{"title":"Salvation","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"gift-for-you","title":"Gift for You","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA Gift for You\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe phone call—the call everyone hoped for, and everyone dreaded—came at 2:00 a.m. “We have a heart for Jacob*,” the voice said. Everyone hoped for the call because twelve-year-old Jacob had been on the heart transplant list for many days, and soon his condition would deteriorate to the point where he would no longer be considered a good candidate for a heart transplant.\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/b\u003eThen his name would be removed from the list, taking with it his last hope. But on this day, Jacob and his family were about to receive an incredible gift—the gift of a new heart, the gift of a new life.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Bible tells us that we are all in a situation more desperate than Jacob’s.  More than this life is at stake. We have earned eternal death, because the “wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23), and we “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). When we understand the original language in the previous verse, we realize how desperate our situation is. The words translated “fall short” indicate a continuing action—we continue to fall short.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn good times, it’s easy to convince ourselves that we are really good people—not perfect, mind you—but not really evil. Then the neighbor gets a promotion and a raise we had hoped for, or he buys a new car, and we discover envy in our hearts. We see a glamorous model or actress and lust makes its presence known. Perhaps a car cuts in front of us in traffic, and we feel a level of anger that surprises us. The more we honestly examine our lives, the more we see our sinfulness.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAn Honest Look\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA young atheist and professor at Oxford took a hard look at himself, and felt amazed at what he discovered. He wrote, \"there I found what appalled me; a zoo of lusts, a bedlam of ambitions, a nursery of fears, a harem of fondled hatreds. My name was legion” (C. S. Lewis, \u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSurprised by Joy\u003c\/i\u003e). Sin, we are told, comes from our sinful hearts. “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil” (Luke 6:45). Indeed, our sinful hearts hide our true sinfulness from us, because the “heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked” (Jeremiah 17:9). \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe find that, like Jacob, our hearts are the source of our problem. We are not going to get better. No regimen or treatment will help us. Our defective hearts must be replaced or we will die. Jacob had to put his name on a list and wait. No amount of money could purchase what he needed. If no one would give him a heart, he would die.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOur case is similar, but the Bible has wonderful news for all of us in this desperate situation. It assures us that such a gift is available: “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh” (Ezekiel 36:26).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEven better, there’s no waiting list. This replacement heart is available immediately. Once it replaces our own heart, we will not only continue to live, but we will also enjoy a superior quality of life. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJacob’s family dreaded the call because the procedure involved serious risks. Before the healthy heart could be implanted, Jacob’s own heart would need to be removed. Once surgery began, there would be no turning back. With all these thoughts in the back of their minds, his parents roused themselves in the predawn dark, and prepared themselves and Jacob for the fateful journey to the hospital. Once there, they saw their son wheeled off on a gurney. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe also must go through a kind of death. Just as Jacob had to allow surgeons to remove his own heart before a transplant, so we must give up our natural hearts. We must recognize that we need more than a touch-up here and there, more than a minor adjustment or correction. We need radical surgery. Nothing less will do. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAn Expensive Gift\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis frightening risk provided one reason Jacob and his parents dreaded the call that a heart had become available. Although Jacob’s parents rejoiced at the opportunity for a better life for their son, another, more somber reality intruded. They recognized that the same event that gave them new hope had dashed the hopes of some other family. Jacob’s chance at life came at the cost of someone else’s death.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOur opportunity for a spiritual heart transplant, for salvation from sin, for a better life here and now, and eternal life hereafter, also comes at the cost of a life. “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). Notice, Christ died for us not “when we were worthy,” or “when we obeyed God’s law perfectly,” or even “when we became aware of our need,” but “while we were still sinners.” \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJacob’s heart would only get worse without a transplant. His desperate need made him eligible. And he was forced to depend on someone, somewhere, to give him a healthy heart. No hearts were available for purchase, and if they were, he and his family could not afford one. Again, the same holds true for salvation: “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23). So we find that the very verse warning us that we have earned death, also announces the remedy as a gift.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eImmediate Availability\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis new heart, the greatest, most valuable gift in all eternity, can be yours.  You need not get on a list. You need not wait. You can have it here and now, simply for the asking. You have seen the steps. Simply recognize your need, confess that you need this new heart, and ask God to give it to you. There is no magic formula, no set words. Just ask. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJacob came through his transplant operation in high spirits. He not only had a new heart, he had a new life. But he had to learn how to live that new life. When you receive your new heart, you also will need to learn how to live a new life. God has supplied the church, a community of others who have received new hearts, to help you learn to live that new life. Enjoy the gift!\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e*Name has been changed.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eScripture taken from the New King James Version\u003cspan data-fontsize=\"10\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e®\u003c\/span\u003e. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42245019271351,"sku":"GFY","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/AGiftforYouCoverv2web.jpg?v=1706634447"},{"product_id":"my-adoption-story","title":"My Adoption Story","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMy Adoption Story\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe petite 13-year-old from another country sat in the passenger seat of our car, struggling before the words tumbled out. “Would you adopt me?” She motioned as if signing papers. “My dad says he will give documents.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThat’s right—your dad is in prison, snared by his own choices, unable to care for you. Your mother is dead. You want us. And we want you!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeveral months earlier, we had chosen a somber-faced girl from an overseas orphanage photo listing. The plan was for us to host her in our home in America for a few weeks over Christmas vacation and give her dental care, warm clothing and a brief time living with a family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen she first arrived at the airport, we worried our Christmas mission project might have been a mistake. Wordless with obvious terror, she barely spoke for the next 24 hours. But over the next 3½ weeks, the girl with the dark, mournful eyes slowly morphed into a boisterous, affectionate bundle of joyful exuberance, shouting for Mommy and Daddy just as loudly as our other three children. When the time came to send her back, none of us wanted to part. We had to bring her back for the summer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo at the beginning of summer, as she stumbled through her request, our answer was ready. “Yes, we love you and we want you to be part of our family forever!” A few days later, she drew a picture of our family and wrote above it, “Our complete family.” Our happily ever after was about to begin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eComplications\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut nothing great comes easily. Her father refused to sign the paperwork after all, insisting his daughter must first come to visit him personally. At the end of the summer, she went back to her country, and the months dragged on as we struggled through more obstacles. Then came the crushing final notification—the lawyer working with the father was giving up, convinced he would never release our daughter for adoption.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur dreams were shattered. We pleaded with God for a miracle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt came. Two women who worked at her school took pity and agreed to drive her to the prison themselves. Face-to-face, she pleaded with her father. His heart softened as she described our family, and he finally relented and signed the release.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore Miracles\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, adoption is complicated. The law in our daughter’s country stated that she must be offered for in-country adoption for 14 months before becoming available to international families. And the cost of bringing her home would be a staggering nearly $30,000. Then there was the confusing maze of adoption agencies, home studies, fingerprinting and collecting dozens of documents about every area of our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYet the impossible miracle kept crawling along. People we hadn’t heard from in years sent checks. Friends organized a concert, raising $5,000 in one weekend. Someone donated airline miles to purchase tickets. We were grateful, but also desperate to be done with the expenses, mess, and distance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRoller Coaster Ride\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn adoption, when you conquer one mountain, another rises. Papers were delayed, rejected and resubmitted. Finally, after months of wrangling, we boarded our first flight to her country to begin the official process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur sweet girl was thrilled to see us again. “You’ll be home soon!” we promised, hugging her goodbye to go home and wait for a court date.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd then, silence. No court date. Finally, we were told there was a paperwork problem. We needed to show up for an appointment at the social services office in her country—by 3 pm the next day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe found an unbelievably cheap last-minute ticket, and within an hour were on our way. Every part of the last-minute journey was a mixture of sweaty palms, pounding hearts and ultimate sighs of relief. We arrived at the office with twenty minutes to spare.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce there, we were told, “There are serious problems with the person you hired to do your paperwork. You’re missing critical documents.” But we were fiercely determined. We loved our daughter, and we would bring her home!