Questions That the Religions of the World Ask ── VI) If the LORD God is all-knowing, why create humans, knowing most would go to “hell”?

by Leonard V Johnson

We pray and hope that this article will help you better understand this question that many have.

I have a new question for you here──If the LORD God is omniscient, why were human beings created, knowing that most would go to “a place of eternal torment and punishment”?

Well … A conversation I had recently with AI touches on this subject, “‘An Epiphany Concerning the Original Sin’.” You can also listen to this article HERE.

Will Everyone Be Offered Eternal Salvation?

As we proclaim unto the world──the LORD God has had a Master Plan… From the Beginning!

God’s living word teaches us that “God is love” – 1 John 4:8. That “Our God is the God of salvation” – Psalm 68:20. That “’ No one is good but One, that is, God’” – Mark 10:18. And, that there is no other than God, there is none like Him, “declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times things that are not yet done” – Isaiah 46:9-10.

In fact, this very question was the first question placed before me as I began this life-long journey of learning and discovery of God’s living word, “Stop and think! Would a Creator, having supreme intelligence, wisdom, and love, to think out, plan, design, and bring about all creation - this earth and all life upon it - have left human beings in ignorance of His purpose?”

The answer is a resounding and definite no.

Could this not be one of the major reasons why our very own Creator was sent to Earth? ──

“’ For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes [on] Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17) For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.’” – John 3:16-17.

“’ The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.’” – John 10:10.

Well… is the view that the LORD God had originally──from the beginning──planned to offer eternal salvation to every human being biblical? The answer is a definite yes. And it can be proven by and through God’s living words.

Sadly, however, the overall majority of people worldwide, who claim to believe what the Holy Bible says, have been taught that salvation will not be offered to all, and that most will have to suffer eternal torture and torment for not being saved in this age.

Yet… let us see and hear clearly what the Spirit has to say ──

“’ and all mankind shall see the salvation of God.’” – Luke 3:6, the Challoner-Rheims Version of the Catholic Bible.

“The Lord has bared his holy arm in the sight of all the nations; all the ends of the earth will behold the salvation of our God.” – Isaia 52:10, Confraternity – Douay Version of the Catholic Bible.

Both our Lord Jesus Christ and the Apostle Paul have called this coming age “the age to come” – Matthew 12:32; Mark 10:30; Luke 18:30; Hebrews 6:5. The Greek word is “aiōn,” meaning eternity, age (time period). It’s also known as “the times of restitution” ── in Greek, “apokatastasis,” meaning restoration. This Greek word is used in the Book of Acts 3:21, “Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began.” – KJV. Our mighty Lord and Savior’s government ── truly, the only real hope for world peace ── will be established upon the Earth!

We are told by our beloved Apostle Peter to always remember this one thing, that ──

“The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” – 2 Peter 3:9.

In the LORD God’s “age to come,” eternal salvation will be offered to all that has ever lived or will ever live! And as I had an epiphany concerning the “original sin” ── that had Adam not sinned, the original sin would not exist; however, his descendants, also having free will, would each need to decide for themselves whether to choose ‘the tree of life’ or ‘the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.’ (cf. Philippians 2:12).

We believe with all our heart, soul, and mind that God’s living word teaches us that all will ultimately be offered and given an opportunity for eternal salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, and will be forgiven their sins upon their repentance unto God. And “upon their repentance” is all throughout God’s living word ── cf.

“’ If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sins and heal their land.’” – 2 Chronicles 7:14.

The LORD God promises to forgive and heal UPON THEIR REPENTANCE.

There is no other name under the heavens “given among men by which we must be saved” – Acts 4:12.

“’ Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You, 2) as You have given Him authority over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him. 3) And THIS IS ETERNAL LIFE, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.’” – John 17:1, 2-3.

Pay close attention to the fact that our Lord Jesus Christ only speaks of two Gods here ── not “three in one.” (Be sure to read and study today, “Is God a Trinity?”).

Truly, truly, as the LORD lives, “every knee” shall come to bow before the LORD – cf. Romans 14:11; Isaiah 45:23.

Nearly everyone who has ever lived or will ever live (surely, 99.99% ── note Luke 15:4-6) will come to repent and accept our Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and will ultimately be gifted eternal life within the family of God – the kingdom of God! And… the few who absolutely refuse will not be given eternal torment and punishment but will rather be given ── eternal death (cf. Revelation 20:15; 21:8).

God’s living word does not teach anywhere that there is, in any version, some type of Dante’s Inferno that so many people believe is so ── within the crust of the Earth! God’s word does not teach blanketed universal salvation unto all ── but rather, the glorious gift and opportunity for eternal salvation will be offered to all, either in this age, or the age to come.

L O V E was the motivating factor for God the Father to send His only begotten Son to be victorious and to die a most horrible and excruciating death to be resurrected unto life ── so that the world would not be condemned but may be saved. It truly means that all could be saved (not that all will be saved). Yet, all ── even unto the most vile and evil of all peoples ── will have an opportunity to repent with all their heart, their soul, and mind unto the LORD God for their lawlessness, and will have an opportunity for eternal salvation! The LORD God’s Plan is not limited to only a select few “special ones” like so many religious groups teach ── God’s Master Plan includes all human beings that have ever been born or will be born.

Do you believe that our Lord Jesus died for the world or only a few?

“My mouth shall speak the praise of the LORD, And ALL FLESH shall bless His holy name Forever and ever.” – Psalm 145:21.

Here the Hebrew word for “all” is kōl, meaning all, everyone, everything, totality of a mass or collective. “A very common particle, occurring about 5400 times. Of these all but about 800 are in a genitive relation with the following word, signifying thus, ‘the whole of something.’ It is commonly translated ‘all’ if the following word is plural, and ‘every’ if the word is singular … It can also have a suffix attached to it: ‘the whole of it, all of it.’” 1

Our beloved Apostle Paul wrote, under divine inspiration ──

“For the LOVE OF CHRIST compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; 15) and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.” – 2 Corinthians 6:14-15.

Logically, for our Lord Jesus to have died for all, then all must have an opportunity for eternal salvation. And since the LORD God is indeed omniscient, they had a Plan from the beginning that nearly everyone who would live would have an opportunity to choose ── eternal salvation.

Again, our beloved Apostle Paul ──

“Therefore, as through one man’s offense judgment came to all men, resulting in [judgment], even so through one Man’s righteous act the free gift came TO ALL MEN, resulting in justification of life.” – Romans 5:18.

Indeed, Adam’s offense brought world judgment, but our Lord Jesus’ righteous sacrifice opened the door FOR EVERYONE ── yet each person must still receive that free gift through acceptance, repentance, and faith. Individual choices are crucial within the LORD God’s Plan… From the Beginning.

As mentioned earlier, the Apostle Peter, “REPENT therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing [restoration] may come from the presence of the Lord, 20) and that He may send JESUS CHRIST, who was preached to you before, … 21) … which God has spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began.” – Acts 3:19-20, 21.

