Luke 15:4-32 4 What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? 5 And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. 7 I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. 8 Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it? 9 And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. 10 Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth. 11 And he said, A certain man had two sons: 12 And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. 13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. 14 And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want. 15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. 16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. 17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! 18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, 19 And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. 20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. 21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. 22 But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: 23 And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: 24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry. 25 Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing. 26 And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant. 27 And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound. 28 And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him. 29 And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends: 30 But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf. 31 And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine. 32 It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.
Let me start off by pointing out what a backslider is. A backslider is a believer who has “returned” to the world system. He has fallen into sin and needs to repent of his or her sin. The backslider is in a dangerous place because of the choice to fall away or not living a surrendered, holy life.
As evidenced by these verses, God loves backsliders. He want us to be saved, delivered, set free. Jesus died for us so that might live with Him in Heaven. We are Jesus’ joint-heirs and backsliders if they don’t repent could lose their salvation and thus, their godly inheritance.
"The devil is a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8) That does not mean that the devil cannot be defeated. In fact, he already is a defeated foe! That also does not mean that God has left us. The backslider is one who leaves God, but there is hope for the backslider. 1 John 9 says that if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. God knows that there is not one of us who hasn’t sinned, for the previous verse says that we are deceiving ourselves and the "truth is not in us".
If you have backslidden, then all you have to do is come home. Come home to Jesus. God is still merciful and gracious. Jesus is still the same; He has never changed. Come back to Him. If you are a backslider or one who has never even accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, please pray this prayer, or say one similar to this one in your own words: “Lord Jesus, I am a sinner in need of a Savior. Forgive me for all of my sins, for I believe that you died on the cross and rose on the third day. I believe that you died for me and for that I am thankful. I confess you as Lord and Savior. Thank you for saving me. In your name, Jesus, Amen.”
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Monday, September 15, 2014
What can we learn from Hosea
We could learn much from the Book of Hosea. In this book, Hosea is a good and faithful man of God who was commanded by God to marry Gomer, an adulteress, a woman of whoredoms or harlotry, or a prostitute (1:1). Gomer cheated on him and had children from her lovers. She went about her way committing fornications and she eventually sold herself into most likely sexual slavery. God tells Hosea to go get his wife and to return home with him. Hosea tells her not to prostitute or to look at another man. Hosea was a man who truly loved his wife, but she was an adulteress. Adulterers are people who don’t show regard for the covenant of marriage, are deceiful and dishonor not only their spouses, the covenant of marriage, and their children, but they dishonor themselves. That is what Gomer did, which is sad. Gomer did not realize that she dishonored her own body because of her immorality. She did not realize that at the time what she was doing was degrading to her own self and could have cost her soul. However, Gomer received grace from Hosea who loved her and respected her. As I am typing this, I think of many women who are committing sexual sins yet they don’t realize the damage and lack of regard they are doing to their self-esteem, their loved ones, their reputations, their bodies, and most of all to their souls. This in my view is also a sad picture of women, and men, who are committing sexual sins. (Hosea 1-3, Matthew 5:27-30, Matthew 16:26, 1 Cor. 6:18-20, Ephesians 5:3-7)
Sin is not only missing the mark, but also lawlessness against God. It is ignorance of God’s commandments and His Laws. Sin is deceptive in that it is supposed to be better for us or good for a season. But what is not realized is that it is cruel, painful, and leads to death. We hurt God when we sin willfully, but like Hosea, God is a forgiving God. It is easy to pass judgement on Gomer, but Gomer has done what we all have done and will continue to do: sin. We have a sinful nature, but that does not mean that we have to remain in sin. We can be forgiven and no matter what we have done, we can be delivered from our sins. We can become new creations in Christ and be restored. Like Gomer, we have been brought with a price, just like Jesus did when He died on the cross. (Galatians 6:8, 2 Cor. 5:17)
In Hosea, Israel committed spirtual adultery because they were not faithful. They committed prostitution and idolatry just as Gomer did. They showed no regard to God like Gomer did to Hosea, but God so loved Israel that he wanted them to return to Him. Just like with the Prodigal Son, he wants to return to Him. He loves us so much and will restore us to a life of dignity just like Hosea did with Gomer. Gomer was loved and she did not realized how good she had it with Hosea until she was at a low point. That is a testimony common to believers everywhere. Many of us can attest to the fact that we thought a life of sin was better than a life serving God, who loves us. The world never loved us, doesn’t love us now, and never will. But because of God’s mercy and grace we can be saved. We can be restored. We can be renewed. We finally realized that we are loved and are worthy of love, though we all deserve eternal punishment. Like Gomer we were an unfaithful wife to our Husband and Bridegroom, but we can repent of our sins no matter if the world thinks we are “bad people” or “unworthy of love”. He will welcome us back so long as we are humble and repentant. Most of the world like Gomer at one time have no idea how much God loves us and return to Him. (John 15:18, Romans 12:2, Matthew 18:4, Hosea 3-13, John 1:29, 36, Romans 7:19, John 8)
