The Three Earth Ages

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THREE EARTH AGES

This world is millions of years old. Christians have caused a lot of confusion and lost many souls, especially our youth, in our attempt to convince them that this world is only six thousand years old. It does not fit. Our young go off to college and often begin to believe that all that they have been taught concerning God is not true because they see evidence to the contrary concerning the age of this earth. Evidence does confirm that flesh man has been here for approximately six thousand years, but that this earth has been around for millions of years.

From the scriptures we discover that there are three periods of time, or ages, described. We are now in the second age. Finding ourselves in this age is a result of what took place in the first earth age and where we end up in the third earth age is determined by what we do in this period of time. There is evidence that animals were present in the flesh during the first earth age because of the fossils that are found. There are places in this country such as the Ashfall, Nebraska Park where fossils that are not normal to the US have been found. You can check this out at http://ashfall.unl.edu/. In Siberia and Alaska Wooly Mammoth have been discovered with buttercups still in their stomach showing that something happened quickly to cause their demise.

God spoke to Job concerning the first earth age. It must have been a pleasant time for man. “Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding. Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest? or who hath stretched the line upon it? Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the corner stone thereof; When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?” (Job 38:4-7)(Note the word “stars”)

Something went terribly wrong which angered Our Father and the beautiful first earth age came to an end. Scriptures indicate that Satan was the culprit who rebelled and caused all of this to come about. Note again the word “stars” described in Isaiah which reads, “How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit. They that see thee shall narrowly look upon thee, and consider thee, saying, Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms; That made the world as a wilderness, and destroyed the cities thereof; that opened not the house of his prisoners?” (Isaiah 14:12-16)

In documentaries on the History Chanel or on the Discovery Channel, scientists confirm that something catastrophic happen approximately twelve to fifteen thousand years ago. The book of Jeremiah speaks of this catastrophic event when everything was destroyed. This is not Noah’s flood because in this scripture there was no man or bird left. “I beheld the earth, and, lo, it was without form, and void; and the heavens, and they had no light. I beheld the mountains, and, lo, they trembled, and all the hills moved lightly. I beheld, and, lo, there was no man, and all the birds of the heavens were fled. I beheld, and, lo, the fruitful place was a wilderness, and all the cities thereof were broken down at the presence of the LORD, and by his fierce anger. (Jeremiah 4:23-26) Note that there were cities that had existed. Peter also spoke of this upheaval when he wrote, “For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: (2nd Peter 3:5-6) That world age ended.

One small word in the first verse of the Bible clears up a lot of the confusion concerning this. The scripture reads, “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.” (Genesis 1:1-2) What word is it? It is the word “was”. Many of the King James Bible’s have that word marked out to the side indicating that the word could also mean “became”. Check out some older King James Bibles and you will see this to be true.
Let’s take a look at that word in the Hebrew Strong Concordance. It is the word hayah, pronounced ha-ya. Here are the meanings described:
1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out
a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass
b) to come about, come to pass
2) to come into being, become
a) to arise, appear, come
b) to become
1) to become
2) to become like
3) to be instituted, be established
3) to be
a) to exist, be in existence
b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time)
c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality)
d) to accompany, be with
b) (Niphal)
1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about
2) to be done, be finished, be gone

Now let’s take a look at the scripture with the word changed to “became” and see the difference it makes. “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth became without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.” Scripture does not say when the beginning was, only God knows when and how, but he did not create the earth void and without form. It became void and without form after Satan’s rebellion.

The Bible teaches us that a thousand years is as a day to the Lord, “For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night. (Psalms 90:4) And, also in the book of Peter we find, “But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.” (2nd Peter 3:8)

The book of Genesis teaches that the creation of this earth age took seven days. If this were to be considered one day as if a thousand years then creation or the first seven days would have actually been seven thousand years including the day that God rested. This helps make things fall into place a lot clearer. It is believed that man has been here approximately six thousand years and we tack on the seven thousand years of creation that would make this earth age approximately thirteen or fourteen thousand years old, which coincides with what scientists say that the great catastrophe which took place.

