The gos”pill” or the Gospel?

I want to give a great “I’m sorry for going so long without publishing a newsletter.  No excuses would be good enough, yet I will say that it has been very busy and turbulent in many ways for us lately.  I also want to thank all of the new subscribers (about a hundred or so) who have signed up since the last publication.

 At this writing the world is in a struggle to figure out its’ growing and ominous troubles.  On one hand we are seeing economic failure ahead not only of nations but of municipalities and individuals.  It seems the world is trying gain happiness through borrowing the future away.  Who knows how many generations will need to suffer in order to pay for our excesses.  As I am writing, our (America) national debt is gaining on 16 Trillion dollars.  Dollars that are being deflated by money printing to the tune of $40 billion per month.  Whewwww!  It stagers the mind and gives us all a sense of fear for the future.

The stock markets are at an all time high being pushed upward by the QEternity decision of the Feds.  QEternity is the decision to print money until we are all rich!!  Right!?

Recently I saw an article in which the author spoke of the bubbles that had burst in our economy from housing to the present situation.  As I pondered this I came to the conclusion that our problems are not really economic or political.  These are merely the symptoms of a real more deadly disease.  I don’t believe it is limited to one country but is global in nature.  I call it the great Morality Bubble.  Everywhere you turn, the old paths of decency, honesty and the love your neighbor spirit has completely disappeared.  It not only affects our leaders and politicians it has infiltrated the churches and yes, nearly all homes world-wide.  Morality as defined by God in the bible is clear and direct in it’s’ approach.  Right is right and wrong is wrong.  Yet, we have twisted morality to the point that nothing matters anymore.  The things that use to be an abomination (to God) are now accepted lifestyles.  Its’ not that God has changed of course but we, the people, have decided instead of obedience to the Gospel of Jesus Christ have opted for the gos”pill” of “If it feels good do it.”

This can be no better illustrated than by a sign I found in front of a local church recently.  The sign reads, “Have Trouble Sleeping?  We have sermons, come hear one!”  I wonder why the exclamation mark?  This is what I’m talking about.  We have opted for a “pill” or a fix to make us feel good for the moment.  A gos”pill”.  The sign inspired me not at all.  I wonder how many blankets are handed out before service so the participants can be comfortable while they are lulled to sleep by the latest gobledegoop they are served at the hand of the secular minister?  Another new plan is to reach the unchurched through acts of service in the community.  Don’t get me wrong, I believe in acts of service. Yet, acts of service will save no one, only the “act” that took place at Calvary can save a soul from a Godless eternity.  How does this work, I thought?  I can hear it now.  A local resident is so moved by the churched people painting the fire hydrant in their front yard, a fire hydrant that needed this done for a long time, that they decided to become churched.  Their testimony goes something like this, “I want to thank everyone here that last Sunday I got churched.”  WOW!!!

The world is not looking to get churched, they are looking for deliverance from demonic activity in their lives.  They are looking for freedom from drugs and alcohol addiction.  They need to be set free from sexual addictions and perversion that destroys the spirit within.  Our world is reeling and rocking from the effects of sin.  Sin that is taking place on every street corner of every town and city in the world.  They don’t need a pill, they’ve got plenty of them.  They don’t need sleep inducing sermons.  They need to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

What exactly is the Gospel?  I’ll wait a minute and let you answer this. ……………………………………. O.K., got an answer?  If you have the right answer you are probably in the top 5% of all people.  I hope you got it right and If not I will share it with you.

Paul, the Apostle, told us exactly what the Gospel is.

1 Corinthians 15:1-4  Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:  KJV

Here, he declares that the answer for the world’s problems is the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  The Gospel is what saves us from our sins. You see, it (sin) is precisely the reason Jesus came and died on the cross for us.  He became sin so we could be free from it.  After he became sin he was buried.  Sin was buried in that tomb.  Three days later he rose again never to go back to it again!  Yet, this story doesn’t stop with Jesus Christ.  It applies to you and I as well.  All of us must come to the place where we realized we are sinners.  Once we come to this realization we must turn from our sin.  This is called repentance in the Bible.  It is the old life dying and never returning.

Romans 6:6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

The old man is our old lifestyles of sin.  When the old man dies there are no more sinful acts.  Once he dies, then he must be buried.

Romans 6:3-4 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death:…

When we are baptized in the name of Jesus Christ the old man is buried along with his sins.  The real exciting part is the resurrection.

Romans 6:4…: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

In the same manner that Jesus rose from the tomb we also rise up (spiritually) when we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.  The Spirit of God has the power to change us into a brand new person.  This takes place from the inside out.  When Christ is in us we experience freedom.  In fact we are no longer the same man or woman.  As I finish, please read and meditate on this last scripture and ask yourself, “If this happened to everyone in the world would it be a better place?”  I think the answer is telling.  The world may miss this message but what about you?  Would you be a better person if you experienced this?  Again, the answer is very telling.

I have written three studies that go into the three parts of the gospel which are death, burial and resurrection.  They are entitled “Repentance”, “Water Baptism” and “What Does it Mean to Receive the Holy Ghost?”  Links are provided so just click on the title and you’ll be there.

O.K. ready for the scripture?

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

May God lead each of us and our world into his marvelous truth!

Blessings!

Greg Wirths

Focus On Freedom

 

Certainty or Uncertainty

If there is a word that describes the world today it would be ‘Uncertainty”.  Webster gives us some synonyms of it and they are revealing.   Words like distrust, misdoubt, misgiving, mistrust, mistrustfulness, reservation, skepticism, suspicion and doubt give us the feeling that something is shaky at best.  When I think of the situation in our world today these are the words that come to mind. 

Recently we have seen the financial markets around the world go up and down and make us proverbially sick with the roller coaster ride.  Many have removed their money from the stock markets and even a well known  company “Lloyds of London” very recently removed their cash form the European banks for fear that they are about to go under.  http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-09-21/lloyd-s-of-london-posts-697-million-pound-loss-on-disasters-1-.html

Meanwhile, today while I am writing this post Greece teeters on the brink of default and at the same time the stocks are up in the European markets.  HUH?  It all seems uncertain to me.  The last thing I do is listen to the politicians who claim to have the answers.  Many of you feel the same way I am sure. 

There is however, one main place I look for answers to the problems of the world and (you know what I’m going to say) that is the word of God.  So many kingdoms have come and gone which felt they were invincible.  Babylon, the greatest of all ancients kingdoms eventually was relegated to the dust heaps of the desert it was built upon.  The Medo-Persian empire ruled with certainty until the Greeks came and took them away.  The Greeks had it together until the Romans came and, well, you know where they are today.  The Romans whose capital was Rome, Italy today are teetering as well on the edge of financial disaster.

Looking at all of this I have to say that one word describes the kingdoms of this world and the stability they project.  “Uncertainty”.  Yet there is a place where there is stability.  I’m talking about a stability that has outlasted all of the kingdoms of this world.  In the word of God we have literally hundreds of prophecies concerning the ways of this world and the specific plan of God in this world.  To give you one example of the stability of Gods’ word I would like to turn your attention to the book of Zechariah.  Written approximately 487BC Zechariah spoke of someone who would trust so much in money that he would buy out a friend for thirty pieces of silver.  The prophecy reads like this:

Zechariah 11:12-13 And I said unto them, If ye think good, give me my price; and if not, forbear. So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver. And the LORD said unto me, Cast it unto the potter: a goodly price that I was prised at of them. And I took the thirty pieces of silver, and cast them to the potter in the house of the LORD.

This was fulfilled by men who cared nothing for the scriptures around 33AD.  It reads like this.

Matthew 27:3-10 Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that. And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself. And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood. And they took counsel, and bought with them the potter’s field, to bury strangers in. Wherefore that field was called, The field of blood, unto this day. Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him that was valued, whom they of the children of Israel did value; And gave them for the potter’s field, as the Lord appointed me.

Nowhere in this world will you find anything so certain as the word of God.  No financial advice or predictions can revel or even come close to the accuracy of the holy scriptures.  In a time when we try so hard to predict our financial future and cheerlead ourselves into prosperity (all the while the storm clouds are gathering) it’s time to look at an old book and some tried and tested ways for all men.  The Bible declares plainly the future of this world.

1 John 2:16-17 “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof:…”

It also gives us insight into those who follow the word of God.  “ but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.”

I would like to encourage all of you, my friends at Focus on Freedom to trust in the Lord and his holy word.  It is the only thing that will stand the test of time.  Jesus said it best in Matthew 24:35 “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.”

Thanks to all of you who have recently signed up for the newsletter and those of you who have put up with me for longer.  We are now in many states in America and in at least fourteen other countries.  Almost every month we have more visitors than the previous ones.  The word is getting out!  Thanks again.

Here’s the scripture ready for today!

2 Timothy 2:19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

Sincerely,

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

P.S. Tell a friend about Focus on Freedom!

The Rapture

Greetings one and all!  I thought it would be good today to write a post seeing I have not done so in some time.  First I want to say thanks to all of you who are signed up for the free newsletter.  To date we have subscriptions in the U.S. and in fourteen other countries.  Thanks so much for being a part of the freedom family.

My thoughts go to the rapture today because a few days ago we were told by someone who “knows”, that the world would come to an end and the rapture would take place.  Well, we are still here and the aftermath is quite telling.  When will “Christians” finally wake up to the need to understand the basics of the scriptures?  A man in our church here in Kansas was told by an insurance agent that an atheist insurance company sold policies to take care of the pets of those who were taken by the rapture.  Several hundred thousand policies were written for over $100 each.  Something is dreadfully wrong when the people who claim to know God are so easily fooled.

What’s the answer to all of this Tom Foolery?  The Word of God!!  When we know the Word we will not walk in darkness but have purpose and direction in life.  What don’t we understand when Jesus said in Mark 13:32 “But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.” ?

A basic knowledge of the truth will set us free from the charlatans who are robed in sheep’s clothing.  I’m sure there will be policies written to gullible people before the next date of October 21.  Not to mention that the Mayan calendar ends somewhere in December of 2012.  To this end Paul wrote to the Ephesus church a stern warning to listen to the elders of the truth because the day would come when false prophets would try to deceive the people.

Ephesians 4:11-15 “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:…”

It is not the will of God that we be caught up into every thing that comes along.  We should know the truth and be able to tell others about it with accuracy.  That’s why Paul told Timothy to “study” to show thyself approved unto God, rightly dividing the word of truth.

2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

The basic truths of the scripture that we should all know from the top of our heads to the soles of our feet are the nature of God and then salvation through God.  I have written some lessons that cover these areas.  If you are new to Christianity or even been around for a while I would encourage you to study them until you know them by heart.  Then when the wolf comes along with some “new thing” you’ll be able to spend your time and money on something worthwhile.

The lessons I have written are “Who is Jesus Christ?”, “Repentance”, “Water Baptism” and “What Does it Mean to Receive the Holy Ghost?”  The word is a rock that we stand on so when the storms of life come along we will not be shaken.  I encourage you to take the time and let me know what you think of these lessons.  Open your heart and let the Lord speak to you through the word, instead of a false prophet.

Thanks for the time and yes the Lord is coming so let’s all get ready each and every day.  Amen!!

Here’s the inspirational scripture!

1 Thessalonians 4:15-18 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.Till next time may God richly bless you!

God Bless!!

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

Tell a friend about the free newsletter!

Where Are We Headed Financially?



Wow, what a blinding past few months and believe it or not, I’m still here.      So many things have happened and I wanted to put in my two cents worth.  Now I know that I am not a financial guy as some folks are, but is this feeling I have shared by any of you?  I mean the feeling that something big is about to happen in the world.  Is it just me or do any other folks feel that the financial situation of families, municipalities, states and nations is close to a collapse?  Well, I don’t want to start of on a negative note here but how many people do you know who are debt free?  How many states in the US can you name that are debt free?  What about countries?

The word of God, the Bible, actually speaks of a time coming upon the world in which a new economic system of worldwide proportions will usher in a time of trouble for everyone.  It will actually be a system that will control the movements of every person on the planet!!  Sound crazy?  Well, it’s true.  Let me share it with you.

Revelation 13:16-18 And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six. (666)

When we look at the nations which are on the verge of bankruptcy and the bondage to spending that we have developed it can be easy to see why this scripture could be fulfilled in our lifetime.  Maybe in the very near future.  We read reports how China is advocating for a world currency called the “bankor” which in effect will bring all nations together on the same economic level.  Whether this will happen or not does not negate the fact that the word of God will come to pass.

