“Wedding Dress For Sale”

In the classified section of the paper there was an ad that read: Wedding dress for sale, never worn. Will trade for .38 caliber pistol.

Billy Rose told a story about a man who, after twenty years of marriage, decided to divorce his wife. In preparing for the financial settlement, he began to rummage through his old checks. As he glanced through them, one after another stirred up memories of a long forgotten past. The check to the hotel where he and his wife had spent their honeymoon, the check for their first car, the check for the hospital bill for their first daughter’s birth, the check for the $2000 down payment on their first home.

As he continued looking, it all got a bit much for him, so he pushed all the paperwork aside and reached for the phone and called his wife. He told her that they had invested too much in each other just to throw it all away. Checkbooks often reveal where our treasure is.

This man inadvertently began to count the cost of dissolving his marriage, and losing not only his wife but faithful companion. Another article went on to list a number of other key areas of loss. For example divorce often meant loss of family, job, friends, church family and fellowship, finances, home, stability, health, etc.

In Malachi 2:10-16 we’re told that God hates divorce. If you’re thinking about it, please reconsider what God wants you to do. Breaking your vows to God, your spouse, and those that you made before others, will cause things not to go well with you.

Remember, the unity that exists between a Christian husband and wife is supposed to reflect the relationship between Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5:32). With God’s help, you can do what He wants you to do (Philippians 4:13; Ephesians 5:18-33; Galatians 5:16-25). Maybe honest confession and forgiveness need to take place (1 John 1:9; Proverbs 28:13; James 5:16; Ephesians 4:32).

To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.” Forward this to someone who might be contemplating getting a divorce.

Additional articles: https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2008/05/15/thinking-about-divorce/

http://www.challengenews.org/showclf.php?s=sermon&sermon=Carl_Carmody/Malachi_2_10-16_God_hates_divorce

Clear Gospel. http://www.cleargospel.org/wp-content/uploads/English-Display-Pkg-2014.pdf

Clear Gospel – Audio: http://www.duluthbible.org/the-gospel-audiobook/

God Honoring Music: www.abidingradio.org

“Some Enchanted Evening”

“There is a time for God’s people to wait passively [and patiently] for God to remove obstacles, and there comes a time for God’s people to engage those obstacles. Both are done in faith that God works all things together for those who love Him, and that God is concerned about the details of our lives. All three characters in [Ruth chapter three] took risks that rendered them vulnerable…”. – Gary Phillips

Match Maker. Ruth’s mother-in-law, Naomi was determined to find a husband for her Moabite daughter-in-law. Although earlier she had expressed her bitterness when she returned to Bethlehem (Ruth 1:20), she gained some hope when she learned that Ruth had come in contact with one of their relatives by the name of Boaz. He had shown kindness to her in allowing her to glean grain from his field. He even invited her to have lunch with him and his employees.

Bewildered. Confused by his slowness to take action toward Ruth, Naomi became very pragmatic and took matters into her own hands rather than wait for God to work on Boaz’a heart. She wanted to secure a husband for Ruth through a “levirate marriage” (Deuteronomy 25:5-9). Naomi was doing what was right in her own eyes as other people were doing at that time (See Judges 21:15). But the end doesn’t justify the means (Romans 3:8). Christians must do God’s work God’s way (2 Timothy 2:5). Are you doing things your way or God’s way? His ways are so much better than ours. Read Isaiah 55:8, 9.

Advice. Naomi told Ruth to take a bath, put on some nice perfume and her best dress and then go down to the place where Boaz would be spending the night by the crops that he and his workers had brought in from the fields where she herself had also worked. She was to notice where he would lie down after eating and drinking. Then when he was asleep she was to quietly approach him in the dark and uncover his feet and lie down there. Naomi wanted Ruth to appeal to his emotions, not his rationale.

Cautious. Because she trusted her mother-in-law, she followed her advice even though she faced a great risk if things went wrong. Suppose he accused her of being an immoral woman or doing things in an inappropriate way in the dark (See Proverbs 7:9, 10). What if he had allowed his emotions to take over and he violated her as Judah did with Tamar, his daughter-in-law (Genesis 38:13ff)? Contrast this with Joseph’s actions (Genesis 39:12). Both Boaz and Ruth had had good reputations that could have been lost in a moment of passion. (See 1 Thessalonians 5:22; 2 Timothy 2:22).

