Bible Shorts With BibleBob

Can A Rubber Chicken on A fencepost Go the Extra Mile? or perhaps you've heard the more popular version of the old idiom, "A Turtle On A Fence Post Didn't Get There On Its Own!      I tried to find a turtle to put on a fence post, but they were too expensive (or I was too cheap!) What I do have is a flock of rubber chickens. You may have heard the question, "Why did the rubber chicken read the Bible? He wanted to correct his fowl language!      There's an old idiom that says, "A turtle on a fence post didn't get there on its own." I read a story about a farmer who would keep an eye out for turtles while plowing his fields. Upon seeing one, he would put the turtle on a fence post to keep it safe until he was done tilling the land, and then place the turtle back on the ground. When this idiom is taken literally, we can easily see why the farmer placed the turtle in such a high and lofty position. The turtle can't walk off a fence post; they can only travel on land when their feet are on the ground.      When this idiom is taken figuratively, it usually means that people don't become successful and achieve high and lofty positions without help. It can also be used to demonstrate how someone might be stuck until someone helps get them off the fence post. In both possible scenarios, help has either been provided or is needed. Encouragement is one of the simplest and easiest ways to help others.      To know the difference between literal and figurative, we have to either know what it means or figure it out within the context of the writing or conversation. Idioms are used, metaphorically, to change the literal meaning of a phrase and give it a figurative meaning. Sometimes encouragement has to go the extra mile to help someone get moving again. The story of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:29-37 is like that. Jesus was asked a simple question and he answered by telling a story that encourages us to be on the lookout for people who need help and encouragement. Here's the story in the Message Bible: "And just how would you define 'neighbor'?"  30-32 Jesus answered by telling a story. "There was once a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. On the way he was attacked by robbers. They took his clothes, beat him up, and went off leaving him half-dead. Luckily, a priest was on his way down the same road, but when he saw him he angled across to the other side. Then a Levite religious man showed up; he also avoided the injured man.  33-35 "A Samaritan traveling the road came on him. When he saw the man's condition, his heart went out to him. He gave him first aid, disinfecting and bandaging his wounds. Then he lifted him onto his donkey, led him to an inn, and made him comfortable. In the morning he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, 'Take good care of him. If it costs any more, put it on my bill—I'll pay you on my way back.' 36 "What do you think? Which of the three became a neighbor to the man attacked by robbers?" 37 "The one who treated him kindly," the religion scholar responded. Jesus said, "Go and do the same."  A good way for you to define neighbor is, "anyone who needs encouragement." The world needs more extra mile encouragers who help get turtles off fence posts and do what God designed them to do.  Thanks for your time. Go encourage somebody! Jesus loves you and so do we.  https://biblebob.org/how-to-subscribe-to-our-podcast-and-youtube-videos

Getting Through the Darkness of Hard Times 🕯️✝️🕯️  "For thou wilt light my candle: The LORD my God will enlighten my darkness." Psalm 18:28 This podcast/video was recorded inside a cliff dwelling where Native Americans lived many years ago. It was like a city on a hill with a view over the countryside. The reasons they vacated their homes could be many, but obviously they faced the darkness of hard times. Some night seasons that darken the soul are longer than others. Physical pain, emotional pain - relationship pains - can blot out hope of ever changing if you let them. God designed darkness to flee. The sun may disappear over the horizon of darkness, but it surely always reappears with the dawning of a new day. Even the dark of night is dotted with light from the moon and stars. A little light soon gives way to brighter light. Focus on the light within you on your darkest days and know that this too shall pass. You may not see the way forward, but trust that God does. He designed the seasons as he knows the way of your life. The four changing seasons of life are contained in one breath. 1. Exhale and let go. Allow darkness to fall away knowing it won't be with you forever. Let it go like Autumn leaves from trees. Forgive & Release. 2. In the split-second pause in between breaths is a rest. The Shabbat of creation. Growth appears to be frozen in a bleak midwinter. Pause, be still and know - God has a plan for light to come in your darkness. 3. Inhale the freshness of new beginnings in Spring. Just believe, your faith is a seed that will one day leave its place in the darkness under the soil and stretch to new life as it warms to the rays of the Son. 4. When the inhaled air hits your lungs, an explosion occurs. Fresh oxygen is pumped into your blood giving you a biological reset. God provides a fresh start in every breath. Every time we breathe, fresh oxygen enters our bodies, and the waste product of carbon dioxide is removed. A fresh start in every breath. The big picture in life is created one breath at a time. Stale air will leave your body, darkness won't stay in your life. You may have to survive one breath at a time in some seasons, but stay focused on the light for it will surely come to shine brighter with each passing breath. It's only a little light for now, but it will shine brighter as you believe. Yep, you've heard it before, "This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine." This too shall pass. You can get through the darkness of hard times with the light of Christ. He will strengthen you. Even in the darkness - especially in the darkness - it's your time to shine! Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we.  https://biblebob.org/how-to-subscribe-to-our-podcast-and-youtube-videos

Healed After 38 Years! You're Not Down - You're Either Up Or You're Getting Up! Our Bible verse to examine today is John 5:1-16 HCSB. "After this, a Jewish festival took place, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. By the Sheep Gate in Jerusalem there is a pool, called Bethesda in Hebrew, which has five colonnades. Within these lay a large number of the sick — blind, lame, and paralyzed — waiting for the moving of the water, because an angel would go down into the pool from time to time and stir up the water. Then the first one who got in after the water was stirred up recovered from whatever ailment he had. One man was there who had been sick for 38 years. When Jesus saw him lying there and knew he had already been there a long time, He said to him, "Do you want to get well? " "Sir," the sick man answered, "I don't have a man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, but while I'm coming, someone goes down ahead of me." "Get up," Jesus told him, "pick up your mat and walk! " Instantly the man got well, picked up his mat, and started to walk. Now that day was the Sabbath, so the Jews said to the man who had been healed, "This is the Sabbath! It's illegal for you to pick up your mat." He replied, "The man who made me well told me, 'Pick up your mat and walk.' " "Who is this man who told you, 'Pick up your mat and walk'? " they asked. But the man who was cured did not know who it was, because Jesus had slipped away into the crowd that was there. After this, Jesus found him in the temple complex and said to him, "See, you are well. Do not sin anymore, so that something worse doesn't happen to you." The man went and reported to the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well. Therefore, the Jews began persecuting Jesus because He was doing these things on the Sabbath." Here's a couple of definitions to start with:  * Jerusalem = "set ye double peace" * Bethesda = "house of mercy" or "flowing water" * Kairos (time) = a fixed and definite time, the time when things are brought to crisis, the decisive epoch waited for.       A double peace means physical and spiritual peace. You could think of it this way, "on earth as it is in heaven." Bethesda was known as a place for people to get healed. The healings only happened at unknown times. The times came and went before everyone was healed. Only the first one to dip in the stirred-up waters was healed.      One guy had been disabled for 38 years. He had some excuses why he was never able to get into the water first and be healed. Jesus didn't focus on the excuses, he just told him to do three things, "Get up, pick up your mat and walk!" Many teachings in the Bible leave us with a lot of questions. Perhaps the man said thank you, but we don't read about gratitude. We know he was a sinner, because when Jesus met him in the market he said, "See, you are well. Do not sin anymore, so that something worse doesn't happen to you."      What does the healed man do next? It appears the man, after meeting Jesus, immediately goes to the Jewish leaders and says it was Jesus who healed him. There's no way to know for sure, but it seems the man was more interested in gaining favor with religious leaders than he was in giving thanks and praise to Jesus. As soon as he told them about Jesus, the persecution of Jesus began. He must've known from the accusatory interrogation the Jews gave him about carrying his mat on the Sabbath that the religious leaders were only looking to cause trouble.      For crying out loud, a man crippled for 38 years was healed! That's good news worthy of celebration, but instead we have the beginning of persecution. It leaves a bad taste in my mouth. Questions To Ponder 1. Did the disabled man have a victim mentality? When Jesus asked the man, "Do you want to get well?" He answered with excuses. 2. Did the man appear to gain a personal relationship with Jesus? We don't read about him saying, "Thank you!" or "Let me go with you!" 3. If something good happens to you and somebody is unhappy about it, would you trust them? 4. Is the man's failure to physically get to the water an example of failed human effort without the spiritual effort of pursuing the mercy and Grace of God? 5. Would you wait 38 years as people jumped in the water before you? 6. Was it really about the water stirring or the Spirit of God stirring in people who were spiritually hungry enough to just believe? 7. How can you create "double peace?" Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we. biblebob.org

The cholla cactus has about 35 species that grow in many parts of the world. They can hurt you, but they are beautiful in full bloom! "We are often troubled, but not crushed; sometimes in doubt, but never in despair; there are many enemies, but we are never without a friend; and though badly hurt at times, we are not destroyed." 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 GNT The "Jumping" Cactus has the ability to seemingly "jump" onto people or animals. The Jumping Cholla is named for its spiny segments that seem to jump on people when they brush up against them. Because they're barbed, it's difficult and painful to remove them. You probably wouldn't want to "rub elbows" with a cactus! The Teddy Bear Cholla gets its name because it looks soft and fuzzy like a teddy bear you want to hug. Warning! Don't hug a cholla cactus! Its spines are sharp and will easily stick you like a fish hook! Don't cuddle this cuddly looking cactus! You will be painfully sorry if you do! Vibrant Flowers: Despite their tough appearance, Cholla cacti produce beautiful, vibrant flowers. Edible Fruits: While most people avoid the Cholla Cactus due to its painful spines, its fruits are actually edible. Native American tribes, particularly in the southwestern U.S., have historically harvested Cholla buds and fruit, carefully removing the spines before consuming them. Wildlife Habitat: Their spiny branches provide shelter and nesting sites for a variety of desert animals, including birds like the cactus wren and Gila woodpecker. The cactus also serves as a food source for desert tortoises and other small mammals. Cholla Skeletons: Once the cactus dies, its skeleton (the inner wood-like structure) remains and is often used for decorative purposes or crafts. The intricate, lattice-like design makes Cholla skeletons popular in-home décor, furniture, and art. How Can You Be A Cactus Christian? The Cholla Cactus is: 1. Resilient - Christians have the ability to adapt and bounce back from setbacks. 2. Persevering - Christians are overcomers and believe that God will finish the work He began in us. 3. Endurance - comes through the testing of faith. 4. Deep roots - the Bible is the deep well to draw from life is hard. 5. Stores water for dry times - resilience in reserve - memorize Bible verses. The cholla grows where other plants can't. My wife and I met and got married after God used an organization called Climbing For Christ to introduce us to each other. The mission of Climbing for Christ is to go where most people cannot or will not go to reach unreached people. Christians like chollas go to hard places and plant seeds, God brings the growth. Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we. #bibleshortswithbiblebob #ywap4Christ #JLYASDW