My provoking thought is this.  What are we doing about it personally?  I can hear the answer now as it comes loudly over the net, “It’s out of our hands”, or “We can’t do anything so why try?”  Yet, is it really the right answer?  I don’t think so.

The right answer is for us to follow God’s financial principles found in his word.  Much is said in scripture about money, in fact it has been said that Jesus said more about money than he did heaven or hell.  Think about that.  The reason each of us should be doing something right now to prepare for the coming financial disaster is that our attitude is reflected in how we handle our money.  You see, the money we have been given is not ours, really.  It all belongs to God and when we are gone, it will be gone as well.  So what we do with the things he has given us now speak volumes about our attitude toward him and his leadership in our lives.

I encourage you to look at the study I have prepared entitled “Financial Freedom” to see what the Word of God says about this important subject.  In it you will find principles that I believe will guide us through the difficult days ahead.  Spread the word around and start today, it’s the only real time we have.

Thanks to all of you for being a part of this ministry.  From the beginning of Focus on Freedom we have received over 37000 hits and now have well over 100 subscribers.  May God bless each of you and see you soon!

Here’s the inspirational scripture!

James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

Till next time may God richly bless you!

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

Tell a friend about the free newsletter!

Alternative Energy

 

 

Alternative energy, we hear a lot about it today.  The word itself implies that there is an energy source which is somewhat insufficient and needs to be replaced.  Whatever side of the issue you are on we do know that some day the world supply of oil will be gone.  If that time is 20 years or 200 years from now I don’t think anyone really knows for sure.  However, the day will come when oil will be a forgotten energy source that has been replaced by something else and resigned to the annals of history.  In the same way something else will pass away at some point in time and be replaced by something better.

1 Corinthians 7:31 And they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away.

1 John 2:17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

In the same way that some jumped on the bandwagon of Microsoft and made millions from their small investments some will invest themselves into God’s kingdom and will walk on streets of gold someday in the not so distant future.  The cost will be abandoning the things of this world that will pass away and taking on the things of God which will last forever!  The writers of the inspired word of God have declared that the fashion of this world and the world itself will pass away and be no more.  The system that we trust in and live under will be gone, replaced by a better source of life.  Some look to a day of alternative, clean energy where the world will be a utopia of pristine bliss.  This dream will not come true under the leadership of corrupt men and women who rule the world now from a selfish and self serving position.  The only time this world will go back to the garden of Eden status is when Jesus Christ comes back and rules it for a thousand years.

Revelation 20:4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.

Until that time, there is an energy source that is an alternative to this world.  Jesus said it this way.

Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

God has made his Spirit available to all of us who will receive it and seek him for it.  This alternative power was poured out on the day of Pentecost in the book of Acts 2.  As you read it just imagine being filled with God’s Spirit to the point that the powers of this world have no lasting effect upon you.

Acts 2:1-4 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

This experience is for everyone!  For me and for you, for your children and their children too!  For a more in depth study into this alternative power simply go to “What Does It Mean To Receive The Holy Ghost?” and then seek God for it with all of your heart.  When you do, he will fill you to overflowing and you’ll never go back to the old way of living.  Thanks for listening and being a part of this ministry.

Here’s the inspirational scripture!

Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

Till next time may God richly bless you!

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

Tell a friend about the free newsletter!

 

Set Free From Drugs and Alcohol!

 

 

Greetings to all of you!  I wanted to write a post today on a subject that touches almost every family worldwide.  Drug and alcohol abuse and the destruction that they bring.   Dealing with this subject opens the door for us to talk about the real problem and why so many turn to these destructive vises.  Believe it or not, the addiction of alcohol and other things is spoken of in the Word of God the Bible.  From the truth found in this supernatural book we can understand and deal with drug abuse (in any form) and overcome it.  I know, because I was on my way to alcoholism and drug addiction as a young teenager when I found the answer to the real problem.  I have written a lesson on this very subject and the underlying reason that many go this way.  It’s called “Addicted to Alcohol and Drugs?” . 

One of the most famous stories of addiction is found in the New Testament book of John.  In chapter four Jesus is sitting at a well outside the city of Samaria when a woman of the city comes to draw water from the well.  He engages her in conversation and before long he finds that she is addicted to a life of multiple relationships and yet is unhappy.  He starts the conversation by asking her a question, “Will you give me a drink of water?”  From there it didn’t take her long to reveal her true lust for men as a way to happiness.  Jesus made a statement to her about the well she was drawing from and of another well that would give living water.  Let’s look at it.

John 4:13-14 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.

Of course he was speaking of the living water called the Holy Ghost which God has poured out upon all men in this age.  He also spoke of the thirsty here.  What do all of us thirst for?  Some might say money, prestige, sex, entertainment and the list goes on and on.  What are we really thirsty for?  The scriptures teach us that we are all made in the image of God and therefore only God can fill the empty void in each of us.  In reality what we are all thirsty for is the presence of God.  Jesus spoke of this in another place.

John 7:37-39 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)

What every person on this earth is longing for is a personal Holy Ghost experience just like the early church experienced.

Acts 2:1-4 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Through the power of the Holy Ghost drugs and alcohol can be washed from a persons’ life.  Cleaned out by the living water so that there will be no more thirst for it.

Do you know someone who is struggling with alcohol or drugs?  Why not tell them about this site and let them know about the lesson “Addicted to Alcohol or Drugs?” .  It could make the difference for them and they may come back and thank you for your help.  Just a simple forward to their address and that’s it. May God bless you and may we share the truth of his word to others.

Thanks to all of the new subscribers we are growing monthly!

Here’s the inspirational scripture!

John 8:36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

Tell a friend about the free newsletter!

 

Happiness, Where Can It Be Found?

 

 

Where can I find happiness?  This is an age old question that every generation must answer for itself.  Happiness is defined by Webster as being contented, satisfied, pleased and delighted.  My wife was confronted with this while working in a national retail store many years ago.  It all started when an unhappy customer came in and demanded happiness from her.  The issue was over a wash machine that supposedly wasn’t working properly.  She promptly called for the manager who began the process of finding out where this persons perception of happiness lay.  “What will it take to make you happy?” the manager asked?  He found that this person would only be happy so long as they were given a new washer for free.  Surprisingly the manager did just that!  Wow, my wife came home astonished that this store was that committed to making people happy!  But was the customer really happy?  I think not because somewhere down the road in time this person would again become dissatisfied with this new machine.

Isaiah 44:17-18 And the residue thereof he maketh a god, even his graven image: he falleth down unto it, and worshippeth it, and prayeth unto it, and saith, Deliver me; for thou art my god. They have not known nor understood: for he hath shut their eyes, that they cannot see; and their hearts, that they cannot understand.

The prophet Isaiah clearly said that anything we build or look up to which is made with the materials of this earth can never help or satisfy us.  They simply do not have the power. 

Another man named Solomon wrote about his personal quest for happiness.  He was the third King of Israel and decided to find the thing that all men should do to make them happy.  He tried it all and you can read about it in the book of Ecclesiastes in the bible.  When he finished his search, he  regularly wrote the words “vanity of vanity, all is vanity”.  He actually came to the place where he hated life, meaning that he had developed a totally fatalistic attitude toward everything in life.  How sad.  He did  however come to the right conclusion in the end.

Ecclesiastes 12:13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

You see, all of us are physical and spiritual.  The physical side of us is the part that is temporary.  The spiritual side is eternal and the most important.  However, it is the side that we often neglect and set aside, looking for more satisfying things to do.  The truth is, we need a relationship with God who is the creator of us all because this is the only thing that can bring happiness.  When we have this relationship restored through salvation we can then and only then be truly happy like we should be.  Are you happy?  Do you know someone who is unhappy?  Maybe they would enjoy reading a study I have written entitled, “Finding Happiness”.  In this lesson I go deeper into the life of Solomon and his search for fulfillment in this life.  I think they will enjoy it and if you are unhappy why not check it out for yourselftoo?  Thanks for taking the time to be a part of this ministry!

Here’s the inspirational scripture!

Colossians 2:8-10 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

Tell a friend about the free newsletter!

Your Memorial

 

 

A memorial is anything that serves to keep in memory.  Here in America we are celebrating “Memorial Day” to remember those who have given their lives for the cause of individual liberty and freedom.  We have established this day because without going back and looking at the past we will never be able to establish the future.  We look back to the brave men and women of the two world wars and many other conflicts in which dictators tried to take over the world and establish anything but freedom.  We honor their heroic dedication to establishing freedom for future generations.

As I thought about this I realized that each of us are building memorials in our own personal lives as well in our families, churches and communities.  What we do each day is telling a story for those who will come after us.  Did we act honestly?  Were we compassionate toward others?  Did we serve the Lord and do his will?  These and many other questions need to be addressed because what we do every day is like a page in a book.  Collectively over the course of life each page tells a story of what was done, either right or wrong and it will be there for the future generations to read.

I know this sounds old fashioned, but each of us have a responsibility to do the right thing because we are but a few steps in the march of humanity into the future.  What we do will either keep the stride of that which is good and right or it will break the pace of righteousness and lead others into error.   As parents we have a responsibility to build memorials for our children that they will have a moral compass for their future.  As adults we have a tremendous opportunity to mold the minds of the youth through a memorial of life lived in the will of God.

We are thankful today for the parades, the memorial walls and the remembrance of heroes in the past but let us not forget that we are the heroes of the present.  We aren’t marching in a parade and our names are not on a wall but we are getting into the hearts of others by simply doing the right thing and building a memorial for the future.

Thanks for taking the time and being a part of the newsletter family.  We have broken the monthly record again for the third straight month in a row!  Pass the word around that freedom is for us all.  Especially the freedom we have through God’s word!   I pray your week will be blessed of the Lord and you are led into his will for your life.

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture.

Acts 10:4 … Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

Tell a friend about the free weekly newsletter!

 

Substantialiscious

 

Again, in March we had a record number of people (you) who visited Focus on Freedom.  Our sincerest thanks.  From the last post till now, several weeks have passed without my being able to write a new one.  My apologies.  I became swamped with activities that totally consumed me but I am back on track and running again.  However, I have been considering doing a monthly post instead of a weekly one.  To that end, I value your input.

I came upon a word that caught my attention the other day.  I found it in a most unusual place. The word is “Substantialiscious”.  Some of you may be saying HUH?  I’m with you, that’s the same reaction I had.  According to it’s definition it is a noun which means: “The weight of something when you weigh it with your tongue.”  HMM.  It seems to come from the thought that something which is delicious, hence the “iscious” part of the word, is measured by the weight of it’s taste, “substantial”.  Substantialiscious. 

Some things are good to the taste and we relish the thought of eating them again and again.  Some things go over the top and go far beyond “good” and fall into the category of exquisite.  Exquisite experiences are reserved for those special night out occasions, maybe dinner at a fancy restaurant or such.  Rarely do you find something that is, you guessed it, substantialiscious.  MMM  MMM good!!  Personally I have found only one place for this kind of good pleasure, a personal experience with God!!

Psalms 34:8 O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.

You see, life is filled with experiences that we usually rate by emotional and physical standards.  We often forget that we are spiritual creatures as well and can measure experiences through the soul.  The spiritual part of you and I can experience the spiritual presence of God and measure the weight of it.  David the psalmist had a sense of his presence and said, “Taste and see that God is good”!  He is more than good, he is substantialiscious!

The disciples of Jesus tasted of the Lord on the first day of the New Testament church and found the spiritual taste to be good to the uttermost!  They spoke with other tongues as God filled them with his presence and their lives were changed by the satisfying experience.  The study entitled “What Does it Mean to Receive the Holy Ghost” will help you or a friend to understand that God has this same experience for all of us.  If you are hungry or thirsty for God he will satisfy you substantialisciously.  Sorry I had to add that little bit. 

Thanks for taking the time to stop by, and Oh yes, in case you are wondering, I found the word on the inside of a candy bar wrapper.  Jesus or a candy bar?  Jesus, every time!

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture.

John 7:37-39 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

Tell a friend about the free weekly newsletter!

