Heaven: believers will be there by ric Gustafson
So who are the believers who will be in heaven?. Based on God's Word, it will simply be those whose names are written in the Book of Life. These people believe in the Lord Jesus. They acknowledge that Jesus alone is the way, truth and the life. They believe that no one may experience God's presence except through Jesus.
So who will be there?. There will be humble people who brought glory to God. There will be selfless people who put others needs ahead of their own. People who persevered through pain, suffering, physical limitations without losing their spiritual perspective. People who were instrumental in leading people to Jesus.
What do all of these people have in common?. At some point in their life, they recognized their sinfulness and asked God for forgiveness. Last but not least, they trusted Jesus to save them from the punishment for their sins. And because of Jesus dying on the cross, they will be in God's presence forever. Praise God.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
the end of days: the plague of darkness page 1
the end of days: the plague of darkness page 1 by ric Gustafson
Rory felt the cold of the doorknob. It had taken him a half hout to find the front door of his apartment. It was so dark it felt as if he was blind. He quietly opened the door and slowly inched his way into the dark and musty hallway. He winced as he stubbed his toe on a small table that was along a wall. He silently cursed God for the blinding darkness and that the two sores on his lower left leg were now festering and causing him great pain. As he groped and slowly moved down the hallway, he noticed what looked like a pinprick of light.
A quiet voice came from the murky hallway. " Rory".
He recognized the voice of his master. " Mr Simpato".
" Rory, can you see a light in the distance?".
" Barely". He squinted. " But yes I do see a very small light".
" Rory, I want you to keep heading toward that light". The voice got louder and louder. " Because that light is me".
He inched toward that small light. Just then, he noticed his master who had a strong light shining around him.
They gave each other a big hug.
" Sir, why do I feel like I am totally blind?".
" Rory, I will explain this plague to you later". He grinned at his young friend. " Right now, I really need your help".
research help: original story and ' Armageddon' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Rory felt the cold of the doorknob. It had taken him a half hout to find the front door of his apartment. It was so dark it felt as if he was blind. He quietly opened the door and slowly inched his way into the dark and musty hallway. He winced as he stubbed his toe on a small table that was along a wall. He silently cursed God for the blinding darkness and that the two sores on his lower left leg were now festering and causing him great pain. As he groped and slowly moved down the hallway, he noticed what looked like a pinprick of light.
A quiet voice came from the murky hallway. " Rory".
He recognized the voice of his master. " Mr Simpato".
" Rory, can you see a light in the distance?".
" Barely". He squinted. " But yes I do see a very small light".
" Rory, I want you to keep heading toward that light". The voice got louder and louder. " Because that light is me".
He inched toward that small light. Just then, he noticed his master who had a strong light shining around him.
They gave each other a big hug.
" Sir, why do I feel like I am totally blind?".
" Rory, I will explain this plague to you later". He grinned at his young friend. " Right now, I really need your help".
research help: original story and ' Armageddon' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
Heaven: angels will be there
Heaven: angels will be there by ric Gustafson
The role of angels is to praise God and bring glory to him. Angels are heaven's highly skilled workforce. God created them and gave them specific skills. They were given specific skills to carry out certain tasks. Sometimes those tasks involve earthly visits.
Angels worship and bring glory to God. Angels are an integral part of the heavenly community.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The role of angels is to praise God and bring glory to him. Angels are heaven's highly skilled workforce. God created them and gave them specific skills. They were given specific skills to carry out certain tasks. Sometimes those tasks involve earthly visits.
Angels worship and bring glory to God. Angels are an integral part of the heavenly community.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the end of days: Revelation 16 page 5
the end of days: Revelation 16 page 5 by ric Gustafson
Rory wearily walked into his small apartment. He sat down in a brown easy chair and then turned on a TV. As he was flipping channels, he stopped at a Carlo Simpato channel. He watched as a young man sit down at a table and take the mark of loyalty. He remembered earlier in the day when someone named Newman stepped out of the crowd waiting to take their mark.
He knew it was an angel of God when he asked people to leave with him and not take the mark. He warned the crowd of the severe consequences for not taking the mark of loyalty. Some left with this Newman but the majority stayed and took their mark.
As he watched the TV screen, Rory noticed a nearby lamp start flickering on and off. After a half hour of this, Rory stood up to turn off the TV. Just then all the lights and the TV went dark. He inched toward the window and peeked out. He was horrified to see that all light including the sun, moon and the stars were gone.
He inched slowly toward the phone on a kitchen wall. He could not see a thing.
" Hello ouch!" he exclaimed as he stubbed a toe on one of the kitchen table's chairs. " Hello, everything here is totally dark".
The light company told him to be patient, they were addressing the issue.
Rory scratched the sores on his left lower leg. He pointed a fist up at God. " I hate you!".
The End
research help: original story and ' The Remnant' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Rory wearily walked into his small apartment. He sat down in a brown easy chair and then turned on a TV. As he was flipping channels, he stopped at a Carlo Simpato channel. He watched as a young man sit down at a table and take the mark of loyalty. He remembered earlier in the day when someone named Newman stepped out of the crowd waiting to take their mark.
He knew it was an angel of God when he asked people to leave with him and not take the mark. He warned the crowd of the severe consequences for not taking the mark of loyalty. Some left with this Newman but the majority stayed and took their mark.
As he watched the TV screen, Rory noticed a nearby lamp start flickering on and off. After a half hour of this, Rory stood up to turn off the TV. Just then all the lights and the TV went dark. He inched toward the window and peeked out. He was horrified to see that all light including the sun, moon and the stars were gone.
He inched slowly toward the phone on a kitchen wall. He could not see a thing.
" Hello ouch!" he exclaimed as he stubbed a toe on one of the kitchen table's chairs. " Hello, everything here is totally dark".
The light company told him to be patient, they were addressing the issue.
Rory scratched the sores on his left lower leg. He pointed a fist up at God. " I hate you!".
The End
research help: original story and ' The Remnant' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, September 28, 2015
the end of days: Revelation 16 page 4
the end of days: Revelation 16 page 4 by ric Gustafson
Rory and Carlo were working on some financial reports.
An assistant quietly opened the door and poked his head in. " Sir, I can hear screaming coming from outside".
Carlo gave him a stern look. " Well open the window and check it out".
He walked over and slowly opened it. As he did so, hot steamy air poured in and immediately reddened his skin.
" Get away from that window" Rory yelled. He ran over and pulled down the window.
Sparks flew in the man's hair and then it burst into flames.
Rory got a blanket and threw it over the assistant.
Carlo walked over to the window and glanced at the chaos below. " Rory, what is happening?".
Rory was attending to the now burned assistant. " Sir, my mother before she died told me about Revelation 16".
Carlo gave his young friend a confused stare. " What is that Rory?".
" Sir, I believe the fourth bowl judgment has started".
research help: original story and ' The Remnant' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Rory and Carlo were working on some financial reports.
An assistant quietly opened the door and poked his head in. " Sir, I can hear screaming coming from outside".
Carlo gave him a stern look. " Well open the window and check it out".
He walked over and slowly opened it. As he did so, hot steamy air poured in and immediately reddened his skin.
" Get away from that window" Rory yelled. He ran over and pulled down the window.
Sparks flew in the man's hair and then it burst into flames.
Rory got a blanket and threw it over the assistant.
Carlo walked over to the window and glanced at the chaos below. " Rory, what is happening?".
Rory was attending to the now burned assistant. " Sir, my mother before she died told me about Revelation 16".
Carlo gave his young friend a confused stare. " What is that Rory?".
" Sir, I believe the fourth bowl judgment has started".
research help: original story and ' The Remnant' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Heaven: Jesus will be there
Heaven: Jesus will be there by ric Gustafson
In Heaven, Jesus will receive the glory and honor due him. He made the ultimate sacrifice for the rescue of the human race. Without Jesus's death on the cross there would be no eternal life in heaven. Someone had to take the punishment for sin. Only a sinless man could do that. Only Jesus could do that. He bridged the gap between a perfect God and us who are not.
Heaven gives us an eternal chance to thank Jesus for his sacrifice. Jesus is worthy to receive that honor. Jesus is the reason we can enter God's presence when we die. Because of that, Jesus occupies a place of honor in heaven. He sits at the right hand of God his Father.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In Heaven, Jesus will receive the glory and honor due him. He made the ultimate sacrifice for the rescue of the human race. Without Jesus's death on the cross there would be no eternal life in heaven. Someone had to take the punishment for sin. Only a sinless man could do that. Only Jesus could do that. He bridged the gap between a perfect God and us who are not.
Heaven gives us an eternal chance to thank Jesus for his sacrifice. Jesus is worthy to receive that honor. Jesus is the reason we can enter God's presence when we die. Because of that, Jesus occupies a place of honor in heaven. He sits at the right hand of God his Father.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, September 27, 2015
the other place: will there be regrets?
the other place: will there be regrets? by ric Gustafson
According to Matthew 13:42, the Son of Man will throw them into a flaming furnace where people will cry and grit their teeth in pain. According to Jesus, there will be no comfort, no resolution and no prospect of relief in Hell. In darkness and solitude, there will be regrets.
People will spend all of eternity in Hell with their thoughts and memories. They will remember every time they rejected Jesus. They will remember every time they rejected God's gift of salvation.
In Hell, there will be agony over knowing they will not be given a second chance.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
According to Matthew 13:42, the Son of Man will throw them into a flaming furnace where people will cry and grit their teeth in pain. According to Jesus, there will be no comfort, no resolution and no prospect of relief in Hell. In darkness and solitude, there will be regrets.
People will spend all of eternity in Hell with their thoughts and memories. They will remember every time they rejected Jesus. They will remember every time they rejected God's gift of salvation.
In Hell, there will be agony over knowing they will not be given a second chance.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the end of days: Revelation 16 page 3
the end of days: Revelation 16 page 3 by ric Gustafson
Rory and Carlo watched as hundreds of people were in line at the loyalty mark application site.
