Featured

Read the weekly Bible Views!

This free, weekly publication contains Bible-related articles, Bible studies, devotions, and puzzles. This version can be read by all, especially cell-phones. Printable versions are available at https://openthoumineeyes.com/newsletters.html and can be used as a bulletin insert, ministry handout, bus ministry handout, nursing home handout (the large print version), deaf ministry handout, and Sunday school paper as do many in over 165 countries. There are over 12 years of past editions available. Only the KJV is used!

SELECT A BIBLE VIEW BELOW!

The BIBLE VIEW #1040 — Difficulties

In This Issue:
Good From “Bad”
The Canvas God Is Painting

Volume: 1040     March 16, 2026
Theme: Difficulties

 Good From “Bad”
Bill Brinkworth

What a world this would be if bad things never happened.  Since sin entered in, however, all will experience many difficulties during their life.

Many think that hard things should not happen to good people or Christians, but they do!  Just because a person is born into the family of God does not mean they will be exempt from the consequences of natural disasters, disease, aging, others’ actions, and death.

Being saved from Hell does not magically put a force field around a person.  Yes, God does protect us many times, but it still rains on the “just and the unjust.” (Matthew 5:45).  Calamities and hard times will happen to everyone.

God could certainly protect us from all misfortunes, but our trials and tribulations often do much to strengthen us and get us closer to Him.  It is during the hard times that we should grow closer to God and trust Him to carry us through them.  It is also during those times that our faith can grow, as we see his mighty hand of deliverance.

Many wonderful things have happened because of the “bad” times.  Here are some “bad” events that happened to godly people in the Bible, and how God used those events to bring honor to Himself, to bless those going through the dilemma, and to bless others:

  • Noah.  If Noah had not obeyed God and spent many years building the Ark, humanity would not have had a second chance.
  • Abraham.  If Abraham had not come to the point that he chose God over everything else, including his son’s life, he may not have had God’s blessings on him and his generations.
  • Joseph: If Joseph’s jealous brothers had not thrown him in the pit and sold him into slavery, he never would have been second-in-command to the pharaoh and been able to help his family during a time of drought and starvation.
  • Children of Israel: If they had never been in hard bondage, they may have accepted their plight and never turned to God for deliverance.  Think of all the mighty miracles they saw when He answered their prayers.
  • Moses: If he had never kept his father-in-law’s, Jethro’s, sheep and suffered loneliness in the wilderness, he would never have been in the place to see the burning bush and be called to be God’s people’s leader.
  • Moses: If the angry Egyptian pharaoh had not pursued the people of Israel, they never would have seen the Red Sea part, would not have seen their enemy destroyed, and would not have known that God would guide them.
  • Ruth: If Ruth had not been faithful to her mother-in-law and worked to support her, she never would have met the man she was to marry.
  • Hannah: If she had never gone to the temple to pray with a broken heart because of her barrenness and made a vow to God to dedicate the child to Him, she may never had been the mother of Samuel and given Israel a godly leader.
  • Elijah: If Elijah had never stood faithful to God when it was not popular, Israel may have indulged longer in the idolatry of Baalism.
  • Nehemiah: If Nehemiah did not love God and weep for Jerusalem, Jerusalem would never have been rebuilt.
  • Job: If Satan had never tested Job, the man of God never would have had twice as much wealth and belongings as he had had originally (Job 42:12-13).
  • David: If David had not had hard times and heartbreaks, he never would have helped write much of the book of Psalms, which has encouraged and blessed billions of people.
  • Daniel: If Daniel had never been a captive of Nebuchadnezzar’s reign, he never would have been able to interpret the king’s dream and spare the lives of the other wisemen (Daniel 2) or be the leader he was.
  • Paul: If Paul had not shipwrecked on Malta, the island’s ruler’s father would never have been healed of his fever.
  • Jesus: If Jesus was never mocked, persecuted, whipped, beaten, lied about, and eventually died on the tormenting cross, we would never escape a punishment in Hell.

Sometimes hard times do come to people to turn them in a godly direction, or stop them from doing more damage to themselves or others.  The difficult tribulations can get them closer to God, so they can see his mighty hand in helping them.  Other times, the trials can be to change a situation to the way God has planned.

Some people spend their whole life mad and blaming God for the death of a loved one or for a trial they went through.  Do they possibly think that their loved ones would miss death, or that they will have a perfectly sheltered life because they are so “good”?

Hard times will and do come to everyone.  No one is exempt.  Those times are either a time to foolishly shake your fist at God (which can only make matters worse) when you need Him the most, or to draw close to Him and see His mighty hand produce “good” from what seemed “bad”.

Why should bad things not happen to us?  Are we more special than even God’s only Son, who also went through hard times?  God has a plan for all that happens in our lives, even though its purpose may be cloudy when we are going through it.

When going through a “valley”, it is the time to call for the God of the mountain.  He sees what we are facing and is willing to guide us through the hard times.  It is during those difficult times that we should get close to Him and seek His help.

“I have never met a strong Christian who had not faced many trials and tribulations!  Those difficulties made them the person they are now.”



The Canvas God Is Painting
Caitlin Hockenburry

When you feel you are all alone
With nowhere else to go
What is going on, you don’t know
But life is changing.
This side of Heaven’s shore
We don’t know what’s in store.
We feel we cannot go on anymore
Without fainting.

When you feel like fainting,
Remember God is painting.

When things do not fall in place
And it’s a struggle to run life’s race
God’s love we strongly chase
Just to keep on going.
So often we don’t know His way
Because we can’t see the display
Of the Canvas that will one day
Be fully showing.

When you feel like fainting,
Remember God is painting.

Oh, the strong, strong blasts
From troubles in the past
The sky seems always overcast
Is God not watching?
A loved one’s health is on decline
You don’t know if they’ll be fine.
Wondering how much more time
God is giving?

When you feel like fainting,
Remember God is painting.

Satan is fighting hard
He wants to see you scarred
Your faith discard
In his trying.
So keep on pressing on
Until this life is done
And the battle won
By not complying.

When you feel like fainting,
Remember God is painting.

Forgetting the hurt I’ve seen
Knowing there’s a veil between
Where I cannot see
The canvas God is painting.
We need to trust His Name
Know He is always the same
He will get you through the pain
You are facing.

When you feel like fainting,
Remember God is painting.

When I see God’s face
And feel His gentle love’s embrace
I’ll thank Him for His abiding grace
That is life-changing!
When you feel all distressed
Just remember how you are blessed
And one day you will see the rest
When looking at your life’s painting.

Just remember when you feel like fainting,
God is painting!

“God is most likely not done with you yet!”

The BIBLE VIEW #1039 — Heaven or Hell?

In This Issue:

Where Are They Now?
I Hope  So

Volume: 1039     March 9, 2026
Theme: Heaven Or Hell?

Where Are They Now?
Bill Brinkworth

Recently, a friend lost her child.  The death of her son grieved her terribly, as most could imagine.

Looking for a way to find something positive in the tragedy, I asked if the young man was saved.  She looked at me, confused, even more saddened, and said,  “Bill, I don’t know.  When he was young, he made a profession of faith, but I honestly have not seen any change or proof.” 

Spiritually, the man went downhill as most observed.  There was no sign of his living for the Lord or obedience to God’s commandments.  One could see in her grieved eyes that she desperately hoped he was in Heaven, but there was a great doubt because of how he lived.

I have seen the doubtful thought peering through the grieved eyes of many who lost their loved ones.  At many funerals, I have heard “I hope she was saved, but…”  Too many wondered about the eternal destination of their loved one.  They all searched very hard for hope that the person was not beginning their eternal agony in a vengeful Hell.

My own father’s death had me wondering also.  I had witnessed to him many times, but never got a convincing answer whether he was born-again. 

The only hope I ever got about his eternal whereabouts was from his pastor, a very liberal and often unbiblical man, who, at dad’s funeral, told me privately that he thought he was saved because dad often asked him about the spiritual subjects I spoke to my father about.  That convinced him that he was saved, but I still wonder.

What would others ponder after hearing of your demise?  Would they scratch their heads searching for tangible proof of where you are spending eternity? 

Or, without question and hesitation, would people quickly respond about your salvation, “Absolutely, he is in Heaven.  When he got saved, there were tremendous changes in him.  He constantly read his Bible and lived what God showed him to do.  His interest in the souls of others was prevalent.  His hand went up almost every time to volunteer for any need the pastor had around the church.  He was truly saved and lovingly serving.”

If you are saved, there should be great changes in your life.  Surely, for your own eternal benefit, you should be much different from what you were.  One’s attitude and behaviour towards our Creator should greatly show spiritual and lifestyle alterations and new interests in the things of God.

