FAITH TO BEAR LAUNCHES IN CENTRAL ILLINOIS

Ronald Bear is a man of strong faith and a hard-working husband, father, and
grandfather.  In the two decades I have known him, as a colleague and a man on a journey through mountains and valleys, of faith and hope.

Early in 2025, he mentioned that he felt called to write these beautiful Children's Books. After reading through his work, with its stunning graphics and content, which bring back childhood memories to any parent, from any age - from boomer to Gen Z.  I highly recommend these books.

Ronald has since expanded into a ministry called Faith to Bear (FTB). Click here for this website.

To fully comprehend what led to all these stunningly lively graphics and now praise music and videos, which can be viewed on the FTB YouTube channel, I asked him a few questions to get a feel of the man, his ministry, and why he felt led to launch a full multimedia, almost blitz, as he did.

To get to the point, I asked four questions. Ron Bear responds as follows (see below). For the record, I recommend the Children's Books (Giggles, Gratitude and Growth in God) for your children and especially the Electronic Version. They will benefit tremendously from the links to FTB's Praise and Worship music, videos etc.

1-Why did you write the book?

In a world of judgment and condemnation, I found myself seeking truth and following paths that led to personal destruction. I cried out to GOD, declaring, "There is no Joy in my life! How do I experience Joy?"

GOD began guiding me to teachings that revealed Joy is not absent from my life, it has been buried by distorted emotions created by trauma -Physical and verbal assaults that caused me to feel unloved and even unlovable. I felt unworthy of Joy, Happiness and Love.

GOD asked, "What is your heart's desire?" I responded, 'I desire to be Happy, joyous, and Free.' I desire the abundant life Jesus spoke of. I want to be free from debt. I want my family restored, and I want to leave a legacy for my children and their children.

I want to create and share with others a message of Joy that will prevent young hearts from experiencing the traumatic experiences from addiction to escape and to guide veterans of psychic wars back from the pain of escape to a place of refuge in Joy.

2-To whom is the book written?

This book is written for young hearts to nurture Love in innocence and promote  Joyful Hearts.

Also, this book is to provide a channel for the spirit of Joy to heal the already challenged hearts, as they share with their children, siblings, and friends.

3-Describe the content.

This book contains several coloring pages, activity pages, Scripture references, and blessings for each simple song inspired by "The Holy Bible," enhanced by vibrant graphics to spark artistic appreciation. It also includes links to energetic music and videos to invite dancing and create an immersive, Joyful experience.

4-What is your Goal/Mission 

The mission of Faith to Bear Ministries is to encourage refuge in Joyful experiences and heal the emotional wounds from seeking escape. 

We encourage people of all beliefs and levels of understanding to  "Keep the Light KIND".....and to shine our light in a manner that attracts people to desire to be like you.

In this way we will experience restoration to a state of being One with GOD.

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THINK SERIES, PART 15: "ON BEING PRUDENT AND SHREWD"

What does this really mean – ‘The simple believes everything but the prudent gives thoughts to his steps” (Proverbs 14:15).

That is a powerful statement that addresses the gullibility and the discernment of two types of people. We do not really have to look very far to observe this fact. Because most of modern humankind is bereft of Critical Thinking,

Many of us may remember the “Beanie Baby” craze of the 1990s. That five-inch-high stuffed toy created a market that rose up, made countless millions for those who knew how to market the allegedly exclusive ones and get them off their basement shelves to gullible buyers. Twenty years later, you and I can find boxes of them at garage or yard sales for 50 cents a pop. What does this have to do with thinking, by normally conservative and even discerning folks? Well, some of them THOUGHT they could make the big jackpot by selling the “Princess Diana” purple beanie in the plexiglass case.

This is just one simple, fun and harmless example, unless someone spent their entire social security check on $ 100s of dollars of Beanies, thinking they would pull in the bucks, within weeks and months, only to find out that another million people had the same idea. However, the goal of this series is not to go Dr. Phil on folks and pick on them with “what were you thinking”… about any decision where we follow the crowd. The goal is to develop and train, first in ourselves and then our children, grandchildren, and those whom we mentor, the value of prudent (as opposed to positive) thinking, Biblical thinking, and how to think critically.

The original biblical Hebrew word for “prudent” is “Arum”. It is a word which ranges in definition from being “shrewd, subtle, and prudent” to the almost opposite, as in cunning. Jesus tells us in Matthew 10:6, as He warned His disciples to be “as shrewd as serpents but as innocent as a dove”.  Two things about this quote from the Greatest Life Coach Who ever lived:

Jesus is NOT saying that we are to be as deceptive as that snake, Satan. This is the sinless Son of God.  What Jesus means is to be extremely discerning. That is, to know when to hold them, know when to fold them, as an old song goes.

