Go and Sin No More (not health related)

I’ve been quietly following the Kim Davis story, and I applaud her for standing up for what she believes in….but, she’s doing it wrong.

As a Believer, she is to abstain from sin (all Believers should)…here’s a small list of what she’s not supposed to do:

• Steal
• Murder
• Engage in immoral sexual acts
• Be a homosexual
• Be a prostitute
• Worship idols
• Be greedy
• Take the Lord’s name in vain
• Dishonor her parents
• Curse, or speak in a hateful or tasteless manner
• Lie, commit slander, be a hypocrite, gossip, etc.
• Want anything that belongs to someone else
• Get drunk in public
• Brag about your own accomplishments (self-importance) 

She’s also not supposed to be divorced, except in matters of infidelity (either spouse); or commit adultery, herself, which she has done. However, she has only been a Christian for four years; until then, she was of the world, and the rules of Christian life didn’t apply to her….now she is in the world, but not of it, and they all apply. More on that, later.

Kim believes she’s doing God proud by denying a same-sex marriage license, because the Bible states that homosexuality is a sin. However, it is only a sin to those who believe it to be so….the rest of the world doesn’t count. Therefore, it is up to her, as far as her beliefs take her, to not commit that sin, herself; she does not have the right to impose her religious beliefs on those who don’t share them….none of us have that right! And, the couple she denied the marriage license to aren’t going to break up, just because they couldn’t get the license…they will continue with their relationship, despite being denied their legal right to marry.

Here’s how Kim Davis should’ve handled that situation…according to the Bible.

Romans 13:1-3 Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you. (NLT)

The governing authorities of the United States have declared that same-sex couples have the right to be married, if they so choose. Kim Davis rebelled against God, in this matter, when she denied that couple their marriage license. And, she’s soaking up the limelight that decision has afforded her.

Don’t get me wrong…I’m not standing in judgment over her; that’s not my place! But, if you’re going to obey God’s Law, you need to obey it completely; which brings me to this point:

Deuteronomy 17:12 Anyone arrogant enough to reject the verdict of the judge or of the priest who represents the Lord your God must die. In this way you will purge the evil from Israel. (NLT)

So….according to Biblical law, Kim Davis should be put to death for rebelling against God, when she refused to submit to the governing authorities of the land. Who’s gonna be her executioner?? (FYI: I'm not suggesting that someone should kill her)

Kim Davis is standing in judgement over same-sex couples; by denying them their marriage licenses, she’s telling them that she is god and she will decide their lives for them. That’s not her place. She’s supposed to do the job she was hired to do….as a Christian, she’s also supposed to pray for people she believes are in sin; she should be praying for God to come into their lives and open their eyes, so that they can turn away from that sin.

I wonder if she’s even thought of that…or is she too busy, being the current “media darling”, to notice where she’s gone wrong?

Another thing about this whole story that irks me, is all these memes of her that cite how much of a hypocrite she is….like this one:

Do your homework, before you call her a hypocrite!! All of those things happened prior to giving her life to Christ….they don’t count, anymore! The only things that count, as she lives her Christian life, are the things she’s been doing in the last four years, and beyond.

When a person gets saved, the life they lived before giving themselves to Christ is washed away…it no longer matters. What God judges us on is how we walk the walk, after declaring Him Lord and Savior of our lives.

2 Corinthians 5:17 Anyone who belongs to Christ is a new person. The past is forgotten, and everything is new. (CEV)

The sins she commits as a Believer, are the only ones God will hold against her…unless she repents, and turns away from them. This is what I’ll be praying for!

Anyone want to add their two cents in? I welcome all input….and I wish you all a blessed day!!

A Different Type of Survival: Fighting for Equal Rights

Ok....I'm sure I'm going to lose a few of you, but this needs to be said; so, here goes. This is my "soap-box" moment about the Supreme Court's ruling, today.

Today, the Supreme Court of the United States declared that same-sex marriages are to be considered legal, in all 50 states. That's a huge victory for the LGBT community....and a huge thorn the the side for the Conservative Christian community.

I'm not taking sides, here, but I do think a few things need to be addressed. Please allow me the liberty to do so....

A brief history lesson....

The rights of the Black Community

• The Civil Rights Movement has centered around granting black people the right to be human beings. A lot of folks believe that it all started in the late 1950's, but it actually started in 1863, when President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.
• The NAACP (The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) was founded in 1909 by a multi-racial group of activists, in New York City.
• MAY 17, 1954 - The U.S. Supreme Court's unanimously ruled in the landmark case Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas that public school segregation was unconstitutional, and paved the way for desegregation.
• Overriding President Ronald Reagan's veto, Congress passed the Civil Rights Restoration Act (1987), which expanded the reach of nondiscrimination laws within private institutions receiving federal funds.