Can A Woman Be A Pastor? There are about eight major Christian Denominations who do not allow women to serve as Pastors. The first mention of Pastor in the Bible is in Jeremiah: "As for me, I have not hastened from being a pastor to follow thee: neither have I desired the woeful day; thou knowest: that which came out of my lips was right before thee." Jeremiah 17:16 KJV We find the word in the plural in Ephesians: "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;" Ephesians 4:11 KJV The verse that most folks camp out on when they say women should not be allowed to serve as Pastors is found in Paul's first letter to Timothy: "A woman should learn in silence with full submission. I do not allow a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; instead, she is to be silent." 1 Timothy 2:11-12 HCSB Why did Paul want women to be silent? When studying a Bible verse, it's always wise to consider these things: 1. Who is the author and what is the purpose of his message? 2. The recipient or audience of his message. 3. The cultural background, customs or way of life. 4. The historical time period. Analyze the context of the message through the lens of these four steps and it will broaden your understanding. Now let's go directly to 1 Timothy 2:11-12. Paul is the author who is writing to Timothy, the Pastor of the church in Ephesus. The city was the home of one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the Temple of the Greek Goddess Artemis. Men were subservient to women, and the creation story was inverted to give the woman first place and domination over man. The culture of the time period revolved around the superiority of women over men. This served in contrast to Paul's message to Timothy. Many people will interpret this passage differently, but here's my take on it: 1. If a person comes into your church as a new convert or a stranger that nobody knows, would you allow them to teach a lesson or pray over other people? There's a vetting process that investigates the trustworthiness of newcomers. You've got to get to know somebody before you allow them to speak. 2. The Bible is full of women leaders trusted by God to shepherd His people. Deborah was a great leader. In the podcast/video, I mention that Mary, the mother of Jesus, shepherds me through her humble obedience. I am moved to follow her example. The word "Pastors" in Greek is, "poimēn." Outline of Biblical Usage: * a herdsman, esp. a shepherd * he to whose care and control others have committed themselves, and whose precepts they follow * metaph. the presiding officer, manager, director, of any assembly: so of Christ the Head of the church of the overseers of the Christian assemblies of kings and princes "A shepherd in the Near East was responsible for watching out for enemies trying to attack the sheep, defending the sheep from attackers, healing the wounded and sick sheep, finding and saving lost or trapped sheep, loving them, and sharing their lives and to earn their trust." *Taken from the Blue Letter Bible Here's a good question to think about: Is a pastor the title of a job or a spiritual calling? Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we.

Getting your axe together means using God's wisdom to sharpen your decision-making and problem-solving skills and waiting on His best plan for your success.      Pastor Wade and his wife Natalie are the leaders at Passion Vineyard Church in Cottonwood, AZ. If you're looking for an outreach, community-minded place to serve God and your neighbors - THIS IS THE PLACE FOLKS! Today's episode of God Stories was recorded on an axe throwing lane the men's ministry uses as part of their plan to sharpen each other in God's Word and serving the community.       When faced with a big life decision - like selling a house, Pastor Wade and Natalie, while respecting the opinions of the real estate professionals, they chose instead to patiently follow God's leading. His advice was better. This is their God Story. In           Ecclesiastes 10:10 in the Amplified Bible we read: "If the axe is dull and he does not sharpen its edge, then he must exert more strength; but wisdom [to sharpen the axe] helps him succeed [with less effort]."      HBU? Do you have a God Story that will encourage and uplift people who may be facing a hard time or big life decision? We'd love to hear it! Send us your God Story to [email protected] and maybe we can tell it to the world!      Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we. PS. If you'd like to see our axe throwing, please tune into our YouTube Channel at: https://youtu.be/J55p-HV1Mcc #GodStoriesWithBiblebob #Bibleshortswithbiblebob #WhatsYourGodStory #ywap4Christ #JLYASDW

AUTHOR'S NOTE: The video version of this podcast features me watering a garden as I sing the song. The singing is not something you'd probably pay to download from Itunes, but the visuals tell a greater story. Either way, I hope you get to spend a few moments imaginging yourself in the garden with Jesus - just after He walks out of an empty tomb. DO YOU HAVE A GARDEN?  "But Mary [who had returned] was standing outside the tomb sobbing; and so, as she wept, she stooped down and looked into the tomb;" John 20:11 AMP "I Come to the Garden Alone"  I come to the garden alone, While the dew is still on the roses, And the voice I hear falling on my ear The Son of God discloses. Refrain: And He walks with me, and He talks with me, And He tells me I am His own; And the joy we share as we tarry there, None other has ever known. He speaks, and the sound of His voice Is so sweet the birds hush their singing, And the melody that He gave to me Within my heart is ringing. I'd stay in the garden with Him, Though the night around me be falling, But He bids me go; through the voice of woe His voice to me is calling.       "The writer of this lovely song was Charles Austin Miles. He was born in 1868 and became a pharmacist, but his real love was writing poetry and songs to the glory of God. He said this: "It is as a writer of gospel songs I'm proud to be known, for in that way I may be of the most use to my Master whom I serve willingly, although not as efficiently as is my desire." He wrote a number of songs and published them, and this was probably his most famous one. Listen to his own words about this hymn, which I'll quote from a book called 101 Hymn Stories by Kenneth Osbeck:      One day in March 1912, I was seated in the dark room where I kept my photographic equipment and organ. I drew my Bible towards me. It opened at my favourite chapter, John 20—whether by chance or inspiration, let each reader decide. That meeting of Jesus and Mary had lost none of its power to charm. As I read it that day, I seemed to be part of the scene. I became a silent witness to that dramatic moment in Mary's life when she knelt before her Lord and cried, "Rabboni!"      My hands were resting on the Bible whilst I stared at the light blue wall. As the light faded, I seemed to be standing at the entrance of a garden, looking down a gently winding path shaded by olive branches. A woman in white, with head bowed, hand clasping her throat as if to choke back her sobs, walked slowly into the shadows. It was Mary. As she came to the tomb, upon which she placed her hand, she bent over to look in and hurried away. John, in flowing robe, appeared, looking at the tomb. Then came Peter, who entered the tomb, followed slowly by John.      As they departed, Mary reappeared, leaning her hand upon her arm at the tomb. She wept. Turning herself, she saw Jesus standing—and so did I. I knew it was He. She knelt before Him with arms outstretched and, looking into His face, cried, "Rabboni!" I awakened in full light, gripping the Bible with muscles tense and nerves vibrating.      Under the inspiration of the vision, I wrote as quickly as the words could be formed the poem exactly as it has since appeared. That same evening I wrote the music. *Text taken from: lukepowellministries .com/friday-classic-hymns/in-the-garden-story-behind-the-hymn      Imagine yourself looking into the tomb of Jesus. He's not there. You hear a voice behind you. Turning to the sound of the voice, you see Jesus. What does He say to you? Pray within yourself. Imagine being in the garden after the crucifixion and you turn to see Jesus alive.      Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we.

"But his wife looked back from behind him, and she became a pillar of salt." Genesis 19:26 The unnamed wife and mother turned, looked, and died. Lot's wife has no name, we know her only by what she became: a pillar of salt. Did the way she died reveal the way she lived? Was she a good woman who just made a fatal mistake of disobedience? "As soon as the angels got them outside, one of them said, "Run for your lives! Don't look back and don't stop anywhere on the plain! Run to the mountains, or you will be swept away!" Genesis 19:17 HCSB Did she deserve another chance after not doing what she was told? Turning someone into a pillar of salt for just taking a peek seems kind of harsh, or is it? Reading about the character of her husband gives us a great contrast in dubious behaviors. Read the whole story, he offered his virgin daughters to perverts outside his door to spare two visitors from being sexually abused. That in itself seems like grounds for becoming a pillar of salt. Instead, it's his wife and mother of his children who becomes the first human saltshaker. One clue we find as we examine the passage through the exposotory lens of ancient Hebrew is the word for the term, "look back." The word in Hebrew is "nabat" (naw-bat.) It means to' regard, look, show regard to, pay attention to, consider." Following the definition further in the Strong's Concordance, we find meanings like, "have respect for, to regard with pleasure, look intently at, favor or care." It's always God's call and He doesn't always give the exact reason He acts, but it seems to me the simple answer would be, look to Christ or look to worldly happenings and pursuits. Make a decision, follow Christ and be obedient to His directions. The Story of A Stone In the Road (Read from the Book of Virtues) A king places a stone in a road and hides behind a bush to see what passersby will do. Three different people go by complaining about the laziness of someone who left a stone in the middle of the road.  A small girl appears at twilight. She's going home after working since early i the morning. She sees the stone and says to herself, "I must move this stone. It's getting dark and someone might trip over it." She pushes and pushes and pushes, until finally she removes the stone from the road. Under the stone was a box with a note that said the box was a gift for whoever moved the stone. Upon opening the box, the little girl found gold. The tree guys who passed by as complainers heard what happened and came back to the spot looking for gold and found nothing. God places people and circumstances in our way and on our way to building our character. Listen to the story and think about what your response has been when you found something left in the wrong place. * Did you blame somebody? * Did you walk in by and do nothing?  * Did you move the problem left by others? * Did you look back and complain? Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we. biblebob.org

When you look at the life of a successful person and you don't know their history, it's hard to imagine them living a different life. In God Story #3, Lori Matthews gives a candid look at the woman she used to be. Lori was a "Santa Claus" kind of Christian. She was living life the world's way and only prayed for what she wanted - as if God is Santa Claus. Life was good, so she believed she must be good - and then God spilled His life-stream all over her. In an event that can only be described as phenomenally supernatural, Lori was in Israel, overcome emotionally in a tomb, which was representative of the burial place of Christ, Lori was physically splattered in red fluid. Lori explains in this podcast/video that she was pretty much a non-practicing Christian at the time this event occurred. Getting emotional about Christ was something that surprised her. After her emotions took control, (or God used them like a burning bush to get her attention,) that's when the Life-blood of Christ poured over her like a flow of new life. She has never been the same as her life drastically took on a new direction. Lori became the Founder/Director of Anew Living - a transitional housing facility for addicted and homeless people. Having no experience in running a nonprofit or social work, her God inspired motel had an 85% success rate for people going through the program and starting life over. Anew Living has been turned over to the Dream Center and continues changing lives. Lori went on to be elected as a Councilwoman for the City of Flagstaff, AZ. She's currently running for a second term. One of the most special things we can say about Lori is her tenacity and the resilience she brings to whatever she's involved in. She didn't just start a mentoring organization; she started mentoring relationships that last lifelong. Thank you, Lori, for your God story. We know He will keep using you to tell more of His story. Jesus loves you and so do we. #ywap4Christ #bibleshortswithbiblebob #JLYASDW

