of Jesus on your wall is beautiful. That statue of Mary is finely crafted. But there is no life in any of them. God, the Father, the Alpha and Omega, the Great "I AM," is now your Daddy. He wants a one on one relationship with you.

The only way you are going to have this kind of relationship, is to spend time with Him. Getting to know Him. Listening to His Word. Putting Him first in your life. Learn from Him. Learn from His Word. Allow the Spirit to tech you, guide you. Allow Him to be your Father. You must put God first in your Life. Above all things. Before all things. Even before your very Life itself. Without Him, you would have never even been to begin with.

Do you know Jesus as your Savior? Have you been adopted into the Family of God? If not, say this Prayer. Right now. Wherever you may be. Say it in your own words, and do not doubt in your heart. God will hear you. He will send the Spirit of Life to you. Let us Pray..

"Oh heavenly Father, Lord God. I am a sinner. I know this. I know there is nothing I can do to change that. But I know you can. I accept Jesus's sacrifice for me. I repent my sins. Please send the Spirit of Adoption into my life. Help me to get to know the real you. Save me. Please. In the name of Jesus, Amen!"

That's it. It really is that simple. Now go tell someone what you have just done. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." {Romans 10:9} You need to find a Church that God leads you to, and be Baptized the way Jesus said to be. You are now a Child of God. A new Creature. You "have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him." {Colossians 3:10}

If you want to tell me, or comment, question, give testimonials, or just say "Hi," the Email is opntalk@gmail.com

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. {2 Corinthians 13}

The Greatest Commandment Part 2

"Have No Other God Before Me."

Last time we talked about putting Family and Loved Ones before God. We talked about how God sees people that do this, as not worthy, to be called His Children. You must put God first in your life, and yes, that means even before your Mom, Dad, Children, Husband, Wife, or anyone else. God must come first.

Once you fully get this concept, the rest is pretty simple to understand. Is your J.O.B your G.O.D.? I'm seriously asking you. Is your Job your god? Ridiculous you say? Are you sure? Think about it..

We spend most of our awake time at our Jobs. We do things that we would never do for our Jobs. Our Jobs pay us money that???

Pays our bills, gives us a roof over our heads. Food on the Table. Cloths on our body. Electricity. Vehicle to come and go. Entertainment. We rely on our Job to meet our needs. Used to be, people would work 9-5 Monday through Friday. They would go out and do whatever it was that would supply them with the money to live. The Wife and Mother, would stay home to raise the Children. Then after Dad got home, they would all sit around the table and have dinner. Talking, sharing their day's events. Then came the Weekends, where they would spend time as a family.

Now, most of the time, both the Man and Woman are both out working 24-7. Working 9-5 is nearly all but gone. Weekends off? Rare. Got to make that money.

We've talked about this before. God did not create money. God has no use for it. We did. Money and Wealth is a Man-made concept. We chose to say that this piece of paper is worth one dollar, or a hundred dollars. We chose to say that this shiny rock, is worth all this money. Imagine God, looking down from Heaven, when He sees someone open an Oyster's Shell and see a spit ball, and say, "This is valuable." It's is foolishness.

However, it is the system we created. It is a system we must live in. It is the system that can and does, lead some to an early Grave. They work themselves to death. Some are very successful, out there doing what they do, and then they come home and wonder, "Where did the Kids go?" Well, they Graduated and are out on their own. Sorry, you missed them grow up. Got to make that money..

"Do not overwork to be rich; Because of your own understanding, cease!" {Proverbs 23:4}

When you drive your body, 24-7, you deprive it of sleep, food, and even simple rest. Eventually, it will give out. He who dies with the most Toys wins? Got to make that money..

God does not want to you worry. Jesus taught us this fact, that as a Child of God, you should not only have no fear of these things, but take no thought of them at all. If we, as a Child of God, put our trust in Him, He is faithful and just, to meet our every need. In...

Luke 12:

"And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth." {Luke 12:15}

Then He tells us this..

"The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment.

Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls? And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit? If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest?

Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith? And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind.

For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you." {Luke 12:23-30}

Where is your Faith? Is your Faith in God? To be faithful and true to His Word that HE will meet your needs? Or is your Faith in yourself, and your Job, to meet your needs? Where is you Faith Child of God?

"But you don't understand. I do not want to drive that. I do not want to live there. I want MORE. So much more. I got to do whatever I got to do to make more Money.."

Really? Have you not heard?

"For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.

For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." {1 Timothy 6:7-10}

There are many people that have accepted Money as their god. Banks have become Churches. Financial Advisers have become Evangelists. People bow at the Alter of the Stock-market. The love of money will lead you to violate the rest of the Commandments..

