A Few Thoughts About the Beauty in Marriage

Marriage

B1 Body

C1 Container. This is an illustration for the sexual need in humans. The idea of a comes from of idea of emotional needs, etc.

E1 Keeping the Love Tank Full

E2 This idea was popularized by Dr. Ross Campbell. Here is one review (PDF). I believe the book is still for sale.

D1 A man has a sexual container to enjoy his wife’s beauty. This container needs to be filled up. It cannot be filled in only a minute.

D2 A woman has a sexual container to have her husband enjoy her beauty. This container needs to be filled up. This too, cannot be filled in only a minute.

D3 This enjoyment has to be done by all the senses: eyes (seeing), taste (kissing), feel (touching), smell (perfume, etc.), hearing (communication).

D4 Some verses to give you the idea:

E1 Eyes

F1 Song of Solomon 1:10 GNB Your hair is beautiful upon your cheeks and falls along your neck like jewels.

F2 Song of Solomon 4:5 GNB Your breasts are like gazelles, twin deer feeding among lilies.

E2 Taste

F1 Song of Solomon 1:2 GNB Your lips cover me with kisses; your love is better than wine.

F2 Song of Solomon 4:11 GNB The taste of honey is on your lips, my darling; your tongue is milk and honey for me. Your clothing has all the fragrance of Lebanon.

E3 Feel

F1 Song of Solomon 1:13 GNB My lover has the scent of myrrh as he lies upon my breasts.

F2 Song of Solomon 2:6 GNB His left hand is under my head, and his right hand caresses me.

E4 Smell

F1 Song of Solomon 1:3 GNB There is a fragrance about you; the sound of your name recalls it. No woman could keep from loving you.

F2 Song of Solomon 1:12 GNB My king was lying on his couch, and my perfume filled the air with fragrance.

E5 Hearing

F1 Song of Solomon 1:15-16 GNB How beautiful you are, my love; how your eyes shine with love! 16 How handsome you are, my dearest; how you delight me! The green grass will be our bed.

F2 Note hearing, seeing, and hearing: Song of Solomon 2:14 GNB You are like a dove that hides in the crevice of a rock. Let me see your lovely face and hear your enchanting voice.

F3 Song of Solomon 4:1 GNB How beautiful you are, my love! How your eyes shine with love behind your veil. Your hair dances like a flock of goats bounding down the hills of Gilead.

C2 Eventually we all get into middle age and beyond, and our bodies don’t look like they did when we were in our 20s. Pregnancy changes this also (a good article is A Mom’s Body Change After Pregnancy) [When I find the link, I’ll update the article.]

D1 Your wife/your husband still needs these things. You still need to enjoy her beauty and let her know this.

D2 It is evil to look around at others. It happens, but it is evil.

E1 Exodus 20:14 NLT You must not commit adultery.

E2 Think of the 10 Commandments as a set, each of the 10 Commandments as a subset, and each subset having every possible sin. In our quote above, this subset of adultery includes every sexual sin possible. Thus porn, etc. is wrong, sin, evil, condemned by God, etc.

E3 Hebrews 13:4 NLT Give honor to marriage, and remain faithful to one another in marriage. God will surely judge people who are immoral and those who commit adultery.

D3 Both husband and wife are to enjoy sex. 1 Corinthians 7:3 NLT The husband should fulfill his wife's sexual needs, and the wife should fulfill her husband's needs.

E1 Sex is not just the release. It is both of them enjoying physical pleasure. Both need time to enjoy this pleasure. It is not something that happens in a couple of minutes.

E2 The wife can refuse, and the husband must submit. However, it should not be often. See the verses below:

F1 She can refuse: 1 Corinthians 7:4 NIV The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife.

F2 There is a time limit: 1 Corinthians 7:5 NLT Do not deprive each other of sexual relations, unless you both agree to refrain from sexual intimacy for a limited time so you can give yourselves more completely to prayer. Afterward, you should come together again so that Satan won't be able to tempt you because of your lack of self-control.

B2 Soul

C1 This is the beauty of each other’s character, personality, gifts, abilities, likes, and dislikes, etc. It is what makes each of us unique.

C2 We are to enjoy each emotionally, intellectually, and daily living.

C3 The more compatible we are, the easier this is to do. [See note 3]

C4 Take time with each other to work together, chore together, laugh together, work on family situations together, plan together, think together, eat together, listen to each other, help each other, encourage each other, be kind to each other, be compassionate to each other, forgive each other, console each other, be aware of each other’s needs, frustrations, hard day at work, etc.

C5 Live love the way God has instructed us [See note 4]. These things should be between both of us: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a WEL Love is very patient and kind; love is not envious; love doesn’t brag about itself, is not haughty, 5 Doesn’t behave improperly, is not self-seeking; love isn’t easily aggravated, doesn’t keep a list of wrongs, 6 Doesn’t rejoice in injustice, but rejoices in the truth, 7 Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, calmly endures all things. 8 Love never ends,

C6 Wives do give good counsel. There is safety in a multitude of counselors: God first, Bible, spouse (yes the wife counsel is important, too), etc.

D1 Moses didn’t listen to his wife’s counsel, so God came to kill Moses: Exodus 4:24-26 NET Now on the way, at a place where they stopped for the night, the LORD met Moses and sought to kill him. 25 But Zipporah took a flint knife, cut off the foreskin of her son and touched it to Moses' feet, and said, "Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me." 26 So the LORD let him alone. (At that time she said, "A bridegroom of blood," referring to the circumcision.)