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn just one whirlwind day, we were able to pull together the necessary paperwork to give to the surprised government official. “How did you do this without help?” she asked in shock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“God and friends,” we answered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut then our poor daughter started getting cold feet. “Maybe I no come America. I stay here with my friends.” After all that we had done and all that our community had sacrificed, the fate of the whole process rested in the hands of an insecure teenager, overwhelmed by peer pressure. We braced ourselves for the worst, knowing that love risks rejection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinally, on a cold October morning, we sat in a foreign courtroom with our anxious child. There were probing questions from the judge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Why would you want to adopt an older child?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Because we love her and she makes our family complete.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThen, it was our daughter’s turn to answer the judge, “Do you want to be part of this family?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe waited in anticipation. Her shy, nervous answer was barely audible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Yes. I want to be with this family.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe adoption was approved! Our girl was coming home! There was relief, joy, and a dawning realization that this was just the beginning of the journey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Adoption of the Ages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy do we share our story with you? Because our story is the glimpse of a much bigger adoption story—our Creator who loves us and longs to rescue us. We are all orphans, trapped in cycles of destruction and selfishness. We can’t save ourselves from falling back into sin and addiction. But Jesus stepped into our painful mess and paid the ultimate price, giving us an example of unselfish, genuine love. Then through His blood and shattered body, He offered us a chance to be part of His family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“But to all who did receive Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis \u003cem\u003echildren. \u003c\/em\u003eCould there be any more beautiful adoption story?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaybe you’re on a journey with God already. Or perhaps you’ve drifted away and are struggling now with something you can’t seem to surrender to Him. You may not even know how God could possibly heal your brokenness right now. But listen to the Father’s appeal to your heart:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“And I will be a Father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to Me, says the Lord” (2 Corinthians 6:18).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur Father loves us with a fierce, undying devotion. He’s willing to overcome any obstacle, to face any pain, if it means He can finally hold us in His arms. Even when we aren’t sure if we want Him to adopt us, He’s there. He’s faithful. He never gives up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn learning to love our daughter, we have glimpsed the heart of Father. We can’t describe how much we love her now. But God loves us infinitely more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLift up your face to your heavenly Father today. Will you surrender to Him and trust His love for you? As you do, your heart will awaken to love Him more and more in return.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou will never regret joining His family!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo find a local church family near you, visit \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/adventistdirectory.org\"\u003eadventistdirectory.org.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003eScripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42249911566519,"sku":"AS","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/MyAdoptionStoryRGB.jpg?v=1706713621"},{"product_id":"certainty-in-an-uncertain-world","title":"Certainty in an Uncertain World","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCertainty in an Uncertain World\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMark A. Finley\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you could choose a single word to describe the mindset of this generation, what would it be? I would choose the word \u003ci\u003euncertainty\u003c\/i\u003e. More people seem uncertain about the future than ever before. They are uncertain whether some senseless terrorist attack or hostile nation will suddenly snuff out their lives. They are uncertain about whether we will suddenly be wiped off the face of the earth by nuclear war, or whether global warming will destroy us first.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor millions this sense of uncertainty is extremely personal. They are uncertain where their next meal is coming from or where they will sleep tonight. People are uncertain about their health, their marriages, and their future. Deep within the fabric of their beings, down inside where it really counts, they feel troubled about what might happen next. They have a sense of unease about what is coming on this world. They are seriously concerned about what kind of world their children will grow up in and where society is headed.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMoral principles once taken for granted are being seriously questioned today. The moral foundation of society appears to be crumbling. Very little is certain. Many have lost hope in a bright tomorrow and a positive future. Someone has said, “You can live days without food, hours without water, minutes without air, but no time at all without hope.”\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDesperate People Do Desperate Things\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe general unrest in our society, this inner sense that something is not right and little seems certain, this fear about the future, has created a sense of hopelessness. This hopelessness has led millions to experience major depression, which affects 20 percent of the world’s population at some point in their lives. The World Health Organization predicts that by 2020, depression will rival heart disease as the health disorder with the highest disease burden in the world. One person dies by suicide approximately every 40 seconds somewhere in the world, and global suicide rates have increased 60% in the past 45 years.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAntidepressants produce around $6 billion in worldwide sales annually. In the United States alone, medical professionals fill over 270 million prescriptions for these medications each year. In desperation, many people turn to alcohol, and according to the World Health Organization, about 140 million people throughout the world suffer from alcohol-related disorders.  \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHope Makes a Difference\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen we lose hope, dark clouds of despair hang over our heads. The future appears gloomy and uncertain. But hope leads us from what is to what can be. Hope paints tomorrow in bright colors. It lifts our spirits from the mud below to the heavens above. William Shakespeare wrote, “The miserable have no other medicine, but only hope.” \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHope is not some vague longing for a better future. Hope is not baseless desire lacking real certainty or assurance. The ancient scriptures present hope as a strong, confident expectation based on the unchangeable promises of God. The apostle Paul, writing in the Bible book of Romans, states that “whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope” (Romans 15:4).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe promises of God reveal hope for today, tomorrow, and forever. They speak with certainty in an uncertain world. They speak hope to our troubled minds and peace to our anxious spirits.  \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bible reveals that God created each one of us in His image, and He longs for us to live joyful, abundant lives (Genesis 1:27; John 10:10). We are His special possession. He promises to never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5, 6).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we face challenges and life might not go as we planned or desired, the promises of God are sure. The ancient prophet Isaiah gives us this assurance: “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You” (Isaiah 26:3). The prophet continues with these words of encouragement: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). Our happiness is not based on the illusionary idea that nothing bad will ever happen to us, or the mythical dream that each day is brighter than the day before. In reality bad things do often happen to good people.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe live in a broken world. Sickness, suffering, poverty, and disease afflict both the righteous and the unrighteous. But here is the difference: those who put their faith in God are filled with hope. We anchor our hope in a God who will never let us down (Hebrews 6:18). Hope is rooted in a God who suffers with us in our trials and difficulties (Isaiah 63:9). It has as its foundation a Christ who once lived in human flesh, who understands us and strengthens us in all our trials (Hebrews 4:15). He identifies with us in our tears. He came to provide us with the hope of a better tomorrow. Through Christ the gift of eternal life is ours (John 3:16). He is our hope (1 Timothy 1:1). By faith, as we grasp the gift of eternal life that He so freely offers, we look beyond the problems of this life to the eternal fellowship and everlasting joy that He graciously offers us.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHope’s Two Great Events\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe entire Bible focuses on two great events—the first and second coming of Christ. He came once to redeem us from the guilt, condemnation, and consequences of sin. “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23). He will come again to deliver us from the presence of sin. One day Jesus will return in glory to take us home. He declared, “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also” (John 14:1-3).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday let your heart be filled with hope. One day soon Jesus will come and end the heartaches and trials. The challenges and difficulties of life will be over, and we will live with Him forever. In an uncertain world, His promises are sure. Why not right now bow your head and thank Him for His wonderful promises, praying this simple prayer? \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eDear Jesus, Just now I open my heart to \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eYou\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e. Fill me with a sense of certainty that \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eYour\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e promises are true. Help me grasp them personally and live in the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ and the assurance that \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eYou\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e are with me daily to strengthen and encourage me. By faith I believe I can live with a heart filled with hope, confident that one day soon \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eYou\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e are coming to take me home to joyfully live with You forever. \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eIn Jesus’ name, Amen.\u003c\/i\u003e    \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42251380195511,"sku":"CUW","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/CertaintyinanUncertainWorldCoverFINALRGB.jpg?v=1706739926"},{"product_id":"hope-for-families","title":"Hope For Families","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHope for Families\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":240,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt’s no secret that Planet Earth is a mess these days. Major news networks almost constantly carry shocking reports of deadly natural disasters, terrorist atrocities, violent crimes, political corruption, economic woes, divisive debates over sexual orientation, not to mention spiraling heart disease, diabetes and cancer, even among young children. Such boiler point pressures are taking their toll on everyone seeking to maintain sanity amidst chaos.