20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 81)

[@sarahfaith316]

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 - Intro 1. 0:13 {Overcoming Negativity & Responding to “Church People” Behaving Badly} How can I overcome bitterness & negativity? I have been disappointed in friends, family, and "church people" a lot and I found out it has a big impact in my life. 2. 15:36 {Could Satan Repent?} Would God forgive Satan if he repented? 3. 19:33 {One Death or Two in Scripture?} How do we reconcile Hebrews 9: 27 with there also being a “second death” (as in: Revelation 2:11, Revelation 20:6,14, & Revelation 21:8)? Is there one death or two? 4. 22:56 {Is it Wrong to Honor a DNR?} What do you think about DNR (do not resuscitate) orders? If I can’t perform CPR on a patient when it could save their life because the order forbids it, am I committing murder by honoring it? 5. 27:10 {Does Breath Determine Life?} I've heard people quote Genesis 2:7 (usually from the KJV) to show that a soul can't live or exist without both body and breath. Is this an accurate understanding, and if not, why? 6. 34:27 {Why Did God Call a “Chosen People”?} Why did God decide to have a “chosen people”? Was this due to His will to have a “people” that His Son would come from? 7. 38:09 {Are We All Lying on the Internet?} Is it a sin to tick a box that says "I have read and accepted the terms and conditions..." without having read them first (e.g. when installing software)? Key word being "read.” That would be lying, yes? 8. 41:37 {Are Pictures of God in Movies or School Biblical?} Is Christian entertainment like The Chosen a violation of the 2nd Commandment? Are things like Sunday school lessons hurting our theology by using pictures of things or people? 9. 46:45 {About the Doctrine of Election} How do you interpret 2 Thessalonians 2: 13 in light of the debate on the doctrine of election? 10. 49:51 {Is Jesus in Human Form in Heaven?} My question is about the incarnation of Christ. Since He was bodily raised from the dead, does that mean He is still the incarnation in Heaven? 11. 54:17 {Who did God Purchase Us From?} 1Corinthians 6: 19 says "You are not your own, you were bought with a price.” Are the buyer and the seller the same person (e.g., Is God buying the people from Himself)? 12. 57:19 {Are Altar Calls Biblical?} Are altar calls biblical? Hard to find much of this in the New Testament. Hard to think this through without preconceived notions. 13. 1:05:01 {Overcoming Nervousness in Evangelism} I’m starting high school soon, and I feel very nervous to share the Gospel in person. Is it wrong for me to just stick to sharing it online where I don’t feel nervous at all? 14. 1:07:07 {Can we Trust Paul’s Writings?} I was wondering how you combat the claims against the Apostle Paul if you have heard of the claims against him, such as preaching a different Gospel than Jesus and the 12. 15. 1:10:24 {About Egypt’s Sacrifices in Isaiah} Isaiah 19: 21 speaks of Egypt repenting and offering Jewish sacrifices. How can this be, since we no longer have those sacrifices? 16. 1:12:41 {Solidifying our Identities} How do I know if I am solidified in my own identity? And do you think it is biblically important for people who walk with you in the faith to understand your identity and who you are as a person? 17. 1:16:31 {Should we be Baptized while Having Doubts?} People encourage me to get baptized ASAP (Acts 22: 16), but I struggle with serious psychological doubts. Should I disregard my doubts and get baptized? Can I take more time? 18. 1:20:04 {Why did Jesus call the Father His God?} I've been wrestling with this passage for a couple of months, and I haven't found a solid answer yet. It's in John 20: 17. I can't seem to understand why Jesus calls the Father His God. 19. 1:24:33 {Evaluating our Spiritual Traditions} I'm an ex-Muslim follower of Christ from Afghanistan. Some Islamic traditions felt really spiritual and comforting such as praying on an Islamic rug, etc. Is it okay if I keep some of those traditions? 20. 1:28:31 {Distinguishing Obedience from Legalism} How can we walk in obedience to Christ without falling into a “works-based salvation” frame of mind?

[@guarionexx79]

Thank you Sarah much for this! Super super helpful!

[@NewCreationInChrist896]

20) Amen, talk to God in a personal relationship/fellowship with Him. Obey Him because you love Him. Your love for God will grow in time. Tell God you love Him and you’re grateful for Jesus’s sacrifice for us. Ask for His help to obey Him in Christ’s power- Philippians 4:13. Galatians and Romans are excellent books to study on grace. Romans 1-2 💝 “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have a peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God”

[@fabiancortez2256]

Simple answer to Question 18. Neither the trinity or the various definitions are recorded in the scriptures. Jesus is not the Almighty God. He has a God. He is submissive to his head, God, in the same way a woman is submissive to her husband and men are submissive to Jesus. Not only does Jesus refer to YHWH as “My God” at John 20:17. He also refers to YHWH the Father as “My God” 4 TIMES after his ascension and glorification in heaven. *REVELATION 3:12* - The one who conquers I will make a pillar in the temple of *my God,* and he will never go out again. I will write on him the name of *my God* and the name of the city of *my God*  -  the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from *my God*  -  and my new name. Jesus repeatedly emphasized the fact he recognizes a higher more superior being as his God. Only counterfeit “followers” of Christ reject Jesus clear statements to continue believing false doctrines.

[@fabiancortez2256]

Also, what’s important about John 20:17 is what Jesus DOESN’T say to Mary. Counterfeit followers of Christ claim Jesus is God and they worship him as such. Jesus however identified NOT HIMSELF as the God of Mary NOPE!!!!!!! Jesus pointed to another being as her God. He identified that other being as Mary’s Father as well as her God. Jesus was right there to teach her about the doctrine of the trinity if it was TRUE. Yet, he didn’t point to himself as Mary’s God. Because he wasn’t and isn’t according to HIS OWN WORDS. Or, Jesus a manipulating liar who omits valuable life-saving information from those who need it, Trinitarians? Why doesn’t Jesus ever tell anyone to worship him? He always points or directs their worship to his Father and God. *JOHN 4:23-24* *MATTHEW 4:10* *LUKE 4:8*

[@karricompton]

Jesus refers to himself as “I Am” which is YHWH, God. He is God. Period. It is heresy to say Jesus is not God.

[@lucindaschafer]

Oh, how I have been hurt and wronged by church people! Every time bitterness rises up, I remind myself that if I want them accountable to God then I must be accountable as well. It humbles me immediately.

[@Dominicus13]

Always a bitter pill to swallow when you realize you have wronged God worse than your enemies have wronged you. Very humbling.