One day, it may be too late. Backsliders, adulterers, liars, and criminals as well as the religious and self-righteous will have to stand before God and answer for why they never accepted Christ. Why they never chose to be saved, to be blood brought, to be born again? Many believe that Gomer was so unredeemable that there was no way that God could ever love such a person, but the same could be said for all of us. It is easy to dismiss such a person as simply no good and they get whatever bad they deserve. That is a rather cruel thought, though it is a common human thought. The world thinks differently from God. Keep in mind that Jesus died on the cross for them as well as the family man, the pastor’s wife, the nun, and the schoolteacher. Remember Jesus said to a criminal that one day he will be with Him in paradise. Also, remember that David had a man killed so that his affair with his wife would not be found out yet he wrote many of the Psalms. Paul had many Christians killed yet he wrote much of the New Testament. Even the most well-known people were not so perfect and neither was Gomer. Neither was Rahab, who was said to be a woman of ill-repute. Gomer may have very well repented since her reconciliation with Hosea and was restored. She may have been a faithful wife who truly loved Hosea and was a role model to her children. A person is not their past, especially if one is a repentant sinner. Keep in mind the story of the prodigal son in which the Father loved the repentant sinner with open arms. He showed mercy to His son who left his father to live in sin only to return to grace. I believe that is what happened to Gomer. Let us learn that God, the Bridegroom, wants to welcome us with open arms and that no one outside of Jesus has not committed at least one sin in their lives who has walked the planet. (Revelation 21:8, John 3:5-8, 1 Cor. 1:25, Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts, and Romans, 2 Cor 12:8-10)
Sin is not only missing the mark, but also lawlessness against God. It is ignorance of God’s commandments and His Laws. Sin is deceptive in that it is supposed to be better for us or good for a season. But what is not realized is that it is cruel, painful, and leads to death. We hurt God when we sin willfully, but like Hosea, God is a forgiving God. It is easy to pass judgement on Gomer, but Gomer has done what we all have done and will continue to do: sin. We have a sinful nature, but that does not mean that we have to remain in sin. We can be forgiven and no matter what we have done, we can be delivered from our sins. We can become new creations in Christ and be restored. Like Gomer, we have been brought with a price, just like Jesus did when He died on the cross. (Galatians 6:8, 2 Cor. 5:17)
In Hosea, Israel committed spirtual adultery because they were not faithful. They committed prostitution and idolatry just as Gomer did. They showed no regard to God like Gomer did to Hosea, but God so loved Israel that he wanted them to return to Him. Just like with the Prodigal Son, he wants to return to Him. He loves us so much and will restore us to a life of dignity just like Hosea did with Gomer. Gomer was loved and she did not realized how good she had it with Hosea until she was at a low point. That is a testimony common to believers everywhere. Many of us can attest to the fact that we thought a life of sin was better than a life serving God, who loves us. The world never loved us, doesn’t love us now, and never will. But because of God’s mercy and grace we can be saved. We can be restored. We can be renewed. We finally realized that we are loved and are worthy of love, though we all deserve eternal punishment. Like Gomer we were an unfaithful wife to our Husband and Bridegroom, but we can repent of our sins no matter if the world thinks we are “bad people” or “unworthy of love”. He will welcome us back so long as we are humble and repentant. Most of the world like Gomer at one time have no idea how much God loves us and return to Him. (John 15:18, Romans 12:2, Matthew 18:4, Hosea 3-13, John 1:29, 36, Romans 7:19, John 8)
One day, it may be too late. Backsliders, adulterers, liars, and criminals as well as the religious and self-righteous will have to stand before God and answer for why they never accepted Christ. Why they never chose to be saved, to be blood brought, to be born again? Many believe that Gomer was so unredeemable that there was no way that God could ever love such a person, but the same could be said for all of us. It is easy to dismiss such a person as simply no good and they get whatever bad they deserve. That is a rather cruel thought, though it is a common human thought. The world thinks differently from God. Keep in mind that Jesus died on the cross for them as well as the family man, the pastor’s wife, the nun, and the schoolteacher. Remember Jesus said to a criminal that one day he will be with Him in paradise. Also, remember that David had a man killed so that his affair with his wife would not be found out yet he wrote many of the Psalms. Paul had many Christians killed yet he wrote much of the New Testament. Even the most well-known people were not so perfect and neither was Gomer. Neither was Rahab, who was said to be a woman of ill-repute. Gomer may have very well repented since her reconciliation with Hosea and was restored. She may have been a faithful wife who truly loved Hosea and was a role model to her children. A person is not their past, especially if one is a repentant sinner. Keep in mind the story of the prodigal son in which the Father loved the repentant sinner with open arms. He showed mercy to His son who left his father to live in sin only to return to grace. I believe that is what happened to Gomer. Let us learn that God, the Bridegroom, wants to welcome us with open arms and that no one outside of Jesus has not committed at least one sin in their lives who has walked the planet. (Revelation 21:8, John 3:5-8, 1 Cor. 1:25, Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts, and Romans, 2 Cor 12:8-10)
Sunday, September 14, 2014
Leadership
What is the mark of a true leader? What is the definition of a leader? People have different ideas, but a similar concept of what a leader is, or rather what being a leader is all about. A leader is one who leads. He has people under him who are expected to follow him.
