Hope and Change

IThe U.S. Supreme Court made a landmark decision last week that will forever change history. Gay marriage is now legal in all 50 states. Regardless of your stance on the issue, one thing is abundantly clear, Scripture forbids it. Romans 1 reads this way:

18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness,

19 because that which is known of God is revealed in them, for God revealed it to them.

20 For the invisible things of him since the creation of the world are clearly seen, being perceived through the things that are made, even his everlasting power and divinity; that they may be without excuse.

21 Because, knowing God, they didn't glorify him as God, neither gave thanks, but became vain in their reasoning, and their senseless heart was darkened.

22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

23 and traded the glory of the incorruptible God for the likeness of an image of corruptible man, and of birds, and four-footed animals, and creeping things.

24 Therefore God also gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to uncleanness, that their bodies should be dishonored among themselves,

25 who exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amein.

26 For this reason, God gave them up to vile passions. For their women changed the natural function into that which is against nature.

27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural function of the woman, burned in their lust toward one another, men doing what is inappropriate with men, and receiving in themselves the due penalty of their error.

28 Even as they refused to have God in their knowledge, God gave them up to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not fitting;

29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil habits, secret slanderers,

30 backbiters, hateful to God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,

31 without understanding, covenant-breakers, without natural affection, unforgiving, unmerciful;

32 who, knowing the ordinance of God, that those who practice such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but also approve of those who practice them. I am by no means suggesting any defensive action against anyone but it is clear that homosexuality is a sin, albeit no different than any other sin.  In reality, nothing has changed but everything has changed. Our job as believers is to love everyone and teach the Gospel of Jesus with the love of God. Jesus died on the cross for you, for me, and for everyone else. LGBT included. Scripture makes it clear that these things will happen. In fact, it was prevalent in Biblical times. This is precisely why Paul write what he did to the Roman church. While I am saddened by this decision, it really does not surprise me and it shouldn't surprise you either. Regardless of your stand on the issue, Jesus died for you and loves you with an everlasting love. Our future in Jesus is solid.  I am here to give you encouragement and prayer for I know the plans God has for me and that He desires to give you hope and a future in Him.  Don't be afraid to ask for prayer or a word from God, let me know and I'll see what He has for YOU!! I hope you are blessed. Love you all.

Encouraging Words

Yes, it's that time again. Do you need an encouraging word from the Lord? He loves speaking to you. His love is everlasting!

I believe God still speaks today and not just through His word as some have stated. Yes, the word is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). If you listen for His voice, you will hear him.

This month, if you need a word from the Lord, let me know and I'll ask God what He has for you.

Blessings and Encouragement are yours! WOOHOOO!!!™

Joel