The Coming Financial Snowstorm

 

The month of January was a record at Focus on Freedom with the highest number of hits since starting this ministry.  All of you made this possible and a number of positive comments came in as well.  Most of which were from outside the US.  I pray that this little spot on the web will be a help to someone in need.  If you know someone who is hurting or just need answers to some of life’s questions, maybe they will find it here.  Our giveaway for the month of January is over and to my surprise no one won the Bible software Sword Search.  In fact no one seemed interested at all.  Oh, well I tried.  Maybe everyone is already up to speed in this area of computer technology. 

The month of February here in America has seen snow storms the likes of which we haven’t seen in a number of years.  As Washington, D.C. is digging out of two feet of snow the Federal Government is trying to bury us all in a snowstorm of debt of epic proportions.  Now they talk of trillions like you and I discuss our grocery bill.  The stock markets have plunged again and at this writing is below 10,000 for the first time in eight months.  I don’t know about you but this whole financial thing has got me nervous.  China is said to have “cooked the books” about their financial prosperity and Europe is reeling with a debt load that may necessitate a change in their basic currency.  America is about to slip out of the AAA rating it has enjoyed for so long and one has to ask where is it all going to end?  The answer of course is found in the Word of God, the Bible.  Have you read it lately?  In the prophecies of scripture we see a global financial system arise that is led by a man called the anti-Christ.  Let me share what he will be allowed to do in the area of global financial areas.

“And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six.” Revelation 13:16-18

Before this happens it s obvious that the world must go through a “leveling out” process where all currencies will be placed on an equal plane and then a one world currency will be installed.  When this happens the world will be in the total control of the “man of sin”.  No one will be exempt from his tyranny and complete control.  Until that time each of us have choices to make about the immediate future.  Those choices will include the handling of personal finances.  I have written two lessons entitled “Borrowing Money” and “Financial Freedom” which are not at all exhaustive on this subject but give a good starting point.  You see, it’s not where we are that’s so important but where we are headed that makes the difference.  Freedom from financial debt is the will of God and a good way to live as well and when the global financial crisis comes upon the world those who have planned ahead will do the best.  Are you planning for the future?  If you are then consider one more thing with me.

Where are you headed spiritually?  In the same way we prosper financially we can prosper spiritually if we plan ahead and take care of the little things first.  I would love to have you look at the lessons on salvation that I have written.  They are “Repentance”, “Water Baptism” and “What Does it Mean to Receive the Holy Ghost?”.  In these lessons you will see the basic plan of salvation that God has for us from the debt load of sin that we all carry. 

The storms are coming!  The least of which is two feet of snow.  Be prepared, I know you won’t regret it. 

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture.

“One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock. And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.”  Psalms 27:4-6

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

Tell a friend about the free weekly newsletter!

Peace at Christmas?

 

“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, [14] Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:13-14 (KJV) 

As we approach the Christmas Holiday it would be easy to look at the present condition of our world and say “Where is God in all of the trouble?”  “If the angels proclaimed peace on earth and good will toward men where is it?”  Good question.  The answer must lie, not in how peace will come to the earth but how it is imparted to individuals.

“Peace is not merely a distant goal that we seek, but a means by which we arrive at that goal.”  Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin Luther King Jr. was not looking for peace in the future by the mere stroke of a pen upon legislative paper or a mass movement aimed at changing laws but peace to him was something that had to be possessed by individuals before it could come to the world at large.  As I pondered this it came to me that there is peace on earth and good will toward men!  It may not be en-mass but it is alive and well in the hearts and lives of men and women who have the prince of peace in their lives.  This is the inner peace that will carry you through the most difficult of times.  It will give you a calm in the middle of a storm.  It will bring tranquility to your heart so that you can give good will to others. 

A  year ago, I was at the local Wally Mart and as people were going here and there looking for gifts I heard a little boy singing a Christmas carol loud enough for those of us busy people to hear as we passed by.  I thought to myself, “He likes Christmas!”  Frankly, I do too.  I felt like stopping to listen or even joining in with him but I kept on walking dutifully following my wife down this isle and that.  Maybe I should have stopped, maybe we all need to stop and sing with the little boy or girl once in a while and learn to experience the peace they express a little more.  Maybe in the hustle and bustle of the day we will see Jesus standing by waiting to give peace to us as he does the little ones.

Do you know someone who is not happy at this time of the year?  Send them a little good will and help to bring about peace on the earth in your little corner.  Don’t have peace for yourself?  I have written a study titled “Finding Happiness”  that may be of interest to you or a friend.  You can have peace in your heart.  Our world needs peace and they can find it through the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ.  Merry Christmas and may there be peace and good will in your world not just during the Holidays but everyday of the year!

Thanks for taking the time to be a part of the newsletter family.  It is truly an honor to have you here.  Pass along this newsletter and encourage a friend to sign up!  We pray your Christmas Holiday season will be blessed.

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture. 

“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”  Luke 2:13-14

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

Study Leads To Freedom

 

 

Last week our Focus on Freedom newsletter focused on a great giveaway.  When I received my personal newsletter it was in my junk folder.  I guessed it was because the title sent up a red flag that it was junk mail.  If you received last weeks newsletter in your regular mailbox I apologize for repeating it this week.  For the benefit of those who didn’t I am sending it again this week.  My apologies for any confusion.  Since it has thrown us off a week I am extending it through the month of January.    I believe that the Word of God is truth and it is important that we study it, for through HIS truth we can and will be set free!

“Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”  John 8:31-32

To this end I would like to announce that we will be giving away a free copy of SwordSearcher 5.5 to the first person who signs up ten friends on the free Focus on Freedom weekly newsletter through the month of January.  This Bible study software is an invaluable tool for anyone interested in knowing the Word more intimately.  You can find every word in the Bible and where it is located and it also has many features such as Greek and Hebrew definitions of the original words as well as many commentators, dictionaries and books. 

All you have to do is get ten friends to join the free weekly newsletter through the month of January.  Once they have signed up and are active ( meaning they must confirm their e-mail address) all I need from the winner is an e-mail with a list of those ten e-mail addresses that I can check with my list to verify.  The first list of ten I receive that checks out legitimate I will send a free copy of SwordSearcher 5.5 to you.  A $49.95 value.  This includes all oversees participants.  I reserve the right to cancel any applicant for any reason and my decision will be final.  The winner will be announced shortly after January 31, 2010.

Pretty simple!  My motive is up front.  I want to get the word out about Jesus Christ and his Word.  So those of you who are Bible students please sign up people you know who have a need for the Word in their lives not just a Bible buddy.  Thanks!  I think a great way to start the New Year is to make a commitment to study the Word of God and help a friend in need by introducing them to the Word of God through the free weekly newsletter!  SwordSearcher is not connected with this giveaway and I am not benefiting by this financially in any way.  I just think it is a cool program and want to share it with someone who will benefit from it. You can check them out if you like to at:

http://www.swordsearcher.com/

I am also putting a link here for the newsletter and also on the right side of the Focus on Freedom site.  I’ll be waiting to hear from you!

Here’s the weekly inspirational scripture. 

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”  Psalms 119:105

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

Special Giveaway for December

 

 

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”  2 Timothy 2:15

Since we know the Bible is the Word of God (“The Source of Truth”) it becomes imperative that we study it.  If we fail to know what God has said we will surely be deceived.  Case in point is the story of Adam and Eve.  God gave them his commandment not to eat of the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

“But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.”  Genesis 2:17

Eve was deceived by the serpent because she added to God’s word.

“But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.”  Genesis 3:3

God never said they couldn’t touch the tree.  When he saw her ignorance of the Word he knew he could easily deceive her into believing a lie and breaking the commandment of God, which she did.  Many false teachings abound today because of illiteracy of the Word of God.   There are so many “thoughts” about this and that and that it’s hard to get the truth.  I have had many people ask me, “Why are there so many different denominations and religions in the world today?”  The reason is simple, illiteracy of the Word of God.  Don’t be deceived by someone who says “I believe” or “I feel that my way is right”.  What I or anyone else believes or feels is really irrelevant.  What does the Bible say about it.  Have you read it for yourself?  One of the goals of Focus on Freedom is to educate people in the basic teachings of the scriptures.  By doing this people can be set free from the bondage of sin.

“Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”  John 8:31-32

To this end I would like to announce that we will be giving away a free copy of SwordSearcher 5.5 to the first person who signs up ten friends on the free Focus on Freedom weekly newsletter in the month of December.  This Bible study software is an invaluable tool for anyone interested in knowing the Word more intimately.  You can find every word in the Bible and where it is located and it also has many features such as Greek and Hebrew definitions of the original words as well as many commentators, dictionaries and books. 

All you have to do is get ten friends to join the free weekly newsletter in the month of December.  Once they have signed up and are active ( meaning they must confirm their e-mail address) all I need from the winner is an e-mail with a list of those ten e-mail addresses that I can check with my list to verify.  The first list of ten I receive that checks out legitimate I will send a free copy of SwordSearcher 5.5 to you.  A $49.95 value.  This includes all oversees participants.  I reserve the right to cancel any applicant for any reason and my decision will be final.  The winner will be announced after January 1, 2010.

Pretty simple!  My motive is up front.  I want to get the word out about Jesus Christ and his Word.  So those of you who are Bible students please sign up people you know who have a need for the Word in their lives not just a Bible buddy.  Thanks!  I think a great way to start the New Year is to make a commitment to study the Word of God and help a friend in need by introducing them to the Word of God through the free weekly newsletter!  SwordSearcher is not connected with this giveaway and I am not benefiting by this financially in any way.  I just think it is a cool program and want to share it with someone who will benefit from it. You can check them out if you like to at:

http://www.swordsearcher.com/

I am also putting a link here for the newsletter and also on the right side of the Focus on Freedom site.  I’ll be waiting to hear from you!

Here’s the weekly inspirational scripture. 

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”  Psalms 119:105

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

The Baptism of the Holy Ghost

 

 

Some time ago around 34 A.D. a group of one hundred and twenty people gathered together into an upper room to seek for an experience with God.  They wanted what Jesus Christ had promised them, ie; the baptism of the Holy Ghost.  The master told them that their old experience with God through the law would be replaced with a personal relationship of his indwelling Spirit!  It happened when the day of Pentecost (A Jewish feast day) had fully come and they were all filled and changed by the Spirit of God.

“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Acts 2:1-4

The people who had gathered to see what was happening were completely baffled.  The Apostle Peter began to tell them that this was Old Testament prophecy being fulfilled before their very eyes.  See Joel 2:28

“But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:” Acts 2:16-17

He went on to say that this promise of the Holy Ghost baptism is for everyone of us!

Acts 2:39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.

That’s you and I!  I know for a fact that God is still pouring out his Spirit on those who will open their heart to receive it.  When the Holy Ghost fills a soul he comes to bring righteousness, peace and joy.  Isn’t that the desire of all men?  I have written a study entitled “What Does It Mean To Receive The Holy Ghost?” that I would love for you to go through.  When you are done why not pray that you too can experience Christ in you the hope of glory?

Why not tell a friend about Focus on Freedom and the free weekly newsletter.  Each month our readership grows.  Thanks so much!

Here’s the weekly inspirational scripture. 

Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

Thanksgiving Day!

 

 

1 Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Today, here in America, we celebrate Thanksgiving Day.  Just the ring of it in ones ear brings a warm and secure feeling.  The idea that we set aside a special day to give thanks to God for all of his blessings is truly wonderful and it is the right thing to do.  Too often as well, we forget to tell others that we love them maybe because we are just too busy.  As I am writing we have a turkey in the oven and a ham waiting it’s turn, rolls and deserts on the way and family coming over to spend some time.  I’m looking forward to it!

This Thanksgiving will be different for me though, in that last night at 11:30 P.M. one of my brothers passed from this life.  Jim was a giving man and always had room at the table for one more.  When my mother and father passed away at the young age of sixteen it was my brother that took me in and cared for me until I finished High School.  I will always be grateful for what he did.  He took others in as well and helped as best he could in his own way.  Thanks Jim for your selfless toward me I love you and will always be thankful for your kindness to me.

On this day, whether or not you celebrate it in your culture, why not take the time to say thanks to someone that has blessed you.  If you’re having a hard time thinking of someone, you might look upward and, well, I’m sure you’ll find someone to thank.  His name is Jesus Christ.  Have a great day and may the Lord bless all of you and keep you in this coming year.

Here’s the weekly inspirational scripture. 