And we find this to be true ── one of the first known holy prophets, Enoch, spoke of our Lord Jesus Christ, who was preached (cf. Genesis 5:18-24; Jude 14-15).

The vast majority of people have NEVER HEARD the True Gospel ── especially the truth concerning the kingdom of God. And, of those who have heard it ── those who had been awakened to God’s living truth from the 30s to the 60s were also exposed to some very serious doctrinal errors. Again, the vast majority of people have never heard the True Gospel of “the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence,” including the truth concerning God’s Master Plan of Salvation… From the Beginning.

The worship of an ancient Asherah Pole (AI-generated)

Note that the Prophet Isaiah ── prominently regarded as a Messianic prophet ── reveals to us that the LORD God has shut the eyes of idolaters, so that they cannot understand, yet also reveals that the LORD God is willing to blot out their transgressions upon repentance ──

“And the rest of it he makes into a god, His carved image. He falls down before it and worships it, Prays to it and says, ‘Deliver me, for you are my god!’ 18) They do not know nor understand; For He has shut their eyes, so that they cannot see, And their hearts, so that they cannot understand.

21) ‘Remember these, O Jacob, And Israel, for you are My servant; I have formed you, you are My servant; O Israel, you will not be forgotten by Me! 22) I have blotted out, like a thick cloud, your transgressions, And like a cloud, your sins. RETURN TO ME, FOR I HAVE REDEEMED YOU.’” – Isaiah 44:17-18, 21-22.

Now, will the LORD God condemn to eternal death those who worship false gods for something He has not let them properly understand yet? No, of course not. We challenge some pretty traditional views about this supposed hell and its eternal punishment.

The Apostle Paul, standing upon the Areopagus speaking to some Epicurean and Stoic philosophers (Acts 17:18-32) (AI-generated)

As the Apostle Paul stood upon the Areopagus in Athens, he said ──

“Therefore, since we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, something shaped by art and man’s devising. 30) Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but NOW commands all men everywhere to repent.” – Acts 17:29-30.

Ignorance of the Law is no excuse

Yes, the LORD God commands all men everywhere to repent (see: Luke 13:3, 5), But we are also told that, though the LORD God has allowed Satan the Devil to ‘blind all who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them’ (2 Corinthians 4:4), the Law of God is written (almost instinctively) upon men’s hearts ──

“’ If a person sins, and commits any of these things which are forbidden to be done by the commandments of the LORD, THOUGH HE DOES NOT KNOW IT, yet he is guilty and shall bear his iniquity.’” – Leviticus 5:17.

“’ And that servant who knew his master’s will, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. 48) But he WHO DID NOT KNOW, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For Everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.’” – Luke 12:47-48.

Our Apostle Paul also explains it this way ──

“For as many as have sinned WITHOUT law will also perish WITHOUT law, and as many as have sinned IN the law will be judged by the law 13) (for not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be justified; 14) for when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves, 15) who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them) 16) in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my [which is also our Lord’s] gospel.” – Romans 2:12-16.

The Apostle Paul ── divinely inspired ── is teaching about the LORD God’s impartial judgment and how both Jews and Gentiles are held to the same divine standard. He’s highlighting how this moral awareness isn’t a learned behavior, but something much deeper ── like a divine fingerprint on every person. Even when people claim moral relativism or say they don’t know right from wrong, their own conscience betrays them by feeling guilt or defending their actions. Conscience serves as this internal witness, constantly either accusing or defending our actions. Again, it’s like the LORD God having a moral fingerprint embedded in every person, making everyone accountable regardless of whether they’ve heard the Law or not.

This is what the Apostle Paul is addressing here ── those who sin WITHOUT the law will perish WITHOUT the law, but he also shows that the LORD God judges people according to the light they’ve received. Our Lord Jesus says, ‘Much is given, much is expected in return.’ The conscience still bears witness even without ever hearing the True Gospel, so there is still accountability, but God’s judgment takes into account what knowledge each person actually had access to. However, this moral law written upon the hearts of all men means that ignorance isn’t a valid defense before the LORD God.

And what he is saying in Acts 17:30 ── the era of ignorance and of overlooking such things as idolatry is done. Our Lord Jesus Christ’s glorious resurrection unto life changed everything, making repentance a worldwide command, not a suggestion.

Certainly, the LORD God knows that all men will not repent in this age, so the LORD has planned an ‘age to come.’

Now, the LORD God allowed the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to be destroyed for their wicked sins which were grave (Genesis 18:20; 19:24), the very same wicked sins that “those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God” – Galatians 5:19-21. Now, if what the Protestants teach and believe is correct, then all who were in Sodom and Gomorrah will be tortured and tormented in “a place of eternal torment and punishment.” Yet, it is not correct; notice the living words of our Savior ──

“’ But I say to you that it will be more tolerable in that Day [speaking of the Day of Judgment] for Sodom than for that city [that city that outright rejected His Gospel Message]. 13) Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14) But it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you. 15) And you, Capernaum, who are exalted to heaven, will be brought down to Hades [the grave].

16) He who hears you hears Me, he who rejects you rejects Me, and he who rejects Me rejects Him who sent Me.’” – Luke 10:8-16.

This passage is showing us our Lord Jesus sending out seventy disciples as messengers ahead of Him, giving them specific instructions for their mission. He is preparing them for both acceptance and rejection, emphasizing that they should carry nothing and stay in one house when accepted. In verse 12, our Lord Jesus makes a powerful point: He emphasizes that outright rejecting His Gospel Message carries heavier consequences than ancient Sodom will receive. Our Lord Jesus is distinguishing between different levels of responsibility based on knowledge. And we can connect this to what our Lord Jesus says in Luke 12: 47-48. Fewer stripes for those who didn’t know. Both are guilty, but there’s definitely a difference in the severity of judgment. This is the key principle that our Lord Jesus is laying out here──accountability scales with knowledge and opportunity.

Let us now turn to Ezekiel 18 ──

“’ For I have no pleasure in the death [the second death] of one who dies,’ says the Lord GOD. ‘Therefore TURN AND LIVE!’” – Ezekiel 18:32.

The LORD God clearly wants all men to live. Would the Lord GOD then have devised a Plan that would result in the overall majority of mankind going to “a place of eternal torment and punishment”?

Our LORD God certainly did not.

The Apostle Paul's inspired, uplifting, and comforting words ──

“For Christ has not entered the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into heaven [the Third Heaven] itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us; 25) not that He should offer Himself OFTEN, as the high priest [had entered] the Most Holy Place every year with blood of another── 26) He then would have had to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now, ONCE at the end of the ages, He has appeared TO PUT AWAY SIN BY THE SACRIFICE OF HIMSELF. 27) And as it is appointed for men to die [the first death] once, but afterward the judgment, 28) so Christ was offered ONCE to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time apart from sin, for salvation.” – Hebrews 9:24-28.

