Kaleidoscope Vineyards 2.0

Executive Summary:

Product:

Faith, hope and love expressed through love, for it is the greatest of these three. 

Customers: 

Those whom I serve—myself, neighbors, friends, family, community, and all creatures here below.

Future of the Company: 

Heavenly treasure will grow with acts of service in steps of faith.

Company Description:

Mission Statement: 

To know Christ and make Him known.

Vision: 

To boldly witness for Christ, inspiring all who are willing to listen to trust in Him, so that we may celebrate together in His Kingdom and the new earth.

Values:  

Love. Joy.  Peace. Patience. Kindness. Goodness. Faithfulness. Gentleness. Self-control.

Principal Members: 

Me and The Holy Trinity, in surrender to the will of the Holy Spirit that indwells in me.

Legal Structure: 

Christocracy: decision-making guided by biblical principles.

 

In the chaos

You see glory

From the wreckage

Light is shining through

So open up these weary eyes

All around me colors changing

Though I'm broken

Hope is breaking through

As you open up these weary eyes

I want to see what you see

Come and rearrange me

Let your love be my kaleidoscope

Change me from the inside

Show me what it looks like

Let your love be my kaleidoscope

Woah-oh-oh-oh

Woah-oh-oh

Let your love be my kaleidoscope

Woah-oh-oh-oh

Woah-oh-oh-oh

Let your love be my kaleidoscope

You fill my world with

Child like wonder

Every face reflections of your heart

As you open up these weary eyes

Weary eyes

I want to see what you see

Come and rearrange me

Let your love be my kaleidoscope

Change me from the inside

Show me what it looks like

Let your love be my kaleidoscope

Woah-oh-oh-oh

Woah-oh-oh

Let your love be my kaleidoscope

Woah-oh-oh

Woah-oh-oh-oh

Let your love be my kaleidoscope

Heaven's eyes

Heaven's sight

Woah-oh-oh-oh

Fill my heart

Fill my life

I want to see what you see

Come and rearrange me

Let your love be my kaleidoscope

Change me from the inside

Show me what it looks like

Let your love be my kaleidoscope

Woah-oh-oh-oh

Woah-oh-oh

(Kaleidoscope)

Woah-oh-oh-oh

Woah-oh-oh

(Let your love be my kaleidoscope)

Woah-oh-oh-oh

Woah-oh-oh

Yeah let your love be my kaleidoscope

Woah-oh-oh-oh

Woah-oh-oh-oh

Let your love be my kaleidoscope

consumer cruise; christian snooze

So many fail to allow the holy spirit in to it's fullness. I know I did. Content with sitting in the

pew Sunday after Sunday. Wondering what brunch spot will be picked. Or thinking about the afternoon nap and the treat that follows. What short attention I have. To some degree I see why: is not the the heavenly Fathers goodness reflected in all creation?

I was content with status quo. Stuck in a loop. Living in a shame cycle. Compromised too much. Lived without proper boundaries. Not anymore.

 A new cassette tape plays on this walkman. For this man will walk with a cassette that plays praises for His glory with faith enough to walk on water. ( Or do so I pray, still, Lord give me Faith for mine is weak) 

Are there times of doubt? Yes. Grief? Yes. Deep grief that spans a chasm so far and wide it seems to remove my breath with just a glance. 

 But all in all my thoughts and breath pull towards on the eternal. Even my dream state begins to morph from darkness to light. A metamorphosis that takes time as the tadpole begins a new life on land.

I was at table with friends, sharing a meal. Laughter, care, love. It surrounded me. I think I will like walking in the light with my new legs.

The process will take time. For I was badly wounded. And scars are formed. More deeply than I even know myself. But I press onward toward a prize not on this earth.

When wills are aligned maybe the world comes into focus. Maybe that is when a blessing of shade is provided. Oh how that tree must provide oil too! So two can be a bright light for the salvation of as many with ears to hear. As iron sharpens iron. 

While the thought of children is novelty I desire more so to change the world as a lampstand for Christ. I don't know if we have another generation. Once it starts it says it will be over quickly. A relief but also - not yet! For too many are still lost and sleepy. The good Lord is gracious. 

I learned recently about what is written: when the fig trees provides shade then we know summer is near. for the leaves will bud.

Be Filled To Wake Up & Transform

Be filled with the Holy Spirit, live as light, renew your mind, sing to the Lord, and give thanks to God in all things.

--- LYRICS 

Ephesians 4/5 – Be Filled With The Holy Spirit

Eph. 4:

23 Let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.  

24 Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. 

Eph. 5:

8 Live as people of light! 

14 “Awake, O sleeper, rise up." 

Eph. 4:

22 Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life 

23 Let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.  

24 Put on your new nature 

Eph. 5:

8 Live as people of light! 

14 “Awake, O sleeper, rise up 

18 Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit 

be filled with the Holy Spirit 

19 Singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs 

making music to the Lord in your hearts. 

20 And give thanks for everything to God the Father  

in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

King of Kings and Lord of Lords; The Word of God

Once before, after the flood, man banded together in common tongue to raise up the Tower of Babel:

[Gen 11:1 KJV] "And the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech.

And the Lord saw it and intervened - this was post-flood intervention too! 

Genesis 11:5-7: And the Lord came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of man had built. And the Lord said, “Behold, they are one people, and they have all one language, and this is only the beginning of what they will do. And nothing that they propose to do will now be impossible for them. Come, let us go down and there confuse their language, so that they may not understand one another’s speech.” 

Woe to us for our prideful inclinations and aspirations on this earth: 

Proverbs 16:18: Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall

Proverbs 11:2: When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom 

Perhaps man again will change the world, through divine intervention, if the Church rise up as a unit.  What would happen if the children of God banded together to herald the truth with common tongue and will? 