James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

Striving For Real Success?

 

 

At this writing the space shuttle Atlantis has just entered orbit at an approximate speed of 15,000 miles per hour or roughly five miles per second.  From liftoff to orbit everything went flawlessly with every engine performing exactly as designed.  It is breathtaking to see something that large lift off and function perfectly.  A lot of work went into this blastoff with many hours of preparation and meetings, technicians working over the craft to insure that everything was right on.

To say the least, success is a beautiful thing to see.  Even more beautiful  when it happens in the lives of people.  Although none of us are programmed like some machine to do a certain job flawlessly God gave us something that will guide us to success.  True success and what it means is given to us in the Word of God.

Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

In much the same way that the shuttle worked perfectly, you and I can be successful by living life according to a set of principles and laws that are perfect and right.  These laws have been proven over the millennia as the right way to go. 

Psalms 19:7-11 The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.

The Word of God contains laws about money, relationships and a host of other relevant issues facing us today.  It seems that many people are just looking to be successful in life and find “happiness” or “the good life” without seeking for the true riches that come only from God and his Word.  There was a man however that found the secret to true success.  David the King of Israel was a very successful man both in leadership and in personal accomplishments.  He came to a conclusion that we would all do well to listen to.  He found the secret to true success and started out his career of singing with the first song that gave us this principle.  Listen to the melody.

Psalms 1:1-6 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

What kind of success are you looking for?  It really does makes a difference.  You can blast off to blessings or can sit on the launch pad and dream, it’s really up to you.  All of the studies at Focus on Freedom are Bible based and are for your benefit.  Why not start with the one entitled “Becoming Successful”?  There’s a lot of others too that I pray will be of help to you or a friend.  Check them out.

Here’s the weekly inspirational scripture.  (It’s a repeat, it’s that good!)

 “Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? [32] (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. [33] But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:31-33 (KJV)

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

Free From Debt “MMM MMM MMM”

 

 

Financial Freedom!  Ohhh it sounds so good!  “MMM MMM MMM”  But to get there is such a different matter.  Finances or the lack thereof is a major topic today because most of our world is living on some form of borrowed money.  Can you think of anyone who is completely debt free and continuing to live that way?  For most of us the answer is no.  What happens when the debt level gets so huge that we can’t afford to make the minimum payments?  Well, for starters we can experience marriage problems, personal problems, depression and a host of other negative things.  What is the answer? 

You know what I’m going to say, “The Word of God”.  In the good book we find answers to the financial dilemmas of our time.  One thing we find in God’s holy word are principles about money and debt.  When we understand these principles we find direction out of our money troubles.  Below  are four that I have discovered.

First principle: The nature of money is that it corrupts.

“For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” 1 Tim. 6:10 (KJV) 

Second principle: Money cannot satisfy.

“He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity.” Eccles. 5:10 (KJV) 

Third principle:  Learn to be content with what you have.

“…for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. [12] I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. [13] I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philip. 4:11-13 (KJV) 

Fourth principle: To be truly free you must work toward getting out of debt.

“The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.” Proverbs 22:7 (KJV) 

Why not consider God’s way when it comes to money and debt?  You may find freedom is just around the corner.  I have written two studies entitled “Financial Freedom” and “Borrowing Money”.  If you or someone you know is struggling with these issues why not take a little time to find out the truth.  The truth will make you free!  Tell a friend about this ministry.  The weekly newsletter is free and we would love to have them sign up.

Here’s the weekly inspirational scripture.

 “Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? [32] (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. [33] But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:31-33 (KJV)

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

The Power of Prayer

 

 

Quality communication is fast becoming something of the past.  With cell phones and text messaging right at our finger-tips, why spend the time to look someone in the eye and visit for a while about the things that are important to them?  Anyway, that’s the way they use to do it, now we have a better more modern way to “get in touch.”  Right? 

In the Word of God we find Jesus teaching about the power of communication in it’s highest form.  That being our communication with God, ie: prayer.  Without prayer we are left with only earthly forms of communication that can leave us empty and disillusioned.  Yet, when we touch the Lord through sincere prayer something lifts us up higher and gives us hope.  The simplest way to explain prayer is to use a parable.  Jesus did this and I want to use his example.

Luke 18:1-8 And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint; Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man: And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary. And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man; Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me. And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith. And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them? I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?

In this parable we find a woman with a need and she could approach only one man for her help.  That man was the King (God).  When she persisted in her approach to him he finally gave her what she asked.  Jesus was trying to help us understand that firstly, men and women need to pray always and secondly that we should be persistent and diligent in our prayers.  This woman understood that God has all of the answers to life’s problems in his hand, the big ones and the little ones and that he can and will help us when we go to him consistently with our cares.  John the apostle of Jesus came to this truth and wrote about it.  As you read I hope you are inspired to spend some time today in prayer. 

1 John 5:14-15 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.

Through prayer we develop confidence that God hears us and desires to bless us with the things we need.  When prayer is understood and developed it actually becomes a necessary part of each day.  Personally, I can’t make it through each day without talking to him.  He is everything, my all in all and without him I can do nothing.  Do you feel this way as well?  If you’re not sure why not try talking to God through prayer.  Call on his name (Jesus Christ) and do it out loud.  I’m sure that if you will do it in sincerity you will notice his presence and things will go so much better afterwards.  Also, I have written a study entitled “A Parable on Prayer” that goes further into the subject.  Check it out! 

On a final note, someone sent this to me and I thought it was worth sharing.  Consider this!  The shortest chapter in the Bible is Psalm 117.  The Longest chapter in the Bible is Psalm 119.  The center chapter in the Bible is Psalm 118.  There are 594 chapters before Psalm 118 and 594 chapters after it.  Added together they equal 1188.  The center verse in the Bible is Psalm 118:8.  You can read it below to see what is in the center.  Shalom.

Here’s the weekly inspirational scripture.

Psalms 118:8 It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

Signs That Follow Believers

 

 

The New Testament church in the book of Acts was a powerful church.  They greatly affected their world with the Gospel message given to them by Jesus Christ.  Their prayers had powerful results and in the same way it is the will of God that these signs should follow believers today.   They had troubles and difficulties but they had tapped into something powerful and they rose above their troubles through prayer and faith in God. 

Acts 4:29-31 (KJV) And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, [30] By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus. [31] And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.

Jesus made it clear that signs would follow those who believe his gospel message.

Mark 16:17-18 (KJV) And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; [18] They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

It is important to note here that the believers do not follow after signs but the signs follow the believers.  True believers are those who seek for the  presence of the only one who can give signs. If we are believers in the Word of God we too can experience the deliverance and power to be set free from the things that bind us.  Jesus told his disciples that they would receive power after they had been baptized with the Holy Ghost.

Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

The Holy Ghost is that supernatural presence of God and something powerful happens when his Spirit comes to live within us.  Through God’s anointing the bondage of sin is broken and men are set free.  There is no reason to walk in bondage when the power to be free is available.  I have written a study entitled “Signs That Follow The Word”  and “What Does It Mean To Receive The Holy Ghost?” that lays out this exciting truth.  Do you know someone who needs the power to be free from drugs or alcohol?   Why not share this note with them?  The newsletter is free and we would love to have them join us!

Here’s the weekly inspirational scripture.

Isaiah 10:27 And it shall come to pass in that day, that his burden shall be taken away from off thy shoulder, and his yoke from off thy neck, and the yoke shall be destroyed because of the anointing.

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

Watch Those Small Things

 

Oftentimes, we look at the big things in life and give most of our attention to them.  While we need to do this it is important that we examine the small things as well.  Small things like attitude and sin can be totally destructive if not kept in check.  Jesus Christ gave us a powerful parable to this end.

“Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: [32] Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof.” Matthew 13:31-32 (KJV)

The seed that Jesus was probably referring to is the Brassica nigra or mustard seed.  According to Wikipedia; “The small (1 mm) seeds are hard and vary in color from dark brown to black. They are very flavorful, although they have almost no aroma. ”  “The plant itself can grow from 2 to 8 feet tall with racemes of small yellow flowers. These flowers are usually up to 1/3″ across, with 4 petals each. Its leaves are covered in small hairs. The leaves can wilt on hot days, but recover at night.” 

In his book “All the Plants of the Bible” Winifred Walker on pg. 120 says, “The mustard is found growing wild in many parts of the world, including Israel, where it is also cultivated.  In that country it grows to so great a size that it can screen a mounted rider, and is a favorite haunt of linnets and finches.”  “Mustard for the table comes from the seeds.”  He also states that a poultice made from the seeds was used before medicine to treat certain illnesses. 

Suffice it to say that this little seed has the power to produce a lot of good things.  Yet when we look at his teaching he was not only speaking of the power of these little seeds to produce great good he was also teaching that a little evil can also produce much trouble and heartache.  Jesus was teaching us the power of sowing and reaping in our lives.  Sin when it is sown can cause much destruction and damage not only to self but to others as well.  Good, when it is sown has the potential to bring about a crop of blessings that is unimaginable.  What kind of seeds are you sowing in your life?  It will make a huge difference.  I have written a study entitled “A Parable on the Power of Small Things” and I’d love to have you check it out.  Till next time, watch those small things!

Thanks for being a part of the newsletter, why not share it with a friend?

Oh yes, here’s the weekly inspirational scripture!

Galatians 6:7-10 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. 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. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

The Current Housing Crisis.

 

 

The bubble has burst and the world is feeling the effects.  The situation is so critical that talk of taking the dollar off of the world standard has surfaced recently.  Foreclosures are at a record high and new home starts are down.  In fact just yesterday I heard a commentator say that California with 12% unemployment may be the first state to fail.  Whether it all happens or not is not really the issue.  The issue is, are we living within our means.  Have we purchased a home or homes that we can actually afford?  HMM, good question.  Can we live like the politicians in Washington and borrow more to stimulate our bottom line at the expense of others?  Well, for most of us the answer no. Most of us will tighten the financial belt, spend less, stop borrowing and live below our means.  While this is just common sense it is amazing that this is really not that common.

It seems that we are living the life of the foolish man who never thinks about tomorrow but just lives his life for the moment.  Are there any wise among us who can discern the times?  Well, there was one who would certainly qualify as a wise man and he lived almost two thousand years ago.  He taught common sense principles to common people and one of  his lessons was about building houses.  Yes, Jesus Christ gave us the timeless parable about the wise and foolish man.  One lost everything (the foolish man) and the other made it through hard times (the wise man) because of the way they built their homes.

In this parable he not only talks about our physical dwelling place but more importantly he addressed the need to build a strong spiritual home that will stand the test of wind and weather.  In his discourse the foundation is what made the difference.  One built his house on the sand (hearing and not doing the word of God) the other built on a rock (hearing and doing the word of God).  When the storms came, the house on the sand fell flat but the one on the rock stood strong and made it through.

“Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.”  Matthew 7:24-27

Which foundation do you think America is on financially and spiritually?  Which foundation are you on?  It will make a difference one day.  Why not go through the study entitled “The Parable of the Two Houses” and see where you are today?  It might be better than going through a housing crisis.

Thanks for being a great part of Focus on Freedom and thanks so much for the positive comments and words of encouragement!

Here’s the daily inspirational scripture!

“Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.” 2 Timothy 2:19

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

Wonderful!

 

 

Wonderful!  Although it is probably seldom used today, this word has tremendous meaning and is therefore relevant to us.  From the Hebrew word we find meanings such as, miracle or a marvelous thing.  The base word is even more descriptive, using descriptions such as great and things too high (for our understanding).  Just the thought of it makes me want to shout, “Where can I find something this grand?”  Is it in money, fame, popularity or material possessions?  Can I find this in a super relationship of some sort?

There are places where wonderful applies in this life but one place stands out from them all.  Isaiah, the Old Testament prophet spoke of someone who would come to set us free from the bondage of sin and give us a wonderful life here and now and for eternity.  This man he wrote of is none other than the Lord Jesus Christ!

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 (KJV) 

When we look at the name of Jesus Christ we see something so high that it is too high for us to understand completely.  Just the parts we see make us gaze with wonder and say in our hearts, “WONDERFULL!”  The Word of God has much to say about the name of the Lord Jesus.  AI have listed just a few of them here.

Safety from the storm: “The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” Proverbs 18:10 (KJV) 

Salvation: “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name  *(Jesus) under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12 (KJV)   * my emphasis

Healing: “Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.” Acts 3:6 (KJV) 

Salvation: “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” Acts 2:38 (KJV) 

I could go on and on, but suffice it to say, there is one word that sums up this great name, wonderful.  Do you need something wonderful in your life?  The answer is wrapped up in a name, Jesus Christ.  You may want to look at the study entitled, “Who Is Jesus Christ?” .  After looking at him and who he is you will say “wonderful” too!

Here’s the daily inspirational scripture!

“Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: [7] That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: [8] Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: [9] Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.” 1 Peter 1:6-9 (KJV) 

Wonderful!

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

True Success

 

 

What is success?  How can we achieve it?  Is it the same for everyone? These and many more questions are asked each and every day by millions worldwide.  I think the answer lies in the foundation of success.  Everything solid must have a foundation and success is no different.

The foundation for good success in life probably won’t be found in a seminar.  How to make a better you is not the answer.  Taking supplements to improve hair quality or quantity will not help you succeed.  Yet we are bombarded with the latest technological breakthroughs (so called) that promise to improve height, memory, learning ability, language and a host of other things on a daily basis for the sole purpose of becoming successful.  The message is evident, “You are not successful and this will help you.”  If everyone had the money to purchase all of these miracle tonics wouldn’t it be amazing how our world would be transformed?  Yet, many trudge onward hoping to make it rich either by the lottery or some other unknown method. 

 We march along in hopes of something better when the poorest of us are richer than many people in the world.  We always want more and strangely enough often look to Hollywood as the model of success while waiting for the perfect situation to come upon us.  Happiness, however, can’t be found on such a shifty foundation.  For example, one day we are told success is to be a millionaire and all of a sudden inflation claims we need two million and so on it goes.  What is needed more than anything is a solid foundation that won’t move with the times or fads of society.  The foundation I speak of is found in the pages of Gods’ holy word, the Bible.

 “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.” Joshua 1:8 (KJV)

Joshua, the second leader of the nation of Israel had a tremendous task ahead of him.  It was overwhelming to say the least.  He was to lead an entire nation into the promised land and make decisions which would affect millions of people.  The Lord spoke to him and gave him a foundation that would propel him into true success.  I believe it can do the same for you and I. 

I have written a study entitled “Becoming Successful” which goes further into this subject and may be a starting point for real blessings.  Why not share it with a friend?

Here’s the daily inspirational scripture!

“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. [2] But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. [3] And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” Psalm 1:1-3 (KJV) 

If you have a bible, read the next three verses and you’ll get the whole point.

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

Witchcraft, is it real?

 

 

While ministering on the east coast many years ago I came in contact with the reality of witchcraft and spirit worship.  A lady in our congregation knew of someone who would regularly get animals from the local shelter to sacrifice to the devil.  The town next to ours boasted of five hundred professing witches.  The local library told me that the most checked out books were on witchcraft and sorcery. 

Is witchcraft real and does it have profound effects on people?  The answer is unequivocally yes.  For answers to this very real problem we must go to the Word of God.  The Bible records the fall of Satan from heaven to the earth and the fact that he is at work and moving at breakneck speed to destroy as many people as possible.  Only a surface study is needed to see that this very real and a very real problem.

A case in point is a ten year old boy in our town who was being bothered by a demon spirit.  As his “relationship with this spirit grew he was able to see it and talk to it.  He described to me the face and size of this fallen creature.  One night when his sisters were at home the spirit came to the front door and the electrical system of the house went crazy.  From the floor half way to the ceiling everything worked while from the halfway point to the ceiling nothing worked.  Needless to say this is what prompted them to come for prayer.  When he came he described the feeling of this spirit as it pressed down upon him yet when we prayed in the name of Jesus Christ the spirit lifted from him and he felt better than he had in a long time.

Recently, I have received notes from people asking for prayer because they feel the oppression of these spirits in their lives.  Some are young and some are old.  The enemy of our soul has no boundaries.  While I realize that I have no power to cure these kinds of problems, there are answers in the Word of God.  It tells us that when a person is truly filled with the Spirit of Jesus Christ they have complete power over any demon spirit.

“And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; [18] They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.” Mark 16:17-18 (KJV) 

The lessons entitled “Repentance”, “Water Baptism” and “What Does it mean to Receive the Holy Ghost?” are important because they tell us what the scriptures teach about being born again.  None of the Apostles or any believer in the bible were overcome by evil spirits but had control over them to cast them out.  If they had this power then we can too!

However, many are overcome by the spirits of this age simply because the enemy has deceived them.  I suppose this is why the studies entitled “Deliverance From Witchcraft” and “Demonic Oppression” are some of the top read studies of interested readers.  There is no reason to be deceived when we have the good Word of God to guide us and give us freedom.  If you know someone who is oppressed, why not tell them about these studies.  It might just be what they need.

Here’s the daily inspirational scripture!

“Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. [20] Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:19-20 (KJV) 

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

The Power Of Prayer

 

The Word of God, the Bible, is filled with stories of people who in their need prayed to God and received answers (Hebrews 11).  I suppose this is one reason it (the Bible) is so popular and has remained the number one best seller of all time.  Stories of answered prayers are inspiring because we often find ourselves in them.  They motivate us to have that same faith and trust.  They may motivate us to pray.  Prayer is powerful.  Someone once said, “If it can’t be done in prayer, it can’t be done“ as a testimony to their faith in it’s practice.

Yet, the question always comes up when reading the stories of the miraculous in the Bible “Do these things happen today?”  Good question and it deserves a good answer.  Hopefully I can answer it.  The answer is Yes God still answers prayer and Yes he still does the miraculous!  

Let me say as I get into this subject that when God does miracles it is not by the holiness or spirituality of any person.  It is always because of the holiness and power of Jesus Christ, God’s son.  One day, when we were living in the city of Boston, Massachusetts, my wife came upon a dilemma of sorts.  She had washed our clothes that day and had them hanging out on a line from the house to a pole in the yard.  That’s the way some people do it in that area of the country.  When the clothes were dry she started to pull the rope to retrieve the clothes and the rope jumped the pulley out on the pole and became stuck in the bracket.  She tugged and tugged to no avail.  Frustrated, she resorted to the age old practice of prayer to help fix the problem.  “In the name of Jesus Christ, Lord would you put the rope back on the pulley, we need these clothes for tonight?” rolled off of her lips in desperation.  The words had barely cleared her throat when to her amazement the pulley flipped around and the rope was back on it.  She pulled the clothes in and went on with her chores.

Upon coming home from work she told me the story and I thanked God for his answer to her prayer.  Otherwise I would have had to climb up the pole to fix the thing.  This incident told me among other things that God is interested in our daily lives.  He cares about the things that make us frustrated and angry.  He not only cares, he wants to help us but he is waiting for us to ask in faith.

“… yet ye have not, because ye ask not.” James 4:2 (KJV) 

“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: [8] For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8 (KJV) 

Are you experiencing stress because things are going wrong?  Why not stop for a while and talk to God about it?  You may find that he is interested in the little things and the big things too.  The apostle John wrote of the confidence we can have through prayer. Look at this!

“And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: [15] And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” 1 John 5:14-15 (KJV) 

When we pray in his will he hears us and when he hears he answers!  Maybe it’s just a rope or a pulley, it doesn’t matter to God because he truly loves us and wants to be there for us.

Here’s the daily inspirational scripture!

“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” James 5:16 (KJV) 

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

Don’t Worry Be Happy

 

 

This cute line is easier said than done.  In reality, the opposite of happy (anger) is very common in our society.  Even though we have so many material things, we still seem to be unhappy.  Whatever the cause of anger, we can see that it is a futile waste of time.  Gods’ Word, the Bible, has much to say on this subject. 

“Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.” Psalm 37:8 (KJV) 

Anger is like a poison.  It infects and affects every part of a person’s life.  It causes violence, heartache and broken relationships.  To put it mildly, it isn’t something you want around for very long.  Yet, it seems that so many today turn to it as an outlet for their frustrations. 

He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” Proverbs 16:32 (KJV) 

Through the power of God we can control the tendency to let our anger get out of control.  When God controls our spirit (attitude) he leads us to still waters and green pastures.  All of us have failed and let our anger get out of control but thank God he forgives and gives us another chance to get it right.

Are you or someone you know battling with anger?  Drop them a line and let them know about Focus on Freedom.  Let them know about the link to the study entitled “Dealing With Anger” .  It might be a starting point for greater blessings in their life.

Thanks for being a part of this ministry.  Your partnership in prayer and the weekly newsletter is very encouraging and uplifting.  Our newsletter subscription continues to grow and we would love to have you join as well.  Hopefully next month we will  have a special free offer for everyone involved with us.  Stay tuned!

Here’s the daily inspirational scripture!

“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 (KJV) 

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

Happiness is the Thing

 

Happiness is the thing that all men and women yearn for.   It is the stuff of revolutions and changes in societies.  Some revolutions work and others are doomed to failure.  The reason being that all changes are not necessarily built on a foundation that can last.  The revolution in America came as a result of men’s desire to be free from the tyranny of England.  Freedom is a noble and strong thing.  The right of all men to be free is rooted in scripture and is the will of God for all. 

Revolutions in history most certainly have all centered around political freedom and the right to pursue happiness and personal liberty but what about the right to have spiritual freedom?  How can a people or individual find inner peace and happiness?  Some think we can’t unless the political atmosphere allows freedom.  In reality nothing could be further from the truth.  True happiness and freedom comes from the indwelling Spirit of God even when tyranny rules.  In difficult political and personal times we can be free to be happy and productive because it’s not the things going on around us that make us happy (or unhappy) it’s the things going on, on the inside of us that make the difference.  Who we are (the inside) will show itself on the outside.  The Word of God calls this outward manifestation of the spiritual man the fruit of the Spirit. 

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, [23] Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”  Galatians 5:22-23 (KJV)  Below is a definition of each of these inward qualities.

Love: Charity, affection

Joy: calm delight, happiness.

Peace: Quietness, rest.

Long-suffering: Forbearance, to put up with.

Gentleness: Kindness, moral excellence.

Goodness: Moral virtue.

Faith: Conviction, faithfulness, consistent.

Meekness: Humility, contrite spirit.

Temperance: Self control or discipline.

Do you or someone you know need to experience this inner freedom?  It can be found in Jesus Christ.  For a deeper study on the subject check out “Jesus Teaches Outward Fruit” and “What Does It Mean To Receive The Holy Ghost?”.

Thanks for being a part of this ministry.  Your partnership in prayer and the weekly newsletter is very encouraging and uplifting.

Here’s the daily inspirational scripture!

“And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”  “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” John 8:32, 36 (KJV) 

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

Done The Cat Lately?

 

 

One way we can cover up insecurity is through an image of pride and false security.  It reminds me of the cat. Maybe you have seen this one in real life.  A cat, when faced with danger will always turn sideways, bow its’ back high and puff its’ tail out to twice its’ normal size.  It looks quite impressive and threatening but in reality it’s just a ploy.  It is an example of pride at work.  The cat isn’t really bigger it’s just puffed up. 

Maybe you have seen people do the very same thing.  They get degrees in college to make their name look bigger and more impressive but in reality may be struggling in their marriage relationship because of a basic insecurity.  They are good at business, make a lot of money and live in a nice home but struggle to connect with their children because of a basic insecurity.  You see, it is not the things we are good at that make us what we are.  What we can become is determined not by talent and ability but by overcoming our weakness.  When weaknesses are overcome we are in a true sense set free and have the ability to excel.

Of all of the studies (nearly sixty) at Focus on Freedom the most visited is the one that deals with insecurity.  Amazing isn’t it?  Well, not really when you consider our fast changing world and the many societal problems we face.  Everyone is touched by it and many are left with a feeling of hopelessness and out of control.  There is an answer to this though. It’s in the opposite of insecurity which would be the word security.  Where can we true security?   There’s only one place I know of. 

David, who was an Old Testament king had many troubles.  Out of his troubles he discovered something very profound.  I want to share it with you.

“I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.”  Psalm 37:25 (KJV) 

God lifted him up out of his troubles and he will do the same for us when we follow his plan for our lives.  So there is no need to live in fear or insecurity when security can be found in a close relationship with HIM!  Oh, the study I made refference to is entitled “Dealing With Insecurity” .

