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Friday, April 30, 2010

THE KINGDOM OF GOD ISN’T WHAT YOU THINK

Because few seem to have a discipline to read daily from the Bible most haven’t a clue as to what is coming towards them. I’m also convinced that many born again Christians are slipping back into a lifestyle that God helped them escape. If that is the case with you read on and start living in the Lord and for the Lord. Those who refuse will find themselves on the outside looking in on Judgment Day. Before you get upset with me I’m not speaking of any of us “earning” our salvation. Jesus did that by shedding His Precious Blood at Calvary. Nothing we do can add to it’s cleansing power.
“The Kingdom of God isn’t meat nor drink but righteousness, peace and joy in the HOLY SPIRIT.“ If you must, stop now and ask Him to explain it to you personally. Much of what’s in the Word of God isn’t understood for it’s spiritually discerned not intellectually understood. Because of this we have denominations that are so far out not one person in them will live in Heaven. This statement may shock you but you and I can reach some of them for Jesus. If you don’t care about the lost, I’m already concerned for you. God cares and if He’s in us, we care too. If we don’t care shouldn’t we be concerned? You bet we should for we are all one breath away from the undertaker. Are you ready to be put away by one?
After nearly 40 years I’m convinced that the righteousness of God is “His Will”. Jesus demonstrated it when John baptized Him in the Jordan. John knew He was looking at the “Unblemished Lamb” who was to be slain for us. John was a very humble servant of God and knew his unworthiness and said, “Lord, You baptize me.“ Jesus said, “John all things must be done according to righteousness.” Hang on to those words for they lead to life.
For the umpteenth time I ask you to accept Ephesians 2: 8-10 as a complete thought. Those who omit verse ten are living “out of righteousness” as far as I’m concerned. God says here that we [who are born again] are created in Him. God [our Heavenly Father] has prepared “special works” for us to walk in or do. What do you think about it? Do you think God has left us here who are His adopted children to act as before we were saved? If you do I am even more concerned for you. Lets get on God’s side and do what He wants before we are left behind. “Two will be in a bed and one will be taken, two will be in the field and one will be taken.” Do you believe Him?
I’ve discovered the Joy of the Lord is the pay we receive when we walk in obedience to the Holy Spirit. Do you have His joy? If you don’t do you want it? Believe it or not there will be a lot of folks that will say, “I‘m happy enough.” Please forgive me for being blunt, they are stupid. Dumb is something some are born with but stupidity is an act of the will. I’ve been so stupid in my life that it’s a wonder I’m still here writing this for you. To give you an idea sometimes when I’m driving I still do stupid things and I bet you do too.
Do you have the Peace Jesus spoke about? He said it isn’t the peace of those who are living in the world for they mean a time of no conflict. He is speaking of living in harmony with God knowing you are as clean as new snow now and will NEVER be rejected by Him. “The gifts and calling of God are irrevocable or as it says in some versions, “without repentance.”
God never makes mistakes and if you have become one of His kids, He is going to keep you one. If He is disciplining you now consider it a “mark of His ownership of you.” He purchased us out of this world by the Blood of His Son. Consider the exchange, God’s blood for you a sinner who deserves to be cast into Hell. If that doesn’t move you I’m super concerned for you. The Cross is the power of God unto salvation and you are still lost.
Will you consider what you’ve read here and use it for your own good? If you will please consider you received it without cost and God says give it away. “Freely you received, freely give.“ Obey Him instantly and He won’t have to bring discipline to you. I ask for it for I want so much to please Him. It hurt God to watch Jesus die so horribly for us. The spit, slaps, slugs in His face, the crown of sharp thorns beaten into His scalp, the horrible beating with a scourge that nearly killed Him and finally the nails that held him to the Cross were not equal to the worse thing that happened, rejection.
Just like today, folks for whom He came to save rejected Him, hurting Him deeply as it does today. Will you reject Him anymore? I’m not ashamed of Jesus. I know He won’t be of me, for by His grace, I’m living in His Kingdom now and you can too.
In His Service,
Capt. Ben Marler
captben61@gmail.com