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven if you and your family have managed to escape most of these difficulties, most homes still struggle with daily living. Countless fathers have so many bills to pay that they hardly spend quality time with their children. Many mothers are so overwhelmed with home responsibilities that they often sink beneath the strain. Children, who are caught in the midst of previously unimaginable stresses, are growing up too fast, face tougher times in school, and often develop harmful habits, such as spending too many hours playing addicting video games—some of which have inspired violent crimes. Instant Internet access also exposes even young boys and girls to bizarre sexual temptations that contaminate the soul. What can concerned parents do? What kind of world will our kids grow up into? Is there any real hope for the future?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf life on earth is weighing you down, have you considered \u003ci\u003elooking up\u003c\/i\u003e? As amazing as it seems, the Holy Bible contains stunning prophecies that not only pinpoint our chaotic generation (see 2 Timothy 3:1-5), but offer hope for everyone. In that sacred volume, God Himself is referred to as “our Father” (see Matthew 6:9); and His ultimate solution to an out-of-control world is to finally send “His Son” Jesus Christ back to earth to right all wrongs, destroy evil, and usher in permanent peace. Based on current “signs” being fulfilled all around us (see Luke 21:25-28), \u003ci\u003ethat Day is coming soon.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNearly two thousand years ago—right before His agonizing death on the cross for our sins, His burial, His resurrection, and His ascension to heaven (see Mark 15 and 16),—Jesus left us with this promise:\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eLet not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eMe\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also\u003c\/i\u003e (John 14:1-3).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDid you catch that? “I will come again,” our Savior promised. But how will He come? By reincarnating Himself? By appearing as a ghost? No. The Bible is crystal clear that Jesus Christ’s return will be a cataclysmic event that is highly visible, exceedingly loud, and will even result in the physical resurrection of dead people worldwide who will suddenly pop out of their graves. Paul wrote:\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eFor the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord\u003c\/i\u003e (1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to Paul, when Jesus returns to earth, His feet won’t even touch the ground. Then God’s people will be “caught up.” So if you see someone walking around on earth claiming to be Christ, don’t be fooled. It won’t be Him, but an imposter (see Matthew 24:24-27). Adding more clarity, Peter also predicted,\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eBut the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up… Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells\u003c\/i\u003e (2 Peter 3:10, 13).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eDid you catch that?\u003c\/i\u003e Heaven’s plan isn’t to slap a band-aid on a global crisis. In other words, God won’t use peace treaties, the United Nations, earthly governments, moral legislation, law enforcement officers, or any proposal initiated by fallen men to permanently soothe earth’s deadly woes. Ultimately, such measures won’t work anyway. Instead, His purpose is to utterly eradicate evil by melting “the elements… with fervent heat.” All pollution, global toxicity, gross immorality, and wickedness will be “burned up.” Then God Himself will recreate “new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.” Now don’t miss this:\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eAnd God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away. Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.”\u003c\/i\u003e (see Revelation 21:4,5).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow exciting! In spite of the dreariness we observe around us, there’s hope for us all, especially for faithful families that adopt Joshua’s advice: “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15). Amidst trials that thicken daily, God longs for fathers, mothers, husbands, wives, grandparents and children to \u003ci\u003elook up\u003c\/i\u003e! Don’t be discouraged. Read His Book. Pray. Confess your sins. Trust Jesus. He will forgive and help you.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYet make no mistake about this one thing: Until Jesus returns, life won’t be a picnic in the park, for Lucifer remains intensely active behind the scenes (see Revelation 12:12). The Bible even warns that our ancient enemy will attempt to counterfeit Jesus Christ’s return by using “all [his] power, signs, and lying wonders” (2 Thessalonians 2:9). Don’t be duped by the devil.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod’s Word is clear. “Behold, He [Jesus Christ] is coming with clouds, \u003ci\u003eand every eye will see Him\u003c\/i\u003e” (Revelation 1:7, emphasis added). Jesus Himself also predicted that He will descend in the clouds “in the glory of His Father with His holy angels” (Matthew 16:27). Clearly, no one will miss it. As myriads of shiny angels escort the King of Kings back to earth, there’ll be no mistaking His arrival. So again, don’t be seduced by satanic counterfeits.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDear friend, although there is no earthly solution to earth’s unsolvable woes, take heart.God knows our difficulties, trials, and struggles.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Let not your heart be troubled,” is our Savior’s encouraging word to each of us. “I will come again” (John 14:3), is His unbreakable promise. Until then, don’t give up. Hold on. Pray for your friends and relatives who need God’s grace. The good Lord will hear your prayers. With His help, be a shining light amidst the surrounding darkness. “The darker the night,” someone wisely stated, “the brighter the stars.”\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUntil Jesus returns, “be strong in the Lord” (Ephesians 6:10). “Husbands, love your wives” (Ephesians 5:25). Ladies, become one of God’s “holy women” (1 Peter 3:5). Parents, raise your children “in the training and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). When King Jesus returns, He Himself will establish everlasting peace in God’s new earth.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWill you be there?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":2,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":218}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoose Jesus Christ today!\u003cspan data-ccp-props=\"{}\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42251492491447,"sku":"HFF","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/HopeforFamilies.jpg?v=1706741644"},{"product_id":"today-s-10-commandments-copy","title":"What the World Needs Now","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhat the World Needs Now\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“What the world needs now,” reveal the lyrics of a once-popular song, “is love, sweet love.” Unfortunately, a similar song moans that most of us are “looking for love in all the wrong places.” Can you relate? Almost everyone—including you and me—has a deep inner need to experience real love; but unfortunately, actually finding something so priceless seems like an illusive dream. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll too often, it remains unreachable. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Holy Bible informs us that “God is love” (1 John 4:8). Not only that, but it also tells us that Earth’s Maker has a special message of love uniquely designed for these “last days” (2 Timothy 3:1). Believe it or not, His end-time message combines love and law (see Revelation 14:12-14) for the simple reason that true love is moral. In other words, love involves more than fluffy feelings without substance. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery nation, government, state, city, and town has laws. Without laws, chaos reigns. But there is one law that towers above all other legal codes: the Ten Commandments. What makes the Big Ten different from other laws is that they were originally written, not with a pen, pencil, keyboard, or even hi-tech voice recognition software, but “with the finger of God” (Exodus 31:18). Read Exodus 20:1–17 for the full version. In a nutshell, here are the Ten Commandments in plain language: \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePut God first.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon’t worship idols.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRespect God’s name.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep the seventh day (Saturday) holy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHonor your father and mother.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon’t murder.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon’t commit adultery.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon’t steal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon’t lie.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon’t covet.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTry to imagine what society would be like if everyone actually kept these commandments. Thieves wouldn’t exist. There would be no serial killers or even bullies. Jails, locks on doors, or even a police force would not be needed. How about The Department of Homeland Security? No, for there would be no terrorists, hijacked planes, or deadly bombs. Instead, all human beings would treat each other with decency, kindness, and respect. In such an environment, families would flourish, children would grow up safe, and happiness would thrill every heart. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCome down from the clouds, you may be thinking; this could never happen. Really? Guess what? I know this may seem hard to fathom, but the Good Book predicts that someday it will. “Behold, I make all things new” (Revelation 21:5), promises God Almighty. Not only that, but you can live forever in that Paradise, if you make the right choice. Let me explain. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mystery is hidden within an ancient prophecy about Jesus Christ. “Now this is His name by which He will be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” (Jeremiah 23:6). The word “righteousness,” or “right doing,” simply means to keep the Ten Commandments, “the law of righteousness” (see Romans 9:31) without a flaw. Obviously, none of us has ever been there or done that. Instead, “all have sinned” (Romans 3:23). But the good news is that nearly two thousand years ago—in a supreme act of love—Jesus kept the Ten Commandments (see John 15:10) for us, on our behalf. As a result, He is now “THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.”\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow here’s some bad news we can’t avoid. “The wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). In other words, the divine penalty for breaking the Ten Commandments is eternal destruction. Justice requires it. There’s no escaping it. On the other hand, here’s more good news: At the end of His earthly life, “Christ died for our sins” (1 Corinthians 15:3) on a cruel cross in our behalf too, which means He can now forgive us, remove our guilt, and wash us clean! \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you enjoy receiving gifts? My children, ages 5 and 8, surely do. What kid doesn’t? Now don’t miss this. God Almighty has a free “gift of righteousness” (see Romans 5:17) for you that can give you “eternal life” (see Romans 6:23). If you are willing to turn from sin and to believe in Jesus as your Savior, He will apply Christ’s perfect obedience to the Ten Commandments in place of your sins in His heavenly record books (see Revelation 20:12). “Innocent!” “Not Guilty!” “Forgiven!” will be spoken about you by the King of the universe, no matter what crimes or sins you have committed. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eUniversal Search\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis brings us back to the universal search for genuine love. Here’s a story to illustrate. A reckless teenager once had a terrible argument with his dad. As he stormed out of the house, his last words were, “I’m leaving. You will never see me again!” The boy thought he could make it on his own, but after three difficult years remorseful thoughts turned toward home. \u003ci\u003eWill my father take me back?\u003c\/i\u003e he wondered fearfully. Two days later, the boy finally gathered the courage to phone his mother. “Mom, please talk to dad. Tell him I will be passing by the foot of our hill on a train next Monday afternoon. Ask him to hang something white on the porch if he wants me back. If I see anything white, I’ll come home.” Then he hung up.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn that Monday morning, a worried teenager boarded the train and happened to sit next to a minister. “Why are you so nervous?” The pastor inquired. The boy then told him the whole story. “Mister,” he said, “when we roll around the curve ahead, will you look out the window at the house on the top of the hill? That’s my house. If you see anything white, tell me. I’m too scared to look!”\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the train rounded the last bend and the minister looked through the glass, the sight caused him to forget his ministerial dignity. Jumping to his feet, the pastor shouted, “Look son, look!” Opening his eyes, the boy saw the little house on the hill completely covered with every white sheet, white blanket, white towel, white bedspread, white tablecloth, white napkin, and white handkerchief that his parents owned. Oh, how they loved him and wanted him to come home. The last thing the minister saw of the boy was the back of his legs running quickly up the hill, across the porch, through the white sheets, and into the waiting arms of his lonely parents.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDear reader, Jesus loves you and wants you to come home, too. So repent of your sins, and trust Him as your Savior. If you do, He will place upon you His own spotless “robe of righteousness” (see Isaiah 61:10), His “white garments” (see Revelation 3:18) of full forgiveness, no matter how wicked your past. He promises He will (see 1 John 1:9). You can trust Him for this. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe earlier song quoted that says, “I was looking for love in all the wrong places,” then adds, “You came a-knocking at my heart’s door. You’re everything I’ve been looking for.” These words can truly apply only to Jesus Christ, your Savior. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe is God’s gift of love to you. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough the gift of His righteousness—which alone can cover your sins of breaking the Ten Commandments—you can have eternal life in God’s bright tomorrow, where only love rules (see Revelation 21:4-5). \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe big question is: Will you repent, and accept that gift, or not?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCover image: ©www.unsplash.com\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43948755353783,"sku":"WWN","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/World-Needs-Now-v2-c1-web.jpg?v=1732293760"},{"product_id":"when-freedom-dies","title":"When Freedom Dies","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhen Freedom Dies\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“With liberty and justice for all.”\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e—from America’s national Pledge of Allegiance\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn New York Harbor’s Liberty Island sits America’s grandest monument—the Statue of Liberty. Her message resounds in human hearts worldwide. Freedom. How precious! Yet sadly, one day freedom itself will be taken away by men, governments, and nations. Here’s how it will happen. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnless you’re like the proverbial ostrich with your head buried beneath the sand, then surely you realize that Planet Earth is in trouble these days—big time. Deadly natural disasters, bizarre weather patterns, terrorist atrocities, economic woes, vanishing morality, political corruption, soaring food prices, shrinking water supplies, plus global toxicity—all reveal that we are on the verge of a stupendous crisis. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“There shall be a time of trouble,” predicts the Holy Bible, “such as never was. . .” (Daniel 12:1). When earth’s final crisis strikes, a deceptive “solution” will eventually be enforced by governments worldwide during a dark hour of desperation. On the surface, this solution will appear sensible. Yet hidden beneath its allure will lurk a devilish lie. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring that fateful time, freedom will vanish—at least from human governments. Shockingly, the Bible calls this globally enforced delusion \u003ci\u003ethe mark of the beast\u003c\/i\u003e. “He causes all,” God’s Word warns, “both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand, or on their foreheads” (Revelation 13:16). The consequences of receiving this evil mark will be disastrous. Whoever knowingly accepts it—after first being urgently enlightened by a loving God to resist it—will be doomed forever (see Revelation 14:9-11). The Bible’s warning is clear. We should take it seriously.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Mark That Takes Away Freedom\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you Google “mark of beast,” you will discover endless opinions. Speculation abounds. Most interpret it as a technological mark, but this is mere guesswork. The Bible further clarifies that “he \u003ci\u003edeceived\u003c\/i\u003e those who received the mark of the beast” (Revelation 19:20, emphasis supplied). Thus those who receive the mark are “deceived,” or tricked, to their eternal loss. Now think about it. If this deadly “mark”—whatever it is—was utterly obvious, then how could the majority of earth’s inhabitants be misled, as Revelation clearly predicts? \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this small pamphlet only so much can be said. So, without beating around the bush, it’s time to get to the main point. Look closely. In the context of warning humanity about the beast and its fatal mark (Revelation 14:9-11), God’s Word then clarifies exactly who \u003ci\u003ewon’t \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003ereceive\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e that mark\u003c\/i\u003e:\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“. . . worship Him who made heaven and earth” (Revelation 14:7).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus” (Revelation 14:12).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDid you catch that? Those who overcome Satan’s deadly mark do three specific things: 1) They worship the Creator; 2) They keep the commandments of God; 3) They believe in Jesus Christ.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you study the Bible carefully, you will discover that only \u003ci\u003eone\u003c\/i\u003e of the original Ten Commandments “written with the finger of God” (see Exodus 31:18) specifically refers to worshipping “Him who made heaven and earth.” It’s number four, which states:\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work. . . . For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it” (Exodus 20:8-11). \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe “seventh day” of the week is Saturday, not Sunday. Check the dictionary. Or an encyclopedia. Ask a Jew. Now here’s a real shocker. The Roman Catholic Church—a system of religion (not Catholics themselves) that most Protestant churches formerly identified as “the beast”—openly claims it changed the Bible Sabbath from Saturday to “Sunday,” so-called because that day was anciently dedicated to sun worship. See for yourself:\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Of course the Catholic Church claims that the change [from Saturday to Sunday] was her act. . . . And the act is a MARK of her ecclesiastical power authority in religious matters” (letter from Chancellor H. R. Thomas to Cardinal James Gibbons, Nov. 11, 1895, emphasis supplied).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAsk a priest. Check Roman Catholic catechisms. “And the act is a MARK” of her supposed authority, Rome boasts.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhen the Towers \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003eFell\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsider this: When New York City’s Twin Towers collapsed on September 11, 2001, that horrible event occurred on a Tuesday. Five days later, Sunday church attendance soared, not only in America, but worldwide. Why? The answer is obvious. When a serious crisis hits, people pray. They flock to church. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThus, one lesson from 9-11 is that \u003ci\u003esevere crisis leads to a revival in Sunday-keeping\u003c\/i\u003e. If that past situation had become really desperate, increased Sunday attendance eventually would have shifted to \u003ci\u003ethe global enforcement of Sunday laws by civil governments\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Impossible!” some might reply. No, it isn’t. Sunday laws (also called “blue laws”) have already been enforced in various degrees in Europe, England, and America for over 1,500 years. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStudy history. Ask the Catholic Church.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, Sunday laws have been enforced in the past, and they will strike again during earth’s last, global crisis. Enforced in God’s name, such laws will actually deny both His law and His character. God never compels anyone to obey Him. He desires only loving service, not forced obedience. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe only thing holding such Sunday laws back today is a serious enough crisis. What unforeseen events will ignite the final fulfillment of Bible prophecy? Only God knows. It might be a series of natural disasters, another terrorist attack, an economic collapse, or a combination of events.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen it hits, just like after 9-11, Sunday attendance will soar, which will be followed eventually by Sunday legislation. As strange as it sounds, a careful and enlightened study of Revelation 13 and 14 predicts that these events surely will occur.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the mark (forced Sunday observance) of the beast (the Roman Church) is fully imposed by law (see Revelation 13:16) during earth’s last crisis, then the final hour of decision will have arrived. Those who believe in this tricky deception (contrary to the Ten Commandments) will be marked by sin “on their foreheads” (their minds). Those who don’t really believe the deception but who still obey Sunday legislation will be marked on their hands (their actions). Contrary to current prophetic speculation, only God will see this mark, not humans.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eRefusing To Give Up Freedom\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProphecy predicts that many will detect the deceiver in disguise and refuse to receive that mark. Instead, they worship the Creator, “keep the commandments,” and follow “Jesus” (Revelation 14:12), our loving Savior, who died on a cruel cross for our sins of breaking God’s law (see 1 John 2:2; 3:4), and rose from the dead. “If you love Me,” our Savior pleads, “keep My commandments” (John 14:15). Those who do—through His grace and power—will be ready for His glorious return (see Revelation 14:14-16) at the “end of the age” (see Matthew 28:20). \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDear friend, when earth’s darkest hour strikes, what will you do? Will you love, trust, and follow Jesus, or obey the beast? In the middle of global confusion, our Creator pleads:\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e“Choose Me and My day!”