(06/07/2020) Chances To Determine Outcomes

Today, reply is on sin as an artifact and outcome of decision-making before action, and mercy as an artifact of accountability and guilt in judgment. It is written: Exodus 33: 18-20, King James Version (KJV): 18 And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory. 19 And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy. 20 And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

When god offered three penalties to David, where’s the free will if punishment was inevitable? Also, where was god’s mercy?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children’s children, unto the third and to the fourth generation. And Moses made haste, and bowed his head toward the earth, and worshipped. (Exodus 34: 6-8, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Grace Abounds Much More (04/02/2020); The Challenge of Covid-19 (03/22/2020); “GOD, I Thank Thee…” (03/16/2020); Mankind A Divine Instrument (02/16/2020); Eternal Judgment With Mercy (11/19/2019); Blame and Punishment Removed? (12/22/2019); The Penalty of Death? (04/26/2019)

“Anonymous”, in the plan of GOD, by decision-making mankind may determine the outcomes of their own behavior before they take action; and penalties and punishment are not the primary focus for Christian thinkers. Answers shared among mature Christian believers as revelation from divinity include points of consideration you may never have heard or seen before. The following is a sample from the full system of Christian faith:

1. As created beings and living creatures put forth by divinity, the living are to operate as independent from the Maker, and as having completeness and integrity. Mankind is to display discrete and separate self-will (i.e., willpower), emotion/mind, personhood, and responsiveness to divinity. Just as there are no finite and man-made consciousness, existence, or life essence (breath; spirit; utterance; word), there is no finite and man-made “free will.”

2. David voluntarily was in a relationship with divinity that was defined and secured through divine law, eternal purpose, sacred promises, sovereign proclamations, and prophecy. As a condition of covenant, David willingly accepted judgment from divinity. GOD revealed himself to Moses as immortal, incorruptible, and invisible; yet, a God who operates through law, judgment, and inseparable aspects of divine fullness imparted from the makeup of GOD (e.g., faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, righteousness, wisdom, wrath against sin).

3. There are multiple points for exercise of self-will respecting divine law: Know the law, obey the law; err or transgress the law, repent; know the law, abide in the law where “to abide” is to incorporate the law within your lifestyle and daily routine. In the same way seeing ones own opportunities and possibilities for correct spiritual action and decision-making requires the practice of discernment, mature Christians practice discernment to acknowledge the presence, process, guidance, and gifts provided by divinity for judgment.

4. Properly understood, mercy is an artifact of judgment: Along with impartiality, mercy is provided to ensure balance and to lessen the harshness of condemnation for those who are found accountable and guilty following a complete examination of relevant truth. Forgiveness does not fulfill all the requirements for judgment and justice. Just as there can be no finding of “Not guilty!” “Case dismissed!” or “Time served!” without the formal tribunal of judgment, without judgment there is no mercy.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, from the music ministry of Steve Amerson (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owkc0PZWigc.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 1:40 PM, June 07, 2020 @ https://workingwomenoffaith.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/mercies-new-every-morning.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/09/2020) While We Are Growing

 

Today, reply is on the process of GOD for recovering and restoring mankind from the fall of Adam as including the humility, forgiveness, obedience, respect and self-restraint of children as sacred tools for reaching their parents and other adults, rather than angry outbursts, deceit, defiance, disrespect, rebellion, unkindness, and violence. More than obedience to the Ten Commandment law is required of children also. Thus, children are given to adults as a gift from divinity to activate and expand their caretaker’s capacity for accountability, compassion, and unselfishness. For a child to despise, begrudge, and hate their own parents provides no benefit from GOD, and is an obstacle to their own contentment as full persons. It is written: Galatians 2: 16-17, King James Version (KJV): 16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. 17 But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

 

Since I hate my Dad am I breaking the 10 commandments?