So, there is coming a time that whoever calls upon the Lord shall be saved ──

“’ And it shall come to pass That whoever calls on the name of the LORD Shall be saved.’” – Acts 2:21.

So, it was the Plan since the foundation of the world that the Son of God would be slain for many──not the few. Of course, the LORD God knew that Adam and Eve would sin ── they had, like their descendants have, freedom of choice; therefore, the LORD God has a Master Plan… From the Beginning! Also, and I want you to notice, that it was appointed for men to die once (a physical death), but then judgment. (Be sure to read and study, “Why Death?”).

Only a Few In This Present Evil Age

In this age ── and one can ask, “How many ages have there been since creation?” The standard historical or theological interpretation is six, which came from Alexander of Hippo (whom we at the Church of Jesus Christ Online Ministries do not believe that he ever was a saint of our glorious LORD God). God’s living word doesn’t actually mention how many ages there have been. But, in this age, only a few will truly be called by Father God, accept our Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, believe the gospel message, properly repent, be properly baptized, having hands laid upon them, and receive the glorious gift of the Holy Spirit──only a few, as our Lord Jesus speaks to us in the likes of Matthew 7:13-14 ──

“’ Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14) Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to [eternal] life, and THERE ARE FEW WHO FIND IT.’”

Our Lord and Savior Jesus came to save more than just a few. And He will in the ‘age to come,’ since only a few were prophesied to remain faithful in this age.

Our Lord Jesus Christ teaches us (which is consistent with Ezekiel 37:9; Daniel 7:2 - they all use this directional language symbolically rather than pointing to specific geographic regions) that there are those last who will be first, and there are first who will be last──in the kingdom of God. I speak more concerning this in the sermon “Least in the Kingdom.”

The Apostle Paul before the high priest Ananias, Governor Felix, and Tertullus in Caesarea. Acts 24:1-22 (AI-generated)

God’s living word speaks of two resurrections from the dead ──

“I have hope in God, which they themselves also accept [speaking of the Pharisees here], that there will be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just ① and the unjust ②.” – Acts 24:15.

“But now Christ is risen from the dead, and HAS BECOME the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. … 23) But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, AFTERWARD those who are Christ’s at His coming.” – 1 Corinthians 15:20, 23.

“Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed── 52) in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at THE LAST TRUMPET [the SEVENTH TRUMPET BLAST]. For the trumpet will sound, and the DEAD [IN CHRIST] will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” – 1 Corinthians 15:51-52.

“’ Most assuredly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God; and those who hear will live. … 28) Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice. 29) and come forth──those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, ①

And those who have done evil, to the resurrection of [judgment]. ②’” – John 5:25, 28-29.

“And I saw [in vision] thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the [life] of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. [Be sure to read and study the online booklet “Who or What is the BEAST That Rises Up Out of the Sea?” to learn just who is the final beast, and this mark]. And they lived and reigned with Christ [on the Earth] for a thousand years. 5) (But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished). This is the first resurrection.” – Revelation 20:4-5.

Verse 6 ── “Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, …”

The second death (see also Revelation 20:15; 21:8) is a permanent, eternal death.

We should not fear people who can kill the physical body but cannot kill our spirit. But rather, we should fear Him who can destroy both the spirit (and it cannot be truly destroyed but can be separated from God) and the physical body in Gehenna (Matthew 10:28). If the incorrigibly wicked, after their resurrection from the dead──having been gifted the opportunity to repent, to change, to seek the LORD God with all their heart, soul, and mind, and to accept our Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and to believe the True Gospel Message──refuse, then they will be “cast into the lake of fire” which is the second death.

So, to be clear: This second death is permanent. And I want to make this distinction ── When the Prophet Elijah stretched himself out THREE TIMES on a widowed woman’s son in Zarephath, and cried unto the LORD, ‘I pray, let this child’s life come back to him’ and he revived and lived again (1 Kings 17:17-22), or Lazarus of Bethany, whom our Lord Jesus loves, died, and our Lord Jesus raised him from the dead (John 11: 11-44), or even many of the saints who had fallen asleep, having their graves opened, and raised from the dead (Matthew 27:52), shows us that people can physically die, be resurrected, and then die again.

This being thrown into “the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death,” is not an eternal torture, torment, or writhing forever and ever. In Revelation 20:10, “forever and ever” is properly translated “into the ages of eternity.” It is a permanent death.

God’s living word DOES NOT speak of an eternal torment──but rather, those who outright refuse the LORD God after the second resurrection will simply be put out of their misery for their own good as well as for others who will accept the LORD God’s Way. □

Sources:

1 Harris L. R., Archer, L. Gleason, Jr., and Waltke K. Bruce. Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament, 1980, #985a, pg. 441.

Building the Character of a Ruler!

by Leonard V Johnson

Standing at the pinnacle of the United States of America is a person of strong CHARACTER. A man or woman that the citizens of our great nation believe has the “keys” that will make possible SUCCESS and GREAT LEADERSHIP! 

Throughout mankind’s history, countless men and women of great ability, intelligence, personality, and training never reached what one would call the pinnacle of success in life. 

Why?

Well, possibly because of timing, chance, varying circumstances, or God’s will. Or, and this is what we’re talking about today, they had a lack of any real CHARACTER!

Surely, you’ve heard of a woman who drives a city bus for a living, having been offered ── time and time again ── the position of dispatcher, allowing her to sit in an office behind a desk instead of driving all day up and down US19? Refusing to accept that higher position, all because she doesn’t like fluorescent bulbs, or she doesn’t want to be “playing” for the opposing team. Is it a lack of any real character? No. Sadly, she is selling herself short at job advancement, stemming from a lack of self-confidence, fear of change, and a lack of keeping her eyes on a clear career goal. 

What Is Your Ultimate Goal? 

As I was talking about in my latest Personal From… A Personal Encounter with a Socialist: It’s Essential to Have the Right Goal. Because any intelligent and thinking person surely wants to be a success in life. However, so many people have differing opinions on the definition of “success.” The Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary gives us the definition of success ──

suc▪cess \sək-‘ses\ n [L successus, fr. succedere] (1537) 1 obs : OUTCOME, RESULT 2 a : degree or measure of succeeding b : favorable or desired outcome; also : the attainment of wealth, favor, or eminence 3 : one that succeeds. 1

Yet so many people have come to the end of their life not truly feeling that they had reached their “favorable or desired outcome.” Perhaps, like most people, you have been taught that, when it comes to Christianity, you get your mind in gear, think sentimental and religious thoughts, go to a church on a Sunday, listen to the preacher read the Bible, hope to “get saved” because you’re “doing a commendable” thing, and that when you die you “go to heaven” and float on a white puffy cloud for all eternity. Maybe you are taught that there is really nothing else you have to do except “accept Christ.” Nothing religiously you have to accomplish except just “try and be the best person you can be.”