It should be apparent to yourself and others that you are not the person you were before salvation.  No one, including yourself, should doubt that you are a new creature in Christ!
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” II Corinthians 5:17
“But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you.  Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.” Romans 8:9

“Learn to hold loosely all that is not eternal.”  — Royden


I Hope  So
Bill Brinkworth

Although it was a solemn event, there were whispering conversations throughout the chapel.  One exchange in the far back was very concerned about the reason for the gathering.  Worrying and weeping soon whipped the group into an uncontrollable frenzy.

Aunt Jane tried to soothe those distraught by simply stating, “Well, my brother was a very good person.  I believe he is looking down on us right now.  He is in a better place and certainly deserves it with all he has put up with in this life.”

Several in the group remained silent but showed they agreed or hoped their aunt was right.  A few just quietly sobbed at the loss of their friend and brother.

Closer to the front, another party shared their opinions about the deceased friend.  One in the group tried to assure other mourners that there was no reason to be sad, as they were sure the dead friend was in Heaven.

Although a listener to the conversation knew it was inappropriate to voice a question, he wondered.  He doubted whether the man was really in Heaven.  He reasoned, “He never went to church and showed no signs of being a Christian.   How are these people so sure he is in a ‘better place’?”

While waiting for the funeral service to begin, another concerned relative sat next to the preacher, who would give the message.  He turned to the pastor and sought some assurance. 

“Preacher, my uncle was a nice man.  He always got me to laugh and was just good to me.  All these other folks are convinced he’s in Heaven, but I wonder.  He never went to church that I know of.  I can’t recall anything he ever did that would indicate he was a Christian.  On Sundays, he usually went fishing, and I don’t think he has ever even gone to church since I have known him.  Is he really in Heaven?  Can anyone really know that another has gone there?”

The preacher knew he would have to start the service soon, so he carefully weighed what he was going to say.  “Son, our opinions and beliefs, if they are not in accordance with what God’s Word says, don’t really matter.  Only what God says matters, and He says the only way to have assurance of going to Heaven is His way. 

“According to the Bible, one has to be born again to go there.  One must be saved from Hell by trusting that there is nothing anyone can do to earn Heaven.  The only way is to believe that God’s only son, Jesus, who never sinned, paid the price for our salvation with His blood.  Good works won’t get anyone higher than the coffin lid.”
“Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3:3

Then the preacher stopped the conversation, as it was time for the service.   As he approached the pulpit, he remembered that this might be the last time those gathered might realize that they will one day be in the same position as the deceased. 

The pastor knew it would not be what all the mourners would want to hear.  Still, it was his responsibility to tell the biblical truth about what the Bible says about our eternity.  

He planned to make sure all who gathered would hear God’s way to spend eternity with Him. Just like the inquiring young man wanted to know, he was sure others did as well.  If he did not tell them God’s way of getting to Heaven, there might never be another opportunity for them to hear the truth.

Perhaps to comfort relatives at funerals or even themselves, most want to believe the deceased is in a “better place.”  Imagining a departed friend or relative agonizing in the tormenting Hell is not a thought anyone would want to consider, even if it is true.  

So, to keep from “ruining” the funeral and examining their own eternal, future destination, most services dwell more on the good thoughts rather than taking the time to make sure all listeners know of the only way to Heaven.  However,  eternal futures may be at stake.

Many preachers at funerals will not take the opportunity, while hearts are sensitive to their own eternity, to tell listeners about God’s way to Heaven.  It is not biblical to suppose that all are in Heaven.  The Bible even says that not all who die go there.
“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:  14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” Matthew 7:13-14

Good deeds, marvelous works, and religious routines and rituals are not the way to Heaven.  Too many believe they are and will one day sadly learn the truth when they do not open their eyes in Heaven.
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

When one is genuinely saved and trusts Christ’s payment for their sins as the only way for an eternity with our Lord, one’s life will change.   The changes will be from the inside out, and most may see that a Christian’s life is different.
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” II Corinthians 5:17

So, when it is your time to be remembered in the funeral home, leave a memory that all will know where you are spending eternity.  Hopefully, those honoring your death will not suppose you are with Jesus.  They will know!  

People should not have to search desperately for some clues that you may be in Heaven.  It should be clear where you have gone because you lived a Christian life and had a godly testimony.

“Your soul is your eternal possession.  Do not gamble or guess where it will spend eternity!” — Brinkworth

The BIBLE VIEW #1038 — God’s Help

In This Issue:
Marvelous Manna
When There Was a Need
The Raven Came
Don’t be a Bucking Mustang
Stay in the Race

Volume: 1038     March 2, 2026
Theme: God’s Help

 Marvelous Manna
Bill Brinkworth

It was not long before the Israelites, freed from their many years of Egyptian bondage, started complaining about their situation.  “… Would to God we had died by the hand of the Lord in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the flesh pots, and when we did eat bread to the full …” (Exodus 16:3), they cried and complained because of a lack of food.

They had forgotten the years they had been beaten as slaves, lost all their freedoms, and were forced to work building the Pharaoh’s cities in the overpowering, Egyptian heat.  Even their many decades of begging God for their freedom escaped their thoughts.  All that was on their minds was their hunger, as they traveled in the desert wilderness.

God heard their cries against Moses and Aaron, their leaders (Ex. 16:2), for leading them in the situation they were in.  However, the Lord miraculously provided for their needs to show His people He would take care of them.

Each morning, as the dew lay upon their ground, the Israelites found their morning meal.  The small, round morsel was white, about the tiny size of a coriander seed, but it tasted like wafers made with honey (Ex. 16.31).

The old and young came out to gather what they could eat.  The young took all their young bellies could hold.  The hard-working men took a much larger portion to satisfy their appetites.  Wives took what they needed, and perhaps what their young ones required.  When all had taken their fill, none remained.  God had rained just enough of the same “bread” (Ex. 16:15) that the angels on high did eat (Psalms 78:24-25), for each person under His care.

To teach His people to trust Him for their daily provisions, they were not allowed to save any of the food for the next day.  Some tried to store it up, but found that it stank and turned to worms (Ex. 16:20).  They had no other choice but to trust that God would provide for them every day.  Good to His word, God provided this heavenly food for His people for 40 years.

More of God’s miraculous provision of the manna occurred on the Sabbath, the day the Hebrews were commanded not to work.  The day before, Friday, God told them to gather what they would need for that day and the Sabbath.  They were to do all the work of preparing the meal on Friday.  Some boiled it.  Some baked it.

It did not turn to worms, nor did it stink that Friday afternoon, or Saturday.  God saw to it that they could obey what He commanded them and still have their hunger satisfied.

The Hebrews learned, although they often forgot, what Christians should also learn.  We are not to trust in bank accounts, although we need to be wise, good stewards, and save if we can.  We are not to trust a government to provide, nor our parents or friends.  The main direction we are to look for all our needs is toward Heaven.

It may be a little scary without having what we consider “security” for the provision of what could happen tomorrow.  The truth of the matter is that nothing is secure except God’s help. 

Investments can go sour, and all can be lost.  Money put away for a “rainy day” can be stolen.  Welfare checks can stop on the whim of a new politician.  Friends’ help can vanish, as they tend to their own needs.

Our job may let us down when economic downturns force layoffs.  None of us has any promise that we will have our needs met, unless we trust in the Lord’s provision.

As God taught the Hebrews wandering in the wilderness, the only secure provider is God.  In that lesson, we see that He wants us to trust Him for our “daily bread” (Mat. 6:11). 

He had also taught them that there is never an excuse to break His laws to meet our needs.  Hunger is not an excuse to steal something to feed ourselves.  Lying and deceitfulness are not options, just so we can get money from someone to meet our needs.  God can change the situation, so He can provide without our sinning and breaking His commandments.

Be it hungry Hebrews in the wilderness, a single parent who just lost her job, or a student  looking for a way to pay his college tuition, the same God who provided in the past can meet your needs today.  If you are a Christian, call upon Him for His help, and wait patiently as He provides.  God may not choose to use manna, but He can still miraculously provide for your needs.

“We can be certain that God will give us the strength and resources we need to live through any situation in life that He ordains.  The will of God will never take us where the grace of God cannot sustain us.”  — Billy Graham

When There Was a Need
Dr. J. Campbell

  • When Abraham’s knife was lifted, an angel appeared.
  • When Lot was near destruction, angels interposed.
  • When Hagar and her son were dying of thirst, the angel showed them water.
  • When Moses was on the brink of the sea, the waters were divided so they could pass between them.
  • When Israel blew their trumpets around Jericho, the walls came tumbling down.

“You will find that God’s provision is in favor of those who keep His laws, and against those who break them.  — Beecher

The Raven Came
F. B. Meyers

A little boy, having read with his mother the story of how God fed Elijah by the ravens, sat on a wintry night in a fireless room beside a bare table.  With a simple, childish trust, he asked his widowed mother if he might set open the door for God’s ravens to come in.

