Effie Darlene Barba

           There is no doubt the world is darkening faster than we could have ever imagined thrusting even believers into panic and despair.  But why despair?  For if you truly know Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, you should not be surprised by all that is happening.  He said, “⁹ “Then they will hand you over to be persecuted and will kill you. You will be hated by all the nations because of my name.  ¹⁰ Then many will be led into sin,and they will betray one another and hate one another. ¹¹ And many false prophets will appear and deceive many, ¹² and because lawlessness will increase so much, the love of many will grow cold (Matthew 24 NKJV). To Stand Strong by Faith in a Darkening World, one must never forget:  God is on His Throne.

All these things must come to place ushering in the return of Jesus.  We cannot be dismayed by the appearance that evil is winning because we know the end of the story.  Every Old Testament prophecy (except those yet to come) occurred exactly as foretold.  God’s will be fulfilled as planned down to the minutest of details.  The same truth remains true of the end time prophecies from the Old Testament and the New Testament.   Therefore, we have nothing to fear nor to dismay, even when evil appears to be winning.  All our prayers appear unheard; but they are not!  Judgement will come and come swiftly in the year of our Lord.  Every evil act will be judged and every wrong against God’s elect will be avenged by God Himself. 

Isaiah 5 (NKJV)

^20 (Woe to) those who call evil good and good evil,^]
who turn darkness into light and light into darkness,
who turn bitter into sweet and sweet into bitter.^[
21 Beware, those who think they are wise,
those who think they possess understanding.
²² (Woe to)  those who are championsat drinking,
who display great courage when mixing strong drinks.
²³ They pronounce the guilty innocent for a payoff,
they ignore the just cause of the innocent.
²⁴ Therefore, as flaming firedevours straw,
and dry grass disintegrates in the flames,
so their root will rot,
and their flower will blow away like dust.
For they have rejected the law of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies,
they have spurned the commandsof the Holy One of Israel.

The word Woe translated as Beware in the NKJV Bible is the word hō-w in Hebrew.  In Isaiah this is a pronouncement of judgement with great affliction and despair attached.  God will not be mocked, for He is a righteous God who does not overlook sin.  We must not water down God’s Glory nor His righteousness by proclaiming He will not judge anyone because of His love. 

It is because of His love, righteousness, and Glory that He must destroy all that is evil.  That is: all who have not accepted His wondrous gift of Mercy. 

God provided the only way of escape by paying the full price for our sin, pouring forth His wrath against sin onto His Son.  Therefore, the only hope of sinful humanity is to believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.  Clinging to Him with all our hearts, minds, and strength we can stand strong by faith even in a darkening world. 

Stand Strong by Faith: The Wrath of God Revealed

We KNOW that the Lord Jesus Christ will come to avenge sin and every wrong that has been carried out against His children.  The word for God’s wrath relating to the end times is always the word orge.  Orge is a stored up, settled wrath.  Absolute vengeance against sin for all who deny Jesus Christ as the only way to the Father.  

Paul spoke of orge wrath in Romans 1

  ¹⁶ For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. ¹⁷ For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.¹⁸ For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; ¹⁹ Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.²⁰ For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

²¹ Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.²² Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,²³ And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and four-footed beasts, and creeping things.²⁴ Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:²⁵ Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.

Stand Strong by Faith: How Can a Loving God Be Wrathful?

God has provided humans every opportunity of escape.  Yet, they have chosen evil over Him.  Still, He has allowed their existence and even allowed them to appear at times to win; because He lovingly is waiting for one more to be saved.

Look what He said to those saved in the first part of tribulations.  The church already raptured; the tribulation has begun.  Those who profess Christ during the tribulation will be killed for their stance. 

⁹ And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held:¹⁰ And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? ¹¹ And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellow servants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.  (Revelation 6).

He knows the exact moment when all who will accept Jesus, have.  Furthermore, He knows when they will.  Paul also wrote it as this:

¹⁸ For I consider that our present sufferings cannot even be comparedto the coming glory that will be revealed to us. ¹⁹ For the creation eagerly waits for the revelation of the sons of God. ²⁰ For the creation was subjected to futility—not willingly but because of Godwho subjected it—in hope ²¹ that the creation itself will also be set free from the bondage of decay into the glorious freedom of God’s children. (Romans 8). 

Stand Strong- A Darkening World:  Why did God allow sin?

No one or nothing can truly know or experience love if not given the choice to love.  Can anyone love righteousness if they did not see it contrasted by evil?  He gave us choice.  Yet, in and at the same time He is Sovereign to call whom He will to Himself.  These seem to be opposite ideas within our finite minds; but both stand equally true.  WE stand guilty of our own choice when we reject Christ.  Yet, we could never choose Him if His grace did not draw us to Him.