Every intention of the word “prudent” in Proverbs 14:15 requires we are supposed to have, not just proper thought, but discernment, grounded in truth – objective truth. Objective truth is black and white. Either you believe or you do not.  The Bible gives a powerful statement regarding atheists, where the good Book says, “the fool says in his heart, there is no God”. It takes more “faith” to NOT believe your eyes, your conscience, and the law of God written in the hearts of every single human ever born, than the faith it takes to be a believer in Jesus, as Lord. That is literally Objective truth.

There are also terms of Logic. When an atheist or an agnostic (i.e., an atheist who is a coward) makes a statement that there is no such thing as Absolute Truth, when we say that we believe in God, that non-believer has violated the terms of Logic by making an absolute statement. Therefore, under the terms of logic, we can, by all rights, dismiss their argument. Period.

To get to this point of Critical Thinking, one must have a strongly and exponentially growing measure of Biblical Wisdom. The first three Chapters of the Book of Proverbs will be a good place to start and read, over and over, until it sinks into your consciousness. I spent two weeks in Proverbs chapter 2  a while back, as I felt the tug of the Lord pulling me back more and more to those pages to embed those words in my soul. What emerged from that period, where I camped on Chapter 2, was a series called - "A Proverbs 2 Man". (CLICK HERE FOR VIDEOS).

We must be led by the Spirit to discern the wiles of this corrupt world, so that we can function, with an unction, in the Righteousness of God - in thought, in word and in deed. The Holy Spirit will guide us into the pathway of ALL Truth.

To be as shrewd as a serpent and innocent as doves, we must know the ways, teachings, and commands of God so that we will never sin.  There is a line in the Lord’s Prayer where Jesus teaches us to pray, in the original language – “do not allow us to fall into temptation”. We have to be buffeted and surrounded by the strength that comes from God and His Word,  so that we can spot a trap a mile off. We have to be in our right mind. We have to think. We have to think critically.

Sadly, too many Christians fall for the wiles of a seductive financial deal, woman (or man) or something that is too good to be true. When we have the ability, capacity, and the FREEDOM to RUN in the opposite direction. The Bible gives us clear direction to think critically so we do not ruin what is most precious to us and Him, our witness, testimony, reputation, and families.  He has given us these beautiful and powerful words to embed in our consciousness that we can live in peace, joy, and contentment, all the days of our lives.

Proverbs 3:5-7 “: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and turn away from evil". Amen

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THINK SERIES #14: THINK CRITICALLY - THE INTRO

Critical thinking is not what your critics (if you have any, of course, lol) think of us.   It requires the capacity to do the following:

1. Look at an issue with the end in mind.

2. Identify what we need to do about it

3. Consider all the sides of what needs to be done to address said issue.

4. Consider the consequences of each action.

5. Consider who is going to be affected by any course of action

6. Take all that information and go to the Lord with it

7. Make the decision

 

We are born with the ability to think. The Cambridge dictionary definition is actually the simplest and most effective short definition of Critical Thinking.  Cambridge defines it as “the process of thinking carefully about a subject or idea, without allowing feelings”.

 

As we already know, it is not something that is taught in the US education system, where feelings and other agendas trump the basics of reading, writing, and ‘arithmetic – the Three R’s (so to speak). It was something we hired a missionary almost two decades ago to teach our three kids as part of their education ,and it was a great lesson for me as well.  This kind, gentle man, let’s call him John Smith Jones, was the epitome of kindness, patience, and grace.

How he taught Critical Thinking was a great example to me of how we should approach anything. Whether it is how we teach our kids the Bible or the tenets of our Christian Faith, there has to be a method that cries out for effectiveness. For many years, the fact that many Christian families lose their children to practical atheism by High School or College has bothered me until we figured out why – many young people do not connect the Bible stories they hear in Sunday School to real life, themselves, and the real Person of Jesus.  When you add some parents living double lives or no life of righteousness at all, young people will walk from that kind of hypocrisy.

 

There is a relationship between Critical Thinking and the education of our kids in the Ways of our Lord. The Bible says in Psalm 139:17-18 the following: “How precious also are Your thoughts to me, Oh God! How vast is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would outnumber the sand. When I am awake, I am still with You”.

 

These are our Heavenly Father’s and Creator’s thoughts:

* They are Precious

* They are so many and far-reaching they cannot EVER be counted (think about the stars in the sky – can you count them?)

