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THE BATTLE FOR OUR SOUL IS RAGING DAY 1

Bishop Linda Adams, camp evangelist, will be speaking on the topic “God’s Glorious Unfolding” of His purposes for each of us, but there is another determined to keep that from happening. Satan’s tools are lies and trickery and temptations. Satan’s powers are formidable but are no match for Jesus’. Who wins depends on who’s side we chose to be on. Together we will discover the ways each day God provides wonderful, sometimes significant and sometimes easily unnoticed, ways to reflect His light while satan also provides distraction to hinder us. Armed with that knowledge, we will have opportunity to move to a much higher level of obedience as well as discover how those before us navigated this journey of growth and obedience too.
The story of Job reveals just how destructive and evil satan’s plans and intent are and have always been. His work has boundaries. By contrast is God’s plan and way of bringing good and life out of satan’s work. How He does that is the “Glorious Unfolding” that will be recorded in history, especially how God turned a dead end foolish or sinful choice into a detour back to the path to life and then redeemed the time lost. Over the next 21
days we will reflect on some of those “glorious unfolding” or “God sightings” and the “Happy Ending” God intended from the beginning.
Some life examples are dramatic with immediate life changes at no fault of victim.
Job was one such example. Another is story of Joseph and his brothers’ evil choice to get rid of him. Exodus 50:15-21 reveals God’s unfolded plan of forgiveness and healing through Joseph’s faithfulness and forgiveness towards his brothers:
15 When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, “What if Joseph holds a grudge against us and pays us back for all the wrongs we did to him?”
16 So they sent word to Joseph, saying, “Your father left these instructions before he died:
17 ‘This is what you are to say to Joseph: I ask you to forgive your brothers the sins and the wrongs they committed in treating you so badly.’ Now please forgive the sins of the servants of the God of your father.” When their message came to him, Joseph wept.
18 His brothers then came and threw themselves down before him. “We are your slaves,” they said.
19 But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God?
20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.
21 So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.
So, over the next 21 days we will be looking at examples in order to seek God’s “glorious unfolding” Plan while also seeking His help to reveal and reject all the subtle – sinister – evil ways satan draws and tries to trick us, like Christian in Pilgrim’s Progress, into straying from Christ and His plan. Such is a lifelong challenge and journey with successes and failures. BUT A JOURNEY INTENDED TO INCLUDE GOD’S ABIDING HOLY SPIRIT AND COUNCIL, GOD’S WORD, GOD’S PEOPLE – GOD’S FAMILY. The opportunities and battles encountered on this journey are common with all believers but not identical. Some battles are caused by our own disobedience and sin while others are no fault of ours but impacted by sins and poor choices of others. Likewise, some opportunities from God comes out of our own obedience and some because of faithfulness and prayers of others.
So let’s prepare together and pray for God’s insights and revelation and council together so we will discover together … AMEN? AMEN!

DAY 2 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN

So, let’s begin by looking at some of the overall components of God’s Plan that are the same for everyone as a group but also as individuals:

1. God desires for each and every one to be in fellowship with Him and receive His gift of salvation. 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.
2. God desires for each to know and accept His plan of salvation. John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
3. God desires everyone to listen and obey His commands and instruction provided in His Word, directly by His abiding Holy Spirit, including a daily fellowship with Him and with other believers.
4. God desires every believer to seek and share the Gospel message with others. 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness
5. God desires all turn from sin and resist temptation by turning to Him and away from temptation. 1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
6. God desires all seek Him first for help and council instead of after our own wisdom and attempts have failed. James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
7. God desires for all to trust in Him and allow Him to indwell and fill each with Joy and Hope and child-like faith. Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
   Well, these are just a few of the boundless desires God has for us, including eternal life with Him in a place even now He is preparing for us. John 14:1-31 “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going.” Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” …
   My intent is not to provide a complete study but to provide a starting point for your own study.
   So, basically God desires and is working to provide and prepare us for eternal life with Him. He urges us to make our will yield to His Will in this life in order for us to receive benefit of His Will:
8. He teaches us to lean on and trust in Him.
9. He equips us to show and be His light of hope and example to others.
10. He builds in us strength of character and a clearer understanding and knowledge of His Word and His Character.
11. He changes us to become more like Him and show others what He is like too.
12. He equips us for our heavenly home and responsibilities there and let go of what hinders and distracts us.
    So, God’s Glorious Unfolding Plan is definitely worthy of seeking and embracing and partnering with God to achieve. But then again, the path may not be very desirable and pleasant or even logical at times. That is one reason why we need past examples to help us understand and trust God’s ways. To see how Job’s tragedies and Joseph’s time in slavery and imprisonment and David’s exile fleeing from Saul all served
13. God’s purpose even when satan was working to destroy. They all knew and trusted God, but vital was continuing to trust and obey Him when circumstances were hopeless with little evidence of a good outcome.

DAY 3 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN
Today we are going to look at some of the obstacles satan constructs and uses to hinder or prevent us from seeking – discovering – following His plan

Fear – We are commanded not to fear. Stepping out in faith during danger or high risk situations does draw out fear. Fear of pain or failure, fear of rejection, fear of loss of position or job or income or status. Fear of responsibility or even fear of demands of responsibility.
Psalm 27:1-5 The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?2When the wicked came against me to eat up my flesh, my enemies and foes, they stumbled and fell.3Though an army may encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; Though war may rise against me, in this I will be confident. 4One thing I have desired of the LORD, that will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD All the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in His temple.5For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; In the secret place of His Tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock.
There are over 300 instances in the Bible of commands to “Fear Not”. Some of them are in the Old Testament like Isaiah 41:10,13; Psalm 37:1; Psalm 23:4; and some in the New Testament like Matthew 24:27; Philippians 4:6; Matthew 6:25; which include words like fret or worry to describe fear of evil. Psalm 23:4 specifically commands us not to fear evil. Instead God instructs us to only fear Him, for only He has control of our eternal future. Proverbs 9:10 tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Wisdom in seeing God’s council and instruction and commands are always true and best because they reflect God’s love and faithfulness as well as God’s infinite wisdom – knowledge – experience – discernment. The source of the evil we fear is from satan, for the fear that we have either fear of harm or danger. But then again, when we do evil, fear comes in the form of fear of getting caught or exposed or punished. But over time satan not only makes temptations harder to resist but numbs the conscience that deters us from sin. Satan even tries to convince us that evil is good and good is evil. So how can we have a love and viable relationship with God while fearing Him? It would seem fear would come from guilt for sin. Fear comes from being vulnerable or powerless to a greater force. So why shouldn’t we fear satan more than God since God loves and desires good for us while satan only desires evil and death? I do believe the fear the Bible tells us to not do relates to the paralyzing fear of evil and dangers satan puts in our path while fearing God involves respecting His power over us. Fear of our parents is not intended for us to live in terror of harm and hurt they physically are able to do, but fear of just punishment they may do in order to deter sinful and
harmful behavior. Yet, there is a far more powerful deterrent to sin and rebellion against God’s commands. Sin brings harm to the innocent including our loved ones plus the sadness and pain it bringing to God. To break God’s heart by sinning will deter us from sinning because love motives to bring joy and encouragement to those we love and not pain and grief. So, the closer to Christ we grow, the more like Him we desire to be and the more we desire to please and obey Him. Likewise, the more like Him we are, the more we see His perfection and realize how far from perfect we still are. Yet, He provides His Holy Spirit to guide and encourage and strengthen and lighten our path so we can and will turn from remaining imperfect and sinful thoughts and habits and conduct and conversation going forward. When He provides forgiveness for our sins, paid for on the Cross and activated when we accepted His forgiveness, that forgiveness continues as we grow in our faith.
“We cannot go where God is not. Look over your shoulder; that’s God following you. Look into the storm; that’s Christ coming toward you.” Max Lucado

DAY 4 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN

A second obstacle to embracing God’s Glorious Unfolding Plan is cost. That cost includes time and resource God will require of us. That cost also includes the goals, plans, ambitions, and relationships we must give up or delay in order to follow God’s priorities.
Learning to identify opportunities God gives us to comfort or witness or even just listen to someone comes as we learn and open our spirit and mind to the Holy Spirit’s “nudging” and soft voice. Our Sunday School teacher asks us since previous Sunday if had any “God sightings” since last Sunday. At first response was sparse, but soon we all began to notice opportunities and respond more often. Opportunities like crossing paths with someone hadn’t seen for a while who needed a friend to listen or? Even losing our keys and after prayer and a bit of waiting, they showed up in a place previously overlooked. The practice has made us more aware of the Holy Spirit’s guidance and influence all the time and more sensitivity to His nudging.
But there are still times other pressing issues cause temptation to delay or put off responding. Doing so brings a sense of regret and repentance but often another opportunity thanks to God’s mercy.
The cost of obedience is giving God first priority and letting other desires and priorities have second place. Have you experienced this first-hand how God often helps us get more done and urgent matters get more quickly resolved when we first respond to God’s call as soon as opportunity given without delay?
Today I invite you to begin looking for “God sightings” and respond right away when do.