I hate him but it is for good reason.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man. For thou art my hope, O Lord GOD: thou art my trust from my youth. By thee have I been holden up from the womb: thou art he that took me out of my mother’s bowels: my praise shall be continually of thee. I am as a wonder unto many; but thou art my strong refuge. Let my mouth be filled with thy praise and with thy honour all the day. Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth. For mine enemies speak against me; and they that lay wait for my soul take counsel together, Saying, God hath forsaken him: persecute and take him; for there is none to deliver him. O God, be not far from me: O my God, make haste for my help. (Psalms 71: 4-12, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Pray For Your Enemies? (01/03/2020); Violating Commandments On Love? (10/13/2019); Anger Against Our Parents? (01/10/2019); Honoring Our Own Parents (04/09/2018); What Young People Need? (06/26/2017); Who Deserves Divine Love? (06/23/2017); In Her father’s House? (02/08/2017)

 

“Anonymous”, in the kingdom of GOD, parents and children are to nourish one another. The process of GOD on the earth among mankind now is one of edification (growth of ones spirit), granting grace, and the revealing of sacred things that would be otherwise unseen. Even though it has become acceptable and popular for young people to boast, complain, and murmur against their parents, Christian believers continue to endorse showing a spirit and process of forgiveness, love, and unselfish sacrifice that are intended to please GOD—and by pleasing divinity, to please oneself. The operations of sin may devastate communication within families, and their day-to-day exchanges and interactions. For youth, it is natural to be grounded in elements that appear to adults as foolish, impractical, temporal (do not last), unprofitable, and wasteful. Young people must encounter intense emotional and psychological challenges, and shifts while they are growing—not merely after they are grown. Such features as desires, dreams, emotions, goals, and hopes must be given attention and weight in their decision-making and their ongoing lifestyle. The benefits and privileges granted by GOD to those who are his offspring through commitment, sacred law, unselfish service, and fellowship among those sanctified (set apart) as being in covenant relationship include freedom from fear, peace of mind concerning divine judgment, stability, certainty for fulfillment of divine promises and prophecies, and confidence that, while on the earth, they will receive the godly guidance and wisdom required to become mature. GOD does not foster or promote the operations of sin, nor does divinity impart or justify human bitterness, despair, hatred, rage, and self-destructiveness. Consider again the following that uses language form the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Christine Wyrtzen:

(1.) 2^nd Timothy 1: 7, King James Version (KJV): 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

(2.) Ephesians 6: 1-3, KJV: 1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. 2 Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; 3 That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.

(3.) Proverbs 6: 20-23, KJV: 20 My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother: 21 Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck. 22 When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee. 23 For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, consider the following from the music ministry of Christine Wyrtzen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRbZKJXeIRI). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:30 PM, March 08, 2020 @ https://biblepic.com/53/14296.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/18/2019) A Form of Godliness?

 

Today, the reply is on the righteousness of gospel music intended for ministry among the followers of Jesus Christ when presented by non-Christians, and to secular audiences. Properly provided, gospel music is shared as another form of prophecy to comfort, edify and exhort the church provided by those who have been anointed, ordained, and set apart (sanctified) within the body of believers. Christ-likeness, the image of GOD, praise, and spirit substance imparted from divinity are to be communicated, offered, and returned to the Creator from the full assembled body. The conductor, choir, singers and musicians are more to direct and lead worship than to amuse or entertain. There are many skilled and talented performers who are able to arouse and deeply impress listeners, however, without sacred commitment, divine guidance and preparation, eternal purpose, and the unction from GOD, they are as tares sown among wheat, and their otherwise brilliant and extraordinary works are only self-promotion and vanity that lack divine content. For the fruit of redemption and salvation to appear, there must be a planting of Christ. It is written: Matthew 13: 24-30, King James Version (KJV): 24 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: 25 But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. 26 But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. 27 So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares? 28 He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up? 29 But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn. The writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “patty” (Level 5 with 6,361 points, a member since May 20, 2019) posted the following:

 

How can non Christians sing gospel?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth. And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne. And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. (Revelation 5: 6-10, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: How Can Christians Preach? (09/25/2019); About Our Public Displays (08/06/2019); Those Apt To Teach? (06/20/2018); Prophesying By Music Ministers (11/06/2017); Too Much Holy Spirit? (11/19/2013); Understanding Peace? (11/20/2013); GOD Speaking Through Song? (11/01/2013); Why Not One Bible? (11/02/2013)

 