     In 1861, Victor Hugo wrote a work of historical fiction called, "Les Miserables." Our focus today is on redemption of the thief. A man caught stealing bread for his family ends up serving 19 years in prison. When he's finally released, he's forced to wear a yellow tag that says, "THIEF." Nobody will give him a job and he struggles to eat.      A Bishop invites the wretched man experiencing extreme poverty into his home. He feeds him and gives him a place to stay. Having lived most of his life as a victim, he sees the opportunity to steal from the Bishop as perhaps the last chance to improve his miserable life. After the Bishop goes to bed, the man packs the silverware and candlesticks into a bag and sneaks off into the dark of night. The Police catch him' The thief makes up a story and tries to explain that the Bishop gave him the bag full of valuable items as gift. Not falling for the fictitious story, they bring him back to the Bishop.      The Bishop tells the Police that he did indeed give the items to the thief as a gift. He then tells the thief that he forgot some of the candlesticks and proceeds to give the man more to carry off. Imagine that, giving someone who stole from you more than he stole in the first place! He tells the thief to look for a higher plan at work in what's happening.      The Bishop then mentions the Passion and the Blood (of Christ) before telling the thief that God has raised him out of darkness, and his soul has been bought for God. What an incredible story of compassion fueled by the wisdom, insight and knowledge of God. Just as Jesus death on the cross paid the price for our sins and purchased our redemption through salvation, the bishop purchased the thief's freedom from the curse of the law and the penalty for his sin.     "You were bought with a price [you were actually purchased with the precious blood of Jesus and made His own]. So then, honor and glorify God with your body." 1 Corinthians 6:20 AMP       "Christ purchased our freedom [redeeming us] from the curse (doom) of the Law [and its condemnation] by [Himself] becoming a curse for us, for it is written [in the Scriptures], Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree (is crucified);" Galatians 3:13 AMPC As the Blood of Christ purchased our freedom from the law, and we don't receive the punishment the law demands; your offering of generosity is an act of charity and a down payment to purchase freedom from wretchedness for those living miserably. Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we. #bibleshortswithbiblebob #JLYASDW

It's not easy being a young person with a Christian faith in a public school. Sometimes you have to take a stand and defend your faith. In God Stories With Biblebob Episode 2, Jeb Blanchard gives a great description of respectful debate with students who have opposing viewpoints. Jeb was mocked for wearing a "Charlie Kirk Wristband." Students made fun of Jeb and mocked Charlie. If you're unaware of who Charlie is, he was the Founder of Turning Point USA who was assassinated. He was a good man who respectfully engaged in debates about Biblical morality. Jeb defended Charlie and his faith in Jesus Christ. Folks, there's a ton of wisdom here in this short, but powerful episode. ARE YOU INTERESTED IN SHARING YOUR GOD STORY? You might have a miracle story, a story of courage, a story of faith or maybe you want to share how your belief in Christ or reading the Bible changed your life. Have a God story? send us a message, [email protected] Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we. #bibleshortswithbiblebob #JLYASDW

When Uzzah was struck down and killed by God, David was understandably angry. In one of the more puzzling Bible episodes, we discover it's not wise to assume we know how to do things God's way without asking Him. "When they came to Nacon's threshing floor, Uzzah reached out to the ark of God and took hold of it because the oxen had stumbled. Then the Lord's anger burned against Uzzah, and God struck him dead on the spot for his irreverence, and he died there next to the ark of God. David was angry because of the Lord's outburst against Uzzah, so he named that place an Outburst Against Uzzah, as it is today. David feared the Lord that day and said, "How can the ark of the Lord ever come to me?" 2 Samuel 6:6-9 HCSB Nachon = "prepared" A threshing floor is a place of separation as in wheat separated from the chaff or useless part. It's also used as a spiritual metaphor of judgement. Uzza or Uzzah = "strength" By placing the Ark on a new cart, the Israelites were simply using a new way of the world's way instead of moving it God's way. In Numbers 4 we read that the people were not allowed to touch the holy things, but were to use poles; "and when the camp setteth forward, Aaron shall come, and his sons, and they shall take down the covering vail, and cover the ark of testimony with it: and shall put thereon the covering of badgers' skins, and shall spread over it a cloth wholly of blue, and shall put in the staves thereof." Numbers 4:5-6 KJV "When Aaron and his sons have finished covering the sanctuary and all its furniture, as the camp sets out, after all that [is done but not before], the sons of Kohath shall come to carry them. But they shall not touch the holy things, lest they die. These are the things of the Tent of Meeting which the sons of Kohath are to carry." Numbers 4:15 AMPC Staves: Hebrew, baḏ. Meaning: alone, by itself, besides, a part, separation, being alone, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; extended from something, of poles or staves used for carrying the ark. We often rationalize in our carnal minds that if it feels good God - must want us to do it or have it. It's wise to always remember what Isaiah says in chapter 55:9, "For as heaven is higher than earth, so My ways are higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts." David Learns from His Mistakes "For because ye did it not at the first, the LORD our God made a breach upon us, for that we sought him not after the due order. So the priests and the Levites sanctified themselves to bring up the ark of the LORD God of Israel. And the children of the Levites bare the ark of God upon their shoulders with the staves thereon, as Moses commanded according to the word of the LORD." 1 Chronicles 15:13-15 KJV "Because you did not [carry it as God directed] the first time, the Lord our God made an [angry] outburst against us, for we did not seek Him in accordance with the ordinance." [Num 1:50; 1 Chr 13:7-10] So the priests and the Levites consecrated (dedicated) themselves to bring up the ark of the Lord God of Israel. The Levites carried the ark of God on their shoulders with the poles, as Moses commanded in accordance with the word of the Lord."1 Chronicles 15:13-15 AMP David did what seemed right to him without asking what was the right way in the will of God. It may seem like a small thing, but when I forget to pray before doing this podcast/video, they're not as in depth and spiritually accurate as God intends them to be. Sometimes I stumble like the oxen. A good question to ask before making a decision is: "Am I doing this on my own or with God's guidance?" Uzzah whose name means "strength" reached out with man's arm to help the Hand of God. Bad move homie. God doesn't need our help. Uzzah's name comes from the root word, "uz," which means "strength." You've heard of the Israeli invention "the uzzi?" It's name is derived from the same root and means "gun of strength." David took the Ark from the Philistines cart and put it on a new cart. Bad move King! You can't use the world's ways and expect God to bless your efforts. There is a holy way to reach God. We often make a cart of our own desires instead of following His directions found in the Bible. Don't put God on your own cart. Ask Him for His heart before you move or you might stumble like an oxen or get taken out like Uzzah. Just sayin..... JLYASDW

What if You Only Had Forty-Seven Days Left? "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him. And he will eat with me." Revelation 3:20 ICB  "For everyone who asks receives, and the one who searches finds, and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." Matthew 7:8 HCSB  "I am the Door; anyone who enters through Me will be saved [and will live forever], and will go in and out [freely], and find pasture (spiritual security)." John 10:9 AMP After today is over, the students in my 7th & 8th Grade classes only have 47 days left in this school year. In only 47 days they'll walk out of the front door of the school. A return is never guaranteed. To see people you know again is never guaranteed. HBU? What if you only had 47 days left or even less? Your opportunity to leave a favorable first impression may have long passed. How you've treated your neighbors, friends, employers, employees, adversaries, classmates, teachers and staff - is how they'll remember you. There's only 47 days to leave a favorable impression- lasting impression. What will folks say of you - years from now, as they look back on these last days? Will they fondly remember you as a kind, helpful and humble soul? At the mention of your name will the word "selfish" come to mind. Let's chew on the number 47 as a snack with Hebrew definitions as our ingredients. The number four in Hebrew is the word, "dalet" and means "open door" and is sometimes referred to as the "poor man (poor in spirit or humble and contrite,) ready to receive. The number seven in Hebrew is the word, "shevah" which means "completion of the cycle or fullness." Today you have before you an open door to complete this day in the fullness of humility. Will you be remembered as one who was teachable, humble, encouraging and willing to help when the need arose? Will you arise to the occasion of the 47 day clarion call? It would be wise to begin your next minute by opening the door of your heart to Jesus. Ask Him how to best treat other people. We take Communion in remembrance of Him. We can love others in remembrance of Him as well and others may remember us as well by living as good neighbors and sharing Christ as the way of loving well. Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we.

Along with Mary: the other ladies listed in the lineage of Christ were Tamar, Rahab, Ruth and Bathsheba. Tamar whose name in Hebrew means, "palm tree," was a destitute widow who, out of extreme desperation, became a fake prostitute. Her first husband was wicked and God took him out. The man's brother, married her, but was wicked and God took him out. The father-in-law Judah then promised (deceitfully) to give Tamar his other son as a husband when he was old enough. When Tamar realized that Judah had no intention of fulfilling his promise, she devised a deceitful plan of her own. She disguised herself as a prostitute. Her father-in-law not recognizing her, fell for the immoral bait and she became pregnant.Tamar became pregnant and gave birth to a son named Perez. His name will resurface a little bit later in our story of the messy lineage of Christ. So, after our fake prostitute we meet a real prostitute. Rahab was a harlot who hid the spies of Israel when their mission of espionage was uncovered. She helped the spies escape, but not before securing a promise to deliver her and her family from God's impending judgement. Rahab wanted to be gone when the walls came tumbling down. Rahab became the mother of a guy named Boaz. So now we've heard about a fake prostitute and a real prostitute who became deceivers because they were so destitute. Moving onto our next equally or perhaps even more lurid story, we have sweet little Ruthie! Everything we read about Ruth in the four chapters that bear her name are positive and pleasant for the most part. We do see Ruth experiencing the death of her husband and then leaves the only home she's ever known to follow her mother-in-law into an unknown future marked with poverty. There must be some skeletons in her closet! We could ask the question, "What is the ancestry of Ruth? Or, we could ask the question, "What is the Incestry of Ruth?" You may remember the story of Sodom and Gomorrah. A land immorality to the max. God's judgement rained down upon the devious people who refused to to turn from their wicked ways. Remember Father Abraham who had many sons? He had a nephew who lived among the depraved degenerates. His name was Lot. He had a wife and two daughters. On the day of God's judgement, they were told to run for their lives and not turn back. Some people just don't listen! Lot's wife turned around to put her eyes on evil being eradicated. In the blink of an eye she became the salt of a tear drop without moisture. Lots wife became the first salt shaker! Jesus told us to remember this episode in Luke 17:32, He said, "Remember Lot's wife." Lot and his daughters escaped and lived in a cave. Hebrew tradition says that the daughters believed the whole world had perished. Not seeing Adam and Eve to start the whole human race all over again, they decided to take the matter of creation into their own hands. They got their father drunk and had had sex with him. Yep folks, there's incest in the ancestry which makes for incestry! Two boys were born, Moab and Ammon. They became the founders of the Moabites and the Ammonites - pagan people who might of just as well have been mosquito bites! Now we go back to sweet little Ruthie - she was a Moabite! You just had to know there was a skeleton in her closet! Ruthie followed her mother-in-law and the two widows walked through the pain of loss and persevered through poverty as they journeyed into the lineage of Christ. They made choices along the way. We still have time to check out one more lady in the lineage of Christ, Bathsheba. Methinks she was in a semi-private place where King David just happened to see her and then temptation took over. I believe this was the wrongful abuse of a woman by a man. I will leave it at that. In 2 Samuel 11:4 we read, "So David sent messengers and took her, and she came to him, and he lay with her." The key words I see that make me feel kind of grimy in my gut are, "took her." That's not a romantic invitation. David commits adultery, has her husband murdered and his child dies. The lineage of Christ has an unbelievable mess bigger than all the steamy soap operas in the history of the world. Bigger than any mess we could possibly conceive or imagine. We are called to be messengers of the Messiah who never met a mess He couldn't anoint with a fresh start. Imagine the mess of a crucified Savior who died to cover the mess of our sins? Jesus is the greatest mess mediator of all time. The word Messiah means, "anointed or anointed one." By carrying the message of the Messiah you are carrying the anointing of Christ - to have and to hold, to give and to share.