Chivalrous. When he abruptly awoke from his sleep in the middle of the night, Boaz asked who was at his feet. Ruth identified herself and then asked him a marry her and be her protector (Ruth 3:9). The Mosaic Law permitted a widow woman to do this (Deuteronomy 25:5-9). But the pragmatic way in which Naomi suggested that it be done could have resulted in a lot of gossip in Bethlehem. Do you like to gossip or listen to it? If you’re tempted by this, gird yourself with the belt of truth (Ephesians 6:14).

High Road. Rather than take advantage of her, Boaz assured her that he would attend to the matter during the daylight hours as it should be done in the presence of witnesses. But there was a problem. There was another unnamed man who was a closer relative who should be given the opportunity to carry out this levirate marriage if he desired to do so.

Protection. To keep her from the possible danger of returning home in the middle of the night, he told her to stay with him until the break of dawn when she could return home. Both of them maintained their purity (See 1 Thessalonians 4:3). Rather than sending her home empty, he gave to her six times the amount of grain that she had gleaned when she started working in his fields (Ruth 2:17; 3:15).

More. There is more to this love story. Naomi was now confident that Boaz wouldn’t rest until he had taken care of business that day (See Ruth 4).

Lessons. What can we learn from this love story that took place in the dark days of Israel’s history? Among other things, God has a special plan for each of His children (Ephesians 2:10). He works behind the scenes orchestrating things for our good (Romans 8:28) and often removes the obstacles that we can’t move (Ephesians 3:20; Revelation 1:8). Furthermore, God is delighted when His children do His will (2 Corinthians 5:9) and devote themselves fully to Him (Romans 12:1, 2). Have you done that yet? Doing this has no value to it until you receive the gift of eternal life by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4).

Help. If you’re struggling with the issues of life and desire to know what God says in His Word, and If you are willing to change, we invite you to contact us at 805-238-3549 or visit our website at www.kelseypeach.com. If this article has helped, will you let us and someone else know. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

“Samson’s Escapades”

Those who engage in reckless adventures or pranks and who break loose from the restraints of life that come from God and/or man are headed for a wall of resistance and disaster. It’s just a matter of time until such a person falls into or off the wall and gets broken into pieces. Putting such pieces back together is a most difficult task for physicians and Pastors. Physical and emotional scars that last for the rest of one’s life are often the result of such reckless behavior and “one night stands.” Sin (lawlessness) has consequences in this life and the life to come (Romans 6:23; 8:6; 1 John 5:16; Revelation 21:8).
      Emotions. Samson (the strongest man) was a hothead and was governed by his emotions. He was selected by God to begin to deliver the Jews from the oppressive Philistines who lived in the land that God had promised to the Israelites (Genesis 15:18-21). But he disregarded the restraints that God had placed on him as a Nazirite. They included his staying away from wine, unclean things, and dead bodies. He was not to have his hair cut. This was to be an indicator of his devotion and dependence on God for this strength (Judges 13:3-7; Numbers 6).
      Sensuous. One day his wandering eye caught sight of a beautiful Philistine woman. He demanded his parents to get her for him as his wife (Judges 14:2). God had made it very clean that the Jews were not to marry such people, especially those who were their enemies (Deuteronomy 7:3, 4). God has some regulations for Christians too (2 Corinthians 6:14). But that didn’t matter to Samson. He wanted what he wanted, not what his parents or what God wanted for him.  Does this attitude describe you too?
      Marriage. The second most important decision in life involves the person we select to be our spouse for life. Our most important decision involves our choice to accept the Lord Jesus Christ as our personal Savior or not (John 1:12; 3:16-18). Our eternal destiny in heaven or hell will be determined by this decision that must be made before we die (Acts 16:31; Hebrews 9:27).
      Vengeance. Because of Samson’s immature antics and slaughter of 30 Philistines to pay a gambling debt, and his return to his parent’s home, Samson’s wife was given to another man (Judges 14:20). This infuriated him. He was bent on revenge. But instead of taking out his frustrations on his father-in-law and his wife who had betrayed him, he took it out on other Philistines. He caught 300 foxes (jackals) and tied their tails together and put a torch between each pair and let them loose in the harvest fields, vineyards, and olive groves (Judges 15:4, 5).  This ruined their economy.
      Tit For Tat. When the Philistines learned who had done this dastardly deed and why he did it, they went to Samson’s father-in-law and his wife and burned them to death (Judges 15:6). This, in turn, led to Samson’s great slaughter of more Philistines. As the conflict grew, more Philistines came against the Jews dwelling in Judah.  They demanded that they turn Samson over to them so they could take vengeance on him.  But rather than taking sides with Samson, the Jews bound him and delivered him over to the Philistines. But to their surprise, when they came to take him, the Holy Spirit came on Samson and he broke the ropes that bound him and slaughtered a thousand more Philistines with a jawbone of a donkey.
      Credit. Rather than thanking God for the victory he’d won, Samson wrote a poem in which he gave credit to himself. But when his thirst for water became very evident and he thought he’d die, Samson prayed for the first time in his life and recognized his need of God’s help. God graciously provided for him the water he needed (Judges 15:18, 19). When was the last time you thanked God for your food and the water you drink? Are you a grateful or ungrateful person (1 Corinthians 10:10)? Do you recognize that every good and perfect gift comes from God (James 1:17)? What do you have that you didn’t receive (1 Corinthians 4:7)?
      Rabies. Maybe you heard about the fellow who was told by his physician, “Yes indeed, you do have rabies.” Upon hearing this, the patient immediately pulled out a pad and pencil and began to write. Thinking the man was making out his will, the doctor said, “Listen, this doesn’t mean you’re going to die. There is a cure for rabies.” “Oh, I know that,” the man said. “I’m just makin’ a list of all the people I’m gonna bite.” Many folks live by the rule, “don’t get mad, get even.” God tells us, “Vengeance is mine saith the Lord, I will repay.” (Source Unknown).
      Abraham Lincoln. When he was an attorney, Abraham Lincoln was once approached by a man who passionately insisted on bringing a suit for $2.50 against an impoverished debtor. Lincoln tried to discourage him, but the man was bent on revenge. When he saw that the man would not be put off, Lincoln agreed to take the case and asked for a legal fee of $10, which the plaintiff paid. Lincoln then gave half the money to the defendant, who willingly confessed to the debt and paid the $2.50! But even more amazing than Lincoln’s settlement was the fact that the irate plaintiff was satisfied with it. – Source unknown
      Forgiveness. When the Christian honestly thinks about the enormous debt that God forgave him/her, it seems only logical for us to forgive others who hurt us when they ask for our forgiveness. Even if they don’t ask for it, we shouldn’t become bitter and allow such an attitude to govern our lives. When the Christian is tempted to have an unforgiving spirit, he needs to put on the helmet of salvation and think about the forgiveness he has because Christ died for his sins…and rose again bodily on the third day (Ephesians 1:7; 4:32; 6:17; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4).
      Pursue Peace. “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this become defiled…” (Hebrews 12:14, 15).
      Time Bomb? Are you, or is someone you know, about to explode? Do you have unresolved conflicts with others? Do you want answers from God’s Word? Believe it or not, God has given us everything we need for life and godliness within the pages of the Scriptures (2 Peter 1:3). Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). Once saved, do you know which set of rules you need to follow in order to please God (2 Corinthians 5:9)? While all the Bible is to be believed, not all of it is to be believed and practiced (Titus 1:9; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17). Ask about our FREE “Dispensational Chart.