FOOLISH SPECULATIONS CAN KILL YOU

Did you know there are two deaths? I suspect many who are walking in darkness haven’t a clue that there is life after this one. Death hides it from us unless we are willing to take God’s Word for it. He tells us there is more than a second life but an opportunity to spend it with Him in glory. Those who refuse and believe the writings of folks like Charles Darwin who is credited with the “Theory of Evolution“ are subject to death. Messing with his theory is more dangerous than playing Russian roulette. In this suicidal game there is one chance out of six you might live after pulling the trigger.
Evolution, as taught in our schools today, eliminates the Creator or Almighty God from the scene. This is playing Russian roulette with all the cylinders loaded with bullets. God isn’t amused by our doubts and statements of unbelief. He loves us “with all His heart” but doesn’t need us one bit. He is surrounded by angels who can’t help praising Him for they witness His goodness all the time. We humans are additions to the masses who are allowed to enter into His Presence under one condition, Jesus is inside us.
Some major denominations do not even teach or preach what Jesus said is necessary to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. The Catholic Church is the largest and leads the way much to my dismay. How the Pope and the bishops ignore it should give caution to anyone considering joining. The vast majority of Catholics are born into the “faith”. Did you know a Catholic can’t marry outside their church? You do now and it should be obvious why. They tell us they are the only ones who are going to be saved for they are the True Church. The Orthodox are close behind arguing the point with the Catholics. They don’t subscribe to the Words of Jesus on this subject either. What in the world is going on?
I’m baffled but God isn’t and never is for this is His world and universe. He has made true Christianity simple, “to confound the wise”. We who are willing to walk by faith [a requirement] will not have to submit ourselves to those who want to control us. God the Holy Spirit will lead us as we read the Bible and will help us walk in obedience just as He led Jesus who came to save us.
I love the verse in Romans, “The sons [daughters too] of God are those who follow the Spirit of God.” This is a slam dunk for the born again Christian who has Jesus inside him or herself. Consider it as “re-powering” the engine in your automobile with the most powerful one available. Your puny gas hog is history and now you are operating on God’s mighty power which never needs refueling.
The fact that the Lord is inside us allows the Word of God to supply the faith we need to serve Him. Some make the mistake after becoming born again to minimize the reading of the scriptures in a disciplined way. If we were to follow them we would see apathy and a disregard for the things God has for us to do. Jesus came to Earth to work, not His works but God’s. Is it unreasonable for us to believe that His work is to continue through us? Jesus said, “The things I do you will do and even greater things shall you do for I go to the Father that the Father may be glorified in the Son.“
I know this is true for God has allowed me to do some of them. Actually it was the Lord all the time and I began to realize this more and more as I lived in Jesus and He lived in me. Jesus tells us this in John 15 where He says, “I Am the True Vine, you are the branches. Unless you abide [live] in Me you can do nothing.” Even when we do, God will prune us for more and greater works. I have a brother in Africa, Charles Omuroka, who has been used to do the works of Jesus including raising the dead. He is sent all over Africa by the Holy Spirit where God moves in mighty ways to Glorify Jesus.
You have a choice you can believe the most important Book in the world or you can speculate on how everything has come into existence. I’ve chosen to believe that God did it all including making me. He knitted me inside my mom a long time ago giving me the traits and some physical characteristics of both her and my fantastic daddy. I really don’t want to be like them as much as a I want to be like Jesus who is perfect in every way. How about you? Are you willing to walk by faith too? Jesus is right there next to you. Why not invite Him into your heart right now? John 1:12
In His Service,
Capt. Ben Marler
captben61@gmail.com .AOLWebSuite .AOLPicturesFullSizeLink { height: 1px; width: 1px; overflow: hidden; } .AOLWebSuite a {color:blue; text-decoration: underline; cursor: pointer} .AOLWebSuite a.hsSig {cursor: default}
THE KINGDOM OF GOD ISN’T WHAT YOU THINK
Because few seem to have a discipline to read daily from the Bible most haven’t a clue as to what is coming towards them. I’m also convinced that many born again Christians are slipping back into a lifestyle that God helped them escape. If that is the case with you read on and start living in the Lord and for the Lord. Those who refuse will find themselves on the outside looking in on Judgment Day. Before you get upset with me I’m not speaking of any of us “earning” our salvation. Jesus did that by shedding His Precious Blood at Calvary. Nothing we do can add to it’s cleansing power.
“The Kingdom of God isn’t meat nor drink but righteousness, peace and joy in the HOLY SPIRIT.“ If you must, stop now and ask Him to explain it to you personally. Much of what’s in the Word of God isn’t understood for it’s spiritually discerned not intellectually understood. Because of this we have denominations that are so far out not one person in them will live in Heaven. This statement may shock you but you and I can reach some of them for Jesus. If you don’t care about the lost, I’m already concerned for you. God cares and if He’s in us, we care too. If we don’t care shouldn’t we be concerned? You bet we should for we are all one breath away from the undertaker. Are you ready to be put away by one?
After nearly 40 years I’m convinced that the righteousness of God is “His Will”. Jesus demonstrated it when John baptized Him in the Jordan. John knew He was looking at the “Unblemished Lamb” who was to be slain for us. John was a very humble servant of God and knew his unworthiness and said, “Lord, You baptize me.“ Jesus said, “John all things must be done according to righteousness.” Hang on to those words for they lead to life.
For the umpteenth time I ask you to accept Ephesians 2: 8-10 as a complete thought. Those who omit verse ten are living “out of righteousness” as far as I’m concerned. God says here that we [who are born again] are created in Him. God [our Heavenly Father] has prepared “special works” for us to walk in or do. What do you think about it? Do you think God has left us here who are His adopted children to act as before we were saved? If you do I am even more concerned for you. Lets get on God’s side and do what He wants before we are left behind. “Two will be in a bed and one will be taken, two will be in the field and one will be taken.” Do you believe Him?
I’ve discovered the Joy of the Lord is the pay we receive when we walk in obedience to the Holy Spirit. Do you have His joy? If you don’t do you want it? Believe it or not there will be a lot of folks that will say, “I‘m happy enough.” Please forgive me for being blunt, they are stupid. Dumb is something some are born with but stupidity is an act of the will. I’ve been so stupid in my life that it’s a wonder I’m still here writing this for you. To give you an idea sometimes when I’m driving I still do stupid things and I bet you do too.
Do you have the Peace Jesus spoke about? He said it isn’t the peace of those who are living in the world for they mean a time of no conflict. He is speaking of living in harmony with God knowing you are as clean as new snow now and will NEVER be rejected by Him. “The gifts and calling of God are irrevocable or as it says in some versions, “without repentance.”
God never makes mistakes and if you have become one of His kids, He is going to keep you one. If He is disciplining you now consider it a “mark of His ownership of you.” He purchased us out of this world by the Blood of His Son. Consider the exchange, God’s blood for you a sinner who deserves to be cast into Hell. If that doesn’t move you I’m super concerned for you. The Cross is the power of God unto salvation and you are still lost.
Will you consider what you’ve read here and use it for your own good? If you will please consider you received it without cost and God says give it away. “Freely you received, freely give.“ Obey Him instantly and He won’t have to bring discipline to you. I ask for it for I want so much to please Him. It hurt God to watch Jesus die so horribly for us. The spit, slaps, slugs in His face, the crown of sharp thorns beaten into His scalp, the horrible beating with a scourge that nearly killed Him and finally the nails that held him to the Cross were not equal to the worse thing that happened, rejection.
Just like today, folks for whom He came to save rejected Him, hurting Him deeply as it does today. Will you reject Him anymore? I’m not ashamed of Jesus. I know He won’t be of me, for by His grace, I’m living in His Kingdom now and you can too.
In His Service,
Capt. Ben Marler
captben61@gmail.com