\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCover image: ©www.photodune.net\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43951988179127,"sku":"WFD","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/new-freedom-tract-c2-web-196x300.jpg?v=1732334482"},{"product_id":"talking-with-god","title":"Talking with God","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTalking With God\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrayer is the opening of the heart to God as to a friend. Not that it is necessary in order to make known to God what we are, but in order to enable us to receive Him. Prayer does not bring God down to us, but brings us up to Him. When Jesus was upon the earth, He taught His disciples how to pray. He directed them to present their daily needs before God, and to cast all their care upon Him. And the assurance He gave them that their petitions should be heard is assurance also to us.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOur Need to Pray\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus Himself, while He dwelt among men, was often in prayer. Our Savior identified Himself with our needs and weakness, in that He became a suppliant, a petitioner, seeking from His Father fresh supplies of strength, that He might come forth braced for duty and trial. He is our example in all things. He is a brother in our infirmities, “in all points tempted as we are;” but as the sinless one His nature recoiled from evil; He endured struggles and torture of soul in a world of sin. His humanity made prayer a necessity and a privilege. He found comfort and joy in communion with His Father. And if the Savior of men, the Son of God, felt the need of prayer, how much more should feeble, sinful mortals feel the necessity of fervent, constant prayer. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur heavenly Father waits to bestow upon us the fullness of His blessing. It is our privilege to drink largely at the fountain of boundless love. What a wonder it is that we pray so little! God is ready and willing to hear the sincere prayer of the humblest of His children, and yet there is much manifest reluctance on our part to make known our wants to God. What can the angels of heaven think of poor helpless human beings, who are subject to temptation, when God’s heart of infinite love yearns toward them, ready to give them more than they can ask or think, and yet they pray so little and have so little faith? The angels love to bow before God; they love to be near Him. They regard communion with God as their highest joy; and yet the children of earth, who need so much the help that God only can give, seem satisfied to walk without the light of His Spirit, the companionship of His presence. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Key to Overcome\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe darkness of the evil one encloses those who neglect to pray. The whispered temptations of the enemy entice them to sin; and it is all because they do not make use of the privileges that God has given them in the divine appointment of prayer. Why should the sons and daughters of God be reluctant to pray, when prayer is the key in the hand of faith to unlock heaven’s storehouse, where are treasured the boundless resources of Omnipotence? Without unceasing prayer and diligent watching we are in danger of growing careless and of deviating from the right path. The adversary seeks continually to obstruct the way to the mercy seat, that we may not by earnest supplication and faith obtain grace and power to resist temptation. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePray in your closet, and as you go about your daily labor let your heart be often uplifted to God. It was thus that Enoch walked with God. These silent prayers rise like precious incense before the throne of grace. Satan cannot overcome him whose heart is thus stayed upon God.  \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eConditions of Prayer\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are certain conditions upon which we may expect that God will hear and answer our prayers. One of the first of these is that we feel our need of help from Him. He has promised, “I will pour water on him who is thirsty, and floods on the dry ground” (Isaiah 44:3). Those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, who long after God, may be sure that they will be filled. The heart must be open to the Spirit’s influence, or God’s blessing cannot be received. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur great need is itself an argument and pleads most eloquently in our behalf. But the Lord is to be sought unto to do these things for us. He says, “Ask, and it will be given to you.” And “He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things” (Matthew 7:7; Romans 8:32)?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf we regard iniquity in our hearts, if we cling to any known sin, the Lord will not hear us; but the prayer of the penitent, contrite soul is always accepted. When all known wrongs are righted, we may believe that God will answer our petitions. Our own merit will never commend us to the favor of God; it is the worthiness of Jesus that will save us, His blood that will cleanse us; yet we have a work to do in complying with the conditions of acceptance. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnother element of prevailing prayer is faith. “He who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6). Jesus said to His disciples, “Whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them” (Mark 11:24). Do we take Him at His word? \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNothing Too Big for God to \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003eCarry\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep your wants, your joys, your sorrows, your cares, and your fears before God. You cannot burden Him; you cannot weary Him. He who numbers the hairs of your head is not indifferent to the wants of His children. “The Lord is very compassionate and merciful” (James 5:11). His heart of love is touched by our sorrows and even by our utterances of them. Take to Him everything that perplexes the mind. Nothing is too great for Him to bear, for He holds up worlds, He rules over all the affairs of the universe. Nothing that in any way concerns our peace is too small for Him to notice. There is no chapter in our experience too dark for Him to read; there is no perplexity too difficult for Him to unravel. No calamity can befall the least of His children, no anxiety harass the soul, no joy cheer, no sincere prayer escape the lips, of which our heavenly Father is unobservant, or in which He takes no immediate interest. “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” (Psalm 147:3). The relations between God and each soul are as distinct and full as though there were not another soul upon the earth to share His watch-care, not another soul for whom He gave His beloved Son.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the book \u003ci\u003ePeace \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eAbove\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e the Storm, \u003c\/i\u003eoriginally titled \u003ci\u003eSteps to Christ.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43952217358519,"sku":"TWG","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Talking-with-God-web-196x300.jpg?v=1732338261"},{"product_id":"the-gift-of-joy","title":"The Gift of Joy","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Gift of Joy\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“They shall call His name Immanuel . . . , God with us.” \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy coming to dwell with us, Jesus was to reveal God both to men and to angels. He was the Word of God—God’s thought made audible. In His prayer for His disciples He says, “I have declared to them Your name”—“merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth”—“that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them” (John 17:26; Exodus 34:6). But not alone for His earthborn children was this revelation given. Our little world is the lesson book of the universe. God’s wonderful purpose of grace, the mystery of redeeming love, is the theme into which “angels desire to look” (1 Peter 1:12), and it will be their study throughout endless ages. Both the redeemed and the unfallen beings will find in the cross of Christ their science and their song. It will be seen that the glory shining in the face of Jesus is the glory of self-sacrificing love. In the light from Calvary it will be seen that the law of self-renouncing love is the law of life for earth and heaven; that the love which “does not seek its own” (1 Corinthians 13:5) has its source in the heart of God; and that in the meek and lowly One is manifested the character of Him who dwells unapproachable light.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the beginning, God was revealed in all the works of creation. It was Christ who spread the heavens, and laid the foundations of the earth. It was His hand that hung the worlds in space, and fashioned the flowers of the field. “Who established the mountains by His strength.” “The sea is His, for He made it” (Psalm 65:6; 95:5). It was He who filled the earth with beauty, and the air with song. And upon all things in earth, and air, and sky, He wrote the message of the Father’s love.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow sin has marred God’s perfect work, yet that handwriting remains. Even now all created things declare the glory of His excellence. There is nothing, except the selfish heart of man, that lives unto itself. No bird that cleaves the air, no animal that moves upon the ground, but ministers to some other life.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eJoy in Giving\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut turning from all lesser representations, we behold God in Jesus. Looking unto Jesus we see that it is the glory of our God to give. “I do nothing of Myself,” said Christ; “the living Father sent Me, and I live because of the Father.” “I do not seek My own glory,” but the glory of Him who sent Me (John 8:28; 6:57; 8:50; 7:18). In these words is set forth the great principle which is the law of life for the universe. All things Christ received from God, but He took to give. So in the heavenly courts, in His ministry for all created beings: through the beloved Son, the Father’s life flows out to all; through the Son it returns, in praise and joyous service, a tide of love, to the great Source of all. And thus through Christ the circuit of benevolence is complete, representing the character of the great Giver, the law of life.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn heaven itself this law was broken. Sin originated in self-seeking. Lucifer, the covering cherub, desired to be first in heaven. He sought to gain control of heavenly beings, to draw them away from their Creator, and to win their homage to himself. Therefore he misrepresented God, attributing to Him the desire for self-exaltation. With his own evil characteristics he sought to invest the loving Creator. Thus he deceived angels. Thus he deceived men. He led them to doubt the word of God, and to distrust His goodness. Because God is a God of justice and terrible majesty, Satan caused them to look upon Him as severe and unforgiving. Thus he drew men to join him in rebellion against God, and the night of woe settled down upon the world.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe earth was dark through misapprehension of God. That the gloomy shadows might be lightened, that the world might be brought back to God, Satan’s deceptive power was to be broken. This could not be done by force. The exercise of force is contrary to the principles of God’s government; He desires only the service of love; and love cannot be commanded; it cannot be won by force or authority. Only by love is love awakened. To know God is to love Him; His character must be manifested in contrast to the character of Satan. This work only one Being in all the universe could do. Only He who knew the height and depth of the love of God could make it known. Upon the world’s dark night the Sun of Righteousness must rise, “with healing in His wings” (Malachi 4:2).