True Wisdom for Troubled Times

On top of the global financial crisis we now have a global pandemic and life is getting more complicated. For the average person, this present flu pandemic seems like a no-win situation. Either one can take his or her chances with an untested vaccine, with questionable ingredients, or one can take chances by facing a potentially deadly virus without a vaccine. There’s a need for wisdom and not all answers can be found in a Google search. The good news is that there is a true source of wisdom, much more reliable than the TV talking heads or political weblogs. That source is God. God gave Solomon incredible wisdom when He prayed for it and the same can be true for us today. Not only that, the same God who gives wisdom also gives inner peace and joy regardless of the circumstances.

A Wake-up Call

For many people, the present difficult times offer an opportunity to consider personal beliefs and values. People living just for their own pleasure or for materialism may see their world fall apart as health and wealth are threatened. In the very beginning of the book of Proverbs, the book of wisdom, it shows how trials can help to shake us up in a good way:  “Turn you at my reproof: Behold, I will pour out my spirit upon you; I will make known my words unto you.” (Proverbs 1.23, ASV) Have trials in your life made you more open to seeking God’s word to know what it says? Proverbs offers a remarkable promise: “But all who listen to me will live in peace, untroubled by fear of harm.” (Proverbs 1.33, NLT)

These words of Solomon, written approximately 900 BC, were echoed almost a millennium later by Jesus Christ. He said He would give His Spirit who would make known His words and His wisdom (John 14.26) and said He would take away all of our fear (1 John 4.18). The Apostle Paul showed how the spirit of wisdom is found in the knowledge of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1.17) But even more than this, he said we can actually have the mind of Christ as Christian believers: “For, “Who can know the Lord’s thoughts? Who knows enough to teach him?” But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 2:16, NLT)

If it is true that the essence of wisdom is to know the mind of Christ, then the main question is “How can I experience the mind of Christ in my life?” As a Christian believer, you can see some powerful keys to living with the mind of Christ as you look at the context of that verse. At the beginning of the chapter says: “For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.” (1 Corinthians 2:2, NIV)

The Cross, the locus point of wisdom

The cross is the crux of the matter, the locus point of God’s wisdom. Here God satisfied the conditions of redemption and proved the reality of His love. At a certain point, the fullness of human history, God broke through the time-space continuum and forever altered the spiritual make-up of the world. The wisdom of the cross is beyond the wisdom of words, it is a mystery that was hidden and ordained before the world began (1 Corinthians 1:17, 2:7). In biology, DNA is considered the information blueprint of life. In a similar way, the gospel reveals the true meaning and purpose of life in its very essence.

The personal assurance of salvation is a key aspect of how we are to think and operate. The cross of Christ is the source of our freedom from sin and death and the power of darkness. God’s blood paid the price for all of our sin and bought for us the righteousness of Christ. It’s a done deal, it’s truly amazing. The cross is the starting point of new life and redemption. And it’s also a place we need to regularly look back to, especially in taking communion, as we consider how God forever proved His love towards us.

The “helmet of salvation” is mentioned in Ephesians 6.17.The mind is a spiritual battlefield and our main victory in the battle is the realization of all that our salvation in Christ means. It’s truly mind blowing when we meditate on the word of God and all that He has done for us. When we are in the right frame of mind we are filled with faith, hope and God’s wisdom. And like a helmet, we are protected from satanic fears and doubts as we live in the reality of the knowledge of salvation. The cross was a place of spiritual victory: “Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.” (Colossians 2.15, NKJV) The cross is also our place of spiritual victory received through Jesus Christ.

The cross is a source of God’s wisdom, victory and stability as we see the big picture of life: “Wisdom and knowledge will be the stability of your times, And the strength of salvation; The fear of the LORD is His treasure.” (Isaiah 33.6, NKJV) When you realize you have salvation in Christ and you realize He is your main treasure, all the rest is small stuff. I mean, think about it. The worst that could happen is that you may die from a virus. But, in reality, you would then be in heaven in the fullness of God’s presence. Is that so bad? We have a treasure that cannot be taken away, our eternal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Knowing God, the Beginning of Wisdom

“Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.” (1 Corinthians 2.12, NKJV) The spirit of the world rejects the reality of God and Jesus Christ, but the realization that God exists is the beginning of wisdom: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9.10, NKJV)

The Bible says rejecting God is foolish, and it is. There is no way that the ordered universe came from nothing by accident. This idea breaks the laws of physics on many levels. Atheists have not only blind faith but irrational faith. When God is in the equation, the reality of the ordered universe makes sense, it’s rational. Philosophers have tried to explain the meaning of life without God for ages and each new generation has a different explanation.

But when a person is open to God, the teachings of Jesus Christ and the person of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit then dwells inside. Jesus called this being born again. This gift of the Holy Spirit gives us revelation knowledge in all areas of life. The Holy Spirit helps us not only to know God the Father but also to understand His plan for our lives. Galatians 5 teaches us how to “walk in the Spirit” so as to be guided day by day moment by moment enjoying God’s presence.

The Scriptures, Building Blocks of Wisdom

As God begins to open up the scriptures to us, we grow in our knowledge as the Holy Spirit shows us how different verses relate to each other: “These things we also speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.” (1 Corinthians 2.13)

Later in 1 Corinthians 3.1-2 Paul shows how spiritual knowledge is progressive. You begin by learning basic truths and God adds more and more. As we grow in our knowledge of God’s word, we grow in maturity and our sense of discernment increases. (Hebrews 5.14) All of God’s word is good for instruction, every book in the Bible, and the book of Proverbs is especially helpful in terms of growing in wisdom.