Thanks for being a part of this ministry.  Your partnership in prayer and the weekly newsletter is very encouraging and uplifting.

Here’s the daily inspirational scripture!

“Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” Hebrews 13:5 (KJV) 

May God help each of you!

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

Forgive How Much?

 

 

Forgiveness is a powerful principle that Jesus spoke of in one of his famous parables.   It is foreign in many places of the world today   and is seen as a weakness that should be exploited.  Believe it or not, some religions have their foundation in revenge which can never produce a resolution but constant animosity and fighting.  Jesus told his disciples to forgive others which would do them wrong making his way quite unique.

“Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? [22] Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.”  Matthew 18:21-22 (KJV) 

Wow, what a commandment!  How could Jesus place such a demand on his disciples?  Four hundred and ninety times in one day?  I wonder if that record has ever been set by anyone or was it the master teachers way of making a point?  A point I think.  The answer comes when we look at the foundation of forgiveness in his parable on forgiveness.

A man owed someone $16,400,000.00 according to Jesus and had no way to pay it.  When he was called before the creditor he had no way to redeem himself so his wife, children and everything he had was to be sold to pay the debt and he was to be cast into prison.  This is a picture of each of us before God with our debt of sin that we can’t pay.  The good master forgave him of the debt (as he wants to forgive us) and he went his way a free man!  Can you imagine the feeling of joy he had?

In another setting, this same man found a friend which owed him fifteen dollars.  When he asked for his money the debtor didn’t have any to pay him.  Instead of forgiving him the way he was forgiven he just threw him into prison till he could pay the debt.  Feeling good about his “justice” being served he went his way rejoicing in the freedom he now had, till the master heard what was done.  He was summoned to the throne and was promptly rebuked and thrown into the tormentors prison, his original debt was returned and laid on him.

The message of his parable is that it is better to love than hate.  Better to be humble than proud.  Better to forgive than hold a grudge don’t you think?  All of us have been given mercy, so why not give it out?  Freely we have received, so freely we should give.  Forgiveness is free from God why not return the favor and give forgiveness to someone who needs it?

For a more complete look at this parable follow the link to “A Parable Of Forgiveness” .  Maybe you know someone who needs to forgive, send them the link too, they may thank you for it later.

Here’s the daily inspirational scripture!

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 (KJV) 

May God help each of us!

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

The Power of Your Tongue

 

“The lesson on ‘the power of the tongue” was very useful indeed. I had spent a lot of time searching through the internet looking for helpful resources but this is certainly the best for me.”

The comment above came from someone who went through the study entitled “The Power of the Tongue”.  Thanks for the encouraging words!    The tongue is a powerful instrument which can be used for good or bad.  The Word of God the Bible tells us that life and death are in the power of the tongue.

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.”  Proverbs 18:21 (KJV) 

Too often all of us say things that we wish were left unsaid.  This is because the tongue is an unruly member of our body.

“Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! [6] And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.”  James 3:5-6 (KJV) 

In the Bible this little red devil behind the white pearly gates gets little good press and when you examine it even further each of us are left with little hope to get it under control.

“But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.”  James 3:8 (KJV) 

Thank God we have an answer and a way to freedom in this area of life.  God in his wisdom and foreknowledge promised all of us a way to freedom from a destructive tongue.  Isaiah spoke of this experience.

“For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. [12] To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear.”  Isaiah 28:11-12 (KJV) 

This prophesy came to pass on the day of Pentecost which was the birthday of the New Testament church.

“And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”  Acts 2:4 (KJV) 

God gave them a heavenly power to overcome the tendencies of our flesh.  The power of the Holy Ghost can give each of us what we need to control our tongue and use it to build up instead of tearing down.  All of us have failed in this area and have hurt those that we love and my prayer is that God will help us to be filled with his Spirit to the point that we can use our tongue for good instead of evil.

Thanks for being a part of the weekly newsletter.  It continues to grow  for which we are truly excited.  Tell a friend about Focus on Freedom, maybe they can get something to help them from the nearly sixty studies that are found in it.

Here’s the daily inspirational scripture!

“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. [37] For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” Matthew 12:36-37 (KJV) 

May God help each of us!

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

Living From Paycheck To Paycheck?

 

 

Greetings form the hot Midwestern United States!

What’s more than hot temperatures is the hot topic of finances.  Global, national and personal finances seem to be at the forefront of the news nowadays.  While it hits the headlines in the hearts of many is the desire to be out from under the load of debt.  But how to do it and which way to go seems to be the real issue.  Freedom in this area is achievable and also God’s will for each of us.  A scripture always comes to mind when I think of money.

“The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.” Proverbs 22:7 (KJV) 

When it comes to money, you and I will ultimately find ourselves on one side or the other, “The servant or the ruler”.  Are you the master of your money or is someone else taking it from you each week?  In order to be the ruler of our money there are some things we should consider.  I have listed four for your consideration.

First is the power of money.  “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” 1 Tim. 6:10 (KJV) 

Secondly is “money cannot and never will satisfy”.   “He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity.” Eccles. 5:10 (KJV) 

Thirdly, is no way to be free when we are in bondage.  That sounds pretty elementary yet it is overlooked in much of the world today.  “The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.” Proverbs 22:7 (KJV) 

And fourthly there is a need to be content with the things we have. 

“Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. [12] I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. [13] I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philip. 4:11-13 (KJV) 

When these simple principles are applied great results will take place.  If you in debt and would like to be free, check out the studies entitled, “Financial Freedom” and “Borrowing Money” .  Thanks for being a part of this ministry and I pray it is a blessing to you.

I will be in Sheridan, Arkansas Sunday July 19 at First Apostolic Church located on the corner of Church and N. Spring Streets.  The service times are Sunday services  10:00 A.M. and 6:30 P.M.  For more information call 870-942-5724 or 870-942-1905.

This newsletter is free for the asking and also a big thanks to all of you for your support, we are fast approaching 12000 visitors to our site!  Why not tell a friend about Focus on Freedom?

Here’s the daily inspirational scripture!

“But godliness with contentment is great gain. [7] For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. [8] And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. [9] But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.” 1 Tim. 6:6-9 (KJV) 

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

Let Freedom Ring!

 

 

Freedom, what a beautiful sound.  So beautiful that all men and women worldwide are drawn to it like a magnet.  It draws them by the millions to come legally and illegally to this great land called America.  Many have put it down and called it many things but the reality is, no other country is sought out by the masses as a place to come and live like America.  Today as I was speaking with one of our safety officials he related a story of a man in our small town who moved here from another country.  One of the things this man told him was; America is a great country.  Why do people say this after coming here?  Freedom, that’s why.  The freedom to be the best you can without anyone interfering.  The freedom to worship God according to the dictates of your heart without persecution or government intervention. Living in a free country is so wonderful that I personally couldn’t imagine any other way of life.  Once you’ve tasted freedom you’ll never want anything else. 

There is however, another freedom that is even better than the political freedom we enjoy here in America.  It is inner freedom.  The freedom that comes with knowing Jesus Christ!  It is the freedom to say no to sin and the destructive ways of living that tend to bring us into bondage.  Once you have tasted of this freedom you’ll never want anything else for God never intended us to live in bondage to another man or to sin.  Jesus said it this way.

“Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.” John 8:34 (KJV) 

That pretty well includes all of us. Even tough this is true, there is a way to be free from the bondage of sin and to live free from it’s clutches.  It is by being born again of the water and the Spirit.  This brings us into the kingdom of God (the kingdom of freedom) where we experience joy unspeakable and full of glory.  This freedom transcends national boundaries and goes wherever men and women are hungry for freedom and inner peace. 

To us here in America the fourth of July is a day to declare freedom from tyranny and government oppression.  To all who have been born again every day is a day of declaration of spiritual freedom from the power of sin.  I say, “Let Freedom Ring!”  To find out how to be born again I have written three studies for your consideration.  They are, “Repentance”, “Water Baptism” and “What Does It Mean To Receive The Holy Ghost?” .  Let me know what you think of them, your comments are very important.

Thanks for being a big part of this ministry.  This newsletter is free for the asking and also a big thanks to all of you for your support, we are fast approaching 12000 visitors to our site!  Why not tell a friend about Focus on Freedom?

Here’s the daily inspirational scripture.

“Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; [32] And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:31-32 (KJV) 

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

Commitment- The Foundation of Blessings

 

The thing that must be looked at first in the foundation of relationships is what works  and what doesn’t.  Let me just say that any kind of lasting prosperous relationship must be based upon commitment.  Now, before you write me off as a straight-laced, narrow-minded person let me explain.

Anyone who works a 40 hour a week job understands the value of commitments.  Usually when someone hires onto a job they are told what the relationship will involve.  Often it will include health benefits, hourly wage or possibly a salary.  Whatever the relationship, it is established at the first and when it is followed by both parties involved, things go great or at least they go.  Have you ever started a job only to find that things were in fact different?  How many of us would feel blessed to be promised something only to find that it wasn’t really going to be that way?  Well, the answer is self evident.  When payday comes and there is no paycheck, things can get very shaky very quickly.  When you go to the doctor and are told your insurance is not in force the next step is the job classifieds, if you know what I mean.  Am I still straight-laced and narrow-minded on this?

If we were to look at this concerning any kind of relationship we would quickly see that the very fabric of our society hinges on this word commitment.  Some have made the case that commitment is just something which restricts our freedoms.  No commitments, more freedom.  More commitments, less freedom, right?  Well, what if you are a salesman with a goal of making $100,000.00 per year?  Would commitments from potential customers be important to you?  You bet they would!  Would you be able to make that much money from customers if you were not willing to fulfill your commitment to them?  No way.  Who would be foolish enough to pay for something they would never get?  You see, anything that is stable must be based on commitments. 

The stronger the commitments the stronger the relationship.  The best car dealership in our area boasts that “Our commitment doesn’t end at the sale.”  They have the best service in the country when it comes to their cars.  Because of this they sell more cars and have happier better relationships and obviously make more money than other dealerships.  Does this make sense?  What if the police officers failed on their commitment to protect us?  What if hospital workers decided not to do their jobs?  Would you fly on an airplane in which the pilot didn’t follow through and check the fuel gauge before taking off?  Get my point?

Are you committed in your relationships?  You can find out by going a quick study entitled “Living Together Outside of Marriage” .  In it you will see what the Word of God has to say about commitment and how it can bless your life.

Thanks for being a big part of this ministry.  Tell a friend about us, the newsletter is free for the asking and also a big welcome to the new subscribers in the month of June.

Here’s the daily inspirational scripture.

“But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.” 2 Thes. 3:3 (KJV) 

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

What Do You Desire?

 

“It is the nature of desire not to be satisfied, and most men live only for the gratification of it.”   Aristotle (384 BC – 322 BC), In Stobaeus, Florilegium

“He who desires is always poor.”   Claudianus

Desire, an interesting word.  Webster defines it as: To long for; to covet.  The Word of God says it is: a longing for something.  Whatever the definition, desire by it’s very nature proves that we are in need of something we don’t have.  This is the true state of all people and the very reason we have the problems we face today.  Don’t misunderstand me, desire has brought about many great inventions that have revolutionized the world but when desire is solely for the gratification of self it becomes a destructive force.

If we look at ourselves and the position in which we all stand it becomes very clear why we desire things.  First on the list is the fact that we are flesh.  This in itself shows that we are limited and powerless to do many things.  Second we are limited in our knowledge.  We don’t have enough light on the subject to see clearly and make the right decisions.  Thirdly we are selfish by nature.  The very reason we see the troubles of our day is because of the negative power of selfishness. 

I’m sure you can add some things to the list as well.  We all can, but when we do immediately the question arises, “What can we do about it”?  Where can we find help in these areas of weakness?  The only answer I have found is to tap into a source that will help in these areas of weakness.  That source is God and his Word.  Look at the three examples above.  The Bible tells us that God is everything we need. 

Consider this, the first on the list is that we are flesh and weak.  The Bible says “God is a Spirit…” John 4:24 (KJV) and able to do anything! 

Next we  are limited in knowledge.  The Bible speaks of God in this area too.  “…God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.” 1 John 1:5 (KJV)  “Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God…” 1 Tim. 1:17 (KJV) 

Thirdly, we are basically selfish by nature.  To counter this the Word of God says this.  “…God is love.” 1 John 4:8 (KJV) 

To put it as clearly as possible I would have to say that everything we need, HE IS!  In fact that’s exactly what he said about himself. 