* They are permanent

* They are embedded in the beings, just like the Law of God or our consciences

* They are ever present, whether we access the most valuable treasures found in the Mind of Our God.

 

Please note also, in Verse 17, the amount of original exclamation marks! King David, who we know from Psalm 51 was indwelt by the Holy Spirit of God to write the Psalms, was excited that the very thoughts and Mind of Christ were with him!

 

Now, look at the thoughts we have. Check Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me o God and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts, and there if there be any hurtful way in me and lead me in the everlasting way”.

What kinds of thoughts do we have?  Well, anxious ones with the capacity and potential to cause hurt to others and us”!

 

The human condition is right there in the Bible.

We are full of anxiety, worry, and stress from both real and imaginary enemies, and our way to blood pressure medication or worse.

We are prime candidates for depression, depression meds, and being super discouraged to the point of even doubting God.

 

All of this happens because we do not think Biblically, as we spelled out in the past 13 posts on the “THINK SERIES”, nor do we practice “Critical Thinking” in most of our daily lives.

 

Biblical Thinking was addressed first in this series since we must possess the foundation on which to operate successfully as a man or woman of God. Critical Thinking will take a look at each of the seven (7) critical steps listed above and the benefits therein.

We will use the following as our theme verse, for this exercise, from Proverbs 14:15, where the Bible says, “The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thoughts to his steps.”

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THINK" SERIES: PART 13 - "WORTHY OF ALL PRAISE"

"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things". (Philippians 4:8)

For something to be considered  “praiseworthy”, it follows logic that the object of praise, approval, giving value to, or even some sort of adulation or adoration – must be “worthy of all praise”.

The only Being in this world, where this can possibly fit, is Almighty God, the King of Heaven and Earth. Seeing that the word “praiseworthy” is actually a combination of words used by Paul here, in Philippians 4:8,  that is – “praise” with the preposition “towards or upon”, it only follows that all our praise; all our gratitude; all our worship; all our thoughts need to be directed in this vertical relationship we have with our Heavenly Father, in Jesus’ Name. 

Praise-worthiness explicitly implies a high view of God. It is said by many that what we think about God, at the highest level possible, determines our conduct, attitude, and respect or reverence for and to Him.  If we have a high view of God, the humbler and more surrendered to His Sovereign Will we are.  Conversely, a low view shows the carnal nature of mankind, where God is just an afterthought, even to so-called self-professed Christians. One of the best examples in life and in Scripture can be found in Isaiah Chapter 6. Read this amazing passage of the greatest of all Old Testament prophets – Isaiah, as he is allowed into the very Presence of the Holiest Being in the World – God the Father.  

1 In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of His robe filled the temple. 2 Above it stood seraphim; each one had six wings: with two he covered his face, with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. 3 And one cried to another and said: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; The whole earth is full of His glory!" 4 And the posts of the door were shaken by the voice of him who cried out, and the house was filled with smoke. 5 So I said: "Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, And I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; For my eyes have seen the King, The Lord of hosts." (Isaiah 6:1-5)

 This incredible passage reveals the indescribable scene in Heaven when Isaiah realizes where he is. In verse 5, the prophet said “Woe is me! For I am undone because I am a man of unclean lips and I dwell amidst a people of unclean lips. For my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of Hosts”.

The vast majority of us will not have a similar experience on this side of Heaven. However we have the Holy Spirit, if we are born again, Who testifies to the same. But what Isaiah did can be best described as a realization of his own spiritual and moral poverty, and then the Highest View of God possible! 

It is an amazing passage to read, be fired up about, and then praise God that:

1. He draws us into His Presence when He saves us
2. He lets us into the Kingdom – past, present, and eternity. This means that we are now joint heirs with Christ from Eternity Past to Eternity Future
3. We will be tainted by this world, just like Isaiah in verse 5, while we are still in these corrupt times. We are saints who sometimes sin, but the Lord has cleansed us with the righteous fire from the altar of Heaven.
4. The end of verse 5 shows the awesome reverence, adoration, worship...and more that Isaiah had for the good Lord. He acknowledged Who he had just seen.

Acknowledging and being in complete AWE of The Lord of Host, the King of the Universe, led Isaiah to volunteer to serve the Lord of his own free will! All God had to say was, “Whom shall We send”? Our Father is so gracious that even in this generous state, which no living human eyes could ever see, He left it up to the mere mortal Isaiah to willingly serve.