“patty”, mature Christian believers who avoid judging and condemning the Spirit that may be within others, also are vigilant to escape the spiritual confusion caused by false prophets and hypocrites. Through the operations of sin, finite human appetite, emotions, and sensations can overpower ones awareness and willpower. The immutable, unchanging provisions of GOD must become the anchor within ones lifestyle and daily routine. Discernment is the practice of acknowledging the spirit essence within events and teaching within oneself as well as in the attitudes, behaviors, offerings, and presentations of others. As a standard for meaning, quality and value, believers learn to rely on the fresh endowment from Jesus Christ of the same life essence (breath; spirit; word) imparted to Adam at Creation. Inseparable aspects of divine fullness should appear that include faith, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the accapella music ministry of The N Crew:

(1.) 2^nd Timothy 3: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

(2.) Romans 6: 16-18, KJV: 16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? 17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. 18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

(3.) Mark 9: 37-40, KJV: 37 Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me. 38 And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us. 39 But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. 40 For he that is not against us is on our part.

(4.) Malachi 3: 13-18, KJV: 13 Your words have been stout against me, saith the LORD. Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against thee? 14 Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the LORD of hosts? 15 And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered. 16 Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name. 17 And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. 18 Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended (for example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rjiiF83q7G0.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 7:30 AM, October 18, 2019 @ https://www.dailyholybiblereading.com/malachi-3-18/

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/07/2019) Taboo To Be “spiritual”?

 

Today, the reply is on being challenged, isolated, or mocked for displaying attitudes and behavior that are modest, quiet and “spiritual.” It is written: Psalms 131: 1-2, King James Version (KJV): 1 LORD, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me. 2 Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Isabelle” (Level 1 with 91 points, a member since August 13, 2011) posted the following:

 

Why is it taboo nowadays to be modest or “spiritual”?

I live in a western society if I am modest and decide to not drink I am laugh whether with family, collegues or neighbours. These people tend be middle aged and mock the fact that I am very spiritual and chose to not drink alcohol, strict diet and avoid proscmisicous behaviour.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. (2^nd Corinthians 10: 12, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Perfection Of Divinity (09/17/2019); Will You Lose Family? (01/20/2019); Condemned By The Bible? (06/08/2018); Someone Who Is Kidding? (03/24/2017); “Good grief!” and Prophecy? (11/06/2016); How Is Flesh Evil? (10/28/2016); Mockers in the Last Days (11/14/2012); Thoughts Upon A Warrior’s Fall (11/15/2012)

 

“Isabelle”, guidance among Christian believers includes instructions and warnings that many in modern times will display attitudes reflecting the worst in mankind, rather than the image of GOD that appeared on the earth through Jesus Christ. While we are in The World system of meanings and values, it is common to examine repeatedly how we are alike or different from others (i.e., compare and contrast). Some feel good about themselves only when they can see flaws, infirmity, unsolved problems, and weakness in the lives of others. They rely on finite human tools such as carnal reason, emotion, gossip, intellect, logic, philosophy, politics and science along with academic and secular knowledge, rather than the system of Christian beliefs, sacred knowledge, and endowments of spirit content from divinity. Many Christians understand that the operations of sin oppose the continued existence of divine order and sacred law throughout the universe. Sin has not been created or put forth by GOD, yet, sin may dominate awareness and self-will in created beings and living creatures. Christians will continually examine and focus on the life, ministry, and works of Jesus Christ; and will display his divine substance within their own lifestyles and daily routines. Those who turn away from the operations of sin, and commit their lives to goals expressing godly principles often are despised, mocked, isolated, and scorned. Such must have the added strength that comes with a fresh deposit of the same inseparable spirit substance from the makeup of GOD that was imparted in Creation to Adam and Eve. Included are faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Consider the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Galatians 5: 19-23, King James Version (KJV): 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

(2.) 2^nd Timothy 3: 1-5, KJV: 1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

(3.) 1^st Peter 4: 1-5, KJV: 1 Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; 2 That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. 3 For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: 4 Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you: 5 Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Xxl9Wk3idA) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 12:47 PM, October 06, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/45/32/a0/4532a0b1a45c081459a3bad1373f8fe9.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/31/2019) The Thought of Foolishness

 