D2 Pilate: Matthew 27:19 NET As he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent a message to him: "Have nothing to do with that innocent man; I have suffered greatly as a result of a dream about him today."

B3 Spirit

C1 For the Christian, this is a life of worship together, serving God together, and fellowship with God and His people together. We are to be seeing in our wife or in our husband the following beautiful things:

D1 Seeing the beauty of your spouse as you celebrate God, His worldview, His lifestyle, His attributes, His beliefs (doctrines), His Gospel, His care, and His people.

D2 Seeing the gifts of the Spirit in your spouse. Both wife and husband have gifts of the Spirit.

E1 Romans 12:6-8 NIV We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. [See note 1 and 2 below]

E2 Also see 1 Peter 4:10-11, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, Ephesians 4:11-16, James 1:17, etc.

C2 The following are rules for the whole church, but I am applying these today to our marriages. Husband and wife living this type life serving, God, each other, fellow believers, and everyone else:

D1 Romans 12:9-21 NIV Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

D2 Husband and wife are to living, thinking, applying, doing the above in private and publicly—firstly to your spouse, secondly to the rest of your immediate family, thirdly to the believers you fellowship with, fourthly to believers worldwide, and lastly to everyone else.

Unity

B1 It is required:

C1 Genesis 2:24 NLT This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.

C2 If we are to have fellowship with God and fellow believers, then it is more so to have fellowship with our spouse: 1 John 1:3 NIV We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.

B2 This verse is a principle of doing something together, being yoked together, so partnerships, fellowship in church, business, marriage, etc. Husband and wife are to be yoked together:

C1 Everything in creation was pronounced good, except that Adam was left alone. Eve was then created for Adam to have fellowship and a thinking mate for counsel and consoling. Adam did not have all the gifts and ability to take care of the Garden; God made it so. Eve had the other gifts and ability needed to work together. They were yoked together.

C2 2 Corinthians 6:14 NIV Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?

C3 This was written to the congregation at Rome, but I believe it can be applied to marriage as well. You decide. Romans 15:5-7 NIV May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.

[All emphasis is mine]

Note 1: Prophecy is not a gift in use today. Maybe you believe so, but I am not here to fight about this but the qualifications are 100% correct in the doctrine that one teaches, the advice that one offers, the wisdom, the rebukes, the warnings, even speaking future events. There is simply no one who could be qualified by the Apostles of Jesus Christ, since they are no longer living on earth. The so-called apostles of today have no proof that they meet God’s qualifications of Acts 1:21-22, 1 Corinthians 1:9 (Paul had witnesses), 2 Corinthians 12:12, Revelation 2:2. If there are no apostles to authenticate them. There is no way to know if they are prophets or not.

Note 2: I would agree with this: Are there prophets in the church today?

Note 3: Compatibility Sources but be aware not all have Biblical ideals

B1 Free Quiz with Marriage Compatibility Questions

B2 Marriage Compatibility 7 Critical Areas to Evaluate (Note this site evidently teaches courtship, so be aware).

B3 Pre-Marriage Awareness Questionnaire (PDF)

Note 4: The 5 Love Languages Quiz

1 Year Bible—1 & 2 Timothy

The main topic of these letters is directed towards pastors, elders, etc.

Everyone can benefit from these letters.

Some topics covered today

B1 False teachers

B2 Prayer

B3 Qualifications for church leaders

B4 Jesus is God

B5 Warnings and reminders given to church members

B6 Helping needy believers

B7 Timothy’s health

B8 Living the Christian life

B9 Endurance

B10 Suffering and persecution

B11 Characteristics of the last days

B12 The importance of Scripture

B13 Preach anyway (if suffer and persecuted)

B14 Abandoning the faith

False Teachers

B1 Christian doctrine has a standard. The standard is the New Testament interpreted in the plain, normal sense consistently. We have to be careful that teachers would use standard definitions of words, take the passage in context, and not corrupt it in some ways by their personal beliefs.

B2 False teachers deviate from this standard for various reasons. Maybe one of the following or a combination.

C1 Money: Consider Balaam

D1 2 Peter 2:15 GW These false teachers have left the straight path and wandered off to follow the path of Balaam, son of Beor. Balaam loved what his wrongdoing earned him.

D2 Micah 3:11 GW Your leaders exchange justice for bribes. Your priests teach for a price. Your prophets tell the future for money. But they rely on the LORD when they say, "After all, the LORD is with us. Nothing bad will happen to us."

C2 Power: Acts 13:6-8 NRSV When they had gone through the whole island as far as Paphos, they met a certain magician, a Jewish false prophet, named Bar-Jesus. 7 He was with the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, an intelligent man, who summoned Barnabas and Saul and wanted to hear the word of God. 8 But the magician Elymas (for that is the translation of his name) opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul away from the faith.

C3 Sex: Jeremiah 23:14 GW Say this about the prophets of Jerusalem: I see something horrible. The prophets of Jerusalem commit adultery and live a lie. They support those who do evil so that no one turns back from his wickedness. They are all like Sodom to me, and those who live in Jerusalem are like Gomorrah.