While the greatest worship towards God are things we know about- prayer, praise, reverence, abiding in His Word – a willing heart like Isaiah’s to serve, rounds that up very nicely. 

There are 305 references to the word “praise” in the most literal of Bible translations. The Bible tells us the Lord INHABITS the praise of His people (Psalm 22:3). The meaning of this phrase exhibits the living embodiment of “Praise-worthy”.

That is, because of our high view of God Who knows each and every heart, when we praise, adore and worship Him with our lives -whether it is on Sunday mornings, Sunday or Wednesday in a corporate setting or 24/7/365 in our own daily lives, we have created a pure atmosphere where He can be present and active. 

This is, verifiably, a most significant habit to develop, as an attribute of our Faith. When we have a discipline of awareness of "Praise-worthiness," it can have a tremendous impact on the spiritual and emotional aspect of our lives. Removing the focus from what may, or may not be the deficits in our lives and looking up to the One Who deserves all praise, honor and glory will:

-  Remove self-pity from our thinking.

-  Remove any discontent we have with our current situation and replace it with an attitude of gratitude.

-  Rejoice in what is of prime importance. Our Lord, Savior and Creator is to Whom all praise belongs, so let us then, readjust our entire mindset towards this goalpost, because it is here, to which all praise belongs.

Father, in Jesus' Strong Name, thank You for giving us this direction in Your Holy Word that we may realize what is truly important and that is - keeping our eyes on You, our mind stayed on You and our worship as a lifestyle that will remain free from the stain of the world, the more we focus on Your Goodness, Glory and Power. Thank You for changing us, transforming us, and rescuing us, by the Life, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the King of all Kings, in His Name we pray, amen.

THINK" SERIES: PART 12 - "IF THERE IS ANY VIRTUE....."

"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things". (Philippians 4:8)

Can an authentic, practicing Christian, live a virtuous life, full of every attribute called for in this incredible verse (Philippians 4:8), 24/7/365, that is – all the time? In the natural – it is extremely difficult. Led by the Spirit of Christ – we absolutely, 100% can do it.  Jesus Himself prayed in John 17:15 “ I do not pray that You should take them out of the world but that You should keep them from the evil one”.

 

This section of the verse makes the statement “if there is any virtue”….and therefore, it begs the question: what really is virtue? The Biblical Greek word is “arete”. It means the following in modern English: uprightness; a gracious act; moral goodness (which we would expect it to be); excellence and has the sense of the highest level of moral excellence, personal qualities, and attributes. You get the picture.

 

In Galatians, the Bible gives us a big contrast between the evil attributes of this world (click here) and the Fruits of The Spirit of which each and every Christian should be a live and living example.  Virtue is one of the foundational blocks that makes those fruits of the Spirit, shine Jesus’ shine!

 

Since virtue and integrity are closely parallel, they are both an adjective and a verb.  They are almost synonymous. However, while these incredibly admirable qualities reflect the honesty, kindness, graciousness, transparency, and love that we have for God and man, a high degree of maintenance is required. The minute we let our individual guards down, we are in trouble. If there ever comes a time we take a break from actively praying for all those qualities in Phil 4:8 to not just remain in us, but continue to seek the Face of God daily through:

• Mediating, reading, and digging into His Word. While we all love and acknowledge the Psalms, as the official “Prayer Book of the Bible”, other Books of the Bible are extremely beneficial. Not just Proverbs, but Isaiah especially. The Book of Isaiah is so rich that it could be considered five different books. The rich history of the people of God and the Mighty Hand of God throughout, from the personal to the prophetic, could and should drive you and me to our knees.
• We also maintain a lifestyle full of virtue and integrity by, believe it or not, serving others. We need to make ourselves available for those who are younger than us, in both chronological years AND the Faith, to be the best example of the Lord, as we can.  To that end, we should:
• Do random acts of kindness, love, and thoughtfulness. The vast majority of people do not send greeting cards or letters of encouragement. Therefore, why don’t you and I just continue being a living tradition of writing notes of faithful encouragement and hope to someone who needs it, for whatever reason? This is sure to buck them up, so they can know that when the chips are down, they have a friend who loves Jesus and talks with Him. I tell you what, boxes of Christian cards, for all occasions, can be purchased very cheaply at Hobby Lobby. One box, for $10,  can last you six months to a year. The joy of a recipient of one of your encouragements would be priceless!
• Speak what is virtuous. There are countless Scriptures about the power of the tongue. The old adage "sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me, is Fake News!" Proverbs 18:21 says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit". What comes out of our mouths is, for the most part (not always), what is in our hearts. Therefore, let us be resolved to think biblically, so we can think righteously and act honorably. There is a pattern or sequence to this kind of living.
• Study the example of Jesus. While we are more headstrong or easily flummoxed by petty things like Peter, when he denied Christ, we can also be like the same Peter of whom it was asked and said in Acts 4:13 "Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus". There is no greater virtue than to be like King Jesus!

