Good Evening Beloved in Christ
Just want to share a small thought on Jesus temptation in the wilderness.
These were the temptations that overcame Adam and Eve, and that so readily overcome us.
The enticements which Christ resisted were those that we find it so difficult to withstand.
Christ withstood the test upon 1. appetite, 2. upon the love of the world, 3. and upon that love of display
With Christ, as with the holy pair in Eden, appetite was the ground of the first great temptation. Just where the ruin began
From the time of Adam to that of Christ, self-indulgence had increased the power of the appetites and passions, until they had almost unlimited control. Thus men had become debased and diseased, and of themselves it was impossible for them to overcome. DA
Christ conquered by enduring the severest test. For our sake He exercised a self-control stronger than hunger or death. And in this first victory were involved other issues that enter into all our conflicts with the powers of darkness. DA
My beloved brethren, let us first begin to have self control over the APPETITE.
TOPICS
1. How to support someone who is in stress? (Beula Babu)
2. IMPORTANCE OF FASTING (pastor Rajachidabaram, Trichy)
3. PRAYER AND IMPORTANCE OF MORNING AND EVENING WORSHIP (Pastor Anil Lakra, Bihar)
4. TEMPTATION AND SENSES (Mrs. Angelish, Trichy)
7. Going back to original diet (Mr. John Ranjit Mysore)
8.WHY MANNA WAS PROVIDED FOR THE ISRAELITES: (Mrs. Angelish)
9. NUTRITION AND MIND (Mrs. Asha Paul, Mysore)
10. APPEALS TO MOTHER ( Mrs.Pradeepa Shrikanth, Bihar)
11. THE WORK AND THE LIFE STEPS TO CHRIST (JEREMIAH MOSES)
12. Importance of the laws of health" or "why laws of health" (Mrs. Sonia Vinod, Hosur Tamil Nadu
13. Seven Deadly Sins In Our Life? (By- Mr. Dreason Syllus)
14. Does God test us? How we differentiate test and tempt in life (Joshua, Manipur)
14. MUSIC 🎶 IN THE CHURCH. (Joshua)
1. How to support someone who is in stress. (Beulah Babu)
When some one is in stress, it can be difficult to know what to say or do. The bereaved struggle with many intense and painful emotions, including depression, anger, guilt, and profound sadness. Often, they also feel isolated and alone in their stress, since the intense pain and difficult emotions can make people uncomfortable about offering support.
You may be afraid of intruding, saying the wrong thing, or making your loved one feel even worse at such a difficult time.
The keys to help
1. Don’t let fears about saying or doing the wrong things stop you from reaching out
2. Let your grieving loved one know that you’re there to listen
3. Understand that every one grieves differently and for different lengths of time
4. Offer to help in practical ways
5. Maintain your support
Tip 1: Understand the process
There is no right or wrong way to stress. It does not always unfold in orderly, predictable stages. It can be an emotional roller coaster, with unpredictable highs, lows, and set backs. Every one grieves differently, so avoid telling your loved one what they “should” be feeling or doing. It may involve extreme emotions and behaviors. Feelings of guilt, anger, despair, and fear are common.
Don’t judge them or take their reactions personally.
There is no set time table for stress. For many people, recovery after bereavement takes 18to24 months, but for others, the grieving process may be longer or shorter. Don’t pressure your loved one to move on or make them feel like they’ve been grieving too long. This can actually slow the healing process.
Tip 2: Know what to say to someone who’s grieving While many of us worry about what to say to a grieving person, it’s actually more important to listen.
Express your concern. For example: “I’m sorry to hear that this happened to you.” Be patient. Repeating the story is a way of processing and accepting the situation
With each retelling, the pain lessens. By listening patiently and compassionately, you’re helping your loved one heal.
Let them feel free to express their feelings—no matter how irrational— without fear of judgment, argument, or criticism. Be genuine in your communication. Don’t try to minimize their loss, provide simplistic solutions, or offer unsolicited advice. It’s far better to just listen to your love done or simply admit: “I’m not sure what to say, but I want you to know I care.” Be willing to sit in silence.
Tip 3: Offer practical assistance
It is difficult for many grieving people to ask for help. They might feel guilty about receiving so much attention, fear being a burden to others, or simply be too depressed to reach out
Tip 4: Provide ongoing support
Let the stressed person know that you’re there for whatever they need.
Tip 5: Watch for warning signs of depression
It’s common for a stressed person to feel depressed, confused, disconnected from others, or like they’re going crazy. But if the bereaved person’s symptoms don’t gradually start to fade—or they get worse with time— this may be a sign that normal grief has evolved into a more serious problem, such as clinical depression.
Encourage the stressed person to seek professional help if you observe any of the following warning signs after the initial grieving period—especially if it’s been over two months since the death.
1. Difficulty functioning in daily life
2. Extreme focus on the death
3. Excessive bitterness, anger, or guilt
4. Neglecting personal hygiene
5. Alcohol or drug abuse
6. Inability to enjoy life
7. Hallucinations
8. Withdrawing from others
9. Constant feelings of hopelessness
10. Talking about dying or suicide
Tip 6: When appropriate, talk to them about Positivity of this life. Share with them the hope you have.
with Testimony (Anita)
First, I drop everything that I am doing immediately and give my full attention. Full eye contact, a slight touch or tap on the shoulder, or a smile, or just love, a patient look and all ears. I do not let anything or anyone distract my conversation when I am with a person who is stressed.
If the person is a girl or woman, I give them a hug. A hug usually calms them down faster. A certain boy pinched a girl in the school corridor once and she did not know English well and was traumatized by the incident. She came to me with her friends asking what steps to take. She broke down. {We were using a translator friend}. I gave her a very long hug till she stopped crying and kept whispering to her that I was sorry. After that she was composed and willing to go to the authorities.
Second, I listen and prompt the person to speak, complain, grumble, cry so that they can vent out their stress. When the person is free to confide in me, and we can have a conversation, I share assurance and encourage. If the person allows, I pray with them there or later when I am alone continuously in my mind if there are not open to the Bible.
My method is often to draw the person’s attention to God who is loving and cares for the person and use the details from their story to show how God has led the person in the past.
If the person is considering suicide, then I explain why it is not right to take our life. I negotiate with the person and show how they can escape from the thought of ending their life and if there is something I can do to solve their problem then I act on it immediately.
With media addiction depression and thoughts of suicide have increased and young people do not necessary know how to deal with it as they are still trying to understand themselves. If they are bullied or trolled on the internet they get depressed.
I may have shared this testimony with some of you but it was truly amazing how God led me to speak to a stranger in a bus. It was peak of winter, here in north India. I had to urgently travel to Delhi, 5-6 hours by public transport. I couldn’t get a bus that would accommodate me because of the rush. Finally, after 2 hours of chasing buses I got a seat next to a woman and a young college boy. That was the only seat available.
Half-way to Delhi the bus stopped for food. It was a shabby place and couldn’t get anything to eat but I had fruits in my knapsack. The boy sitting next to me did not get off to stretch his legs or eat something. So I offered him some fruits.
“I know I’m a stranger but would you like to have an orange or guava?”. He accepted.
I asked him, “Are you from around here because you’re hardly wearing warm clothes and you are wearing slippers, so I guess you are not feeling cold.”
He said, “I’m travelling to Rajasthan and this was the last bus to my college but I’m from Rishikesh (Uttrakhand) and originally I’m from West Bengal.”
Then he shared about his family and then told me. “I’m running away from home.” “I had a fight with my brother. It was really bad I couldn’t stay at home and didn’t tell anyone that I was leaving.”
After that we talked about so many things about his studies, the girl he likes in his engineering class. He was stressed because he didn’t have a girlfriend and he was soon completing his studies. He showed me his sketches and we had long discussions about God. He was so open to the truth. He understood everything I said. He was willing to forgive his brother and call home to say where he was.
“I needed to hear this today.”Akash said. “I told him, God wanted me to be on this bus so that I could talk with you. It’s not an accident that I got this seat next to you.”
