AVOIDING THE APOSTACY

AVOIDING THE APOSTACY

The great falling away will happen and we can count on it. When God says something will happen you can be on one side or the other. I have chosen like Joshua who drew a line in the sand with his foot and said, “As for me and my family we will serve the Lord.” The rebels had a choice to go with their leader or return to slavery in Egypt. How soon they were falling away from God who had taken them from the whips of the Egyptians and led them to the Promised Land.

If you know the story of the Exodus you remember that when Joshua sent men into the land to scout it only two came back saying lets get it done. The others began to complain that the people were like giants and the cities impossible to breach causing the people to revolt against Joshua. They paid a huge penalty for God led them back into the desert where he allowed a 40 year time of elimination by death. He didn’t completely give up on them and fed them for 40 years with manna from Heaven. But it was their children who now grown crossed the Jordan River.

Folks the Promised Land is the NEW JERUSALEM, a immense city made by God for us. It is 1500 miles cubed with streets of pure gold. Read in Revelations 20 and 21 to see where you will live if you aren’t part of the apostasy. Jesus said only a few will be saved, will you be one of them?

This message is being supplied to you so you can have BLESSED ASSURANCE. God is very serious and to live with Him we must be too. He has a plan which He isn’t going to change for any of us. We are the ones who will change or be lost. Now change can be a good thing and in this case the best thing in the world for us. If you can’t recognize you are a sinner in God’s sight I understand. In most churches today it isn’t even mentioned. So allow me to tell you what sin is and how to live free.

Sin is the result of us “missing the mark” or using our will to do what is the opposite of God’s will for us. Look at the 10 Commandments [not suggestions] and you will see the Lord knows us and our sinful natures. There are things we must do and things we must not do. These rules are for our good. Now no one can keep them and our Heavenly Father knew it. During the time in which Moses revealed them the people had been in slavery for over 400 years. They didn’t know the God who had claimed them as His own.

The people being led by Moses had experienced some of the “fireworks” from God when His Presence covered the mountain in their sight. It frightened them and they asked Moses to ask God to speak only to Moses. And yet they were a still very disobedient group.

There are born again Christians living today as if nothing happened to them when they trusted in Jesus. Some of the more famous ones have found themselves ridiculed in the press and on TV. It saddens me when these leaders are exposed for their fall hurts the cause of Christ. I’ve asked God to kill me before I would do anything that would bring shame on the Name of Jesus. He knows I mean it too. I have made a very important decision, I am not going to be part of the apostasy. Jesus paid too much for me as He hung in my place upon His cross. The shame has been paid along with all the acts of rebellion for all of us.

Now if you want to be sure you won’t fall away, fall in love with Jesus. Now if you don’t understand this don’t despair for the Holy Spirit is here to help you. He can take you to the cross where He will allow you to comprehend the depth of God’s love for you. Gaze upon Jesus hanging in your place. See the anguish upon His face. He didn’t have to die for you but He chose to do it in obedience to the Father. His death caused His Blood to be spilled as the Only sacrifice acceptable to God for your sins. Do you care? If you do then it is up to you to tell God with a true remorse for your sinful past.

God always looks at the heart and if it is honest He knows it. As you experience some of the pain suffered for you rejoice for God is granting you what you need to avoid the coming apostasy. No one who has this experience will fall away. Now that you have it begin to live a life of Joy and Freedom. Live life to the fullest for God and not yourself and you will have a ball! Better yet, many will come to trust Christ through your love.

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler

captben61@gmail.com captben61.blogspot.com
　

　

　

　

AVOIDING THE APOSTACY

The great falling away will happen and we can count on it. When God says something will happen you can be on one side or the other. I have chosen like Joshua who drew a line in the sand with his foot and said, “As for me and my family we will serve the Lord.” The rebels had a choice to go with their leader or return to slavery in Egypt. How soon they were falling away from God who had taken them from the whips of the Egyptians and led them to the Promised Land.

If you know the story of the Exodus you remember that when Joshua sent men into the land to scout it only two came back saying lets get it done. The others began to complain that the people were like giants and the cities impossible to breach causing the people to revolt against Joshua. They paid a huge penalty for God led them back into the desert where he allowed a 40 year time of elimination by death. He didn’t completely give up on them and fed them for 40 years with manna from Heaven. But it was their children who now grown crossed the Jordan River.

Folks the Promised Land is the NEW JERUSALEM, a immense city made by God for us. It is 1500 miles cubed with streets of pure gold. Read in Revelations 20 and 21 to see where you will live if you aren’t part of the apostasy. Jesus said only a few will be saved, will you be one of them?

This message is being supplied to you so you can have BLESSED ASSURANCE. God is very serious and to live with Him we must be too. He has a plan which He isn’t going to change for any of us. We are the ones who will change or be lost. Now change can be a good thing and in this case the best thing in the world for us. If you can’t recognize you are a sinner in God’s sight I understand. In most churches today it isn’t even mentioned. So allow me to tell you what sin is and how to live free.

Sin is the result of us “missing the mark” or using our will to do what is the opposite of God’s will for us. Look at the 10 Commandments [not suggestions] and you will see the Lord knows us and our sinful natures. There are things we must do and things we must not do. These rules are for our good. Now no one can keep them and our Heavenly Father knew it. During the time in which Moses revealed them the people had been in slavery for over 400 years. They didn’t know the God who had claimed them as His own.

The people being led by Moses had experienced some of the “fireworks” from God when His Presence covered the mountain in their sight. It frightened them and they asked Moses to ask God to speak only to Moses. And yet they were a still very disobedient group.

There are born again Christians living today as if nothing happened to them when they trusted in Jesus. Some of the more famous ones have found themselves ridiculed in the press and on TV. It saddens me when these leaders are exposed for their fall hurts the cause of Christ. I’ve asked God to kill me before I would do anything that would bring shame on the Name of Jesus. He knows I mean it too. I have made a very important decision, I am not going to be part of the apostasy. Jesus paid too much for me as He hung in my place upon His cross. The shame has been paid along with all the acts of rebellion for all of us.

Now if you want to be sure you won’t fall away, fall in love with Jesus. Now if you don’t understand this don’t despair for the Holy Spirit is here to help you. He can take you to the cross where He will allow you to comprehend the depth of God’s love for you. Gaze upon Jesus hanging in your place. See the anguish upon His face. He didn’t have to die for you but He chose to do it in obedience to the Father. His death caused His Blood to be spilled as the Only sacrifice acceptable to God for your sins. Do you care? If you do then it is up to you to tell God with a true remorse for your sinful past.

God always looks at the heart and if it is honest He knows it. As you experience some of the pain suffered for you rejoice for God is granting you what you need to avoid the coming apostasy. No one who has this experience will fall away. Now that you have it begin to live a life of Joy and Freedom. Live life to the fullest for God and not yourself and you will have a ball! Better yet, many will come to trust Christ through your love.

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler

captben61@gmail.com captben61.blogspot.com
　

　

PAT'S GIFTS FROM GOD

Dear Pat, Thank you so much. I will put it on my blog...I'm sure folks in many countries will read it and draw some comfort and faith. May God continue to use you as we look for the shout....When I come back to Tallahassee I'll look you up the Lord willing. love you capt ben Google captben61.blogspot.com and you will find lots of messages [over 100] that might be of help to you.