It will lead you to

Forget the Sabbath day. Seven days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work Got to make that Money.

You will forget, or have no time for the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt still work. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it. But you will say to yourself, no big deal. I have to work..

You will fail to Honor thy Father and Mother. Even Jesus warned us about this.

"For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death. But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition."{Matthew 15:4-6}

The Love of Money can lead you to Murder. It will lead you to Adultery. It will lead you to Stealing. If I cannot make that Money, I will simply TAKE it. It will lead you to Lie. It will open you up to Coveting things that are not yours.

When speaking of Riches, The Word tells us this..

"Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." (Luke 12:33-34)

You know that whatever you do, in the end, it's just a Job. You are a Famous Actor? Musician? Sports Start? You know what happens when you become too old to keep doing what you are doing? Someone else steps up and takes your place. All those people that used to chant your name, now chants someone else's. All those people that used to follow you around, now follow someone else. That Movie you did, that was the number one movie in history? Has been replace with the next number one movie in history. That position you had in the Company? Someone else sits in your seat now. So on and so forth. It was all just a Job.

God is there. He is always there. He will never leave nor forsake you. You are and will always be His Child. He must come first. Jesus came right out and told us, you cannot love both, Money and God.

"No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon."{Matthew 6:24}

If you can get these two Truths, that God comes before your Family, and that God comes before your Job and love of Money, then the next should be really easy for you to get. Sometimes we put other things before God, and do not even realize we do it. That's next time.

Is God number one in your life? Are you sure? Do you know Jesus as your Savior? Have you been adopted into the Family of God? If not, say this Prayer. Right now. Wherever you may be. Say it in your own words, and do not doubt in your heart. God will hear you. He will send the Spirit of Life to you. Let us Pray..

"Oh heavenly Father, Lord God. I am a sinner. I know this. I know there is nothing I can do to change that. But I know you can. I accept Jesus's sacrifice for me. I repent my sins. Please send the Spirit of Adoption into my life. Help me to get to know the real you. Save me. Please. In the name of Jesus, Amen!"

That's it. It really is that simple. Now go tell someone what you have just done. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." {Romans 10:9} You need to find a Church that God leads you to, and be Baptized the way Jesus said to be. You are now a Child of God. A new Creature. You "have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him." {Colossians 3:10}

If you want to tell me, or comment, question, give testimonials, or just say "Hi," the Email is opntalk@gmail.com

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. {2 Corinthians 13}

The Greatest Commandment

"Thou shalt have no other gods before me."

What does this actually mean? Are you Violating this Commandment daily? Do you understand that as long as you do, you are not in God's Grace? I'm going to ask you some very direct questions here. You may even become offended. But these are questions you really need to ask yourself.

Do you???????

Do you love your Spouse more than anything in the World?
Do you love your Children more than anything in the World?
Do you love your Parents more than anything in the World?
Do you love your Hobby more than anything in the World?
Do you love your Job more than anything in the World?

Do you?

These are the easy questions. I have a few more.

Do you love money more than anything in the World?
Do you love the Lotto more than anything in the World?
Do you love Coffee, Beer, or Cigarettes, more than anything in the World?
Do you love food more than anything in the World?

"OK, OK, enough with the questions. What are you getting at?"

"Thou shalt have no other gods before me."{Exodus 20:3}

So, do you?

Oh you go to your closet and put on your best Sunday Cloths and you go off to Church on Sundays. Then you go back to the same closet and take them off after Church. What then? What is it in your life that takes full priority? What is the REAL god in your life?

Your Wife come to you and says, "We have been going to Church for like five Sundays in a row here. Do you think we can maybe miss this Sunday? There is this Antique Store that just opened up I think would be fun to check out this Sunday, but it's like three hours away. Think we can go?"

So you think about it. You love your Wife. You want to make her happy. Then you think, WOW. We really have been pretty good. We HAVE really gone the last five Sundays in a row. "Yeah, OK."

Church is having a Revival this Wednesday night. "Oh? Oh no. Sorry. My little Susie has a Dance Practice." "Little Johnny has a Game." Oh, we have to go to my Mom's on Wednesday. It really means a lot that we go to Dinner there every Wednesday." "I have to work." ETC.

God, brought your Mom and Dad together. Formed you in the Womb. Called you to be His Child. Saved you from the Grave, Death, and Hell. He has become your Daddy, and you His Child. Do you??

"O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;" {Psalms 63:1}

Do you thirst for God? Do you hunger? Do you long for God? Or is He just a Concept and an Idea to you? Is He truly GOD in your life, or is He a Weekend Excursion? A distraction in your otherwise chaotic World? Are you a "Weekend Warrior" or are you truly a Child of God?