Thanks to people who are racist, the Black Community is still fighting for certain rights.

The rights of Women

• On Election Day in 1920, millions of American women exercised their right to vote for the first time. It took activists, and reformers, nearly 100 years to win that right!
• In 1971, women won the right to practice Law.
• On September 13, 1994, The Violence Against Women Act was signed by President Bill Clinton. This law makes programs and services such as protections for victims who are evicted from their homes because of events related to domestic violence or stalking, funding for rape crisis centers and hotlines, and legal aid for survivors of domestic violence.
• In 1981, President Ronald Reagan appointed the first woman, Sandra Day O'Connor, to the U.S. Supreme Court. Ruth Bader Ginsburg followed her to the nation’s highest bench in 1993.

Women have been actively seeking equality for many, many years...and we are still fighting for our rights to equal pay for equal work, adequate (paid) maternity leave, reproductive rights, etc.

I saw this video today....before the news of the Gay Marriage ruling hit the internet. It's relevant to what I've just stated:

And here is a brief history lesson, concerning today's ruling.......

The rights of the LGBT Community

• The Society for Human Rights was founded in 1924; this was the USA's first known gay rights organization.
• In 1962, Illinois became the first state to decriminalize homosexual acts between consenting adults in public.
• In 1992, the “Don't Ask, Don't Tell” policy was instituted for the U.S. military, permitting gays to serve in the military, but banning homosexual activity.
• And today....legally denying a same-sex couple the basic rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness afforded to heterosexual couples is no longer allowed.

Certain groups of people have been fighting for the right to live their lives the way they see fit, for a very long time....and, although, there have seen tremendous victories, in their battles, the war wages on.

As I've read the articles that are flooding my News Feed on Facebook, concerning the SCOTUS ruling, I've also read a lot of comments from Christians, posting virtual coronaries after hearing about this ruling.

• "The world is going to Hell!"
• "The Bible says homosexuality is a sin, so even though it's legal, God will never bless those unions!"
• "I feel sick...what's happening to America!"

I've been leaving my own "two cents" for those folks......

To all of you who are "throwing stones", I need to caution you.....

Don't get caught up in some "holier-than-thou" attitude toward how the world operates. Jesus told us not to judge others or we would be judge by the same standard we use on them (Matthew 7:1-2); proclaiming yourself as "town crier" over the coming judgment day is still sin, in God's eyes. It's not OUR place to decide who gets punished for what....that's God's job. 

All we are to do is love people, the same as we love ourselves (Mark 12:30-31). It's best to just judge ourselves by God's holy standards; and pray that those who don't, get right with God, before it's too late.

And, to add to that......the Bible also tells us, in Romans 12:2, that Believers are not to conform to the behaviors and customs of this world; so, my advice to you would be...

• if you're not a homosexual, don't become one
• if you're against same-sex marriages, don't attend one of their wedding ceremonies

Other than that, this ruling should be a non-issues to you since it doesn't affect your life, or your walk with God, on any level. And, if you're truly concerned with their eternal future, witness to them how making Jesus your Lord and Savior changed your life for the better, and leave the rest to God!!

Furthermore, The Golden Rule applies here...human rights are for ALL humans, not just God-fearing, Conservative Christians.

Yes, the Bible says homosexuality is a sin; but God gave human beings free will....we are to point them toward Him, but it's not our call to decide that the LGBT community doesn't deserve the same human rights we enjoy.

They are human beings, too....it should be a no-brainer, guys!!

Leave the judgmental attitudes at the cross, and let God be God in YOUR life!

Ok....I'm getting off my soap-box, now. Have a blessed day!!

Mountains, Giants and Holy Cows

Hello, my loves....first of all I want to let you know I'm back online (finally got WiFi!); so the Blogs will be much nicer looking, now! And I've fixed the ones that didn't look so great! LOL!!

I have, officially, been a citizen of Knoxville, TN for roughly three months....I signed my lease in December 2014, and spent the holidays with my youngest daughter and granddaughter; I only began occupying my apartment, in mid-January.

Can I shoot straight with you? I have something to confess. These last three months have been a roller coaster of obstacles, excuses and weakness....a lot of "mountains", "giants" and "holy cows". I haven't been walking my mission like I should be, and I'm sorry.

While my body adjusted to life in my new city, I began to feel severe pain in my hips, and legs. At times, it seemed that my body didn't want to move, at all...just like me, my limbs are rebellious and stubborn. The obstacle I need to overcome is the pain, because it keeps me from moving. The more I move, the less pain I'll be in; right?