B3 To avoid the effect of false teachers, false prophets, false apostles, false preachers, etc. we must know the truth. We must study the Scriptures and know its teachings (doctrine).

Prayer

B1 I believe God created humans for fellowship and to serve God. In prayer, we fellowship with God. Adam and Eve did in the garden before sin. Other examples are Enoch (Genesis 5:22), Noah (Genesis 6:9), and Moses (Exodus 33:11).

B2 It is coming to the throne of the King of all kings, Lord of all lords, King of the Universe to be a priest for others.

C1 Hebrews 4:16 NRSV Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

C2 Revelation 5:10 PickNT and You have made them kings and priests to our God, and they will reign on the earth.

Wilbur Pickering Ph.D. notes regarding this verses 9 (note5) and 10 (note 6): 5 Every Greek manuscript except one, of inferior quality, reads "us". Many modern versions follow that lone manuscript and omit the pronoun, but that leaves the transitive verb "redeem" without a direct object, so they usually supply "men" or some such thing. But the true reading is obviously "us", so the 2 elders are among the redeemed, and they are already in heaven wearing crowns.

6 A very few late manuscripts read "us", as in KJV, but almost all the manuscripts read "them". The 2 elders exclude themselves when it comes to reigning on the earth—evidently they will not be involved in the administration of the millennial kingdom.

B3 Qualifications for church leaders—churches should be very careful to follow these instructions. It appears that many do not, instead seeking someone who is cool, trendy, and has a lot of advanced degrees. Nothing wrong or sinful about being cool, trendy, and lots of advanced degrees, but when a congregation considers that criteria as a priority, there will be problems.

B4 Jesus is God. Wilbur Pickering Ph.D. notes:

Instead of 'God', 1% of the Greek manuscripts read 'who', and most modern versions follow this 1%. But 'who' is nonsensical (in the context), so most of them take evasive action: NEB and NASB have "he who"; Phillips has "the one"; NRSV, Jerusalem, TEV and NIV render "he". Berkley actually has "who"! In the Greek Text the relative pronoun has no antecedent, so it is a grammatical 'impossibility', besides being a stupidity—what is so mysterious about someone being manifested in flesh? All human beings have bodies. The pronoun can be accounted for as an easy transcriptional error, a simple copying mistake, so why not stay with the 98.5%? "God was manifested in flesh"—now there you have a mystery! elders exclude themselves when it comes to reigning on the earth—evidently they will not be involved in the administration of the millennial kingdom.

B5 Warnings and reminders given to church members

C1 Passage: 1 Timothy 4:1-5 LEB Now the Spirit explicitly says that in the last times some will depart from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, 2 by the hypocrisy of liars, who are seared in their own conscience, 3 who forbid marrying and insist on abstaining from foods that God created for sharing in with thankfulness by those who believe and who know the truth, 4 because everything created by God is good and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thankfulness,  5  for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.

C2 Some things we learn:

D1 We are taught that some will leave the faith, that is, true doctrine that Jesus and the Apostles taught.

D2 These will turn to mysticism and experiences instead of the Scriptures.

D3 Some will turn to lying teachers who have no problem with lying and teaching false doctrine.

D4 Some will forbid marrying.

D5 Some will insist of food laws.

D6 That foods are sanctified by the word of God (He said so) and (our) prayer.

B6 Helping needy believers

B7 Timothy’s health: it is OK to drink a little wine as medicine.

B8 Living the Christian life: a number of rules for various situations arising in the church. These are principles for all believers. Some topics are work, widows, meeting needs for Christian workers (food, clothes, housing, etc.), dealing with those who teach false doctrine, contentment, money, philosophy, etc.

B9 Endurance

C1 Not to be ashamed of Jesus Christ and His gospel: 2 Timothy 1:8-10 LEB Therefore, do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor me his prisoner, but suffer along with me for the gospel, according to the power of God, 9 who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works but according to his own purpose and grace that was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began, 10 but has now been disclosed by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought to light life and immortality through the gospel,

C2 To remain steadfast and faithful to the faith: 2 Timothy 1:13 NRSV Hold to the standard of sound teaching that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.

B10 Suffering and persecution: 2 Timothy 2:10-13 NRSV Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, so that they may also obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory. 11 The saying is sure: If we have died with him, we will also live with him; 12 if we endure, we will also reign with him; if we deny him, he will also deny us; 13 if we are faithless, he remains faithful—for he cannot deny himself.

B11 Some characteristics of the last days (of the church age): 2 Timothy 3:17 WEL Know this also, that in the last days perilous times will come. 2 For people will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, braggers, arrogant, users of abusive language, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, impossible to please, false accusers, unable to control themselves, fierce, despising those who are good, 4 Traitors, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 Having an appearance of godliness but having spurned its power. From such turn away. 6 For this type are those who wheedle into houses and captivate gullible women loaded with sins carried away with various evil desires, 7 Ever learning but never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.

B12 The importance of Scripture:

C1 2 Timothy 3:16-17 WEL All Scripture is inspired and is beneficial for doctrine, reproof, correction, and for instruction in righteousness, 17 So that God’s people may be completely ready, fully equipped for all good works.

C2 John Wesley writes on this verse: All scripture is inspired of God - The Spirit of God not only once inspired those who wrote it, but continually inspires, supernaturally assists, those that read it with earnest prayer. Hence it is so profitable for doctrine, for instruction of the ignorant, for the reproof or conviction of them that are in error or sin, for the correction or amendment of whatever is amiss, and for instructing or training up the children of God in all righteousness.