DAY 5 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN

A third obstacle to embracing God’s Glorious Unfolding Plan is life’s distractions. Anything that hinders spending time with Him in prayer and bible study. Spending time with Church Family. Prioritizing each day using time wisely. Distractions that lure us to follow our own way or delay seeking and receiving from Him.
But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night. Psalm 1:2 Reading: Joshua 1:7-8 7 Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go. 8 This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. COMMENTS: There is much in scripture we don’t understand and probably won’t until such is revealed to us in heaven. But there is so much we do understand, for God has made clear to us all we need to receive His redemptive salvation and daily guidance through His Abiding Holy Spirit and His Word directly. By exposing ourselves daily to His Word, by opening our minds and soul to the Holy Spirit’s council and instruction, by praying and seeking His council and discernment and wisdom, but judging such council by Christ’s life example and words, and by seeking council and encouragement and accountability to trusted fellow believers who have a history of obedience to God’s council all provide each of us opportunity to live and follow the straight path to eternal life.
There are many wonderful commentaries and life examples available to help believers learn and grow, but there are many that deviate from God’s instruction and sound doctrine. So how do we discern and avoid satan’s deception. Well, Paul gives us council directly from our bible in His letters, 2 Corinthians 11 as one such example. Further instruction given in 2 Peter 2. It is dangerous to substitute books and sermons of even well-meaning pastors and evangelists for bible reading and study directly. Why? Because “second hand” study is not as good and is at risk of misinterpretation or missing insights God intends for us to receive. The Bible, being a living document, has a wonderful way of instructing each believer directly with His written word. Commentaries and written and audio messages of pastor and evangelists play a good source of added insights and instructed and council if judged by God’s Word and especially by Christ’s own life and words recorded in scripture. The “red letter” edition is especially helpful since Christ’s own words are highlighted in red so carry added weight for us. So daily bible reading and study is necessary and profitable because the need for God’s council and guidance daily is vital especially since everyone is exposed and affected by Satan’s influence and temptations every day. A daily spiritual “getaway” to refresh and re-direct and give fresh clarity is essential and life giving. I don’t know about you but sustaining such a discipline is hard because distractions always compete with daily commitment even though benefit consistently shines through. So, how about a spiritual getaway devoted to a deeper dive into Scripture? The Bible speaks of meditating on God’s Word “day and night,” which doesn’t mean 24 hours straight. (It means often) But what about a day, a night, or a weekend retreat to immerse one’s heart and soul in Scripture? Plan a spiritual getaway to enjoy the “delights” that come from reading and meditating on God’s Word (Psalm 119:16, 35).
“The Word of God well understood and religiously obeyed is the shortest route to spiritual perfection.” A. W. Tozer Well, there aren’t any good short cuts to a meaningful relationship with Christ. It begins with accepting Christ’s forgiveness, the Holy Spirit’s abiding presence and council. Then comes daily bible study and prayer along with obedience to God’s instruction also daily.

DAY 6 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN

A fourth obstacle to embracing God’s Glorious Unfolding Plan is lack of will. This includes making excuses and procrastination. So why would we put other distractions or our own will or even other obligations ahead of God’s Plan and Will? Since we all have done that and still do at times, take a few minutes to reflect and try to answer for yourself. Well, God always plans and asks of us what is best for us and has greatest impact on others. So why would we rather follow our own selfish short sighted desires instead of God’s infinitely wise life changing, best for all, Will? Don’t say “the devil made me do it!” Ok, satan doesn’t have the authority or power to make us do anything, but sure is effective in persuading and deceiving us into settling for far less than God’s Best. How many marriages and job choices and …??? have we settled for simply because we followed our own desires or became impatient or lacked trust and confidence in waiting for God’s Will? Stop and consider how many broken families and marriages could have been avoided if God’s Will was waited for and followed. Yet, Christ’s forgiveness and redemption is still available, changing willing lives and turning dead end choices into detours back to straight and narrow and then redeeming lost time. Can you recall any examples? The story of Joseph (Gen 50) tells us how God changed the terrible sin of his brothers into a way of saving his family and even Egypt from starvation while also showing the known world and generations God’s power and ways.
My boss told me once “it is better to turn around if going down the wrong path than to continue no matter how long going down it”. His insight carried great wisdom which applies to life choices and has scripture basis too. Proverbs 14:2 “Those who follow the right path fear the LORD; those who take the wrong path despise him.”
2 Timothy 3:16-17 “16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” Well, truth is the only true standard to judge right from wrong, good from bad, and wise from foolish is God’s standard recorded in scripture. No other standard is true nor can be trusted!

DAY 7 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN
So, I think we’ve spent enough time going over the excuses and reasons why we don’t follow God’s plan and why we should follow God’s plan, so let’s begin learning how to discover and learn what God’s plan is and how to follow that plan.
We begin with a couple of scriptures: “But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us … made us alive together with Christ.” Ephesians 2:4-5 “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.” Colossians 3:1-4 COMMENTS: God has perfectly planned our future and our future home. He is furnishing it with who is precious to Him and precious to us. He is furnishing it with all we need to enjoy heaven and its occupants fully. He is furnishing it with anticipation as He also plans on residing there with us. When we consider that, then what we endure and problems we encounter here seem so much less significant or important. But today’s problems do demand attention and require God’s wisdom to guide us to the best resolution. Yet, instead of seeking His help and council all the time, we tend
to only seek His help when all else fails, when we’ve tried everything we can think of and all have failed. So instead of throwing in our own resources that God has already offered us, we need to put our focus on what will make an eternal difference. Focus on encouraging and witness with example, with words, and with action and conduct, especially during times of trial and crisis. 1 John 3:2 “Dear friends, we are already God’s children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is.” Psalm 57:2 says, “I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me.” This is key in understanding God’s purpose for your life. God has numbered your days and will fulfill every purpose He has for you. However, our choices and actions also really matter. Even before the world was made, God had already chosen us to be His through our union with Christ … because of His love. God had already decided that through Jesus Christ He would make us His children — this was God’s pleasure and purpose. Ephesians 1:4-5 COMMENTS: Crisis is something we try to avoid at all cost, but all too often doing so just puts us deeper into crisis. The familiar expressions, “You can’t see the forest for the trees” is true of so many situations life throws at us. We can’t see the path to the desired destination because of all the obstacles and distractions satan and others keep throwing at us. Distractions that demand immediate attention and keep us from attacking problems logically and one at a time based on proper priorities and urgency. God not only provides help and council and wisdom that is based on His will and experience and knowledge, He provides a way that seems foolish to world thinking but has perfect logic and purpose. After all, the God who created a universe of perfect order and function, who created our bodies, all our surroundings and so much more, is more than able to help and guide us
through our problems and needs no matter how great and overwhelming they are to us. There are many people physically alive today who are without God and without hope in this world. Easter 2021 is now history and Pentecost is approaching. S0, consider ways to give them hope during this special time — a gift, an encouraging word, an act of service, or the Gospel. Because of your love, you might see them come alive in Christ. “The gospel is not a doctrine of the tongue, but of life.” John Calvin

DAY 8 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN
Steps necessary to discover God’s Will and specific and personal purpose 1. Spend daily time in God’s Word. Spend time study and also seeking. 2. Pray daily at regular time consistently seeking for God’s Will and for direction. 1. 3. Follow the Direction revealed during this time of seeking. 2. 4. Look up the promises God gives us in scripture. 3. 5. Make your center purpose for living doing God’s Will and following His direction. 4. 6. Be accountable to other devout believers 5. 7. Monitor and document progress in being more Christ-like regularly. Also document relapses and areas needing improvement. Challenge yourself with personal and reachable goals short term and long term. 6. The perfect will of God is God’s divine plan for your life: the kind of man or woman to marry, what career or ministry to pursue, and so on. It needs you to be very patient and trust God because He wants to give His best, which has His full blessings not the second best. … With God all things are possible if only we believe Have you ever wondered what God’s will is for your life? I’d venture to guess we’ve all asked that question at some point. For most of us, the question rises to the surface at critical junctures: choosing a spouse or a job, choosing what school to attend or which house to buy. These are the times we tend to cry out, Lord, show me your will!
As we seek to know God’s will, we often feel tension. In a sincere desire to please him, we can sometimes walk in fear that we will make the wrong choice about the details of our lives. We spin in circles, wondering where God wants us to get coffee, how much he wants us to spend on groceries, or whether he’d be happy if we went to Disney for vacation. Every choice becomes a paralyzing decision: either discover what God wants, or make a choice that could ruin everything. For some, obsessing over life’s details leads them to make decisions in clearly unbiblical ways—hinging their choices on apparent signs and coincidences. Others swing to the opposite end, thinking God doesn’t really care about the details of our lives and doesn’t have a “will” for anything we do. We can also assume God’s will applies only to certain aspects of life—whom we marry or what job we take, perhaps—but outside of those big things, we can basically believe we control the moments of our days. James says this kind of attitude is arrogant and evil (James 4:16). In all things, we should acknowledge our utter dependence on God’s sovereign plan, saying, “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that” (James 4:15).