There is more to be said on this subject. However, these five exhortations are a handful enough to keep us busy for half a lifetime, if we would just become very intentional about accomplishing even 85% of them. In all the commands, statutes and precepts of the Bible, we have the most difficult time keeping even the very few critical ones, were it not for God's Grace and the Holy Spirit. So, may we be resolved to bear down on these five listed above - and excel in them....like a virtuoso!

QUOTE DU JOUR ON VIRTUE FROM CS. LEWIS:

"Christianity seems at first to be all about morality, all about duties and rules and guilt and virtue, yet it leads you on, out of all that, into something beyond. One has a glimpse of a country where they do not talk of those things, except perhaps as a joke. Every one there is filled full with what we should call goodness as a mirror is filled with light. But they do not call it goodness. They do not call it anything. They are not thinking of it. They are too busy looking at the source from which it comes"

Heavenly Father, thank You in the Mighty Name of Jesus, for the simple tools, resources and guidance, which You have given, so that we may live honorable lives - upright in the sight of God and men, so that "if there is any virtue", may it be found in us. Amen.

THINK" SERIES: PART 11 - "WHATEVER IS NOBLE OR OF GOOD REPORT"

" Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things". (Philippians 4:8)

The world views "nobility" as royalty. The British royal family, or some European elites, are regarded as the "standard" in terms of class, wealth, and nobility. This is, of course, a product of centuries of class divisions, and in modern times, an obsession of the media and culture.

Nobility means something else to God. In our passage above from Philippians 4:8, the word "NOBLE" (or 'of good report') is an adjective with quite a punch. The original Biblical Greek is "euphémos". In this context, euphemos means of good report, reputable and praiseworthy (Strongs 2163).

If we look across the spectrum in public life, not many can fulfill the demands of these attributes. They are attributes. The original meaning of the English words found in this verse (Phil. 4:8) for "meditate or think on these things" imply action. The Biblical Greek word is "logizomai" which means reckon, conclude, decide, reason and more.....all verbs of action. We also get the word "logic" from this Bible word.

The Bible is not just true, inspiring, encouraging and more, but it inspires logic, thought, and positive action. I have a few friends who teach character development. One of them has made a living out of it, by developing an international ministry. Why is so much of the world, especially in certain areas of the United States, the Far East, and some developing countries, captivated by this concept of Nobility in thought, word, and deed?

Why? Because it is an attractive quality and leads only to good things - for families, churches, communities and business. People of Noble Character (which is the true meaning of GOOD REPORT) are:

- Pleasant to be around

- Dignified and courageous, yet as gentle as a lamb.

- Always willing to lend a helping hand of love, friendship and cheerful giving

- Genuinely generous with their time and resources

- Strong and humble. But do not mistake their humility and strength under control as a weakness. What they are exhibiting is the "meekness" which our Lord and Savior Jesus exhibited.

- Willing to mentor, share with, or instruct others in the paths which they can follow to become better-engaged and grounded children of God.

There are many more,  but these main qualities of Noble Character, inspired by Godly and a clean mind focused on making the main thing, the main thing, will not just glorify God through our actions, but they will serve to honor Him by showing His people as ones of people of truly "good report". 

As stated many times before, our actions are the results of our thoughts. Think on these pure and noble things, and we will stand before God and man, blameless and shining the Truth of His Gospel. Amen

Dear Father, in the Mighty Name of Jesus, help us to seal these truths in our minds: the Truths to the point where if any one of them is not yet second nature, that by the cleansing Blood of Jesus and the washing of Your Holy Word, each attributes or item listed in Philippians 4:8  will become to us, an integral part of our lives, in thought, word and deed, that we may glorify You and become living testimonies to the Glory of God, before God and man, in Jesus' Strong Name, amen.

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THINK" SERIES: PART 10 - "WHATEVER IS LOVELY"

THINK BIBLICALLY - #6

 " Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things". (Philippians 4:8)

 There is nothing more beautiful in this world than God's creation. From the tiniest ant, as annoying to the picnic basket as ants can be, to the red cardinal that buzzes your kitchen window and then flies around the backyard. From the faithful little yapper Schnauzer on your couch to the goldfish that swims around your aquarium. The Mighty Hand of God is evident everywhere - from the complexities of the human body to the sunset which seems to be completely different every evening...regardless of the opinions of mortal men, the handiwork of the Master Artist and Creator is evident. The Bible tells us so in Romans 1:20a "For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power".