Conquering Corner Cutting   "Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully. [Ps. 55:22.]" 1 Peter 5:7 AMPC   The definition of "Cutting Corners" according to the Cambridge Dictionary is: to save money or time when doing something by not including some parts, actions, or details, so that the result is not as good as it could be. Synonyms for "Cutting Corners" according to Thesaurus .com include: conserve, cut down, scrimp, skimp, cut back, be frugal. Cutting Corners is not always a bad thing if it's part of Plan B when Plan A isn't possible. Here's the most important consideration when face with being forced to cutback: Don't cut corners on the intentions of your heart. WHAT IS YOUR GOAL?  Your Goal is Defined by your Purpose and Intention. They are the Adhesives that hold your Plan together. Here's an example from planning a special meal for 180 people at a free food pantry. Plan A included a chili dinner for 180. Due to many circumstances, the possibility of not having enough chili-cookers led to the temptation of cutting corners. Those possibilities multiplied with less volunteers being available. While anxiety over the situation is a natural human response, a pause, (a be still and know God moment,) which led to prayer - a means of casting your burden onto God's shoulders. "Cast your burden on the Lord [releasing the weight of it] and He will sustain you; He will never allow the [consistently] righteous to be moved (made to slip, fall, or fail). [I Pet. 5:7.]" Psalm 55:22 AMPC  The Goal for this outreach is to help people know how Worthy they are To Be Loved. To help make them Feel Special. To Share with them the Joy of Knowing Christ. To Create an Experience where the Peace of Christ, through the Works of Our Hearts causes Overflowing Thankfulness.  Instead of Subtracting all chili due to not having enough chili-cookers, we've urged the few that we do have to press on.   We will Engage in Addition by adding grilled hotdogs. We will Believe In Multiplication by the Spirit to help us Accomplish what our Hearts Set On Christ set out to do in the first place. Today's Assignment Find an example in the Bible of cutting corners. Read it, pray about it and then present what you've learned from it to your class. Learning Objectives Research & Reading Comprehension Presentation Skills & Microphone Competency.   Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we.

In Hebrews 1:7 we read, "And of the angels He says: "Who makes His angels spirits And His ministers a flame of fire." In some translations "the angels are like the winds and servants like flames of fire."       Imagine yourself as being on fire for God with a flame that never goes out! The setting for this podcast/video is at the Eternal Flame in Chestnut Ridge Park located just outside of Buffalo in Orchard Park, NY. Methane gas seeps up through the shale and burns continuously. In the rare times that bad weather causes the flame to go out, its easily reignited by hand.       My focus was not so much on angels, although they are real and the Bible does have a lot to say about them, my focus was more on being an eternal flame for God. If your light goes out, get back in your Bible and get reignited in Christ.       Thanks for your time. Go do something nide for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we. #ywap4Christ #BibleShortsWithBiblebob #JLYASDW

                    How To Find Real Joy This is the first episode in the launch of our new series, "God Stories With Biblebob."       These are testimonies about what God has done in someone's life. They could be about a miracle, a powerful life-change or simply a cool story about God doing something in everyday life for common folks like you and me.      Today's featured testimony is called, "How To Find Real Joy.," with Author and very well-respected lady known for being extremely gifted in prophetic prayer. Her name is Linda Kuebler, and she just happens to be my Wifey4lifey!      Linda has authored a book called, "Heavenly Happenings - How The God of Heaven Revealed Himself To Me." It's available on Amazon. You can also receive the book by sending a donation of any amount to youthwithapurpose.org/uploads/1/8/2/8/18287293/published/paypal-qr-code.png?1587152356      You can also contact [email protected] and request the book and we'll be glad to tell you how to get it. Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we.

January 8, 2026 What Are Your Limitations? "So I wouldn't get a big head, I was given the gift of a handicap to keep me in constant touch with my limitations. Satan's angel did his best to get me down;  what he in fact did was push me to my knees. No danger then of walking around high and mighty! At first I didn't think of it as a gift, and begged God to remove it. Three times I did that, and then he told me,  My grace is enough; it's all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness.  Once I heard that, I was glad to let it happen. I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift.  It was a case of Christ's strength moving in on my weakness.  Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size—abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks. I just let Christ take over!  And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become." 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 MSG A Legless Woman In A Homeless Shelter       In the middle of the night I couldn't sleep - my thoughts were zeroed in on the lady with no legs in a wheelchair.       I'd seen her first in the street in the rain. I tried to talk to her, but she just wheeled herself on by.      Later, inside the Shelter I asked if she wanted something to eat. At first she acted like she didn't understand. I persisted.       Bending down to her level, face to face, it appeared that she combined her limited hearing with reading my lips.      She wanted to know what the meal was as she was limited in what she could eat. I brought a plate back.       As I held the plate, she groaned and bent over trying to spread a red & white crocheted afghan. When I understood what she was trying to do I set the plate down and helped her.      She twisted her small body in the wheelchair and allowed gravity to pull her body down on the afghan. That was her resting place - a thin barrier on the cold concrete floor.      She freed her hands that had been pulled up into her sleeves for warmth and took the plate. She looked up at me and said, "Why?"      I neither understood her question nor did I know what to say. What came out of mouth was, "Because Jesus loves you."       She had a male companion who came and stood beside me. He is in and out of the throes of addiction from the unhealed condition of PTSD. We prayed.      The woman with no legs reached for my hand, looked me in the eye and said thank you.        What happened in the middle of the night is happening again as I write this. This woman had limitations and so do I. My whole heart, soul, mind are going into moisture mode. Yep, that means I'm in tears. Self Reflection Questions Do you see limitations as opportunities? Did you ever recognize a limitation that God gave you to bring you closer to Him? Have you ever helped someone walk through their limitations? How does giving your limitations to God prepare you for success in the future?.   Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody.  Jesus loves you and so do we. biblebob.org

HE SEVEN POVERTY'S OF CHRISTMAS ~ Day 18 The Angels Return To Heaven Christmas was now over and the angels had finished their assignments. It was time to pack their wings and catch a flight back to heaven. Most of them were glad to go back to the Place of No Pain, No Tears & No Sorrows. A few of the angels though, had other ideas. There was a message from Wisdom that seemed to affect them more than the others. The message was, "He desires that none should perish." We may never understand why, but some beings go the extra mile. These angels originated from a rare heavenly lineage of Spirit Messengers. The hallmark of their character was going Beyond Expectations. Wisdom gave them a name, they were called The Beyonders. Before going back to heaven, these angels looked beyond the horizon. From the mountain on which they rested, the angels could almost see the gentle curve of the earth. Each one of them scanned the earth for those who might be succumbing to perishing circumstances. On December 18 when their journey began, the angels had taken notice of a group of Beyonders among the people on earth. They were known as Pastors who acted as Shepherds. They were tasked with teaching people about Love, Humility and Wisdom. The Pastor's had organized an Event With Residual Effects. The event was called Christmas For Kids. Over 1,000 children and their families freely received the blessings of gifts and Encouraging Love. Even a revered figure in human lore called Santa Claus greeted children with a Manger Message of New Beginnings. The Pastor's had hoped the event would plant Seeds of Good Neighborliness. It did that and more. The angels were experts at orchestrating Divine Appointments. They arranged for a man who had traveled from a faraway Perishing Place to connect with one of the Pastor's. The man came from a community where the Perish Root had grown. The angels knew that People Who Perish were not Born To Perish. Life becomes hard and some folks become bitter. Hard lives and bitter hearts become soils where the Perish Root sprouts in despair. After sharing some heart knowledge, the angels caused a Heart-Storm to pass over the Pastor's Heart. He told the man that any leftover gifts would be delivered to the people in the Land of Diminished Opportunity. On the afternoon of December 18 after the first Residual Event was finished, the Pastors loaded the man's truck with Residual Blessings Leftover from the Residual Event. There was a little girl with Humble Desires who lived in the Perishing Place. The people who lived there were good people with hard lives. Opportunity was increasingly perishing which only serves to Accelerate a Perishing Mindset. The little girl was asked what gift she would like for Christmas. Out of the depths of her pure heart she replied, "I want some firewood for my Grandmother so she can stay warm this winter." Humble Desires are Wisdom's Way of using Residual Blessings to Enlarge the Territory of Love on Earth as it is in Heaven. The little girl was given wood and so much more. The Leftover Blessings created a Surplus of Multiplication that Keeps On Giving Beyond Expectations. Go and do likewise. "In the same way, wisdom is sweet to your soul. If you find it, you will have a bright future, and your hopes will not be cut short." ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭24:14‬ ‭NLT‬‬ "He will not forget the needs of the poor. One day the needy will be remembered, and their hopes will not be forever dashed in disappointment." ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭9:18‬ ‭TPT‬‬ "A shepherd should pay close attention to the faces of his flock and hold close to his heart the condition of those he cares for." ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭27:23‬ ‭TPT‬‬

THE SEVEN POVERTY'S OF CHRISTMAS ~ Day 17  Doing Life In A Manger Place Twas the day before Christmas and all through the earth, the angels were happy about the pending New Birth! Their week in the world below heaven was almost over. Gladness was mixed with sadness as they knew joy was always one step away from sorrow. In the blink of an eye, life could be turned upside down. Although the Christmas season had been commercially expanded, the reason for the season seem to be getting more lost in the money. That's where folks on earth were finding their value these days. People ignored the fact that money can't buy love and it's useless against loneliness. Still, they persisted in using money as a fake healer. On this 24th day of December, the angels had 24 hours to visit both the Place of Gladness and the Place of Sadness. Despite the opposite nature of their names, these places existed side by side. Old folks who knew Wisdom, were given the ability to look back on the journey of their lives and see how they'd traveled frequently between both places. The angels were energized at being able to lay out a plan for the people called: "Doing Life In A Manger Place." It would be easy for Wisdom to gather all the people on earth and teach them a lesson all at once. That's what a teacher does in a classroom, but the Lesson of Wisdom is only learned through Life. The angels had to utilize Life Lessons to reach both the Teachable and Unteachable. Their is a Final Place of Sadness for Unteachable folks. A Manger Place is small and tucked away in a Humble Heart. The Manger is a Birthplace and Beliefplace. The structure contains beams of gladness held by nails of sadness. Within its walls are sounds of travail and the silence of unspeakable joy.  All things are birthed together for good in the Beliefplace. The Manger has Food for Thought bought with Poverty Money. The Value of Little becomes Greater in the Manger. All creatures Great and Small, there's Room in the Manger for folks who answer Wisdom's Call.  The manger is a place for the tired and poor to Receive Refreshment. The manger is a door to a Peace that Surpasses All Understanding. Some who pass this way may never leave and go back the way they came. Heaven lies beyond the Manger Door. Gladness or Sadness, they both shall pass, Tis better to live Life in a Manger Place. The Landlord is your Savior who will never reject you or abandon you. The life you live was chosen for you and influenced by the choices you make.  The Landlord of the world knew you before you were born. His journey for you is unique. You are Specially Chosen, Highly Valued and Deemed Worthy to carry Beams of Gladness with Nails of Sadness. The sun only rises after darkness has befallen the world. The Son has risen in the Manger Place to redeem a fallen world.  Live your Life in the Manger Place and let the Son rise within you. Joy to the world your Savior's here! Joy to the world it's freedom you hear! Start over again. Be born again. So be it, just believe it and say Amen! "And if I were to be so generous  as to give away everything I owned  to feed the poor,  and to offer my body  to be burned as a martyr,  without the pure motive of love,  I would gain nothing of value.  Love is large and incredibly patient.  Love is gentle and consistently kind to all.  It refuses to be jealous  when blessing comes to someone else.  Love does not brag  about one's achievements  nor inflate its own importance.  Love does not traffic  in shame and disrespect,  nor selfishly seek its own honor.  Love is not easily irritated  or quick to take offense.  Love joyfully celebrates honesty  and finds no delight in what is wrong.  Love is a safe place of shelter,  for it never stops  believing the best for others.  Love never takes failure as defeat,  for it never gives up." ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13:3-7‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Coming Next: Back To Heaven Friday, December 24, 2021

