Tag Archives: God

Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow – Living Life 2018-43

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Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow -Living life    2018-43

Each day of our lives, we wake up and what then follows is YOUR day! Then eventually we hit the sack at night and for a period of time slumber and sleep overtakes us. Then only our dreams keep us company until the morning and another day begins.

Those waking moments are all different, although we could argue, the days are somewhat the same. This is NOT true, there are many, many occasions that make the day unique to itself. The near miss by a car while driving, the bird that crapped on our shoulder as we walked in the park, the flavorful luncheon that was superb, and other varied things that make that day special in itself.

Consider that others around us are experiencing the same moments that make us all realize that what happens is ours alone, but together they make us also the same; going through life, wonderful life at its fullest. We share the same air, see the same clouds, smell the same richness of the earth, and yet we are individuals doing it.

A person in solitary confinement in jail could argue this is not true, but he is incorrect too.  Each of that person’s days have differences that they would see if only they would observe them in the process. A bug crawling across the floor, a fly buzzing around the head, the shadow of the sun making its travel across the room, all make it different to yesterday or tomorrow. I didn’t say it would be an exciting day for that person, just different somewhat.

It is amazing that we have individual minds that analyze, interpret, individually think about so many things, all at the same time, but we are alone in our own compute type, mind, generated thoughts.  We have the ability to think in a different way than others, having opinions that we either share or differ with, and we act on our thoughts in ways that conclude in OUR way and not the way of others.

This is normal and not unusual, but unique to us individually.  Our species has this ability, where we can rationally make decisions whereas animals of other sorts, can think, can act, but not do what we can do, decide on what is right and wrong.

We also have the right to believe or not believe in a higher power.  Some will deny, and that is their right, but many do believe and that is our right also. God, if we believe in Him, sits and takes in our thoughts that we do think and believe.   He knows who does believe and those that do not.  I cannot say that He makes decisions on what he notices. If He does, I would rather believe like I do believe than not believe and find out he looks at the non-believers in a way that does not bode well.   Time will tell!

I believe that God is a loving God and maybe that is all there is about this subject and I will not dwell on it, because, again, time will tell, and we will ALL find out eventually.

Take care, think what you want, and

Peace,

Den Betts        bettsden@gmail.com

Finding/Getting a church 2018-39

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Finding a Church 2018-39
Well what a thought! Many people of many faiths go to a religious place to get involved in many things there. They go to pray, learn, congregate, hospitality, serve, and so many other things. This is true for any religion, faith, or location.

First, let me state that I DO go to a Christian church nearby where I live! I do so for many reasons and because of one reason in particular. The fact that I believe in one God of the Universe, the Triune God, that includes Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit is paramount to my going to church.

Because of my belief, I feel I want to know God better, to get closer to God in my relationship with Him and to learn more about His son Jesus Christ. Church is a great place to learn and become closer; simple as that.

What I do know is Jesus was all about love… His teachings show this as His way of life and how He felt we should portray our way of life also. Church is a good way to talk about this love and His love for us.

OK, we are believers in God; let’s say…. The why we could go to church has to be our decision. What will we get out of going? What will we look for by going? Decent questions, that we could look for answers as to the why to go to church!!!!

Let us think we have an idea on why we will go – then what!!??

I suggest we look for a church of any denomination that offers us to get closer to God spiritually and have something to do that will help others in the community. Look for a church that has a goal of what God and Jesus wants us to do and not just to get new members.

I was attending a Sunday School session and asked the question, “What or how do we in this church identify ourselves as to what our church is all about?” Some people stared, some mumbled something, and the Pastor, who was there at the time, said, “Dennis, it is in our Mission Statement, stating “To connect people to people and to connect people to Christ”. That is somewhat easy to understand, comprehend and absorb into my mind.

When I go to church, I feel the presence of God around and within me (like I do outside of church) and that feeling should prevail for anyone going to church. When you go to a church, does it teach the teachings of Jesus by having a study or Bible group to explain what point Jesus was making at the time? That is important also, as an example!

Money you can give to the church is NOT the driving force as to why you join, go to church or what the church is all about. Yes, it is important, just like paying taxes is for a government to be able to give back to the people and to exist.
Also, if you have children, this is not a factor for going, by itself, just to have more bodies to attend, new and in the future. Growth of the church is important also, but bucks and bodies are not the answer. The true, or at least, a great reason is for ALL to get closer to God in the process of going.