Paul wrote:

²²What if God, willing to demonstrate his wrath and to make known his power, has endured with much patience the objectsof wrathprepared for destruction? ²³ And what if he is willing to make known the wealth of his glory on the objectsof mercy that he has prepared beforehand for glory— ²⁴ even us, whom he has called Romans 9 (NET)

Would I be able to cherish Him, love Him or desire Him above all else had He not been willing to display all the attributes of His Glory to me?

Surrounding us is a rapidly darkening world, which causes our hearts to hate the evil we see.  We grow in our hatred; yet we cannot succumb to become as they are.  When I endured severe physical abuse, I knew one thing—the minute I returned violence for violence, the evil would win.  So, I did not and in the end, Pete accepted Christ as His Savior before he died.  This is also what President Trump so wisely said multiple times.  We cannot overcome evil with evil.  He learned that from the Bible.  So, let us look to the word of God to help us stand firm in faith within a darkening world. 

How to Stand Strong in Faith in a Darkening World

1. Recognize who we are—the Blessed, Chosen, Redeemed, Beloved Children of the God Almighty who reigns Omnipotent and Sovereignly over the affairs of  all His creation
2. Vengeance is coming at the hand of God against every evil—yet a little while and the Day of the Lord will come.  The elders are shown holding all the prayers of the saints in a large bowl.  All those prayers against evil you have prayed will be answered when the Lamb that is worthy takes the book of judgements from His Fathers’ hands. (Revelation 5:⁸ And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. ⁹ And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;¹⁰ And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.¹¹ And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands; ¹² Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.

Therefore

3. Until that day, we pray, study His word, and proclaim His name to everyone we meet.  We do that in love because we recognize, were it not for Grace, we too would be lost.  Also, we do it because we love the one who died for us.  

4. We speak truth and light into the darkening world.  ³ For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. ⁴ For the weapons of our warfare are not ^[a]carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, ⁵ casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, ⁶ and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled. 2 Corinthians 10:  (NKJV).

Finally, to stand strong in faith in a Darkening World

We follow and obey these words of our Lord and Savior, keeping our eyes on Him.

“Blessed are you who are poor,for the kingdom of God belongs to you.
²¹ “Blessed are you who hunger ^{now, for you will be satisfied.
“Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.
²² “Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you and insult you and reject you as evil on account of the Son of Man! ²³ Rejoice in that day, and jump for joy, because your reward is great in heaven. For their ancestors did the same things to the prophets…

²⁷ “But I say to you who are listening: Love your enemies,do good to those who hate you, ²⁸ bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. ²⁹Luke 6: 20-31 (NET)

Concluding Thoughts to Stand Strong in Faith in a Darkening World

So, let us see the anger we feel as merely an eye-opening experience to contrast the depth of evil in this world and the Absolute Righteousness of God.  Then let us lay aside our anger, knowing this is not our destiny.  We are the children of the most high God and we should reflect Him.  He will avenge all the evil in His time, His way.  Until then, let us be light and salt, standing strong in faith in an ever-darkening world. 

He said, “⁹ “Then they will hand you over to be persecuted and will kill you. You will be hated by all the nations because of my name.  ¹⁰ Then many will be led into sin,and they will betray one another and hate one another. ¹¹ And many false prophets will appear and deceive many, ¹² and because lawlessness will increase so much, the love of many will grow cold. Matthew 24, (NKJV)

Do not let it be said of you that your love grew cold, no matter what comes.  We are in this together.   

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to 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

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

Poetry Books Available

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The Light of the World is Jesus Christ Alone

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
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.

Credits

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 English Translation (NET)

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

John the Baptist was sent into the world to be a messenger preparing the way for Jesus Christ.  As the apostle John wrote, the light of the World is Jesus Christ Alone.  Let us begin by looking at those words.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ² He was in the beginning with God.  ³ All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.  ⁴ In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. ⁵ And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.  (John 1:1-5 NKJV).

⁶ There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. ⁷ This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe. ⁸ He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. ⁹ Thatwas the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world.  (John 1:6-9).

¹⁰ He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. ¹¹ He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. ¹² But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: ¹³ who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.  (John 1:10-13).

Preaching Rep

John the son of Zechariah was in the wilderness, learning of all that God had proclaimed.  A very solitary man, living very modestly away from the fray and influence of the society around him.  He was being prepared to usher in the Light of the World, Jesus Christ Alone. 

Hewent into all the region around the Jordan River,preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.  Luke 3:3. 

This is a new idea, repentance—true repentance.  It was always there; but so many thought they could just arrive with their sacrifice and all would be good after the sacrifice was presented.  But did they truly come humbly with a repentant heart.  Perhaps, that was the problem then and remains a problem within our churches today.  Do people truly come with repentant hearts, believing that Jesus is the only way.  Over 38 % of so called “Christians” today believe, there are many ways to God.  61% believe in part of the new age spirituality.  And 33% believe all people pray to the same God—just by different names and it does not matter whether they accept or deny Christ.

We need to get back to the basics as John the Baptist, repent. 

What is true repentance?