DAY 9 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN But how can we know if the Lord has willed something or not? One Will Two Sides; Theologians discuss God’s one will in two main ways—his secret will and his revealed will. His secret will (sometimes referred to as his hidden or decretive will) refers to the fact that God is sovereign and rules meticulously over all. Nothing happens outside of his perfect will. It’s called “hidden” or “secret” because we don’t know his will until it’s come to pass: I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, “My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.” (Isa. 46:9–10) This is the sovereign, but hidden, will of God. And nothing will thwart it.
By contrast, God’s revealed will is what he’s made known to us in Scripture. For instance, we know it’s God’s will for us to love our neighbors, bridle our tongues, act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly. We know it’s God’s will that we not murder, steal, cheat, lie, slander, gossip, or boast. How do we know? Because he has told us in his Word. Focus on God’s Revealed Will Ironically, we’re prone to overlook God’s revealed will and hyper-focus on his secret will. We often want to know God’s hidden will for the future, while walking contrary to his revealed will in the present. We often want to know God’s hidden will for the future, while walking contrary to his revealed will in the present. Instead, we ought to diligently study and seek to understand God’s revealed will. As we sit under good preaching and teaching, reading and studying and memorizing our Bibles in a covenant community, we will grow in our ability to know God’s revealed will. And as we renew our minds, the Spirit of God will help us not only discern God’s will (Rom. 12:2), but also apply it to the circumstances and moments of our days. Trust God’s Secret Will While we obey God’s revealed will, we can trust in God’s good providence—that as his secret will unfolds he is working all things together for the good of those who love him (Rom. 8:28). Whatever our days may hold, we can trust that the specifics are designed by a loving God for the good of our souls. Whether the decision of the moment involves choosing a spouse or choosing new flooring, we can trust our sovereign God to order our lives for his glory and our good. Today and every day, the truth is clear: “For this is the will of God, your sanctification” (1 Thess. 4:3).
This means we can trust God’s will even during trials. We tend to think that suffering can’t possibly be the Lord’s will. But we forget that our salvation was won when Jesus submitted himself completely to God’s will in the moment of his greatest suffering. After living in perfect obedience to God’s revealed will, Jesus, on the night before his crucifixion, asked his Father three times if there was any other way for him to accomplish God’s plan to save a people for himself. Everything hinged on how Jesus would respond to God’s perfect will. And, praise and glory to Jesus, he submitted himself, saying, “Your will be done” (Matt. 26:42). So, seek to know God’s revealed will. Be diligent in obeying it. Walk in holiness, pursue sanctification, love your neighbors, be generous with your resources, bridle your tongue, and worship God. Trust that God, in his providence, is working all things together for your good, and remember that what is currently hidden will one day be revealed in glory. And as you wait with steadfast hope for that day, thank the Lord that his will is always good.

DAY 10 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN
Revelation 1:9-2:7 9 I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.
10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet,
11 Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, what thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.
12 And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks;
13 And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle.
14 His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire;
15 And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters.
16 And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp two-edged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.
17 And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:
18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.
19 Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter;
20 The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.
2 Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks;
2 I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars:
3 And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name’s sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted.
4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.
5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
6 But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitanes, which I also hate.
7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God. COMMENTS: What does the 7 candlesticks mean? The seven lamps allude to the branches of human knowledge, represented by the six lamps inclined inwards towards, and symbolically guided by, the light of God represented by the central lamp. The menorah also symbolizes the creation in seven days, with the center light representing the Sabbath. According to Revelation 1:11, on the Greek island of Patmos, Jesus Christ instructs John of Patmos to: “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, and to Smyrna, and to Pergamum, and to Thyatira, and to Sardis, and to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea.”..

DAY 11 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN LIONS ON THE ROAD My soul is among lions. Psalm 57:4 Psalm 57 Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me! For my soul trusts in You; And in the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge, Until these calamities have passed by. 2 I will cry out to God Most High, To God who performs all things for me.3 He shall send from heaven and save me; He reproaches the one who would swallow me up. Selah God shall send forth His mercy and His truth. 4 My soul is among lions; I lie among the sons of men Who are set on fire, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword.5 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; Let Your glory be above all the earth.
6 They have prepared a net for my steps; My soul is bowed down; They have dug a pit before me; Into the midst of it they themselves have fallen. Selah 7 My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and give praise.8 Awake, my glory! Awake, lute and harp! I will awaken the dawn. 9 I will praise You, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing to You among the nations.10 For Your mercy reaches unto the heavens, And Your truth unto the clouds. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; Let Your glory be above all the earth. COMMENTS: This morning on Christian radio I listened to Dr. David Jeremiah’s program “Turning Point” as I do every week day morning. Today he talked about depression and referred to Charles Spurgeon’s battle with depression and others who achieved great success in ministry. He shared an observation that the height of good experiences is followed by depths of difficulties of the same magnitude. He noted Elijah’s peak at Mt. Carmel was immediately followed by desperation begging God to take his life and spare him being sought and killed by Queen Jezebel. Have you noticed similar times in your life when a time of trial followed a mountain top experience? I would say we all have. Why is that? Why can’t we all live on the mountain tops? Well, children would prefer to live on candy and ice cream and play all day instead of eating their vegetables and go to schools and do their chores. I notice children who are allowed to live undisciplined with only loose rules to follow tend to be selfish and angry and bullies. Children who do well in school and are obedient and work hard and responsible are taught such by their parents and teachers. Consequences of bad choices and behavior is a powerful teacher and incentive. John Bunyan’s book “The Pilgrim’s Progress” describes the Christian’s journey to the “Celestial City” and the obstacles and dangers and people encountered along the way. One example was two lions who were hungry and angry and ready to kill any passerby. Christian stopped in fear at a distance. He then noticed they were chained and he would be safe if stayed
on the middle of the road and need not fear them. The chains would hold them and keep them from harming him, but he had to have faith the chains would hold them. The lions were on opposite sides of the road so if he would try to get further from one lion, he would be closer to the other. You and I face dangers and threats that tempt us to make poor choices that come with consequences, while also testing our faith. Tested faith is stronger and a better guide to a desired destination and blessing and reward when that destination is reached. The road of life we are on is to a destination of God’s design and plan. To venture too close to the edge of the road puts us in unnecessary danger and more vulnerable to disaster – consequences of poor or sinful choices. God has a wonderful way changing wrong choices into detours back to the right path and then to redeem time lost, but that can only come if we heed His call to repentance and accept the gift of forgiveness and healing He offers because of Christ’s sacrifice for our sins. He does so eagerly and willingly but we can only have this gift if accept it. Redemption is still our choice, but is offered to all. There are many reasons why people refuse His precious gift. What were the reasons you put it off as long as you did? Chances are you didn’t want to and wanted to enjoy a sinful lifestyle awhile longer. You thought about what you would have to give up and not about what you would gain. But what God asks us to give up is replace by so much more. Those who choose God’s way discover what he gives is far better than what He asks us to give up. What He asks us to give up only brings misery and death and what He offers gives Joy and life – eternal life. When the choice is camouflage and less clear, it is then that our faith and trust in God becomes stronger when we choose His way. When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie, my grace, all sufficient, shall be thy supply

DAY 12 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN
ALWAYS DEPENDING ON HIS WORD! On the same day, when evening had come, [Jesus] said to them, “Let us cross over to the other side.” Mark 4:35 Mark 4:35-41 35 On the same day, when evening had come, He said to them, “Let us cross over to the other side.” 36 Now when they had left the multitude, they took Him along in the boat as He was. And other little boats were also with Him. 37 And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling. 38 But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?” 39 Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. 40 But He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?” 41 And they feared exceedingly, and said to one another, “Who can this be, that even the wind and the sea obey Him!” COMMENTS: Who are those you can always trust and depend on? Take some time to list their names. Does list include your parents, pastor, spouse, close friend(s)? How about a special teacher or Sunday school teacher or even a supervisor or co-worker? I dare say the list is not very long even though there is likely a longer list of those who we can depend on somewhat, who are less committed to our well-being. Well, the closer we get to Jesus, the more we will realize His trustworthiness and dependability far outshines even the best and most trustworthy friend we may have. His Word gives us an accurate account of God’s involvement in history and details of His involvement in the lives of those who did trust and obey / follow God.
Children grow up desperately needing to trust and depend on their parents. The influence of parents is a powerful influence on children, either for good or for evil. Parents not worthy of their children’s trust are all too common and their children usually grow up to pass on that same curse and destructive influence onto their children. By contrast, the influence of Godly parents who did example and demonstrate positive influence will leave a positive legacy that will last many generations, but depends on how effective each new generation of children becoming parents learn and pass that legacy on to their children. The standard and effectiveness in passing on the best legacy greatly depends on how close each parent is to Christ and how obedient each is in learning and practicing the truths and conduct given in God’s Word. But also depends on how close and current a close relationship is maintained by each parent. Those who do so more commonly pass on the same to their children. But all this depends on willingness of each child to receive – embrace the faith and source of that faith and make the faith of their parents their own. In instances where Godly parents are not available, God has a wonderful way of putting others in a child’s life to provide that influence. But all this depends on willingness to follow God’s lead and direction. When a child becomes a follower of Jesus, he learns something new: God’s Word never fails. Jesus’ disciples learned that when He summoned them to cross the Sea of Galilee and a dangerous storm arose, threatening to sink them. The disciples were full of fear until Jesus quieted the storm and they continued their trip. Here’s what they learned: When Jesus said they would cross the Sea of Galilee; they would cross the Sea of Galilee! No storm or circumstance would prevent them from reaching the other side. There
was a storm, yes. But it was only a challenge, not a change. God’s Word tells us we will reach “the other side” for eternity if we have faith in Jesus. Never let a circumstance in life be a reason to doubt God’s promises. “There are parts of the Bible which cause me difficulty, but none which cause me doubt.” John Blanchard