" Isn't it great Rory" he said as he slapped his young friend on the back. " How my loyalty mark campaign is going".
Rory smiled. " It has been a success Sir".
" My crackdown and threat worked".
They watched as people approached the decision making point in the line. At that point, people with their documents identified themselves. Then they told them where and how they wanted the mark.
After they received their mark of loyalty, they spent time in homage around Carlo's statue.
Carlo looked at his young friend. " Thank you Rory for your help financing my loyalty mark program".
Rory smiled back. " You're welcome Sir".
research help: original story and ' The Remnant' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Rory and Carlo watched as hundreds of people were in line at the loyalty mark application site.
" Isn't it great Rory" he said as he slapped his young friend on the back. " How my loyalty mark campaign is going".
Rory smiled. " It has been a success Sir".
" My crackdown and threat worked".
They watched as people approached the decision making point in the line. At that point, people with their documents identified themselves. Then they told them where and how they wanted the mark.
After they received their mark of loyalty, they spent time in homage around Carlo's statue.
Carlo looked at his young friend. " Thank you Rory for your help financing my loyalty mark program".
Rory smiled back. " You're welcome Sir".
research help: original story and ' The Remnant' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, September 25, 2015
the end of days: Revelation 16 page 2
the end of days: Revelation 16 page 2 by ric Gustafson
Rory stood next to the One World guard who had his rifle leveled at the line of people.
" Don't be shy" said a short man wearing spectacles. He waved toward a nearby table. " Come forward".
" What is your name?" he asked as he prepped the young woman's right wrist.
" Charlene".
He slowly implanted the device just underneath the skin of her right wrist. " Congrats Charlene".
He applied a bandage to the affected area and threw away his gloves. " You now have the mark of loyalty to Carlo Simpato".
Just then, a young man, wearing a white robe and white sandals, stepped out of the line. " I am Newman one of 144,000".
There was a murmur in the line of people.
" Follow me out this door or else". He hesitated. " If you worship this beast and take his mark". He gave them a stern look. " You will drink the wrath of God".
" Don't listen to him" Rory said as he stood up. " You know what the consequences will be". He pointed toward a nearby room where a faint thud was heard.
Some followed Newman out the door. The majority stayed in line for the mark of loyalty.
research help: original story and ' The Remnant' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Rory stood next to the One World guard who had his rifle leveled at the line of people.
" Don't be shy" said a short man wearing spectacles. He waved toward a nearby table. " Come forward".
" What is your name?" he asked as he prepped the young woman's right wrist.
" Charlene".
He slowly implanted the device just underneath the skin of her right wrist. " Congrats Charlene".
He applied a bandage to the affected area and threw away his gloves. " You now have the mark of loyalty to Carlo Simpato".
Just then, a young man, wearing a white robe and white sandals, stepped out of the line. " I am Newman one of 144,000".
There was a murmur in the line of people.
" Follow me out this door or else". He hesitated. " If you worship this beast and take his mark". He gave them a stern look. " You will drink the wrath of God".
" Don't listen to him" Rory said as he stood up. " You know what the consequences will be". He pointed toward a nearby room where a faint thud was heard.
Some followed Newman out the door. The majority stayed in line for the mark of loyalty.
research help: original story and ' The Remnant' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
the end of days: Revelation 16 page 1
the end of days: Revelation 16 page1 by ric gustafson
Rory scratched the two sores that were on his lower left leg. He was sitting in a chair in the dark cold military command post. He watched on a video screen as three jet fighters headed toward their intended target. They were carrying the most powerful concussion bombs the One World government could afford. Each of the bombs could create a fireball thousands of feet up and burn up everything in sight.
All of a sudden, the door to the drab cold room opened to reveal the man Rory has devoted his life to.
" Hello Rory" Carlo said with a sly grin as he sat down next to the video screen. " Are the planes near the target?".
Rory put on some headphones. " Sir, the planes are right over the target". He hesitated. " They are just waiting for your permission to drop them".
Carlo put on some earphones. " Yes, drop them". He clapped his big hands in glee. " I will finally take care of those Jews once and for all.
Both men waited patiently for news of the drop.
Ten minutes later.
" What!" Rory exclaimed. He yanked off his headphones. " Sir, one of the pilots wants to talk to you".
" Yes Captain". Carlo's face grew ashen. " What do you mean a water geyser eliminated the flames".
" Apparently" Carlo said loudly as he stood up and knocked over his chair. " Their God sent a water geyser high enough into the air to douse the flames of our concussion bombs".
Carlo looked at Rory. " Do we still have money in our budget for loyalty mark enforcement devices?".
" I believe so Sir".
" Good, purchase some". He gave his young friend an evil grin. " People will think twice before deceiving me again".
research help: original story and ' The Remnant' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Rory scratched the two sores that were on his lower left leg. He was sitting in a chair in the dark cold military command post. He watched on a video screen as three jet fighters headed toward their intended target. They were carrying the most powerful concussion bombs the One World government could afford. Each of the bombs could create a fireball thousands of feet up and burn up everything in sight.
All of a sudden, the door to the drab cold room opened to reveal the man Rory has devoted his life to.
" Hello Rory" Carlo said with a sly grin as he sat down next to the video screen. " Are the planes near the target?".
Rory put on some headphones. " Sir, the planes are right over the target". He hesitated. " They are just waiting for your permission to drop them".
Carlo put on some earphones. " Yes, drop them". He clapped his big hands in glee. " I will finally take care of those Jews once and for all.
Both men waited patiently for news of the drop.
Ten minutes later.
" What!" Rory exclaimed. He yanked off his headphones. " Sir, one of the pilots wants to talk to you".
" Yes Captain". Carlo's face grew ashen. " What do you mean a water geyser eliminated the flames".
" Apparently" Carlo said loudly as he stood up and knocked over his chair. " Their God sent a water geyser high enough into the air to douse the flames of our concussion bombs".
Carlo looked at Rory. " Do we still have money in our budget for loyalty mark enforcement devices?".
" I believe so Sir".
" Good, purchase some". He gave his young friend an evil grin. " People will think twice before deceiving me again".
research help: original story and ' The Remnant' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, September 22, 2015
I Peter page 2
I Peter page 2 by ric Gustafson
The Apostle Peter believes in things he cannot see. The Christian believes in the invisible. Believers like myself believe in a real world in which God is the King. We believe in an eternal kingdom and an eternal world. The average Christian believes that heaven is not far away. The eternal world is more real than this physical world we live in. Nature that God created and the eternal world coexist.
As Christians, we believe in the invisible world. The Christian does not put a lot of value in materialism. The Christian believes in what he has been taught by God.
As Christians, we count on the invisible world. We act, plan and live on the reality of the invisible. The Christian counts on God's eternal kingdom. The Christian shapes his life's plans, determines his habits, comforts and supports God's kingdom.
It is comforting to us that God is near us. We live on the plane of the natural and the plane of the spiritual.
research help: ' Living as a Christian' by A W Tozer
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Apostle Peter believes in things he cannot see. The Christian believes in the invisible. Believers like myself believe in a real world in which God is the King. We believe in an eternal kingdom and an eternal world. The average Christian believes that heaven is not far away. The eternal world is more real than this physical world we live in. Nature that God created and the eternal world coexist.
As Christians, we believe in the invisible world. The Christian does not put a lot of value in materialism. The Christian believes in what he has been taught by God.
As Christians, we count on the invisible world. We act, plan and live on the reality of the invisible. The Christian counts on God's eternal kingdom. The Christian shapes his life's plans, determines his habits, comforts and supports God's kingdom.
It is comforting to us that God is near us. We live on the plane of the natural and the plane of the spiritual.
research help: ' Living as a Christian' by A W Tozer
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Babylon: Why Prophecy?
Babylon: Why Prophecy by ric Gustafson
Prophesying is making a statement about the future. We do that when we say that we will do something tomorrow. When a prophet says something about the future, it must come true. When God speaks prophetically, it comes true. A prophet has to have credibility.
The Apostle Paul speaks about the gift of tongues and the power of prophecy. Prophecy builds our faith and confidence in God. Prophecy helps encourage and strengthen us. Prophecy comforts and consoles us. God has given prophecy to us for our good. Prophecy gives us perspective, purpose, patience, power and praise.
The End
research help: Turning Points October 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Prophesying is making a statement about the future. We do that when we say that we will do something tomorrow. When a prophet says something about the future, it must come true. When God speaks prophetically, it comes true. A prophet has to have credibility.
The Apostle Paul speaks about the gift of tongues and the power of prophecy. Prophecy builds our faith and confidence in God. Prophecy helps encourage and strengthen us. Prophecy comforts and consoles us. God has given prophecy to us for our good. Prophecy gives us perspective, purpose, patience, power and praise.
The End
research help: Turning Points October 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, September 21, 2015
I Peter page 1
I Peter page 1 by ric Gustafson
Simon Peter was a colorful person and vocally devoted to Jesus. He was ready to die for him and was radically devoted to the Lord. He did not often know how to show his love but after Pentecost was never the same again. He became a mighty force for God.
His writings are a down to earth approach to Christianity. His words have a way of presenting truth that the average Christian can grasp. His sermons were simple and practical. His epistles are in the language of the common man. He talks about amazing indestructible Christians. He talks about Christians are believers in that which they cannot see and that which they have not seen.
As believers, we believe in something we cannot see by faith. Believing in the invisible, we rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. Peter wrote about Christians who saw the invisible, believe in it and rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. They believed in what they could not see and we need to do that today.
research help: ' Living As A Christian' by A W Tozer
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Simon Peter was a colorful person and vocally devoted to Jesus. He was ready to die for him and was radically devoted to the Lord. He did not often know how to show his love but after Pentecost was never the same again. He became a mighty force for God.
His writings are a down to earth approach to Christianity. His words have a way of presenting truth that the average Christian can grasp. His sermons were simple and practical. His epistles are in the language of the common man. He talks about amazing indestructible Christians. He talks about Christians are believers in that which they cannot see and that which they have not seen.
