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If you have tasted that the Lord is Gracious and know Him as Lord and Savior of your life, you are born again into Jesus Christ by the Word of God.  That word of God fills you with power, hope, joy, justification, and righteousness.  Your sins are forgiven and your life transformed forever.  The Word of God liveth and abideth forever. It is more powerful than you can even imagine.  It is by the Word of God that the earth was created.  He spoke and everything was formed from the tiniest microcell to the entire universe.  One word and the earth and heavens formed.  Furthermore, He sustains all things by the word of His mouth.

One breath and life came into Adam’s lungs—that life is the soul of man that for eternity abides in an eternal state of dying or life depending upon the Word of God transforming the Spirit of men and women into being born again by the Spirit of God.  So, why would you not want to be filled with the Word of God as your constant diet.   

I propose that there are innumerable benefits of immersing oneself in the Bible, God’s revelation of Jesus Christ to us in written form that we might consume it, rejoice in it, study it, and hold it fast to our memory.  Does not love demand such?  He who knows everything about me, who knows every move, thought, and trial I face.  Why would I not desire with all my being to know Him more?  How better to know Him than to study the Word of God left for us in the pages of the Bible?  Let us look at 10 major reasons to study the Bible.  Though there are many more.   

Reason #1 To Study the Word of God—It is the Power to Save You 

And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.  2 Timothy 3:15-17  

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.”  Romans 15:16 

Why do some refuse to read the scripture?  Therein lies the power of salvation.  I have some relatives who state they have never opened a Bible nor read; yet they reject it.  Can you reject that which you know nothing of?  Some say, it cannot be truth.  So, I have been told by some guy I heard speak. Instead of reading for oneself, they put all their faith in some “fulano” without even checking.  If you refuse to ever read; how can you confirmatively say there is no power in the Word of God.  There is truly power to transform your heart.  If only you would open its pages and read.   

Jesus Christ the Word of God-exact reflection of the Father became Flesh to Save Us 

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. He (John) was not that Light but was sent to bear witness of that Light.  That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. (namely Jesus).   

He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. (Jesus) came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.  And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.  John 1: 1-14  

Jesus Came and Provided Salvation for Us— 

He is the Word of God made flesh fulfilling every promise to us by grace.   

In due time, God sent forth His Son, born of a Virgen that He might bring salvation to a lost and dying world.  This was the promise given to Adam.  Throughout history, it has been His story.  As God said, 

 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.  Isaiah 55:11  

He came to die on the cross, paying the penalty of our sins.  But if you never open the Word of God; how could you know or understand?   

 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.  For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.  John 3:15-16  

Reason #2 To Study the Word of God—our sanctification 

Salvation is our justification before a righteous God that our sin debt has been paid.  It was paid by His Only Son, Jesus Christ.  We are declared righteous through faith, accepting His gift of grace.  As such, we declare Him as Lord of our lives.  We remain in a fallen world.  Our sin nature remains a part of that brokenness.  At the point of salvation, the Holy Spirit comes to abide within us.  He is always about the task of sanctifying us.  In one sense we are sanctified as the blood of Christ clothes us in His righteousness.  However, our ongoing sanctification is the transformation of our hearts and minds to one day look like Jesus.   

For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.  Romans 8:29-30  

So in a sense our sanctification is our glorification.  He is changing us from Glory to Glory into the image of Jesus Christ as is noted in 2 Corinthians 3:18 

But we all, with unveiled faces, looking as in a mirror at the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit. (NASB) 

How Does the Word of God Play into Sanctification? 

If we never read the Word of God, how can we possibly really know any of the characteristics of Jesus? Nor of the Father, for it is the Bible that reveals the characteristics of God to us.   

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.  2 Timothy 3:15-17 

Jesus Christ on the night before He was crucified prayed to the Father for each of us.   

Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.  John 17: 17-21 

Note He asked the Father to Sanctify us through the truth. Because the Word of God IS Truth.  Jesus Sanctified Himself. Not only through living a life without sin. But also, by taking the cup of God’s wrath for sin in our place.   