John the Baptist went on to say,

“The person who has two tunicsmust share with the person who has none, and the person who has food must do likewise.” ¹² Tax collectorsalso came to be baptized, and they said to him, “Teacher, what should we do?” ¹³ He told them, “Collect no morethan you are required to.” ¹⁴ Then some soldiersalso asked him, “And as for us—what should we do?” He told them, “Take money from no one by violence^, or by false accusation, and be content with your pay.”  Luke 3:11-14

Hence, he presented that true repentance changes behavior as well. 

The Light of the World is Jesus Christ Alone

John the Baptist made certain all knew he was not the Christ and that the baptism of Jesus was that of the Spirit.  Only Jesus can provide salvation!  Jesus came to John for His baptism and in all humility, John said, “It is I who needs your baptism”.  Yet, Jesus in His humanity also fulfilled all the commandments of His Father.  Jesus began His ministry at age 30  (the age that priests were to begin theirs). 

About six months after that, John the Baptist was imprisoned and beheaded.  His ministry lasted only about one year, but He never gave up and never stopped proclaiming the name of Christ to the world. (Even if it meant His death).

¹⁸ And in this way,^[bb] with many other exhortations, John^[bc] proclaimed good news to the people. ¹⁹ But when John rebuked Herod^[bd] the tetrarch^[be] because of Herodias, his brother’s wife,^[bf] and because of all the evil deeds^[bg] that he had done, ²⁰ Herod added this to them all: He locked up John in prison.  Luke 3:

When Darkness Overwhelms Us

            It is of certainty that we are passing into a very dark winter.  Not unlike many dark winters before within this universe, only this is the darkest seen in my lifetime.  But we should not be surprised, for Jesus warned us of this.  Furthermore, as the time for Christ’s return draws ever nearer—the demonic forces are running rampant.  It is no wonder since even within the United States, there are growing Satanic worship Temples and sights, one of which is in Salem Massachusetts.  They have successfully placed their literature within our schools and their statues in cemeteries and places of worship.  Regardless of how dark this world becomes; the light of the World is Jesus Christ Alone.  

Satanic worship is embedded within the halls of congress.  Satanic rituals have been carried out in the Marxist movements of Antifa and Black Lives Matter.  They have invaded every aspect of our culture.  Their transformation of thoughts and mind are being carried out through Mainstream Media, many of our politicians, Hollywood, and Big Tech.  Some aware of what they are doing.  However, many are blind fools who have had their minds so indoctrinated they honestly believe themselves more righteous than anyone else. 

Either way, we are seeing this play out before our eyes and never more evident than through the relentless attempts to destroy President Trump, because He wanted to return our nation to one nation, under God.  This culminated in a rigged election where every legal door slammed shut. 

Where is God in this?

Mark my Words, God remains on His throne.  He hears every prayer of His children.  Vengeance belongs to Him.  He will righteously judge over all that has happened.  This could not have occurred had He not ordained it.  Since He ordained it, He will use it to accomplish His ultimate plan.  Sometimes, God allows mankind to have what their hearts so desire to awaken them from their slumber.  It was that way with Stalin and Hitler.  If indeed this is the only way to awaken many of those who are lost, is it worth it that we go through this?  After all, how much is the worth of one soul?  How much pain or suffering is too great for the salvation of one soul? 

We who know Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior will sit with Him in glory.  Should we be willing to suffer here on earth for a little while that He might harvest a few more souls before His return?  If that is what He asks us to do, are we not willing? 

As in the days of Noah, so shall it be in the end.    Furthermore, did not Jesus willingly die on the cross that we might be saved?  He was ridiculed, beaten, falsely accused, and crucified because He loved us.  Should we be willing to do the same? 

We must not be silenced; yet we must realize that may mean our punishment and death.  Will we stand as did Stephen, Paul, Peter, John, John the Baptist and all those who were martyred that we might now have the gospel?

He is returning soon to establish His Kingdom.  Then we shall be with Him.  For now, our battle is one fought with preaching boldly His Word and prayer.  Never lay down the sword of truth.

Christ’s Kingdom

He told us ²⁴ For just like the lightning flashesand lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in his day ²⁵ But first he mustsuffer many things and be rejected by this generation. ²⁶ Justas it wasin the days of Noah,so too it will be in the days of the Son of Man. ²⁷ Peoplewere eating,they were drinking, they were marrying, they were being given in marriage—right up to the day Noah entered the ark. Thenthe flood came and destroyed them all.^{] 28} Likewise, just as it wasin the days of Lot, peoplewere eating, drinking, buying, selling, planting, building; ²⁹ but on the day Lot went out from Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all. ³⁰ It will be the same on the day the Son of Man is revealed.   (Luke 17 NET)

But before that day, Christ will rapture His church and while we prepare for the wedding feast, the 7 years of tribulation plays out upon planet earth. 

Knowing all this, what manner of men ought we to be.  Instead of sitting depressed, we should be rejoicing and busier than ever about our work for Him.  He is coming soon.  I long to see His face.