In the Arizona desert and in others where cacti live, there is a rare flower called the Cereus. This stunning and fragrant flower only blooms late at night. Read more about the Cereus flower here. This video shows the late-night blooming process in a controlled greenhouse environment. However there most regular sightings are done from the desert itself.

The ability of our minds, guided by a clear eye and spirit, to capture the beauty and majesty of Creation should inspire us to lift our entire outlook, thinking and perspective to the higher plane.

Be like King David who wrote in Psalm 8:3-4 "When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained, what is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him"?

Whenever we are down and depressed and/or tempted to lapse into pitiful or stinking thinking, immediately go outside in your garden and watch the bees gathering wild honey in your pumpkin patch or the squirrel gathering nuts. Or grab your bible and open to the book of Psalms and worship the one True God of Heaven, Who made us a little lower than the angels, that we may magnify and adore His precious and holy Name. All around us, are the evidences of lovely, pleasant, and acceptable things and even people, of whom the Lord will absolutely approve. There is absolutely no reason to live in a state of hopelessness. Hope is palpable and literally within reach. Take THAT thought captive.

Father in Jesus' Strong Name may Your Name be magnified, glorified and praised throughout the earth. Holy is Your Name. All power and glory belongs to You. You told us in Philippians 4:8 to think on whatever things are lovely, pleasant, wonderful and pleasing to both You and mankind. More than that Lord when we consider the complexities of the human body and the Mind that created every living cell, fiber and muscle in us, how can we not think of lovely, stunning thoughts of You, oh Great God of Heaven. May our puny little lives be acceptable unto Thee and may our worship, made from repentant and obedient hearts bring glory to You, in all that we do, in Jesus' Strong Name. Amen.

Image Credit: Epic Gardening

THINK" SERIES: PART 9 - "WHATEVER IS PURE"

 THINK BIBLICALLY - #5

 " Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things". (Philippians 4:8)

For decades in America, Ivory Soap was considered the purest soap in the market, for sale to anyone. Of course, it was not actually 100% pure. There is no such thing. Ivory was sold as 99 44/100% pure. Today, organic and homemade soaps lack any chemical impurities and may claim the same - pure.

The Scriptural exhortation in our key verse - Phil. 4:8 - is even more intensely pure than the most natural soap which can make the physical clean. The Biblical Greek word for "pure" is hagios which has a distinctive meaning. It is not just to be free from sin, impure thoughts and conduct, or just plain innocent, but to be free from defilement. You and I may think we do not defile God or ourselves. So what does that even mean?

Actually, Jesus Himself told us! He says in Matthew Chapter 15. He says two important things about what defiles a man (person). In Verse 11, Jesus says "Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.”

Even if people say the first thing that comes to their heads, they will still have to briefly consider that thought. In verse 15, Jesus is talking about a thought that is NOT good, which will defile the person.

Then, a few verses later, He got even more specific and scary. Scary in the sense of this: we had better pay attention to our thoughts, even if we consider ourselves above the fray and free from all evil. Jesus says in Verses 18-20a "Those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man.  For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. These are the things which defile a man."

But there is more to it than that. Not everyone walks around with the thoughts that Jesus describes above.  Maybe at one time, we violated every one of those sins. But there are thoughts that we cannot control that invade our minds at the most inopportune time, especially when we are praying!

Many of us prayer warriors remember this one - we would be deep in prayer and boom! Out of the blue, a completely unrelated worldly thought comes across our minds and threatens to almost disconnect our conversation with our Heavenly Father. We do have the power within us, due to being born-again and indwelled with the Spirit of Christ, to cast that thought out and get back on track!

There is no Christian who ever lived, who has never had that happen to them in prayer. So keep control of the narrative. Stay in the Scriptures. The evil one, the devil and accuser of the brethren's job is to take our joy, our journey with Jesus and the fact that we are joint heirs with Christ - away from us. 

Keep your mind on Christ. Keep praying to Him and staying away from disputes, indiscretions and even disgusting people. Focus on the good of anything - food, nature, your co-workers, your family, God!  The more you fellowship with the good, the easier it is to maintain a good, clean heart and one that will be open to what the Lord is doing today in your life. Amen

Father in the Mighty Name of Jesus, I thank You that through it all, you were with us even in the depths of our depravity. Even in our depraved thoughts, words, and deeds. But You saved us. You pulled us out of the muck and the mire and put a new song in our hearts. A hymn of praise to our God - You, oh Lord, our Heavenly Father and King Jesus the Savior. Thank You again, Lord, and keep working in us, to make us more like You, in Spirit and in Truth, in Jesus' Strong Name amen. 