DAY 13 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN
NOT FEARING DEATH Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.” John 11:25 Reading: Hebrews 2:14-15 14 Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, 15 and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. COMMENTS: When asked what their greatest fear was, we would expect the number 1 answer would be death, but it wasn’t. However, I would expect fear of sickness and death has become higher on the list in the midst of Covid 19. Likewise, those young in years and physical strength and health view their own mortality as a distant concern and not an immanent concern would put fear of death lower on their list of concerns. But as death comes closer as it takes more of those closer to us and those of our age or younger, we begin to realize our own mortality is inevitable. In contrast, as financial instability and war and violence and job instability come to the forefront and impact more of those closer to us, then the priority of those concerns become higher on our list of concerns. All this may be human nature and an issue with everyone, it is also true that because Christ lived and gave up His human life willingly as a sacrifice to pay for our redemption from our own sins, then we all have a real answer and way of dealing with any and all fears and concerns that come to us. When I was a young teen and young adult, I was convinced that Christ would return long before I would be old enough to retire and certainly before I would die. Yet, as the decades have passed, more and more of those of my parent’s generation and then of my school classmates and friends generation passed; I
began to realize death may be in my future too. It didn’t diminish my reason to be a Christ follower and do what His Word and His nudging in my soul asks. It didn’t diminish the urgency to be ready. But death is coming for us all (except those Christians who are alive at the Rapture of the Church). And there is no reason for the believer to fear it. Jesus said that those who believe in Him “shall never die” (John 11:26). How can that be? It’s true because those who believe in Him have eternal life today. Eternal life doesn’t begin when we die physically; it begins when we believe spiritually in Christ (John 17:3). It has been well said, “Until we’re ready to die, we’re not ready to live.” Make sure you are living eternally today through faith in Christ. “Those who have welcomed Christ may welcome death. “ Matthew Henry
THE DEATH OF DEATH Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him. Romans 6:8 Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:54-58 54 So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” 55 “O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?” 56 The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. COMMENTS: If we are born once, we will die twice. If we are born twice, we will only die once. What does this mean? Well, if we are born again (born twice), we are forgiven and spared from God’s judgment (the second death). John Owen, a Puritan theologian in 17th century England, wrote a book “The Death of Death in the Death of Christ”. This book deals with the profound impact of Easter on the eternal future of the believer – those who accept Christ’s offer of
forgiveness and redemption that His death on the Cross bought. To refuse or put off accepting such a precious gift exposes us to and put us at risk of God’s judgment and outside the protection provided by His sacrifice. Owen likely was inspired to this title by Paul (I Corinthians 15:54 “Death is swallowed up in victory”. “O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?” (1 Corinthians 15:55). When Christ died, death was the victor. But then came the Resurrection three days later and death was defeated! We can shout with Paul, “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory [over death] through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57). The Resurrection of Jesus is why those who believe in Him should never fear death. The Resurrection of Jesus took the “sting” (the fear) out of death. Give thanks to God today that there is eternal victory even in the face of physical death for those who belong to Christ. “There is a resurrection after death. Let this never be forgotten.” J. C. Ryle

DAY 14 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN FIGHT OR FLIGHT Should such a man as I flee? Nehemiah 6:11 Reading: Nehemiah 6:1-14 6 Now it happened when Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem the Arab, and the rest of our enemies heard that I had rebuilt the wall, and that there were no breaks left in it (though at that time I had not hung the doors in the gates), 2 that Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying, “Come, let us meet together among the villages in the plain of Ono.” But they thought to do me harm. 3 So I sent messengers to them, saying, “I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down. Why should the work cease while I leave it and go down to you?” 4 But they sent me this message four times, and I answered them in the same manner.
5 Then Sanballat sent his servant to me as before, the fifth time, with an open letter in his hand. 6 In it was written: It is reported among the nations, and Geshem says, that you and the Jews plan to rebel; therefore, according to these rumors, you are rebuilding the wall, that you may be their king. 7 And you have also appointed prophets to proclaim concerning you at Jerusalem, saying, “There is a king in Judah!” Now these matters will be reported to the king. So come, therefore, and let us consult together. 8 Then I sent to him, saying, “No such things as you say are being done, but you invent them in your own heart.” 9 For they all were trying to make us afraid, saying, “Their hands will be weakened in the work, and it will not be done.” Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands. 10 Afterward I came to the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah, the son of Mehetabel, who was a secret informer; and he said, “Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple, and let us close the doors of the temple, for they are coming to kill you; indeed, at night they will come to kill you.” 11 And I said, “Should such a man as I flee? And who is there such as I who would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go in!” 12 Then I perceived that God had not sent him at all, but that he pronounced this prophecy against me because Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him. 13 For this reason he was hired, that I should be afraid and act that way and sin, so that they might have cause for an evil report, that they might reproach me. 14 My God, remember Tobiah and Sanballat, according to these their works, and the prophetess Noadiah and the rest of the prophets who would have made me afraid. COMMENTS: Nehemiah was given the impossible task of rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls in the midst of waring groups of people bent on stopping him. Nehemiah’s
workers succeeded in rebuilding the wall by having a sword in one hand and building tools in the other. But God was with Nehemiah and gave him discernment as well as courage. He not only was able to see through the trickery of attempts to pull him from his work but pull him away from the protection of his faithful workers and the protection God had put around them all. The only work on the wall remaining was to mount the gate doors and them city and wall could be defended by fewer people and temple and city could be fully rebuilt. Nehemiah had the approval of the Medo-Persian king but not of the rulers of the local tribes. But even more than the king’s approval, Nehemiah had God’s approval and as long as he acted in God’s Will, Nehemiah would continue to enjoy God’s protection no matter the odds or force being gathered against him. The Israelites had been in bondage to Babylon and new Persia for over 70 years and now were about to gain back their land and homes, but not before facing a final test to prove they had repented of the sin of rebellion that caused them to fall prey to Babylon’s invading forces many years before. Nehemiah and they had heard stories of Babylon’s invasion from their parents and grandparents but also had God’s word to tell them why they became slaves to them and the sin that made them vulnerable – the same sin that now they were tempted to fall prey to again. Nehemiah was a great leader because He chose to only listen to God’s voice speaking to Him and conveyed great passion and determination to do so on to his people. What Nehemiah was trying to do was tense and dangerous. He had returned to Jerusalem to lead the fledging Jewish community in rebuilding their city walls and creating a stronger presence. The territorial officials opposed this project, and they were determined to stop it even if they had to murder Nehemiah. They accused him, ridiculed him, and sought to intimidate him. Finally, Nehemiah received a message telling him to flee for there was a plot afoot to kill him that very evening.
“Should such a man as I flee?” Nehemiah said, as he stood his ground. What did Nehemiah mean by that phrase? Did he mean, Such a strong man… or such a brave man… or such a well-protected man? No. He meant, “Should such a man who is doing God’s work, living in His will, standing on His promises, and guarded by His grace flee?” Nehemiah’s boldness didn’t come from his own resources. He knew his God—and the people who know their God will fight, not flee. Oh my soul, put on Christ, and put off fear: put up prayer, and put down dread. From whom should such a man as I flee? Of whom should I be afraid? William Mason
ALWAYS JUST As for the Almighty, we cannot find Him; He is excellent in power, in judgment and abundant justice; He does not oppress. Job 37:23 Recommended Reading: Genesis 18:25 25 Far be it from You to do such a thing as this, to slay the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous should be as the wicked; far be it from You! Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?” COMMENTS: Job is considered one of the oldest, if not the oldest, Old Testaments books in our bible. Not oldest w.r.t. to time when Job lived but oldest when written down and preserved. Job helps us understand the mind of God a bit better and His perspective. Job didn’t understand until later why he had to suffer one tragedy after another, nor why God permitted that suffering. He couldn’t recall a sin that motivated such suffering, in spite of what Job’s friends accused him of. Job had a close enough and time proven relationship with God sufficient to trust God completely. Enough not to become angry when he lost all his livestock and home and all 10 of his children and all of his worker – servants save one. Then to lose his health with painful sores. All without a word of encouragement or explanation from God. All he had was accusations of his friends.
Job felt he was unjustly accused and likely felt so from God because at the end of his time of suffering his grief and pain began to overwhelm him. But instead of God encouraging him, God reminded him of God’s perspective and might. He reminded Job how vast His domain and power and wisdom and knowledge was. How vast His power and influence was, so Job could trust the outcome of his suffering would come. God did stretch Job’s faith and endurance to its limits, but not beyond. God then restored Job’s health and riches and even replaced his children. God didn’t restore his dead children, but gave Job assurance his dead children were safe and he would one day be with them again. No, life is not fair from our perspective, but God isn’t fair either and we need to be glad He isn’t. God isn’t fair but He is merciful and longsuffering. If He was fair and just without mercy, we would all be dead and facing judgment. God’s longsuffering resulted in Him waiting for us to accept His offer of redemption and eternal life. He is still waiting for others to come, but scripture warns us the time of waiting is not eternal. One day soon, His judgment will begin and then His justice will come upon all those who refused His mercy or put it off too long. If God was only just, He would only need to offer redemption one but since His justice is delayed as long as possible, His mercy is offered countless times to one and all. Job, and we through his story in scripture, ultimately discover that justice and righteousness is the issue, not fairness is not the issue. Was it fair for Job’s family and livelihood to be destroyed for seemingly no reason? Not on the surface. But beneath the surface (which Job didn’t see until the end of his deep dive into God’s character), God was being just in His judgments and His use of power. It was more important for Job to know God than to have his life of smooth sailing be undisturbed. At the beginning of Job’s saga, he was angry with God for being unfair. By the end, He was worshiping God as the all-powerful Creator and Judge of all things (Job 42:1-6). Here is the takeaway from Job: God’s ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). But even when we don’t understand His ways, we can trust in His character. “There is nothing that I have done that can stand the touchstone of God’s justice.” John Bunyan