We are encouraged in Proverbs to seek wisdom, not like one laboriously studying in school, but, rather like one passionately prospecting for precious gems: “For wisdom is better than rubies, and all the things one may desire cannot be compared with her.” (Proverbs 8.11) As we take in God’s word it becomes a part of us. In biology, cells are considered the building blocks of life. In a similar way, God’s scriptures and promises become a very part of our spiritual makeup as they are opened up to us. James called the word of God the “engrafted word.” (James 1.21)

Conclusion

By simply knowing God and abiding in Him, we can live with confidence even in troubled times.A key to making right decisions in life is to live by faith with the mind of Christ. There are some situations which seem insurmountable but God can give peace and wisdom for each situation. Both Solomon and Jesus had situations where there seemed to be no possible answer and God's wisdom is shown in how they resolved the problems. (1 Kings 3.16-28, John 8.3-12, Matthew 22.17-22) James 1.5 says "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him."

God did not promise a peace that comes from our own understanding, but, rather a peace that passes our human understanding (Philippians 4.7). There are some times in our life that we simply need to trust God. Charles Spurgeon highlighted how simply trusting in God is true wisdom, based on Proverbs 16:20: “He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.” (KJV) Spurgeon clarifies: “We are not to be idle…acting in all prudence and in all uprightness, we are to rely simply and entirely upon him.”

Prayer

Lord God, You are my strength and my shield – in You I trust. Your word says I have been given the mind of Christ, the mind of wisdom. Show me your will with regard to critical decisions I must make concerning the financial crisis and the pandemic. You are truly the Shepherd of my soul. Thank You for your peace which surpasses understanding. Give me and my family your divine guidance and protection. I ask that You use these troubled times for good, to show people that You are the way, the truth and the life. I ask all these things in harmony with the name above all names, Jesus Christ, amen.

Related:

Flu Vaccine Myths and Facts
The Main Question

Flu Vaccine Myths and Facts

This past Sunday, the head pastor for the Lutheran Churches in Crimea came to visit our meeting and said the German embassy in Kiev is telling its citizens the flu epidemic in Ukraine is nothing to be afraid of. According to available polls, 75 % of Finns do not want a H1N1 vaccine, the same for 73% percent of Hungarians, 62% of Americans and 54% of Chinese. The government of Poland has outright rejected the vaccine.

The situation in Ukraine seems to be getting more complex as the large number of cases with Hemorrhagic H1N1 Pneumonia suggest genetic changes in the H1N1 virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) has remained silent on the lab test results from London sent a week ago and there is a growing concern about what this means.

 

Up until the WHO visited Ukraine, Yulia Timoshenko was promoting natural remedies for resisting the flu. But now she is promoting the use of a vaccine. The US embassy in Kiev states the US will donate funds including 10% of its total vaccine budget to the global WHO initiative. And “As part of the first phase of this initiative, Ukraine is scheduled to receive 930,000 doses of H1N1 vaccine in early December." However, according to ICTV news Ukraine, the actual vaccines for Ukraine will be provided by Canada and Russia.

One of the links at the US Government site is called “Myths and Facts: Straight talk about the flu and you” and, though I believe a good and clean vaccine could save many lives, the information at the link seems incredibly simplified and biased. This is one of the most critical subjects of our day and it deserves thoughtful consideration and from more than just one perspective. Proverbs 18.17 shows wisdom regarding any controversial subject: "Any story sounds true until someone tells the other side and sets the record straight." (TLB)

 

The site states “None of the H1N1 vaccines currently distributed by the U.S. government contain adjuvants.” This is what the US government said when US military personnel came down with Gulf War Syndrome. But a February 2000 report by Tulane Medical School strongly suggested that squalene was used in vaccines against anthrax:

“All (100%) GWS patients immunized for service in Desert Shield/Desert Storm who did not deploy, but had the same signs and symptoms as those who did deploy, had antibodies to squalene. In contrast, none (0%) of the deployed Persian Gulf veterans not showing signs and symptoms of GWS have antibodies to squalene.”

So, what are the actual ingredients in he free H1N1 vaccines? When I buy yogurt I like to read the ingredients to avoid chemicals but when free vaccines are to be injected into me out I’m supposed to take them without knowing the actual ingredients or the manufacturer?

“If needed, an adjuvant is a component that can be incorporated into a vaccine to help to generate a stronger immune response to the vaccine and help prevent disease.” This sounds like an escape clause. If needed, if there is an “emergency situation,” then it can be added. Adjuvants do in fact “supercharge” vaccines as the note implies, but who is to decide when it is needed and do you really believe people will be informed?

“Squalene is a compound found in many natural sources, such as olive oil, that can act as an adjuvant and is used as an adjuvant in vaccines in many countries.” And so, you are basically saying “We don’t use it but it can be used in an emergency and it’s not so bad anyway.”

The Real Straight Talk

On October 9, 2009, Dr. Gary Null, PHD, health advocate, radio show host and one of America’s leading health experts filed a lawsuit against the FDA along with several medical professionals. None of the US distrubuted H1N1 vaccines have been approved, and yet people are being fired from their jobs because they have been refusing to take the vaccines. As Mike Adams stated “To date, the FDA has produced absolutely no scientific evidence documenting safety tests for any of these swine flu vaccines.”

Recent US Government studies have shown the door is still open regarding the questionable use of vaccines in Gulf War soldiers and the harmful effects of squalene. A 2008 report “Gulf War Illness and the Health of Gulf War Veterans” concludes: “The Asa/Tulane studies may have correctly identified excess rates of squalene antibodies in ill veterans, whether or not they were caused by vaccines, by vaccine contamination, or by clandestine use of an unapproved adjuvant. It is important to determine whether the observed association between squalene antibodies and Gulf War illness is supported, or refuted, by more definitive research.”