"But wait, are you saying that if I love my Family more than anything else in the World, I am NOT being a Good Christian?" I'm not saying it..

"He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me."{Matthew 10:37}

Luke wrote that Jesus made it even more plain than this..

"If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple." {Luke 14:26}

"Wait, I'm confused. Did not God create the Family? Is one of the Commandments NOT 'Honor your Father and Mother.' How can I Honor them and Hate them, at the same time?"

Jesus said "He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me" Jesus tells us that if we come to Him, yet we hold onto the past, we are not worthy of being His Disciple. Remember what He told the one asking Him to go bury his Father, or the one that said, let me go say goodbye?

"Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God."{Luke 9:60-62}

The point is, God must become the most important part of your Life. God's Plan and Purpose for you and your life, must take over. Jesus even told us that because of Him, Earthly Families will break up. Remember Jesus said...

"Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division: For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three. The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law."{Luke 12:51-53}

Why? Because not everyone will accept the Truth. Not everyone will Hear God's Word. Not everyone will be Saved. As in the World, where some reject the Truth, God, and God's Word, and Hate you for no other reason than for the Name of Jesus, so will some in your own Families. But Jesus tells us we should not worry about those. We need only Follow Him and do our Father's Will.

"Truly I tell you, no one who has left home or wife or brothers or sisters or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God will fail to receive many times as much in this age, and in the age to come eternal life." {Luke 18:29-30}

So am I saying you should not honor your Family? No. Of course not. However, The God Plan for Family, like it or not, accept it or not, is, was, and always will be this.

God, Head of Man.
Man, Head of Family.
Woman, Head of Children.

God must come first. If God leads you, no matter who you may be, to do something, and the rest of the Family rejects it, go with God. He overrides EVERYTHING. and everyone else. If you lose Family, or anything else, because you chose to put God first, He promises, even up to and including your very Life, you will "receive many times as much in this age, and in the age to come eternal life."

Most of us do not really have to worry about this. Sad truth is, most of us do not have to worry about this, because we do not share the Truth, with our Families. We do not want to risk it. We do not want them to think of us as strange. Ever think about that? We will go out into the World, and we will spread the Gospel, yet, those we love the most, we remain silent and allow them to live their lives without Hope? Those we love the most, should be those we want to, give the Gift of the Gospel the most? Yes? No?

If you want a Happy Family life, the easiest way to get there is to simply follow God's Plan. However, even with Family, you must put God first. You cannot ever allow your Wife, Husband, Kids, Mother, Father, or anyone else, to become your god. You must put God first. Next time we will be talking about how a Hobby can become as a god. Work? How some peoples J.O.B.s have become their G.O.D.s.

Truth is, there is not a person on Earth, that is worthy to be Worshiped. No. Not one. We are all Created by a God that is the Creator of all that is, was, or ever will be. We are all equally yoked with the Sin of the Flesh. We are all Creatures with the same, single, and only, Hope, in ever lasting Life, being that of the acceptance of the Sacrifice of Jesus. Even Jesus Himself rejected Worship of Himself. Remember what Jesus said..

"And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments." {Matthew 19:16-17}

Also recorded in Mark, and in Luke, that Jesus gives this admonishment. If Jesus Himself, the Holy One of God, the Sinless One. The Savoir, God in the Flesh, refused to be said to be Good, or Worshiped, then whom do you feel is greater than He? There is no one.

Do not ever make the mistake of turning a Family Member, no matter how much you may love them, into a god. Obviously, do not put anyone, in that Position. Not the Rich, Famous, Religious Leaders, or anyone else. There is but one God. There is but one Mediator. His name is Jesus. Follow Him.

Do you know Jesus as your Savior? Have you been adopted into the Family of God? If not, say this Prayer. Right now. Wherever you may be. Say it in your own words, and do not doubt in your heart. God will hear you. He will send the Spirit of Life to you. Let us Pray..

"Oh heavenly Father, Lord God. I am a sinner. I know this. I know there is nothing I can do to change that. But I know you can. I accept Jesus's sacrifice for me. I repent my sins. Please send the Spirit of Adoption into my life. Help me to get to know the real you. Save me. Please. In the name of Jesus, Amen!"

That's it. It really is that simple. Now go tell someone what you have just done. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." {Romans 10:9} You need to find a Church that God leads you to, and be Baptized the way Jesus said to be. You are now a Child of God. A new Creature. You "have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him." {Colossians 3:10}

If you want to tell me, or comment, question, give testimonials, or just say "Hi," the Email is opntalk@gmail.com

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. {2 Corinthians 13}

License to Sin

After all, you are already Saved, and Forgiven.