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Greatest of All Gifts\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe plan for our redemption was not an afterthought, a plan formulated after the fall of Adam. It was a revelation of “the mystery kept secret since the world began” (Romans 16:25). It was an unfolding of the principles that from eternal ages have been the foundation of God’s throne. From the beginning, God and Christ knew of the apostasy of Satan, and of the fall of man through the deceptive power of the apostate. God did not ordain that sin should exist, but He foresaw its existence, and made provision to meet the terrible emergency. So great was His love for the world, that He covenanted to give His only-begotten Son, “that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis was a voluntary sacrifice. Jesus might have remained at the Father’s side. He might have retained the glory of heaven, and the homage of the angels. But He chose to give back the scepter into the Father’s hands, and to step down from the throne of the universe, that He might bring light to the benighted, and life to the perishing.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy His life and His death, Christ has achieved even more than recovery from the ruin wrought through sin. It was Satan’s purpose to bring about an eternal separation between God and man; but in Christ we become more closely united to God than if we had never fallen. In taking our nature, the Savior has bound Himself to humanity by a tie that is never to be broken. Through the eternal ages He is linked with us. “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son” (John 3:16).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe work of redemption will be complete. In the place where sin abounded, God’s grace abounds much more. The earth itself, the very field that Satan claims as his, is to be not only ransomed but exalted. Our little world, under the curse of sin the one dark blot in His glorious creation, will be honored above all other worlds in the universe of God. Here, where the Son of God tabernacled in humanity; where the King of glory lived and suffered and died—here, when He shall make all things new, the tabernacle of God shall be 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” (Revelation 21:3). And through endless ages as the redeemed walk in the light of the Lord, they will praise Him for His unspeakable Gift—Immanuel, “God with us” (Matthew 1:23).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContent taken from the book \u003ci\u003eThe Desire of Ages\u003c\/i\u003e. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCover image: ©www.iStockphhoto.com\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43952228761783,"sku":"GJOY","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/NEW-The-Gift-of-Joy-Cover.jpg?v=1732338396"},{"product_id":"the-promise-of-peace","title":"The Promise of Peace","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Promise of Peace\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is peace that you need—Heaven’s forgiveness and peace and love in the soul. Money cannot buy it, intellect cannot procure it, wisdom cannot attain to it; you can never hope, by your own efforts, to secure it. But God offers it to you as a gift, “without money and without price” (Isaiah 55:1). It is yours if you will but reach out your hand and grasp it. The Lord says, “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool” (Isaiah 1:18). “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you” (Ezekiel 36:26).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou have confessed your sins, and in heart put them away. You have resolved to give yourself to God. Now go to Him, and ask that He will wash away your sins and give you a new heart. Then believe that He does this \u003ci\u003ebecause He has promised\u003c\/i\u003e. This is the lesson which Jesus taught while He was on earth, that the gift which God promises us, we must believe we do receive, and it is ours. Jesus healed the people of their diseases when they had faith in His power; He helped them in the things which they could see, thus inspiring them with confidence in Him concerning things which they could not see—leading them to believe in His power to forgive sins. This He plainly stated in the healing of the man sick with palsy: \u003ci\u003e“That you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins\u003c\/i\u003e—then He said to the paralytic, ‘Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house” (Matthew 9:6). So also John the evangelist says, speaking of the miracles of Christ, “But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name” (John 20:31).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eActing on the Promise\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the simple Bible account of how Jesus healed the sick, we may learn something about how to believe in Him for the forgiveness of sins. Let us turn to the story of the paralytic at Bethesda. The poor sufferer was helpless; he had not used his limbs for thirty-eight years. Yet Jesus bade him, “Rise, take up your bed, and walk.” The sick man might have said, “Lord, if You will make me whole, I will obey Your word.” But, no, he believed Christ’s word, believed that he was made whole, and he made the effort at once; he \u003ci\u003ewilled\u003c\/i\u003e to walk, and he did walk. He acted on the word of Christ, and God gave the power. He was made whole.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn like manner you are a sinner. You cannot atone for your past sins; you cannot change your heart and make yourself holy. But God promises to do all this for you through Christ. You \u003ci\u003ebelieve\u003c\/i\u003e that promise. You confess your sins and give yourself to God. You \u003ci\u003ewill\u003c\/i\u003e to serve Him. Just as surely as you do this, God will fulfill His word to you. If you believe the promise—believe that you are forgiven and cleansed—God supplies the fact; you are made whole, just as Christ gave the paralytic power to walk when the man believed that he was healed. It is so if you believe it.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not wait to \u003ci\u003efeel\u003c\/i\u003e that you are made whole, but say, “I believe it; it is so, not because I feel it, but because God has promised.” Jesus says, “Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them” (Mark 11:24). There is a condition to this promise—that we pray according to the will of God. But it is the will of God to cleanse us from sin, to make us His children, and to enable us to live a holy life. So we may ask for these blessings, and believe that we receive them, and thank God that we \u003ci\u003ehave\u003c\/i\u003e received them. It is our privilege to go to Jesus and be cleansed, and to stand before the law without shame or remorse. “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit” (Romans 8:1).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHenceforth you are not your own; you are bought with a price. “You were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold . . . but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot” (1 Peter 1:18, 19). Through this simple act of believing God, the Holy Spirit has begotten a new life in your heart. You are as a child born into the family of God, and He loves you as He loves His Son.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCome As You Are\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow that you have given yourself to Jesus, do not draw back, do not take yourself away from Him, but day by day say, “I am Christ’s; I have given myself to Him;” and ask Him to give you His Spirit and keep you by His grace. As it is by giving yourself to God, and believing Him, that you become His child, so you are to live in Him. The apostle says, “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him” (Colossians 2:6).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome seem to feel that they must be on probation, and must prove to the Lord that they are reformed, before they can claim His blessing. But they may claim the blessing of God even now. They must have His grace, the Spirit of Christ, to help their infirmities, or they cannot resist evil. Jesus loves to have us come to Him just as we are, sinful, helpless, dependent. We may come with all our weakness, our folly, our sinfulness, and fall at His feet in penitence. It is His glory to encircle us in the arms of His love and to bind up our wounds, to cleanse us from all impurity.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere is where thousands fail; they do not believe that Jesus pardons them personally, individually. They do not take God at His word. It is the privilege of all who comply with the conditions to know for themselves that pardon is freely extended for every sin. Put away the suspicion that God’s promises are not meant for you. They are for every repentant transgressor. Strength and grace have been provided through Christ to be brought by ministering angels to every believing soul. None are so sinful that they cannot find strength, purity, and righteousness in Jesus, who died for them. He is waiting to strip them of their garments stained and polluted with sin, and to put upon them the white robes of righteousness; He bids them live and not die.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLook up, you that are doubting and trembling; for Jesus lives to make intercession for us. Thank God for the gift of His dear Son and pray that He may not have died for you in vain. The Spirit invites you today. Come with your whole heart to Jesus, and you may claim His blessing. As you read the promises, remember they are the expression of unutterable love and pity. The great heart of Infinite Love is drawn toward the sinner with boundless compassion. “We have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins” (Ephesians 1:7). Yes, only believe that God is your helper. He wants to restore His moral image in man. As you draw near to Him with confession and repentance, He will draw near to you with mercy and forgiveness.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the book \u003ci\u003ePeace \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eAbove\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e the Storm, \u003c\/i\u003eoriginally titled \u003ci\u003eSteps to Christ.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCover image: ©www.unsplash.com\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43952236593335,"sku":"PP","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Promise-of-Peace-Cover-website-196x300.jpg?v=1732338522"},{"product_id":"the-right-book-at-the-right-time","title":"The Right Book at the Right Time","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Right Book at the Right Time\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":720,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen she placed the book in my hand, I reluctantly accepted it. I did not intend to read it, but to be polite, I even thanked her. I didn’t tell her, of course, that I already planned to throw it away once I got home. She smiled, encouraged me again to read the book, and that was that. I placed the book in my backpack, making sure she saw me do it, and rode away on my bike.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat experience occurred twenty years ago, and I’m thankful that book never found its way into the trashcan, but, somehow, ended up on\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003emy bookshelf—the bottom shelf. There it sat for more than a year, neglected and forgotten. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLife has a way of springing surprises on us, doesn’t it? The status quo can be suddenly and unexpectedly overturned. A car accident. A financial crisis. A loved one’s death. A doctor’s visit. A broken heart. It\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003ecan be anything. One moment, all is seemingly well and fine, and the next moment, everything changes.