That is the real “straight talk" and the "reality" of the situation, that safety remains a big question. Countries like Canada have actually approved the use of squalene in their unlicensed H1N1 vaccines to be used on 95% of the population. If you know of anyone in Canada about to take the free, voluntary vaccine you may want to inform them. The effects of the Gulf War Syndrome, which, it seems, were caused by squalene doses, include “chronic fatigue, loss of muscle control, headaches, dizziness and loss of balance, memory problems, muscle and joint pain, indigestion, skin problems, shortness of breath, and even insulin resistance. Brain cancer deaths, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (also known as Lou Gehrig's disease), multiple sclerosis, and fibromyalgia.”

Desiree Jennings, a retired professional cheerleader for the Redskins has recently come under a lot of fire from the pharmaceutical industry for simply showing the extreme side effects of a flu shot which dismantled her nervous system. In a video message, at this link, Jennings gives an update on her condition and also reveals how her MySpace and Facebook pages have been constantly hacked.

The US government “Myths and Facts” summary seems like a token attempt to appease the public but fails to mention other points which seem to be important. What about the track record of US vaccine campaigns? Take the 1976 “vaccine fiasco,” for instance, which killed more people than it helped: “The strain itself killed one person and hospitalized 13. However, side-effects from the vaccine caused five hundred cases of Guillain–Barré syndrome and 25 deaths.”

A Tale of Two Vaccines

While the “Myths and Facts” summary mentions adjuvants, it does not mention other additives and preservatives which have harmful effects. On October 12, 2009, a German article entitled "Soldiers allegedly received special swine flu vaccination" (translated by Google) describes how soldiers in Germany are receiving a special flu vaccine from American firm Baxter which contain “neither controversial mercury-containing additives or preservatives." German doctors apparently warned of "side effects" from other EU approved vaccines "Pandemrix by British pharmaceutical giant Glaxo-Smith-Kline and Focetria by the Swiss pharmaceutical company Novartis." A week after that story broke, Der Spiegel magazine reported that Chancellor Angela Merkel, her cabinet members and ministry civil servants as well, will get the Baxter clean vaccine while the rest of the population will get the grade B version. The vaccine version to be sent to Ukraine will probably be of a lower grade than the US version and definitely not comparable to the German version. According to a Fox News report, the US version may contain up to 25,000 times the acceptable levels of mercury.

In the 1993 film “The Fugitive,” the hero does some research on a new drug and is framed for murder by a leader in the pharmaceutical firm because they fear he will discover and reveal the harmful side effects of a new drug. Throughout most of the movie he is running from the law and he eventually does expose the hazardous nature of the drug before it is released. In Hollywood movies, the hero always saves the day…But what about in real life? It seems like corporate greed, government corruption and elitism win out most of the time. News this year regarding pharmaceutical company Baxter has a similar plot, but is even more dramatic and intriquing than the Fugitive.

The Huffington Post reported how on August12, 2009, a microbiologist and Israeli Mossad agent, Professor Joseph Moshe, phoned into a live US radio show by Dr. A. True Ott claiming that Baxter BioPharma Solutions’ lab in Ukraine was producing a bio-weapon disguised as a vaccine designed to attack the immune system. He said it replicated RNA from the 1918 Spanish Flu. The very next day a SWAT team chased down his vehicle in LA on the way to the Israeli consulate and after a long standoff brought on a dramatic conclusion by breaking his window and showering him with pepper spray, which seemed to have little effect, perhaps due to his bio-weapons training. The mass media spun an unverified story that he had called the government to make threats against the White House but never mentioned he was a professional biologist and Mossad agent. They didn’t mention his public call to the radio station. Nor did they mention his warning for Ukraine and the rest of the world. (The video of Moshe's dramatic arrest, below, has been getting a lot of play and is sometimes non-functional.)

 

 

When the mainstream news covered Moshe's story, facts were repressed and they tried to portray him as a nutcase. His allegations open up a very deep rabbit hole into a world the public is very much unfamiliar with. The recent virus outbreak in Ukraine, however, has given new life to his testimony as victims with hemorrhaging and blood soaked lungs and showing death by pneumonia are quite similar to the effects of the Spanish Flu Moshe mentioned.

The professor is, in fact verified as a professional microbiologist, as he said he was, with publications in many countries, as confirmed by a profile on Biomedexperts. This event may seem hard to believe, but consider other documented news about Baxter. Bloomberg announced that late February 2009 Baxter sent a deadly live virus to various countries in the form of a vaccine. This was discovered by a lab in the Czech Republic which injected some ferrets with the vaccine and they were astonished to find it caused death. This, of course, raised serious questions. Because of rigid, standard lab protocols, professionals say this could not have been accidental.

 

Jane Burgermeister, an Austrian journalist, is suing Baxter and Avir Green Hills Biotechnology for producing and distributing a contaminated bird flu vaccine alleging that this was a deliberate act to cause a pandemic, and also to profit from that pandemic: ”Baxter has patented a highly pathogenic bird flu virus mutation, something difficult to account for if Baxter is not doing research into weaponised bird flu strains...In 2006, Baxter sealed a contract with the Austrian Health Ministry to supply 16 million doses of bird flu vaccines in the event of a “pandemic”. This action fits the pattern of deriving an income from illegal activities which is typical of an organised crime racket…The Austrian Health Minister who signed the deal with Baxter in 2006 is Maria Rauch-Kallat, the wife of Alfons Mensdorff-Pouilly, who was released from jail in Austria on April 3rd, 2009, after being held in custody for five weeks in connection with bribery and money-laundering involving British weapons maker BAE systems."

Moshe and Burgermeister aren’t the only ones making these types of allegations. An FBI officer has filed a law suit and his deposition is enlightening for anyone interested in the history and direction of world pandemics, at this link. It is well documented and reveals just how much information is being kept from the public eye.