“I feel sure they must be on their way,” he said.  The trusting mother granted the request. 

The mayor of that German town, passing by, was attracted by the sight of the open door.  Entering, he inquired about the reason.  When he learned the reason, he said, “I will be God’s ravens!”  He relieved their needs then and afterwards.

“Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.” Psalm 37:3

Don’t be a Bucking Mustang
Michael P. Green

Have you ever seen someone break a mustang?

When a three-year-old horse, who has never had a saddle, feels one on his back, it may be a frightening experience.  Some horses will react with anger, rearing back and trying to get away — even striking out with their forefeet at their trainer.  Their nostrils flare, their eyeballs roll, and they panic!  Others will stand there, trembling, and shake like a leaf.  They will not move; they are so afraid.  They do not know what is happening to them.

Immature Christians respond to trials like wild horses.  Some panic and cry out to the Lord, “What’s gone wrong?”  Others freeze and do nothing.  

Mature Christians are like horses that have learned to trust their trainer.  They sense what is happening and respond to it by submitting to the hand of their Master, knowing that He will do them no wrong.

Stay in the Race
Michael P. Green

At a cross-country steeplechase exhibition, one horse suddenly shied away from a hurdle and ran into a barbed-wire fence.  The results were disastrous, as the rider was taken by ambulance to a hospital and the bleeding horse remained ensnarled in the wire until the slow process of cutting it away was completed.

The tragedy was sad; it was a jump that was a low one, which the horse could have easily cleared.  Apparently, the horse mistook the fence for an opening in the course and an escape from the obstacle. 

How we believers are often like that foolish horse!  When faced with difficulties, do we look for the way out, rather than trusting in God’s provision?  Do we break away at the first opportunity of difficulty, only to find that we have become ensnared, and that our present difficulty is far worse than the one we sought to avoid?

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.” Proverb 3:5

The BIBLE VIEW #1037 — Heaven

In This Issue:
What’s Next?
We’ll See Them Again
I Didn’t Know You Were A Christian

Volume: 1037     February 9, 2026
Theme: Eternity

What’s Next
Bill Brinkworth

No one will escape the one part of life that is scary to many — death (unless the rapture takes the Christians home to Heaven first!).  Most wonder what happens when their body dies.

For born-again people, there is hope for a wonderful life after death (II Corinthians 5:1-2, 8).  The Bible does not mention, as some cults teach, that it will be the end for a person when one dies. 

Physical death will not be the end because everyone has a soul that will live forever.  It will live in either Heaven or Hell (and eventually the Lake of Fire).

“For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.” II Corinthians 5:1  Also: II Corinthians 5:8.

Because of God’s promise of Heaven, many “groan earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven:” (II Corinthians 5:2).  While battling infirmities, hardships, and heartaches on Earth, many Christians are looking forward to Heaven — a place of eternal joy and no suffering.

Paul was busy for the Lord while he was here on this Earth, but he was expectantly awaiting his eternity in Glory.  One reason Paul looked forward to Heaven was one that today’s believers should also share.  That reason is now we live by faith (II Corinthians 5:7), but in Glory, the believer will live by sight.

Now, we must trust God’s Word and not always physically see Its promises are true.  One day, however, we will see all the glorious things God has promised come to pass.

With all the positive things to look forward to, Paul and all Christians should not be afraid of their eternal future.  When a child of God gives their last breath in this world, we may be “absent from the body,” but we will be instantly “present with the Lord” (II Corinthians 5:8).  We have God’s Word on that!

“We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” II Corinthians 5:8

“Where will you spend eternity?  Smoking or non-smoking? — Author Unknown

We’ll See Them Again
Bill Brinkworth

When one is saved, one of the bonuses one immediately receives is God’s promise that they will spend eternity with Him.  What a glorious ETERNAL future the born-again child of God will experience.  They will see God (Job 19:2-27) and Jesus (I John 3:2).
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he [Jesus] shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.”  I John 3:2
“We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.”  II Corinthinas 5:8

However, secure in their heavenly future, many wonder if they will see people they recognize if those people are saved.  There are several instances in the Word of God that indicate that some will recognize others who reside in Heaven.

Biblical characters that were seen include:

  • Moses and Elijah appeared and were recognized. 
    “And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart,  2 And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light.  3 And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him.” Matthew 17:1-3
  • Abraham, Lazarus, and the rich man were recognized after death:
    “There was a certain rich man… 20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores… 23 And in hell he [the rich man] lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom….” Luke 16:19-31  Before Jesus retrieved the Old Testament saints from their temporary dwelling place (“Abraham’s bosom” — Ephesians 4:8), they could be seen from those tormented in Hell, but their wonderful conditions were not the same as Hell’s residents.
  • King Saul recognized Samuel’s description given by the witch of Endor.  However, it is suspected this vision may have been a demonic trick, as the ungodly witch would not have access to the godly deceased (but God can do anything and may have made an acceptance here).
    “And Saul disguised himself, and put on other raiment, and he went, and two men with him, and they came to the woman by night: and he said, I pray thee, divine unto me by the familiar spirit, and bring me him up, whom I shall name unto thee… 12 And when the woman saw Samuel, And Samuel said to Saul, Why hast thou disquieted me, to bring me up…”   I Samuel 28:8-17
  • Although long deceased, Moses and Elijah were recognized in New Testament times.
    “And as he prayed [Jesus]… 30 And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias….” Luke 9:29-31
  • Biblical heroes of the past will be recognized.
    “And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 8:11
  • Jesus was recognizable after his resurrection.  Mary (the mother of James), Salome, Joanna, the disciples, and over 500 other people,
    “Jesus saith [after his “death”] unto her, Mary.  She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master.” John 20:16
    “After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep.” I Corinthians 15:6
  • After all of God’s prophecies are fulfilled, and this Earth will be replaced with a new one, those residing on it will no longer remember the past Earth where they dwelt.  But, from many of the above Scriptures, they will still recognize people.
    “For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.” Isaiah 65:17

As it was evidenced in the scriptures, man continues on even after death.  From what is gleaned from the scriptures, Christians can expect to see loved ones if those people trusted Christ as their Saviour from the long-lasting havoc in Hell and later from the eternal Lake of Fire (Revelation 20:15).

If you are sure of the salvation of those who have gone before you, they may be wondering and waiting for you to join them.  Are you absolutely positive you are saved and going there?  Do not guess about your eternal future!

“Heaven has strict border policies.  Hell has open borders!” — Author Unknown

I Didn’t Know You Were A Christian
Beecher

I look and wait and long for that day when all Christians shall recognize each other.  I think that people in the church are like people riding in a stagecoach at night.  

For hours, they sit side by side and shoulder to shoulder, not being able in the darkness, to distinguish one another.  But at last, when day breaks, and they look at each other, behold, they discover that they are friends, and may be near relations.

So we are riding, I think, in the chariot of salvation, and do not know that we have brethren here, though we sit shoulder to shoulder.  However, when heavenly sunlight shines around us, we may find that many we have known or ministered to on Earth may be our friends in Heaven.  I have great comfort and consolation on that thought.

“Some have doubted whether there will be recognition in Heaven.  There should be no room for doubt, as it is called “my Father’s house” and shall not the family of God be known to each other?” — Spurgeon

The BIBLE VIEW #1036 — Sin

In This Issue:
I Blame My Generation

Volume: 1036     February 9, 2026
Theme: Sin

I Blame My Generation!
Bill Brinkworth

The world, especially America, is a social and spiritual mess.  It is not the same as it was when I was younger. 

Previous generations have also had similar observations, I am sure.  However, the changes we see and experience these days are unlike anything the world has seen in recent times.

Most likely, it was my generation that initiated the massive moral decline and other extreme philosophies we are dealing with today.  Many in my generation shunned biblical principles and embraced “what felt good” even though it was sin.

I was born in 1951 and was a young adult in the early 1970s.  That is when so many moral changes occurred.  Before the late 60s and 70s, ethical behavior was much different.

At that time, most Americans claimed to be Christian, although most denominations had already begun to depart from biblical truths.  Businesses were closed on Sunday so people could go to church.  God and His morals were on the consciences of many, even the unsaved.

Before the slow drift away from 1,000s of years of somewhat biblical thinking and living, respect was prevalent in most walks of life.  Thoughts of how one’s actions would affect others were on most minds.  Elders were respected and treated with kindness and understanding. 

The treatment of women was different.  One would be scolded for cursing in front of children or women.  Doors were held open for women, and rarely would men ever even think of hitting a female.  If others harmed or mistreated a woman, most other men would rebuke or get involved to stop such behavior.

Not only were women looked up to, but they were considered special and they had a desire to stay home, raise children, and handle household duties.  It was recognized as a God-given ability most women had.