As believers, we believe in something we cannot see by faith. Believing in the invisible, we rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. Peter wrote about Christians who saw the invisible, believe in it and rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. They believed in what they could not see and we need to do that today.
research help: ' Living As A Christian' by A W Tozer
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Babylon: Why Daniel?
Babylon: Why Daniel?by ric Gustafson
The Book of Daniel is filled with exciting stories. This book forms the backbone of the last 2,500 years of world history. Daniel had a royal lineage. The name Daniel is mentioned 70 times in the bible. Daniel and Ezekiel ministered during the exile. Parts of the book of Daniel deal with history and prophecy of the past. The rest of the book deals with the future.
Daniel saw dramatic prophecies related to four world empires. Daniel refused to be changed by his corrupt surroundings. God blessed him for his faithfulness. God elevated Daniel to a high level of influence in Babylon and Persia.
Daniel was a ancient prophet with a modern message. This message is both prophetic and personal.
research help: Turning Points October 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Book of Daniel is filled with exciting stories. This book forms the backbone of the last 2,500 years of world history. Daniel had a royal lineage. The name Daniel is mentioned 70 times in the bible. Daniel and Ezekiel ministered during the exile. Parts of the book of Daniel deal with history and prophecy of the past. The rest of the book deals with the future.
Daniel saw dramatic prophecies related to four world empires. Daniel refused to be changed by his corrupt surroundings. God blessed him for his faithfulness. God elevated Daniel to a high level of influence in Babylon and Persia.
Daniel was a ancient prophet with a modern message. This message is both prophetic and personal.
research help: Turning Points October 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sunday, September 20, 2015
Babylon: Why Babylon?
Babylon: Why Babylon? by ric Gustafson
Jerusalem is known in the bible as the historic capital of God's chosen nation. Babylon, on the other hand, the bible uses as a symbol of the worst of the world's evils. Babylon began as Babel which was a city established by Nimrod. Nimrod attempted to organize the first worldwide government opposed to God.
Babylon fell more than five centuries before Jesus but it's spirit has lived on. Biblical prophecy says that Babylon will be revived.in the end times. The book of Revelation talks about the struggle between Jerusalem and Babylon. God's Word tells us of Babylon's final destruction and Jerusalem becoming the capital of God's eternal kingdom.
Nowhere in God's Word do we get a clearer picture of Babylon's nature than we do in the Book of Daniel.
research help: Turning Points October 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jerusalem is known in the bible as the historic capital of God's chosen nation. Babylon, on the other hand, the bible uses as a symbol of the worst of the world's evils. Babylon began as Babel which was a city established by Nimrod. Nimrod attempted to organize the first worldwide government opposed to God.
Babylon fell more than five centuries before Jesus but it's spirit has lived on. Biblical prophecy says that Babylon will be revived.in the end times. The book of Revelation talks about the struggle between Jerusalem and Babylon. God's Word tells us of Babylon's final destruction and Jerusalem becoming the capital of God's eternal kingdom.
Nowhere in God's Word do we get a clearer picture of Babylon's nature than we do in the Book of Daniel.
research help: Turning Points October 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, September 19, 2015
the end of days: the Plague of Sores page 5
the end of days: the Plague of Sores page 5 by ric Gustafson
Rory watched as Carlo walked up to the podium. He took a sip of bottled water. " Citizens of the One World Community". He took another sip of water. " I come to you to bring a sacred proclamation".
Rory listened intently.
" The time has now expired to receive the mark of loyalty to me". Carlo gave the gathered crowd a stern stare. " Anyone without the mark of loyalty either will have it done". He took another sip of water. " Or face my enforcement device".
Everyone clapped in agreement.
" Also all citizens are required to worship my image three times a day". He grinned. " Or face punishment".
There was louder clapping coming from the crowd.
" Thank you for your cooperation and support".
Rory smiled and clapped for his leader. He loved his master with everything inside him.
The End
research help: original story and ' Desecration' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Rory watched as Carlo walked up to the podium. He took a sip of bottled water. " Citizens of the One World Community". He took another sip of water. " I come to you to bring a sacred proclamation".
Rory listened intently.
" The time has now expired to receive the mark of loyalty to me". Carlo gave the gathered crowd a stern stare. " Anyone without the mark of loyalty either will have it done". He took another sip of water. " Or face my enforcement device".
Everyone clapped in agreement.
" Also all citizens are required to worship my image three times a day". He grinned. " Or face punishment".
There was louder clapping coming from the crowd.
" Thank you for your cooperation and support".
Rory smiled and clapped for his leader. He loved his master with everything inside him.
The End
research help: original story and ' Desecration' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, September 18, 2015
the end of days: the Plague of Sores page 4
the end of days: the Plague of Sores page 4 by ric Gustafson
Rory stood at a distance and watched as Simpato and some One World soldiers approached the steps of the Temple. He was constantly moving because of the sores all over his body. Rory could see a couple of soldiers dragging a huge pig by a rope.
As Carlo neared the entrance to the Temple, an old grey haired man stepped right in front of him.
He stuck a finger in Carlo's face. " You dare blaspheme God".
" Your God, where is your God?" he replied as he pushed the old man aside. " Who are you anyway?".
The old man looked right at Simpato. " People call me John".
" Well John, I have important things to do right now". He walked past the old man and up the steps into the Temple. " I will deal with you later". He and some soldiers walked past the Court of Women and the Court of Men. Then he encountered some priests who refused to leave. " Will you bow down and worship me?".
" No" they said in unison.
" Then all of you will die". He quickly walked past them toward the Holy of Holies. He pointed at his guards. " Shoot them until they are dead". He walked up to the veil hiding the Holy of Holies. He took a knife and sliced the veil in two. Two soldiers brought him the pig. Carlo took the knife and slashed the pig's throat. He took the blood and splattered it all over the altar of the Holy of Holies.
He walked over to a nearby window and looked down to the masses below. " Why pay homage to an altar of brass when you can pay homage to me".
John stepped out of the crowd. " One day, you will face judgment and stand before God".
research help: original story and ' Desecration' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love ric
Rory stood at a distance and watched as Simpato and some One World soldiers approached the steps of the Temple. He was constantly moving because of the sores all over his body. Rory could see a couple of soldiers dragging a huge pig by a rope.
As Carlo neared the entrance to the Temple, an old grey haired man stepped right in front of him.
He stuck a finger in Carlo's face. " You dare blaspheme God".
" Your God, where is your God?" he replied as he pushed the old man aside. " Who are you anyway?".
The old man looked right at Simpato. " People call me John".
" Well John, I have important things to do right now". He walked past the old man and up the steps into the Temple. " I will deal with you later". He and some soldiers walked past the Court of Women and the Court of Men. Then he encountered some priests who refused to leave. " Will you bow down and worship me?".
" No" they said in unison.
" Then all of you will die". He quickly walked past them toward the Holy of Holies. He pointed at his guards. " Shoot them until they are dead". He walked up to the veil hiding the Holy of Holies. He took a knife and sliced the veil in two. Two soldiers brought him the pig. Carlo took the knife and slashed the pig's throat. He took the blood and splattered it all over the altar of the Holy of Holies.
He walked over to a nearby window and looked down to the masses below. " Why pay homage to an altar of brass when you can pay homage to me".
John stepped out of the crowd. " One day, you will face judgment and stand before God".
research help: original story and ' Desecration' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love ric
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Wondeful Counselor page 1
Wonderful Counselor page 1 by ric Gustafson
Roger Smith held the flagstick as the golf ball went into the cup. " Nice putt".
" Thanks" Bobby Jenkins replied as he picked up his ball and walked toward his golf bag.
They walked toward the second tee after Roger put the stick back into the hole. They noticed that golfers were backed up. They put their bags down and walked toward the shade of a nearby tree.
" So how is life treating you?".
" Well, right now I've been having some financial problems" Bobby replied. " And my marriage is not going the best at the moment either".
We picked up our bags and put them by the blue tees.
" I went to a counselor at the Harrison Dewey building". He took out his driver and a tee. " He really helped me with my problems".
Bobby put a tee into the ground. " What is the name of this counselor?".
" He is called the Wonderful Counselor".
Bobby hit his drive down the left side of the fairway.
" If you have a piece of paper, I'll write the suite number for you".
Bobby gave him his scorecard.
Roger hit his drive into the trees on the right. " The Harrison Dewey building Suite 302".
" Thank you" he said as he put the scorecard into a back pocket. They picked up their bags and began to walk toward their tee shots.
research help: ' Together with Jesus' by Richard Lauersdorf
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Roger Smith held the flagstick as the golf ball went into the cup. " Nice putt".
" Thanks" Bobby Jenkins replied as he picked up his ball and walked toward his golf bag.
They walked toward the second tee after Roger put the stick back into the hole. They noticed that golfers were backed up. They put their bags down and walked toward the shade of a nearby tree.
" So how is life treating you?".
" Well, right now I've been having some financial problems" Bobby replied. " And my marriage is not going the best at the moment either".
We picked up our bags and put them by the blue tees.
" I went to a counselor at the Harrison Dewey building". He took out his driver and a tee. " He really helped me with my problems".
Bobby put a tee into the ground. " What is the name of this counselor?".
" He is called the Wonderful Counselor".
Bobby hit his drive down the left side of the fairway.
" If you have a piece of paper, I'll write the suite number for you".
Bobby gave him his scorecard.
Roger hit his drive into the trees on the right. " The Harrison Dewey building Suite 302".
" Thank you" he said as he put the scorecard into a back pocket. They picked up their bags and began to walk toward their tee shots.
research help: ' Together with Jesus' by Richard Lauersdorf
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the end of days: The Plague of Sores page 3
the end of days: the Plague of Sores page 3 by ric Gustafson
Rory slammed a fist on Edith's desk. " Edith, I cannot believe in a God I cannot see". His voice grew more angry. " A God who has caused me nothing but pain my entire life".