C3 Matthew 4:4 NIV Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.

C4 An article: In What Sense Is the Bible the Inspired Word of God?

B13 Preach anyway (if suffer and persecuted)

C1 2 Timothy 4:3-5 NRSV For the time is coming when people will not put up with sound doctrine, but having itching ears, they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own desires, 4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander away to myths. 5 As for you, always be sober, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, carry out your ministry fully.

C2 We learn

D1 People will begin not listening to the teachings of Jesus.

D2 Christians will want cool, trendy, degreed pastors, instead of godly, practical, and degreed or not pastors. As noted above, these pastors are chosen based on the criteria as a priority.

D3 We must not quit even if discouraged. We must always pray for pastoral staff and all believers.

B14 Abandoning the faith: 2 Timothy 4:10 NRSV for Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica; Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia.

Our goal: 2 Timothy 4:7-8 NRSV I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

A Few Thoughts on Psalm 69 Regarding Being Abused

The abused and controlled suffer beyond what words can express. There are a number of sites online to read them if you wish.

Psalm 69 appears to be the words of one who is abused. The situation is unknown.

A not from Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown: This Psalm is referred to seven times in the New Testament as prophetical of Christ and the gospel times.

Psalms 69:1-36 GW

Save me, O God! The water is already up to my neck! I am sinking in deep mud. There is nothing to stand on. I am in deep water. A flood is sweeping me away.

A description of becoming overwhelmed. The feeling of one who absolutely cannot take any more but is stuck in a situation. The Psalmist not only feels helpless but also hopeless.

I am exhausted from crying for help. My throat is hoarse. My eyes are strained from looking for my God.

The Psalmist has been praying continuously for relief and for the abuse to stop, but the Psalmist feels God does not answer or deliver. Many times God allows others to understand that abuse is happening. God does this, so that he/she/they can help the abused to find deliverance and safety. Frequently, those who understand are not willing to help the abused.

Those who hate me for no reason outnumber the hairs on my head. Those who want to destroy me are mighty.

The abuser/s have control. They have power. They are assisted by those who join in. So many abused people find their pastors and pastor’s wives support and believe the abuser. The same will NOT believe the abused. For example of some stories see Spiritual Abuse & Domestic Violence – A Call for Stories and scroll down to the comments.

They have no reason to be my enemies.

Self explanatory.

I am forced to pay back what I did not steal.

This is from lies, slander, identity theft, pressure, etc.

O God, you know my stupidity, and the things of which I am guilty are not hidden from you.

God knows the truth. The abused are so verbally abused by being called stupid and much worse that self esteem and self ability are lost. These poor folks feel they can do nothing. The abuser is full of lies.

The application to all of us is to believe the abused until further information is available. Here are a couple of pages listing information to know if one is abused and to help find help:

C1 Recognising the signs of domestic abuse

C2 Recognising domestic abuse

C3 If you’re in the USA, the hotline number and site is The National Domestic Hotline. 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY)

C4 When we are aware that abuse is happening we must take action. There is no excuse not to help. Some suggestions are here:

D1 How to help a friend who is being abused

D2 5 Ways to Help Someone Who Is Being Abused

D3 How to Help Someone Else

C5 Awareness: See Relationships Safety and Violence (This is a PDF).

Do not let those who wait with hope for you be put to shame because of me, O Almighty LORD of Armies. Do not let those who come to you for help be humiliated because of me, O God of Israel.

The Psalmist cares for others. Often the abused is concerned with his/her children.

Indeed, for your sake I have endured insults.

The abuser loves doing this. Often, it is because they enjoy it. Their greatest joy, it seems, is to hurt.

Humiliation has covered my face.

The feelings many abused feel in public. It also applies to many who are re-abused by those who do not believe them.

I have become a stranger to my own brothers, a foreigner to my mother's sons.

Abusers like to move away from the abused’s family. The family is usually the greatest support and help. Abusers know this, so get them to move far away. Then they can abuse more freely.

Indeed, devotion for your house has consumed me, and the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.

Many of the abused pray and go to church, but the church and pastoral staff abuse them even more.

I cried and fasted, but I was insulted for it.

The abuser frequently mocks the abused when they see the abused suffering.

I dressed myself in sackcloth, but I became the object of ridicule. Those who sit at the gate gossip about me, and drunkards make up songs about me.

The abused suffer from the abuser’s friends.

May my prayer come to you at an acceptable time, O LORD. O God, out of the greatness of your mercy, answer me with the truth of your salvation. Rescue me from the mud. Do not let me sink into it. I want to be rescued from those who hate me and from the deep water. Do not let floodwaters sweep me away. Do not let the ocean swallow me up, or the pit close its mouth over me. Answer me, O LORD, because your mercy is good. Out of your unlimited compassion, turn to me. I am in trouble, so do not hide your face from me. Answer me quickly! Come close, and defend my soul. Set me free because of my enemies. You know that I have been insulted, put to shame, and humiliated. All my opponents are in front of you. Insults have broken my heart, and I am sick. I looked for sympathy, but there was none. I looked for people to comfort me, but I found no one. They poisoned my food, and when I was thirsty, they gave me vinegar to drink.