THE SEVEN POVERTY'S of CHRISTMAS ~ Day 16 A Mindset In A Manger The angels were glad that their prison visitations were over. Funny thing though, it wasn't as hard as they had made up their minds it would be. The biggest challenge they faced was hearing the taunting voices of the fallen angels. "You too will fall! You won't make it in heaven! Wisdom is too hard for you to understand!"  The taunting put downs stopped when the angels set their minds on things above and things that had fallen. Today is December 23, two days before Christmas when their earthly journey will end. Like Teachers, they would never really know how many lives had benefited from their efforts. The Blessing of Deficit was a heavenly concept that brought an Income of Grace for those who embraced it. Today the angels would enter the territory of the Prison of One's Own Mind. Many people on earth created jail cells in their own bodies. As creation on earth groaned on, the devil had become a Master of Deception by gaining control of most forms of media. Public Communication was manipulated through blatant lies, misinformation and partial truths. The goal of the enemy was to create fear and isolation.  To protect themselves from fear, folks began to quarantine in their own minds. Seclusion became a protection. Segregation became a safety net. Isolation became an acceptable detention. Home confinement became an assurance of immunity. The culture around them became insistent on creating within them a Shelter Mindset. Messages were sent to solidify the Mindset,  "You'll be safe as long as you don't leave your shelter." "There's unsafe people outside your home." "Listen to the media and you'll the truth." People were freely persuaded to imprison themselves in their own mindsets. The angels were awestruck at the simplicity of recognizing the deception that controlled human mindsets. The huddled together to heart-storm and come up with a game plan. They could not intervene, but they could influence. The solution they came up with was to use Billboards to spread positive messages. The Billboards of Mindset Guardians *Discard corrosive thoughts. *Develop positive thoughts. *Deal with damaged memories. *Identify dangerous temptations. *Study Wisdom to avoid deception. *Defend against becoming offended. *Guard against becoming overwhelmed. *Don't allow your mind to wander into misleading news. *Reject falsehoods immediately. *Create a clean mind. *Allow only mindsets that stir up, build up and cheer up. The greatest Mindsets of all are a Giving Mindset and a Gratitude Mindset. God gave us a Mindset in a Manger as a gift of Truth that Sets us Free from worldly mindsets of sin. Receive Him, be grateful for Him and share Him. "Embrace the power of salvation's full deliverance, like a helmet to protect your thoughts from lies. And take the mighty razor-sharp Spirit-sword of the spoken word of God. ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6:17TPT‬‬ "For although we live in the natural realm,  we don't wage a military campaign employing human weapons, using manipulation to achieve our aims.  Instead, our spiritual weapons are energized with divine power to effectively dismantle the defenses behind which people hide.  We can demolish every deceptive fantasy that opposes God and break through every arrogant attitude that is raised up in defiance of the true knowledge of God.  We capture, like prisoners of war, every thought and insist that it bow in obedience to the Anointed One." ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭10:3-5‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Coming Next: The Christmas Place

THE SEVEN POVERTY'S of CHRISTMAS ~ Day 15 Generational Jail Cells When Wisdom had given the angels instructions for Christmas week, they were never given advance notice about where they would go. All they knew is that they'd visit a region somewhere on earth. Now the earth is nowhere near as vast as heaven, but there was still a lot of ground to cover. Within the domain of the earth were miniature replicas of what people would experience in their lives beyond their present world. Freedom and Bondage existed in many different forms. Prisons were physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. Freedom was represented by a Peace that Transcends All Understanding in this world and the next. The angels referred to the earth as the Circle of Clay. They knew it had been created and shaped by Wisdom. The people who lived there existed in mortal bodies that were perishable with a Limited Time of Survival. The angels called them the Clay People. Clay could only be shaped for a time and time and a half. For the angels, time is of the essence to prepare the people for life after their bodies perished.  Today's mission for the angels on December 22 was to visit those imprisoned in jails. The angels would rather not go. They had read the stories in the Angelic Archives of Antiquity about the Fallen Angels. Wisdom had cast them away from heavenly freedom into the bondage of a Fiery Abyss. Nonetheless, they knew their mission was extremely important and unavoidable. On the Northeastern Coast of the country with the highest incarceration rate in the world was a Family Prison. The United States was the leader in jailing its citizens. Young people grew up without dads who were in prison. Time in jail was expected and accepted as something a man had to do. Time away from the neighborhood was called a Vacation. Some guys never met their fathers until they were locked up together. The angels were spread out over America and instructed to go behind bars on a Time Sensitive Rescue Mission. One of the angels was directed to the Paradidomi Penitentiary. A grandfather was doing a sentence of life without parole for murder. His son was sentenced for conspiracy under the Rico Law for gang activity and was serving 20 years to life. The grandson had just arrived to serve 8-10 years on a burglary charge.  Grandpa was serving in the Prison Ministry while his son was involved in gangster activities. The newly arrived grandson was eager to follow in his dads footsteps. He told his friends that he had gangster blood. He'd never met Grandpa before. When he heard he was a Jailhouse Deacon, he wanted nothing to do with him. The angel needed to influence the youngster fast before he was hardened beyond reach. The angel knew of a triple murderer who'd learned the Way of Wisdom and wanted to help younger guys steer clear of trouble. He worked in the kitchen and was given great liberties by the Warden because of his record of helping guys change their lives. The angel opened a door for the youngster that was too hard to refuse. Soon, without realizing what was happening, he was being tutored by an Old Gangster with Wisdom. SEVEN INSIGHTS FOR INMATES It's better to be accepted as you are instead of changing to be accepted. Avoid trouble to find safety. Joining a Faith Community is safer than joining a Fighting Community. Deal with your emotions before they control your behavior. It's okay to be vulnerable with guys you trust. Write your struggles, emotions and causes in an Attitude Journal. Admitting your weaknesses and seeking help is an act of power. "At last we have freedom, for Christ has set us free! We must always cherish this truth and firmly refuse to go back into the bondage of our past." ‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5:1‬ ‭TPT‬‬ "You will be a light to shine for all people.  You will help the blind to see.  You will free those who are in prison.  You will lead those who live in darkness  out of their prison." ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭42:6-7‬ ‭ICB‬‬ Coming next: Guardians of The Mindset

THE SEVEN POVERTY'S OF CHRISTMAS ~ Day 14 Multiple Streams of Poverty The angels seemed to be up against more than they had bargained for. The people were spending much more than they had. Christmas was turning into the Season of Spending Beyond Reason. Folks went overboard in making materialistic purchases hoping to provide proof of their love. Today is December 21 and the angels were assigned to cover the Middle Class & Poorest Communities all over the world. People who lived in these neighborhoods were often living on the borders of desperation. They could be easily enticed into believing that overspending would bring them happiness. Overspending was only one of the Multiple Streams of Poverty, but it could be the catalyst in opening the floodgates of Greater Poverty. The devil and his deadbeat parasites were well-versed in Wisdom's Plan of Truth for Life. They had become experts at Twisting Truth. The evil sycophants knew that untaught and unstable people could be manipulated by False Hope. They sold lies that were easily bought by people whose hearts were easily deceived. One particular house with a peculiar red haze over it caught an angel's attention. The breath of wickedness hovered like a poisonous vapor over an apartment complex. A single mother was alone in bed as her five children slept nearby. One of the Fiends of Evil knelt by her bedside. Being alone, the woman was desperate to hear any voice that would give hope to her aching soul.  Christmas would be here soon and though not quite penniless, there wasn't much money to cover the Dreams of her children. To make matters worse, her wealthy sister was always rubbing her nose in shame as she bragged about her abundance and prosperity.  The woman's pillow was drenched with tears. She cried out loudly hoping someone would hear and take pity on her sad situation. She opened her mind to any possibility that might exist. In that opening, the Fiend of Evil seized an opportunity and began speaking to her. "I can help you. I have a way. The Secret is the Spending Way. Spend all you have. Spend all you don't have. Borrow to Spend More. You're a good woman and you deserve to Spend like your sister does." The woman's crying ceased as she allowed the words of the Fiend to seep into her mind. Unfortunately the darkness had just begun to spread and was about to become more twisted. The Fiend continued its lies, "Now I will give you the greatest Spending Secret of All. I know you believe in Wisdom and the Truth you learned as a child. Listen to what the Truth says, 'And my God will liberally supply (fill until full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." The Fiend almost shouted into her heart, "Don't you see? You can Spend Everything Always and All Your Needs Will Be Always Be Fully Met!" The angel heard enough of the Fiends Lies and Deception. Although they weren't allowed to directly intervene, angels could use the Power of Influence. The angel entered the room with the sound of a mighty rushing wind. Its presence was like a Shining Star reflecting the Light of the Son. The brilliance of Light caused the Fiend to flee.  The warmth of serenity filled the woman's room. The Light penetrated her heart and shined on a remembrance long forgotten. It caused her to recall a Manger Story she'd heard as a child. A Baby was Born in a feeding for animals. The Child's parents probably had less material possessions than she did.  By her bed was a nightstand with a copy of Wisdom and Truth. Her tears returned as she opened it and began reading.  "Not that I speak from [any personal] need,  for I have learned to be content [and self-sufficient through Christ,  satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or uneasy]  regardless of my circumstances.  I know how to get along and live humbly [in difficult times],  and I also know how to enjoy abundance and live in prosperity.  In any and every circumstance  I have learned the secret [of facing life],  whether well-fed or going hungry,  whether having an abundance or being in need.  I can do all things [which He has called me to do]  through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfill His purpose-- I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency;  I am ready for anything and equal to anything  through Him who infuses me  with inner strength and confident peace.]  Not that I seek the gift itself,  but I do seek the profit  which increases to your [heavenly] account [the blessing which is accumulating for you].  And my God will liberally supply (fill until full)  your every need  according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.  To our God and Father be the glory forever and ever.  Amen." Philippians 4:11-13, 17, 19-20 AMP The woman recognized how Evil had Twisted Truth to Deceive her. Had she listened, her family would have Increased the Streams of Poverty and Enlarged their Plight.  Out of the pages of Wisdom and Truth fell some notes she had taken the last time she had taken the kids to church. She silently read the words. 1. Spend only what you have.  2. Don't obtain money in ways that deny God the opportunity to provide. 3. Don't sacrifice future peace for profit in the present. 4. The Gift of Love is immaterial and more meaningful than money. 5. Having faith is not a credit card with God. 6. Focus on what you can leave this world with. 7. Count the cost. Have a Plan. Keep a Record. "I know what it means to lack,  and I know what it means to experience  overwhelming abundance.  For I'm trained in the secret  of overcoming all things,  whether in fullness  or in hunger.  And I find that the strength of  Christ's explosive power  infuses me to conquer every difficulty." ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:12-13‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Coming next: Poverty Roots