Well, that will only work, if I stop letting the pain keep me in my chair. Some would say I was making a mountain out of a mole hill; and at times, I would have to agree with them. Even though the pain makes it difficult to move, I can still move! My problem is, instead of telling the mountain to move out of my way, I just sat here and stared at it.

Another issue I'm currently facing is that I'm still spending cash on food....I don't yet have my food stamp card, even though I applied for that, back in February. Enter the giants....all the excuses and procrastination I could muster.

There's a Family Dollar store directly behind my building; I plan to shop there, when I need things like toilet paper, feminine supplies, and stuff for my apartment. I didn't plan on buying food there, because all the food Family Dollar sells is processed junk! However, (warning...excuse in progress!) considering the amount of pain I was dealing with, and the fact that it stopped me from exploring Knoxville, buying junk is better than starving; I can always venture out, and shop at a real grocery store, once my body feels better!! See what I did, there?

No exercise (every street is either uphill or downhill) and a plethora of junk at my disposal....enter the holy cows; otherwise known as food addiction. DiGiorno Pizza, Velveeta Shells and Cheese, BirdsEye Voila meals, Ramen noodles, Chef Boyardee, etc. I know they all look super yummy....but none of these products is healthy! Please don't eat them!! I've stopped eating them, which is why I'm writing this Blog.

I've felt the impact of re-introducing those food-like products, to my digestive system, too.....my body has been screaming at me! Steadily, the pain got worse, my bowels aren't moving like they should be, and I'm feeling depressed. I'm not getting healthy!! And, I'm terrified; I'm reversing all the hard work I've already put in, and will end up back in the Chemo Chair, if I don't get a grip and get serious about my health!!

A friend of mine is allowing me to borrow a laptop, because mine broke; this friend as also supplied me with a handful of movies, in case I get bored (before I set up my Wifi). One of the movies I've watched is Facing the Giants. If you haven't seen it, I encourage you to do so! This movie spoke to me in ways I never thought were possible.

This is one of my favorite scenes....

The conviction to do our very best (despite the mountains, giants and holy cows) is what God is looking for....and I have failed Him more times than I care to count. This scene convicted me; honestly, the whole movie convicted me....but this scene made a powerful statement to my heart.

I was texting my oldest daughter, one afternoon, and she asked me how I was doing; I told her I was disappointed in myself. I had anticipated being further along in my "new life" than I was, and had become disgusted by the fact that I had slipped back into some old habits.

The Apostle Paul said, in Romans 7:14-20, he hated that he couldn't do right by God; he always seemed to give in to his sinful nature. I keep holding on to what God told my oldest daughter, the week I was diagnosed...He said I wasn't going to die from this disease, but it was going to be used for His glory.

It is NOT my intention to make God out to be a liar! But I know, if I don't get healthy and stop this disease from destroying the rest of my body, that's exactly what will happen....I'll die from breast cancer. And I'm the only one who can stop myself from eating things that will destroy my health.

So....now that I've fallen, again.....it's time to pick myself up off the ground, dust myself off, and keep believing I will be the person God wants me to be!

I will NOT accept defeat!!

Stardate 92610.14 (geek moment)

For those of you who are not familiar with all things Star Trek, I’ll translate the Stardate for you....today is January 3, 2015; and I woke up at 6:42am. I’m geeking out, only because I woke up!!!

Let me explain....

The day I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Breast Cancer, my doctor also said, “So...this is what you’ll die from.” I defied is claim; but later learned that, statistically speaking, the average survival rate is 2½ years. My loves.....that’s today; as of this day, it’s been 2½ years since I was diagnosed!!

AND I’M STILL ALIVE!!!

I’m in tears, as I praise God for the privilege of being alive, to share this with you. As many of you know, while I was in the hospital, having been newly diagnosed, my oldest daughter prayed for my healing. As she was praying, she was led to read John11:3-4 from her Bible. And I've been hanging onto that promise, every day.

According to the American Cancer Society,  the 5-year survival rate for Metastatic Breast Cancer (Stage 4) is 22%. I was never given an “expiration date”, so I fully intend to be one of those who survives well beyond the first 5 years. Bring it on!! LOL!

Another one of my favorite Bible verses is, Psalm 118:24; I will, indeed, rejoice in this day! Rejoice with me, my loves....it’s a new day, and we’re alive and well!

I hope you have a stellar day, today!!

Life Has Changed

I haven’t posted a blog in a while...I think it’s been longer than a month! Sorry about that! Here’s an update for you...

Last week, I went to Peachtree City, GA, and spent the week with my youngest daughter; I, finally, got to meet my granddaughter!! <3 It was the best week I've ever had...and I've got tons of pictures, too! Last week, I also celebrated my birthday (first birthday, officially cancer free); I’m 44 years old, now! Yay, me!!