Nonsense!

The great and awesome God [the Elohim, the family of God ── which at this time consists of God our Father and God His Son and our Savior] says in your Holy Bible that true Christians are in training to be future LEADERS in God’s kingdom! We, brethren, are training to help CO-RULE this Earth with, and under the authority of, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!  

Our Lord Jesus said to His disciples, “’ And I bestow upon you a kingdom, just as My Father bestowed one upon Me, 30) that you may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.’” – Luke 22:29-30. 

In His parable of the pounds, our Lord Jesus teaches us that those who “overcome” the most──of course, our old human nature remains, and we continue to make decisions whether to yield to the works of the flesh, or to resist them by yielding to our new nature, GOD’S NATURE WITHIN US, led by the glorious Spirit of God ── we must use our strengths and our abilities and yield ourselves to God, we will be given a CO-RULERSHIP POSITION. Our Lord Jesus says to us, having overcome, “’ Well done, good servant; because you were faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities.’” – Luke 19:17. Others who grew and developed spiritually, having used their physical talents in God’s Way and according to His will, will be given authority over five cities, since they overcame only half as much. 

Our Lord Jesus promises us the greatest of good news ──

“’ And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations ── 27) ‘He shall rule them with a rod of iron; …’” – Revelation 2:26, 27. See also Revelation 5:10.

The person who “overcomes,” who DISCIPLINES THEMSELVES and DEVELOPS RIGHTEOUS CHARACTER, is the one whom the LORD God can use as an instrument under our Lord Jesus to help co-rule the Earth in His kingdom. Now, the LORD God can add mental ability and strength by and through the Holy Spirit. But Godly character cannot just be manufactured by fiat──it is something that we must be willing to develop now as FREE MORAL AGENTS under the LORD God. 

Here are seven “keys” to help you build the type of character needed to be the kind of RULER that the LORD God will use and bless. 

• I) Humility and Fear of God 

Let’s speak of today’s news ── Nicolás Maduro. The unrecognized President of Venezuela, whom some call the De facto president. He was (until the pre-dawn hours of 3 January 2026) the dictator of a vast drug trafficking operation and a narco-terrorist. He blatantly abused his power, using it to corrupt state institutions, turning them into tools for drug trafficking, which included selling diplomatic passports to the drug traffickers and facilitating drug flights under diplomatic cover. Amongst a whole host of evil and other vile things. In true dictator fashion, he is not a likable guy. And he certainly was not humble, nor did he fear God.

Another example is Joe Biden, Jr. Elected to the U.S. Senate in 1972, Biden was reelected in 1978, 1984, 1990, 1996, 2002, and 2008. Although he had been in politics for over 50 years, Biden, under his watch as Commander in Chief, allowed some ── and, of course, the numbers vary considerably ── a record net of 8.3 million illegal and unvetted immigrants into the US, which was tantamount to treason. His lust for ultimate power blinding his eyes to the moral way of political life. And so, he was “overthrown” ── our government is now in the hands of President Donald J. Trump!

Joe Biden, Jr., claiming to be a Catholic, certainly was not humble, nor did he fear God.

Both of these fallen rulers can be noted for their vanity and pride when they were in power. One preening across the floor, and one shuffling. They lacked any real humility or any real fear of the true God of the Holy Bible!

Indeed, to have a lasting, prosperous, and good leadership legacy, any ruler or leader MUST properly learn the lesson of humility. God’s living word says ──    

“When pride comes, then comes shame; But with the humble is wisdom.” – Proverbs 11:2.

“Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.” – Proverbs 16:18.

And just the opposite, God’s living word tells us ──   

“’ The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.’” – Proverbs 9:10.

A person who comes to have a deep awe and respect for the CREATOR OF ALL THINGS is beginning to acquire the basis for real wisdom and understanding. For that person will come to base all of their decisions, policies, and programs on THE ULTIMATE REALITY! 

As the LORD God says, to know the Holy One is understanding, and the ruler or leader will rightly base their thinking and their judgment upon God’s holy and righteous Law. And it’s God’s Law──summed up with the Ten Commandments. It will help keep you properly HUMBLED! As does the keeping and celebrating of the Day of Atonement! It certainly will help you stay focused on the fact that we are but minuscule compared to the vastness of the universe. It will certainly cause you to quit “playing God” and wake up to reality.

We Are to be a Servant 

Our Lord Jesus says to us, as He said then, and as He says now ──

“’ And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.’” – Matthew 23:12.

He showed us by His example that one who surrenders to the will of God, who humbles themselves and thinks of only being a servant to God and to our fellowman ── that person would be blessed, used as an instrument in the hands of the CREATOR OF ALL THINGS. 

The Apostle Paul wrote, under divine inspiration ──

“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6) who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7) but made Himself of no reputation [or, rather “emptied Himself”], taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.” – Philippians 2:5-7. 

Sadly, too few properly understand this tremendous and important example of the willingness of our Savior “emptying Himself” of His divine power and glory to die for all humanity. As we come ever-nearer to the end of this present evil age, all the kings of the earth, the great men, the rich men, the commanders of armies, the mighty men, every commoner, will come to know, grasp, and understand that because of their unwillingness to humble themselves before the LORD God, they will have to hide themselves in the caves and in the rocks of the mountains, crying out, ‘Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb!’ Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, has QUALIFIED not only as our High Priest but also as the glorious King of kings and Lord of lords, to rule over all nations! 

Brethren, even in these man-made societies, the LORD God’s living spiritual principles that we are to live by are in full operation. Those rulers and or leaders who yield and give in to vanity and pride soon “fall” into a mere footnote of world history. But those who rule morally will leave a good legacy.

• II) God’s Standard of Right & Wrong      

In 2013, Edward Snowden, an American-born former National Security Agency (NSA) intelligence contractor, became a turncoat. He came to reveal thousands of classified NSA documents to journalists concerning numerous global surveillance programs, many run by the NSA and the Five Eyes. Was he a Privacy Hero or a Dangerous Traitor? I often remind my wife that everyone must take a side. It’s a subject that goes to the very root core of American society and its foundation.

Was it “right” ── did Edward Snowden act from a sense of public good? And, even if he was legally culpable, was he ethically culpable? The Attorney General of the United States at the time, Eric Holder, did not find Snowden’s rationale convincing. Holder stated, “He broke the law. He caused harm to our national security, and I think that he has to be held accountable for his actions.” And this, personally, is my belief. To me, he is a traitor of the United States of America. 

Under US law, intelligence employees have their own system to report activity they believe violates the law or is unethical. Employees are instructed to report wrongdoing to Congress, or up their chain of command, to the Director of National Intelligence, or to their agency’s inspector general. 2  

God’s perspective on treachery presents DIRE WARNINGS about such behavior ──

“For it is not an enemy who reproaches me; Then I could bear it. Nor is it one who hates me who has exalted himself against me; then I could hide from him. 13) But it was you, a man my equal, My companion and my acquaintance.” – Psalm 55:12-13. 