THE SEVEN POVERTY'S OF CHRISTMAS ~ Day 13 Joy-Stealers & Hateful-Miscreants Defeated! Breaking A Witch's Curse The angels had been advised by Wisdom to be on the lookout for Joy-Stealers and Housebreakers. Goodness and Family Potential could be destroyed by Hateful Miscreants who were especially fond of Stealing Joy during the Christmas Season. Their soul purpose at Christmas was to distort the true meaning of an Impoverished Spirit. They would destroy the Christmas Spirit by any means possible. Witchcraft and Curse-Casting were evil tools used against Christmas-Believers. The angels had to be exceptionally aware of the whereabouts and slimy activities of the Misery-Causers. They could not intervene in the Evil-Ventures, but they could ensure Divine Appointments occurred through Heavenly Connections. Angels had connections! They carried with them a list of those wielded the Sword of The Spirit. The Sword could divide and destroy Evil Distortions. The angel covering the Region of South America received knowledge of a Potentially Destructive Endeavor in the country of Brazil. There was a family living in the State of Espírito Santo. Witchcraft was being used against this family with the intent of destroying their Christmas Spirit. Lateena had been married once before to a man whose mother was a witch. A curse was placed upon her at the dissolution of that marriage. The witch had decried deadly words on the wedding day of Lateena and her son. The newlywed was told, "If you ever leave my son, you will be cursed unto death." The witch put their wedding picture in a jar of honey. She also took some of Lateena's hair along with buttons from her wedding gown and sealed them in a bag. These were to be Past Remembrances that would Affect the Future. For some strange reason, probably compelled by an evil foreboding, Lateena had saved her ex-mother-in-law's Past Remembrances and retrieved them from a dresser drawer during Christmas week. She was immediately overcome by dread and began choking. Her daughter knew a man in the neighborhood who wielded the Sword of The Spirit.  Within a short time the man arrived carrying his Sword. Seeing the poor woman in the throes of a choking fit. Out of the man's mouth, the Sword of the Spirit quickly proceeded to destroy and cast down the curse. Immediately the woman was free. Angels have the ability to cause Supernatural Smiles. At the realization that evil has no power over Good when the Sword of the Spirit is used with Wisdom. the family smiled. They were humbled as the true meaning of Poverty in the Spirit helped return their Christmas Joy. "But when the Father sends the Spirit of Holiness, the One like me who sets you free, he will teach you all things in my name. And he will inspire you to remember every word that I've told you. "I leave the gift of peace with you—my peace. Not the kind of fragile peace given by the world, but my perfect peace. Don't yield to fear or be troubled in your hearts—instead, be courageous!" ‭‭John‬ ‭14:26-27‬ ‭TPT‬‬ "Embrace the power of salvation's full deliverance, like a helmet to protect your thoughts from lies. And take the mighty razor-sharp Spirit-sword of the spoken word of God. Pray passionately in the Spirit, as you constantly intercede with every form of prayer at all times. Pray the blessings of God upon all his believers." ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6:17-18‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Coming next:  Multiple Streams of Poverty

THE SEVEN POVERTY'S OF CHRISTMAS ~Day 12 Gangsters Disrespect A Young Girl Some folks noticed something different about yesterday. When the angels came to earth from heaven on high, there was a shift in the atmosphere. Only those with an awareness and yearning for the Ancient of Days could sense the change. They were few in number - at the beginning.  Today is Day Two of the angels earthly visitation to share the Seven Poverty's. The more they spread throughout the world, ripples of recognition began to awaken hungry hearts. There was something happening, but the people weren't sure what it was.  An angel arrived in the Northeastern Region of the United States of America. The name of the Region sounded fictitious as the people who lived there were anything but united. The place of the angel's arrival was a gym in one of the most impoverished and violent neighborhoods in America. Fatherless young people populated the homes around the gym. Children who grow up without fathers are left with a Poverty of Personality. This one Poverty has the Potential to cause most of the other Poverty's in the world. For young people, the emptiness is not easily identifiable. The absence of a Father-Personality leaves an unfulfilled desperation to be recognized and loved.  They were good kids with absentee dads living hard lives. The moms were doing the best they could to fill the role of a Father-Personality. Poverty pushed against their efforts from all sides. Gangs prowled the streets looking to recruit new members willing to steal, kill and destroy anything to benefit the gang.  Gangsters would come to the gym in a youth center to play basketball. Girls would come mostly to watch and be seen. The guys treated them nicely as the first step in their grooming process. The girls were looking for the Love of a Father. The guys lacked that love and were looking for a girl to use. The angel focused on the guy who ran the gym. He had no special expertise or talent, but possessed a strong desire to do the right thing. A small seed of compassion was dropped in between the beats of his heart. The angel planted a seed of compassion in hopes of generating the growth of Father-Personalities in the young people. This was done in accordance with Wisdom's instructions about not intervening or alleviating suffering. Angels were only to plant seeds and allow people to make the choice of pursuing compassion. Five guys had gathered around a 14 yr. old girl. She was easily flattered by the attention she was receiving. The guys in the gang and the young girl were living fatherless. Fatherlessness is a contagious cultural contamination that causes generational despair. She was too innocent to realize they were grooming her for their devious pleasures. They asked her to jump, and while that may not appear as a lewd request, it came from the root of nasty thoughts.  The girl was quickly embarrassed. The look on her face was shame mixed with fear and awkwardness. The guy running the gym may not have had any special skills, but he did have a keen awareness of what was happening in every corner of the gym. He exploded in anger at the gangsters. He would not allow any girls to be treated like dirt. The guys were told to leave. Any expulsions from the gym were temporary and intended for discipline. The disrespect of girls was the worst offense fatherless guys committed. The youth director became a Father-Personality to help fill the void of absentee fathers.  The angel had found an imperfect, but willing soul. The man surrendered the weakness of his own flesh and expressed an eagerness to demonstrate a Father's Love to the fatherless. "For in You [O Lord] the fatherless  find love, pity, and mercy." ‭‭Hosea‬ ‭14:3‬ ‭AMPC‬‬ "Learn to do right!  Seek justice, relieve the oppressed,  and correct the oppressor.  Defend the fatherless, plead for the widow." ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭1:17‬ ‭AMPC‬‬ "Defend the defenseless,  the fatherless and the forgotten,  the disenfranchised and the destitute." ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭82:3‬ ‭TPT‬‬   Coming next:  Breaking A Witch's Curse

THE SEVEN POVERTY'S of CHRISTMAS ~ Day 11 Angels On Earth As They Are In Heaven  The metal from the man's prosthesis gleamed in the sun as he lay on the sidewalk. An old Army green wool blanket partially covered his curled up body. A rolled up newspaper was under his head providing a small cushion on the cold cement. There was a sewer grate on the curb just a few feet from his head.  Most passersby gave a quick glance, registered a bit of pity in their hearts and kept going. Many of them were on their way to church. To them he was just another poor lost soul in a city of many homeless folks looking for a handout. It was 7 am on December 18 and the Army of Angels had just passed through the firmament between heaven and earth. Today was the beginning of the Seven Poverty's of Christmas. Wisdom had trained them for this special occasion to coincide with the Seven Days Before Christmas.  Each angel was assigned a specific territory on earth. They would designate certain individuals to receive one or more of the Seven Poverty's of Christmas. This distinction was referred to as the Blessing of Deficit. The man with the metal leg represented an opportunity for someone to perform an Act of Compassion. The Poverty of Flesh was lying on the sidewalk. The angel reviewed Wisdom's Teaching on the Poverty of Flesh. [1. The greater the brokenness in spirit, the greater the understanding of how to alleviate suffering in broken flesh.  2. Humbleness in spirit creates helpfulness to hurting humans.  3. Lean not on your broken flesh, but rather seek mercy and grace on your way to wisdom 4. All broken bodies are temples in disrepair waiting for compassion to rebuild them. 5. Temporary brokenness on earth is a Bridge to Permanent Healedness in heaven. 6. Grace undeserved is meant to be freely given to the under served. 7. The Seven Words of Renewal: Recognize, Respond, Relieve, Redeem, Release, Respect and Raise. The eyes of Wisdom will go round about the earth looking for brokenness and those who offer tenderness.  Your task will be to take special note and record those offerings.  In the coming days they will be known as Compassioneers, Gracegivers and Rebuilders. The Law of First Sight demands  that you give a Second Look.] The man didn't have a sign and wasn't begging, he was just there - sleeping. All of the cars drove by granting only a glance of First Sight except one. A man and his wife were on their way to church. They were already late. The First Sight of their eyes demanded a Second Look from the hearts. They turned around and drove back to where the one legged man was lying on the sidewalk.  After getting out of his car, the man almost tripped on the curb as his eyes were fixed on the metal leg gleaming in the sun. The man with the metal leg lifted his head, smiled and said hello. After some small talk, the man with two legs asked the one legged man how he could help him. He replied: "I'm good, just waiting for a ride."  After praying with the man and leaving him a business card, the man and his wife went off to church. Nothing special happened except maybe the one legged man knew somebody cared. Caring is a big thing in this world. The angel smiled and recorded the Act of Compassion. Coming next: Gangsters Disrespect A Young Girl  "I've left you an example of how you should serve and take care of those who are weak. For we must always cherish the words of our Lord Jesus, who taught, 'Giving brings a far greater blessing than receiving.' "" ‭‭Acts‬ ‭20:35‬ ‭TPT‬‬ "I, the Son of Man, will one day return with my messengers and in the splendor and majesty of my Father. And then I will reward each person according to what they have done." ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭16:27‬ ‭TPT‬‬