DAY 15 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN
THE RIGHT KIND OF FEAR Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him. Psalm 33:8 Reading: Isaiah 33:6 6 Wisdom and knowledge will be the stability of your times, And the strength of salvation; The fear of the LORD is His treasure. Fear within certain limits or boundaries can be good. Some fear of heights or snakes or wild animals can be paralyzing and cause us to make irrational decisions that can prevent us from making wise choices, but some fear can sharpen our awareness of the dangers and risks. Such a fear towards sin and the temptations satan tries to lay on us has the potential of motivating us to “flee temptations” before they take hold of our minds and souls. Fear of God is not talking about terror of His power and ability but deep respect of Him and His deeds. But also a fear of judgment He warns of to those who do not receive His redemptive forgiveness. Luke 11:52 “Woe to you lawyers! For you have taken away the key of knowledge” is Jesus’ word to the scribes and Pharisees in the Temple of Jerusalem. The key of knowledge is not specifically identified but a clue is found in Isaiah 33:6 “Wisdom and knowledge will be the stability of your times, and the strength of salvation; the fear of the Lord is His treasure.” A newer NIV translation is “The fear of the Lord is the key of of wisdom and knowledge.” So, the fear of the Lord is a key to gaining wisdom and knowledge about God and living rightly with Him. This is supported in the old testament (Psalm 111:10, Proverbs 1:7/2:5/9:10/14:26-27/19:23. Proverbs 23:17even says “zealous for the fear of the Lord all the day”. Characteristics of “fear of the Lord” is: honor,
reverence, awe, submission, obedience, but not a fear of terror but a fear from respect with love and gratitude. “The fear of the Lord is not just the end of wisdom but its beginning.” Edmund P. Clowney
LEARNING TO FEAR GOD Come, you children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. Psalm 34:11 Recommended Reading: Deuteronomy 31:12-13 12 Gather the people together, men and women and little ones, and the stranger who is within your gates, that they may hear and that they may learn to fear the LORD your God and carefully observe all the words of this law, 13 and that their children, who have not known it, may hear and learn to fear the LORD your God as long as you live in the land which you cross the Jordan to possess.” COMENTS: The fear of the Lord involves being aware of His abiding presence and influence in our lives and in our world and universe all around us. To begin to grasp just how involved God is and the awesome power He has and uses all the time helps us begin to develop a love and trust and reliance on Him. But the ultimate power and control He demonstrates also makes us aware of how much we are at His mercy and completely exposed and vulnerable to Him, which naturally causes us to fear Him. That fear is not a fear of terror but a fear of love and respect from knowing Him. Formal education varies for each of us. For most it involves up to 12 years of undergraduate studies. For some it then includes college or trade school training to gain knowledge and skills necessary for a desired field of employment. For some, formal education then includes post graduate studies for a master’s or even doctorate degree. But education is not complete or sufficient without the instruction of experience. Christian experience as we learn from our study and fellowship with God, our ability to live and conduct ourselves in a Christ-like manner is stretched and strengthened and duration. Sustaining a Christ-like conduct in actions and words and even thoughts is an impossible goal but one
that can certainly achieve regular and even daily improvements as we strive towards as we walk and fellowship with Christ and allow His Holy Spirit guide and council and strengthen and guard us. Yet, in doing so we may not notice or recognize the importance and value of maintaining a genuine and healthy fear of God too. We recognize God as a true friend and counselor but forget that He is also Almighty God – Creator of the Universe and all that entails and includes. There is no-one more powerful nor greater than He and no-one ever will. Lucifer thought enough of himself to believe himself to be equal to God even though a creation. His lies have deceived even himself, but one day soon he will discover God’s judgment and authority will not be delayed forever. Then even he will be forced to bow and submit to God’s Will and Authority and Commands. So will we either by free will or by force. Oh how much better it will be for us if we do so now before God’s judgment instead of waiting until it will be too late to repent. His delay is not due to weakness but do to passion for each of us to not miss out. The offer of forgiveness and redemption is open to all who will receive it, but most either refuse or postpone making that choice too long. Easter is quickly approaching and with it a perfect time to accept Christ or to return to Him. He is still patiently waiting. Citizens of Israel were expected to be taught how to fear the Lord—how to honor Him, trust Him, love Him, worship Him, and more. And the main vehicle for that learning was the Word of God—the words of His law (Deuteronomy 31:12-13). When you read and study your Bible, think of it as learning to fear the Lord—a curriculum that lasts a lifetime. “Let us learn to trust [God] for who He is.” Elisabeth Elliot
FEAR NOT I will help you.
”Isaiah 41:13
Reading: Psalm 27:1-5 The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?2When the wicked came
against me to eat up my flesh, my enemies and foes, they stumbled and fell.3Though an army may encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; Though war may rise against me, in this I will be confident. 4One thing I have desired of the LORD, that will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD All the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in His temple.5For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; In the secret place of His Tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock.
COMMENTS: There are over 300 instances in the Bible of commands to “Fear Not”. Some of them are in the Old Testament like Isaiah 41:10,13; Psalm 37:1; Psalm 23:4; and some in the New Testament like Matthew 24:27; Philippians 4:6; Matthew 6:25; which include words like fret or worry to describe fear of evil. Psalm 23:4 specifically commands us not to fear evil. Instead God instructs us to only fear Him, for only He has control of our eternal future. Proverbs 9:10 tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Wisdom in seeing God’s council and instruction and commands are always true and best because they reflect God’s love and faithfulness as well as God’s infinite wisdom – knowledge – experience – discernment. The source of the evil we fear is from satan, for the fear that we have either fear of harm or danger. But then again, when we do evil, fear come in the form of fear of getting caught or exposed or punished. But over time satan not only makes temptations harder to resist but numbs the conscience that deters us from sin. Satan even tries to convince us that evil is good and good is evil. So how can we have a love and viable relationship with God while fearing Him? It would seem fear would come from guilt for sin. Fear comes from being vulnerable or powerless to a greater force. So why shouldn’t we fear satan more than God since God loves and desires good for us while satan only desires evil and death? I do believe the fear the Bible tells us to not do relates to the paralyzing fear of evil and dangers satan puts in our path while fearing God involves respecting His power over us. Fear of our parents is not intended to live in terror of harm and hurt they physically are able to do, but fear of just punishment they may do in order to deter sinful and harmful behavior. Yet, a far more powerful deterrent to sin and rebellions against God’s commands is true towards God as well as those we love. Sin brings harm to the innocent too, include includes bringing sadness to God. To break God’s heart by sinning will deter us from sinning because love motives to bring joy and encouragement to those we love and not pain and grief. So, the closer to Christ we grow, the more like Him we desire to be and the more we desire to please and obey Him. Likewise, the more like Him we are, the more we see His perfection and realize how far from perfect we still are. Yet, He provides His Holy Spirit to guide and encourage and strengthen and lighten our path so we can and will turn from remaining imperfect and sinful thoughts and habits and conduct and conversation going forward. When He provides forgiveness for our sins, paid for on the Cross and activated when we accepted His forgiveness, that forgiveness continues as we grow in our faith.
“We cannot go where God is not. Look over your shoulder; that’s God following you. Look into the storm; that’s Christ coming toward you.” Max Lucado