However, within the last year or so, many leaders have fallen. Leaders are men, too, not gods. Even the leaders will one day bow down to worship God. Good leaders are men and women of character and integrity. Even when they do wrong, they own up to their faults. They put the needs of others ahead of their own. Even if it is not obvious, they do the right thing.
Good leaders lead others by example. They are role models. They are to be wise and full of understanding. They are knowledgable in the affairs at hand. They are teachers. They judge fairly. They are effective. They most of all, know what is most important. Even if that leader has to risk it all or face the consequences alone.
They inspire us. They motivate us. They help us to hopefully to become leaders ourselves. They are the unselfish heroes that are oftentimes forgotten or unknown. But God knows the contributions of a good leader. They know that with being a leader comes responsibility.
Based on what I have just written, Jesus is the Ultimate example of a leader. He wasn’t just a great teacher; He is the Son of God. He walked the earth a sinless man and risked His Life so that we may ‘not perish, but have everlasting life’. (John 3:16) We as Christians are to follow His example. The best leaders are truthful and do not compromised, both things Jesus Christ was and still is. He is Savior and Lord. Today is the day of salvation. Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.
1 Sam 10:1 Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured [it] upon his head, and kissed him, and said, [Is it] not because the LORD hath anointed thee [to be] captain over his inheritance?
Isaiah 9:16 For the leaders of this people cause [them] to err; and [they that are] led of them [are] destroyed.
Psalm 21:1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The king shall joy in thy strength, O LORD; and in thy salvation how greatly shall he rejoice
1Timothy2:1-2 (1) I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men; (2) For kings, and [for] all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
1 Timothy 3:2-13 (2) A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; (3) Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; (4) One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (5) (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) (6) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. (7) Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. (8) Likewise [must] the deacons [be] grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; (9) Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. (10) And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being [found] blameless. (11) Even so [must their] wives [be] grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. (12) Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. (13) For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus
Matthew 22:21 They say unto him, Caesar’s. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s
2 Chron 21:13-15 (13) But hast walked in the way of the kings of Israel, and hast made Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem to go a whoring, like to the whoredoms of the house of Ahab, and also hast slain thy brethren of thy father’s house, [which were] better than thyself: (14) Behold, with a great plague will the LORD smite thy people, and thy children, and thy wives, and all thy goods: (15) And thou [shalt have] great sickness by disease of thy bowels, until thy bowels fall out by reason of the sickness day by day.
Psalm 145:1-3 (1) I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever. (2) Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever. (3) Great [is] the LORD, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness [is] unsearchable.
Romans 13:7-8 (7) Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute [is due]; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. (8) Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.
Romans 14:11 For it is written, [As] I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.
However, within the last year or so, many leaders have fallen. Leaders are men, too, not gods. Even the leaders will one day bow down to worship God. Good leaders are men and women of character and integrity. Even when they do wrong, they own up to their faults. They put the needs of others ahead of their own. Even if it is not obvious, they do the right thing.
Good leaders lead others by example. They are role models. They are to be wise and full of understanding. They are knowledgable in the affairs at hand. They are teachers. They judge fairly. They are effective. They most of all, know what is most important. Even if that leader has to risk it all or face the consequences alone.
They inspire us. They motivate us. They help us to hopefully to become leaders ourselves. They are the unselfish heroes that are oftentimes forgotten or unknown. But God knows the contributions of a good leader. They know that with being a leader comes responsibility.
Based on what I have just written, Jesus is the Ultimate example of a leader. He wasn’t just a great teacher; He is the Son of God. He walked the earth a sinless man and risked His Life so that we may ‘not perish, but have everlasting life’. (John 3:16) We as Christians are to follow His example. The best leaders are truthful and do not compromised, both things Jesus Christ was and still is. He is Savior and Lord. Today is the day of salvation. Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.
1 Sam 10:1 Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured [it] upon his head, and kissed him, and said, [Is it] not because the LORD hath anointed thee [to be] captain over his inheritance?
Isaiah 9:16 For the leaders of this people cause [them] to err; and [they that are] led of them [are] destroyed.
Psalm 21:1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The king shall joy in thy strength, O LORD; and in thy salvation how greatly shall he rejoice
1Timothy2:1-2 (1) I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men; (2) For kings, and [for] all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
1 Timothy 3:2-13 (2) A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; (3) Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; (4) One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (5) (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) (6) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. (7) Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. (8) Likewise [must] the deacons [be] grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; (9) Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. (10) And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being [found] blameless. (11) Even so [must their] wives [be] grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. (12) Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. (13) For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus
Matthew 22:21 They say unto him, Caesar’s. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s
2 Chron 21:13-15 (13) But hast walked in the way of the kings of Israel, and hast made Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem to go a whoring, like to the whoredoms of the house of Ahab, and also hast slain thy brethren of thy father’s house, [which were] better than thyself: (14) Behold, with a great plague will the LORD smite thy people, and thy children, and thy wives, and all thy goods: (15) And thou [shalt have] great sickness by disease of thy bowels, until thy bowels fall out by reason of the sickness day by day.
Psalm 145:1-3 (1) I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever. (2) Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever. (3) Great [is] the LORD, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness [is] unsearchable.
Romans 13:7-8 (7) Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute [is due]; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. (8) Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.
Romans 14:11 For it is written, [As] I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.