“A talebearer reveals secrets, But he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter.” – Proverbs 11:13. 

What or who constitutes what is “right”? And what does the LORD God mean by “wrong”? 

The truth to these questions, of course, presents a major challenge to every one of this world’s societies! Modern “progressive” educators, psychologists, and even many a religious minister say that there is no absolute value in what is “right” and what is “wrong” ── that it is all subjective. Most teach that truth is subjective, based on personal beliefs, experiences, and emotions ── that one man’s truth might be another man’s untruth, lie, falsehood, or fallacy. Kind of like: one man’s garbage is another man’s treasure.

God’s Living Word is Specific ── Not Subjective

The CREATOR OF ALL THINGS says to us ──  

“There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.” – Proverbs 14:12.

Indeed. The way that “seems” right to our human reasoning leads to our second death.

All of mankind needs to learn that there is not a plethora of gods throughout the universe ── a god for this nation, and another for that nation ── but rather that there is a great GOD who has set the standard for what is “right” and what is “wrong.” And this great almighty GOD has not left it up to mankind to decide for themselves what is right, but has called ‘heaven and earth as witnesses today against us, that He has set before us life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life!’ – cf. Deuteronomy 30:19.

The LORD God has never ever said, “You can worship Me according to the dictates of your own conscience.” Or, “You can worship Me in the church of your own choosing.” Or, “All you have to do is be the best person you can be ── and you’ll make it!” 

So, what is the LORD God’s Way? What is God’s character? What is God’s love? 

“For this is the love of God, that we KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS. And His commandments are not burdensome.” – 1 John 5:3.

From the very first book of God’s living word to the last book, we see that God’s TEN COMMANDMENTS is a way of life. He has commanded His Law to be kept for mankind’s own good, to guide us in developing the very nature and character of God.

Truly, truly, if all mankind had God’s divine character, there would be no wars, no murders, no robberies, no lies, no disobedience to parents, no lust, vanity, or wrong pride. 

The LORD God’s definition of “right” is KEEPING HIS COMMANDMENTS! But, again, what does the LORD God mean by “wrong”? 

“Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and SIN IS LAWLESSNESS.” – 1 John 3:4.

That is what the LORD God means by “wrong.” 

We learn that righteousness is keeping His commandments ── summed up with the Ten Commandments. And that “wrong” is the breaking of that same eternal, immutable, immovable, and inexorable spiritual Law!

• III) Practice Wise & Impartial Judgment    

Any leader of men ── whether president, vice president, prime minister, mayor or governor, or king or queen ── will certainly be watched by their citizens or subjects as to their complete and whole system of justice, their impartiality in judgment. As in America, there appears to be two separate systems of justice in our country: One for the rich and one for the poor! Back in 1994, we all saw this firsthand with the O.J. Simpson trial. As The Nation wrote in 2024, “O.J. Simpson Proved That With Enough Money You Can Get Away With Murder. The accused killer won and lost in court depending on his bank account.” 3 Nothing can harm the morale of a nation, country, or province than the discovery that the leader is a hypocrite, accepting bribes, or playing favorites.

True, wise & impartial judgment is perhaps one of the most important qualities of a great leader of men. The LORD God tells us, “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” – Proverbs 11:14. Sadly, the majority of people don’t really want proper counsel or arbitration; they want it, the famous Burger King slogan, “Have It Your Way!” They want it their own way!

A great leader of men must learn to seek and accept wise counsel on any important subject. And this great leader should always be completely fair and impartial in the decision or in the action taken. “These things also belong to the wise: It is not good to show partiality in judgment.” – Proverbs 24:23.

A powerful truth! 

So, in our own life, with our family, or business, let us learn to be impartial and fair in our assessments and judgments. GET ALL THE FACTS AVAILABLE. And, if need be, get wise counsel. Also, admit your mistakes if you are wrong. Then act upon the truth with impartiality and in all fairness, and in all mercy. 

• IV) Exercise Strength of Leadership   

One of the greatest leaders of the United States of America was President Abraham Lincoln. His leadership style was characterized by a combination of good moral clarity, empathy, resilience, and great communication. His ability to navigate a nation on the very brink of being torn asunder, and to inspire a whole generation while preserving the Union, is a testament to his extraordinary character and leadership qualities. We all should be inspired alike. His utmost commitment to principles, willingness to listen (even to opposing sides), sense of humor, empathy, and willingness to carry the huge burden upon his shoulders are key elements to his leadership. President Lincoln’s leadership qualities continue to serve as inspiration for leaders worldwide. 4

Truly, taking upon themselves the burden of great responsibility, every true and great leader must exercise this type of character. In leadership, responsibility is a cornerstone that shapes the efficacy and credibility of those at the helm.

• V) Have Great Mercy & Long-suffering  

Any leader who deals with the lives and fortunes of others needs a great deal of mercy & patience. Patience is a virtue ── the ability to patiently wait calmly in the face of adversity or frustration is a most valuable quality of character. It is a skill well worth developing; it can lead to better decision-making and personal growth.

We must also be merciful to others. 

“’ For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15) But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.’” – Matthew 6:14-15.

We are instructed in God’s living word ── 

“He who oppresses the poor [and “poor” in many facets; poor in spirit, poor in finance, poor spiritually] reproaches his Maker, But he who honors Him has mercy on the needy.” – Proverbs 14:31.

“He who follows righteousness and mercy Finds life, righteousness, and honor.” – Proverbs 21:21. 

A person with a “good heart,” a person who is compassionate enough to forgive ── and it’s important to note that Jesus’ prayer, “Father, forgive them,” does not mean that everyone was forgiven, unilaterally, unconditionally, without repentance and faith. It does mean that Jesus was willing to forgive them—forgiveness was, in fact, the reason He was on the cross. The words “Father, forgive them” show the merciful heart of God. God’s Spirit has allowed me to see His words clearly – “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. 32) And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, FORGIVING ONE ANOTHER, even as God in Christ FORGAVE YOU” – Ephesians 4:31-31.

Forgiveness – on a human level – is an act of the will. Forgiveness is not granted because a person deserves to be forgiven. No one deserves to be forgiven. Forgiveness is a deliberate act of love, mercy, and grace. Forgiveness is a decision to not hold something against another person, despite what he or she has done to you. Forgiveness is an integral part of SALVATION. “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if ANY MAN have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, SO ALSO DO YE” – Colossians 3:13; KJV.

Any great leader worth their salt must develop the capacity for mercy, forgiveness, and long-suffering.

“For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.” – James 2:13.