It is the Holy Spirit that gives us the thoughts and words to speak to someone who is stressed. We should take the courage to step out of our comfort zone sometimes, you never know that you are the only hope for that person. God may be using you to reach that person to point them to God, the only ONE who can truly help us in our desperate moments.
Bible characteristic, how they over came stress and depression.
Jesus was depressed in the garden of Gethsemane until He received power and comfort from His Father. Christ overcame depression by trusting in God and not yielding to external factors which were pressing Him.
Christ's agony did not cease, but His depression and discouragement left Him. The storm had in nowise abated, but He who was its object was strengthened to meet its fury. He came forth calm and serene. A heavenly peace rested upon His bloodstained face. He had borne that which no human being could ever bear; for He had tasted the sufferings of death for every man. DA 694.1
Here are 5 people in the Bible who struggled with depression:
1. Job
2. Elijah
3. King David
4. Heman son of Korah
5. Jeremiah
Temporary Depression May Follow Success—A reaction such as frequently follows high faith and glorious success was pressing upon Elijah. He feared that the reformation begun on Carmel might not be lasting, and depression seized him. He had been exalted to Pisgah's top; now he was in the valley. While under the inspiration of the Almighty, he had stood the severest trial of faith; but in this time of discouragement, with Jezebel's threat sounding in his ears and Satan still apparently prevailing through the plotting of this wicked woman, he lost his hold on God. He had been exalted above measure, and the reaction was tremendous.—Prophets and Kings, 161, 162 (1917). - 2MCP 486.2
Counsel From Ellen White
What counsel did Ellen White give to those suffering under depression, and how did she herself cope with such feelings? She learned that support from family and friends can be invaluable. Often it was the prayers of close associates that broke the spell of darkness.11 Recalling the feelings of overwhelming despair that followed her childhood accident, Ellen White reflected, “I concealed my troubled feelings from my family and friends, fearing that they could not understand me. This was a mistaken course. Had I opened my mind to my mother, she might have instructed, soothed, and encouraged me.” Life Sketches of James White and Ellen G. White p. 135.
Ellen White also recommended the benefits of outdoor activity, gardening, enjoying nature, and simply praising God. E. G. White, Manuscript Releases, vol. 1, pp. 255, 256
She counseled to go “right along, singing and making melody to God in your hearts, even when depressed by a sense of weight and sadness.” “I tell you as one who knows,” she added, “light will come, joy will be ours, and the mists and clouds will be rolled back.” Selected Messages book 2, pp. 242, 243.
While Ellen White acknowledged the reality of such emotions, it was her practice not to give voice to negative feelings and thereby spread an atmosphere of gloom among others. She was determined that faith conquer feeling.
Writing to her son Edson, who had a tendency to “look on the dark side” of things, Ellen White reminded him that “with the continual change of circumstances, changes come in our experience; and by these changes we are either elated or depressed. But the change of circumstances has no power to change God’s relation to us. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever; and He asks us to have unquestioning confidence in His love.” Ellen G. White, In Heavenly Places p. 120.
2. IMPORTANCE OF FASTING (pastor Rajachidabaram)
Often in the Bible, God's people fasted immediately before a major victory, miracle, or answer to prayer. It prepared them for a blessing!
• Moses fasted before he received the Ten Commandments.
"Moses was there with the Lord forty days and forty nights without eating bread or drinking water. And he wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant--the Ten Commandments." Exodus 34:28 (NIV)
• The Israelites fasted before a miraculous victory.
"Some men came and told Jehoshaphat, "A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from the other side of the Sea. It is already in Hazazon Tamar" (that is, EnGedi). Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah." 2 Chronicles 20:2-3 (NIV)
* Daniel fasted in order to receive guidance from God.
"So I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with him in prayer and petition, in fasting, and in sackcloth and ashes." Daniel 9:3 (NIV)
"While I was still in prayer, Gabriel, the man I had seen in the earlier vision, came to me in swift flight about the time of the evening sacrifice. He instructed me and said to me, 'Daniel, I have now come to give you insight and understanding' Daniel 9:21-22 (NIV)
The Daniel Fast
The Daniel Fast is based upon the prophet Daniel’s fasting experiences as recorded in the Bible.
While we don’t know Daniel’s complete menu, we are told a few things. In Daniel 1, Daniel chose
not to eat the royal food that he was being served and ate only vegetables and drank water.
Another time (in Daniel 10:2, 3) he deprived himself of choice food, meat, and wine as he sought the Lord in prayer. Most commentaries believe “choice food” would have been bread and
sweets.
• Nehemiah fasted before beginning a major building project.
"When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven." Nehemiah 1:4 (NIV)
• Jesus fasted during His victory over temptation.
"For forty wilderness days and nights he was test…
Ellen White also has written a number of reasons why and when we should have fasting.
• The first Christians fasted during-decision making times. "While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off." Acts 13:2-3 (NIV)
Consider the following:
• We should fast when searching out the truth of Scripture so our understanding is clear.
• We should fast when seeking heavenly wisdom that God has promised.
• We should fast when seeking God’s direction in making important plans.
• We should fast when dedicating our talents to God’s service.
• We should fast when requesting God’s help in crisis.
• We should fast when contending with demonic oppression.
• We should fast when seeking God for more laborers for the harvest.
• We should fast for unity among church members.
• We should fast when seeking heart cleansing and spiritual renewal.
• We should fast when seeking to overcome…
• We should fast when seeking to develop an appetite for plain food.
• We should fast when seeking to conquer a disease (only for a meal or two).
• We should fast over our decaying zeal and languishing spirituality.
• We should fast as we seek a deeper walk with God in the last days.
• We should fast when seeking to see the lost brought into the Kingdom.
Time for fasting and Prayer:
Now and onward till the close of time the people of God should be more earnest, more wide-awake, not trusting in their own wisdom, but in the wisdom of their Leader. They should set aside days for fasting and prayer. Entire abstinence from food may not be required, but they should eat sparingly of the most simple food.—Counsels on Diet and Foods, 188, 189 (1904). {LDE 82.2}
The true fasting which should be recommended to all is abstinence from every stimulating kind of food, and the proper use of wholesome, simple food, which God has provided in abundance. Men need to think less of what they shall eat and drink of temporal food, and much more in regard to the food from heaven, that will give tone and vitality to the whole religious experience.—Medical Ministry, 283 (1896). {LDE 82.3}
Now and onward till the close of time the people of God should be more earnest, more wide-awake, not trusting in their own wisdom, but in the wisdom of their Leader.
They should set aside days for fasting and prayer. Entire abstinence from food may not be required, but they should eat sparingly of the most simple food.—Counsels on Diet and Foods, 188, 189 (1904). LDE 82.2
The true fasting which should be recommended to all is abstinence from every stimulating kind of food, and the proper use of wholesome, simple food, which God has provided in abundance.
Men need to think less of what they shall eat and drink of temporal food, and much more in regard to the food from heaven, that will give tone and vitality to the whole religious experience.—Medical Ministry, 283 (1896).
In addition to fasting when specific problems or issues arise, there is also an advance fasting we
might consider. This is what Christ did in the wilderness for 40 days before He started His
ministry. This is what we should do before we make big decisions, or before we go forward in our
work, as we want to make sure we have God’s full blessing upon our lives.
Prayer and fasting should go hand in hand! Prayer is the means by which we grasp the invisible
things of God, while fasting is the means by which we let loose and cast away the visible things
that we are prone to depend upon. Ultimately, the goal of true fasting should be the fulfillment
of Isaiah 58. This is the kind of fast that God is calling us to.