Who is the WHO?

During the recent pandemic, the role of the WHO has increased on the world stage. But who is the WHO and what is their track record?While their website presents an altruistic goal “to help all people to attain the highest possible level of health” the sad fact is that they have been involved in population reduction schemes. For example, women who were immunized for tetanus in the Philippines were tested and found to have Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (HCG) in their systems. The reason women wanted tests is because there was a sudden rise in miscarriages after the WHO sponsored immunizations. In addition to miscarriages, HCG causes infertility. Research indicates the HCG additives were not accidental but intentionally added.

A documentary covering this subject, "The Human Laboratory" aired on BBC in 1995 but never in the US. The previous Director General of the WHO, Dr. Jong Wook Lee was a vaccine expert and there was controversy when he was appointed as director because he was previously head of the Programme for Vaccines and Immunizations which oversaw the Philippines vaccination program. The WHO was originally founded under the League of Nations but now is under the authority of the United Nations, which has repeatedly allowed genocides to occur. From the massacres of Rwanda and Srebrenica a decade ago to those of Darfur today, the United Nations has repeatedly failed in its pledge to confront genocide. Chuck Missler has exposed this theme at his website, based on the writings of Dr. Stanley Monteith, M.D., at this link.

The present director of the WHO, Dr Margaret Chan, is of Chinese nationality, a country whose health policies are somewhat draconian, including brutal forced abortion and sterilization practices.  Eugenics is a subject in itself, but if you want to understand the history of it, watch the documentary film Endgame. If you are interested in a Russian translation of this film, let me know.

Present Day Ethics

 

While corporate greed may be one motive for infecting people and then providing vaccines, you cannot rule out the fact that many people want to reduce the world’s population and this is a real motive. The spreading of a deadly virus, even through a vaccine, would be an effective way to do this. It's hard to believe people would even conceive of such a thing, but not so hard when you consider the reality of the human condition and what people choose to worship. The Bible shows you become like what you worship. In the case of people who worship cosmic forces, Mother Earth, money, or any other kind of cold, lifeless idol, the following quotes make total sense:

“A total population of 250-300 million people, a 95% decline from present levels, would be ideal."- Ted Turner, interview with Audubon Magazine, McAlvany Intelligence Advisor, June 1996

"One American burdens the earth much more than twenty Bangladesh. . . . In order to stabilize world populations, we must eliminate 350,000 people per day. . . .”  Jacques Cousteau, November, UNESCO Courier, 1991

“In the event that I am reincarnated, I would like to return as a deadly virus, in order to contribute something to solve overpopulation.” - Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, Deutsche Press Agentur, August, 1988

“I don't claim to have any special interest in natural history, but as a boy I was made aware of the annual fluctuations in the number of game animals and the need to adjust the “cull'' to the size of the surplus population.” - Prince Philip, Preface to “Down to Earth,” 1988

“Maintain humanity under 500,000,000 in perpetual balance with nature.” - “The Georgia Guidestones,” or “America’s Stonehenge,” first of the New World Order 10 Commandments etched in stone, erected March 22, 1980

"We must cut out the cancer of population growth. Coercion? Perhaps, but coercion in a good cause... We must be relentless in pushing for population control." - Paul Ehrlich, The Population Bomb, 1968

Conclusion

All things considered, the main myth in the unfolding flu scenario seems to be that we should blindly follow the government without asking any serious questions. People have good reason to be concerned regarding the safety of flu vaccines and deserve to be informed in what may still be considered a democratic government. There seem to be three main opinions: Some people believe the whole swine flu scenario is a myth propagated by pharmaceutical companies. Others believe the virus itself is serious and a major threat. Others still believe that the main threat is the use of untested vaccines.

Personally, I believe that elements of all three scenarios are true. It's easier to see the need for vaccines for TB or Polio, but, according to many medical professionals, such as Dr. Sherri Tenpenny, the benefits of the flu shots don't outway the negative side effects. Ultimately, it's a decision we each have to make based on our own circumstances, information and beliefs. We need to pray for God's wisdom in making the correct decision. There is a video series which deals with the subjects of vaccines in general: Vaccine Dangers for Dummies, which has a 5 star Google rating and maybe interesting if you want to look further into this subject.

Have you decided to get vaccinated for the H1N1 virus? Do you have any advice for those still considering this question?

 

New Song: Shepherd of my Soul

This is a new worship song inspired by Jesus as the Shepherd of my soul. For an audio recording of song, please see audio page at this link.

Lyrics:

Jesus, oh Jesus, oh Je-sus
Jesus, oh Jesus my - all in all
Jesus, oh Jesus, oh Je-sus
Shepherd of my soul
Shepherd of my soul

Lord, You guide me and keep me
Your love on the cross You did prove
Where you lead I will follow
Your pastures and waters renew

Chorus

When my legs had been broken
When you chastened me Lord
You carried me on your shoulder
Till my joy in Your love was restored

Chorus

To whom else can I go?
To whom else can I go but You?
To whom else can I go but You my Lord?

Chorus

This song emphasizes God’s grace and how God provides all we need for the journey of life when we simply give our lives to Him. Though we are all prone to wander, as shown in Isaiah 53.6, when we commit our lives to Jesus Christ, He guides and protects us, even when we may feel we have lost hope in a given situation. 2 Timothy 2.13 says “If we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself.” (NIV)

The title is found in 1 Peter 2.25. Here’s the context: “Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.” (Emphasis mine) 1 Peter 2.24-25 (KJV)

In simply knowing and abiding in Jesus Christ, our souls have rest, satisfaction and joy in Him, no matter what the circumstances: “He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.” Psalm 23.1-2 Again, the emphasis is not on our strength or resolve but the fact that He is leading us.