Let us be a light unto the world! Park Church, Brave Church, Calvary Chapel Church, Grace Chapel, Grace City, Bridgeway Church, The River Church, Fellowship Denver Church, the Heights Church, Beacon, Calvary Wellspring, Upperroom When can we begin a revival in Denver? Where do we start? I pray it be so for I am ready. Are you? Let us spread the fire and love for the Lord's goodness and grace. We were not instructed on how to pray with the right ingredients?

[Jhn 1:50 ESV] "Jesus answered him, "Because I said to you, 'I saw you under the fig tree,' do you believe? You will see greater things than these.""

The Word of God will arrive someday as it is written, for '...His Kingdom come, as earth as it is in heaven! ' 

[Rev 19:11-16 NASB20] "And I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse, and He who sat on it [is] called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and wages war. His eyes [are] a flame of fire, and on His head [are] many crowns; and He has a name written [on Him] which no one knows except Himself. [He is] clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. And the armies which are in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white [and] clean, were following Him on white horses. From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty. And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written: 

"KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.""

So this passage raises the question for me: Did Jesus have a tattoo? 

We'll have to wait and see... the real question is: Are you ready?

In the meantime I will get a second so I can pay right homage to my King. If it is ever asked of me - then I can say I am only but a 'little king' that serves the King of Kings. Already an eternal reminder for me. So I would do this as a witness and testimony of fealty to the one who made me in His image. For even the ones covered in ink of vanity should know of their need for fealty to the Lord. Time to lead by bold example so the Holy Spirit can work in the hearts of those I speak to. I must grow in my self-discipline for a race set before me. I am to live as I am called.

[1Co 9:22-27 ESV] "To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings. Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified." 

[1Co 7:15-17 ESV] "But if the unbelieving partner separates, let it be so. In such cases the brother or sister is not enslaved. God has called you to peace. For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife? Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches." 

For I am convinced that I am not saved by works of my own rightousness but by my faith in Jesus. And what is faith without works? Dead. Works are the evidence, not the means, of salvation. There is nothing I can do but choose to follow and to serve; God's grace powers the choice and sustains faith. What matters most is faith in Jesus, expressed in love. It says it just so! (Galations 5:6)

[Rom 9:31-33 NIV] "but the people of Israel, who pursued the law as the way of righteousness, have not attained their goal. Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone. As it is written: "See, I lay in Zion a stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall, and the one who believes in him will never be put to shame.

[Rom 5:1-2 KJV] "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God." 

It was even written in the Old Testament that some would write on their hand - as the slaves or cattle were once branded. I am now a slave that embraces his identify in Christ - what joyous privilege! 

[Isa 44:5-6 NASB20] ""This one will say, 'I am the LORD'S'; And that one will call on the name of Jacob; And another will write [on] his hand, 'Belonging to the LORD,' And will give himself Israel's name with honor. "This is what the LORD says, [He who is] the King of Israel and his Redeemer, the LORD of armies: 'I am the first and I am the last, And there is no God besides Me."

I do think the alpha omega tattoo comes first - I am reminded again in this passage. Each image will have a verse for this is how I will remember best in this life - what is written. I may also then be witness even after my death when my body lay bare before I turn back to dust:  Again I say - it is all matter of the heart. Some face consequence for choices made in this life. We all will face them in the next. And so I am thankful for the certainty of salvation; the justification of my sins and freedom from the rigid laws of the Jews. 

The new law is simple: love your neighbor as yourself, as He has loved me! 

[Jhn 13:34-36 NIV] ""A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." Simon Peter asked him, "Lord, where are you going?" Jesus replied, "Where I am going, you cannot follow now, but you will follow later."" 

For we are not justified because of anything done in us or by us - it is Christ who has done this. Only by the free grace are we justified! For Jesus was the atonement. A necessary shedding of blood for our transgressions:

Leviticus 17:11: For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life

[Eph 1:7 NASB20] "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our wrongdoings, according to the riches of His grace"

He is also called the second Adam for the first failed us, a curse for generations to come, but then Jesus came to make it right. For He loved us so even to a brutal death! I strive to choose differently than Adam in the moments I can... though I too am a sinful man. 

[Mat 19:26 ESV] "But Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.""

For there was a moment when Eve extended an apple, after the deceiver tricked her, and Adam had not yet succumbed to a bite. Though in his heart a choice to sin was sealed - for He loved Eve all but too much whom the Lord had provided in kindness:

[1Ti 2:13-14 ESV] "For Adam was formed first, then Eve; and Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor."

And one... the one I had forgot... it was written in my heart once.  It was lost to me for too long as I grieved and quenched the Spirit with my pattern of choices:

[1Co 10:13 NIV] "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it."

There is also a warning I did not heed close enough. Take note brothers: for why did I proclaim myself as the helper to my help mate when The Helper was sent? Should have kept the main thing the main thing. What reversal of the ordained order of things for me to do otherwise; I should have read more in my youth and sought wisdom. So where it should have been healthy interdependent, a thing complementary but different in other aspects, equal in value and worth...turned into co-dependent idolaty. A risk to be aware of and present since sin first entered the world:

[Gen 3:16 KJV] "Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire [shall be] to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee."

[1Co 11:12 ESV] "for as woman was made from man, so man is now born of woman. And all things are from God." 

For the path I followed was with my own heart. The neivity and foolishness of my youth lead me astray and may yet again - I will attempt to be not so naive. Rather I will guard my heart more closely now fully aware of its nature and awakened:

• [Pro 4:23 KJV] "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it [are] the issues of life."
• [Jer 17:9 KJV] "The heart [is] deceitful above all [things], and desperately wicked: who can know it?"
• [Psa 51:10 KJV] "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me." 
• [Isa 55:9 KJV] "For [as] the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts."

[Mat 22:37-40 KJV] "Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second [is] like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets."

Something about His presence makes me feel good: I don't have to worry about a thing! (an ode to forrest frank there - video below)

Rest in peace, safety and love under the olive tree my friend. For that I who I seek.

You are loved! 

Will you love Him? He waits for it with open arms.