Men were expected to support their families, work, and do whatever it took to provide for their families.  One who did not do what was expected of him was looked down upon and often rebuked socially.  Few government handouts were available to those who did not work, thus further encouraging a work ethic.

Families were loyal to each other.  Most marriages were “unto death doeth part.” Divorces were not common, and divorcees were often frowned upon.  That social pressure helped spouses persevere, resolve disagreements and problems, and remain together.

Although pre-marital sex and adultery were always committed, they remained a troubler to  one’s conscience when that sin was committed.  Those who had committed such iniquities were often looked down upon, scolded, and sometimes socially avoided.  The shame those actions brought was also a deterrent to many from committing them.

The government was entrusted with protecting and caring for its people.  Little corruption was heard of, and if there was any immorality among officials, even local authorities, they would not be qualified to run or be elected.

If a scandal were uncovered, the politician or government official would be quickly removed from their post.   All government officials had shown some form of leadership ability, or they would not even have been considered for their positions.

Most laws were unquestionably followed.  Following them was critical and severely punished if violated.  Most realized that if all did not obey the public rules, chaos would undoubtedly follow. 

Those sent to prison were shamed, and their imprisonment would not be a time of rest and watching television.  It often meant hard work, which deterred reincarceration.

Education was important to most.  Teachers were screened and hired based on their moral standards and educational excellence.  Any questionable philosophies or activities that did not align with social standards, which were often biblically based, disqualified anyone seeking the opportunity to teach and influence the youth. 

The curriculum always encouraged critical thinking and prepared students for life.  The day usually started with prayer and Bible reading (in my experience, it was always the KJV).

Then something changed in the 60s!   Only the Lord knows when the severe moral and social decline started, however.

Although man has always had a sinful nature that all succumb to at some point in their lives, there was usually some spiritual restraint.  However, back in the late 1800s, the world’s moral compass, the preserved Bible, was altered. 

Convicting verses were watered down and even alleviated.  The trend increased rapidly in the 1920s and 30s and continues today.

God’s moral compass, which keeps mankind from getting further from His will and way and from worsening social behavior, was altered and removed in many instances.  Most now have no clear definition of what God says is right and best, or of what He desires for His creation.

Soon, those planning to enter the ministry had the seeds of doubt planted in their minds by the questioning of “what the Bible really says and means” at the seminary they attended.  After sthe pulpits to share those watered-down doctrines with their congregations.  Soon, doubts about God’s dogma were spread to the masses.
“But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.” II Corinthians11:3

Many polluted minds now questioned if being a Christian was necessary.  God’s teachings, His will, and His way were doubted and therefore “could not possibly be lived in this age and time.”  “Was the Bible’s teaching and standards the only way to guide one’s life,” and “the Bible can be interpreted differently,” washed away any conviction that was still ingrained in lives.

It was not long until minds, no longer guided by God’s truths, became more self-centered and changed to “you’re the most important person in your life philosophy.”  Right and wrong began to be determined by each individual’s opinion rather than by God’s Truths.

Since what they had always believed was no longer “right,” questioned and debatable, respect for others declined.  Concern for elders, family, and others became less important.

The cloud of social pollution quickly spread, destroying families and their values.  Women were  convinced that their past role in family raising was restricting and degrading.  They sought ways to abandon their God-given abilities and commandments and to allow others to raise their children so they could “find themselves.”  Some women even left their families to “better themselves.”

In surrendering their God-given duty and ability and succumbing to a change of behavior and even dress, women lost respect from the other sex.  Since many declined their important roles and changed their behaviour, they lost their positions on the social pedestal.  Men’s respect to them lessened.  “Why,” many believed, “they curse like a man, dress like one, and are even in jobs like one, why should I treat them differently.”

Special treatment towards women ceased.  Respect was lost.  The taboo on pre-marital sex was removed.  Divorces soon increased to 40-50% of all marriages.  More “shacked up” with a partner rather than marrying them.

Children were allowed to be trained by non-family members, often with unbiblical standards and beliefs.  The only training many youngsters got was from the school system, which further hid true morality and encouraged them to “do whatever felt right.”  Another generation was encouraged “to do their own thing” and was unleashed on a morally declining civilization.

Men questioned whether they should really be the only providers.  “My wife says she can do anything a man can do (And she can, but why would she want to give up her God-given role in a family?), so let her.  Real estate and other products increased, as many families now had two incomes, so “they could afford it.”

More men thought less, not only about respecting women, but also strove to get out of the role of family provider.  Free time for the once “head of the household” led to more adultery and divorces.  The God-ordained family structure continued to crumble!

As family structures disintegrated, their financial needs increased.  The destroyed work ethic did not meet needs in many situations, so the government was summoned to address the needs that the head of the household was not providing. 

Perhaps, originally intended to meet the desperate needs of struggling families, government handouts soon became more relied upon than families providing for themselves.  That reliance led the government to step in and exercise more control, and possibly to ensure the vote for the “concerned” politicians.  Since the officials were products of godless training and not always upstanding citizens, their involvement further accelerated civilization’s collapse.

The moral decline continued.  Individuals lost their purpose.  Families were no longer stronger.  Sexes of  people were even questioned.  Men and women believed the lie that they could change sexes if they wanted.  Confusion abounded.

Governments fell apart as many politicians realized they could deceitfully gain power and often even obtain large financial benefits.  Corruption dominated most parts of society.  Although there may be an occasional roadblock to the social destruction, it will be impossible to halt the exodus from following God’s will and way.

All the terrible downward trends against morality started when God’s way was disregarded and eventually discarded.  It most likely will not end as the Bible says at one point, demonic control will exponentially overrun all nations.  It will not end well for those who rejected God’s way.

My generation may have opened the floodgates of godlessness.  However, there is still hope for individuals who stand against the overwhelming current of destruction.

Anyone can still be rescued from what is happening in this world.  One can be saved from an eternity in Hell by trusting Christ’s payment for their sins and be saved.
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;” Titus 2:11-12

“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Romans 10:9

It is then possible that the new creature in Christ can be different and still please God and live right!  Most likely, it will be difficult, but it must be done. 
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” II Corinthians 5:17

Who knows that one with a godly stand amongst today’s tumult can also encourage others to live God’s way.  If Christians don’t show the world God’s way of living, who will?

“If we are reaping the consequences of my generation’s sin, what is this generation going to reap?”

The BIBLE VIEW #1035 —Sin

In This Issue:
Vexed by Ungodliness
Let Go!
It Will Rub Off on You!
Get Far from Evil
Seek the Better Things

Volume: 1035     February 2, 2026
Theme: Sin

Vexed by Ungodliness
Bill Brinkworth

When given a choice by his Uncle Abraham, Lot chose the choicest of lands to raise his cattle and family (Gen. 13:8-11).  He left Abraham (named Abram at the time) the less appealing land, and kept the “best” for himself.

His selfish pick may have appeared to be the best choice; however, there was one important matter Lot did not consider when choosing where to live.  He did not consider what his soon-to-be neighbors would be like. 

As it turned out, the place he chose to live near was near the twin cities: Sodom and Gomorrah.  Those cities were known for their rampant sin, particularly homosexuality.  It was there that the righteous man, Lot, chose to live.

It was not long before he was involved in the city’s government (Gen. 19:1, 9).  He was not only living among wickedness, but he was also involved in the choices made to help manage the city.  

Shortly, his constant exposure to godlessness and their sin affected Lot.  The Bible says that he was “… vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked … in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;” (II Peter 2:7-8).  The part of Lot that wanted to live and please the Lord was “irritated, harassed, teased, and disturbed” by the lifestyle he was allowing himself and his family to be exposed.

As a Christian, we usually cannot live on top of a mountain, away from the world and all their sin.  Most of the time, we have to live around sin, see it in the workplace, hear it on television, and be exposed to its consequences and involvement wherever we go. 

However, if we are not wary of iniquity and do not do all we can to limit its exposure, we too will be “vexed” by sin.  It will wear on us, and if we are not careful, sin will be commonplace to us. 

We will be hardened against it.  Seeing or hearing sin will not bother us as much as it used to.  The spiritual part of us will be desensitized to sin’s evilness.  If we are not careful, we will even be involved in it, thinking it is normal because “everyone is doing it.”

Despite what the unsaved world is doing, sin is and always will be wrong to God.  The only protection against being desensitized by it or involved in it is to do one’s best to avoid contact with it. 

If you are vexed by filthy language on television, there may be some channels you should never listen to again, or you may have to stop watching the “hellevision”.  Filthy words creeping into your own language?  Maybe there are some foul-mouthed influences that you should no longer listen to or associate with.  

Seeing things your eyes should not be seeing on the internet?  Limit where you browse, or maybe you will have to stay off the internet altogether.  

Dirty images you have already viewed plaguing your thought-life?  Avoid further looks and recite Scripture verses, particularly about what you are thinking.  It is difficult to have the clean Word of God and filthiness in your thought-life at the same time.  The filthiness will flee!

The key to keeping a holy, unsoiled life and testimony for the Lord is to separate (II Cor. 6:17) from the world.  It is possible to remain undefiled in this ever-increasing sinful world.

If we purpose in our hearts not to be defiled by ungodliness in this world, the Lord will do His part to help us.  He will give the believer “a way to escape” sin’s vexing grasp, if the believer wants it!

“There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” I Corinthians 10:13

“If you can get along with the world, then you are out of step with God!”
— Dr. Harold Sightler


Let Go!
Author Unknown

This world holds nothing so dear
That Christ cannot give us more:
His love, His peace, His Joy —
Far more than heart could implore.

Our lives lose much He has for us
As we cling to our earthly ties:
In Him are pleasures forevermore,
Let go — for Christ satisfies.

“Ultimate success depends on loving things above more than things below!” — Author Unknown

It Will Rub Off on You!
Bill Brinkworth

Little Seymour was dressed in the suit he had to wear for his uncle’s wedding.  Being the ring-bearer, he had to wear what was picked out for him.  In this case, it was an all-white suit.  Even the coat, shirt, pants, socks, and shoes were white.

Like many six-year-olds, he was quite squirmy.  It was impossible for him to sit or even stand still.  Some part of him just had to wiggle or wander — all the time.  

Being unsupervised for just a couple of seconds allowed the child the opportunity to sneak outside on the dreary, rainy day.  Partly out of instinct to be where he should not be, little Seymour found himself close to a very inviting puddle. 

The child’s inquisitiveness led him to investigate if the surrounding mud was “really the kind that is squishy, and the kind you sink into?”  An inspecting finger verified, “Yep, it was squishy”.  Muddied shoes also proved the discovery.

The little mind continued to wonder, “Is the water deep enough to splash really good?  Yep!” A now muddied coat and pants also gave him the answer, as they were now splattered with mud and water.  

Of course, the inevitable happened, and the wearer of white fell face-first in the muddy puddle.  He was not the clean member of the wedding party he was ten minutes prior.

Sin is very much like the mud puddle the little boy investigated, and the child of God is very much like little Seymour.  A born-again person has all their sins forgiven.  If the indwelling, convicting Holy Spirit is obeyed, the believer will have many of the sins he was involved in “cleaned up” in his life.  He may not be perfect, but many of the things he used to do will no longer be part of his life.

Honesty will replace a lying past.  Everyday conversation will no longer include the filthy words that used to be said.  Reading filthy magazines will be replaced by reading the Word of God. 

Sundays may no longer spent guzzling beer with friends, and the believer will regularly be found in a local church learning more about the things of God.  The believer should be a new creature in Christ, and much different from what he was before.
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” II Corinthians 5:17

However, a mistake could have been made.  He got too close to sin.  Maybe it was just “one puff” on a cigarette that God had helped him keep away from.  Perhaps it was just a “little sip” of his friend’s beer, or it was not turning the television station he knew he should not be watching on.  Maybe it was his involvement in “just a little sin”, but soon the “cleaned up” Christian found himself in the same mud puddle of sin.

The only prevention from this happening in any believer’s life is to keep away from sin.  Sin will rub off on you!  No one is exempt!  However, sin cannot rub off on you if you are far away from it!
“For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.” Galatians 5:13

“Whatever you love more than God is your idol!” — D. L. Moody

Get Far from Evil
Adam Clark

Abstain from all appearance of evil.  Sin not, and avoid even the appearance of it.  Do not drive your morality so near the bounds of evil as to lead even weak persons to believe that ye actually touch, taste, or handle it.  Let not any form of it appear with or among you, much less the substance.  Ye are called to holiness; be ye holy, for God is holy.

 Seek the Better Things
C. H. Spurgeon

Many years ago, there was a crossing-sweeper in Dublin with his broom at the intersection of two roads.  His responsibility was to keep the crossing clean.  He was paid one penny for doing so.

One day, a lawyer put his hand upon his shoulder and said to him, “My good fellow, do you know that you are heir to a fortune of ten thousand pounds a year?”

“Do you mean it?” said the road sweeper.

“I do,” he said.  “I have just received the information.  I am sure you are the man.”

The sweeper walked away from his job, and left his broom behind.  Are you astonished?  Why, who would not have forgotten a broom, when suddenly made possessor of ten thousand pounds a year?  

So, I pray that some poor sinners, who have been thinking of the pleasures of the world, when they hear that there is hope, and that there is Heaven to be had, will forget the deceitful pleasures of sin, and follow after higher and better things.

“This world is not my home!  I’m just passing through.  Thank the Lord.”

The BIBLE VIEW #1034 —Service

In This Issue:
What Is Your Gift?
Do Sumthin’

Volume: 1034     January 26, 2026
Theme: Service


What Is Your Gift?
Bill Brinkworth

God has plans for every Christian.  To better equip each child of God and to bring Him the glory, each is given a gift(s) to serve the Saviour better.

These gifts are not the gifts the early church had before they had the entire Word of God.  The seven gifts found in Romans 12:6-8 are necessary to accomplish the work of God in today’s world.  They include the gifts of:

  • Prophecy.  This is not the same ability prophets and early disciples had.  We have the entire plan of God in His written, preserved Word.  We do not need to foretell the future as they did in Old Testament days.

    This gift of prophecy is taking the Word of God and helping others understand it better.  In his 1828 dictionary, Noah Webster defines the gift as the ability “to preach; to instruct in religious doctrines; to interpret or explain Scripture or religious subjects.…”
  • Ministry.  This God-given gift gives a great burden to a Christian to meet the needs of others.
  • Teaching.  This is a gift that allows one to help others better understand the things of God.
  • Exhorting.  This important gift helps one be an encourager to others—a most needed gift, especially among God’s people.
  • Giving.  This gift places a burden on one to meet others’ needs through their giving of things and of themselves.
  • Ruling.  This gift allows one to be a leader.  Too many think they have it, but few have the God-given ability to lead God’s people.
  • Mercy.  This gift gives one the heart to have understanding, patience, and kindness with others.

If you are a child of God, God does not plan for you just to sit.  He desires you serve Him and help others.  He has given you at least one of the above gifts in this church age.

What are your gift(s), and are you using them to help others, honor God, and bring others to know and serve the Lord better?

“A child of God will find themselves in Heaven, but what regrets they will have for eternity when they discover the consequences of not doing anything or little for the Lord while they had the opportunity on Earth.”
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; 24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23

 Do Sumthin’
Bill Brinkworth

After one is saved, God’s intention for each person is not to sit around and soak up God’s goodness.  His desire is for each to do something that would get more people saved and more living for the Lord.  It is God’s hope for each of us that we serve Him.  

Each child of God should be a tool that God can use for His glory, using the spiritual gifts (Rom. 12:4-8) He has entrusted to each individual.  Those gifts, special talents, and abilities can be used to reach the lost and glorify God in many ways.  Each of us can be an important cog in winning the world for the glory of God.  We all can do something.

Here are some ministries in which I have seen many serving the Lord:

  • Preaching ministry.  Some are called by God and directed to reach the world with His Message by enabling them to preach.  Preaching is not always from the pulpit on Sunday.  Many have preached at subway stations, by the side of the road, in public gatherings, or wherever they can publicly expound God’s Word.  Some have “preached” without uttering a word, but “spoke” boldly by their public Christian example.  Most of us would not be saved if it were not for someone’s “preaching” God’s truths to us!
  • Teaching ministry.  Some have been burdened to teach the world what God’s Word says.  If a teacher does not teach them, who will (Acts 8:30-31)?

    Many have used their talents, hobbies, or interests in making God’s Word clearer to those they have taught.  I have seen some use Gospel magic, art, puppets, and even their interest in animals to get the attention of many and use their teaching medium to instruct audiences in biblical principles.
  • Visitation ministry.  Many churches have organized visitation at least once a week for all to attend.  They often go in pairs to visit shut-ins, those who have previously visited the church, or to knock on neighboring doors to invite people to church.  Sometimes there are even opportunities to tell people how to be saved.  Millions have been saved by this method. 

    If a church does not have this opportunity, then people can still visit their neighbors, canvas their community, or contact anyone the Lord puts on their heart as a ministry unto the Lord.  Telling others God’s Good News is not just a pastor’s responsibility.  We are all to go and tell!
  • Nursing home ministry.  I call it the “Last Chance Ministry.”  For many of the home’s residents, it is the last opportunity they may have to hear how to be saved or to learn more of God’s Word before they leave this world.  In this ministry, one can preach to those living at the facility or just visit them.  Many in the homes have lost their loved ones, are lonely, and could use an encouraging visit.
  • Tract Ministry.  A “tract” is a little piece of paper with the plan of salvation on it or teaches some biblical truth.  They can sometimes be obtained from one’s church or purchased at a Christian bookstore (The Bible Views available at https://openthoumineeyes.com/newsletters.html were created for that purpose).  These tracts can be left in bathrooms, given to toll booth attendants, handed to people waiting in line at a restaurant, included in an envelope when paying bills, and given to those we encounter every day.
  • Van or Bus ministry.  Many churches have a bus or van ministry where a vehicle picks up children and adults and brings them to church.  Get involved as a driver or worker.  If your church does not have such a ministry, start one with your vehicle.  Bring as many as you can to hear God’s Message.  Someone may be saved because of your efforts.
  • Singing or music ministry.  Singing in church services is available in most churches.  Some have used their ability to sing on their own in hospital or nursing home rooms.  One nursing home worker asked whether she could sing a hymn as she visits each patient, and she would sing one if the resident desired.  Another man visited those sick in the hospital.  He brings his guitar with him, sings, and plays for anyone who wants him to.
  • Minister to those who are sick or shut-ins.  Have you experienced health problems where you were bed or house-bound?  Perhaps you felt cut off from the world because no one visited you.  Others feel the same way.  When you hear of one who is not well, send them a card or call on them.  It is a wonderful opportunity to be a Christian influence for someone who needs encouragement.
  • Prison ministry.  Prisons are often places where folks listen to what the Bible has to say.  It may be difficult to get into that ministry.  However, if the Lord desires you to get involved with those who are detained, He can open the doors of opportunity.
  • Card Ministry.  People need encouragement.  Send a birthday, sympathy, get well, or “praying for you” card to people God puts on your heart to encourage.  E-mailing or calling them are also ways to be a Christian encouragement to others. 
  • Writing ministry.  God has always preserved His teaching with the written Word.  His Message can still be distributed through this medium.  One can expound what the Bible teaches by getting articles published in newspapers (letters-to-the-editor).  Articles can be published in Christian newsletters, websites, and other publications.  Some have even prayerfully picked names out of phone books, written those strangers, and given them the plan of salvation.
  • Help ministry.  Some notice a need in others’ lives and help meet it.   They may visit a lonely person, babysitting for a working single parent, or even do household chores for someone who physically cannot do certain things.
  • Prayer ministry.  People have needs everywhere you look.  We cannot always do something physically to help others, but we can pray for them.  Make others’ needs your prayer burdens and bombard God’s throne with pleas for His help in the lives of those who are needy.
  • Disciplining.  People may be saved, but they rarely know what to do next or how to do it.  For this reason, many never grow spiritually.  If you feel led by the Holy Spirit, take a person under “your wing.”  Spend time with that person.  Perhaps your influence will encourage them to live for the Lord. 
  • Meals.  Prepare meals for those who may be going through a difficult time and may not be able or have the time to cook. 
  • Exhorting others.  Everyone gets discouraged or goes through hard times.  While down in their “valley,” they could use someone’s kind words of encouragement.   Checking up on people by telephone when they are absent from church or elsewhere, shows them that they are important. 
  • Widows ministry.  There are not too many things harder than being married to a person for a long time and losing them in death.  Widows need to be encouraged.  Visit them.  Help them do things that perhaps their deceased spouse used to do.  They are often alone, can use a friend, and need help.
  • Reading the Bible to people who cannot read it anymore.  Some cannot read or cannot see to read.  Make it your ministry to faithfully read to them. 
  • Be a friend.  Some take it upon themselves to be a friend to someone who does not seem to have one.
  • Deaf or language interpreting ministry.  Hearing the Word of God is essential.  The deaf, or those who speak another language, may not understand it unless someone helps them hear God’s truths in the language they know.
  • Hospitality ministry.  Meet others’ needs by allowing visiting preachers or others to stay in a spare room. 
  • Flea market or fair ministry.  One man goes to a flea market, rents a booth, and to witnesses to many that pass his table.  He gives out tracts, Bibles, and even hands out “Bible Views.”  Others have a full-time ministry doing the same thing at state fairs.

One of the great commandments that each Christian is to obey is to “… love thy neighbour as thyself.  There is none other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:31.   Doing something for others and making their needs important to you is showing them that you care about them.  Making others a priority in our lives also helps us get our minds off ourselves.  It can enable others to see the love of Christ through our efforts.

If you have the desire to make a difference in this world for the cause of Christ, ask God to give you the ministry He wants you to have.  After that, look for the opportunity He gives you to do something for Him.  There is something everyone can do.  Everyone has a hurt, a discouragement, or a need.  God often uses other Christians to meet those needs.  He wants to use you if you are willing.

“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.” Eccl. 9:10

The BIBLE VIEW #1033 — Service

In This Issue:
What To Do If You Can’t Do Any More
Do What You Can

Volume: 1033     January 20, 2026
Theme: Service

 What To Do If You Can’t Do Any More
Bill Brinkworth

One day, everyone will reach a point where they cannot do what they used to do.  Be it health issues, psychological reasons, or age restrictions, some will find themselves watching the world go by from the sidelines.

However, if a sidelined person is a Christian, quitting and not making a spiritual difference in this world should not be an option.  No one is saved to sit and soak in God’s goodness. 

We are saved to stand and serve.  No age or Bible health restriction tells a Christian, “Okay, you have done your part, now sit down and relax.”

Often, when a tire has little tread life, there is a way to keep it in service.  There still can be a use for it.

A worker removes the tire’s outer layer.  If the supporting radial fibers are still intact, a new tread can be adhered to them, allowing the critical part of the car to be used again.  It may not be suitable for a racecar, but it can still be used.

If the steel cords in the tire are damaged, there is still use for it.  It can be used for a child’s backyard tire swing or a bumper for boats approaching a dock.  It still can be used somehow. 

The same should be applied to a wounded or aged Christian.  If the desire to still do something for the Lord remains, the believer should not be sidelined There is something he or she can still do.  A Christian can still be repurposed.

The set-apart Christian is valuable in God’s eyes.  The seasoned saint has learned a lot from God’s Word, how to apply it, and how the Lord’s intervention can make a difference.  Their faith had been tested by many fires and disasters, but it relied on the Lord and stayed true to Him.  Their spiritual experience can be utilized in ways a newer Christian is not qualified.

That kind of seasoned spiritual experience is important and should not be shelved.  There is still a use for it in others’ lives.  The Christian must find what they are to do in the different stage of their life.

After realizing they still have a true desire to continue doing something for the Lord, the first step would be to immediately go to the One who guided them through their past.  “What is it you would have me do now, oh Lord?” It may take some patience to wait for His direction, but it will come.  God will not waste the life of a valued spiritual warrior.

But, while you are waiting on the Lord’s new direction in your life, do whatever opportunity  crosses your path.  Often, the reward for service is more service to a faithful, willing, obedient believer.  Those who are reluctant to fulfill a need they saw may not have any other opportunities given to them.
“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.” Ecclesiastes 9:10
“Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; 12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;” Romans 12:11-12
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; 24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-24
“Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;  7 With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: 8 Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.” Ephesians 6:6-8

Perhaps there will be an opportunity to visit one in a nursing home.  One never knows that one’s heart may be stirred at the needs there, and make that one’s new ministry.

A young mother may need someone to help her manage her children.  There is a great need for that, and a spiritual person could give much encouragement to an exhausted mother.

A disabled church visitor may be sitting all alone in the church, as many do not know how to act around that person, so they stay away.  That person may need a friend, and that is an area where one may feel burdened to fulfill that person’s need.  (By the way, everyone needs a friend.  Find a person sitting by themselves and spend time with them.)

Perhaps a Sunday school class has few students.  That would be an excellent opportunity to encourage the teacher by offering to visit neighborhoods and children to grow that ministry.

Prayer can change everything.  Hearing all the needs can burden one to change situations by calling on the Lord on behalf of others.  Summoning God’s help can make a big difference in lives.  No matter one’s handicap or situation, one can commit oneself to be a reliable, consistent prayer warrior!

Everywhere there are needs.  God did not call any Christian to sit and just look.  While you still have a breath, there are opportunities for an experienced Christian to go and help for the Glory of God.  Go, you can make a difference for the cause of Christ.

“Retire doesn’t have to mean ”to withdraw, to retreat, or to recede from life.”  It could mean to discard what used to be done, and repurpose oneself in a new, different way for the glory of God.”   — Brinkworth


Do What You Can!
Bill Btinkworth

“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.” Eccl. 9:10

When J.’s daughter approached her to make a lacy collar for her dress, as the other children had at church, J. was troubled.  She could not afford the fancy collar that was so popular among girls at the time, and she had never made anything that intricate before.

Her daughter encouraged her to make one.  “They have how-to books, Mom.  You can get the materials at the store,” the daughter suggested.

It is so hard for anyone, especially a mother, to turn down a child’s requests.  After begging God to help her do such a project, she went to the store, bought a knitting needle, and the necessary thread.  After carefully following the directions and working some of the night, the accessory for her daughter’s dress was completed.

The next morning, her daughter proudly wore the dress collar to school.  God had allowed J. to do something she never imagined she could do.

Later, a young girl approached J. with what she thought was a collar like the ones all the other girls had.  She boasted she had one like the other children, but it was only the lining from some clothing and looked nothing like what the other girls were wearing.  J. was burdened to make one for that girl also.  After some long hours and hard work, J. presented the dress accessory to the girl.  The girl was ecstatic over the love and concern that J. would make her something.

J.’s lifetime ministry had started because she saw the needs of others and allowed God to enable and use her to meet them.  Her hands were kept busy for many decades to come as one sewing need after another was shown to her.  All must have been encouraged that someone thought enough of them to give her time, and often at her own expense, to meet their needs.  She was showing many what love in action was.  What a good Christian testimony she was to so many.

Not everyone is called, burdened, or qualified to be a preacher, Sunday school teacher, music director, or to serve in some other prominent ministry in the church.  However, everyone can do something to meet the needs of others and be a good Christian testimony.  Everyone, in church and all around us, has needs.

Over the years, I have seen many who wanted to serve the Lord and make a difference in others’ lives.  They have used their skills and abilities to fix cars for widows, keep the bus ministry running, watch children for single parents, sing in the choir, visit those who are housebound due to illness, and so many other ways.  They saw a need, put their Christianity into action, and gave a most valuable gift — themselves.

The requirement to be a blessing and an encouragement to others is not so much skill, but a willing heart, and compassion to see and meet the needs in others’ lives.  Everyone needs help from time to time.  Helping others is one way to show the love of Christ to those who may have never seen Christian love in action.

It is easy to talk about loving people, but the world needs more who are willing to show it.  Helping others is one way to be the Christian example the world needs to see.  Whatever need you see, put your hand to the task and help.
“And of some have compassion, making a difference:” Jude 1:22  

“It is amazing how much God can accomplish through an imperfect person who has put all his imperfections completely at God’s disposal.”  — Author Unknown

The BIBLE VIEW #1032

In This Issue:
The Old Suitcase
I Am a Soldier!

Volume: 1032     January 5, 2026
Theme: Standing Strong

 The Old Suitcase
Bill Brinkworth

“Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.” Acts 11:14
“And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.” Acts 16:31
“And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.” Acts 16:34

To be better organized, I put all my Gospel magic in various cases.  When I use the object lessons to preach or teach to children, I always lug cases with me.  

One particular case is certainly well-worn, old, and the ugliest of them all.  Because of its sentimental value, I cannot bring myself to throw out the 80-year-old, small, two-toned, brown leather suitcase.  It reminds me well of who I used to be.

Growing up, I had a very godly grandmother.  She was my mother’s mother, and she came to visit several times a year.  Honestly, and shamefully, she was not my favorite of our two grandmothers.  There was something different about her that made me uncomfortable.  She was a Christian.

Shortly after her arrival, the little suitcase was opened, and she pulled out several copies of a Sunday school paper she had saved and gave them to me.  She would then lug out her old, battered Bible.  It would start on the nightstand next to her bed, but after her next morning’s devotions, it would be left on a table in the living room, where she read it and where its appearance haunted and troubled me.

Every time she came, her conversation turned to the things of God at least once.  Perhaps it was to correct something I had done wrong, or maybe it was, “Did you read those Sunday school papers I gave you?  What did you think?”

Her godly presence in our house often convicted me.  Things were not comfortable when she was there, even if she did not say anything about the Bible or religion.  I now know I was not saved then, and that her godly lifestyle made me feel bad and guilty.  Her presence brought me under tremendous conviction much of the time, without her having to say anything.

As I got older and after I got the polite welcomes out of the way, I made an effort to stay out of the house as much as possible when she was visiting.  I also developed an attitude toward her because of something my father said.  He roughly remarked, more than once, that she was “forcing her religion down our throats.”

Good, Dad gave me another defense to keep me from having spiritual guilt; she was wrong, and she was forcing her way of thinking on me.  Still, her presence made me uneasy.  Things went back to “normal” when she and that brown, leather suitcase were out of the house.

All her remarks and advice she gave me somehow made it through the dark crevasses of my conscience, even though I tried to prevent them from invading it.  For years, without even realizing it, I was influenced by her biblical teachings. I felt guilty when I sinned.

Her influence came to light at a particular Memorial Day parade years after she died.  I remember sitting on the steps of my rented home in Yardley, Pennsylvania, watching the parade go by.  I recalled all the successes I had already had in my young life; I was married; I had property; I owned a new truck; I had a young child.

Everything seemed to be going so well.  Then, I remembered thinking, “Grandmom was wrong.  I did get away with sin!”  Her persistence in trying to teach me God’s way had, unknowingly to me, still stayed with me.

One year later to the day, everything had changed.  Almost everything I boasted of the previous year was gone: house, marriage, and property.  All gone!  Then I realized, “Oh, no.  I did not get away with anything.  Grandmom was right!  I didn’t get away with my sin.”

It was not long until I realized my way did not work.  I was in desperate need of the right answers.  

It was then that I started reading my Bible.  In a short time, I asked Jesus to forgive me of my sins. He did and saved my soul.

The old book that I used to run away from when grandmom came was now the source of the solution to my life’s problems.  I could not wait to get home from work to read more from the same book I had previously avoided much of my life.

As I read and learned more, my thinking and life began to change.  The sinful things I used to do lost their appeal, and one by one, dropped out of my life, or at least I worked on stopping them.  Because, at that time, I was not in a good, Bible-believing church and was not around strong Christians, I did not know what was happening to me.

I thought of calling grandmom.  Surely, she would like to know about the changes in my life, and how I was reading my Bible, but I did not.  Six months went by, and I still had not called her.  Then I got my mother’s telephone call.  Grandmom had died and gone to Heaven.

With guilt in my heart, I went to the funeral.  People at the funeral told how wonderfully my grandmom had served the Lord; how she had led many to the Lord, taught Sunday school for most of her life, had knocked on doors to invite people to church, and even visited her students.  

It even turned out that after she led a person to the Lord, she wrote their name in a little book.  People repeatedly requested to look into the little book.  My grandmom had made quite a difference in many lives, including mine.

Then the preacher preached at the service.  I had heard preaching much of my life, but his words were much different.  I had never heard anything like it in my life: such truth, such power, so interesting!  

Then he did an unusual thing.  He said that my grandmother would want him to conclude her “going home service” with an invitation to invite anyone listening with an opportunity to be saved and have the same promise of Heaven she had.  

After hearing the invitation, I finally realized what had happened to me; I had been saved.  I learned right there at her funeral that I had done what God wanted me to do; I had trusted Christ as my Saviour.  I was forgiven and not forgotten by God.

It has been over 55 years since that funeral.  Grandmom’s in Heaven, and I have God’s promise that I, too, can go there and see her one day.  

All that happened because my grandmom cared about my soul.  She did not quit her godly influence, just because I was not interested at the time.  

In the end, her perseverance, daily prayers, and efforts to get me to be obedient to God paid off.  “Thanks, Grandmom, for not giving up.”

No, I do not think I will ever get rid of that old suitcase.

** I don’t think it is a coincidence that God moulded me into being a teacher and soul-winner just like my grandmother, and I have been a publisher of Sunday school papers, similar to the ones she gave me!  Her faithfulness helped make me the Christian I am.  I am glad she did not quit on me **

“Example is more forcible than precept.  People look at me six days a week to see what I mean on the seventh.”  — Cecil

I Am a Soldier!
Author Unknown

 “Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” II Timothy 2:3

I am a soldier in the army of my God.  The Lord Jesus Christ is my commanding officer.  The Holy Bible is my code of conduct.  Faith, prayer, and God’s Word are my weapons of warfare.  I have been taught by the Holy Spirit, trained by experience, tried by adversity, and tested by fire.

I am a volunteer in this army, and I have enlisted for eternity.  I will either retire at the rapture or die in this army, but I will not get out, sell out, be talked out, or be pushed out.  I am faithful, reliable, capable, and dependable.  

If my God needs me, I am there.  If He needs me in the Sunday school to teach the children or work with the youth, if He needs me to work with the adults, He can use me because I am there.

I am a soldier!  I am not a baby.  I do not need to be pampered, petted, primed, pumped, picked up, or pepped up.  I am a soldier!

No one has to call me, remind me, write me, visit me, entice me, or lure me.  I am a soldier!  I’m not a wimp.  

I am in place, saluting my King, obeying His orders, praising His name, and building His kingdom.  No one has to send me flowers, gifts, food, cards, candy, or give me handouts.  I do not need to be cuddled, coddled, cradled, cared for, or catered to.  I am committed.  I cannot have my feelings hurt badly enough to turn me around, and I cannot be discouraged enough to cause me to quit.

When Jesus called me into this army, I had nothing.  If I end up with nothing, I will still come out ahead.  If I win, it will be because of my God, and He will continue to supply all my needs.

I am more than a conqueror.  I will always triumph.   I can do all things through Christ.  

The devil cannot defeat me.  People cannot disillusion me.  Weather cannot weary me.  Sickness cannot stop me.  Battles cannot beat me.  Money cannot buy me.  Governments cannot silence me, and Hell cannot handle me.  I am a soldier!  Even death cannot destroy me.

When my commander calls me from His battlefield, He will promote me to captain and then allow me to rule with Him.  I am a soldier in His army, and I am marching and claiming the victory.  

I will not give up.  I will not turn around.  I am a soldier marching Heaven-bound.  Here I stand!  Will you stand with me?

“You have received Christ; persevere in receiving him.  You have come to trust him; keep on trusting him.  You hang about his neck as a poor, helpless sinner; remain hanging there.  Abide in Him.”  — Spurgeon

The BIBLE VIEW #1031 — False Religion

In This Issue:
Another Jesus, Spirit, and Gospel
Satan’s Successful Tactic
Look Out for False Religion
Christ, the Root

Volume: 1031     January 5, 2026
Theme: False Religion


Another Jesus, Spirit, and Gospel
Bill Brinkworth

“But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.  4 For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.” II Cor. 11:3-4

The Apostle Paul was concerned about the early church in Corinth.  He knew the devil would attempt to attack, weaken, and destroy the ministry there as he had done even to the first man and woman in the Garden of Eden.

Paul knew that the subtle enemy of God would attempt to get the fledgling church to disobey and question God, just as he had done many times previously.  The evangelist knew Satan’s tactics and how he often attacked and weakened God’s people.

Satan’s attack on God’s people today is not much different from the one on the early church.  One of his tactics is not to completely halt discussion of the things of God, but to confuse people into believing different things about what is said in the Bible.  The enemy of God is the originator of religiously correct confusion, which is similar to the secular politically correct confusion that is being forced on many today.

One of the enemy’s techniques of confusion is the “religious” acceptance of another Jesus.  This Jesus is spoken of much in modern churches.  He was born in a manger.  He died on the cross, but close examination of their religious teachings shows that He is not the same as described in the Word of God.

Although they may claim that Jesus is the only “begotten Son” of God, some also teach that Satan is Jesus’ brother, which is not scriptural.  Some flatly deny, although they claim Jesus was a good man, that he was God’s son (which false teaching is prevalent in many modern “bibles”), or that He was just a prophet or “God’s messenger.” Others deny his virgin birth, which is the way He was born sinless in the body of a man, and this unvirgin birth would make him a sinner.

Many believe another Jesus, and not the one who came to Earth to save people from the wages of their sin.  Many know of a “Jesus,” but it is not the Holy Son of God taught in God’s Word.

Another confusing ploy of the enemy is to make men believe and follow another spirit, rather than the Holy Spirit.  This false spirit is alive and at work today, as people decide to do what they think is right and good.  

Rather than obey the Holy Spirit’s leading, which is always in accordance with the Word of God, they follow the false, often unholy, spirits of man.  Some of those spirits lead people and do not convict them of their dishonesty, drunkenness, deceitfulness, immodesty, lewdness, unholy lifestyle, or other sins.  Their religion and philosophies justify the sin they are committing.  It is another spirit they are following, as the Spirit of God would not permit any iniquity.

Another gospel is also believed and obeyed (Galatians 1:7-8).  It is not the good news that Jesus died on the cross for sinners, and that His death is the only payment God will accept for any person’s sin. 

Today, many teach that obeying church rules and doctrines will get one to Heaven.  It is also preached from some pulpits that good works, religious rites, or deeds will get one to Heaven, even though the Bible clearly teaches otherwise.  Often, a religion’s man-made writings are given greater importance than the preserved Word of God.

Some even teach the false Gospel that there are many different ways to Heaven, while the true Gospel says there is only one way to Heaven and that is through Jesus (John 14:6).  Others unbiblically teach that praying to Christians of the past can get prayers answered and sins forgiven.  Man-made religion has added to or removed from the real Gospel that Jesus brought to mankind.

The true Gospel is the one God has ensured we have after all these years.  The pure Word of God has been kept for us within the pages of the King James Bible for English-speaking people (Other major languages have a copy in their language that comes from the same roots the KJV comes from.).  That Bible should be the only source of knowing the will and way of God.

There is a real, unseen spiritual battle (Ephesians 6:12) occurring everywhere.  The enemy’s goal is to send as many souls as possible to Hell or to weaken believers beyond usefulness to the cause of Christ. 

The battle can be lost by any who believes and follows the wrong Jesus, the wrong spirit, or the wrong Gospel.  Be wary!  Read your Bible for yourselves.  Learn, obey, and follow only the genuine.

“Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the Gospel of Christ.  8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.” Galatians 1:7-8

Satan’s Successful Tactic
J. Vernon McGee

When the Devil saw that persecution would not stop the church, he changed tactics.  He joined the church.  He began to hurt the church from the inside. 

He still does that today.  He attacks the validity of the Word of God and seeks to discredit the Gospel.  If that does not work, he tries to invalidate the man who preaches the Gospel. 

“You will never be able to discern false religion, unless you know the truth from God’s Word!”

Look Out for False Religion
Bill Brinkworth

In giving pastoral advice to another preacher, Titus, Paul showed us that we often face today what the early church had to be careful about.  Early churches had to be cautious of false teachers undermining the real work of God.

Paul’s warnings to Titus can help us identify some of the false preaching and teaching that goes on in pulpits today.  Some of the telltale signs of “false preachers” include:

  • They are preaching things that should not be preached or taught.  Perhaps some of what came from the pulpit was not even biblical, as happens too often in many pulpits today.  Somehow, what was said was often motivated by the preacher’s desire to make more money for himself (Titus 1:11)
  • Much of what was said ruined families.  Perhaps unwise preaching brought division, rather than unity in families and caused problems (Titus 1:11).  It may also have been doctrines that encouraged families to leave their church, and the result was that they stopped attending any ministry. 
  • Their having their own prophets (Titus 1:12) that supposedly got a “new message from God” and added their own thoughts and philosophies.  We see this today with Muslims following the teachings of their prophet, Mohammed, and the Mormons following their “prophet,” Joseph Smith.  It is also seen in other religions and denominations worldwide.
  • Their teaching of “fables, and commandments of men” (Titus 1:14).  Instead of “thus saith the Lord,” it was “thus saith the preacher” or “thus saith our religion.” We see this today with many false religions having their own religious books and teachings that get more credence than the Word of God.
  • Their works proved they were not from God (Titus 1:16).  With their mouth, they claimed they were from God, but their involvement in sin and ungodly actions were contrary to their profession.

Many claim they will not “judge” others, and we should not either.  However, we are to discern right from wrong and keep far away from what God does not approve of.  False religion is one danger we need to recognize as not being of God, and avoid it before damage is done to our thinking, testimony, and our Christian walk.

“There are only two types of religions: ‘do’ or ‘done’.  It’s either doing something to earn salvation to get God’s approval, or it was all done already on the cross by Jesus.”

Christ, the Root
C. H. Spurgeon

The Sandwich Islanders had been converted through some of our missionaries, and the Gospel had been preached to them for years.  One day, two or three gentlemen in long black gowns landed there, and the people asked why they had come.  They said they had come to instruct them in the true faith and to teach them.

The islanders said they would be glad to hear it if their teaching were true and scriptural.  By and by, a little diagram was exhibited to the natives after the similitude of a tree.

That tree had many branches.  The twigs, which were farthest off from the trunk, were the different believers who do good works.  The limbs, which were a little larger, were the priests; the bigger boughs were bishops; the biggest boughs were the cardinals; and, at last, those all were joined to the trunk, which was the Pope, and that went all the way down to the bottom, until it came to Peter, who was the root, deriving his authority from Christ.

The natives asked about all thoe twigs and branches, and especially about certain rotten branches that were tumbling off into a fire.  Who were they?  “They were Luther and Calvin, and other heretics who had been cut off from the true tree of the church,” the men in black robes claimed.

“Well,” said one of the islanders, ”what is the root of the tree?”

That was allowed to be Jesus Christ.  The islanders clapped their hands at once for joy, and said, “Never mind about the branches, and stems, and twigs.  We have never heard of them, but we have got the Root and that will do to grow on.”  Soon. they ignored what those men tried to teach them that were contrary to the Bible.  They had the Truth!

In like manner, brethren, we can still say, if we have Christ, we have “the root out of the dry ground (Isa. 53:2).” We have the Root of salvation.