Today, the reply is on foolishness as an operation of sin, rather than a genuine display of ones fresh endowment of spirit imparted from the makeup of GOD. Members of the church are not berated, bribed and paid, coerced, physically forced, treated as chattel and slaves, or made to maintain their covenant as followers of Jesus Christ by mistreatment, threats and violence. Sinners who choose to return to GOD showing repentance are to become “born again,” “grow up again,” and become mature for harvest from the earth by the Lord at his coming. The sacred process is one of commitment to fulfill eternal purpose. Each believer is to acknowledge and put to work their own deposit of the Holy Spirit, making demands primarily from themselves, and not from others. Included are church attendance, giving and making donations, intercessory prayer, and study of the holy writings. Hilarity, levity, meddling, and practical jokes typically emerge from immaturity, irreverence, lack of self-respect, mockery, and disbelief. As a result, those who repeatedly present such actions and speech within the church usually suffer censure, great embarrassment, and shame. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

 

Would it be a sin to bring a squirt gun to church, fill it with holy water, and squirt people who gossip during church?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death, So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport? (Proverbs 26: 18-19, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Water That Imparts Holiness? (03/26/2019); Commitment To Jesus Christ (03/07/2019); Etiquette Within The Church? (03/16/2018); Duties of a Christian? (03/13/2018); Foolish People and Unwise (10/26/2017); From Dust Thou Art (09/07/2017); Someone Who Is Kidding? (03/24/2017); Without Preaching The Cross? (02/21/2016); Answer a Fool? (06/04/2015); Foolishness? (09/28/2014)

 

“Anonymous”, mature Christian believers rely on the holy writings for guidance and instruction that includes sacred law provided for continuing covenant relationship with divinity; principles and standards for attitudes, conduct, and decision-making within communities of faith; and models for sacred practices such as giving, praise, prayer, suffering, and unselfish service. Branding, judging, and labeling others, quickly becomes slander and the work of the devil. While all believers are to display integrity, rule and self-government, at all times, the church is to acknowledge accountability and duty to GOD. With that in view, no one may command your behavior beyond your membership agreement, and your heartfelt understanding of the needs and purposes of the body. Such elements as arrogance, bias, defiance, presumption, angry outbursts, the use of profanity, and violence have no place in the church founded by Jesus Christ. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Proverbs 24: 8-9, King James Version (KJV): 8 He that deviseth to do evil shall be called a mischievous person. 9 The thought of foolishness is sin: and the scorner is an abomination to men.

2. 1^st Corinthians 14: 39-40, KJV: 39 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. 40 Let all things be done decently and in order.

3. 1^st Timothy 5: 21-23, KJV: 21 I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. 22 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Jude 1: 21-25, KJV: 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. 22 And of some have compassion, making a difference: 23 And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. 24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, 25 To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/13/2019) Giving To The Homeless

 

Today, reply is on giving while in the workplace. Giving without integrity is dead. Correctly practiced, giving for Christian believers always will be marked by such elements as balance, accountability, cheerfulness, dutifulness, gratitude, humility, impartiality, lovingkindness, peace of mind, respect, and restraint. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

 

Do you think it was wrong for my manager not to give the homeless man a meal?

A while ago a homeless guy stopped by the fast food place I worked at and asked for a meal. My manager said no and gave him the excuse that there are cameras watching our every move and he could get in trouble for giving away a meal.

All of the employees were talking about how he should’ve given the man some food because people still get away with doing things even though the cameras are watching. My manager told me that lately the management team has been getting in trouble for giving away too many free meals and he was afraid if getting in trouble.