  Help.  We’re here to help those who are teachable and willing to change (2 Timothy 2:2).  If you’d like some spiritual help, call us at 805-238-3549 or visit our website for more information: http://www.kelseypeach.com.  If you want to receive future articles as they come out, click “Follow.”

“The ‘X-treme’ Court”

Once again some men and women on the “X-treme Court” have shaken their fists in the face of God and made a decision that shows their contempt for Him and His laws.  This action didn’t cause God to get frustrated at all.  Instead, He simply sits in the heavens and laughs at their efforts to try to overthrow Him and the laws that He has established (Psalm 2).

Imagine the tiny ants that invade your kitchen raising up their little fists and threatening you.  You could easily wipe them out.  But God is longsuffering and gives rebels like you and me an opportunity to repent by changing our minds and believing on Christ alone as our Savior (2 Peter 3:9).  But this opportunity to repent (believe) will come to an end some day as it did when God brought a flood on the whole earth (Genesis 6-8).

Just as those who defy the law of gravity will fall to their own death if they jump off a tall building, so those who defy His laws for the propagation of humanity will be brought to judgment just as the people in Sodom and Gomorrah were (Genesis 19).  Sexual immorality and idolatry have brought many other nations down in destruction.  Yes, we have “American Idols” who receive a lot of money from their worshippers.  Who or what are your idols?

Sexual relations within the bounds of marriage are an honorable thing in the sight of God. He is the One who made men and women with this strong desire to insure the continuation of the human race (Genesis 1:27).  But fornicators and adulterers God will judge (Hebrews 13:4; Revelation 21:8).

Before it’s too late, please take time to read about the wrath of God that is revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness (Romans 1:18-32).  Are we as individuals or as a nation ripe for judgment?