THE SEVEN POVERTY'S of CHRISTMAS ~ Day 10 The Forest of Shabbat  Twas the day before the angels journey to earth and where they would embark on a special Mission for Wisdom. They had just spent seven days learning about the Seven Poverty's of Christmas and now they were at ease. The Sabbatical Calendar provided a day of rest and Wisdom was ensuring they made the most of the Sabbath Day. The angels were finding Calmness of Spirit as they breathed deeply in the Forest of Shabbat. Silence filled their souls like a mountain stream in spring rejuvenating a river with a surge of fresh potential.  Tomorrow is December 18 and the Army of Heaven's Angels would descend upon the earth. During the Seven Days of Christmas, the angels would use the Seven Poverty's of Christmas as Tools of Wisdom. Mercy would bring Redeeming Grace and Goodwill toward all people. Judgement would bring Everlasting Spiritual Ruin and Eternal Perdition. The angels were resting in a day of Prayer, Gratitude and Positioning. Prayer inspires Gratitude and Positions Oneself for Greater Acts of Goodwill. The angels Prayed the Words of Wisdom and He dropped thoughts into their hearts as they prayed. "You have been especially chosen for such a time as this. You are simultaneously my Messengers and my Tools. You are a Guard and a Fighter. You are a Preparer and a Rescuer. You are an Encourager and a Punisher." "Please spend your remaining time before departing from heaven reflecting on the Accolades of the Angels of Antiquity who have gone before you." "You are a Preparer of the Way." "I am going to send an angel before you to protect you on the way and bring you to the place I have prepared." Exodus 23:20 HCSB "You will Conquer Fear With Good News." "But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which will come to all the people." Luke 2:10 AMPC "You will Protect and Defend." "When we live our lives within the shadow of God Most High, our secret hiding place, we will always be shielded from harm. How then could evil prevail against us or disease infect us?  God sends angels with special orders to protect you wherever you go, defending you from all harm.  If you walk into a trap,  they'll be there for you and keep you from stumbling.  You'll even walk unharmed among the fiercest powers of darkness, trampling every one of them beneath your feet!" Psalms 91:9-13 TPT "Be Alert and Respond." "God has set his throne in heaven; he rules over us all. He's the King! So bless God, you angels, ready and able to fly at his bidding, quick to hear and do what he says. Bless God, all you armies of angels, alert to respond to whatever he wills. Bless God, all creatures, wherever you are— everything and everyone made by God. And you, O my soul, bless God!" Psalm 103:19-22 MSG "There will always be a First Angel who leads." "Then a very large group of angels from heaven joined the first angel. All the angels were praising God, saying: "Give glory to God in heaven, and on earth let there be peace to the people who please God."" Luke 2:13-14 ICB "You are Never Alone." "Then I looked, and I heard the voices of many angels. The angels were around the throne, the four living things, and the elders. There were thousands and thousands of angels—there were 10,000 times 10,000." Revelation 5:11 ICB "You are a Messenger of Good News." "The angel answered him, "I am Gabriel. I stand before God. God sent me to talk to you and to tell you this good news." Luke 1:19 ICB "You will have the ability to Enter Dreams." "While he was still debating with himself about what to do, he fell asleep and had a supernatural dream. An angel from the Lord appeared to him and said, "Joseph, descendant of David, don't hesitate to take Mary into your home as your wife, because the power of the Holy Spirit has conceived a child in her womb. She will give birth to a son and you are to name him 'Savior,' for he is destined to give his life to save his people from their sins."" Matthew 1:20-21 TPT "When Your First Words Cause Fear ~  Your Next Words Will Cause Reassurance." "Mary was deeply troubled over the words of the angel and bewildered over what this may mean for her. But the angel reassured her, saying, "Do not yield to your fear, Mary, for the Lord has found delight in you and has chosen to surprise you with a wonderful gift." Luke 1:29-30 TPT "You Will Bring Plans for Protection." "After they had gone, Joseph had another dream. An angel of the Lord appeared to him and said, "Get up now and flee to Egypt. Take Mary and the little child and stay there until I tell you to leave, for Herod intends to search for the child to kill him."" Matthew 2:13 TPT "You will bring a Message about a Child  Who will be known as the Prince of Peace." "The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine." Isaiah 9:2 NLT Coming next:  Angels On Earth As They Are In Heaven

The Poverty of Place       The angels gathered in Seventh Heaven near the Pool of Bethesda. Everything in Heaven had a Greater Purpose than its Appearance. Bethesda was known as a Place of Ever-Flowing Many Waters. The Pool was a Reservoir of Restoration flowing with Mercy and ripples of Grace. The angels found it to be a personal place of Peace.         The final day of training had arrived and the angels were feeling downright triumphant! In two days they would be released from Heaven for the Seven Days of Christmas. Wisdom had taught them well. Soon they would be on earth as they were in heaven.        Poverty in many forms had been instilled in their minds. The last Poverty of Christmas would put the finishing touch of Wisdom on their Preparation. Like a mother bird broods over her young, Wisdom's presence covered the angels. He began to teach them about the Poverty of Place.            "Many people on earth have been constrained by the Poverty of Place. The Truth you must carry to All People in All Places is this: "In Every Place There exists Potential for All Things to Work Together for Good."        After tomorrow's Sabbatical Day of Shabbat, you will visit many people in many places during the Seven Days of Christmas. You will have the knowledge of what People have Placed in their Hearts. You will see Pain-Causers and Pain-Receivers. You will see the Unhealed and the Unheard. You will see the Deviants and the Victims. You will see the Preconceived Perspectives placed upon people."        "You will place all people in higher esteem than yourselves. Point out to those in a Hopeless Place that there is Hope for a Better Place. Less becomes Fullness in a Heart filled with Hope. The Sun always rises and so shall they and find Healing in its Wings. Encourage the Unhealed to Search for Truth. Give Sight in the Eyes of their Hearts to see the Joy that's Set Before Them. For those that seek the More Excellent Way of Love, None Shall Perish in the Place of No Hope."        "Point out to those who've placed people in Shame & Unworthiness, their lack of valuing others shall pass upon their own hearts if they Remain In Place. The Poverty of Place is created by humankind by the Hypocrisy of OneUpmanship. To gain Ground by causing Grief is creating for oneself a Path to Punishment in a Bottomless Pit. The Judas-Kiss gives Treason to the Season and builds a Place of Betrayal. Give them one Last Chance to turn and travel the Prodigal Path."        "Lastly on this Final Day of Preparation for the Seven Days of Christmas, here are Seven Presents you may Place in the Hearts of the People whose Presence you Enter." THE SEVEN PLACES of CHRISTMAS PRESENCE 1. Hope In A Hard Place 2. Resting Place of Comfort 3. Place of New Birth 4. Place of Trust 5. Patient Place 6. Place of Greater Awareness 7. Ability to Place Their Feet In The Shoes of Another.        "This pool in the Hebrew is called Bethesda, having five porches (alcoves, colonnades, doorways). In these lay a great number of sick folk– some blind, some crippled, and some paralyzed (shriveled up)– waiting for the bubbling up of the water. For an angel of the Lord went down at appointed seasons into the pool and moved and stirred up the water; whoever then first, after the stirring up of the water, stepped in was cured of whatever disease with which he was afflicted." John 5:2-4 AMPC   "He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us. We have plenty of hard times that come from following the Messiah, but no more so than the good times of his healing comfort-- we get a full measure of that, too." 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 MSG Coming Next:  Day 10, The Sabbatical Prayer

A Christmas Shoe Story      David needed shoes badly; unfortunately, his feet were a size 16. He looked through the bin of used shoes and shook his head. "You don't happen to have a size 16 anywhere, do ya?" He asked. Size 16 isn't usually found in our donations. My wife Linda would have to order David's shoes.      David and his wife live in a homeless shelter, many people do. They end up homeless for many reasons. Some will eventually leave the shelter and begin life on more solid ground. Some will always be homeless.      Almost half of the shelter residents are women, they make up 40% of the homeless population and 98% of those women have suffered domestic abuse or sexual violence. When the shoes came to our house in the mail, I smiled – picturing David smiling as he opened the box with his new shoes.      Christmas at the Shelter comes at least once a month for our team of volunteers. We serve dinner and give out clothing. Whatever the Shelter might be low on, toilet paper, water, sanitary items, etc. We serve the need.      I remember when I yelled David's name as almost 160 people gathered in the back yard of the shelter for dinner. "David! My wife found you a pair of new size 16 shoes!" David didn't smile as he opened the shoebox. He examined the shoes, closed the lid, and turned to walk away without a word.       At first, I was kind of shocked until I realized the "overwhelm" of the moment. Thinking back on the scene now, I can almost see a tear in his eye as he turned to go. People who are homeless often feel unworthy of receiving anything. They don't think they deserve a gift. I knew in my heart David was grateful, I didn't need a thank you.      Fast forward two years later. A woman came up to me as I stood in the dinner serving line pouring hot chocolate. She asked for prayer for her husband. Her prayer request was that her husband would continue striving to be a better man and husband as had begun a Bible study. She then added, "You may remember him, his name is David. You gave him size 16 shoes two years ago and that's when he started to change."      Tears welled up in my eyes. It was proof of what patient love without expectation can do. Only God knows what He will do when we trust Him with what we do. In January Youth With A Purpose will celebrate 25 years of ministry that began in Buffalo, NY. We build relationships with homeless people and children in a Navajo safe home called NAOMI House.      Thank you everyone whose supported this ministry for over a quarter of a century. You've touched the lives of people you don't know and made them feel valued and worthy of love. What you do means a lot. We appreciate you. Merry Christmas! If you would like more information or we can pray for you, please let us know. Jesus loves you and so do we. Bob & Linda Kuebler 4565 N. Lazy Lariat Ln. Rimrock AZ 86335      716-830-8240     [email protected]

THE ANGELS LEARN THE SEVEN POVERTY'S OF CHRISTMAS The angels listened intently as Wisdom began guiding them into the Knowledge of Seven Poverty's. Time was of the essence to release the Seven Spirits of Poverty during the Time of Prospering. Christmas is known as a Season of Giving and people often created debt in their desires to please others. Wisdom wanted the angels to begin blanketing the people of earth with opportunities to know the Poverty's. Before the angels could receive the Knowledge of Seven Poverty's, they would be required to be in Unity of Agreement regarding the Seven Rules of Release. THE SEVEN RULES of RELEASE 1. You are to give poverty without advice. 2. Do not solve any problem of poverty. 3. Do not give give people answers. 4. You may only ask questions of Wisdom. 5. Your goal is always to create struggle. 6. Focus on removing comforts. 7. You may plant one Seed of Perseverance in each Impoverished Person. All of the angels agreed except one. He disagreed with being forced to leave someone in pain. "We should show compassion to these poor people!" Wisdom shook his head and patiently replied, "The people have lost the Gift of Struggle and have fallen for the Temptation of Expectation. They expect life to be easy and without struggle. They need to learn the Beauty of Conflict. Hardship is a path along the Stepping Stones of Resilience that leads to the Forest of Servanthood. It is in that Forest that they will find the Tree of Life. The angel understood and was now in Unity of Agreement with the Seven Rules of Release. Wisdom was ready to begin giving the angels the Knowledge of Seven Poverty's. The first part of their lesson would be Head Knowledge with the following lessons dedicated to Heart Knowledge. Wisdom now revealed the Seven Poverty's: THE SEVEN POVERTY'S 1. The Poverty of Flesh 2. The Poverty of Personality 3. The Poverty of Spirit 4. The Poverty of Income 5. The Poverty of Generations 6. The Poverty of Mind 7. The Poverty of Place Wisdom would explain each Poverty in greater detail during the next Seven Days of Guidance beginning December 10. They would need to start releasing the Seven Spirits of Poverty at midnight on December 18 to coincide with the Seven Days of Christmas. On December 17, they would come together for the Day of Seven Prayers. "Even in times of trouble we have a joyful confidence, knowing that our pressures will develop in us patient endurance. And patient endurance will refine our character, and proven character leads us back to hope. And this hope is not a disappointing fantasy, because we can now experience the endless love of God cascading into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who lives in us!" Romans 5:3-5 TPT Coming next: The First Poverty

