Satan has consistently led individuals to attempt to separate these two essentially intertwined facets of a relationship with the Lord.
Read MoreIn His sovereignty, even the unpleasant things are intended for good, for the edification of character and discernment, and for learning total dependence upon the God of love.
Read MoreDaniel’s book contains an internal timeline. In order to place its symbolism correctly, we must allow the Scripture to explain itself. The framework for this timeline is laid out in stages, sort of like the construction of a house.
Read MoreUnder an ongoing veil of deceptive reasoning, the enemy of souls seeks to occupy the rightful throne of Jesus in the hearts and minds of His followers. His written word proves a great defense against this danger, if it is believed and followed.
Read MoreOnly His divine intervention on behalf of His faithful people has prevented their total extinction. Throughout history, He has never left the world without witnesses.
Read More….Babylon had yet to fall. This detail is extremely pertinent, as it is a clue to Christians in our day that we can be fully informed beforehand—if we care to be—regarding the horrendous, worldwide tumble and crash just ahead for spiritual Babylon.
Read MoreThere are historical highlights, but underneath it all are spiritual influences—both for and against the Savior—that, when understood, greatly aid us in our personal struggles. Best of all, a right knowledge and understanding of the character of our Creator and Redeemer has the effect of setting the pieces in their proper place. This includes our own focus, and the order of our priorities.
Read MoreIn a parallel mode to the cleansing of the heavenly sanctuary, there is also a cleansing of the earthly sanctuary.
Read MoreThis is the longest time prophecy in the Bible, and it points to a defining moment in the history of the world.
Read MoreThe little horn, operating under the shadow of Satan, clearly does not want individuals to be saved. But he does favor a deceptive appearance of it. And if he can interfere in the relationship between a saved person and the Lord, he will do it.
Read MoreSuch conditioning became the iron reinforcement for bringing the masses into alignment with the teachings of the church. Those who desired to live in harmony with Biblical teachings, and teach the same to their children, became the enemy…
Read MoreThink of the daily as that which happens each day as a natural consequence of your devotion to the Lord Jesus in light of His devotion to you.
Read MoreDaniel saw them being trampled, referencing the fury with which Rome persecutes the people of God. Whether obeying caesars or popes (pagan or papal leaders), Rome has dealt cruelly with whomever she chooses to condemn.
Read MoreChapter 8 exudes sanctuary imagery to direct our attention toward the essential spiritual themes of purification and reconciliation. Rams and goats were central in the Day of Atonement ritual, given to illustrate God’s forgiveness and willingness to reconcile with His truly repentant ones.
Read MoreMany have said of Alexander, “He could conquer the world, but he could not conquer himself.” Thus it so often happens with the unrepentant who sense no need for repentance. The horn of their strength is broken even as they believe they are standing firm.
Read MoreDaniel’s sincere consideration of the things that God had to show him is a precious example to everyone who claims to love the truth. Real regard for spiritual matters exists among very few today, having been crowded out by pursuits of business or pleasure.
Read MoreEven knowing that hard times are ahead, we are to look in faith to the sure fulfillment of the promises of God. How else are we to keep heart in this present evil world if not looking forward to the return of our Lord Jesus and the establishment of the unshakeable, everlasting kingdom?
Read MoreEvery true Christian will encourage others to choose obedience to God whether or not the ultimate reason or outcome is understood. The Lord in His wisdom always leaves room for trust, the foundational element to any lasting relationship.
Read MoreAs the empire was disintegrating into “crumble mode” Roman government positions were made readily available to these nominal Christians. With them came their pagan traditions and carved images. Statues of pagan gods were brought into the church and renamed after Christian saints.
Read MoreIt is a period of terrible darkness in the history of our fallen world. The Lord wants us to understand this period, both its beginning and its end, due to the foreshadowing it provides of end-time perils just before the return of Christ to gather those who are His.
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