Proving That an Invisible God Does Exist

Here's a pretty good interview about someone explaining the existence of God.

.

Peaceful Warrior God

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site:

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a christian video library filled with great movies on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world.

Overcoming Limited Beliefs

A Religious History Of Argentina

Without doubt Catholicism can be considered the first and most influential organized faith in the religious history of Argentina . The religion came over from Europe when the first voyages of discovery were made in 1502 with the voyage of Amerigo Vespucci. The Spanish navigator Juan Daz de Sols visited the areas now known as Argentina in 1516. In 1536 the Spaniards founded a small settlement. The first permanent colony was actually on the site on modern day Buenos Aires in 1580 which at that time was part of the Viceroyalty of Peru.

Catholicism continued to hold power in Argentina up through the years until independence and following it too. Many natives were converted to the religion by missionaries and the general interaction with settlers. The Church went on to play a very important part in politics and law, traditionally with the two top leaders of country having to be Roman Catholic This however was diluted when changed were introduced to the Constitution in 1994. Although Catholicism is still the state religion, the constitution sets out to protect all religions. As stated in the 14th article, "All the inhabitants of the nation are entitled to the following rights: ... to freely profess their cult...". The 93rd article allows for the president and the vice-president taking office to swear their oath before Congress "respecting their religious beliefs".

Today, according to a study conducted by Marita Carballo called "Cultural Values at the Turn of the Millennium" (1999), 78% of Argentinians call themselves Catholic. However, as a whole only 8% attend church more than once a week, and 16% only once a month; among avowed Catholics only 28% attend weekly services, and a quarter of them do not attend any.

With increased immigration to Argentina other religions also contributed to the melting pot. In Argentinas religious history we begin to see people coming over from the Middle East, the Mediterranean, Europe and even further a field. Jews, Muslims, Russian Orthodox, Protestants and many other Christian denominations started practicing their faiths. Argentina now actually boasts the largest Muslim minority in Latin America with several mosques.

When looking at the religious history of Argentina one must also give space to the cults that exist within the country. These are usually animist faiths with roots in folklore, native practices or saint veneration.

One of the most famous cults is based upon veneration of La Difunta Correa ("The Deceased Correa"). Deolinda Correa was a woman whose husband fought in the civil war in 1840. She, along with her baby boy followed her husband's battalion. While in San Juan, Correa suffered from starvation and thirst, and eventually died as a result. A group of soldiers found her body a few days afterwards, her son still alive and nursing from her breast. Because of this apparent miracle, people built shrines in her name in Vallecito, where she is buried. Her followers believe that Deolinda Correa has supernatural powers, and each year they make a pilgrimage to her grave, where they present gifts and plastic bottles of water to thank her for miracles that they believe she granted.

Neil Payne is Managing Director and Middle East trainer at the London based consultancy Kwintessential. For more information on their services please visit http://www.kwintessential.co.uk Intercultural Communication or for Argentina related information visit Interesting Facts and Information

Genetically Based Sin

Some time ago, I read with interest the comments someone sent to a large urban newspaper. They had to do with the writer's concern on the implications of genetic research on the prevailing ideas regarding sin and man's free will. Is humanity really responsible for some acts condemned by the Western religions? A United Methodist bishop also was quoted as wondering if sin is centered exclusively in free will.

The Apostle Paul, the Church's quintessential theologian would have no argument with the idea of genetically based sin. Such discoveries verify his teachings, long recorded in his Epistle to the Romans, that due to The Fall the human race is "sold under sin." Paul wrote that, by its own volition, humanity is unable to practice the morality demanded by God, since the sin principle (Paul uses the term: "The law of sin and death") is so dominant a factor in human nature that, without submission to the Spirit of God through Christ Jesus, men are unable to free themselves of its clutches. The human mind indeed may will to achieve the demands of God's moral law, but the sin factor [genetically based sin] in fallen humanity does not permit it. A regeneration and transformation through Jesus Christ - a rebirth, if you prefer - is necessary.

The Apostle Paul put it this way, "So I find that this law is at work: when I want to do what is good, that evil is the only choice I have. My inner being delights in the law of God. But I see a different law at work in my body - a law that fights against the law which my mind approves of. It makes me a prisoner to the law of sin which is at work in my body . . ." (Romans 7:21-23; Good News Bible).

Paul's solution? "There is no condemnation now for those who live in union with Jesus Christ. For the law of the Spirit, which brings us life in union with Jesus Christ, has set me free from the law of sin and death. What the law [the moral code] could not do, because human nature was weak, God did . . ." (Romans 8:1-3; Good News Bible; brackets added by the author).

Yes, indeed! The genes of our race are programmed to sin! God understands this, and He has mandated a reprogramming through the Holy Spirit of those who are born again through Jesus Christ. It is for neglecting to avail one's self of benefits of this reprogramming that a person is charged by God with guilt.

Who knows? As scientist continue their search they yet may verify other long-scorned Biblical truths, such as life after death, the reality of heaven, and - now be nice, Josprel - perhaps even Hell and the Lake of Fire.

-30-
Josprel (Joseph Perrello)
josprel@verizon.net

A prolific writer, many of Josprel's stories and articles have appeared in print and on the internet. He is an ordained minister living in Western New York. Josprel served three years with the U.S. Air Force, stationed in the Far East. Upon returning home, he studied for the ministry under the G.I. Bill of Rights. He holds a Master of Theology degree, ministers with the Evangelical denomination of his youth, and is authoring two novels: "Beloved Apostate" and "Kanfal."

Words of Wisdom - From Lincoln Cheng - Zouk Club Founder

He built Zouk into a brand name revered by dance institutions far and wide. Touted across the world as one of the best clubs in the world, Zouk has been sweeping industry awards yearly, the latest one being Best Nightspot Experience 2008 by the Singapore Tourism Awards, even after 17 years in the business.

How does Zouk club founder and nightlife maven, Lincoln Cheng have fun and make tons of money at the same time? Below he shares three life lessons that have made him successful:

1. Always be the pioneer in everything that you do.

Looking back at his work career, Lincoln had always believed in being the pioneer - he decided to use steel structures for high-rise buildings in Hong Kong while everyone was still using cement, and introduced the boating lifestyle there by selling luxury yachts. In fact, he had the foresight to propose building a world-class marina on Marina South in 1983, but it was rejected by the URA. He was the leading system furniture supplier in Singapore and handled numerous turnkey projects for the government sector. He opened Abraxas, a high-end furniture shop in 1986 to introduce designer furniture here. "I've always liked niche markets and I like to be original, doing things that haven't been done before," says Lincoln sharing his life philosophy. Keeping in his innovative style, Zouk was the first club to fly in international deejays and pay them well to play out to clubbers. With major acts flying down and playing, Zouk's brand name as a dance institution spread far and wide.

2. Do what you love.

Lincoln was a regular at legendary festivals like Summer of Love and Woodstock, as well as travelled around the world to party in uber-cool clubs like Studio 54, Paradise Garage and Hacienda in his younger days. It was during one of his yearly jaunts to party island, Ibiza, where he caught DJ Alfredo, otherwise known as the godfather of Balearic house, a new blend of dance music that was very different from the usual pop tunes played commercially back then. This new sound intrigued Lincoln's savvy ears and he was hooked to this form of underground dance music and desired to bring it to the masses. His dream came into fruition when he came upon an abandoned warehouse at Kim Seng Road. It was exactly what he had in mind for a super club. Together with four other investors, which he eventually bought out after a few years, Lincoln sank in $10 million dollars - an unheard of sum in 1990, to build his dream vision - a club called Zouk.