The Real Battle

Even though the Light of the World is Jesus Christ Alone, for the moment He is allowing Satan to run rampant and at times it even appears evil is winning.  There is a spiritual warfare surrounding us every day.  That spiritual warfare is for each human beings’ soul.  For those of us who know Christ, Satan cannot take our souls—He has already lost.  But He can destroy our witness. 

¹⁰ Finally, be strengthened in the Lord and in the strength of his power. ¹¹ Clothe yourselves with the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand against the schemesof the devil. ¹² For our struggleis not against flesh and blood,but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world rulers of this darkness,against the spiritual forcesof evil in the heavens.

 ¹³ For this reason, take up the full armor of God so that you may be able to stand your groundon the evil day, and having done everything, to stand. ¹⁴ Stand firm therefore, by fasteningthe belt of truth around your waist,by putting on the breastplate of righteousness, ¹⁵ by fitting yourfeet with the preparation that comes from the good newsof peace ¹⁶ and in all of this,by taking up the shieldof faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. ¹⁷ And take the helmet of salvationand the swordof the Spirit (which is the word of God). ¹⁸ With every prayer and petition, prayat all times in the Spirit, and to this endbe alert, with all perseverance and petitions for all the saints.   Ephesians 6 (NET)

Therefore, since the Light of the World is Jesus Christ Alone

In these darkening times which will get worse, we must always listen to these words of Paul and don our spiritual armor every day.    We are the Fearless Warriors!  Yet, we do not fight with violence, nor anger.  We fight as the blessed, redeemed, beloved, chosen children of the Most High God.  Our battle is on our knees and our Sword is the Gospel.  Holding fast to truth, we must be willing to die if necessary, that others may see that the Light of the World is Jesus Christ Alone. 

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to 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

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

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoyed this poem perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

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How to Really Surrender to the Will of God ⋆ Effie Darlene Barba (myglorytoglory.com)

What if? Will you really trust God even so? ⋆ Effie Darlene Barba (myglorytoglory.com)

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
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.

Credits

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 English Translation (NET)

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

When life’s battles surround and overwhelm us, too often we see only defeat.  We want to say what now?  Our minds whirl with possibilities to keep our hope alive.  Yet as each one falls to the wayside; we begin to feel defeated and hopeless.  We wonder if God even hears our prayers.  Silence and despair invade our hearts.  However, the truth is:  we think God needs us to discover the solution.  Oh, yes, we are to march forward, trusting His faithfulness and never give up.  But we must always remember victory belongs to God Alone!  And He will accomplish all that He has planned.  The Glory belongs to Him alone. 

            Let us take a moment to look at some of the battles He won in the Old Testament as well as one that is yet to come.  There are more to come; but I think this one recorded in Ezekiel will bring hope to your hearts.   By doing so let us be fully reminded that God is Sovereign.  His Glory is magnificent beyond all that we can imagine.  And He does not share His Glory with anyone.  When all looks to be over, He steps forward with a plan that leaves no doubt—for every battle we face as a Christian, Victory Belongs to God Alone!

Victory Belongs to God Alone!

There were many battles in the Old Testament where the odds were completely against God’s people; yet He miraculously stepped in.  So, let us name a few you might remember. 

 Abraham’s 318 against the Armies of Shinar (Babylon) – Genesis 14

 Pharaoh Pursues the Israelites in Exodus – Exodus 14—that was when all seemed lost and no chance the people could escape.   Then the red sea parted. The mud became dry land. The Israelites crossed and Pharaoh’s army drowned.

 Israel Marches on the City of Jericho –The battle plan was crazy.  All Joshua did was have them march around the city, daily being led by seven priests with trumpets and the ARK of the Lord.  Joshua 6.  ²⁰ So the people shouted when the priests blew with the trumpets: and it came to pass, when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat, so that the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city.  Obviously, the victory belongs to God Alone! 

Joshua 10-Victory Belongs to God Alone.

 ⁶ And the men of Gibeon sent unto Joshua to the camp to Gilgal, saying, Slack not thy hand from thy servants; come up to us quickly, and save us, and help us: for all the kings of the Amorites that dwell in the mountains are gathered together against us.

⁷ So Joshua ascended from Gilgal, he, and all the people of war with him, and all the mighty men of valour.

⁸ And the Lord said unto Joshua, Fear them not: for I have delivered them into thine hand; there shall not a man of them stand before thee.

⁹ Joshua therefore came unto them suddenly, and went up from Gilgal all night.

¹⁰ And the Lord discomfited them before Israel, and slew them with a great slaughter at Gibeon, and chased them along the way that goeth up to Bethhoron, and smote them to Azekah, and unto Makkedah.

¹¹ And it came to pass, as they fled from before Israel, and were in the going down to Bethhoron, that the Lord cast down great stones from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died: they were more which died with hailstones than they whom the children of Israel slew with the sword.