Our getting into heaven is not based on our conduct or misconduct here on earth but upon our decision to accept or reject the Lord Jesus Christ as our personal Savior (John 16:8-11).  All unbelievers will be raised from the dead someday and have their works evaluated to determine their degree of torment in the eternal lake of fire (Revelation 20:11-15; Matthew 25:41, 46).  There is no annihilation of the wicked as many cults teach.

Jesus didn’t lie when He spoke about the reality of heaven and hell.  He came to seek and save sinners like you and me (Luke 19:10).  It’s true, we haven’t been as bad as we could be, but we are all as bad off as we can be if we try to get into heaven by our good works (Ephesians 2:8, 9).  I tried that for many years only to have my eyes opened to the truth that is found in God’s Word (Titus 3:5).

The Lord Jesus Christ, the God-man, died for the sins of the whole world (1 John 2:2).  He was buried for three days to prove that He had paid the penalty of death that we all owed to God the Father (Romans 6:23).  But thankfully  He rose again bodily from the dead on the third day and made many appearances to over 500 witnesses before ascending back to heaven (Luke 24:39; 1 Corinthians 15:3-8; Acts 1:9-11).

Having heard the Good News concerning Christ, what will you do with Him?  Will you accept Him or reject Him as your personal Savior?  Perhaps you say you know and believe these facts of the Gospel.  That’s not enough to save you.  Even the demons believe and tremble (James 2:19).  You must transfer your trust from yourself and your good works over to the Lord Jesus Christ alone if you want to be saved from hell and enter heaven.

If you aren’t sure of your eternal destiny, we invite you to call us at 805-238-3549 or visit our website: www.kelseypeach.com.  We have written other articles (Blogs) to help people just like you come to a saving knowledge of Christ and have assurance of a place in heaven some day (1 John 5:13).

If you are sure of your salvation, will you help us get the Gospel out to others?  We have it in 24 languages on our website.  Ask how you can help.  The “Crown of Rejoicing” awaits those Christians who have a part in the salvation of others (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20).  If you have been helped by reading this or some other article, share it with others.  Click “Follow” to receive them as they come out.

“Tying The Knot?”

“Getting married is sometimes referred to as “tying the knot” – a permanent knot instead of a slipknot. Marriage is supposed to bind a man and woman together in a permanent, loving relationship.  Ideally, marriage is supposed to last until death and not simply a divorce.” – James Dyet

Children.  Not everyone will get married and/or have children.  But every Christian can/should have spiritual children as he/she points other people to the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. The Apostle Andrew directed his brother Peter to the Lord (John 1:40-42).  He in turn led thousands to Christ for salvation (Acts 2:41).  The “Crown of Rejoicing” awaits those who lead others to Christ (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20).  Have you ever led someone to Christ?  Would you like to do this and have a part in rescuing someone from hell to heaven?  Let us show you how you can do this.

  Joy.  While leading someone to Christ for salvation brings a lot of joy, and the “Crown of Rejoicing” (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20), helping that same person grow spiritually brings even more joy (3 John 1:4). It will take time and a lot of patience but it’s worth the effort even as human parents experience in life.

Marriage.  It shouldn’t be entered into lightly.  We should take our vows seriously because God does.  A Christian should not marry an unbeliever and create an unequal yoke (2 Corinthians 6:14).  Both believers, planning to get married, should be “growing spiritually in the Lord” (2 Peter 3:18).

Considerations.  The Apostle Paul wanted those Christians who were planning to get married to consider “the present distress” and the fact that “the time to serve the Lord is short” (1 Corinthians 7:26, 29).

Widows.  Death breaks the bond of marriage (Romans 7:2).  A Christian widow or widower is free to remarry but she/he must do so only “in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 7:39).  Younger widows were encouraged to remarry (1 Timothy 5:14).

Honor God.  When Christians honor God in their marriage, they can enjoy some of the sweetest human relationships this side of heaven.  They also can demonstrate the relationship that will exist between Christ and His Bride, the Church (Ephesians 5:32, 33).

  Love.  When each believer seeks the highest well being of the other spouse, he/she is showing others what true “agape” love is all about (1 Corinthians 13).  This kind of love is available to all Christians who are “filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18; Galatians 5:22, 23).