The true fast is no mere formal service. The Scripture describes the fast that God has
chosen,—“to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the
oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke;” to “draw out thy soul to the hungry,
and satisfy the afflicted soul.” Isaiah 58:6, 10. Here is set forth the very spirit and
character of the work of Christ. His whole life was a sacrifice of Himself for the saving of
the world. Whether fasting in the wilderness of temptation or eating with the publicans
at Matthew’s feast, He was giving His life for the redemption of the lost. Not in idle mourning, in mere bodily humiliation and multitudinous sacrifices, is the true spirit of devotion manifested, but it is shown in the surrender of self in willing service to God and man (Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages, p. 278).
3. PRAYER AND IMPORTANCE OF MORNING AND EVENING WORSHIP ( Pastor Anil Lakra, Bihar)
Mark 1:3 “And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.”
Luke 5:16 “And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed.”
Luke 6:12 “And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.”
Luke 9:28 “And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray.”
Luke 9:29 “And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering.”
PRAYER AND WORSHIP ARE ESSENTIAL TO SPIRITUAL GROWTH.—Seek every opportunity to go where prayer is wont to be made. Those who are really seeking for communion with God will be seen in the prayer meeting, faithful to do their duty and earnest and anxious to reap all the benefits they can gain. They will improve every opportunity of placing themselves where they can receive the rays of light from heaven.—(Steps to Christ, 98.) {Pr 198.1}
Private prayer, family prayer, prayer in public gatherings for the worship of God—all are essential. And we are to live our prayers. We are to co-operate with Christ in His work.—(Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7, 239.) {Pr 198.2}
In our devotional meetings, our voices should express by prayer and praise our adoration of the heavenly Father, that all may know that we worship God in simplicity and truth, and in the beauty of holiness.—(Counsels to Teachers, Parents, and Students, 245.) {Pr 198.3}
Let small companies assemble in the evening, at noon, or in the Early morning to study the Bible. Let them have a season of prayer, that they may be strengthened, enlightened, and sanctified by the Holy Spirit. This work Christ wants to have done in the heart of every worker. If you yourselves will open the door to receive it, a great blessing will come to you. Angels of God will be in your assembly. You will feed upon the leaves of the tree of life. What testimonies you may bear of the loving acquaintance made with your fellow workers in these precious seasons when seeking the blessing of God. Let each tell his experience in simple words. This will bring more comfort and joy to the soul than all the pleasant instruments of music that could be brought into the churches. Christ will come into your hearts. It is by this means only that you can maintain your integrity.—(Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7, 195.) {Pr 198.4}
Prepare for eternity with such zeal as you have not yet manifested. Educate your mind to love the Bible, to love the prayer meeting, to love the hour of meditation, and, above all, the hour when the soul communes with God. Become heavenly-minded if you would unite with the heavenly choir in the mansions above.—(Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, 267.) {Pr 199.1}
When the Spirit of God shall work upon the heart, cleansing the soul-temple of its defilement of worldliness and pleasure-loving, all will be seen in the prayer meeting, faithful to do their duty and earnest and anxious to reap all the benefit they can gain. The faithful worker for the Master will improve every opportunity to place himself directly under the rays of light from the throne of God, and this light will be reflected upon others.—(Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, 461.) {Pr 199.2}
GOD’S PRESENCE MAKES TIMES OF PRAYER AND PUBLIC WORSHIP SACRED.—True reverence for God is inspired by a sense of His infinite greatness and a realization of His presence. With this sense of the Unseen the heart of every child should be deeply impressed. The hour and place of prayer and the services of public worship the child should be taught to regard as sacred because God is there. And as reverence is manifested in attitude and demeanor, the feeling that inspires it will be deepened.—(Education, 242, 243.) {Pr 199.3}
In every family there should be a fixed time for morning and evening worship. How appropriate it is for parents to gather their children about them before the fast is broken, to thank the heavenly Father for His protection during the night, and to ask Him for His help and guidance and watch care during the day! How fitting, also, when evening comes, for parents and children to gather once more before Him and thank Him for the blessings of the day that is past! CG 152.5
Morning and evening the heavenly universe takes notice of every praying household. 67Manuscript 19, 1900.
Prayer Makes a Hedge About Children—
In the morning the Christian's first thoughts should be upon God. Worldly labor and self-interest should be secondary. Children should be taught to respect and reverence the hour of prayer.... It is the duty of Christian parents, morning and evening, by earnest prayer and persevering faith, to make a hedge about their children. They should patiently instruct them—kindly and untiringly teach them how to live in order to please God. CG 549.3
4. TEMPTATION AND SENSES
(Taken from Patriarch and Prophet Chapter 3)
NOTE: GUARD OUR 6 SENSES
No longer (Satan) free to stir up rebellion in heaven, Satan's enmity against God found a new field in plotting the ruin of the human race. In the happiness and peace of the holy pair in Eden he beheld a vision of the bliss that to him was forever lost. Moved by envy, he determined to incite them to disobedience, and bring upon them the guilt and penalty of sin. He would change their love to distrust and their songs of praise to reproaches against their Maker....
Our first parents were not left without a warning of the danger that threatened them. Heavenly messengers opened to them the history of Satan's fall and his plots for their destruction,... It was by disobedience to the just commands of God that Satan and his host had fallen. How important, then, that Adam and Eve should honor that law.. The law of God is as sacred as God Himself. It is a revelation of His will, a transcript of His character, the expression of divine love and wisdom...
The angels warned them to be on their guard against the devices of Satan, for his efforts to ensnare them would be unwearied. While they were obedient to God the evil one could not harm them; for, if need be, every angel in heaven would be sent to their help...
The tree of knowledge had been made a test of their obedience and their love to God... Satan was not to follow them with continual temptations; he could have access to them only at the forbidden tree...
In order to accomplish his work unperceived, Satan chose to employ as his medium the serpent—a disguise well adapted for his purpose of deception. The serpent was then one of the wisest and most beautiful creatures on the earth. It had wings, and while flying through the air presented an appearance of dazzling brightness, having the color and brilliancy of burnished gold. Resting in the rich-laden branches of the forbidden tree and regaling (entertain or amuse (someone) with talk) itself with the delicious fruit, it was an object to arrest the attention and delight the eye of the beholder. Thus in the garden of peace lurked (remain hidden so as to wait in ambush for someone the destroyer, watching for his prey).
The angels had cautioned Eve to beware of separating herself from her husband while occupied in their daily labor in the garden; with him she would be in less danger from temptation than if she were alone. But absorbed in her pleasing task, she unconsciously wandered from his side...
On perceiving that she was alone, she felt an apprehension of danger, but dismissed her fears, deciding that she had sufficient wisdom and strength to discern evil and to withstand it. Unmindful of the angels’ caution, she soon found herself gazing with mingled curiosity and admiration upon the forbidden tree.....
The fruit was very beautiful, and she questioned with herself why God had withheld it from them. Now was the tempter's opportunity. As if he were able to discern the workings of her mind, he addressed her: “Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?” Eve was surprised and startled as she thus seemed to hear the echo of her thoughts. But the serpent continued, in a musical voice, with subtle praise of her surpassing loveliness; and his words were not displeasing. Instead of fleeing from the spot she lingered wonderingly to hear a serpent speak...
To the tempter's ensnaring question she replied: “We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: for God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.”
... He himself had eaten of the forbidden fruit, and as a result had acquired the power of speech. And he insinuated that the Lord jealously desired to withhold it from them, lest they should be exalted to equality with Himself...
Such has been Satan's work from the days of Adam to the present, and he has pursued it with great success. He tempts men to distrust God's love and to doubt His wisdom....
Satan represented to the holy pair that they would be gainers by breaking the law of God. Do we not today hear similar reasoning? Many talk of the narrowness of those who obey God's commandments, while they themselves claim to have broader ideas and to enjoy greater liberty... Satan claimed to have received great good by eating of the forbidden fruit, but he did not let it appear that by transgression he had become an outcast from heaven. Though he had found sin to result in infinite loss, he concealed his own misery in order to draw others into the same position...
Eve really believed the words of Satan, but her belief did not save her from the penalty of sin. She disbelieved the words of God, and this was what led to her fall.