Thursday, April 29, 2010

THE TROUBLING AND CHILLING WORDS OF JESUS

Are you concerned as to what Jesus will say to you when you meet? I hope you aren’t but if you are, do you know He’s going to say one of two things? He will say, “Well done my good and faithful servant”, or He will say be gone from Me for I never knew you.” Did you know the Bible tells us there will be much weeping and gnashing of teeth as these horrible damning words are spoken. This message is to help you never hear them.
Lets get something clear, saying you believe in Jesus isn’t the same thing as saying you trust Jesus to save you. Why should you? Jesus went to the cross and shed His Blood before God who was now satisfied. It’s purpose was to cleansing the sins of all mankind, including mine and yours.
God is going to punish sin, you can bank on it. He hates it beyond our understanding and we had better get a grip on it. If you or anyone comes before Him on Judgment Day with even a single sin you will be condemned. It’s evidence that you refused to accept the Gospel for your salvation.
This message is more than the fact Jesus died for us. It covers His birth, life in obedience to God the Father to where He allowed Himself to be nailed upon a cross to die. It also speaks of God’s love for those who had died before Christ’s death. Jesus went to the place of “departed spirits” and preached to those held there. The Bible tells us He led forth a host of captives. His Blood was for everyone from Adam and Eve to the criminal who repented and was pardoned while hanging on a cross next to Him.
The thing we don’t hear much about is God’s requirement that we believe in the RESURRECTION of Jesus. Read Romans 10: 9-10 to see it. The reason it’s so important; we who are born again into the Life of Jesus, His RESURRECTION has become our own when we surrendered to Him.
Did you know that the moment you “receive Jesus” you also received eternal life? You can’t die from that moment on. Your body might cease to function but the real you, your soul and spirit has left to forever be with the Lord. The Bible tells us “To be absent from the body is to be with the Lord.” And, “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints [true believers or holy ones]. Now, at last we are in His Presence to love Him with unhindered affection.
How can this be? Well God has a plan that’s far above all that we can imagine. “Eye has not seen nor ear heard all that God has prepared for man that loves Him.“ If God were to tell us what’s in our future no one would believe it. I suspect we are going to be used in the way Jesus was used here.
I’m not saying we are going to become “gods” but super anointed ambassadors that can go out into the cosmos to serve God in ways that will bring Glory to Him. If it happens we will travel without spaceships etc. I believe we will move through space by simply thinking it. Do you remember Jesus came into the room where His disciples were hiding after His death and Resurrection without knocking or opening a door?
This is all future tense and “interesting to contemplate” but the real issue for everyone is for us to become an adopted child of God. Please memorize John 1:12. It’s a key verse to understand the adoption process. When God revealed it to me I was over whelmed for at least a month. At last I saw with my spiritual eyes the business of needing to receive Jesus experientially.
Ask anyone who’s born again and they will relate how they were changed into a new creation. I was finally able to like myself. Jesus now inside me was the “new me”. Paul says it best, “The mystery hidden from the ages is Christ within you the hope of glory.” If He isn’t in you by faith and inhaling His Spirit, I don’t think He knows you [intimately]. Maybe He does, but I would hope someone would explain it to me.
If you need my help what are you waiting on? Send me an email and we will get right on it. God has been involving me in His business for almost 39 years now. I’m an excellent example of His Amazing Grace. God looks at our hearts and if they’re like David’s, one who wanted to do all of God’s will, you’ll be drawn to the cross. Jesus hangs out there to bring us to repentance. I don’t know how anyone can be saved without it. Repentance is how God prepares our hearts for the Lordship of Jesus. By the way, Is Jesus the Lord of your life? If not He can be today!
In His Service,
Capt. Ben Marler
captben61@gmail.com

Saturday, April 24, 2010

A TRILLION TO ONE

Driving back from Tallahassee last night the Lord impressed upon me how much He wants to spare anyone from going to hell. Consider it a trillion to one in betting lingo. If anyone says they want to go to hell they are either stupid, uninformed or looking for attention. Hell actually exists but it wasn’t made for humans. Satan and his crew of unholy angels will populate it along with humans who chose to follow the devil instead of the Holy Spirit. Pretty simple isn’t it? God said He made the Gospel [message] simple to confound the wise. Are you wise? I hope you are but not in the sense God is speaking of here.