Mon, Feb 21, 2011 at 10:07 PM, pat hodges wrote: Ben it was my pleasure to meet you, here is my testomony
i was going through a difficult divorce and had moved out.i was tired and i had given up i had everything laid out and i was going to commit suicide. had clothes laid out, plastic mat in my chair and the pills that i was going to take i had quit on life and i was tired. on the way home on that november day 12th, 1997 i said i didnt deserve what was going to happen, i said lord i have always believed in you but had never given it to you so its yours if im worth saving then save me but if im not then throw me to the curb as im already there. all i ask if im worth saving then please put someone in my life that can help me to get over all of this. that was on a friday and the next monday the divorce was going to be done. up till this point everytime i saw my soon to be ex she would cuss me accross stores, parking lots everytime i had to lower my head.this is why i had called it quits on myself. the day of the divorce my ex and i were talking with no cussing or yelling and the judge said it looked like all we needed was a little counseling we both looked at eace other and then the judge and said please sign the papers,he didnt want to but he did. we left the court house and parted ways as friends and not enimenes i know god made it that smooth there was no other way it could have been that way. within a week i met my now wife of 14 years and how god was able to send marie into my life it could only be a merical. i feel that my wife got cheated in the marriage she could of done better than me but whom am i to question god. over the next 2 weeks god put so much into my life that i was over welmed it seemed that everytime i thanked god for something he gave me twice more than i could have ever wanted..this one day i was going through a dollar general store and i felt the urge to go down this row where the cleaning supplys and there was these huge cans of bg dissifectant spray and bg carpet fresh for a dollar so i bought 2 of each. i was a 3 1/2 pack a day smoker and on the last day of november, 1997 i said god, i have a bigg one for you. i said i wanted to quit smoking but i was to weak a person but with everything you have done over the last couple of weeks i figgured i would give you the habit and walk away, well guess what thats just what i did i gave it to god and walked away from the smoking habbit he got me through it. the funny part is that there was just enough dissenfect and and carpet fresh to clean my appartment and truck not any left, that was gods doing. god knew that i was going to ask him to quit smoking. god had plans for me before i knew of them. in the 60s and 70s i had a drug problem and untill almost 9 years ago i had an alchoal problem but now im clean, no smoking, no drugs, no booze a great wife, 5 kids, 5 grandkids god had plans for me, big plans and he is not done with me yet. i will have to say if i died now before i complete this letter and i saw god i would have to tell him that with all the problems he allowed me to live through i would be able to tell him thanks for everything as it could have not been a better life, i love you lord for everyone and everything as i am total blessed.

THE CLASHING OF THE KINGDOMS

THE CLASHING OF THE KINGDOMS

“Thy Kingdom come Thy will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven” is a very familiar statement. Anyone who has uttered the “Lord’s Prayer” has spoken it. If we really meant it the kingdom of darkness wouldn’t be so powerful today. Satan has this kingdom under his control and if you doubt it, turn on your TV. Violence is the mainstay of his kingdom. God hates violence so much that in Genesis we see Him destroying the world with a flood. I believe today’s violence is far worse than of that time.

God has told us in the Bible what He did and what He is going to do. This message is to provide you the information so you can be safe. Noah’s family escaped the flood for they obeyed God. I hope you will read the account of him building this 450 foot long barge. It was also 75 feet wide and 45 feet high. There’s no way it had a bow like we see in pictures. It wasn’t going anywhere under its own power. It was just going to float until and to where the Lord wanted it to stop, on Mount Ararat.

Noah and his sons only had the most primitive of tools but they had God who helped them and made it possible. The animals and birds came to it, for God sent them. The food that was gathered for them was also provided by God. What God didn’t provide were the hecklers who made sport of them, Satan did that. When the rain began they stopped laughing and wanted to come inside but the Bible tells us that GOD SHUT THE DOOR, and they all drowned. [Genesis 6:13-7:16]

If you doubt that Satan has kingdoms read the Gospels. Right after the baptism of Jesus He was led by the Holy Spirit on to a mountain were He fasted and prayed for 40 days. When He was weak Satan came and tempted Him. One of the temptations was for Jesus to bow down, just one time, and Satan would transfer all the kingdoms in the world to Him. He couldn’t have offered them if they weren’t his to grant. The sin of Adam and Eve made it possible for Satan to claim them.

Now let’s place some rubber on the road, we all live in one or the other. If you haven’t surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, and been born again of His Spirit, you are not in God’s ark. Jesus is our ARK and because He is, we can live forever with Him just as Noah and his family. We have made a choice and God has accepted us. The real truth is first God chose us for if He hadn’t we couldn’t have responded to His overtures.

He won us with His agape or unconditional love. Not one of us, including some like the Reverend Billy Graham, deserve to be chosen. I’ve wondered about this and have come to the conclusion that since God knows us intimately He alone knows if we will be obedient in Heaven. God has had it with insubordination and rebellion. It is up to us for He isn’t going to make robots of us.

I believe our reaction at learning of the obedience of Jesus to go to the cross for us personally is the most important thing the Lord is concerned with. How we feel about the horrible price He paid at the hands of the Romans is vitally important to Him. Now some have not heard the message from a man or woman under the anointing of God’s Spirit. It isn’t a message that needs to be shouted or spoken in a theatrical way. It must be revealed just as God wrote it for us. When we hear it we will respond with sorrow or we won’t. If you are one who isn’t born again please go to the cross and spend some time there. If you are being drawn there by God’s Spirit you will be moved.

Look at the crude spikes that nailed Jesus to the cross. They had been used many times before. The crown of thorns beaten into His scalp left streaks of dried Blood upon His face. Gaze at the wounds upon His back, chest and legs. The horrible scourge took bits of flesh with each crushing blow. Jesus was earning our freedom by accepting such abuse. You see we all were of Satan’s kingdom before receiving Jesus as our Lord. Yes He is also our Savior but that is later when we stand before the Father. At that time because we surrendered our lives to Jesus He claims us bringing us Salvation. We must abide in Jesus and He in us to serve Him. This is possible only by His Grace or undeserved mercy.

Have you received it and if you have why are you still on earth? Is it not to become a servant of the Living God? We are to take the Gospel [Good News] to the lost and make disciples of them. We will be transferring them from the kingdom of Satan to the Kingdom of Almighty God. We aren’t saving them only Jesus can do that but we can help them see He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Now that He lives with us we have the hope of Glory. We have been included into God’s own family. Rejoice!

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler

captben61@gmail.com “google” captben61.blogspot.com

CURSING CANCERS AND SAVING LIVES

CURSING CANCERS AND SAVING LIVES

God hates cancer like we do. He is a Loving God and proved it by allowing Jesus to be flailed by the Romans using a scourge. Few seem to preach on the scriptures in Isaiah 53 and First Peter 2, “By His stripes are we healed.“ Isn’t it time we start hearing of the Lord’s passion more than just on or around Easter? You bet, and when we do, there’ll be more testimonies of God’s healing of His children. Why do folks think God owes them anything including to heal them when they’ve rejected the gift of eternal life? I blame it on religion. Have you ever been to a funeral and where someone asked the folks to pray “The Lord’s Prayer”? I have, for few are saved. It’s responsible for keeping folks lost in their sins. If you doubt me read on.

There isn’t anyway God is going to adopt us and add us to His family until we repent of our sins and accept His forgiveness after confessing them. We aren’t saved by simply saying, “Save me Lord.” If we say it the Holy Spirit will begin the process. For instance, one criminal on his cross dying next to Jesus repented first. Jesus was listening to see if the other man would also repent [admit his guilt] but his heart was so hard he couldn’t.

I met folks in a jail ministry that would make granite look like a marshmallow. Some had killed and raped without remorse. Each time they committed a crime it was as if another layer of hardness was added. Did you know that most folks in jail are repeat offenders? Some have “rap sheets” a mile long. I will never say they couldn’t be saved for some have and I’ve met some people who would make a pirate look like a preacher.

All prisons are cancerous. Death is everywhere and in some cases inmates especially the older prisoners will go to “unmarked” graves with no one weeping for them. Did you know Jesus said, “When I was hungry, did you feed Me? When I was thirsty, did you give Me drink? When I was naked did you clothe Me? When I was sick or imprisoned, did you visit Me? When I was a stranger, did you invite Me in?” He asked these questions in Matthew 25 the most important chapter in the Bible in my opinion.

