Are we led by what we feel, or what we know? Praise is the declaration of Faith. Before progressing, let us be familiar with the two points of interest, knowing and feeling. The two words bear close similarity, through their perception. To know is to perceive with certainty; to understand clearly. To be informed of; to be taught. Whereas, the feeling we speak of in this context is that which is enacted through a reaction. It doesn’t have to be taught, nor clearly understood. Consequently, it is not grounded through clarity and teaching, for where there is teaching, there must be time to learn and perceive. Instead, this feeling wherewith we speak of, is led by the circumstances or conditions at hand. Am I led by what I see or what I have learned through the heart? Worldly visuals may cloud my mind like a dark cloud, and its roots to harden my heart’s decision at times. Though the situation is bleak at times, but I know He is watching over me. To lead me through the shadow of this narrow path. So then, considering we live in an ever-changing world, shall we always be led by the circumstances? Or would the believer search deep within the heart for that which was once learned? Though I perceive the change of time and condition wherewith I now stand, but this one thing I know, the Lord is aware, and He is in control. Therefore, I will praise His Holy Name. The practical use and the result of praise Praise is the declaration of Faith, but we can never truly praise if we are always led by what we feel. For many are the troubles of the days, so few shall be the praise of the lips, if the mind is engulfed in its feelings of circumstance at hand, it sees not past its situation. Though the right hand of the Lord is reaching out to the individual, nevertheless, those that are led by feelings rather than knowing the Lord is there, their focus is on the problem, instead of the solution, in Christ. The duty of a good Christian The good Christian isn't always led by what he or she feels. Without suppressing our feelings, but let us react by what we know, for we know, the Lord loves us, and He can meet all our needs. Therefore, be not always led by what you feel. Shall we wait to feel joy for the fullness of life before we say thank you Lord? On the contrary, be not anxious, but in all things, give thanks to the Lord, therein we praise. The life of praise Praise is more than a shout of Hallelujah, for true praise is a way of life. Imagine a traveler on a path to a destination, though he sees not all that is ahead of him, but he is being watched by the eyes of the great ones that have gone before him, the great ones are all in his favor. More so, the eyes of the One in charge of this path, He is greater than the great ones, for He has led them all through, and now He is always watching the lone traveler every step along the way, while formatting plans to keep him on the right path, to lead him safely home. The decreed from the Great One, is nothing shall harm the traveler, though there be obstacles, but it shall only be a diversion. For every step the traveler takes, a possession of value adds to his account at the end of the path, but he must complete the journey to obtain. Today, the believer is the lone traveler, the path, is life. The great ones are the Patriarchs of the Bible, they were human in strength and weakness like we are, but they all made it, let us know this. Though the Nazarite of great strength called Samson, lost his sight, but deep within, he knew and remembers his Lord, his God. Without the feeling of confusion for all that he could not see, Samson knew to call upon the Lord, in his words, through the consequence of faith. Though Samson could not see what was round about him, or ahead of him, like the lone traveler we are, for the loss of his sight, but by faith, he called to the Lord. Lord GOD, remember me, I pray Thee, and strengthen me, I pray. Judges 16:28. For in his feelings, he was led to the path of desolation, wherewith he lost his sight, but by praise and faith, Samson accomplished more than he did when he did see. Now, Samson is one of our many witnesses, with his sight restored in Heaven, watching as a delegate watches the contenders of his country in the stand of the Olympic games. If we know these things, regardless of the obstacles and distractions in our path, yet we press forward, for great is our rewards. The absence of praise, but the hope to regain. However, without praise, true faith to overcome is absent. With praise, the obstacles on our path become, but a shadow. Though it is real, but its shadow cannot harm us, thus, David, another Patriarch and our witness, said; Yes, I walk through the valley of the “shadow” of death, but I will fear no evil, for my Lord is with me. David, during his walk, on many Occasions faces death, but greater were his praises to God, therefore, the many detractions of life became but a shadow. A shadow is the representation of that which is real, but by faith, the substance is bound, and its shadow cannot harm us, but praise must establish faith, faith in the Lord, so to God be all the praise, and glory. Though we are feeble at times, but the lips that praises, see less of its problems and more of God’s ability. The heart of praise is as a portal, a portal is a grand entrance, in our case, it is an impressive entrance to the throne of God. The opposite, or the lack of praise will cause a blockage to the pathway between the believer and God, but praise opens up the portal to our being. As the natural heart moves the substance of life to our body, our heart of praise gives liberty to the moving and the working of the Holy Spirit of God within us. Where there was once fear, there is now a certainty. Thus, with the heart, the lips sing, I have nothing, but praise for you Lord, O, nothing, but praise for you Lord. The Heart of Praise The seed of love is the tree of life. When the toils of this world weigh on me, I will not crumble and bow, but I will conform with the heart of praise, from where freedom reigns, glory ascends, and assurance abounds from my Father on high. Let us put on the garment of praise. Without praise the believer is as a naked individual, wherewith, their focus is no longer on God, the focus is on the shame of the nakedness. Therein, we move not forward for our reward, but we stumble and hide. May we continue to move forward with praise for the establishment of not what we feel, but that which we know. Our God is able. Psalms 7:17 I will praise the LORD according to His righteousness: and will sing praise to the name of the LORD most high. So, will I sing praise unto Your name forever, that I may daily perform my vows. Psalms 61:8 Note the phrase; that I may daily perform my vows, meaning, while I live, I shall do. For praise is not an occasional event, but a way of life. Wherewith we are empowered to perform our vows, but without praise, we cannot do that which we ought to do. With praise comes understanding, with understanding comes faith, with faith in the Lord, we see beyond the natural, into the spiritual and the future, there we have our Anchor. Though the storm on this side of life may rage, but our anchor is beyond the present, thus, it holds. In my feebleness, what do I have? Nothing in my will, but all I have, is all I need, praise for you Lord. Study Reference 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Hebrews 12:1 Hebrews 12:2 Ephesians 5:19 Psalms 9:1-3 Isaiah 61:3 For word study on the topic of praise, go to the the exposition "Praise" ____________________________________ 🎨PSW·3✒©

A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it. And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it. And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold . . . He that has ears to hear, let him hear. (Luke 8:5-8) The Purpose of the Parables According to Jesus And his disciples asked Him (Jesus), saying, What might this parable be? Now the parable is this: The seed is the Word of God. Those by the way side are they that hear; then comes the devil, and takes away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. They on the rock (or stone) are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience. (Luke 8:11-15) Further expositions The way side The way side, these are those exposed to all things of the world, but none of God. Therefore, they are hardened, unprepared and exposed to the fowls of the air, a representation of the devil. (the prince of the power of the air) The stony ground Stony ground represents those who accept the faith, but partially give themselves to the cause of the faith, thereby in their lives are still old stones from their past, or stones they won’t relinquish, of which renders a hindrance to the seed, causing its roots to be hindered. Without a root, there isn’t nourishment, without which there aren’t fruits – the evidence of a lack of a faithful Christian life. The thorny ground Those of a thorny ground, represents those who straddle the faith. Saints on Sunday and a heathen on week days. Give thanks to God with the lips, but from the same lips the sky is made blue through profanity, and the likes. The good ground Lastly, the good ground, is the model of that which is right. It is soft, it is ready and prepared to receive the seed, which is the Word of God, (the Gospel). Observe, the three other platforms mentioned, they all have one thing in common with the good ground, they are all grounds. Some surfaces are hard, others are stony, while the other is filled with thorns. However, beneath all that is a ground, willing to be prepared. Conclusion We all had or have a stone, a thorn in our lives, or are exposed, However: Let this be a hope to those who acknowledge that they are not a good ground, but with a willing heart, the hard surface shall be removed, the stones of the past shall be taken away, and the thorns shall be pulled out, and the good ground shall stay. Then the seed, which is the Word, shall bring forth fruits. And he (the believer) shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he does shall prosper. (Psalms 1:3) ____________________________________ 🎨PSW·3✒©

God gives promises and only God can fulfill the promises, if we abide in His will. For you have need of patience, that, after you have done the will of God, you might receive the promise. (Hebrews 10:36) Or as another translation puts it; You need to be patient, in order to do the will of God and receive what He promises. What is the will of God? The will of God is the counsel of God. Counsel in its assorted meaning, can thus be summed up as, the giving of one’s opinion on how to best deal with the specific situation. Therefore, the one given the counsel must decide to reject or accept. This is the free moral agency …whosoever will. (Revelation 22:17) However, the accepting of the will of God through His counsel isn’t obtained through works. Rather, as a gift, it is freely received. By faith we conclude in our mind that whatsoever our current condition, or situation is, the acceptance of the will of God is better than what we are, or what we are going through. So then, if we are under the counsel of God, we shall abide in His will. Consequently, we let go of our will and follow His will. We cannot live without a will, but our will must be made conformable to God's will (Galatians 2:20) through faith. In that we believe He will do that which He has promised. However, let not the believer's focus be on the promise, but rather the source of the promise from God our father through Jesus Christ our Lord. Christ once said, in order for anyone to learn of Him and this Devine will, we ought to forsake our will. So then, by faith we accept the will of God in our lives. Noah Webster defined Will as, Divine determination; moral purpose or counsel. Hence, our determination is not on the things of the promise, but rather a Divine determination by our love toward God, to seek His counsel. Let our anticipation be His guidance toward us. Seek ye first the reign of God and His righteousness, (in our lives) and all these shall be added to you. (Matthew 6:33 YLT) Pursuing However, be not dismayed, in the pursuing for the revelation of the will of God. For it is not brought forth through wisdom, but through failure. This failure shall be a revelation, if the heart desires a change. If this change is carried out by God, it is no longer a failure, but the mending of that individual by God, for an imputed righteousness by Faith. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask from God, who gives to all freely and with no reproach, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5 LITV) For audio version check Miscellaneous Writings. ____________________________________ 🎨PSW·3✒©

Let not your heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the LORD all the day long. Proverbs 23:17 That is to say, don’t be envious of sinful people; let reverence for the LORD be the concern of your life. The verse above speaks of temperament, or the way in which we conduct ourselves daily in reaction to all things. Let not your heart be envious of sinners. The sinner spoken of here is not primarily the practicing acts of sin, but someone who doesn’t claim the faith, but is prosperous, like those of the world and the worldly riches. Or even friends or family who aren't serving the LORD, but their riches are seen by your lack thereof. For this perception, do not be jealous. Instead, let the LORD be your focus, hence the phrase; let the reverence for the LORD be the concern of your life. Observe, the latter of the phrase which reads, “your life.” That is to say, your focus on the LORD shall not be of a weekly matter, or certain days, but let it be all the days of your life, a way of life. How can one accept and learn such a way of life? Concerning this, let us take a closer look at the verse through a deeper exposition. The phrase “the day,” spoken of in the verse is from the Hebrew word yôm, which has its connection to the idea of a hot day. So then, what does one do on a hot day when they are hot, bothered, and uncomfortable? The focus is not to get rid of the sun, but the individual tries to stay calm and cool by finding a cooler spot away from the heat. Do they position themselves in the scorching heat and battle with the experience of being hot? Certainly not, the concern is to cool off. Such should be the believers at times, when things are bothersome to us that we cannot control, we have within us the will to avoid that which will cause a problem for us, in this case through envy and jealousy. Our cool place is the composure of the mind by not allowing the worst of our temperament. This always shall be a reminder, if the LORD is our focus. Knowing that He is watching us, let us act accordingly. Learn to stay away from the heat of life and be determined to find your cool place, now and always. Blessed is the man that trusts in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreads out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-8 Illustratively speaking, you are that tree. Observe, the tree didn’t grow randomly, but it was planted, meaning, He who planted you has a plan for your life. And you will bring forth your fruit, when the time is right. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he does shall prosper. Psalms 1:3 Study Reference Psalm 40:4 Psalm 128:2 Isaiah 3:10 Proverbs 15:16 Proverbs 14:30 Proverbs 3:31

The studying of the events surrounding the Birth of Christ, Such as the Wise men. It cannot be comprehended without an exposition of the reason for the events, which is the purpose we commemorate the Birth of Christ. His birth was a great tiding to those who desired Him, but a great lost for those who rejected Him. It was a news of a great proportion. Reaching the highest class of Israel, and the lowest of the low to the shepherds. However, the Gospel which means Good News, is never the good news to those who despises good and love evil, openly or secretly. The recollection of then is the story for today. The story we learn today is our lesson for tomorrow. In the exposition within the passages surrounding the birth of Christ, the preceding account provides a wealth of information for the Christian living. Therein we find ourselves through the characters of our texts. There are those who do not deny who Jesus Christ is. However, they withhold any fellowship with Him. These were the religious leaders of our text; the Chief Priests and Scribes. The equivalence to our modern congressional representative and lawmakers. Then there are those who acknowledge Him, yet opposed Him, fearing the acceptance of Him, is the end of their vice living. Such was Herod the Great. An appointed King of Israel, not by the decree of God, nor by the consent of the Jews, but by the authority of the Roman Empire. The greatness attributes to Herod; designate the great, was the greatness of evil he imposes on others. Lastly, the right use of knowledge; will bring forth a worthy end, this is wisdom and true wisdom is validated when it is connected with the source of all wisdom; the Creator. Spurgeon once said, many men know a great deal, and are all the greater fools for it. Rightly so, the amount of what we know is not the validation of how wise we are, but the order in which we perceive through divine guidance is the wealthiest of all wisdom. The recipient of divine guidance usher in the characters of the Wise Men. Faith in Jesus Christ and a total dependence on Him is a path to a true fellowship with God. A perfect illustration of such faith is portrayed in the brief, but inspiring recollection of the Wise men from the east. Who were they? We only know a little information about these men. Where did they come from? Although the Scripture recalls their location that of the East of Jerusalem, that is all we know. Their presentation of the three gifts to the baby Jesus does not substantiate the appearance of them as three. Considering the distance and timing of their trip, there is an indication there were many of them on this trip to see the baby who is the King of the Jews. First, we will deal with the title of these men. The Scriptures called them Wise men, literally, “Magi” or “magician”. This does not mean astrology brought them to Jerusalem nor were they sorcerers. We know part of this due to the reason of their trip, it was to worship the Lord Jesus as a King and a Savior. The act of sorcery is ungodly, and devil inspired (Deuteronomy 18:10. Galatians 5:20-21) and those who does the work of the devil will not seek out the Lord to worship Him, but rather attempt to hinder His work. Tracing the Divine hands of God, to the origin of the Wise men Instead, these men were wise to seek the Lord. Secondly, they were wise in the fact, they were the learned men of the Eastern nations. Not necessarily kings, but likely leaders and men of importance. Their point of origin recalled by the Scriptures as mentioned was east of Jerusalem. Which gives us a vast area for consideration. Arabia, Persia, or Mesopotamia. Within Mesopotamia was Babylon, which could have been their point of origin. For about five centuries before the birth of Jesus, a young Jew named Daniel was taken captive along with many others by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. Those the king considered a value to his Kingdom because of their skills and knowledge, were appointed to a respectable government position. Among them was Daniel of whom in his teens, he was selectively made a ruler over the whole province of Babylon, and chief of the governors over all the wise men of Babylon. Here we see an early mention of the phrase wise men (Daniel 2:48) Daniel's position of a great honor and dignity as a leader wasn’t so much in the sense as a political figure as it is today, but rather of learning, educational and instruction. For this reason, we know the influence of Jehovah was widely known and reckon among the wise men of whom Daniel was the head, also among the people of Babylon, including the surrounding nations. Daniel did not waver in his faith due to fame and position. As a ruler and leader, he grew in faith and in the Wisdom of the Lord. The incident which led Daniel to a status as a ruler was at the time of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, a forgotten dream. Besides, all his wise men, and sorcerers, magicians, astrologers and the Chaldeans couldn’t tell the king his dream. These were men who practiced necromancy, witchcraft, the occult and the seeking of familiar spirits (evil spirits). Although they saw all this as a form of supremacy and knowledge to govern their land. The truth is they were only a pawn used by fallen angels and demon spirits to rule Babylon. Such things are forbidden by God, and with all their demonic help, yet, they couldn’t tell the king what his forgotten dream was, until Daniel the one who believed in Jehovah spoke the words given to him by God unto King Nebuchadnezzar. Not only did the young Daniel tell the king of his dream, but he also gives its interpretation. What the forces of darkness couldn’t do through the host of many men, God did through one man. From thereon Daniel became their leader and because Daniel did not waver in his faith. We know he taught them the ways of God and that someday the knowledge of God will cover the earth as the waters cover the sea, and before that, the Savior of the world would be born as the King of the Jews. Although not all who worked under Daniel favored him because of his faith in God, but for those who did. Without a doubt their lives where changed forever for the better. Daniel lived many years in Babylon through the reigns of multiple kings. Some kings recognized him while others didn’t unless they needed someone to give a revelation of the unknown. Yet, through all this, his commitment and fellowship with God did not change nor did it dwindle. Moreover, the knowledge of God through him unto others, lives on forever. Even after he was gone, without a doubt the echo of his saying continues; concerning the future works of the Messiah, the King of the Jews and the Savior of all mankind. Who would give Himself as a sacrifice for fallen humanity, our blessed hope. Those who heard and received these words, held fast to it and passed it on from generation to generation, to generation and onward. Through faith they heard, and they believed, even though they did not see, yet they believed. Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). About four centuries later in the time of our text. From the east of Jerusalem (the proximity of Babylon) out of an area ruled by the power of darkness came forth men searching for the Light. These were the wise men. Their history on earth may be little known, but their faith shall ever be greatly known. Let this be a lesson to all Christians who contend for the Faith. Though our surroundings might seem barren of the Gospel, and it seems like no one else cares and we are all alone, but let it be known; the Grace of God is not limited to a particular place or certain people. The Holy Spirit can lead souls to Christ, even with limited resources and understanding. If that heart desires a change. Such were these men, born in darkness, surrounded in heathenism, yet they sought out the light. Their journey and faith, serve as a true example of all that are in the world today and those who would yield to Christ. The journey of these wise men started with faith and continue with faith. The recollection of their journey and the lesson therein True faith is validated by test and trial. Despite the many attempts on their faith to prevent them from believing in the promise of God, in order to revert their pursuing of the presence of the newborn King. They pressed forward by faith, even the initial of their journey was birthed by faith. As it is recorded in Matthew 2:2. They saw a star in the east (meaning while they were yet in their homeland they saw this star). They knew this star represented something of a great magnitude; likely with bearing with another prophecy of old, Numbers 27:17 … there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Scepter shall rise out of Israel… Through this they began their wonderful journey by faith. In hope to pay homage to the new born King of the Jews and the Savior of the World. Although they did not have the complete understanding of Christ’s birth, yet they believed and moved forward, upon seeing this star. A lot had been spoken and written as to what this star was. Likely a light of a great illumination. However, the importance of this star is not seeking to understand what it really was. Instead, its importance is to Whom it pointed to. The Lord Jesus Christ. For every heart out there, that truly desire the Lord, and is willing to be led by Him. He or she will have a star to lead them into the presence of their King and Savior. The star is the token of God’s glorious assurance of leading and guidance. Walking by faith, not by sight. He who is being led by faith, does not comprehend the scope of the journey, but He who leads is God, and He knows the outcome. He is the author and the finisher of the journey and the faith. As the journey of the wise men continues, they headed towards Jerusalem, the metropolis of the Jews. With gladness in their hearts and anticipation of being among the many to welcome the King of the Jews and the Savior of the world, but they soon realized their assurance of the journey was halted by uncertainty. They did not walk into a celebration of the baby born King of the Jews. Instead, the streets were quiet. There wasn’t a proclamation of His birth, except their own questions. Where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship Him (Matthew 2:2) Their question about the baby Jesus didn’t lead them to the answer they seek, instead it placed them in the center of an investigation. When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. (Matthew 2:3) All of Jerusalem was troubled because of Herod's insecurity problems, which was always solved with the act of murder, including his own family members. Upon hearing the news that there were Wise men from the east in search of the King of the Jews, and to worship Him. Herod no doubt once again felt insecure and fear and his solution once again was to murder, but to be precise about his demonic plan to murder the baby Jesus, Herod did gather all the chief priests and scribes of the people together. He demanded of them where Christ should be born (Matthew 2:4). The Chief Priests were those of the highest ranking Jewish religious leaders, with duties as an overseer for the Temple. The Scribes, not all of them were religious, most were. They were men of the law. Transcribers and keepers of the Law. Some were men of learning, especially for one skilled in the Mosaic Law. The lesson of affiliation Within the passage above, there are two lessons to be learned. Herod and those he gathered together, represent two types of people. The first is those who acknowledged who Christ is, but oppose Him. Note, Herod didn’t ask if Christ was born. He knew He was, but he asked where Christ was to be born, to oppose Him. Secondly, there are those who claim Christianity, but as a head knowledge, they know a great deal about Christendom, but they care less about what it stands for, it is without any impact on their lives. When Herod asks this gathering of the Chief Priests and Scribes as to where Christ should be born? Their response was precise and right. They said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: thus it is written by the prophet. (of old) Discerning from error The question should arise in our minds when we read this. Considering the chief priests knew where and when their Messiah was born, why weren’t they in search of Him, proclaiming Him to the people and to bring praise to Him? Why weren’t the scribes there to take notes on such a monumental event? Before the criticism is passed upon these men of old, let the reader ask themselves. Do I have a time for the Lord? When was the Last time I heard of Him through a friend, a preacher and sought after Him? Or How long has it been since I came into His presence with acknowledgment and praise and worship? Are we so different from those who knew who Christ was, but chose not to follow Him? With all their great religious privileges, yet they had no honor to give Him. True fellowship is not based on how many times a person attends a Church or how many religious books they read or written nor what their fellow men think of them. Faith in Jesus Christ and a total dependence on Him is a path to a true fellowship with God. The persistence of Faith The demand of Herod as to where Christ should be born. Was not a wholehearted love for Jesus Christ like these strangers from the east had displayed, but an animosity towards Christ. Even when the assembly gathered by Herod concluded by the Scriptures, as to where Christ should be born, in Bethlehem. The uncertainty the wise men might have felt was overwhelming and yet, another attack against their faith. An attempt to prevent them from seeking the Lord. They first came into the land of the Jews to worship the King of the Jews. Yet, the Jews they encounter show no interest in their newborn King. Secondly, the newborn King wasn’t found in the Palace. Where a king ought to be. Instead, they were now told He should be born in Bethlehem. They came into the metropolis of the Jews, with high hope and honor to worship the King, but now they have to journey to a hillside village of Bethlehem, to seek the King among peasants. Moreover, the star of hope and promise and guidance they once saw, was no more in sight. Was their long journey in vain? Was this really the will of God? These are the questions many of whom are called Christians would contemplate in their hearts, giving heed to doubt and unbelief and blaming God for what they do not yet understand. Without direction nor understanding of their current situation, Herod privily called the wise men. He inquired of them diligently what time the star appeared (Matthew 2:7). A mad mind like Herod will stop at nothing, unless murder is enacted. His diligent inquiry of the appearance of the star, was to know accurately the age of the baby Jesus. In order for his murderous plan to be enacted. Within these passages, we again see the representation of two types of people. There are those who would seek the presence of the Lord despite the hindrances, these were the wise men. Whereas, there are those who pretend to desire to know more about the Lord, but their true intention is to try to disprove the power of God and destroy every evidence of God, secretly but precisely, like Herod. His deceptive plan was to use the wise men as a precise instrument to murder this new King of the Jews and ultimately the wise men themselves because he considered himself the king of the Jews. Note, he referred to the Lord Jesus as the young child, but never the King of the Jews. His deceptive words of assurances to the wise men were; Go and search diligently for the young child; and when you have found Him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship Him also (Matthew 2:8). As they departed, there is no evidence that they give their words to Herod that they would return to him. That wasn’t their focus, this might had been a difficult time to believe. It is easy to believe God when things are going accordingly as we anticipated, but when things are not happening like we hoped it would; It takes unchangeable faith to take the next step to move forward. From the beginning they followed a miraculous star. With hope and joy to worship the King of the Jews. Yet, He wasn’t found in the city of Kings. Even when He was acknowledged by His fellow Jews, those who acknowledge His birth, care less about His well-being. Moreover, they had to leave Jerusalem, the city of Kings and travel southwest into Bethlehem, a humble village at that time, to find the King among peasants. This meant the continuation of traveling, into the unknown for five to six miles. Without the ease of modern transportation. The Journey would likely have taken seven to 10 hours, upwards due to Bethlehem’s geographical elevation of about 2,550 feet above the sea-level. Comfort in endurance To seek God is to desire to be in His presence. So great is His presence, that the toils and many obstacles in the path of those who desire Him shall not be hindered. They shall walk by faith and not by sight. The Christian Journey for God always seems to be contrary to the common sense of the world, many will condemn and ridicule its purpose. There will be natural hindrances, like the time and conditions we may find ourselves in. Such was the condition of these men. Shall they return home? After all, they have tried. Or shall they travel yet many more miles into the unknown of the hill lands, and wilderness? As they contemplate these things. Yet, there was another hindrance. The unbelief of men. Many times, they are those we considered as friends, relatives, or those we hold up in high regards. As to the wise men, these were the religious leaders of Israel. They knew of the Lord’s birth. Yet, they believe not. Neither did they care to journey to Bethlehem with the wise men to worship the Lord Jesus Christ. We must continue our attendance upon Christ, though we be alone in it; whatever others do, we must serve the Lord; if they will not go to heaven with us, yet we must not go to hell with them (M. Henry). Secondly, they didn’t look for a “sign” when they had a question. Instead, they resorted to the Word of God first. From there they received an answer. He shall be born in Bethlehem. Assurance Whenever God gives a task, He will provide the means of carrying it out. Let this be a lesson to Christians today. Christians who once truly saw, and felt the presence of God and having accepted Him. They decided to follow Him, in serving and to have a fellowship with Him, but when a circumstance arises of which they do not understand, and the sign they once saw from God is no longer in their sight. They cease from believing and revert to their old path. This old path is a path of unbelief and it is a forgotten path. That which is forgotten, it is already lost before it is forgotten. Such would be the outcome of those who revert to the path of unbelief. Lost and forgotten. But blessed are those that keep believing and hear His Words. These men were wise and faithful because they believe, they were persuaded to place their confidence in God. To trust and rely upon the fact that God will make a way, despite the gloomy situation they found themselves surrounded by, in the darkness of uncertainty. The integrous Word of the almighty God became a shining beacon of a star in their darkness. Thus, He has promised; I will never leave you nor forsake you. They believed and kept on believing, in so doing, they were immensely blessed and filled with exceeding great joy upon seeing the star once again. Herein was their assurance, God was with them, and He has provided, and He will always provide. For He is Jehovah-Jireh (The Lord will provide). The star reappears the second time as a reminder that God is with them. It became their personal navigation (without recalculating) it literally went before them (perhaps of a lower position) than that of a regular star. It led them and brought them to Bethlehem, till it came and stood over where the young child was (Matthew 2:9). They were filled with exceeding great joy. O how great is a revelation when God is in it? Precise and joyful in its unfolding. An experience of increasing faith to boldly move forward, knowing God is with us. At last when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary His mother, and fell down, and worshiped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:11). Factual lesson of the first encounter As the wise men enter the house: note, it was a house and not a barn or stable. Although the Lord Jesus was born in a stable due to the lack of rooms in Bethlehem because of the many Jews that were ordered there by decree of the Roman Emperor Caesar Augustus. Among the many was the pregnant Mary, who had no room while she was in labor. The only availability was that of a stable. The unavailability of rooms bore more connotation than a coincidence of an overcrowded village of Bethlehem. Rather, it is a recurrent structure of this Gospel. The presentation of a king to His people and the rejection of Him by religion. The presentation of His kingdom and the rejection of it by spiritual proudness. His presentation of grace and life everlasting and the rejection of it by self-righteousness. In a form of a human child, he came into the world made by Him. Yet, the world knew him not. (John 1:3) Coming into His Presence At last the reason for the rising of the miraculous star and the reason for their long journey into the unknown. To pay homage to the King of the Jews, is right before their eyes. Though their faith had been tested. Yet, they believe. As they enter the house wherein the young Child and His mother were, they were not welcome with a blast of a royal trumpet sound, nor were they led into His presence by the array of royal colors and the host of a renowned assemble. Neither a grandiose expand of an entrance, but the narrow opening to the door of a peasant’s house. These were the learned men of their society, men of importance, hailed as the wise men. Yet, in meekness they step-down from their pristine eminent means of travels because those who truly seek the Lord, will surrender who they are because of who He is. How we worship the Lord, determines what He is to us In their sight they saw the young child with Mary His mother, and they fell down, and worshiped him. Note, Matthew 2:11 recorded their immediate meeting, the Young Child is the first mentioned, but not His mother. They fell down and worshiped Him, but not His mother. Blessed be Mary, the one among many women chosen by God to serve as the womb to bring forth God’s salvation plan for all humanity including the blessed Mary herself. All true worship must be directed to God through Jesus Christ and Him alone. Despite what little understanding we might have of Jesus Christ, let this be known He is God manifested in the flesh. Those who truly desire Him, will seek Him and will find Him. Those who truly see Him will know Him and will worship Him. Those who truly worship Him shall be filled with joy and will give Him their all. Indeed, these men were wise to give Him their all. The Gifts of the Wise Men They presented gifts of high value to the young Child and not His mother. They didn’t give the leftovers they had from their possessions as gifts while still holding on to their main possessions, but they opened their treasures, signifying what was precious to them. Within their treasures, they presented gifts of gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. However, before they presented these costly gifts they first surrendered themselves to the Lord by worshiping Him, which is to do Him homage. It means, to prostrate oneself to another, the person kneels, and puts his head between his knees, his forehead at the same time touching the ground. It was used to express both civil and religious reverence, as to a deity. Howbeit, no one worship Jesus because He is a good man, but Jesus is worshiped because He is Lord. It takes faith to worship They saw a helpless baby in the union of its mother. Yet, they knelt. They saw a baby who couldn’t speak to the lame and give strength to a feeble leg. Yet, they bowed. They saw a baby who couldn’t command as a king. Yet, they worshiped Him as King and Lord (of such they did not do toward Herod). They saw a baby born King in a surrounding not fit for a King. Yet they offered Him priceless gifts as The God who became man, to die once in place of His people; as a sacrifice. Yet He shall live again that He may govern His people forever as the King of kings and the Lord or lords. Thus, it was written in the prophecy of old (Isaiah 9:6). For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. The meaning of the Gifts and how it relates to the Christian today The gifts offered to The Prince of Peace as previously mentioned were that of gold and frankincense and myrrh. A lot had been written in time past, expounding the significance of the gifts. Before much is spoken again, let us first define its physical properties. Beginning with gold; as obvious a precious metal, it wasn’t coined during this time like a gold coin of today. Instead, it was represented in the form of a fixed weight. Next is Frankincense; originally a white or yellowish resin or gum like substance in its early stage, obtained from the cutting of the bark of a tree. Its finished product was that of a dry resinous substance in pieces or drops, of a pale yellowish white color, and very inflammable. Yet, highly sweet-scented. Lastly is myrrh; like frankincense, it was obtained from a tree in the same manner, but its name denotes bitterness. Now, with the clarification of the physical aspect of the gifts. Forthwith, its significance can be studied. Although these gifts were widely known. Yet, it did not diminish its value. It was worthful and costly. In sincerity and willingness these men were wise to give Christ, their all. God loves a cheerful giver, not because He desires what we have. He created all things, but when a Christian gives willingly and bountifully to the Lord, he or she first shows their love for God and secondly, they trust God is able to replenish all their needs. A gift is only accepted in the presence of the Lord, if the giver is accepted by God and a giver can only be accepted by God, if The Lord Jesus Christ is acknowledged and accepted by the giver. Such were these Wise Men. They believed, acknowledged and accepted The Lord Jesus Christ before their gifts were accepted into His presence. Therefore, their gifts indicate their knowledge of this baby who is, The Christ. They presented Him gold as a king, paying Him tribute. Gold in its many uses was also used to pay tribute to the kings. They give Him frankincense, acknowledging His deity as God. Frankincense was used in worship to honor God, where it was burned as a pleasant offering to God (Exodus 30:8. Leviticus 16:12). Lastly, they presented Him myrrh. Myrrh was used primarily for the embalming of dead bodies. As a Man and a Savior, the myrrh signifies He would die for the sin of the world. The second meaning of Giving is Illustrated in the Gifts of the Wise Men Giving is just not a sheer necessity, it is who we are. When we give sincerely to God, in essence, we give ourselves and all we are to Him. Gold - Once again in these three gifts we see the fullness of man surrendering himself unto God. Gold in its solid state represents our substance, or our body. When we come to Christ, we humble ourselves to Him, surrendering who we are unto Him. Frankincense - Frankincense in its aeriform and exhalations, represent our inner being, our thoughts and motives. May our thoughts and motives be a sweet savor unto God. Myrrh - Lastly myrrh in its use of embalming represents all our dead works, bitterness, sorrow and suffering. Let us give it all to Christ that we may receive His fullness of perfection and grace. Where the grace of God is, there is always God’s provision. Once again, the illustration of the wise men is a true example of what it is to follow Christ. It is always about His business, and never ours. We must be ready, knowing His watchfulness is Omnipresent, if we draw near to His Son. We shall receive provisions as children, and He shall be our Father. Therefore, as children, His will shall be done in us, for it has already been ordained in Heaven, if we trust in the LORD with all our heart; and lean not unto our own understanding. In all our ways, may we acknowledge Him, and He shall direct our paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). After their journey to Bethlehem, and the worshiping of the baby born King of the Jews, and their presentation of gifts; Indeed, they were blessed and filled with great joy. It is not certain if their next undertaking was to return to Jerusalem as Herod had commanded them deceitfully, to bring him word about the whereabouts of the Young Child. One-day, new faith. A new day a new faith Although these men display great faith in God, but they were still men who needed the constant intervention of God’s Divine grace and providence upon their lives. It is likely their stay in Bethlehem was less than a 24 hours. Considering when they arrived at the house where they saw the Young Child and His mother, it was already night time or almost night time because it was the miraculous star which brought them, there i.e., a light in the dark. Although as stated; it is uncertain if they decided to return to Herod to bring him word about the baby Jesus, but what is certain they expected the intervention of God on their behalf for His leading and guidance. Angels are watching, ready to act by God’s command for those who put their trust in Him At this point they saw it wise to rest for the night and laid themselves down a while, for some refreshment and sleep. Next, we get a glimpse of the beauty and the magnificent structure of the angelic world. God is always present with those who depend on Him. His angels are always attentive to His sight. They faithfully attend to the presence of God and are ready to perform any service for Him. Angels They are not bare children as wrongfully often depicted, neither are they adorn in apparel as if they were the focus of an elaborate pageantry of tenderly fair females. Their looks should not be the focus of our interest, but rather the purpose of their service should be one of our many gratitude toward God of Whom they serve. However, their undertaking should give us a perception of their being. They play key roles in the protection of a nation (2 Kings 6:16-17). They play key roles in the establishment of a nation (Daniel 10:12-14). They play key roles in the dethroning of nations (Daniel 10:20). Furthermore, they are involved in the lives of the believer (Hebrews 1:14). For He shall give His angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways (Psalms 91:11). The Christian way is the way of God; which is to follow Jesus. In such way the provision of God is always upon those who abide therein. As the wise men slept. God made a provision for them and kept them in the right way away from the snare of Herod. God sends an angel to speak to them through a dream, and being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod. They departed into their own country another way (Matthew 2:12). The word warned in this verse is the Greek word chrematizo; meaning to transact business. The business of the child of God is to do God’s business. How can the child of God carry out the business of God? By fellowship with Him and to consult with Him. The verb chrematizo is from another word chraomai; meaning to consult, present inquiries or requests and to be divinely commanded, admonished, instructed. This tells us, the wise men did not just take the night off to refresh themselves, but once again before falling asleep they emerged themselves into the business of God and Inquired of God as to what they should do next. Having seen and worshiped the baby Jesus. As it is written; ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Their inquiring to God as to what to do next was indeed answered through this angel and they were commanded to depart another way into their own country. The trail we leave as wise men, is the trail of faith, it is not about us, but those who follow and thereafter. Although hereafter there is no mention of the wise men, but their journey and the faith of these men lives on in all who will seek the Lord Jesus Christ. They are an example to the gentile world. Though your knowledge of God might be little, but faith in God will nourish and increase the knowledge of all those who seek the Lord because Jesus is the Truth. Throughout their Scriptural account, the Holy Spirit made no mention of them individually nor did He make any mention of their names. This was not a lack of information on the part of the Holy Spirit, He is God and God is Omniscient. He knows all things and whatsoever He does, rest assured it is for the best and of importance. Howbeit, all through Church history men have tried to distinguish these men and give unto them names and nationalities. In order to erect shrines to worship them, rather than giving God the glory for His mighty works done in these men. Lastly the Holy Spirit did not give the details of the route they used to travel back to their own country. Lest, religious men would take a pilgrim's journey in the footsteps of these men of faith while forsaking the reason of the journey once traveled by the wise men. The reason is Jesus Christ, God’s plan for humanity. Today, we are wise men when we forsake our present position and claim to the world and follow Christ. I am the way, the Truth, and the life: no man comes unto the Father, but by Me. John 14:6 ____________________________________ 🎨PSW·3✒© For related subjects, check out the Christmas The Birth of Christ. Part 1 Go to HOME BOOKS RESOURCES NAMES QUOTATIONS &MORE

F.B. Meyer describe faith in Hebrew 11: Faith is the sixth sense. It makes us as sure of unseen or future things, ​​which we know about only through the divine Word, as we are of things which we can see and touch. When we are aware of the reality of these   things, we naturally take them into account when we act. Noah built the ark because he believed that the flood would befall. Abraham left his country because he realized that Canaan would be his. Likewise, the pilgrims left their native land of Plymouth, England, leaving behind all they have known, to travel to the unknown. After 66 days of the voyage, by the mercy of the wind, a ship without power of its own was led by the winds of the ocean with men willing to be led. A typology of the moving of the Holy Spirit on a willing heart. These men and women, by faith they inherit a land on Plymouth Massachusetts, a land that was dedicated to God. A land that would become the United States of America. For most average individual, the efficiency of the five senses of the human mind is by far sufficient to get one through on a daily basis, but unto us which are saved, though we see, like the rest among us. Though we feel what is around us, though we distinguish by the sense of smell and the taste thereof. Though we hear that which is spoken, but without faith, the human five senses cannot be fully utilized. Without faith, seeing they may see, but cannot perceive. Without faith, hearing they may hear, but cannot understand. Did not the inhabitants of days of Noah see that which Noah was enacting, the building of an ark? Yet, though they see, but without faith they did not perceive. They heard the message of Noah, for we are told in 2 Peter 2:5, Noah preached righteousness to the inhabitants of his days. Though they heard, but without faith they did not understand. Such it is for modern men, God has given unto us the Decalogue or the Ten Commandments, of which is the standard to live and govern justly. But for men without faith, though they have experienced the Decalogue with all their senses through the act of reading, Yet on all accounts, they do not see the need for the Ten Commandments. Neither can they find the solution to govern themselves and live in peace with one another. Though the solution is present, but the will to apprehend is absent for the lack of faith in God. So then, faith in God is the empowerment of the human five senses for a better living. It is not merely a six sense, but that which empower the human to the potential of a full living. Faith in God, is God's conscience impressed upon the human soul. If God sees beyond our natural human limits. We that believe in Him must learn to see beyond our human limits by trusting in what He knows, rather than what we now see. The presence of Who God is, is always with those who have faith in Him. His presence rejuvenates in us that which He created. Therefore, by faith we see beyond that which is seen. Though we are in an earthly vessel, yet our inner being bears witness of the image of God and His wisdom thereof. Rahab and her surrendering saw the danger of the demise of her city, but by faith Rahab saw beyond that which was seen and she acted in faith and she lives while her surrendering perished. Though they saw what Rahab did see, yet without faith they did not perceive. By faith, Rahab saw and perceived and Rehab lived. Without faith the inhabitants did see, but could not perceive therefore they perished. Faith in God will enlighten the natural understanding beyond its natural limits. We have this treasure in earthen vessels, (our human body) that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; (2 Corinthians 4:7-9) ____________________________________ 🎨PSW·3✒© Go to HOME BOOKS RESOURCES NAMES QUOTATIONS &MORE

The attack against Christmas In its definition, one could say Christmas is a festival of the Christian church, observed annually on the 25th day of December, in memory of the birth of Christ, and celebrated by a particular church service. (Noah Webster) Looking at the word closely should give us a deeper meaning to the word Christmas and the reason thereof. Before further exposition, this we know, Christmas is more than a day. It is an event and a memorial, which encompasses or incorporate many things than a date inscribed to a calendar. Through Christmas, society for the most part, come together to share and receive gifts and favors in a joyous gathering, a custom which brings about that which we are accustomed to, such as the decorations, the Christmas tree, the lights and the presents thereof. Furthermore, it serves as a reminder to the Christian Church as the greatest gift ever, and a hope of a testimony to those who are yet without the Gospel that they may perceive. For out of man’s compassion for one another, some may see the hope for life. Greater than man is God; For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16) This is the true Christmas, and this is the true gift to a world of distress, anguish and anxiety. Christ is that gift, for He said, come unto me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28) This rest spoken of as aforementioned above, is clearly seen in the word Christmas, the combination of two syllables from the word Christ – Mass. Christ means the anointed one, whereas Mass indicates cessation from labor. Therefore, in Christ our anointed one, may we cease from the vain work of our hands, and find rest in Him. So then, what is so offensive or ungodly about Christmas that some believers have joined with the unbelievers with a disesteem toward this date? The date of Christmas For the first argument, the animosity toward Christmas within the modern Church is the repudiation of the date as uncertain, and consequently unknown. Therefore, they claim, if the original date is unknown, the celebration is unnecessary. However, shall an individual cease to live for the lack of the precise date of his or her birth? Nevertheless, this we know, according to the Byzantine Rite Church Calendar, far before the modern Church, September 23 was celebrated as the date of the conception of John the Baptist. It was during the six-month pregnancy of Elizabeth, when Mary visited Elizabeth her cousin and the young Child, John the Baptist according to Luke 1:26. So, considering the conception of John the Baptist was September 23, and the Child and his mother was visited during the six-month (Late March) by Mary, after she was told by the angel Gabriel that she was with the Holy child. From late March to late December will be nine months, the duration period before childbearing. Consequently, the early church celebrated December 25th as the birth of Christ, Christmas Day. The preaching of the Gospel through the phrase Merry Christmas Jesus once proposed a question, as recorded in Luke 18:8 . . . Will I find faith in the earth when I return? Such is the time, as the Lord desire to see many come to the saving knowledge of Grace, the world in opposition to the Gospel, race against the Good news, which is the Gospel in an attempt to eradicate all indications of Jesus Christ and the Gospel from the earth. One of its primary targets is the only universal accepted proclamation of the Gospel, Christmas. Whenever the word Christmas is utter throughout the world, it is a reminder that Christ was born, He lived, He died for the sin of the world, He was resurrected, and He will return. Even for the non-Christian nations, though they do not celebrate Christmas as Christians do, but they know what Christmas is, and if they know what Christmas is, they will know who Jesus is, if they know who Jesus is, they are on a path of accepting Him. Consequently, Satan, who is the ruler of this world, he knows the simplicity and the power of the message of Christmas. Therefore, in all his might he tries to eradicate Christmas as we know it, by the omitting of the word Christ, to be replaced with X, covertly. The power and the joy of Christmas which is the testament of Christ, is replaced with an X, as Merry Xmas. Whereas, others totally suppressed it all, with the phrase Happy Holidays. As the world races to eradicate Jesus Christ from the earth, sadly so, there are some Christians who support the cause with the world to suppress Christmas. Knowingly or unknowingly, they withdraw themselves from all things Christmas, and the mention of it. The more they withdraw themselves, the worse they feel as the day approaches, this should be a sign that something is wrong. Nevertheless, man and woman in their attempt to justify an error, will at times results into self-righteousness. Through this we perceive the attack of the elements of Christmas, such as the classification of the Christmas tree as pagan. Therefore, they want no part of it, as a justification for not celebrating Christmas. What is the Christmas tree, is it pagan? The argument is, pagans of old worship trees as gods, carved trees as gods. Therefore, a Christian who places a Christmas tree in his or her home, they are guilty of pagan worship. Howbeit, let us look at history rather than the self-Interpretation of history that we may learn from that which we perceive. During the 6th – 8th centuries, Ireland, Scotland and England served as the seat for Missionaries to evangelize what is now Europe. Though these men were not perfect in all their understanding of all things Scriptures, or their day to day lives, but they knew they served a greater cause, the proclamation of the Gospel. One among many was Saint Boniface from Devonshire Britain, he was known as the apostle to the Germans. As history recalls, on Christmas Eve, 716 AD, Boniface confronted the Germanic tribes as they were about to offer the young prince Asulf as a human bloody sacrifice to their god of thunder, Thor. To these pagans, Thor lived in a huge oak tree at Geismar. (Germany) Boniface, with boldness and courage, took an ax to the oak tree and within a short time chopped down the mighty “blood” oak of Thor. There was said to be a wind which swept in, helping to blow the oak tree over. Those who were present, were in awe to such a sight, and what had transpired, and rightly so, a life was saved, from darkness they saw The Light. Therewith, they rejected Thor and accepted Christianity. As the mighty bloody oak of Thor laid in waste, there stood an evergreen tree. To this Saint Boniface spoke of: “This is the word, and this is the counsel. Not a drop of blood shall fall tonight, for this is the birth-night of Saint Christ . . . Savior of the world. This little tree, a young child of the forest, shall be a home tree tonight. It is the wood of peace, for your houses are built of fir. It is the sign of endless life, for its branches are evergreen. (He continues) See how it points toward Heaven! Let this be called the tree of the Christ Child; gather about it, not in the wild woods, but in your homes; there it will shelter no deeds of blood, but loving gifts and lights of kindness." Out of the darkness where life was to end, like the young prince Asulf and the many who were to follow, came forth an evergreen tree, replacing the bloody demand of a world lost in sin to an everlasting hope of love and gift, all in remembrance of the ultimate Gift which is Christ Jesus our Lord. For the Germans of that day, the evergreen tree - Christmas trees, represented the end of a bloody demand of sin and the testament of Jesus Christ our Lord, as the sweet savor and the light to men in darkness. Practical lessons from the Christmas tree and benefitsUnlike other trees, the evergreen tree remains spirited even after it has been separated from its core. As families gather inside during the cold days and nights of winter, its aromatic serves as a pain reliever, detoxification, the boosts of respiratory function and more. The Christmas tree also serves as beneficial to theology teaching of old. Unlike now, with PowerPoint, video integration and animation to a topic, those who came before us were without such luxury of teaching. Once again, the evergreen Christmas tree served as an early aid in illustrating the Trinity. Due to its shape of a triangle, Saint Boniface was able to teach the Germans through illustration of the Trinity, the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit. As the years progress, the Church world accepted the Christmas tree. Though it has taken many forms and substance, may the true meaning be the reason for the season, Christ is the reason, and He is the light to uncertainty and the deliverer of the oppression of darkness. When He is seen, it is joy unspeakable and full of glory. This was the case with Martin Luther. The lighting of the Christmas tree It was said that Luther was working on his family Christmas tree on a cold December night under the open sky. Looking up, he notices the innumerable stars in the heaven as light in the darkness. Returning home to his family with joy and gladness, together they placed small candle lights on the branches of the tree. As the stars light up the night, so was the star of Bethlehem which light up the hearts of men. Where darkness is defeated, there is the animosity toward the light. As the world fight against Christmas and what it stands for, some in the Church has joined with the world in the refusal to acknowledge the birth of Christ. Even in the midst of the darkness of ignorance which overspread the world, this light of Divine wisdom will never be totally eclipsed. If God watches over the preceding records for thousands of years before the birth of Christ, shall He not watch over the memorial of His gift to mankind less it be corrupted by unbelief? The deception of the unbelievers and haters of Christmas is to draw men and women, boys and girls away from the happiest day of the year to prevent the joyous celebration of the birth of the Lord. For their refusal to accept that which is right, they are trapped in misery. Therefore, they draw others into their misery, pretending to be righteous, they smear the joy of Christmas as a heathen celebration, while deceiving some believers, they hinder the proclamation of the Good news, unto all that Christ was born onto us this day. To the Christians of today, fear not to celebrate this day, it was for us this day was established. Like the words of the angel of old; Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. The true gift of Christmas is not that which we find underneath the evergreen tree, but the true gift is He who hung on a tree that we might pass from death onto life. Before He became a sacrifice, He was born. For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Long lay the world in sin and error pining Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn Fall on your knees oh, hear the angel voices O night divine, O night when Christ was born O night divine MERRY CHRISTMAS _________________________________ 🎨PSW·3✒© Related subject The wise men of Christmas

The endurance of opposition will determine the nature of the people, as victims, or their refusal of the acceptance of victimization; will lift them above the shadows. Through the persistence aspiration of being better, they will be better. There hasn’t been a nation or a race of people on earth, and in its history, who have suffered the agony of slavery and opposition more than the Jews. Still, the progression and the contributions to humanity, has never been greatly blessed than the influence of the Jews to society. At the beginning of their young history, less than three generations after their founding by God through Abraham and Sarah, they found themselves in slavery for 430 years (Exodus 12:40). Then came their deliverance. Yet centuries later, came Assyria, taking the northern kingdom into captivity. Thereafter, even the southern kingdom fell to the yoke of bondage. Then came Babylon and its power of destruction upon the Jews, the desolating of the nation and taking of those they consider as worthy as slaves, to Babylon. As world empires rise and fall, came Cyrus, who granted the Jews the return to their land. Though they were in the native land, yet they were ruled by the outsider. Even unto the birth of Christ. His ministry, His life, His death and His resurrection. Once again, came the Romans’ war machine, and destroyed the land and murdered many, selling the remaining throughout the world as slaves. Nevertheless, in their dispersion they were divinely protected from total annihilation. Jeshurun The dear upright people: As the Jews were envied by the world around them of those days, and hated by many, so it is now. Their exclusiveness, their non-intermarriage commitment, with the nations (at that time). Expect on rare occasions. These people lived by themselves, yet, they flourished. During a time when polytheism was the core of all civilizations. Yet, they served one God. Though they were ridiculed for worshiping an unseen God. Yet, the unseen God overcame the many seen gods, made by the hands of men. The scruples of their sense of right and wrong, in what they eat or did not eat. How and when they worship. In these things, through the natural eyes, the Jews were criticized and hated among all people. Yet, they flourished. However, these things and many more are only the evidence of the true source of their blessings. The source is God. For He have chosen these people through Abraham (I will make of you a great nation. And I will bless you and make your name great; and you will be a blessing.) Genesis 12:2 Through Abraham and Sarah came Isaac. Through Isaac came Jacob, the son of Isaac, who name was changed to Israel. Through him came the nation. From his offspring’s can all the descendants of the Jews be traced. Through them would flow His blessings to all the earth, as a river and its tributaries flow through the earth in many directions. Springing forth life wherever it flows. Such are the Jews and their contributions, then and now, but like a river, their source is from a greater existence. Neither can a river sustain itself and provide life for its surroundings unless it connects with its source. Webster defines source as a first cause; original; that which gives rise to anything. With that being said, God is the source of all things. As recorded in Genesis chapter one verse one; ...In the beginning God... He is the first cause and the source of all things, as well as the uniqueness of the Jews and His blessings through them. Like a river which brings forth life wherever it flows. The Jews brought forth life as long they were connected to the source of life. Through them came great men, moved on by God to bring forth the Bible. Leaders and individuals who change the course of history like none other. Joseph: c. 1805 BC; a slave boy in the chains of Egypt, but when Egypt called upon him, he held no animosity toward those who had him in chains. But in submission to God, he gives an advice that saved Egypt from the destruction of famine. From betrayal and slavery, Joseph rose to become the second most powerful man in Egypt. Moses: c. 1500 BC; The Lawgiver. The Ten Commandments, the fundamental values which has been proven as a success for moral excellence, ethical values and a sound reverence toward God, for a successful nation. David: c. 1000 BC; The Psalmist and a warrior king. An unlikely combination. Yet, he held both adequately and shaped the geographical formation of the Mideast. Esther: c. 478 BC; a maiden in exile, facing execution along with her fellow Jews, but her beauty surpasses the condemnation of her people, and placed her in the king's palace as the queen of Persia. Through this, the murderous plot was prevented. She saved her people from annihilation without lifting a sword. Today, Jews around the world celebrate the Festival of Purim; to commemorate the saving of the Jews in ancient Persia from a murderous plot "to destroy, kill and annihilate all Jews." Paul: c. 50 AD, the apostle of Jesus Christ. A Jew of the tribe of Benjamin, born in Cilicia, in the city of Tarsus. A University City of its days. One cannot comprehend the impact of Christendom, without acknowledging the labor of the apostle. Through him, the Gospel of Jesus Christ flows out from Israel to the surrounding nations for the first time. Like a tributary from a river, nourishing from whither it flows. Paul the apostle of Jesus Christ established churches far beyond the borders of Israel and travel the world sharing the Good News. From Cyprus to Greece, from Greece to the islands of the sea, including Malta and to Italy. Cultures of greed and barbarism eventually turn into a society of rules and establishment. Civilization as it is known in the Western world and its liberty, is owed to the Gospel of Jesus Christ through the apostle Paul. Moreover, through the Jews came the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ. The Savior of all humanity. The contribution of the Jews and their impact on the world, is predicated in the source of their blessing. But like a river if the source is neglected, the once flowing river shall run dry. Taken from the author’s book, Through the Scriptures. _________________________ Modern contributions to society made by Jews. Gabriel Lipmann Discovered color photography. The pathway for the color TV and the smartphone. Dov Moran Inventor of the USB- FLASH DRIVE. The advancement of data storage and sharing, photography and instant video recording and sharing. The transformation of the computer, from a size of a room to the reduced size as a laptop. The capability of saving data on a mobile-phone. All these and more are made possible by the invention of the USB – FLASH DRIVE. Jonas Salk Creator of the first Polio vaccine. Albert Sabin Developed the oral vaccine for Polio. Before the vaccine from both men, polio was a pandemic paralyzing the world. During the 1930’s, there were thousands of cases and deaths. The disease was controlled using the inactivated Salk polio vaccine and the Sabin oral polio vaccine. Martin Cooper Inventor of the world first cell phone. Christopher Columbus The discoverer of the Americas. Isaac Singer Inventor of the sewing machine. Levi Strauss Businessman, and the founder of the first company to manufacture the iconic “blue jeans.” The manufacturer of Denim Jeans. Although many of the names listed above are of the nationality of an American, but they are descendants of Jews. Other contributions The Nobel Prize, an international annual award for outstanding contributions to chemistry, physics or physiology and medicine or literature or economics or peace. In the history of the award, from 1901 to 2017, 892 individuals have been awarded the Nobel Prize. 201 were Jewish, 22.5% of those awarded are Jewish. Yet, the Jewish population only comprises less than 0.2% of the world's population. Little is much when God is in it. So then, is this a validation that all successful Jews acknowledge God? No, however, it was to Abraham the father of the Jews God gives His promise. I will make of you a great nation. And I will bless you and make your name great; and you will be a blessing. And in your Seed (children) shall all the nations of the earth be blessed because you have obeyed My voice. Genesis 22:18 No one is deserving of the Grace of God, but God is Love and God is faithful. Let not the past of misfortune be a hindrance, but a reminder to be the best we can be, by trusting in God. ____________________________________ 🎨PSW·3✒©

Communication is crucial, and the predication of its establishment is based upon love. Even in the absence of a full establishment of communication, like that of the relationship between a mother and the infant. Her ability to communicate is fully established, but the infant, is the lack thereof. Nevertheless, for her love for her infant, she is willing to limit her communication to the level of the infant while still being able to translate her deeds to the child on the level of its ability until it can fully apprehend. This is love, and true love is patience, and where patience is exercised, wisdom is at work. If then, we being human and were born as an infant and now as an adult, we had to learn and grow to understand where we now are, what more about humanity in general, in relation to God? We are still in that infant stage in relation to God and His knowledge and the means in which He communicates to mankind throughout the ages. Even when Christ walked this earth, though He walked among us, He laid aside His omniscient without losing the possession thereof. Consequently, His teaching consists substantially of parables. Not that which is a fable, but parable in its true meaning is to place beside for a comparison. An illustration drawn from nature or human circumstances in which the one who is receiving the parable can relate while learning a moral and a spiritual lesson. Although we are not on the level of Christ’s oratorical ability, or His teaching insight, but we shall attempt to expound on Easter in its simplest form with illustration, comparison and those difficult to grasp subjects. Today the presence of Easter is seen all around us through the result of the work of Easter. An example of this is seen in a free world. Where there is freedom, one is free to experience the results of freedom, through travelling, experiencing beautiful things, or earning beautiful things and the likes thereof. These and more are the results of freedom, but the work on which these things were established is never pretty. Blood was shed for the establishment of freedom. Likewise, today, beautiful is the sight of children searching out for colorful eggs and the pleasantry of the Easter bunny. These things are the results of Easter because of the work of Easter, of which like freedom, it took the Blood of Christ to give us the beauty and pleasantry of this day. For love grew where His Blood fell. This became the most important event in the Christian calendar. Christ's crucifixion and being in the grave, and His Resurrection, which was later called, Easter. It was later in 325 AD, at the Council of Nicaea, what is now Iznik, Turkey. There, the Roman Emperor Constantine set a common date to celebrate Easter worldwide, having stopped the persecution of Christians. From the shed Blood of Christ as a sacrifice came the beauty and pleasantry of Easter as we know it today. One might ask, why does it have to be bloody to commemorate something beautiful? To answer this and build upon it is to know, the life of the flesh in men is in the Blood. Leviticus 17:11. Without Blood, there is no life, (In the human) with a contaminated blood, the body is on course for degradation and demise. Unlike the numerous tissues in the human body, the blood is the only tissue that is free to move about within the body while enacting its crucial duties. Comparing this to Christendom, there is a phrase wherein it is said of the Blood of Christ, it reaches to the highest mountain, and it flows to the lowest valley. The Blood that gives me strength from day to day. Though spoken spiritually, but let us look at the chemistry of the blood for a better insight to such phrases. The blood consists of a liquid vehicle called plasma. The solid part of the blood consists mainly of three kinds of cells. The platelets consist of one, fully understanding the function of this cell is quite obscure. Then there are the red cells or erythrocytes. These cells are responsible to carry the fuel to the tissues in the form of combined oxygen which gives it the red color. Then there are the white cells or leucocytes. Several of these cells have to do with the defense of the body, the clotting of the blood when an artery or vein is severed. As we are told in Genesis 2:7, God breathed into man giving him life. Such is now being seen microscopically through a closer study of the red cells, which contains a substance called hemoglobin. An iron compound with affinity for oxygen, a fuel to the body. Taking oxygen from the lungs through the air we breathe, forming Oxy-hemoglobin and traveling throughout the body, to the cells and dropping off their cargos, where it is then turned into combustion and heat. The cells then act as a garbage disposal management. Taking the waste tissue metabolism, discharges it through the kidneys, the skin, and the lungs. All taking about 23 seconds for a trip. The food and garbage are carried by the same cell vehicle. Yet there is never any contamination. Indeed, life is not a random coincidence. To say the least, this is a Divine master plan that was thoughtfully created. Nor was it a random act of life and the perseverance thereof. We furthermore perceive within the blood an additional function through the white cell. Though smaller in counts, but larger in size, they serve as the rapid army manufactured and deployed anywhere in the body when an infection occurs, the white soldiers are ready to fight the germs and infections. With the power to kill, the white cell engulfs the problem. If the human body is pricked, instantly the blood is rushed to the point of the occurrence, carrying the white cells, where they gather themselves around the infection, barricading the infected area by giving their lives to prevent further spread of the bacteria. After their death, their bodies and the dead bacteria are gathered and expelled as “pus.” After the battle, the count of the white cell is back to normal. This is why for a doctor to determine if your body is infected, the doctor takes a sample of your blood through your finger for the count of the white cells, if they are great in number, it indicates a battle is going on in your body through infection and the white cells are being manufactured in vast numbers. For thus David the warrior-psalmist king said, I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are Your works (Lord). So then, if we being mere human and our blood offers such marvelous applications. What more about the perfect Blood of Christ? For thousands of years before medical advancement, in Christendom, the statement was, and remains, “there is power in the Blood of Christ.” To understand this is to retrain one’s mind, knowing though we are in a physical body, but the driving force of who you are, is spiritual. (Your emotions and feelings are unseen, but felt) For an example, you have a computer, and it is a physical entity, you can see it, feel it, touch it, and hear it, but its functions are driven by the digital, which is the unseen. Regardless of how wonderfully made the computer is. It has to be connected to a more powerful source to keep functioning correctly through software updates and firmware. Now, illustratively speaking, though we are wonderfully made, but somewhere in the distance past, corruption entered in the human bloodline from the first man and woman, through sin. The word sin isn’t necessarily moral wrongdoing, but it simply means separation. The Greek used the word “Hamartia” to describe sin. Closer look at the word in syllables, the first two syllables sound like the English word hammer. This precisely described the sin spoken of here. Like a sledgehammer being used to drive a wedge between a wood to cause a split. Such is the word picture of sin, mankind, and God. Through the original sin of Adam and Eve, sin has placed a wedge between humanity and God. Consequently, men will seek after everything and anything for the lack of peace of mind, but God. Like a computer without a pending update, though it functions, but almost never at its full potential, but today the source of the new software is available, illustratively speaking that source is Calvary Cross. Like a blood bank, there Christ poured out His Blood through His crucifixion for all eternity and for all who would believe, to freely receive, for a new blood transfusion. In Adam sin, all blood was infected, but in Christ Jesus all can be made new. Herein, we now use terminologies that are understandable to all. Before the computer is upgraded it needs a power source, then a connectivity line to connect to the source for the upgrade. Mankind is liken to the computer, our power source is the Holy Spirit, the connectivity line is a simple faith to believe. The password is Lord, I am a sinner, forgive me and restore me. The source is the Cross, and your upgrade version is called REDEEMED! Happy Resurrection, Happy Easter. He is risen! Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that lives, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. Revelation 1:17-18

The word god has taken a universal meaning, giving rise to madness. The justification of evil men to afflict harm against others. These are acts of deception. It is not of God. Look at your life, from conception to birth and into adulthood. It is a marvelous plan, with wondrous details and uniqueness. This is the work of a loving God. Who gives life and not destroy life. Whatsoever your life is now; He is willing to give you a better life. A relationship, not religion. A relationship requires time. Time to grow, and learn. Moreover, to experience the love of God. There are no self-imposed rules and regulations to have a relationship with God, just love and faith. Religious leaders will give you a list of rules and regulations, claiming it is the path to God, but their true intention is to control you. God's way is through Jesus Christ. Your acknowledgment of who He is and His love for you, is the beginning of a new life. A relationship requires communication, and prayer is simply a communication with God. The declaration of your faith is the prayer you will pray after you accept the Lord into your heart. It is a sinner's prayer for your salvation. To experience His amazing grace. God does not leave a person to find their way to Him by themselves. Instead, He provided all the means to reach Him. Even the Prayer for acknowledging His plan for salvation is found in His Words. (Romans 10:9) That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved. In other words, acknowledge who He is and what He did for you and believe these words as follow. Dear God in Heaven, I come to You in the name of Jesus. I'm sorry for the way I've lived the things I've done. Please forgive me and cleanse me with your precious Blood from all unrighteousness. According to your Words (Romans 10:9) I believe in my heart God raised Jesus from the dead and He is alive. With my mouth I confess the Lord Jesus Christ as the Savior of my soul, at this very moment I accept Him as the Lord of my life. Right now, according to God’s word which cannot lie. I'm washed, I'm saved, I'm born again. I thank you Lord Jesus for dying on the Cross to give me a new life, an eternal life. Teach me your way that I may follow. Amen. #Salvation __________________________________ 🎨PSW·3✒© Scriptures Reference, Acts 16:31, Romans 10:9 Go to HOME BOOKS RESOURCES NAMES QUOTATIONS & MORE

And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. Isaiah 58:11 So often the believer is accustomed to looking at the promise without carefully considering the circumstance in which the promises were brought forth. The promises The Lord shall guide you continually Satisfy your soul during the drought Make fat your bones You will be like a watered garden Your water will not fail For every promise, there is a circumstance to bring forth the promise. Although as blessed people, worthy of the Lord’s grace and mercy, we are aware of those things that are transpiring around us in this world and in our lives, but we do not set our eyes on the trials of life, lest we forget the promises of God during such times. For there is the reminder that He will do accordingly as He has spoken. So, this we know. In a world of disarray and confusion: The Lord shall guide you continually. Be not disheartened of the chaos, but therein, you will be guided by His counsel, by His words, we are led by the Holy Spirit. Therein, though we see with the natural eyes, but we discern by the Spirit. When men lived by free will and do as they pleased, but their souls are still starving from the lack of satisfaction of which they know not where to obtain: Your bone shall be made fat. While the system of the world focuses on the outward appearance of vanity for gratification, but the Lord your God, shall build and nourish you from within that all will see the benefits without. When men reject God, they reject life’s purpose. Without purpose, they wandered aimlessly. Though they are created in His image, but for their rejection of God, they attribute their existence to that of an animal. The monkey lives as it sees fit, until its mischievousness puts it in grave danger. While they are of their monkey business, let us be about our Father’s business. That we will be like a watered garden. This speaks of purpose, a garden grows not on its own, and so are you, and the life you live. Submits to the Lord, therein by His hands He shall tend to you. In a world of drought, your roots will be filled with plenty of water, of which will not fail. The water the world and its systems offer only makes the soul that drinks thirst for more. Consequently, men keep on doing those things that bring pleasure to their being, but they are never satisfied but the Lord your God who established you as a garden, shall be to you a fountain of water that never runs dry. Therefore, let not the troubles around you troubles you, but through these things, at times, the promise of God is brought forth. The mouth of the LORD hath spoken it. The promise of His blessings to us is not predicated on how good we are, but the heart that desires the things of God, the Lord shall mend the dissatisfaction for gratification and peace. To this we read, then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it. Isaiah 58:14 ____________________________________ 🎨PSW·3✒©

The experiencing of an opposition isn't abandonment, and when falsely accused, you are not forsaken. Let this be your eternal covenant of peace. This we read in Isaiah 54:17 No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of Me, says the LORD. That is to say, no weapon will be able to hurt you; you will have an answer for all who accuse you. I will defend My servants and give them victory. The LORD has spoken. Observe, no weapon formed against you will ever defeat you, but there will be weapons in your life against you. Nevertheless, God is faithful, for those things of opposition against you will not prosper. There will be things that are spoken against you. However, not a one shall be able to injure you by words nor accusations. In you lives the Truth, and the Truth shall set you free. Man will wrongfully convict, but to those who put their trust in the Lord, He vindicates. This is the inheritance for those who trust in the Lord. Walking in truth and victory shall be your portion. ____________________________________ 🎨PSW·3✒©