B1 The abused continue to pray. At least, there is one who cares and will listen. This is a wonderful blessing that Yahweh will listen to us intently and caringly as often as we need.

B2 See the resources listed above. There is no excuse not to help someone when we notice they are abused.

Let the table set for them become a trap and a snare for their friends. Let their vision become clouded so that they cannot see. Let their thighs continually shake. Pour your rage on them. Let your burning anger catch up with them. Let their camp be deserted and their tents empty. They persecute the one you have struck, and they talk about the pain of those you have wounded. Charge them with one crime after another. Do not let them be found innocent. Let their names be erased from the Book of Life. Do not let them be listed with righteous people. I am suffering and in pain. Let your saving power protect me, O God.

The abused ask God to judge the abuser. The bastard, evil abuser will get punishment. The faster the better.

I want to praise the name of God with a song. I want to praise its greatness with a song of thanksgiving. This will please the LORD more than sacrificing an ox or a bull with horns and hoofs. Oppressed people will see this and rejoice. May the hearts of those who look to God for help be refreshed. The LORD listens to needy people. He does not despise his own who are in prison. Let heaven and earth, the seas, and everything that moves in them, praise him. When God saves Zion, he will rebuild the cities of Judah. His servants will live there and take possession of it. The descendants of his servants will inherit it. Those who love him will live there.

When God delivers, all will be happy except for the abuser. We don’t know when God delivers, but He will. GOD WILL GIVE YOU THE STRENGTH TO LEAVE. You can. There are many resources to help; see above.

In any emergency, call 911 if in the USA.

Regarding the Messianic meaning of this passage, see here:

B1 The Messiah would be the righteous sufferer

B2 Psalm 69 – The restoration and the zeal of the Lord (As always be a Berean as I don’t know much about the site).

A Few Thoughts About Being Steadfast

Steadfast in the Faith

1 Corinthians 15:58 WEB Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the Lord’s work, because you know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

This passage is at the end of the great resurrection chapter. The Gospel has been summarized. Jesus has conquered life, death, goodness, evil, and has overcome the world.

Knowing all this is wonderful, but we must continue in the faith. We must not fail as is illustrated by our Lord: Matthew 13:21 WEB yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while. When oppression or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles.

We are

B1 To be steadfast

C1 The Greek word is ἑδραῖος hedraîos. It means to be settled and not movable. It is like a fence post secured in concrete.

C2 It is used 3 times in the New Testament with the idea of firmly believing something. A decision has been made that will not change.

C3 Robertson’s Word Pictures has this note on this passage: Let the sceptics howl and rage. Paul has given rational grounds for faith and hope in Christ the Risen Lord and Saviour.

C4 We have a reasonable faith. It is rational. It is not blind faith. We have reasons, witnesses, and proofs.

C5 Some verses illustrating this idea:

D1 Proverbs 10:25 WEB When the whirlwind passes, the wicked is no more; but the righteous stand firm forever.

D2 Note the contrast between believers and unbelievers: Psalms 20:7-8 NRSV Some take pride in chariots, and some in horses, but our pride is in the name of the LORD our God. 8 They will collapse and fall, but we shall rise and stand upright.

C6 Our (that is all Christian believers) foundation is the most stable: Ephesians 2:19-20 NKJV Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone,

C7 Our stability has a purpose. Look today how many do not know what they believe: Ephesians 4:14 GNB Then we shall no longer be children, carried by the waves and blown about by every shifting wind of the teaching of deceitful people, who lead others into error by the tricks they invent.

B2 To be immovable

C1 The Greek word for immovable is ἀμετακίνητος ametakínētos. It means firmly persistent. It is used only in this one passage in the New Testament.

C2 To be firmly persistent we must be continually alive. We get our life from the Lord Jesus. We must continue in His teaching: John 15:4-5 WEB Remain in me, and I in you. As the branch can’t bear fruit by itself, unless it remains in the vine, so neither can you, unless you remain in me. 5 I am the vine. You are the branches. He who remains in me, and I in him, the same bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

C3 We need to pray. It is part of the Armor of God: Ephesians 6:18 WEB with all prayer and requests, praying at all times in the Spirit, and being watchful to this end in all perseverance and requests for all the saints.

C4 Be tested in and about our faith makes us stronger in the faith: James 1:2-4 NRSV My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance; 4 and let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing.

C5 Our love for God and His love for us is described in these actions: 1 Corinthians 13:7 NRSV It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. [Emphasis is mine]

B3 To be abounding in the Lord’s work

C1 Abounding is the Greek word περισσεύω perisseúō. It means to have much, very much even to overflowing.

C2 Vincent’s Word Studies has this note here: The former refers [steadfast] to their firm establishment in the faith; the latter [immovable] to that establishment as related to assault from temptation or persecution. Fixedness is a condition of abounding in work. All activity has its center in rest. [insert is mine]

C2 John Wesley writes: Be ye steadfast - In yourselves. Unmovable - By others; continually increasing in the work of faith and labour of love. Knowing your labour is not in vain in the Lord - Whatever ye do for his sake shall have its full reward in that day. Let us also endeavour, by cultivating holiness in all its branches, to maintain this hope in its full energy; longing for that glorious day, when, in the utmost extent of the expression, death shall be swallowed up for ever, and millions of voices, after the long silence of the grave, shall burst out at once into that triumphant song, O death, where is thy sting? O hades, where is thy victory?