" Rory, God simply loves you and he will take away all that anger and hurt".
" Thanks for listening to me". He gave her a hug. " I won't report you to the loyalty application officers". He smiled. " Be careful and I'll see you in Jerusalem".
Days later.
Carlo Simpato stood at the edge of the Temple Mount while the sky blackened around him. He raised his arms high into the air. " Take my mark and worship me". Thunder crashed across the black sky.
Thousands upon thousands raised their arms to Carlo. " And woe to those who hearts are lying toward me".
A young woman in the crowd raised a finger to Carlo. " You are a liar and a fake".
Rory's face turned to horror as he realized the young woman was Edith.
" You are the Anti Christ and a false prophet". She continued. " As God as my witness, there is only one God and one Lord Jesus".
Carlo pointed a finger at Edith and a ball of flame came from the black sky and rested on top of her. She burst into flames and was soon reduced to ashes.
Carlo yelled to the masses below. " All power has been given to me in heaven and on earth". He pointed a finger at the crowds. " Take my loyalty mark and you will live". The crowds below him bowed down. " He is risen".
Just then, on the east side of the Temple Mount a large statue of Carlo was unveiled.
After worshiping the statue for hours, thousands of people got into the loyalty mark application lines.
research help: original story and ' Desecration' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Rory slammed a fist on Edith's desk. " Edith, I cannot believe in a God I cannot see". His voice grew more angry. " A God who has caused me nothing but pain my entire life".
" Rory, God simply loves you and he will take away all that anger and hurt".
" Thanks for listening to me". He gave her a hug. " I won't report you to the loyalty application officers". He smiled. " Be careful and I'll see you in Jerusalem".
Days later.
Carlo Simpato stood at the edge of the Temple Mount while the sky blackened around him. He raised his arms high into the air. " Take my mark and worship me". Thunder crashed across the black sky.
Thousands upon thousands raised their arms to Carlo. " And woe to those who hearts are lying toward me".
A young woman in the crowd raised a finger to Carlo. " You are a liar and a fake".
Rory's face turned to horror as he realized the young woman was Edith.
" You are the Anti Christ and a false prophet". She continued. " As God as my witness, there is only one God and one Lord Jesus".
Carlo pointed a finger at Edith and a ball of flame came from the black sky and rested on top of her. She burst into flames and was soon reduced to ashes.
Carlo yelled to the masses below. " All power has been given to me in heaven and on earth". He pointed a finger at the crowds. " Take my loyalty mark and you will live". The crowds below him bowed down. " He is risen".
Just then, on the east side of the Temple Mount a large statue of Carlo was unveiled.
After worshiping the statue for hours, thousands of people got into the loyalty mark application lines.
research help: original story and ' Desecration' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
The Corn Palace
the Corn Palace by ric Gustafson
The Corn Palace in Mitchell South Dakota was built in 1892. It was built so settlers could display the fruits of their harvest. Artists have created colorful murals on the outside walls using corn of different varieties and color. The time came to nudge the attraction into the 21st century.
The fiber glass onion domes have been replaced by airy steel versions. A new marquee, larger corn murals and a walk out balcony have been added outside. The biggest improvement has been new LED lightning that plays around the building. The Corn Palace is a landmark in this town of about 15,000 that hosts concerts, high school and college basketball games and other entertainment.
research help: An Omaha World Herald article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The Corn Palace in Mitchell South Dakota was built in 1892. It was built so settlers could display the fruits of their harvest. Artists have created colorful murals on the outside walls using corn of different varieties and color. The time came to nudge the attraction into the 21st century.
The fiber glass onion domes have been replaced by airy steel versions. A new marquee, larger corn murals and a walk out balcony have been added outside. The biggest improvement has been new LED lightning that plays around the building. The Corn Palace is a landmark in this town of about 15,000 that hosts concerts, high school and college basketball games and other entertainment.
research help: An Omaha World Herald article
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
what do you see?: the end or the beginning
what do you see?: the end or the beginning by ric Gustafson
Everyone who has ever lived has thought to themselves are we living in the end times?. We watch the news constantly all day and know all the events that happen as they happen. Some people think the world is no worse than it has been. Others believe that what is happening around the globe daily is a sign of the last or end times.
The truth is that what is happening now is only a prelude to a thousand years of peace on earth and then an eternity of bliss. Jesus talked about this in his Olivet Discourse. Prophecy in God's Word tells us what is going to happen in the present and future of the world. In Prophecy, what God has said will pass. In Prophecy, God's words have the power to shape the future. In Prophecy, God's plans are unfolding and our redemption is near.
The End
research help: Turning Points July 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Everyone who has ever lived has thought to themselves are we living in the end times?. We watch the news constantly all day and know all the events that happen as they happen. Some people think the world is no worse than it has been. Others believe that what is happening around the globe daily is a sign of the last or end times.
The truth is that what is happening now is only a prelude to a thousand years of peace on earth and then an eternity of bliss. Jesus talked about this in his Olivet Discourse. Prophecy in God's Word tells us what is going to happen in the present and future of the world. In Prophecy, what God has said will pass. In Prophecy, God's words have the power to shape the future. In Prophecy, God's plans are unfolding and our redemption is near.
The End
research help: Turning Points July 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
what do your see?: Chaos or Control
what do you see?: Chaos or Control by ric Gustafson
Sometimes in our lives we see chaos. Circumstances we cannot control and unexpected disasters. We panic and try to control things ourselves. We may even lash out at God.
When chaos comes, we need to meditate and find comfort in God's Word. We may not understand what is going on in our life but we can always lean on God. We walk by faith and not by sight. Things are not always what they seem. The unexpected problems that come into our life is no match for God's limitless power. His promises and his presence will keep us in his total control.
research help: Turning Points July 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sometimes in our lives we see chaos. Circumstances we cannot control and unexpected disasters. We panic and try to control things ourselves. We may even lash out at God.
When chaos comes, we need to meditate and find comfort in God's Word. We may not understand what is going on in our life but we can always lean on God. We walk by faith and not by sight. Things are not always what they seem. The unexpected problems that come into our life is no match for God's limitless power. His promises and his presence will keep us in his total control.
research help: Turning Points July 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the end of days: the Plague of Sores page 2
the end of days: the Plague of Sores page 2 by ric Gustafson
Rory sat down in a chair next to Edith. " Sounds like we're going to be working together".
" Sounds great".
" Can we get together in your office at 3:00 and throw some ideas around?".
She nervously stood up to leave. " Sure".
At 3, Rory knocked on her office door.
" Come in".
He walked in and sat down next to her desk.
She nervously smiled. " So what ideas do you already have based on the briefing?".
Rory looked at her right wrist. " I noticed you were the only person not scratching a sore at the meeting".
She lowered her head so he would not notice.
He gave her a stern look. " You're a Christian aren't you?".
" Are you going to turn me in?".
" I should". He pulled up his pant leg to reveal that he now had two sores. " But for right now I'm not".
" Why?".
" I miss my parents" he said as he studied family pictures on the wall. " Also I need your help with Mr Simpato's new project".
" Rory, what happened to your parents?".
" My father disappeared with the other millions in the so called Rapture and my mother just recently went under the blade because of her faith".
She grinned at Rory. " What do you believe?".
" I believe in a God that I can see with my own eyes". He hesitated. " I believe that Mr Simpato is doing great things for this world".
She put a reassuring hand on his shoulder. " Rory, your Christian parents went to be with the Lord".
research help: original story and ' Desecration' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Rory sat down in a chair next to Edith. " Sounds like we're going to be working together".
" Sounds great".
" Can we get together in your office at 3:00 and throw some ideas around?".
She nervously stood up to leave. " Sure".
At 3, Rory knocked on her office door.
" Come in".
He walked in and sat down next to her desk.
She nervously smiled. " So what ideas do you already have based on the briefing?".
Rory looked at her right wrist. " I noticed you were the only person not scratching a sore at the meeting".
She lowered her head so he would not notice.
He gave her a stern look. " You're a Christian aren't you?".
" Are you going to turn me in?".
" I should". He pulled up his pant leg to reveal that he now had two sores. " But for right now I'm not".
" Why?".
" I miss my parents" he said as he studied family pictures on the wall. " Also I need your help with Mr Simpato's new project".
" Rory, what happened to your parents?".
" My father disappeared with the other millions in the so called Rapture and my mother just recently went under the blade because of her faith".
She grinned at Rory. " What do you believe?".
" I believe in a God that I can see with my own eyes". He hesitated. " I believe that Mr Simpato is doing great things for this world".
She put a reassuring hand on his shoulder. " Rory, your Christian parents went to be with the Lord".
research help: original story and ' Desecration' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Monday, September 14, 2015
what do you see?: puzzle or process
what do you see?: puzzle or process by ric Gustafson
Sometimes our life is like a pattern. Sometimes it is predictable like when we go to bed, get up, family schedules. Thank God that the universe does not change. Gravity oxygen luckily does not change.
When our patterned lives do change however, we are confused. Usually we adapt quickly but not always. As Christians, we should first turn to God. We must remember that God can step into our patterned lives at any time. At that point we need to trust him above all else.
When our lives become a puzzle we need to be willing to be puzzled. We need to let God be God. We need to keep our focus and take the time to evaluate our puzzled life. Lastly, we need to pray that a good plan will emerge from our puzzled life.
research help: Turning Points July 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Sometimes our life is like a pattern. Sometimes it is predictable like when we go to bed, get up, family schedules. Thank God that the universe does not change. Gravity oxygen luckily does not change.
When our patterned lives do change however, we are confused. Usually we adapt quickly but not always. As Christians, we should first turn to God. We must remember that God can step into our patterned lives at any time. At that point we need to trust him above all else.