In the judgment men will not be condemned because they conscientiously believed a lie, but because they did not believe the truth, because they neglected the opportunity of learning what is truth....
The serpent plucked the fruit of the forbidden tree and placed it in the hands of the half-reluctant Eve. Then he reminded her of her own words, that God had forbidden them to touch it, lest they die. She would receive no more harm from eating the fruit, he declared, than from touching it. Perceiving no evil results from what she had done, Eve grew bolder. When she “saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat.”
It was grateful to the taste, and as she ate, she seemed to feel a vivifying power, and imagined herself entering upon a higher state of existence. Without a fear she plucked and ate. And now, having herself transgressed, she became the agent of Satan in working the ruin of her husband. In a state of strange, unnatural excitement, with her hands filled with the forbidden fruit, she sought his presence, and related all that had occurred.
I made a covenant with mine eyes;... Job31:1
Touch not; taste not; handle not; 1 Colossian 2:21
9. NUTRITION AND MIND (Mrs. Asha Paul)
I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. Ps 139: 14
Our brain is the most amazing organ and everything that goes into our mouth has a direct affect on the brain.
Therefore it is our responsibility to take proper care of it . Especially the FRONTAL LOBE as it is here intellect, reasoning, judgement and will takes place. ( Will is the most powerful gift given to man by God ) it should be gently guided and directed .
What affects the Frontal lobe ? DIET
It is necessary that we take care of our mind .
Daniel and friends are examples in the Bible who maintained the diet and were found Ten times wiser than others .
One of the reason Jesus was able to resist…
A Well-nourished and Healthy Brain—The brain is the organ and instrument of the mind, and controls the whole body. In order for the other parts of the system to be healthy, the brain must be healthy. And in order for the brain to be healthy, the blood must be pure. If by correct habits of eating and drinking the blood is kept pure, the brain will be properly nourished.—Manuscript 24, 1900. (MM 291.)
Keeping our frontal lobe in healthy and strong state will keep our mind stayed on God and we can receive the blessings of perfect peace ( Isaiah 26 :3 )
Having the mind which was in Christ ( Phi 2:5)
Wavering Mind Beginning of Temptation—The beginning of yielding to temptation is in the sin of permitting the mind to waver, to be inconsistent in your trust in God. The wicked one is ever watching for a chance to misrepresent God and to attract the mind to that which is forbidden. 1 MCP 30.4
The work to which Christ calls us is to the work of progressive conquest over spiritual evil in our characters. Natural tendencies are to be overcome.... Appetite and passion must be conquered, and the will must be placed wholly on the side of Christ.—.The Review and Herald, June 14, 1892. (Our High Calling, 87.)
What Religion Does—True religion ennobles the mind, refines the taste, sanctifies the judgment, and makes its possessor a partaker of the purity and the holiness of Heaven. It brings angels near and separates us more and more from the spirit and influence of the world. It enters into all the acts and relations of life and gives us the “spirit of a sound mind,” and the result is happiness and peace.—The Signs of the Times, October 23, 1884. (Counsels on Health, 629, 630.)
Increases Intellectual Capabilities—As in the case of Daniel, in exact proportion as the spiritual character is developed, the intellectual capabilities are increased.—The Review and Herald, March 22, 1898.
It Improves the Physical Health—Let the mind become intelligent and the will be placed on the Lord's side, and there will be a wonderful improvement in the physical health.—The Medical Missionary, December 1, 1892. (Counsels on Health, 504.)
One whose mind is quiet and satisfied in God is on the highway to health. To have the consciousness that the eye of the Lord is upon us and that His ear is open to our prayers is a satisfaction indeed. To know that we have a never-failing friend to whom we can confide all the secrets of the soul is a happiness which words can never express.—The Signs of the Times, October 23, 1884. (Counsels on Health, 628.)
Brain Controls the Body—There are many invalids today who will ever remain so because they cannot be convinced that their experience is not reliable. The brain is the capital of the body, the seat of all the nervous forces and of mental action. The nerves proceeding from the brain control the body. By the brain nerves, mental impressions are conveyed to all the nerves of the body as by telegraph wires, and they control the vital action of every part of the system. All the organs of motion are governed by the communications they receive from the brain.—Testimonies for the Church 3:69 (1872).
The brain nerves which communicate with the entire system are the only medium through which Heaven can communicate to man and affect his inmost life.—Testimonies for the Church 2:347 (1870).
Satan Strikes at the Perceptive Faculties [See chapter 35, “The Influence of Perception.”]—Satan comes to man with his temptations as an angel of light, as he came to Christ. He has been working to bring man into a condition of physical and moral weakness that he may overcome him with his temptations and then triumph over his ruin. And he has been successful in tempting man to indulge appetite, regardless of the result. He well knows that it is impossible for man to discharge his obligations to God and to his fellowmen while he impairs the faculties God has given him. The brain is the capital of the body. If the perceptive faculties become benumbed through intemperance of any kind, eternal things are not discerned.—The Review and Herald, September 8, 1874. (Messages to Young People, 236.)
The Tyranny of Custom—The strength or the weakness of the mind has very much to do with our usefulness in this world and with our final salvation. The ignorance that has prevailed in regard to God's law in our physical nature is deplorable. Intemperance of any kind is a violation of the laws of our being. Imbecility is prevailing to a fearful extent. Sin is made attractive by the covering of light which Satan throws over it, and he is well pleased when he can hold the Christian world in their daily habits under the tyranny of custom, like the heathen, and allow appetite to govern them.—The Review and Herald, September 8, 1874. (Messages to Young People, 237.)
The Mind Rightly Trained Wavers Not—The mind must be trained through daily tests to habits of fidelity, to a sense of the claims of right and duty above inclination and pleasure. Minds thus trained do not waver between right and wrong, as the reed trembles in the wind; but as soon as matters come before them, they discern at once that principle is involved, and they instinctively choose the right without long debating the matter. They are loyal because they have trained themselves in habits of faithfulness and truth.—Testimonies for the Church 3:22 (1872).
10. Appeal to mothers (Mrs. Pradeepa Shrikanth)
The mother's work should commence with the infant. She should subdue the will and temper of the child and bring its disposition into subjection. Teach it to obey, and as the child grows older, relax not the hand.5
Before Self-will Grows Strong—Few parents begin early enough to teach their children obedience. The child is usually allowed to get two or three years the start of its parents, who forbear to discipline it, thinking it is too young to learn to obey. But all this time self is growing strong in the little being, and every day makes it a harder task for the parent to gain control of the child.