Quote.  “Marriage is under the gun [today], but Christians ought to esteem marriage as a divine institution to be enjoyed and cultivated for human good and God’s glory.  They should regard marriage as a permanent bonding of two hearts and lives together in love and dedication.  When disagreements occur in a Christian couple’s marriage, they should agree to work through their disagreements respectfully and lovingly. When trials assail them, they should clasp hands tightly and pray tenaciously.  When the philosophy of the age tells them marriage is old fashioned, they should reply that it is not only old-fashioned but well-fashioned by the Creator.  Throughout married life a couple’s watchword should be, ‘Those whom God has joined together, let not man put asunder.’” – James Dyet

Questions.  How is your marriage?  Is it “on the rocks” or firmly “on the Rock – Christ Jesus”?  Jesus Christ, the God-man came to give us [eternal] life and abundant life (John 10:10).  He died for our sins and rose again bodily on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3-8).  When we place our faith in Him exclusively He saves us eternally (Acts 16:31; 1 John 5:11-13).  We are not saved by our good works (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5).

  Help.  We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and grow.  We can be reached here or through our website:  www.kelseypeach.com

 The Bad News & Good News – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

“Your Marriage Matters”

  On a billboard alongside the highway a law firm was doing some advertising.  The sign read: “Traffic Tickets – $45; Divorce – $25.”  Perhaps the small print conveyed another message.  But imagine such a thing.  It’s cheaper to get a divorce than it is to get a traffic ticket “fixed.”

  Too many people, including many Christians, are looking for an easy and cheap way to get out of their unhappy marriages.  All kinds of reasons are given for their desire to break up.

  When the Apostle Paul wrote his letter to the church in Corinth, the moral conditions of the day were at an all-time low.  Women were married to be divorced and divorced to be married.  Some of the believers in Corinth wanted to know more about God’s perspective of marriage. 

  Prototype.  In the beginning God formed Adam out of the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life.  Then He took one of Adam’s ribs while he was sleeping and made a woman for him (Genesis 2:21, 22).  They became one flesh. Therefore “…what God has joined together, let no man separate” (Matthew 19:6).  From these two people we all came.

  Vows.  “To have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness, and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part.”  Sadly, these vows are often not kept and divorce is rampant.

  Intimate.  “God designed marriage to be a delightfully intimate relationship (Genesis 2:18, 24-25; Proverbs 5:18, 19), a union of warm innocence (Hebrews 13:4).  He creates beauty in all things, and marriage is His masterpiece in the realm of relationships.” – C. Swindoll

  Solution.  One way to avoid divorce is not to get married at all.  Rather than go through all the hassle of getting a divorce if the marriage doesn’t work out, many people are simply living together without getting married.  Some false teachers are even endorsing this doctrine from demons (1 Timothy 4:1-4).  Others are suggesting “trial marriages.”

  Love.  A strong natural affection may have been the original cause of attraction to your mate but a Christian should exhibit “agape” love toward his/her spouse (1 Corinthians 13:4-8).  Read this passage carefully.  This kind of love is just one part of the “Fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22, 23).  When a believer is “filled with the [Holy] Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18), he/she will have this love to display toward the right objects at the right time.  Don’t misdirect it to the wrong objects (1 John 2:15-17).

  Command.  “A wife is not to depart from her husband…and a husband is not to divorce his wife” (1 Corinthians 7:10, 11).  God hates divorce (Malachi 2:16).  Physical death breaks the bond that exists between these two people (Romans 7:2).

  Concessions.  “…if [the wife] does depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband” (1 Corinthians 7:11).

  Mixed Marriages.  If a believer has an unbelieving spouse and he/she is willing to stay with the believer, the believer should not leave that spouse but should be a source of sanctification (blessing) to the unbeliever.  Just as Potiphar and Pharaoh were blessed by having Joseph around (Genesis 39:3-5; 41:38-40), so a believing spouse can bless his/her unsaved mate and the children in the home by his/her godly life style.  If an unbelieving spouse insists on leaving and divorcing the believer, the believer is to let him/her depart because God has called us to peace (1 Corinthians 7:15).

  Sacrificial Love.  God’s love seeks the highest well being of others.  God the Father did this when He sent God the Son (the Lord Jesus Christ) to earth to die for our sins (John 3:16).  Three days later He rose again from the dead and can/will save any and all who trust in Him exclusively as their personal Savior.  Have you done that yet?  If not, why not right now? 

  Show Me.  Christians demonstrate their love for God by loving other believers (John 13:34, 35; 1 John 3:16, 17).  “Husbands, love your own wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkly or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.  So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself” (Ephesians 5:25-28). 

  Picture. The Christian’s marriage is designed to be a picture of the relationship that exists between Christ and His church.  “This is a great mystery, but I [the Apostle Paul] speak concerning Christ and the church.  Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband” (Ephesians 5:32). “…with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26; Ephesians 3:20). 

  Confess.  If you, as a Christian, have failed to meet God’s standard, confess it to God and accept His forgiveness.  “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).  “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).