When our lives become a puzzle we need to be willing to be puzzled. We need to let God be God. We need to keep our focus and take the time to evaluate our puzzled life. Lastly, we need to pray that a good plan will emerge from our puzzled life.
research help: Turning Points July 2015
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the end of days: the Plague of Sores page 1
the end of days: the Plague of Sores page 1 by ric Gustafson
Rory walked into the conference room, found an open chair and sat down. Before coming to the meeting, he noticed a sore on his lower left leg. He noticed that his friend Alan Saxton had pulled up a shirt sleeve and was scratching something on his left arm.
All of a sudden, a short stocky man wearing glasses walked in. " Good morning ladies and gentlemen" he said as he walked up to the wooden podium and took out some papers from a briefcase. " I'm Mr Aasen one of the chief officers of the One World Financial Network". He took a sip of water. " On behalf of Mr Simpato and the One Financial Network, we thank you for your hard work on the loyalty mark project".
Rory noticed a female co worker was not scratching a sore on her body.
" Now Mr Simpato has another big project that he needs your financial help with".
Rory raised his hand. " Is there anything you can tell us about it?".
" I can't say much except that it takes place in Jerusalem at the Temple Mount". He looked at Rory. " Oh, and Rory".
" Yes Mr Aasen".
" Mr Simpato has specifically asked for Edith Leber and you for this project".
research help: original story and ' Desecration' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Rory walked into the conference room, found an open chair and sat down. Before coming to the meeting, he noticed a sore on his lower left leg. He noticed that his friend Alan Saxton had pulled up a shirt sleeve and was scratching something on his left arm.
All of a sudden, a short stocky man wearing glasses walked in. " Good morning ladies and gentlemen" he said as he walked up to the wooden podium and took out some papers from a briefcase. " I'm Mr Aasen one of the chief officers of the One World Financial Network". He took a sip of water. " On behalf of Mr Simpato and the One Financial Network, we thank you for your hard work on the loyalty mark project".
Rory noticed a female co worker was not scratching a sore on her body.
" Now Mr Simpato has another big project that he needs your financial help with".
Rory raised his hand. " Is there anything you can tell us about it?".
" I can't say much except that it takes place in Jerusalem at the Temple Mount". He looked at Rory. " Oh, and Rory".
" Yes Mr Aasen".
" Mr Simpato has specifically asked for Edith Leber and you for this project".
research help: original story and ' Desecration' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
wonder of his love: Immeasurable Love
wonder of his love: Immeasurable Love by ric Gustafson
No matter how hard we try, we cannot measure the love of God. God's love for us is immeasurable. God went all out to redeem us and he sent his only Son to free us. God's love spans the universe and eternity. God's love for us is from everlasting to everlasting. God's love soars over our doubts, fears, trembling hearts and our weaknesses.
One question remains, why would God love us so much?. We are unholy, unworthy and unimportant. The simple fact is that he does and he loves us more than anything else in this universe. And he reveals that wonderful love in everything that he has created.
Praise God.
The End
research help: ' The Wonder of his Love' by Nancy Stafford
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
No matter how hard we try, we cannot measure the love of God. God's love for us is immeasurable. God went all out to redeem us and he sent his only Son to free us. God's love spans the universe and eternity. God's love for us is from everlasting to everlasting. God's love soars over our doubts, fears, trembling hearts and our weaknesses.
One question remains, why would God love us so much?. We are unholy, unworthy and unimportant. The simple fact is that he does and he loves us more than anything else in this universe. And he reveals that wonderful love in everything that he has created.
Praise God.
The End
research help: ' The Wonder of his Love' by Nancy Stafford
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, September 12, 2015
wonder of his love: Lavishing Love
wonder of his love: Lavishing Love by ric Gustafson
God lavishes love on us his children beyond imagination or description. According to I John 3:1, this bible verse talks about the love the Father has lavished on us. Does the world and us really know God as he really is. Because we don't know him enough, we do not realize how much love he lavishes on us.
God always has us in mind. He looks for ways to bless us and for treasures to bestow on us. He likes to take our broken lives and make them like new. He repairs our hearts, repairs our pasts and recreates our shattered dreams. And he loves it when we help ourselves to his love. He showers us with joy, life and hope. All he wants is that we simply see him as he really is.
research help: ' The Wonder of his Love' by Nancy Stafford
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
God lavishes love on us his children beyond imagination or description. According to I John 3:1, this bible verse talks about the love the Father has lavished on us. Does the world and us really know God as he really is. Because we don't know him enough, we do not realize how much love he lavishes on us.
God always has us in mind. He looks for ways to bless us and for treasures to bestow on us. He likes to take our broken lives and make them like new. He repairs our hearts, repairs our pasts and recreates our shattered dreams. And he loves it when we help ourselves to his love. He showers us with joy, life and hope. All he wants is that we simply see him as he really is.
research help: ' The Wonder of his Love' by Nancy Stafford
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the end of days: have a good day c3769a page 5
the end of days: have a good day c3769a page 5 by ric Gustafson
Rory looked out his office window at downtown Copper Creek. He was very tired and had a headache. The phone rang. He picked it up and pushed the talk button. " Hello". He listened to the voice on the other end. " Yes, this is Rory Johnston". He yawned. " I'll be there in fifteen minutes".
Fifteen minutes later, he walked through the entrance to Building 3 of the Copper Creek One World application center.
He walked up to the security desk. Behind it was a tall lanky One World security officer.
" Right wrist please".
Rory held out his wrist and the security officer scanned it.
" I was told my mother was one of the female detainees".
The security officer pointed down a long hallway. " The female wing is down the hallway and to the left".
Rory walked down the hallway and then turned left. The women's detention area looked like a huge zoo cage.
A voice came from the cage. " Rory".
He noticed his mother standing in a corner of the cage. She was crying and shaking like a leaf. The guard noticed Rory's wrist and then opened the cage.
She ran out and sobbed on her son's shoulder. " I'm sorry Rory" she said as tears ran down her face. " I needed some medicine and I forgot about the biochip".
The guard pointed to the other ladies in the cage. " Mrs Johnston, all of these ladies have agreed to take the mark except for you".
" Rory, I won't".
Rory gave her a big hug. " Mom, there is nothing else I can do".
" Rory, I am a Christian and I will not take the Devil's mark".
" Mrs Johnston, please follow me to Building 2".
Rory held her hand as they slowly walked outside and down a sidewalk toward the next building. They reached the front door of Building 2 and Rory knew the time had come.
Rory's eyes swelled up with tears. " I'm sorry Mom, there's nothing else I can do".
" I know" she replied as she hugged her son. " Always remember God loves you and so do I".
They walked inside.
As Rory walked away sobbing, he heard a strange noise coming from inside the building. It sounded like a constant thud.
The End
research help: original story and ' The Mark' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Rory looked out his office window at downtown Copper Creek. He was very tired and had a headache. The phone rang. He picked it up and pushed the talk button. " Hello". He listened to the voice on the other end. " Yes, this is Rory Johnston". He yawned. " I'll be there in fifteen minutes".
Fifteen minutes later, he walked through the entrance to Building 3 of the Copper Creek One World application center.
He walked up to the security desk. Behind it was a tall lanky One World security officer.
" Right wrist please".
Rory held out his wrist and the security officer scanned it.
" I was told my mother was one of the female detainees".
The security officer pointed down a long hallway. " The female wing is down the hallway and to the left".
Rory walked down the hallway and then turned left. The women's detention area looked like a huge zoo cage.
A voice came from the cage. " Rory".
He noticed his mother standing in a corner of the cage. She was crying and shaking like a leaf. The guard noticed Rory's wrist and then opened the cage.
She ran out and sobbed on her son's shoulder. " I'm sorry Rory" she said as tears ran down her face. " I needed some medicine and I forgot about the biochip".
The guard pointed to the other ladies in the cage. " Mrs Johnston, all of these ladies have agreed to take the mark except for you".
" Rory, I won't".
Rory gave her a big hug. " Mom, there is nothing else I can do".
" Rory, I am a Christian and I will not take the Devil's mark".
" Mrs Johnston, please follow me to Building 2".
Rory held her hand as they slowly walked outside and down a sidewalk toward the next building. They reached the front door of Building 2 and Rory knew the time had come.
Rory's eyes swelled up with tears. " I'm sorry Mom, there's nothing else I can do".
" I know" she replied as she hugged her son. " Always remember God loves you and so do I".
They walked inside.
As Rory walked away sobbing, he heard a strange noise coming from inside the building. It sounded like a constant thud.
The End
research help: original story and ' The Mark' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, September 11, 2015
the other place: will there be any light there?
the other place: will there be any light there? by ric Gustafson
Hell has become a cliché for a place to have a good time with friends when they die. It may be hot but hopefully bearable. God's Word on the other hand gives a totally different picture of what Hell will be like. The fires of Hell are mentioned in Revelation 14:10. This Hell fire will be unlike any flame known to modern science. It causes extreme pain but will not consume.
The bible indicates that Hell will be more solitary than people imagine. Jesus talks about a darkness that is an outer darkness. This darkness is far removed from everyone and everything. Darkness will reign because God's light is not present. The darkness of Hell will feel like solitary confinement.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Hell has become a cliché for a place to have a good time with friends when they die. It may be hot but hopefully bearable. God's Word on the other hand gives a totally different picture of what Hell will be like. The fires of Hell are mentioned in Revelation 14:10. This Hell fire will be unlike any flame known to modern science. It causes extreme pain but will not consume.
The bible indicates that Hell will be more solitary than people imagine. Jesus talks about a darkness that is an outer darkness. This darkness is far removed from everyone and everything. Darkness will reign because God's light is not present. The darkness of Hell will feel like solitary confinement.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
wonder of his love: Responsive Love
wonder of his love: Responsive Love by ric Gustafson
Jesus asks us a question all the time. " What do you want me to do for you?". Do we always know what we are asking for?. We cannot see the big picture or comprehend what is really best for us. Because he has our best interests at heart, we wait for him to work in our lives according to his will.
Sometimes we are afraid or discouraged to ask him at all. The truth is we don't have because we don't ask. In love, God responds to our requests and gives us what we truly need. God wants us to ask and then to follow him.