At a very early age children can comprehend what is plainly and simply told them, and, by kind and judicious management, can be taught to obey.... The mother should not allow her child to gain an advantage over her in a single instance; and, in order to maintain this authority, it is not necessary to resort to harsh measures; a firm, steady hand and a kindness which convinces the child of your love will accomplish the purpose. But let selfishness, anger, and self-will have their course for the first three years of a child's life, and it will be hard to bring it to submit to wholesome discipline. Its disposition has become soured; it delights in having its own way; parental control is distasteful. These evil tendencies grow with its growth, until, in manhood, supreme selfishness and a lack of self-control place him at the mercy of the evils that run riot in our land.6
Never should they the children be allowed to show their parents disrespect. Self-will should never be permitted to go unrebuked. The future well-being of the child requires kindly, loving, but firm discipline. CG 82.5 - CG 83.1
If parents or children are ever welcomed into the mansions above, it will be because they have in this world learned to obey the commands of God. CG 84.2
Instead of sending her children from her that she may not be annoyed by their noise or troubled by their little wants, let the mother plan amusement or light work to employ the active hands and minds. By entering into their feelings and directing their amusements and employments, the mother will gain the confidence of her children; thus she can the more effectually correct wrong habits or check the manifestation of selfishness or passion. A word of caution or reproof spoken at the right time will be of great value. By patient, watchful love she can turn the minds of the children in the right direction, cultivating in them beautiful and attractive traits of character. CT 115.2
During the first three years of the life of Samuel the prophet, his mother carefully taught him to distinguish between good and evil. By every familiar object surrounding him, she sought to lead his thoughts up to the Creator. In fulfillment of her vow to give her son to the Lord, with great self-denial she placed him under the care of Eli the high priest, to be trained for service in the house of God. Though Samuel's youth was passed at the tabernacle devoted to the worship of God, he was not free from evil influences or sinful example. The sons of Eli feared not God, nor honored their father; but Samuel did not seek their company nor follow their evil ways. His early training led him to choose to maintain his Christian integrity. What a reward was Hannah's! And what an encouragement to faithfulness is her example DG 41.2
The child Jesus did not receive instruction in the synagogue schools. His mother was His first human teacher. From her lips and from the scrolls of the prophets, He learned of heavenly things. The very words which He Himself had spoken to Moses for Israel He was now taught at His mother's knee. As He advanced from childhood to youth, He did not seek the schools of the rabbis. He needed not the education to be obtained from such sources; for God was His instructor.—The Desire of Ages, 70 (1898). DG 50.4
Mothers to Look to God for Strength—If woman looks to God for strength and comfort, and in His fear seeks to perform her daily duties, she will win the respect and confidence of her husband, and see her children coming to maturity honorable men and women, having moral stamina to do right. But mothers who neglect present opportunities, and let their duties and burdens fall upon others, will find that their responsibility remains the same, and they will reap in bitterness what they have sown in carelessness and neglect. There is no chance work in this life; the harvest will be determined by the character of the seed sown DG 195.1
Jesus a Mother's Best Friend—If mothers would go to Christ more frequently, if they would trust Him more fully, their burdens would be lighter, and they would find rest. Jesus knows the burden of every mother. He is her best friend in every emergency. His everlasting arms support her. That Saviour whose mother struggled with poverty and privation sympathizes with every mother in her work, and hears her earnest prayers. That Saviour who went on a long journey for the purpose of relieving the anxious heart of a Canaanitish woman will do as much for the afflicted mother of today. He who gave back to the widow of Nain her only son as he was being carried to burial is today touched by the bereaved mother's woe. He who wept at the grave of Lazarus, who pardoned Mary Magdalene, who on the cross remembered His mother's needs, who after the resurrection appeared to the weeping women, and made them His messengers, is today woman's best friend, ready to 196 aid her in her need if she will trust in Him.— DG 195.2
11. THE WORK AND THE LIFE STEPS TO CHRIST (JEREMIAH MOSES)
God is the source of life and light and joy to the universe. Like rays of light from the sun, like the streams of water bursting from a living spring, blessings flow out from Him to all His creatures. And wherever the life of God is in the hearts of men, it will flow out to others in love and blessing. SC 77.1
When it comes to work and life, it is highly possible for us at many a times to run by our own instincts and thoughts on how we manage and balance our life pattern.
Rather, a quality- balanced Christian life can be achieved in regards to a fruitful life by having God as our epicentre
When the love of Christ is enshrined in the heart, like sweet fragrance it cannot be hidden. Its holy influence will be felt by all with whom we come in contact. The spirit of Christ in the heart is like a spring in the desert, flowing to refresh all and making those who are ready to perish, eager to drink of the water of life. SC 77.3
One important recommendation is to have the love for Jesus , which will definitely improve our lifestyle
How was Jesus's work and life on this earth? Something that we ought to ponder inorder to get an insight on how our work and life could be in spiritual terms
Love to Jesus will be manifested in a desire to work as He worked for the blessing and uplifting of humanity. It will lead to love, tenderness, and sympathy toward all the creatures of our heavenly Father’s care. SC 77.4
The Saviour’s life on earth was not a life of ease and devotion to Himself, but He toiled with persistent, earnest, untiring effort for the salvation of lost mankind. From the manger to Calvary He followed the path of self-denial and sought not to be released from arduous tasks, painful travels and exhausting care and labor. He said, “The Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28. This was the one great object of His life. Everything else was secondary and subservient. It was His meat and drink to do the will of God and to finish His work. Self and self-interest had no part in His labor. SC 78.1
And at last , this is a take away message for us....
You are not to wait for great occasions or to expect extraordinary abilities before you go to work for God. You need not have a thought of what the world will think of you. If your daily life is a testimony to the purity and sincerity of your faith, and others are convinced that you desire to benefit them, your efforts will not be wholly lost. SC 83.1
12. Importance of the laws of health" or "why laws of health" (Mrs. Sonia Vinod, Hosur Tamil Nadu)
“If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay [it] to heart, to give glory unto my name, saith the LORD of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings: yea, I have cursed them already, because ye do not lay [it] to heart.” – Malachi 2:2
“My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. (21) Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. (22) For they [are] life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.” - Proverbs 4:20-22
Keep it in the midst of thine heart – cherish it.
“And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I [am] the LORD that healeth thee.” – Exodus 15:26
The promise will be fulfilled when the conditions are obeyed.
“God has pledged himself to keep this machinery in healthful action, if the human agent will obey his laws, and co-operate with God.” – General Conference Daily Bulletin, February 18, 1897 par. 1 (Periodical)
“In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;” - Titus 1:2
There is nothing that is impossible with God, but there is one thing that He cannot do, and that is to “lie”. God who cannot lie has pledged to keep us healthy when we obey Him. Let us pledge Him our loving obedience.
The number of men who left Egypt was 6 lakhs. With the women and children there must have been at least 18- 20 lakhs. The Bible records that there was not a feeble one among them. Then why was it that there were only two that entered Caanan.
“Surely there shall not one of these men of this evil generation see that good land, which I sware to give unto your fathers, (36) Save Caleb the son of Jephunneh; he shall see it, and to him will I give the land that he hath trodden upon, and to his children, because he hath wholly followed the LORD.” Deuteronomy 1: 35, 36
Only two obeyed wholly or completely and so they entered. Health is not the condition to go to heaven. The condition to go to heaven is obedience. But health is a by product of obedience.
We are on the way to the heavenly Caanan. None who obeys partially will enter in. God requires complete obedience.
Let us make a decision to choose life.
Angelish: Thank you for these points.
1. We are the temple of God
2. Physical laws are equal to moral laws
3. Connection between soul prosperity and health
4. We are to present ourselves as a living sacrifice
5. In order to be a saint
6. To Give God the glory due to Him
13. Topic: What Are The Seven Deadly Sins In Our Life? (By- Mr. Dreason Shylla, Megalaya)
1. Lust
What is Lust?
Lust is a strong passion or longing, especially for sexual desires.
The Bible speaks about lust in 2 Timothy 2:22, “Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love [and] peace...”
James 1:14,15 says
14. but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. 15. Then, after desire has conceived, it birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
Now, we know that lust is a deadly sin that can harm our relationship with God.
What can we do to stop Lust?
self-control cures lust by controlling passion and leveraging that energy for the good of others.
2. Gluttony
Gluttony is an excessive and ongoing eating of food or drink.
1 Corinthians 10:31 says, “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
Gluttony not only detrimental to health but also to the spiritual life.
And it is must for us to stop this dangerous habit in order to have a pure relationship with God.
What can we do to stop Gluttony?
Temperance cures gluttony by implanting the desire to be healthy, therefore making one fit to serve others.
3. Greed
Greed is an excessive pursuit of material goods.
The Bible says the following in Hebrews 13:5, “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’”
Most of us never happy at what we have, but still wants more and more.
God is not pleased with us at what we are doing with our life when we have that greed.
Greed shows that we don't trust in God and lack faith.
What can we do to stop Greed?
Charity cures greed by putting the desire to help others above storing up treasure for one’s self.
4. Sloth
Sloth is an excessive laziness or the failure to act and utilize one’s talents.
Solomon spoke of sloth in Proverbs 6:6 saying, “Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise.''
Its such a surprise to see my friends that they have time to play games and gossip about others but when it comes about improving themselves like reading Bible, books and daily work at home makes them so lazy.