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI should know—it happened to me. And, like you, I’ve seen it happen to many others. When the furniture of life is rearranged without notice, and the normal routines are rerouted into unfamiliar territory, things can get scary quickly. For me, it was a broken heart. I’ll spare you the details. But if you’ve been there, really been there, you know that the quaint phrase “a broken heart” doesn’t even begin to describe the depths and darkness of what’s happening. Feelings of doubt, insecurity, and rejection, among others, swirl and strengthen where, before, confidence, purpose, and happiness had been.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor me, a generally upbeat and easy-going person, a broken heart was entirely paralyzing. I just shut down emotionally and socially. Depression, a word I’d heard but never known, now knocked at my own door. I’d look in the mirror and, scarcely recognizing the face looking back at me, wonder if life really was worth living. After all, if life can go so bad so quickly and so unexpectedly, how could I ever feel safe again?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne day I found myself staring listlessly at, of all things, my bookshelf. My eyes wandered over the titles. And then I saw it—that bottom-shelf book. Something seemed to be saying, take it off the shelf. I instinctively resisted, knowing what kind of book it was, but the sense persisted, and, almost without believing myself, I grabbed it.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI knew what this book would be about—or did I? \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs it turns out, I didn’t. Not at all. To say that this book turned my world upside down (or, more accurately, right side up) would be a grand understatement. I considered myself a reasonably informed and perceptive person, but this book took me by surprise. I couldn’t stop reading it. Could so much of what I’d believed up to this point really be that wrong? The short answer, and the honest answer—yes. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo what was it? What was in that book?\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003eWhy had I been so reluctant to read it in the first place? Well, it was a religious book. Hey, I know what many of you are thinking. It’s probably about the same thoughts I had when the book was first placed in my hand. Nope. Not interested. Thank you, but no thank you. Like so many, I’d been conditioned by all the bad religion in the world—religions of politics, violence, dishonesty, and ignorance. I wanted no part of it. Who could blame me? Or you? \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut what if all the bad isn’t all the story? What if something better really existed? What if God isn’t the way bad religion has painted him? What if God is believable, reasonable, and beautiful? What if history is largely the story of a conflict over who God really is? What if there are really good reasons for believing in a really good God? \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs I read,\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003ethe world started looking bigger and more consequential than I’d formerly thought. My life, too, took on larger meaning and purpose. Heartbreak began to fade, and hope dawned fresh and new, casting a promising light on everything around me. Wow, what if God really is as good as this book said—or claimed? Well, it would change everything, including me.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe trick, though, was being willing to hear about this God and religion thing through new ears. Why? Simply because so many things I’d been led to believe up to that point were so entirely and terribly incorrect. I learned, for example, that: \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"\u003eThere are many good reasons to believe in God’s existence and goodness.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360,\"335559991\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"\u003eGod is love in the most beautiful and profound sense imaginable.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360,\"335559991\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"\u003eGod is completely fair and reasonable, and He isn’t the arbitrary control freak as so many have painted Him.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360,\"335559991\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"\u003eThe notion that God sends certain people to some torturous place called hell to suffer for eternity is a terrible (and terrifying) lie.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360,\"335559991\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"5\" data-aria-level=\"1\"\u003eAll the suffering and pain in the world, though often blamed on God, are not His fault or failure, after all.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360,\"335559991\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"6\" data-aria-level=\"1\"\u003eAncient prophecies predicted the modern and unstable state of the world with stunning accuracy. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360,\"335559991\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"\u003eMisdirected and manipulative religion is perhaps the greatest hindrance to a correct understanding and appreciation of God.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360,\"335559991\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"\u003eMy own country, the United States of America, would, astoundingly, play both a decisively positive and sadly terrible role in the history of earth. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360,\"335559991\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book contains all this and more. It changed everything for me. Not a day goes by that I’m not thankful that this book never made it to the trash. Somehow it stayed on my shelf until just the right time. Who knows, maybe now is just the right time for you. Belief in and love for God, unlike handcuffs, are not something that can be forced onto someone else. The time must be right, and the mind and heart must be unlocked and opened. But those doors can be unlocked only from the inside. It’s a personal, individual choice. God wouldn’t have it any other way. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI later found the woman who had handed me the book a year before. The moment she saw me, before I even opened my mouth, she somehow knew I had read the book. I smiled, hugged her, and thanked her. She just smiled back. I saw a knowing tear run down her cheek. She told me she too had been given the book. Her life, like my own, had been incalculably and positively changed. She had just passed it on.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd now I’m doing the same. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOh, I almost forgot to tell you the name of the book! It’s called \u003ci\u003eThe Great Controversy\u003c\/i\u003e. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIs the time right for you? I hope and pray that it is.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":360}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo get the book \u003ci\u003eThe Great Controversy\u003c\/i\u003e, contact us or visit our website to order or request a copy.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":240}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCover image: ©www.photodune.net\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":240}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43952241803447,"sku":"RB","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Right-Book-Cover-NEW-v2-web-196x300.jpg?v=1732338609"},{"product_id":"living-water","title":"Living Water","description":"\u003cp\u003eLiving Water\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRichard Crossland and his family, residents of Delaware, USA, felt their stomachs become uneasy. Within a few days he and his family were dead, victims of contaminated water. They had unknowingly left a piece of rotten meat over their well, and the putrefying mass had dropped into their water supply.\u003cspan data-fontsize=\"12\"\u003e1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave you ever been really hot and thirsty and downed a glass of cool, clear water? If so, you are privileged. According to the World Health Organization, over three million people die annually because of contaminated water, more than total deaths from crime and war combined.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImagine a world with complete purity—not just water, but people and ideas. Imagine a world without any contamination from spin or bias. What if we could get what we needed to know without any pretense or deception? Wouldn’t it be refreshing to have information presented in its true form—unadulterated, free from corruption?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis impurity is the problem with religion today—many feel that they are taught religious ideals that are contaminated by human greed or ambition. In the past, people have indeed used religion as a vehicle for corruption and violence. Religion has been blamed for incompetent government and the launching of world wars. Pastors, priests, and clerics have manipulated the spiritual needs of individuals for their own profit. Countries have been torn apart because of one religious sect battling another. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSadly, many of the accusations that have been and are being brought against religion are correct.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis frustration with religion’s track record—what appears to be its contaminated status—is certainly true of one of the world’s largest organized religions, Christianity. Many people are hostile toward the church but love Jesus. Many feel suspicious of membership and organization but are open to the figure of Christ.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGandhi, the great leader of the twentieth-century Indian independence movement, once said, “I like your Christ; I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.” Many people feel that there is a large contrast between Christ and Christianity. Perhaps you’ve seen this difference also.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe True Jesus\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe irony is that Jesus was so anti-corruption. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn His preaching, He called out the abuses and misdeeds of the religious establishment. In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus said, “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill” (Matthew 5:17). Jesus came to illuminate the true meaning of religion, “the law and the prophets,” that religious teachers had twisted and abused.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn fact, the Scriptures that He preached even predicted a false, corrupted Christianity to come in the future. It would cause global suffering and persecute those at odds with its teachings, which misrepresented God. This corrupt Christianity would “make war” with anyone who disagreed with it and “prevail against them” (Daniel 7:21). But despite the abuses of religion in the past and in the future, Jesus did not seek to destroy religion, but to illuminate its true meaning. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore His death on the cross, the Romans brought Jesus before Pilate, one of their rulers. When Pilate questioned Him regarding His arrest by Roman soldiers and the Jewish leaders, Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here” (John 18:36). Jesus taught that true religion was not about worldly success or personal gain, but something beyond this world.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus came to offer a pure and genuine spirituality, a transcendent yet supremely practical way that not only addresses our human problems, but also solves divine ones. How can a God that is all-powerful, all-present, and all-knowing allow for suffering? How does good deal with evil—with force, or with something else? Jesus presented solutions this world had never seen before. “My kingdom is not of this world.”