Do you know someone like this? Are YOU someone like this? I grew up around some people like this. They felt that since they believed in God, and accepted Jesus, went to Church on Sundays, they could do whatever they chose, as long as they said sorry for their Sins, all was well.

People like this love to point out Scriptures like these...

"Moreover the law entered that the offense might abound. But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more,"{Romans 5:20}

And,,

"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."{1 John 1:9}

They love to point out things like this,,,

"Then Peter came and said to Him, Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times? Jesus said to him, I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven." {Matthew 18:21-22}

They turn Preacher, and explain to you that if Jesus was telling Peter that we, being evil, need to forgive our Brother who Sins against us, then how much more will God, who is Holy, forgive us? They tell you that,,

"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God"{Romans 3:23}

They may even throw some verses in there talking about not Judging them for their Sins. Some will even tell you that they do not Sin at all. That since they were washed by the Blood, they are now as pure as the wind driven Snow.

First, the latter is an outright lie.

"If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us."{1 John 1:8}

Second, everything else they pointed out in the Word is true. However, they misunderstand, or worse, twist it, to fit how they think. They twist it to excuse away their daily Sin.

Is it true,,,,

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us." {1 John 1:9-10}

It is true that we all Sin daily? Yup. Everyone of us. We even Sin and not know we Sin. We may be, and are, Blood Bought Children of God, we may have had our Sins wiped out, but we are still flesh. We are still tempted by the things of the flesh. No matter how you try, you will still Sin. This is why the Word tells us,,,

"My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:"{1 John 2:1}

When The Word tells us "that ye sin not," and when Jesus told us this,

"You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect."{Matthew 5:48}

The point is, to strive for perfection. We will not achieve it. However we are not to Sin willfully, but to strive for perfection. In other words, "Do not have any other gods before God." "Do not commit Idolatry" "Do not commit Murder." "Do not commit Adultery" "Do not Covet" ETC. Yet, if you look at a Woman or Man with lust in your Heart, you have Sinned. Yet, if you lie to someone, you have Sinned.

"If you have committed one sin you are guilty of all." {James 2:10}

You may Sin and not even know that you have Sinned. If you tell someone, "No. Those Pants do not make your Butt look big," yet they really do, did you Lie? If you take that Pen home from your Job, did you steel? If you see the Neighbor got a new car, and you decide you want to go out and get one just like it, did you Covet? Again, "If you have committed one sin you are guilty of all."

This is why we must always ask for forgiveness and Repent the Sins we ARE aware of. This is why we must take comfort in the fact that "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

Do not be confused or mislead. There is a vast difference in Willfully Sinning and Oops. Being Saved is NOT a License to Sin.

In his letter to the Hebrews, Paul warned them of this..

"For if we sin willfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remains no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:

Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?

For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongs unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God."{Hebrews 10:26-31}

Of course, "He who knows good, and does it not, to him it is Sin." If you want to talk about someone having a License to Sin, it would be those that are not Saved. For they are Condemned already. They can Sin all they want. The end result is the same. Death. It doesn't matter what they do, how they live, or the fact they do not believe in God. They are already Condemned to death, because they lack the Key. Jesus.

Again, there is a vast difference in Knowingly and Willfully Sinning, and Sinning via the Natural State of Man. Please never confuse the two. Do you know Jesus as your Savior? Have you been adopted into the Family of God? If not, say this Prayer. Right now. Wherever you may be. Say it in your own words, and do not doubt in your heart. God will hear you. He will send the Spirit of Life to you. Let us Pray..

"Oh heavenly Father, Lord God. I am a sinner. I know this. I know there is nothing I can do to change that. But I know you can. I accept Jesus's sacrifice for me. I repent my sins. Please send the Spirit of Adoption into my life. Help me to get to know the real you. Save me. Please. In the name of Jesus, Amen!"

That's it. It really is that simple. Now go tell someone what you have just done. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." {Romans 10:9} You need to find a Church that God leads you to, and be Baptized the way Jesus said to be. You are now a Child of God. A new Creature. You "have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him." {Colossians 3:10}

If you want to tell me, or comment, question, give testimonials, or just say "Hi," the Email is opntalk@gmail.com

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. {2 Corinthians 13}

Tomorrow

Tomorrow is magical.

Every think of it that way? Tomorrow being magical. It truly seems to be. Tomorrow is a day where anything is possible. Tomorrow is where great things will happen. Birthdays will be celebrated. Raises will be had. Promotions given. Vacations will start. Holidays to be celebrated.