Three generations of survivors, there! Breast cancer, a difficult pregnancy, and attempted suicide!

My birthday week was AMAZING!! I loved getting to spend time with my daughter, her boyfriend, and my granddaughter; and the boyfriend’s parents are such great people, too!! They not only picked me up, from the airport; they also dropped me off, when it was time to go home...and hugged me “good bye”! Love them!!

I have more pictures on my Facebook page (The Savvy Survivor)...including pictures of two birthday meals my daughter fixed for me! They were delish!! So was the vegan birthday cake...made from scratch!!

I was there from Monday afternoon, to Friday afternoon. Friday night, I had a strange dream, about my estranged husband (I mentioned him here); I told him he needed to be the husband he promised me he would be....his answer was, “I'm sorry; I can’t”. A few hours after I woke up, Saturday morning, I got told something that has changed my life, forever.

I was told he had taken his own life, Friday evening. Now, I understand why he told me he can’t be the husband he promised he’d be, in my dream. He had struggled with bipolar disorder (un-diagnosed), for quite a number of years; and was diabetic, as well. I’m coping with this, the best I can...we never resolved the issues that split us up. I’m also having a hard time dealing with the fact that he took his life, the day after my birthday.

My youngest daughter, and son, are his children; she's dealing with his death, much the same way I am...and, as of this post, I haven't heard back from my son.

The Bible says murder is a sin (Exodus 20:13), and killing yourself is murder. However, I am choosing to believe that God went to him, at his final breath, and he asked God for forgiveness; if that’s true, he’s in Heaven, waiting for me....and we’ll see each other, again, some day.

I made this, to honor him....

My loves, I am begging you....please don’t consider taking your own life, just because things may seem a bit difficult; suicide is not the answer, it just creates more problems!!

Talk to someone...reach out for help!! It’s there...someone will always be there to help you through the bad times! You're NOT alone!!

Thank you for your love and support; it really means a lot to me! God bless you!! oxoxox

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Well, we made it to another year...welcome to 2014, everybody!!

When I woke up, this morning, I had a wonderful thought that started with Revelation 21:5; for those of you who are not very familiar with the Bible, click on the link and you'll see what that reference is about. And, as I watch the sun rise, I also see that it's snowing...very gently, but steady. New Year's snow!

Today marks the first day of the rest of our lives, folks! It is the first page of a 365 page book, that is a story only we can write. Never let anyone else hold the pen, while you write your life story, this year! Take chances...live your dreams!

I'm starting to sound like a Hallmark card! LOL!! My point is, don't let anything stop you from doing what you feel, in your heart, you need to do....whatever is it; now, if it's something dangerous, please be careful doing it. But, if you know you'll regret it, if you don't follow through, then I encourage you to take the bull by the horns, and go for it!!

Live!!

I would love to hear what some of these "go for it" moments will be, as you live out this new year! Please leave a comment and let me know what you have on your heart to do!

One of my "go for it" moments will be to move to Knoxville, TN. If all goes well, and I get everything going in the right direction, I should be celebrating next Christmas in my new place!

Another one, is to become completely vegetarian (possibly vegan), this year. I'm aiming to go with 80% raw, 20% cooked. Because of my 2nd surgery, last summer, I had to continue eating meats, because of their higher quality protein. But, in all my research, I've learned so much about the benefits of raw fruits and veggies, and how to fight cancer naturally; I really feel, in my heart, that this is the direction I should be going in. I'll be saying "good-bye" to chemo, and "hello" to a healthier body!!

I look forward to seeing what plans you have in mind, for yourself, in the New Year!! God bless you; and have a wonderful day!

oxoxox

It's Christmas Eve!

Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. (Isaiah 43:19 KJV)

As I sit and connect with God, this morning, He brings me to this Scripture, and it got me thinking.

I've often said that it’s not a great idea to assume what God’s doing, or thinking. That means you’re putting yourself in His place, and you believe you know more than He does (I'm guilty of this, myself...but I've learned my lesson!) Lucifer did that....and was thrown out of Heaven for it.

All the time, I hear people ask, “If God's so "all powerful", why does He allow bad things to happen? Why doesn't He just stop them?” Well...if someone comes chasing after you, with a big stick, aren't you going to run for cover?? How do any of us know that maybe God’s allowing all these bad things, because He knows they’ll bring us closer to Him??

The Bible says, in Psalm 9:9, many people are suffering— crushed by the weight of their troubles. But the Lord is a refuge for them, a safe place they can run to. (Easy to Read Version)

Now, I’m not assuming to know what God thinks, or anything...I’m smarter than that! LOL!! But, think about it...the Scripture, above, tells us He does new things to make life a little more bearable!