“And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.” Exodus 3:14 (KJV) 

Whatever we need he said “I AM”! 

Do you need healing, salvation, personal deliverance?  He said “I AM”.  What a comforting truth!  Whatever we need we can find it in Jesus Christ and his Holy Word.  Why not try talking to him about your troubles?  I’m sure he will be glad to help you.

Thanks for being a big part of this ministry.  Tell a friend about us, the newsletter is free for the asking.

Here’s the daily inspirational scripture.

“But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Philip. 4:19 (KJV) 

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up here or at the main site now for your free subscription!

 

The Place of Peace

 

 

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”  John 14:27 (KJV) 

The very sound of these words is like a drink of clear, cold water to a thirsty man or woman.  What is peace though and how can we get it personally?  Well, in the Word of God the word peace appears four hundred times.  In the Old Testament it comes to us through the Hebrew word “shaw-lome” or the more popular shalom.  The idea of shalom or peace comes from the idea that we can experience it when certain things are in place. 

The experience of peace, whether we are talking about civil society, familial or personal can occur only when things are in “order”.  When everyone acts according to a civil code of order or law there is peace.  When members of a family act according to the rules of the home there is peace.  Individually when we order our lives according to the law of God we will always experience peace.  Peace is the result of order in our lives, order that comes from the Word of God and more specifically the laws of God.

I know, we are living in a generation that despises the rule of law and wants to be free to do “whatever I want”.  Hence we have come to a humanistic belief in many societies where truth and the validity of law is subjective to the persons’ own “feelings”.  If it feels good do it.  If you feel that it’s right, then it’s right for you even if it deprives someone else of their rights and freedoms.  Let’s face it though, there are absolutes, rights and wrongs,  truths and lies.  The challenge is to find the right and embrace it.  Well, you know where I’m going with this.  Right and wrong is defined and separated in the Word of God, the Bible.

True order for our lives is found in God’s Holy Word and is free for all!  God’s Word teaches us the proper order for our finances, families, personal lives and even our relationship with God our creator.  When divine order is in place in our personal lives, peace appears as the result.  As a result many can testify of the life changing power of Jesus Christ through the direction of his Word and the power of His Spirit.  All of the studies at Focus on Freedom are based on the Word of God and will give order to your life.  Some of the studies like “Financial Freedom” , “Dealing With Insecurities” , “The Power of the Tongue” , “What Does It Mean to Receive The Holy Ghost?” or even “Deliverance From Witchcraft” teach the order that God has planned for us in these areas of our lives.  When that order is put into place peace will flow like a river.

Are you in turmoil?  Is there no peace in your life?  It might just be that God wants to put order into your life and through that order give you great peace.  Sound good?  Check out some of the studies that deal with your situation, apply the principles and see if you experience peace in that area of your life?

Thanks for spending this time with me.  Know a friend who needs peace?  Send them a forward of this newsletter!  I pray your day is a great one and that peace will come to your spirit through Jesus Christ and His Word!

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture.

“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. [7] And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philip. 4:6-7 (KJV) 

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

Change?

 

Greetings!

My mother-in-law (mom) found a little box the other day containing two little books.  Inside one of the little books was the date March 8, 1910.  The little books (two of them) were religious in nature, one a common prayer book and the other a hymnal.  Both about 3”x4” in size.  What caught my attention was an article inside the box about the air travel of this era. 

“Bishop Wise, while in Europe recently, rode in an airplane from Paris to Brussels.  He covered the 400 miles in three hours.  He says Europe is way ahead of this country in passenger airplane service.  The plane he rode in had chairs for twelve passengers.  The passengers lounge around and converse with each another as people do in Pullman observation cars in this country.  No one is strapped in.  A wire cage covers the passenger compartment.”

I’m sure glad that things have changed from then till now.  Aren’t you?  Yet some things need not change.  Some things are as good as new even though they are very old.  Things like principles and truths.  Yes there are eternal truths that will always remain the same and those truths still set men and women free from the bondage of sin and work as well today as they did when they were first given.  These principles are found in the Word of God, the Bible!  Interestingly in the same little box I found a daily prayer, written on newspaper stock.  Entitled “Morning Prayer” it reads like this.

“Our Father, lift us out of our selfishness, and help us to put Christ first in our hearts.  Help us to be loyal when it is hard  – patient when we are tired – and always good witnesses for our Lord.  We pray in his name.  AMEN”

Do you agree, some things don’t need to be changed?  I do.  Today everyone is clamoring about change, change, change but what changes really need to be made?  For starters maybe a change from the daily routine to this simple daily prayer.  This I’m sure will make a positive change in you and I for the better.  Don’t you think?

Thanks for joining me today.  May it be blessed by Him!

Here’s the daily inspirational scripture.

“Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.” Jeremiah 6:16 (KJV) 

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

 

If you are receiving this newsletter as a forward you may sign up here or at the main site now for your free subscription!

Faithfulness Brings Success

 

 

May 14, 1977 was a banner year. Jimmy Carter was president, interest rates were sky high (somewhere around 17%) and gas prices rose to nearly three dollars a gallon.  In spite of the fact that there were many negative things going on in the world my wife and I decided to make a go of it, walked down the isle and said “I do!”  We were unconcerned about the economic and political situation, her being 17 and myself a young 20, because we believed that God would see us through all hard times.  I can say after thirty two years that he has indeed seen us through.  A lot of water has gone under the bridge and in fact I think the bridge has undergone some refurbishing more than once.  Even though we have weathered many storms and trials both of us agree, God is good and we are still madly in love with each other.

The key to success for the long haul hasn’t been plenty of money, enough goods in the cupboard or even furniture to sit on.  It is the result of faithfulness.  Faithfulness that is the result of true love and respect for each other.  For me it was picking the best of the crop, a flower in the desert if you please.  For her it was a handsome dashing young man with lots of black hair and enough energy to take on the world.  We’ve learned each other, prayed with each other, cried together and spent many good times in each others company.  If I had it to do over- – – I would change some things- – -but there are some things I would never change.  The things I would change is myself and the things I would never change is her.  She has been the best companion anyone could ask for.  The principle of faithfulness comes to us from the Word of God.  Jesus told us that success  would be the result of faithfulness.

“He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.” Luke 16:10 (KJV) 

In the lesson entitled “Being Faithful” I lay out the true principles for success in any earthly and heavenly endeavor.  It may seem out of date but in reality, faithfulness is still a valued character quality today.  Why not start today being faithful.  It may take some time but you will grow a beautiful garden of success that others will be inspired by.

Thanks for letting me into your week, I pray it has been blessed of the Lord. 

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture.

“A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.” Proverbs 28:20 (KJV) 

Sincerely

Greg Wirths

Focus on Freedom

When The Spiritual Touches The Physical

 

 

Without a doubt there is a spiritual realm that we cannot see in which forces are at work producing good or evil results.  This spiritual side of our world is busy day and night with an agenda.  That agenda always includes people.  People like you, your neighbor, a friend or family member.  Most of the time we never think about it but think about it or no, it is still a reality which must be confronted at some point in time.  In the Word of God we see two opposing forces, one evil and the other good.  One centers it’s activities around satanic activity and the other is striving for good and is directed by God himself. When an opportunity arises the unseen world touches the visible world  and men are moved in it’s direction.  Rest assured, when demonic powers touch people it is always for the worst and when heavenly powers touch men it is always for the good. The Bible, God’s Word, is full of stories in which the invisible has touched the visible.  I want to share a few with you  for consideration.

 

“And he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. [11] And, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift up herself. [12] And when Jesus saw her, he called her to him, and said unto her, Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity. [13] And he laid his hands on her: and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God.” Luke 13:10-13 (KJV) 

 

The word infirmity is translated as feebleness of body or mind.  This spirit of hell specialized in inflicting people with physical malady.  Please note, I am not saying that all sickness and mental conditions are demonic at their source but it turns out that this woman who was bowed together had been attacked by a spirit of infirmity.  Her condition was irreparable until the master healer came along and she received another touch.  When Jesus touched her the spirit of evil left and she received a physical healing in her body.  Here’s another story.

 

“And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes. [2] And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit,” Mark 5:1-2 (KJV) 

 

This is probably the most dramatic story of demon possession in the Bible.  A man who had been touched and possessed by at least two thousand demons.  He was naked and lived in the tombs.  He had cut himself and regularly cried out in the night.  Surely he had become a legend in the surrounding areas.  Then one day he came in contact with another source of power and the demons cried out from within him. 

 

“And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not.” Mark 5:7 (KJV) 

 

Jesus then commanded the spirits to leave this man and they were cast out into a herd of pigs feeding nearby.  The herd ran violently down the hillside and were drown in the sea.  The man was completely healed and restored whole.  A touch from the master gave him complete restoration because when heaven touches us we are made better.  The townsfolk came to see this sight and what they found made them afraid.

 

“And they come to Jesus, and see him that was possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid.” Mark 5:15 (KJV) 

 

This is a dramatic story to say the least but and even better one is found in the book of Acts chapter two.  The greatest touch from the spiritual side of good came on the day of Pentecost when the disciples of Jesus were gathered together in prayer.  They needed something from God to give them power over the forces of hell.  When they prayed it happened.

 

“And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Acts 2:4 (KJV) 

 

This touch gave them power over all of the forces of evil.  Not only were they touched, they were filled!  Filled with the power of God and joy unspeakable. It was not only given to them but promised to all who would receive it.  This means that you and I can have the same experience by simply asking and receiving in faith.

 

There are forces of good and evil in this world.  They are invisible but very real.  I have received many comments from people who are dealing with these forces in their lives and I am always excited to tell them that God has given us good news, we can be set free from the powers of darkness by his light of truth!  If you would like to know more about this Holy Ghost experience or are experiencing trouble from demonic powers I want to encourage you to look at the studies entitled “What Does It Mean To Receive The Holy Ghost?”, “Demonic Oppression” and “Deliverance From Witchcraft.”  If you know someone who could be blessed by these studies send them a forward.  They may thank you later.

 

Thanks for taking the time to focus on freedom with me.

 

Weekly Inspirational Scripture

 

“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” Acts 1:8 (KJV) 

 

Sincerely

 

Greg Wirths

 

Focus on Freedom

 

Tell a friend about the free weekly newsletter!

Need More Hair or Whiter Teeth?

The foundation for good success in life probably won’t be found in a seminar.  How to make a better you is not the answer.  Taking supplements to improve hair quality or quantity will not help you succeed.  Yet we are bombarded with the latest technological breakthroughs (so called) that promise to improve height, memory, learning ability, language and a host of other things on a daily basis for the sole purpose of becoming successful.  The message is evident, “You are not successful and this will help you”, “You need more hair and whiter teeth.” If everyone had the money to purchase all of these miracle tonics wouldn’t it be amazing how our world would be transformed?  Yet, many trudge onward hoping to make it rich either by the lottery or some other unknown method.

We march along in hopes of something better when the poorest of us are richer than many people in the world.  We always want more and strangely enough often look to Hollywood as the model of success while looking for the perfect situation to break in among us.  Happiness however cannot be found on such a shifty foundation as this.  For example, one day we are told success is to be a millionaire and all of a sudden inflation claims we need two million and so it goes.  What is needed more than anything is a solid foundation that will not move with the times or fads of society.  The foundation I speak of is found in the pages of Gods’ holy word, the Bible.

 

“This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.” Joshua 1:8 (KJV) 

 

Solomon gave us a tidbit concerning the ultimate success story in his writing as well.

 

“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” Eccles. 12:13 (KJV) 

 

David the great King also spoke of true success in one of his Psalms.

 

“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. [2] But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. [3] And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” Psalm 1:1-3 (KJV) 

 

The key to real success is not measuring up to the things that Hollywood or Washington say are normal but finding God’s will for your life.  Real peace and happiness come through HIM and his Word, that’s why I have written a study on this very subject entitled “Becoming Successful”.  I hope you check it out and remember, don’t go through life discouraged and down, it’s too short for that.  Let God give you direction through his Word and you will become better instead of bitter.

 

May God bless you this week!  More folks are signing up for the free weekly newsletter.  If you enjoy it, pass it along to a friend!