[@monicacook3311]

Where does "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" fit into this mindset?

[@lucindaschafer]

You should do that, too, ​@@monicacook3311

[@OppressedPotato]

​@@monicacook3311desiring justice is good, but we can also pray for our enemies in that. The two aren't mutually exclusive

[@monicacook3311]

@@OppressedPotato I can't see my reply anymore but I totally agree with you.

[@idance0001]

I’ve struggled with bitterness a lot and it didn’t make me a better human. I felt angry a lot and the feeling true love was gone. I prayed to God for the strength to forgive and the feeling his love what would help me to love other people. Over a few weeks I was really changed and feel more love and was able to forgive. Works can’t get you into heaven, but I want to behave like a true Christian because I want to show the love of Jesus to the people around me. And that being a Christian can really change you in a good way.

[@scootermom05]

Love this!! Thank you for sharing. I struggle to and it goes in waves. I am improving, but when I struggle I forget to pray. Great reminder!

[@PaulSmith-wh5xf]

Yes!!!

[@mtjc5336]

@@scootermom05 you took the words out of my mouth. Praise the Lord. Thanks, @sun.flower

[@susanjolly2117]

As you pray and seek God to help you become more like Jesus, you will slowly change and continue to change. “Be not weary in well doing, for in due time we shall reap if we fail not.” Don’t stop asking, knocking and seeking. Trust God.

[@veronicamatthews5411]

@@scootermom05 0

[@discoveringlisa486]

Becoming a Christian doesn't take away all of our sin, pain and anger. It makes it easier to bear because we have Christ to lean on. We don't suddenly become perfect and sinless when we come to Christ. We should strive to become better out of our love for Christ but this idea we suddenly shed sin and become angels is unrealistic and damaging to faith.

[@ralphw8833]

The sin of mankind was taken on by Jesus on the cross and his shed blood cleanse all of us from sins past present and future. When you accept the truth that Jesus gives your sins are forgiven forever like they never happened

[@joshuawoodin]

Great summery, I am in pain everyday.. and ppl wonder why I glorify god, and I cant explain what ppl dnt see only what they can see. Iv been in a hospital bed without pain meds for 2 days, I prayed for god to take away my pain, and in seconds I was pain free for 2 days till doctors brought me pain meds.. I cant explain that to a non-believer or even other Christians who dnt fully submit to god and christ..

[@discoveringlisa486]

@@joshuawoodin God bless you, heal you and protect you

[@joshuawoodin]

@@discoveringlisa486 thank u freind, glory to christ and god, but thank u for ur words and wishs.. I actually in the last few hrs have been healed from dehydration.. I deal with this extremely not just, not enough water. So thanx again may peace be with u !

[@storyaboutmosquitoes9441]

This was killing my faith. I felt like everytime I had a bad thought or bad feelings that God hated me and judged me. I started fearing God so much I almost tried to run away from Him. Then I realized that the terror and obsessive thoughts were not glorifying to Him. That I was just freaking out over nothing. I live Him. I won’t go back to my sinful life. I see so much of my sin and hate it, but God grabbed me up at my lowest point. He loves me. I need to remember that. So do a lot of people. Sin does separate us from Him, but despair is what can cause us to sin. Do t give in to despair. Dont fight the thoughts that Satan puts Into your head. Just brush them off. Our flesh is sinful. Being a Christian means we no longer love sin and live in sin, not that we never sin. This all happened just today. Don’t fight your own thoughts. Rest secure that He loves you. Don’t give in to despair temptation. Find fellowship. Read His Word.

[@carolwilliams5337]

When we have been gaslighted by a narcissist i think we rehearse the error to convince ourself of the truth. I found it hard to accept that I had been wronged even though I felt hurt and my life was definitely affected. Sometines I thought it was just me that was crazy because the others were pretending they had done nothing wrong. I had to accept that they had been wrong first and then forgive them. It was a process. Your words are very true and helpful.

[@TofuTeo]

This is so true and relatable. Thank you for saying that.

[@TofuTeo]

This is so true and relatable. Thank you for saying that.

[@doompod]

The judgement and condemnation from my old church, the lack of care and human decency, the lack of love they showed me made me never want to join a church again. When the elders ignore you and won’t even speak with you about a situation, something dark is going on.

[@j.brandonpaine6365]

I am praying for you and for that congregation. That the Lord will bring you to a church that loves you the way they should and that you would find healing in the lord Jesus. I also pray for the church you spoke of, that there will be a reckoning of the Lord leading to true repentance and change in that community. You're not alone. ❤

[@Dominicus13]

There are many who will call Christ Lord but never know Him. I have been where you were, and I feel that hurt. Hopefully you can find a better church. Try to understand those people are lost, and still haven’t found Christ. We have all sinned, everyone of us. Maybe Jesus your king and turn from sin. We should be seeking the Lord’s approval, not that of our fellow men. I pray you find your way to a better congregation.

[@TofuTeo]

This

[@lecs9385]

The answer to that first question is life changing. Thank God for your ministry; what a beautiful blessed word!

[@newcreationcoachingllc6491]

A relative had a DNR, it was somehow ignored, he lived another year and had quality of life, died with family singing hymns and assurance to family that the gospel was presented again and having pastoral care earlier in the week. I think God intervened.-- Angela

[@PotterSpurn1]