Reason #3 to Study the Word of God- Guidance in our life 

We need guidance and wisdom to navigate our lives.  

Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore, I hate every false way. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.   Psalm 119: 105-106.   

It is the Word of God that illuminates our path so that we do not fall.   

 I have chosen the way of truth: thy judgments have I laid before me. I have stuck unto thy testimonies: O Lord, put me not to shame. I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart. Teach me, O Lord, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end. Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight.Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness.  

Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way. Stablish thy word unto thy servant, who is devoted to thy fear.Turn away my reproach which I fear: for thy judgments are good. Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: quicken me in thy righteousness. Let thy mercies come also unto me, O Lord, even thy salvation, according to thy word. So shall I have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me: for I trust in thy word. And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth; for I have hoped in thy judgments. So shall I keep thy law continually for ever and ever.  Psalm 119:  30-44 

The Word of God encompasses me.     

O lord, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether. Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it.  Psalm 139: 1-6 

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6  

If I do not read the Word of God, then I will only be focused on my own understanding. Or on that of other broken humans.   

Reason #4 to Study the Word of God—Hope Amid Tragedy and Sorrow 

My soul melteth for heaviness: strengthen thou me according unto thy word. Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope. This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me.  Psalm 119: 28, 49-50 

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.  Romans 15:13 

How can we know of His Hope, Joy and Peace without reading the Word of God?  It is His word that fills us with His Joy.  As Jesus said,  

 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.  These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. John 15: 7-11 

O may Your lovingkindness comfort me.  According to Your word to Your servant.  Psalm 119:76 NASB  

According to the Word of God, may His lovingkindness comfort me whenever this world is my distress.  

The More We Know of Him, the Greater Our Comfort 

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;  Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.  And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation.And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation.  2 Corinthians 1:  3-7 

He is our comforter through every sorrow. Read carefully the Psalms. Thereby, You will find comfort for whatever situation you face.   

Reason #5 to Study the Word of God—to carry out our Commision 

Knowing we have the greatest treasure this world could ever find. We must be ready always to proclaim the name of Jesus to a world dying in chaos and sorrow.  

Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers. Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. 2 Timothy 2:14-16 

And since we, who keep our eyes on Jesus by feasting on the Word of God, we can face trials with His peace and joy.  Then, our light of hope shines forth even brighter. 

if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;  But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.  I Peter 3:14-15 

Reason #6 to Study the Word of God—Clarity of Heart and Mind 

the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in His sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do. Hebrews 4:12-13 

God sees clearly what is in our hearts.  Sometimes we do not.  His word cuts away all the dross, allowing us to see the depth of our own sinful hearts.  Yet, that opens the door even wider for us to lay it all at the foot of the cross.  We can approach the throne of God with peace, asking that He transform our hearts and minds to be like Him.   

Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not a high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.  Hebrews 4: 14-16  

Therefore, being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.   Romans 5:1-2 

Reason #7 to Study the Word of God—It is our only offensive weapon 

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 

 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit. Watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.  Ephesians 6: 10-18 

Reason #8 to Study the Word of God:  To Not Face the Judgement of God 

Those who do not know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior will face the Second Return of Christ and later the final Judgement.  He who created the world with His spoken word will return to destroy.  Note this description of Jesus.   

 And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks.  And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. And he had in his right hand seven stars: and  

OUT OF HIS MOUTH WENT A SHARP TWOEDGED SWORD: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:  I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.  Revelation 1: 12-18 

Remember what we read in Hebrews: “the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” 

He who spoke the world into being, will bring justice by the word of His mouth.   

 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.  

 And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against him that sat on the horse, and against his army. And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh. Revelation 19:11-15, 19-21 

Reason #9 to Study the Word of God—Love Demands It 

take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the Lord charged you, to love the Lord your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.  Joshua 22:4-6 

Would this not be the cry of your heart if you truly understand what He has done for you?   

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.  We love him, because he first loved us. I John 4:18-19  

Do you not long within your heart to study the Word of God? If not, then my question would be. Do you really understand what He did for you?  

 Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 

Reason #10 to study the Word of God: Because My Heavenly Father says to 

 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.   Romans 15:4-5

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.  Joshua 1:8 

Concluding thoughts 

If you desire to have a life filled with power, hope, peace, and joy do not neglect the Word of God which is life to you.  He is all you really need.  When He is first in your life, you will find that everything else changes.  You will never regret the journey with Him.  He is worthy of all our praise, our devotion, and our time.  I promise you that.   

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

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©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

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New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Once more, my life has taken a major turn.   Yet, my earnest desire is to follow Him regardless of where He leads me. Let this be said of me, that I shall not be put to shame in anything but with all boldness let Christ be exalted in my life.   All the years that have come before led me to trust God and really desire with joy to follow Him wherever He may lead me.   

Sorry that I have not written for a while and have left all my readers waiting, but there is a lot I wish to tell you now.  I have been in the process of both a major move and some major revelations concerning my health.  Yet, now, as I settle into my new lifestyle and position, I am fully at peace.  Hope and Joy arise within my new adventure in life.  I feel the presence of God surrounding me as though living precisely in the verse so beautifully written by Zephaniah. 

“The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.”  Zephaniah 3:17 KJV 

His Hope and Strength Fill Me, His Holy Spirit Guides and Protects Me 

What an amazing thought! A reminder of WHO HE IS and that He surrounds me. Almighty God is there to save me.  He rejoices over me with His Joy.  All this resting in His Abounding, Overflowing love for me, of all people.  He sings over me with His joy.   Furthermore, He abides within me.  That is the earnest promise of the Holy Spirit.   

“For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. Now He which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God; Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.” 2 Corinthians 1: 20-22 KJV 

I am sealed in Him!  The Holy Spirit abides in me as the “earnest” (the deposit proving my position in Christ).  What have I to worry?  Nothing.  He is my Provider, my Savior and my Hope.   

Desire with Joy to Follow Him 

My life has taken me down many roads.  Those who have followed for a while have journeyed with me through part of this.  This website I began in 2010 just to tell my story, as I walked with Christ.  Sometimes, my struggles laid bare as I did not ever want to hide the truth, as the Holy Spirit worked to transform my wayward heart.   My website being based on 2 Corinthians 3:16-18 (YLT)  Young’s Literal Translation by Public Domain 

“whenever they may turn unto the Lord, the vail is taken away. And the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord [is], there [is] liberty; and we all, with unvailed face, the glory of the Lord beholding in a mirror, to the same image are being transformed, from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.”   

I am being transformed into His image by the work of the Holy Spirit.  Day by day, glory by glory, little steps, tiny transformations.  It is His work.  He will complete that work in me.  His way and His timing.  As Paul wrote to the Church in Philippi. 

“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”  Philippians 1:6 (ESV).   

This is true of each of us who know Christ.  Therefore, I desire with joy to follow Him wherever He leads me.  Only He knows what is best. 

All Things Work Together 

      “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover, whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified” Romans 8: 28-30 KJV 

Is there anything too difficult to face if that is what will transform me to His Image.  How I long to one day fully have His heart.  Therefore, I trust God and really do desire with overflowing joy to follow Him regardless of the road I face.  So, let me catch you up a little on my journey.  I hope it encourages someone along the way in their journey. 

The Journey to Really Desire to with Joy Follow Him 

Naturally, it begins with salvation which for me was many years ago.  Each step of my journey after that has been His transforming work, often despite me.  Every failure, sorrow, joy, heartbreak, pain, success all used by Him to inch by inch change my heart, my desires, and my faith.   If I were to tell you the whole story, it would be a new book.  So, let us just look at the last year for a moment. 

My job as a Cardiology Nurse Practitioner provider in the Veteran’s Administration was a job that I loved.  It often was long hours and a lot of work with constant demands.  Yet, such a rewarding job.  There is no better group of patients to serve.  Noble, honorable, patriotic, men and women who each have their own stories to tell.  So, I thought I would at least work until December of 2025.  It would certainly financially as well be the smarter thing to do.   

