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God is Not Mocked
"Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the SPIRIT of MEEKNESS, considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted," (Ga. 6:1). How many times have we had the urge to Lord it over someone fallen; to...
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A Psychic Confesses
I don't read religious works. I don't discuss my spiritual life with any religious leader or spiritual guide. Heck! I don't even go to a traditional church. Ritual makes me shudder. My temper blows if anyone tries to 'convert' or 'save' me. Nothing...
If I Were Called
~*~ If I were called to teach, I'd give it my best. If I were called to preach, I'd better pass the test. If I were called to reach, I'd do it with much zest. If I were called to each, I'd surely need some rest. Mt. 11:29b ~*~ We, often,...
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FUNDAMENTAL CHURCH FAILURES
Every great human movement toward freedom, whether commercial, political or religious or a combination thereof, begins with the determination of concerned men and women to make life better by resolving recurring human problems. The Renaissance and...
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One of Satan's Tricks
When I think about the original St. Nicholas and what kind of man he might have been, I think he was a Christian who loved God, and thus grew a heart of compassion for people.
He was humble and sincere in his service, as he chose to obey God's Word in keeping his alms a secret ... desiring the glory to belong to God (anyone, who's ever loved God more than himself, wouldn't have it any other way) - and he didn't require a special holiday to consider another's need.
St. Nicholas may not have been jolly on every occasion, as he lived in the real world - just like the rest of us. However, I believe he did have true joy in his heart because he was in tune with his Maker.
St. Nicholas was a common man with an uncommon heart, who allowed himself to be used by God in both his church and community. He would have thought his gesture of good will to be small potatoes in comparison to the gift of Jesus.
If he had known the perversion in commercialism and greed that would ensue, I think it would have made St. Nicholas feel absolutely sick. And, if St. Nicholas would have known He'd take precedence over Jesus, I believe he would have cursed the day his secret gift was discovered.
I also think St. Nicholas would have wanted us to know what Webster's New World Dictionary has to say, "Nick (nik), n. the Devil: usually Old Nick," as well as others referring to goblin and demon. It seems to me Old St. Nick was just another one of Satan's tricks ... and it worked.
The above is the only article I've ever written wherein I shared my opinion, not just what God had revealed to me. It was written in conclusion to a historical
account of the original St. Nicholas that was taught in my local church. And, it wasn't too hard to receive, considering I want to believe that, underneath, people are basically good.
The one time I listened to teachings of men, I got suckered.
It was only thereafter that I discovered the story was a cover-up to the truth that St. Nicholas hated children. A gentleman of that original faith stated, "What difference does it make? That isn't who he is, now."
My question, then, is, "How is Santa Clause any different from any other fairy tale?" Ok, no it isn't. My real question is the same one it has always been, the same one that challenged the historical tale in the first place. "How can we expect children to believe us concerning things of God, when we lie to them about Santa Clause?"
Santa Clause has never visited our home and
Just knowing that mom will always tell the truth
has instilled a trust in them that is invaluable, and
has adverted them following many doctrines of men.
Preserve one's child-like faith at all cost.
The rewards are Heavenly!
I have no greater joy than to hear
that my children walk in truth.
3 John 1:4
Revised © 2003 by Joyce C. Lock
http://my.homewithgod.com/blessingsandlessons/
This writing may be used in its entirety, with credits in tact,
for non-profit ministering purposes.
About the Author
In addition to being a published author and poet, Joyce C. Lock created the religion column, "Christianity Made Simple" for Peru Daily Tribune, continues to write inspirational articles for area newspapers, and shares further in online and e-mail ministries.
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