Assisted Suffering       Today's a good day to talk about suffering and pain. Oh yay, what a happy topic! Life is full of shadows in the valleys of death. You will eventually walk in the darkness of suffering and grief; illness, emotional pain, death, and fear.       In this edition of Bible Shorts With Biblebob we cover Euthanasia, suicide, Hospice and "pulling the plug," (removing life support.) Euthanasia and suicide are two totally different topics.           Euthanasia is dying through the assistance of someone else. Suicide is dying through an act of self. One is called assisted dying, but both of them can be called "assisted suffering." Death usually causes sadness, grief and suffering. Suicide ends suffering for the one who is dead. Suicide creates untold suffering for those who are left behind. Suicide is a byproduct of hopelessness.      There is always hope found in the Bible. "Come, my young friends, and listen to me, and I will teach you to honor the Lord. Would you like to enjoy life? Do you want long life and happiness? Then keep from speaking evil and from telling lies. Turn away from evil and do good; strive for peace with all your heart. The Lord watches over the righteous and listens to their cries; but He opposes those who do evil, so that when they die, they are soon forgotten. The righteous call to the Lord, and He listens; He rescues them from all their troubles. The Lord is near to those who are discouraged; He saves those who have lost all hope." Psalm 34:11-18 GNT "He gives me new strength. He guides me in the right paths, as He has promised. Even if I go through the deepest darkness, I will not be afraid, Lord, for You are with me. Your shepherd's rod and staff protect me." Psalm 23:3-4 GNT      The world will try and persuade you that the shadow of death is the best way to relieve your pain and anxiety. Assisted dying (suicide) has been legalized in 11 states in America and six countries in Europe. The Bible has several stories about assisted suicide. Saul asked for his death to be facilitated. The order was refused and he took his own life. "Then Saul said to his armour bearer, 'Draw your sword and thrust me through with it, lest these uncircumcised come and mistreat me.' But his armour bearer would not, for he feared greatly. Therefore, Saul took his own sword and fell upon it." 1 Samuel 31:4 ESV In another story about Saul's death a man takes credit for killing Saul, thinking that he would be rewarded by David for killing his enemy. He ends up dead. "I saw that Saul was leaning on his spear and that the chariots and cavalry of the enemy were closing in on him. Then he turned around, saw me, and called to me. I answered, 'Yes, sir!' He asked who I was, and I told him that I was an Amalekite. Then he said, 'Come here and kill me! I have been badly wounded, and I'm about to die.' So I went up to him and killed him, because I knew that he would die anyway as soon as he fell. Then I took the crown from his head and the bracelet from his arm, and I have brought them to you, sir." David asked him, "How is it that you dared kill the Lord's chosen king?" Then David called one of his men and said, "Kill him!" The man struck the Amalekite and mortally wounded him, and David said to the Amalekite, "You brought this on yourself. You condemned yourself when you confessed that you killed the one whom the Lord chose to be king." 2 Samuel 1:6-10, 14-16 GNT      When the 7th and 8th Graders I teach in Debate Class were presented this topic for discussion, several of them brought up the Sixth Commandment that says, "You shall not murder." (Exodus 20:13, Deuteronomy 5:17)      What do you think? Is it wise to end someone's suffering by granting them a death wish? Does a purposeful act of ending one's life create even greater suffering for those left behind? Does assisted death or suicide become assisted suffering for those left to deal with the aftermath of pain and sorrow? How can you assist someone who is suffering?      Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we. biblebob.org

Grief Left On A Mountain      Please Note: I recorded this after hiking 3,400' to the top of Humphrey's Peak at 12, 633' and I was extremely fatigued and dealing with the effects of altitude. This was a hike in remembrance of my son Steve who climbed his final life mountain 0n 11-11-24. This is one way I deal with grief; I leave it on a mountain. The podcast is short (I was out of breath!)      Mission Accomplished! True, I was the slowest hiker on the mountain, but I prayed my way through the cramps to the top of Humphreys Peak Finishing the goal in honor of my son was great, but the people I prayed with along the way made it extra special. It was a year ago today that my son Steve climbed his final mountain.       Here is the Bible verse I read at the top: "Death, where is your victory? Death, where is your sting? Now the sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!" ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭55‬-‭57‬ ‭HCSB‬‬      The sting of loss remains, but my gratitude to God for having been Steve's dad for 40 years brings relief. I shared my story with many hikers along the way and we prayed together. I asked them what they needed prayer for and recorded their responses in my phone so I can keep praying for them. There was even a marriage proposal on the saddle before the summit - and she said yes! Lot's of new beginnings happen on mountaintops!      At the top I recorded this podcast/video on grief. G - Gratitude - be generous in giving to others. R - Respond - to your emotions; take time to grieve. I - Invest - in others, initiate intimacy - form meaningful relationships. E - Extra Mile - don't settle for medioacrity. Love with everything in you. F - Finish - what you start; don't let unfinished projects hold you back from your destiny.      Express gratitude for what you've been given by being generous with others. Respond to grief as it comes upon you. Cry when you need to. Climb a mountain when you need to. Invest in others. Serving other people will benefit you and them. Always go the extra mile in adding value to your relationships. Be a finisher.      Grief is not something that's finish-able, but keeping your word to finish what you say is a mountain worth climbing.  Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we.

     Did you ever forget what God forgets? What I mean is, He forgets our wrongdoings and gives us grace, mercy and forgiveness. When we forget what He has done for us, we're gradually sliding into forgetfullness of Him altogether.      What you will hear in this episode is the answers of 8th Graders who share their habits of maintaining an active relationship with God. They will tell you how they don't forget God.      Forgetting God happens gradually. The symptoms of a cold appear gradually - first a sniffle and then a cough until finally you've got aches and pains al over your body. Leaves on trees in the autumn don't all fall at once. Beware slow changes in your relatyionship with God. Listen to the wisdom of 8th Graders. Our target Bible vereses for today are these: Psalm 78:7 NLT "So each generation should set its hope anew on God,     not forgetting his glorious miracles and obeying his commands." Job 8:8-19 The Message "Put the question to our ancestors,     study what they learned from their ancestors. For we're newcomers at this, with a lot to learn,     and not too long to learn it. So why not let the ancients teach you, tell you what's what,     instruct you in what they knew from experience? Can mighty pine trees grow tall without soil?     Can luscious tomatoes flourish without water? Blossoming flowers look beautiful before they're cut or picked,     but without soil or water they wither more quickly than grass. That's what happens to all who forget God—     all their hopes come to nothing." Deuterononmy 6:12 ICB "But be careful! Do not forget the Lord. He brought you out of the land of Egypt where you were slaves."        Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody.           Jesus loves you and so do we.     .

     Taking things and people for granted isn't something we usually do on purpose. It  happens gradually - like snow melting under a slowly rising son. Speaking of purpose,  sometimes we take for granted the gifts and life purpose established for us by God.  There's an old saying, "if you don't use it you'll lose it."       Gratitude is a great way avoid taking things for granted.  Everyday is a gift. Every breath is a gift. Be faithful in appreciating the smallest things  like a heartbeat.      Gratitude in the dictionary is defined as:  "the quality of being thankful;  readiness to show appreciation for  and to return kindness."       Hebrews 13:16  MSG  "Make sure you don't take things for granted and go slack in working for the common good; share what you have with others. God takes particular pleasure in acts of worship – a different kind of "sacrifice" – that take place in kitchen and workplace and on the streets."       1 Peter 4:7-11 MSG  "Everything in the world is about to be wrapped up, so take nothing for granted. Stay wide-awake in prayer. Most of all, love each other as if your life depended on it. Love makes up for practically anything. Be quick to give a meal to the hungry, a bed  to the homeless—cheerfully. Be generous with the different things God gave you,  passing them around so all get in on it: if words, let it be God's words; if help, let it  be God's hearty help. That way, God's bright presence will be evident in everything  through Jesus, and he'll get all the credit as the One mighty in everything—encores to  the end of time. Oh, yes!"      1 Thessalonians 5:16-21  ESV
 "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Do not quench the Spirit.
 Do not despise prophecies,
but test everything; hold fast what is good." Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody.  Jesus loves you and so do we.

  I believe a coincidence is an incidence of divine providence that requires obedience.       What I mean is I don't believe the random meetings between people occur for no meaning.       Chance meetings have meanings; sometimes they're just God's way of giving us a heart-smile, but at other times they're life-changing interactions with eternal impact.       The story you're about to hear is true. I know this secret agent for God personally. His name is Kai Tierney. He boldly does things that many men would never consider.       Kai is always on the alert for God opportunities to show neighborly love in greater ways.          He's an action-figure for Christ.  Methinks his greatest action is the way he reduces his own importance to lift others up.       You'll enjoy this great God-story told by a humble secret agent for God.       Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we.  #bible #biblebob #bible shorts with BibleBob  #God Story #God testimony #coincidence #nocoincedence  #bob Kuebler

A man once asked, "What does it mean to be born again?" He was confused and added, "How can a man be born when he is old? He cannot enter his mother's womb a second time and be born, can he?" The man was looking at the question through physical understanding when the solution is spiritual in nature. Being born again according to Jesus means that "one is born of water and the Spirit." Water is symbolic for washing. Spiritual washing removes the guilt and shame of sin. Being born of the Spirit means to have your character morally transformed by your faith in Christ. Being born again: Gives you a new identity as a child of God. Grants you citizenship in the kingdom of heaven. You are adopted into a new family with brothers and sisters in Christ. The promises of God found in His Word are now yours. You have the G.O.A.T. future - Greatest Future Of All Time - eternal life in heaven.  Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we.

Wide and Narrow can be a painful way to describe how a baby enters the world. Previously we looked at the words of Jesus in Matthew 7:13 "Enter through the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and spacious and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and many are those who are entering through it."  The simple and accurate way of looking at this verse is, the Way of Christ is compared with the wide way of "anything goes" in the world. In this podcast/video we look at three other ways of contrasting the wide and narrow; the birthing process, earning trust and the width of the true joy found in knowing Christ. Thanks for your time. Go do something nice for somebody. Jesus loves you and so do we.