Tag: Hardships

The BIBLE VIEW #1023 — Difficulties

In This Issue:
Why Me?
The “Bad” Times
A Shelter in The Time of Storm

Volume: 1023   October 27, 2025
Theme:  Difficulties

Why Me?
Bill Brinkworth

Even if a person is well-educated, lives a good life, has wealth, and may be able to protect themself, but lives in a bad neighborhood, it does not guarantee they will be exempt from lawlessness.  It is a crime-ridden neighborhood, and all who reside there will most likely have terrible things happen at some time.

It is the same for good Christian people in this world.  Earth is a sin-infested place where we reside.   All who live here will be affected or involved in iniquity because of the “neighborhood”  where they reside.  

The hardships encountered by living here may include financial, health, accidents, social, and many other areas.  There will be problems that happen to all of us at some point in our lives.  Many of the difficulties and bad experiences are because we live in a cursed residence.
“And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; 18 Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field;  19 In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.” Genesis 3:17-19
“The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant.6 Therefore hath the curse devoured the earth, and they that dwell therein are desolate: therefore the inhabitants of the earth are burned, and few men left.” Isaiah 24:5-6

Christian souls may be saved, and we may be doing much better than our neighbors, but all will encounter the consequences of iniquity from our own weaknesses or those committed by others.   Nowhere in the Bible does it say that followers of Christ will not have problems as a result of sin.
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” Romans 3:23
“Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:” Romans 5:12

Do not expect not to have problems.  We are all born sinners; that is why we need to be saved.  All will be affected by sin’s side effects.
“Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble.” Job 14:1
“Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:” Romans 5:12

So, why are bad things happening to you?  Not only are you a sinner and possibly reaping the repercussions of your iniquities, but you live in a sin-oppressed world.  Sin hurts everyone, even the innocent.  Believers are not exempt from its terrible consequences.
“For all his days are sorrows, and his travail grief; yea, his heart taketh not rest in the night.  This is also vanity.” Ecclesiastes 2:23

As overpowering as the plague of sin on all is, Christians can have protection during iniquity’s storms.  We can limit what happens to us by living a God-centered and God-lead life. 

If waves from wickedness do crash spray over your life’s bow, it is a time to draw near the Master of the Sea to help you through sin’s gale.  He may be using that trial to make you a stronger Christian.  It is not time to abandon ship!

“He who knows no hardships will know no hardihood.  He who faces no calamity will need no courage.  Mysterious though it is, the characteristics in human nature which we love best grow in a soil with a strong mixture of trouble.” — Harry Emerson Fosdick

The “Bad” Times
Bill Brinkworth

No one likes troubles, trials, and tribulations, but we all will or have had them.  Since we will all encounter them in our lives, it only makes sense to view them properly.

God often sends “bad” incidents to make us into what He desires us to be.  They will teach us lessons in life’s school that will never leave us the same.  It can be for this reason that God preserved the words in James 1:2-4:“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; [trials] Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.  But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”

We are to take these challenging times as a “joyful time”?  How can anything as miserable as some have experienced be joyful?  Usually, the lesson is learned and thankfulness is appreciated after the fire is passed through and when we’re out on the other side of calamity.  It is then that we can have “joy”.

After one goes through so many “temptations” and remembers how they benefited from those experiences, one can easily develop the right attitude the next time unpleasantness comes into view.  “Ah, I don’t like the class, but the lesson I will learn will be worth it.” That is joy.

The Bible gives us many different reasons why hard times come into our lives.  Those amidst trials learn many lessons.  Some did not learn their lesson the first time they took the “course.”  Later on, they faced more difficult training further down life’s path because they had never learned it previously.

Sometimes tempestuous times are meant to strengthen us.  We can be made stronger when we are awed at His deliverance from the impossible.  When we get to that point, we can look back and say, “Only God could have gotten me through that”.
“He is thy praise, and he is thy God, that hath done for thee these great and terrible things, which thine eyes have seen.” Deuteronomy 10:212

At other times, our turbulent trials build our faith after we see what God has done.  After passing through enough testing and remembering how we were delivered in the past, we have faith that He will guide us through the next time.
“Only fear the LORD, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you.” I Samuel 12 24

Part of what happens when our faith is strengthened is that we are taught.  We learn more about Him, what He can or will not do, and His other character traits when we see God work in our lives.

There are many lessons to be learned from life’s trials.  When Israel was led through the wilderness, they learned to fear and follow God.  Jonah’s experience also taught him to obey – the first time.  

Paul’s blinding experience on the road to Damascus taught him that there is only one way to please God, and that it is God’s way, not the traditions or religions of man.  After Jesus healed a blind man from a lifetime of darkness, the man came to know of His power.

All these events changed the lives of those going through what they initially thought were unwanted times.  What would they have been like if they had not experienced them?

Reading the Scriptures, one can easily see how hard times were used to teach God’s people how He could protect them.  God has used hornets, earthquakes, darkness, disease, fear, and water, to name a few, to guard and direct His own.  What an unforgettable lesson must have been learned when they got to see the mighty works of their protective Father.

Hard times can also direct us.  The trials we go through often change the direction we are going and put us on the course God desires – much like the road detour no one likes.  

If our route had not been changed, we would have ended up in the construction workers’ freshly dug trench, possibly damaging our vehicle and ourselves.  The many extra miles were worth the aggravation we could have faced in the body shop or even in the hospital.  When we look back on what could have happened, we can be joyful about what did not occur and are thankful for His direction.

Certainly, tough times can change us.  Jonah’s attitude was surely changed after his stay in the whale’s belly.  Saul had a new perspective about persecuted Christians after he was one.  

Joseph was certainly appreciative of all the hardships he endured after recognizing how they prepared him for his future.  We can lose all our self-righteousness and self-worth in a short hurry when we face trials and realize that in those times, only God can make a difference.

Not all trials are punishment of God, but some are.  Our miseries can be an act of God to correct us when we do wrong.  A proper punishment will change wrong behavior and quickly.  

When God’s people were doing wrong, God sent enemies, bondage, plagues, and other deterrents to change their mindset.  Parents sometimes have to punish their child for wrong behavior; our heavenly Father sometimes needs to do so also.

Not too many people get excited when terrible things happen to them, but if you have not already learned, there is much to be learned from the “bad times.”   Not one spiritual, close-to-God Christian got that way without going through a lot of heartache.  Sometimes the most spiritual have gone through the most.  Hard times can have a positive effect on us if we learn our lesson properly.



A Shelter in The Time of Storm
A Hymn by Vernon Charlesworth

The Lord’s our rock, in Him we hide,
A shelter in the time of storm;
Secure whatever ill betide,
A shelter in the time of storm.
Refrain:
Oh, Jesus is a rock in a weary land,
A weary land, a weary land;
Oh, Je­sus is a rock in a weary land,
A shel­ter in the time of storm.

A shade by day, defense by night,
A shelter in the time of storm;
No fears alarm, no foes af­fright,
A shel­ter in the time of storm.
Refrain:

The raging storms may round us beat.
A shelter in the time of storm
We’ll never leave our safe retreat,
A shelter in the time of storm.
Refrain:

O rock divine, O refuge dear,
A shelter in the time of storm;
Be Thou our helper ever near,
A shelter in the time of storm.
Refrain:

The BIBLE VIEW #1009 — Hard Times

In This Issue:
Reasons for Hard Times
Difficulties One Can Face
Different Temptations
Health Problems

Volume: 1009   June 16, 2025
Theme: Hard Times

Sunday School Teachers & Preachers: There are hundreds of free lessons at http://www.openthoumineeyes.com/lessons.html and http://www.devotionsfromthebible.com/.  One commentary for each New Testament chapter can also be used for lessons at http://www.openthoumineeyes.com/blog/.  You can be assured that all material uses only the KJV (most other Sunday School material from other companies cannot claim that)!

Reasons for Hard Times
Bill Brinkworth

Everyone has difficulties and tribulations at one time or the other.  There is no promise from God that believers are exempt from having hardships.  Ordeals still rain on “the just and on the unjust” (Matthew 5:45).

It does not necessarily mean that a person facing some misery is out of the will of God.  Jesus healed a man of blindness in John 9.  Jesus’ disciples asked Him if the man’s blindness was because of some sin he or his parents had committed.  