Did you know the Bible tells us the beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord? If you don’t fear the Lord perhaps you should pick out one of the three illustrations above. I suspect most will choose uniformed. Well if you have here is the Lord’s effort to inform you.

No one on the planet has your finger prints nor will anyone ever will. God made you for Himself. When you were a tiny thing in your mom He went in her womb and said, “I LOVE YOU”. Then He implanted gifts, talents and abilities that are yours alone and no one can ever take them away. These gifts are like you unique. When you look about and see so many “man made things” be wise and understand they arrived by the combined genius of a group of folks working together. There are some inventions created by a single person but I suspect there aren’t many.

Within you are other things useful to the Lord. You are born with a body capable of “procreating”. It’s amazing to me why God does things like He does but His ways are always higher than ours. Last night at the game a couple sat next to me with a precious little guy that couldn’t have been over 2 years old. He had his moms and dads features which caused them to fawn over him. He responded fabulously causing me to watch him too. I told his dad that he was definitely a “keeper”. We fishermen talk like that.

Well when we receive Jesus into our hearts we take on the “image and likeness” of God Himself. Summed up into one word it’s LOVE. This family lavished love on this child for it belonged to them. God has entrusted him to them for an upbringing “in the fear and admonition of the Lord.” I don’t know if they have begun yet but the grandma, a very pretty lady, took my latest message, GOD IS SPEAKING IS ANYONE LISTENING and read every word. We grand parents are very concerned for our families now in the end times which are upon us. If you don’t agree please read your Bible, watch TV and read the paper. God will allow you to see what I see and millions more do.

Heaven was prepared for them that Love God. He has prepared a city for us and you can read much about it in Revelations 20-22. Did you know the pavement is pure gold so clear you can see through it? Did you know there is a wall around it 216 feet high? Did you know it is 1500 miles cubed in size? Did you know that the wall contains 12 gates each one a single huge pearl? Do you want to know who will never walk within it? You will find out reading the three chapters mentioned. What do you think the odds are anyone will live there without being born again? Allow me to tell you there aren’t any for it is impossible.

God provided Jesus to die for us where His execution was a bloody mess. Jesus is God [Emmanuel] and He was shedding His Own Blood for us to be washed clean. Have you repented of your sins and sought His forgiveness? If you haven’t what in the world are you waiting on? You are very precious to God. When you were born He had knitted you together for Himself.

Do you care or have you spent your life dulling your mind with alcohol, drugs and the Lord only knows what else? If you care even a tiny bit please tell Him right now. God is like the Marines in that He is looking for a few good men and women. Their goodness comes from the presence of Jesus Himself inside them. All the church attendance, giving of money, “being good”, [Jesus said no one is good but God] or doing religious things can help you gain God’s favor, you already have it. He is willing to forgive and forget everything we’ve ever done. Jesus has already paid the price.

Will you surrender now to Him? Don’t put it off. If you do there is a trillion to one chance I won’t see you in Heaven which leaves only one place left. Please don’t go there for you won’t like the devil one tiny bit, he is a hater.

Jesus is waiting on you right now. Don’t let Him and yourself down, OK?

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler

captben61@gmail.com

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

GOD IS SPEAKING, IS ANYONE LISTENING

For as long as I can remember hurricanes, tornados, floods, extreme weather has been called “acts of God”. Some insurance polices will restrict their coverage from such overwhelming events. If the above is true then we should agree He is shouting at us now. The volcano eruption in Iceland, of all places, has created havoc for people all over the world.

When Joan and I flew to England I was amazed as to how many people didn’t look English. Gatwick airport is a clearing house for people from all over the world and I suspect this catastrophe has impacted nearly every country in the world. Why do you think God did this? Could He be saying, “Hey folks I’m here, don’t forget Me? Have you forgotten Him? Most folks in restaurants just dive into their food without offering grace first. When someone actually bows their head to thank God for the food it’s an event. The second best reason should be to ask Him to not allow the food to harm you. Do you know what’s in it? Do you know if the kitchen and the workers there are practicing sanitary requirements? I don’t, and I pray.

There’s an event on the horizon that will shake the world like none before it. Iran is going to attack Israel as soon as they can get their hands on a nuclear weapon. They said they would and we shouldn’t doubt them. It’s more than a devilish hatred for God’s chosen people, it’s the advent of what they call the arrival of the Grand Oman. To them it will usher in the domination of the world under his rule. I don’t know about you but I believe they are serious and the Israelis do too.

This tiny country of Israel is without question the strongest militarily. For decades they have possessed nuclear weapons and their enemies know it. Their’s are small not thermo-nuclear like ours. The missiles are constantly improved upon and can probably go through a chosen window in Tehran after the press of a button. You can bet their intelligence is the very best in the world and will preempt the Iranians with a devastation that will kill incredible numbers of people. Then the whole world will turn against them, and with Obama in the White House, we’ll foolishly join them.

God said long ago, “Those who bless the Jew will be blessed and those who curse the Jew will be cursed.“ No one in their right mind would seek God’s curse but folks, most of the people in the world now don’t seem to be in their right mind. It’s a time for preparation to meet Jesus in the sky.