For instance, consider all these different Bible translations we have available to us, these days. So many people get offended at them, citing that the King James is the ONLY translation there should be; but, how do any of us know that it wasn't God’s idea to create easier to read versions of the Bible??

I’d consider that making “a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert”. Wouldn't you??

See...thanks to all those different variations/translations, more people are getting to know God, because they can finally understand what the Bible is teaching! Granted, some of those translations have left whole verses and chapters out (not good, folks!); but if you can’t understand...

“Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” (Romans 12:16-18 KJV)

you might be able to understand... “Be friendly with everyone. Don’t be proud and feel that you are smarter than others. Make friends with ordinary people. Don’t mistreat someone who has mistreated you. But try to earn the respect of others, and do your best to live at peace with everyone.” (same Scripture, but from the Contemporary English Version)

Folks, we’re not supposed to be fussing with each other over what God’s will is; it’s not our place to assume we know what God is up to, with all that’s going on in the world! That would be usurping OUR will, and claiming it's God's will. We’re only supposed to be concerned with how He wants us to impact the world!

That’s OUR job...the job of the Believer; and, the biggest impact would be to introduce the Savior to those who may not understand that that’s who He is.

We’re also not supposed to stand in judgment over anyone, for any reason, either, and I hear more and more Believers doing that! Jesus' own words to His followers:

Luke 6:37-38 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. (KJV)

Luke 6:37-38 Don’t pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults—unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don’t condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you’ll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity. (The Message)

This is what we (the Believers) are supposed to be doing with our time...

Mark 16:15 And he said unto them, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (KJV)

Mark 16:15 And then he told them, “You are to go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone, everywhere. (The Living Bible)

The GOOD NEWS (aka: The Gospel) is that Jesus gave up His life, being crucified on the cross and resurrected from the dead, so no human being would have to spend eternity in Hell...we can all go to Heaven! The only “catch” is that you have to believe that...if you don’t receive what Jesus did for you, as the gift it was intended to be, you won’t make it to Heaven.

Not my rules, folks...just the truth!

Jesus even said it.... “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6 ESV) The Father is God, and He lives in Heaven; none of us will ever get there, if we don’t believe that Jesus IS the Savior of the world.

The Apostle Paul taught us how to do that...

“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” (Romans 10:9-10 NIV)

You don’t have to change how you live, or think, or dress, or speak. You don’t have to convert to another religion. And you don’t have to “be a better person” before you decide to believe and confess; just do it!! And, I know, some of you are thinking, “Why would anyone give up their own life, for me??” Simple...He did it, because He loves you; and He knew that was the only way to bring you Home.

That was the whole purpose behind His birth...He came down from Heaven to bring us Home!!

John 1:14 And the Word (Christ) became flesh (human, incarnate) and tabernacled (fixed His tent of flesh, lived awhile) among us; and we [actually] saw His glory (His honor, His majesty), such glory as an only begotten son receives from his father, full of grace (favor, loving-kindness) and truth. (AMP)

And, wouldn't you say that a virgin birth was a "new thing"? It only happened once, in the history of mankind!

Enjoy your Christmas holiday!! And, God bless us....every one!

oxoxox

One Step Forward, Two Steps Back

Greetings!! I am compelled to tell you, I'm back in the hospital. There seems to be a tumor, on my L-1 vertebrae, that insists on causing trouble for me. My Surgeon tells me I'm going to lose that vertebrae, as well. Looks like I'll have a matching set of cages, now! LOL!

All joking aside, back in March, I wrote a Blog about my addiction to processed and convenience foods; in the last five months, my condition went from great to "uh-oh", because I slipped back into my old eating habits. You can read that Blog, here. When I recover from this surgery, I'm going full-on health freak, and never looking back!! Orthorexia here I come! God said "this sickness will not end in death", last year. I'm holding Him to it!!

I WILL NOT LOSE MY LIFE TO THIS!!

If I'm going to live, and bring glory to God, I'm going to have to practice what I've been preaching to you. I can't be The Savvy Survivor, if I'm not outsmarting a disease intent on killing me! I've even written a few Blogs about keeping your pH balanced, and how that's been proven to stave off diseases. So, I need to get serious about this, or my Granddaughter will grow up, not knowing who I am! And, THAT is not an option!!

I apologize to all of you, as well. Being a slave to unhealthy eating habits, as I post Blogs, and messages on Facebook, about clean eating, and how to fight off cancer with this approach and that nutrient, makes me a hypocrite; and I am ashamed of myself for that. I hope you can forgive me!

I will keep you posted, as events take place. Have a blessed day!