DAY 16 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN
FIGHT OR RUN – A SHEPHERD BOY CHOOSES You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel. 1 Samuel 17:45 Reading: John 7:37-39 37 On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. 38 He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” 39 But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. COMMENTS: The story of David and Goliath is a story known by every student of the Bible. It is amazing that David had enough faith and courage to face a skilled warrior let alone one 9 feet tall. No wonder ten of the 12 spies Moses sent into the promised land were too afraid to enter. But if they would have had the faith of David, their future would have been much different and better and 40 years wondering in the desert. David, even though a boy, possessed all the tools he needed to defeat Goliath. The most important tool was faith. Faith built while he learned and gained skills defending his flock of sheep from predators. The next was experience in acting on that faith. His sling shot skills were polished and formidable from practice and killing wild animals that would attempt to attack his flock. I wonder why fathers would put young sons in such a dangerous place instead of older sons. But then again, the responsibilities of being a shepherd were significant but the job commanded little status and respect in those days. That is probably why the job defaulted to those who couldn’t find work anywhere else and to the younger sons.
God gives us many scripture examples of how His perspective is different than ours. He holds the shepherd at a high status and exampled that by identifying Himself as the “Good Shepherd” and honored the value that good shepherds put on each sheep and puts himself in dangers defending them. David was a very good shepherd and his years doing that job gave him the skilled he needed to defeat Goliath with his sling. David had 5 stones but Goliath had 4 brothers who might have come to help Goliath. By Goliath was too proud to ask for help to defeat a small weak boy. But armed with his skills and his trust and great faith in God, Goliath was no match and am sure he and his brothers together wouldn’t have either. God made sure the stone went to the intended target. The stone probably didn’t kill Goliath but rendered him unconscious long enough for David to kill Goliath with his own sword. Well, David was the same boy Samuel anointed as the next king and the same boy who later hid from King Saul and took refuge instead of facing King Saul and his army like he did years before facing Goliath. Times of weakness and doubt come to everyone. That is why it is so important to sustain daily fellowship in prayer and study and relationships with other believers as well as with God so we will be accountable and strengthened when weak and vulnerable, as we all are at times. OK, running isn’t always showing weakness, but strength when God directly. Paul instructed Timothy to flee youthful lusts. Exposing ourselves to temptations and dangers is foolish. “Snake handling” churches expose followers to poisonous snakes and by so doing needless dangers in an attempt to demonstrate their faith. Faith and courage in midst of unavoidable dangers at God’s direction is one thing but seeking out dangers or artificially creating dangers are really tempting God. It was the Holy Spirit in David’s heart that gave him the wisdom to fight rather than to flee. How greatly we need the same anointing! As Christians, we have the Spirit living within us. Let’s ask for a fresh empowering by our indwelling Spirit
for every giant we face. We should never assume we know God’s Will without seeking His instruction and council first. Our ideas and will and insights are so far below and different from God. So we shouldn’t presume to know God’s Will no matter how many years we have followed Him. He doesn’t change but as we grow in our faith, we discover and understand a bit more of His character and Will. But He will never contradict His Word or the instruction He gives in His Word. AMEN? AMEN! “If we are ever to do anything for God and for his Church, we must be anointed with holy oil…. You cannot do David’s work if you have not David’s anointing.” Charles Spurgeon

DAY 17 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN
WHEN GOD IS DETERMINED Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; whom God raised up. Acts 2:23-24 Reading: Acts 2:22-39 22 “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know— 23 Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; 24 whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it. 25 For David says concerning Him: ‘I foresaw the LORD always before my face, For He is at my right hand, that I may not be shaken.26 Therefore my heart rejoiced, and my tongue was glad; Moreover, my flesh also will rest in hope.27 For You will not leave my soul in Hades, nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption.28 You have made known to me the ways of life; You will make me full of joy in Your presence.’
29 “Men and brethren, let me speak freely to you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. 30 Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that of the fruit of his body, according to the flesh, He would raise up the Christ to sit on his throne, 31 he, foreseeing this,
spoke concerning the resurrection of the Christ, that His soul was not left in Hades, nor did His flesh see corruption. 32 This Jesus God has raised up; of which we are all witnesses. 33 Therefore being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He poured out this which you now see and hear. 34 “For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he says himself: ‘The LORD said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand,35 Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.”’ 36 “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.” 37 Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” 38 Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.” COMMENTS: That mean old devil is determined to destroy anything and everything God holds precious of His creation. At the top of that list is every human. Satan failed at stopping God’s plan of redemption that Christ completed on the Cross and resurrection. That plan satisfied the Father’s requirement of payment of sin while still allowing each human to either reject or accept that plan for his or her own redemption. Satan believes he succeeds with every human who yields to his deceptive temptations, including shaming or silencing the witness and testimony of Christian organizations and individuals. Such has been true in every generation, but persecution of Christians is getting worse, which we can expect as Christ’s return and foretold time of tribulation approaches. Well, persecution was terrible during the peak of Roman Empire domination. But God made satan’s mischief a way of launching and growing His church. The roads built by Rome to help its army conquer more land also made it easier for Christians to flee and move and spread God’s good news.
There’s no word higher, greater, or possessing more authority than that of sovereign. Notice the last five letters: REIGN. The prefix, so, means “super” or “above all.” In his Pentecostal sermon in Acts 2, Peter stressed the sovereignty of God in matters related to the crucifixion of Christ. The Jewish leaders weren’t in control of the events. Pontius Pilate wasn’t the determining power. The Roman soldiers weren’t in charge. None of the civil or religious powers wrecked the plan of Almighty God. Jesus was delivered to death “by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God.” Notice the power of the word determined. The death of Christ was a determination made in heaven in order to provide the world with forgiveness of sin and eternal life. From eternity past, our Heavenly Father determined to love you, to save you, and to give you an eternal inheritance at the cost of the blood of His Son, whom He then raised from the dead. Nothing is outside of God’s determined sovereign rule, and that should make us feel very secure! Never forget, God’s side is the winning side and satan’s side is doomed to failure. “Behind Calvary’s cross is the throne of heaven.” James Stewart
SALVATION ONLY BY JESUS BLOOD Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the [heavenly] Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption. Hebrews 9:12 Reading: Ephesians 2:12-13 12 that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. COMMENTS: Redemption has always been available but includes a process. That process for David, for example, included admitting sin and turning from that sin and seeking and asking for God’s forgiveness. An animal sacrifice was required as an outward act of obedience and sacrifice to pay for and confirm sincerity of repentance.
God’s laws and instruction related to animal sacrifice was clear but not complete. Completion came when the perfect sacrifice was done, Jesus dying on that Roman cross. You and I don’t know what it was like to live under the “old covenant” which required animal sacrifice for forgiveness. We have evidence of a few who enjoyed intimate fellowship with God. They stood out above the crowd because of their obedience and God’s influence on their lives. I’m sure there were many other examples we don’t know about because they are not recorded in scripture, but just as profound and wonderful. Those stories and how their impact rippled down through the centuries changing history and lives for good will be shared and discovered by us in heaven. What joy it will be to learn those stories too and what joy they will inspire to praise and worship our Lord along with those before and after us too. Christianity has been called a ghastly religion because of its emphasis on the shedding of blood. Indeed, the writer to the Hebrews says, “Without shedding of blood there is no remission [of sins]” (Hebrews 9:22). Here’s where our theology takes a serious turn. The image of blood is no ghastlier than what it corresponds to: the ghastliness of sin. We forget, at times, just how serious sin is in the face of a perfectly holy God. It was God’s plan to enjoy fellowship with His creation for eternity, and He ultimately will. But when man sinned—a ghastly offense in the sight of our holy God—it required a correspondingly serious solution. A perfectly sinless Man had to die—that’s what “shedding of blood” means—for a perfectly sinful mankind. So Jesus shed His blood instead of God shedding ours. And in doing so, He “obtained eternal redemption” (Hebrews 9:12). Contemplate today what God did to ensure eternal fellowship with us. He allowed His Own Son to die that we might live. GOD HAS A WONDERFUL WAY OF TURNING SINFUL “DEADENDS” INTO DETOURS TO REDEMPTION AND ETERNAL LIFE AND THEN REDEEMING LOST
OR WASTED TIME THOSE DETOURS AND DEAD ENDS CAUSED! AMEN? AMEN!! “Bearing shame and scoffing rude, in my place condemned He stood; sealed my pardon with His blood. Hallelujah! What a Savior!” Philip P. Bliss, “Hallelujah, What a Savior!”