Yet, in mid-July of 2024, I felt the urging that I must retire the last day of December 2024.  That urging so strong, I knew it must be from God.  So, I started the process.  That would hopefully allow my bosses to have the time to replace me.  I did not want to be a burden to them.  My superiors were the most sacrificially dedicated Cardiologists I have known.  They always went the extra mile caring for the Veteran population.  For that reason, I admired and loved them dearly.   

So, you can probably realize that choice was initially hard to make.  Each patient was to me like a family member whom I cared for.  Still, knowing this was what God commanded, I marched forward fearlessly to really desire with joy to follow Him wherever He chose for me to go.   

Little Did I Know Why 

I was totally unaware of all His reasons.  Yet, after all the years and journeys, I knew I could trust Him.  How did I know it was Him?  Well at the beginning of January, 2024 I began to fast and pray one day per week.  This became a constant in my life, because I so desired to be in His will.  I wanted to know Him more.  Normally this would be on a Saturday as I prepared the lesson for the week.  If Saturday was going to be impossible to a change in my life schedule I would fast on Friday instead.  I wish I could tell you how incredibly that simple act transformed everything! Suddenly, I could see things clearer.  

Although sometimes that did mean I could see my own failures and sin with such clarity.  Yet, that allowed me to confess them and ask for the Holy Spirit to teach me how to overcome the tests and trials.   

Fasting prayer is a powerful tool when praying for your country, your family, and your friends.  Well somewhere in September or October my sister-in-law in Mexico fell and broke her help.  It has not been an easy process to heal.  The first surgery left her with a lot of debilitating pain.  I knew it was my journey to move to Mexico to be there for her.  So, that is where I am now.  What a blessing she is to me! I am learning so much from her about life and faith.  Her faith and love for Christ strong. 

Then there were the sudden changes in my own health journey.   

Really Desire to with Joy Follow Him, wherever. 

My health issues began with a very aggressive breast cancer in 1998, followed by a relentless Ulcerative Colitis.  I had complicated surgeries, chemotherapy, a year of high dose steroids, too many to relate here.  In 2002 it was discovered that I had auto-immune chronic pancreatitis as well.  September of 2023, this began to progress more rapidly until I was no longer able to make my own enzymes and began taking them orally.  I was blessed to discover this and to have insurance to assist with the costs.  There were newly forming cysts also on the pancreas. 

These are pre-cancerous cysts and even more notable now in my last tests with some enzymatic components that demonstrate their potential to becoming cancer at some point.  These markers have worsened.  Therefore, I need close surveillance.  There is a newer procedure that involves removing the pancreas to avoid cancer.  They at the same time auto transplant the islet cells to avoid a severe brittle diabetes.   I went to be evaluated for that surgery. However, I am not a candidate as too high risk of possibly have some cancerous cells lurking.  Furthermore, I have had way too many abdominal surgeries with a large unrepairable hernia.  Would require specialty surgeons to reconstruct my abdominal wall.  Only if a cancer is detected could I be considered for a partial pancreatectomy.   

Pancreatic cancer is not where I want to go. It is not the journey I want to embark on.  But if He determines it to be the future, I desire to Joyfully follow Him wherever.  I have learned to trust God, no matter what.  How?  Years of walking with Him.   

A Change of Pace to Follow Him 

Did He not know it was best for me to retire?  Not only that, to retire to Mexico instead of anywhere in the states at present.  I arrived on March 8.  My life is drastically different.  I walk everywhere I go as currently I have no car.  If I need to go further, my niece or brother-in-law can take me.  If not, there are taxis, conveys and a great bus system to get me anywhere else I need to go.  I am truly blessed.   

Food here is mostly from the open market.  Therefore, the food is healthier than the processed foods in the states.  There is a beautiful park nearby to exercise walk and I have everything I need.   

God knew in July that this was what was best for me.  What about you?  Can you trust Him fully?  Do you really desire with joy to follow Him wherever He may lead?   