¹² Then spake Joshua to the Lord in the day when the Lord delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon.

¹³ And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. Is not this written in the book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day.

¹⁴ And there was no day like that before it or after it, that the Lord hearkened unto the voice of a man: for the Lord fought for Israel.

The men were sent out to fight; but the victory belongs to the Lord. 

David and Goliath, Samson, and Gideon

Often, we find that the victory is won by God against all odds.  Remember David slew Goliath with one stone.  Samson, when he came to the end of himself, slew the philistines by pushing against the pillars.  The victory belongs to God alone in every one of these incidents.  And Samson, was an act of grace after he repented and turned back to God, for he had so failed God at one point in his life. 

These are but a few examples.  There was the time Gideon led an army of only 300 men against the entire Midianite army

Judges 7: Victory Belongs to God Alone

¹⁵ And it was so, when Gideon heard the telling of the dream, and the interpretation thereof, that he worshipped, and returned into the host of Israel, and said, Arise; for the Lord hath delivered into your hand the host of Midian.

¹⁶ And he divided the three hundred men into three companies, and he put a trumpet in every man’s hand, with empty pitchers, and lamps within the pitchers.

¹⁷ And he said unto them, look on me, and do likewise: and, behold, when I come to the outside of the camp, it shall be that, as I do, so shall ye do.

¹⁸ When I blow with a trumpet, I and all that are with me, then blow ye the trumpets also on every side of all the camp, and say, The sword of the Lord, and of Gideon.

¹⁹ So Gideon, and the hundred men that were with him, came unto the outside of the camp in the beginning of the middle watch; and they had but newly set the watch: and they blew the trumpets, and brake the pitchers that were in their hands.

²⁰ And the three companies blew the trumpets, and brake the pitchers, and held the lamps in their left hands, and the trumpets in their right hands to blow withal: and they cried, The sword of the Lord, and of Gideon.

²¹ And they stood every man in his place round about the camp; and all the host ran, and cried, and fled.

²² And the three hundred blew the trumpets, and the Lord set every man’s sword against his fellow, even throughout all the host

The Victory belongs to God!  Gideon’s men did not even raise a sword.  The enemies in confusion killed themselves.  This brings me to a battle told of in Ezekiel that is yet to come. 

Ezekiel

The book of Ezekiel the Prophet is filled with God’s Glory.  From His first appearing to Ezekiel and throughout. 

When Ezekiel questioned God as to who might worship or listen.  God told him to preach to the field of dry bones.  (Much like our nation with so many spiritually dead.  Then as Ezekiel preached, the bones stood up and became flesh.  As He continued and called to the wind (the Holy Spirit) the bones came alive to worship God.  The revival we need in our country.  So, the Victory Belongs to God for revival as well as in our battles.

Additionally, Ezekiel tells us of a battle that is yet to come when “the prince of Rosh and his allies come forth against Israel”.  Tim Lahaye places this battle at the beginning of the Tribulation period since it says it will take 7 years to clean up the debris.  Furthermore, this is soon before the Antichrist signs the treaty with Israel which starts the 7 years.  What is uncertain is if this war begins before or after the rapture; but it is at a moment when Israel has been lulled into believing peace has finally been possible. (Perhaps very soon).   Many believe Rosh to be Russia plus her allies with possibly China, Syria and more.  Impossible for Israel to stand against such armies.  But watch the details of how the battle is won against all odds. 

Ezekiel 38:

¹⁸ And it shall come to pass at the same time when Gog shall come against the land of Israel, saith the Lord God, that my fury shall come up in my face.

¹⁹ For in my jealousy and in the fire of my wrath have I spoken, Surely in that day there shall be a great shaking in the land of Israel;

²⁰ So that the fishes of the sea, and the fowls of the heaven, and the beasts of the field, and all creeping things that creep upon the earth, and all the men that are upon the face of the earth, shall shake at my presence, and the mountains shall be thrown down, and the steep places shall fall, and every wall shall fall to the ground.

²¹ And I will call for a sword against him throughout all my mountains, saith the Lord God: every man’s sword shall be against his brother.

²² And I will plead against him with pestilence and with blood; and I will rain upon him, and upon his bands, and upon the many people that are with him, an overflowing rain, and great hailstones, fire, and brimstone.

²³ Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I am the Lord.

Note how the battle will be won.

1.  God sends an earthquake
2. Confusions causes the armies to kill themselves rather than the Israelites
3. Fire and brimstone will fall from the sky to complete the task. 

Then,

Ezekiel 39:

Therefore, thou son of man, prophesy against Gog, and say, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I am against thee, O Gog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal:

² And I will turn thee back, and leave but the sixth part of thee, and will cause thee to come up from the north parts, and will bring thee upon the mountains of Israel:

³ And I will smite thy bow out of thy left hand, and will cause thine arrows to fall out of thy right hand.