Tomorrow is a magical day, because that is when you will see all your hopes and dreams fulfilled. A new day to dawn. The old one to pass away. A clean slate. A new beginning. New Hope. May it be better than this one. Tomorrow. May it be filled with Peace, Love, and Happiness.

There is only one little problem. We have no idea, if, Tomorrow will actually arrive.

I want to share a personal story with you for a second. As some of you know, my Mother Passed on just about three weeks ago. She became really bad and unable to care for herself at the end of her life. We turned over her care to Hospice. For those of you who do not know who Hospice is, they are a group of people who have their own Doctors, Nurses, Caregivers, and even Care Facilities. Unlike Hospitals, their Facilities are like homes. They make those under their care comfortable until the time comes.They are FANTASTIC. I have nothing but good things to say about Hospice. They truly care.

My Mother went in on a Saturday night. I, her husband, her Sister, and our kids, went in to see her on Sunday. It was a good day. We ordered Pizza, and hung out there for hours. The Charge Nurse told us that if my oldest Son Joshua, and his "Poppop" wanted to, they could spend the night with her, anytime. So they made plans to do so that coming Saturday.

Well, Mom went down hill fast. She Passed at 4:05 am that Thursday Morning. For Josh and Poppop, Saturday never came. Mom is in a far better place, and Josh and Poppop, and the rest of the Family, are starting to get on with getting on. But Saturday, never came. Thursday change our Family forever.

The Word declares...

"Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth." {Proverbs 27:1}

Jesus told us plainly..

"Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof." {Matthew 6:34}

Ever do that? Make all these plans for a future date, only to have something happen, that nullifies those plans. I used to work in the Hotel Industry as a Manager. I worked a lot. I was on call 24-7. I used to make all these plans when I knew I had a day coming up that I had no obligations. I would make so many plans for that day, when the day came, I did not even know where to start. Sometimes, I rejected all the plans and just slept. Other times, something would happen, and that day itself, never came.

We do not know what tomorrow brings. We have no clue. More importantly, Tomorrow is not guaranteed. Remember the story Jesus told us about the Rich Man?

"The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.

But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?" {Luke 12:16-20}

Many people experience this. They spend their entire lives attempting to build up Rices, only to die before they can enjoy them. Tomorrow is not guaranteed. You may live until a ripe old age of 100. Or? Today may be your last day on earth. James put it this way..

"Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that. But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil. Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin." {James 4:13-17}

Paul wrote to the Hebrews..

"But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin."{Hebrews 3:13}

As a Child or God, or even if you are not, you have today. Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow is not guaranteed to arrive. It is what you do today that matters. It is this moment in time. This very second. There is no other. The Clock will stop ticking at the very precise moment that your time is up. Make the best of this moment, every moment. For you know not if there will be another.

Do you know Jesus as your Savior? Have you been adopted into the Family of God? If not, say this Prayer. Right now. Wherever you may be. Say it in your own words, and do not doubt in your heart. God will hear you. He will send the Spirit of Life to you. Let us Pray..

"Oh heavenly Father, Lord God. I am a sinner. I know this. I know there is nothing I can do to change that. But I know you can. I accept Jesus's sacrifice for me. I repent my sins. Please send the Spirit of Adoption into my life. Help me to get to know the real you. Save me. Please. In the name of Jesus, Amen!"

That's it. It really is that simple. Now go tell someone what you have just done. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." {Romans 10:9} You need to find a Church that God leads you to, and be Baptized the way Jesus said to be. You are now a Child of God. A new Creature. You "have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him." {Colossians 3:10}

If you want to tell me, or comment, question, give testimonials, or just say "Hi," the Email is opntalk@gmail.com

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. {2 Corinthians 13}

Are You The Odd Ball Out? Part Two

You cannot find Jesus. You do not know where to look.

Last time we talked about you being exactly the way you are, because God formed you that way. You are 6'5" or 4'11". You are Male, or Female. You are Blonde, or have Red Hair. You are Black or White, Asian, or Indian. You have Blue Eyes, or Brown. You have two Arms and Legs, or you do not. Whatever makes you, you, is the way it is, because God has a purpose and plan for you.

You also grew up where you did, experienced the things you did, became the person you are, because God has a purpose and plan for you. You may be thinking that you are the Odd Ball Out. You may feel different. You may feel that you are so different, that God will not be interested in using you. However, what makes you different, may actually be WHY, God wants to use you.

I move within a certain circle or people and friends. You move within a certain circle of people and friends. I will meet people you never will. You will meet people I never will. My Pro Boxer friend hangs out with Boxers and Fans of Boxing. He will meet people that I never will. However, because I shared the Truth with him, he now shares the Truth with them. So on and so forth.