If not, how can you learn to trust Him? 

1. First, do you know Him as Lord and Savior of your life?  If not it begins there.  Jesus Christ came to earth to live the perfect, righteous life I cannot live, to die the death that I deserve.  As such He paid the price for all my sins.  Then, He rose again, conquering death and sin.  Salvation occurs when you first recognize that you are a sinner and cannot save yourself.  Then all you need do is look to Jesus Christ, believing He is the only begotten son of God who paid for your sins.  Accept His gift of salvation.  He will send His Holy Spirit to indwell you and guide you each step of the way. 

2. Faith is knowing God IS (Sovereign, Almighty, Creator of the World, Perfect Righteousness, and Perfect Justice).  Only to mention a few of His characteristics.  And to know that He rewards those who diligently seek Him.  Not that always get it right or tries the hardest to be good.  He takes the responsibility of transforming your actions, if you truly seek Him.  How?  Read His love letters left for you (the Bible) every day and even intermittently throughout the day.  Therein you come to know Him.  Set aside time to be alone with Him in prayer every day and even throughout the day talk with Him.   

Results of Having Desire to with Joy Follow Him?

What do you get?  Joy abounding, steadfast that carries you through any storm this life can send.  Hope overflowing.  Strength, you never knew you had.  And Peace beyond comprehension.  I know, because He has done this for me.  I certainly have not deserved this, but it is mine.  Therefore, I want to never be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  My desire is to exalt His name in everything I do and wherever He sends me I desire to joyfully follow Him.   

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

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©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

We completed the study of Revelation in our class over the past 2 months. It is my desire that all come to understand the truth of Jesus Christ and all who hear this series come to recognize that He is Lord and Savior. There is no other way to God apart from his Son. With that purpose in mind I have also included below the YouTube video series from this study.

Revelation series: #1 of 9

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

As we concluded Chapter 16 last week, we studied the final bowl judgements.  These were sent directly from the heavenly Temple. They demonstrated justice being rightly poured out.  Yet, avoid thinking we should mourn the loss of Babylon. We are given this nonlinear interlude to discuss and understand the necessity of Babylon’s fall.  It provides us perspective as to why this is necessary.  It is the act of a just and righteous God.  Furthermore, the 6^th and 7^th bowl judgements usher in Armageddon.  Only then does Christ Return to earth as the victorious King.

The wedding of the Lamb is now complete. Therefore, we know that as His bride we will begin the wedding feast of the Lamb on return to earth. Here on the newly reclaimed earth.  Will it be a 1000-year feast?  Perhaps.  Tradition has that the wedding feast does extend for many days.  Would it not be amazing to think it will extend throughout the millennium?

Some say that chapters 17 and 18 of Revelation are the most difficult to understand. There are many theories to guess who is Babylon.   Yet, I contend that they are not difficult to understand. When we consider the Old Testament prophecies with the new, Babylon is clearly defined.   Allow scripture to interpret scripture. 

“Hallelujah! Salvation, glory, and power belong to our God,because His judgments are true and righteous. For He has judged the great prostitute who was corrupting the earth with her sexual immorality. And He has avenged the blood of His bond-servants on her.” Revelation 19: 1-2 NASB

Should We Mourn Mystery Babylon’s Fall

Multiple times we have read “Babylon has fallen.  Essentially demonstrating the ultimate importance of that truth. Babylon has always been the essence of evil ideology.  It is man’s attempt to be God. He wanted to overthrow God.  Was that not the central ideology of Satan as well?  Did not Adam sin because he was enticed by the idea that he could be God? And Cain wanted to worship God his way.  Never considering God had provided a means of salvation by grace. He chose to even kill his brother. Why? Envy. Because his own humanistic designed sacrifice was rejected. At the same time God accepted his brother’s humbly obedient sacrifice.