⁴ Thou shalt fall upon the mountains of Israel, thou, and all thy bands, and the people that is with thee: I will give thee unto the ravenous birds of every sort, and to the beasts of the field to be devoured.

⁵ Thou shalt fall upon the open field: for I have spoken it, saith the Lord God.

⁶ And I will send a fire on Magog, and among them that dwell carelessly in the isles: and they shall know that I am the Lord.

⁷ So will I make my holy name known in the midst of my people Israel; and I will not let them pollute my holy name any more: and the heathen shall know that I am the Lord, the Holy One in Israel….

¹¹ And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will give unto Gog a place there of graves in Israel, the valley of the passengers on the east of the sea: and it shall stop the noses of the passengers: and there shall they bury Gog and all his multitude: and they shall call it The valley of Hamongog.

¹² And seven months shall the house of Israel be burying of them, that they may cleanse the land.

The Victory Belongs to God Alone!

What battles are we facing today?  God knows and God has a plan of Victory for everyone who knows Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.  Our nation is facing a very tumultuous time; but rest assured.  Victory Belongs to God Alone.  My only question to you is:  Do you know Him as Savior and Lord? Keep ready and listen for His trumpets to sound.  Read His word as the precious love letters your heart desires.  Love Him above all else.  Seek His face and know this His Glory will shine forth.  He will accomplish all that He has planned.  We will stand in Glory with Him and even return on the clouds as His Precious Bride coming to reign with Him during the millennial reign of Christ. 

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to 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

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

Poetry Books Available

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How to Really Surrender to the Will of God ⋆ Effie Darlene Barba (myglorytoglory.com)

What if? Will you really trust God even so? ⋆ Effie Darlene Barba (myglorytoglory.com)

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
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.

Credits

Sometimes as we go through life, we find that although we may desire to surrender our hearts to the will of God, it is not always easy.  We may have plans, dreams, desires that pull or tug at our hearts.  Usually we do not understand, why the Will of God seems contrary to ours.  Or sometimes, it seems the more difficult or painful pathway.  Perhaps that was the case with Mary and Joseph with Jesus at the age of 12 when we look at the scene here at the temple. 

            Certainly, Mary and Joseph had been faithful.  When the angel first appeared to Mary and then Joseph, they immediately believed God and vowed to follow His will.  Then, being fully obedient to all of God’s commandments they presented the child to be circumcised and named Him Jesus.  While there, Simeon and Anna both confirmed the truth that Jesus was the long-awaited Messiah. 

Simeon proclaimed, “²⁹ “Lord, ….my eyes have seen Your salvation
³¹ Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples,
³² A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”  Then Simeon said to Mary, ““Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against ³⁵ (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

Obediently, they went to Egypt for a time and then returned to Nazareth.  But, in all this, did they realize the true purpose of Christ and the Will of God? Did they know that He would be the sacrificial lamb to pay the penalty of their own sins as well as the world?

OBEDIENT CHILD AND DEVOTED PARENTS

Luke 2: “the Child grew and became strong ^[k]in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him. ⁴¹ His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. ⁴² And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast.”

Every year they went to Jerusalem for the feast of the Passover.  That was an 80-mile trip on foot each way through rugged terrain.  It was most likely harder bringing along their children (the half-brothers and half-sisters of Christ).  Usually that meant the travel was best with a caravan of friends and family.  So, it was Jesus at the age of twelve went with his family to the Passover.  He had grown in the Spirit and was filled with God’s wisdom.  Imagine having the full wisdom of God in a human body.  Furthermore, although tempted as any human child is, Jesus must have felt desires of disobedience, selfishness, and even lying as all children do.  Yet, He was without sin which is why they did not even think about His not being in the caravan when they left.  He always was every other year.  Disobedience was not an option. 

⁴³ When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And ^[l]Joseph and His mother did not know it; ⁴⁴ but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. ⁴⁵ So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. ⁴⁶ Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. ⁴⁷ And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers (Luke 2).

Mary Awakened to the Will of God

Here Jesus sat listening and asking questions.  Most likely His questions were the kind that probed their hearts and minds, forcing them to think deeply.  But Mary and Joseph were a bit frustrated.  They had to leave the caravan and walk back to Jerusalem in search of Him.  Imagine the anxiety of having lost your child in a very crowded city, filled with people who had come from everywhere.  Then, imagine if you were responsible to care for the son of God and lost Him.  Ok, we can understand their frustration.  And as is typical, their first thought is what they said.  “Jesus, why did you do this to us?”

⁴⁸ So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, your father and I have sought You anxiously.”⁴⁹ And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” ⁵⁰ But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.

Let me also place the response here as noted in other translations and take you back to the Greek; because this is so important what Christ had to say.  Then I will try to explain both the significance and how it was Mary and Joseph must surrender to the Will of God.

⁴⁹ But^[es] he replied,^[et] “Why were you looking for me?^[eu] Didn’t you know that I must be in my Father’s house? (Luke 2, NET)

1. Luke 2:49 tn Or “I must be about my Father’s business” (so KJV, NKJV); Grk “in the [things] of my Father,” with an ellipsis.

Full Surrender to the Will of God

Suddenly after twelve years of being the mother of Jesus in a position of authority, she suddenly awakens to the truth that He belongs to God.  One day she would have to bow before Him as Savior, just as anyone else would.  But when?  This must have stabbed her in the heart.  Although He loved her with a more perfect love than any mother has ever known (because He is God and knows how to love perfectly with no selfish desires).  Still, He was to be about His Father’s business.  Oh, imagine His seeing the lambs sacrificed knowing He was the Sacrificial lamb.  I daresay Mary did not know that would be the fate.  It would have made her task too hard. 

But to Mary and Joseph, they would need to surrender to the Will of God again fully.  Jesus was not theirs to keep forever.  Look at what He said later.

“³¹ Then^[bb] Jesus’^[bc] mother and his brothers^[bd] came. Standing^[be] outside, they sent word to him, to summon him. ³² A crowd was sitting around him and they said to him, “Look, your mother and your brothers^[bf] are outside looking for you.” ³³ He answered them and said, “Who are my mother and my brothers?”^[bg] 34 And looking at those who were sitting around him in a circle, he said, “Here^[bh] are my mother and my brothers! ³⁵ For whoever does the will of God is^[bi] my brother and sister and mother” (Mark 3). 

Only those who surrender to the will of God could be called brother, sister, or mother.  Can you imagine how Mary felt standing outside that door?  But she too needed Him as Savior, as the son of God. 

Surrendered to the Will of God

⁵¹ Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was ^[m]subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. ⁵² And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men. (Luke 2).

How could Jesus grow in favor with God?  Every year that passed, marked another year of obedience and surrender.  He faced every temptation known to man and did not sin.  God’s perfect love for His son must have grown to a magnitude incomprehensible.  From perfect love to perfect love in the maximum degree.

⁵ So also Christ did not glorify himself in becoming high priest, but the one who glorified him was God,^[g] who said to him, “You are my Son! Today I have fathered you,”^[h] 6 as also in another place God^[i] says, “You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.”^[j] 7 During his earthly life^[k] Christ^[l] offered^[m] both requests and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to the one who was able to save him from death and he was heard because of his devotion. ⁸ Although he was a son, he learned obedience through the things he suffered.^[n] 9 And by being perfected in this way, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him, ¹⁰ and he was designated^[o] by God as high priest in the order of Melchizedek.^[p]  (Hebrews 5 NET)

Imagine the patience it took, listening to people who misinterpreted the word and knowing the truth. 

So, How do We Surrender to the Will of God?

1.  Trusting in Him
2. Waiting on Him
3. Knowing His ways are not our ways; but He knows what is best
4. Resting on His Heart of Love
5. Studying His Word
6. And just as Jesus taught us, spend time with Him alone in prayer and fellowship every day
7. Never forget Jesus as your first love—keep your love for Him fresh, vibrant and alive. 

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to 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

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

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoyed this poem perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

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One Hope Holds Strong Throughout the Violent Seas of Life

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2020
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.

Credits

New English Translation (NET)

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

     Some may think me crazy to take off and drive from Central Florida to Washington, DC alone, at a time like this.  Ah, but you see, it is just such a time like this, I needed to be alone with God.  With Him as my co-pilot, what am I to fear!  It was a similar drive in July 2013 from Orlando to Columbia Missouri, when God impressed upon my heart to move to Missouri.  I was reminded of Abraham and knew I was to go.  Ultimately, I even resigned in a leap of faith before I knew of my new job’s certainty; but it was the perfect day.  For my exact date of termination allowed my arrival exactly 5 days before my job started and one day ahead of a terrible ice storm.  How did I dispel fear? By telling myself:  Never forget. God’s got this!

            That was an amazing time in Missouri.  How I grew to love the Veterans I worked with.  The wonderful people I met and the time with my son and his family.  Five years later, God guided me to return to Florida.  It was with a heavy heart at first, but I knew I must go—for love demanded it.  There my life is busy.  Sometimes, I feel more stretched, harder to spend the time alone with God I did before.  Although, my job is an hour away, so I should devote to Him alone in my drive.  But I must say, sometimes of late my mind tends to wander.  Particularly, this year.  My Floridian son remarried.  The house always full of a hodgepodge of schedules and kids.  Then came the pandemic and political upheaval.  Life seemed crazy.  Anxiety entered.  And I needed to remember how to dispel fear and never forget: God’s Got This!

To Dispel Fear

            Whatever 24-hour news cycle is on, there is the driving force of division spewed by all.  Black against white, woman against man, rich against poor, Christian against Non-Christians, Republican against Democrat and vice versa to all.  In everything they say and all they do, they want us to believe that we are an angry, hostile nation who can be saved by whatever ideology they are promoting only if it is not God Centered.  How did we get here? Were we all lead to this place of fear so that we might blindly follow like the lost sheep we truly are?  It is no wonder, I chose to get away.  Alone with God to center my heart—to find truth amid the chaos surrounding me.