C4 The work of the Lord Jesus is described: John 4:34 NRSV Jesus said to them, "My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to complete his work.

D1 Our work in this life and forever is to do God’s will.

D2 We were created for fellowship with God and to serve Him forever.

D3 We serve Him by

E1 Obedience to His laws. These are the ~1,000 rules in the New Testament. John 14:23-24 GNB Jesus answered him, "Those who love me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and my Father and I will come to them and live with them. 24 Those who do not love me do not obey my teaching. And the teaching you have heard is not mine, but comes from the Father, who sent me.

E2 Doing life the way God intended and to grow in the knowledge about God: Colossians 1:10 NRSV so that you may lead lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, as you bear fruit in every good work and as you grow in the knowledge of God.

E3 1 Thessalonians 1:3 NRSV remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

E4 This fruit should be cleanly seen by all. May God continue to work in our lives: Galatians 5:22-23 NRSV By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.

E5 Serving other believers. All believers can help one another believer sometime. I think we all see too many times others work to undermine another’s faith. God forbid! This is what we must do. It is an example for us: Hebrews 6:10-11 GNB God is not unfair. He will not forget the work you did or the love you showed for him in the help you gave and are still giving to other Christians. 11 Our great desire is that each of you keep up your eagerness to the end, so that the things you hope for will come true.

The reason for steadfastness is so our work for the Lord does not become empty.

B1 We don’t want

C1 Empty preaching or an empty faith: 1 Corinthians 15:14 NKJV And if Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty.

C2 To be deceived by empty words: Ephesians 5:6 NKJV Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience.

C3 Be cheated out of our faith by philosophy and empty deceit: Colossians 2:8 NKJV Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.

B2 The Greek word for empty is κενός kenós. It means no effect, no results, no substance. It is just hot air and good for nothing.

1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 NRSV We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, constantly 3 remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

A Few Thoughts About Tithing

Jewish Regulations

B1 First source: TERUMOT AND MA'ASEROT

B2 Second source: Tithing

B3 Third source: TITHE

B4 The Mosaic Law tithes:

C1 The first tithe is given to the priests or the Levites as in Numbers 18:21-24. The notes from the resources vary of who the tithe was to go to. The Levites or the priests then gave 10% to the High Priest.

C2 The second is to be brought to Jerusalem and eaten there. It could be redeemed for money, if the distance was too far, but 20% had to be added. See Deuteronomy 14:22-26.

C3 The third tithe was in the 3^rd and 6^th year (or once every 7 years, its confusing) for the poor. See Deuteronomy 14:28-29 and Deuteronomy 26:12.

C4 A number of estimates I saw listed the mean (average) tithe was 22-23% of income a year.

C5 The tithe was not money. It was grain, fruit, wine, and animals. If it was an animal, it was the 10^th animal. The owner could not pick one of the 10, but he was required to give the 10^th animal.

B5 Fourth source from a Messianic Jew: Tithing

Abraham

B1 Abraham did not give 10% of his income.

B2 He gave 10% of his spoils of war.

B3 Genesis 14:11-12, 14, 16, 18-20 NIV The four kings seized all the goods of Sodom and Gomorrah and all their food; then they went away. 12 They also carried off Abram's nephew Lot and his possessions, since he was living in Sodom. ... 14 When Abram heard that his relative had been taken captive, he called out the 318 trained men born in his household and went in pursuit as far as Dan. ... 16 He recovered all the goods and brought back his relative Lot and his possessions, together with the women and the other people. ... 18 Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, 19 and he blessed Abram, saying, "Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. 20 And praise be to God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand." Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything.

B4 So, the laws of tithe from the Law would not apply.

I’ve heard sermons on this verse “proving” the tithe is for the Christian. At one point, I did myself. Let’s look at in its plain, normal sense.

B1 Verse: Matthew 23:23 NIV Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.

B2 The Lord Jesus is speaking to the teachers of the Law and the Pharisees.

B3 He points out that they are meticulously careful about their tithes.

B4 The more important points of Mosaic Law, justice, mercy, and faithfulness, are neglected.

B5 The Lord Jesus tells these people they must do both according to Mosaic Law.

B6 This is descriptive, not prescriptive. The Lord is not telling us to do this. He is not correcting us; He is correcting the teachers and the Pharisees.

B7 The teachers and the Pharisees had greater care in following the ceremonial laws, then they did following the moral laws. Yet, God requires both to be fulfilled. Jesus did fulfill both.

The New Testament does teach

B1 To give money and supplies

C1 To the needy brothers and sisters

D1 See Deuteronomy 15

D2 Hebrews 13:16 GNB Do not forget to do good and to help one another, because these are the sacrifices that please God.

D3 Acts 11:29 NRSV The disciples determined that according to their ability, each would send relief to the believers living in Judea;

C2 To the full-time and/or needy workers: Galatians 6:6 NLT Those who are taught the word of God should provide for their teachers, sharing all good things with them.

B2 To give as God has prospered: 2 Corinthians 9:7 ESV Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

B3 To give cheerfully

B4 To give willingly

B5 To give without expecting anything in return. It is not an investment.

C1 Some would consider this to teach that the tithe is an investment. The more you give; the more you receive: 2 Corinthians 9:6 NRSV The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.