It’s vital we read, mark, learn and inwardly digest the Word of God for when we do Jesus can use us to curse cancers as if standing in our shoes. We must remember, Jesus came to bring life and He gave it to those who came to Him. Not everyone did for we see in the Scriptures the Sanhedrin condemned Jesus and asked Pontius Pilot to kill Him.

We must see that cancer is the work of the devil. He had infected the religious leaders with hate [all hate is a cancer] for the Savior of the World.

We need to confront hate when we see it or in some cases inside us. If you’ve ever met someone filled with hate you can see the devil. If hate is left unchecked it can lead to murder. Do you remember Cain killing Able?

There is only one cure for hate and that’s a surrendered life to Christ. Jesus loves unconditionally and once He’s inside us we can’t hate folks anymore. I had great reason to hate the murderers who blew my brother to bits with a bomb. Their hatefulness left his wife and four children without a dad who loved them and provided for them. For a very long time I harbored anger but when I surrendered my life to Christ it wasn’t long before I was asking the Lord to bring them to repentance.

What happened is the Bible became my food. I learned reading that God had said, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay.” I could see that any action I might take against them [I had an opportunity one day] would ruin my life.

They deserved hell, but I do too. My sins, even though no where as horrible as theirs, was more than enough for God to condemn and sentence me to a hell. Did you know even one sin is enough? “The wages of sin is death.”

Only one thing can remove our sins, the Blood of Jesus.“ God will not apply it to anyone until they come repentant to Him. If we should try any other way we will remain lost. Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life. He alone is the Door. Please come to Him today and avoid the cancers that can destroy you.

If you should be infected with cancer curse it in the Name of Jesus and rest while He removes it. Don’t wait until a doctor is operating on you. Please bless the Lord for doctors trained to treat cancers for some folks won’t come to the Lord repentant. Let’s tell them about Jesus today, OK?

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler


captben61@gmail.com
captben61.blogspot.com

DID THE STORK DROP YOU

DID THE STORK DROP YOU

Good Heaven’s no, you didn’t fall from the sky you are God’s idea and before you argue with me, allow me to tell you how I know. When your mom and dad came together in intimacy two very tiny beings were united. At once God, using His mighty talents, began to knit you together. He used parts of your mom and dad which were contained in the egg and sperm to do it. As He worked He decided to bring you into His world as a boy or girl. He also endowed you with many gifts, talents and abilities unique to you alone. For instance, how many Einstein’s do you believe God made? One, and just like him, you’re special too.

As He made you He kept saying how much He loved you and has proven it by giving you “special” fingerprints. If you and I knew just how much He loved us, we would be so different. When God created us He said, “I’m going to make you in my image”. Some don’t understand this so allow me to explain what I believe He was saying, “I‘m giving man and woman creative minds which are so creative, I’m typing this message on a lap top computer using a writing program that boggles my mind. I have very little understanding how electricity works except I know it works “if “ I’ve my plugged my device into a socket where it’s available. I also know it can hurt me for I’ve been shocked a number of times. My dad nearly lost his life two different times from electrical shock.

God was with him each time and both of his rescuers were told by the Lord to go and save him. Jesus was told by God to come to earth and save our lives too. You and I like everyone else have rebelled against God and He calls it sin. Sin is the most awful thing on earth, the “fruit” of it is death. God hates sin more than anything else. You and I are polluted and must be cleansed or our filthiness will prevent our living with God forever.

Unless you are living on an island somewhere I would bet you’ve heard the Gospel message many times. Some folks turned it off due to it being couched in religion, and I don’t blame them. God said He made the Gospel simple to confound the wise and you can bet your home those trying to induce you to their brand of religion are not stupid. Billions have been deceived and if you are one of them, this is your ticket to freedom. Jesus said that there are two commandments, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind. Love your neighbor as you do yourself.” He added, “Upon these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”

Man is very creative in making ways to worship God too. Some of it is led by the Holy Spirit and when we are engaged in it our lives are enriched. If you and I are worshipping God and nothing is happening to us we need to meet Jesus. He is always hanging out at the cross where He gives us an understanding as to the level of abuse He suffered for mankind. Years ago the Lord allowed me to see Him crucified in a vision. The two women I was ministering to had our life’s changed forever. As I shared what I was seeing with them tears poured from our eyes. Afterwards, I stood up hugged them and left the room fully in love with Jesus.

If you’re not in love with Him, go and ask to see Him crucified. You’ll never be the same. The movie “The Passion of the Christ” is priceless for it depicts scourging like it was done by the Romans. The beating was so vicious Jesus barely made it to Golgotha where he died. If you refuse to go you will miss out on what God has for you, relationship wise. We who’ve been forgiven much, love much just as Jesus said. If you don’t feel forgiven there is a very good chance you haven’t been. In this state you are in grave danger, no pun intended. We are forgiven when we repent, turn from our sinful life and tell God how we feel that Jesus paid for our sins on the cross.

God wants us to believe, really believe on Jesus. If you miss out on the facts of Who He Is, how in the world can you believe He is God? Wasn’t He born to a virgin and lived a perfect life or else He couldn’t be the Lamb sacrificed for us? Wasn’t He raised from the dead by God ensuring that, we who believe on Him, will be raised on the last day? We must confess Him as our Lord, not just Savior. Of course He’s our Savior, but we will know that on the day we’re judged. Right now, it’s an honor to be one of His servants. Look at Ephesians 2:10 and you can see it. I’ve used this verse over 30 years now in a daily commitment to serve Him.

You can begin today. Will you?

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler


captben61@gmail.com captben61.blogspot.com
　

　

　

MORTALS AND IMMORTALS

MORTALS AND IMMORTALS

Folks, I hate to tell you this but if Jesus tarries all of us will one day die a physical death. Most don’t care to think about it much less talk about the time when their family and loved ones grieve over their passing. Well lets be mature for a moment and accept the fact it’s coming to us and we can prepare for it. Some do this by buying insurance policies that can “protect” the family. Or, will seek an attorney to get their house in order with a will or other legal papers to protect and direct the disbursements they have acquired. All of these things are good and admirable but they all pale in comparison to getting themselves ready to face Jesus.

There isn’t anything more hurtful to us than to be ensnared by religion. I define it as “man made laws and rules”. The one true religion in my opinion is Judaism. It’s a religion but one instituted by God Himself. If you’re familiar with the Old Testament you can see how He did it. Basically He chose a man who believed Him. Abram was sent to see the land where His descendants would later replace the folks living there. Today we call it Israel. God gave Moses the Commandments for living in a right relationship with Himself and with man. They were so good He chipped them in stone for them. The problem came later on when men, the religious leaders, added thousands of rules to the basic 10.

With all this said please allow me to help you escape from religion, and trust me, we all have some of it inside us. There is only one way to do it and that’s to be born again of the Spirit of Jesus Christ. Once we receive Him by faith our relationship with God changes instantly. Instead of being viewed as sinners deserving death [the wages of sin is death] He gives us His Spirit. Jesus said it best when speaking to Mary and Martha at the death of their brother Lazarus. As they grieved at the grave site Jesus revealed a great truth. “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.”