In no way is this indicating reincarnation only that we continue to exist. In the first earth age as a spirit soul, in the second earth age as a flesh soul and in the third earth age as a spirit soul once more. Also, since God said, “Let us make man in our image,” we continue to look the same. That is why the angels that appear off and on in the Bible look just like us only in their spiritual form. Consider also the many scriptures in the Old Testament, which, when speaking of death state that those who have died “returned to their fathers” or were “gathered to his people” or “join the fathers”.

The exciting part of our existence is the world age to come. There are many, many promises in the Bible concerning this. John writes in the book of Revelation. “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.” (Revelation 21:1-7)

In conclusion, “He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Bible Word Origanation – SATAN

BIBLE WORD ORIGANATION

SATAN

Used 56 times in 49 verses in the KJV Bible

First used in 1 Chronicles 21:1
Last used in Revelation 20:7

HEBREW Meaning of word (Biblical usage) #7854 in Strong’s Concordance Hebrew Dictionary
PRONOUNCED saw-tawn
adversary, one who withstands

from root word etymology #7853
to be or act as an adversary, resist, oppose

GREEK Meaning of word (Biblical usage) #4567 in Strong’s Concordance Greek Dictionary
PRONOUNCED Sa-ta-nas
adversary (one who opposes another in purpose or act), the name given to
the prince of evil spirits, the inveterate adversary of God and Christ

SATAN AS THE ANTI-CHRIST

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SATAN AS THE ANTI-CHRIST

Although his spirit is already at work in the earth, there is a point in the future when Satan, along with his angels, is going to literally be kicked out of heaven and cast to the earth. That is when the last big deception will take place. Are you prepared?

Perhaps Our Father has a purpose for you when the spoiler arrives. “O daughter of my people, gird thee with sackcloth, and wallow thyself in ashes: make thee mourning, as for an only son, most bitter lamentation: for the spoiler shall suddenly come upon us. I have set thee for a tower and a fortress among my people, that thou mayest know and try their way.” Jeremiah 6:26-27

Daniel says he will come in peacefully and cause to prosper and generously spread around wealth. Most are expecting a cruel, dictator type being, but what the actual deception will be is a great revival. He will claim to be Jesus. (The root word or etymology for Anti can mean instead of Christ. Here are the explanations in the Strong’s Greek Concordance: over against, opposite to, before, for, instead of, in place of something)

Revelation 13 says that he will deceive the world by performing miracles such as snapping his fingers and cause lightening to come down from heaven. This is why Jesus said in the gospel of Matthew, “Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not. For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. Behold, I have told you before. Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not.” (Matthew 24:23-26)

Jesus spoke of that day when Satan would be booted from heaven. Remember, another of Satan’s names is the serpent. Jesus said he gives his followers power to tread on serpents. “And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” Luke 10:18-19

Scripture:
How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. (Isaiah 14)

And in the latter time of their kingdom, when the transgressors are come to the full, a king of fierce countenance, and understanding dark sentences, shall stand up. And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power: and he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper, and practise, and shall destroy the mighty and the holy people. And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify himself in his heart, and by peace shall destroy many: he shall also stand up against the Prince of princes; but he shall be broken without hand. (Daniel 8:23-25)

He shall enter peaceably even upon the fattest places of the province; and he shall do that which his fathers have not done, nor his fathers’ fathers; he shall scatter among them the prey, and spoil, and riches: yea, and he shall forecast his devices against the strong holds, even for a time. (Daniel 11:24)

Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God. (2nd Thessalonians 2:3-4)

And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath his name Apollyon. (Revelation 9:11)

And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. (Revelation 12:9)

Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them, Woe to the inhibiters of the earth and of the sea! For the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time. (Revelation 12:12)

And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live. (Revelation 13:13-14)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
The anti-Christ will be Satan come to earth pretending to be God or Jesus performing miracles, spreading riches and deceiving the people of the world.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Leaders Influenced by Satan

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LEADERS INFLUENCED BY SATAN

Satan works to influence men through their own weaknesses as he did with King David on different occasions. This would indicate that the actions of the leader of a country could have an effect on the people of that nation. Although David was as a righteous man, he made mistakes and the people suffered because of it.