DAY 18 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN FINDING CALMNESS FROM GOD Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. John 14:27 Reading: Psalm 89:1-9 89 I will sing of the mercies of the LORD forever; With my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations.2 For I have said, “Mercy shall be built up forever; Your faithfulness You shall establish in the very heavens.” 3 “I have made a covenant with My chosen, I have sworn to My servant David:4 ‘Your seed I will establish forever, and build up your throne to all generations.’” Selah 5 And the heavens will praise Your wonders, O LORD; Your faithfulness also in the assembly of the saints.6 For who in the heavens can be compared to the LORD? Who among the sons of the mighty can be likened to the LORD?7 God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints. And to be held in reverence by all those around Him.8 O LORD God of hosts, Who is mighty like You, O LORD? Your faithfulness also surrounds You.9 You rule the raging of the sea; When its waves rise, You still them. COMMENTS: At great cost and work, God has provided a clear and open source and accessible way of discovering and enjoying a personal relationship with the One and Only Creator and sustainer of all creation. God’s Word gives us an accurate and details history of God’s relationship with those before us. He gives us His Holy Spirit to establish and sustain that same relationship with each one of us today, He gives us Christ as the sacrifice and redeem, the High Priest, our Advocate so God can see us clean and forgiven.
Pastor Franklin Logsdon told of an elderly friend who was rushed to the hospital for an emergency operation. The man’s son arrived just as the father was being wheeled into the operating room and asked, “How are you, Dad?” The father said simply, “Even though the storm is raging without, Son, there is always calmness when the Prince of Peace is in the vessel.” Recalling the incident, Pastor Logsdon later wrote, “The peace which our Savior gives is exclusive in its origin, for it is a peace which the world cannot give. It is exceptional in its character, for it is not what the world speaks about, fights and dies for…. No, it is something real, something restful, something refreshing.” You and I can know that same peace and certainty with the same confidence those before had because of Christ’s redeeming sacrifice and because of the hope and promises He gave for those before us, for us, and for those after us too. It is during times of crisis that hope becomes evident but that same hope is accessible to keep us anchored in His Grace and Love in times of peace too. The Bible says, “You rule the raging of the sea; when its waves rise, You still them” (Psalm 89:9). During difficult times we find strength in God’s faithfulness. During emergencies, we find strength when the Prince of Peace is captaining our lives. “As we pour out our bitterness, God pours in His peace.” F. B. Meyer LEAP OF FAITH “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6 Reading: Deuteronomy 31:1-8 31 Then Moses went and spoke these words to all Israel. 2 And he said to them: “I am one hundred and twenty years old today. I can no longer go out and come in. Also the LORD has said to me, ‘You shall not cross over this Jordan.’ 3 The LORD your God Himself crosses over before you; He will destroy these nations from before you, and you
shall dispossess them. Joshua himself crosses over before you, just as the LORD has said. 4 And the LORD will do to them as He did to Sihon and Og, the kings of the Amorites and their land, when He destroyed them. 5 The LORD will give them over to you, that you may do to them according to every commandment which I have commanded you. 6 Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” 7 Then Moses called Joshua and said to him in the sight of all Israel, “Be strong and of good courage, for you must go with this people to the land which the LORD has sworn to their fathers to give them, and you shall cause them to inherit it. 8 And the LORD, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” COMMENTS: There is much about God we cannot comprehend nor understand. Much we don’t know about Him nor know all the ways He reveals Himself and both exposes sin and provides opportunity for forgiveness and repentance to even those who don’t know nor have heard the gospel. But God also depends on those who have heard and repented to share that message so others can repent too. Rehab is one of those who heard of Israel’s God and miracles God did for them. She didn’t know and understand enough to seek and accept personal redemption but did understand enough to help the two spies escape and by doing so escaped death and judgment. What about all the others in Jericho who didn’t have that opportunity and died that day? Well, I’m sure there is more to the story than reported in scripture, so one day we will discover how God gave them and all, even those never heard the Gospel message, opportunity to make a choice of obedience that would have led them to redemption if they had taken it. What about Ruth and Orpha? Both were Naomi’s daughter’s in law but Ruth decided to go with Naomi, which put her on a path to a good husband but also a path and lineage to Christ and a path to forgiveness and eternal life. What about Orpha? We don’t know if the faith Naomi taught her became hers too or if she reverted back to the pagan gods of her family and community. By staying, she
could have been an evangelist to them or reverted back to their pagan ways. That was her choice. We too are given opportunities to choose Christ and follow the path to eternal life He offers or live in sin and disobedience that leads to eternal death and judgment. The stakes are high and impact of our choices affects and ripples through many other lives, affecting or influencing their choices and inclinations too. Last year, an apartment building in France caught fire, trapping two brothers, aged three and ten, several floors above the ground. A crowd gathered, and the boys had to jump into the arms of those far below them. The older boy dropped his little brother into the crowd while thick, black smoke billowed from the apartment. Then the ten-year-old hesitated. The crowd yelled for him to jump, and, gathering all his courage, he leaped into the air. Both boys were caught, and neither was harmed. Both or just the older could have died that day. The older boy made choices that saved his younger brother’s life and then a choice of hesitation that almost took his life. The impact of others encouraging him to jump also impacted his choice. We never know when we’ll have to exercise sudden courage. When we put ourselves in the ten-year-old’s shoes, we wonder whether we’d have the courage to leap off a burning ledge. But God gives us courage like He gives us grace—just when it’s needed. If you’re facing something frightening, take courage. “Be strong and of good courage.” Don’t be afraid, for the eternal God is your refuge and underneath are His everlasting arms. When your knees are knocking, it might help to kneel on them.

DAY 19 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN
THE RIGHT PATH TO HAPPINESS
He who heeds the word wisely will find good, and whoever trusts in the Lord, happy is he. Proverbs 16:20 Reading: Proverbs 16:18-21
18 Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.19 Better to be of a humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud. 20 He who heeds the word wisely will find good, and whoever trusts in the LORD, happy is he. 21 The wise in heart will be called prudent, And sweetness of the lips increases learning. COMMENTS: Pride is such a sinister and destructive sin. In God’s eyes it is the worst sin because of its power to deceive. Society looks on pride with a high level of acceptability and even encourages pride. But pride unbridled and unrestrained is responsible for opening doors to many other sins. Pride has inspired murder and hatred between individuals and between groups of people, even nations. Pride also builds a wall between God and each of us by hindering or preventing us from being open and seeking of God’s council and help. Pride was what sparked a heart of disobedience in Lucifer. Pride caused Lucifer to first inflate his own abilities and then question God’s. Pride resulted from the first temptation Lucifer gave and was directed to himself. When he yielded to that temptation, pride began to take root in his heart and set him on a path away from God and toward his own, a path to judgment and death. A path he has been tempting people in every generation to follow him to. A path most in every generation have followed him to. But a few in every generation have resisted Lucifer and turned to God for redemption. That plan of redemption began in Old Testament times through a sacrifice and at the cross was replaced by Christ, our ultimate and final sacrifice, on the cross – the altar of redemption. Even now God still loves Lucifer in spite of all the destruction he has done. He remembers Lucifer before his fall. He also knows the terrible judgment that awaits Lucifer and all his followers once day. He is not looking forward to that time of judgment but knows it is necessary. So judgment is coming, and likely soon. The only way we have of avoiding that judgment and enjoy God’s mercy and forgiveness purchased at the cross is to confess our sins and seek and accept Christ’s forgiveness purchased at the cross. Then to begin a life of seeking and following God’s will and direction.
In spite of how destructive Lucifer’s choice caused, God still said of him: “How you have fallen from heaven, morning star, son of the dawn! You have been cast down to the earth, you who once laid low the nations! 13 You said in your heart, “I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of Mount Zaphon.[b] 14 I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.” 15 But you are brought down to the realm of the dead, to the depths of the pit. Isaiah 14:12-15 COMMENTS: God has that same level of grief and compassion for each human but will execute the same judgment on each who refused to receive His forgiveness. The same judgment He will exercise on Lucifer and his demons one day. He is dreading that day because His love remains and He knows the pain and suffering those lost will suffer for eternity. God does not desire any to face His judgment and does not enjoy disciplining or even judging His creation. He delays such as long as can because He knows the pain and suffering such causes them, but still must do so in order to protect and save the rest of His creation. In contrast, we have many examples of how God helped and protected and brought a very good destination to those who walk life’s journey with Him obeying Him and being in and staying in relationship God faithfully and completely. Daniel and Joseph and Esther and Mary (mother of Jesus), Job, Noah, Enoch, Elijah, Jeremiah, Isaiah, …. The list goes on and on. None of them were protected from suffering but that suffering did have limits in intensity and duration. Job gives us clear evidence of the source and reason for suffering. I wonder about conversations satan and Jesus may be having about suffering and temptations that come my way especially some days. Trusting God is a tonic for the body, mind, and soul. The Bible doesn’t often use the word happy. The biblical writers preferred to write about joy. But Proverbs 16:20 doesn’t hesitate to tell us that trusting God brings happiness to our heart. It
enables us to cast our cares on Him, focus on His nearness, feed on His promises, anticipate His coming, and share His message. No matter what is happening around us, when we trust God, the destination is always very good – God’s best. “A key to enjoying the Christian life is connecting the dots between our happiness and God’s provision.” Randy Alcorn