 

Convince my heart

Psalms 51:15 TPT

[15] Lord God, unlock my heart, unlock my lips, and I will overcome with my joyous praise!

https://bible.com/bible/1849/psa.51.15.TPT

Convince My Heart - Tony Cuchetti 

Well I don’t need you.

I’m glad that I freed you.

I don’t miss you in the night time, since we’re apart.

Got my head on straight now.

All my friends think I’m great now.

Now there’s one thing left to do, that’s convince my heart.

I’m sleeping in every morning.

Don’t hear no lip bout’ my snorin’.

I can play my damn music loud anytime I want.

I ain’t thinking about you.

I can sure live without you.

Now there’s one thing left to do, that’s convince my heart.

Convince my heart that I don’t love you.

Convince my heart I ain’t thinkin’ of you.

My mind Lord is ready for a brand new start.

I think I’m ready now, to take my opening bow.

Well now there’s one thing left to do, that’s convince my heart.

I’m several years older.

Broken guitar on my shoulder.

But I think I finally made it through the toughest part.

My days they’re all looking better.

Since we ain’t been together.

Well now there’s one thing left to do, that’s convince my heart.

Convince my heart that I don’t love you.

Convince my heart I ain’t thinkin’ of you.

My mind Lord is ready for a brand new start.

I think I’m ready now, to take my opening bow.

Well now there’s one thing left to do, that’s convince my heart.

Convince my heart that I don’t love you.

Convince my heart I ain’t thinkin’ of you.

My mind Lord is ready for a brand new start.

I think I’m ready now, to take my opening bow.

Well now there’s one thing left to do, that’s convince my heart.

Well now there’s one thing left to do, that’s convince my heart.

Oh yeah, convince my heart.

Waking Up In the Light; There Must Be A Reason? - War

My goodness I love the bible this is like the coolest! Ezekiel 37:14 verse selection many years ago was tied to the whole section of the Valley of Dry Bones. Started with memorizing Psalms 46:10 in English for this is truth I know; for I am at peace in the knowledge of his exaltation! There is power in the words when committed to thought:

"Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!" [Psalm 46:10 ESV]

Then I learned it in Hebrew - not quite sure why. I suppose I just want to soak it in. Full sensory experience. For my mind has trouble staying still so committing it deeply seemed fitting. I usually have a hum and tune in my head anyway so I took try at putting the words to the popular 'Why Can't We Be Friends'.  (Skinny Marinky Dinky Dink tune wasn't cutting it nor were the usual hymns) Eventually found a real good hum and sung along. Pretty fun! Maybe the Greek of Eph. 5:14 will do the same for me? It is other passage I have held dear during my hard times. Supposedly an old hymn of the early church. Probably just a distraction from the real relational mission field. I have some healing left for my heart is not convinced though the last bits of stone begin to crumble. At the very least I learn a bit along the way. I have to listen so carefully when I hear the words but what is written and read comes easy. So does the singing! 

Thanks to ChatGPT html script I created a slower loop of Ephesians 5:14 being read in Greek. The phonetics appears to match up with blueletterbible.org pronunciations of the Greek words so now I have something to come back to. Perhaps committing a few to heart in this language would help if I get around to doing a class or something more form

Here is the original verse, King James seems most valuable here, though the preceding first about walking in the light is also critical for understanding for those sleepers; they who quench and grieve the Spirit of the Lord with faith of baby bath water temperatures:

Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. [Ephesians 5:14 KJV]

Will this me my anthem to herald? I need some words for the hymn humming's. Here the words are the doing. The words were also the doing in the beginning and the words will also be the undoing in the end; so it will be when it is finished with a great trumpet sound:

Eph 5:14 (NASB20) — For this reason it (or He) says,

“Awake, sleeper,

And arise from the dead,

And Christ will shine on you.

Greek letters, not that I know any (yet) but copy-paste from https://www.blueletterbible.org/ and they match the video: 

διὸ λέγει Ἔγειραι, ὁ καθεύδων καὶ ἀνάστα ἐκ τῶν νεκρῶν καὶ ἐπιφαύσει σοι ὁ Χριστός 

[Ephesians 5:14 TR]

I should have maybe just gone and been been a bible nerd not a science nerd. Honestly I am not sure I gave it much thought, sort of just followed the footsteps of my earthly father. 
Since the tower of Babel language has been cause for barriers but now with AI tools speaking in another language is like way easier! Does it open the door to something more? Perhaps, I mean there words of Jesus caused a fig to melt! And in a single word He can utter a word of destruction across the whole earth... so that all will know Him. We can bring the good news to every corner! An interesting translation I have just discovered that gives food for thought: (though Christ is the bread of life) 

The editors of the TSK or 'Treasury of Scripture Knowledge' are not concerned with tying words to their exact matches in other portions of Scripture (as others have accomplished such tasks admirably—a la Strong's concordance work) but instead, the editors offer a concordance of ideas, an index of thoughts.

So here are verses the TSK feels are related ideas. Maybe of some value since this verse was core to my journey. The most concise story of salvation:

• he - or, it
• Awake thou that sleepest:- Isa 51:17; Isa 52:1; Isa 60:1; Rom 13:11,12; 1Co 15:34; 1Th 5:6; 2Ti 2:26; 
• [Isa 51:17 NASB20] "Pull yourself up! Pull yourself up! Arise, Jerusalem! You who have drunk from the LORD'S hand the cup of His anger; The chalice of staggering you have drunk to the dregs."
• [Isa 52:1 NASB20] "Awake, awake, Clothe yourself in your strength, Zion; Clothe yourself with your beautiful garments, Jerusalem, the holy city; For the uncircumcised and the unclean Will no longer come into you."
• [Isa 60:1 NASB20] ""Arise, shine; for your light has come, And the glory of the LORD has risen upon you."
• [Rom 13:11-12 NASB20] "[Do] this, knowing the time, that it is already the hour for you to awaken from sleep; for now salvation is nearer to us than when we [first] believed. The night is almost gone, and the day is near. Therefore let's rid ourselves of the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light."
• [1Co 15:34 NASB20] "Sober up morally and stop sinning, for some have no knowledge of God. I say [this] to your shame."
• [1Th 5:6 NASB20] "so then, let's not sleep as others do, but let's be alert and sober."
• [2Ti 2:26 NASB20] "and they may come to their senses [and escape] from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will."
• arise from the dead - Eph 2:5; Isa 26:19; Eze 37:4-10; Jhn 5:25-29; Jhn 11:43,44; Rom 6:4,5,13; Col 3:1
• [Eph 2:5 NASB20] "even when we were dead in our wrongdoings, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),"
• [Isa 26:19 NASB20] "Your dead will live; Their corpses will rise. You who lie in the dust, awake and shout for joy, For your dew [is as] the dew of the dawn, And the earth will give birth to the departed spirits."
• [Eze 37:4-10 NASB20] "Again He said to me, "Prophesy over these bones and say to them, 'You dry bones, hear the word of the LORD.' "This is what the Lord GOD says to these bones: 'Behold, I am going to make breath enter you so that you may come to life. 'And I will attach tendons to you, make flesh grow back on you, cover you with skin, and put breath in you so that you may come to life; and you will know that I am the LORD.'" So I prophesied as I was commanded; and as I prophesied, there was a [loud] noise, and behold, a rattling; and the bones came together, bone to its bone. And I looked, and behold, tendons were on them, and flesh grew and skin covered them; but there was no breath in them. Then He said to me, "Prophesy to the breath, prophesy, son of man, and say to the breath, 'The Lord GOD says this: "Come from the four winds, breath, and breathe on these slain, so that they come to life."'" So I prophesied as He commanded me, and the breath entered them, and they came to life and stood on their feet, an exceedingly great army."
• [Jhn 5:25-29 NASB20] ""Truly, truly, I say to you, a time is coming and even now has arrived, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. "For just as the Father has life in Himself, so He gave to the Son also to have life in Himself; and He gave Him authority to execute judgment, because He is [the] Son of Man. "Do not be amazed at this; for a time is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear His voice, and will come out: those who did the good [deeds] to a resurrection of life, those who committed the bad [deeds] to a resurrection of judgment."
• [Jhn 11:43-44 NASB20] "And when He had said these things, He cried out with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" Out came the man who had died, bound hand and foot with wrappings, and his face was wrapped around with a cloth. Jesus said to them, "Unbind him, and let him go.""
• [Rom 6:4-5, 13 NASB20] "Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too may walk in newness of life. For if we have become united with [Him] in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be [in the likeness] of His resurrection, ... and do not go on presenting the parts of your body to sin [as] instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those who are alive from the dead, and your body's parts [as] instruments of righteousness for God."
• [Col 3:1 NASB20] "Therefore, if you have been raised with Christ, keep seeking the things [that are] above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God."
• Christ shall give thee light - Jhn 8:12; Jhn 9:5; Act 13:47; 2Co 4:6; 2Ti 1:10
• [Jhn 8:12 NASB20] "Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, "I am the Light of the world; the one who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.""
• [Jhn 9:5 NASB20] ""While I am in the world, I am the Light of the world.""
• [Act 13:47 NASB20] ""For so the Lord has commanded us, 'I HAVE APPOINTED YOU AS A LIGHT TO THE GENTILES, THAT YOU MAY BRING SALVATION TO THE END OF THE EARTH.'""
• [2Co 4:6 NASB20] "For God, who said, "Light shall shine out of darkness," is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ."
• [2Ti 1:10 NASB20] "but has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel,"

So far I have only asked feedback from one with years walking with the Lord for their thoughts: how to best go about equipping myself? A 4 year degree was the reply for proper understanding of eschatology and (whatever fancy word for bible understanding is). Seems as though that door is closed if I want to keep the frog lights on; that which is vanity comes first to mind. At this point I wonder if I could win the lottery so I can go to bible school, get the church an elevator and toss money at mission work? HA! Tried that oh well. Maybe needs more prayer - an area I could improve on though these days every hour is a prayer. So I may take a break from reading for more prayer and committing verses to heart. So I may always be ready to speak.

So as Jesus did in the desert I too will defend with verses committed to my body, to my mind and to my heart so that even if there be a day I cannot speak or hear or see I will know the Word of the Lord at the core of my being. So I do not forget.

Ephesians 6:12 English Standard Version

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.

 

/div

Jesus is the light so I'm gonna let Him shine

“The man who is asleep does not care what becomes of his neighbors; how can he while he is asleep? And oh! Some of you Christians do not care whether souls are saved or damned… It is enough for them if they are comfortable. If they can attend a respectable place of worship and go with others to heaven, they are indifferent about everything else.” (Spurgeon)

Though darkness spreads - so can the light.  For too long my little light hide under a bushel. Now I will shine everywhere I go. Won't let Satan blow it out. No! There are so few on the road it is quite narrow. Woe to you with divided attention and hearts that do not see the path to take. Let me help you from damnation - simply hear the words of the lord! 

"Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. [Matthew 7:13 ESV]

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.' [Matthew 7:21-23 ESV] 

(AI is truly changing this world quickly)

The flax that produces a smoke follows with light and where there is light there is fire! (credit to the Puritan Sibbes for that gem of a connection) This is true for I live the experience.

A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory. [Matthew 12:20 KJV]

The flames dance inside me for I have embraced the Helper by way of faith in the fires of affliction. Do I even smell like smoke? Ha! Nope! He is that good and that powerful brother. Read about it here. What would it take for you to have this kind of faith? 

This is the God I serve though I sought my own blessings before. Whom do you call master? The fleeting things of this world? What a con in the long game for its joys are but a taste of what is to come. You think the mountains on this place is awesome? What about version 2.0 where no tear is shed!  