What do you want God to do for you?.
research help: ' The Wonder of his Love' by Nancy Stafford
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jesus asks us a question all the time. " What do you want me to do for you?". Do we always know what we are asking for?. We cannot see the big picture or comprehend what is really best for us. Because he has our best interests at heart, we wait for him to work in our lives according to his will.
Sometimes we are afraid or discouraged to ask him at all. The truth is we don't have because we don't ask. In love, God responds to our requests and gives us what we truly need. God wants us to ask and then to follow him.
What do you want God to do for you?.
research help: ' The Wonder of his Love' by Nancy Stafford
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the end of days: have a good day c3769a page 4
the end of days: have a good day c3769a page 4 by ric Gustafson
Rory took the bottle out of the grocery bag. " Mom, where does the peanut butter go?".
She pointed a finger. " In the lazy Susan". She looked at her son. " Rory, what happened at the grocery store?".
" Mom, things have changed" . He helped her finish the groceries and then sat down in a living room chair. " You can't do much of anything without a biochip".
With sadness in her eyes, she glanced at Rory's right wrist. " My son, why did you do that for?".
" Mom, I believe in him and what he's done for this whole world".
" Rory, I've read Revelation" she said in a loud desperate voice. " I feel in my heart that he is the Anti Christ trying to deceive this world".
" Mom, he can't be the Anti Christ" he replied as he held her hand. " Look at all the good and wonderful things that he has done".
Just then the doorbell rang.
Rory opened the door to reveal a middle aged officer with a One World badge on.
Officer Mchenry tipped his hat. " Sorry to disturb you".
" Come in Officer".
He pulled a small scanner from his pants pocket. " Can I see your right wrist?". He quickly scanned Rory's wrist and then put it away. " Sorry I had to do that but there have been numerous fake bio chips being reported".
Rory's mother walked into the room. " Who are you?".
" I'm Officer Mchenry one of the One World application centers enforcement officers". He tipped his hat again. " I'm here to personally escort you to the application center to receive your mark of loyalty and your bio chip".
She ran into the kitchen and began to cry. " Rory, I'm not going".
" Mom, I'll go with you". He walked into the kitchen and gave her a big hug. " Life would be so much easier if you did go"." I'll go as long as you go with me" she said as she dried her eyes with a tissue. " But Rory, I will not take the mark".
research help: original story and ' The Mark' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Rory took the bottle out of the grocery bag. " Mom, where does the peanut butter go?".
She pointed a finger. " In the lazy Susan". She looked at her son. " Rory, what happened at the grocery store?".
" Mom, things have changed" . He helped her finish the groceries and then sat down in a living room chair. " You can't do much of anything without a biochip".
With sadness in her eyes, she glanced at Rory's right wrist. " My son, why did you do that for?".
" Mom, I believe in him and what he's done for this whole world".
" Rory, I've read Revelation" she said in a loud desperate voice. " I feel in my heart that he is the Anti Christ trying to deceive this world".
" Mom, he can't be the Anti Christ" he replied as he held her hand. " Look at all the good and wonderful things that he has done".
Just then the doorbell rang.
Rory opened the door to reveal a middle aged officer with a One World badge on.
Officer Mchenry tipped his hat. " Sorry to disturb you".
" Come in Officer".
He pulled a small scanner from his pants pocket. " Can I see your right wrist?". He quickly scanned Rory's wrist and then put it away. " Sorry I had to do that but there have been numerous fake bio chips being reported".
Rory's mother walked into the room. " Who are you?".
" I'm Officer Mchenry one of the One World application centers enforcement officers". He tipped his hat again. " I'm here to personally escort you to the application center to receive your mark of loyalty and your bio chip".
She ran into the kitchen and began to cry. " Rory, I'm not going".
" Mom, I'll go with you". He walked into the kitchen and gave her a big hug. " Life would be so much easier if you did go"." I'll go as long as you go with me" she said as she dried her eyes with a tissue. " But Rory, I will not take the mark".
research help: original story and ' The Mark' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, September 10, 2015
who do you say I am?
who do you say I am? by ric Gustafson
Jesus and his disciples were walking toward a village near Caesarea Philippi. The day was hot abd they were all tired. The disciples were perplexed at the questions Jesus was asking them.
" Who do people say that I am?".
Peter and the others thought for a moment. " Some say John the Baptist". " Others Elijah or maybe one of the prophets".
Jesus looked at them. " What about you, who do you say I am?".
Peter exclaimed " You are the Christ".
Jesus smiled at the burly fisherman. " Do not tell anyone about me". " I must suffer and be rejected by many".
They kept walking.
" I must be killed and then rise again in three days".
Peter pulled Jesus aside because he could not believe what he was hearing.
" Get behind me Satan". He gave Peter a stern stare. " You do not have in mind the things of God but the things of man".
The End
research help: The Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jesus and his disciples were walking toward a village near Caesarea Philippi. The day was hot abd they were all tired. The disciples were perplexed at the questions Jesus was asking them.
" Who do people say that I am?".
Peter and the others thought for a moment. " Some say John the Baptist". " Others Elijah or maybe one of the prophets".
Jesus looked at them. " What about you, who do you say I am?".
Peter exclaimed " You are the Christ".
Jesus smiled at the burly fisherman. " Do not tell anyone about me". " I must suffer and be rejected by many".
They kept walking.
" I must be killed and then rise again in three days".
Peter pulled Jesus aside because he could not believe what he was hearing.
" Get behind me Satan". He gave Peter a stern stare. " You do not have in mind the things of God but the things of man".
The End
research help: The Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Nicodemus page 4
Nicodemus page 4 by ric Gustafson
The rig stopped at the descent to the port city. We got out and stood next to the burly fisherman.
" We are going to bless you, pray for you and wish you Godspeed". Peter looked at Paul. " Then I have some news for you".
James, Barnabas, Peter and an unnamed brother laid their hands on Paul and began to pray. " Father, bless our friend and your servant with safety, health and courage".
" Peter, what news did you have for me?".
Peter gave Paul a concerned stare. " Nicodemus has been murdered".
" How!" Barnabas exclaimed as his knees nearly gave out. " By whom?".
" It happened between the Temple and his home".
" Why?" James exclaimed.
" Hard to say" was Peter's reply. " He was a courageous man to return to the Sanhedrin after the crucifixion".
The burly fisherman put a hand on Paul's shoulder. " God be with you".
The End
research help: ' Empire's End' by Jerry B Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The rig stopped at the descent to the port city. We got out and stood next to the burly fisherman.
" We are going to bless you, pray for you and wish you Godspeed". Peter looked at Paul. " Then I have some news for you".
James, Barnabas, Peter and an unnamed brother laid their hands on Paul and began to pray. " Father, bless our friend and your servant with safety, health and courage".
" Peter, what news did you have for me?".
Peter gave Paul a concerned stare. " Nicodemus has been murdered".
" How!" Barnabas exclaimed as his knees nearly gave out. " By whom?".
" It happened between the Temple and his home".
" Why?" James exclaimed.
" Hard to say" was Peter's reply. " He was a courageous man to return to the Sanhedrin after the crucifixion".
The burly fisherman put a hand on Paul's shoulder. " God be with you".
The End
research help: ' Empire's End' by Jerry B Jenkins
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the wonder of his love: Sealing Love
the wonder of his love: Sealing Love by ric Gustafson
Because Jesus died on the cross for us, his precious blood permanently separated us from our sins. When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior God frees us from judgment and condemnation. Then God seals us. The Holy Spirit softens our hard hearts and then we are sealed. Because we are sealed, God freely gives us all things.
When we believe in Jesus, God seals us through the Holy Spirit for all eternity. That is a guarantee.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Wonder of his Love' by Nancy Stafford
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Because Jesus died on the cross for us, his precious blood permanently separated us from our sins. When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior God frees us from judgment and condemnation. Then God seals us. The Holy Spirit softens our hard hearts and then we are sealed. Because we are sealed, God freely gives us all things.
When we believe in Jesus, God seals us through the Holy Spirit for all eternity. That is a guarantee.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Wonder of his Love' by Nancy Stafford
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
the other place: is there such a place?
the other place: is there such a place? by ric Gustafson
In Revelation 20:14, there is a place called the lake of fire. In Revelation 20: 1-3, there is a deep pit. In Mark 9:43, there are inextinguishable flames. Matthew 8:12 talks about darkness.
There is a lot of symbolism when the Bible describes hell. So the question to be asked is is Hell an actual place or just a symbol of a spiritual state?. In Mark 9: 43-48, Jesus uses ' Gehenna' to mean Hell. In Jesus's day, the valley where Gehenna was located was a horrible place. Centuries earlier, people would sacrifice their children to the god Molech. The site in Jesus's day was a garbage dump where a fire burned incessantly.
According to God's Word, Hell is a real place where those who reject God's gift of salvation and eternal life will endure their decision forever.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In Revelation 20:14, there is a place called the lake of fire. In Revelation 20: 1-3, there is a deep pit. In Mark 9:43, there are inextinguishable flames. Matthew 8:12 talks about darkness.
There is a lot of symbolism when the Bible describes hell. So the question to be asked is is Hell an actual place or just a symbol of a spiritual state?. In Mark 9: 43-48, Jesus uses ' Gehenna' to mean Hell. In Jesus's day, the valley where Gehenna was located was a horrible place. Centuries earlier, people would sacrifice their children to the god Molech. The site in Jesus's day was a garbage dump where a fire burned incessantly.
According to God's Word, Hell is a real place where those who reject God's gift of salvation and eternal life will endure their decision forever.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
wonder of his love: Pursuing Love
wonder of his love: Pursuing Love by ric Gustafson
I am constantly pursued by God and showered with his grace, mercy, goodness and love. In love, God gives us kindness, mercy, favor and protection. Go look around because we are followed and pursued. Through our sin and rebellion, God stills pursues us. He pursues us into his loving arms.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Wonder of his Love' by Nancy Stafford
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
I am constantly pursued by God and showered with his grace, mercy, goodness and love. In love, God gives us kindness, mercy, favor and protection. Go look around because we are followed and pursued. Through our sin and rebellion, God stills pursues us. He pursues us into his loving arms.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Wonder of his Love' by Nancy Stafford
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Heaven: will there be rewards there?