A lot of people who love the Lord as much as me think that the rapture will come later but I don’t if we remember it’s for the born again Christians. This term means God lives in the believer. He came after repentance and forgiveness of sins by God Himself. When invited Jesus by the Holy Spirit’s breath enters “the newest member of God’s adopted family” as a child of His. Please memorize John 1:12 so you can help the lost gain security in Him.

Did you know God is still speaking through prophets? Paul said he wished everyone would prophecy instead of speak in an unknown tongue. He wasn’t condemning the speaking in tongues but unless there is an interpreter there to reveal what God has said it is like “nonsense” to an unbeliever. We who have Jesus in our hearts can be used to be His mouthpiece. The problem, many are scared to death to speak for Him. Are you afraid? If you aren’t, why don’t you tell Him so He can put you to work. Did you know that when I write these messages there isn’t an outline? I put my fingers to the keys and the words flow. If you are being moved by them tell Him. I feel I’m just a typist. You may have a strong voice He can use. Whatever gifts we have, let’s offer them to Him while there is time.

Nearly everyday the coming Tribulation is being revealed in one way or another. The vast majority of folks don’t have a clue and will be like the throngs trying to get into Noah’s ark when the rain continued and the world was flooded. It was too late for them and all were lost. Did you know the reason God brought the flood was “Violence”? Jesus said, “As it was in the days of Noah shall it be at the end of the age.” We are awash in Violence now. Cities like Los Angeles have become like a war zone with gangs rampaging the streets killing indiscriminately. Aren’t we seeing the same thing locally but on a lesser scale?

God is shouting now, listen up and look up for our Redeemer is near. Surrender to Jesus while you can. Need help? Ask and you shall receive.

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler


captben61@gmail.com

Sunday, April 18, 2010

THE FACE OF GOD

I believe all born again Christians will soon be able to see the Lord’s face. Paul tells us of being lifted up in the “rapture” or great snatch where those who are now resting in Christ will be joined with the living to meet with the Lord “in the air”. You can read this promise in 1st Thessalonians 4: 13-18. Many have heard of the rapture but I’m convinced even fewer are preparing for it which amazes me. Perhaps after this message is released more will and better for we have little time left.
Did you know Jesus said, “My mother, brothers and sisters are those who hear the Word of God and do it“? Read Mark 3 and you can see it for yourself. His family had come to take Him back home thinking He had lost His mind. Can you believe that? It’s difficult for me for surely they saw or heard of the mighty miracles of healings that were received by those who came near. So many came He told His disciples to keep a boat nearby for His escape, for the crowds were pressing in on Him threatening to crush Him. They knew if they could touch Him their disease would be gone.
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if people were pressing to get into our worship services today for the same reason? They don’t for we don’t believe the Bible. We might say we do but do we awaken each day to read from it? If you are one of the minority that does, aren’t you more confident in God’s promises? You bet you are and you’ve found, as I have, that the Holy Spirit meets us to teach and inspire us to do the works of God. There is no way to be more prepared for Him than to be doing God’s works. Have you ever read Ephesians 2: 8-10 verses together? Countless preachers wear out verses 8-9 but omit 10. Is this why few are in the fields “white for harvest”?
If you’re a born again Christian, one who has died to your will and have come alive to the will of God by receiving Jesus by faith into your heart, you are still here to labor for the Lord. No, you aren’t earning your salvation, you don’t have to, Jesus did that while hanging on His cross. The Blood that poured from Him was full payment for the sins of the whole world.
Instead of worshipping Him for dying for us we can be led astray to “religious nonsense.“ If you allow yourself to be side tracked from a devotion to Jesus, I can’t help you. Ask yourself, Do I know Jesus? Either you do or you don’t. Sure you believe in Him or you wouldn’t have read this far. But that isn’t the question. Do you know Him and more importantly, does Jesus know you?
I beg you to read Matthew 25 and see what Jesus is saying here. It isn’t open to interpretation as far as I’m concerned. Do you want to be snatched up when He shouts with the voice of the arch-angel? Or, do you want to go through the coming Tribulation. I believe it has already started by the evidence of earthquakes, tsunami’s, world wide unrest, rampant diseases spreading over countries and now the volcanic eruptions in Iceland that is causing major damage in western Europe. I hate to say it, but we haven’t seen anything yet, for much worse is coming. I’m not trying to depress anyone but to alert “Christians” to go to Jesus now for the new birth.
Baptism is a “picture” of what happens when we’re born again. The water is a grave [we only place dead people in graves, right?] then, as the believer is uplifted from the grave they’re able to ingest the air or Life giving HOLY SPIRIT. Do you think He comes into live people? I don’t think He does, for then He couldn’t lead them into the “works” of God. They would always place their will before His, except on special occasions. Have you noticed how church attendance picks up on Christmas and Easter? I’m deeply concerned for these folks for some are dying even as I write this morning. If you’re a born again Christian don’t you have a testimony, that when linked to John 3:16 or Romans 10: 9-10 or 1st John 5: 11-12, can bring life to the lost? If you do, then Do It!
I long to see Jesus’ face and will I’m sure. If I’m not here for the rapture, one day He’s going to bring me home for I’ve placed my full trust in Him and what He accomplished for me. All that I’ve done [which isn’t much] will be mentioned on the day He examines me. I will be judged but not for my countless sins. He paid for them with much pain and suffering. This is the reason I love Him, “He who has been forgiven much, loves much.“
How about you? Did you sin a lot too? Come join me in worshipping Jesus. He told Phillip, “Phillip don’t you know that when you see me you’ve seen the Father? For I am in the Father and the Father is in Me.“ When you see Jesus you’ve seen the face of God too. Glory Hallelujah!
In His service,
Capt. Ben Marler
captben61@gmail.com

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

OUR PATIENT HEAVENLY FATHER

How many folks do you believe have been saved out of the billions created? Personally, I don’t think there were very many. Jesus has told us, many are called but few are chosen. He said only a few go through the door [Himself] but many more would go by the wide way which leads to death. This is an awesome statement for we like to think that God is too good to send anyone to hell. Have you ever heard that before? I have a number of times by the ignorant. John 3:16 tells us that, “God so loved the world [all whom He created] that He gave His Only Begotten Son Jesus Christ to the end that all who would believe on Him should not perish but have eternal life.”

The problem is few have been brought to believe upon Him [the facts of His birth, death and resurrection] for them personally. Religion has raised its ugly head through the centuries creating barriers to intimacy. How I wish the scripture, “God made the Gospel simple to confound the wise” was widely known and understood. All who bring religion into the mix are only laying on man made rules. Did you know we who surrender to Jesus do not go by the Old Testament’s rules? They were given to bring a people to God from a 450 year time of servitude to the Egyptians. They had no idea who God was, and when Moses told them about Him he said, “His Name is I AM.” We who are Christians have a far greater knowledge of Jesus.

Allow me to say, it’s very important we read and learn from the Old Testament for it’s the foundation for our discipleship. Try that word on for size. Are you a disciple of Jesus or do you claim to be an Anglican, Baptist, Catholic etc? I’m saying this for you could be the best Anglican, Baptist or Catholic in the world and not please God in the least.

I lived as an Episcopalian for nearly 33 years but didn’t know Jesus. I certainly knew lots about Him but He didn’t possess me. That happened on May 23rd in 1971. Can you see He was very patient with me?. I marvel over just how much! He’s being patient with your loved ones too, Amen?

The greatest thing we can do for God is obey Him. That’s what disciples are to do. Do you remember Judas? He obeyed Jesus “to a point” but hadn’t surrendered His all to Him. If he had, there isn’t anyway he would have betrayed Him. I see more patience shown in their relationship than even with me. Jesus knew Judas inside and out and God the Father told Him to chose him when He was assembling the apostles.

I wonder why God does things like this but in my heart I know, His ways are best. I have a secret hope that perhaps the Lord has placed in my heart.

When Judas killed himself, he like all the other “dead” went to the place of departed spirits. If you recall the Bible tells us Jesus went to this place during the three days His body lay in the tomb. Afterwards He led forth a host of captives, could Judas be with them? I hope so.

He may not for his anger at himself must have been huge for following the devil who led him to commit the sin that overshadows all of his brothers sins. Did you know all sin is sin to God. This terrible betrayal by Judas is no more damning than those we’ve committed. God says the wages of sin is death, all sin, not what we call big or little or white or black ones. Grab hold of this for until you do, Satan can run and ruin your life.

I don’t fear any thing now for the Bible tells me “Perfect love casts out fear.” Who do you think is Perfect Love? No one but Jesus Himself, who comes by His Spirit to live in us when we repent and receive Him as Lord. If you and I still want to fear, God will be patient with us, but not for long.

Did you know that all born again Christians carry about inside them God Himself? That’s what it means to be born again from above. Read John 3 and ask God to let you see the Truth. We should be careful where we take Him for He may not want to go there. And, we should follow the Holy Spirit to where He wants us to go. God uses folks like us to do great and mighty works “if” we’re obedient and bold. Are you willing, tell Him!

Now, the reason God is patient is to teach us to be patient with others. Sometimes I’m so impatient wanting God to do something now. His ways aren’t mine but His own, and His thoughts are far higher too. That is the understatement of the century. The Creator of the Cosmos and beyond it knows everything even before it happens. He knew you would have read this message and what your response will be. I don’t, but my prayer is that it has made a huge change in your life so you can become a better and more faithful servant of Jesus, a patient disciple.

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler


captben61@gmail.com

Monday, April 5, 2010

GENUINE FAITH REQUIRED

I’m convinced, because I speak with so many people, that few have genuine faith. Let me define it for you. Real faith is revealed by what we do and not what we say. Pretty simple isn’t it? There will be a great increase in attendance at worship services tomorrow. Easter [Resurrection Sunday] along with Christmas brings out the folks who are “believing in Jesus” but not living in Him. Their condition is critical for many are dying all around us not yet born again of His Spirit. If this is your condition, only you know, “along with God“, read on and find the peace that passes all understanding.
For a moment let’s go back to basics. Jesus is God and He came to be born to Mary to live among us to teach us the Truth about Himself [Life] and death. When He was raised from the dead into life He did it for us. He didn’t need it for He’s God. We can have Him live inside us only when we are willing to give up these temporal lives for His. This is why He preached repentance, or to “turn around” and go the other way. We’re sinners in God’s sight and He hates sin. He says the wages of sin is death.
He allowed all of the sins of the whole world to be heaped upon Jesus as He died on the cross. There is no way we can appreciate how much it hurt Him to see His Only Begotten Son die in such a horrible way covered in filthy sin. The nails, thorns, spit, beating with a scourge by the Romans [who didn’t know what they were doing] was full payment because His Blood dripped down upon the ground from the wounds. There’s nothing more valuable than the Blood of Jesus. Some how God applies it to us when we repent “with remorse” for our wrong doing. I believe it’s impossible to repent with out being able to see Jesus nailed in our place.
Our hearts grow harder and harder as the years go by making it even more difficult to have the Good News [Gospel] inserted into them. We have a terrible enemy whose name is Satan. He is definitely behind all “man made” religion. He’s always trying to distract us from seeing Jesus on the cross. Satan is a deceiver and has deceived whole denominations to believe they’re the only ones going to be saved because of one thing or another. If you’re a member of one, run for your eternal life for their teaching is false.
Read for yourself the Book of First John. These five chapters are dynamite to false religion. In chapter 5 you’ll read, “Those who have Jesus have eternal life and those have not Jesus have not eternal life.“
Do you have Him inside you now? How do you know? He comes when we meet Him at the cross. Now I know a million people will say this is wrong but on Judgment Day they’ll discover the Truth. There was a need for Jesus to be brutalized for us. When we discover it, using the faith [very tiny amount] given to us by God, it will lead us to love Him more than anyone. What’s so wonderful is His love then comes inside us so we can love people just as He loves us.
If there’s a litmus test for Christianity this is it; He told His disciples to love one another the way He loves them so that all who knew them would know that they are His disciples. Do you love, “really love” your brothers and sisters in Christ? Only you and God knows for sure.
Nothing can replace the reading and hearing of the scriptures for God says faith follows. You may be a born again Christian but may be anemic due to a failure to understand, “Without faith man can not please God for we must believe that He Is and He Is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” In other words, God has given us an incredible car to drive but it isn’t going anywhere without His gas [Faith] in it. You can admire it but if it’s going to allow you to do His Will [Ephesians 2:10] you must allow the Holy Spirit to lead you in a disciplined way of reading and digesting God’s Word.
We like to do things our way and the penalty is huge. Throngs of “Christians” are sitting idly by missing out on the Joy of the Lord. Do you have His joy? If don’t, do you want it? Tell Him with a heart filled with love for Jesus. Then ask Jesus to baptize you in His Spirit. Then a very special faith comes allowing you to do the mighty works He did. “He told His disciples [that’s us], “The things I do you’ll do, and even greater things shall you do that the Father may be glorified in the Son [who lives in us].
If you believe Him, you’ll have genuine faith. Simple isn’t it? Loving Jesus is the only way to the Father. Religion can’t help us except, “When you are ministering to widows and orphans in their need and keeping yourself “unstained“ from this world.” Rejoice now, He is Risen!
In His Service,
Capt. Ben Marler
captben61@gmail.com

EXPLODING SCRIPTURES

You may be filled with “ammo” and it isn’t doing you a bit of good. Did you know that during the silver war some soldiers loaded their rifles over and over and never fired them? This was like building a bomb for the charges and bullets were loaded at the muzzle. They were so frightened they never placed a percussion cap on the nipple so they could shoot at the enemy. Doesn’t this sound familiar with Christians? They live in Church from childhood and have tons of stars after their names from good attendance. They even became champions in “Sword drills” where they learned the location and names of the Books in the Bible and yet never once confronted someone in an attempt to lead them to Christ.
The difference in the two illustrations is the Christian would have still been standing. The first man would have soon been in a box with a preacher saying nice things about him. Have you ever noticed folks don’t tell the truth at funerals? It’s as if every person was an absolute saint when the opposite was the truth. By the way, do you know what makes one a saint? It occurs the instant you come to the place where you confess your sins to God admitting them with remorse and appealing for forgiveness. Then He adopts you, making you one of His kids, a saint. Are you surprised?
In some denominations they feel they can make you one after you have been examined by a group of “experts” who decided that something you did was “worthy” of sainthood. Folks, don’t buy into this for it can become a barrier to you. Salvation is simple and is of God. No one can make us saints regardless if we even raise the dead “In Jesus Name”. If you recall, some folks will say to Jesus on Judgment Day, “But Lord, we cast out demons in your Name etc”. Then He will say, “I never knew you.” This is undoubtedly the worse words in all of scripture. This message should help you to avoid Jesus saying them to you.
Remember, the Word of God [Bible] was “God breathed” upon authors chosen by God. You can look up the facts about it and you’ll be amazed how God did this. My advice is never argue with it. I recall years ago when I was reading 10 chapters a day very early in the mornings before going to the pier I read the account of Jesus feeding the 4000 with seven loafs of bread and a few fish. All at once in my mind I said, who counted them? Then loudly the Holy Spirit said, “I did”. I sure didn’t do it again.
I’ve learned that He never expects me to understand it all but He does require me to believe it. Now lets discuss this for a minute. We were given an intellect and it’s located in our brain. Our brain is an incredibly complex organ that man will still be exploring it’s secrets decades from now. With it and our fantastic gift of sight or hearing we “learn” the scriptures and store them. This is actually like a hopper from where the scriptures drop into our heart where decisions are really made. The fact that they’re there doesn’t mean they are effective. It’s when they are “fired” or used can they explode.
One of my favorite stories is when Peter and John were on their way to the Temple they encountered a cripple who was begging for money. “Peter said look at us. We don’t have any silver or gold but what we have we give you, in the Name of Jesus stand up and walk.” This man was expectant but didn’t have a clue that the Name of Jesus would give him total health. He then went with them leaping and jumping into the Temple praising God. Acts 2 When Peter and John were with Jesus they learned the power in His Name and used it. The results got them and the cripple in trouble with the religious leaders. The same thing will happen today so get prepared for it.
When God is at work the scriptures are alive and active and will do might things including the works of Jesus. He said we would and I believe Him and have acted accordingly. Because of this, I’ve seen great and mighty things. Through the decades of writing I’ve revealed many of them. If we meet somewhere ask me and I will share them with you. Or better yet, if you’re sick and want me to pray for you, I will in Jesus Name. God loves to honor our faith, which by the way, He gave us for that purpose. If He has given you faith use it or lose it. There are many in the church who are sitting in pews with only fumes in their tanks, their fuel has evaporated.
The Power of God is concealed in His Words. Each one is loaded as if with dynamite. Surrender your life each morning [Eph. 2:10] and begin to serve God in His Power. I love it!
In His Service,
Capt. Ben Marler
captben61@gmail.com

Friday, April 2, 2010

NAILS THORNS AND SPIT

Few Christians mention the cross when witnessing and the results are telling for not many folks are becoming born again. At least where I live few seem to be real excited about their relationship with Jesus.

Did you know that the very second you are born again you are living as an immortal? Jesus said, “I Am the Resurrection and the Life. He who believes in Me even if He die yet shall he live. Whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.“ Do you see folks acting like they are His? I hope you do but they are few and far between in this area.

Why do I say such provocative things? Well one day while driving from Alabama the Lord spoke as clear as possible to me and He told me to “Provoke them to anger, Provoke them to thoughtfulness and Provoke them to exuberant praise.“ In obedience I’m doing it again and hopefully this message will energize God’s kids to action. Did you know Love is a verb or action word? Don’t tell folks you love them without some evidence to back it up. Don’t tell Jesus you love Him without some too. The Bible tells us that faith without works is dead.

Your relationship to Jesus is based upon your devotion to Him. If you are struggling to have one, go to the cross. When looking at it allow the Holy Spirit to let you see the nails, the thorns and the spit. If you can see them, look at His body which has been beaten with a scourge. This was a brutal whip that was laced with sharp glass shards and metal which would remove bits of flesh each time it landed and was snatched back. I can’t imagine the pain each blow caused my Lord but I know why He was willing to endure it.

The Bible tells us in Isaiah 53 and in 1 Peter 2 that these blows produced bloodied stripes on Him. God tells us if we will simply look at them believing they are for us “personally” He will heal us.

Did you know that God says He gave Jesus to become sin for us but we don’t understand that fully. How could God do that to His own Son? Sin is more filthy to the Lord than the most putrid and disgraceful manure. When Jesus accepted it He was becoming our Savior. He endured the hatefulness being cast at Him for six hours bearing our sins, paying for them. Once this sinks in there isn’t anyway we want to sin again. I know I hurt Him deeply when I sinned. I would rather die than shame Jesus again for He paid a huge price for me.

How about you, do you know that He died for you too? Had Jesus not endured the cross not one person could be saved. We like to think that folks like Billy Graham could make it on his own but like us he was born a sinner. Our sin nature can be traced back to Adam and Eve’s sin when they disobeyed God. His one command was for their own good. He created them innocent as a dove but Satan was allowed to tempt them and they fell. Did you know the tempter said, “Did God say…..?” He is still up to his old tricks. If he can make us doubt God’s promises we are putty in his filthy hands. We don’t have to follow him for God “in us” is greater by far.

Do you have difficulty getting into worship? Some folks seem enraptured during worship services and others are “just there”. I’m not sure there’s a middle ground. I hope this message will alert you to the fact that worship is our privilege and not a right. Did you know that our songs of praise enter into the Throne Room when we are in the spirit? Jesus said that God seeks worshipers who worship in spirit and in truth for God is Spirit. Do you know what that means? God the Father is everywhere all the time.

Jesus came and was born to Mary by the Holy Spirit. He became an embryo and was implanted by the Holy Spirit in Mary as she offered herself as the hand maiden of the Lord. When He was born all of creation was blessed and millions of angels rejoiced at His birth. Did you know the Bible tells us they rejoice over every sinners rebirth? They know that the horrible beating and excruciating pain he suffered wasn’t for nothing. Within the majority of humans there are but a few who are submitting to His Lordship. Oh, lots of folks want Him as their Savior but it doesn’t work that way. He becomes our Savior on Judgment Day. Right now we are to follow Him as Lord.

If you can see Him on the cross this won’t be a problem for you. It hasn’t been for me for I’m one who was forgiven “much”. If you were as bad as I was you won’t have any trouble loving Jesus either for we’re God’s adopted children and heaven bound now. Let’s tell everyone what Amazing Grace is all about since we’ve experienced it. Everyone needs to hear our testimony of how Jesus died for us so we can be whole in body, soul and spirit.

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler


captben61@gmail.com