Scripture:

And Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel. And God was displeased with this thing; therefore he smote Israel. (1st Chronicles 21:1 and 21:7)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
King David’s actions brought trouble upon the people of his nation indicating that a leader’s decisions have an effect on its people.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Names of Satan

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NAMES OF SATAN

Besides being called the Serpent, The King and Prince of Tyrus, Leviathan, and Lucifer, Satan is also called several other names throughout the scriptures. One is adversary. Another name is devourer. Jesus called him a thief that steals kills and destroys.

In the book of Jeremiah he is called the spoiler.

In the book of Revelation when the 4th seal is opened he is called Death. Abaddon and Apollyon are two more names used in Revelation. Abaddon means destroyer in the Hebrew and Apollyon means destroyer in the Greek. Dragon, Serpent, and Devil are three more names mentioned in Revelation 12, along with the name Satan.

Scripture:
Psalm 74:10 O God, how long shall the adversary reproach? Shall the enemy blaspheme thy name forever?

Jeremiah 6:26-27 O daughter of my people, gird thee with sackcloth, and wallow thyself in ashes: make thee mourning, as for an only son, most bitter lamentation: for the spoiler shall suddenly come upon us. I have set thee for a tower and a fortress among my people, that thou mayest know and try their way.

I Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

Malachi 3:11 And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts.

John 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
Revelation 6:8 And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And Power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.

Revelation 9:11 And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath his name Apollyon.

Psalm 17:4 Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer.

Revelation 12:9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
We have learned that Satan is called several different names throughout the scriptures. The names are Serpent, King and Prince of Tyrus, Leviathan, and Lucifer. Also he is called Adversary, Devourer, Thief, Death, Abaddon and Apollyon, Destroyer, and Dragon and the Devil.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Satan as Leviathan

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SATAN AS LEVIATHAN

Many believe this description of Leviathan in the book of Job is speaking of Satan. He is described as being the king over all the children of pride.

Scripture:

Canst thou draw out leviathan with an hook? Or his tongue with a cord which thou lettest down? Canst thou put a hook into his nose? Or bore his jaw through with a thorn? Will he make many supplications unto thee? Will he speak soft words unto the? Will he make a covenant with thee? Wilt thou take him for a servant forever? Wilt thou play with him as with a bird? Or wilt thou bind him for thy maidens? Shall the companions make a banquet of him? Shall they part him among the merchants? Canst thou fill his skin with barbed irons? Or his head with fish spears? Lay thine hand upon him, remember the battle, do no more. Behold, the hope of him is in vain: shall not one be cast down even at the sight of him? None is so fierce that dare stir him up: who then is able to stand before me? Who hath prevented me that I should repay him? Whatsoever is under the whole heaven is mine. I will not conceal his parts, nor his power, nor his comely proportion. Who can discover the face of his garment? Or who can come to him with his double bridle? Who can open the doors of his face? His teeth are terrible round about. His scales are his pride, shut up together as with a close seal. One is so near to another, that no air can come between them. They are joined one to another, they stick together, that they cannot be sundered. By his neesings a light doth shine, and his eyes are like the eyelids of the morning. Out of his mouth go burning lamps, and sparks of fire leap out. Out of his nostrils goeth smoke, as out of a seething pot or caldron. His breath kindleth coals, and a flame goeth out of his mouth. In his neck remaineth strength, and sorrow is turned into joy before him. The flakes of his flesh are joined together: they are firm in themselves; they cannot be moved. His heart is as firm as a stone; yea, as hard as a piece of the nether millstone. When he raiseth up himself, the mighty are afraid: by reason of breakings they purify themselves. The sword of him that layeth at him cannot hold: the spear, the dart, nor the habergeon. He esteemeth iron as straw, and brass as rotten wood. The arrow cannot make him flee: slingstones are turned with him into stubble. Darts are counted as stubble: he laugheth at the shaking of spear. Sharp stones are under him: he spreadeth sharp pointed things upon the mire. He maketh the deep to boil like a pot: he maketh the sea like a pot of ointment. He maketh a path to shine after him; one would think the deep to be hoary. Upon earth there is not the like, who is made without fear. He beholdeth all high things: he is a king over all the children of pride. (Job 41:1-34)

Isaiah also depicts leviathan as the serpent which is another name for Satan.