\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImagine a Christianity without any contamination. What if you knew the true intents, teachings, character, and reasoning of Jesus Christ in the way that He meant them? No pretense. No spin.  \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat if there were a way to understand Christ in His purity?  \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat if you could understand love, peace, joy, and faith more deeply than the words and pictures Hallmark uses on its cards—as Jesus Himself talked about them and demonstrated in His life?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat if you could understand Jesus’ teachings without the political biases and religious interpretations that have muddled them for centuries?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat if Jesus weren’t a crazed rabble-rouser or merely a good teacher? What if He were more exalted than anything any human being could imagine, more than just one in a long line of wise men?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere is what one writer had to say about the true Jesus: “Jesus was a perfect pattern of what we should be. He was the strictest observer of His Father’s law, yet He moved in perfect freedom. He had all the fervor of the enthusiast, yet He was calm, sober, and self-possessed. He was elevated above the common affairs of the world, yet He did not exclude Himself from society. He dined with publicans and sinners, played with little children, and took them in His arms and blessed them. He graced the wedding feast with His presence. He shed tears at the grave of Lazarus.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“His zeal never degenerated into passion nor His consistency into selfish obstinacy. His benevolence never savored of weakness nor His sympathy of sentimentalism. He combined the innocence and simplicity of the child with manly strength, all-absorbing devotion to God with tender love for man. He possessed commanding dignity combined with winning grace of humility. He manifested unyielding firmness with gentleness.”\u003cspan data-fontsize=\"12\"\u003e2\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLiving Water\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you want this uncontaminated perspective? You would be making a decision that millions of people need to make, but don’t, because of past experience or fear. You would be taking the first step toward seeing, knowing, and even believing in the pure person, character, and life of Jesus.  \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake this step by reading the most comprehensive book on Jesus’ life, teachings, and prophecies: \u003ci\u003eThe Desire of Ages\u003c\/i\u003e. Just as the title implies, this book shows why, in spite of centuries of corruption by humans, Jesus inspires hope, transformation, and devotion. He called His teachings \u003ci\u003eliving water\u003c\/i\u003e, and He invites you to try some.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-fontsize=\"10\"\u003e1\u003c\/span\u003ehttp:\/\/query.nytimes.com\/mem\/archive-free\/pdf?res=9F03EEDE1430E633A25750C1A9619C94669FD7CF\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":240}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-fontsize=\"10\"\u003e2\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eIn Heavenly Places\u003c\/i\u003e, page 54\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":240}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":240}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCover image: ©www.photodune.net\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":240}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43952298754231,"sku":"LW","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Living-Water-c3-1-194x300.jpg?v=1732339396"},{"product_id":"jesus-can-help","title":"Jesus Can Help","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCan Jesus Help?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDear friend, I don’t know what you are dealing with in your life, but all of us face problems in life. Whether wealthy or poor, city dweller or farmer, old or young, we each face challenges that we are powerless to solve. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSickness. Heartaches. Loneliness. Addictions. Poverty. Fear. Shame. No matter what problem you are facing, there is Someone who can help you. His name is Jesus Christ. Many people have turned to Him in time of need and received the help that only He could give. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBelow are three stories about people in Asia, like you, whom Jesus has helped. They are true stories but we have changed their names to protect their privacy.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eA Young Mother in Sri Lanka\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJaya worked in a small blood lab. Though the hours were long, she was happy to have a job to support herself and her young son. She had been married, but her husband was unfaithful and eventually left her to marry another woman. Left alone to raise their son, she had taken a job in the lab. Although she was a Buddhist, Jaya enjoyed working for her Christian boss, Ms. Ana. They soon become good friends.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne day, while she was taking care of some work in the lab, Jaya suddenly felt an intense pain. She looked down and saw blood and three long cuts on her forearm. She screamed with terror and grabbed a cloth to stop the bleeding. This was not an accident. Jaya could feel the presence of evil spirits in the room.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHearing her startled cry, Ana came running to see what was the problem. She saw the fear on Jaya’s pale face as Jaya explained what had happened. Ana responded, “Jaya, my God has power to command these evil spirits to leave. Let’s pray now.” As Ana prayed, Jaya felt peace flood over her. The spirits were gone.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I was shocked how quickly the prayer worked,” Jaya says, “and I want to know more about the Jesus my boss prayed to. Obviously He hears and answers prayers!”\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eA Business Woman in Bangkok\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSucheen was a young, successful businesswoman in Bangkok working in corporate sales. She was quickly being promoted in her company and took frequent business trips to other countries. But not all was well. She and her boyfriend had just parted. She had thought this was the man she would marry. Now, she was alone and brokenhearted. Life became filled with darkness. She cried herself to sleep every night.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeeks passed and the world felt dark. Dreams were shattered. Sucheen began to notice that the news was constantly describing horrible things that were happening in the world. Even pop culture focused on the bad things in life in their song’s lyrics and in movie scenes. A master-mind must be  behind it, she concluded. But what about the good in the world? Was there a being behind it? She didn’t know.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne night Sucheen awoke, aware of a presence in her room. “I must have been dreaming,” she thought, and she rolled over and closed her eyes. But she opened them again and looked and saw someone standing at the foot of her bed. But she wasn’t afraid. She looked into the kind face. He didn’t say a word. She knew that this being was good. Reassured, she closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe next day Sucheen thought about what had happened and grew convinced that the being she saw was Jesus. She felt that somehow He knew her desperation and had come to help her. She wondered where she could learn more about Jesus. She had a strong impression to go to the Christian church that ran the English school where she had studied as a child. Later, as she studied the Bible with them, she learned about Jesus and how to seek His blessing and guidance in her life. Sucheen knew she never needed to be alone again. Jesus loved her like her own father loved her. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eA Desperate Father in Malaysia \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheng twisted uncomfortably in the seat of his Honda Civic. He had spent the last few nights sleeping in his car. He would rather be by his son’s side in the hospital, but the ICU department made it clear that only one parent could be in the room. Cheng couldn’t sleep. He wasn’t about to go home.  So his only option was to rest in his car, waiting for the sun to rise and visiting hours to come so he could return to his son’s bedside.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy did his young son have a life-threatening heart condition? Why couldn’t the doctors fix his problem? Would his son pull through and recover? What if he died? He couldn’t bear to think about life without his only child! Fear gripped his heart. He felt so helpless. Tears streamed down Cheng’s face. Was there no one to whom he could turn for help? Prayers to ancestors and visits to temples brought no answers. Now the surgeons said the heart condition of his son could not be fixed, even with surgery.  \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGlancing at the seat next to him, Cheng’s eyes rested on a small paper leaflet atop a pile of documents and other papers. Reaching for it he remembered that a Christian had handed it to him a few days earlier. Without really thinking, Cheng flipped on a light and began to read. The little flyer told about a God who created this world, one who loves us and longs for us to take our needs to Him.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheng thought about what he had read. He was helpless. Could this God help? “God, if you really are there, I ask that you do just one thing. Please heal my son! If you do, you will be my God and I will follow you.” \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe next morning, Cheng entered his son’s hospital ward. Doctors and nurses were buzzing around his son’s bed. They were smiling and excitedly looking over the charts. The boy was healed!\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNow \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003eIts\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e Your Turn\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAre you struggling with work or school? Are you having conflicts with people near you? Are you sick or filled with worry or fear? Are you lonely? Are you powerless over an addiction or weakness in your life? Are you tired of the bad things of life and want better answers?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus can help you!\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus says, “Come to me, you who are burdened and heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou may not fully understand who Jesus is. You may wonder if He is real or not. But rest assured, if you honestly want to know the truth and if you really desire help, Jesus will help you.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimply pray, “Jesus, I want to believe that you are real and can help me. Please show me that you are real. I pray that you help me with       \u003ci\u003efill in the \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eblank\u003c\/i\u003e       . I need a God like You right now.”\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus wants to not only help you with your daily needs, He also wants to transform you to be a man or woman that is pure and upright. He has plans for your life. Ask Him! \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen Jesus helps you, tell someone else about Him!\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo learn more, contact us!\u003cspan data-ccp-props=\"{}\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49227646075063,"sku":"GLOW059","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Jesus-Can-Help-web.png?v=1790181010"}],"url":"https:\/\/glowcentral.org\/collections\/salvation.oembed","provider":"Giving Light to Our World","version":"1.0","type":"link"}