Our church made a decision to reduce our mortgage debt down considerably and we did so, and, in the process, we now have a smaller monthly mortgage payment and now have the funds to give back to the community in so many ways. Church is for that reason also, to serve others in some way.

To find a church that offers many things that are important can be a chore or at least be an effort to find one that meets the criteria of what YOU want. You can church hop; go from one to another and see how they operate, what they believe in, what their mission is overall.

I would suggest that a list be made on what you DO NOT want in a church also. If you attend one and go to a service, and you hear things in the sermon you don’t like from the Pastor or Priest, check it off and continue onward, for instance. If nobody greets you and says hello or even asks if you are new or so, that may not be a good recommendation either. Things like that are important.

A church should be inviting, be caring, be accepting, be considerate and not the dreaded word — one of a hypocritical nature. Yes, they are out there, and that is sad to a degree.

The main thing, it may take work on your part. Finding God or getting closer to Him is a goal that you may want to pursue, and I wish you well.

Peace,
Den Betts bettsden@gmail.com

He 2018-38

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Sounds like a prayer or a psalm of some sorts.  I believe this was something I wrote as a plea to God and to let Him know I was aware of Him also.

He – 2018-38

He shall be my light and salvation

To hide me, shelter me from my worst fears

Allow me to sing, to dance and be merry,

With joy and happiness of a knowing protection

Be gracious to me, when lonely and afflicted

Forgive me, when I have gone astray

Create in me a clean, pure heart,

Protect me from my own transgressions

Become my strength, a shield against adversity,

Gird me with gladness of living and life

Comfort me in my worse times of grieving and despair

Deliver me from the evils of the world

Cleanse my mind of wrongful thoughts, words and deeds

Save me from those that would do me wrong

Praise be to God, for He is the one, the only one

To have the power to be, to do, for life everlasting.

Peace,

Den Betts          bettsden@gmail.com

Anger and Hatred 2018-29

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Hatred and Anger   2018-29

Why do “some” have so much bitterness and perhaps anger and hatred for those of other faiths, skin color, or ethnic origins?

Where is the love of all in their lives? And, do they claim any sort of religious beliefs like being a Christian? If so, do they not realize that the god-man, Jesus, touted nothing but love for all? Even, if not a Christian or any other faith, is not love a much better attitude towards people of the world?

It is hard to understand the thinking of those that have these feelings of hatred. What story do they have to share that could explain how they feel?  How can they be proud of having Anti-Semite,  racial prejudice, or abhorrence for others in their thoughts or actions?

There is NO answer to these questions that make any sense. I can only pray that time will resolve the issues for them, and in their place, understanding, love and caring for fellow mankind will result.

Hatred towards others is like a slow festering boil that keeps hurting and hurting until expunged and removed. This can happen, but a decision to take action must be made and then acted on, which is hard to do at times.

Many have removed God from their lives or have never had Him there as a guiding light, such as Jesus Christ is for those that believe. He IS the light of the world and coming to this conclusion takes time and perseverance, and simply belief.  Reading Scripture and learning about the man-God that taught love instead of hate is a start, but only a beginning.

The time where we learn from the teachings of Jesus and then mirror the things it takes, will be the finalization of the journey of life with God, or at least a continuation.

Peace,

Den Betts                       bettsden@gmail.com

Does God Exist? 2018-24

Posted in Contemplation, Religious, Spiritual by

Does God Exist?  2018-24

OK, I now ask the question as to whether He exists, but I also now state, I believe He DOES exist! 

I cannot prove it, of course, but, I can say equivocally, YES, He does exist!!  But, I am not going to explain now, why I think this is a fact.  It is, period!!  My blogs have shown how I feel in this subject, but I post this as an answer to a blogger that asked me, what I believe.  So, yes to those that think no…….

Confused!? Don’t be!

What I think though, does not matter, because trying to prove He exists is a lost cause, since it is unprovable. A non-believer, cannot prove there is NOT a God too, so, a stalemate ensues.

Too many holier than thou people and absolute atheists both have their agendas they want to have and go on and on about how they are right, and the other side is wrong. Too bad!  The FINAL say will be when both die, and they find out which side is correct.  I like to think that both will find out that their journey of life continues after death.