This is a great video, Mike. I have experienced a lot of pain in my life, as do most people by the time they reach mature age. I am 61. It has been a long and difficult journey for me to heal some of that pain which I now realise was as much self-imposed for not doing as Christ said - to forgive - as it was due to the inflictions from my enemies. I have learned some wisdom along the way, which I want to share. But before I do, I want to admit that I am not completely free of the sin of vengeance yet, but have been released from much of it due to the teachings of Jesus. What I have done is to deconstruct what has been going on in my life all these years and the wasted years I spent anguishing over pain drawn from misplaced anger, misunderstanding of others' motives and what these conclusions said about me. First by understanding that all ungodly anger and feelings of vengeance is actually the work of Satan who seeks to harm us further by encouraging us to hang onto anger and bitterness against others, which only drags us down emotionally and spiritually - his main aim. Second, by understanding that feelings of anger and hurt is not necessarily about what someone has 'done to us' it is sometime a response to a misunderstood situation and imaginings of others' motives to cause us pain when none was intended. 'He knows not what he does'. We cannot overlook this: just because we feel hurt and angry toward someone that doesn't meant that the person we felt was or is responsible for that pain wilfully set out to hurt us. So it might be a misplaced blame that encourages your feelings of anguish toward another person who is actually blameless not blameworthy. That is not always true, of course. But even when someone has wilfully hurt or angered us, and can be proven to have done so, we need to consider what harm to you they have really caused. Usually it is none of any significance. Unless they have broken the law, or in the case of Christians they have disobeyed God in the commandments he asks us to live by, they have not harmed us at all; it is just that we just don't like what they did and feel angry that a situation or conflict they created did not go our way and to our own satisfaction or else we had unrealistic expectations of them and were disappointed. So, in reality, our anger and hurt stem not from their harm toward us; it stems from our own sin of selfishness and pride based on entitlement for not getting our own way or living up to our unrealistic expectations. So, yes, we do need to forgive others if they have hurt or even harmed us, and seek healing for our pain not stemming from others; instead it is just our own misplaced anger toward them that originated from our own sin of wrongful expectations or pride or entitlement. Therefore, when we feel angry and hurt and vengeful, it is important to recognise what you are dealing with. If you are not sure about the origins of your pain - you or someone else - seek God's counsel. First by praying to seek recognition and then to pray about these feelings and to ask God to heal and to forgive those who did actually harm or hurt us. Only then can you take the steps you need to heal your feelings properly. If you don't understand the origin and just assume someone else is to blame for your anger, instead of being the unjust object of it, without seeking the truth of the origins of your pain first, your prayers will be misplaced and healing might come much later than it ought to, if at all. Humans are complex, sinful and Jesus came to die for our sins. I find it immeasurably helpful that Mike reminds us that the pain that Jesus endured on the cross to die for our sins far outweighs any pain, no matter how justified it is, that causes bitterness and resentment and vengeance against others. Knowing this is particularly helpful when dealing with real harms caused toward us by others who are clearly blameworthy. This is particularly hard to forgive because we realise that we are powerless in this world at times, At the same time, we also realise that when we are not harmed, God's grace abounds in our lives. When we still feel those painful emotions re-surfacing, as they will occasionally - even when healing is changing us and making us wiser and more patient - we can be reassured that turning to Jesus is the best way to deal with that pain wherever it stems from - as only he truly knows what is in your own heart and in the heart of others who we feel has paved the way for so much anguish in our lives. It is one of the most valuable lessons in life. Not easy, I know, but essential. In case you think I have suffered no real harm when some of you have: someone ran down your child in their car, someone stole something valuable from you, friends betrayed you badly, church members are worldly and selfish...etc.. Every day I live with the consequences stemming from faulty thinking and misplaced anger - mainly in time lost - and the pain caused by others.... MY STORY (IN BRIEF) I was brought up in a typical two parent, two child complementarian home with two narcissistic, unbelieving non church-going parents (they were genuinely narcissistic, not just a bit selfish or attention seeking sometimes). They each doted on my older brother, who started to lead the kind of life they wanted him to by going into the Royal Navy, but were pretty indifferent toward me, their daughter, as we grew from teenagers into young adulthood. Basically my brother could do no wrong and I could do no right even though I never did anything outwardly to embarrass them, harm them or even disobey them. I don't remember holding a single, meaningful conversation with my father throughout my teens. Feelings were never discussed let alone acknowledged and dealt with. Elephants were in every room. All the same, I did my homework, did my chores, didn't do drugs, didn't sleep around, etc. I was the model daughter in many respects - hard working, academic and keen to get on in life but with a growing discontent and resentment. They treated me as if I didn't exist or made it clear I was less important and favoured - I think for being female more than anything I did. This all took its toll as my resentment and anger spewed into young adulthood when they actively discouraged me from going to university, which I badly wanted to do. At thirty, I eventually became estranged from them at age 30 to protect my mental health after I suffered depression for many years and couldn't hold down a job. I also went to uni' as a mature student. Even after the estrangement that lasted up to their death with no reconciliation, I carried the burden of blame and anger toward them all for too many years into adulthood which nearly destroyed me, disrupted every area of my life, put me off marriage and family life for good (I still remain childless and single for fear of ending up like my parents), and that overbearing pain overspilled into other faulty relationships and painful friendships that have since dissolved where I'd attracted other narcissists -a magnet to narcissism victims. It's a long story to go into in detail. When my parents did die (my brother didn't bother telling me they had, I found that out later on when I tracked him down) my parents had left their entire Estate to him and left me with nothing at all. My brother, who tried to make out that my 20 year estrangement was the reason for this decision - and was fully deserved, as a result - turned out to be a lie. They'd changed their Will just a few months after they'd found out that I'd got my degree (I had phoned them after getting it and neither bothered or wanted to come to my graduation) and, according to my brother, my father had claimed that I was schizophrenic (I had never been diagnosed with anything approaching that - it was entirely invented). Therefore, my parents' favouritism toward my brother was not imagined; it was real. Most normal parents, who are not narcissistic, would be proud of their child being the first to go to university and would want to attend their graduation like they did my brother's falling out parades in the Navy. For me, I had no such experience. They resented it, hated me for it and punished me for it. My brother, equally narcissistic, it turned out, has shown no empathy toward me or my situation at all and simply exploited the estrangement for his own financial gain, and has kept all the money, and we don't keep in touch. I have no family at all, but then I never really did even when I was in touch with them. Through all this anguish, I came to Christ. All the same, over the years of estrangement that resulted from my awful family life, I'd become cynical and cold and distant and mistrustful. Even now I find relationships difficult. But after I found God who demonstrated infinite patience with me, and with growing wisdom and patience over the years, the pain of my past has become far less acute and my anger toward those who'd hurt me, less so as well. If it had not been for this experience, I may not have found God at all. For that reason alone, I am grateful for my past - sort of - even if my present doesn't look that great to others or even to me, sometimes. God is good. Seek him and you will find and develop the mentality that with every bad episode in your life, there is usually a silver lining - if you look for it.

[@larrylafferty3836]

Loved your testimony sister I too had a rough childhood But Jesus is good Forgiveness is the key

[@kristen1856]

BG, I read and reread your story...you've really helped me to understand forgiveness and my silly ego. Love to you precious sister, you've made an impact by sharing your story! And yes, I too am grateful for my past as that I believe it led me to Jesus!🙏🕊

[@mariamiller4035]

God bless you and keep you.

[@mariamiller4035]

I wanted to hear it from someone who has experienced serious pain and not just normal offenses that trigger and anger people. I’m talking like being abused by clergy or Christian psychopaths that often are ministers. A child molester causes so much pain and suffering. Don’t understand how we are supposed to bless them. I can bless someone and be forgiving to someone who is just rude or selfish but that is another level. This is something I work out with God and don’t usually guilt trip myself about. God wants us to stand for truth and tell people they need to repent for their ongoing sin. I think he will avenge and judge harshly anyone who represents him so wickedly.

[@joyceburns2613]

He knows you, that's what counts. It sounds like you are still affected adversely by your familys actions, i.e. your statement that you fear turning out like them and are childless. You are NOT like them I discern, don't be defined by them. Feel sorrow for them but avoid judging them for that falls outside your realm. Lay all the animosity at Jesus' feet and be close to Him, trusting Him for His peace.

[@darrincarroll7526]

Thank you Mike, for your answer to the first question. Needed to hear this today. I was restricted on Facebook for questioning the practice of ending the life of a preborn, on the change that they might have a bad life. Didnt make a comment, I questioned the practice. Although I think it's sweet irony that I got them to admit abortion is violence! 😀

[@CommonSense858]

Thank you for sharing this. I was a Pastor for 20 years and sadly my wife left me and the Lord. It has been unbearable at times and so hard on my kids. This is the hardest best response a believer can have. Don’t feed the monster of bitterness. Thank you

[@landynikole5347]

Question number one more than answered my prayers I've prayed for the past few months. God is working miracles using you pastor M. You're answer pierced my heart and soul. I say to myself these things every day but it wasn't getting through completely. God's peace to you and yours.

[@shanespence6653]

I love how the Holy Spirit works!!!!!! I had to forgive someone yesterday to be able to move on from something then today you gave a great biblical answer and added things that helps me even more. Glory to God for His love and mercy

[@aureliaphilosophyofyum]

My life changed forever when I realized a few years ago that forgiving someone is primarily a response to God, and secondary it's a response to the person. Thank you! These 20 Q's were super valuable :)

[@maevestevens3078]

I found the answer to question 16. helpful when you said that the Lord understands us even when others don't! Thanks for your teachings Mike!

[@farmingmama]

Love the 20 questions episodes! Thank you for the first question and answer, especially!

[@Saintt_abe]

Mike, binging, studying & taking notes of your videos has made me feel like we are best friends

[@AshleyRJones8]

Regarding Q2 about Satan and repentance: my understanding (extrapolation based off some Bible research and some logic) is that because the angels (all types) had access to God personally in the heavenly realm and could see Him as He is, when they reject Him, they are doing so in full knowledge. They won't have a chance to repent because, having had access and relationship with God, they chose to reject/rebel against Him.

[@sheilasmith7779]

Ashley: AGREE. The unrepentant are not people who do not see or know, but rather people who reject obedience to God.

[@off6848]

But so did Adam a man. I don’t think this works. Mike seems to have hit it on the head Jesus came to save man and man will judge the heavenly Angels

[@brandonm2622]

@@off6848 man won’t judge anyone only god does

[@off6848]

@@brandonm2622 you just judged Paul a liar then. “Do you not know that we shall judge angels? How much more, things that pertain to this life” Corinthians 6:3 I mean you can have that opinion it’s just an odd an unbiblical one

[@mitromney]

@@off6848 no. Adam did not have the full knowledge. He lived in a blessed state of obliviousness and ignorance when ut comes to sin and Bible makes a huge deal out of it - the tree of knowledge that he lacked was the forbidden fruit after all. God did not want for the same to happen with humans as it did with angels - he gave them a way out, a choice to never learn about evil and be divided into saved and lost, like angels became.

[@chrissyandjoey28]

To the first question you answered God bless you! This is so so true and Thank you so much for answering with Our Fathers Answer and not your own. I use to deal with this daily until actually got sick. I didn’t realize I was doing this to myself and I knew I was disobeying God but at that time I use to pick and choose what I obeyed, forwarding a few years God showed me this scripture again and by this time GLORY TO GOD🙌🏼🙌🏼 He drew me in to surrender to my entire life to Him, and one of the sins in my life was gossiping even just talking about it or thinking about it would cause bitterness, hate, meanness , fighting Etc. I tried my way for years I finally gave in and told God I can’t do this alone i just can’t but I knew He can🙌🏼🙌🏼 and that He did!! HALLELUJAH!!🙌🏼 and now That He showed me how to remove the bitterness, He showed me through His eyes how sad it is for them and He gave me the heart to pray for them. This is a huge thing coming from me because there’s absolutely no way I’m to stubborn of a person

[@jillsummers6299]

I've been walking with the Lord for 3 year's now and every day I learn something new,but im struggling with praying for my enemies my 21 yr old daughter got jumped while she was with her 4 year old daughter at a child's party,we know who did it and we are trying to let the law handle it but that's not going no wear and from the first moment I found out I fell to my knees praying for the lord to help me let him handle it and to not take it in my own hands,I keep praying that he will keep me strong in his word and love, but im feeling guilty that my mind has bad thoughts onto those who jumped her

[@HolySpiritIsSatanOfSinDethHell]

I've seen witchcraft being done on someone whom I will call my companion and experienced homelessness with said companion. My companion is being abused by those who do witchcraft and my companion is blind and cannot walk at the moment (my companion wasn't always blind and could walk before). What helps us is God working in our lives and fear of Gehenna and the lake of fire. I don't know if a Christian can end up in the lake of fire but we are trying to avoid that at all cost. Forgive those that hurt you we know what you're going through the pain you're feeling but it's not worth going to the lake of fire over that. God wants us to forgive others their trespasses or He won't forgive us of our trespasses. May God comfort you like how He comforts me and my Companion!

[@keithawhosoever5384]

@@HolySpiritIsSatanOfSinDethHell I think you mean well Oragans , but your advice to this lady is not very comforting to say the least. You are not sure if 'Christians actually go to the 'lake of fire' , but just in case , forgive . Not very comforting. We as believers are forgiven of all our sins past , present and future , once we acknowledge Jesus as having died for our sins accept Christ as our Saviour . That is comforting if we believe. Forgiving others for trespassing against us in order to be forgiven by God is part of the prayer Jesus spoke of before the Cross . It's conditional , which is Old Covernant law based . The age of Grace came into affect when Jesus having died for our sins , rose from the dead which brought in the New Covernant ...a better Covernant. No-one is saved by keeping the law . Jesus kept it perfectly for us and as us . As sinners , we are saved by Gods Grace . A free gift , unearned and undeserved. The Gospel is good news and if we believe by the free gift of faith , that too is very comforting. May I recommend you listen to a wonderful Grace teacher Andrew Farley on utube . He helps clarify alot of misconceptions that new believers and old believers too have, regarding the old and new covernants . Blessings friend ..🇬🇧✝️🆓

[@keithawhosoever5384]

Being human Jill , it's more than natural to have 'bad thoughts' towards the perpetrators. Guilt is not from God . All your sins have been forgiven , past , present and future. I am not a parent but I can imagine how I would feel would such a thing happen to my child . God loves you and knows exactly how you feel and He is not condemning you ." There is no condemnation for those in Christ.." I hope the law does its job and justice is served where appropriate . Blessings to you , your daughter and granddaughter ...✝️🆓🇬🇧

[@HolySpiritIsSatanOfSinDethHell]

@@keithawhosoever5384 My dear friend, Where does the holy Bible say we are forgiven of our "past, present and future sins?" I believe we are not saved by our works alone but we are to have faith mixed with works, obedience, and abstaining from sin. Even James said we are not justified by faith alone and that faith without works is dead. I know no one can snatch a real Christian out of the hands of the Holy Trinity (John 10:27-29). Also 1 John 3:9, and 1 John 5:18 says a Christian can't sin (or can't continue to). The reason i'm quoting those two verses from 1 John is because why? As in why can't a Christian sin or can't continue to sin? I'm thinking because that person (including myself) is afraid of the lake of fire 🔥. I believe the lake of fire is a deterrent. I'm not going to lie to you the lake of fire has been a reason for me to stay away from sin. What do you think? 🤔

[@RansomedSoulPsalm49-15]

@@keithawhosoever5384 Glory to God Amen

[@sallywise2022]

About Q1, I've also found that knowing that God loves me perfectly means that everyone else is off the hook for loving me to that standard. We humans all fall short of loving perfectly even though we are created to respond to that perfect kind of love.

[@chuckw8391]

Well said!

[@alicejump2290]

Learning forgiveness is learning Jesus! Thanks for biblical answers!

[@conradgood]

Thank-you pastor Mike. I love your ministry. I grew up Mennonite but walked so far from God. Your messages have done so much for me to draw me back to God!!

[@squigmugz6355]

Thanks for your teaching on bitterness and forgiveness. Iv been holding onto a lot of bitterness and now i can let go if it and pray for the Salvation of the people i felt angry toward as well as being reminded of the wrong things iv done to others that i repent of and am freely forgiven of by Christ. Thanks Mike

[@torieboshears9072]

Man I wish I would’ve caught this live!!!! Better late than never!

[@carolewheeler7620]

Thanks Bro.Mike your teaching has taught me and has blessed me. Keep on doing this. Know your work is not in vain

[@cmesaywhatwhaaat6146]

2 weeks later and I am still replaying the first Q&A- Appreciate Mike's honest response. Thank You for this ❤

[@wendymorrison8995]

Oh thank you so much for teaching and sharing on this subject, Mike! I have been struggling with this very thing, rehearsing, even dreaming about what certain Christian family members have done and said to me. I forgive..then the pain returns. I am going to listen again to your wisdom. This headache steals my thoughts and joy. This teaching was the Holy Spirit wanting to deliver me..set the captive free. Oh, thank you, Mike. Blessings, Wendy

[@hillowl4977]

With his answer on praying for blessing for them in question one I fully agree! When I am tempted to bitterness I remember the parable of the debtor in Luke 7:36 I also would like to add to pray that God softens their hearts to their sin and that they will seek help and restoration in God for what they’ve done. And that they’d be forgiven like Christ forgave me for all I’ve done.

[@collegepennsylvania837]

"And let us not grow weary of doing good for in due season we will reap if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9 Keep following Christ in every way and don't give up. Don't let the temporary temptations distract you from the eternal treasures in heaven. Be encouraged knowing that God is with you and that He will never leave you nor forsake you. And if God is for us then who could ever be against us. Hopefully this helped you today. God bless you.

[@troydershem6598]

Hey Paster Mike, thank you for this message. I struggle often with anger and bitterness. A brother I served with turned me on to Psalm 37 that I have been reading on a daily basis for almost a week now. It has been helping me, and I pray this helps anyone who reads this comment. God bless.

[@CapoHJB]

Pastor Mike just deducing all the symptoms of bitterness and being spot on in every micro detail gave me a chuckle. Like he has definitely been down that dungeon and stayed long enough to draw an elaborate route map of this dark cave of bitterness, and hearing it expounded and biblically apply the solutions heals my heart. Thanks Mike.

[@colleennovak1558]

this shows me that GODi is even more loving and kind then we know

[@bumpercarjoe6391]

I am a 43-year-old man who is very hurt by my mothers past actions. She now prays that I’d be washed in the blood of Christ. And while I’m happy, she’s found forgiveness, I feel hurt because she has never asked for mine. However I have been blessed with gods grace and forgiveness and I am now working on forgiving her. It’s not easy and I still have deep resentments, but I’m getting there.

[@yvonnecrozier4536]

Your comment helped me, thank you, and God bless. May He continue to heal you

[@aprilmay6166]

I'm so sorry her abuse to you has yet to be reconciled and balanced. My Mom and I are in company with you. If you are at ought with the fellow believer, you are to go to them. If you are not a believer, I would still encourage you to speak with her. Tell her you don't know how to begin or end the conversation so you need her help. Reveal your heart, your pain and your hope. Expect her face to change. If it does, stop momentarily and ask her how she is? This will show kindness. Then continue. Repeat that order. Easier said then done? Consider this first: VERY effective Something God's Holy Spirit showed me is to write a letter of apology ( that you may likely never give her) to little girl my mother had been. Who somehow went wrong and that if you were the adult in her life, she would have had somebody to talk to, to walk with, to play with and someone to receive correction from. In the letter, tell her you're sorry you were not there to help raise her but you're here now. And you will do your best to help her see a better way. Write out as a result of her not choosing to do right, she is the cause of the greatest scars in your life. Write out a memory of your sorrow, explain to that little girl how disgusting that action was, write out another memory again explain to her the depth of the tragedy she caused, then another, another, another. Expose the monster she had become to her own past self. Next write out the reasons apologies are important. Remember, you're teaching her little self that admitting wrong brings healing to the many wounds she brought in by her own hands as a parent. Wounds that have hurt for decades can be dissolved with true confession from the inflictor. I pray God will keep you seeking His healing until there is no root of sorrow left in your heart. In the Love of Jesus, take care.

[@kevinwiebe1435]

Around 59:00, Mike talks about helping listeners see the process of thinking biblically. A suggestion: at the end of each Q&A, Mike could give listeners a question to work through before the following session.

[@TruthIsAsOldAsGod]

I think that would be a great addition to this format. I think it really has the potential to grow this ministry and branch off into even more ways to be interactive. Great suggestion.

[@C.Thomas913]

Good idea

[@guardianmeister6650]

Mike, I want to give you some serious props! I was a bit cynical when I opened the video, but man have you ever brought fresh perspective rooted in Scripture here. You have totally stimulated me to think more, deeper, better. Keep up the good work.

[@dnvsmith5760]

Thank you Pastor Mike, for your explanation on the matter of bitterness and the importance of forgiveness. I was tearing up as I thought of the people I’ve wronged and the people that have wronged me and how wonderful our Savior Jesus Christ, is to have forgiven both parties involved. So thankful so thankful for Him, and His continued work in my heart and life.

[@Berean_with_a_BTh]

RE Question 1 (Bitterness) We do well to remember Leviticus 19:18 _You shall not take vengeance or bear any grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD._ (RSV) Most Christians seem not to know the first half of that commandment.

[@sheilasmith7779]

Yes Mike exactly right: The person making a claim should be asked to provide the evidence. In discussions, we make a mistake, responding by making a counter claim. The burden of proof is on the person making the initial claim, not the responsibility opponent to disprove. The opponent ONLY offers a rebuttal AFTER the initial claimant has provided their biblical evidence. This is very important to prevent discussions going in circles....meaning our response to a ( false) claim should be offensive rather than defensive.

[@kcstorytime4898]

that is so beautiful to look onto Jesus look into his eyes when you feel pain of someone else's sin and in such softening our heart to the love of Jesus as he loves your brother and sister in christ as he loves you even with my sin.

[@truthreigns369]

I ask the Lord to take it from me and give me His love for them. I can do nothing in my own strength. Good advice

[@dantosinferne]

Around 43:00 and after, thank you for addressing the issue of graven imagery. It has long been a point of uncertainty for me, and tho I'm still unsure, I deeply appreciate you sharing your learned perspective on it!

[@wynelleu]

The "footprints" story I've heard isn't that Jesus doesn't have a physical body, but that the ONE set of footprints visible are HIS. That He hasn't abandoned me in times of difficulty or darkness, but has carried me through them. Praise the Lord, oh my soul!!! ❤❤❤

[@Shellyspurr]

This advice is so wonderful, we have to stop complaining about people who hurt us, it causes resentment. We also have to be open to talking to them too, it will help us receive self examination and the ability to be better Christians.

[@coffeeblack1057]

23:02 this is a good question. When I was in the fire department we ran a lot of first responders calls to help the ambulance crews out when they were on call. And those DNR orders will make you feel weird but at the same time especially with the elderly. When performing CPR with compressions, you're likely to break bones anyway. It's an awful feeling when you're in that kinda spot.

[@laneyoftheshire]

When talking about abortion and the beginning of life, Leviticus 17:11 also comes to mind. There is life in blood, and there is obviously a lot of blood throughout a whole pregnancy. And yes, a heartbeat can be picked up super early! We didn’t get to hear it at that point, but my daughter’s heartbeat was picked up via ultrasound at 7 weeks! 🥰 It’s amazing stuff. On a funny note, my body has worked too hard so far-at only 10 weeks with our second-for people to deny the fact of life inside my womb! 😅

[@StarboyXL9]

Pretty based

[@KaileBrogan1025]

I do agree. I was able to see my babies early on in pregnancy. I think my hesitation is if the mom's life is at risk is it biblical to lose her life and have a life for the baby if she needs to choose? What's biblical?

[@nowyouknowrealestate5703]

Q#7- I used to have a co-worker who read the terms and conditions EVERY TIME! Even one site we had to log in many times a day! He would read it each time. I asked him about it once a third time he was logging in on the same day and he said “In case they change it.”

[@Berean_with_a_BTh]

RE Question 5 (Does breath determine life) There are numerous Scriptural references equating blood with life. For example, Genesis 9:5; Leviticus 17:14; Deuteronomy 23:23. Since the foetus has a primitive heart and circulatory system around 3 weeks after conception, one may safely conclude that God regards it as a living human being at that early stage. Additionally, Ecclesiastes 11:5 confirms that even the unborn child with a skeleton has a spirit. Skeletal formation begins around 5 to 6 weeks into gestation.

[@Mathetes1]

Interesting. That would pretty much make any abortion (except, perhaps, to save the mother's life) murder.

[@mtjc5336]

Wow pastor Mike I really needed the admonition you offered from the first question today. I thank God for His good Word and for you helping others to seek and find in scripture the wisdom we all need to apply to our lives.

[@travissharon1536]

I thought I was a weak Christian choosing not to buy a monster right now, but terms and conditions! Good on you for even thinking about it brother!

[@angietyndall7337]

When doing Advanced Directives, you have to inform the patient what that entails, including what happens during CPR-cracked ribs; etc

[@travissharon1536]

@@angietyndall7337 I was talking about terms and conditions on software and such. The DNR question was interesting though.

[@scootermom05]

The overcoming negativity at the beginning of the video. Romans 12:20, my take was that if you offer nothing but kindness back to them, the burning coals is their guilt for what they may have said or done. I am not a pastor or have studied the language of it, but I have seen and experienced when people act ugly, and someone returned in kindness it affects them. Sometimes they repent and change their behavior, other times they leave or avoid the kind person because they can't handle the kindness given to them. And as for the dangerous people, I pray they are stopped and while in prison or seeking treatment for their behavior, God can reach them. We don't always have to be the person leading others to Christ. It is a team effort. Thank you for your ministry, Pastor Mike. I truly enjoy your videos.

[@jamjuice]

I love Mike Winger, but I feel like the answer to #1 had a gaping hole in it. Matthew 18 gives us detailed instructions for confronting “church people” who sin against us. Mike’s advice for checking our own heart is spot on, but in many cases we also have a solemn responsibility to confront and resolve such issues head-on.

[@torahsingingwoman]

How refreshing to hear you pronounce "ruach" correctly! Thank-you so much for your careful instruction in question 1. It brought me a great deal of comfort, and some conviction, some tears, and some hope.

[@annmowatt7547]

Thanks, Suzy Ann for your question as I have struggled with that too. I did not react to the hurt, I did not retaliate but, although I said nothing, I left the Church and found another. This was especially painful as these were "Christians " and I expected better from them. I did forgive them and, although the hurt remained, I wished them well and prayed for them. This was 6 months ago and 2 weeks ago, I heard that my former Church has closed.

[@RUT812]

My family & I switched churches due to a nasty church split that we didn’t want to be involved in. That church is now closed.

[@debbyclark6587]

Thank you for this good, thorough teaching on bitterness. I wish I had this inside years ago when I went through my episode of bitterness. But, it was dealt with and is past tense. PTL, He is so wonderful ❤️

[@Mittemo48]

Sometimes I have to PRETEND to love others to get along. It feels FAKE, but it's a baby step to the real thing. It's like LEARNING to walk and balance. The more I say the RIGHT things and act kindly toward others, the easier it is to have godly habits that REPEAT. If I'm really honest I'll CATCH myself offending others.

[@texasskygirl7890]

Even as a Christian, I think our nature is to be reactive. Alot of times I just have to let it go, knowing that we are sinners in need of a saviour. Alit of times I just set a boundary and remove myself from that person.

[@chrisprzibilla4181]

That is wisdom! What I find helps me most is to consult the Bible. I follow what God says in obrdience to Him and trust Him to enable His grace to work in me. Particularly in Mark 4:24 He says that the more I put into understanding what He desires in me, He will increase according to my seeking His will. Unfortunately, it also tells us that if we don't put much effort into understanding what He says, what little we do have will be taken away from us. Father offers so much to us! We need to pay attention to how God interacts with us. It is always conditional to our response. "If... then" are in both the Old and New Testaments. He is our power.

[@Ephesians-yn8ux]

Man I love these videos and look forward to them.

[@guarionexx79]

Great first answer brother! That’s why I see what an amazing heart you have and like our Lord! Well said! 🔥👏

[@vickifarrar1170]

Great job, so so helpful....thank the Lord for ministry.

[@BlackCloudCV60]

Hello Pastor Mike, I am new to your channel and was listening to your 20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 8) Somebody asked you about should a Christian go to war. I am not even hinting that I thought that your answer was wrong. As a decorated veteran and a Christian who had to ask this very question many (Many,, MANY...) years ago, I was given what I thought is the best answer one could give , in such situations. I want to give this to you in hopes that you will consider, Going to war using your superior strength, skill, and weaponry to take the life of a soldier on the opposite side is not murdering another person. The other person has an equal chance of taking you out as you do of removing him from the fray! As a soldier, sailor, airman or Marine you are a honored useful tool to be used for the purposes dictated by those who reign over you. You are hopefully following orders to "T" fighting and winning the battles set before you. The example given to me all those years ago has stuck with me, is the one in 1st Samuel 17 is the story of David and Goliath. Most importantly to my point is verse 58, (setting the stage) David has Goliath's head and is brought by Abner to see King Saul. He's already been anointed by Samuel to be the next King of Israel, he's just won this decisive victory over a much larger, stronger, Philistine champion. 58 And Saul said to him, “Whose son are you, young man?” So David answered, “I am the son of your servant Jesse the Bethlehemite.” Instead of boasting that he was going to at some point take Saul's place as King of Israel. He submits to the Authority of the 1st King of Israel, a man anointed by God. "I am the son of your servant..." Humility at it's finest. The attitude of humility you show towards those in authority over you, and those whom you are over should be one of equal humility as King David's is toward King Saul. Sorry about the novel, I don't know how else to contact you directly. I hope that I have conveyed my message in a clear and concise way. Thank you. BlackCloud22

[@demodemo5146]

That first question hit home hard, thank you!

[@wilfpeters9697]

So much needed this tonight, thankyou,Pastor Mike

[@CastleGraphics]

One more note regarding the difficulty of working through being wronged by others: It is also sobering (and good) to realize Jesus experienced the same feelings Himself on the last days before His crucifixion. One of His apostles chose to turn Him over to the Jewish leadership for money, while one of His closest followers purposely and angrily rejected Him multiple times. While He knew it was coming, it must have still felt as harsh as the beatings and spit that He got from His detractors. Yet He forgave them all...and...I helped put Him on that cross.

[@carlabrown656]

I do actually read the terms and conditions, and sometimes learn things I hadn't been aware of. I don't think it's the same as an idiom. I think it's a legal document that you accept or reject, and I agree you are waiving your rights if you check it. To me it's the same as reading and signing something before a medical procedure; it's there for legal purposes. But I understand I am in the minority. I think Mike does a great job.

[@kellypatton1220]

My church drives me crazy because we don't get any new members. All the members have been there forever it seems, so nobody ever goes up front. Sometimes I want to go up front to pray about something, but I feel like I am drawing attention to myself.

[@janetgoodwin9113]

If your Church has few new babies it maybe dying. It is sad but true. 🙏🙏🙏❤❤❤

[@LionsLambano]

Well timed and heart felt word, God Bless and thank you.

[@sweetcreamsdairygoats]

Question 1 - amen and thank you Pastor Mike. Such a blessing to me, the way you explained this. Grateful to God for you!!!

[@AshJae]

I had the word in my mind from a very very young age and tried to live this forgive everything mentally but a person can only take so much. Molestation and abuse after abuse then it comes to your child and you find out your own mother covered it up and blamed HER at five years old….. there’s a breaking point. We cannot forgive everything as human beings. I’m sure of it. I’ve had to walk away from every single family member Yes there are many times I still have compassion for my mother and those who hurt me, even cry over it, and they are not believers and I still also have more times that I feel resentful and hurt by all of the bad memories.

[@JustBethTrying]

Look at how God works! I needed this! My heart has been so hurt. Thank you Mike for allow Him to use you.

[@robertdouglas8895]

Ask and you receive.

[@candyDander]

Your first answer was really helpful. I'm not dealing with church hurt, but it made me think about what I'm dealing with at work. Thank you!

[@mawrawmiller561]

Altar calls: The point is we need to KEEP responding to Jesus.🙏❤️✨ Love you Mike

[@timnao4939]

Love this episode. So many good questions!! Thank you for your ministry it is so much needed

[@shelleyhorsfield5921]

Thank you brother, your first question’s answer helped me so much.

[@cbak1819]

Someone I loved was very rebellious against God, I prayed that thorns and thistles would block their way after reading that in the Bible.. I can seem to find it now. But it worked, his blocked or brought pain. Becoming so desperate eventually turned to the love of Jesus.

[@gillianwright356]

Thankyou so much for this lesson Pr. Mike. I love what you said about the Psalms.

[@silinasessions]

When God says He will repay, it doesn’t mean He’s going to pay them back for what they did to you. It means He’s going to repay or compensate you for what you went through

[@littlecatedward7737]

you're a good man mike. you've helped me more than you ever could know.

[@ChristcentredNaturalgee]

Love this video. I always enjoy these live streams thanks Pastor mike👍🏾❤️😊

[@sarahlyn1767]

Thank you for the answer to that first question. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

[@servantofthealmighty77]

I've sacrificed myself to the LORD, repented for all my sins. Once i was saved I was reborn anew! My life changed. I have spiritual attacks everday. BAD ATTACKS. BUT I keep my faith and rely on JESUS. He always comes through. Because we are not of this world. Stay strong in your hearts. Testing of faith! The Gospel will pull you through. Keep your relationship with JESUS! Like a love affair. Stay strong in these last days. HAVE NO FEAR. IT IS WRITTEN.

[@marisa5359]

Forgiveness is a necessary thing. Not an easy thing, but a necessary thing. I believe that is why He asks it of us and will equip us for it when we lean on Him. He knows bitterness will ultimately eat us alive otherwise. From childhood abuse to being abandoned by my first husband with two tiny boys and a baby girl on the way, I have had a lot that could have eaten me alive. But, praise God, He gave me an unexpected gift through that abandonment. He allowed those circumstances to knit my parents and I closer as they came alongside to fill the gaps. I will forever cherish those days for what it showed me was possible through Him. It also helped me over time to let go of what happened to me and extend forgiveness to my ex-husband and readied my heart to remarry and add a blessed bonus son who turned 10 recently. Not that I have never wrestled with my pain or had angry thoughts over the years. The struggle has honestly been massive. But, I will never regret that choice made to surrender to forgiveness despite the hurt. God has used it to shape me in so many ways.

[@leahbergstedt7444]

Listened to question 1 2xs. This is what I needed to hear today. ❤

[@ST52655]

I have an older sister who has harbored bitterness towards church people and family for decades, and it has eaten her alive. She has lost her faith in Jesus, too. We can’t nurse our hurts and be spiritually okay.

[@kkania1]

What an excellent answer to Question #1. Thanks.

[@powergirl7619]

THANK YOU JESUS, THANK YOU PASTOR!!! I NEEDED TO HEAR THIS

[@stephenbailey9969]

"For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." (Matt. 6:14-15) "Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen." (1 John 4:20)

[@lindse8922]

I really needed to hear the answer to number 1. Thank you

[@Jesus_is_otw]

42:54 hey Mike I love your content. You have been so incredible in helping me learn so much. I used to believe it was fine to have images of Jesus in my home. I once had bought a painting from the girl who painted Jesus when she was 7 or 8 years old. But then after learning more about the Bible, and after getting saved, I prayed to God and asked Him if it was ok to keep the painting of Jesus. He immediately put in my head 1 Cor 10. I read it and got to verse 14 and it stood out to me where it says to flee from idolatry. God told me to remove that painting. This painting was so moving to people who saw it they admired it so much as if Jesus was in the room with us so I can see why the LORD pointed me to that Scripture. So from that day on I have removed any images portraying Jesus, the last supper, etc. I really believe we shouldn’t use the cherubim situation when God commanded Moses to create those specific images on the Arc of the Covenant as a reason to allow us to do the same. Just wanted to add my thoughts and give my input. God Bless brother! Keep up the amazing work! You’re awesome.

[@hanichay1163]

A favorite author of mine wrote: Ideal Christianity does not fix all our problems; what it ought to do is throw us back on the living God.

[@DarkEden888]

I needed this so much. Thank you Mike

[@shawnaweber12]

Thank you for your ministry, Mike!

[@securetheharvest]

Thank you, Mike! This hit me. Life changing.

[@patchooo84]

Remarkably Good” Translation A “Remarkably Good” Translation ACCORDING to one count, as many as 55 new English translations of the Christian Greek Scriptures were published between 1952 and 1990. Translators’ choices mean that no two read alike. In order to assess the reliability of the translators’ work, Jason BeDuhn, associate professor of religious studies at Northern Arizona University, in Flagstaff, Arizona, U.S.A., examined and compared for accuracy eight major translations, including the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, published by Jehovah’s Witnesses. The result? While critical of some of its translation choices, BeDuhn called the New World Translation a “remarkably good” translation, “better by far” and “consistently better” than some of the others considered. Overall, concluded BeDuhn, the New World Translation “is one of the most accurate English translations of the New Testament currently available” and “the most accurate of the translations compared.”​-Truth in Translation: Accuracy and Bias in English Translations of the Greek Scriptures

[@pamelacron]

Thank you, for sound, Godly advice. ❤

[@guardianmeister6650]

Knight Abraham, I also understand you experience comfort praying on a rug. I agree with PM's advice and would also like to encourage you with a comfort far greater comfort than praying on a rug: "For 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 Look to the comfort and patience of the Scriptures and you will naturally pull away from that practice as you experience the mediation of the Risen Christ in your heart.

[@vickifarrar1170]

Thank you Mike 🙂 for your encouragement and understanding.

[@fredr7217]

It’s weird! I don’t look for it and I forgive them! But I’ve the years I’ve seen things not go to well for people who’ve come against me in life, business, and church! I was just sharing with my wife, and then you said it! Powerful!

[@TsunamiFlipFlop]

Brilliant stuff brother!

[@TrimBelValleyDairy]

Love love listening to your wisdom and thoughtful insight. I thought you might enjoy learning as I did in reading Strange Scriptures by Barbara M Bowen…on page 31 talks about Rm 12:20. I quote “in the Bible lands almost everything is carried on the head-water jars, baskets of fruit vegetables, fish or any other article. Those carrying the burden rarely touch it with the hands and they walk through crowded streets and lanes with perfect ease. In many homes the only fire they have is kept in a brazier which they use for simple cooking as well as for warmth. They plan to always keep it burning. If it should go out, some member of the family will take the brazier to a neighbor’s house to borrow fire. Then she will lift the brazier to her head and start for home. If her neighbor is a generous woman, she will heap the brazier full of coals. To feed an enemy and give him drink was like heaping the empty brazier with live coals-which meant food warmth and almost life itself to the person or home needing it and was the symbol of finest generosity. “Thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head”. Keep sharing God’s truth 💕

[@RUT812]

Thank you for that explanation! That’s not the way I was taught, & I very much appreciate your understanding of this verse.

[@larryedwards1591]

This makes my Friday nite thanks 👍👍