Isaiah 27:1 In that day the LORD with his sore and great and strong sword shall punish leviathan the piercing serpent, even leviathan that crooked serpent: and he shall slay the dragon that is in the sea.

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
The book of Job and Isaiah speak of Satan as leviathan, king over the children of pride.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Satan as Lucifer

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SATAN AS LUCIFER

In the book of Isaiah Satan is called Lucifer, son of the morning. Here, as in other scriptures, his pride is described. He wants God’s throne. He wants to be God.

Scripture:
All they shall speak and say unto thee, Art thou also become weak as we? Art thou become like unto us? Thy pomp is brought down to the grave, and the noise of thy viols: the worm is spread under thee, and the worms cover thee. How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit. They that see thee shall narrowly look upon thee, and consider thee, saying, Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms: That made the world as a wilderness, and destroyed the cities thereof; that opened not the house of his prisoners? All the kings of the nations, even all of them, lie in glory, every one in his own house. But thou art cast out of the grave like an abominable branch, and as the raiment of those that are slain, thrust through with a sword, and go down to the stones of the pit; as a carcass trodden under feet. (Isaiah 14:10-19)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
Lucifer, son of the morning, is another title for Satan who desires to be God.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Satan, The Prince and King of Tyrus

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SATAN THE PRINCE AND KING OF TYRUS

Satan’s fall came about because of pride. He wanted and still wishes to be like God. One thought that is imperative to understand is that Satan is not stupid. He is considered wiser than Daniel and he knows many deep hidden secrets. First we read he is called the prince of Tyrus but, beginning with verse 11 Ezekiel changes Satan’s title from prince to king and describes how beautiful he was in the beginning and how close he was to God himself. He was the covering cherub. Also note the confirmation in these scriptures that Satan was in the Garden of Eden. We discover that Satan’s destruction is pronounced. God will destroy him with fire from within.

Scripture:

The word of the LORD came again unto me, saying, Son of man, say unto the prince of Tyrus, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because thine heart is lifted up, and thou has said, I am a God, I sit in the seat of God, in the midst of the seas: yet thou art a man, and not God, though thou set thine heart as the heart of God: Behold, thou art wiser than Daniel; there is no secret that they can hide from thee: With thy wisdom and with thine understanding thou hast gotten thee riches, and hast gotten gold and silver into thy treasures: By thy great wisdom and by thy traffic hast thou increased thy riches, and thine heart is lifted up because of thy riches: Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Because thou hast set thine heart as the heart of God; Behold, therefore I will bring strangers upon thee, the terrible of the nations: and they shall draw their swords against the beauty of thy wisdom, and they shall defile thy brightness. They shall bring thee down to the pit, and thou shalt die the deaths of them that are slain in the midst of the seas. Wilt thou yet say before him that slayeth thee, I am God? But thou shalt be a man, and no God, in the hand of him that slayeth thee. Thou shalt die the deaths of the uncircumcised by the hand of strangers: for I have spoken it, saith the Lord GOD. (Ezekiel 28:1-10)

Moreover the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Son of man, take up a lamentation upon the king of Tyrus, and say unto him, Thus saith the Lord GOD: Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty. Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God: every precious stone was thy covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created. Thou art the anointed cherub that covereth: and I have set thee so: thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire. Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee By the multitude of thy merchandise they have filled the midst of thee with violence, and thou hast sinned: therefore I will cast thee as profane out of the mountain of God: and I will destroy thee, O covering cherub, from the midst of the stones of fire. Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness: I will cast thee to the ground, I will lay thee before kings, that they may behold thee. Thou hast defiled thy sanctuaries by the multitude of then iniquities, by the iniquity of thy traffic: therefore will I bring forth a fire from the midst of thee, it shall devour thee, and I will bring thee to ashes upon the earth in the sight of all them that behold thee. All they that know thee among the people shall be astonished at thee: thou shalt be a terror, and never shalt thou be anymore. (Ezekiel 28:11-19)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
Satan desires to be God, but he will be destroyed by fire from within.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Satan the Serpent

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SATAN IN THE ROLE AS THE SERPENT

From the beginning there has been deception. The first name the deceiver is given is the serpent who was in the garden. His method of operation is always the same, deceive and destroy through half-truths and lies. Satan convinced Adam and Eve that if they listened to him, they would be like gods.