3. Be a perfectionist

As a perfectionist, he lovingly restored the faade of the warehouse and gave it a white-washed Moorish design - largely influenced by the clubs in Ibiza. He also had some quirky ideas for the club. "Design-wise, I wanted clubbers to be able to see the dance floor everywhere they stood and I installed UV lights that would make white shirts glow so that people didn't wear their work shirts. I wanted clubbers at Zouk to make an effort to dress up when they came here!" He also spared no expense when it came to the sound system, installing only the best aural equipment for his club. To test the dance music that he intended to play at Zouk, Lincoln held house parties for his friends who were well-travelled expatriates and fashion industry people, during the one-year that the club was under construction. His parties did very well and he moved them to hotel function rooms, and eventually to Warehouse disco, a new-defunct club in River Valley. "This group was my target market for Zouk and they really enjoyed the music that I played. When the club opened in 1991, they were there every weekend, dressed up to the nines, ready to party," says Lincoln. This group of 'beautiful people' made up 40 per cent of his clientele, and the remaining 60 per cent were the public. But everyone soon caught on and become devout fans, patronizing the cutting-edge club every weekend.

Pearlin Siow is author of Boss Of Me! which features 20 outstanding entrepreneurs in Singapore. For more business motivational stories, go to http://www.bossofmesingapore.blogspot.com Boss of Me! is available on Amazon.com for $15.

Who Will Reign With Jesus?

There is a group of saints described in a very straightforward manner in the Book of Revelation, chapter 20. Looking for explanations of Revelation in the words of Jesus and Paul only helps to solidify the answer to the question I pose today. It is not good news for a lukewarm church. In Revelation 20, the Spirit of God shows John just what He had shown Daniel centuries before. After world crises are quelled and brought into order by the returning King of Kings Jesus Christ, thrones are set up. Plural. We know that the Father and the Son are the only ones originally worthy. But through acts of His grace He will confer on Adam's line the honor of kingship also. Christians have prided themselves in these king-to-be passages through the years, announcing to all who will hear, "Hey, I'm bound for the throne! I'm a priest of God, a king who will reign with Jesus for a thousand years!"

I will not deny what God has said. Such a thing is dangerous business. But I will affirm the whole truth of what He said, and see how many of the boasts dry up or at least calm down. John seems to put some other qualifications to kingship that we don't hear about so often.

The people John saw (in the Spirit) "had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus." Further, they had not worshiped the beast or received his mark. What would that mean in this generation before the beast and the mark have arisen? Would it mean staying away from ungodly yoking? Would it mean honoring our God with our time and treasure, to the point where we ignore the world and the flesh?

These ones identified by John clearly were allowed to live and reign with Jesus for that 1000 years. They are part of the first resurrection. And those who did not reign were raised later, to the resurrection of damnation.

Is it that cut and dried? Will no others reign with Jesus, from all the ages before the last one? Let's hear Jesus and Paul, but again I say, the indications are a bit troublesome.

Paul told the Phillipians that they were privileged to be able to suffer for Jesus. So let us put to rest the modern theory that says Jesus takes His folks out just before mankind's greatest Tribulation, and the rest of the saints are left behind to deal with antichrist because for the most part they are second class backsliders.

No, those who suffer with Jesus are the blessed ones. We got it backwards.

To the Roman Christians Paul goes on to say that if saints suffer with Christ, they shall reign with Him. That's saints in every generation, I presume. He repeats these sentiments to son Timothy, "all who desire to live godly will suffer persecution," and " if we suffer with Him, we will also reign with Him."

So Paul widens the door, and seems to allow for saints of all ages being among the reigning throng . But he quickly narrows the options too, by suggesting that it is only those saints who suffer who will be there. In fact, the very definition that Paul seems to be giving for sainthood - the Biblical sort, as opposed to that promoted in Rome - is a life made holy by persecution. So what says Jesus?

Jesus' words are the most familiar of all, and perhaps that is why we have set them aside in our thinking. May they be real to us as we contemplate our place around the Heavenly Throne:

"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceeding glad, for great is your reward in heaven..."

I have said often that we need North Korean Christians more than they need us. We need them to teach us what the cross means again. They are living what Jesus and Paul taught. Serving Christ means persecution. But then, they shall experience what Paul and John taught: if we suffer, we will reign with him.

In the light of this blinding truth, I ask you, who should we pity most? Christians who sit in concentration camps but who will sit around the Throne of God, or Christians who never learned to carry the cross at all?

Let us strive to live those godly lives, that we may enter into the fellowship of His suffering.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. I have created over 200 blogs and the site features a live news feed , lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together! Contact me any time at diakonos5@yahoo.com

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. I love to write Scriptural works. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond.

Odd Video, You Try and Figure It out

if you don't matter to God, you don't matter to anyone else, that statement doesn't make a lot of sense. If I reversed the phrase, if you don't matter to anyone else you matter to God. Something to think about.

Seek the wisdom and the truth shall set you free.

Hope in Religion

Christianity Saved My Life

We Need North Korea

So who needs North Korea? The Christian Church of the West, for one.

Last spring I attended a life-changing conference in Wheaton regarding North Korea. Incredible. Here I met my first North Korean. A truly broken man who sat in a wheel chair as he ministered to us. He had been wounded severely in the Korean War days, but not before, he said with deep sorrow, he had killed many American soldiers.

He told us the story of what it is really like in NK and left indelible impressions all around. I certainly won't forget him.

But perhaps my most unforgettable moment at the meeting was when a speaker was comparing our way of life in the church with that of the North Koreans. He stated that believers here have developed a great theology of worship, and even of thankfulness, a theology born out of abundance. And so it should be, he said. The abundance. And the gratefulness. Who can deny it?

But the speaker went on to add that what is lacking in the West is the theology of the cross. Now, we all know about the cross of Christ and greatly appreciate it. But the theology of my cross and your cross ... that, he concluded, seems to be sadly lacking. We hear messages about it now and then. It's part of our doctrinal stand. But is the cross being lived out in most lives?

The speaker concluded, and I agreed though regretfully lacking myself, that we need North Korea at least as much as they need us. Probably more. It would seem to me that the cross trumps abundance. Often seems to wipe it out altogether for a time.

Jesus' Calvary stay was not an example of the abundant life being preached on TV these days, except that it measured His abundant love. North Korea calls us to examine our fruit, to see if our hearts are Christ-filled, or, like the "Juche" folks in Chosun, filled only with ourselves, self-reliant.

North Korean Church, we need you. Thank you for carrying the cross of Christ. Pray for us that we will be as willing as you to go to Golgotha and die.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. Just about every day I'm writing a blog featuring some news, a book, or a story of North Korea. There's a live news feed on the site, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together!

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond on my site.

The Sabbath and Moses

The Sabbath, already in the world, already introduced to the people of God, becomes a part of the revealed will of God, the Law in the following passage:

Exodus 20:8-11. "Remember the Sabbath Day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work: you , nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your manservant, nor your maidservant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it."

a. Note how the Lord connects this command to His original introduction of the Sabbath in Genesis. The motivation for keeping the Sabbath in any generation is simply the fact that God rested from His creative works. He establishes this practice then, not as a local custom, but as a universal way to relate to God as Creator and finisher of works. He who is saved from the dead works of sin which only cursed him, understands that his works are finished in Christ's great work, thus giving the Sabbath even more meaning :

Hebrews 4:10. "For he who has entered His rest [in the Spirit ] has himself also ceased from his works as God did from His."

b. From the Exodus 20 accounting we glean that God expected strangers to keep this day holy also. Foreigners. Non-Jews traveling with Israel. Gentiles. No word is given to the Gentile after he leaves the gates of the Jew, but while he is with them, he is not exempt from so special a time.

c. Note that this commandment is the longest of the ten, yet it would seem, the most mis-understood of all.

d. Especially of importance to those who sincerely wish to know God's will in this matter is the placement of Sabbath-breaking alongside murder, adultery, theft, lying, covetousness, idol worship, pantheism, disrespect to parents, and blasphemy . Whatever we are led to think about Sabbath observance for our day, there is no question about the seriousness of this practice for the people of God in the wilderness.

e. In keeping with the last point, does it not seem strange that even men of the world and especially great majorities of the Church honor nine of the ten commandments, but this seventh day thing is set aside in most minds?

f. By stating in clear words "...the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God" there is forever laid to rest the idea of a "first-day" Sabbath. If the day is to be changed for some given reason down the road, let it not wear the name of God's original day. To speak of the Sabbath is to speak of the seventh day, by God's definition.

g. Many have therefore resorted to a New Testament phrase to differentiate between Saturday and Sunday: The Lord's Day. It may not be totally clear what is meant by this title, but the first clue is in the passage we now study, where the Sabbath is referred to as "the Sabbath [day] of the Lord ..." That is, the Lord's Day. Surely every Jew through the apostles at least would have understood it that way, does it not seem probable? So when John, a Jew, says in Revelation, "I was in the Spirit on the Lord's Day," is it likely that he spoke of Sunday?

h. No mention is made in this text regarding exactly how to keep the Sabbath holy. Other Scriptures develop the point that it is not the seventh day as a meeting day, but the seventh day as a day of rest that is being advanced here.