Having said all that, did you know, that even though you are the way God formed you to be, you can still live your entire life without knowing God at all? Yup. You are exactly the way God chose you to be, for a purpose and plan. Yet, you have the right to live your entire life, without getting to know what that is. Truth is, unless God calls you, you will never find Him.

Ever hear someone say "I found Jesus." Or, "They found Jesus."?? That is a lie. Perhaps a misunderstanding, or misspeak, but a lie none-the-less. You cannot find Jesus. You do not know where to look.Unless God calls you out, you are OF the World. You belong to the World. There is nothing you can do. Truth is, most have no desire to change anything. They do not even know there is a better way. It is only when God calls you out, or leads you away, that you can possibly "find Jesus." It is only when God leads you, that you can be Saved. Jesus even plainly told us this.

"No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day."{John 6:44 }

You know that tug? That little urge that comes from nowhere. That quiet and subtle push. The reason you stop surfing the channels when you see one of them TV Preachers. Or you are looking around a Book Store and see the Bible. Or you are talking to someone you know goes to Church regularly, and all of a sudden, you start thinking about joining them. For just one Sunday. Just one. Just to see what it is about. That doesn't make you weird. Right? Just one Sunday?

That is the Holy Spirit. That is God. He is calling you out. He wants you to get to know the Truth about Him, Jesus, The Holy Spirit, and His plan and purpose for your life. He is calling you out, to BE His Child.

"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God."{Romans 8:14}

He promises that if you DO come out from among them, if you DO come out of the World, if you DO accept His Call, He will change you.

"And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh:"{Ezekiel 11:19}

Paul tells Timothy, that it is solely for God's Purpose, that He calls us out. It is solely for God's plans, that he chooses those He does.

"Who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began,"{2 Timothy 1:9}

Why do you think you understand the Truth? Why do you think you accept the fact that a man, was born of a Virgin, lived His life Sin free, was tortured and Murdered, and hung on a Cross, only to rise from the dead on the Third day? To others, this is foolishness and impossible. You KNOW it is the absolute and undeniable Truth.. So why do you believe? Are you dumb? Are you smarted than they? Are you more incline to believe in the Supernatural? Nope. You believe, because you were called.

"But we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men."{1 Corinthians 1:23-25}

Why do they not get it?

"Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word." {John 8:43}

Jesus was speaking to Religious Folks here. You know, those He called the Children of the Devil? He told them plainly...

"He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God."{John 8:47}

You see, God loves you. He formed you. He set up a plan and purpose for your life. Now He Calls you. Now it is up to you. Ever think of it this way? The simplicity of Life. A one word answer, to a question, by one Man. Jesus said "Follow me?" Yes, or No?

Again, if you say "No," the ground is not going to open up and suck you down to the Pits of Hell. You will not get struck by Lighting. You will feel no different than you did before. You may even live the Rest of your life in peace and comfort, with lots of money in the Bank. However, when the time comes, and the time will come, that you pass on from here, you WILL stand before Jesus, and He WILL say to you...

"I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." {Matthew 7:23}

If you say "Yes," THAT is when the Spirit of Adoption comes. That is when your name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life. That is when you become a Child of God. Now as a Child, you have a role to play in the Kingdom. Those things that make you different, or "Odd," may be exactly what God needs to use you to reach others.

"But I do not Pray in Tongues. I know nothing about Prophesy. I cannot site Chapter and Verse. Others are not going to think I am worthy of Serving. I'm just not like other 'Christians.'" Well, first thing first...

"Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost."{1 Corinthians 12:3}

Just the fact you now know, and understand who Jesus is, means that you have the Holy Spirit in you. As for you not having the gift of Tongues?

"Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.

But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:

But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many.

If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but one body.

And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked. That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.

Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way."{1 Corinthians 12:4-31}

Just BE you. Just BE the way God wants you to be. Find your Spiritual Gifts. You have some. Find out how to use them. Use them. God made you. God KNOWS you. God loves you. God Called you. Are you the Odd Ball out? You may very well be. However, that may be exactly, what God wants you to be.

Do you know Jesus as your Savior? Have you been adopted into the Family of God? If not, say this Prayer. Right now. Wherever you may be. Say it in your own words, and do not doubt in your heart. God will hear you. He will send the Spirit of Life to you. Let us Pray..

"Oh heavenly Father, Lord God. I am a sinner. I know this. I know there is nothing I can do to change that. But I know you can. I accept Jesus's sacrifice for me. I repent my sins. Please send the Spirit of Adoption into my life. Help me to get to know the real you. Save me. Please. In the name of Jesus, Amen!"