I for one kind of agree with him. As an employee I don’t even get a free meal and I bend over backwards for this establishment. I don’t see why some random person off the street should get free food for doing nothing. He can take advantage of the local soup kitchen.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. (James 2: 18-19, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Use of Money? (01/07/2019); Commitment To The Brand? (06/07/2018); Giving, A Divine Discipline? (10/09/2017); The Answer From GOD (05/19/2017); It Comes With the Job? (01/11/2015); Religious Bosses? (07/08/2014); On Marketing Church, and Speaking by Occasion (09/26/2013); A Lid on Love? (09/27/2013)

 

“Anonymous”, there are correct and wrong places, times and ways of displaying ones faith, applying truth from the Bible, and of giving to the poor. Managers in the hospitality industry and those they supervise must discharge a broad range of duties regarding the inventory, the reputation of their firm, and the materials used to present their goods to the public for income. Without a full payment for the goods, a report of pilfering (petty theft by an employee; violation of the contract and job description) should be filed, rather than a report of charitable giving. Those who want to use the organization they work for to provide gifts and support to others should use the opportunities, policies and programs of their firm intended to express goodwill and support to the community-at-large. Where the manager, or a worker wanted to share with an individual homeless person who came into their store, they would have had to deposit payment from their own wallet into the corporate cash register, or surrender the meal(s) they were to receive as an employee (e.g., breakfast/dinner/lunch).

For most of us, the workplace is not a setting for the full expression of our spiritual beliefs; there is an unwritten accord that preaching, proselytizing, or religious ceremonies, practices and rites are not to be carried out in the workplace. Developing Christian believers are in a relationship with divinity where all they possess, all they share, and much of what they do is directed primarily to GOD for the fulfillment of sacred commitment, eternal purpose, and expressing the sovereign will of GOD. In a similar way, believers are encouraged to acknowledge their employers as covenant partners with whom they are bound through personal accountability, legal agreements, ethical process, promises, and shared financial interests. Sinners who become “born again” are cautioned to avoid taking on the task of judging others, particularly with regard to giving, service, and worship. In addition to the risk of “jumping to conclusions,” those who judge encounter many subtleties (i.e., barely visible differences; hidden shifts in meaning, quality and value) that must be assigned weight, and correctly examined for their influence and outcome.

Various unexpected events (e.g., transportation accidents, fires, flooding, mudslides, snow) may result in multiple deaths, and urgent demands for funding, gifts, medical supplies, and other support. Properly performed, giving to the church allows sharing through multiple carefully managed programs and mechanisms for distributing resources. Such giving should be regular and reliable; and, in the same way one disciplines, plans and uses restraint for their spending, giving also is best accomplished using a budget, formal order, and restraint. Here are further points believers reflect on that use language from the Bible:

1. Proverbs 16: 25, King James Version (KJV): 25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

2. Proverbs 20: 11, KJV: 11 Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.

3. Proverbs 19: 17, KJV: 19 He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.

4. Proverbs 14: 31, KJV: 31 He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. Proverbs 22: 1-2, KJV: 22 A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold. 2 The rich and poor meet together: the LORD is the maker of them all.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/08/2019) Love Shown By Divinity

 

Today, reply is on the love shown by divinity being spoken of as “blind love.” Unlike infatuation and “puppy love,” divine love is a spirit substance that appears and is manifest only by those having an endowment from divinity that includes discipline, integrity of person, maturity, self mastery, truth, and unselfishness. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

 

If God is love, and love is blind, then is God blind?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? (1^st John 4: 18-20, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Revelation of Mercy (01/28/2019); Holy Boldness and Humility (10/04/2018); Chosen Through Sacred Process (09/06/2018); Consequences and Divine Love (07/05/2018); To Define “Godly Love” (08/20/2017); The Practice of Love (07/27/2017); Saying “GOD is Love” (12/18/2016); Herein Is True Love (10/21/2016)

 

“Anonymous”, among mature Christian believers, the love shown to mankind by divinity (we also say, divine fullness; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) is more than merely affection, emotion and feeling, for the makeup and process of GOD displays active presence, eternal purpose, and sovereign will. Thus, elements from the exalted personhood, divine law, and sacred substance of GOD describe the divine manifestation of divine love. Included are accountability, admonitions and warnings, commitment, faithfulness, forbearance, forgiveness, righteous judgment, impartiality, mercy, obedience, restraint, sacrifice, stability, unselfishness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. To “know God” is to be aware of the exchange and interaction of divine spirit substance within oneself as well as within others. The love of GOD may be called “blind love” because divine love is shared without bias, demands for payment and recompense, partiality, and prejudice. Even so, divine judgment requires that the living acknowledge that GOD is selective imparting life essence (we also say, breath; spirit; word) to mankind that is made from inseparable aspects of the divine makeup (e.g., longsuffering, meekness, oneness without sameness, purity). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. 1^st John 4: 7-9, King James Version (KJV): 7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. 9 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.