If you are lazy at daily work at home think about your spiritual life!
Do you have time for it for your spiritual life?
What we have to do to stop laziness?
Diligence or zeal cures slothfulness by placing the interest of others above a life of ease and relaxation.
5. Wrath
Wrath is a strong anger and hate towards another person.
The Bible speaks about wrath in Romans 12:19, “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’”
What profits will you gain from anger?
What profits will you gain from revenge?
Is your wrath to a friend or family members worth enough to take you heaven?
Lets us consider our ways and do things that bring blessings to others.
What can we do to stop wrath?
Patience cures wrath by one first understanding the needs and desires of others before acting or speaking.
6. Envy
Envy is the intense desire to have an item that someone else possesses.
The Bible says the following in Proverbs 14:30, “A sound heart is life to the body, But envy is rottenness to the bones.”
I have seen in my own family how my Uncles and Aunties take by force the land which belongs to my mother.
This doesn't happen only to us but also to those good and humble people around the country.
Lets us avoid Envy if we want a place in the new Earth.
What can we do to stop this deadly practice?
Kindness cures envy by placing the desire to help others above the need to supersede them
7. Pride
Pride is an excessive view of one's self without regard for others.
The Bible says the following in Jeremiah 9:23-24, “...Let not the mighty man boast of his might...but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me...”
Lets us not boast about what we have and how much we have and what position we are but lets us humble ourselves to God and loves one another.
Pride brings destructions and not peace.
What can we do to cure pride?
Humility cures pride by removing one's ego and boastfulness, therefore allowing the attitude of service.
15. "What girls should know before marriage:"
Under that we will see 14 points which are very essential. if anyone has any other points, please feel free to share.
1. Domestic household duties and caring body:
2. Care for the children:
3. Care during sickness:
4. Good cook and dress making:
5. Train to some business and prepare for any emergency crisis:
6. Parents to be consulted
7. Treatment of Mother an Index:
8. Look for man with financial ability:
9. Religion:
10. Take Christ as your pattern:
11. God's Purpose for the Husband and Wife
12. Marriage display:
13. Counsel to a Newly Wedded Pair
14. Children:
we will see what sister white has to say
It is the right of every daughter of Eve to have a thorough knowledge of household duties, to receive training in every department of domestic labor. Every young lady should be so educated that if called to fill the position of wife and mother,... It is her right to understand the mechanism of the human body and the principles of hygiene, the matters of diet and dress, labor and recreation, and countless others that intimately concern the well-being of her household... AH 87.3
It is not so important that our daughters learn painting, fancywork, music, or even “cube root”, or the figures of rhetoric (art of speaking or writing effectively), as that they learn how to cut, make, and mend their own clothing, or to prepare food in a wholesome and palatable manner. When a little girl is nine or ten years old, she should be required to take her regular share in household duties, as she is able, and should be held responsible for the manner in which she does her work. AH 91.4
2. Care for the children: It should be a law that young people should not get married unless they know how to care for the children that are brought into their family. They must know how to take care of this house that God has given them. Unless they understand in regard to the laws which God has established in their system, they cannot understand their duty to their God or themselves. AH 88.3
3. Care during sickness:
It is her right to obtain such a knowledge of the best methods of treating disease that she can care for her children in sickness, instead of leaving her precious treasures in the hands of stranger nurses and physicians. AH 87.3
4. Good cook and dress making:
If need be, a young woman can dispense with a knowledge of French and algebra, or even of the piano; but it is indispensable that she learn to make good bread, to fashion neatly fitting garments, and to perform efficiently the many duties that pertain to homemaking. AH 89.24. Good cook and dress making:
To the health and happiness of the whole family nothing is more vital than skill and intelligence on the part of the cook. By ill-prepared, unwholesome food she may hinder and even ruin both the adult's usefulness and the child's development.
That “the life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment” [Luke 12:23] is a lesson no less needed now than when given by the divine Teacher eighteen hundred years ago. AH 90.1
5. Train to some business and prepare for any emergency crisis:
A woman who has been taught to take care of herself is also fitted to take care of others. She will never be a drug in the family or in society. When fortune frowns, there will be a place for her somewhere, a place where she can earn an honest living and assist those who are dependent upon her. Woman should be trained to some business whereby she can gain a livelihood if necessary.
whether her family are rich or poor. Then, if reverses come, she is prepared for any emergency; she is, in a manner, independent of circumstances. AH 91.3
6. Parents to be consulted
Take God and your God-fearing parents into your counsel, young friends. Pray over the matter. Weigh every sentiment, and watch every development of character in the one with whom you think to link your life destiny. The step you are about to take is one of the most important in your life, and should not be taken hastily. While you may love, do not love blindly. MYP 449.2
Examine carefully to see if your married life would be happy, or inharmonious and wretched. Let the questions be raised, Will this union help me heavenward? will it increase my love for God? and will it enlarge my sphere of usefulness in this life? If these reflections present no drawback, then in the fear of God move forward. MYP 449.3
But even if an engagement has been entered into without a full understanding of the character of the one with whom you intend to unite, do not think that the engagement makes it a positive necessity for you to take upon yourself the marriage vow, and link yourself for life to one whom you cannot love and respect. Be very careful how you enter into conditional engagements; but better, far better, break the engagement before marriage than separate afterward, as many do. MYP 449.4
7. Treatment of Mother an Index:
True love is a plant that needs culture. Let the woman who desires a peaceful, happy union, who would escape future misery and sorrow, inquire before she yields her affections, Has my lover a mother? What is the stamp of her character? Does he recognize his obligations to her? Is he mindful of her wishes and happiness? If he does not respect and honor his mother, will he manifest respect and love, kindness and attention, toward his wife?
When the novelty of marriage is over, will he love me still? Will he be patient with my mistakes, or will he be critical, overbearing, and dictatorial? True affection will overlook many mistakes; love will not discern them. MYP. 450.1
8. Look for man with financial ability:
No man is excusable for being without financial ability. Of many a man it may be said, He is kind, amiable (friendly and pleasant manner), generous, a good man, a Christian; but he is not qualified to manage his own business. As far as the outlay of means is concerned, he is a mere child. He has not been brought up by his parents to understand and to practice the principles of self-support. AH 93.1
9. Religion:
Religion Ensures Family Happiness—Family religion is a wonderful power. The conduct of the husband toward the wife and of the wife toward the husband may be such that it will make the home life a preparation for entrance to the family above.
Hearts that are filled with the love of Christ can never get very far apart. Religion is love, and a Christian home is one where love reigns and finds expression in words and acts of thoughtful kindness and gentle courtesy
Religion is needed in the home. Only this can prevent the grievous wrongs which so often embitter (feel bitter or resentful) married life. Only where Christ reigns can there be deep, true, unselfish love. Then soul will be knit with soul, and the two lives will blend in harmony. Angels of God will be guests in the home, and their holy vigils will hallow the marriage chamber.
10. Take Christ as your pattern:
Men and women may reach a high standard, if they will but acknowledge Christ as their personal Saviour. Watch and pray, making a surrender of all to God...In thought, in word, in action, you are to be lights in the world...Take Christ as your pattern. Hold Him up as the One who can give you power to overcome. AH 96.2
12. Marriage display:
Display, Extravagance (which too much money has been spent), and Hilarity (extreme amusement)- Are Inappropriate At Weddings—Marriage ceremonies are made matters of display, extravagance, and self-indulgence. But if the contracting parties are agreed in religious belief and practice, and everything is consistent, and the ceremony be conducted without display and extravagance, marriage at this time need not be displeasing to God. AH 100.5
There is no reason why we should make great parade or display, even if the parties were perfectly suited to each other. AH 101.2
It has always seemed so very inappropriate to me to see the marriage ordinance associated with hilarity and glee (high-spirited joy) and a pretense of something. No. It is an ordinance ordained of God, to be looked upon with the greatest solemnity.