Christ responded that there was another reason for the man’s infirmity.  It was so God could get the glory in healing the man.  God certainly was honored when the man was able to see.
“Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.” John 9:3

There can be many other reasons why a person may be going through hard times.  According to God’s Word, they can include:

  • To move a person to where God wants him or to change that person for future use, as in the story of Joseph.
  • To strengthen a person, as in the story of Job.
  • To separate a person from things God wants him separated from, as in the story of Noah.
  • To teach a person a lesson he needs to learn, as in the stories of Jonah and David.
  • To get that person close to and reliant on God, as in the story of Lazarus.

Not all trials are God’s wrath on a person.  Much of the time, life’s difficulties are a loving God’s intervention in a person’s life for their best!

“Your disappointments may be God’s appointments.”

Difficulties One Can Face
Bill Brinkworth

When we get saved, we are expected to serve the Lord who saved us.  We are not to sit and just soak up God’s goodness. 

We should do as the  Lord commands us: to go and tell others the messages from God’s Word, spiritually feed ourselves, have a relationship with the Lord, and do whatever else the Lord lays on our hearts.  To some, these seem to be simple tasks, but many know those “simple” things can cause us a lot of grief when we try to do them.

The Scripture in Matthew 10 tells the disciples that Jesus had just explained their responsibilities.  They were warned that it would not be easy to tell others what they had learned from Christ. 

Although it was addressed to the disciples reaching Israel, there is much that they faced that if we try to live and do right, we can also expect to deal with, including persecution and resistance.  Here are some of the things that we can expect in our lives if we strive to be good Christians and do what we are told:

  • Some will not receive the message of the Scriptures (vs. 14).  Not everyone will jump for joy when they are told what the Word of God says.  We probably were not excited the first time we heard the truths from God’s Word either.
  • There will be problems from the “religious.”  Not everyone who has a “form of godliness” is a Christian.  It was a religious group that tried the hardest to silence Christ.  They did not want anyone exposing that their “religion” was contrary to what was taught in the Bible (vss. 16-17).  

    Many of the “religious” today also do not want to hear the truth.  They choose to believe only their traditions and interpretations.
  • The secular government will oppose many efforts to reach the world with the government of God.  After all, many government officials think their rules and laws are what the world needs.  They do not understand how a good Christian life can solve man’s needs and problems.  The government was much involved in Jesus’ murder.
  • There may be conflicts in a family when a member gets saved and lives differently than one did before (vs. 21).
  • A Christian may be hated for how he lives (vs. 22).  It’s amazing how the world “understands” and tolerates criminals, but those living right often get more criticism and hatred than those purposely doing wrong. 

    Perhaps it is the godly example that convicts and troubles their consciences.  The only way they can silence their troubled convictions is to get rid of the messenger rather than change themselves!

It was difficult for these men to stand and live for Christ.  It is not easy today, which is probably why so many do not do it.  Many quit when the going gets tough!  One cannot “quit” being a Christian if one is one.  He can only stop being a good testimony of a living God.

“Following God’s directions are the only way to get safely home.”

Different Temptations
Bill Brinkworth

James, who many believe to be the brother of Jesus, gives practical advice in his writing in James 1. One of the most sensible and oft-visited situations for all people, including believers, is discussed here.  The “good” side of going through difficulties is examined in verses 2-6.

James identifies the difficulties, trials, and enticements all face as “divers temptations.”  Although most initially shudder at even the thought of going through different problems, James exposes what can be positively gained by going through our individual “valleys.”  Instead of agreeing on how terrible it is to have problems, James encourages Christians to “… count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;” (vs. 2).

How could anyone be joyful when facing joblessness, heartaches, financial problems, family problems, or the thousands of difficulties we all face in our lifetime?  James tells us we can be “joyful” because:

  • The trying of our faith during the hard times builds our patience (vs. 3).  Since there usually is not much we can do but wait until the trial passes, we learn to patiently wait and trust in the Lord during those hard times.
  • The practical lessons on patience we learn build a good Christian into a “tested” believer.  Most of us have some person in our life that we have observed as more spiritual than ourselves.  We are often amazed at how cool, calm, and patient they are when they face difficulties. 

    They did not wake up one morning and decide to be patient for the rest of their lives.  They got that way because they went through hard times, got close to God, and saw that His help was sufficient to deliver and guide them.  The next time they faced an unfavorable situation, they remembered all He had done in the past and did not get frazzled.  Their learned patience (vs. 4) built their character and trust in the Lord.
  • When we go through a “temptation,” we go to the Lord in prayer more than we ever had before.  In doing so, we get closer to the Lord, see how He supplies wisdom on handling our trial (vs. 5), and have the potential to increase our faith.

Trials and tribulations are not something anyone desires to go through, but after going through many of them and drawing close to God during those times, we can learn that they are not so bad.  The valley of “temptation” can be joyous as our God guides us through the treacherous pathways. 

“… for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”  Nehemiah 8:10

Health Problems
Bill Brinkworth

Paul was a man used greatly by God.  With God’s helping hand, that evangelist survived shipwrecks, beatings, persecutions, imprisonments, and other ill-treatment.  With God’s miraculous help, that man was used in healings, revivals, and many miracles.  However, as used of God as he was, Paul still had a personal ailment (II Cor. 12:7)

Commentators have strained at attempting to name Paul’s “thorn in the flesh.”  God has chosen not to make it clear to us what it was.  

No matter what it was, Paul made it clear that it was an infirmity he faced.  Three times Paul pleaded with God to remove the malady from him (II Cor. 12:8).  God’s answer was “…My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness …” (II Cor. 12:9).

Here was a man who had seen glorious things in the third Heaven (II Cor. 12:2-4) and had been delivered from many horrible things, yet God wanted Paul to experience this physical problem.  God could have easily healed his body, but His answer was that God’s grace was enough for him to live with the problem and that Paul’s infirmity would be a vehicle to make him spiritually stronger.

If God would allow one of His great spiritual warriors to face such a battle, we should not be surprised if we face problems.  As with most trials, we can do one of two things when going through testing.  We can either shake our fists at God and be angry with him, which is not the wise thing to do when we need Him the most, or get close to Him and rely on Him to get us through the struggle.

Paul chose not to be foolish and get angry at God.  He decided that if God allowed him to go through the problem, he would have a good attitude about it (II Cor. 12:10) and give Him the glory.  In doing so, Paul learned exactly what God wanted him to get out of the situation: that when he was weak, he was the strongest through God’s help (vs. 10)!

“Some cry, ‘Why me?’ when they go through a trial.  My question to them is, ‘Why wouldn’t it be you?  Are you something special that you are the only person in the world that shouldn’t have problems or sicknesses?’”

The BIBLE VIEW #977 — Why?

In This Issue:
There Is A Reason
… But God Had Different Plans

Volume: 977    October 4, 2024
Theme: Why?

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There Is A Reason
Bill Brinkworth

While walking my four-footed friend, Buddi, I almost walked into a thread from which a one-inch green worm descended.  It hung 10 feet from a hanging oak branch.  The barely noticeable thread was used to safely lower the creature that distance.

As I watched the creature work, he struggled and wiggled.  His efforts, however, seemingly did nothing to lower him, let alone the five more feet to the ground.  Finally, he was still, but to my surprise, more thread was quickly produced from his posterior, and he was lowered safely and speedily to the ground.  After touching the ground, he wiggled away as if nothing had happened.

How similar is that creature’s 15-foot journey to what many experience.  Life often throws serious obstacles in the way of many.  They start out attempting to deal with the situation.  There may be some progress, but shortly they quit.

As the little worm experienced, many attempts to remedy a bad situation do not seem to get anywhere.  People struggle; they wrestle with the problem the best they can, but soon, they get tired and stop.  Then, out of nowhere, it seems the problem is solved, and they glide gently through the situation they never thought they would conquer.

For a Christian, a daunting situation is often when God will allow a change in one’s life.  Nothing that happens to us is a surprise to God.  He always has a plan for us that we often do not recognize.

Some believe life’s catastrophes are a punishment allowed by God.  For some, they may be.  The unpleasant predicament may be a price-tag for doing wrong, disobedience, or even sin.  Hopefully, the struggle will get the person’s attention, and they will change the direction they are going.