Image Credit: Free Christian Illustrations

THINK" SERIES: PART 8 - "WHATEVER IS JUST"

 THINK BIBLICALLY - #4

" Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things". (Philippians 4:8)

One of my favorite verses in the Bible is Micah 6:8 and for good reason. The Bible says "He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"

One of the many attributes of Yahweh - YHWH - is just. Justice is almost His middle Name. His Justice is swift against rebels and evil, just as He opened up the earth to swallow up Korah and the 250 rebels and their families who had challenged Moses' and Aaron's call as God's representatives. God's fury and judgment were swift and definitive. The earth opened up and many went down to the place of the dead, still alive.

When Ananias and Sapphira lied to Jesus' Apostles about the amount of money they sold their property for, in order to puff themselves up before the just-created Body of Christ, God did not wait to deal swiftly with their deception. There is no instance in the past, where God instituted Worship, and where mortals took it upon themselves to speak for Him that God did not punish the perps.

However, this verse from Philippians 4:8 speaks more about our human conception of how to treat others justly rather than about being a Holy, Righteous Judge like our heavenly Father.

As we think Biblically and come to the realization that we are not God Who judges righteously, we need to grasp the true meaning of the original Biblical Greek word for "whatever is just" and its definition. The word is "dikaios" and means upright, just, right before God, and more. It does NOT mean we are to contemplate the mighty, and swift justice of God as if we are His executioners. Our job is to love unconditionally, to live the Truth, and to share the good news. 

The "Think on Whatever is Just" call to Biblical Thinking is personal and internal. It is not about corporate or group identity or something we wish others should do, although that is an amazing goal. It is a call for us as the original, Holy Spirit-inspired word, indicates, to fully comprehend the righteous and upright character of the Lord, and think, live, and obey  - likewise.

Father, in the Mighty Name of Jesus, may we, who are called by Thy Name, come to fully grasp what a Holy, righteous, and just God You are. Help us to comprehend even one-tenth of Your Character so that we may live lives that are above reproach before the world and before You, in Jesus' Strong Name. Amen.

Image Credit: Free Christian Illustrations

"THINK" SERIES: PART 7 - "WHATEVER IS NOBLE"

 THINK BIBLICALLY - #2 

" Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things". (Philippians 4:8)

Most Christians know the Bible's great examples of character, dignity, gravitas, and honor. Men like Enoch, who the Bible says "walked with God" (Genesis 5:24) all the days of his life, and God thought so much of him that He took him to heaven as a very young man. How about Daniel, the prophet who inspired the Magi of the Christmas story? Daniel was so full of integrity, character, and love for God, that he refused to bow down to King Darius of Babylon's edicts and ended up in the lion's den (Daniel 6 here).

The man or woman of God who thinks and lives Biblically and stays diligent to that calling has a special place in the Heart of God. Look at what the Lord sent His chief warrior Angel Michael to say to Daniel, for his faithfulness and honor (Daniel 10:12) "“Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard; and I have come because of your words". What words, you ask? Please read all of the book of Daniel, but especially Daniel's prayer in Chapter 9.

Our key verse for thinking Biblically - Philippians 4:8, has as its second exhortation from heaven: "Whatever things are noble". The original biblical Greek word here is "semnos" which means honorable, dignified, worthy of respect, and noble. 

It is not enough to be a faithful believer who lives right, pays taxes, obeys the law, goes to work, does a great job, loves God, and loves other people, primarily your family. It is not enough to do all of those wonderful things. We must carry ourselves - men and women - in such good repute that we not only NEVER bring the Name of Jesus to disrepute as too many Christians do these days, but there should be no doubt about who we are when we walk into our workplace, church, or community gathering, that this is a person who walks the talk.

Being a person of noble character also carries the moniker of one who does not gossip or engage in double-speech. This person is also temperate when everyone else is losing their collective minds. He or she is sensible and calm, gentle and firm, yet full of Truth and love. Being of noble character begins with THINKING God's thoughts. 

This is how Daniel's character shined so much that God took note and rewarded him with a special blessing from the Heavenly Throne. You and I can have that same favor with God that Daniel had.