The Lord sanctified this marriage, and these two now unite their interests to work in the mission field, to seek and to save them that are lost. God will bless them in their work if they walk humbly with Him, leaning wholly upon His promises. AH 101.3
13. Counsel to a Newly Wedded Pair— My Dear Brother and Sister: You have united in a lifelong covenant. Your education in married life has begun. The first year of married life is a year of experience, a year in which husband and wife learn each other's different traits of character, as a child learns lessons in school. In this, the first year of your married life, let there be no chapters that will mar (impair the quality) your future happiness.... AH 102.5
Men and women, at the beginning of married life, should reconsecrate themselves to God. AH 103.5
Be as true as steel to your marriage vows, refusing, in thought, word, or deed, to spoil your record as a man who fears God and obeys His commandments. AH 104.1
11. God's Purpose for the Husband and Wife— God made from the man a woman, to be a companion and helpmeet for him, to be one with him, to cheer, encourage, and bless him, he in his turn to be her strong helper. All who enter into matrimonial relations with a holy purpose—the husband to obtain the pure affections of a woman's heart, the wife to soften and improve her husband's character and give it completeness—fulfill God's purpose for them. AH 99.1
Christ came not to destroy this institution, but to restore it to its original sanctity and elevation. He came to restore the moral image of God in man, and He began His work by sanctioning the marriage relation. AH 99.2
14. Children:
Children are the heritage of the Lord, and we are answerable to Him for our management of His property.... In love, faith, and prayer let parents work for their households, until with joy they can come to God saying, “Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me.” AH 159.2
A childless house is a desolate place. The hearts of the inmates are in danger of becoming selfish, of cherishing a love for their own ease, and consulting their own desires and conveniences. They gather sympathy to themselves, but have little to bestow upon others. AH 159. 3
15. Does God test us? How we differentiate test and tempt in life
Varun: God cannot be the subject of temptation. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: KJV — James 1:13
The devil is the author of temptation
1Chronicles 21:1; Matthew 4:1; John 13:2;
Joshua: Rightly pointed. How do we know whether this is a test or tempt ...
Angelish: Test is an examination. He gave us the question ( choice) like tree of knowledge good and evil versus tree of life.
Ten commandments are also question paper. You are pass by keeping them. Syllabus are given by God before test. 🤔
Varun: Test is a refining process were inward life is tried
Varun: Thou hast proved mine heart; thou hast visited me in the night; thou hast tried me, and shalt find nothing; I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress. KJV — Psalm 17:3
Varun: And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness. KJV — Malachi 3:3
Varun: And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God. KJV — Zechariah 13:9
Varun: Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them KJV — James 1:12
Varun: And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of. KJV — Genesis 22:2
Varun: One of the perfect example of faith being tested
Dr. Austin Navis: Temptation is enticement to sin, and this does not proceed from God, but from Satan and from the evil of our own hearts. “God cannot be tempted with evil, and He Himself tempteth no man.” - MB 116.2
Dr. Austin Navis: God in His great love is seeking to develop in us the precious graces of His Spirit. He permits us to encounter obstacles, persecution, and hardships, not as a curse, but as the greatest blessing of our lives. Every temptation resisted, every trial bravely borne, gives us a new experience and advances us in the work of character building. The soul that through divine power resists temptation reveals to the world and to the heavenly universe the efficiency of the grace of Christ. - MB 117.1
Temptation : desire to do something wrong or unwise
Test : a procedure intended to establish the quality, performance or reliability of something.
Tests are from God. They are a necessity for us to enter into heaven. This is to prove to God how much we love him.
In case of the first test , the test for Adam and Eve, they were sinless, yet they had to go through the test.
But I think temptations are also a necessity, but I guess to some extent we can keep ourselves from getting into an environment or situation where we are likely to get tempted.
It was more easy for Satan to tempt Eve when she put herself in that situation. If she would have been on her guard, probably they would have passed the test by God.
I feel with every test from God, there's a temptation from Satan too for us to fail in that test.
For eg, I get a job, a very nice job with good pay, but I'm doubting about Sabbath off,
I can just remain unemployed and wait upon God rather than joining the work, putting myself in that situation where it'll be more likely for me to fall into the temptation of not keeping the Sabbath
Joshua: Meaning
1. Test
a who pass the test
b. Who fail the test
2. Tempt
a. Who overcome the temptation
b. Who yield into temptation
Joshua: Are 1a = 2a, or 1a#2b, 1b=2b or 1b#2b. Same reward in the end, or different reward in the end ...
Angelish: Temptation—What is it?
What is temptation?—It is the means by which those who claim to be the children of God are tested and tried. We read that God tempted Abraham, that he tempted the children of Israel. This means that he permitted circumstances to occur to test their faith, and lead them to look to him for help. God permits temptation to come to his people today, that they may realize that he is their helper. If they draw nigh to him when they are tempted, he strengthens them to meet the temptation. But if they yield to the enemy, neglecting to place themselves close to their Almighty Helper, they are overcome. They separate themselves from God. They do not give evidence that they walk in God's way
In Eden garden we can see the scenario TEST and TEMPTATION.
Temptations will be appealing things which hearts really desire, comes with false assurance of pleasure, rewards, mixed with half truth, false appearance, they always seem to come at our weakest moments. Heeding leads to destruction.
Note: Tempter can tempts us only from the forbidden tree.
Test its unpleasant & uncomfortable, obscuring, deals with our faith and trust, at the end modify us with better quality of life.
whether we are facing temptation or test, let us not compromise our principles, face it as Jesus overcame with the words of God - It is written.....
16. MUSIC 🎶 IN THE CHURCH.
SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE ON MUSIC IN YOUR CHURCH ⛪️
"The Lord has shown me would take place just before the close of probation. Every uncouth thing will be demonstrated. There will be shouting, with drums, music, and dancing. The senses of rational beings will become so confused that they cannot be trusted to make right decisions. And this is called the moving of the Holy Spirit." Maranatha 14th August.
We see same music use in the world and church as well⛪️. Way of playing differ. Some worldly music sound better than some christian music and vice versa. So the problem is when we don't know what sacred song/music to be played in the church, not what ever we want. Sacred music - music that uplift Christ.
ANY FURTHER THOUGHTS AND CONTRIBUTION
Once piano 🎹 was not accepted in the church, regarded as secural instrument. Now use as one the most used instrument in the church.
NOTE - HOW CAN WE USE MUSIC TO EXALT GOD'S NAME
Sonia Vinod: Music was made to serve a holy purpose, to lift the thoughts to that which is pure, noble, and elevating, and to awaken in the soul devotion and gratitude to God. What a contrast between the ancient custom and the uses to which music is now too often devoted! How many employ this gift to exalt self, instead of using it to Glorify God! A love for music leads the unwary to unite with world lovers in pleasure gatherings where God has forbidden His children to go. Thus that which is a great blessing when rightly used, becomes one of the most successful agencies by which Satan allures the mind from duty and from the contemplation of eternal things. PP 594.2
Sonia Vinod: Music forms a part of God's worship in the courts above, and we should endeavor, in our songs of praise, to approach as nearly as possible to the harmony of the heavenly choirs. PP 594.3
Cornet ,Cymbals, Psalteries 2Sam 6:5
Sackbut Daniel 3:5
Tabrets Genesis 31:27
Trumpets Used in War Numbers 10:9
Viols Isaiah 5:12
Full Orchestra
DRUMMING OR USE OF DRUMS IN WORSHIP SERVICE
The Bible is not opposed to the use of musical instruments in the Seventh-day Adventist church. In fact, Mrs. White encouraged the tasteful use of musical instruments. However, she was emphatic that it is better never to have the worship of God blended with music than to use musical instruments to create “a bedlam of noise” that shocks the senses and perverts the worship. “The Holy Spirit never reveals [Himself] in such methods, in such a bedlam of noise.” (2 Selected Messages, p. 36).