The Spread of Spiritual Apostasy from the Beginning

Eden was located along the southern Euphrates River.  This was the same region as the Tower of Babel . The tower represented humanity’s attempt to reach God by human endeavor alone. Their Desire? To become as powerful as God by human effort.  God scattered the people and confused their language. But the false belief system led by Nimrod and his wife continued.  This was a system of idolatrous worship.  From it sprung Baal worship, and the worship of Asherath (also known as Ishtar). Indeed, all false religions against God came out of the same idolatrous ideology.  In fact, these same false doctrines tainted our modern-day Christian celebrations.  Easter with its Easter bunny has glimpses of Ishtar the fertility goddess.  Christmas has yuletide logs, symbolic of the worship of the solstice or sun worship. 

Babylon must be destroyed. Why? It embodies humanistic desires to outdo and overthrow God. Therefore, we must never mourn her destruction. Rather rejoice in His victory.  Now is the time to warn sinners.  Today we must tell of His Grace, Love, and Mercy. Proclaim His perfect plan of salvation.  Today is the day they may turn to Him. 

What is Mystery Babylon versus Babylon does anyone mourn her?

Mystery Babylon is the Spiritual ideology driving the political/commercial Babylon.  That is an important distinction in understanding chapters 17 and 18 of Revelation.  So, as we look at these chapters. I hope to shed some light demonstrating how to distinguish the truth in God’s word. 

Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came. And talked with me, saying to me, “Come, I will show you the judgment of the great harlot who sits on many waters, with whom the kings of the earth committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth were made drunk with the wine of her fornication.”  Revelation 17:1-2 (NKJV)

Throughout Scripture, God refers to idolatrous worship as fornication and harlotry.  Truly idolatry symbolizes the turning away from true love to fulfill selfish desires.  Precisely including self-worship or the worship of anything apart from God.   

So, he carried me away in the Spirit into the wilderness. And I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast which was full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet. (She was) adorned with gold, precious stones and pearls, having in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication. And on her forehead a name was written:

MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT.
THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS
AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS
OF THE EARTH.  Revelation 17:3-5 (NKJV) 

This “harlot” symbolizes all the evil ideologies driving the evil activities of humanity throughout the world.  Note: she is riding the Anti-Christ representative of her control over him at the beginning.  She is symbolic of the apostate church as well. 

Mystery Babylon Explained—No Never Mourn Her Demise

 And I saw the woman drunk with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the witnesses of Jesus. When I saw her, I wondered greatly. And the angel said to me, “Why do you wonder? I will tell you the mystery of the woman. And of the beast that carries her, which has the seven heads and the ten horns.  Revelation 17: 6-7 (NASB)

The infiltration of all false religious systems are responsible for the death of so many.  They teach human abilities as a means to salvation. This leads to many dying in their sin. Additionally true saints have been martyred by false religious leaders.  Should we mourn the death of this ideology?

 “The beast that you saw was, and is not, and is about to come up out of the abyss and go to destruction. And those who live on the earth, whose names have not been written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, will wonder when they see the beast, that he was, and is not, and will come.  Revelation 17:8 (NASB)

This refers to both the King and a Kingdom.  There will be a reformation of a Roman Empire (kind of).  We do not know if that is pre-rapture or post rapture.  But it is believed that the Mystery Babylon—the spiritual apostate church does rise out of Rome.  That is shown by her sitting on seven hills.  Multiple references also demonstrate that this rebirth of a union of 10 Kings is the 7^th and then 8^th Kingdoms referred to in Daniel.  The 8^th Kingdom being the Anti-Christ taking over the rule of all during the second half of the tribulation.  (The little horn arising from the 10).  That is the explanation of

Revelation 17:9-13 (NASB)

Here is the mind which has wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains upon which the woman sits, and they are seven kings; five have fallen, one is, the other has not yet come; and when he comes, he must remain a little while. The beast which was, and is not, is himself also an eighth and is one of the seven, and he goes to destruction. The ten horns which you saw are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but they receive authority as kings with the beast for one hour.These have one purpose, and they give their power and authority to the beast.

How Wonderful the Next Verse jumps forward to remind us not to mourn

These will wage war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them because He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are the called and chosen and faithful.” Revelation 17:14 (NASB)

That will be at the end. Yet, God is even in control here.  Mystery Babylon (the spiritual apostasy) is destroyed by the Kings of the Earth to then worship only the Antichrist.  This happens midway through tribulation.  Without their knowledge, it was God directing them to destroy this evil religious system. 

 And he *said to me, “The waters which you saw where the prostitute sits are peoples and multitudes, and nations and languages. And the ten horns which you saw, and the beast, these will hate the prostitute and will make her desolate and naked, and will eat her flesh and will burn her up with fire. For God has put it in their hearts to execute His purposeby having a common purpose, and by giving their kingdom to the beast, until the words of God will be fulfilled. The woman whom you saw is the great city, which reigns over the kings of the earth.”  Revelation 17: 15-18 (NASB).

Political/Commercial Babylon

Then, there is the political/commercial Babylon which is reborn.  Many speculate where this could be; however, God was very clear in the Old Testament Prophecy that when He ultimately destroys Babylon—no stone is left standing.  (Isaiah 13:17, 19-21 and Jeremiah 50:39-40).  Many prophecies have a near and a far fulfillment.  Although Babylon was overtaken and somewhat destroyed when the Mede/Persians overtook the Babylonian Empire, there are stones still standing.  There are people still present.  And there are crops that grow.  Therefore, it is not finished.  That is why I do believe that Babylon will be rebuilt.  May be during the tribulation or uncertain when exactly.  Yet, it is interesting to know in 2017 the United Nations sent an expedition of people to begin a project of nominating Babylon for UNESCO Preservation of Cultural sights.

After these things I saw another angel coming down from heaven, having great authority, and the earth was illuminated from his glory. And he cried out with a mighty voice, saying, “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place of demons and a prison of every unclean spirit, and a prison of every unclean and hateful bird.For all the nations have fallen because of the wine of the passion of her sexual immorality, and the kings of the earth have committed acts of sexual immorality with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich from the excessive wealth of her luxury.” Revelation 18:1-3 NASB

Rejoice in God’s Goodness Even in her Destruction

Spiritually, socially, and politically, she had fallen into the darkest depravity of all.  Capital of the new One World Order.  Even the Apostate Church was destroyed by the Kings of the first half of the tribulation.  Yet, before her final physical destruction, God calls any who believe on Jesus Christ to come out.  His grace reaches out to the true believers always. 

 I heard another voice from heaven, saying, “Come out of her, my people, so that you will not participate in her sins and receive any of her plagues; for her sins have piled up as high as heaven, and God has remembered her offenses. Pay her back even as she has paid and give back to her double according to her deeds. In the cup which she has mixed, mix twice as much for her.To the extent that she glorified herself and lived luxuriously, to the same extent give her torment and mourning; for she says in her heart, ‘I sit as a queen. And I am not a widow. (I) will never see mourning.’ For this reason in one day her plagues will come, plague and mourning and famine, and she will be burned up with fire; for the Lord God who judges her is strong. Revelation 18:4-8 (NASB)

In all her boasting, God will destroy the city. 

Humanity will Mourn for Babylon

 “And the kings of the earth, who committed acts of sexual immorality and lived luxuriously with her, will weep and mourn over her when they see the smoke of her burning,standing at a distance because of the fear of her torment, saying, ‘Woe, woe, the great city, Babylon, the strong city! For in one hour your judgment has come.’ “And the merchants of the earth weep and mourn over her, because no one buys their cargo anymore—cargo of gold, silver, precious stones, and pearls; fine linen, purple, silk, and scarlet; every kind of citron wood, every article of ivory, and every article made from very valuable wood, bronze, iron, and marble; cinnamon, spice, incense, perfume, frankincense, wine, olive oil, fine flour, wheat, cattle, sheep, and cargo of horses, carriages, slaves, and human lives.  Revelation 18:9-13

No longer will they have the desires of their heart

 The fruit you long for has left you, and all things that were luxurious and splendid have passed away from you and people will no longer find them.The merchants of these things, who became rich from her, will stand at a distance because of the fear of her torment, weeping and mourning,saying, ‘Woe, woe, the great city, she who was clothed in fine linen and purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold, precious stones, and pearls; for in one hour such great wealth has been laid waste!’ And every shipmaster and every passenger and sailor, and all who make their living by the sea, stood at a distance,and were crying out as they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, ‘What city is like the great city?’

And they threw dust on their heads and were crying out, weeping and mourning, saying, ‘Woe, woe, the great city, in which all who had ships at sea became rich from her prosperity, for in one hour she has been laid waste!’Rejoice over her, O heaven, and you saints and apostles and prophets, because God has pronounced judgment for you against her.”  Revelation 18:14-20 NASB

Do Not Mourn as the 6^th and 7^th Bowl Judgements are Enacted

Remember last week?  The 6^th bowl judgements dry up the river Euphrates.  The water for movement is gone.  Furthermore, the armies of the east and west can join forces.  Then the 7^th bowl was great hail stones falling with a massive earthquake. 

 Then a strong angel picked up a stone like a great millstone and threw it into the sea, saying, “So will Babylon, the great city, be thrown down with violence, and will never be found again. And the sound of harpists, musicians, flute players, and trumpeters will never be heard in you again; and no craftsman of any craft will ever be found in you again; and the sound of a mill will never be heard in you again; and the light of a lamp will never shine in you again; and the voice of the groom and bride will never be heard in you again; for your merchants were the powerful people of the earth, because all the nations were deceived by your witchcraft.

 And in her was found the blood of prophets and of saints, and of all who have been slaughtered on the earth.”  Revelation 18:21-24 (NASB)

What will be her destruction?

Will the earthquake swallow up the entire city?  Or perhaps fire and brimstone as was Sodom and Gomorrah with no stone left?  Maybe both.  At any rate as Theodore Epp concluded.

“On the basis of Old Testament prophecies concerning the destruction of Babylon and from the details given in Revelation 17 and 18, it appears that Babylon must be rebuilt in order to be destroyed as prophesied.  The time of the prophesied destruction will be during the Day of the Lord.

It is possible that Rome will be the ecclesiastical capital of the world during the first three and a half years of the Tribulation and reguilt Babylon will be the political and commercial capital of the world during the last three and a half years.  Only time will reveal the exact fulfillment of all of these details. [1]

Look around you.  It is amazing how the whole stage is being set.  Only God knows when.  Yet, we must never mourn.  Rejoice our wedding and wedding feast are ever nearer each day.  Keep your eye focused on Jesus Christ, our love and our bridegroom.  He will return for us soon. 

Never Mourn, Rejoice for Our King Returns to Reign on Earth

 And I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse, and He who sat on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and wages war.His eyes are a flame of fire, and on His head are many crowns; and He has a name written on Him which no one knows except Himself.  Revelation 19: 11-12 NASB

A name only He Knows—what intimacy within the Godhead. This name beyond our compression or understanding.  Even greater than mighty counselor, provider, protector and Saviour. 

He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God.And the armies which are in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, were following Him on white horses.From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty. And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written: “KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.”  Revelation 19: 13-16 NASB 

How Appropriate to Never Mourn-they Did it to Themselves

Despite all His patience. After all they had seen of their own destruction. Still they rose up against the Lord who died for their sins, refusing to accept Him as Lord. The epitome of self and arrogance.

 And I saw the beast, the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against Him who sat on the horse and against His army.  Then the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet who worked signs in his presence, by which he deceived those who received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image. These two were cast alive into the lake of fire burning with brimstone.  And the rest were killed with the sword which proceeded from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse. And all the birds were filled with their flesh. Revelation 19: 19-21 NASB

[1] Epp, Theodore H., Practical Studies in Revelation, Back to the Bible Publication, Lincoln, NE, 1969  page.301

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

PREVIOUS

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

New King James Version (NKJV)Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

New English Translation (NET)NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.

English Standard Version (ESV)

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.