The Sabbath is thus introduced formally to the world, and calls upon us yet today to decide what our connection is to be.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. Just about every day I'm writing a blog featuring some news, a book, or a story of North Korea. There's a live news feed on the site, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together!

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond on my site.

Video on Bible Facts

Can you believe this guy, if you look up these verses in the Bible, you will see that there and there, but how did he come up with these ideas about the Sabbath, teenagers and the fact that the Bible is repulsive.

If you're really seeking the kingdom of heaven, the glory of God and the true vision that Jesus had, check out some great Christian articles . These articles are designed to teach and educate Christians.

Finding A Mentor
Why I Built Spiritualbooks4u

Factual Information in Christian Documentaries

I was watching a television show a few weeks ago and I would rather not mention the name of the program or the presenter of it. I can make my point without making anyone angry. The television show was all about proving that Christianity was real and they had evidence to prove it. The program was full of scholars and teachers. Some of these teachers were from unknown universities, as a matter of fact, I hadn't heard of any of them before this program.

Some of these teachers had very interesting ideas and philosophies on Christianity and I could see quite clearly how someone who was looking for facts could very easily get caught up in the hype in the program. When you start off asking a question, you should be able to answer it without beating around the bush and the answers should the comprehendible and easy to understand. Especially if the question was easy to understand.

If I asked you the question, is Jesus God, and your reply is frank and to the point with a simple "Yes He Is". I can accept this as your beliefs and could probably make sense out of your beliefs through your education, what you were taught and who taught it to you. This makes perfect sense to me and is easy to understand.

If I asked the same question, is Jesus God, and you reply with "let me set the record straight here and give you some truthful information about something that you might not know about. Searching for over 40 years and found the answer and now know for a fact and without a doubt that Jesus is God. Reading the Bible and talking to other Christian scholars has presented me with information that points to the truth and can prove the existence of Jesus and therefore, without a doubt in my mind, I can honestly say that Jesus is God and will be god forever and for anyone who doesn't understand that or agree with it, I feel sorry for them, because they will have to burn in purgatory forever. This death will be the most agonizing and painful death you could ever possibly imagine.

The second answer doesn't give me any more information than the first one, and this is what some religious documentary programs do. This program did it so much, that I had to watch it a second time, just to see if I missed what they were saying. I did gain a little more insight, the second time but the point of the program was completely misleading and relatively speaking, very little factual information was obtained from it.

Don't get caught up in the hype, while watching or listening to some of these programs. Try to watch them with an open mind and see for yourself, just how much factual information or scientific proof there actually is in the program. When I say, to watch these programs with an open mind, that doesn't mean to accept their information without proof. Do some research for yourself, to verify their opinions.

Hope in Religion

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site:

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing and personal development.

Would you still be reading this article, if you had no desire, for better life. Find out more by visiting habits changing skills.

Mohandas Gandhi

False Prophet Are Biblical Facts- Movie Video

Can you believe this guy, if you look up these verses in the Bible, you will see that there and there, but how did he come up with these ideas about the Sabbath, teenagers and the fact that the Bible is repulsive.

If you're really seeking the kingdom of heaven, the glory of God and the true vision that Jesus had, check out some great Christian articles . These articles are designed to teach and educate Christians.

Low Energy People
Make A Live Out Of Your Life

I Can't Believe This Guy- Movie Video

Can you believe this guy, if you look up these verses in the Bible, you will see that there and there, but how did he come up with these ideas about the Sabbath, teenagers and the fact that the Bible is repulsive.

If you're really seeking the kingdom of heaven, the glory of God and the true vision that Jesus had, check out some great Christian articles . These articles are designed to teach and educate Christians.

Power Of Myth
Power Of Intension

Trials and Tribulations

We all have trials and tribulations. For those of us who call ourselves Christians, these things often occur because God allows them to happen in order to strengthen us. When they come, do you glory in them or worry over them?

In Romans 5: 1-3, it says: " Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ; By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulations worketh patience;"

The life of a Christian is like a light bulb. When you buy it all you see is glass, metal and a filament. When you screw it into a light socket, it is still glass, metal and filament. We can flip the light switch, but if there is no electricity there is no light. It takes a steady flow of electricity for a light bulb to glow and illuminate the space around it.

A Christian must be empowered by God if they are to shine upon the earth. Then men will see the life of God, not their own, and that will bring honor and glory to our heavenly Father. Empowerment comes when our old sin nature is clocked with the empowering spirit which resides in every believer.

So if we are to rejoice in hope, we must glory in tribulations. There is a passage in Job that says " Man is born unto troubles, as the sparks fly upward. " If you have ever watched a fire in your fireplace, there are many sparks flying from the burning wood. The trials and tribulations of man are like the sparks from burning wood - a lot.

The word tribulation comes from the Latin verb - tribulare: to press, to afflict. The Romans had a tribulum, a wooden frame with many nail like teeth that was used to separate weeds from the straw. In the Greek, Tribulation is thilipsis: pressing together or pressure. God allows things to happen to those He loves in order for them to see just how much He cares for us. It is a form of Godly discipline.

When we discipline our children out of love, they will not hate us for. As a matter of fact they will one day thank us for it, if we preserve. I have lived to see that happen with my children, with statements like: "I'm sorry, Dad, I won't do that again." You can tell true repentance in the eyes of a child and the actions that follow.

In the Bible, oil and wine are symbolic of joy. Olives and grapes are the fruits that make oil and wine, but they are not oil and wine in themselves. They must go through a process of being pressed, squeezed and crushed before they become oil or wine.

In order for Christians to be splashed with joy, we must first be crushed - thus the reason for trials and tribulations. The fullness of joy comes when we have gone through trials and tribulations and can "glory" in them. God will grow his olives and grapes and then He will press out His oil and wine. You could be going through this "pressing out," but hold on for joy comes in the morning.

You can go on living a life of failure and complain, or you can live a life of joy and rejoice. Provisions have been made for us to glory in tribulations, if we will appropriate the resources that are ours through God. When troubles come, face them with the assurance that God allowed them for our good - so rejoice.

Which are you, olives and grapes or oil and wine?

In 1975 Obed began a non-denominational church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and was the pastor-teacher there for twenty-five years. In 2000 he and his wife Linda moved to Franklin, Tennessee to be near three of his six grandchildren.

Obed has published two books on how one should study the Bible and numerous pamphlets on religious issues. He often travels to speak at Bible conferences in Texas, Louisiana, Alabama and his adopted state of Tennessee.

Obed and Linda have three sons, Wayne, who lives in Brentwood, Tennessee with his wife Fran and three children, and is a songwriter/producer; Karey, who lives in Pacific Palisades, California with his wife Nada and three children, and is a screen writer/director; and Brent, who lives in Brooklyn, New York with his wife Agneiszka and is a singer/songwriter.