She stressed that music suited to the stage was foreign to the worship context. Forced or strained vocal deliveries that emphasize loudness, along with undignified, unrefined gestures and “acting attitudes,” are out of keeping with the worship atmosphere of Heaven. The “softer,” “finer,” “sweeter,” “more silvery strains” are “more like angel music,” whereas opposite attributes tend to be driven by self-centered “love of praise.” (3 Selected Messages, p. 335).
The specific issue we want to address is should drumming be a legitimate part of worship service. Does it have any use at all the religious life of the church. Space limitations will only permit a brief discussion here.
Musical Instruments in the Bible. Among the prominent musical instruments mentioned in the Bible are: harp, lyre, cymbal, trumpet, ram’s horn (shofar) and drums. Of these, the drum is the focus of our interest. In Scripture, whether it is referred to as tambourine, timbrel or tabret, it simply means a “hand-drum.” Our study will show that in every reference of its use in the Bible, drums were used outside the sanctuary service—in a common type of setting (e.g., social settings or festive celebrations).
a. Sanctuary Worship. The Lord specified three types of instruments to be used by the Levites in the Sanctuary. These are: harp, lyre [or stringed instrument], and the cymbal (1 Chronicles 25:1).
Note: The drum is not mentioned. Of the three instruments mentioned, the harp and lyre were, essentially, the same type of stringed instrument. They were both harps. One (the harp) played the higher register while the other (the lyre) played the lower range. The only percussive instrument listed is cymbal, an instrument that was apparently used to mark the pauses or intermissions. Some Bible scholars speculate that the term “Selah,” which is often found in Psalms, may have indicated the place where the cymbal was struck.
The same three musical instruments are mentioned in 1 Chronicles 25:6, with added instruction that the chosen musicians were to be under the instruction of their fathers (men of music, and most importantly, spiritual excellence).
In 2 Chronicles 29:25, during the time of Hezekiah, it is made very clear that the instruction regarding music, musical instruments, and musicians originated with God Himself. It reads:
“And he stationed the Levites in the house of the LORD with cymbals, with stringed instruments, and with harps, according to the commandment of David, of Gad the king’s seer, and of Nathan the prophet; for thus was the commandment of the LORD by His prophets” (2 Chron 29:25).
b. Assorted “Drums Texts” in the Bible. Though drums were apparently NOT employed in the sanctuary service, they were used in festivals and celebrations outside of the sanctuary. Here are some relevant texts:
1.Genesis 31:27—Laban’s words to Jacob. Drums (tabrets) to have been used in farewell celebration.
"Why did you flee away secretly, and steal away from me, and not tell me; for I might have sent you away with joy and songs, with timbrel and harp?"
2. 1 Samuel 10:5-6—Samuel predicts that after Saul’s anointment, he would be met by prophets playing various musical instruments (including drums or tambourine).
“5After that you shall come to the hill of God where the Philistine garrison is. And it will happen, when you have come there to the city, that you will meet a group of prophets coming down from the high place with a stringed instrument, a tambourine, a flute, and a harp before them; and they will be prophesying. 6 Then the Spirit of the LORD will come upon you, and you will prophesy with them and be turned into another man.”
3. Job 17:6—the Hebrew word used for what the King James Version refers to as “tabret” is the word tophet, which refers to an act of “spitting.” Apparently, the word tophet was confused by the translators with the word toph which means a “hand drum.”
“But He has made me a byword of the people, And I have become one in whose face men spit.
4. Job 21:11-14—Context refers to celebration outside the sanctuary
“1 They send forth their little ones like a flock, And their children dance. 12 They sing to the tambourine and harp,And rejoice to the sound of the flute. 13 They spend their days in wealth, And in a moment go down to the grave. 14 Yet they say to God, ‘Depart from us, For we do not desire the knowledge of Your ways.”
5. Psalm 81:2—Refers to the celebration of the exodus and the Lord’s victory over the Egyptians. It was outside the sanctuary.
“Raise a song and strike the timbrel, The pleasant harp with the lute.”
6. Isaiah 24:8—refers to the sound of music ceasing at the desolation of the earth.
“The mirth of the tambourine ceases, The noise of the jubilant ends, The joy of the harp ceases.”
7. Jeremiah 31:4—God’s promise of restoration and a description of the celebration that would be expressed by the children of Israel upon their return from the Babylonian captivity.
“O virgin of Israel! You shall again be adorned with your tambourines, And shall go forth in the dances of those who rejoice.”
8. Ezekiel 28:13—reference to the musical ability of Lucifer before his fall.
“You were in Eden, the garden of God; Every precious stone was your covering: The sardius, topaz, and diamond, Beryl, onyx, and jasper, Sapphire, turquoise, and emerald with gold. The workmanship of your timbrels and pipes was prepared for you on the day you were created.”
c. “Drum Texts” Associated with Disobedience
Isaiah 5:11-13—Disobedience of Israel
1 Chronicles 13:7-10—David disobeyed God’s commandment about how the ark was to be transported. When he repented, he did the right thing. But this time drums (trimbrels) NOT included (see 1 Chronicles 15:12-24).
d. “Drum Texts” Associated with Battle
Exodus 15:1-5, 20-21—In connection with the victory over the Egyptians at the Red Sea
Judges 11:34—Jephthah’s daughter met her father “with trimbrels and with dances.” The celebration was in response to the victory in the battle over the Ammonites.
1 Samuel 18:6, 7—Celebration of the women after David killed Goliath
Isaiah 30:31-33—Celebration over the Lord’s victory over the Assyrians.
Psalm 149—Drums used in celebration of God’s victory over all his enemies. (For a further discussion of Psalm 149 and Psalm 150, see the next section on dancing).
Psalm 150—For some, verse 1 presents a problem because it speaks of praising God “in His Sanctuary.” However, Psalm 150 is the final great finale to the Hallelujah series of Psalms that commence in Psalms 146. Psalm 150 concludes this series with a final call for everything (whether on earth or in heaven) that has breath to join in the praise anthem of God. Verse 1 is simply an invitation to those in heaven (the heavenly sanctuary) to worship God in “the firmament of His power” (see SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 3, p. 941, revised ed.). The text reads: “Praise God in his sanctuary [which is in]: the firmament of his power.”
These “battle drum texts” emphasize the celebration that takes place when God granted victory. But some will say, we must use drums and dancing in the church to celebrate the victories God has given us in our spiritual battles over sin. The question is: Did the Israelites win spiritual battles over sin in their lives? How come the bible doesn’t give a record of that. It is interesting that there is no reference to drums (timbrel) being used in the New Testament. Historical records showed that drumming and dancing were banned because of their association with common and profane things.
NOTE: We’re not suggesting that drums/dancing are wrong in themselves. All we’re saying is that they were not used in the sanctuary, but only during festive occasions. Drums were not part of the prescribed musical instruments for worship.
Music was made to serve a holy purpose, to lift the thoughts to that which is pure, noble, and elevating, and to awaken in the soul devotion and gratitude to God. What a contrast between the ancient custom and the uses to which music is now too often devoted! How many employ this gift to exalt self, instead of using it to Glorify God! A love for music leads the unwary to unite with world lovers in pleasure gatherings where God has forbidden His children to go. Thus that which is a great blessing when rightly used, becomes one of the most successful agencies by which Satan allures the mind from duty and from the contemplation of eternal things. PP 594.2
How coal and crude oil was formed according to spirit of prophecy
Secular Science says it took millions of years for coal to be formed but Bible says Earth is only 6000 years old. Spirit of prophecy helps us to understand the true science behind the formation of coal.
Before the Flood the development of vegetable and animal life was immeasurably superior to that which has since been known. At the Flood the surface of the earth was broken up, marked changes took place, and in the re-formation of the earth's crust were preserved many evidences of the life previously existing. The vast forests buried in the earth at the time of the Flood, and since changed to coal, form the extensive coal fields, and yield the supplies of oil that minister to our comfort and convenience today. These things, as they are brought to light, are so many witnesses mutely testifying to the truth of the word of God. Ed 129.
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