Saturday, September 13, 2014
Christmas is About Christ: Or Is It?
CHRISTMAS IS ABOUT CHRIST: OR IS IT?
JESUS, MARY, AND JOSEPH
"For unto us a Child is born." Isaiah 9:6
Luke 1 and 2 prophesy the births of both Jesus and John the Baptist. The holiday, or rather, holy day, of Christmas is based solely on the story of Jesus’ birth, not the story of Santa and his elves. Santa Claus was based on a man, Saint Nicholas. But you ask what about Jesus? Wasn’t He a man? Wasn’t He a great Teacher? The Truth is, Jesus is God born of a flesh. He became a man to relate to us. His sole purpose was, and still is, to be Lord and Savior of mankind. He ministered to, healed, and set free multitudes of people. Jesus was more than a man. He was God Himself. He was not only the Son of Mary. He was, and is the Son of the Living God, born of a virgin.
Luke 2:1-7 says, “And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with Child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”
Christmas is not just about Jesus’ birth, it is about Jesus and what He has done for us. It is also about what He is doing for us now. Jesus’ first coming has been prophesied hundreds of years before, as written in the books of Psalms and Isaiah. After all, Santa Claus is based on a man named Saint Nicholas of Mora, which is in Lycea.
THOUGHT PROVOKING QUESTION
Do you think there is anything wrong with celebrating Christmas if one professes to be a Christian?
OUR KING, JESUS CHRIST
"Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet He esteemed Him sticken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgression, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chatisement of our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed." Isaiah 53:4-5
YOU CAN’T HAVE CHRISTMAS WITHOUT CHRIST
"Behold, he virgin shall be with Child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel, which is translated, ‘God with us’." Matthew 1:23
Jesus Christ was born at the time of the Roman Empire, which also included Israel. Rome was not a godly city by any means. This is where we get most of our holiday customs from including Christmas. It has also been said that Jesus was born on December 25. There is also a pagan origin. December 25 was a day of celebrating the sun god. Many historians have said that Jesus was probably born between April and November.
Many things associated with Christmas, such as the mistletoe and the holly are associated with pagan custom. Many pagans worshipped gods of wood, stone, even trees. However, most of what is modern Christmas dated back to only a few hundred years with Christian customs, and people, such as Santa Claus.
Christmas is not about, worshipping anything pagan, nor should it ever be. Christmas is not about businesses making money off the latest toy or gismo. It is not about trees, turkeys, or cakes. It is not even about staying up late at night to watch TV or wondering if your child has been naughty or nice. Christmas has gone too commercialized. If Christmas is Christian, then why did it become so commercialized? Also,if we can’t have Christmas without Christ, then why all of the Pagan origins?
It is possible to have a good Christmas without a tree, a mistletoe, and even Santa Claus. Santa Claus after all, is based on a man and not on God. No one said that you have to put up a tree, or kiss someone under a mistletoe. No one even said that you have to celebrate Christimas. We don’t have to worship the Lord on just Christimas or other days. In fact, we should do that daily. Christmas is supposed to be, that is within the last century or so, about Jesus. After all, if Christmas is supposed to be a Christian holiday, then Jesus should be the reason for the season, right? On Christmas, we can take the time to fellowship and worship. On a day that celebrates the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, it should be about reverencing a King who did not spare His own life for us. Yes, It is amazing that a holiday that started out with pagan origins can have so many Christian themes such as love, giving, thankfulness, and family.
It is true that family does play a role, but Christmas is also about giving, kindness, helping those and praying for those less fortunate, leading others to Christ, love, joy, and peace. That is how Christmas is to be celebrated if it is really a Christian holiday. Nothing Christian should be unequally yoked or compromise with the world.
In fact, Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on Earth peace, goodwill toward men.!” We need to learn to love one another and be prepared for His Return. Christmas is, after all, about hope. What is so wrong with celebrating a day that is about hope? Nothing, unless that hope is compromised.
Life is too short and the time for salvation is now. If Christmas is really a Christian holiday, we should take the time to celebrate Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection on a daily basis. After all, we are to live holy, and the Christian walk is a daily walk. All that other stuff about pagan customs and what not are things we need not to be hung up on. In fact, we have no business celebrating Christmas as the world celebrates it anyway.
We as Christians need to fulfill the Great Commission as written in Matthew 28. Our world is full of deceit and godlessness. Many in the church are being persecuted while others are being deceived by false prophets. But we are to remind ourselves not to get so caught up in things of this world and be godly influences for those around us by living holy, godly lives.
WISE MEN COME BEARING GIFTS
"Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the King, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him." Matthew 2:1-2
The Wise Men, or Magi, were MIddle Eastern or Central Asian men who were probably (or probably not) followers of Zoroaster. Zoroastrism is the philosophy or religion which originated out of Iran. They came to to bear gifts (gold, frankinsence, and myrrh). They also came to worship the King. Recall that this King was only a Baby born in a manger. The significance to this is the fact that Jesus, who many of us learn later that He is the King of Kings, was in the flesh born poor, a little lower than the angels.
Things would be entirely different if He were born into a rich family born in a mansion. Why is that? One of the purposes is humility, which is what Jesus taught us. Don’t get me wrong, Jesus will still be the same. He will still be perfect, compassionate, etc. But I wonder how people would react in those circumstances.