As is confirmed in the scriptures one of Satan’s most effective techniques is to build us up to think we are more than what we are. “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” Proverbs 16:18

The good news is, thanks to Our Father, if we can grasp it; Jesus informs us that he gives us power over the serpent and all the power he directs toward us.

Scripture:

Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field, which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? And the woman said unto the serpent, 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. (Genesis 3:1-5)

And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou has done this, thou are cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel. (Genesis 3:14-15)

But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. (2nd Corinthians 11:3)

Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. (Luke 10:19)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
Satan as the serpent deceived Adam and Eve in the garden with half truths and lies and he does the same toward us, but Jesus informs us that we have power over the serpent.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

FALLEN ANGELS AND THE GIANTS

FALLEN ANGELS AND GIANTS

There was a time after the creation of Adam that angels came to the earth and took the daughters of Adam and married them. As a result, Nephilim, (Hebrew word) or Fallen Ones, fathered children that were described as mighty men or giants. We find that the book of Jude in the New Testament speaks of them also. This brought about the flood of Noah which destroyed them, but we find that they reappeared during the time of Joshua and they are spoken of in the book of Judges.

God instructed the tribes of Jacob to completely destroy them, but they did not do it. You can read about this in the first three chapters of Judges. This may explain to some of us, who have had a difficult time understanding it, why God would instruct them to wipe out an entire group of people. Listed below are several scriptures that mention the Giants. (More that were not included are Deut 3:13, 20:2 and Joshua 12:4, 17:15, 15:8, 18:16)

Scripture:
And the Angels, which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day. (Jude 1)

And it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born unto them, That the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair, and they took them wives of all which they chose. (Genesis 6:1-2)

There were giants in the earth in those days; and also after that, when the sons of God came in unto the daughters of men, and they bare children to them, the same became mighty men which were of old, men of renown. (Genesis 6:4)

And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight. (Numbers 13:33)

Which also were accounted giants, as the Anakims; but the Moabites called them Emims. (Deuteronomy 2:11)

For only Og king of Bashan remained of the remnant of giants, behold his bedstead was a bedstead of iron; is it not in Rabbath of the children of Ammon? nine cubits was the length thereof, and four cubits the breadth of it, after the cubit of a man. (Deuteronomy 3:11)

All the kingdom of Og in Bashan, which reigned in Ashtaroth and in Edrel, who remained of the remnant of the giants: for these did Moses smite, and cast them out. (Joshua 13:12)

And there was yet a battle in Gath, where was a man of great stature, that had on every hand six fingers, and on every foot six toes, four and twenty in number; and he also was born to the giant. (2nd Samuel 21:20)

These four were born to the giant in Gath, and fell by the hand of David, and by the hand of his servants. (2nd Samuel 21:22)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
There was a time after man was created that angels came to the earth and married the daughters of Adam and had supernatural children with them. These were called men of renown, mighty men or giants in the scriptures.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Some of Satan’s M.O.’s

RAINING TRUTH WATERING THE GARDEN

Watering the Garden
SOME OF SATAN’S M.O.’S

One explanation as to why bad things happen in our lives can be found in the book of Job. Job was a perfect, upright man that revered God and hated evil. His world fell apart but, as verse 1:22 states “In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.”

Another reason why bad things happen could be as a test structured by Satan. Jesus stated that Satan had bond a woman for many years. The words below spoken by Jesus to Peter verify that Satan is often in the center of our problems. Being “sifted as wheat” can be very painful.

For the sake of their own soul some are turned over to Satan as Paul stated in order to open their eyes and save their soul. Some of the most beautiful people in the world are those who have fallen to the bottom and looked up.

Scripture:

Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, Doth Job fear God for naught? Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? Thou has blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land. But put forth thine hand now, and touch all that he hath, and he will curse thee to they face. And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the LORD. (Job 1:9-12)

And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day? (Luke 13:16)
And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. (Luke 22:31-32)

To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. (1st Corinthians 5:5)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
We have learned that Satan may be at the core of some of the difficulties we are having in our lives.

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Protected by Truth

Watering the Garden
PROTECTED BY TRUTH

It is important for us as Christians to understand that God’s words of truth are the armor that protects us against the dark and wicked powers of evil in this world. As the book of John proclaims in 8:32, “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. Truth in God’s word is our protection. That is why it is impartitave that we heed these words of Paul, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2nd Timothy 2:15)

Scripture:
For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth. (Psalms 33:4)

He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. (Psalms 91:4)

Is not my word like as a fire? saith the LORD; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces? (Jeremiah 23:29)

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand, Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness. (Ephesians 6:10-14)

Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. (James 1:18)

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED?
In order to be protected from evil we need to arm ourselves with truth from God’s Word

Our Father appreciates the fact that you are trying. May God’s blessing be upon this
study of His word, Amen.
Susan

Why do we sometimes suffer?

WHAT IS GOING ON? WHY DO WE SOMETIMES SUFFER?

TRY THIS,
(PLACE YOUR NAME IN FOR JOB’S)

And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant __________, that there is none like him (her) in the earth, a perfect and an upright man (woman), one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?
Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, Doth __________ fear God for nought? Hast not thou made an hedge about him (her), and about his (her) house, and about all that he (she) hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his (her) hands, and his (her) substance is increased in the land.
But put forth thine hand now, and touch all that he (she) hath, and he (she) will curse thee to thy face. And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the LORD. (Job 1:8-12)

(WHAT DID JOB DO) (WHAT SHOULD WE DO)

In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly. (Job 1:22)

(JOB’S WIFE SAID, CURSE GOD AND DIE, BUT JOB SAID)

But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips. (Job 2:10)

(JOB’S SO CALLED FRIENDS SPENT 37 CHAPTERS ATTEMPTING TO CONVIENCE JOB HE WAS AT FAULT FOR WHAT WAS HAPPENING)

(GOD SPOKE)

Moreover the LORD answered Job, and said, Shall he that contendeth with the Almighty instruct him? he that reproveth God, let him answer it.(Job 40:1-2)

Then answered the LORD unto Job out of the whirlwind, and said, Gird up thy loins now like a man: I will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me. Wilt thou also disannul my judgment? wilt thou condemn me, that thou mayest be righteous? (Job 40:6-10)

(GOD SAID, STAND UP TALL AND BE WHAT I INTENDED)

Hast thou an arm like God? or canst thou thunder with a voice like him? Deck thyself now with majesty and excellency; and array thyself with glory and beauty. (Job 40:6-10)

(JOB SPEAKS)

Then Job answered the LORD, and said, I know that thou canst do every thing, and that no thought can be withholden from thee. Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge? therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not. Hear, I beseech thee, and I will speak: I will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me. I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee. Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes. (Job 42:1-6)

(THE RESULT OF IT ALL)

And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before. (Job 42:10)
So the LORD blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning: for he had fourteen thousand sheep, and six thousand camels, and a thousand yoke of oxen, and a thousand she asses. (Job 42:12)

(AGAIN, PLACE YOUR NAME IN FOR JOBS)

After this lived __________ an hundred and forty years, and saw his (her) sons, and his (her) sons’ sons, even four generations. So __________ died, being old and full of days. (Job 42:16-17)

Why Do Bad Things Happen?

WHY DO BAD THINGS HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE OR WHY DO WE SEEM TO HAVE UNANSWERED PRAYERS.
Why doesn’t God answer my prayer? Even though I am praying, why does he allow bad things to happen? We will take a look at some sobering scriptures that may shed light on these questions.

Perhaps it is because we are only asking for material things and not really concerned about the kingdom of God. James 4:3 states, “Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.” In the book of Proverbs we read, “The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath.” (Proverbs 11:23) Are our desires good?