  Believe.  If you’re not saved yet, you have a huge problem hanging over your head.  Eternal separation from God in hell awaits all those who are not fit for heaven (Romans 6:23; Matthew 25:41, 46; Revelation 20:11-15). 

  Help?  If you’d like to know how you can be “fit for heaven” and have everlasting life as a present possession, call us at 805-238-3549 or visit our web site www.kelseypeach.com where we have “God’s Simple Plan Of Salvation” in 24 languages. 

    This and our other articles usually correspond to our Sunday talks.

“Marriage: Knotted Or Not”

“Speaking tongue in cheek, a person mused, ‘It has been presumed that in many cases a young woman chooses a husband who reminds her of her father.  If this is true, it explains why so many women cry at weddings.’

Purgatory.  “When asked to define matrimony, a young boy familiar with Roman Catholicism replied: ‘It’s a place where people suffer before they go to heaven.’  He confused matrimony with purgatory!  Unfortunately, his definition fits the scenario of some marriages.” – James Dyett

Bad Publicity.  Marriage and mothers-in-laws sometimes are the topics of the comedians.  But the Christians’ future marriage to Christ was designed to show the special relationship that exists between a man and his wife (Ephesians 5:32).

Monogamous.  God’s original and ongoing intent is for one man to be married to one woman for life (Genesis 2:18-25; Matthew 19:6; Romans 7:2).  As time progresses both spouses should grow in their self sacrificial love and devotion to each other just as a Christian’s love for Christ should grow (1 John 3:16, 17).

Perversions.  Because mankind wasn’t thankful, God gave them over to all kinds of uncleanness…to dishonor their bodies among themselves.  Instead of worshipping the Creator God, many people chose to worship and serve the creature (Romans 1:18-32).

Narcissism.  One of the characteristics of the last days includes the fact that people will be “lovers of themselves” (2 Timothy 3:2).  In the Old Testament times the Jews were told to “love their neighbors as themselves” (Leviticus 19:18).  Man intuitively loves himself without his being told that he must do this.  Christians have a higher standard – they are to love one another as Christ loved/loves us (John 13:34, 35).

J.O.Y.  If you want true joy in your life try this formula:  Jesus, Others, Yourself.  Joy is a part of the “Fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22).  The Psalmist said, “O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together” (Psalm 34:3).  Jesus is the God-man who is the Spokesman for the Godhead (John 1:1-18).  He is worthy of our worship and accepted it from others (Matthew 9:18; 14:33: 15:25; 28:9, 17; John 20:28).  If He wasn’t fully God, He should never have allowed others to worship Him as they did.

Equality.  Jesus Christ, God the Son, shares an absolute equality with God the Father and God the Holy Spirit (John 5:18; 10:30; 14:16; Colossians 2:9).  A diminished, false Christ isn’t worthy of our complete trust (2 Corinthians 11:4, 13-15).  Don’t be deceived by false teachers and prophets (2 Peter 2:1).

Honorable.  “Marriage is honorable, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge” (Hebrews 13:4; Revelation 21:8).  “…rejoice with the wife of your youth” (Proverbs 5:18) instead of with an immoral woman. Her ways lead to death.

Intimacy.  Three Biblical provisions have been made for abstaining from sexual intimacy in marriage (1 Corinthians 7:5).  But there are five reasons for engaging in it.  They include: to prevent sexual immorality, to recognize each member’s conjugal rights, to express mutual authority that each spouse has over the other’s body, to keep from burning with unfulfilled sexual desires, and to propagate the human race (1 Corinthians 7:1-9; Genesis 1:28).

Roles.  God has a role for each believer, whether single or married, to fulfill in life (Ephesians 2:10; 5:22-32; 1 Peter 4:10).  If married, one should work hard to maintain a strong marriage and a godly home (Ephesians 6:1-4; 2 Timothy 1:5; 3:15).  If single, one should maintain a life of personal purity (1 Thessalonians 4:3; 1 Peter 1:15, 16).  Both groups of Christians should focus on serving God with gladness (Psalm 100:2).  Do all for the glory of God and the good of others (1 Corinthians 10:31; Galatians 6:10).

Rewards.  Heaven is not a reward for good works (Ephesians 2:8, 9).  But once a person has been saved, he/she can be assured that “God is not unjust to forget [our] work and labor of love which [we] have shown toward His name, in that [we] have ministered to the saints [fellow believers], and do minister” (Hebrews 6:10).

Uncertain.  If you aren’t absolutely sure that you will go immediately to heaven the moment you die, we’d like to show you from Scripture how to gain this assurance (1 John 5:13).  “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and your will be saved” (Acts 16:31). Why?  He died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day.  He was seen by over 500 witness over a 40 day period of time before ascending back into heaven in the presence of His disciples (1 Corinthians 15:3-8; Acts 1:9-11).  He promised to return someday (John 14:1-3).  Will you be ready?  Perhaps Today!

  Help.  We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and grow spiritually.  We can be reached here or through our website:  www.kelseypeach.com.

Bad News & Good News – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

“Prosperity Or Persecution?”

  Perhaps you recall the story of Daniel’s being thrown into the Lion’s den because he prayed to the true and living God three times a day. God graciously spared his life from those hungry lions (Daniel 6). But many other believers throughout time have died cruel deaths at the hands of wicked men because of their faith in the true and living God (Hebrews 11:35-38). Do you know which prophet was sawn in two with a wooden saw?

  Guardian Angels. Although God can and does deliver His children from many dangers on a daily basis through guardian angels (Hebrews 1:14), He does tell Christians who desire to live godly lives to expect to be persecuted by the ungodly people (2 Timothy 3:12).

  The Blood Of The Martyrs. In the early days of the church the blood of the martyrs became the seed of the church. The more they were persecuted, the more the church grew. Those who are willing to die for their faith had and still have a profound impact on others.

  A Bad Marriage. Realizing that his plan to exterminate the church wasn’t working well, the devil changed his tactics. He used the Roman emperor Constantine to wed together the people of the world (unbelievers) and the church (true Christians). It became increasingly more difficult to distinguish between those who were true Christians and those who were merely “professing Christians” for the sake of expedience. This problem still exists today.

  Pressure Increasing. Although true Christians in the United States have been relatively free from external persecution, it seems that the unbelievers are exerting more and more pressure on those who believe that the Lord Jesus Christ is the one and only way to God in heaven (John 14:6; Acts 4:12).

  Demon Possession. The false teachers are telling people that there are many ways to God. This is the same problem that the Apostle Paul encountered in the city of Philippi. A demon possessed girl was following him around saying, “These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the [“a”] way of salvation (Acts 16:17).

  One Way. The original Greek text, in which the New Testament was written, validates her false claim. Paul wanted others to know that Jesus Christ was not one of many ways to God but the only way to God. So when he cast out the demon in her, he and Silas were arrested and beaten by the local authorities and cast into jail because her masters lost their source of revenue. As they say, “Follow the money.”

  A Church Was Born. That same night God sent an earthquake to free His servants and bring the jailer to a place where he accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior. Through him and some other believers a local church was established in that city.

  It’s Worth It. Persecution, whether verbal or physical, is not something any of us naturally want to experience. But if as a result of it, others come to Christ for salvation, and are delivered from hell, the experience will be worth it all.

  Murdered. The Apostle Paul said, “I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which in Christ Jesus with eternal glory” (2 Timothy 2:10). He also wrote, “I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18). While in the city of Lystra, Paul was stoned to death for proclaiming the Gospel. God resuscitated him back to life and he kept on preaching Christ (Acts 14:19, 20; 2 Corinthians 12:1-10). Would you and I have done what he did?

  Run The Race. The song writer said it well, “It will be worth it all when we see Jesus, / Life’s trials will seem so small when we see Christ; / One glimpse of His dear face all sorrow will erase, / So bravely run the race till we see Christ.”

  Driving It Home. If you’re a Christian, are you willing to suffer for the cause of Jesus Christ so others can be saved and go to heaven? Or do you want to be carried to the skies on flowery beds of ease while others fought to win the prize, and sailed through bloody seas?

  What Jesus Did. Jesus Christ, the God-man, left heaven’s glories and came to earth to glorify God the Father by dying for our sins and rising again bodily from the dead on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3-8). He chose to die on a cross rather than some other less painful way to die. Why? He wanted to show us the extent of His love for us. Because of His willingness to do this, God the Father highly exalted Him and seated Him at His (the Father’s) right hand in heaven (Ephesians 1:20).

  You Will Agree. One day every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord [God] to the glory of the Father (Philippians 2:9-11). This is not teaching universal salvation of all men. Everyone will acknowledge that Jesus Christ is indeed a member of the Godhead who manifested to mankind the true nature of God (John 1:1-18).

  Heaven Or Hell? Those who place their faith in Him alone will be saved from an eternal hell and spend eternity with God in heaven. Those who haven’t trusted in Him before they die physically will be cast into the Lake of Fire to suffer with the devil and his angels (demons) forever (Matthew 25:41, 46; Revelation 20:10-15).

  All Can Know. Those who want to know about the true and living God can be saved no matter where they live on earth. If they will accept the natural revelation that tells us that there is a God who is all powerful and ask Him for more information, God will see to it that they receive the Gospel message (I Corinthians 15:3-8) somehow so they can believe on Christ and be saved (Romans 1:16-20). There are no excuses for unbelief.

  Missionaries. This is why we send out missionaries, support Christian literature ministries, radio or television ministries that proclaim the Gospel clearly and faithfully. Not all of them do this. If you support “Christian ministries” or a local church, do you know to whom the money is going and how it is being spent? Some false teachers are “living high on the hog” and making unbiblical promises to their supporters by twisting the Scriptures. Are you, perhaps unknowingly, supporting those who are teaching heresy or another gospel and a different Christ (2 Corinthians 11:3, 13-15)? Have you been stung by them?

  Invest Wisely. God will reward believers who invest their time, talents, and treasures wisely in His work as they are led by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:11-15; Romans 8:14). A “Crown of Life” awaits those who die for the cause of Christ and for those who resist temptation up to the point of death, if necessary (Revelation 2:10; James1:12). When we truly love God, we will resist temptations to sin (act lawlessly). We won’t yield to a momentary pleasure that comes from sin (Hebrews 11:25).

  Help? If you would like additional information to help you know Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, or want to grow in Christ as a Christian, we invite you to call us at 805-238-3549 or visit or web site http://www.kelseypeach.com.

“Thinking About Divorce?”

If you or someone you know is thinking about getting a divorce from your spouse, please read this story first.

Vindictive Wife.  A lady went to see a lawyer about getting a divorce from her husband.  She said, “I want to hurt him all I can.” “In that case,” said the lawyer, “here’s what I advise you to do. Start showering him with compliments and affection. Make him the best meals you can. Always look your best. Treat him like a king. Then, when you have become indispensable to him and when you think that he loves you dearly start the divorce proceedings.”

Result.  Some months later the wife came back to see the lawyer to tell him that things were really going great. “Well, now is the time to start the divorce proceedings,” he said. “Divorce? No way!”  the woman said with a surprise in her voice. “Never, I love my husband dearly! You can’t believe how he has responded to me with kindness and love.”

B.T.W. – An unsaved divorce lawyer probably wouldn’t give this advice to his client lest he lose money.  But we believe that a godly Christian lawyer should try doing something like this.  Strong Christian marriages and families are more important than “filthy lucre” (See Proverbs 1:19; 10:2; 22:1; 1 Timothy 3:3, 8; 1 Peter 5:2).  [1]

Christian Husbands.  God wants you to love your wife as Christ loves “His Body, the Church” (Ephesians 5:25-32) which becomes His future “Bride” at the time of the “Rapture” (John 14:1-3; Revelation 21:9 ff; 22:17).  He laid down His life for her and He wants you to be willing not only to lay down your life for your wife, but also to live for her advantage (1 John 3:16, 17).  “Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the [physically] weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered” (1 Peter 3:7).

God’s Desire.  He wants Christian husbands and wives to be different from the unsaved people of the world. We can’t change other people but we can change the way we act and react to them and to the circumstances that come into our lives.  “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.” – Chuck Swindoll

God’s Power.  If you know Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, God’s power is available to you to do the things He wants you to do in this life (Philippians 4:13). He wants others to learn about Christ’s relationship to the Church through Christian marriages. He has instructions for Christian husbands and wives in Ephesians 5:22-33; 1 Peter 3:1-7.  Read these verses prayerfully.

Not A Christian?  You might say, “I’m not a Christian but I’d like to become one so I can spend eternity with God in heaven rather than in hell with the devil and his angels/demons” (John 14:1-3; Matthew 25:41, 46).

Salvation.  To be saved you must Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins, and rose again bodily on the third day (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3-8).  We are NOT saved by our good works (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5).

Assurance.  A believer doesn’t have to just wish, hope, or think that he/she will get eternal life (God’s quality of life) sometime in the future.  When we believe in/on Him, we get it instantly (John 3:16, 18, 36; 5:24).  We can know for sure that we have it right now (See Romans 8:16; 1 John 5:23) because God’s Word and His promises are trustworthy (John 14:6; 17:17),

Help.  If you’re struggling and would like additional spiritual help, we’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and who want to grow spiritually.  We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com.

Gospel.  https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

[1]  For Christian Lawyers – The Importance Of Having A Good Reputation.  https://www.gotquestions.org/good-name-better-riches.html