C2 The reward is not necessarily financial increases for us to keep. It refers to spiritual blessings as well as material blessings for the purpose of giving to others even greater amounts. 2 Corinthians 9:8 NRSV And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work.

C3 If we are to lend to our enemies and expect nothing in return, then surely we would expect us to do the same for our brothers and sisters: Luke 6:35 NIV But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.

B6 To give in acknowledgment of God’s blessing in granting us extra to give: 2 Corinthians 9:8 GNB And God is able to give you more than you need, so that you will always have all you need for yourselves and more than enough for every good cause.

B7 To give with an attitude of our treasures are in heaven, not on earth: Matthew 6:20-21 EMTV but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust corrupts, and where thieves do not dig through and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

B8 To NOT give to moochers, etc.: 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 GNB While we were with you, we used to tell you, "Whoever refuses to work is not allowed to eat." 11 We say this because we hear that there are some people among you who live lazy lives and who do nothing except meddle in other people's business. 12 In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ we command these people and warn them to lead orderly lives and work to earn their own living.

When giving, we

B1 Should have the attitude that we are giving to God, for He gives us to meet our needs and extra to help others in need. We are a family.

B2 Give to our family first, then our brothers and sisters in our local congregation, then our brothers and sisters around the world, and lastly to non-believers.

C1 1 Timothy 5:8 MKJV But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially his family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an infidel.

C2 1 John 3:17 NET But whoever has the world's possessions and sees his fellow Christian in need and shuts off his compassion against him, how can the love of God reside in such a person?

B3 Always meet the needs in the local congregation. There are month to month expenses, utilities, insurance, repair, staff needs, out reach, missions, etc.

B4 Should not be giving to get the special offer for a donation. We should give extra to cover the cost of the donation gift whether it is a book, DVD, pamphlet, etc.

B5 Give knowing it is a Christian sacrifice: Philippians 4:18-19 NRSV I have been paid in full and have more than enough; I am fully satisfied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. 19 And my God will fully satisfy every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

B6 Should know that giving is greater joy than receiving: Acts 20:35 NRSV In all this I have given you an example that by such work we must support the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, for he himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.

B7 Know that giving is a characteristic of believers: 1 John 3:17 WEB But whoever has the world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and closes his heart of compassion against him, how does God’s love remain in him?

Amounts

B1 10% would be burdensome to someone who only earns $1,000 a month.

B2 10% doesn’t have much effect on one with a monthly earning of $10,000.

B3 Some could give only 1%, while others could give 50% even.

B4 1 John 3:17 WEB  But whoever has the world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and closes his heart of compassion against him, how does God’s love remain in him?

B5 Just because someone earns $20,000 a month, it shouldn’t be expected of them to give 50%.

B5 Whatever we give, it must be of our free will, cheerfully, humbly, and as a sacrifice to God.

The love of money is a root of all evil: 1 Timothy 6:10 WEB For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some have been led astray from the faith in their greed, and have pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

We are to be content: Hebrews 13:5 WEB Be free from the love of money, content with such things as you have, for he has said, “I will in no way leave you, neither will I in any way forsake you.

1 Year Bible—1&2 Thessalonians On Holiness

Holiness versus evil

B1 God’s standards versus every other standard

C1 We are to walk worthily: 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12 WEB As you know, we exhorted, comforted, and implored every one of you, as a father does his own children, 12 to the end that you should walk worthily of God, who calls you into his own Kingdom and glory.

D1 Walk is the New Testament term for lifestyle. It is our day to day life. It is how we are to live our life in public and private.

E1 Luke 1:6 WEB They were both righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord.

E2 Romans 8:1 WEB There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who don’t walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.

D2 Walk, in agreement with the above point, also is a lifestyle without darkness. A life without darkness is a life lived with God’s help, God’s blessing, God’s truth, and God’s freedom:

E1 John 8:12 WEB Again, therefore, Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.”

E2 John 12:35 WEB Jesus therefore said to them, “Yet a little while the light is with you. Walk while you have the light, that darkness doesn’t overtake you. He who walks in the darkness doesn’t know where he is going.

B2 Live God’s standards

C1 No sexual sins. Both husband and wife (only husband and wife according to God’s standards) are to enjoy sexual pleasure and togetherness. The wife is to enjoy pleasure just as the husband. 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 WEB For this is the will of God: your sanctification, that you abstain from sexual immorality, 4 that each one of you know how to control his own body in sanctification and honor, 5 not in the passion of lust, even as the Gentiles who don’t know God.

C2 Living a quiet and upright life

D1 No gossip. If we tell the truth, it is not gossip. It we warn others, it is not gossip. If we can prevent further crimes or abuse, it is not gossip. If we are seeking help and tell our story, it is not gossip. If it is a truth about someone and they complain that it is gossip, it is not gossip. Gossip is when we have a secret just between you and me that is not criminal or injurious, and then I spread it far and near. For example, I had a job once where I learned to never tell a certain person what was happening in the family, finances, plans for the future, complaints, etc, because she would blab it to everyone. I did take advantage of this once, for I wanted some information to be given to all the other workers. I told this worker the information, and she told everyone. Ha!