• VI) Be Persistent & Have Self-Discipline        

Unfortunately, and I’ve mentioned this before in the likes of a personal, Personal From… Armstrong Religion, “I had and have great respect, admiration, and love for Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong and Mr. Garner Ted Armstrong. They, I knew. But these sycophants are “under the umbrella” of their name and prestige for financial gain.” And many people from the remnants of that organization don’t (or won’t) want to learn any more than they did back in 1972! Once they learned this back in the 20th century, it’s all too easy for the person to just “take it easy,” and not grow in the grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ – 2 Peter 3:18. A great leader needs to be up to-date with the latest trends, technologies, and regarding ministerial leadership, increased spiritual knowledge – Daniel 12:4.

The LORD God tells us ──

“The hand of the diligent will rule, But the lazy man will be put to forced labor.” – Proverbs 12:24.

The person who works hard at learning and growing spiritually and producing the fruit worthy of repentance, worthy of the LORD God ── that person will end up a great leader of men. But the person who says to themselves, “I don’t want to learn any more than I did in 1972, or January 16th, 1986,” is lazy and will find that their future leadership position will be taken away and given to another.

Also ── 

“He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.” – Proverbs 16:32. 

Brethren, for the sake of your future leadership position ── and as a great example to others ── a great leader must learn self-discipline in what he eats, drinks, and even in how much time he may spend on recreational activities, the type of friendships he keeps, and the kind of spiritual character he is portraying to others. 

Every kingdom, every nation, or institution reflects the leader of that kingdom, nation, or institution. People tend to follow their leader. If the leader is like Emperor Nero was, so will his/her subjects be. When a U.S. state secedes from the US federal government, the majority of its citizens will as well. (Nudge, Nudge, Wink, Wink ── Minnesota, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois. New York, Oregon) 5 

• VII) Love the LORD your God with all your heart, and love your neighbor as yourself   

Obedience to the LORD God, a sincere feeling of awe for the LORD God, and of outgoing concern for your fellowman ── what our Lord Jesus has called ‘the first and second of all the commandments’ is an absolute must in the character of anyone who will be a great leader today or in the near future. 

Our Lord Jesus has said ── 

“’ A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35) By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.’” – John 13:34-35.

And it’s not ‘just love those who love you, or those who are in your group.’ Our Lord Jesus’ life was a continual example of love and service, even to those who were His enemies. An example is our President of the United States, Donald Trump. He has met and spoken with certain heads of state and mayors, who are considered his enemies ── but he showed them love and respect.

Let us continue to build GOD’S character, and ask, and seek, and cry out, and yield ourselves to exercise His love in our lives, in our relationships, and with God Almighty! Because it is vitally important. Godly love is far from any religious platitude ── it’s not loving a person today and then hating them tomorrow. It is living, it is alive, it is abiding and moving, and active spiritually.

To be a great leader, a true servant of our fellowman, and a great leader in Christ’s kingdom to come, let us think on these things, and let us live by these things. □

Sources:

1) Webster M. Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, Incorporated, success, 1996, pp 1175.

2) Spyscape, Edward Snowden: Privacy Hero or Dangerous Traitor? Retrieved 9 January 2026.

3) Heer, J., O.J. Simpson Proved That With Enough Money You Can Get Away With Murder, The Nation, 12 April 2024.

4) Root, E., Lincoln as a Leader of Men, Teaching American History.org, 28 Aug 1920, Retrieved 10 January 2026. 

5) U.S. Department of Justice – Office of Public Affairs, Justice Department Publishes List of Sanctuary Jurisdictions, 5 August 2025.    

Personal From... A Personal Encounter with a Socialist

by Leonard V Johnson

Greetings, Brethren, Co-Workers, and Friends around the world. Welcome, Memphis, Tennessee; Guadalupe, Mexico; and Lima Duarte, Brazil! For this ── a beautiful 30th of December ── I want to bring you another Personal From… I hope you enjoy these, as I love sending them to you.

Last weekend, I had a one-on-one conversation with a self-proclaimed Democratic Socialist from Colombia who has been in the United States for approximately twenty-four years and holds a Green Card, currently residing in San Francisco. Now, Colombia is a Participatory democracy. Its president is Gustavo Urrego, and he is as left as you can get. He is affiliated with the Historic Pact for Colombia (2011-2025), a political and electoral coalition in Colombia with political parties and social movements with ideologies ranging from the center-left to left-wing and far-left.

She reminded me that “Left-Wing” is only a political ideology, and that that is not who she is. Yet, I spoke up and said, “Your political ideologies help influence your beliefs, values, and your actions.” She has a severe case of Trump Derangement Syndrome (TDS)! A term that describes such negative and hateful reactions to U.S. President Donald Trump that the person becomes irrational and disconnected from Trump’s true policies and positions on any given subject. As soon as she heard that I am pro-Trump, she began to badmouth and bash him, his policies, and his positions. Of course, she brought up Epstein and his supposed Trump files. Saying how Trump had slept with many underage girls. And I just calmly and politely as possible responded with, “Where’s your proof?” At one point in the often-heated yet controlled conversation, she began to speak very highly of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) and the “wonderful work that she is doing for her state of New York.” I responded with, “Yes. I’m sure that you love the whole Squad.” I asked her to name one good thing that she has done for her state, and I think she responded with ── she introduced a bill for an anti-poverty policy proposal called “A Just Society.” I’m not quite sure. I really wasn’t listening here too closely. I, however, do know just what AOC stands for and what she would love for “America” to become. And I placed America in quotes here, because that was another of her “injustices.” That the United States of America dares to call itself America, when Colombia is in America as well. “It’s in Latin America,” she said. “Yes, indeed,” I said, “South America.” I don’t know if you’ve ever paid attention, but in my writings, I usually always put the “of” in italics when I write out the United States of America ── because the United States is part of America.

At another point in the conversation, I had asked her if she knew the definition of Socialism and how socialist countries fail. Her response was not the definition, but rather, “all countries fall.” Yes, indeed. I asked her again, “What’s the definition?” I gave her the definition of Socialism ── 

“any of various economic and political theories advocating collective or governmental ownership and administration of the means of production and distribution of goods.” 1 

And I didn’t give it verbatim, but she got the gist. She waved the answer off with her hand. I then asked her how and in what way Socialism is better than Democracy. She responded with ── “it makes people’s lives better by eliminating inequality and provides welfare services to all” as if she was reading it from a cue card. Well… my response was, “Taking from the wealthy and redistributing it to the poor, just a step down from Communism.” I gave the classical answer. “O’ Communism is completely different than Socialism,” she said. Yes, but not by much. As Charlie Kirk said in a debate with college students, “It’s very tempting to want to be a Socialist, getting someone else to pay for something that you might want. Yes, free sounds good, until you have to pay for it. And if you think it’s expensive now, just wait until it’s free. There is a reason ── and it’s a very tempting ideology; it sounds very good in practice. We have seen time and time again, leaders try to paint societies as utopias. That man can be “perfected,” and that government, as a central body, can then fix the ills of societies. I understand it, and I sympathize with it. What would happen if America continues to go down this dangerous ideology? Look, we will have a country completely unrecognizable, and we must fight it at every single turn.” 2 And I suppose that this was my turn. And although I am not as eloquent in speech as Charlie Kirk was, I certainly made some points. And she did as well.