The Longest Blog Post I've Ever Written

I don’t know who’s going to read this, or what your views are, as far as believing in a Higher Power; but, I believe in a being called God, and I believe in The Bible. So, as I explain what’s on my heart, I’m going to be using Scripture references from that book, to help me convey my message. I hope that, regardless of what your spiritual beliefs are, you will take time to read this. It would make me very happy to know that you were open-minded enough to hear me out, even though you don’t believe in the same Higher Power as I do.

I love you! I just want to make that clear…I don’t care who you are, or what there is about you that I don’t fully appreciate, I still love you. John Keats said “I have been astonished that men could die martyrs for their religion – I have shudder’d at it. I shudder no more. I could be martyr’d for my religion; love is my religion. And I could die for that. I could die for you.” I could, too!

The Dalai Lama teaches about peace, love and compassion. Jesus also taught about love. Jesus said, “and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment. And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” This is the Law of Love (Mark 12:30-31)…and this is the law I live my life by. Love is MY religion.

I have often said, I do not have to agree with certain aspects that make you who you are, in order to love you. And I stand by that! If one of my friends was a serial killer, I certainly wouldn't agree with their lifestyle, but I would still love them…same with an habitual liar; I don’t appreciate that quality about a person, but I can still love them, despite their shortcomings. Or, you may be one of those few who does something that annoys me, or makes me uncomfortable around you (I wish you wouldn't be that way!)…but I still love you, regardless.

To love someone does not mean you have to accept who they are, or how they live their life; that’s not what love is. If there is something about you that I cannot accept, it doesn’t mean that I don’t love you; and not accepting something about you does not make me judgmental, either! One of my favorite movie quotes is when Forrest Gump says, “I’m not a smart man, but I know what love is.”

This is what love is…

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous, or boastful, or proud, or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.

"It does not demand its own way"…for anyone to say that we have to accept them for who they are, when we tell them we love them, is demanding your own way; and that is not love. That reminds me of the recent article about the homosexual couple who are suing a bakery for turning away their business; this couple is not walking in love, because they are demanding to get their own way, knowing that this particular bakery is run by folks who view homosexuality as a sin.

This belief doesn't mean the bakers are being bigots, or unfair; it just means they’re standing by their beliefs and what the Bible says. And, by law, they don’t have to serve anyone (even straight people), if they choose not to!

Love is not tolerant of sin, but will also not hold it against us (that's the patient part, and the not keeping a record of being  wronged part). Yes, I said “us”; I’m not perfect, but I try my best. Lord knows, I fail Him daily; I’m sure there are certain things about the way I live that upset Him, or make Him uncomfortable…but, I know He loves me.

He loves all of us, regardless of how we live our lives; but He doesn't want us to live in sin! I know He expects us to correct the things that He’s does not approve of, because we are His Children. That’s the key…do you love your parents? As a child, did it make you feel good, knowing that they were proud of you, when you lived up to their standards? We CAN be loving toward each other. It’s very simple, too.

If you know they’re uncomfortable with foul language…don’t use it, when you’re around them. If you know that dressing a certain way will make someone you know uncomfortable, when you’re around them, try to dress in a way that makes them feel more secure around you. If you know talking about politics, is a sore subject for them, don’t bring it up in conversation! I’m facing a moment in my life where I’m going to have to practice that very thing; I’m going to Georgia, the end of this month.

My youngest daughter told me her boyfriend’s mother wants to meet me, while I’m there. Yay…super excited about this!! I've also been instructed to avoid certain conversation topics…namely, God and the Bible. The woman is an Atheist, and apparently views anyone who discusses God, or the Bible, as being an odd sort. Since this will be my first impression, of course, I’m going to want to make a good one….I’ll need to dress well, be polite and respectful, and refrain from preaching.

Just to make this clear, I’m not going to approach her coming off as someone who is phony; but, putting someone in an uncomfortable situation, because you can’t (or won’t) refrain from talking about things they’re uncomfortable listening to, is not a loving gesture! That conversation becomes all about you, and what you know…not about sharing what you know with them. So, I've decided that the conversations she and I will have with each other will be anything she wants to talk about! I’m sure we’ll get along just fine...we even have something in common; we're going to be Grandmothers!!

With that being said, if I've made anyone uncomfortable with this Note, I do apologize! However, I think I've managed to keep it “user friendly” for anyone…including non-Believers. We are all human beings, after all. Which brings me to my next point.

I’m sure, by now, we've all heard about the Coexist Movement. But, do any of us truly know what this movement is all about? Those involved in the movement claim that all human kind needs to be tolerant of all religions; why is this movement only interested in uniting the world’s religions?? Do you honestly know what “coexist” means, or are you just regurgitating a mantra, because it sounds nice?