All that you and I will need to do is have the same reverence, awe, respect AND self-respect which Daniel exhibited.  It all began with his thought life or his extremely high view of God. The meaning of the word "noble" in our verse, reminds us that we are commanded to think, and therefore act differently than the world around us.

Thinking Biblically by being in awe of God, by having the ultimate respect and reverence for Him and by living this way, is the true sign of a thoughtful lifestyle, based on Truth - His Truth - the Only Truth. Amen

Father, just as You have done in ages past, please give us the courage and boldness to live like Daniel did, the Courage to bow the knee to no one but You; the courage to proclaim Your Name to a dying corrupt world and the courage to live every moment with our guard up, so that we will never slip up in public or private. May we have those thoughts, beliefs, and actions which are consistent with the Truths of Scripture and walk with and in them all the days of our lives, in Jesus' Strong Name amen.

Image Credit: Free Christian Illustrations

"THINK" SERIES: PART 6 - "WHATEVER IS TRUE"

THINK BIBLICALLY - #1 

" Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things". (Philippians 4:8)

In John 18:38, Pontius Pilate encounters the bruised and brutalized Jesus for the first time and asks the eternal question "Quid Est Veritas" (Latin/Roman for What is Truth) — which you may recall from the stunning scene below from "The Passion of the Christ." 

Significantly, the first thing listed in the Bible for "whatever things..." we MUST consider to live and think biblically is Truth. Each item listed here deserves its own in-depth examination. The concept of Truth is primary, and today, there is so much confusion that only the wise will shine. Only the born-again will recognize Biblical Truth.

The world does not recognize Absolute Truth. For the unredeemed, and you hear it all the time, people should "live their own truth" or "you do you"....and other such inane, meaningless catchphrases. This trend began in Genesis Chapter 3 where the Devil delivered the first lie to deceive mankind and it never stopped. It ramped up in the free love/no responsibility 1960s and 1970s with the "I'm OK, You're OK" movement. Today it has become religion to the unsaved Religious Left to call/brand/tag anyone who believes in Absolute Truth, as hateful, intolerant, stupid, mindless,or worse for believing the following:

-  That the Bible is true, inerrant and the 100% closed Word of God.

-  That every true professing Christian MUST believe what is written in Genesis Chapters 1-11, and Who God is before he or she can truly call themselves a bible-believing Christian.

-  That God created the Heavens and the Earth in six (6) 24-hour days and the earth is less than 7,000 years old. He is Creator and there is no such thing as Evolution.

-  That the Triune God, Who is God in three persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) has always existed in eternity past and always will, even when this current world system is destroyed and remade.

-  That Jesus Christ is the Savior of the World, the only Way to Heaven, and His Holy Spirit only indwells those who have repented of their sins and accepted Him as Lord of their lives.

-  That Jesus was born of a virgin woman, by the Sovereign Plan and Will of God the Father, into a couple from the lineage of King David, in Bethlehem as prophesied in Micah 5:2.

-  That Jesus the Man, Who never sinned in His 33 years on earth; never gave up His Divinity; was both God and Man; taught what is recorded in the Gospels and then was killed by evil men. That was allowed to happen, again by the pre-determined plan of God as a payment for our sins.

-  That Jesus was crucified on the Passover that year, and rose from the Tomb on Resurrection Sunday, just as He had said, to fulfill God's plan. He ascended to the Throne on the Right Hand of God The Father, from Where He reigns today and forever more, amen.

In brief, these are the essentials and basics we must believe, in order proceed with comprehending all Scripture. These essentials are what comprise Truth, i.e. Absolute Truth, Objective Truth. Anything else is a lie.

Modern archaeology has been proving, almost weekly, that the events and places recorded in Sola Scriptura - the Bible alone are 100% true. In the early 1980's when Mt. St. Helens in the state of Washington erupted (more on that in future posts or videos); within years, coal was formed, which confounded atheist scientists who believe it takes thousands of years to create even one inch of coal, and the layers of lava basically showed up Evolution to be the fraud that it is (more on that later as well).

As a man thinketh, so is he. When we are confronted by the world which says "absolute truth" does not exist. They have made an Absolute statement by declaring such a thing. Under the terms of logic, therefore, their argument is easily dismissed and thrown into the dustbin of history, because they have contradicted themselves and are not even doing their own subjective analysis to "you do you".  

Jesus is the Way, the Truth, the Life - absolutely. We stand on that, forever and ever, against the wind and against the World. If we are to think Biblical - whatever things are True, we absolutely believe. Amen. 

Image Courtesy FREEBIBLE IMAGES (Thank you)