“The United States is a Capitalist Juggernaut!” she blurted out, sounding as if she had just recently watched CNN. In fact, I asked her where she receives her political news. I’m not sure that I got a direct answer, but it’s possibly from Facebook or TikTok. “Well,” she said, “I imagine that you only listen to right-wing propaganda.”  “No, I watch and read several different news sources, including a few that are not mainstream,” I answered.

At one point in the conversation, she reasoned that cocaine, methamphetamine, and even fentanyl should be made legal. With my eyes wide, staring at her, I just stayed quiet.

Then ── with the help of my wife ── the subject of annexation and conquest, also known as colonization, came up. And with my wife nodding her head in agreement, my Socialist friend went on to mention how the United States has been treating her Colombia. “Yes,” my wife chimed in, “look at what America did to the native Americans.” And our friend from San Francisco, “Indeed, they stole California, Texas, and New Mexico!” I began to realize that she really didn’t have anything educational to offer here; she was just finding things to complain about. When she first mentioned the relations between Colombia and the United States, I thought she was going to talk about our past relations, which have been relatively positive. 

The relationship between Colombia and the United States has its roots in the 19th century, evolving from cordial ties to a strategic partnership in the early 2000s. Key issues that have shaped this relationship include the fight against Communism, the War on Drugs, and counter-terrorism efforts. 3 I thought she was speaking about the growing rift between the nation’s first leftist president and President Donald Trump. But apparently, she was talking about something else. 

She asked me why I do not celebrate Christmas. “Because,” I said, “God’s word doesn’t want us to.” Without going into detail. She asked me if I was speaking of the Old Testament ── “Yes, both the Old and the New.” She explained that in Colombia, Christmas is celebrated on the 24th, known as Noche Buena, where families gather for food, drinks, and dancing. It includes 9 nights of novenas. Catholicism is a central part of the country's cultural and social fabric. She asked me what I celebrated ── and I named some of them, again without going into detail. “Feast of Tabernacles, Days of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Trumpets.” She looked completely dumbfounded. “O’ well… the Bible was written by men, and then translated over and over again,” she said. As my wife sat there beaming in agreement. So, I came to understand that she knew that Christianity is incompatible with Socialism. Socialism promotes a system of economic control and redistribution that completely contradicts God’s living word.

“And about God …” she began. And that’s where I stopped her. 

Speaking of Democratic Socialism, let’s segue into the subject of idols and idolatry.  Because Socialism can certainly be an idol to many. 

WHAT is your idol? What is it that you are truly dedicated to? Is it your family ── your wife or husband, your children, your home, your pool, your pets? Your ideology? What are you dedicated to? Is it the LORD God ── the family of God, which at this time consists of God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ? Is it the LORD God above all else? Or is it your entertainment, your hobbies? What is it that keeps your mind most occupied? What most occupies your interest? Is it your friends ── is it the big city life? Is it people, is it things?

Surely, it’s not the LORD God ── is it? Most likely not. And, if it isn’t the LORD God, well… then… It’s an IDOL. You are breaking God’s commandments, first and foremost the first commandment, “’ You shall have no other gods before Me.’” – Exodus 20:3.

In the article Unless the Father Draws Him ── which we also have in audio, including audio in Swahili ── I give the definition of RELIGION.

It is not merely an incidental interest or hobby; it's not an ideology, or just something to “play” on Sunday, like one would go to a social club. Religion is your connection with the LORD God ── your relationship with God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. Religion helps you to realize your greatest purpose for being born ── the very reason why you are here on planet Earth. The very purpose of your life. As well as how to properly live your life and how to reach your ultimate purpose.

The Right Goal 

The right goal in life ── is to pursue the very purpose of why the LORD God has put the breath of life in you ── it’s because you were born of God, to share in the very glory of creation, and to ultimately inherit divine nature, to be a GOD ── to create as they do, to accomplish what they accomplish, to truly enjoy what they enjoy ── true everlasting love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. 

No other goal in life is greater.

“’ But seek FIRST the kingdom of God and His righteousness, …’” – Matthew 6:33.

But look at you now. The Apostle James writes, “For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.” – James 4:14. The most certain thing in this existence that we call “life” is what Benjamin Franklin was known to have said back in 1789, “In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” WE ARE GOING TO DIE.

“And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.” – Hebrews 9:27. 

Yet, the majority of people continue, day after day, month after month, and year after year, pumping this existence that we call “life” into themselves, with no more purpose than to try and be comfortable, or wealthy, or free from pain, and to please themselves with their five basic senses ── with their minds on the passing moments of the physical and the material things ── all of which will not last, all that will eventually be no more. 

Truly, truly, unless the LORD God’s holy and righteous character is being formed and developed in your mind ── in your innermost being ── replacing your carnal works of the flesh, which are: physical and spiritual adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, IDOLATRY, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness (and drunkenness not just from liquor or drugs, but also from false religions and false beliefs which leads to spiritual drunkenness, see: Revelation 18:3), revelries, and the like ── you will miss your ultimate goal. Because the LORD God’s greatest purpose is to create within you, during this lifetime, a new godly character, so that it can be perfected and that you may be gifted eternal life ── like God, self-containing, inherent LIFE.

Indeed, if Father God begins calling you, and you properly repent, and are properly baptized ── having hands laid upon you ── and receive the glorious gift of the Holy Spirit, placing within you their SPIRIT. Which enters into you their VERY LIFE ── begetting you as a child of God, yet unborn. What the majority of professing Christians call “being born again” should be termed “being begotten.”

Being born again actually means to be changed from mortal to immortal, from flesh and blood to SPIRIT. As God’s living word teaches us ──

“Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, 3) as His divine power has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him [God the Father] who called us by glory and virtue, 4) by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the DIVINE NATURE having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” – 2 Peter 1:2-4.

However, of course, our old human nature remains, and we continue to make decisions whether to yield to the works of the flesh, or to resist them by yielding to our new nature ── GOD’S NATURE WITHIN US ── led by the glorious Spirit of God.

Now, you can only succeed and reach your ultimate goal if you continually keep your eyes on the goal. When you are crossing a street while looking at your iPhone, and you have not looked both ways before crossing, you may find yourself waking up in a hospital, saying, “It all happened so fast!” Crossing any street means ALWAYS BEING ALERT ── being vigilant every moment ── not what you may deem “important” on your iPhone. 

In the same manner ── God’s living word says ── “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9) Resist him, steadfast in the faith, …” – 1 Peter 5:8, 9.

If you allow other interests, material pursuits, to steal away your mind and your heart, even for a few days, you are in grave danger of SPIRITUAL DEPLETION, that could easily let you wake up being plunged into “the lake which burns with fire and brimstone” – Revelation 21:7-8. Which is the second death.