2. Revelation 1: 4-6, KJV: 4 John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne; 5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, 6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

3. Romans 5: 6-11, KJV: 6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Romans 13: 8-10, KJV: 8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/07/2019) Commitment To Jesus Christ

 

Today, reply is on commitment, politics, and continuing within a home church where social issues may be a major focus. The modern disciples who serve as members of the church founded by Jesus Christ also must face and overcome many of the same contradictions, errors and obstacles to godliness that existed among those to whom the Son of the Highest was sent displaying the authentic humanity required from GOD. More than to family, friends, neighbors, the local community or the world-at-large, within the body of believers, Christians must be committed to divinity (we also say, divine fullness; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Christian believers all are challenged to minister and share while on the earth as agents and spokespersons of Jesus Christ (we say, prophets). Rightly understood, the doctrine, teachings and works provided are not those determined by the members of the body, so much as they are the demonstrations and proclamations from the heart and mind of Christ made present through his Spirit. Thus, it is written: 1^st Corinthians 1: 26-31, King James Version (KJV): 26 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: 27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; 28 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: 29 That no flesh should glory in his presence. 30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: 31 That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Brandon” (Level 2 with 495 points, a member since February 19, 2019) posted the following:

 

Why do I keep going to this church it won’t ever change?

It keeps talking politics and discusses hating people instead of loving them. I believe in love to everyone. No matter who they are.

 

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

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Ministry Is Through Relationship (03/05/2019); Recognizing Holy and Unholy (01/31/2019); Christians Are Following Jesus (01/24/2019); Offering Yourself To Christ? (12/27/2018); Known By His Fruit (11/04/2018);Serving In Christian Relationships (08/31/2018); Changed And Made Christ-like? (06/19/2018); Attending Church a “Chore”? (01/23/2018)

 

“Brandon”, here are some points to consider that you may find helpful:

1. All who turn to Jesus Christ for change, redemption, and salvation must undergo a process of rebirth, discovery, gradual growth, and becoming mature to display divine presence through their own endowment of life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word) from the makeup of GOD.

2. Developing believers are to take on a new consciousness of things having spirit content, divine process, eternal purpose, and sacred substance, rather than focus on prosperity or survival, and the things having carnal, material and social importance.

3. Members of the church are diverse, and do not all have the same levels of accountability, faith, knowledge, maturity, readiness, selflessness, stability, and willingness to endure suffering. There is only one faith, one Lord, one truth for all; and, what, when and how a believer receives their unique portion of the divine provision, is carried forward by the Holy Spirit in ways that are simple, yet, profound, and may appear only earthly and unrelated to sacred truth.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. The church as a unified body and a community in accord is to display and make present the attitude, commitment, lifestyle, and works that were carried out by Jesus while ministering on the earth.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/01/2019) Challenges To The Church?

 

Today, thoughts are shared on whether the church created by Jesus Christ can survive despite current problems made visible by the lust and sin of some that include high-ranking clergy. Christians are to understand that as a permanent part of the flesh and an aspect of our personhood that can not always be suppressed by relying on human self-will (i.e., willpower), sexuality has great power that can appear as godly, irresistible, magical, and supernatural. Appetite and sexual desire are not contrary to human makeup and substance, and are acknowledged as natural, normal, and necessary to full human adulthood. Thoughts of sexual activity may still control, influence, and defile spirit substance within most of us who are now being claimed by Jesus Christ. Sexual sins that include adultery, fornication, prostitution and statutory rape threaten to bring only condemnation and ruin that separate the Savior and the saved; yet, they will be used by divinity along with apostasy, heresy, unselfish service, and the demands of personal sacrifice within the church to uncover otherwise disguised and hidden opposition to the headship of Christ. Prophecy to alert, comfort, edify, and exhort the church clearly proclaims that the church will be shaken in the End Times as part of its preparation to receive Jesus at the harvest (we say, his appearing; the Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). It is written: Hebrews 12: 25-29, King James Version (KJV): 25 See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven: 26 Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. 27 And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. 28 Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: 29 For our God is a consuming fire. The challenges and consequences from sin may continue within ones family inheritance for as much as four generations (160 years). Bitterness; generational curses; ignorance and lack of compassion to the burdens and struggles parents may have endured; exaggerated pride; and lingering rage against ones own parents—even those who are deceased that should be memorialized and given a new name by their heir(s)—are only overcome where believers will embrace divine forgiveness, empathy, integrity, and maturity. Similarly, the process of GOD through the church has to be one of uninterrupted change, discovery, gradual growth, as well as learning with shared concern and disclosure. Men on the earth can not be about godliness and truth without the endowments, guidance, and spirit substance provided from the makeup of GOD. Because the divine law is to be acknowledged as a true expression of the divine will, much of the public indignation, outcries for punishment, and outrage displayed by social media often can be seen as counterfeit human expressions that mimic divine wrath against sin. In Christ, genuine wrath against wrongdoing is more completely and correctly demonstrated through such sacred elements as forgiveness, holy boldness, humility, longsuffering, obedience, respect, restraint, and reverence to true righteousness. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