Does God Exist and If So Who's Right? Religion

Would you stake your life on your beliefs? I'm asking this question, hoping that you have an answer. Would you be gambling with your life or are you that sure about your religion. Do you live your life without a doubt that your religion is right and other religions are wrong or are you one of those people that hopes you are right and hopes that the other religions aren't.

If you are a Muslim and follow Islam, is the Quran the Word of God? Is this text flawless and without error? What's going to be going through your mind when you go to heaven, if you go to heaven, only to find out that the Hindu religion is right. Are you convinced without a doubt, 100% that your religion is right or are their errors and mistakes in your religious text.

Is your God going to be merciful and understanding to other religions or other people who have lived what you would consider to be a good and moral life. Is your god going to let them enter heaven or is he going to turn them away or possibly send them to burn in an eternal lake of fire.

Imagine, if you can, standing near a cliff and there was a long line of people and you were slowly working your way towards the front of the line, watching someone who was glowing with radiant light asking people questions, and pushing some of the people off of the cliff, while others walk away unharmed. You're going to be ready to answer any questions that the glowing person is going to ask you.

When you arrive, he simply says do you believe in your religion 100%. What's your answer going to be? What's going to be going through your mind? Are you that sure, that you're right.

So I ask you again, are you positive and without a doubt, 100% sure that you are right about your religion and the other religions are wrong. If you're not 100% sure, do a little research about your religion and your beliefs will either get stronger or weaker but try to keep an open mind, either way.

Most religions around the world have certain things in common. Seek the truth and the truth shall set you free. You've got to know what you're looking for though, so pay attention.

Choose Your Religion

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a self help library filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

Water Damage Mold

Religious Faith Or Religious Facts - Think About It

If you're a religious follower and believe in your religion, I would like to ask you a question. Do you base religious beliefs on facts or faith? Let's start out with this and assume that you answered, that you do base your religious beliefs on faith, with little factual information to back it up.

Basing your religious beliefs on faith alone can lead you to believe, what ever someone else tells you. For example, if you go to your place of worship and the religious leader reads something from your scriptures to the followers, do you assume that this is a fact. Are you going to do a little research if something doesn't sound right. If everyone else shares a common opinion about something in your religion, but it isn't true, wouldn't you like to know about it or are you one of those people who didn't even listen and really doesn't even want to be at your place of worship.

Faith can create a lot of problems all by itself. Whenever you start digging into most religions, like I have, and mind you, I'm no expert and do not claim to be an expert in religious beliefs. I'm trying to get people to learn about their religion. This information can be obtained from your religious scriptures, books on other religions, information on the Internet and last but not least talking to other people, outside and within your religion.

Religious facts are hard to come by, when you're beliefs are unrealistic. I can't explain the creation of the world or what year it will be destroyed, but it does seem a little unrealistic and hard to believe that a superior entity created this world and possibly the universe. At the same time I cannot argue with this or disprove it.

With this in mind, I wouldn't go around telling everyone that God or a God created the universe. I just don't have any proof and it's as simple as that. Why would I want to instill this belief into my children or another person? No one on earth has this information.

Try not to base your life on religious faith alone. Just the simple fact that you are reading this article, tells me that you have an interest in furthering your education about religion, whether it's yours or someone else's. You might not be able to find all of the facts to support your religious beliefs but at least it's a start and you're heading in the right direction.

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site:

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development. Check out one of his recommended sites, Seeking Knowledge

Greg is currently working on a self help library filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

Can You Change Your Life

High School Student Inspiration Video

What a great inspirational story about a young man on a high school basketball team. Sometimes it's not all about what you think

Check out one of his recommended books, You Can Have It All

Greg is currently working on a self help library filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

Time To Yourself And Meditation

Does God Exist and If So Who's Right? Religion

Would you stake your life on your beliefs? I'm asking this question, hoping that you have an answer. Would you be gambling with your life or are you that sure about your religion. Do you live your life without a doubt that your religion is right and other religions are wrong or are you one of those people that hopes you are right and hopes that the other religions aren't.

If you are a Muslim and follow Islam, is the Quran the Word of God? Is this text flawless and without error? What's going to be going through your mind when you go to heaven, if you go to heaven, only to find out that the Hindu religion is right. Are you convinced without a doubt, 100% that your religion is right or are their errors and mistakes in your religious text.

Is your God going to be merciful and understanding to other religions or other people who have lived what you would consider to be a good and moral life. Is your god going to let them enter heaven or is he going to turn them away or possibly send them to burn in an eternal lake of fire.

Imagine, if you can, standing near a cliff and there was a long line of people and you were slowly working your way towards the front of the line, watching someone who was glowing with radiant light asking people questions, and pushing some of the people off of the cliff, while others walk away unharmed. You're going to be ready to answer any questions that the glowing person is going to ask you.

When you arrive, he simply says do you believe in your religion 100%. What's your answer going to be? What's going to be going through your mind? Are you that sure, that you're right.

So I ask you again, are you positive and without a doubt, 100% sure that you are right about your religion and the other religions are wrong. If you're not 100% sure, do a little research about your religion and your beliefs will either get stronger or weaker but try to keep an open mind, either way.

Most religions around the world have certain things in common. Seek the truth and the truth shall set you free. You've got to know what you're looking for though, so pay attention.

Choose Your Religion

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a self help library filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

Something You Don

Religious Faith Or Religious Facts - Think About It

If you're a religious follower and believe in your religion, I would like to ask you a question. Do you base religious beliefs on facts or faith? Let's start out with this and assume that you answered, that you do base your religious beliefs on faith, with little factual information to back it up.

Basing your religious beliefs on faith alone can lead you to believe, what ever someone else tells you. For example, if you go to your place of worship and the religious leader reads something from your scriptures to the followers, do you assume that this is a fact. Are you going to do a little research if something doesn't sound right. If everyone else shares a common opinion about something in your religion, but it isn't true, wouldn't you like to know about it or are you one of those people who didn't even listen and really doesn't even want to be at your place of worship.

Faith can create a lot of problems all by itself. Whenever you start digging into most religions, like I have, and mind you, I'm no expert and do not claim to be an expert in religious beliefs. I'm trying to get people to learn about their religion. This information can be obtained from your religious scriptures, books on other religions, information on the Internet and last but not least talking to other people, outside and within your religion.

Religious facts are hard to come by, when you're beliefs are unrealistic. I can't explain the creation of the world or what year it will be destroyed, but it does seem a little unrealistic and hard to believe that a superior entity created this world and possibly the universe. At the same time I cannot argue with this or disprove it.

With this in mind, I wouldn't go around telling everyone that God or a God created the universe. I just don't have any proof and it's as simple as that. Why would I want to instill this belief into my children or another person? No one on earth has this information.

Try not to base your life on religious faith alone. Just the simple fact that you are reading this article, tells me that you have an interest in furthering your education about religion, whether it's yours or someone else's. You might not be able to find all of the facts to support your religious beliefs but at least it's a start and you're heading in the right direction.

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site:

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development. Check out one of his recommended sites, Seeking Knowledge

Greg is currently working on a self help library filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

Eliminating Negative Media From

Does God Exist and If So Who's Right? Religion

Would you stake your life on your beliefs? I'm asking this question, hoping that you have an answer. Would you be gambling with your life or are you that sure about your religion. Do you live your life without a doubt that your religion is right and other religions are wrong or are you one of those people that hopes you are right and hopes that the other religions aren't.

If you are a Muslim and follow Islam, is the Quran the Word of God? Is this text flawless and without error? What's going to be going through your mind when you go to heaven, if you go to heaven, only to find out that the Hindu religion is right. Are you convinced without a doubt, 100% that your religion is right or are their errors and mistakes in your religious text.

Is your God going to be merciful and understanding to other religions or other people who have lived what you would consider to be a good and moral life. Is your god going to let them enter heaven or is he going to turn them away or possibly send them to burn in an eternal lake of fire.