Years ago, my friend Kenny fell off a high ladder.  As he lay there knowing parts of his body were broken, he immediately went to God in prayer and asked, “Is this accident for something I have done or haven’t done?”  When no reminder of wrongdoing evaded his thought life, Kenny quickly assumed the fall would have another purpose in his life and prepared to endure what the Lord allowed.

For others, the challenge may be for another purpose.  The reasons can be different for each person.  No one should assume they know why a person has the trials they are experiencing.  Only God knows the real reason!
“When men are cast down, then thou shalt say, There is lifting up; and he shall save the humble person.” Job 22:29

Some may go through fires of tribulation to teach a lesson requiring trust or patience for future benefits.  For others, the trial may move one in another direction, to keep them from further hurt from an unseen future calamity, the consequences of living in a sin-cursed world (sin often hurts more than the sinner), to use their character to show others how they should react in a similar situation, or many other reasons.
“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:” I Peter 5:6
“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you.” James 4:10

As the wiggling inchworm soon figured out, when attempts to fix a situation are seemingly for naught, relax and trust God to do what He will.  Do not develop a blame-God-attitude, but trust, be patient, and have faith that His leadership in handling the bad situation will bring glory to God and be for your best.

“He who knows no hardships will know no hardihood.  He who faces no calamity will need no courage.  Mysterious though it is, the characteristics in human nature which we love best grow in a soil with a strong mixture of trouble.”  
— Harry Emerson Fosdick

… But God Had Different Plans
Bill Brinkworth

We all, at one time or another, have had hard times.  Sometimes, those difficulties are caused by a group or an individual.  It seems that they are in control and changing the direction of one’s life. 

However, even if situations are meant to hamper or hurt, there could be a good result in the future.  Joseph in Genesis can certainly attest to that. 

The young man could not help that his father, Israel, favored him.  Israel’s blessings on his son made Joseph’s siblings quite jealous.  Their jealousy festered, and their hearts became bitter to the innocent younger brother.  It was not long until their bitterness resulted in their throwing the boy into a pit.  An opportunity arose, and they sold their sibling into slavery.

From there, many hardships happened to the teenager.  Joseph was sold in Egypt to Potiphar.  There, he served his master, but “.. the Lord was with Joseph…” (Genesis 39:1).  He was in a bad situation, but God had a purpose for the boy.

Later, a lie from Potiphar’s wife got Joeseph thrown into prison.  Even in this horrible situation, “… the Lord was with Joseph…” (Gen. 39:21).

While in prison and after some time, God used Joseph.  After a series of God-directed events, Joseph became second in command over Egpyt. 

Joseph spared Egypt and his family from a consuming famine using his new lofty leadership role.  All the terrible happenings in his life were to place him where God would use him to help many. 

Those hard times may have been intended to abuse and use him, but the hand of God allowed those circumstances to put Joseph in the place where the Lord needed him.  As the powerful man stood before his family, Joseph was able to say to his brothers, “Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life.” (Gen. 45:5  Also: Gen. 45:7, 8).  Joseph realized that God had plans for him and put him in the right place by allowing him to face some difficulties.

Others have also found themselves facing unfair treatment, as did Joseph.  While wearied and discouraged from tumultuous trials, they also discovered that God used events to put them in a position where God could use them.

God allowed Satan to do his worst to the godly Job.  After perhaps a year of losing possessions and having friends and family turn against the non-wavering child of God, Job was blessed with much more than he originally had.
“And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before.” Job 42:10

Moses remembered all the years Israel faced hardship and servitude in Egypt.  Still, he saw how God dealt with the pharaoh and the Egyptians in His timing.  Israel then saw that their prayers for freedom were answered as God led them to a land He had for them.
“… 4 Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself.” Exodus 19:3-4

God used the hatred of the Jews,  the cruelty of Roman soldiers, and the betrayal of Judas to give us eternal hope because of Jesus’ death.  God’s only Son was beaten, mocked, embarrassed, and nailed to the cross so that sinners would have an acceptable payment to cover their sins.  We are blessed because of His sacrifice, and now Jesus sits on the right hand of God.

The apostle Paul also was on the receiving end of unfair treatment.  However, what seemed like misfortune on his part, God used those methods to make him a witness in Rome.
“And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said,  Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome.” Acts 23:11

We should also recognize that perhaps something happening in our life is ordered by the Lord.  A child of God was bought by the price of His Son’s blood.  If born-again into His family, we are His.  God will use His own as he sees fit.
“For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” I Corinthians 6:20  Also: I Cor. 7:23.

So, child of God, first examine yourself if you find yourself in trying times.  Are you reaping what you have sowed in sin’s field, and maybe you are facing iniquity’s consequences?  Is it possible that you are not a child of God, and He is using your situation to get you to turn to Him for salvation?  If you are sure of your salvation, is God trying to get your attention to change your course?

If self-examination does not reveal any reasons, it may be quite possible that you are in the same boat as the above heroes of the faith were and where many other Christians have found themselves.  It may be God has future plans for you, and He is moving you to a place where He can use you.
“Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.  4 The LORD hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.”  Proverbs 16:3-4

Be encouraged, Christian, if you find yourself in a similar situation like so many others had.  You are on the winning side, so be patient, always do right, and wait for the Lord to use you the way He desires.
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

“God has one Son without sin, but he never had a son without trial.”
— Spurgeon

The BIBLE VIEW #964— Hard Times

In This Issue:
Why Me? 
In Moody’s Bible
God Knows the Way
The “Bad” Times

Volume: 964      July 1, 2024
Theme: Hard Times

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Why Me?
Bill Brinkworth

Paul was a man used greatly by God.  With God’s helping hand, this evangelist survived shipwrecks, beatings, persecutions, imprisonments, and other ill-treatments.  With God’s miraculous help, this man was used in healings, revivals, and many miracles.  However, as used of God as he was, Paul still had a personal aliment (II Corinthians 12: 7)

Commentators have strained at attempting to identify Paul’s “thorn in the flesh.”  God has chosen not to make clear to us what it was.  No matter what it was, Paul made it clear that it was an infirmity he faced.  Three times, Paul pleaded with God to remove the malady from him (II Cor 12. 8).  God’s answer was “… My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness…” (II Cor. 12: 9).

Here was a man who had seen glorious things in the third Heaven (vs. 2-4) and had been delivered from many horrible things, yet God wanted Paul to experience this physical problem.  God could have easily healed his body, but His answer was that His grace was enough for him to live with the problem and that Paul’s infirmity would be a vehicle to make him spiritually stronger.

If God would allow one of His great spiritual warriors to face such a battle, we, too, should not be surprised if we face health problems or other problems.  As with most trials, we can do one of two things when going through testing.  We can either shake our fists at God and be angry with Him, which is not the wise thing to do when we need Him the most, or get close to Him and rely on Him to get us through the struggle.

Paul chose not to be foolish and get angry at God.  He decided that if God allowed him to go through the problem, he would have a good attitude about it (vs. 10) and give God the glory.  In doing so, Paul was learning precisely what God wanted him to learn: that when he was weak, he was the strongest with God’s help (vs. 10)!

Some cry, “Why me?” when they go through a trial.  My question to them is, “Why shouldn’t it be you?”


In Moody’s Bible
Dr. Harry Ironside

In the margin of Moody’s Bible, opposite Phillippians 4:19, I found his notes there:

  • “The Christian’s banknote: from the bank’s President — ‘My God’.
  • Promise to pay —  ‘Shall supply’.
  • The amount — ‘all you need’.
  • The bank’s capital — ‘according to his riches in glory.’
  • The cashier’s name — ‘Christ Jesus’”.

Moody noted that the amount was left blank for each to write in the measure of his need.  Fortunately, Heaven’s bank is always available.  The Cashier is always present.  The capital of the bank has never been impaired.

The Christian is to ask, according to his present need, and must use at once the riches provided.  Christ’s promises are more than beautiful sentiments to be hung on the wall for decorative purposes.  They are not intended as life savers for use only in time of shipwreck.  There is no excuse for spiritual poverty in the presence of such divine provision.

“But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:19


God Knows the Way
Author Unknown

God knows the way of the righteous,
Even though it be dark and drear,
He knows when we’re tired and weary,
Our burdens to heavy to bear;
We ask, as the shadows lengthen,
“Lord, lift Thou this burden of care!”
And often, His voice replieth,
“My child, I placed it for you there!
With grace that is all-sufficient,
That you might grow stronger in Me,
So trust, weary child, your Father,
He knoweth and careth for thee!”