 

Can The Catholic church survive with its current problems?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: If thy people go out to battle against their enemy, whithersoever thou shalt send them, and shall pray unto the LORD toward the city which thou hast chosen, and toward the house that I have built for thy name: Then hear thou in heaven their prayer and their supplication, and maintain their cause. If they sin against thee, (for there is no man that sinneth not,) and thou be angry with them, and deliver them to the enemy, so that they carry them away captives unto the land of the enemy, far or near; Yet if they shall bethink themselves in the land whither they were carried captives, and repent, and make supplication unto thee in the land of them that carried them captives, saying, We have sinned, and have done perversely, we have committed wickedness; And so return unto thee with all their heart, and with all their soul, in the land of their enemies, which led them away captive, and pray unto thee toward their land, which thou gavest unto their fathers, the city which thou hast chosen, and the house which I have built for thy name: Then hear thou their prayer and their supplication in heaven thy dwelling place, and maintain their cause, And forgive thy people that have sinned against thee, and all their transgressions wherein they have transgressed against thee, and give them compassion before them who carried them captive, that they may have compassion on them: (1^st Kings 8: 44-50, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Appetite and Human Sexuality? (10/19/2018); Applying The Divine Standards (10/02/2018); Christ Is The Head (07/12/2018); The Church Of Jesus (06/18/2018); Duties of a Christian? (03/13/2018); Flesh As Divine Vessels? (01/14/2018); Cast the First Stone? (01/12/2017); Gender, Sex and Christian Beliefs? (05/18/2016); Temptations, Tests and Trials? (05/12/2015)

 

“Anonymous”, mature Christian believers are not to loose sight of the essential truth that the church founded by Jesus Christ is to be received as more than a finite institution, or social organization for distributing and sharing financial and material resources needed for human survival on the earth. As a spiritual body that must acquire, apply, and rely on divine prerogative, sacred law, and the sovereign will of GOD, the church will always be a life-focus and process determined by the communication, exchange and interaction of inseparable aspects of divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Included are faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

Correctly understood, atonement, displaying Christ-likeness, eternal life, redemption, salvation, transformation, and the gathering of believers to GOD through Jesus Christ are the primary themes of the church, rather than making “search and destroy” attacks against the many specific errors, sins and short-comings of the flesh. Sin continues to be an enigma for mankind that has not been created, or put forth by divinity. Sin may dominate consciousness and self-will within created beings and living creatures. Even so, sin has no finite material form; and the operations of sin display direction, effect, and presence. Sin can not be eliminated or removed by any simple act of divine destruction, “do-over”, and violence. Sin favors and promotes self-destruction through the return to conditions of chaos, confusion and flux that were in place as preexistence before the founding of heaven and earth. Sin opposes the continued existence of sacred law, the Lawgiver, and divine order throughout the universe.