For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. [Isaiah 65:17 KJV]

Wakey wakey Christian fakey! You know the truth - why do you not proclaim it boldy when our neighbors and coworkers salvation is at stake! For you are asleep. Best not be sleeping when the earth breaks. I will try to wake you with all my focus and will. For who else will step up!? Though I do not yet have my feet fully equipped I begin to build the strength I will need to share truth in love. Something I have not always been good at but I strive to improve upon it. 

Now concerning the times and the seasons, brothers, you have no need to have anything written to you. For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, "There is peace and security," then sudden destruction will come upon them as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. But you are not in darkness, brothers, for that day to surprise you like a thief. For you are all children of light, children of the day. We are not of the night or of the darkness. So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober. For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, are drunk at night. But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation. For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us so that whether we are awake or asleep we might live with him. Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. [1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 ESV]

Though none go with me still I will follow. I was made to shine and so be a light I will. The lampstand is filled with oil and there is plenty to share for it flows from the limitless pools of heaven above. You yourself must choose it. Will you shine brightly with me? This world is rather drab if we do not live in light:

In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. [John 1:4-5 ESV]

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. [1 Peter 2:9 ESV] 

Truly I have been transformed for my mind is renewed. Is it even my own? I wonder for all else of this world is so much more dim than thoughts of heaven to come. Perhaps an escape from grief at times but I welcome it. Does it not say this is how we are to think? 

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. [Romans 12:2 NASB20] 

Finally, brothers [and sisters,] whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, think about these things. [Philippians 4:8 NASB20] 

We should rejoice, pray, and give thanks - what holds you back? Or grabs your heel? A: The flesh and the devil does. Resist and you shall overcome. 

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil. Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it. [1 Thessalonians 5:2, 16-24 ESV]

I burn quite passionate these days and enjoy taking time to grow in my faith; journaling has been part of working out my faith. I am unquenched and so now I aim to yoke with Christ and the Church.

Truly, I have come full circle on the feeling wheel. Fear, love and joy in Christ has expelled the surprise, anger and sadness. I will anchor to the Rock of Ages. I know myself too well to do anything else: 

But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. [Galatians 5:16 ESV]

I am eager for the snake to not harass with bites of venom; I pray His kingdom come! (what if we all did that? I implore your brother and sister to do so for it changes your perspective when you do so regularly)

The nursing child shall play over the hole of the cobra, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the adder's den. [Isaiah 11:8 ESV]

P.S. I need to find some training in greek/hebrew; blue letter bible is powerful tool but I fumble around as a novice. Also maybe I get a snake to remind me of the fall? Have always been interested in having a tropical species to add to my room of jungle 'hevel'... although I already have too many reminders of what is to come adding more is futile. Eleven could cause trouble with a snake around; already bad enough since Tahiti lost her tail. 

I wondered what snake species would eat crickets in the jungle... Oh look, another reminder!   

Tropical snake decline linked to deadly frog disease

How quickly will this all unfold? Meh; best to live as I am called. (sill figuring that out, but I'm doubling down on Jesus Christ, for I did the risk assessment) 

We are to enjoy life too: 

Young people, it's wonderful to be young! Enjoy every minute of it. Do everything you want to do; take it all in. But remember that you must give an account to God for everything you do. [Ecclesiastes 11:9 NLT]

Mindful sobriety and the hippo; a heel strike

When one thinks of the dangerous animals of Africa often the lion is thought of.  It is actually the hippo that is more dangerous an animal. 

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8 

I had a dream where the deceiver grabbed my heel. 

Though shriveled and but a skin in the a basement it lives. A musty stench.  

He runs and screams leaving it behind but it's still in the room.

I awoke. 

My leg begins to ache again though it was healed. 

Again I fell asleep. 

I slept in my dreams but awoke to this in my dream state: 

A locked door was opened in the night. 

A security risk? Who enters? 

So I went about my day but then an old snake struck my heel the next night. 

I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel." [Genesis 3:15 ESV]

A trap seizes him by the heel; a snare lays hold of him. [Job 18:9 ESV]

How could I have forgotten that dream I had not more than 12 hours before? Such folly for me to entertain the devils lettuce in such a time as this. While to backslide is not unusual we must strive to flee sin and run towards our Savior. How often the Israelites turned back from God though they saw the miracles performed! 

"Return, faithless people; I will cure you of backsliding." "Yes, we will come to you, for you are the LORD our God. [Jeremiah 3:22 NIV] 

At first I asked for wisdom. And he provided. 
And I asked for him to give me strength of faith where I had not enough. He has provided.
I asked for healing and to starve the temptations. He has provided. 
I asked for gifts so that I may lift up the church and wake up those that have ears. He has provided. I have fear the Lord and it is indeed a cause of trembling; this temple can barely stand.

Fear came upon me, and trembling, which made all my bones to shake. [Job 4:14 KJV]

To doubt is human error of which the root cause is pride. So I must humble myself and listen to the nudges and shaking though I wander astray and forget. As Israel also forgets. How can we remember? By writing on my hand and adorning the temple so that even unto death this sack of bones that are of the dust will proclaim: I am the LORDs.  

This one will say, 'I am the LORD's,' another will call on the name of Jacob, and another will write on his hand, 'The LORD's,' and name himself by the name of Israel." [Isaiah 44:5 ESV]

So I shall turn from my deceitfulness as Jacob did.  I feel as though I too have wrestled with God and now walk with a limp. I sought my own way for 17 long years. So I pray I will continue to be broken down, that my limp would not cease, that I would be reminded of the vapor I am today for the things of this earth will pass away. Are we even guaranteed a single breath for tomorrow? No! 

I want a full life in eternity full of blessings there and will not make exchange for a red stew of this earth that satisfies the snake brain. So I begin my climb out of the basement and take the stairs towards heaven as the angels do in their coming and going. 

For there is no other way than to trust and obey.