The point that I am trying to make is that people, particularly in this country, love stories about people who come from humble beginnings. You know, the underdog. Jesus in this case is the ultimate Underdog. The Son of God was born in a manger of poor parents in a small town in Israel during the Roman Empire. Later, He was hated of the religious order of His day, betrayed and denied by His friends, and died on the cross.
JESUS, MARY, AND JOSEPH
"For unto us a Child is born." Isaiah 9:6
Luke 1 and 2 prophesy the births of both Jesus and John the Baptist. The holiday, or rather, holy day, of Christmas is based solely on the story of Jesus’ birth, not the story of Santa and his elves. Santa Claus was based on a man, Saint Nicholas. But you ask what about Jesus? Wasn’t He a man? Wasn’t He a great Teacher? The Truth is, Jesus is God born of a flesh. He became a man to relate to us. His sole purpose was, and still is, to be Lord and Savior of mankind. He ministered to, healed, and set free multitudes of people. Jesus was more than a man. He was God Himself. He was not only the Son of Mary. He was, and is the Son of the Living God, born of a virgin.
Luke 2:1-7 says, “And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with Child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”
Christmas is not just about Jesus’ birth, it is about Jesus and what He has done for us. It is also about what He is doing for us now. Jesus’ first coming has been prophesied hundreds of years before, as written in the books of Psalms and Isaiah. After all, Santa Claus is based on a man named Saint Nicholas of Mora, which is in Lycea.
THOUGHT PROVOKING QUESTION
Do you think there is anything wrong with celebrating Christmas if one professes to be a Christian?
OUR KING, JESUS CHRIST
"Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet He esteemed Him sticken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgression, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chatisement of our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed." Isaiah 53:4-5
YOU CAN’T HAVE CHRISTMAS WITHOUT CHRIST
"Behold, he virgin shall be with Child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel, which is translated, ‘God with us’." Matthew 1:23
Jesus Christ was born at the time of the Roman Empire, which also included Israel. Rome was not a godly city by any means. This is where we get most of our holiday customs from including Christmas. It has also been said that Jesus was born on December 25. There is also a pagan origin. December 25 was a day of celebrating the sun god. Many historians have said that Jesus was probably born between April and November.
Many things associated with Christmas, such as the mistletoe and the holly are associated with pagan custom. Many pagans worshipped gods of wood, stone, even trees. However, most of what is modern Christmas dated back to only a few hundred years with Christian customs, and people, such as Santa Claus.
Christmas is not about, worshipping anything pagan, nor should it ever be. Christmas is not about businesses making money off the latest toy or gismo. It is not about trees, turkeys, or cakes. It is not even about staying up late at night to watch TV or wondering if your child has been naughty or nice. Christmas has gone too commercialized. If Christmas is Christian, then why did it become so commercialized? Also,if we can’t have Christmas without Christ, then why all of the Pagan origins?
It is possible to have a good Christmas without a tree, a mistletoe, and even Santa Claus. Santa Claus after all, is based on a man and not on God. No one said that you have to put up a tree, or kiss someone under a mistletoe. No one even said that you have to celebrate Christimas. We don’t have to worship the Lord on just Christimas or other days. In fact, we should do that daily. Christmas is supposed to be, that is within the last century or so, about Jesus. After all, if Christmas is supposed to be a Christian holiday, then Jesus should be the reason for the season, right? On Christmas, we can take the time to fellowship and worship. On a day that celebrates the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, it should be about reverencing a King who did not spare His own life for us. Yes, It is amazing that a holiday that started out with pagan origins can have so many Christian themes such as love, giving, thankfulness, and family.
It is true that family does play a role, but Christmas is also about giving, kindness, helping those and praying for those less fortunate, leading others to Christ, love, joy, and peace. That is how Christmas is to be celebrated if it is really a Christian holiday. Nothing Christian should be unequally yoked or compromise with the world.
In fact, Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on Earth peace, goodwill toward men.!” We need to learn to love one another and be prepared for His Return. Christmas is, after all, about hope. What is so wrong with celebrating a day that is about hope? Nothing, unless that hope is compromised.
Life is too short and the time for salvation is now. If Christmas is really a Christian holiday, we should take the time to celebrate Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection on a daily basis. After all, we are to live holy, and the Christian walk is a daily walk. All that other stuff about pagan customs and what not are things we need not to be hung up on. In fact, we have no business celebrating Christmas as the world celebrates it anyway.
We as Christians need to fulfill the Great Commission as written in Matthew 28. Our world is full of deceit and godlessness. Many in the church are being persecuted while others are being deceived by false prophets. But we are to remind ourselves not to get so caught up in things of this world and be godly influences for those around us by living holy, godly lives.
WISE MEN COME BEARING GIFTS
"Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the King, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him." Matthew 2:1-2
The Wise Men, or Magi, were MIddle Eastern or Central Asian men who were probably (or probably not) followers of Zoroaster. Zoroastrism is the philosophy or religion which originated out of Iran. They came to to bear gifts (gold, frankinsence, and myrrh). They also came to worship the King. Recall that this King was only a Baby born in a manger. The significance to this is the fact that Jesus, who many of us learn later that He is the King of Kings, was in the flesh born poor, a little lower than the angels.