Heaven: will there be rewards there? by ric Gustafson
Our good works mean nothing when it comes to securing eternal life. In Ephesians 2: 8-9 the Apostle Paul tells us that we are saved by faith in God this is God's gift to you and not anything you have done on your own. As believers we are rewarded in heaven for our faithfulness during our brief time on earth. God sees what we do here on his behalf, the suffering we endure and the desire to live according to his Word. He acknowledges our deeds in a real and meaningful way.
There is a big difference between deeds that glorify ourselves and acts that glorify God. Only acts that glorify God will be rewarded in heaven. The amount or degree of rewards will differ from person to person. This principle is told in the parable of the three servants Matthew 25: 14-20. God keeps track of the work we do in his name and will richly reward us in his Kingdom.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Our good works mean nothing when it comes to securing eternal life. In Ephesians 2: 8-9 the Apostle Paul tells us that we are saved by faith in God this is God's gift to you and not anything you have done on your own. As believers we are rewarded in heaven for our faithfulness during our brief time on earth. God sees what we do here on his behalf, the suffering we endure and the desire to live according to his Word. He acknowledges our deeds in a real and meaningful way.
There is a big difference between deeds that glorify ourselves and acts that glorify God. Only acts that glorify God will be rewarded in heaven. The amount or degree of rewards will differ from person to person. This principle is told in the parable of the three servants Matthew 25: 14-20. God keeps track of the work we do in his name and will richly reward us in his Kingdom.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Saturday, September 5, 2015
Nicodemus page 3
Nicodemus page 3 by ric Gustafson
Nicodemus slowly walked up the dusty hot slope toward the cross. He was carrying several pounds of myrrh, spices and pure linen. A short distance behind him walked Joseph of Arimathea.. Also with them was Mary the mother of Jesus.
He walked up to Flavius Artemis who was the centurion in charge of the execution detail.
Flavius barely recognized him but knew who Joseph of Arimathea was. He had asked Pilate for the carpenter's body so it could be buried properly according to Jewish custom. Pilate asked Flavius if the carpenter was already dead. Flavius said that it was so. Joseph's request was granted.
When Flavius saw the two men approach, he ordered his men to lower his cross. Nicodemus and the others gently took out the nails out of the carpenter's hands and his feet. Nicodemus carefully took the crown of thorns off of Jesus's head. Mary put her arms around the lifeless body of her son and weeped.
Joseph and Nicodemus wiped the dried blood from his body. They began to anoint his body with the myrrh and the spices. After they had done this, they carefully wrapped the body in pure linen.
Four men picked up Jesus's body and then slowly walked into a nearby garden. Joseph led them to a tomb that no one had ever used. There the body of the carpenter was laid to rest.
research help: The Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Nicodemus slowly walked up the dusty hot slope toward the cross. He was carrying several pounds of myrrh, spices and pure linen. A short distance behind him walked Joseph of Arimathea.. Also with them was Mary the mother of Jesus.
He walked up to Flavius Artemis who was the centurion in charge of the execution detail.
Flavius barely recognized him but knew who Joseph of Arimathea was. He had asked Pilate for the carpenter's body so it could be buried properly according to Jewish custom. Pilate asked Flavius if the carpenter was already dead. Flavius said that it was so. Joseph's request was granted.
When Flavius saw the two men approach, he ordered his men to lower his cross. Nicodemus and the others gently took out the nails out of the carpenter's hands and his feet. Nicodemus carefully took the crown of thorns off of Jesus's head. Mary put her arms around the lifeless body of her son and weeped.
Joseph and Nicodemus wiped the dried blood from his body. They began to anoint his body with the myrrh and the spices. After they had done this, they carefully wrapped the body in pure linen.
Four men picked up Jesus's body and then slowly walked into a nearby garden. Joseph led them to a tomb that no one had ever used. There the body of the carpenter was laid to rest.
research help: The Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Heaven: will we still sin?
Heaven: will we still sin? by ric Gustafson
Will we commit sin in heaven?. Hebrews 9 gives us a clue. Jesus died once for all sin which eliminates the possibility of doing it again. Jesus's victory over sin is eternal. So what would keep us from sinning in heaven?. The answer is our transformed minds and bodies. Because of our new minds and bodies, we will be able to recognize sin for what it is. In heaven, we will be able to understand the implications of every choice we face and we will be wise enough to avoid wrong.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Will we commit sin in heaven?. Hebrews 9 gives us a clue. Jesus died once for all sin which eliminates the possibility of doing it again. Jesus's victory over sin is eternal. So what would keep us from sinning in heaven?. The answer is our transformed minds and bodies. Because of our new minds and bodies, we will be able to recognize sin for what it is. In heaven, we will be able to understand the implications of every choice we face and we will be wise enough to avoid wrong.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Friday, September 4, 2015
places in the bible: Egypt
places in the bible: Egypt by ric Gustafson
In ancient texts, Egypt means ' Black Land' or ' The Two Straits'. Egypt is located in Northern Africa near Libya, Sudan, Israel and the Mediterranean Sea. Bible verses that talk about this ancient land include Genesis 46:6, Exodus 3:11 and Matthew 2:13.
This ancient land became populated as early as 10,000 BC. In 343 BC Egypt fell to the Persians which was followed by the Romans and the Greeks. The Bible records Abram's visits, Joseph's rise to power and then the Hebrews rescue from God through Moses.
Egypt is the second largest country in Africa with Cairo as it's capital and largest city. The majority of the population is Muslim.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places in the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In ancient texts, Egypt means ' Black Land' or ' The Two Straits'. Egypt is located in Northern Africa near Libya, Sudan, Israel and the Mediterranean Sea. Bible verses that talk about this ancient land include Genesis 46:6, Exodus 3:11 and Matthew 2:13.
This ancient land became populated as early as 10,000 BC. In 343 BC Egypt fell to the Persians which was followed by the Romans and the Greeks. The Bible records Abram's visits, Joseph's rise to power and then the Hebrews rescue from God through Moses.
Egypt is the second largest country in Africa with Cairo as it's capital and largest city. The majority of the population is Muslim.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places in the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Nicodemus page 2
Nicodemus page 2 by ric Gustafson
A temple guard and myself were summoned to Caiaphas's court. As we stood there waiting for our orders, a chief priest was ranting to the others.
" This Rabbi from Galilee stated you know where I am from I am not here on my own you don't know him but I know him and he sent me". He hit his fist on the table where they were sitting. " This Rabbi is saying blasphemy and needs to be arrested now".
Caiaphas pointed a finger at us. " Arrest this Rabbi and bring him to me".
We walked out and eventually found the Rabbi. He was teaching to a crowd in the Temple Court. We quickly walked up to him to arrest him. The Rabbi looked at us as if he knew we were coming.
" I am with you for only a short time and then I go to the one who sent me".
I stared at the other guard. I could not believe what he was saying.
" You will look for me but you will not find me and where I am going you cannot come".
The Jews standing near us began to murmur among themselves. " Where does this man intend to go that we cannot find him?". " Does he intend to live among and teach the Greeks?".
The other guard and myself were so mesmerized by his teaching neither of us could raise a finger to arrest him.
" If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink". The Rabbi looked at me. " Whoever believes in me , streams of living water will follow from within him".
We walked back to Caiaphas's court.
Caiaphas gave us an angry stare. " Why didn't you bring him in?".
" No one ever spoke the way this man does".
The chief priest's face grew red with rage. " You mean he has fooled you too".
Nicodemus spoke up. " Does our law condemn anyone without first hearing him to find out what he is doing?".
One of the priests stood up and looked at Nicodemus. " Are you from Galilee also, look into it yourself". He pointed a finger at him. " You will find that a prophet does not come out of Galilee".
research help: The Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
A temple guard and myself were summoned to Caiaphas's court. As we stood there waiting for our orders, a chief priest was ranting to the others.
" This Rabbi from Galilee stated you know where I am from I am not here on my own you don't know him but I know him and he sent me". He hit his fist on the table where they were sitting. " This Rabbi is saying blasphemy and needs to be arrested now".
Caiaphas pointed a finger at us. " Arrest this Rabbi and bring him to me".
We walked out and eventually found the Rabbi. He was teaching to a crowd in the Temple Court. We quickly walked up to him to arrest him. The Rabbi looked at us as if he knew we were coming.
" I am with you for only a short time and then I go to the one who sent me".
I stared at the other guard. I could not believe what he was saying.
" You will look for me but you will not find me and where I am going you cannot come".
The Jews standing near us began to murmur among themselves. " Where does this man intend to go that we cannot find him?". " Does he intend to live among and teach the Greeks?".
The other guard and myself were so mesmerized by his teaching neither of us could raise a finger to arrest him.
" If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink". The Rabbi looked at me. " Whoever believes in me , streams of living water will follow from within him".
We walked back to Caiaphas's court.
Caiaphas gave us an angry stare. " Why didn't you bring him in?".
" No one ever spoke the way this man does".
The chief priest's face grew red with rage. " You mean he has fooled you too".
Nicodemus spoke up. " Does our law condemn anyone without first hearing him to find out what he is doing?".
One of the priests stood up and looked at Nicodemus. " Are you from Galilee also, look into it yourself". He pointed a finger at him. " You will find that a prophet does not come out of Galilee".
research help: The Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Heaven: will we cry?
Heaven: will we cry? by ric Gustafson
In Revelation 21:4, it says that God will wipe all tears from their eyes and there will be no more crying. What a beautiful thought is a promise of no more sadness or mourning. God knows that we have had a lifetime of sorrow, grief, pain and suffering here on earth. Hope is knowing that some day all that will be gone.