Jesus gave an example of how we could abuse our prayer privileges while Satan was challenging to tempt him. After not eating for 40 days, Satan suggested to Jesus that he command a stone be turned into bread and Jesus refused. Satan also said to Jesus that he should jump off of a roof because God would protect him. Jesus again refused. Jesus’ example teaches us that we are not to jump off of a cliff, place our hand in fire, or step in front of a train, saying, “God will protect me.”

Has God hid himself from us because we have turned to other gods? Other gods could be many things: a house, a car, a career, a hobby or maybe even a person. This could also be said of a nation. What is the mind of the population as a whole? God says, “Then my anger shall be kindled against them in that day, and I will forsake them, and I will hide my face from them, and they shall be devoured, and many evils and troubles shall befall them: so that they will say in that day, Are not these evils come upon us, because our God is not among us? And I will surely hide my face in that day for all the evils, which they shall have wrought, in that they are turned unto other gods.” (Deuteronomy 31:17-18)

Yet again, in Micah, God speaks of hiding his face from the people. “Then shall they cry unto the LORD, but he will not hear them: he will even hide his face from them at that time, as they have behaved themselves ill in their doings.” (Micah 3:4) In addition, He says he will hide his face from us because we forgot God and we show no faith as is described in Deuteronomy. “Of the Rock that begat thee thou art unmindful, and has forgotten God that formed thee. And when the LORD saw it, he abhorred them, because of the provoking of his sons, and of his daughters. And he said, I will hide my face from them; I will see what their end shall be: for they are a very froward generation, children in whom is no faith.” (Deuteronomy 32:18-20)

Perhaps our prayers are not answered because we do not consider our Father’s words as valuable. We refuse to listen to or read his word. God says, “hear, O earth: behold, I will bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of their thoughts, because they have not hearkened unto my words, nor to my law, but rejected it.” (Jeremiah 6:19)

Several actions are listed in the book of Deuteronomy that bring about a curse, which could hinder our prayers. Man’s actions bring on the curse, not God. These actions can all be repented for and forgiven through Jesus Christ. “Cursed be the man that maketh any graven or molten image, (to worship it)* Cursed be the man that setteth light by his father or his mother, (light means dishonor or disgrace)* Cursed be he that removeth his neighbour’s landmark. Cursed be he that maketh the blind to wander out of the way, (misleads those who cannot see- fig. Or physically)* Cursed be he that perverteth the judgment of the stranger, fatherless, and widow. (Perverts justice)* Cursed be he that lieth with his father’s wife: (sexual relations)* Cursed be he that lieth with any maner of beast. (Beast cattle, animal)* Cursed be he that lieth with his sister, Cursed be he that lieth with his mother in law, Cursed be he that smiteth his neighbor secretly. (Strike, beat, scourge, or even kill)* Cursed be he that taketh reward to slay an innocent person. Cursed be he that confirmeth not all the words of this law to do them.” (Deuteronomy 27:15-26) (*Strong’s Concordance)

The phrase “the burden of the Lord” is especially offensive to God and could be a reason for unanswered prayer. As we read in these scriptures, he does not like it. How would we feel if, after giving our all for our children, they were to say to us, what burden do you have for me today? It would be disheartening. “And when this people, or the prophet, or a priest, shall ask thee, saying, What is the burden of the LORD? thou shalt then say unto them, What burden? I will even forsake you, saith the LORD. And as for the prophet, and the priest, and the people, that shall say, The burden of the LORD, I will even punish that man and his house. Thus shall ye say every one to his neighbour, and every one to his brother, What hath the LORD answered? and, What hath the LORD spoken? And the burden of the LORD shall ye mention no more: for every man’s word shall be his burden; for ye have perverted the words of the living God, of the LORD of hosts our God. Thus shalt thou say to the prophet, What hath the LORD answered thee? and, What hath the LORD spoken? But since ye say, The burden of the LORD; therefore thus saith the LORD; Because ye say this word, The burden of the LORD, and I have sent unto you, saying, Ye shall not say, The burden of the LORD; Therefore, behold, I, even I, will utterly forget you, and I will forsake you, and the city that I gave you and your fathers, and cast you out of my presence: And I will bring an everlasting reproach upon you, and a perpetual shame, which shall not be forgotten.” (Jeremiah 23:33-40) God does not create burdens for his children; our Father brings life and peace. Jesus said, “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”(John 10:9-10)