Imagine, if you can, standing near a cliff and there was a long line of people and you were slowly working your way towards the front of the line, watching someone who was glowing with radiant light asking people questions, and pushing some of the people off of the cliff, while others walk away unharmed. You're going to be ready to answer any questions that the glowing person is going to ask you.

When you arrive, he simply says do you believe in your religion 100%. What's your answer going to be? What's going to be going through your mind? Are you that sure, that you're right.

So I ask you again, are you positive and without a doubt, 100% sure that you are right about your religion and the other religions are wrong. If you're not 100% sure, do a little research about your religion and your beliefs will either get stronger or weaker but try to keep an open mind, either way.

Most religions around the world have certain things in common. Seek the truth and the truth shall set you free. You've got to know what you're looking for though, so pay attention.

Choose Your Religion

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a self help library filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

Religious Freedom

Religious Faith Or Religious Facts - Think About It

If you're a religious follower and believe in your religion, I would like to ask you a question. Do you base religious beliefs on facts or faith? Let's start out with this and assume that you answered, that you do base your religious beliefs on faith, with little factual information to back it up.

Basing your religious beliefs on faith alone can lead you to believe, what ever someone else tells you. For example, if you go to your place of worship and the religious leader reads something from your scriptures to the followers, do you assume that this is a fact. Are you going to do a little research if something doesn't sound right. If everyone else shares a common opinion about something in your religion, but it isn't true, wouldn't you like to know about it or are you one of those people who didn't even listen and really doesn't even want to be at your place of worship.

Faith can create a lot of problems all by itself. Whenever you start digging into most religions, like I have, and mind you, I'm no expert and do not claim to be an expert in religious beliefs. I'm trying to get people to learn about their religion. This information can be obtained from your religious scriptures, books on other religions, information on the Internet and last but not least talking to other people, outside and within your religion.

Religious facts are hard to come by, when you're beliefs are unrealistic. I can't explain the creation of the world or what year it will be destroyed, but it does seem a little unrealistic and hard to believe that a superior entity created this world and possibly the universe. At the same time I cannot argue with this or disprove it.

With this in mind, I wouldn't go around telling everyone that God or a God created the universe. I just don't have any proof and it's as simple as that. Why would I want to instill this belief into my children or another person? No one on earth has this information.

Try not to base your life on religious faith alone. Just the simple fact that you are reading this article, tells me that you have an interest in furthering your education about religion, whether it's yours or someone else's. You might not be able to find all of the facts to support your religious beliefs but at least it's a start and you're heading in the right direction.

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site:

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development. Check out one of his recommended sites, Seeking Knowledge

Greg is currently working on a self help library filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

Powerful Beliefs In The Bible

Does God Exist and If So Who's Right? Religion

Would you stake your life on your beliefs? I'm asking this question, hoping that you have an answer. Would you be gambling with your life or are you that sure about your religion. Do you live your life without a doubt that your religion is right and other religions are wrong or are you one of those people that hopes you are right and hopes that the other religions aren't.

If you are a Muslim and follow Islam, is the Quran the Word of God? Is this text flawless and without error? What's going to be going through your mind when you go to heaven, if you go to heaven, only to find out that the Hindu religion is right. Are you convinced without a doubt, 100% that your religion is right or are their errors and mistakes in your religious text.

Is your God going to be merciful and understanding to other religions or other people who have lived what you would consider to be a good and moral life. Is your god going to let them enter heaven or is he going to turn them away or possibly send them to burn in an eternal lake of fire.

Imagine, if you can, standing near a cliff and there was a long line of people and you were slowly working your way towards the front of the line, watching someone who was glowing with radiant light asking people questions, and pushing some of the people off of the cliff, while others walk away unharmed. You're going to be ready to answer any questions that the glowing person is going to ask you.

When you arrive, he simply says do you believe in your religion 100%. What's your answer going to be? What's going to be going through your mind? Are you that sure, that you're right.

So I ask you again, are you positive and without a doubt, 100% sure that you are right about your religion and the other religions are wrong. If you're not 100% sure, do a little research about your religion and your beliefs will either get stronger or weaker but try to keep an open mind, either way.

Most religions around the world have certain things in common. Seek the truth and the truth shall set you free. You've got to know what you're looking for though, so pay attention.

Choose Your Religion

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a self help library filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

Crimes Solved With Psychic Power

Religious Faith Or Religious Facts - Think About It

If you're a religious follower and believe in your religion, I would like to ask you a question. Do you base religious beliefs on facts or faith? Let's start out with this and assume that you answered, that you do base your religious beliefs on faith, with little factual information to back it up.

Basing your religious beliefs on faith alone can lead you to believe, what ever someone else tells you. For example, if you go to your place of worship and the religious leader reads something from your scriptures to the followers, do you assume that this is a fact. Are you going to do a little research if something doesn't sound right. If everyone else shares a common opinion about something in your religion, but it isn't true, wouldn't you like to know about it or are you one of those people who didn't even listen and really doesn't even want to be at your place of worship.

Faith can create a lot of problems all by itself. Whenever you start digging into most religions, like I have, and mind you, I'm no expert and do not claim to be an expert in religious beliefs. I'm trying to get people to learn about their religion. This information can be obtained from your religious scriptures, books on other religions, information on the Internet and last but not least talking to other people, outside and within your religion.

Religious facts are hard to come by, when you're beliefs are unrealistic. I can't explain the creation of the world or what year it will be destroyed, but it does seem a little unrealistic and hard to believe that a superior entity created this world and possibly the universe. At the same time I cannot argue with this or disprove it.

With this in mind, I wouldn't go around telling everyone that God or a God created the universe. I just don't have any proof and it's as simple as that. Why would I want to instill this belief into my children or another person? No one on earth has this information.

Try not to base your life on religious faith alone. Just the simple fact that you are reading this article, tells me that you have an interest in furthering your education about religion, whether it's yours or someone else's. You might not be able to find all of the facts to support your religious beliefs but at least it's a start and you're heading in the right direction.

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site:

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development. Check out one of his recommended sites, Seeking Knowledge

Greg is currently working on a self help library filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

Stop Losing Your Car Keys

Does God Exist and If So Who's Right? Religion

Would you stake your life on your beliefs? I'm asking this question, hoping that you have an answer. Would you be gambling with your life or are you that sure about your religion. Do you live your life without a doubt that your religion is right and other religions are wrong or are you one of those people that hopes you are right and hopes that the other religions aren't.

If you are a Muslim and follow Islam, is the Quran the Word of God? Is this text flawless and without error? What's going to be going through your mind when you go to heaven, if you go to heaven, only to find out that the Hindu religion is right. Are you convinced without a doubt, 100% that your religion is right or are their errors and mistakes in your religious text.

Is your God going to be merciful and understanding to other religions or other people who have lived what you would consider to be a good and moral life. Is your god going to let them enter heaven or is he going to turn them away or possibly send them to burn in an eternal lake of fire.

Imagine, if you can, standing near a cliff and there was a long line of people and you were slowly working your way towards the front of the line, watching someone who was glowing with radiant light asking people questions, and pushing some of the people off of the cliff, while others walk away unharmed. You're going to be ready to answer any questions that the glowing person is going to ask you.

When you arrive, he simply says do you believe in your religion 100%. What's your answer going to be? What's going to be going through your mind? Are you that sure, that you're right.

So I ask you again, are you positive and without a doubt, 100% sure that you are right about your religion and the other religions are wrong. If you're not 100% sure, do a little research about your religion and your beliefs will either get stronger or weaker but try to keep an open mind, either way.

Most religions around the world have certain things in common. Seek the truth and the truth shall set you free. You've got to know what you're looking for though, so pay attention.

Choose Your Religion

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a self help library filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

You Have To Start Somewhere

Self Defense and the Christian - A Christian View of Self Defense

We live in a world that is dangerous. We read in the papers, hear on the radio and see on the TV about attacks robberies, rapes and murders. Maybe you have personally witnessed or been a victim of an attack. As Christians we know that the source of all this is sin. Man has a sinful heart which causes him to do sinful things. We read this in Romans 3. In verse 15 it states "they are swift to shed blood". So what are we to do? The Bible tells us in the sermon on the mount to" turn the other cheek". Does that mean that if we are physically attacked we can't defend ourselves? If we see someone being attacked are we just to yell for help and do nothing to rescue the victim? Would it be sin to intervene if it meant attacking the attacker? These are important questions.One of the reasons this is important to think about now is because if we are ever in that type of situation we won't have much time to think. Either you act or you don't.

The scripture in the Sermon on the Mount seems to be referring to someone being insulted because of the use of the word slap which would do little physical harm but would hurt a man's pride.

There are some scripture verses that seem to promote self defense such as Luke 22:35-38 where Jesus tells His disciples to buy swords for protection. This would indicate that Jesus approved of using weapons in self defense. On the other hand Jesus did rebuke peter for cutting off the servant's ear. I think Jesus' reply gives us insight into how He looks at this issue. In Matthew 26:47-54 we have the story of Jesus' betrayal by Judas. As the crowd tries to seize Him Peter drew his sword and cut off a servant's ear. Jesus heals the servant and rebukes the disciple. Then He said," Do you not think I cannot appeal to My father in heaven and would not send 12 legions of angels. But how then should the scriptures be fulfilled, that it must be so?" It seems clear that the reason for the rebuke was because it was God's plan that Jesus should go to the cross and die for our sins not because He is against defending yourself or a loved one.

As I said before we live in a dangerous and sinful world. We as believers are called to stand up for what is right and against evil. God has given us the civil government with its laws and officials to protect us, but they can't be everywhere. There may be a time when you have to step up. What if you or a loved one is attacked would you be able to defend yourself or protect a loved one? Will you be ready? This is a thorny issue, but don't let that keep you from searching the scripture, your heart and God. I do believe that the scripture does teach that we can defend ourselves and others from evil.

This does not mean that we go around looking for fights or that we should feel we are responsible to protect everyone. This does, however mean that we should search the scripture, your heart and God. The scriptures teach that a man should be convinced in his own mind on issues that are not clearly forbidden or approved. I 'm convinced that the scripture does teach that we can defend ourselves and others from evil.

Dave is a black belt in jiu jitsu and a certified instructor with AKJJF. Dave is also a Paramedic with over 10 years NYC 911 street experience. He is available for group and personal instruction. He also teaches a seminar dealing with the unique situations of EMS personnel.Dave is also a committed christian who seeks to apply his faith to all areas of his life and teach other Christians how to navigate through a world that can present the christian with confusing situations

I'm Neek!

He was only in Kindergarten when he came home and told his mother that he is "neek". She didn't understand so she pressed him for more information. He said that the teacher had told him that he is "neek". He is special. His mother understood that the word that he was referring to was "unique". The teacher was telling him that he was unique, special and positively different from the others.

Indeed, we are all unique individuals who are very special in the eyes of God. We are so valuable that God sent His only won to earth to identify as one of us, take our burden of sin and guilt and die on the cross as the punishment for all that we had done. That means that even as valuable as an only Son (Jesus) is to his Father (God), you and I are even more valuable! If God considers you that valuable, how should you and I regard others around us?

One of the messages that Jesus is trying to communicate to us is that we are each very valuable to Him and to God. In Luke 15:1-32, Jesus makes a three-fold effort to communicate how valuable you and I are to God. He is trying to tell us that God wants us to love and follow Him and that we are more valuable than the illustrations given. We should seek to win each other as much as God is seeking to win us!

More Valuable than Animals - Luke 15:1

First, we are more valuable than the animals. Sheep will easily become lost if there is not a fence to hem them in or shepherd to watch over them. Like sheep, we are easily distracted and attracted to things that are harmful to us (like sexual immorality, pursuit of worldly things, being entertained, etc.). As a sheepherder will search for a lost sheep, God is searching to find those who will follow Him. This is a challenge for us to go and search for others who do not know Jesus and seek to tell them about Him so that they can come into the place of safety and security.

More Valuable than Money - Luke 15:

Second, we are more valuable than all the money in the world. Money has a unique power and influence over most people. Nelson D. Rockefeller was once asked how much money would be enough. He said, "One dollar more than I have now". People have been killed over as little as fifty cents. Many people have an attitude of greed and covetousness and materialism that makes money their god. God puts more effort into trying to find the lost and lead them to Jesus than you or I have ever put into finding a lost sum of money. We likewise consider those who are not Christians like lost coins. We are looking for the lost so that we can tell them about Jesus and they can be "found"!

More Valuable Even When We Reject Him - Luke 15:

Third, we are still valued even when we have rejected our Father. The wayward son finally came to the realization that he had made a mistake and repent of his dishonoring of his father. When he returned to his earthly father, there was a great celebration because this son now realized that father was right. Mankind was once a part of God's eternal Kingdom (for only a very short while). Then sin came in, we all have engaged in it from the point in our childhood where we realized the difference between right and wrong, and have thus separated ourselves from God just as Adam and Eve did. In that context, we have all been the "prodigal son". Praise God that most of you who are reading this have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and, in that context, have returned home where you are loved, welcomed, cared for and safe.

The point that I see in all of this is that you are so valuable to God that He is doing everything that He can, short of forcing you, to win you over as one of His saints. He created us to love and gave us the freedom to choose to love Him. This freedom means that He had to restrain His power in certain areas so that we could choose to follow Him for ourselves.

God bless as you continue "Getting To Know Jesus"!

These articles are related to the "Getting To Know Jesus" Bible study series, a non-denominational Bible study that is written to help you become more like Jesus! Jesus is a role model and a testimony of God's best being given to us!

The world acclaimed "Getting To Know Jesus" Bible study series is now available in your choice of formats:

1. Online in eBook - Excellent for self-study right on your computer
2. Printed study volumes - Great for small group Bible studies
3. Logos Bible Software - synchronized with the entire Logos Bible study software library

Read endorsements from Dr. Bob Russell, Dr. Woodrow Kroll, Dr. Tino Ballesteros, Dr. Bill Peters and others

Visit our Bible Study Forum (message board) and share your thoughts

Come back daily for the Verse of the Day

Our mission is to help you experience a more dynamic, personal and intimate relationship with Jesus Christ in order that you may live your life more like Him. Please join us in fulfilling this mission statement and support this ministry with your prayers and tax-deductible gifts

Glen Copple is an ordained minister who has over 25 years of preaching and teaching experience in ministering to non-denominational churches. In 1983, he earned a Master of Arts in Ministry from Pacific Christian College (now Hope International University) in Fullerton, CA, and has had ministries in Kansas, Missouri, and California

In previous ministries, Pastor Glen taught through the Life of Christ and developed the structure for "Getting To Know Jesus" He knew that God led him to put his years of ministry and Bible study to work to share with you, your family and friends in this non-denominational study of Jesus Christ, his life and teachings

Nurture Your SoulCreate Peace of Mind

The majority of people believe humans have a soul. There is significant controversy, however, on the souls impact or whether as humans we impact the souls growth or lack there of. Those who practice spirituality believe we are human beings having a spiritual experience and we are spiritual beings having a human experience. Such movies as: Ghost, Sixth Sense, What The Bleep Do We Know?, City of Angels and others illuminate this belief.

Nurturing the soul is as important as healthy nutrition, exercising and sleep. The souls sole purpose is to create spiritual/emotional growth. The sense of well-being and happiness emanates from the soul to the psyche. If the soul is ignored or malnourished the psyche and ultimately the body suffers.

The most effective way to nurture the soul is through spirituality. Spirituality is the God-related science of developing and freeing the God-made innermost beingthe core of usMade in the image of God." Love creates, all else destroys. Love cannot co-exist with other premises simultaneously; therefore, God is only love. The fly in the ointment of human existence verses in spiritual formas Godis the "ego. The ego is essential to navigate the vicissitudes in physical life. However, the ego is what gets us into trouble. The truth is: All life on earth serves the sole purpose of developing our spirituality to the point of being free of spiritual ignorance, free of selfish or destructive behavioral (ego) patterns, free to return to our eternal home in God. True spirituality leads to freedom in God.

True God-related spirituality is achieved by means of scientifically applying spiritual teachings and spiritual techniques that fosters the ego to vanish in the fire of divine love and ego-oriented spirita.k.a. intellectto be replaced by the Holy Spirit. Such true spiritual teachings can only be affected by a true connection to our innermost self. Because all humankind is God-made, Spirituality is our true nature and spiritual development is the most direct way to solutions of love and peace in all creation.
Prayer, Meditation, Gratitude, Spending time in natureincluding near fire and water are practices to create spiritual/emotional health.

Prayer: Researcher and mind/body medicine expert Herbert Benson, M.D. found that regular prayer or the repetition of spiritual phrases such as "Shalom," or "Hail Mary," triggers relaxation and reduces stress. Make prayer a time of personal conversation with God, state your need or concern and ask for divine intervention. Acknowledge all you have to be grateful for and give thanks for that which you desire. Giving thanks is more effective than asking for what you desire. God knows what you need before you need it and has already sent it to youtherefore giving thanks acknowledges what you havent seen yet. Establishing a regular prayerful routine is important.

Meditation: Researched for centuries, meditation is proven to have physiological benefits, including stress-relief, improved immune and cardiovascular function, relaxation, and decreased pain. Regular meditation practice leads to new insights about life issues (often resulting in the healing of past emotional trauma), heightened creativity, inspiration, greater compassion for others, and a greater connection to one's own inner guidance. There are a plethora of books and classes on meditation practices.

Gratitude: The state of being grateful; thankfulness. (The American Heritage Dictionary) In the push and pulls of life we seldom realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich. Looking at the glass as half empty albeit is half full assures us, we will live with a sense of lack.

"Gratitude is our most direct line to God and the angels. If we take the time, no matter how crazy and troubled we feel, we can find something to be thankful for. The more we seek gratitude, the more reason the angels will give us for gratitude and joy to exist in our lives." --Terry Lynn Taylor

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow." --Melody Beattie

Time in nature: The most visible manifestation of spirit is nature, where we most fully encounter and interact with life's primal energies in the forms of earth, water, fire, and air. Walking/hiking are easy and practical ways of reconnecting with nature and the earth, as are gardening, biking, camping and boating. Spending regular amounts of time outdoors within a natural setting, you enable yourself to better appreciate the rhythms of life, including your own.

Modern living prevents us from a balanced life. Time in nature restores that balance, while also deepening our connection with Spirit. Being near the water is a spiritually healthy experience, due to water's higher concentration of negative ions. Swimming in natural water or soaking in a mineral hot spring provides therapeutic benefits for a variety of ailments.

Exposure to a campfire or fireplace has health benefits. Leonard Orr discovered that fire cleanses the bio-energy field of negative energies, and is a powerful aid in curing physical disease. Orr recommends spending a few hours each day near fire. Fire is also an important component of the vision quests Native Americans undertake to connect with the Great Spirit and discover their life purpose.

Air is the closest expression of Spirit. Clean air is essential to health on all levels, and practicing conscious breathing is a potent self-care method for restoring energy and making you more aware of the power of Spirit as it flows through you.

Regular exposure to the four elements creates consciousness of Spirit's loving intelligence to sustain the world, while more deeply recognizing our place within it.

Given busy lives in todays world there are several techniques to use until one can engage with the four elements. The following techniques relax, revitalize and remove blocked energy.

Craniosacral TreatmentRelieves blockages caused by stress in the craniosacral system. Discovered by Dr. John Upledger in 1980, this system includes the cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.

Reiki Chakra TreatmentJapanese spiritual healing technique, energy is channeled from master to student, cleansing the bodys chakrasspecific energy modes inside the body. Creates reduced stress and a stronger bridge to your inner being.

The Sound of Peaceful Healinga 120-minute sensory journey that uses sound, touch and smell to revive the senses and restore a feeling of calm.

Massage: Acupressurebased on acupuncture without needles, Deep Tissue, Reflexology, Swedish, Shiatsu, Aquatic Shiatsu,Trigger Point/Myotherapy, Rolfing.

Engaging in one or more of the soul nourishing activitiesPrayer, Meditation, Gratitude, Spending time in nature, including near fire and waterdaily will create soul/spiritual/ emotional health and you will enjoy a highly enriched and enriching life.

Dorothy M. Neddermeyer specializes in: Mind, Body, and Spirit healing for Individuals, Special Issues and Professional Coaching. As an inspirational leader, Dr. Neddermeyer empowers people to view life's challenges as an opportunity for Personal/Professional Growth and Spiritual Awakening. http://www.drdorothy.net

Scott%20peck

Darwin, Evolution & Spirituality

2009 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin, author of On the Origin of Species and creator of the theory of evolution by natural selection. Although the scientific theories of relativity and quantum physics suggest the underlying nature of reality is very different than what we perceive through our senses, and thus have immense philosophical significance, they actually have virtually no impact upon our daily lives. In contrast, Darwin's widely accepted, but highly controversial, theory of evolution by natural selection has far reaching implications upon human society.

In essence evolution challenges the concept of an intelligent creator of life (God), instead suggesting it spontaneously arose and thrived through the principle of the survival of the fittest. Each new living entity carried random differences (mutations) from its parents. Those individuals with the differences that best suited the environment were most likely to reproduce, thus positive traits were maintained while negative ones tended to be eliminated. Over a very long timescale we have arrived at the marvelous biodiversity we are privileged to be part of today.

Given the influence of (Christian) religion on Victorian English society Darwin was initially reluctant to publish his conclusions, waiting some 20 years after his epic voyage on the Beagle before going public upon realizing another investigator, Alfred Russel Wallace, had reached the same conclusions. Unsurprisingly his work met with criticism and ridicule, with Darwin often lampooned as part-man part-ape.

Despite a mass of evidence confirming the validity of evolution as a description of how life on earth came about many religious fundamentalists continue to favor creationism, ie belief that life was created by a supreme being as currently found.

A major criticism of evolution is the interpretation of "survival of the fittest" that stands as a justification of eugenics and warfare. By pitting nation against nation, race against race, ideology against ideology, the whole process of human progress is speeded up by anticipating nature in eliminating the inferior.

Although the weight of evidence stands against creationism, there are arguments that suggest evolution may not be the whole story. It cannot satisfactorily account for acts of altruism. Nor can it be denied that the immense superiority enjoyed by the human race has been achieved more by cooperation than competition.

The genetic composition with which we are born is simply the cards we are dealt (or more likely, choose) at the start of the game. It is how we play/use those cards that forms our true purpose of being.

A Spiritual interpretation considers the material plane we inhabit as just one particular level of reality. A level that is subordinate to more fundamental, ie Spiritual levels. Evolution may be likened to Newtonian physics, which very accurately approximates (but doesn't fully describe) reality. Evolution describes the development of life on one level. But it doesn't tell the whole story.

Spirit created the earth (physical) plane in which it could individuate and thus act out myriad scenarios. But the earth plane is denser and more bound by deterministic law than the ethereal realms. Quantum physics has revealed it has but a small window of freedom at the sub-atomic level through which the Will of Spirit may shape it. Evolution is an approximation, albeit a very good one. It is the most efficient means by which the diversity, in which our incarnate interactions take place, could have arisen.

Nature is cruel, described by Tennyson as "red in tooth and claw." Indeed, a recent BBC wildlife documentary Nature's Great Events received complaints on the amount of cruelty depicted. Such complaints stand as testimony to the vast degree by which humanity stands above its brethren.

At a broader level, from a Spiritual perspective, nature's cruelty is insignificant compared to the benefits of progress. The momentary injustices and suffering on this plane are soon washed away by the realization of eternality. On the Spiritual level those that suffer are all volunteers, and are ultimately rewarded in some way for their pains.

Undoubtedly, Darwin's theory of natural selection is a mighty leap forward in our understanding of how we came about. It accurately describes how so many different living species have come to inhabit this beautiful planet. However, as much as we may know about the components and mechanism that form a human being these things can never inform us about the experience of being human, nor explain that deep inner certainty of free will or the desire for purpose and fulfillment.

Johnny is the editor of new age spirituality - exploring the idea that this life, this world, is not the totality of our existence. In fact, it might be just one small part of something much bigger, just one tiny step along an infinite journey... Have your say on our forum the hang out.

Gregg Braden

Great Video For Opening Your Christian Minds

I was reading a book on advertising when the author mentioned, "All Advertising Is about Hope."

This got me thinking about other people's dreams and aspirations, most of this is wrapped around them hoping to accomplish something or do something. I never gave it much thought but hope is one of the most important things in our lives. Some people go around hoping that they will keep their job, when the economy is in bad shape. Others go around hoping for forgiveness for their sins or other bad deeds they have done in the past.

What is it you're hoping for? There's got to be something. Are you hoping to become a multimillionaire or even the world's first trillionaire. Are your dreams big or small? Are you the kind of person who is happy living a simple life with very little possessions like a Buddhist monk or are you one who is seeking the lifestyle of the King.

Hope supplies us with the will to continue through hopeless obstacles during our lifetime.

Most people seeking hope are looking for a way out of something or a way toward a better life. These people often fall easy prey to large religious organizations, as they take them under their wing and slowly start to brainwash them. They seek the weak minded, helpless, poor and trusting people and build their organizations using them. I once believed in Christianity, but it no longer offers me true hope, the more I study Christianity and other organized religions, I noticed certain similarities based on inspiration.

I hope I live the good life, so I can go to heaven, the promised land, our ultimate enlightenment.

I hope I am living the true will according to God, Buddha, Krishna or other supreme beings.

I hope that the Bible is wrong about the 144,000 people from the 12 tribes.

I hope I'm living a life that is pleasing to the Lord.

If you're part of an organized religion, ask your religious leaders, any questions that you have about your religion. If they can't answer these questions, try to find them on your own. Books, videos, and the Internet are great sources for information. If you're living your life for the sole purpose of going to heaven one day, you could be disappointed, when that day arrives.

Ask a couple of questions and I hope you will get honest answers to them.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development. Check out one of his recommended books, Read This Book

Greg is currently creating articles on religion filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

He Refused to Drink It

Two amazing things took place just before the crucifixion of Jesus. First, someone was caring enough in the midst of that hardened crowd, to reach out to the Master and offer Him a way to ease His pain. Was this the standard thing to do? Doesn't seem to me that one would be "nice" to a murderer or thief. But somehow compassion reached the Son of God, as someone was able to see the senselessness of this particular crucifixion.

The other amazing thing is that Jesus refused to drink what He was offered. It's amazing to me because I tend to be an escape artist when it comes to pain and suffering. If they would, I'd let them put me out at the dentist's office.

But through the years I've been able to say with the Pharisee, I'm sure glad I'm not like the people of the world. I don't drink or do drugs or smoke. I don't alter my mind or body at all, and escape my troubles and fears by some substance. Then it hit me, not too long ago. I've been using the television to dull my senses to the pain of Christ in the world today.

By God's grace, on June 26 I was delivered from the real culprit of American society. There are many believers like myself who would never think of hitting the bottle, but when they need "fellowship", they turn on the TV. If they lack companionship, they turn on the TV. When things get tough, they turn to television. When they're feeling good, even about the Lord, they celebrate by watching a little TV. When their mind gets hungry, when they're bored, they lack vision, they want to relax, escape...oh for any number of reasons, television is king.

I believe now that the television-movie industry is drugging American Christians, de-sensitizing them to the realities of the Holy Spirit, and delaying any true revival.

Could it be that Christ Himself would like to be the One we turn to in all the above situations? Could it be that God would have us fill our minds with God's vision, not tele-vision?

How many times did I lose the program that God had just given me in His Word by having it buried in the program of some man. How many times have I laughed my way out of the deep walk in the Spirit He was desiring. How many hours-days-years gone, with no way of recovery...

I speak not as judge. I speak as one set free, who wants his friends to have the same joy. I have not regretted my decision. Though it is only 3 weeks old, life is already taking much better turns. I am thinking my own thoughts, going the way I was intended to go, hand in hand with Christ. Doors are opening. Life is fuller. I highly recommend a Hollywood-free life to all who can hear me.

If Christ Jesus refused to drink the cup that men gave Him so that He could drink the cup the Father gave Him, well, should that not be the Model I place before me?

Look for Bob Faulkner's home page on http://sermonaudio.com There you will find a combination of love for the Scriptures and a desire for North Korean believers to have their needs met. There are nearly 300 blogs , over 200 Bible teaching MP3's, lists of resources, NK picture albums, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together! Contact me any time at diakonos5@yahoo.com

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Would love to fellowship with believers who respond .

Show the Love of God to All Groups

Many ministries out there have learned that it is not enough to tell the good news of salvation. Some have learned that salvation is not just simply going to heaven when we die, but salvation is also the Lord getting us out of trouble, here, in the land of the living. Anyone that has been going to church for more then a month knows that Christians are not perfect and have flaws, but what we need to remember is that we are all a work in progress. Some people come to the Lord more messed up then others which is why sometimes you meet people that are not preaching Jesus all day, but are nice people that we like. While other people talk about Jesus often at work and in their personal life, but do not do a good job and made Christians look bad.

At work it is important to do the best job we possible can so that we can make our boss proud as well as Jesus. It is important to be a team player and get along with other co-workers so that we can represent the kingdom at its best. If your job is to clean, that keep that place sparkling without getting yourself too tired of course. If your job is to sell, make sure you the the best for the customer even if there is not sell. Do what is best for those that ask for your help. Does the old lady in your building need help with something? Look for ways to bless others by doing them good.

Of course going to church is important but it is also important to pay our tithes and give offerings on a consistent and regular basis. Read Malachi Chapter 3 and Luke 6:38 to see why the Lord blesses those that give and pay their tithes. The money we give to ministries and churches helps them build homes for the poor, give a place to live as well as education to the orphans, help the widows and visit those in prison. Let us not forget our own church community by helping the brothers and sisters in the church that we know need our help.

Prayer makes a difference and helps to change a situation in a person's life. We pray to Jesus so as long as we use his name our own particular group is not important or that other person's particular church group, as long as we can find common ground and call on His name. We can say our Father's prayer and ask our Father who is in heaven to do His perfect will with regards to a particular situation. We can pray for our nation, our leaders, those we work with, the company we work for and so on. We can pray for the poor, different types of sinners, or even the saints who need help with one thing or another.

It is important to pray for the people in our neighborhood because our life is enriched when we can show the love of God to those around us. They see the type of life we have without us saying a word to them. When we shop at places that have owners of yet another religion or culture, how to we represent the kingdom of God with our behavior. That is why we need to seek the Lord and His wisdom in every situation. Do we live with people in our building or on our block from different backgrounds? Do they speak a different language, or come from another country or culture? How can we get along without putting aside our kingdom principles?

The love of God is our action toward others, and it is practical and even simply at times. Give someone a genuine smile and perk up their day. Clean someones house or volunteer at something that makes someone else's life better. Show kindness, be a good listener and be at peace with all people as much as possible. Give to organizations that help our Hebrew brothers and sisters for salvation came through Jesus, a Hebrew from the tribe of Judah. Make someone else look good in a truthful way for what we do for others, the Lord will make happen for us.

vargasanai@yahoo.com

Bill Wilson