D2 We are to work to meet our needs and have some extra to help others especially believers. 2 Thessalonians 3:7-10 WEB For you know how you ought to imitate us. For we didn’t behave ourselves rebelliously among you, 8 neither did we eat bread from anyone’s hand without paying for it, but in labor and travail worked night and day, that we might not burden any of you; 9 not because we don’t have the right, but to make ourselves an example to you, that you should imitate us. 10 For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: “If anyone will not work, don’t let him eat.”

B3 Living by God’s standards and being God’s people will result in a witness of our faith.

B4 Here are a number of rules for all Christians to be living this very day and tomorrow: 1 Thessalonians 5:14-22 WEB We exhort you, brothers,

C1 admonish the disorderly—the disorderly cause trouble in society and/or the church

C2 encourage the faint-hearted—these are those discouraged, sad, etc.

C3 support the weak—in persecution, distresses, physical

C4 be patient toward all. 15 

C5 See that no one returns evil for evil to anyone, but always follow after that which is good, for one another, and for all—calling law enforcement to report a crime is not returning evil. To call is a protective measure. 16 

C6 Rejoice always—if nothing else, we rejoice that God will never leave us and also suffered. 17 

C7 Pray without ceasing—this is an attitude not a 24 prayer vigil 18 

C8 In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus toward you. 19 

C9 Don’t quench the Spirit. 20 by disobeying the Scriptures and in those days, not following the advice of the Apostles

C10 Don’t despise prophesies. 21 

C11 Test all things, and hold firmly that which is good. 22 The Scriptures are our standard.

C12 Abstain from every form of evil. Again, the standard is God’s Word as in recorded in the Scriptures.

B5 To stand firm in the faith. This is to continue in the doctrine that the Lord Jesus and the Apostles taught. This does not change in time or different societies. God’s way is best. Our way is not.

C1 Malachi 3:6 NRSV For I the LORD do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, have not perished.

C2 Hebrews 13:8 NRSV Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

C3 Proverbs 14:12 WEB There is a way which seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.

B6 Living by God’s standards and being God’s people will result in persecution.

Some encouragement

B1 2 Thessalonians 3:1-5 NRSV Finally, brothers and sisters, pray for us, so that the word of the Lord may spread rapidly and be glorified everywhere, just as it is among you, 2 and that we may be rescued from wicked and evil people; for not all have faith. 3 But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one. 4 And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, that you are doing and will go on doing the things that we command. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ.

B2 We are to pray for the Christian brothers and sisters

C1 For the Gospel to be spread to others

C2 For believers to be rescued from evil people

C3 For God’s strength. He WILL strengthen us.

C4 For safety from the evil one, especially satan. God is always victorious.

C5 For continuing in the faith in beliefs and lifestyle

C6 For continual seeking God’s help and wisdom

Psalms 28:7 NRSV The LORD is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts; so I am helped, and my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.

Psalms 55:22 NRSV Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.

John 16:33 NRSV I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!"

1 Year Bible—1&2 Thessalonians Part B

B3 Rapture

C1 Rapture and Second Coming:

Question: "What is the difference between the Rapture and the Second Coming?"

Answer: The rapture and the second coming of Christ are often confused. Sometimes it is difficult to determine whether a scripture verse is referring to the rapture or the second coming. However, in studying end-times Bible prophecy, it is very important to differentiate between the two. The rapture is when Jesus Christ returns to remove the church (all believers in Christ) from the earth. The rapture is described in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 and 1 Corinthians 15:50-54. Believers who have died will have their bodies resurrected and, along with believers who are still living, will meet the Lord in the air. This will all occur in a moment, in twinkling of an eye. The second coming is when Jesus returns to defeat the Antichrist, destroy evil, and establish His millennial kingdom. The second coming is described in Revelation 19:11-16. [Source]

C2 Image

[I found this online, but I do not know the original source]

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 WEB But we don’t want you to be ignorant, brothers, concerning those who have fallen asleep, so that you don’t grieve like the rest, who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep in Jesus. 15 For this we tell you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will in no way precede those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with God’s trumpet. The dead in Christ will rise first, 17 then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air. So we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.

From this passage we learn:

C1 We are not to be in ignorance

C2 Jesus is in heaven and will return with believers, which are also in heaven, for they are brought with Him.

C3 The believers who have died will be resurrected, that is, reunited with a new body like Christ has.

C4 We who are alive will be caught up (seized, snatched, raptured) to Christ in the air.

C5 We are to comfort one another.

We do not go through the Tribulation: 1 Thessalonians 5:9 WEB For God didn’t appoint us to wrath, but to the obtaining of salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ,

2 Thessalonians 2:8-10 WEB Then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will kill with the breath of his mouth, and destroy by the manifestation of his coming; 9 even he whose coming is according to the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, 10 and with all deception of wickedness for those who are being lost, because they didn’t receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved.

From this passage we learn:

C1 There will be a lawless one. There are many lawless people today, but this is the ultimate in lawlessness-just one of a kind.

C2 Yeshua will destroy him with just a word.

C3 The lawless one is empowered by satan.

C4 satan and his crowd can do miracles (compare Pharaoh's magicians in Exodus 8:7, etc.)

C5 The purpose of these miracles is to deceive

C6 Those most easily deceived are those who want to be deceived

C7 These who are deceived reject the truth

C8 They reject believing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and placing faith and trust in Him.

Let us

B1 Eagerly wait for Him: 1 Corinthians 1:7 NIV Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed.

B2 Be ready. We do not know the day: Philippians 3:20 NIV But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,