Hebrews 12.4-6 show how we all tend to struggle against sin, but also how God uses hardships in our lives to humble us and help us learn that sin is destructive. He disciplines us because he loves us as a true Father: “In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons:

“My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline,
and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,
because the Lord disciplines those he loves,
and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son.”

David compared God’s discipline to his own experience as a shepherd. When a young lamb would go astray, a common practice for a shepherd was to break a leg of the lamb and carry it on your shoulder until the leg healed. The lamb would develop a close bond to the shepherd and be less likely to stray: “Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.” In my life I’ve seen how difficult times and times of brokenness have drawn me closer to God. It's a good metaphor and really has more to do with a broken spirit than literal broken bones: “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” (51.17)

This Psalm 51 also points out the difference between God’s righteousness by faith and the process of sanctification. David writes “Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.” (51.7) “The blood of the lamb” was applied with hyssop on Passover, and symbolizes Christ’s complete atonement and cleansing received by faith: “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” (1 John 1.7 NIV) Walking in the light does not mean we have no sin, otherwise it wouldn’t say “his Son, purifies us from all sin.” It means we walk in transparency before God and others, without hypocrisy, confessing our sins regularly. (1 John 1.9)

Jesus is the only one in history who claimed to be the way to eternal life and true satisfaction. Jesus' disciples recognized this and said "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life" (John 6.68) They recognized the fullness of who He was and because of this recognized it was appropriate for them to place all their hope and trust in Him. Jesus later confirmed their words: “Therefore Jesus said again, ‘I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.He will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.’” (John 10:7-11 NIV) Jesus is to be everything to us, our “all in all” "For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily," (Colossians 2:9)

Is Jesus your shepherd and your all in all?

Ukraine's “High Attack Rate” of H1N1

I have been kind of alarmed by the speed at which H1N1 (or some kind of viral cousin) seems to be spreading in Ukraine. In the span of about a week 60 people died. As of today, it is believed a total of 67 people have died from infections related the virus and pneumonia, which may be a side effect of the flu. Lviv, in the West, is the worst hit city but the virus seems to be spreading quickly. This morning I read an article about the high attack rate of the virus in Romania and they compared it to the situation in Ukraine. "These high numbers raise concerns that the death rates in these countries will climb sharply in the upcoming days or weeks" experts stated.

The Geneva based WHO sent a team of experts yesterday to Ukraine to try and diagnose the situation and samples have already been sent to London for analysis. Gregory Hartl of their response team stated "This is something that certainly needs investigating." They are concerned about media reports of blood filled lungs apparently hearkening back to a devastating 1918 pandemic.

According to a Bloomberg article “It’s a bit like Mexico in the beginning.” John Oxford, professor of virology at Queen Mary’s School of Medicine and Dentistry in London, added that Ukrainian authorities may be inadequately equipped to observe the outbreak closely. According to WHO, the highest death probability is in the ages between 20 and 50 yrs of age.

The sudden cold wave has made the flu situation worse. "At the moment there are two waves of flu that are coming together: The normal seasonal flu and the swine flu," Tatiana Bakhteyeva, the chair of the Ukrainian parliamentary health committee, told SPIEGEL ONLINE.

The Mayor of Lviv, Andriy Sadoviy wears a mask in his office during meetings. “Safe is safe” is the motto of the day. He said that “One in 10 people in the medical profession is ill." Here is a chart showing all of the major cities and regions in Ukraine and the current infection rate. So far, Crimea lists no infections but, apparently, on the news yesterday, two young women who had been in Western Ukraine apparently returned to Simferopol with the virus and are in quarantine in the hospital here. I almost spent a night in this wing of the Simferopol hospital and definitely recommend avoiding it at all costs.  Unfortunately, things like masks, Vitamin C and Echinacea are mostly sold out in pharmacies in our area. On November 2, Prime Minister Timoshenko said  "If you can sew a mask yourself, for your children, for your friends - it will be a great help to the nation." She said 6 million meters of reserved guaze, i.e.cheesecloth, would be turned over to the nation's 9 state owned clothing factories for the purpose of making masks. Gauze is a far cry from the meltblown, polypropylene now standard in surgical masks, but better than nothing.

A sister of mine in the US recently described how her two children have been diagnosed with H1N1 in Columbus, Ohio. These are the first people I know personally who have been infected. It seems like wearing a mask is a good idea and I may even make some because none are available commercially. Boosting the immune system seems to be another good idea, with Vitamin C, Echinacea, etc. I'm still not convinced taking the inoculation is worth it considering the mercury and other additives often found in the "cocktail." Plus, where I live in Crimea the virus isn't widespread yet. For people who believe in God and the scriptures, Psalm 91.10 is a good verse to know: "No evil will befall you, Nor will any plague come near your tent."

What is your experience and opinion regarding H1N1 and related viruses?

Nov 5th: Martial Law, Forced Vaccinations May be Unfolding in Ukraine

Nov 4th: Reported Cases of Mystery Flu in Ukraine Double in Two Days

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Survival Worship

Recently, some churches have stopped meeting together due to a flu epidemic quarantine in Ukraine, which has taken the life of dozens of people so far in the country. It seems worshipping God can be a life and death issue. This is true in more ways than one. When people refuse to worship God and worship other things instead, God lets people have it their own way and a gradual process of death and decay sets in. This is true on a personal level and also in terms of society. Romans 1.21,24 shows "...when they knew God, they glorified him not as God...Wherefore God also gave them up..."

David learned that worship is a life and death issue when he and the Israelites were bringing the Ark of the Covenant into Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:10-23). They didn’t take the time to read the law regarding how to carry it and just ended up using a big wooden cart, maybe because they thought it would be faster and easier. But, to make a long story short, one of the men operating the cart, Uzzah was killed in the process when the ark slipped and he tried to steady it with his hand. It was a serious thing to touch the ark, the resting place of the glory of God.