On the other hand, the lack of something we are so used to would be strange. Wouldn't it be natural to mourn for someone we know might be going to the other place. We do not need to worry because our bodies and minds will be transformed. When we receive our new bodies, perhaps we will view eternity from God's perspective and move beyond our earthly emotions.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
In Revelation 21:4, it says that God will wipe all tears from their eyes and there will be no more crying. What a beautiful thought is a promise of no more sadness or mourning. God knows that we have had a lifetime of sorrow, grief, pain and suffering here on earth. Hope is knowing that some day all that will be gone.
On the other hand, the lack of something we are so used to would be strange. Wouldn't it be natural to mourn for someone we know might be going to the other place. We do not need to worry because our bodies and minds will be transformed. When we receive our new bodies, perhaps we will view eternity from God's perspective and move beyond our earthly emotions.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Thursday, September 3, 2015
Nicodemus page 1
Nicodemus page 1 by ric Gustafson
Nicodemus was out walking late one night. He knew exactly where he was going. After walking for a while, he found the Rabbi. The look on Jesus's face gave Nicodemus the impression that he knew he was coming.
" Rabbi, we know you are a teacher who has come from God" he said in a reassuring voice. " For no one could perform the miraculous signs you are doing if God were not with him".
Jesus stared at Nicodemus. " I tell you the truth, no one can see the Kingdom of God unless he is born again".
" How can a man be born again when he is old". He scratched his chin. " Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb".
Jesus smiled at him. " I tell you the truth no one can enter the Kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit". Jesus hesitated. " Flesh gives birth to flesh but the Spirit gives birth to Spirit".
Nicodemus could not believe what he was hearing.
" The wind blows where it wants, you hear it's sound but cannot tell where it is going so it is with everyone born of the Spirit".
Nicodemus shook his head. " How can this be?".
" You are Israel's teacher and you do not understand these things".
" I tell you the truth, we speak of what we know and testify to what we have seen". " For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son that whosoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life". " God did not send his son into the world to condemn the world but to save the world".
research help: The Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Nicodemus was out walking late one night. He knew exactly where he was going. After walking for a while, he found the Rabbi. The look on Jesus's face gave Nicodemus the impression that he knew he was coming.
" Rabbi, we know you are a teacher who has come from God" he said in a reassuring voice. " For no one could perform the miraculous signs you are doing if God were not with him".
Jesus stared at Nicodemus. " I tell you the truth, no one can see the Kingdom of God unless he is born again".
" How can a man be born again when he is old". He scratched his chin. " Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb".
Jesus smiled at him. " I tell you the truth no one can enter the Kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit". Jesus hesitated. " Flesh gives birth to flesh but the Spirit gives birth to Spirit".
Nicodemus could not believe what he was hearing.
" The wind blows where it wants, you hear it's sound but cannot tell where it is going so it is with everyone born of the Spirit".
Nicodemus shook his head. " How can this be?".
" You are Israel's teacher and you do not understand these things".
" I tell you the truth, we speak of what we know and testify to what we have seen". " For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son that whosoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life". " God did not send his son into the world to condemn the world but to save the world".
research help: The Ryrie Study Bible
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
wonder of his love: Inspiring Love
wonder of his love: Inspiring Love by ric Gustafson
The word inspire comes from the Latin inspirare which means ' to breathe into'. Through God's breath, he gives us life and sustains us. God delivers us, sends his Holy Spirit to us and inspires us to be like him. God breathed into Adam and gave him life. By his breath, God parted the Red Sea and delivered the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. God gave us his written Word and he gave us his Living Word his Son Jesus. Breathe on me oh Breathe of God
Praise God.
research help: ' The Wonder of his Love' by Nancy Stafford
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The word inspire comes from the Latin inspirare which means ' to breathe into'. Through God's breath, he gives us life and sustains us. God delivers us, sends his Holy Spirit to us and inspires us to be like him. God breathed into Adam and gave him life. By his breath, God parted the Red Sea and delivered the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. God gave us his written Word and he gave us his Living Word his Son Jesus. Breathe on me oh Breathe of God
Praise God.
research help: ' The Wonder of his Love' by Nancy Stafford
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Heaven: will we sing there?
Heaven: will we sing there? by ric Gustafson
Psalm 150 says that music is a way to God's heart. Beethoven said that music is the language of God.
We will sing because we will be in the presence of God. God is the Creator the source of all creativity. If it pleases God, it will be inspiring to us. We will sing because we will have transformed bodies and minds. With all the angels in heaven we will worship and sing to God and Jesus.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Psalm 150 says that music is a way to God's heart. Beethoven said that music is the language of God.
We will sing because we will be in the presence of God. God is the Creator the source of all creativity. If it pleases God, it will be inspiring to us. We will sing because we will have transformed bodies and minds. With all the angels in heaven we will worship and sing to God and Jesus.
Praise God.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
places in the bible: The Garden of Eden
places in the bible: The Garden of Eden by ric Gustafson
The name comes from the Hebrew meaning Pleasantness or Delight. The Garden of Eden was located near four rivers. The names are Tigris, Euphrates, Pishon and Gihon. Two possible locations for this place were Eastern Turkey or the Tigris Euphrates Valley. Some bible verses for this place include Genesis 2:8, Genesis 2:10 and Genesis 3: 23-24
The Garden of Eden was created by God as a lush beautiful garden. It was to be the home of the first man and woman Adam and Eve. When they ate a forbidden fruit they were banished from the garden forever.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places of the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
The name comes from the Hebrew meaning Pleasantness or Delight. The Garden of Eden was located near four rivers. The names are Tigris, Euphrates, Pishon and Gihon. Two possible locations for this place were Eastern Turkey or the Tigris Euphrates Valley. Some bible verses for this place include Genesis 2:8, Genesis 2:10 and Genesis 3: 23-24
The Garden of Eden was created by God as a lush beautiful garden. It was to be the home of the first man and woman Adam and Eve. When they ate a forbidden fruit they were banished from the garden forever.
research help: ' 40 fascinating places of the Bible' by Ellen Caughey
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
wonder of his love: Unforsaking Love
wonder of his love: Unforsaking Love by ric Gustafson
Jesus was heartbroken at the Garden of Gethsemane. He was sorrowful to the point of death. He knew the unspeakable agony that was about to unfold. The worst thing was that he knew that his Father would forsake him. Jesus implored if there was any other way. He was bursting with pain. He was grieved with sorrow and his sweat was like drops of blood.
God heard his Son's cry and an angel was sent to minister to him. On the cross, God forsook his Son. Jesus was steeped in our sin and was drenched in our shame. God turned away from his Son and unleashed the fury of the ages on him. Jesus cried out ' My God My God why have you forsaken me".
And then it was finished. Jesus cried and gave up his spirit. At that moment, the cross became an instrument of peace. God will never forsake us because we are his children.
God will never forsake us. Praise God.
research help: ' The Wonder of his Love' by Nancy Stafford
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Jesus was heartbroken at the Garden of Gethsemane. He was sorrowful to the point of death. He knew the unspeakable agony that was about to unfold. The worst thing was that he knew that his Father would forsake him. Jesus implored if there was any other way. He was bursting with pain. He was grieved with sorrow and his sweat was like drops of blood.
God heard his Son's cry and an angel was sent to minister to him. On the cross, God forsook his Son. Jesus was steeped in our sin and was drenched in our shame. God turned away from his Son and unleashed the fury of the ages on him. Jesus cried out ' My God My God why have you forsaken me".
And then it was finished. Jesus cried and gave up his spirit. At that moment, the cross became an instrument of peace. God will never forsake us because we are his children.
God will never forsake us. Praise God.
research help: ' The Wonder of his Love' by Nancy Stafford
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Heaven: will we know anybody there?
Heaven: will we know anybody there? by ric Gustafson
When a loved one dearly departs, we can't wait to be reunited with them. A question remains when we get to heaven will we see them again?. The fact is that not only will we know our relatives in heaven, we will know them better than when they were here on earth. Our transformed bodies and minds will be sharper.
Our relationships with others in heaven will be free from drama, jealousy and misunderstandings. We will be able to interact with loved ones as God intended us to. With nothing to hide, no hidden agendas, no suspect motives, no resentment, no competiveness and sibling rivalry.
Together with loved ones we will enjoy eternity with God in his presence.
Praise God
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
When a loved one dearly departs, we can't wait to be reunited with them. A question remains when we get to heaven will we see them again?. The fact is that not only will we know our relatives in heaven, we will know them better than when they were here on earth. Our transformed bodies and minds will be sharper.
Our relationships with others in heaven will be free from drama, jealousy and misunderstandings. We will be able to interact with loved ones as God intended us to. With nothing to hide, no hidden agendas, no suspect motives, no resentment, no competiveness and sibling rivalry.
Together with loved ones we will enjoy eternity with God in his presence.
Praise God
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Heaven: what will our bodies be like?
Heaven: what will our bodies be like? by ric Gustafson
Think about our bodies for a moment. Now imagine our bodies with sickness. Our bodies without disease, injuries or disability. Think about our bodies without the aging process and the ravages of time. Think about our bodies without addictions, compulsions, destructive behavior and emotional trauma. No more guilt, shame, regret and self loathing. What are we left with?
In heaven, we will have a God designed transformed heavenly body. We will have health and wellness that we have never experienced before. The best day we have ever had here on earth is only a fraction of what heaven will be like. This will only happen in the presence of God our Father.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
Think about our bodies for a moment. Now imagine our bodies with sickness. Our bodies without disease, injuries or disability. Think about our bodies without the aging process and the ravages of time. Think about our bodies without addictions, compulsions, destructive behavior and emotional trauma. No more guilt, shame, regret and self loathing. What are we left with?
In heaven, we will have a God designed transformed heavenly body. We will have health and wellness that we have never experienced before. The best day we have ever had here on earth is only a fraction of what heaven will be like. This will only happen in the presence of God our Father.
research help: ' The Truth about Heaven' by Time Home Entertainment
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
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