Trusting in man instead of God is an action that can bring about a curse, as is described in the book of Jeremiah.“Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited.” (Jeremiah 17:5-6) The Lord continues on to describe what action brings about a blessing in our lives. “Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding “(Jeremiah 17:7-8) What he says next isn’t pleasant to hear. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” (Jeremiah 17:9) He points out again the lowliness of our minds, but he says he searches the heart or mind and then gives us the option to exercise faith. Perhaps things happen to test us, to see if we will trust God or man. “I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” (Jeremiah 17:10)

An additional reason why bad things happen to us and our prayers seem to go unanswered might be found in the book of Job. Job was a close to perfect, upright man who honored God and hated evil. His world crumbled around him, but as verse 1:22 states “In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.”

Sometimes bad things happen as a test structured by Satan, as it did to Job. “Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, Doth Job fear God for naught? Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? Thou has blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land. But put forth thine hand now, and touch all that he hath, and he will curse thee to they face. And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the LORD.” (Job 1:9-12)

Jesus confirmed in the book of Luke the fact that Satan can bind some people for several years. “And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?” (Luke 13:16) Likewise, these words spoken by Jesus to Peter verify that Satan frequently is at the core of our troubles. Being “sifted as wheat” can be an agonizing experience. “And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.” (Luke 22:31-32) Jesus prayed for Peter that his faith would triumph, which it did, and Peter went on to strengthen countless others.

For the sake of our own soul, some of us may be turned over to Satan. As described in the second chapter of this book, King Manasseh lost everything and was turned over to destruction. Many beautiful people in this world receive an eye opener for their soul by falling to the bottom. Whether it is financial loss, drugs, alcohol, pornography, greed, illness, catastrophe, injury, or love loss, sometimes it takes tragedy to get our attention. Paul writes, “To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.” (I Corinthians 5:5)

The apostle Paul was given a medical condition to keep him “down to earth” in the eyes of the people, so that, as a result of a divine revelation he had been shown, he would not appear too highly in the eyes of man. Paul prayed to God for it to be removed, but God said no. II Corinthians 12:7 explains, “And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measurer.”

James says to regard it as a privilege when we come into trying situations. We should consider it an opportunity to practice our faith. “My Brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that we may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” (James 1:2-4)

We need to keep in mind that God does not tempt us. “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.” (James 1:13-14) There are no circumstances that are unique to one individual. God promises he will not let it go beyond what we can tolerate and to show us a way of escape. He promises us, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” (I Corinthians 10:13)

A lack of faith may be a reason for unanswered prayer. We read in the scriptures circumstances involving Jesus and faith, such as the women who touched his garment, the touching the eyes of the two blind men, and when Jesus calmed the storm. We learn that a lack of faith offends God, as was confirmed in the words from the book of Hebrews, “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6)

Again, unforgiveness is another factor that may be hindering our prayer life. The Lord’s Prayer states, “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” (Matthew 6:12) Jesus said we would be forgiven in the same manner as we forgive. “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:14-15) When asked, Jesus said in Matthew 18:22 that we are to forgive seventy times seven times. We also read, because of the lack of knowledge or ignorance of the people that Jesus, Steven and Paul forgave without being asked.

Another aspect we may consider looking into if our prayers are not being answered is our relationship with our mate. Peter gave information concerning our marriage relationship. He wrote this concerning marriage and prayer: “Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement. Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.

“Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.” (I Peter 1-12)

“Why do our prayers sometimes seem to go unanswered? Why does God allow bad things to happen?” First, bad situations are usually a result of our own actions and decisions. That said, the scriptures we have just covered reveal possible reasons for not receiving a response form God, individually or as a nation. When we lack faith, when we have turned away from God, when we are being tested, when we are unforgiving, when we have been turned over to Satan, when we have created a sin-induced curse, or in order to keep us from being too highly exalted, God’s answer may be unresponsive or no to our request.
From My Pray Book by S.L. Honeycutt