Things would be entirely different if He were born into a rich family born in a mansion. Why is that? One of the purposes is humility, which is what Jesus taught us. Don’t get me wrong, Jesus will still be the same. He will still be perfect, compassionate, etc. But I wonder how people would react in those circumstances.
The point that I am trying to make is that people, particularly in this country, love stories about people who come from humble beginnings. You know, the underdog. Jesus in this case is the ultimate Underdog. The Son of God was born in a manger of poor parents in a small town in Israel during the Roman Empire. Later, He was hated of the religious order of His day, betrayed and denied by His friends, and died on the cross.
Friday, September 12, 2014
Real Fathers, Real Men
Tom Joyner knew exactly what he was talking about when he says those words every Thursday morning on his show. “Real Fathers, Real Men” rings true. Any man that does not take care of his kids is not taking care of his responsibility. The man is called to be the head of the home. So often, women are the single heads of the home, and these women are commended for doing the double duty that she does. “Children are a gift from God.” (Psalm 127). Men, if you have kids, you will be held accountable! Be there for your kids, love your kids, respect your kids. One of these days, when your kids grow up, you will regret that you weren’t there. Spend time with your kids. Your time spent with your kids is more precious than gold. This is a message for moms, too.
Father’s Day is coming up. There are millions of people, young and old, black and white, who wish that their fathers were there. This is the day in which we are to celebrate all fathers. Fathers, I believe, are the most underrated men in the world. This year, give your father, or any man in your life, your best, even if it is a card or a hug. It is the thought that counts. These men are to be commended for being there, for loving and respecting others, and for doing the will of God. Whether your dad is strict or lenient, iron out any differences or just say thank you. After all, life is too short and no relationship should be taken for granted.
Father’s Day is coming up. There are millions of people, young and old, black and white, who wish that their fathers were there. This is the day in which we are to celebrate all fathers. Fathers, I believe, are the most underrated men in the world. This year, give your father, or any man in your life, your best, even if it is a card or a hug. It is the thought that counts. These men are to be commended for being there, for loving and respecting others, and for doing the will of God. Whether your dad is strict or lenient, iron out any differences or just say thank you. After all, life is too short and no relationship should be taken for granted.
Thursday, September 11, 2014
Is Jesus the Lord of Your Life?
Idolatry is simply put, the worship and adoration of any representation that is on earth or in the heavens. Any one who puts anyone or anything before God is an idolater; idolatry is an abomination before God. God is a jealous God and desires that only He is to be worshipped. John 4:24 is about seeking those who will worship Him in Spirit and in truth. Idolators cannot worship the Lord in Spirit and in Truth because they worship images. Their gods are false.
The Bible writes of gods who can neither speak nor hear. Their eyes are not opened because they cannot see. They cannot answer prayer, nor are they creators of life. They are created by man. Paul writes in Romans 1 of idolators and those of the world who were neither thankful. They did not glorify God nor worship Him in spirit and in truth for they were unrepentant in their deeds. They were sinful and godless. Idolators are foolish in that they worship impersonal gods some of which are either embodiments of people or are themselves humans. Human beings cannot forgive sin for we are fallible. We can be used as instruments of God, but that does not mean we are gods, nor should we as humans expect others to worship any of us.
Idolators are foolish in that they are missing out in the blessings that worshipping the True God brings. They don’t realize how good they would have it worshipping the Lord because they are outside the kingdom of God. They are deceived into thinking someone or something else is worthy of greater adoration than He. Idols or other gods do not love us. They will not show us mercy nor can they save or deliver. They are cold and lifeless. They are devoid of love and compassion. They should be forsaken and not appeased. They cannot bring everlasting joy and peace. They certainly cannot bring everlasting life. Only our Heavenly Father can do that for He alone can answer prayer. He is the Only God that is worthy of fear and reverence. He is omnipotent and omniscient; He knows all and sees all.
None of the other gods or idols are eternal, for they are corruptible and bring about corruption. The end for idolators is destruction. Unrepentant idolators, those who go “whoring after other gods” will have their part in the Lake of Fire. They are amongst those outside of the gates of the city for they are unbelievers for they have not been forgiven, born-again Christians, or followers of Christ. They have degraded themselves for false gods in exchange for appeasement against disaster, sickness, and death. Those who believe in and follow the Lord Jesus do not degrade themselves. They love, serve, and honor only the Lord. Jesus Christ is their only Lord and only He can save.
Repent of idolatry, for Jesus is the Only Way, Truth, and Life and no man can come to the Father except Him. He is the Vine and the Husbandman. He is faithful and True. Who or what is your God? Buddha? Allah? Money? Sex? Don’t let it stand in the way of having a relationship with Jesus Christ. Turn to Him, for He alone can save and deliver. No other god can do that.