It was only after Uzzah's death that they studied the scriptures and the appropriate method for carrying the ark. The correct method was to cover it and carry it on poles on the shoulders of Levites (Ex 37.5, Nu 4.5-6, 15). This was a much slower method and ended up being even more drawn out because David decided to stop and make sacrifices and worship God after every six paces. Once the ark was finally in the city, David danced with exuberance before the Lord. This account shows that God’s presence and glory and brought in through worship and there is the definite idea that you don’t want to rush worship. It shows that great joy is known as we practice worship regularly. It’s also interesting that they walked six paces and rested as they worshipped. This highlights God’s Sabbath pattern, in terms of six days of work and a day for rest and a special focus on worshipping God. In my life recently I have noticed how when my worship slipped a kind of death began to set in. I lost my sense of vitality and freshness in God. After repenting and putting worship first again in my life, the Lord gave me many new worship songs which I want to record.

David's Survival Worship

When you look at David's songs in their totality, you can see that God meant everything to David. There were many times David experienced deep emotional low points; as a fugitive from Saul (Psalm 57), after Sheba’s revolt and the following 3 year famine (II Samuel 20,21, pertains to Psalm 25), after his sins with Bathsheba and Uriah (Psalm 51), and after he was usurped by his son Absalom (Psalms 3, 141), who ended up dying. It's important to note that these accounts are actually in song form. David worked through his difficult times by worshipping God. Tough times are bitter sweet because, on the one hand, they aren't pleasant but on the other hand, God can give inspiration, comfort and sweet songs to help to get us through.You cannot realize God is all you need until God is all you have. I've noticed in my life some of the songs people appreciate most are the ones God gave me when I was going through a very tough time. These are songs I believe God gave me in order to survive, to make it through a valley.

David's One Song

It is believed that King David wrote at least half the Psalms listed in the Bible. While most deal with the subject of worship, some describe such subjects as Old Testament legalism and vengeance (3rd, 18th, 94th Psalms). Why is it then that David is called “The sweet Psalmist of Israel?” (2 Samuel 23:1) Well, ultimately, according to David's own words, he was really a man of only one song and it was a sweet one. Psalm 118.14 says “The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.” His Psalms reflect the reality that life is tough but God is good. The Goodness of God, God’s sweetness, was something David was in touch with. In Psalm 34, after pretending to be insane and then fleeing from Abimelech, David wrote “Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.” (34.8 NIV). Most of us won’t have the kinds of trials David went through but we can have some pretty difficult ones. Like David, we can meditate on the reality of God’s goodness, as we learn to trust Him in all things.

A Heart of Worship

For me, David’s life is encouraging because he was called “A man after God’s own heart” (Acts 13.22) even though he sinned greatly and made many mistakes. It says he was called this title because God said of David he would “obey all my will.” God, of course, knew David would sin greatly, so what does this mean? The main contrasts between David and Saul, David’s predecessor, are that David had a heart and a desire to worship God and to obey his will, even though he slipped up. For Saul, on the other hand, his heart never really seemed to be fully devoted to God’s glory or His will. Jesus summed up the greatest commandment of all as this: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” (Mark 12.29). The cool thing about obeying this commandment is that we experience God's love in the process. The Psalms help us to really get into the worship mode. They are spiritual food more to be digested than dissected. Have you had a taste lately?

Is God your main song? If not, maybe it’s time to change your tune. If you are a believer, is worshipping God a top priority, even though it may be inconvenient for your schedule? Has worshipping God helped you to survive some tough times?

Radical Islam Comes to Crimea Ukraine

According to a recent press release, radical Islam has officially arrived in Crimea Ukraine. But first I want to explain the image of the skateboardist. I didn't create it but thought it was a good play on words: radical as in extreme politics, versus radical as in awesome.

With respect to Obama's recent anti-free speech provision at the United Nations, I do not believe this image includes any “negative stereotyping of religions and racial groups." Radical Islamists are not typically known for their skateboarding skills.

Now to the main point. My wife and I had been hearing more and more about radical Islamists operating in Crimea and now there are some documented facts. On Monday, Reuters published a story on Crimea based on news announced at a press meeting by Yuri Lutsenko, Ukraine’s interior minister: “Lutsenko said explosive materials, detonators, a Kalashnikov rifle and cartridges, firearms instruction manuals, and propaganda material propagating extreme Islam were found in seven places.” He stated that three suspects being held “were suspected of belonging to al-Takfir wal-Hijra, which originated in Egypt and is linked with activities in North Africa.” While technically they are still only "suspects," when you do the math what does it add up to? Weapons plus explosives plus radical Islamic propoganda equals what?

With an attitude disengaged indifference Lutsenko went on to say "A network of the extreme Islamic movement al-Takfir wal-Hijra, which is banned by many countries in the world, is spreading in the Crimean territory of Ukraine"…"I find it strange that "Revival", a gazette published by Hizb-ut-Tahrir, which is also an Islamic extremist organisation banned by the majority of the world's countries, is printed freely, especially in Crimea."

Personally, I find it strange that the capital has been so completely disengaged from what happens in Crimea. His words imply that the president has no say whatsoever in terms of what happens on the peninsula. It's true that Crimea is an autonomous republic but that does not mean the president has zero influence here. This is precisely the attitude, however, that has fueled the pro-Russian zeal and the growth of radical Islam here. President Yushchenko’s policy has been basically to let Crimea solve its own problems, which basically has meant that serious problems don’t get solved, such as the Tatar land grab question. Crimea is a time bomb waiting to explode, in one way or another, either in a Tatar uprising or in another Ossetia Georgia type scenario. If anyone disagrees, I would love to be proven wrong.