Many within the church are presently very vocal expressing wrath against sin. GOD, who is Creator has also revealed himself to be a god of judgment. While divine law commands obedience, simple obedience does not fulfill all the requirements of the law. Therefore, addressing the church, we speak of divine principles, eternal purpose, and commitments by divinity that display the righteousness of GOD, and are immutable and unchanging. With this in view, the demands for judgment and justice within the church will not always be the same as those within the local communities served by the church. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1: Exodus 34: 4-8, King James Version (KJV): 4 And he hewed two tables of stone like unto the first; and Moses rose up early in the morning, and went up unto mount Sinai, as the LORD had commanded him, and took in his hand the two tables of stone. 5 And the LORD descended in the cloud, and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the LORD. 6 And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, 7 Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children’s children, unto the third and to the fourth generation. 8 And Moses made haste, and bowed his head toward the earth, and worshipped.

2. Galatians 5: 16-23, KJV: 16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

3. Ezekiel 18: 20-23, KJV: 20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. 21 But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. 22 All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live. 23 Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways, and live?

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Romans 3: 19-23, KJV: 19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. 20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. 21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; 22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: 23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/07/2019) The Use of Money?

The Widow With Two Coins by Emily Mineo

 

Today, reply is on giving and the use of money to establish and maintain relationship within the church as a sanctified body. The blood of Jesus Christ is the only acceptable offering or sacrifice Christians may make for the remission of sins; therefore, bequests, financial donations and gifts of money to the church are only for maintenance of physical facilities; mission and outreach programs; services; and wages to clergy and other staff. Believers make no money offerings, or sacrifices for sin. The purchase of a sinner’s life, so they may accomplish repentance and be accounted as returned to correct relationship with divinity, requires that the blood of Jesus Christ be applied for atonement and propitiation of sin as well as receiving inseparable aspects of his spirit substance from the makeup of GOD (we say, the Comforter; the Holy Ghost; the Spirit of Prophecy; the Spirit of Truth). Developing believers acknowledge the divine provisions that supply focus, order, and eternal purpose for their new life by dedicating their own flesh, skills, talents, and their belongings to be shared through praise, unselfish service, and worship. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum using the ID “Skittles” (Level 3 with 1,520 points, a member since May 12, 2012) posted the following:

 

Do you have to pay money to have a relationship with God?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD. (Jeremiah 9: 23-24, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Blessed In Our Deeds (05/29/2018); Jesus Paid It All (04/04/2018); Not A Financial Transaction (01/28/2018); Giving, A Divine Discipline? (10/09/2017); Fundraising A Sacred Practice? (01/01/2017); Are All Debts Forgiven? (10/11/2016); A $1,000 Dollar Seed? (11/02/2015); Money Is No Object? (10/14/2015)

 

“Skittles”, among mature Christian believers, money is regularly used for unselfish offerings and sacrifices that continue accountability, commitment, shared responsibility, and the expression of love by members within a congregation or community of faith. Divine forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life are only available through the ministry of Jesus Christ, and may not be bought and sold. The blood and body of Jesus is offered by divine fullness (we say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) for the atonement of sin, and is shared among the members of the church through the emblems of bread and wine (we say, Holy Communion; the Eucharist; the Lord’s Supper). More than this, baptism and rebirth that are gifts from the makeup of GOD, are provided only within the church so that full members may exist as the offspring of GOD, joint heirs with Christ, and the new creation. Repenting sinners are to receive imparted, indwelling, inseparable aspects of spirit from the makeup of GOD that include faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The things set apart as sacred (we say, sanctified) are never to be regarded as ones personal possession, private property, or a reward for ones own achievements, hard work, and merit. Similarly, innocence, purity, and sacred knowledge provided by the church are not to be taken as fruits of the flesh, rather, they should be acknowledged as provisions from the Spirit. Consider again the following that uses language from the holy writings that speak to the use of money and ones substance at the Temple in Jerusalem and within the early church:

1. Proverbs 3: 9-10, King James Version (KJV): 9 Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: 10 So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.

2. Mark 12: 41-44, KJV: 41 And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much. 42 And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing. 43 And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury: 44 For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.

3. 1^st Peter 5: 2-4, KJV: 2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; 3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Acts 8: 14-22, KJV: 14 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: 15 Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: 16 (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) 17 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost. 18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, 19 Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. 20 But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. 21 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. 22 Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC