How To Have Fun Without Alcohol: Booze Free Contentment

Christian or not, I used to drink too much; I rarely had fun without alcohol. Why? I had, and to some extent still do have, a problem with shyness and self-confidence. (No one believes this, which further proves what alcohol can do to a personality!) To a degree, I am now learning how to have fun without alcohol or booze.

It is all a matter of being happy with yourself, and having a few meaningful things going on in your life. I won't feed you a line of crap here by saying that all things are always wonderful when you stop drinking, or anything like that. I am not a liar; but, overall things can sure be a lot better on balance. You can attain contentment without drinking.

One key is to figure why you drink... What is it changing about you? Then, if you feel like the change is worthwhile, substitute a non-drinking activity to naturally evoke that change as a permanent feature. Common Sense 101. (Think in reverse also. What bad traits does alcohol magnify for you?)

A great problem for people today is that society spends so much time telling folks how hard it is to stop drinking that everyone believes it, and because of this perception many folks just refuse to try! Think about it. We make it harder than it has to be, due to the psychological and even subconscious aspects involved.

Secondly, instead of making drinkers personally responsible for their drinking, they are told it is not their fault - that it is an addiction! (Even if it is at that point, guess who chose to get the addiction by drinking????) Even worse, our Liberal society then says that this addiction is a DISEASE! Yes it is, a disease called SIN, that we all choose or chose to have by repeatedly drinking.

The point is that if drinking alcohol causes problems, why not either stop drinking or taper back dramatically? If you do not buy it, 90% of your problem is solved. If you don't buy it and you disallow anyone from giving it to you, 100% of your usage problem is solved - then all that remains is the boredom or having to squarely face your TRUE SELF one on one.

What are the fill-in the blank activities that take the place of booze? Actually I just used the word "activities" in the context of individual things within a new lifestyle. The lifestyle is most important, and the activities are small components of it. Baby steps.

Think about the person you want to be in all respects, and see what changes need to be made. Instead of using booze to help you live with your faults and temporarily alleviate your dislike of them, be proactive and setup real changes to improve each fault or desire full-time. Do what you naturally enjoy, and are productive at.

You see, we can quickly deal with surface symptoms and immediate emotions, but the root problem is much deeper. Like it or not, believe me or not, drinkers (even happy ones) mask hidden core conditions. 

These surface things are symptoms of some degree of core spiritual ill-health. Even if you are a Christian that drinks too much, you have spiritual issues that need to be addressed while you are NOT DRINKING. 

If you are not a true Born-Again Christian, THAT is a great part of your problem... Quit being selfish and be humble and read the Bible and ask God for help. This not mystical; it is practical. So, while doing other things address everything, ok?????

~ Jimmy Hall operates Jimmy Hall Writing Services/Atlanta (404-580-1501), and writes business plans, resumes, web content, obits, letters, reports, and more....

Praying For American Leaders, Even Bad Ones Like Ob*ma

In the Holy Bible, we are taught that those in powerful positions are there with God's permission - and for His reasons. Keep in mind what St. Paul wrote to the Romans, that God works all things to the good for "The Called," according to His purpose. Evil human beings like the current President (Ob*ma) serve God's purposes, and we are even supposed to pray for people like him to be enlightened or cast out.

Our God often hardens and softens hearts of leaders, to both bless and punish His people. We reap what we sow. Even these unGodly leaders against His Word (in the United States - Democrats/Liberals) have their uses to our Heavenly Father. Children that are loved are chastised for their own good at times, and public officials and their policies are used or this purpose.

Just as the Israelites and ancient Israel were sometimes punished with and by God's use of evil leaders to correct them, and were led into virtual slavery in Egypt and captivity in Babylon, God works the same way today. The Book of Hebrews declares that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. So, what point am I making?

The United States of America is under horrid and wicked leadership today, more than likely due to our Liberal leanings over the past half of a century, particularly with respect to the murder of 54 million innocent babies/embryos (which God declares are His own in the womb) via abortion, our unBiblical permissiveness of homosexuality (named a capital punishment offense by God in Scripture), and our overall man-centered ways (Humanism) as opposed to living to serve our Creatior as a holy nation (America was founded on Christian Principles; all the Founding Fathers agreed upion this point in their private and public writings - except for one covert action with respect to a war with pirates!).

We should all pray for President Ob*ma, not because we like him but because it is our duty and responsibility as Christians to pray for those in authority. We certainly do not have to pray in a supportive manner, promoting further evil, but rather that his own heart is touched or changed so that he can make wise decisions. God will lift the curse He seems to have placed upon us if we start obeying Him by faith.

God states in Scripture that if His people, called by His name, will pray to Him and turn from their wicked ways, He will heal their land. Amen! The point is, you may righteously hate the President, and with good reason as a Christian, but you are still obligated to pray for and about Him to God. There is no way out; we are wrong if we do not do so - we sin. I am as guilty as anyone on this matter at times....

Jimmy Hall operates a professional writing service (404-580-1501) and carefully designs and writes resumes, business plans, letters, and web content of many types....

Loving America: Loving The United States Like The Greatest Generation

Do Americans actually love the United States anymore? I truly do not know. Seems like on every news station or newspaper headline or facebook status we see yet another instance of American Flags being burned or traditionalAmerican values being spat upon. Veterans are screwed-over by their own government while dead-weight irreverant citizens are pampered.

It often seems that our love of country is dying-out with our "Greatest Generation," and the one that followed. These or those men and women united and sacrificed all abroad and at home to save our country and the freedom of our allies. 

Today we as a people do as much or more for illegal immigrants/illegal aliens as for our heroic men and women that kept us free. Is this right? (NO WAY.) It is despicable.

Young people today have no time for their country. They take the freedom we all have left for granted. There were no wars when I was 18-21 or so, but I registered for the potential draft pool. Today extreme incentives (free education, sign-up bonuses, special favors, etc) must be offered to find soldiers or even civilian military personnel. It's a shame.

But, it is not just a military thing. Nope. people do not even want to take off their hats or stand for the National Anthem at large sporting events or other functions, where it may still be played. Worse than that, many people want the national song changed or not to be played at all. What the Hell is wrong with America today?

Not all that long ago, almost 60,000 men and women were willing to give their lives thousands of miles away in Asia for even the notion and principle of freedom. Today I fear that tens of millions would not even pick up arms to defend our own homeland. May God help us. 

As a people we want more and more for ourselves, yet try to imitate other nations which have less and less. What is wrong with this picture? Can we not control immigration, to keep our own culture and American values intact, or is our love of the United States and the American Way already too far gone for that? 

~ Jimmy Hall owns and operates JIMMY HALL WRITING SERVICES (404-580-1501), and writes business plans, resumes, web content, letters, and all sorts of professional and student-related writing. .

I Guess I Understand The Freddie Gray/Baltimore Riots, But Don't Approve - Jimmy Hall

Look, let's speak/write clearly here, no mincing of words about the Baltimore riots. Freddie Gray was a very bad human being with an even worse reputation. The Maryland powers that be have publicly confirmed his 23 major arrests/individual charges during his 7 1/2 year crime spree. 

This rascal made Trayvon M and Mike B seem like good Christians! BUT, what really happened before and as he died via police control/custody? Are the Baltimore riots justified?

It is like this, readers. Gray was known as bad news. Most-likely when he complained/moaned of pain the police officers figured he was lying. About 90% of the time they would probably have been right. But, Gray supposedly had just had back or spine surgery a week or so before this horrible incident.

If he was in pain and had the surgery, sure he may have had complications; however, how could the police be expected to know this? Also, why would he bring all of this upon himself, handling an illegal switch blade, if he was in such bad shape? 

Maybe Gray should not be dead, but how can the police be blamed, based on what we know now? Sure, they may not have followed exact procedure, but since when are 23-time criminals/felons treated with "kid gloves," placing police officers in peril?

Besides, even if Freddie Gray was undeniably mistreated, who on Earth would consider the rioting and looting and burning and chaos in Baltimore as being justified? INSANITY.  If some folks are going to destroy a city, shouldn't it be for a decent human-being, at least? Give me a break... 

I guess I understand the Baltimore riots, but do not approve.

~ Jimmy Hall is owner of Jimmy Hall Writing Services.com/ Atlanta-Marietta, Georgia and online (404-580-1501), and provides and writes resumes, business plans, web content, and most other forms of professional writing.

Bruce Jenner: The Sin Of Bruce Jenner Opposed To Ours

Former "World's Greatest Athlete" and Olympic hero Bruce Jenner, as you have no doubt heard, now wants to become a woman as opposed to remaining a man. This famous person going "transgender" has sparked a national debate about the subject and these type of changes. 

What Bruce Jenner is doing is wrong, and certainly the moral and Christian world is speaking-up about his sin and his notion that he can "play God," and take the place of His Creator. But, how many people truly understand why it is wrong?

The fact is that society has become so Humanistic and human-centered that it looks only at what the person wants. "If it feels good do it," and in this case "if that's what you want, go for it." Few individuals think deeper about the situation or consequences.

As the very Word of God (The Holy Bible) teaches, human beings were made by God. He designed us male and female, and the fruit inside a pregnant woman's womb is His - and every bodypart of a baby and embryo is "numbered." In fact, every single human being has its own individual genetic make-up and code and DNA while in the mother's womb. 

God personally created each human being differently; yet, somehow, Bruce Jenner thinks that God made a mistake with him. Yes, Bruce feels like he is or should be more feminine than masculine, or feels like he would be happier as a female. In other words, Jenner is saying that God made a mistake, and he is going to correct it for Him. 

This type of human-based thinking, as opposed to God-based thinking, is from satan himself. It is the sign of a tormented mind and soul that is at odds and war with God and the Christian realm.

We all sin and do things wrong. However, in this case a famous person is publicly doing it. By doing so, Jenner is making an impression upon the young and unknowledgable, and it is a wrong one. He is demonstrating that if you do not like what God made you  or who God has made you, change yourself.

Bruce, we all sin, but we are talking about a purposeful lifestyle sin here that misleads others and sets a horrible example for young people, especially troubled people old and young. Instead of facing problems head-on and allowing God to help, you are saying to play God yourself and just physically change yourself to avoid your dilema. This is wrong, and it affects all of society - not just YOU. Everything is NOT about YOU, Bruce.

Jesus Christ stands ready to help all that struggle with inner conflicts. He died on a cross for all that will believe upon His sacrifice for forgiveness of sins, even YOU, sir. You are askling for trouble by tinkering with God's creation - YOU. We all sin, but the consequences here of your sin are far greater than ours, at least in this case.

~ Jimmy Hall is a writer, and owner of a professional writing service that provides business plans, resumes, web content, letters, reports, obituaries, papers, and many other written products. Jimmy Hall Writing Services

... Catholics Versus Protestants: Are Catholics Christians?

Hi. As a born-again Christian, it is troubling to me how certain clubs and dating sites and other things (and especially peoples' minds) always want to know if someone is "Catholic" or "Christian," or what not. That is crazy. They should not be viewed as one or the other, exclusive...  Catholics versus Protestants? What?

As a Calvinist, for many years I considered Catholics to be way off-base and probably "not saved." Now, in the last 15 years or so, I clearly understand that "most" Catholics are indeed CHRISTIANS, who just believe differently on some points of doctrine.

Catholics believe that Jesus Christ died for the sins of those that will believe upon Him. Protestants believe that Jesus Christ died for the sins of those that will believe upon Him. Get it? What does Jesus say about Believers? Hmmmmm.

Sure, we may use different terminology and have varying "rituals" and things, but as believers in Jesus Christ and the Bible we are one (to the dismay of many on each "side"). The Universal Church (Catholic Church) was in fact the first and original Church, but not exactly as it is presented and taught today. (By all accounts, Peter was SUBSERVIENT to Paul, and a particular verse quoting Jesus about Peter is very much distorted in modern translation from the Greek.)

In the course of thousands of years things have changed, and the world (even Christians amid it) have become more and more Liberal. The Apostles probably would not recognize what they were commissioned by God to start and share! (Early "Catholics and Christians" were what today we call "Calvinists," before the term or man even existed. The Reformation simply attempted to get back to the Church's initial roots and beliefs.)

Here is the point: We agree on the basics, and what incredible basics they are! God gave His Son/Himself for us. Wow. Ponder that.

I was wrong to "judge Catholics" for so long, and if you are a Catholic or Protestant judging the other denomination you are wrong now. This is particularly true given the fact that neither Protestants nor Catholics "usually" know enough about the other's beliefs to even talk about them! HINT: Not all Catholics believe every word of the Pope, just as not all Protestants believe every word of Rev Billy Graham.

Catholics do and believe many things wrong. Protestants do and believe many things wrong. But - salvation and being Christian is NOT based upon Do's and Don't's or individual sins or ignorance. Jesus covered that. Get it? 

Most Catholics are indeed CHRISTIANS. Most Protestants are indeed in agreement with Catholics in a lot more ways than they (we) know!

~ Jimmy is owner of JIMMY HALL WRITING SERVICES (404-580-1501 / HJimmy577@aol.com ), where he carefully writes resumes, web content, business plans, and most other written material.

... Voting For The Lesser Of The Evils: Do It Anyway

It is common for many citizens/voters these days to say that they refuse to compromise and just vote for "the lesser of the evils," particularly in Presidential Elections. Guess what? That is HOGWASH. Why? I will tell you.

By not voting, you are actually endorsing the worst of the two evils. How? By not voting for the best of the two "evil" candidates, you are allowing the worst evil one a better chance to win - by providing one less vote against him or her. Get it?

Not voting for the lesser of two evils is not a matter of good abstract principles being displayed, but rather a matter of poor functional and practical principles being employed. The whole object of anyone's morals and principles should be to place the best candidate(s) in office. One or the other will win, so shouldn't a vote be cast for the better of the two? Anything less is actually WRONG.

For example, many other Christians refused to vote for John McCain or Mitt Romney because they did not believe they were "real Christians" due to Romney's Mormonism and McCain's somewhat Liberal social attitudes. By doing so, the current President, who all of them agree is more anti-Christian than either, was elected. How did their exercise in high-minded principles help them in this case? (Not well.)

The point is, sometimes a vote for one bad candidate serves as a vote against a worse one. If you are going to be stuck with a less than desireable elected offcial, at least have a say so in lessening the severity of the tragic situation. VOTE!

~ Jimmy is owner and manager of JIMMY HALL WRITING SERVICES /Atlanta (404-580-1501), and as such he writes business plans, resumes, web content, letters, reports, papers, and most other types of written projects...

Saying "I'm Sorry": Taking The Wrong

Life is full of miscommunications, altercations, misunderstandings, and outright disagreements. They will always happen between we everyday humans. As I am learning of late, the problem is not that these things happen, but how to effectively and properly deal with them when they do. What?

Saying "I'm sorry," and taking the wrong for the greater good are not easy - but are often the right thing to do. No, you do not need to outright lie and say you were completely wrong, but rather apologize for the disagreement AND your part in it - and then drop it.

No less authority than the Apostle Paul stated that people should often humble themselves and allow themselves to "not win," for the greater good (I Corinthians, Chapter 6). Instead, most of us argue until we are blue in the face to prove we are right about a particular thought or action, without regard for the long-run or the future. Me, me, me....

An extreme example might be related to holy matrimony. It has been said many times, "You can win an argument while losing a marriage." Is it more important to be acknowledged as being right, or for the best overall outcome to occur? The answer is a no-brainer, but we rarely apply it!

I guess the whole point to this blog piece is that anytime we are in a disagreement, we should flash forward to the big picture. Even for a know-it-all like me, every argument does not have to be won - nor does the principle always have to be proven!

~ Jimmy is owner of JIMMY HALL WRITING SERVICES (404-580-1501) and writes just about every type of business and corporate writing & personal writing (resumes, business plans, web content, blog material, letters, papers, etc).

Pets: Why We Love Our Pets - JH

Most human beings (95% of good ones) love animals and children. It is simply the way we are put together, our makeup. This aspect of our nature is God-given, though some people avoid it. Dogs and cats, especially, are 'made for us.'

Even Adam was given the task of naming and identifying the animals in the Garden of Eden. In other words, humans and animals go back a long ways and are interconnected. To an extent, we are mutually-dependent upon each other.

Still, regardless of the background we creatures share, there is more to the story. Human beings have 5 senses and arguably a 6th sense that may well be a combo of the other five. However it works, this system of senses decrees by God that we need to give AND receive LOVE (God Himself is Love) to operate and function properly in this life. 

This love comes in several forms, such as with mates, children, parents, siblings, other relatives, friends, acquaintances, people we may not even know personally, objects, activities, AND animals. Obviously, Agape' love is the strongest - man and God - easiest compared to man/wife & parents and child. Still, we love in other degrees.

Why are pets so special also? Why do we love pets? Because many of us need to. We have various types of love to share, and we not only care about pets and adore them for who they are and what they look and sound like - BUT, we NEED to express our unused love somewhere! We love them, but we also need to love something.

Our pets become family members, in many cases. We thrust them into the role of "receiver of our love," and since we provide for them in some manner (hopefully good) they in turn have a level of feelings for us (though like it or not it is a bit more conditional, except for dogs). 

See, you can more easily shape and control your relationships with pets, as opposed to people. In a real sense, they are always there for you, you can say and act as you please around them without dire changes in them. Hint: Humans like to be able to be themselves!

We love our pets because we chose to, want to, and need to do so. They do NOT fill the space reserved for God or a mate, but they sure can be our comforters in many ways.

~ Jimmy Hall manages Jimmy Hall Writing Services (404-580-1501) and does most forms of commercial, business, and personal writing (resumes, business plans, web content, and more).

Church At Chapel Hill/Douglasville: Praying, Praising, Learning, and Worshipping God

My date (Cindy) and I worshipped and praised God at Church at Chapel Hill in Douglasville today. Pastor Dave Divine conducted a wonderful service (including The Lord's Supper) that served to glorify God, edify His people, allow us to rejoice in our salvation, yet taught how we as a holy people should maintain our Christian values in an ever-changing secularly-governed society that does NOT appreciate God's Principles.

Unlike many modern churches, Church at Chapel Hill is balanced, the pastor teaches standards and against sin, and our obligations to God - but he also presents the other side (what God can do for us) as well, without going overboard like Revs Osteen, Copeland, Murdock, Wommack, and others so often do (the false "prosperity Gospel).

Pastor Divine, the church staff, and the church's genuinely God-loving members combine to always create a true worshipping experience (I have attended about 5 or 6 times, as a non-member) simply by being themselves. The assistant pastor, speakers, and musical ensemble are all extremely ediying also - as are the messages on the big screens!

I am a solid 5-Point Calvinist that loves to study Bible Doctrine and Theology, but even a stubborn stick-in-the mud like me "gets" what is going-on at Church at Chapel Hill. It's all about Jesus Christ and the Christian life in everyday practice. The church has a good thing going on..... Amen.

FACEBOOK: Why We Love Facebook...

Americans and people around the globe are in love with facebook, and have been for years. Why? That's a great question. In many cases the love has become an addiction, much like booze or drugs. In fact, facebook also serves to fulfill the pschological aspect of our beings like those substances do.

Facebook allows for someone to BE or DO 5 things alternately:

* 1. People can be the person they wish they really were on facebook, uninhibited in many respects. Most people do NOT know them well enough to know otherwise, or maybe think they have changed from when they did know them well!

* 2. Facebook is the world's greatest site to meet the opposite sex (or the same sex in some cases) for either hookups, love, friendship, re-kindling of old relationships, or companionship. It is as easy as a simple message, "like," or comment. Then it starts, good or BAD. Different accounts/names/personalities can even be created to spy!

*3. Facebook fulfills the human longing for connecting with others, allowing anyone anywhere to avoid or minimize their feelings of loneliness or sadness. People are a simple click or posting away. The same can be said for games! 

*4. In addition, facebook is a great means for meaningfully keeping in contact and sharing information, photos, facts, and many other things. Family members and friends often use facebook to efficiently communicate with each other - IT WORKS.

*5. Facebook is also a great way to share a "cause" or "message" to thousands of people, whether it be a spiritual endeavor or a marketing campaign for a business. Facebook is a ready-made audience.

I like facebook, and most likely so do you if you are taking the time to read this! However, when not on facebook, I am by profession the owner of a writing service, and would truly like to assist you with business plans, resumes, web content/SEO or any multitude of other projects (404-580-1501). JIMMY HALL WRITING SERVICES/ Atlanta.

CHRISTIANITY: A Simple Explanation Of Christianity

 By Jimmy W.Hall / Douglasville, Ga. ( HJimmy577@aol.com )

Welcome... Christianity Is NOT So Hard To Understand. Jesus Believes In Simplicity....

My intent is to provide Christians and non-Christians alike with a simple yet thorough expose' explaining Christianity, one that is easily understandable to anyone over the age of 13. I hope to present it pleasantly, without the usual barrage of citations, references, and quotes, which other more scholarly (often boring) works seem to pride themselves in. 

Christianity is God's gracious gift to the universe and our world, and most of all - its inhabitants. Acknowledging the Creator is exciting, not saddening or burdensome. I hope that He blesses you and your family immensely before, during, and after you read through this labor of love and hope. The truths within are necessary knowledge and information for every human on Earth now, and in the future.

Here is the short, single-paragraph summary which should be read immediately: Jesus Christ, the Son of God and a part of the Holy Trinity, fulfilled the prophesies, sacrifices, ordinances, laws, and rituals of the Old Testament, and gave His life as the payment for the sins of mankind, so that humans who believe upon Him can have forgiveness and be reconciled to God. Furthermore, after being crucified on a cross, He then rose again from the dead on the third day, thereby forever defeating death, and currently sits at the right hand of God the Father at this very moment, interceding for all believers... Anyone who truly believes in Jesus and freely accepts this life-changing rebirth shall have everlasting life in Heaven later & a fulfilling life while still surviving in this world... Indeed, Christians are saved from sin, Satan, and self by grace and through faith - which is the substance of things hoped for, but not yet seen... May the Holy Spirit of God continually fill us all.

(That's as complicated & formal as this work will get... The rest is SIMPLE.)

A Brief Preface

Due to God's will and design, the Christian Faith is simple to understand. "Christianity" has been this way since even before the term came into common usage (after the 1st century crucifixion/ rise from the dead of Jesus Christ). It is often forgotten that there were pre-A.D believers from the beginning of time who dealt personally (by voice) with their Creator, and anticipated a future Messiah. 

In other words, this true, unadulterated religion existed in another form and phase from the beginning of eternity; it is not some relatively recent two millennium-old phenomena dating only from the earthly time of Jesus Christ. Today's Christians share a common linkage with the first humans, later with the Jews in particular, and eventually other peoples from past ages until now.

The Body or Church of Christ (Christendom) consists of a mass of numerous individual believers worldwide, possessing "personal," one-on-one relationships between God and themselves. These believers are bound to God and each other by a mutual faith, love, and commitment. "Personal" is the key word here. It is central for discernment. 

You see, Christians do not think of God in general terms, as some abstract philosophical concept or high-minded old man on a throne; they relate to Him "individually." Nor do Followers simply know about God; no, they know Him intimately just as they do friends, loved ones, and each other. The Holy Spirit actually lives inside the hearts of believers, not just vaguely in the atmosphere surrounding them. Now, without further adieu, we shall explore the importance of the matter at hand...

CHRISTIANITY, A SIMPLE EXPLANATION

The history of Christianity (and salvation) started with God the Father, The Word (Jesus, His Son) and The Holy Spirit residing together as one Holy Trinity amid a heavenly home - before, during, and after the Earth, its life, and other heavens were created by Them as One. It is a love story. 

Indeed, Jesus Christ existed in a well-defined spiritual form well before ever entering and fully experiencing this earthly life among people. He forever "has been" and always "will be" 100% Deity AND 100% man, despite how confounding this precept may seem - given mankind's mental, scientific, and mathematical limitations.

God initially populated the Earth with a man named Adam (made from dirt/ clay) and then added his female partner (formed from Adam's rib) called Eve. (Adult humans and chickens came before babies and eggs, to answer that age-old dispute!!) The duo lived among the many Godly-created animals, plants, trees, insects, hills, waters, and other features which inhabit and make-up our planet. (It was created in six days; God rested upon the seventh, which is to be our example.)

These first humans resided in an idyllic area or paradise situated near the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, in present-day Iraq. This lovely birthplace of mankind is referred to as The Garden Of Eden.

The first couple had a plentiful supply of everything they needed, and initially lived in "ignorant bliss." In some undefined way, they were married, and Eve was called Adam's "wife." God gave them much freedom, but pointedly directed them not to eat the fruit of one particularly pretty tree (for it would give them knowledge of right and wrong like God, in whose image they were created). 

Unfortunately, Eve was deceived by a cunning, evil serpent and purposely coaxed Adam into temptation and disobedience. Both ate the banned fruit. (She bit first.) As a consequence, the couple's eyes were opened to misery, and the human condition. More importantly, they now knew good and evil, and therefore "sin" as we know it (mental or physical disobedience to the Will of God) entered mankind via this episode. For the most part, ignorance was no longer an excuse for disobeying God.

With sin and its physical consequences, came the inevitability of eventual death. As such, the Creator banned the couple from the garden so they could not provide themselves with the everlasting remedy, fruit from another special plant, "The Tree Of Life." (Then, as now, humans were to be dependent upon their Maker.) 

As Godly punishment, Adam and Eve then embarked upon a tough life, which involved difficult farming and painful childbirths. Sin and iniquity has since been passed down from generation to generation. We human beings are a race tainted from birth. Every single person ever born, apart from Christ Himself, is a born-sinner. Even newborn babies possess a sinful nature, no exceptions. (Fortunately, we are only accountable for sin when our mind is mature enough to understand right versus wrong.)

To complicate matters, it can be readily seen that Satan (the Devil, Lucifer?) actively pried into mankind's business and made it a point to get between humankind and God, its Creator. He still does. Sin had first reared its ugly head in the Heavens when one or more rebellious, jealous angels and their admirers attempted to cause trouble, turbulence. God banished the violators, led by Lucifer, casting them away. 

Sadly enough, the fallen chose to visit our planet and reek havoc. Their evil presence remains. It is often subtle, enchanting, and alluring. Many people are fooled into believing their ideas and false theology.

While the advent of Jesus Christ's coming to Earth, teaching, and sacrificing His life for our sins will be the main point later discussed and explained; it should be noted that early humans, prior to this, took great efforts to cleanse themselves at God's direction. In many ways these efforts were the key foreshadowing of Christ, Who was to come. (The blood of sheep and animals was poured upon altars, and burnt offerings were sacrificed in God's honor to pay a price for sin.)

Sin was and is intolerable to our Creator. He is holy, just, completely righteous, and perfect; therefore, He has "chosen" to be incapable of being in or around the presence of sin. As might well be imagined, this has always placed a barrier between our God and us. (The dilemma is unending throughout this Earthly age, but other eras will one day arrive.)

Naturally, following "the fall" from grace, this new awareness of wicked pleasures, thoughts, and tendencies caused problems for Adam and Eve. They foolishly tried hiding from God, to no avail. That cannot be done. (Much, much later, at one point God even flooded the world to destroy sin, allowing only Noah and his family to survive with select sets of animals. The story is well known.)

Further complicating mankind's dire situation is the fact that human life is a spirit. When the physical body housing it stops functioning,(dies) this spirit leaves to spend eternity elsewhere, preferably in the presence of its Creator. However, as earlier stated, whether the body be alive or dead, a sinful spirit cannot be around God. Therefore, it is impossible for a human soul to fellowship with God without being redeemed or cleansed of its evil nature. This is extremely serious with respect to death.

The only other option outside of the glorious Heaven that God has created for His redeemed children during the afterlife is HELL. Yes, Hell. Damnation.

Hell is an utterly miserable place and state of being which is designated for the punishment of souls disobedient to God during their Earthly lives. Even worse, it entails eternal separation from our Heavenly Father, His love, care, and affection.

The mental and physical pain of Hell is unimaginable. Though an Earthly life in sin is horrid due to a degree of separation from God, this discomfort is minimal when compared to never-ending Hell, and its perpetual torments.

The obvious question arises: What can be done to reconcile our in-born sinful natures with God, Who’s Spirit is infinite, eternal, holy, and righteous? We need Him while living on this planet and afterwards, yet His purity disallows a compatible relationship with an unrepentant sinner, still owned and ruled by evil desires and transgressions. Alas, human nature is not generally a good thing. Natural man is bad, horrendous. So, is there an answer?

YES, though we were and are born an evil people, God has been merciful, graciously providing one way for His children to be cleansed and to fellowship with Him. Whereas in olden times mankind (particularly God's specially Chosen People, the Jewish Race) was dependent solely upon taking instructions from Him, practicing God's Laws (The Old Testament, especially The Ten Commandments), or performing sacrificial rituals and offerings - in approximately the year 5 or 6 B.C., Jesus Christ left His Heavenly Father and came down to Earth as a baby, in the body of The Virgin Mary, to eventually pay for our sin. He is the Savior. 

The Lord Jesus was then born (probably in mid-Spring or early Autumn) just the same as every other precious baby, but in a humble manger in Bethlehem, amid Israel. (His birth is celebrated worldwide as Christmas, on December 25th) This was specifically foretold and foreshadowed centuries earlier in the words of the holy prophets and writers. (Yet, Jesus remains pure; He was not formed by sexual conception, so He has no strictly human biological father. Young Mary, who was probably 16 years-old or less, had never been "known" by any man, not even her own much-older companion, Joseph.) 

The historical record of Jesus experiencing life as a human being is well known and documented. (No less than the historian Josephus wrote extensively about Him.) The Holy Bible (The Word Of God) centers upon His person. The Old Testament looks ahead, prophesying Christ's arrival and redemptive work; The New Testament provides a record of this work, His life, ministry, and amazing sacrifice for the payment of our sins. (To be explained later)

From an early age, Jesus was extremely inquisitive, often baffling and authoritatively correcting spiritual elders. He was a natural teacher who loved to use parables, and from the position of birth a cousin to John The Baptist, who later preached about Him as the anticipated Messiah.

As the Gospels happily but reverently relate, Jesus Christ was also a carpenter by trade, in Nazareth. In the beginning of His adult life it was important to be a regular, hardworking person in addition to a wise teacher. He made and formed things with His hands. Consequently, in His late twenties or at age thirty when the Savior began concentrating full-time on His impending teaching ministry and mission, most of the disciples and apostles chosen were of a similar working ilk. 

The pious scribes, Pharisees, and Sadducees of the day viewed these “common” men and their simple yet ingenious leader disparagingly. These and other groups of great scholars considered themselves worthy to be served, as opposed to properly serving others. Why did this new teacher associate with such typical and often poor individuals? Why did He always care for others?

Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist, and those present viewed the Spirit of God upon Him. Jesus then faced the temptation of Satan, while in the desert fasting and praying. He endured and defeated "the evil one" mentally, and then began His earthly ministry in absolute earnest. 

As predicted, friction mounted between the professional religious men and Jesus's true band of believers. By this time the prevailing religion of the region was very theoretical, regimented, and an increasingly fraudulent or legalistic game of do's and don'ts - for the Jewish people had been waiting for the Messiah for many, many centuries. (When He finally arrived, not a large percentage of Jews recognized and accepted Him.) 

The synagogue elders and priests often deemed Christ and company as blasphemers and false ministers, men who were oblivious and blinded to the truth themselves. They'd never heard any man speak with the before mentioned authority of Jesus. No, never. And, He actually performed REAL MIRACLES. 

The Messiah taught the virtually un-teachable masses and personal individuals; healed the sick; brought the dead Lazarus back to life; restored vision to the blind; fed a multitude with five loaves of bread and two fish; walked on water, and performed numerous other seemingly impossible acts. (The weather even obeyed his commands.) 

This ministry and "seemingly new" religion was scary to the Jewish leadership, and the Roman rulers of the region. (Most people assumed that the Messiah, or a fake one, would also lead a political uprising & upheaval.) Other followers also did amazing things through the power of their faith in the Messiah. Still, Jesus always gave the credit and thanks to His Heavenly Father. He was fulfilling what had been foretold, against all mathematical odds, probability, and human reasoning. 

However, knowing most of mankind to be weak as far as faith was (is) concerned, the miracles of Christ served several purposes. They physically demonstrated the Diety of Christ; taught followers to be used of God likewise via true faith; provided a testimony to others, and provided the actual visible actions or healings needed or required. (Some of these ventures did not directly involve human beings, similar to Moses' actions thousands of years earlier.)

Jesus made such incredible statements that He had to be exactly who He claimed to be (The Son of God, and a part of the Holy Trinity), or else an absolute zealous nutcase. Almost needless to say, He was and is in fact the Christ and Savior of the world. Let there be no doubt about that. No person with such knowledge and wisdom would willfully go to His death for a lie or untruth, nor would His rational, respected followers do the same. These men were initially skeptical, but even their fearful doubts were completely resolved, first-hand. (Many early followers, and some later ones, willingly died for Him. Some still do today.) Amen.

God's plan was for Jesus to live a simple life for about three decades, prior to then completing three years of holy teaching before providing Himself as the ultimate sacrifice. He willingly did this, all the while making it clear that He was acting upon His Father's behalf, stating that if you'd seen Him you had in fact seen The Father.

His practical teachings were many times contrary to accepted beliefs: Love, don't hate, your enemies as individuals... Do unto others, as you would have them to do unto you... Flee adultery; even to contemplate it is a sin... You have committed murder in your heart if you think of unjustly killing a fellow human being... Love God the Father with all of your heart & soul... It means more to give a lot of the little you have than to give much from an abundance... 

These are but a few of the world-changing concepts, which Jesus Christ explained to mankind; others are readily available amid everyday life and historical material. (Even discounting Jesus Christ from being Lord & Savior, the Michael Hart book, The 100, still ranks Him as the 3rd most influential "human being" to ever live... Of course, He should be #1, anyway.)

Still, the earthly focus of Jesus' Ministry was God the Father, and offering others the Kingdom of God in this life, and thereafter. As might be supposed by now, Jesus was remarkably successful in sharing His message. Still, it came with a kind of cost for the hearers. It was controversial, setting families at odds within themselves, but providing mankind with its single eternal hope and answer. This was GOD and the Son of GOD in the flesh, and after so many thousands of years it was hard for doubters to believe and accept Him.

After completing the rest of his work and ministry, Jesus eventually had a "Last Supper" with His apostles. This was both symbolic and practical. To this day we Christians take this Communion, drinking fruit of the vine as a representation of the blood of Christ, and bread as His body.

At the original meal, Jesus shared the news that one of his followers would betray Him, as scripture foretold. It was Judas that played this role. For 30 pieces of silver, he gave away the location of Jesus and His followers hours later. The Lord also revealed that the faith of the apostles was not as strong as they believed. (He stated that Peter would deny Him 3 times before sunrise, and it happened as he said, much to Peter's dismay.)

Anyway, while Jesus prayed in a garden and the others tried to stand watch (but were very sleepy) soldiers came and roughly took the Lord, following a kiss of identification from Judas. He was arrested and questioned, then found to be a common blasphemer by the Jews themselves and their wicked council. However, Roman Law ruled the land, so Jesus was led to a place of Judgment. Pilate initially found no fault in Him, but compromised and kept the Lord bound to be presented to the people after a long night of suffering. The Son of God was humble throughout.

The citizens were allowed to free one prisoner from among Jesus and several others. It was not Jesus. No, He was scheduled to go to a hill near town, at Calvary (Golgotha) and be crucified. (Pilate literally washed his hands of the matter.)

After being scorned, tortured, and mocked, Jesus was given a heavy wooden cross to bear to the appointed place. He had just a little help. The scene was heart breaking, to say the least, as he trod through the city streets.

He reached the Hill, and was painfully nailed to the cross, then raised-up between the two others. ("Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews" had been inscribed upon the top of the cross; this was meant to be further humiliating.) His mother (Mary) and some friends and family watched helplessly. Dying upon a cross is among the most agonizing and slowest of deaths.

While suffering immensely, Jesus Christ asked that the people be forgiven for surrendering Him to this fate. He said that they knew not what they were doing or had done. Then, after a number of hours, the Lord gave up the ghost, and died prior to the other victims. As such, His legs were not broken (as scripture accurately prophesied) to hasten death, like the other two. Instead, as a precaution to verify His demise, a spear was stuck into His side, and blood and water flowed from the wound (again, as prophesied).

Next, Joseph of Arimathaea was given the body of Jesus Christ to entomb. Nicodemus joined him in applying about most of 100 pounds of various myrrh and aloes to the corpse, and then they wrapped and placed It in a new tomb near the site of His horrid execution. 

The unbelieving Jewish leadership, fearing that some followers of Jesus might steal His body to purport that He rose from the dead, got the authorities to place one or more guards at the tomb's opening, and a giant stone was also put into place to close the opening. 

Lo and behold, before sunrise upon the first day of the week Mary Magdalene, a forgiven woman who served Christ vigorously but was earlier a well-to-do woman of questionable character, came to the tomb. The stone was no longer blocking it. In addition, she did not see the Lord! He was not laid-out anymore. Amazing! 

Mary immediately ran to bring back Peter and John (probably) to see for themselves. All three were stunned, not knowing precisely about this part of the Holy Scripture's fulfillment. As such, the two men left in wonder. She stayed at the scene.

Moments later Miss Magdalene saw two blessed angels in white sitting where the body of Christ had been. They asked her why she was so sorrowful. Just as she answered their rhetorical question, the Lord Jesus Himself walked-up and asked her why she was weeping! He had in fact risen from the dead. (Christians memorialize this event yearly, as Easter.) The payment and sacrifice for mankind had occurred!

Because of her state of mind, Mary did not initially recognize Jesus. Then she did, and soon followed His instructions to relay the news of His rising to the other disciples. This somewhat prepared them for a visit from Him that night. Of the initial 12, Thomas was not present that night when Jesus breathed the Holy Ghost into many of them. (Other followers and disciples would later receive the Spirit on a wonderful day of Pentecost.) 

Thomas was informed of the events, and doubted the situation. In fact, 8 days later Jesus specifically proved Himself to Thomas, using him as an example of someone who believed things he saw; but, Christ stated how blessed it was that many others who had not seen nonetheless believed also, through pure faith. 

The fact is that Jesus did everything He did so that all human beings would know that He was and is the Christ, the Son of God, and that we might have life through His name. 

Our basic task is to believe in Christ, and what His purpose was and is. As a consequence, should we ask for forgiveness of our sins, we will be reborn and regenerated like young children, and lead new lives led by the Spirit which enters each of us upon redemption. (Upon believing upon the Savior, a public acknowledgement, particularly baptism, is in order.) This places us in good standing with God, our Creator.

Jesus would later leave His band of believers somewhere near Bethany, and be carried up into Heaven to physically return to God the Father. I will now quote from the Gospel of John: 

...there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen (21:25).

From that point the history of the spread of God's New Covenant with mankind is well known.

With the help of the Spirit of the Lord, the apostles, disciples, and all other followers and believers would risk and give lives and limbs to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ to the still tainted world, and its naturally sinful inhabitants. (to cleanse them)

Indeed, St. Paul, St. Peter, St. John, and numerous others from around the time that Jesus walked the Earth, set in motion the modern precepts of Christianity. Empires have risen and fallen, holding or rejecting these concepts. Still, almost two billion people today can be categorized as being somewhat Christian; although, by Biblical definition only a small percentage of general followers are true believers.

There is a huge difference between employing moral and ethical principles versus actually accepting Christ as one's Lord and Savior. Worshipping the one true God means separating yourself from "the world" and its basically sinful ways, and inviting Christ into your heart. Christians strive for personal holiness, and to be led by the Holy Spirit. They cannot help but do so.

Perhaps most importantly, select early followers of Christ were used by God to write-down the events of the era, and teach the basic precepts of the faith, and God's agreement with His creations. These inspired writings (The New Testament) are also a part of the Holy Bible ("Word Of God") just as The Old Testament continues to be. The two covenants compliment one another perfectly. The laws and history of the old agreement are like a schoolmaster, which prepared and led mankind to accept the new one. 

Through the ages, many wonderful preachers, teachers, priests, writers, speakers, and scholars (amongst others) have strived to present these eternal truths to the world, and have succeeded in varying degrees. (Catholics and Protestants alike have shared the glory of God.) Just as significantly, the Gospel has been shared continuously by the word of mouth of common, everyday believers with friends, relatives, and total strangers. In any true form, God blesses the communication of His real message.

WHAT ABOUT THE FUTURE?

For the people of the world today, the message is that this ever-present Lord and Savior is just as alive and real today as He was in days gone by. Jesus has provided the means of salvation to those of us who will accept them, and Him. This deal doesn't expire in this Earthly era.

Some day in the future, no one knows precisely when, the Lord Jesus Christ in all of His Heavenly glory and splendor will return (The Second Coming) to our planet. Various scenarios are held sacred by differing Christians, as to what exactly will happen, and in what order. Regardless, the important thing is that He will collect the people and souls who are His, and they shall reside with Him and God the Father in Heaven, forever. The fate of non-believers and deniers is eternity apart from God, a never-ending time of torment and pain.

Just as hundreds of Biblical prophecies have been fulfilled against all human odds, rationality, and probability, this Second Coming shall also come to pass. All of God's children will one day reside together in an unimaginable place of worship, love, and security. There will be no wants or needs left un-provided. The light and love of the Creator will provide everything.

Our life now is but a vapor compared to the open-ended future. The question is: WHERE WILL YOU, THE READER OR LISTENER, SPEND IT?

THE TRUTH

It is imperative that individuals each personally understand the holiness and righteousness of God our Heavenly Father, and that without a cleansing it is impossible for a person to fellowship with Him. Even the best of humans are sinful, dirty specimens by comparison. 

Jesus Christ laid down His life as a payment and sacrifice for our sins. He died and then rose again for us, and sits beside God the Father today to intervene on our behalf. His blood covers our sins, and makes fellowship with God possible. He is the only hope.

Without believing in Christ and his actions, a human being is doomed. On a personal level, I ask that you pray and investigate the incredible story I have revealed in this simple paper. Do accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior. There is not a more important decision to be made in this lifetime. Please refer to the Holy Scripture, John 3: 16-21.

May God bless all of you. Amen…

Goodbye... Jimmy

Jimmy Hall Writing Services

Mail Address, 4679 Bedford Pl Douglasville, GA 30135 US

Phone: 404-580-1501 Website: http://www.jimmyhallwritingservices.com/