Ten Dead Dogs - What was Past is Now Present: Beware of the 70th week

This song takes on new meaning! My whole life has been a personal journey of doubt, struggle, and seeking divine direction. Its now evolving into hope and spiritual clarity. 

For not all dogs go to heaven. This I know. Do you you? 

I saw  ten dead dogs  on the side of the road

driving late last night to your apartment

and I thought it was an omen

so I headed on back home and

walked in circles 'round my room

alone.

And Oh my god, is this really what you want?

Would you tell us if it's not?

And could you rewrite the plot

and come and get us?

Yeah, come and get us.

Shivering cold, I woke up in water

and wrapped myself around the toilet seat.

I spoke in tongues and took all my clothes off.

The tops of my fingers

touched the tops of my toes

And Oh my god, is this really what you want?

Would you tell us if it's not?

And could you rewrite the plot

and come and get us?

Cause we can't stop doing

what we think we want,

even though we know it's not.

This place is merely a subplot

to come and get us.

I've never felt this way before.

Am I running away from what

I've always been running towards.

Belief, believe in me, cause I don't know

if reason's ever gonna see why love

would come to die,

to leave.

Oh my god, is this really what you want?

Would you tell us if it's not?

And could you rewrite the plot

and come and get us?

Cause we can't stop doing

what we think we want,

even though we know it's not.

This place is merely a subplot

to come and get us.

I watched the sky turn from blue

to black to red and yellow too

before the purple dawn was filling up my room.

And for a brief moment,

I heard the whole earth groaning

like there was something

that it needed me to do.

It is now, strangely, almost an anthem of hope! Deeply personal. For I was running away from where I am to go but now have been made whole for I have returned to the right path.  I was not aware at the time but this song sems to speak to the Kingdom come; how interesting especially with the many associations of the number 10 in the bible. There is something to the math of it all - too much to unpack for today.  Fun random bible fact about dogs and one verse to share as I relate to my readings:

May the LORD judge between me and you, may the LORD avenge me against you, but my hand shall not be against you. As the proverb of the ancients says, 'Out of the wicked comes wickedness.' But my hand shall not be against you. After whom has the king of Israel come out? After whom do you pursue? After a dead dog! After a flea! [1 Samuel 24:12-14 ESV]

 

For I am also a dead dog and do not seek to avenge. For what love is there in that? God is merciful and full of grace we should extend that to others. Being mindful of those that do not appreciate it; I must grow in discernment:

"Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you. [Matthew 7:6 ESV] 

A verse I am too familiar with as I am forgetful: 

Like a dog that returns to his vomit is a fool who repeats his folly. [Proverbs 26:11 ESV]

And one that speaks to the many itchy ears and those willing to feed them:

What the true proverb says has happened to them: "The dog returns to its own vomit, and the sow, after washing herself, returns to wallow in the mire." [2 Peter 2:22 ESV]

 Original thoughts from 05/13/2010; from an old post of song meaning in a draft post; quite a dark path I once walked but now walk in light. I see the dichotomy of my old posts vs new quite clearly myself:

4 Ten Dead Dogs by Wild Sweet Orange

The first few stanzas can hit hard with the lyrics “I saw ten dead dogs on the side of the road..”. To add to that, there is a subtle dark theme to its melody. The interpretation that I draw is that the artist is struggling with his direction in life, not sure if he’s doing the right thing or on the right path. He ponders that question, struggling with his set of beliefs and all his previously held conceptions of his goals and aspirations. He wonders wether he would know the path in life he should take if he sees it, and if not, whether God would point him in the right direction. For a brief moment at the end, the singer may be coming to a realization of a need for change in his life. I relate particularity because I have experienced the ups and downs, doubts and all the questions revolving around the meaning and purpose of life. I feel like my life has been a struggle between right and wrong, riding the fine line that exists between the two. Life is a journey to find answers to those questions, even if we don’t know there are answers.

So all this to day:  we should be mindful of the last week. It will be here in a flash. I would rather wait expectantly myself and not get caught with my pants down.  How about you?  

Ten kingdoms come as one and it kind of seems like the earth groans. Will we see it in our generation? Who knows, not for me to have any idea but I just write as I am lead in my time and breath on earth. So much to understand about what is already written by the prophets! I could spend the rest of my life unpacking it. I think i would like that.

"Then I desired to know the exact meaning of the fourth beast, which was different from all the others, exceedingly dreadful, with its teeth of iron and its claws of bronze, [and which] devoured, crushed, and trampled down the remainder with its feet, and [the meaning] of the ten horns that [were] on its head, and the other [horn] which came up, and before which three [of the horns] fell, namely, that horn which had eyes and a mouth uttering great [boasts,] and which was larger in appearance than its associates. [Daniel 7:19-20 NASB20]

Spiritual Amnesia; Temporary Temple

Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years approach when you will say, "I have no pleasure in them"; before the sun and the light, the moon and the stars are darkened, and clouds return after the rain; on the day that the watchmen of the house tremble, and strong men are bent over, the grinders stop working because they are few, and those who look through windows grow dim; and the doors on the street are shut as the sound of the grinding mill is low, and one will arise at the sound of the bird, and all the daughters of song will sing softly. Furthermore, [people] are afraid of a high place and of terrors on the road; the almond tree blossoms, the grasshopper drags itself along, and the caper berry is ineffective. For man goes to his eternal home while the mourners move around in the street. [Remember your Creator] before the silver cord is broken and the golden bowl is crushed, the pitcher by the spring is shattered and the wheel at the cistern is crushed; then the dust will return to the earth as it was, and the spirit will return to God who gave it. "Futility of futilities," says the Preacher, "all is futility!" [Ecclesiastes 12:1-8 NASB20]

So I recently was opened up to the idea that Ecclesiastes was my favorite, second to Revelation although that was more so during my youth. (for what teacher writes a letter to say she will never read revelation the same after speaking with me- and that she would let me know when there is a study on it? I was only in middle school; childlike wonder perhaps) Eventually I will join one. 