All at once we become immortals or those who will live in God’s presence forever. Those who refuse to repent and surrender to the Lordship of Jesus will die twice. God calls the people cast into hell having another death. Think about it, can anyone trapped forever in a lake of fire be “living”? I don’t think so. It’s the reason I work daily to try and reveal Jesus so He can save the lost. I’ve tried to save folks for a very long time and haven’t saved one yet. He can do it in a single heart beat. When we are saved by Him, angels rejoice in Heaven. The worse we are the Bible says, the greater is the rejoicing. I’m approaching my 73rd birthday in July. I’ve met folks so bad that I wouldn’t want to pour water on them if they were on fire but Jesus saved them when they repented. This blows my mind until I remember just how bad I was myself. Don’t ask me to tell you my sinful past for I won’t. God not only forgave me on May 23rd in 1971 but had the record of my sins erased from The Books to be opened on Judgment Day. He then took the blackness of the erasure and cast it away as far as “east is from the west”. Then to top that off He said, “I will remember these sins no more.“

Do you know He is doing that as I write? All over the world folks are coming under conviction of their sins and are repenting. I can see angels in constant worship of God for His Mercy. Most of us know it as Amazing Grace. If you’ve received it you know exactly what I mean. If you haven’t “yet” I believe you are a mortal and in “mortal danger“.

For nearly 33 years I was very active in my church, but trust me again, I didn’t know Jesus and He didn’t know me “intimately”. When we become “born again“ it changes our relationship like a man “knowing” his wife on their honeymoon. When Jesus entered my heart I “experienced“ a release of guilt and was filled with joy. Never had I felt so good in my life. That same night He baptized me in His Holy Spirit and I haven‘t stopped witnessing since then.

Will you live in Heaven with the Lord? No one can help you make the decision. Just take Him at His Word. He loves you as much as anyone on the earth. He died for you painfully with your sins upon Him. It boils down to how do you feel about it? Do you care? Do you really care? If you do tell Him. Turn from your sinful lifestyle and receive Jesus inside you by faith. Once you’ve done this it is now your responsibility to tell others so they too can become one of the Lord’s immortals. Will you do it?

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler


captben61@gmail.com
“google” captben61.blogsite.com for more of what the Lord has given me.

　

　

　

HARVESTING FOR THE LORD

Did you know the Lord likes to farm? His field hands are very effective bringing in a harvest. I can’t remember a single sermon preached from this passage from Mark 4: 14-20. Holy Spirit please preach it now.


14The sower sows the Word.

15The ones along the path are those who have the Word sown [in their hearts], but when they hear, Satan comes at once and [by force] takes away the message which is sown in them.

16And in the same way the ones sown upon stony ground are those who, when they hear the Word, at once receive and accept and welcome it with joy;

17And they have no real root in themselves, and so they endure for a little while; then when trouble or persecution arises on account of the Word, they immediately are offended (become displeased, indignant, resentful) and they stumble and fall away.

18And the ones sown among the thorns are others who hear the Word;

19Then the cares and anxieties of the world and distractions of the age, and the pleasure and delight and false glamour and deceitfulness of riches, and the craving and passionate desire for other things creep in and choke and suffocate the Word, and it becomes fruitless.

20And those sown on the good (well-adapted) soil are the ones who hear the Word and receive and accept and welcome it and bear fruit--some thirty times as much as was sown, some sixty times as much, and some [even] a hundred times as much. Amplified Bible

Hopefully every Christian would identify with the good soil group. If they do, isn’t it obvious the Lord is “expecting” them to bring the lost to Him? I suppose those who “just” love Him would be satisfied with 30 but those who “really” love Him would want at least 60. However, those who’ve spent time with Jesus at His Cross and have “fallen in love” with Jesus want 100 at the minimum. How about you? How many do you want to bring?

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler


captben61@gmail.com
“google” captben61.blogsite.com

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

A MILK CARTON CHRISTMAS

A MILK CARTON CHRISTMAS

About 35 years ago Joan and I loaded our Bronco with our two daughters, a load of donated clothing and an expensive guitar amplifier and headed to Mexico. Brother Jarvis, a Baptist pastor with a heart for the poor, wanted the things for Jesus Aldaba Chavez who’s ministry he supported.

We rented a camper in San Antonio and headed for the border. We had been briefed on what to expect and got on our way with Jesus riding with us. Had He not been there, we might still be in Mexico trying to get home. All kidding aside, it was an experience that none of us will ever forget.

Arriving safely in Carderete, where Brother Aldaba lived, I could breathe deeply again. No one drove as they should for the roads were pockmarked with huge holes. All the vehicles seemed to be old; only the Lord knew how they were still able to go. Pulling the pop out trailer made our trip harder but since there were no motels, it was a necessity. We were told to place it on the sidewalk just outside the door. I kept thinking the police would make us move it. I guess the Lord blinded them to it being there.

Their house was over a hundred years old with walls at least 18 inches thick. The narrow interior walls didn’t reach to the ceiling and were more like barriers with curtains for doors. We had met some of the family about a year earlier when they visited our church in Destin. They were still the same, humble, loving and very kind. They knew and loved our Lord Jesus.

After unloading the gifts, with the family all looking to see what we brought, we prepared for the night. It was an adventure for someone walking down the street hit Joan on the b-hind while she slept. Her rear made a nice target as it rested against the canvas. Surely most of the dogs in Mexico lived near by and talked to each other all night long. When morning came the roosters awakened it like only they can. It sure was exciting.

We came to work for the Lord and soon found ourselves going to La Florida and other places where Brother Aldaba ministered. He would begin to sing with his accordion with the guitars adding to the flow of praise. It wasn’t long and the folks came out and were blessing the Lord in their simple and faith filled way. It wasn’t like the $50,000 organ in our church back in Destin but they surely created equally delightful music to the Lord’s ears.

One day we went to the market in Monterey where folks bought their necessities with their meager funds. We spotted a piñata and decided that with all the gifts removed we could bring it back to show the folks at home. When the Aldaba’s discovered it we were asked if the small children could destroy it to get the candy inside. These children were so poor they had never been able to break one of their own. So we gave them ours to enjoy.

You may have seen this in the movies where the kids are blindfolded and given a stick. The piñata is hung by a rope and when the kids swing it is lifted just out of range much to the delight of the onlookers. Before long it is lowered so contact can be made and candy goes flying. It was fun to watch and besides no one back home would probably care anyway.

Later we were taken out into the country where it was terribly cold. My heart melted when we passed what looked like an igloo made of brush and clay. Just outside the small door a child about 18 months old sat on the hard ground playing with a wooden block. She had no clothes on except for a thin shirt which offered no warmth at all. I began to see why Mexicans came to America for there was so little for them in Mexico. After driving a bit further we set up the amplifier and the music began. The folks began to come to sing and hear about Jesus. I was greatly moved for it was very cold. Our church buildings are heated and air conditioned but often empty.

On Christmas Day we watched the Aldaba children receive their gifts. A cardboard milk carton had been carefully fashioned into a truck. It only held some candy, nuts. one orange and a small toy. This was their only gift but it was appreciated. The family had Jesus, He was always their special gift. We watched in amazement for we knew back home under our tree there were many gifts of “stuff”. Any one of them was worth more that the total value of theirs. Truly we had way too many to appreciate each one as we should.

When we crossed back into Texas the girls asked me to stop for they wanted to kiss the ground in the USA, and they did. I know they have never forgotten what it meant to be in a country so poor and in so much need. Like the Aldaba’s we also had Jesus as our best Christmas Present. God still offers Him to all who will receive Him. Will you today? John 1:12

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler

Captben61@gmail.com captben61.blogspot.com

A TRAIN LOAD OF EXPLOSIVES

A TRAIN LOAD OF EXPLOSIVES

During WW 11 I was a youngster living south of Eglin AFB here in NW Florida. My boat captain dad had the honor to carry some of Jimmy Doolittle’s flight crews fishing while they prepared for the mission that brought them fame and the undying love of Americans. Their strike against Japan from a small aircraft carrier in B-25 bombers may have been the most daring of the war. We who lived through that time and afterwards have seen many movies and news cast replays that demonstrated the bravery and outstanding patriotism of our men and women who dared to resist evil that was abounding everywhere.

One captivating scene was to see a pilot, of perhaps a P-51 Mustang, strafe a train with his 50 caliber machine guns blazing. As the incendiary rounds landed the high explosive ammo within the cars created a huge explosion flinging debris high into the sky where the pilot must fly. He must have survived for the gun cameras recording it were later unloaded and the film developed for us to see. God was surely with him as He definitely was with the Doolittle Raiders. Some of them were lost during their dangerous missions but many survived against terrible odds. Until the Lord comes we must remember their sacrifices as they paid a huge price for us to live free here in America. I thank every person in uniform I see for their service.

The Bible is more than an accurate history book, it’s the Living Word of God. Like the train described above it is explosive and when we penetrate it, it will explode in us and fling us upward towards God. This neat illustration was given to me as I lay in my bed meditating upon God’s love for me and my family. Of course He loves everyone and proved it by allowing every sin committed, even those that still will be to be plastered like filth upon Jesus as He died for us.

If you don’t understand anything else please grasp this, you’re not too bad for Jesus to save your soul. He came to do that, and when you go to the cross, you’ll always find Him near to help you gain your freedom. Jesus sets us free from a sinful life to live a brand new one by giving us faith to not only believe in Him but to “receive” Him inside of us. “The mystery hidden from the ages is Christ within you the hope of Glory“ was written by Paul for all of mankind. There’s a danger, you may not do the receiving part by a deceptive belief that religion can save you. There’s nothing we can do to save ourselves except one thing, surrender to Jesus. This means we take our will [our precious will] and surrender it to Jesus our Lord God who is Emmanuel. Many have missed this and believe all kinds of things which can not lead them to freedom, keeping them enslaved.

As a boat captain I needed to know many things to receive my license. This included extras like first aid with CPR, safe navigational skills, the rules of the road, weather and many more. I couldn’t just go aboard the boat and invite folks to come along unless I wasn’t charging them. This wasn’t possible for Emmanuel cost over $500,000 and was owned mostly by my bank and the Lord. The operating expenses were huge making the financial side of the business a headache most of the time. I figured out that my pay was to share Jesus with my customers. I loved it and they obviously loved receiving His love. Many wouldn’t board without a hug. I miss them a lot.

I got up an hour earlier each day to put some rounds in “that train” where reading 10 chapters was common. The Holy Spirit was always waiting at the table and opened my eyes to see the Truth in God’s Word. Some 35 years later I still meet with Him but now at my recliner, old folks need more comfort.

I invite everyone to try the Amplified Bible if you aren’t reading your Bible daily. My daughter Athena gave me one after my New American Standard version was misplaced during a move. At first I was stubborn and wouldn’t read it, but as my hunger grew I opened the pages and was thrilled. It was as if a great Bible teacher was opening the verses for me. I used her gift for 14 years. I recently purchased a new one with large print making my daily devotions with the Lord easier on my eyes. Buy one, you’ll love it!

Do you want God’s Word exploding in you too? It’s up to you and no one else. Begin reading today and bless the Lord for He has much for you. Ephesians 2:10 is what I use in my commitment. His Joy is never ending…….

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler


captben61@gmail.com “google” captben61.blogspot.com

WHY DOES GOD LOVE US?

You may be the meanest person you know and have done things that you are so ashamed of but trust me in this, God never stopped loving you. He is Agape or unconditional love. He created you from the “ingredients” supplied from your mom and dad. When they united He began to knit you together in her womb and the first thing He told you was, I LOVE YOU! He didn’t whisper it either. With great joy He embraced you in His love and gave you everything you needed to survive outside the womb. While in there He watched over you as you began to come to the image of God Himself.

Even if your parents wanted you with all their hearts and even prayed long and hard for you to arrive you were always God’s idea. Hold on to this truth so the world can not steal you from Him. As you know by now Satan runs this world and we are like pawns between him and God the Lord. Satan will use every trick in the book to deceive you. He is a liar, thief, murderer and accuser who wants you dead. He has been very successful and the vast majority of people born have died and are facing judgment. I can make you a promise you won’t be with them if you care to believe Jesus came to die for you. When you fall in love with Him and receive Him into your heart [life] you have become an immortal. His Life in you is eternal and now you are too.

There is a cost that I’ve discovered. First and most important we must give up this life to have His. No one can live two lives with God. Many try and fail for Jesus can’t be your Lord until He is inside you. You can try and follow Him but you will fail over and over until you must give up. Jesus doesn’t come to us to argue. He is Emmanuel or GOD WITH US. Until we understand this we will be subject to every religious spirit that comes our way. In Romans 8 God tells us, “The sons of God are those who follow the Spirit of God.“ From experience permit me to tell you, until He is the Lord of your life you can’t follow Him.

The Word of God tells us that God doesn’t share His Glory with anyone. He is Almighty God and millions and millions of angels are at the Throne worshipping Him all the time. He isn’t someone to ignore or dismiss as “The man upstairs.” He has also told us that He won’t strive with man forever. He has a plan for everything and this includes our life but He will not force us to love Him which really means “obey Him”.


Hopefully with this settled allow me to tell you something that most Christians don’t know. God has a divine plan for your life and it is beyond your wildest imagination in scope. God loves us so much He allows us to do the things He can do by simply speaking them. He wants us to be just like Jesus as strange as that may sound. If that is in your heart too then there is a time coming when He will say to you, “Well done my good and faithful servant, enter now into the joy of your Master.“ Matthew 25

His love grows and grows for us as we walk in obedience with Him. Do you recall how He said, “David is a man after my own heart for he wants to do my will”? You may recall God had David anointed by the prophet Samuel so that God’s power would rest upon him. When Goliath stood there cursing David he was also cursing the Lord. When the stone left the sling it went right between his eyes knocking him to the ground. God didn’t need David to knock him down but he was lifting David up before the whole army of Israel. When David took Goliath’s sword and took off his head it was for our benefit. The devil is God’s enemy and with the sword of the Holy Spirit [the scriptures] we can also take down Satan.

God loves us so much we have a written record of His will in the Bible. In America we have millions that have never been opened. Until we open ours and begin to feast upon it we can not inwardly digest it. Once inside us the mighty things of God are not only possible but a sure thing. I have some testimonies to back this up. Will you allow God to use you? If you will then go to the Bible for instructions. As you do the Love of God will come over and within you to flow out like a river of life to a world that needs a refreshing drink of Jesus. Will you do it? If you won’t, prepare to give God a very good reason why you didn’t. He will still love you but I’m not sure he will be real happy. Let’s live daily to make Him smile at us. OK?

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler


Captben61@gmail.com
　

　

THE MOST DEADLY SIN

THE MOST DEADLY SIN

To reject His offer of forgiveness by faith is “unforgivable”. God isn’t offering us religion but an intimacy beyond our wildest imagination.
Every sin was paid for when Jesus shed His Blood for mankind. Even so there’s one sin that God can’t forgive, and the vast majority of people on earth have committed it. We should realize that every sin is heinous to God. He sees sin as a deadly virus and it will cause death in humans faster than anything else. What’s even worse, it can bring the sinner to the Great White Throne judgment where everyone before it is cast into hell. If God the Father can cry, this is the day He will.

Unless we understand that all love evolves from Him we can’t even begin to understand Him. When He created the earth it was perfect in every way. When it was done He created a man named Adam. From Adam’s flesh He created Eve a woman. From the two He began to produce more and more humans using the “ingredients” they produced from their bodies when drawn into intimacy. He alone can do this for we are helpless to create life.

I know some folks claim they’ve produced life in a test tube but they didn’t start with air. God knits us together in our mom’s womb with the chromosomes supplied by the woman’s egg and the man’s sperm. He was wise doing this for the child will have “features” drawing us into an even greater love for it. Sometimes the likeness is astounding, especially when the mom is a beauty. Sometimes her children are almost exact copies. I have a special toe on each foot that is just like my dads. I wish I was also as handsome as him. I’m just to keep on going with what the Lord made.

Hopefully having settled the fact that we didn’t come by way of a stork we need to look further into our nature. Due to the sin of Adam and Eve we have inherited a sinful nature. Sin is ugly and we see it everywhere but not as well as God. He can look into our hearts for He is everywhere and all knowing. His angels write down sins when they see them. The Books to be opened at the Great White Throne contain them with one exception. The sins of the redeemed have had their sins erased by God’s command. There is no way He is going to send His children to Hell.

This begs the question, are you a child of God? If you aren’t no one can help you on the day you stand before God. Becoming one of His children is the most important thing in the world. Do you want to become one?

　

If you do, consider Jesus died on a cross after being lacerated with a Roman scourge. Battered and bruised beyond recognition He bleed from the many wounds. The nails were actually spikes that ripped large holes in His hands and feet. The ugly crown of thorns had been beaten into His scalp causing blood to course down His face. After being beaten He was made to carry His cross until He fell. Then, He received some help from a stranger.

When He was thrown down to be nailed He willingly stretched out His arms for He had come to die. His birth by Mary was God’s way to receive a human body, but Jesus was always Emmanuel, God with us. When His cross was set in it’s hole verbal abuse continued from the bystanders and also from the two criminals dying beside Him. He took all of this suffering and abuse for you and me.

Before it was over one of the criminals came to his senses. He’d observed Jesus hanging in agony, not complaining but enduring death as his Messiah. Finally, he looked at his partner in crime and told him to shut up. Then he began to repent by saying, “We deserve what we are receiving but this Man has done nothing wrong.” Then he looked over to Jesus and said, “Lord, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” He realized Jesus was his LORD and appealed to Him. Jesus instantly said, “Today, you shall be with Me in Paradise.“ A life time of sinning was instantly forgiven.

The second man committed the “worse sin of all“, he refused to do the same. God can’t forgive those who won’t repent and surrender their lives to His Son Jesus. It doesn’t matter who we are or who our relatives might be.

To reject His offer of forgiveness by faith is “unforgivable”. God isn’t offering us religion but an intimacy beyond our wildest imagination. I’ve enjoyed it for 39 years now. With my last breath I’ll be trying to get someone else to surrender to Him. Will you do it now?

John 1:12, John 3:36, Romans 10: 9-10, Ephesians 2: 8-10 and the Book of First John will help you. Please read [ captben61.blogspot.com ] for help.

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler


captben61@gmail.com

WHEN WILL JESUS RETURN

WHEN WILL JESUS RETURN
One thing’s for sure, lots of folks don’t think it will be any time soon. Have you noticed how few make it to worship services? I used to say to people, tomorrow is Sunday, where would you like to be if Jesus returned then? Without exception they would say “In Church.” This revealed several things, they didn’t know what the Bible teaches. Like, those who are “born again” are the Church. We’ve become part of the “world wide” Body of Christ. We are like tiny bits of Jesus and one day we’ll be welcomed in Heaven. Those not “in Him” will not be allowed. His offer of forgiveness and inclusion into His eternal family is still available. If you haven‘t been included, God says, “Today is the day of salvation“. Make it yours, OK?

Jesus told His disciples that only the Father knows when the end times will come. Lets remember, we who “have” Jesus will one day simply disappear in a flash. You need to read First Thessalonians 4:13-18 carefully and slowly so the Lord can impress upon you His Words. There are some who think that this upward call to glory will happen before the horrible tribulation, some during it and some after it occurs but all believe it will happen and it’s clear who will be included. First, the dead “in Christ” and then we who are alive [in Christ] will be taken up. Notice it doesn’t say those who believe in Him. One thing for sure you don’t want to be here when the tribulation time arrives.

Becoming born again is the only way we can enter into God’s promise of eternal life. No amount of religion, works or supposed “goodness” can accomplish it. Becoming born again is so important that Jesus said we MUST BE to even see the Kingdom of God. Born again means the Spirit of God is alive in us and leading us to do the works that God prepared before hand. It’s a shame that billions don’t understand this and yet say, “I’m a Christian.” They’ve been led to believe that since they are a member of a denomination and/or have made a proclamation it was enough to be saved.

I did all that myself and was still as lost as a goose in a snow storm. Until I came to understand that Jesus was hanging on the cross for me personally there wasn’t anyway I was willing to surrender my life to Him. When I did I died to my will [I’m still at it], and asked God to forgive me for my numerous sins. The effect of His forgiveness still lingers as I melted before the Lord. When I asked Jesus to come into my heart it was the most wonderful day in my life.

I literally experienced forgiveness where tons of guilt left in a single second. Never had I ever felt so wonderful. That night the Holy Spirit came to my bed and anointed me. I felt a “ripple like” motion began at my toes, it rushed up to my lips and a language called the “language of angels” began to flow. I knew it was a flow of praise for God’s goodness to me. For the last 39 years this gift has allowed me to communicate with my Heavenly Father on a level my mind isn’t capable.

All born again Christians should seek this Baptism in the Holy Spirit. It’s promised in Luke 3:16 and you can see it’s effect in the Book of Acts. The Baptism is given to help us witness. “When the Holy Spirit comes “upon” you shall be my witnesses etc.” Witnessing isn’t difficult if we’ve experienced “something”. It’s like seeing two automobiles collide at an intersection and giving the police a witness report. If you didn‘t see what happened, only heard a noise, your testimony wouldn’t be of much use. Nothing is more important for a Christian than to be in a wreck. When you and the Lord collide, I guarantee the results will be positive. You will discover He has such a great plan for your life. There isn’t any way you would believe it even if He were to tell you.

I discovered how to access His plan after He led me to use Ephesians 2:10 as the basis for a daily commitment and I’ve used it for somewhere about 35 years now. My life has been full of joy as I’ve seen and experienced the Lord do things that I still rejoice over. For instance, a woman was crying at the altar rail when I asked why, then she told me she had a bad heart and was going back to Atlanta for an operation and was so afraid. I told her, Jesus can heal hearts, would she like me to pray for her. She uttered a tearful “yes”. Then I simply said, “Lord Jesus, thank you for healing her heart.”

About a month later she and her husband returned to Destin. After the worship service she came up to me and said, “The doctors were so excited, they couldn’t find a thing wrong with my heart.” I can’t tell you how much joy this brought me. Jesus is also our Healer, Amen? I believe He’s coming back soon, do you? If you do, prepare by becoming born again right away.

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler


captben61@gmail.com captben61.blogspot.com
　

THE OREO MARRIAGE

THE OREO MARRIAGE

One night while in Montana I asked the Lord to help me write a tribute to my wife Joan. At once He said, “Oreo Cookie”. This stunned me and for a moment I had to think; what in the world does this mean? Then the following words began to flow from my heart.

If you were to ask most Christians to judge their marriage, and they were honest, they would say that it is far less than what they expected. There is a reason for this and this short message will reveal the reason and also provided a way to make it extra special just as promised. First, lets rate your marriage with the following scale.

1. It is perfect and could not be better.

2. It is great but not perfect.

3. It is very good but has room for improvement.

4. It is OK but is in need of some serious help soon.

5. We are struggling, holding on for the sake of the children.

6. We are holding on but not sure how much longer.

7. It is definitely not good and needs counseling.

8. We are starting to seriously not like each other.

9. Our communication is generally hurtful going both ways.

10. It is really over. We are staying together for economic reasons only.

When we stand before God and make a lifetime commitment to join our lives into one, He takes us seriously. We should understand the primary reason for Holy Matrimony is to “procreate” or to continue the work of God by bringing little children into the world for Him to love. Perhaps this wasn’t your primary purpose at the time but after a while it should be.

I am now a grandparent with five wonderful grandchildren. I could not have them except for the mercy of a Great God who blessed my wife and I with two very special daughters long ago. I believe Joan and I have an Oreo marriage. This was not possible in the beginning as I wasn’t saved. Joan met Jesus in a personal way after our daughters were born. Now she wasn‘t the problem, I was. I had a strong dose of religion and not much else.

Six weeks after she met Jesus I surrendered my life to Him. All at once I could love her with the same unconditional love I was now enjoying from her. It was like my eyes were now open and I could see what a wonderful gift she was to me. Now, don’t get me wrong here, I didn’t turn into the perfect husband overnight and am still along ways from my goal to be the best husband I can be for her, but I’m trying.

If you examine an Oreo cookie you can see what happened to us. The two cookies represented us. We tended to rub each other wrong which tended to make us less understanding and patient. I must admit that most of the time it was my fault due to a false sense of pride. I had much to be thankful but due to my lack of an intimate relationship with my God I was unable to express it being arrogant and selfish.

The sweet stuff in the Oreo cookie represents Jesus. Now that we were now born again of His Spirit, we have the very presence of the Holy Spirit to cushion and heal our relationship. The only thing that can make an Oreo cookie better is more sweet stuff. The same is true for a Christian marriage. As we die to our own desires and seek God’s will for our lives He will not disappoint us. He will continue to fill our lives with more of Himself turning them into a daily delight for us and for Him.

Joan and I will celebrate our 43rd anniversary on June the third. I can assure you, God gave me the best wife in the whole world and I tell her often. The love of Jesus flows from this precious wife. She makes me want to be better as I experience her love that continues to grow for me. God has promised us to bring us to Heaven and allow us a special relationship that will never end.

I know in my heart we will explore the cosmos together and serve our God along with all of our family members forever. I’m sure they will be there as I have asked Him to bring them into a saving knowledge of Him before they die. He is an expert in answering this prayer and what He is doing for us, He will do the same for you too.

To get started on your Oreo marriage, you must surrender all that you are or ever hope to be. There is a special prayer at the end of this message to help you. Then you should purchase some Oreo cookies. When you are having a disagreement give one to your spouse as he or she leaves for work or wherever they are going. Then you set a specific time that is practical and tell them you are going to sit down with Jesus and gently eat your cookie while telling Him how much you love and appreciate your spouse.

As you nibble on your cookie ask God to bless him or her with His very best blessings. Hopefully your spouse will be doing the same thing at that moment. I can assure you that before the prayer is finished you will be looking forward to seeing each other. Jesus has a special interest in your relationship and wants to make it truly GREAT. You and I know He can accomplish this. Isn’t this true? Go ahead and give Him the opportunity, what do you have to lose?

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler


Captben61@hotmail.com
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I admit to you I am a sinner and I need you to save my soul. You died on a cross for me shedding your Blood that can wash me clean as new snow. I want to be washed as I am ashamed of my past. I know the Father raised you from the dead and that you will raise me. I want to receive you into my life as my Lord where I can serve you.

Lord please lead me to a church that has a pastor who can help me grow in our relationship and where I can serve you with all my heart. Lord please place a true hunger within me to read from the Bible and give me revelation as I do. I love you Jesus and I always will. Thank you for saving my soul.
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It is now 2007 and Joan and I are only two months from our 49th wedding anniversary. Because of Jesus our love is so strong that nothing can separate us. Our Jesus is so faithful and helps us even more as our bodies crumble some like an old Oreo. His sweetness is even sweeter. Thanks to Him we now have a brand new “magnificent” grandson too. Isn’t the Lord absolutely Wonderful?
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It is now June 6th in 2008 and we made it to our Golden Anniversary thanks to a Great God. May He bless marriages everywhere and the children from them.
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It is now July 16 in 2009 and we have celebrated our 51st wedding anniversary! Glory….The best part is we love each other more as we age….soon we will be in our brand new glorified permanent bodies dancing on the streets of Gold in the New Jerusalem. If no one has told you before they are about 33 years old in appearance, just like our Lord, “We shall be as He Is.” If you aren’t positive you will be there please write to me real soon….captben61@gmail.com
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It’s now October 30 in 2010 and Joan and I will be celebrating our 53rd this coming year, if Jesus doesn’t come and get us first. May all who read it prepare to meet Jesus as a child of God. Please check out my blog: captben61.blogspot.com PS We now have 8 grand kids and 3 are “great”, Matthew, Isaac and Ava Noel.// -Capt. Ben

　

ARE YOU LIVING IN GOD’S FAVOR

ARE YOU LIVING IN GOD’S FAVOR
If you aren’t and you are a born again child of God today can be your day. Years ago I learned how powerful the word FAVOR was when I prayed. Many times I would ask God for favor and within minutes my request was answered. When Joan and I went to Alaska, a place I had dreamed of going for a very long time, we used the word constantly and were amazed how our Heavenly Father responded so quickly.
Perhaps it was due to a daily commitment He led me to make decades ago. Ephesians 2:10 is the best verse in the Bible for doing it. He tells us that He plans our walk with Him. He prepares works “in advance” that we are to do. This verse in the form of a prayer will do wonders for any child of God. Jesus said, “If you abide in Me and My Words abide in you then ask and it shall be done for you.” I flat out love the word shall for it is definite.
Have you discovered the Lord doesn’t play around? I find Him to be extremely serious about bringing the lost to Himself. I would be too if I had given my only son to die for it. God loves us so much and many still need to know it. We are His mouth pieces here and should be telling others how we found freedom from a sinful life. Many Christians seem to live as if nothing happened to them when they “got saved”. I must wonder if they became New Creations or just received another dose of religion.
Salvation isn’t fire insurance like many want. It is an intimacy far beyond what even we who have experienced know. If we truly understood what God has given to us, we would be that city shining on a hill. We would be the salt of the earth and from our bellies would flow Living Water. I’m not speaking of every now and then but all the time. If you are a lover of God and still lacking the new birth experience tell God you want His favor.
John 1:12 was given to me long ago and I memorized it. “To as many as those who receive Him [Jesus] to them gave He the power [authority] to become the children of God, even those who believe in His Name [Jesus].
For at least a month I only wanted to share this verse for it opened my eyes as never before. I knew I had to believe in Jesus to be saved but clearly didn’t understand receiving. I do now and believe we do this by inhaling His Spirit by faith. Think about it, why did Jesus breathe on his disciples after they believed it was Him and not a ghost after His Resurrection? They began to receive His favor.
In James we are told that when we ask with wrong motives we will not receive our requests. This is something we should realize when we are praying. God’s plan for us is always far superior to anything we could want or desire. He sees all the way to the end of the age and the beginning of eternity for His children.
Actually we are living in our eternal life now. 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.” Does this describe you? Of course you believe in Him or you wouldn’t have read this far. But are you living in Him? You are if you are born again but perhaps you aren’t yet. It was almost 33 years before I surrendered my life and I know the difference. Do not let anyone tell you it isn’t an experience. Ask those who are born again and see what they tell you. Some laughed themselves silly and some like myself, cried like a baby.
Perhaps the difference stems from the measure of sins acquired. I'm ashamed to say I had a ton of them. When the Lord washed me in His Blood it was easily the greatest time in my life. Never before had I felt such love and release of guilt. He took it from me and He will take anyone else’s who is willing to die to their old life [repent]. The result is we don’t want to do the things that brought us shame. We were now looking for others who are like us. The Holy Spirit will make sure we find each other.
God has a great plan for mankind and we can take it to them, or we can sit back and allow others to do it. The reward given to those who labor in the fields “white for harvest” is beyond calculation. We aren’t earning our salvation but the job in Heaven where we will serve God forever.
I love Him too much to sit on my rear while masses are dying daily without Jesus. I want His favor and tons of it for God has my life planned perfectly. He has yours too. Will you join with those who love God enough to serve?
In His Service,
Capt. Ben Marler
Captben61@gmail.com

DEADLY PRESUMPTIONS

DEADLY PRESUMPTIONS

To assume anything can be very dangerous. I know for I have gotten myself into some jams when I thought I knew what I was doing but didn’t. Some of the “events” were only partially damaging but some were “whoppers”. One was my understanding that God was going to save me if I was a bit better than I was bad. I know now how foolish that was, but before 1971 it was my only hope. How little I understood the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

For anyone reading this, I trust you will learn that the Good News found in Ephesians 2:8-10 declares, “For by grace have you been saved through faith and that not of yourselves, it is a gift of God and not of works, less any man should boast. For we are His workmanship and created in Christ Jesus for “good works” that God Himself has prepared for us to walk in [do].”

Allow God to take you to the cross and you will see that Jesus did the work that saves mankind. He died in a horrible way for us. His Blood is full payment for all sin, including yours and mine. Once we understand this we are less apt to be presumptuous. Instead, we are so grateful we want to serve Him with our lives fully surrendered to the Holy Spirit.

The greatest of all deadly assumptions is to say, “Because I believe in Jesus I’m saved.” If that were true, every demon would be saved. Satan believes in Jesus and trembles. It’s far more than to simply admit that Jesus lived a long time ago. It’s, Jesus is God [Emmanuel] and in obedience to the Father He humbled Himself to die so mankind could be spared the coming wrath of God.

We must repent, or turn around, after coming personally to know the Love of God. We must “receive” Jesus as our Lord. John 1:12, “To as many as those who receive Him gave He the power to become the children of God, even those who believe in His Name.”

The word receive means a lot more to me than to some. I see Jesus before His disciples, after His resurrection, breathing on them so they could inhale His Spirit. Do you remember Thomas wasn’t there, but when he returned he found the disciples really excited claming Jesus had come? He didn’t believe it and his punishment was an 8 day wait living in their exuberance. That must have been very hard.


When Jesus returned He said, “Thomas put your fingers in my hands and your hand in my side.” He fell upon his knees making the most important statement of all the disciples, “My Lord and my God”. It’s more than interesting Jesus didn’t correct him. Then Jesus breathed upon Thomas so he could be “born again” too. If you’re born again you received Jesus experientially like them and became a new creature.

You’re no longer in danger of judgment and condemnation for Christ lives within you empowering you to live for Him alone. It’s presumptuous for us to think we can go on living like before. We can’t live two lives anymore and if we attempt to the Holy Spirit will correct us. If he doesn’t we’re still lost.

Salvation is a big event in our hearts and in Heaven. The angels will rejoice for another soul has been saved. The keepers of the Books are told to erase the record of our sins and to give the erasure to the Father. God then takes it and tosses it as far as east is from the west saying, “I will remember his or her sin no more.” Folks, that’s better than all the riches on earth. When we are accepted we should experience “something“. I shed a bucket of tears for I had many sins. My heart was way to filthy for Jesus to live.

One of the worse assumptions for new Christians is to think they can still drink alcohol. In a jail ministry I experienced up close what alcohol can do to a human. You might call it “lawful” to drink beer or strong drink but a deputy won’t when he stops you and smells it on your breath. The same thing goes with drugs. If anyone thinks smoking pot is OK, they should tell it to Jesus and not to me for I know it isn’t. Satan uses these things to enslave, even some born again Christians.

It’s foolish to think that you can live without food or feeding upon the scriptures. Faith comes by reading and hearing them. We can’t please God without faith. [Hebrews 11:6] So we shouldn’t assume we can be a servant without a daily discipline of reading from His Word. If you aren’t reading, try the Amplified version of the Bible and if you aren’t pleased, I’ll buy it back from you. So far no one has been willing to surrender theirs.

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler


captben61@gmail.com captben61.blogspot.com

THE IMPORTANCE OF EXPECTANCY

THE IMPORTANCE OF EXPECTANCY

Did you know Jesus said He’s coming like a thief in the night? A thief doesn’t give you a call and say, “I’m coming to your house tonight.” No, he comes to rob, steal and destroy like his father Satan. I bet you didn’t know that those who habitually sin, even though they might call themselves Christians, aren’t followers of Jesus. Please read First John 3 for an “eye opener”. We, who are expectant of the return of Jesus avoid sin like it’s a coiled up rattlesnake. Sin is from following the evil one instead of our Lord.

When a born again Christian sins, we have an advocate or lawyer sitting next to the Father in Heaven. Jesus Christ is the One who defends and discipline us. He said His discipline proves we belong to Him. I ask for it all the time for I know any sin “temporally” separates me from Him. Unless we understand how fowl and hateful sin is in God’s sight, we will be open to the devil’s suggestions. God knew we are going to “miss the mark” from time to time so He gave us the wonderful gift of instant cleansing. First John 1:9 is like a “get out of jail” card. We use it when we’re truly sorry for our actions and words that hurt Jesus.

I believe with all my heart that most folks attending worship services don’t expect God to do anything. Jesus said, “The things I do [miracles] you will do and even greater ones shall you do as I go to the Father that the Father might be glorified in the Son.“ For reasons known only to God we’ve either forgotten He said it or have chosen to ignore it. The result is often a congregation devoid of the joy and excitement that drew thousands to seek Jesus in His ministry. Do you recall Jesus fed 5,000 and 4,000 men not counting the women and children who came to be with Him? Why do you think they came? Was it not to see the cripples walk, the blind see, the deaf to hear? Of course it was. He even touched the lepers who were instantly cleansed and made whole and went away rejoicing.

Can it different now? Yes, but will we is the question. Why not begin to go to worship services or where Christians gather in the Name of Jesus “expectant” He will answer your prayers in a magnificent way? He has shown me He healed us the same day He saved us. When Jesus suffered death on the Cross His body was lacerated by a scourge. The many wounds from the beating left stripes on Him. Isaiah 53 and First Peter 2 tell us by them are we healed. It’s up to us to believe it.

We need to see His stripes as full “payment” for our illnesses and diseases. Even our injuries are covered by the stripes. He only requires us to believe it. Some might say, “I don’t have enough faith.“ My reply is you must have some, use what you have. You can even add the statement of the man who was pleading for his son to be delivered. “Lord, I believe but help my unbelief.“ Jesus instantly responded to this man’s honesty. He desperately wanted his child well and safe and believed on Jesus with what he had. Do you think he would have come had he not “known” Jesus would help him?

We Christians need to live in faith. Not a “Catholic” faith, “Baptist” faith, “Anglican” faith but a simple faith that God will always do what He’s said He would do. Dr. T.L. Osborn learned this and God used him all over the world “doing what Jesus did”. His book Healing the Sick is a classic. I’ve given away over a thousand copies where he teaches from the scriptures how God will heal and save those who place their trust in Jesus. How about you? Are you 100% sure you will go to Heaven when you die? I heard a preacher say, if you’re only 99% sure, you are 100% lost. Few seem to understand that with God it’s all or nothing. A child isn’t 99% born when it’s cord is cut. We aren’t 99% “born again” when we trust the death and resurrection of Jesus as our own we are 100% His.

If you aren’t born again “yet” what in the world are you waiting on? If it isn’t being preached or taught where you go, RUN for your life. You’ve been receiving a “form of religion” instead of the chance to become a brand new person. Once we repent and receive Jesus [His Spirit or Breath] we’ve become saints [holy ones or true believers]. We’re now enrolled in the Book of Life. Now, as a child of God we are able to serve Him by loving the lost and sharing our testimonies. We’ve become servants that actually serve or do something. Not just anything but as Ephesians 2:10 teaches, “doing the things that God Himself has planned beforehand.“ Are you willing to die your old life? Tell Jesus and ask Him to save your soul. He came to die so His Blood could wash you clean of our sins. He will also make you whole in body, soul and spirit. It’s up to you and no one else. I’m praying for you.

In His Service,

Capt. Ben Marler


captben61@gmail.com
captben61.blogspot.com