I am 76 and hope to be around for a while yet, and based on my family’s DNA it may happen that my wishes will be so.  I have much to learn yet about life and want to experience the living of it.  It is sad when those that I know have died and their lives might have been prevented if they had chosen a different life style. So be it.  

Anyhow, does God Exist?  Well, I said yes and will stand by that statement. He is alive, He is active, He is aware, He is present and with us always. Great feeling and comfort knowing this is a fact in my mind. 

Peace,

Den Betts                            bettsden@gmail.com

Cancer Check/Surgery 2018-19

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Cancer Check/Surgery Done!  2018-19

I write this to allow others to know what I, and some others not just know, but believe.

I had a rather bad case of basal cell carcinoma a couple of years ago and had it taken care of by my doctor, Doctor Garcia. Since then, I have had regular 6-month checkups to make sure I am cancer free.

I had one exam, 7 months ago and had no problem. Last month was my 6-month checkup and the doctor saw two areas that were suspicions of not being correct. A biopsy was taken of both of them and they were analyzed. One came back as basal cell carcinoma.

Today I had it taken care of, with what is called MOHS surgery. This is a specialized surgery that is for cancer removal.

I cannot stress enough that anyone that has a unique, unusual growth on their body, MUST have it checked out to see if it is cancerous.  My latest growth was NOT there 3 months ago.  I knew I was going to have my 6-month checkup and had it early this month, and it was found out.  Basal cell carcinoma is a slow growth cancer, versus the melanoma cancer, which is fast growing and more dangerous to have growing on you.

I implore you to not take some growth for granted and fluff it off. Do NOT be stupid and think you are that smart to ignore something that will kill you in a most unpleasant way.

Enough of that…..   

I thank God for his Presence, the feeling of His being there this morning with me, giving me comfort, for consoling me, and showing He cared for me.  His hands guiding those of my surgeon, who, with his education, training, and experience made my incision small, and complete.  I felt His Presence and appreciated it as I appreciated the doctor doing the surgery.  

Thanks be to God,

Peace,

Den Betts

MARTIN LUTHER Quotes 2018-16

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MARTIN LUTHER    2018-16     Posted 2-13-18

 

Martin Luther was a German monk, priest, composer, theologist, and professor of the 15th Century and was a seminal figure in the Protestant Reformation. The Lutheran religion of today is named after Martin Luther.   He made many statements and is quoted herein as just part of the thoughts that he had.

The below quotes are taken at random and are offered now:

 

To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing.  
 

To gather with God’s people in united adoration of the Father is as necessary to the Christian life as prayer. 
 

Anyone who is to find Christ must first find the church. How could anyone know where Christ is and what faith is in him unless he knew where his believers are.
 

I cannot and will not recant anything, for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. Here I stand, I can do no other, so help me God. Amen. 
 

Pray, and let God worry.  

 

The fewer the words, the better the prayer. 

 

You are not only responsible for what you say, but also for what you do not say.

 

Martin Luther

Spiritual Growth 2018-09

Posted in Religious, Spiritual by

Spiritual Growth    2018-

Ever wonder what it would take, or more importantly, what you could do to achieve anything like Spiritual Growth in your life? No, well, consider this anyhow. Yes, then also, read on!

Maybe you are wondering what action you could do, to enhance any one thing, to achieve more of a closer relationship with God.

There are things like doing meditation with prayer, that could or could not help. Finding a church that suits you is another thought, but it may not work for you either.  Seeking someone to council you is another, but then again, it just may not work.

What would work? There are varied things to consider, but I might make this suggestion, which is a simple (not much of a cost either) thing to consider.  It COULD, no WILL, involve something from you, namely — YOUR TIME!  And, not that much of it, I might add, and even that will be up to you to control. You can put as much time into this as you desire.

So, what is it!  Taking a Bible (any version) and reflecting on the meaning of Scriptures therein, and therefore, it will be like using the Word of God as a mirror to reflect back the truth of Scripture on our actions, decisions and events of our daily lives.  Hmmm, interesting to state…..

Just like exercise is somewhat of a pain and takes up our valuable time, the reading of Scripture requires us to contemplate, and meditate on the Words written. There ARE guides to help us untangle the mysteries and power of God’s inspired Words, such as study guides, Bible primers, devotional books and others, that will enable us to understand the uncertain aspects that are written.