I don't know if I remember much from back then? The thorn in my side doesn't help as I am stuck with it. Is there also memory loss associated with a spiritual awakening? I swear I remembered by phone PIN correctly but perhaps the 'silver cord' begins to break. Hevel! And so I fell to my knees in awe once again as each step forward is affirmed in my awakening. I felt this way last spring I know- wouldn't that vineyard be a great place to host worship nights? Or a Bible study? I am blessed that it didn't move forward. It would have more difficult of a situation; nothing God couldn't have handled but still a relief indeed. 

This guy definitely gets it: 

Lastly, let us follow the Lord's mind, and come what will. In a word, set your face, like a flint, to serve God, by the maintenance of his truth, by your holy life, by the savour of your Christian character; and, that being done, defy earth and hell. If there were a crowd of devils between you and Christ, kick a lane through them by holy faith. They will fly before you. If you have but the courage to make an advance, they cannot stop you. You shall make a clear gangway through legions of them. Only be strong, and of good courage, and do not regard even the clouds from hell, or the blasts from the infernal pit; but go straight on in the path of right, and God being with you, you shall sow and you shall reap, unto his eternal glory.

Will some poor sinner here to-night, whether he sinks or swims, trust Christ? Come, if you feel less inclined to-night to hope, than you ever did before. Have hope even now; hope against hope; belief against belief. Cast yourself on Christ, even though he may seem to stand with a drawn sword in his hand, to run you through; trust even an angry Christ. Though your sins have grieved him, come and trust him. Do not stop for winds to blow over, or clouds to burst. Just as thou art, without one trace of anything that is good about thee, come and trust Christ as thy Saviour, and thou art saved. God give you grace to do so, for Jesus' sake! Amen.

Spurgeon, Charles. "Sowing in the Wind, Reaping Under Clouds." Blue Letter Bible. 18 Apr, 2001. Web. 7 Sep, 2024. <https://www.blueletterbible.org/comm/spurgeon_charles/sermons/2264.cfm>.

An except from another :  

Solomon, in Ecclesiastes 12:6, has left us a poetic description of death. How that "silver cord" describes the spinal marrow; the "golden bowl", the basin which holds the brain; the "pitcher", the lungs; and the "wheel", the heart!

The circulation of the blood was discovered twenty-six hundred years afterward by Harvey. Is it not very remarkable that the language Solomon uses exactly suits the fact—a wheel pumping up through one pipe to discharge through another?

Torrey, R.. "The Testimony of the Organic Unity of the Bible to its Inspiration." Blue Letter Bible. 6 Oct, 2003. Web. 7 Sep, 2024. <https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/torrey_ra/fundamentals/24.cfm>.

Maybe I sew together the science of this world with the red threads in the Bible. This way other scientists may come to know Him as I do. For the pursuit of scientific discovery leads to the Lord - can you see it? For He invited Adam to name His creation which shows how the Lord values our uniqueness and creativity. Are not the scientific and engineering wonders a testament to His goodness? That the creator would bestow such wonderous minds and bodies! A paradox some will say. I studied science the first half my life; the second half I will devote to the words of the most popular book in all the world - the Bible. Why not? At the very least it adds richness to my own life and keep my focus on eternity. (for distraction is my thorn) At its best I would be better equipped to open the eyes to sinners, comfort those that suffer and embolden the saints.

It was folly to forget, that as a man, I am a weak vessel. Time to care for the temple of the Lord. For I am broken and feeling old; but also healed strong and a bit wiser than I was in my youth. He is the Great Physician and in no need of a Phd or MD or DVM.

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. [2 Corinthians 12:9-10 ESV]

So I make leave to behead the old snake that strikes my heel. That song "step by step He leads me" comes to mind. 

Praise Him! Psalms 46:10

There is much to be thankful for. His majesty and power is seen in the original Hebrew of Psalms 46:10 - what richness of truth in the Bible! 

This verse has been top of mind as I clung My Rock. It is both satisfying and euphoric to hold the original Hebrew and English in your mind simultaneously for I am uniquely made as are all the children of the Most High. This is how I was formed in the womb! A very recent revelation about myself that was hidden. Much like the other areas - so I step forward with disclosure and ask for feedback. 

 

My praise time is in the shower (who doesn't sing in the shower?) This is where He filles me up so I may love myself and others as He has loved me. 

      

The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, but the one who prophesies builds up the church. [1 Corinthians 14:4 ESV]

Walking the Talk

Many years ago, in middle school, I took the stage to boldly proclaim Him. I can scarce believe it-  the the Lord loved me so even then when I lived in the sins of my youth. Under the direction of my youth pastor, now also choked out by the weeds and temptations of lust, we would contrast the will of the Lord for our lives with the worlds deceitfulness. We even tossed out Little Debbie snack cakes from a basket to my peers. These snacks were just temporary substance- food to hold our bellies free from hunger for a short while. 

Now is a time for me to share the bread of life - from the basket of Christ for there are leftovers. He fed the crowds when they hungered. Since He cares to give food for our physical body- why would he not also provide drink to those who are spiritually thirsty? There are many that thirst and it is freely given. It says so it the bible quite clearly:

For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, ... Then the righteous will answer him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? [Matthew 25:35, 37 ESV]

Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water." [John 4:13-15 ESV]

And he said to me, "It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment. [Revelation 21:6 ESV]

It was quite difficult to share and walk by the spirit before. I think perhaps I may have been unequally yoked. I also quenched the Spirit with my own sinful choices. Like Jacob, my younger years I sought my own path. As I approach the day I will turn back to dust- I reflect and turn to Him. Indeed, his words are truth for Christ as woken a sleeper and his light shines brightly in me. Does a man hide a light under a basket? NO. If the words of the bible say 'Let him that has ears to hear, listen!' we must speak for sounds not spoken cannot fall on ears at all.  

Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear. [Matthew 13:43 ESV]

but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always [being] ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, but with gentleness and respect; [1 Peter 3:15 NASB20]

Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, [1 Peter 3:13-15 ESV]

But everything exposed by the light becomes visible--and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. This is why it is said: "Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. [Ephesians 5:13-16 NIV]

Time to lean in to what He is telling me. He has my full attention after a recent experience of Fatherly discipline. For a good father speaks truth. Thought I don't recall if this happened in my youth with my earthly father I likely had closed ears at that time, blinded by the passions of my youth. I pray I leave my youthful folly behind me. No wonder the lives of men were cut short after the flood. To think if I had many more years of youth left?!?!? A blessing despite the curse of man indeed. 

Feels like its a Jesus-take-the-wheel situation and I am just in the backseat of the car, trembling with a fear of the Lord, being driven to an unknown destination for His future glory. I think I will try my very best now to take the blue chip every day. A blue chip in Celebrate Recovery is a chip that represents the surrender of a person to Christ. It is the first chip received and is considered the most important. 

This is what the LORD says: "Heaven is My throne and the earth is the footstool for My feet. Where then is a house you could build for Me? And where is a place that I may rest? "For My hand made all these things, So all these things came into being," declares the LORD. "But I will look to this one, At one who is humble and contrite in spirit, and who trembles at My word. [Isaiah 66:1-2 NASB20]

Story after story, the Bible tells me how it is best to listen to the Lord the first time or suffer the consequences of our own choice. I will give account and you will give account. I pray your name is in the Book of Life. 

P.S. I really need to formally equip myself for expository teaching as I weave in my personal journey and reflections here. That door has not been found... yet? So to any readers: be sure to take my own words lightly-  but please heed much more closely to the words written in the bible. For that is the truth left for us. A standard operating procedure (SOP) for living a life pleasing to the Lord!

Flowers Will Grow in My Valley

Psalm 23:4 (NIV)

“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

Follow the red threads! 

The blood of Christ runs symbolically throughout the Bible. The richness of truth is so deep its next level.  A spiritual upgrade. There is so much depth left to uncover for it is written that the night is near:

[Do] this, knowing the time, that it is already the hour for you to awaken from sleep; for now salvation is nearer to us than when we [first] believed. The night is almost gone, and the day is near. Therefore let's rid ourselves of the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let's behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and debauchery, not in strife and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to [its] lusts. [Romans 13:11-14 NASB20]

I know know this is my atonement and reconciliation story with my JEHOVAH, the beginning and the end, my Alpha and Omega.  

1. And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by [the name of] God Almighty, but by my name JEHOVAH was I not known to them. [Exodus 6:3 KJV]
2. That [men] may know that thou, whose name alone [is] JEHOVAH, [art] the most high over all the earth. [Psalm 83:18 KJV]
3. Behold, God [is] my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH [is] my strength and [my] song; he also is become my salvation. [Isaiah 12:2 KJV]
4. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH [is] everlasting strength: [Isaiah 26:4 KJV]
5. And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovahjireh: as it is said [to] this day, In the mount of the LORD it shall be seen. [Genesis 22:14 KJV]
6. And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovahnissi: [Exodus 17:15 KJV]
7. Then Gideon built an altar there unto the LORD, and called it Jehovahshalom: unto this day it [is] yet in Ophrah of the Abiezrites. [Judges 6:24 KJV]

For JEHOVAH is my KING and I begin my new journey as a fervent and bold slave for Christ: 

“The LORD Will Provide” = Jehovahjireh

For He provided His only Son for the salvation of the world.

“The Lord is my Banner” = Jehovahnissi

For my battle is the Lords. 

“The Lord is Peace” = Jehovahshalom

For the Lord is my perfect peace. 

Yet why am I so afraid? For Johovah lives inside this temple! Yet I am brought to my knees by this for I am but just a man with unclean lips living among people with unclean lips.  I was but a prisoner 'til He bought my bond with blood. For I am Barabbas. 

Then I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, "Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?" Then I said, "Here am I. Send me!" [Isaiah 6:8 NASB20]

I know not what to herald other than what is already written. A story of this first earths beginning and the end. There is not a redemption story without a story of coming judgment. 

But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be discovered. Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the elements will melt with intense heat! But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells. Therefore, beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found spotless and blameless by Him, at peace, and regard the patience of our Lord [as] salvation; just as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given him, wrote to you, as also in all [his] letters, speaking in them of these things, in which there are some things that are hard to understand, which the untaught and unstable distort, as [they do] also the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction. You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unscrupulous people and lose your own firm commitment, but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him [be] the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. [2 Peter 3:10-18 NASB20]

This is my new burden and so the Spirit sweats my eyes in dismay:

When He approached [Jerusalem,] He saw the city and wept over it, [Luke 19:41 NASB20]

"It is better for him if a millstone is hung around his neck and he is thrown into the sea, than that he may cause one of these little ones to sin. [Luke 17:2 NASB20]

The Spirit provides the strength for forgiveness. I repent and must, like Samuel and Agag, "שָׁסַף the snake שָׁסַף"

perhaps to

 find my purpose. 

(see H8158 for the Hebrew)

In the valley my faith grew stronger for I trusted the Lord. I mediated his Word more in the last 6 months than I have all my life. And now I am changed at my core! It is in the valley where your faith grows.

 He plants the seeds and sends the rain for the lilies in my valley! Eternity awaits.  

For when Debar Yehovah woke me in the night with "it is finished" reverberating in my skull with clarity and conviction - it really was finished. I thought only of John 19:30 at the time but there is another verse with those words that makes it more clear now for two awoke - one to light and the other to darkness. A unyoking. 

(James 1:12-16 KJV) "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 that love him. 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: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. Do not err, my beloved brethren."

Temptation and darkness which leads to death can be defeated - but only with faith in Jesus and steps of obedience from a heart of repentance.   

[Rom 6:16 ESV] "Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness?"

[Col 2:13-14 ESV] "And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross."