I realize that I have been very lax in presenting new poems lately.  The truth is so much studying, sometimes squelches my poetic side.  Then as I pondered the apologetic course I am currently in; these words began to form in my head.

The other day I listened to a debate on you-tube of Paul Kurtz.  He wrote the introduction to the Humanistic Manifesto II and helped in it’s development, as well as most likely contributed to Humanistic Manifesto III.  What I found amazing was that although, he denied any possibility of God; he believed out there somewhere must have existed some form of subatomic material eternally.  Since, nothing comes from nothing; something must have been eternally present.  We just haven’t discovered what that something was, according to him.  That takes a lot of faith; whereas, science instead of disproving God; has proven even things revealed to Moses, long ago.  I hope you enjoy this poem and take a moment to consider God, as our creator.

Finding The Truth, The Way In a Modern World

And as Mankind in pride doth say

That he has found the truth, the way

That science leads our earnest quest

The human brain it’s very best

 

Oh, look at all that we have learned

The truth for which we have so yearned

Yet, evil circles round us still

From all the thoughts of our free will

 

Our thoughts evolved so now we see

Inside each heart the will to be

Discovering truth, we think is new

Although revealed to ancient few

 

The Big Bang physics that we found

Revealed to Moses, on a mound

And written on a tablet stone

That what is new, had then been known

 

We seek to find our way to be

From nothingness, our destiny

Ah, yes; this truth before us lies

Grasping to hope before it dies

 

From nothingness, oh yes, we’re born

Into a life of prideful scorn

Until we come to one day see

That God created us to be

 

And through the ages, patiently

His love awaits you and me

To lay aside our foolish pride

To then, in Him our hearts abide

 

He paid the price of all our sin

That we might then be born again

Our spirit joining then with His

And there to find a joy that Is

 

No meaning truly can be found

Until to Him our hearts are bound

He freely gives this gift of grace

To all who turn to seek His face

 

The truth, the way, the life you see

Came to this earth for you and me

To die to pay our penalty

Upon that cross on Calvary

 

Oh, foolish man; that doth believe

That all of this did come to be

From something you have yet to find

You search for it within your mind

 

Yet, right there in your words you see

That nothing ever comes to be

Without a cause that must precede

These are your word, this is your creed

 

And yet you put your faith to find

Some particle of some kind

That must have been eternally

In order that all else could be

 

When truth is knocking at your door

While you still search for something more

How is that you run away

From He who bid you to stay.

CONCLUSION:

I am a firm believer in science, research, mathematics and medicine.  When I see all the intricacies of this planet, galaxy, the human cell and the thought processes of the brain; I stand in awe of God-the creator of it all.  In all their discoveries and desires to deny God, they have only proven the impossibility of their not being God.  Nothing new came to be; rather, science is barely scratching the surface of what can be discovered.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. Because there is nothing more important than this, I urge you to seek Him today.

OR ARE YOU IN OF NEED PRAYER?

If you have a prayer request email me by clicking here or comment here

 

Two Newest Books Available

ABIDING, STEADFAST JOY      

 

A labor of love, this book provides you with 3 foundations of truth from the scripture which once known will provide you with abiding, steadfast joy.  Undaunted by the storms of life; your joy will overflow.

WHEN INJUSTICE AND VIOLENCE REIGN:

Through a study of Nahum, Habukkuk, and Zephaniah; I brought their message into our modern times.  Answering the questions of “Why, God?”

Providing a foundation of faith and hope; even, as we see so much evil in the world and in our nation.  With so much sorrow and despair, this book I wrote to guide you into discovering God’s Perfect Plan of love; amid this chaotic world filled with life’s storms.

 

 

You may click on the picture for more information on either of these books.

OTHER RESOURCES AVAILABLE

If you want to know more about  other books I have written:  You can read more about each one at: Book Resources.

 

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2017

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post.  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.

Photo by NASA on Unsplash

Nehemiah gathered all the people, divided the job into sections and began the work of building the wall.  The task was immense. For that reason, until this time, the people had seen it as impossible.  They needed a leader who could break it down into sections; therefore, God sent Nehemiah.  With each group assigned a small section, the task now suddenly appears doable.  It is that way with most of the work you face.  Looking at the whole task, one tends to sit down in desperation; however, by breaking it into pieces, one gains new hope and invigoration to get the job done.  But opposition presented itself quickly; beginning with mockery and demoralizing jabs. Whenever one marches forward to do God’s work in this world, opposition arises. Satan places many roadblocks to cross.  How does one combat opposition from without and from within one’s own heart?

Those opposing the wall began with mockery. Sanballat began. “What does this bunch of poor, feeble Jews think they are doing? He scoffed. ‘do they think they can build the wall in a day if they offer enough sacrifices? And look at those charred stones they are pulling out of the rubbish and using again!’ Tobiah, who was standing beside him, remarked, ‘If even a fox walked along the top of their wall, it would collapse!” (Nehemiah 4:2-3, TLB).  In other words, “you bunch of weak, incompetent fools. You think God really is going to help you? Besides that, look at all that ruble and garbage! Even if you build it, it will fall down again.”

COMBAT OPPOSITION WITH TRUTH

The enemy, as you may recall; weren’t worshippers of God, they were foreign diplomats who wanted power. Nehemiah had made this clear, when he replied to their first criticisms: “The God of heaven will help us succeed. We, his servants, will start rebuilding this wall.  But you have no share, legal right, or historic claim in Jerusalem.”

In other words, “unless you bow down before the throne of God to worship Him; you have no say here.  This is God’s work and His work will be accomplished by Him through we, his servants.”  In other words, “Get behind me Satan.  I will not be deterred in doing God’s work.  He will provide a way.”

Just as a side note to place this all-in perspective. Sanballat, was an opportunist.  He, according to Josephus (a historian from the first century A.D.) was a governor over the area.  Furthermore, he had convinced the high priest of Judah to go against Gods laws and marry his daughter.  He did this to maintain a position of power.  He believed that a divided and diverse Israel was a controllable Israel.¹ Although, there are some discrepancies with Josephus’ work; he does add some perspective and credence to God’s own inspired word.

COMBAT OPPOSITION WITH PRAYER

Sometimes, it is not necessary to speak or to get into a confrontation with the opposition.  During those times, prayer.  Nehemiah knew this battle, “against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:12).  And, Nehemiah who had the power to win this battle.  Instead of responding to the attacker; this time, Nehemiah just prayed.

“Hear, O our God; for we are despised: and turn their reproach upon their own head, and give them for a prey in the land of captivity: And cover not their iniquity, and let not their sin be blotted out from before thee: for they have provoked thee to anger before the builders” (Nehemiah 4: 4-5).

This opposition had demeaned God and caused the people to question their faith and their zeal to perform the task God commanded to “build that wall.”  Yes, we are to pray for the salvation of every soul; however, it is ok to ask God to justly punish evil as well.

We do not always have to come back with a statement. Certainly, we are not to respond with revenge. Sometimes, we need to remain silent and pray.  God has a plan and we need to let Him be God, our provider and our protector against the enemy. Oh, but very important here.  Don’t stop the work He commanded you do, while waiting for God to respond.  Keep working.  Most likely the opposition is going to get a lot worse; before, it gets better.

COMBAT OPPOSITION FROM WITHIN

Although, many times we may face opposition from without; sometimes, the opposition is within our own mind and heart. Particularly, following a victory.  It is at least for me.  Recently, I released two new books.  In addition, I am taking classes on line from Liberty University; working toward a master’s in theology.  Beyond that, I do work full time and continue to maintain and write for this website.  Every time I am standing in praise to God (perhaps for His having met a financial need, a spiritual victory, an answered prayer or miraculously the money stretches to the next paycheck).  Then, the voices come, Satan whispering, “You fool.  God couldn’t possibly love you.  What a weak, feeble foolish girl you are.  Even, if you finished the book; no one will read it.  With your history with money; why would God provide you a way?  And school, forget that.”

My response: “Satan, get out of my way; you have no place here in my sanctuary.” Then, I fall before God’s throne of grace; knowing, He has a plan and can use this fragile clay pot for His Glory.  He will provide a way through today and tomorrow.  After that, I get up and continue to march forward.

CONCLUSION:

Whatever opposition you face today; don’t forget to speak truth, pray, and keep marching forward.  Do not cease the labor of your hands God commanded you to do.

CONCLUDING TWEETS

[tweetthis]Satan, get out of my way; you have no place here in my sanctuary.[/tweetthis]

[bctt tweet=”To combat opposition  speak truth, pray, and keep marching” username=”effiedarlene”]

[tweetthis]To combat opposition: let God be God. He is your shield and protector[/tweetthis]

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. Because there is nothing more important than this, I urge you to seek Him today.

OR ARE YOU IN OF NEED PRAYER?

If you have a prayer request email me by clicking here or comment here

 

Two Newest Books Available

ABIDING, STEADFAST JOY      

 

A labor of love, this book provides you with 3 foundations of truth from the scripture which once known will provide you with abiding, steadfast joy.  Undaunted by the storms of life; your joy will overflow.

WHEN INJUSTICE AND VIOLENCE REIGN:

Through a study of Nahum, Habukkuk, and Zephaniah; I brought their message into our modern times.  Answering the questions of “Why, God?”

Providing a foundation of faith and hope; even, as we see so much evil in the world and in our nation.  With so much sorrow and despair, this book I wrote to guide you into discovering God’s Perfect Plan of love; amid this chaotic world filled with life’s storms.

 

 

You may click on the picture for more information on either of these books.

OTHER RESOURCES AVAILABLE

If you want to know more about  other books I have written:  You can read more about each one at: Book Resources.

 

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2017

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post.  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.

Artwork courtesy of RoninRonCustomArt

Living Bible (TLB)

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Nehemiah’s journey had been over two months and now he arrived into Jerusalem.  Along the way, he was protected by the army of King Artaxerxes.  He presented letters to the governors along the way and to the keeper of the king’s forests to provide him with the needed timber to build the wall. (Nehemiah 2:8).  Many who opposed him heard of his plans and were angered.  The wall would be a renewed symbol of strength and God’s protecting hand of grace upon His people.  Despite the opposition (many proclaiming themselves worshippers of God) having halted the building project through their letters to King Artaxerxes many years earlier.  Remember it was this same king who decreed all building to cease. (Ezra 4:21-23).  Now with letters to proceed, accompanied by the king’s army; Nehemiah entered the city. What is the significance of a wall to protect?

Upon his arrival, Nehemiah waited three days.  Most likely, days spent in prayer and surveying the skills of the people.  He did not tell them of his plans to rebuild the wall.  Then, after three days he went out at night to survey the project.  Riding a donkey, he surveyed the ruins; developing a plan.  There was an area so covered with debris it forced Nehemiah to dismount; because, the donkey could not walk through.  Imagine the size of this project.  However, as a leader; Nehemiah developed a plan for the building.  He knew God could complete the work; no matter, how difficult or impossible it appeared.  God is a God of the impossible: after all, it was God’s Grace that had brought him to this place at this time to accomplish this plan of building the wall.

WHY BUILD A WALL?

Continue reading What is the Significance of a Wall to Protect? →

So, it was that Nehemiah began his journey.  King Artaxerxes presented him with letters of commendation to assist in his journey and that he might be provided with wood from the king’s forest to assist in the rebuilding of the wall.  Despite the king’s assistance, Nehemiah would face great opposition every step of his journey.  Willingly, he left the comfort of his prestigious position to face hardship; because, he held fast to God’s truth.  He would not compromise or adopt their ideologies to win their favor.  His only hope: God was with him, guiding and leading him.  Love demanded he take a stand for God as the supreme Lord and King of the universe.  He would take a stand for truth; regardless of attacks even upon his own life.  Resolved to accomplish God’s plan; because, true love demanded so.

All too often, in our attempts to demonstrate love; the church has been willing to compromise the truth of the gospel message.  Believing that by thus, we are moving into a new era of love. However, when in the name of love, we fail to address man’s plight as a sinner, separated from God’s love because of sin: we fail to love at all.  If indeed, my greatest treasure is an intimate relationship with God obtained by grace alone through faith in Jesus Christ; then, my most unloving act would be to not take a stand for truth.  When, I join in the forces of those calling for truth to be relative to our ever-changing society; then, I have failed to love.  To truly love, I must in meekness and humility reach out a hand; proclaiming God’s truth as presented in the gospel.

THE DANGERS OF COMPROMISE: THE OUTCRY OF MODERNISM

Continue reading Compromise in The Name of Love, Or Truly Love? →

Nehemiah prayed from a heavy broken heart; uncertain, as to how God would intervene.  His final plea before God that day: “O Lord, I beseech thee, let now thine ear be attentive to the prayer of thy servant, and to the prayer of thy servants, who desire to fear thy name: and prosper, I pray thee, thy servant this day, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man. For I was the king’s cupbearer (Nehemiah 1:11).   Continuing in prayer, he waited.  Nowhere are we told that Nehemiah knew God’s plan to send him until that fateful day, four months after the first prayer. Four months of praying, waiting and anticipating God’s response weighed heavy on Nehemiah. Waiting reveals the dust bits of our own heart.  Wondering, I ask; “Lord, am I the problem. My faith too shaky, my hands unclean, and my heart insincere, somehow?”

Perhaps for some, waiting causes them to doubt God’s ability or His desire to intervene in mankind’s dilemmas.  Some, even doubt His existence; yet, I daresay there are many, like me; who have come to know Him as the Supreme, Sovereign, Just and Righteous God of love, mercy and grace.  Then, when days, months or years pass; awaiting, anticipating God’s answer to a prayer: I don’t doubt His ability or His desire to bring me good; instead, I examine my own heart.  After all that He has shown me of His Grace, I realize that lurking in the crevices of my heart bits of dust collect that need to be cleansed once more.  Dust bits of pride, doubt, or selfishness; all leading to sin to crouch at the doorstep of my heart.  Somehow, perhaps that was Nehemiah; because, those who wait knowing God’s plan, aren’t so burdened.

DUST BITS OF THE HEART

Continue reading Dust Bits of The Heart Make Waiting So Hard →