Islamic propagandists use the apathy of the capital as an excuse to incite the younger generation of Tatars to take a violent approach towards solving problems because political appeals haven’t been addressed. Recently, missionaries and some of my students have told me how younger militant Tatars tried to take over one of the main mosques in Crimea but the older Tatars surrounded it and would not let them. The older generation is interested in keeping Tatar culture and tradition and believes these would be lost if Crimea simply followed radical Islam and Sharia law. This is perhaps why a leader of the Crimean Tatars, Majlis Mustafa Jemilev, was an assassination target by the extremists, as described by the police.

Another tactic by the radicals has been to point out the provocative dress of many women in Crimea, who frequently wear see-through blouses, etc. Sharia law would not allow this and, more and more, you see Tatar women wearing the full hijab, the full body covering typical in strict Islamic countries.

According to the Russian Times, there are political motives fueling political unrest and even a desire to promote bloodshed. Andrey Senchenko of Tymoshenko’s party (BYuT) has stated: “I have information that the presidential administration is working on a plan of igniting an ethnic conflict between the pro-Russian population and the Tatars. This would allow the president to declare a state of emergency and cancel the scheduled presidential vote.”

The Jamestown Foundation has also pointed out the lengths to which Russian intelligence would go to destabilize Crimea: "Recruited Tatars were also paid to speak on Russian television about the existence of alleged training camps for Islamic terrorists in the Crimea." When there is such a thick diversity of goals and density of corruption, it's hard to tell what is real and what isn't. According to the leader of the Crimean Tatars, Mustafa Dzhemilev, they are not interested in violence and they are trying to do all they can to keep peace.

For what it’s worth, my wife had a dream a long time ago showing that our family would have to flee Crimea on a short notice due to war. Although she would say she is not a prophetess, I have noticed that her dreams very often come true. Maybe it’s time to take a long overdue vacation. Well, it’s definitely time to pray. It's interesting that a well known evangelist arrived recently from Uzbekistan with a vision for a spiritual awakening among the Tatar people. This is in addition to the many independant missionaries working among this people group. Ephesians 6:12 is a good verse to keep in mind: "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Ultimately, for the believer, decisions about where to live and what to do aren't based on circumstances and appearances but rather on seeking God's perfect will.

Ukraine detains three suspected Islamic militants

Crimea: ethnic melting pot heating up

Russian Intelligence Seeks To Destabilize Crimea - Kiev Ukraine

Confession: Cause for Shame or Cause for Revival?

One of the most famous spiritual revivals in history, the Welsh revival, began when a small group of believers began praying earnestly for revival and, after there were no results, decided they needed to confess all their known sins. It was after this that God’s glory fell in power. This became the main maxim throughout the entire revival, “confess all known sins.” When there have been revivals at Christian college campuses, it has not been uncommon to see students lining up to publicly confess their sins.

Scriptures says “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.” (Ja 5.16 KJV) Sometimes there is a tendency to consider that inner sins are not so bad but Jesus showed that they are just as bad as actually acting out physical sins. Job in the Bible was considered an upright man and called perfect by God. But he had a revelation that he needed to confess his sins and repent of them. It seems as though his besetting sings were self-righteousness and a wandering eye, though it does not directly say so in the conclusion. Recently, God has been dealing with me regarding these same sins plus certain times when I’ve had angry outbursts. I confessed these things in our church fellowship and also taught about repentance and sanctification. I wasn't proud that my life was an object lesson, but I was relieved to speak publicly about shameful sins I held privately. It's not about being graphic or any kind of sensationalism, it's just about being open.

It can be intimidating to reveal one’s inner struggles because some people will judge you for doing so. Ultimately, it’s not the opinion of men but the opinion of God that matters most in life. We’re told in scripture to judge ourselves (1 Cor 11.31) rather than to judge others (Ro 14.3). But there are exeptions. Jesus said "Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment" (John 7:24) Even if we are judged wrongly by others for appearance sake, God can use this for good to humble us. Scriptures state that “Judgment must begin at the house of God.” (1 Pet 4.17) But, in reality, we are more likely to see people confessing sin on TV than in churches. For sure, confessions on TV are mainly for profit. On shows like Ricki Lake and Jerry Springer, sins are confessed with a prideful, rebellious attitude. David Letterman sarcastically confessed affairs and adultery on TV in order to avoid blackmail. When Jesus began His judgment in the house of God, some tables were turned and caged doves were set free. It could be that there are areas of compromise is our lives that God wants to deal with. Perhaps the Holy Spirit needs to be let out of a box to be free to operate in the area of public repentance. Sins that are done or known publicly, it would stand to reason, are appropriate for public confession. While it takes discernment to know how to confess sins that are not known publicly. It may be best just between you and God.

One church in New York City which emphasizes holiness and the confession of sin is the Times Square Church. Wilkerson noted in his message "Whatever Happened to Repentance?" how the Puritans preached repentance to their congregations, not just the unsaved, calling it “deep ploughing.” Charles Spurgeon stated: "I freely confess that I have a very much greater sorrow for sin today than I had when I came to the savior more than thirty years ago.” And "Sorrow for sin is a perpetual rain, a sweet, soft shower, which to a truly saved man lasts all his life long...He is always sorrowful that he has sinned...He will never stop grieving until all sin has gone." Wilkerson admonishes believers “As you repent, God's Spirit will begin to produce in you a new revelation of the glory of Christ. And he'll make it known to everyone around you!"