Verses to Read: Exodus 20:3-6, Leviticus 17, 19, Deuternomy 7, 28, 1 Kings, 2 Kings, Books of Hosea, Jeremiah, and Lamentations, Habbakuk 2:18-20, Romans 1:18-24, Revelation 20-21
The Bible writes of gods who can neither speak nor hear. Their eyes are not opened because they cannot see. They cannot answer prayer, nor are they creators of life. They are created by man. Paul writes in Romans 1 of idolators and those of the world who were neither thankful. They did not glorify God nor worship Him in spirit and in truth for they were unrepentant in their deeds. They were sinful and godless. Idolators are foolish in that they worship impersonal gods some of which are either embodiments of people or are themselves humans. Human beings cannot forgive sin for we are fallible. We can be used as instruments of God, but that does not mean we are gods, nor should we as humans expect others to worship any of us.
Idolators are foolish in that they are missing out in the blessings that worshipping the True God brings. They don’t realize how good they would have it worshipping the Lord because they are outside the kingdom of God. They are deceived into thinking someone or something else is worthy of greater adoration than He. Idols or other gods do not love us. They will not show us mercy nor can they save or deliver. They are cold and lifeless. They are devoid of love and compassion. They should be forsaken and not appeased. They cannot bring everlasting joy and peace. They certainly cannot bring everlasting life. Only our Heavenly Father can do that for He alone can answer prayer. He is the Only God that is worthy of fear and reverence. He is omnipotent and omniscient; He knows all and sees all.
None of the other gods or idols are eternal, for they are corruptible and bring about corruption. The end for idolators is destruction. Unrepentant idolators, those who go “whoring after other gods” will have their part in the Lake of Fire. They are amongst those outside of the gates of the city for they are unbelievers for they have not been forgiven, born-again Christians, or followers of Christ. They have degraded themselves for false gods in exchange for appeasement against disaster, sickness, and death. Those who believe in and follow the Lord Jesus do not degrade themselves. They love, serve, and honor only the Lord. Jesus Christ is their only Lord and only He can save.
Repent of idolatry, for Jesus is the Only Way, Truth, and Life and no man can come to the Father except Him. He is the Vine and the Husbandman. He is faithful and True. Who or what is your God? Buddha? Allah? Money? Sex? Don’t let it stand in the way of having a relationship with Jesus Christ. Turn to Him, for He alone can save and deliver. No other god can do that.
Verses to Read: Exodus 20:3-6, Leviticus 17, 19, Deuternomy 7, 28, 1 Kings, 2 Kings, Books of Hosea, Jeremiah, and Lamentations, Habbakuk 2:18-20, Romans 1:18-24, Revelation 20-21
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
Appearance
Short Tall
Ugly Beautiful
Fat Thin
The adjectives on the left are what society, especially American society, show at least one quality considers someone unattractive would have. On the other hand, a person who is tall, beautiful, and/or thin are qualities that many people considered attractive would have. While this is not universally a truth, much of what a society dictates as beautiful will have an impact on one’s self-esteem and social life.
What is wrong with being tall, beautiful, and thin? Nothing is wrong with that. But something is wrong when looks become a form of idolatry. Children are teased because of their weight. Young men and women are literally dying to be thin or muscular. People have wasted countless amounts of money wanting “perfection”, something that does not exist. None of us are perfect. While looks are important, it is not a god, nor should it be viewed as one either. For example, many people of various ages and backgrounds have been called up for job interviews. Job interviews can be scary. It is as if the potential employer or recruiter is sizing up and you are nervous because you have to make a good first impression because that first impression is how that judge determines whether or not one gets the job, alongside the qualifications. However, it is one thing to look presentable for a job interview. It is another thing to look at someone and assume that they aren’t qualified just on the basis of physical characteristics such as skin, hair, or eye color, weight, height, or physical features. It is not fair for employers or anyone for that matter who make blanket assumptions based on one’s appearance. Jesus warned us against false prophets and the Bible consistently gives us the message that it is the condition of ones heart and one’s soul that is important, soul being the top priority. What we do, not how we look determines our eternal destiny.
Genesis 6:5 And GOD saw that the wickedness of man [was] great in the earth, and [that] every imagination of the thoughts of his heart [was] only evil continually.
Deut 4:29 But if from thence thou shalt seek the LORD thy God, thou shalt find [him], if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul.
1K3:9 Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?
1C 29:9 Then the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly, because with perfect heart they offered willingly to the LORD: and David the king also rejoiced with great joy.
1C 29:17 I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness. As for me, in the uprightness of mine heart I have willingly offered all these things: and now have I seen with joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly unto thee.
2C 12:14 And he did evil, because he prepared not his heart to seek the LORD.
Psa 101:4 A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked [person].
Pro 23:33 Yea, thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the sea, or as he that lieth upon the top of a mast.
Ecc 7:22 For oftentimes also thine own heart knoweth that thou thyself likewise hast cursed others.
1 Thess 5:22-24 (22) Abstain from all appearance of evil. (23) And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and [I pray God] your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (24) Faithful [is] he that calleth you, who also will do [it].
Prov 21:2 Every way of a man [is] right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts. 1 Kings 3:12 Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee
Matt. 12:34 …for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.
Matt. 15:18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.
Eccl. 8:11 Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.
Ps. 73:7 Their eyes stand out with fatness: they have more than heart could wish.
Notice that one’s looks do not take top priority in the above verses. It is one’s heart and one’s soul that does. Solomon is the wise king has written about the perils of the wicked, the ungodly, and the foolish in most of Proverbs. David writes of the way of the wicked versus the way of the righteous in Psalm 1. The Book of Revelation writes about the foolishes of those who do not repent for their idolatries and other sins, and their eternal destiny for rejecting God. No where in these verses or chapter does it say anything about one’s looks. I am not saying that we should not take care of ourselves or look modest because we are judged by our appearance, but it is the weightier matters of the heart that God is concerned with. That is what Jesus was telling the Pharisees in Matthew 23. That is what shallowness is about. According to dictionary.com, shallow means foolish, or lacking in depth. Being a Christian is about looking beyond the surface and to follow Jesus to be concerned with the matters of the heart. There are many that are physically attractive by society’s standards that are hideous on the inside because they lack integrity and because they do not know the Lord. People who are physically attractive, are not always respected or taken seriously, (even if one has depth of character or is spiritual which is not fair or right by any means). Usually it is the one who has talent, morals, character, and depth, even if one is physically average who is respected and taken seriously. In other words, one needs a backup plan if he or she wants to be taken seriously and expect to survive in this world. People usually respect others because of who they are not how they look. That is why being shallow is a road to being foolish, for the foolish lack wisdom.
Ugly Beautiful
Fat Thin
The adjectives on the left are what society, especially American society, show at least one quality considers someone unattractive would have. On the other hand, a person who is tall, beautiful, and/or thin are qualities that many people considered attractive would have. While this is not universally a truth, much of what a society dictates as beautiful will have an impact on one’s self-esteem and social life.
What is wrong with being tall, beautiful, and thin? Nothing is wrong with that. But something is wrong when looks become a form of idolatry. Children are teased because of their weight. Young men and women are literally dying to be thin or muscular. People have wasted countless amounts of money wanting “perfection”, something that does not exist. None of us are perfect. While looks are important, it is not a god, nor should it be viewed as one either. For example, many people of various ages and backgrounds have been called up for job interviews. Job interviews can be scary. It is as if the potential employer or recruiter is sizing up and you are nervous because you have to make a good first impression because that first impression is how that judge determines whether or not one gets the job, alongside the qualifications. However, it is one thing to look presentable for a job interview. It is another thing to look at someone and assume that they aren’t qualified just on the basis of physical characteristics such as skin, hair, or eye color, weight, height, or physical features. It is not fair for employers or anyone for that matter who make blanket assumptions based on one’s appearance. Jesus warned us against false prophets and the Bible consistently gives us the message that it is the condition of ones heart and one’s soul that is important, soul being the top priority. What we do, not how we look determines our eternal destiny.
Genesis 6:5 And GOD saw that the wickedness of man [was] great in the earth, and [that] every imagination of the thoughts of his heart [was] only evil continually.
Deut 4:29 But if from thence thou shalt seek the LORD thy God, thou shalt find [him], if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul.
1K3:9 Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?
1C 29:9 Then the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly, because with perfect heart they offered willingly to the LORD: and David the king also rejoiced with great joy.
1C 29:17 I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness. As for me, in the uprightness of mine heart I have willingly offered all these things: and now have I seen with joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly unto thee.
2C 12:14 And he did evil, because he prepared not his heart to seek the LORD.
Psa 101:4 A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked [person].
Pro 23:33 Yea, thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the sea, or as he that lieth upon the top of a mast.
Ecc 7:22 For oftentimes also thine own heart knoweth that thou thyself likewise hast cursed others.
1 Thess 5:22-24 (22) Abstain from all appearance of evil. (23) And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and [I pray God] your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (24) Faithful [is] he that calleth you, who also will do [it].
Prov 21:2 Every way of a man [is] right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts. 1 Kings 3:12 Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee
Matt. 12:34 …for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.
Matt. 15:18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.
Eccl. 8:11 Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.
Ps. 73:7 Their eyes stand out with fatness: they have more than heart could wish.
Notice that one’s looks do not take top priority in the above verses. It is one’s heart and one’s soul that does. Solomon is the wise king has written about the perils of the wicked, the ungodly, and the foolish in most of Proverbs. David writes of the way of the wicked versus the way of the righteous in Psalm 1. The Book of Revelation writes about the foolishes of those who do not repent for their idolatries and other sins, and their eternal destiny for rejecting God. No where in these verses or chapter does it say anything about one’s looks. I am not saying that we should not take care of ourselves or look modest because we are judged by our appearance, but it is the weightier matters of the heart that God is concerned with. That is what Jesus was telling the Pharisees in Matthew 23. That is what shallowness is about. According to dictionary.com, shallow means foolish, or lacking in depth. Being a Christian is about looking beyond the surface and to follow Jesus to be concerned with the matters of the heart. There are many that are physically attractive by society’s standards that are hideous on the inside because they lack integrity and because they do not know the Lord. People who are physically attractive, are not always respected or taken seriously, (even if one has depth of character or is spiritual which is not fair or right by any means). Usually it is the one who has talent, morals, character, and depth, even if one is physically average who is respected and taken seriously. In other words, one needs a backup plan if he or she wants to be taken seriously and expect to survive in this world. People usually respect others because of who they are not how they look. That is why being shallow is a road to being foolish, for the foolish lack wisdom.
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