We shouldn’t love anything or anyone greater than the LORD God! Our Lord Jesus teaches, “’ He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. 38) And he who does not take his cross [the mission in life that the LORD God bestows upon you] and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. 39) He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.’” – Matthew 10:37-39.

This is one reason why the LORD God does not want you to have any gods before Him. For your own sake, for your own interest, you must keep the LORD God above all. And you must communicate with the LORD God, study God’s living word, and be instructed by them. 

Instructed in what? In the Word of God, the Truth of God, and in the Plan of God! In the grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. That we should live by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. And those words to live by are in our “Instruction Manual” that our Creator God has brought about to instruct us how to LIVE and OPERATE this greatest piece of hardware ── the human body! We are to study this “Instruction Manual” to discover and learn what the LORD God deems is right and what is deemed wrong ── “’ I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you LIFE AND DEATH [speaking of the second death], blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, …’” – Deuteronomy 30:19. We must read, study, and learn from the LORD God in the Way of God. In the Way of RIGHTEOUSNESS. And we must devote our lives to living God’s Way.

Also, and this is mighty important as well, without regular and constant prayer to Father God and our Lord Jesus Christ, one cannot maintain God’s Spirit within. CHRIST IN YOU! And when God’s Spirit dwindles, the Apostle Paul had a phrase for that. Quench (1 Thessalonians 5:19). The glorious and divine attributes of God’s Spirit do flow through you as ‘rivers of living water.’ God’s Spirit should always be in motion. It should never stagnate within you. We should always be growing in grace and in knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (Ephesians 4:14; 2 Peter 3:18). Because, as I’ve often said, and I probably heard this quoted from Albert Einstein, “Once you stop learning, you start dying.” And as I’ve mentioned to my dear Sister before, even if we are born into the very family of God after the first resurrection (God willing), we will still be learning! Learning should never cease!

Truly, truly, if God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, the things of God, the glorious knowledge of God, the Law of God, the love of God, the Way of God ── are always foremost on your mind, your thoughts, your interest ── and you are praying ‘without ceasing’ (1 Thessalonians 5:17), worshiping the Father ‘in spirit and truth’ then God’s Spirit will not be quenched. 

My friend, true spiritual mindedness is not just going to church on a Sunday, opening up a Bible and reading along with the minister, singing a hymn, then after services shaking everyone’s hand, then going home to watch Sunday afternoon football. Spiritual mindedness is not sentimentalism. It’s not something you do to show your neighbors that you are “a good guy.” It’s not just an emotional attitude. It’s not certain religious phrases that so many feel compelled to yell out in church services, “Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!” Many people speak very “righteously” and “religiously” ── yet whose hearts are far from our Lord Jesus Christ.

Our Lord Jesus Christ was indeed a perfect spiritual being ── a man who never sinned (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 4:15; 1 Peter 2:22), yet he did not go about using overly religious-sounding words. He was not effeminate. He was a powerful, virile man ── showing us that true manliness is different from this world’s definition of manliness ── yet He was kind, understanding, and gentle. He possessed LEADERSHIP and STRENGTH perfectly blended with Wisdom, proper judgment, knowledge, justice, longsuffering, compassion, and mercy. And His decisions totally and always yielded to complete obedience to FATHER GOD! And think on this… something that, unlike what Satan the Devil wants you to believe … with God’s Spirit within us, we too can achieve! (cf. John 16:33; 1 John 5:4; 1 Peter 5:8; Revelation 2:7). WE CAN OVERCOME!

Our Lord Jesus Christ is our example. We must imitate Him! 

Take a moment and study some of the men and women of God in the Old Testament ── Seth, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Ruth, Moses, Esther, Jacob, Joseph, Rahab, David, Miriam, Daniel, Hannah, Elijah, Deborah, Elisha. They were all different from our Christ. And you and I are all different from our Christ. They, of course, had human nature, human weaknesses, and they all sinned, yet they all repented and strove to overcome. They were all men and women who had as their life’s goal their ultimate purpose for being alive. They were all guided by the LORD God; they all possessed leadership qualities (be sure to watch Personal From… Real Leadership), they all consecrated themselves to the OBEDIENCE and will of the LORD God.

Also, take a moment and study our beloved apostles Peter and Paul. They were different indeed when it came to their background, personality, and mission. Yet, they both had the same life’s goal ── the very reason why they were born. They were truly spiritual men, devoted to obeying the LORD God and serving mankind.

One thing to watch and guard against every moment of the day, the month, the year, is allowing a root of bitterness, of jealousy, of hatred, to take root. We should never allow ANYTHING, no matter how unjust, to make us sour and bitter. Because Satan the Devil will exploit this ── will use this to his advantage. It is a mental and spiritual poison that can spread within. Even our enemies, perceived or otherwise, we are to love. “’ But I say to you WHO HEAR: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28) bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you.’” – Luke 6:27-28. Though we should never condone their evils.

If you believe that someone has done you wrong, do not take revenge (Romans 12:19), do not get bitter about it ── take it immediately before the throne of grace, the throne of justice, the throne of mercy, and let the LORD God punish and correct them. Now, whether you believe me or not, I have come, by some 44 years of life experience, often learning the hard way, to have supreme and complete faith in the LORD God, and that they will never neglect in correcting me when I deserve it. God corrects those He loves ── 

“And [do not forget] the exhortation which speaks to you as to [children]: 

‘My [children], do not despise the chastening of the LORD Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; 6) For whom the LORD loves He chastens, And scourges every [child] whom He receives.’” – Hebrews 12:5-6.

Remember, Brothers and Sisters, one of God’s commandments is to remember always the GLORIOUS MASTER PLAN THAT GOD NOT ONLY HAS IN MIND FOR US ── BUT FOR ALL MANKIND! A SEVEN-THOUSAND-YEAR PLAN! (Exodus 20:8). The Sabbath is a significant representation of God's Plan!

How grateful we ought to be to Father God and our Lord Jesus Christ! Our hearts should be overflowing with love and gratitude to our great and awesome CREATOR GOD for their love toward us. Surely, most of us don’t fully grasp what a huge price He paid for us to make our calling possible. He wants us to change, to overcome, to build, to root out and pull down (I go into detail concerning this, ‘to root out and to pull down, To destroy and to throw down, To build and to plant’ in the sermon “’ Blow the Trumpet!’” Which we also have in audio, Spanish, Swahili, and Hebrew), and to grow in grace and in knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, that we may share in His glory! □                  

Bibliography:

1) Webster, M. Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, tenth edition, Merriam-Webster's Incorporated, 1996, pg. 1114. 

2) https://www.charliekirk.co.za/video/why-socialism-always-fails-charlie-kirk-debate-compilation/4680.

3) Wikipedia contributors. "Colombia–United States relations." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 17 Dec. 2025. Web. 27 Dec. 2025.