            Oh, yes, this year has awakened within me the vision of evil at its worse.  Suddenly, the scales have fallen from my eyes and I see what has happened and how evil has blinded the eyes of so many poor lost souls.  Yes, the communist party has launched an attack on the United States of American from within.  Lenin said, “Give me four years to teach the children and the seed I have sown will never be uprooted.” —Vladimir Ilyich Lenin “Destroy the family, you destroy the country.”   We the Christians, so wanted to prove our love and tolerance, that we stepped aside allowing this happen.  Now, we have lost all control as those screaming for freedom of the press are the very ones censoring anything and everything placing labels to say “fact checked and found false”  Yet, who are the fact checkers and by what criteria?

So, with all that surrounds us.  How do we never forget?  God’s got this.  He is truth and light, even when we are surrounded by lies and darkness. 

A Vision of Truth to Dispel Fear

            As I drove across this countryside, I saw America.  The America I see at work each day.  One filled with people who truly care for their neighbors and even strangers.  Here at the nation’s capital, I have watched multicultural people all walking around with a sense of pride as they take pictures of the monuments with family and friends.  People responding with kindness toward each other.  This is America, the land of the free.  Or at least we have always been.

            We fought for freedom from tyranny in order to form this nation.  And then we fought, bled and died to end slavery.  Each step of the way we moved toward righting the wrongs and becoming a better nation, under God.  Yes, under God.  For without our Christian-Judeo principles forcing us to return to and grow in the truth of gospel, we could not be the nation we are.  Yet, it is that very truth we are allowing to be destroyed. 

            As Christians, when we first accept Jesus as our Savior, we are babies in Christ.  Although instilled with the power of the Holy Spirit, all too often we squelch His powers with our self-imposed wills.  Still, He guides us through hardships and trials to help us grow more into the likeness of Christ. 

            The same has been true of our nation.  At least until we lay down our beacons of light and hid them for fear they might offend.  Instead, we are commanded to shine our lights for all to see.  Not to forcibly condemn others, but to draw them out of darkness into the light because they see Christ in Us and desire Him because of our love, joy, hope and peace.

Never Forget: To Dispel Fear

“The love of God is an outgoing love, not a selfish one.  The outgoing love of God does something for us that He wants to do four our benefit without our deserving it.  It is because of His love and grace that He has washed us from our sins in the blood of Christ.  We have been reconciled to God and have been made free from sin’s penalty and also from its power if we avail ourselves of what we have in Christ.  No such benefits belong to the unsaved.”[1] 

God’s plan cannot be thwarted by the kings and rulers on this earth.  Indeed, He plants rulers and nations to ultimately play a role in His ultimate plan.  One day, Christ will return as King of Kings, Lord of Lords.  To Him all kingdoms will bow, one day.  Everything that happens works toward that end. 

Psalm 2 depicts that very truth.

1 Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?

2 The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord, and against his anointed, saying,

3 Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us.

4 He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision.

5 Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure.

6 Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion.

7 I will declare the decree: the Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.

8 Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession.

9 Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel.

10 Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth.

11 Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling.

12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.

Yes, all those who continuously turn their backs upon God will be destroyed one day.  Although this Psalm does present grace as God bids the rulers to serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling…blessed are all they that put their trust in Him. 

God’s Got this

I do not know what is going to happen tomorrow or next week.  Will our nation fall to communism or will we stand?  I do not know the future, but I do know that God holds the future and His word is true.  I will dispel fear from my heart by leaning into Him and His word.  Never forget, God’s Got This and every single day into and throughout eternity.  His word has never failed.  He accomplishes all that He plans.

So, let me be the beacon of light shining into the darkness, proclaiming the name of Christ.  I can do that only when I surrender all my heart, soul, and body to the Holy Spirit that He might do the work through me.  That is my prayer for me and my prayer for every Christian Patriot and Soldier.  I pray the scales fall off the eyes of all those who so blindly are following after lies and evil.  My prayer is that all those who seek self-exaltation through money, power and bribes, awaken and accept Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.  Let the truth of the gospel shine its light into the darkness and bring life, liberty, love, hope and joy into this our nation once more.  If God might allow one more worldwide revival before His return, what a wondrous thing that would be.  Let it begin in you, me and our nation.  This is my plea, Dear Lord Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit guide us into the light.     

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to 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

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

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoyed this poem perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

Previous

What if? Will you really trust God even so? ⋆ Effie Darlene Barba (myglorytoglory.com)

Do You Know the Son of the Most High God?

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2020
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.

Credits

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[1] Epp, Theodore H, Practical Studies in Revelations, Vol I, Back to the Bible Publications, Lincoln Nebraska, 1969, page 37

Photo by Duncan Kidd on Unsplash