Another pastor in NYC, Timothy Keller, emphasized in his article, "All of Life is Repentance," that repentance is not to be "earned" but "received" according to the gospel. The first of the "Ninety Five Theses" Martin Luther posted was "Our Lord and master Jesus Christ...willed the entire life of believers to be one of repentance." Keller shows that "Our hope is in Christ's righteousness, not in our own-so it is not so traumatic to admit our weaknesses and lapses. In religion we repent less and less often. But the more accepted and loved we feel in the gospel the more and more often we will be repenting."..."The sin under all other sins is a lack of joy in Christ." According to the gospel we are under no condemnation for the sins we commit, which is a radical thought. (Rom 8.1) But, nevertheless, our sins wound ourselves, others, and sabotage our relationship with God. This is why we need confession and repentance.

The anointed King David, the highest authority in the kingdom of Israel, was humble enough to confess that his sins numbered more than the hairs of his head. (Ps 40.12) While it wouldn’t be possible to confess every sin of commission and omission, I believe there are certain kinds of sins which may be holding back the work of God in the Church. For example, gossip in Ukraine. One of the reasons why it’s insidious is because it keeps people from being open. People, me included, hesitate to confess and deal with sins if they feel they will be eventually condemned by gossip and slander. Another problem, in my opinion, is when people in ministry feel they need to present a perfect picture of their lives to their congregations. People in leadership may feel at ease to talk about others in private but, on the contrary, may never open up about their own struggles. This policy can lead to hypocrisy by example.

Another kind of sin that I believe needs to be dealt with in Ukraine is ethnic hatred. People take it for granted and sometimes joke about the bitterness between Ukrainians and Russians. But I wonder what God's feelings are on the matter. Some have likened it to the relationship between Joseph and his brothers in scripture. Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers and only after many years was there reconciliation and forgiveness. Ukraine was also used and abused by Russia during the Soviet Union. Under leaders such as Stalin, the promotion of Ukrainian language and culture was forbidden and a reason for punishment. I believe Ukrainian and Russian Christians need to ask for God’s forgiveness and for each others forgiveness. My wife, who is Ukrainian, said this is practically unthinkable but it may start with one simple act, by simply admitting this bitterness is a sin and confessing it publicly.

How can a Believer Repent?

Confession is the first step, bringing God’s forgiveness and healing process. After this, God can give grace for true repentance and a determination to change for good. Repentance isn’t just for the unsaved heathen. Job struggled with a wandering eye and with self-righteousness. After he repented in dust and ashes, his relationship with God was restored and his fortunes were restored two-fold. Isaiah was a practicing prophet when he confessed "I am a man of unclean lips." (Is 6.5) His problem was either gossip, slander or swearing. The main idea is that he confessed his sins and God healed him and empowered him more so. Peter repented after he denied Christ. After he was restored and filled with the Holy Spirit, he preached a sermon whereby 3,000 repented and were saved. Jesus told 5 of the 7 churches in ancient Turkey to repent. Ephesus was told “Repent and do the things you did at first.” (Rev 2.5 NIV) If there wouldn’t be repentance, Jesus said the flame, the symbol of spiritual life, would be removed from the place and people. Laodicea was told to repent zealously. This message was not just for the historical churches but 7 times in the first two chapters it says "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches." And so this applies to us today. The main motive of repentance is to return to our first love, Jesus Christ and remove any kinds of hindrances in our relationship with Him.

The overall work of holiness in the believer’s life is called sanctification and, while we are partners in the process, it is mainly a work of God’s grace of which He is in control. (Phil 1.6) The believer’s greatest advantage against sin is the indwelling Holy Spirit. Galatians 5.16 says “Walk in the Spirit and you will not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.” If we rely only on our willpower in resisting sin, we will fail. Through the Spirit, plus other tools, there will be success. (Rom 8.2) We are filled and empowered by God and the Holy Spirit as we worship, pray and fill our hearts and minds with God’s living word. (Col 3.16, Josh 1.8) Nature abhors a vacuum, and so does one's spiritual life. If we are filled with God’s Spirit and Word there is less likelihood for compromises to creep in.

While the Spirit led life is most important, there is a place for exercising our wills with diligence. Paul wrote “I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.” (Acts 24.16) This exercise includes a kind of spiritual gardening: Rooting out vices and planting virtues. For one who gossips, this would mean taming the tongue. In Job’s case, it had to do with training his eyes, He “made a covenant with his eyes…….” (Job 31.1). Likewise, we're admonished to "take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." (2 Cor 10.5).

In 1 Peter 1.22 there is a progression which begins with obedience, and then there is purity, love and finally a sense of unity among believers. It says the love is “unfeigned,” without hypocrisy, which can only come after sins have been confessed. The resulting agape love is a sign of true revival. There is a trend in “seeker friendly” churches to avoid the word “sin” on Sunday mornings. There may be huge congregations but in some of these churches many have never even heard the gospel and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit is unlikely. While sin itself is shameful and to be despised, even what we may consider “small sins,” the act of confessing sin should be encouraged. My wife was glad I confessed the sins I mentioned and, though it was somewhat painful, we have become closer as a result.

For me personally, I’ve felt the last month or so has been one long spiritual battle as I’ve considered these issues and written about them. Though painful, and though some may look down on me for what I’ve confessed and written about, I feel it has brought me closer to God and I believe there may be some lasting spiritual fruit from all this. The Lord has already given me some fresh songs that have been very encouraging to me. In a sense, I've already had kind of a mini-revival but I still feel churning inside and I don't know when it will stop. The verse Chronicles 7.14 has to do with revival. I've often wondered why it said people should "humble themselves, and pray." But during this time of my life, I've realized that public confession is a type of prayer that does in fact require humility and is not easy:

“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” (2 Chron 7.14) Confessing sin is a not a cause for shame but a cause for healing and revival, both on a personal and national level.

What about you and your church? Is there an atmosphere where you can confess sins “one to another” publicly or in a small group setting? Would you be willing to do this?