The Dictionary says the word “coexist” means 1) to exist at the same time or in the same place; and 2) to exist in mutual tolerance despite different ideologies or interests (of nations or peoples).

Well, by definition, #1…we already do! We’re here, in the here and now, sharing the same planet. And, #2…that will only happen when we set our differences aside and learn to work as a people, known as the human race. As long as we separate ourselves by way of religions, political affiliations, social status, skin colors, nationalities, invisible borders, etc. (notice I used more than just religion as a factor) we will never coexist. It just can’t happen. Until we’re dead. I believe in Heaven, and Hell; and the inhabitants of both realms coexist with each other….Heaven with Heaven, Hell with Hell.

In Heaven (as in Hell), or the After Life (whatever you call it), we are all the same…there are no differences between us; no political parties, no religious denominations, no alternate “lifestyle choices”, no separate races/nationalities; and no gender differences, or different skin colors, either. We are all THE SAME! The only difference between those who are in Heaven, and those who are in Hell, is that the folks in Heaven aren't being tortured for eternity….according to the Bible, anyway. Remember, I did say that this would be a reference for me, during this Note, because I believe in what it says.

I have a lot of young friends who are quick to tease about being sent to Hell. They’ll say something, or do something that isn't entirely wholesome, and then quip “I’m going to Hell for that!” This is one of those annoyances I mentioned, earlier. I was taught that the only reason any of us would go to Hell, is if we die without accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior…that, and deliberately living a wicked life, will send anyone to Hell! So, when I hear people tease about the things that will send them to Hell, it gets on my nerves! But, if they don’t know any better, who am I to judge them…and I love them, anyway! LOL!

And the one thing that I can’t stand about society, as a whole, is the belief that if you don’t accept someone’s lifestyle choices, mannerisms, views, etc. it means that you are a bigot, a racist, or prejudiced in some form or fashion. That simply isn't true; it just means you have differing ideals than the rest of us.

For instance, the American government now has the belief that if we disagree with anything the President says or does, it automatically qualifies us as being racist, because he’s black (well, half black). Now, I’m sure that there are some folks who are racist, and that’s why they don’t agree with him…but for those of us who are not racist, being called a racist simply because we don’t agree with him, is pathetic...ans insulting! I don’t like what he's doing to my country, at all…but he is a flesh and blood human being; therefore, I love him, as a fellow human….as my neighbor (refer to the Scripture reference (Mark 12:30-31) above).

Obviously, I don’t know if you believe in Heaven, or Hell, but because I do, I gotta tell ya…I’d much rather spend eternity in Heaven, than in Hell. Using what I've been taught, I’ll give you a description of both places…you can, then, see why I've chosen Heaven!

What is Hell Like?

• Think of the worst smelling thing, on the face of the earth, and multiply that by 1,000,000.
• The Bible describes Hell as a fiery oven, the pit of darkness, a burning wind, and an unquenchable fire.
• It also says that those who end up there, will NOT get another chance to enter Heaven. It’s too late for them; they chose their destiny, and they’re stuck with it.
• Everyone who is stuck in Hell will be tortured and tormented for all eternity…no rest, no refreshment, and no peace. And, there are different levels of Hell, depending on how bad you were, while you were a human being.

 

An artist's rendition of Hell

What is Heaven Like?

• In Heaven there is no sickness, death, poverty, hunger, loneliness, sadness, hate, etc.
• In the book of Revelations, the Bible describes what Heaven looks like. I think it looks beautiful!! (Revelation 21:11-27)

o   It shone with the glory of God and sparkled like a precious stone—like jasper as clear as crystal. (v 11)

o   The wall was made of jasper, and the city was pure gold, as clear as glass. (v 18)

o   The wall of the city was built on foundation stones inlaid with twelve precious stones: the first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, the twelfth amethyst. (v 19-20)

o   The twelve gates were made of pearls - each gate from a single pearl! And the main street was pure gold, as clear as glass. (v 21)

o   And the city has no need of sun or moon, for the glory of God illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its light. (v 23)

An artist's rendition of Heaven

There’s nothing beautiful about Hell, and none of us will be partying once we’re there.

However, there will be a HUGE party, in Heaven! According to the Bible, Jesus spoke in parables, so the people of that day could understand what He was telling them about God and the Kingdom of Heaven. In one parable, He said the King is preparing a Great Feast for everyone…the King had invited many people, but most had made excuses as to why they couldn't make it; and, there were some who deliberately tortured and/or killed the messengers the King had sent out to extend the invitation. Those who have rejected the King’s invitation will be thrown into the outer darkness (a reference to Hell).

