Hungry Soul Christian

For He satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness. Psalm 107:9

I don’t know about you, but there have been so many times in my life where I felt I needed to eat something. For me, it’s usually something crunchy. When I’m being prayerful about my actions, I realize that these times seem to be when I’m stressed or worried about the well-being of someone I care about.

When I’m a Hungry Soul Christian, filling my body with food during these times, the hunger exists even after having a full meal and more than ample amounts of additional foods. That’s because it’s not my stomach that’s hungry, it’s my soul. My stress or worry about others I care about is totally out of my hands and no amount of food or worry will change those conditions, but Christ can.

I have to turn these stressful situations and the desire to overeat into God’s very capable hands and trust His ability to take care of these people. Will I get a call that day saying that these issues are resolved? That’s highly unlikely. I do know that God gets us through the good times and the bad, and will get those people through them, as well. God’s timing is impeccable and He knows the right timing and way to resolve these issues. I have no doubt about that! For He satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness. Psalm 107:9 

This is significant as we remember the birth of Christ, our Lord and Savior!

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

A One Day a Week Christian

But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and there with curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh. Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him show out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the Truth. This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace. James, Chapter 3, verses 8-18.


I think God is asking us if a Christian can truly be two-faced. You wouldn’t consider someone a true friend who is nice to your face but works against you, behind your back.

I think God is telling us through this passage that we can’t truly be both. Can we truly be a One Day a Week Christian, but participate in a worldly life with no attempt to change the rest of the week? I think God tells us that if we truly profess to be a Christian, we will be examples of our faith seven days a week instead of just one.

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Pick Your Battles Christian

And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled: But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. For it is better, if the Will of God be so, that ye suffer for the well doing, than for evil doing. 1 Peter, Chapter 3, verses 13-17.


As Christians, we might get laughed at, stigmatized or even isolated from others but that’s a small price to pay for our belief in God. I would much rather suffer this ridicule than to give in for momentary peace, giving up my eternal peace and Salvation. I’m a “Pick Your Battles Christian.” If I look at my two options, I could live life in the fast lane now and be popular but go to hell, or I can risk some ridicule by living up to my Christian ethics and go to heaven. I plan to put my money where there is the greatest chance for reward-heaven!

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Stressed-Out Christian

And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all His ways, and to love Him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul.  Deuteronomy, Chapter 10, verse 12.

It seems like there are times where I’m filled with fear. Often this fear manifests itself in stress. I get stressed about situations in the lives of people I care about, that are far out of my hands. When I’m filled with fear or stress, it’s like I’m saying, “God, I love You, but I’m not sure You’re going to take care of this situation, so I’m going to worry about it.”

Well, I’m often a Stressed-Out Christian more times than I can remember. Fortunately for me, God shows me that it is very counterproductive to worry. Not only does it show the shallowness of my faith, I’ve turned to food to comfort me in times of stress. That means I’ve turned to a false god [food] to make me feel better, when only God can do that.

I need to turn my fear and stress into God’s capable hands as soon as I realize what I’m doing. I no longer want to be fearful, but Fear the Lord with all my heart and soul and trust God to take care of these issues in His way and timing.  And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all His ways, and to love Him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul.  Deuteronomy, Chapter 10, verse 12.

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Humble Christian

Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised. Proverbs 31:30.
This one has a whole new meaning for me, lately. I got a sty and my ophthalmologist said that I had to put medicine in my eye daily and to not wear makeup for a month.  You wouldn’t think that would be such a big request, but it has, unfortunately!

Sure, putting medicine in my eye daily has been an inconvenience, but that’s not it. It’s that I’ve considered myself to be a Humble Christian, but am I?  Since I’ve been putting the medicine in my eyes, they’ve been puffed up and I have bags under my eyes, as well.  I hate to admit this, but I have gone from putting the medicine in my eyes three times a day to once a day, because of how they look when I do it more frequently.

Prior to this, I didn’t wear much makeup, but according to my ophthalmologist, the eyeliner I used carried bacteria to my eyes, which caused the sty. I had heard of mascara doing this, but never realized that eyeliner could do the same thing.  What I am just realizing is that I am wasting a whole blog post on worldly things like makeup and how I look.  What a shame!

I thought that God showed me that what I looked like and what size I am didn’t matter in God’s eyes, and it doesn’t!  Did I take on those same values? I thought I had, but obviously, I have a looooong way to go!  I can’t wait until I’m healed enough to put eyeliner on again.  What shallow values I have!  I am so amazed and ashamed at the same time!  Instead of being thankful that God is healing my eyes, I’ve been more focused on more worldly things like beauty. Oh my!  Fortunately for me, God is patient and uses these blog posts to help me be open to letting Him make me the Christian He wants me to be and He can do the same for you, too! Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised. Proverbs 31:30.


Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

The Lives of the Rich and Famous Christians

My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of Glory, with respect of persons. For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool; Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts? Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He hath promised to them that love Him? But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats? Do not they blaspheme that worthy Name by the which ye are called? If ye fulfil the royal Law according to the Scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well. James, Chapter 2, verses 1-8.

We have become “The Lives of the Rich and Famous Christians,” catering to those with status who look and dress a particular way. I wish I could say that I didn’t fall into this category, but I can’t. I think our society falls prey to this, as well. If we were on a bus, train or subway; would we stand to give our seat to someone who looks down and out or would we stand for someone who was either rich or famous? I have a feeling I know which answer I would get if people were really being honest.
If you really think about it, our human logic is backward. Some of the people with wealth don’t do as much physical labor and are not exposed to the weather conditions as much as those who are needier. Those who are less fortunate probably need our seat more than those with wealth. Well, the same goes with our kindness. The wealthy often have others who treat them courteously, but do we extend that same courtesy to the poor? I’m ashamed to say that I don’t always. I wouldn’t want God to treat me as indifferently as I sometimes treat those who are less fortunate. Sure, I give clothes that I no longer want to the needy, but that takes minimal effort. That is giving out of my excess and I don’t think that’s the same as treating others with the respect and the courtesy that they deserve.

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Back-Seat Christian

If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain. Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. James, Chapter 1, verses 26-27.


It’s easy to be a “Back-Seat Christian,” becoming complacent in our relationship with God. In doing so, we are letting everyone else take care of God’s work while we focus on ourselves. God says He wants us to take an active role as Christians. He wants us to visit the fatherless, those grieving and we are not to get caught up in worldly values.


 With so many single parent families, visiting the fatherless could be a relatively easy thing to do. If we each took the time to touch the life of one child, we could make a major difference. Some might think that they don’t have the time, but you could include neighbor kids in your game of basketball with your child. Family board games are nice to invite other kids to play. Even if you don’t have children of your own, you can take a child you know with you to the library. You can invite them over to bake or BBQ. Even doing routine chores seem special when you’ve invited a child to help you. It gives them a sense of accomplishment and helps them feel like they are contributing. When you take your child to a scouting, church or school activity; include a child who wouldn’t have been able to attend otherwise.


 Going to a school once a week for 30 minutes, can positively impact the life of a child. (When I was a teacher in a low income school, I tried to get volunteers to come and read for 30 minutes a week with my students who had behavior problems. Within days, I would notice a positive change in the behavior choices that these children made. Interestingly, I wasn’t having the volunteer focus on teaching the child to read or anything else academic. The vast majority of these kids are quite capable of doing academic tasks. They just have so many other things going on in their lives that it’s often difficult for them to focus on academics. The time with the volunteers was really meant to be a positive time for the adult and the child to spend together. Isn’t it amazing that 30 minutes of contact with a child each week could make such a difference?)


 I’m not suggesting that everyone should volunteer to spend time with kids who have behavior problems, although that’s not a bad idea. I’m using this as an example. If we each took the time to be with a child for 30 minutes a week, just think of the positive impact we could have on the children of our country. It has the added benefit of making us positive role models of our Christian values to our own children.

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.


Devout Christians

Who concerning the Truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some. Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are His. And, Let every one that nameth the Name of Christ depart from iniquity. 2 Timothy, Chapter 2, verses 18-19.

I think this passage speaks to people who try to confuse us by saying things like, “Heaven is here on earth, right now,” or “You can make your life a heaven or a hell by the choices you make.” Your choices do bring about logical consequences. If you make poor lifestyle choices, you usually have a life that reflects those choices. If you make lifestyle choices that reflect your faith in God, you won’t have steak on the table every night, but God will take care of you.
My concern is that people can get confused by others and lose their focus on God when they engage in philosophical religious debates with them. Even though some profess to be Devout Christians, reading the Bible is one of the best ways to find out God’s Will for us.
God wants us to leave behind our sinful ways and to live a life that reflects how He has influenced us. We don’t have to get public notoriety as a Christian in order to have Salvation

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Looking at the Angles Christian

That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the Spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man Truth with his neighbour for we are members one of another. Ephesians, Chapter 4, verses 22-25.
This passage is basically saying that once you become a Christian, you should start living the life of a Christian, putting away your old sinful behaviors. It makes me think of a time when I went to the grocery store with coupons in hand; ready to cut my expenses big time! I remember having a coupon for ten cents off of a particular brand of raisins. I didn’t want that brand of raisins, though. It probably was considerably more expensive even with the ten cent off coupon. I ended up getting the cheaper box of raisins, knowing it wasn’t the right brand for the coupon.
I rationalized my actions, thinking it was only a dime. I gave the cashier the ten cent off coupon deliberately mixed in between all my other coupons, hoping she didn’t realize that I had substituted the cheaper brand for the more expensive one.
She told me the total for my groceries and I started writing my check and had to stop. This situation impacted my life! The cashier didn’t realize I was lying and was stealing by substituting the cheaper brand of raisins for the coupon I used. I knew and what was worse, God knew! Was my loss of integrity worth the ten cents I was saving? (It’s funny how Satan can sneak up on some of us “Self-righteous Christians,” in very subtle ways.)
I immediately gave her ten cents for the raisins, telling her that I was sorry I had gotten a more expensive brand than the coupon stated. She told me not to worry about it, it was just a dime. I told her that I wanted her to take the dime anyway, saying I knew I had taken the wrong raisins and I wouldn’t feel right unless she took the money. Actually, I thought she would be horrified that I would do such a thing. I was prepared to be totally embarrassed by the cashier’s reaction because I really deserved it, but it didn’t happen that way.
I didn’t have an obvious consequence for my actions. It was more the realization that I was lying to God and myself. I was jeopardizing my Salvation over money. I’m fortunate that God has this situation pop back in my mind as a reminder from time to time. It’s especially helpful when I’m a “Looking at the Angles Christian,” figuring out some kind of angle to beat the system or I’m wording things very carefully so that I’m not telling the whole truth in situations, but not exactly telling a lie, either.
I’m very thankful that God gives me a conscience to remind me when I start slipping into old human ways again.

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Real Christian

That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking the Truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ. Ephesians, Chapter 4, verses 14-15.

Some people appear to act as if they are marionettes like Pinocchio and others act like real people. The ones who act like marionettes, similar to Pinocchio, seem to blame everyone else and circumstances for all the things that happen in their lives. They act as if they are powerless puppets and others are pulling all their marionette strings, controlling their lives.
The ones who seem to be real people realize that they make choices in their lives that impact the things that happen to them. If things don’t turn out the way they want, they look at the choices they are making and make changes that ultimately turn their lives around.
I think that God wants us, as Christians, to be real people. Ones who can change our choices if we find our lives aren’t going in the direction that would glorify God. He doesn’t want us to be marionettes like Pinocchio, being led astray by those who promise the fun and excitement of the worldly life. He doesn’t want us to feel like we have no control over our choices and are powerless to change our lives.
If you have spent your life feeling powerless like Pinocchio, God is here to cut the strings that bind you and lead you astray. He can make you the Real Christian you want to be. You can turn to Him to help you make the necessary changes…no strings attached! (I couldn’t resist adding that!)

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.






What's In It for Me Christian

Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept His ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the Lord of Hosts?  Malachi, Chapter 3, verse 14.

Boy! Are we ever an “I-Me” population, looking out for ourselves as a “What’s In It for Me Christian?”  My impression is that God wants unconditional love.  He doesn’t want Christians who are only doing it to look good to other members of society.  He doesn’t want Christians who are doing it to reap the many rewards God gives His followers.  He wants Christians who genuinely love and follow Him and His Word, regardless of the consequences, both positive and negative.
Are we looking at our belief, saying, “Hey, what’s it for me to get up each week and go to church?…to be kind to others?  to take risks to be examples of our faith in the workplace?”  Something to think about!
(Well, this is my last editing before I send this back to the publishers, and I just had to share this with you.  I’ve been telling you throughout this book that I haven’t been taking the risks to share my love for Jesus with others.  I’ve always been afraid they would think that I’m a religious fanatic and back away.  Writing this book has been an extremely eye-opening experience for me, making me much more aware of my weaknesses as a “Self-absorbed Christian.”
Well, about five minutes ago, I was thumbing through the church newsletter while I was munching on something and saw a request.  It was asking for a volunteer to do a Bible Study at a local nursing home.  I surprised myself and decided to act on it right away before I got cold feet.  Unfortunately, the person wasn’t there but I left a message saying that I would be willing to lead the Bible Study and asked that they call me back.
The more I got to thinking about it, I thought this book would probably be ideal to use for the Bible Study.  Nope, I’m not trying to sell more books, although additional sales will help whichever charity I choose to donate the proceeds to.  What I was thinking is that I have this book on my computer.  I could copy several pages each week and enlarge the print to make it easier for the people in the nursing home to read.  We could talk about how they relate to the passages.  Although I haven’t listed every passage in the Bible that relates to a given topic, I occasionally have other passages that support a great many of them.  This may take us off into different directions.
You realize that I’m talking this all out with you, processing it as I write.  I think I like this idea, because I know that the passages I have listed in this book come from the King James Bible.  Then I don’t have to be concerned about which study guide to pick, worrying if another author’s point of view matches my belief in Jesus as my Savior.

I’m starting to get excited about this whole new adventure.  I almost feel a little teary eyed.  When I started this book, I said that I would see where God leads me and within minutes of being finished with the final editing, I read the request in the newsletter.  Not two weeks earlier where I would have thought that I still had too much to do or two months later, when I might have slipped away from my resolve to take more risks.  God had me read it minutes before finishing.  God works that way in my life and can work that way in your life too, if you let Him.  I know you’re a captive audience, but thanks for being here with me as I grow in my relationship with God.  He has positively influenced my life through reading the Bible on a daily basis and He can do this for you too.  Thanks again.  D.S.)

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Put Your Mouth Where Your Money Is Christian

And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy. But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace. For what knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? or how knowest thou, O man whether thou shalt save thy wife? 1 Corinthians, Chapter 7, verses 13-16.
God gives His approval for staying in a good marriage with a non-Christian spouse, because you might be able to lead your spouse to Christianity through your relationship with God. On the other hand, I think it says that if you’re in an unhealthy relationship, whether the person does or doesn’t profess to be a Christian, God absolves us from our marital commitment.
Now, some may think this passage doesn’t apply to them because God only absolves them if their partner is a non-Christian. Do you really think a person is a Christian just because they say they are? Don’t you think they are supposed to be a “Put Their Money Where Their Mouth Is Christian,” by really living a life that reflects their belief in Jesus?
So, if a spouse drinks up all the money in the house and there’s no money to pay for food or clothes for the children, do you really think God considers this person a Christian? If a spouse is so involved in drugs or other vices and causes constant turmoil in the family, do you really think God considers this person a Christian? If a spouse has a hard day at work and hits the kids or you, do you really think God considers this person a Christian just because they profess to be one?
I think that God is saying the “till death do you part” portion of your marriage vow doesn’t apply because God said, “A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases.” Sure, God would like all marriages to work out and doesn’t want people to leave just because they feel they may have missed out on all the fun that they think their single friends are having. That isn’t what this is discussing.
God loves the non-Christian, the alcoholic, the drug addict and the abusive person, all of which can turn their lives around and become Christian. This would have to be more than just saying they are a Christian. They would have to really live their lives as a Christian.
Sometimes we just aren’t the ones who can bring these people to God. Male or female, we have to be able to assess whether we are in a healthy environment for ourselves and our children. If we aren’t, we are absolved from the “till death do you part” commitment, because being in an unhealthy or life-threatening environment isn’t what God would want for any of us.

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Supposed Christians

And he [Peter] became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: Wherein were all manner of four footed beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air, And there came a Voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. And the Voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven. Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold the men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon’s house, and stood before the gate. And called and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there. Acts, Chapter 10, verses 10-18.
When I first read this, I thought it was speaking solely about people formerly not being allowed to eat pork and other foods which had been forbidden in past Bible teachings. This passage has far-reaching ramifications. Later on in the same chapter it further clarifies this passage.
And he [Peter] said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shown me that I should not call any man common or unclean. Acts, Chapter 10, verses 28.
It goes on to say: Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee. Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God. Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth Him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with Him. The Word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (He is Lord of all). Acts Chapter 10, verses 32-36.
Furthermore it says: And He commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is He which was ordained of God to be the Judge of the quick and dead. To Him give all the prophets witness, that through His Name whosoever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins. Acts Chapter 10, verses 42-43.
Parts of the passage that I’m quoting are changing the way that Christians think about the social system. In the past, certain nationalities or cultures were not to associate with others. God shares His will with Peter through a dream, using food as a comparison. Previously, certain foods had been considered unclean and not to be eaten just like there had been certain cultures of people who were not to associate with each other. Through this dream, God says that all the foods are acceptable to Him in the same way that ALL people are His. God doesn’t want His disciples just to preach to particular types of people or cultures. Everyone needs to hear the Word of God.
It shows that God didn’t feel any one nationality, culture or race was better than another. He wants everyone to have Salvation, not just certain people. I think if this was important to God then, people should live their lives accordingly.
It’s sad to see and hear some Supposed Christians talk negatively about people of different ethnic backgrounds. I don’t think we are being the best example of how God works in our lives when we are putting down different cultures. I don’t believe God wants us to think we are better than others whether it’s because they have a different ethnic background, different financial status, believe differently, etc. I think He wants us to be compassionate and supportive of everyone, being an example of how He works in our lives.
Here are some related passages:
*What then? Are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. Romans, Chapter 3, verses 9-10.
*For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise. Galatians, Chapter 3, verses 26-29.
*And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen. Matthew, Chapter 28, verses 18-20.

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Do As I Say, Not As I Do Christian



He that hath My Commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him. John, Chapter 14, verse 21.
I have often been more of a “Do as I Say, Not as I Do Christian.” It’s sure a lot easier to tell others how they should live their lives according to what God tells us in the Bible, than to actually live as the example He wants.
Here is a related passage:
*He that receiveth you receiveth Me, and he that receiveth Me receiveth Him that sent Me. Matthew, Chapter 10, verse 40.

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

True Christians

Verily, Verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the Door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth in by the Door is the Shepherd of the sheep. To Him the porter openeth: and the sheep hear His Voice: and He calleth His own sheep by name, and leadeth them out, And when He putteth forth His own sheep, He goeth before them, and the sheep follow Him: for they know His Voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers. This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which He spake unto them. Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the Door of the sheep. All that ever came before Me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the Door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. 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. I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd giveth His Life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the Shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. I am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of Mine. As the Father knoweth Me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down My Life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear My Voice; and there shall be one fold, and One Shepherd. Therefore doth My Father love Me, because I lay down My Life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This Commandment have I received of My Father. John, Chapter 10, verses 1-18.
Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in My Father’s Name, they bear witness of Me. But ye believe not, because ye are not of My sheep, as I said unto you. My sheep hear My Voice, and I know them, and they follow Me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand. My Father, which gave them Me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of My Father’s Hand. I and My Father are One. John, Chapter 10, verses 25-30.
Wow! There are so many wonderful comparisons that Jesus makes in this passage that I’m afraid I might leave some out. If I do, please forgive me. This is what this passage means to me, although I realize others may interpret it differently.
Jesus is speaking of the sheep as Christians (His people.) People who want to lead Christians (His people) astray aren’t going to do it in a forthright manner. They aren’t going to come through the front door and say, “I’m here to deceive you and lead you astray. Follow me and you are bound to lose your Salvation.” If the Christians would know better than to follow them, they would stay with the rest of the sheep knowing that Jesus, their Shepherd, would always protect them and lead them to Salvation.
Instead, people who want to lead Christians astray, do it in a more subtle manner like the robber who sneaks in to steal the sheep. They work slyly trying to deceive Christians by making them believe that they are doing the Will of God-so sad!
True Christians stay focused on Jesus and His will for us, as shown in the Bible. That way we will know Jesus’ Voice and won’t be led astray by others who profess to be followers of His, but aren’t. God the Father gave us to Jesus to be His sheep, and Jesus and God the Father are One.
Jesus is dedicated to protecting us like a Shepard who protects His sheep from wolves. A Shepherd would give His life to save His sheep, just as Jesus gave His Life to save us from our sinful nature. Those who deceive Christians are going to run for the hills when they see the wolves coming or when we stop giving them the money or the things they want from us. As long as we listen to our Shepherd’s Voice, Jesus will keep us from being misled.
 Here are some related passages:
*For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. 1 Peter, Chapter 2, verse 25.
*Behold, the Lord God will come with strong hand, and His arm shall rule for Him: behold, His reward is with Him, and His work is before Him. He shall feed His flock like a Shepherd: He shall gather the lambs with His Arm, and carry them in His Bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young. Isaiah, Chapter 40, verses 10-11.
*And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the Mouth of the LORD hath spoken it. The Voice said, Cry. And He said, What shall I cry? All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as the flower of the field: The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: because the Spirit of the LORD bloweth upon it: surely the people is grass. The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the Word of our God shall stand for ever. Isaiah, Chapter 40, verses 5-8.
*Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Matthew, Chapter 7, verse 15.
*But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith He unto His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth labourers into His harvest. Matthew, Chapter 9, verses 36-38.
*Behold, send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves; be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. Matthew, Chapter 10, verse 16.
*Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of Me this night: for it is written, I will smite the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad. But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee. Matthew, Chapter 26, verses 31-32.
*I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant; for I do not forget Thy Commandments. Psalm, Chapter 119, verse 176.

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Blind Christians


As long as I am in the world, I am the Light of the World. When He had thus spoken, He spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and He anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay, And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing. The neighbours therefore, and they which before had seen him that he was blind, said, Is not this he that sat and begged? Some said, this is he: others said, he is like him: but he said, I am he. Therefore said they unto him, How were thine eyes opened? He answered and said, A Man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash: and I went and washed, and I received sight. Then said they unto him, Where is He? He said, I know not. They brought to the Pharisees him that aforetime was blind. And it was the Sabbath day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes. Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see. Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because He keepeth not the Sabbath day. Others said, How can a Man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them. They say unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of Him, that He hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet. But the Jews did not believe concerning him, that he had been blind, and received his sight, until they called the parents of him that had received his sight. And they asked them, saying, Is this your son, who ye say was born blind? how then doth he now see? His parents answered them and said, We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind: But by what means he now seeth, we know not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not: he is of age; ask him: he shall speak for himself. These words spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that He was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue. Therefore said his parents, He is of age; ask him. Then again called they the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give God the praise, we know that this Man is a sinner. He answered and said, Whether He be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see. Then said they to him again, What did He to thee? how opened He thine eyes? He answered them, I have told you already, and ye did not hear: wherefore would ye hear it again? will ye also be His disciples? Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art His disciple, but we are Moses’ disciples. We know that God spake unto Moses: as for this Fellow, we know not from whence He is. The man answered and said unto them. Why herein is a marvellous thing, that ye know not from whence He is, and yet He hath opened mine eyes. Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth His will, him He heareth. Since the world began it was not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind. If this Man were not of God, He could do nothing. They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out. Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when He had found him, He said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is He, Lord, that I might believe on Him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen Him, and it is He that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped Him. John, Chapter 9, 5-38.


If you ask me, it wasn’t the person who was healed that was blind. Those men investigating the miracle Jesus performed on this man seemed to be blind. They still could not acknowledge that Jesus is their Savior, even after the miracle. Hopefully, we aren’t “Blind Christians” who ignore the things that Jesus shows us in our lives.

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Selective-Listening Christians

Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that heareth My Word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. Verily, verily, I say unto you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the Voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. John, Chapter 5, verses 24-25.

I had a hearing problem when I was growing up. My mother took me to a specialist to check my hearing to make sure that there weren’t any major problems. The doctor told my mother that I had selective-listening. This meant I tuned out the things that I didn’t want to hear and only listened to the things that I wanted to hear. Are we “Selective-listening Christians,” listening only to what we want to hear when it comes to God? Are we only open to doing the Christian acts that are comfortable for us and don’t really require us to make any changes to grow as Christians?
You will notice that it talks about he that heareth My Word and believeth on Him that sent Me, not he that heareth only what he wants to hear and only believes when it’s convenient. Hopefully, we aren’t using selective-listening in our Christian lives.

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Luke-warm Christian!

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. And he said unto Him, Lord, I am ready to go with Thee, both into prison, and to death. And He said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest Me. Luke, Chapter 22, verses 31-34.
(I’ve skipped some verses that I will come back to after this, so you can have the rest of Simon Peter’s interactions.)
Then took they Him, and led Him, and brought Him into the high priest’s house. And Peter followed afar off. And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the hall, and were set down together, Peter sat down among them. But a certain maid beheld him as he sat by the fire, and earnestly looked upon him, and said, This man was also with Him. And he denied Him, saying, Woman, I know Him not. And after a little while another saw him, and said, Thou art also of them. And Peter said, Man, I am not. And about the space of one hour after another confidently affirmed, saying, Of a truth this fellow also was with Him, for he is a Galilean. And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew. And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the Word of the Lord, how He had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny Me thrice. And Peter went out, and wept bitterly. Luke, Chapter 22, verses 54-62.

When I read this Bible passage, I reflect on how I sometimes think I am very dedicated to God, but really I’m a “Luke-warm Christian!” In my mind, I feel like God is the most important part of my life, but when a situation arises where I could share my faith with others, I avoid it. I say to myself, “Well, this isn’t the right timing for me to discuss Jesus and all He’s done for me. Another time would be more beneficial and the person would probably be more open to it then.”
Baloney!!! Who am I trying to fool? I guess the only one I’m trying to fool is myself, because God knows when I avoid situations where I could have shared my relationship with Him. Although I don’t deny God openly as Simon Peter did, I’m denying Him in my heart through my choice not to share my love for Jesus with others. Sometimes, the truth hurts!

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Uncorrupted Christians

His disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called them unto Him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein. Luke, Chapter 18, verses 15-17.

As an elementary school teacher, it never ceases to amaze me how sweet, trusting and honest little children are. It seems some get corrupted as they grow up and become cynical by the ways of the world, media and life, in general.
In the early grades the children would play with almost any other person that was willing to play with them. They generally got along well with everyone except for little squabbles, regardless of ethnicity or any other factor. Nearing the intermediate grades, these same groups of children would no longer associate with some of the children that they used to consider their best friends. They seemed to group themselves by ethnicity and other factors like income. I think Jesus wants us to be “Uncorrupted Christians” who generally get along well with others, regardless of ethnicity or any other factor.
Here is a related passage:
*Then were there brought unto Him little children, that He should put His hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them, But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto Me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. And He laid His hands on them and departed thence. Matthew, Chapter 19, verses 13-15.

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Focused on Other Things Christian

And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith. And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you. Luke, Chapter 17, verses 5-6.

This passage seems especially appropriate since I’m a “Focused on Other Things Christian,” thinking about selling my house, finding a job and buying another house. If I were really paying attention to what I’m writing, I would realize my faith is weak, because I am worrying and having sleepless nights.
I need to focus on God and things will fall into place. He works everything out so beautifully in timing, if I have the patience to let Him.

Here are some related passages:
Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. Luke, Chapter 12, verses 6-7.

*Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? And one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. Matthew, Chapter 10, verses 29-31.

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Bird in the Hand Christian II

Then said one unto Him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And He said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the Master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and He shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are: Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. But He shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity. Luke, Chapter 13, verses 23-27.

This reminds me of when I was heavy and there were people that weren’t really friendly to me. When I lost the weight, all of a sudden these same people were much friendlier. I didn’t really want to be close friends with them at that point. They had an opportunity to be friendly with me before when I was heavy, and they hadn’t chosen to.
Jesus may be telling us something very similar about putting off our decision to become active Christians. If we don’t acknowledge Him when He calls us, maybe He won’t remember us when we get around to asking Him for help.
Something unexpected like an accident might happen where we don’t ever get another chance. If I’m a “Bird in the Hand Christian,” I need to develop my relationship with God now, while I have the chance.
Here is a related passage:
*Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto Life, and few there be that find it. Matthew, Chapter 7, verses 13-14.

Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

Once a Christian Always a Christian Guarantee

And one of the company said unto Him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me.  And He said unto him, Man, who made Me a judge or a divider over you?  And He said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.  And He spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?  And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods.  And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.  But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?  Luke, Chapter 12, verses 13-21.

Our belief in God isn’t a “Once a Christian-Always a Christian Guarantee” that once you have it, you always have it regardless of your actions.  If it were, people could become a Christian, go rob a bank and shoot someone because they need their next fix, not worrying because they think they have Salvation regardless of their actions.
It’s like planting a garden using seeds.  That gardener’s energy and enthusiasm are there after they have hoed the rows, preparing them for the seeds to be planted.  He carefully plants the seeds and waters them regularly, just as a person who starts a relationship with God has energy and enthusiasm for their new-found faith.
If that gardener were to go on vacation right after planting his garden and expected to find fully grown plants when he returns, he would be greatly surprised!  The garden would be overgrown and the vegetables would be strangled by the weeds while the remnants of the garden would still be there.  This is similar to what happens to the Christian who doesn’t tend to their faith regularly by making it a DAILY part of their life.
That Christian’s faith will wither away, strangled by the weeds of worldly living while the remnants of that faith will still be there.  Our faith needs constant cultivation and care just as the garden does in order to grow and flourish.

 Since this is an example of the positive influence God has made on my walk with Christ, this may not reflect the whole meaning of the Bible verses.

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