That's it. It really is that simple. Now go tell someone what you have just done. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." {Romans 10:9} You need to find a Church that God leads you to, and be Baptized the way Jesus said to be. You are now a Child of God. A new Creature. You "have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him." {Colossians 3:10}

If you want to tell me, or comment, question, give testimonials, or just say "Hi," the Email is opntalk@gmail.com

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. {2 Corinthians 13}

Are You The Odd Ball Out?

Every Family has one..

You know what we're talking about. You know who we're talking about. Weird Aunt Annabel. You go to Family Gatherings and you see her coming and you cringe. You know that she is going to pinch your Cheek. You know she is going to say "Praise Jesus" after every sentence. You know that she is going to be dressed a little oddly. You know that she is going to tell you how you should be living your life.

Or maybe you see weird Uncle Joe coming. He is just weird. Creepy even. You get vibes from him. People tell you, keep your kids away from him, he is just not right. Or maybe YOU are the Odd Ball out. Maybe your Family are all a certain way, and you just feel different. Maybe you do not even go to Family Gatherings because you feel you do not fit in..

Your whole Family are Military. Or Cops. Or sell Cars. But you? You what to be a Chef. Or you like to bake Cup Cakes. Or you would much rather be taking care of Kids in a Day Care or a Teacher in a School, or a Singer, Whatever. ANYTHING but, what the rest of the Family, would consider "Normal."

The Family of God is the same way. Sad, but true. They always want everyone in the Family to be just like them. So, when someone shows up that is a little different, they sometimes get treated different. People see them coming at Church Gatherings, and they duck and run. "Oh that Peter is weird. He knows The Word, he does good things, but, I don't know. He is just different." "Did you know he watches Professional Wrestling?" "Did you know he listens to those "hard core" music bands?" "You know, I even heard, he Smokes." Gaps ensues.

Want to talk about some Odd Balls?

Noah was a Drunk. Isaiah Preached Naked for Three Years. Peter was a Hot Head. Paul was a Murder. Talk about Odd Balls. Imagine going to a Church Gathering and your Pastor showed up Naked. That would be a little weird. That would be a little odd.

Truth is, we are all Odd Balls. We all have certain things in our lives, or certain things we have done, that may be considered weird, or odd, to others. However, I have some news for you. You are EXACTLY the way God formed you to be.

King David said this..

"Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture."{Psalm 100:3}

He also told us this Truth..

"For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them."{Psalm 139:13-16}

Think about this for a second. Why is my friend Paul White 7 foot tall, and 400 plus pounds, when his Mom and Dad are of average height and weight? Why are you a Red Head, when everyone in your Family has Blonde or Brown hair? Why do my boys both have Sky Blued Eyes, when neither me, nor my Wife, have blue eyes? Because God said so.

Truth is, you are the way you are, because God is the one that formed you. It is God that wrote who you were, what you would look like, and even the things in your life that you would come to love, hate, do, ETC. God "saw your unformed substance; in His book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for you, when as yet there was none of them." You are you, because God said so..

Isaiah said this..

"And now the Lord says, he who formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob back to him; and that Israel might be gathered to him— for I am honored in the eyes of the Lord, and my God has become my strength—"{Isaiah 49:5}

"He that formed me from the Womb." God formed you EXACTLY the way He wanted you to be. Why? Because He has a plan and a purpose for you. He has a plan and a purpose for your life. God told Jeremiah this...

"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations."{Jeremiah 1:5}

"Before I formed you in the Womb. I knew you." God knows who you are, what you would look like, how you would be, before, your Mommy and Daddy, even know that your Mommy, is Pregnant. As a matter of fact, who do you think brought your Mommy and Daddy together in the first place? Think about that. Imagine if the only reason your Mommy and Daddy even came together was because God wanted YOU to be born.

"Wait, are you saying that if I am born with one arm, that is God? That God put all these freckles on my face? Or that birthmark here? Or if I have a Child with Down Syndrome, that is God?" Yup. "How could you possibly say God, a God of Love, would want to bring someone into this life that has to suffer their whole life?"

Who says they have to suffer? Have you ever met and spent time with someone with Down Syndrome? They are the most innocent, kind, loving people, that have ever walked the planet. Seriously. They meet people you never will. Their Parents going through the Process of loving them, caring for them, and all that, meet people that THEY would have never met. There is a purpose and plan for them too. Just because they may be different, is that really a reason for you to judge them disadvantaged or declare them a lesser person, than you?

I have shared this story before. Ever met the man with no legs? He was born that way. He never knew he was "Handicapped" or disadvantaged, until people told him he was. But he never saw himself that way. He just grew up doing the things he did. Then he realized that those with legs that lose them, seemed to have a really hard time dealing with that. So when he became an adult, he decided to help teach people how to live without them.

Then one day, a young Football Player went into the Army, he stepped on an explosive and lost his legs. His life was "over." He would never play Football again. He would never walk again. He wanted nothing more than to just die. Until he met the man born without legs.

The man born without legs taught him that life was so much more than Football. Life was so much more than legs. The young Soldier ended up, not only dealing with his Handicap, he started to actually LIVE. He accepted Jesus. He started counseling other Soldiers. He started Preaching. He now sees losing his legs as a blessing. What do you think would have happened to him, had the man born without legs, never been born?

You ARE exactly the way God chose you to be. Paul White can reach people I never will. The man with no legs will meet people I never will. You were born with Red Hair? You were born a certain Body Type? You were born with abilities such as, being Technology Savvy, or, Mathematics comes naturally for you? Do you know Science? Can you throw a Football? Can you Teach? You are the way you are for a reason.

In his letter to the Church in Rome, Paul gave us the Five Steps of an Anointed Life.

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified."{Romans 8:28-30}

We will be talking about God calling you out, next time, but look at the Five Steps of an Anointed Life. There are two before He even can call you.

"For whom he did foreknow," God knows you before your Mom even knows she is carrying you. As we have been talking about, He FORMED you. He created you EXACTLY the way He wants you to be.

"He also did predestinate." He set up a purpose and a Plan for you and your Life. He wants you to be "conformed to the image of his Son" He wants you to be Saved. He wants you to be His Child. If you accept His Call, you become His Child, "then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ."

That is where you come in. He Calls you out. He Calls you to Jesus. He Calls you to be His Child and Heir. You can say "No." Do not be misled. You will not be struck with a Lightening Bolt. The Ground will not open up and swallow you to the Pits of Hell. If you say "No." you will live on. You may have a great Life. You may have money in the Bank. You may be loved by many. You will live until your Appointed Time. Make no mistake about it, there is an appointed time for all of us. You will live until then.

However, you WILL, meet God at that time. You WILL be held accountable for the things you have done, and the fact YOU rejected Him. He will NOT be able to do anything for you. You have Condemned yourself.

Then again, you could say "Yes." Yes to His calling. Yes to His plan and purpose for you and your life. When you do say "Yes," then He Justifies you. If you follow Him and stay in His plan and purpose for you, then He will Glorify you. Again we will talk about Him Calling you out, and what happens then, next time.

Just because you may not speak in tongues, or you may not be comfortable in raising your hands, dancing, or singing, in Church, doesn't make you odd. Just because you may not be able to quote Chapter and Verse, doesn't make you odd, or a lesser Child of God. Just because you may Smoke, which by the way is no where in the Word, or because you may have a Beer at a BBQ, or you like certain Music, or genera of Movies, may make you different, it does not negate the importance of what purpose and plan, God has for you.

You are the way you are, because God chose you to be. If He calls you, He wants you to be His Child. If He convicts you to quit Smoking, then by all means, quit. If HE convicts you to never touch a Beer again, then by all means, don't. He may use the fact you Smoke to reach a Smoker. Ever work in a place where everyone goes outside together to Smoke on breaks? They usually bond. Now I'm not saying God condones Smoking which can and does make people sick and kills people everyday. I am saying God can use what you do, to reach others like you. He may use your love of Syfy to reach others like you with His Message. I'm not sure I would ever go to a Comic-Con. But you might. I may never go to a Country Music Festival, but you will. I will never be able to witness to a room full of Rocket Scientist. But you may.

Oh you may be the Odd Ball Out. But you are for a reason. Find that reason. Find that purpose. Discover God's plan for you and your life, and just, be YOU.

Do you know Jesus as your Savior? Have you been adopted into the Family of God? If not, say this Prayer. Right now. Wherever you may be. Say it in your own words, and do not doubt in your heart. God will hear you. He will send the Spirit of Life to you. Let us Pray..

"Oh heavenly Father, Lord God. I am a sinner. I know this. I know there is nothing I can do to change that. But I know you can. I accept Jesus's sacrifice for me. I repent my sins. Please send the Spirit of Adoption into my life. Help me to get to know the real you. Save me. Please. In the name of Jesus, Amen!"

That's it. It really is that simple. Now go tell someone what you have just done. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." {Romans 10:9} You need to find a Church that God leads you to, and be Baptized the way Jesus said to be. You are now a Child of God. A new Creature. You "have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him." {Colossians 3:10}

If you want to tell me, or comment, question, give testimonials, or just say "Hi," the Email is opntalk@gmail.com

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. {2 Corinthians 13}