“When life knocks you to your knees, pray there.”

The “Bad” Times
Bill Brinkworth

No one likes troubles, trials, and tribulations, but we all will or have had them.  Since we will all encounter them in our lives, viewing them in the proper light only makes sense.

Those “bad” times many times are sent by God to make us into what He desires us to be.  They will teach us lessons in life’s school that will never leave us the same.  It can be for this reason God preserved the words in James 1:2-4:
“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; [trials] Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.  But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”

We are to take these challenging times as “joyful times.”  How can anything as miserable as some have experienced be joyful?  Usually, a lesson is learned, and thankfulness is realized after the fire of tribulation is passed through – when we’re out on the other side of the calamity.  It is then we can have “joy.”

After one goes through so many “temptations” and remembers how they benefited from those experiences, one can develop the right attitude the next time unpleasantness comes into view.  “Ah, I don’t like the class, but the lesson I will learn will be worth it.”

The Bible gives us many reasons why hard times come into our lives.  Those amidst trials learn many lessons:

  • Some did not learn their lesson when taking the “course”.  Later, they faced more challenging training further down life’s path because they never learned it the first time.
  • Sometimes, those tempestuous times are meant to strengthen us.  We can be made stronger when awed at His deliverance from the impossible.  When we reach that point, we can look back and say, “Only God could have gotten me through that”.
    “He is thy praise, and he is thy God, that hath done for thee these great and terrible things, which thine eyes have seen.” Deut. 10:21
  • Other times, our turbulent trials build our faith after seeing what God has done.  After passing through enough tests and remembering how we were delivered in the past, we have faith that He will guide us through the next difficulty.
    “Only fear the LORD, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you.”  I Samuel 12:24
  • Part of what happens when our faith is strengthened is that we are taught.  We learn more about Him, what He can and will not do, and His other character traits when we see God work.

Many lessons can be taught from life’s trials.  When they were led through the wilderness, Israel learned to fear and obey God.  Jonah’s experience also taught him to follow – the first time.  Paul’s blinding experience on the road to Damascus taught him there was only one way to please God, and it was His way, not the traditions or religions of man.  After Jesus healed the blind man from a lifetime of darkness, the man learned of His power.  All these events changed the lives of the ones going through what they had originally thought were unwanted times.  What would they have been like if they didn’t go through them?

Certainly, tough times can change us.  Jonah’s attitude changed after his stay in the whale’s belly.  Saul had a new perspective on persecuted Christians after he was one.  Joseph certainly appreciated all the hardships he went through when he saw how it prepared him for his future.  We can lose all our self-righteousness in a hurry when we face trials and realize that only God can make a difference during those times.

Reading the Scriptures, one can quickly see how the hard times were used to teach God’s people how He could protect them.  God used hornets, earthquakes, darkness, disease, fear, and water, to name a few, to guard and direct His own.  What an unforgettable lesson must have been learned when they saw the mighty works of their protective Father.

Hard times can also direct us.  The trials we go through many times change our direction and put us on the course He desires – much like the detour that no one likes.  If the detour did not change our route, we would end up in the construction workers’ freshly dug trench, possibly damaging our vehicle and ourselves.  The many extra miles were worth the aggravation we could have faced in the body shop or the hospital.  When we look back on what could have happened, we can be joyful about what did not occur and thankful for God’s direction.

Not all trials are punishment from God, but some are.  Our miseries can be an act of God to correct us when we do wrong.  A suitable punishment will change wrong behavior – and quickly.  When God’s people were doing wrong, God sent enemies, bondage, plagues, and a host of other deterrents to change their mindset.  Parents sometimes have to punish their children for wrong behavior; our heavenly Father sometimes needs to do this, too.

Not too many people get excited when terrible things happen to them, but as you will learn if you have not already, there is much to be learned from the “bad times.”  Not one spiritual and close-to-God Christian got that way without going through many heartaches.  Sometimes, the most spiritual have gone through the most.  There is a connection.  Hard times can have a positive effect on us if we learn our lesson properly.

The BIBLE VIEW #935 — Why?

In This Issue:
Lord, What Would You Have Me Do?
Why Do I Have to Be on The Leash?
Lord, Why Am I in This Storm?”

Volume: 935     December 4, 2023
Theme: Why?

Read the FREE typeset version of this newsletter at https://openthoumineeyes.com/newsletters.html (Click on #935).  Use it for your church bulletin inserts or as a ministry handout.


Lord, What Would You Have Me Do?
Bill Brinkworth

“A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.” Proverbs 16:9

In this treasure trove of God’s wisdom, Proverbs 16:9 explains why some of what is happening in lives is often not understood.  The reason, especially for the child of God, may be God is directing one’s path in the direction He knows is best for them.

We often have plans and goals, but many times they do not coincide with what God’s will for our lives is.  Some dream of being a doctor, nurse, pilot, police officer, or what they are interested in doing, but never consider what God has for them to do.

No one knows us better than God, and he may know that the direction we desire for ourselves may hurt and keep us from what is best for us.  Each of us has unique abilities, and only God knows what they are and where they should best be exercised in this needy world.

As a visually handicapped person may need more guidance than a seeing-eye dog or a prodding white cane, so do we.  We think we know best but are often blind to what is good for us.  Unsure and unknowingly, we stumble through life searching for what to do.

When we are about to make wrong steps in harmful directions, it is then that the Lord may step in and redirect us.  Often, we may not like where we are going, but trusting faith should reason with us that Father knows best.  God’s way will be better for us than we could ever have imagined.

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.” Psalm 37:23
“For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.” Psalm 91:11
“He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber.”
Psalm 121:3


Why Do I Have to Be on The Leash?
Bill Brinkworth

“C’mon, girl, let’s go for a walk,” I beckoned to the tail-wagging Labrador Retriever.

After I clipped the short leash to her collar, I walked off, expecting her to follow.  Quickly, I realized there was no dog on the other end.  Buddi had tucked her head and slipped out of her collar.

“Hmmm.” I put the collar back on, with the leash still clipped on.  As I again tried to take her for a walk, she firmly sat, refusing to go. 

Her tail wagged seriously.  She apparently wanted to roam the walking path, but did not want to be hooked to the restricting tether.  Buddi wanted to run wherever she wanted to go in the woods.

Then we had the master to dog talk.  “Listen, Buddi, I see you want to go out,” her tail wagged in agreement, “but you must be on the leash.  You don’t understand what could happen out there without my protection.  Why a snake could strike you as you curiously inspect a slithering reptile that you have never seen before.  Or you could walk in some tall weeds and pick up a load of ticks.  If you go to the wrong place, you just might get sprayed by Mr. Skunk near the grapes.  Buddi, this leash is for your protection.  I can guide you safely as we walk if you would  trust me to lead you.”

Folks, and even Christians, are much like the rebellious dog.  They do not want anyone telling them what to do, especially God.  Why?  They believe his commandments will dampen their style, although most have never read about His will and way found in the Bible.  Many see God’s commandments as a leash limiting their freedom and “fun.”

What little they know about God’s requirements may have been heard from an unreliable source.  Often, they may have heard part of His Word or never stopped to consider the context of the Bible verse.  Quickly, they jump to a conclusion that is not biblical.  Even if they hear a clear biblical commandment, they still will not obey their Creator.

Most people are naturally rebellious to anyone telling them what to do.  Many give little credence to certain laws, what parents say, school rules, employer’s requirements, and anyone else that hampers their doing their own “thing.”

However, God is not like anyone else.  He created man.  He knows humanity’s limitations, what lurks unseen in their lives that will hurt them, and what will help them.  The watch care offered by our Maker is for our good.  

God’s “leash” is not meant to be burdensome.  His guiding help is from an all-seeing and knowing God who wants to keep us safe and help us.  Our aimless, often temptation-led life can lead us to harm.  He loves us more than we can imagine and wants the best for us.

Follow God’s will and way for a productive and better life.  Lose the rebellious attitude and obey the One that only desires what will help and bless you!



Lord, Why Am I in This Storm?”
Bill Brinkowrth

“By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.  3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” Romans 5:2-5

Every single person has struggles.  What God allows in a person’s life often is meant to help them grow closer, stronger, and more reliant on the Lord. 

The trials another is going through may not seem to be so bad to others, but God knows that it is what is needed to test their mettle.  After successfully going through their trials, they will be able to face future storms that are allowed in their life and even encourage those with similar experiences. 

I was better able to realize the importance of our going through trials and tribulations after examining a picture of a lighthouse.  That one particular lighthouse was engulfed in waves, yet it still upheld its important purpose and was where it would do the most good.

A lighthouse is a tall structure that houses a bright light for sea-going vessels to see.  In the darkest of nights or piercing through stormy weather, ships can immediately know that they are getting close to a shoreline or dangerous, submerged rocks by seeing the tower’s warning beacon.

Although most lighthouses were constructed high above any danger from a storm’s crashing waves, this one was not.  This particular lighthouse was barely above sea level, where it often was battered by ocean waves.

The picture I saw was of the La Jument Lighthouse in northwestern France.  It was constructed in a place where there were many shipwrecks.  Between 1888 and 1904, there were 31 wrecks in the lighthouse’s area.  A wealthy French man, who almost experienced death in a shipwreck, knew how vital the lighthouse would be and financed its construction.

Because of its dangerous location and tumultuous engulfing waves, the beacon was started in 1904 but was not finished until 1911.  Its foundation was hewn in solid rock and barely stood out of the water.  There are times that the 154-foot-tall tower is battered by 65 to 97-foot waves.  Many pictures have been taken of the lighthouse boldly standing with waves appearing to cover the beacon completely.

Despite its construction’s hardships, it still stands and has saved many lives and shipwrecks.  It was a savior to many because it was built where it was most needed.  If it did not experience all the violent waves it has, it would not be where it could warn and spare so many lives.

Like the La Jument lighthouse, those Christians who have faced tremendous hardships, trials, weathered their “storms,” and are still standing are an important encouragement and boost to the hope and faith of many around them.  If they had not gone through such difficult times, they may not have been the “light” that gives others hope and inspiration to withstand their storms.  Most may not know why they faced so many difficulties, but God may have used their experiences to guide others to safe harbors.

Observing eyes are often on those who proclaim to be children of God.  They are often scrutinized for their behavior through trials and difficulties.  When they react like the unsaved and scream, holler, and curse when in the pit of despair, the name of “Christian” gets one more black eye as they are a poor testimony. 

However, those who have their foundations anchored when in adversity enable them to continue to stand proud and tall after being bludgeoned by what the world recognizes as terrible experiences.  They are the “lighthouses” that shine through the gloom of affliction.  They are the ones who can give others hope that they, too, can weather their storms.

The survivors of tremendous adversity also show that a foundation based on biblical principles can help others weather through whatever they have to face.  Their perseverance and strength prove that Christ can lead the way through whatever a person faces.

The pounding “waves” in your life can either make you shake your fist at God or draw you closer to Him for His help.  How does the world see you faring through your trials? 

Is your perseverance through what God has allowed you to experience a beacon of hope and victory, or is it making it clear that you have no expectation or directing “light” to guide you through your trials?  Be a La Jument Lighthouse and show that God can give you the strength to withstand your ordeal.
“The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.”  Psalm 18:2

“He who knows no hardships will know no hardihood.  He who faces no calamity will need no courage.  Mysterious though it is, the characteristics in human nature which we love best grow in a soil with a strong mixture of trouble”  
— Harry Enersib Fosdick

The BIBLE VIEW #922 —Afflictions

In This Issue:
There May Be A Time
Afflictions Have Their Purpose
The Dog of Affliction
Gaining Compassion

Volume: 922     September  4, 2023
Theme: Afflictions

Read the FREE typeset version of this newsletter at https://openthoumineeyes.com/views23/EmailVersion/BibleView922Email.pdf.  Use it for your church bulletin inserts or as a ministry handout.

Since there was no feedback that anyone was using the large print Bible View, that ministry will be discontinued.  :>(


There May Be A Time…
Bill Brinkworth

Joseph, in Genesis, had many undeserved ordeals in his young life.   His brothers hated him.  They sold him into slavery, where he was later jailed.  

However, the hardships he experienced one day turned into triumphs.  He was made the second ruler under the mighty Pharaoh and was eventually able to help save Egypt and his family from a devastating famine.

At the end of his tribulations, we see how God used all those terrible acts done to Joseph.  The times of testing were times he learned more about himself and life.  He learned:

  • There may be a time not to hold on to hurt emotions but to let them out and have joy.
    “Then Joseph could not refrain himself before all them that stood by him; and he cried, Cause every man to go out from me.  And there stood no man with him, while Joseph made himself known unto his brethren.  2 And he wept aloud: and the Egyptians and the house of Pharaoh heard.” Gen. 45:1-2
  • There may be a time to forget what was done in the past.  All the terrible things that happened to Joseph were to help preserve his and his family’s lives.
    “Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life.” Gen. 45:5
  • There may be a time when our preferences may have to change.  We may have to move out of our comfort zone to be used by God, as did Israel and Joseph’s family.
    “Haste ye, and go up to my father, and say unto him, Thus saith thy son Joseph, God hath made me lord of all Egypt: come down unto me, tarry not: 10 And thou shalt dwell in the land of Goshen, and thou shalt be near unto me, thou, and thy children, and thy children’s children, and thy flocks, and thy herds, and all that thou hast:” Gen. 45:9-10
  • There is a time to forget past events and live for a different future.  Joseph forgave his brothers’ cruelty towards him and even helped them.
    “Moreover he kissed all his brethren, and wept upon them: and after that his brethren talked with him.” Gen. 45:15

    This certainly coincides with the same principle taught in the New Testament:
    “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;” Mat 5:44
    “Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.” Luke 6:28
  • There may be a time that a lifestyle changes, and one loses what they had in the past.  Possessions may be lost, but God may have something else He allows you to have:
    “Also regard not your stuff; for the good of all the land of Egypt is yours.” Gen. 45:20
  • There may be a time when one has to let God provide for us differently.  Often, His new way for us is better.
    “And the children of Israel did so: and Joseph gave them wagons, according to the commandment of Pharaoh, and gave them provision for the way.  22 To all of them he gave each man changes of raiment; but to Benjamin he gave three hundred pieces of silver, and five changes of raiment.” Gen. 45:21-21
  • There may be a time to be surprised.  Things may turn out differently than expected when God changes one’s life.
    “And they told him all the words of Joseph, which he had said unto them: and when he saw the wagons which Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of Jacob their father revived: 28 And Israel said, It is enough; Joseph my son is yet alive: I will go and see him before I die.” Gen. 45:27-28

Like Joseph, most of our lives did not turn out as we first envisioned them.  Our journey was not always on smooth, paved roads.  Most of us traveled over many of life’s “bumps.”  Life can often be rough.

If one played the victim, blamed others, and held a grudge, one may still be stuck in the ditch he initially fell into or was pushed into.  However, those with Joseph’s accepting and unbegrudging attitude may be able to see and experience the plan God has for their lives.  What is your attitude towards the roadblocks in your life?

“By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.  3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;  4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:  5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” Roman  5:2-5


Afflictions Have Their Purposes
Brooks, 1608-1680

God sometimes afflicts us for our profit, that we might be partakers of His holiness.  The flowers smell the sweetest after a summer shower.  Vines bear the better after their pruning.  The walnut tree is most fruitful when it is beaten and shaken.  Christians spring and thrive most when they are most externally afflicted.  Afflictions are the mothers of virtue.

Manasseh’s chain was more profitable to him than his crown.  Luther could not understand some Scriptures till he was in affliction.  The Christ-cross is no school book, yet it has taught us more than all the words in many thick books.

All the stones that came about Stephen’s ears knocked him closer to Christ.  The flood waves lifted Noah’s ark nearer to Heaven.  

When was it that Stephen saw the heavens open and Christ standing at the right hand of God, but when the stones were about his ears, and there was but a short step betwixt him and eternity?  And when did God appear in glory to Jacob, but in the day of his troubles, when the stones were his pillows, the ground his bed, the hedges his curtains, and the heavens his canopy?  Then, he saw the angels of God ascending and descending in their glittering robes.

Afflictions lift the soul for a more prosperous, clearer, and fuller enjoyment of God.  God makes afflictions to be but inlets to the soul’s more sweet and full enjoyment of His blessed self.
“Therefore, behold, I will allure her, and bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfortably unto her.”  Hosea 2:14

“The God inside you is bigger than the giant before you.” — Author Unknown



The Dog of Affliction
Cawdray, 1598-1644

If a sheep strays from the flock, the shepherd sets his dog after it.  He does that not to have the sheep devoured but to bring the animal back to safety.  

Many times, if we disobey our heavenly Shepherd, He too may set His dog of affliction on us.  It may be a “dog” of sickness, financial problems, or social situations.  Those difficulties are often meant to draw us back to safety in His arms and never to harm us.

“The greatest affliction of life is never to be afflicted.”


Gaining Compassion
Downame, 1644

Our afflictions make us more compassionate toward others who endure similar troubles.  Those who have been sick are apt to pity those whom they see pained with like diseases.

Those who have been imprisoned are more readily compassionate and accordingly help and relieve those who are restrained.  They who have been pinched with debt and hunger pity those who are poor and want food to feed and clothe them.

This was one reason God laid upon our Saviour so many afflictions, that Jesus might be able sufficiently have compassion on them that are encompassed with infirmity.
“Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.” II Cor. 1:4

“The tears of sorrow are like spiritual lenses, showing us the world in its true character as a poor, empty, unsatisfying inheritance.”  — Macmillan

The BIBLE VIEW #915 — Don’t Quit!

In This Issue:
Plod On!
Don’t Quit

Volume: 915     July 17, 2023
Theme: Don’t Quit

Read the FREE typeset version of this newsletter at https://openthoumineeyes.com/views23/EmailVersion/BibleView915Email.pdf.  Use it for your church bulletin inserts or as a ministry handout.

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Plod On!
Bill Brinkworth

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” I Corinthians 15:58

When younger, I spent many summers in an off-grid cabin in Maine.  What an exciting place for an adventure-seeking and curious child it was.

One day, I remember hearing an unfamiliar sound of a distant chainsaw.  As those tools were not common in the ’60s, I wanted to know who was sawing and where it was happening.

Trekking up a forested hill and following barely used logging roads, I found the source of the noise; it was a flannel-shirted, hardworking lumberjack. 

As he cut down the towering pines and firs, he stripped the fallen trees of their branches and fetched his “helper” to pull them to where the pulp wood would be cut and stacked.

After disappearing briefly, he returned with an amazingly large workhorse.  After leading the animal to the fallen trees, a couple of shouted commands got the creature to back up to the logs, where chains and a harness hitched the beast to his next timber task.

More commands were given, and the creature hauled his wood load behind him.  In places, the ground was spongy with rotten debris, cedar roots, and old stumps.  However, the obstacles did not hinder the trudging beast.

If one of the massive logs he lugged was snagged on an old trunk, the horse powered through the obstacle and often even pulled the stump out of the ground.  The horse and his task were unstoppable, and the animal plodded on.

Sometimes the mushy ground gave way to the over 1,000-pound animal, and his hoofs sunk deep into the soft tangle of roots and branches, but still, onward he labored.

There were places the ground was harder and less cluttered with obstacles.  Still, the beast lumbered on with his load at the same speed he held when on marshy, soft ground.  No matter what was encountered, the “worker” consistently trudged on delivering his load.  Nothing seemed to deviate him from His task.

Christians should model their service to the Saviour with the same consistent work ethic as that workhorse.  There will be hindrances and obstacles while serving the Lord.  Sometimes they will be occurrences in a believer’s life or even health trials.  However, an obedient worker must trudge on when possible and complete the task they were convicted to do.

Preacher, if God called you to the ministry to lead and educate a flock of believers, continue at the task despite the opposition you may be facing.  Plod on.

Plod: To walk or study heavily, steadily, and laboriously

Sunday school teacher, bus ministry worker, deaf interpreter, or whatever task you felt led to be involved in, keep on keeping on!  Do not let criticism, ungratefulness, or even unruly children halt you from your responsibility.  Plod on.

Serving the Saviour is not an easy task.  Perhaps that is why so many’s efforts to serve the Lord are short-lived.  There are, unfortunately, more quitters than those “plodding on” through the turbulences and trials.

If God called you to do a task for Him, continue until you are convicted and convinced He desires you to stop.  Plod on!

“Life with God is not immunity from difficulties, but peace through those difficulties.”  — C. S. Lewis

Don’t Quit
Bill Brinkworth

Too many quit or want to resign when the going gets rough.  In most cases, one never quits the problem; one just runs away.  The dilemma is still there.

Deserters are everywhere:

  • Husbands feel they cannot handle the burden of being a husband and father and abandon their responsibilities.  Although he is distant from his family, he is still a father and husband.  His running away has not changed that.  The problems he ran away from usually get bigger than they originally were.
  • Wives run off leaving families and husbands, however, she is still a wife and mother, just also distant from her responsibilities.
  • Children sometimes do not like their parent’s rules.  They, too, may run away, but they still have the same parents.  They just put space between themselves and the unsolved problem that will probably haunt them for the rest of their lives unless they stay and work out the difficulty.
  • Students quit school but usually spend their lives without training and education.  The rest of their lives are stalled because they never learned the necessary lessons to further their lives.
  • Friends quit a long-term friendship because of an argument.
  • Employees quit when they do not like what is happening at the workplace.

It usually is easy to walk away from an uncomfortable situation.  It does not take character, intelligence, or common sense to run away when the way gets tough.

Rarely is anything solved by quitting.  There will always be problems in life.  Unsolved problems have a way of following us wherever we go.

Many take their quitting lifestyle and try to apply it to their spiritual lives.  Here are several reasons why one cannot quit on God:

You cannot quit being a Christian. Once a true Christian, always a Christian.  You did not earn it.  It was a gift of salvation if you trusted Jesus’ finished work on the cross as payment for all your sins.  However, too many quit being Christ-like.
“And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.  My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.” John 10:28-29

You cannot quit because the enemy has nothing to offer. There are only two sides – Satan’s and God’s.  If one is truly saved by faith, one cannot get unsaved and be on the loser’s side. 
“Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” Ephesians 6:13

You cannot quit because victory may be just around the corner. Troubles and tribulations are part of the school of life.  You may be very close to passing the “test” and going on to life’s next lesson.  Do not quit now.
“And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever.  Amen.” II Timothy 4:18

You cannot quit when you make a mistake. Just get back in the saddle, and try again.
“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?  shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?  As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.  Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.  For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:35-39

You cannot quit now; you may miss the harvest. Maybe one day your problem will be over, and you will reap a blessing from the tribulation.  Maybe it will be tomorrow or the day after.  Spiritual fruit does not always come the day it is planted.
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” I Corinthians 15:58 Also: John 15:4.

Many times life is very difficult.  If you are a Christian, you are on the winning side.  Do not quit now.  Victory is possible; it is a blessing when achieved, and it may be just around the corner!


“God didn’t bring you as far as He has to abandon you!”  — Author Unknown

The BIBLE VIEW #897 — Judgment

In This Issue:
Whoa!  Woe Could be Headed Your Way!
When God Struck
What Motivated Booth
God’s Pay 
Others’ Sins

Volume: 897     February 20, 2023
Theme: Judgment

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Whoa!  Woe Could be Headed Your Way!
Bill Brinkworth

Stop now if you are involved in sin because you could be headed to great sorrow, grief, and misery.  Payday for iniquity is someday, either immediately or in your eternal future.

Over 98 times, the King James Bible warns of the woe sinners will face.  Twenty-six of those times, the warning was given to nations given over to sin.  The rest of the references were to sinning individuals.

“woe” —  misery, grief, experiencing great mournfulness

There will be woe to nations when:

  • they are not bothered by their committing of sin.  Some nations even flaunt or boast of their wickedness.  There will be woe to them, as some biblical nations were warned.
    “The shew of their countenance doth witness against them; and they declare their sin as Sodom, they hide it not.  Woe unto their soul!  For they have rewarded evil unto themselves.” Isaiah 3:9
    “I have seen thine adulteries, and thy neighings, the lewdness of thy whoredom, and thine abominations on the hills in the fields.  Woe unto thee, O Jerusalem!  Wilt thou not be made clean …” Jeremiah 13:27
  • they legalize sin.
    “Woe unto them that decree unrighteous decrees, and that write grievousness which they have prescribed;” Isaiah 10:1

There will also be woe to many individuals.  Some of God’s warnings are to:

  • the unsaved.
    “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:15
  • those that sin.
    “Woe unto them that seek deep to hide their counsel from the LORD, and their works are in the dark, and they say, Who seeth us?  and who knoweth us?” Isaiah 29:15
    “Woe unto the wicked!  it shall be ill with him: for the reward of his hands shall be given him.” Isaiah 3:11
    “Woe unto him that buildeth his house by unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; that useth his neighbour’s service without wages, and giveth him not for his work;” Jeremiah 22:13
  • Christians that want to be like the world and seek the world’s approval.
    “Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.” Luke 6:26
  • drunkards.
    “Woe unto them that rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; that continue until night, till wine inflame them!” Isaiah 5:11
  • those that help others drink!
    “Woe unto him that giveth his neighbour drink, that puttest thy bottle to him, and makest him drunken also, that thou mayest look on their nakedness!” Habakkuk 2:15
  • those that approve of sin.
    “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” Isaiah 5:20
  • those who think they are so smart and have all the answers and excuses for their ungodly behavior.
    “Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!” Isaiah 5:21
  • to pastors that preach philosophies and ideas contrary to God’s Word.
    “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture!  saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1
  • those with filthy, ungodly speech.
    “… Woe is me!  for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.” Isaiah 6:5
  • trouble-makers.
    “Woe to them that devise iniquity, and work evil upon their beds!  when the morning is light, they practise it, because it is in the power of their hand.” Micah 2:1
  • a man that turned against Christ: Judas.
    “The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed!  it had been good for that man if he had not been born.” Matthew 26:24.  I wonder if the principle taught here applies to the many who oppose and attempt to discredit Christ today.
  • those that will go through the great, future tribulation warned about in Revelation.
    “One woe is past; and, behold, there come two woes more hereafter.” Revelation 9:12 

Since God is the same today as when he had men of God record these warnings, it would be correct to assume that many of the “woes” apply today.  God left these warnings to remind the readers that unless they halt their sins, afflictions, unhappiness, or disaster will be upon them for their transgressions.  Stop!  Heed God’s warning, and turn from iniquity in your life!

“Foolish men imagine that because judgment for an evil thing is delayed, there is no justice, only coincidence here below.  Judgment for an evil thing is often delayed some a day or two, some a century or two, but it is sure as life.  It is sure as death!”  — Thomas Carlyle

 When God Struck
Sunday School Times

A Christian physician once took refuge from an approaching storm in a grocery store that also contained a bar.  Two drunken men were present, and as the lightning flashed, they poured forth such a volley of fearful oaths that finally the storekeeper said, “Gentlemen, I am no Christian, but I want to say that your awful cursing is too much for me.  God will strike you dead right here with a stroke of lightning if you do not hush your blasphemous oaths.”

The leader of the two rolled up his sleeves, went to the door, cursed God, and defied Him.  At that moment, a blinding flash of lightning descended with a flame of fire.  Quickly, the light was gone, and only smoke remained.  In a moment that, too, had disappeared, and there lay God’s defier in a heap, just as an empty garment.  The physician helped to lay the man out, and he said he did not believe there was a bone two inches long left unbroken in his body.

“We evaluate our friends with a God-like justice, but we want them to evaluate us with a God-like compassion.” — Sydney Harris


What Motivated Booth
Walter Knight

Many Christians say that they believe in the day of accountability but are as silent as the sphinx when it comes to warning others to flee from the wrath to come.  The thing that made William Booth a “fiery” salvationist was the indicting, taunting statement of an infidel lecturer, who said, “If I believed what you Christians say you believe about the coming judgment and the day of reckoning, with the resultant eternal lostness of the impenitent Christ-rejectors, then I would crawl on my bare knees on crushed glass all over London, night and day telling men and women to flee from the wrath to come!”


God’s Pay
Dennis McCarthy

Who does God’s work will get God’s pay,
However long may seem the day,
However weary be the way,
Though powers and princes thunder, “Nay!”
No human hand God’s hand can stay;
Who does His work will get His pay.

He does not pay as others pay,
In gold or land or raiment gay,
In goods that perish and decay,
But God’s high wisdom knows a way;
And that is sure, let come what may,
Who does God’s work will get God’s pay!

Others’ Sins
The Dawn

During a revival, a young man said he did not wish to be a Christian.  When asked for his reason, he replied, “Several years ago, I was in a man’s kitchen.  He found me there, swore at me, and kicked me out.  He was a professing Christian, and from that time, I decided never to have anything to do with religion.  And I never have to this day.”

The young man was asked to write down his reason in full and sign it.  Then it was handed back to him with the words, “Take this, and when you are asked for your excuse on the Day of Judgment, hand this up.”  The young man saw his folly and came to Christ that night.

Are you letting the sins of others keep you from giving your heart to Jesus?  Don’t be so foolish, for it will not stand the test on Judgment Day.

The BIBLE VIEW #883 — Enduring!

In This Issue:
Not Much Has Changed!
I Won’t! 
What Did They Do?

Volume: 883     November 7, 2022
Theme: Endure!

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Not Much Has Changed
Bill Brinkworth

The battles and challenges Christians face today are not much different from those early Christians encountered.  Little has changed.

Although people today see themselves far advanced from their early predecessors, there are remarkable similarities between New Testament and today’s Christians.  They are similar because of man’s consistent-through-the-ages sin nature,

Paul warned Timothy (I Tim. 6:20) to keep far away from the doubting, faith-challenging science.  It attempted to challenge what God would have His people believe by faith.
“O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:” I Timothy 6:20

The “science” Paul referred to here was not so much the “science” we recognize today.  “Science” in I Tim. 6:20 referred to man’s knowledge.  It was intellectualism that challenged a Christian’s faith and beliefs.

Many today also believe that “knowledge” is superior to what God’s Word declares.  However, the Bible refers to it as “fables” (I Tim. 1:4), “vain (empty and pointless) jangling” (I Tim. 1:6), “profane and old wives fables” (I Tim. 4:7), and “vain babblings” (II Tim. 2:16).  God wants all to know that man is not as wise as he thinks he is. 

Man’s intellect continues to question and challenge creationism, the existence of God and His involvement in His creation, life after death, and God’s Word is preserved and is still with us.  That we’re-smarter-than-God attitude is still doing all it can to question and ridicule Christianity’s principles and beliefs.  However, despite incorrect thinking, God’s way will “work” with modern man.

Early Christians also had to deal with unbiblical religion and traditions.  Today’s Christians are still dealing with false teachings.
“… ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.” Mark 7:8  Also: Mat.  15:2, Mat.  15:3, 6.

It is man’s philosophy, mixed with God’s way, that waters down the truths and power of God’s commandments (Mat. 15:6).  Man’s ideas and beliefs that contradict the Word of God have often weakened Christianity.  To make it even harder to live the Christian way, those who call themselves “religious” or “Christian” often become stumbling blocks and the enemies of true Bible-believing and obeying Christians.

Man, then and today, still has to deal with immorality.  Saints in Sodom and Gomorrah had to deal with homosexuality, as do today’s Christians.

False worship was just as big a problem in the Old and New Testament times as we are experiencing.  Idolatry was just as much a shock to Paul as it is to modern believers when people are seen praying to idols, some even professing to be Christians.

Ungodly leaders have also been a hampering and discouraging force that opposed the open practice of Christianity.  Early Christians faced the government’s controlling arm under Roman rule.  It was that reign that martyred thousands of Christians on Roman crosses, in their fires, and other tortures.  Old Testament saints faced similar torment from the pharaohs, Shalmanesser, Sennacherib, Nebuchadnezzar, and countless other unrighteous rulers. 

Many today vote for government officials.  The “rulers” that get elected are often not leading their people in the way God would have them govern.  The government’s support of abortion, welfare without working, paying for illegitimate births and birth control, and diseases contracted from sinful behavior are some proofs of ungodly governmental authority.

It is not much easier to live a godly life today than in yesteryears.  The world and its often ungodly practices, beliefs, laws, and temptations have always been a barrier to those committed to obeying God.  Very few times in history has the world been a comfortable environment to live the way God would have all to live. 

Hiding behind the excuse, “Well, it was easier for earlier saints and Christians than today,” is not true.  There always have been difficulties and challenges for those living God’s way.

It is the individual Christian’s responsibility to choose correctly.  Decide to reject man’s philosophies, traditions, and what is popular to fit in. Determine to trust God’s way of salvation and walk the narrow way God expects the believer to follow (Mat. 7:13-14).  Difficulties may arise in pleasing God but obey Him, no matter what.
“And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” Joshua 24:15

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


I Won’t!
Author Unknown

I want to let go, but I won’t let go,
There are battles to fight,
By day and by night
For God and the right,
And I’ll never let go.

I want to let go, but I won’t let go,
I’m sick ‘tis true;
Worried and blue,
And worn through and through,
But I won’t let go.

I want to let go, but I won’t let go,
I will never yield;
What, lie down on the field
And surrender my shield?
No!  I’ll never let go.

I want to let go, but I won’t let go,
May this be my song,
‘Mid legions of wrong;
That I may never let go.

The man who wisely said, “Be sure you’re right, then go ahead,” should have added, “Be sure you’re wrong before you quit!”


What Did They Do?
Bible Readings for the Home1

  • When beaten by the Jewish rulers for preaching Christ, what did the apostles do?1
    “And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.” Acts 5:41
  • After receiving “many stripes” with their feet made fast in the stocks, what did Paul and Silas do while in prison?  1
    “And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.” Acts 16:25
  • When Jesus was nailed to the cross, what did He say?
     “Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.  And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.” Luke 23:34
  • Even when persecuted, what are we told to do, and why?
    “Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man’s sake.  Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets.” Luke 6:22-23
  • What assurance is given that the child of God may bravely endure every trial and hardship of life?
    “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
  • How constant should our rejoicing be?
    “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.”  Phil.  4:4

1Bible Readings for the Home, Sothern Publishing Association, Nashville, TN, 1943, Page 574-575

“Build your nest upon no tree here; for you see God has sold the forest to Death, and every tree whereupon we rest is ready to be cut down.  We must flee and build upon the Rock.  Jesus is that Rock.” — Rutherford, 1661

The BIBLE VIEW #882 — Reaping What Was Sown

In This Issue:
What Did You Expect?
The Crossroads
Poor Taste in Clothes
The Stone Inside

Volume: 882     October 31, 2022
Theme: Reaping What Is Sown

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What Did You Expect? 
Bill Brinkworth

Truths in botany can apply to our lives, as well.  One principle in the science is that one gets what is planted.  If one plant marigolds seeds, one gets marigolds.  If tomato seeds are planted, one certainly would not expect a crop of corn.  This law of “sowing and reaping” can be applied in our lives:

  • If one spends most of one’s life doing what is selfishly wanted, can one be expected to get the blessing of God in one’s life?
  • If one does not pray, read the Bible, does little that is spiritual, and purposely avoids doing what one knows God wants one to do (going to church, reading your Bible, praying…), why does one get angry and blame God when something terrible happens in one’s life?
  • Why does one curse or get angry with God for not answering the one requested prayer in many years?
  • If one never got saved, why would it be expected one will go to Heaven rather than Hell? 
  • Why would one think one’s opinion or philosophy was more important than what God thinks or says, and He will change everything He has said just because of one’s thoughts and beliefs? 
  • If one lets their children do what they want and certainly did not encourage them to live the way the Lord tells them to, why would anyone blame God (or a church) when something terrible happens to them or their lives are headed in the wrong direction?
  • If one allows their children to attend a secular school that teaches evolution, elevates ungodly lifestyles, mocks God, allows the children to be exposed to ungodly examples and philosophies, why would one be surprised that their life turns out to be ungodly, unfruitful, and unhappy?
  • If one allows one’s children to listen to music encouraging ungodly lifestyles, allows them to view television and movies that advertise sinful behavior, or hang around children that have ungodly lifestyles, why would one be surprised that their future lives are ruined by their wrong decisions?
  • If one avoided studying, cheated when possible, and avoided many learning situations (playing video games or watching TV rather than studying), why would one be surprised that one did not pass into the next grade or have problems learning?
  • If one does not take care of one’s health, why is God blamed when one is sick?
  • If one succumbed to the sins of smoking, drinking, or drug taking, why is one surprised that one has an addiction, one’s body has reaped the havoc of the sin’s participation, or one has a ruined life because of the sin’s side effects?
  • If one covered up what was happening in one’s life with lies and deception, why would one be surprised that people in one’s life do not trust or “just don’t understand you?”
  • If one sinned and broke laws in the past, why would one be surprised one is in jail or facing some other punishment?
  • If one cheated God by not tithing (Malachi 3:8-9) and giving to Him in the past, why would anyone be surprised their financial situation is not blessed by God?
  • If one spent money one did not have, why would anyone be surprised one’s debts are high?
  • If one “shacked up” with a boyfriend or girlfriend without marrying them, why would one be surprised that the romance with that person is in turmoil or has failed?  Does one think God was going to bless such a relationship?
  • If one looked at or flirted with other women or men, even though married, why would one be surprised when one finds themself in an adulterous relationship?
  • If one allowed their eyes to see ungodly pictures or movies, why would anyone be surprised when one has wrong thoughts and commits sin?

If you purchase, plant, and sow iniquity, sin is what you will reap!
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” Galatians 6:7

Would you prefer a more joyful, God-directed life?  If so, then plant the right things in your life.  Plant a God-approved spiritual crop!
“For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.”  Galatians 6:8

 

The Crossroads
Author Unknown

He came to the crossroads all alone,
With the sunrise in his face;
He had no fear of the path unknown,
He was set for an ambitious race.

The road stretched east, and the road stretched west,
The “Signboard” showed which way was the best;
But the boy turned wrong and went on down,
And lost the race and the victors’s crown,
And fell at last into an ugly snare
By choosing wrong at the crossroads there.

Another boy, on another day,
At the selfsame crossroads stood,
He paused a momemt to choose the way
Which would lead to the greater good.

The road stretched east, and the road stretched west,
But the “Signboard” showed him which way was best.
And the boy turned right and went on and on;
He won the race and the victor’s crown.
And came at last to the Mansions fair,
For choosing right at the crossroads there.
For choosing right at the crossroads there.

“I find the doing of the will of God leaves me no time for disputing about His plans.”  — George MacDonald

 

Poor Taste in Clothes
Wings

In the spring of 1924, I assisted Pastor N. E. Norwood in a revival meeting at Fort Ogden, Florida.  Driving along the highway, we passed a gang of convicts working on the road.  They were clothed in stripes, and I remarked to the pastor that I didn’t like their clothing.

“If I had the selection, I should have selected a different suit.”

“Why,” he answered, “they don’t select their suits, do they?”

“Oh, yes!” I answered.

“Well,” he said, “I didn’t know that.  I thought the state selected their suits for them.”

“No,” I replied, “Every man selects his suit.  Those fellows knew the penalty of violating the law before they committed the acts.  They made their choice.  They selected their suits.  They are wearing the “clothing” of their selection.”

What suit have you selected: the black stripe suit of shame and dishonor or the “white robe of righteousness?”

The Stone Inside
H. A. Ironside

I was talking to a group of little boys and girls in a Sunday school in San Francisco.  “How sad to know, each time you say ‘No’ to the Lord Jesus, your heart gets a little harder.  If you keep saying ‘no,’ the heart gets harder and harder until by-and-by God calls it a heart of stone.  If you persist in disregarding His grace, you will die in your sins.”  I pleaded with those boys and girls to give their hearts to Jesus in their early days.

There was one dear little tot there, only five years old.  Her mother brought her to Sunday school and then took her home.  The little one was thinking of her dear father, who never went to hear the Word of God.  When she got to the house, she darted into her father’s arms and said, “Daddy, Daddy, feel your heart!  Is it getting like stone?”

He said, “What are you talking about?”

She said, “Well, the man at Sunday school said if you say ‘No’ to Jesus, you will get a stone inside.  Oh, Daddy, I hope you haven’t for if you have, you can’t be saved.”

The father growled to the mother, “What have they been telling this child, anyway?”

Then the mother explained a little more fully, and he saw tears in his wife’s eyes and felt the arms of his little girl about his neck, and heard her saying, “Oh, Daddy, don’t go on saying ‘No’ to Jesus.”

He looked up and said, “Well, I think I had better settle this.”  He got down on his knees and yielded his life to Christ.

“There is a God-created vacuum in the heart of every man, which cannot be satisfied by any created thing, but only by God the Creator made known through Jesus Christ.”  — Blaise Pascal