Reflection on Scripture might, just might, raise awareness of the Spiritual benefits and motivate us to adjust our daily routines to continue to do this reflection.  In the process, Spiritual Growth can be the ultimate benefit.

I feel there is NOTHING matters more to us, than time spent on God’s Word for achieving Spiritual Growth. The going to church, service activities, small group meetings, etc, ARE important overall, but, reading Scripture beats all.

We can say we are not religious, but instead, Spiritual!  As a statement that sounds neat or good. It also sounds terrific maybe, but just saying it does not mean anything.  Actions speak louder than words.

A simple action, that has minimal cost other than our time, is the main way of expressing our commitment to God. Starting to read just a verse daily from the Bible and contemplating its meaning, is a large, very large, beginning to Spiritual Growth.

I invite you to begin anew with your thoughts about God and His son, Jesus Christ. Allow them into your life, absorb what is said and become one that God looks at with favor.

Take the time and quit using time involvement as an excuse not to increase your Spiritual Growth with God.

Peace,
Den Betts                            bettsden@gmail.com

Religious NUT !? 2018-08

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Religious NUT   !?    2018-08 

I recently met a friend, that saw me and said, without any hesitation, “Are you a religious nut now?” This was out of the blue after I had just met him again, after a longish period of time. I was totally surprised, at that moment of time, by his question.

I looked at him and blurted out, “cashew or almond?” My reply was an off the cuff retort and somewhat of a smart-ass answer to him.

He was not expecting this and just stood there and blinked a couple of times.  I regrouped and asked, “WHY do you ask?” This wasn’t going well for him I guess, and he was noticeably embarrassed, perhaps for asking and doing so as an introductory hello statement.

I left him off the hook and offered “Is this because of the cross that I wear?” being the only thing that came to mind right away. I started wearing a cross, that I made, after an incident, which changed my life forever; another story later, perhaps…..

He looked down at it, at my chest, and said, “Eh, no! It is actually because of your posts online that you make and that I follow. You seem to post a lot of religious things now!”

I paused and thought a moment, and then said, “Yes, I have begun or continue to post my thoughts on what I believe!”

He asked if I was trying to preach to people, including himself. I told him no, and that I am just telling my story on how I feel towards God and Jesus Christ. I continued and stated, “I believe in what I believe and feel that I, as a fledging disciple of Christ, want to let others know how I feel, in relation to where I am in my journey.”

He asked, “What journey?”  I looked at him and could see he was serious and I said, “My journey in getting closer to God!”  His comeback was, “Oh!   OK!”

I guess that satisfied him and we went on with what I would call normal conversation. Later I thought about what we first discussed.

He was more used to my OLD self and not the NEW me.  I get that! I appreciate his honesty in asking me though.  We were friendly in the past and I did or do not want to jeopardize our relationship. I let him know that I am still the person I was before, but have a different look at life now.

It is unknown, how many people think his way and it does not matter. If any have problems with what I post, move on, and don’t read them; easy as that. I do hope that you read them, and in the reading, get something out of them.  I am always open to questions of any sorts about my new life now.

As I have expressed before, I will still love you, respect you and Yes, still like you too.

Thanks be to God,

Peace,
Den Betts                            bettsden@gmail.com

God’s Gift 2018-07

Posted in Contemplation, Religious type by

How many of us get a second chance in life? How many of us, don’t realize it, when it happens? I would think many of us, but I am not going to include myself in asking this, since I did get a second chance and do appreciate what I received. I was born, I then had two experiences, one physical and the other involving my brain, and in a way, then, was born again, in my mind.

 

God’s Gift  2018-07

 

God’s gift to me was life,

The beginning followed by rebirth

The many past years of living,

Plus, a second chance on earth

From year one, till now, an experience,

Thought of, as one to succeed.

This period to reflect on past times

In ways of thought, words and deed.

For now, my life is renewed with joy

But this time with insight, from today

It’s hard to change to a new lifestyle

From the old archaic way

But with this chance He has given me

I’ll be a better me, than was

Time will tell if I succeed in this

But God’s gift to me is thus.

To start over, renew, and rejoice

To give, to share, and enjoy this life

To look at living as a thing to treasure

And live each day as one with pleasure.

 

Peace,

Den Betts                 bettsden@gmail.com

There MIGHT be a hidden message in the above. It could be about life in general or maybe, about living a Christian life, as a disciple of Jesus Christ.  I like to say, either way, but think both ways are/were great……