DAY 20 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN
So, what have we discovered thus far?
God values you and me above all His creation. The sacrifice He made on Calvary was to buy and restore a relationship with us He lost when Adam and Eve yielded to satan’s temptation. Sin created a barrier of separation from God, but Calvary bought and restored that relationship enjoyed in Eden.
God shows us His Will and plan clearly on some things and a withhold on others. The things He withholds is not due to meanness but because we need to prepare to receive and the impact on others requires preparation of them too.
God is so worthy of our love but also of our trust. Will we trust Him enough to believe and depend on Him managing and following through on unrevealed plan as well as He has done and continues to do on revealed plan?
His unrevealed plan will unfold in the proper time in the future just as recorded history has revealed in the past how then unrevealed plan became revealed in time.
So what will mean the most to us in heaven? Relationships! Who will be with us there!
What will have little value to us? Accomplishments on earth and possessions and power and status and longevity on earth.
2020 has been an unforgettable year for all of us. Even within our Pleasantville Family Camp family we have lost beloved individuals who were such an integral part of camp. People who demonstrated and shared God’s love and compassion and served us so well that we never imagined camp without them. But God is reminding us that this world is not our final home and life is so fragile and fleeting.
How many more will go to their eternal home in the months remaining in 2021, which is passing so quickly? These are part of God’s unrevealed but to be revealed plan in His time. What was unrevealed a year ago is now revealed today and so will be a year from now that is unknown today.
BUT GOD KNOWS AND IS IN FULL CONTROL OF WHAT IS REVEALED AND WHAT IS NOT, AT LEAST FOR NOW! BUT HE IS SO FAITHFUL AND DEPENDABLE AND TRUST WORTHY. WE NEED NOT FEAR OR WORRY ABOUT TOMORROW OR EVEN ABOUT TODAY. HISTORY PROVES TO US HE IS FAITHFUL AND ALWAYS WILL BE, BUT WE NEED TO GROW IN OUR OBEDIENCE AND FAITHFULNESS TO HIM!
GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN WILL BE JUST AS GLORIOUS AND WONDERFUL TOMORROW AS IT WAS AS IT UNFOLDED IN ANCIENT TIMES AND AS IT UNFOLDS TODAY. HARDSHIPS AND GRIEF AND TRAGEDY AND EVEN DISASTERS ARE NOT OUT OF GOD’S CONTROL OR WILL. THEY MAY NOT BE CAUSED BY HIM BUT WILL BE USED BY HIM IN FULFILLING HIS “GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN”. THAT WE CAN BE SURE OF AND DEPEND ON.
ONE FINAL COMMENT AND OBSERVATION. REVELATION 1:9-4:11
9 I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. 10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, 11 Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, what thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. 12 And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; 13 And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. 14 His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; 15 And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. 16 And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp two-edged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.
17 And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: 18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. 19 Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; 20 The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches. 2 Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; 2 I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: 3 And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name’s sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. 4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. 5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. 6 But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitanes, which I also hate. 7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God. 8 And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; 9 I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. 10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.
11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death. 12 And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; 13 I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan’s seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. 14 But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. 15 So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate. 16 Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. 17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it. 18 And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; 19 I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. 20 Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. 21 And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. 22 Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. 23 And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.
24 But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. 25 But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. 26 And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: 27 And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. 28 And I will give him the morning star. 29 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. 3 And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. 2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. 3 Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. 4 Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. 5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. 6 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. 7 And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; 8 I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.
9 Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. 10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. 11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. 12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. 13 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. 14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; 15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. 16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. 17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: 18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. 20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. 21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. 22 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
4 After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter. 2 And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne. 3 And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald. 4 And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold. 5 And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God. 6 And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind. 7 And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle. 8 And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, LORD God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come. 9 And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever, 10 The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, 11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. COMMENTS: I understand Bishop Adams will not only be speaking on “God’s Unfolding Plan”, but also the 7 candlesticks – 7 churches identified in above scripture in Revelation. Instead of attempting to discuss each, I am choosing to include here so you, like me, can read and prayerfully seek God’s insights and wait to hear insights Bishop Adams has received to share with us. I’m am so looking forward to camp, but realize God has much work planning for each of us as He works to make us more like Christ. My prayer is for a safe camp for all but even more, a camp where we all experience and encounter the life changing Holy
Spirit Who even now is working hard preparing us to receive from Him. AMEN? AMEN!

DAY 21 GOD’S GLORIOUS UNFOLDING PLAN
We have completed our 21-day study prior to Family Camp. Before we know it, camp will also become history and stored into our memories too. As we experience camp again, we must do so without some dear friends and faithful campers this year, reminded that our lives are so fragile and short here on earth. When we are young, life seem eternal and we don’t understand grandparents saying how short the days are and how quickly the years pass. But when we reach their years, we discover just how right they were.
Likewise, we discover their wisdom was far greater than we thought or admitted during our youth. In fact, so much of their council and advice we wish we had followed and avoided the dead ends and consequences foolish choices brought.
Well, GOD DOES CHANGE DEAD ENDS INTO DETOURS BACK TO THE RIGHT PATH AND THEN REDEEM LOST TIME! Then again, God
often requires we turn around and make the humbling journey back to our starting point in order to compel and force us to give Him our full attention to obedience along with making a wiser choice.
But consequences of poor choices can and do linger for years and some consequences may not be removed and scars healed until heaven.
Far better is to follow God’s council and Holy Spirit’s lead than to follow another’s and repent and come back later. But, repenting and making a better choice is infinitely better than continuing down a wrong path, a path outside obedience to God, who made and cares for us.
Discovering and following God’s Will includes clear revealed choices and goals and blessings God reveals to us by the Holy Spirit and sometimes supported by wise council of faithful family and church but always supported by His Word.
However, God’s Will also includes secret choices and goals and blessings not fully revealed but comes with doors and choices God asks us to make without knowing where that choice leads. It is then our faith and trust in Him needs to take over. The promises and blessings, God promises, are just as sure but the opportunity of growth in faith and trust and love for Him is much greater, as Job’s and Joseph’s example show and remind us. “NO MATTER HOW LONG YOU HAVE TRAVELED IN THE WRONG DIRECTION, YOU ALWAYS HAVE THE CHOICE TO TURN AROUND” or what my boss used to tells us “IT IS BETTER TO TURN FROM A BAD CHOICE NO MATTER HOW LONG YOU HAVE FOLLOWED IT”
God, the designer and builder of all that is, all that has been, and all that will be has an eternal plan and purpose for each and every one of us. He loves and desires fellowship with each and every one of us as though there were none others. He is also able to love and plan and fellowship with each of us individually and uniquely.
He knows our limits and short sightedness and understands completely, but asks us to trust Him. His wonderful – glorious unfolding is what He has planned for each of us if we trust Him enough to follow. To follow not only His Revealed Will but His Secret Will too.
I realize Deuteronomy 28-29 relates to the “old covenant” between God and Israel and Moses, but I invite you to read it and note Deut 29:29 “29 “The LORD our God has secrets known to no one. We are not accountable for them, but we and our children are accountable forever for all that he has revealed to us, so that we may obey all the terms of these instructions.”
However, keep in mind Christ told us He came to fulfill the Law and not abolish it (Matthew 5:17-18)
My point is, as we study and discover how God revealed and implemented His Will to those before us, we discovered that God didn’t reveal all the details, but simply each step of obedience required, withholding full revelation until later. BUT HE WILL WHEN HIS WILL IS ACCOMPLISHED AND WHEN MOST BENEFICIAL FOR US TOO. 1 In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. Hebrews 1:1-2 1 John 3:19-24 19 This is how we know that we belong to the truth and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence: 20 If our hearts condemn us, we know that God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. 21 Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God 22 and receive from him anything we ask, because we keep his commands and do what pleases him. 23 And this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us. 24 The one who keeps God’s commands lives in him, and he in them. And this is how we know that he lives in us: We know it by the Spirit he gave us. Again, my purpose is not to do an exhaustive study but to invite the Holy Spirit to work in and through each of us so His perfect Will and Plan (both revealed and secret) will be accomplished in and through us at Family Camp and afterwards, and not in spite of us. AMEN? AMEN!