I’m all about speaking the truth…I did say lying was a pet peeve of mine, right? I know some of you won’t accept what I've said, and you might even get angry with me for saying it, but I refuse to water down the truth. That would be like saying, “It’s not something I would do, but I’m not you”….instead of saying, “that’s not right, and you shouldn't do it!” (This is not being judgmental…this is called correction)

Folks…according to what I've been taught, God (or what/whoever it is) expects us to live a morally upright life. Morals are not subject to interpretation, either; right is right, and wrong is wrong. If something was wrong, back in the day…it is still wrong, in this day! And, to believe that morals change with the times, is to be a fool! Lusting after someone you’re not in a relationship with is morally wrong; as is being a liar, a thief, a bigot, a hypocrite, a murderer, a sexual deviant, etc. Wrong is wrong....period!!

Think of God as you would a good parent…a good parent will not tolerate their child’s bad behavior, even though they love their child; instead they will punish them, for what they've done wrong, and then discipline them to know why that behavior was unacceptable, and how to avoid getting into trouble again. They teach their children to raise their standards, because they want them to have a good life.

If we want to get to Heaven, we have to live our human lives by God’s standards…not by human standards. I’m just as culpable as any of you; I know I don’t live 100% according to God’s standards, but that is my goal. I want to live my life with the hope that one day He’ll look at me and say He’s proud of me for doing so well. Then I’ll be allowed into Heaven.

Here’s a list of the people who will NOT be allowed into Heaven, according to the Bible (1 Corinthians 6:9-10)….

• the unrighteous - one who violates justice; also one who is an habitual liar/deceiver
• the fornicator – prostitutes (that’s literally what the term for fornicator mean, in this verse!)
• the idolater – a worshiper of false gods; anyone who puts anything above God, in their life
• the adulterer – one who is faithless and ungodly
• the effeminate – men who don’t act like men (they appear, and behave, as women); also a man who subjects his body to unnatural lewdness

o   “unnatural lewdness” - indecency, unchastity, incontinence, fleshliness, vulgarity, lechery, wantonness, lubricity, lasciviousness, aphrodisia, bodily appetite, libidinousness, sensuality, licentiousness, voluptuousness, lecherousness, profligacy, dissoluteness, obscenity, salacity, scurrility, coarseness, carnal passion, grossness, boorishness, sensuous desire, vileness, salaciousness, pornography, fleshly lust, depravity, brutishness, lustfulness, carnality, ruttishness, pederasty, nymphomania, pruriency, prurience, incontinency, corruptness, satyriasis, corruption, raunchiness, unnatural desires, dirtiness, ribaldry, incest, indelicacy, incestuousness, concupiscence, eroticism, sadism

•   the abuser of oneself with mankind – one who lies with a male as with a female, sodomite
• A sodomite is a person who engages in lascivious behavior, is unloving/abusive to others, one who degrades or humiliates others, a person who engages in bestiality (sex with animals)

• the thief – persons who embezzles (misappropriates, misuses, cheats, etc), pilfers (steals, takes things that are not theirs to take, poaches); also, a person who does not care to instruct others, but abuses their confidence for their own gain
• the covetous – people who are not satisfied with what they have, and want more (especially if it belongs to someone else)
• the drunkard – alcoholics; those who intentionally get intoxicated
• the reviler/railer – a person who expresses objections or criticisms in bitter, harsh, or abusive language
• the extortionist – a person who commits extortion (coercion, blackmail, a shakedown)

According to what I've been taught, unless those people turn away from their sins, and receive Jesus as their Lord and Savior, they are going to Hell (whomever they are); the choice to do so, or not, is theirs. God gave us all something called “free will”, which is the right to choose for ourselves how we want to live our lives.

You don’t have to accept that Jesus died on the cross to save us from our sins, and that we need to turn from those sins and live according to God’s standards, but I sure hope you do! This is why I will always share what I've learned, because I don’t want to see anyone go to Hell, when they die!

Once you've received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, and have turned away from your sins, God counts you blameless, and righteous…so, if you are one of those people who are destined for Hell, and you receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior (and you turn away from your sins), nothing you did prior to that moment matters anymore, and you are now destined for Heaven, now that you are “in Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:17)!

And, if you slip up, all you have to do is repent (apologize for goofing up), and try harder to abstain from sin, from then on. I make it a practice to do that, several times a week…because I just don’t know what behaviors I've done, that He’s frowned upon!

If we could all learn to live by the Law of Love (Mark 12:30-31) and stop being so critical, compassionless, and/or verbally abusive toward each other…the human race would accomplish SOOOO much! And, yes…even non-Believers can love their neighbors, as they would love themselves.

Sorry this one was so long…but, this was something that was laying heavy on my heart, and I just knew I needed to share it with you! God bless you for reading it all the way through!! LOL!!

Love you!! oxoxox