 

Weekly Inspirational Scripture

 

“For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink *(money or earthly success); but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” Romans 14:17 (KJV) 

*my emphasis

 

Sincerely

 

Greg Wirths

 

Focus on Freedom

 

Tell a friend about the free weekly newsletter!

 

NOT ENOUGH TIME IN THE DAY?

 

 

Time, what is it?  According to Webster it comes from the idea or measure of successive existence.  Simply put, time (in the sense of real-time) is the sum of our existence in successive measurements.  Other famous and not so famous people have weighed in on the matter as well. 

 

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN:

Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time, for that is the stuff life is made of.

 

 

 AUTHOR

“Time is heaven’s currency we have been given each day to spend.  This currency comes to us from God and will run out at a predetermined point.”

 

 

Big Ben (London)

Well, whatever your definition of time is we all must agree that it is marching on whether we are going with it or standing still.  Along this path of chronographic movement there are opportunities for those who are wise.  These opportunities when captured can bring great blessings and prosperity both materially and spiritually.  Solomon, the wisest man that ever lived made a practical statement about time and all of us would do well to take heed to it.

 

 

“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: [2] A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;” Eccles. 3:1-2 (KJV) 

 

What we do with our time will make a big difference in the end because our lives are the sum of each day added up.  I know this sounds simple but it is profoundly true.  Each day is important.  Each moment if used wisely will add up to much gain and growth.  On the other hand, if we squander heavens currency and waste each day in unproductive and foolish things, just like spending money foolishly, we will be bankrupt in life and will have nothing to show for our time.  Solomon was examining this very principle in the book of Ecclesiastes and came to a conclusion that I believe applies to us today as well.

 

“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. [14] For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” Eccles. 12:13-14 (KJV) 

 

I have written a study entitled “Time Management” that may be of help to you or a friend on this subject.  This study goes into the need to consider good time management as we follow the path that time is taking us down.  May your life be blessed and may you be free to do His will and calling.  Tell a friend about the free weekly newsletter.  Our subscription is steadily growing thanks to each of you. 

 

May God bless you this week!

 

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture. Even though it is a little long it makes the point quite clearly.

 

“For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. [15] And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. [16] Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents. [17] And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two. [18] But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord’s money. [19] After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.” Matthew 25:14-19 (KJV) 

 

Sincerely

 

Greg Wirths

 

Focus on Freedom

 

Tell a friend about the free weekly newsletter!

 

Focusing on Freedom

 

 

 

She had totally lost her way.  Her addiction to alcohol and cocaine had led her down a path where she had nowhere to turn.  Nancy was a young woman in her late teens and life had been a series of disappointments and failures.  Those who said “I love you” were only looking for something and when they got it they were gone.  She was left with an empty heart and an empty soul.  One day as she sat on her couch she began to look at her Bible and in her heart prayed something like this, “God, would you send someone to show me what this book has to say to me?”  No more had she prayed that prayer than the phone rang and on the other end of the line was the phone ministry of the church where I ministered at the time.  She accepted a home Bible study and began the exciting adventure out of a life of drugs and alcohol into a life of freedom. 

 

This story is true and today Nancy is still free from the things that had brought her down and would have destroyed her life.  Do you know someone who is battling with addictions that constantly hinder them?  Nancy’s scenario is not a one of a kind for many today are in a battle for their very lives and souls.  In a recent safety meeting where the subject was drugs, the teacher said, “This drug (meth) will steal your soul.”  He showed pictures of a woman who started out on drugs only to die ten years later.  Each picture showed a downward spiral of destruction and heartache.  What a tragedy.

 

The good news is, we don’t have to be bound by drugs to help us through the day, there is a better way!  In the book of John chapter 4, Jesus met a woman who was bound by addictions.  She was empty and searching for happiness.  As Jesus talked with her he turned her attention not to the things of this world which are temporary but to the things of God which are eternal.  The reason he did this is that nothing can satisfy the soul accept the infilling of the one who created the soul.  Make sense?  The truth is that each of us are spiritual creatures.  We will live forever somewhere and are not just a piece of matter in the cosmos.  There is a God who created all things and he does care for us.  It is his desire to set us free from the things of this world that bring us into bondage.  The freedom that he offers us comes to us through his Word and his Spirit.

 

“Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; [32] And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:31-32 (KJV) 

 

If you know someone who is battling with drugs or alcohol let them know about Focus on Freedom.  I have written several studies that are sure to help.  They are entitled “Addicted to Drugs or Alcohol?”, “What Does it Mean to Receive the Holy Ghost?” and “Finding Happiness”.  Hope to see you there!

 

May God bless you this week!

 

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture.

 

And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. …If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. John 8:32,36 (KJV) 

 

Sincerely

 

Greg Wirths

 

Focus on Freedom

 

Tell a friend about the free weekly newsletter!

 

This King Understands Sorrow

 

 

 

Sometimes (more than not) we feel like politicians and government leaders are simply out of touch.  They live in a different world and simply do not understand where most of us live.  Let’s face it, it’s been this way from the beginning of man-made government and probably will remain so.  There was however, a King of England named “Charles the Second” who did understand, at least to a degree, what the common man felt.  History tells us that he had escaped England before his ascension to the throne by wearing common clothes.  He saw the value of dressing like the common man and it gave him an edge of sorts.  He could rummage around in the markets and listen to the people talk of the King and his policies.  It was said of him that “He seemed a very ordinary man to one that had not known him.”

 

There was another King who did the very same thing.  The Bible referres to this King as the King of Kings.  Being the God of the universe and supreme ruler over all things this King humbled himself and put on the clothes of human flesh.  He walked in this world and listened to the talk of the common people concerning himself and chose a path that would bring salvation to all mankind.  The path of sorrow.  Listen to the prophet as he spoke of him in advance.

 

“He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.” Isaiah 53:3 (KJV) 

 

This King Jesus was acquainted with sorrow and suffered it for you and I.  He took on the nature of humanity so he could feel our pain and sorrows because they are a real part of our world.  Some are simply heart wrenching.  I just view three pictures of an eight year old Iranian boy as his arm was being crushed under the tire of a car, permanently maiming it for life for the crime of stealing some bread to eat.  Yes, injustices are in our world and each of us will face them.  Some will hurt so badly that we might say “I can’t bear this”.  This fact is brought out in the Bible.

 

“Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble.” Job 14:1 (KJV) 

 

Each of us will face emotional trials in this life and sorrow will come but there is one who understands and has the ability to make a decree concerning your situation.  He suffered so he can help you in your personal tribulation.  If you are experiencing sorrow right now I have written a short poem about Jesus the Man of Sorrow which may help a little.

 

The Man of Sorrows

 

He came to this world much like others

His frame and his build much the same

But in this man named Jesus

Was something much different than fame.

 

He could have called legions of angels

And he could have been born with the great.

But this man chose the pathway of sorrows

For “it” is the way that is straight.

 

The crooked path has singing and laughter

The party and pomp to express.

But for those who will spend time in weeping

Their way will surely be blessed.

 

Acquainted with grief and with sorrow

A man despised and rejected of men

He showed us the pathway to heaven

And the way that we all must go in.

 

So when you are filled with grief and sorrow

Your life has spun out of control

Remember a savior who loves you

And has been down this pathway before.

 

You may not sing and rejoice today

Your troubles seemingly so strong

But remember the day is coming

When we will sing with joy in heaven’s throng.

 

Check out the study entitled “Dealing With Sorrow”.  It will give you some insights into your situation and how you can overcome!  Jesus came to give us freedom from and through our sorrows.

 

Thanks for letting me into your week, I pray it will be blessed of the Lord!

 

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture.

 

“For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” Hebrews 4:15 (KJV) 

 

Sincerely

 

Greg Wirths

 

Focus on Freedom

 

Tell a friend about the free weekly newsletter!

 

Water for the Thirsty

 

 

 

It has been said that when a person becomes very thirsty the desert can produce false images called mirages.  A mirage is defined as something that falsely appears to be real.  I suppose the real test in life is to know the false from the real.  To know the real water holes from the mirages.  To do this we must be in a place where there is reality around us instead of hot sun, sand and mirages.  This place of true reality is found in the Word of God! 

 

We can drink from the waters of this life but too often will find that they are not life giving but instead waters of death.  It is like the man who was thirsty and came upon a spring of water in the desert.  He had just begun drinking when he noticed many skeletons around the pool.  His first foolish thought was, “This pool must be reserved for skeletons”.  He was right and wrong at the same time.  It was reserved for skeletons and he would soon become one himself.  Sin is like the waters of this life which promise a cool refreshment to the soul but when it is finished only brings forth death and destruction.

 

“But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. [15] Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.” James 1:14-15 (KJV) 

 

The only thing which can truly satisfy is God’s presence.  The Bible speaks of it as the Holy Ghost.  When his Spirit fills a man or woman, living water begins to flow and washes out the destructive false mirages and sins of the past.  This living water brings life and happiness.  It is not a mirage but the real thing.  Jesus spoke of mirages (in a round-about way) when he addressed the people of his day who were thirsty. 

 

“In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. [38] He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. [39] (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)” John 7:37-39 (KJV) 

 

If you are thirsty and chasing after mirages, why not try Jesus Christ and his Spirit?  He is truly the only one who can satisfy the soul.  This Holy Ghost experience is happening all around the world.  Why not ask him for this experience.  People are discovering the joy of Jesus Christ and his Spirit.  One of the most popular studies at Focus on Freedom is entitled “What Does It Mean to Receive the Holy Ghost?” and I would love for you to go through it.  Hope to see you there!

 

Thanks for letting me into your week, I pray it will be blessed of the Lord!

 

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture.

 

“For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” Romans 14:17 (KJV) 

 

Sincerely

 

Greg Wirths

 

Focus on Freedom

 

Tell a friend about the free weekly newsletter!

 

Jesus Quotes on Money

 

 

 

Did you know that many people have opinions when it comes to money?  I know I do and I’m sure you have one or two as well.  Famous and not so famous people have had their say on this matter.  I share a few with you.

 

· Contentment makes poor men rich; discontentment makes rich men poor. — Benjamin Franklin

· No one would remember the Good Samaritan if he’d only had good intentions. He had money, too. — Margaret Thatcher

· He that is of the opinion money will do everything may well be suspected of doing everything for money. — Benjamin Franklin

· There were times my pants were so thin I could sit on a dime and tell if it was heads or tails. — Spencer Tracy

· Finance is the art of passing currency from hand to hand until it finally disappears. — Robert W. Sarnoff

· October: This is one of the particularly dangerous months to invest in stocks. Other dangerous months are July, January, September, April, November, May, March, June, December, August and February. — Mark Twain

· The hardest thing in the world to understand is income tax. — Albert Einstein

· When a person with money meets a person with experience, the person with the experience winds up with the money and the person with the money winds up with the experience. — Harvey MacKay

 

The last one there might be a good one to remember.  Did you know that Jesus had many things to say (quotes) about money?  Just a few of them will get the message across.

 

“For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle’s eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.” Luke 18:25 (KJV) 

 

“But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? [21] So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.” Luke 12:20-21 (KJV) 

 

Jesus didn’t say that being rich was evil for he knew that many great and Godly men were wealthy.  The point he was making is that the priority of wealth in this life verses the life to come is very important.  Simply put, we should lay up treasures in heaven first and all of the things in this life will be added unto us.

 

“Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? [32] (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. [33] But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:31-33 (KJV) 

 

If you or someone you know is having financial difficulties why not stop by the study entitled “A Parable of the Vanity of Riches” and another one entitled “Financial Freedom”.  It may open your eyes to the importance of right priorities and set you on a path to freedom!

 

Thanks for letting me into your week, I pray it will be blessed of the Lord. 

 

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture.

 

“The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.” Proverbs 22:7 (KJV) 

 

Sincerely

 

Greg Wirths

 

Focus on Freedom

 

Tell a friend about the free weekly newsletter!

 

Faithfulness is Important

 

 

 

The tombstone read, “Here lies Captain Ernest Bloomfield Accidently shot by his Orderly, March 2, 1789  “Well done, thou good and faithful servant”

 

Sometimes it might seem that being called faithful is not a good thing, for the Orderly at least, but when we examine this unique and often missing character quality in our day we quickly see that it is very necessary.  The Bible talks about faithfulness and puts a premium on those who have it and word of rebuke for those who don’t.  For example consider these verses.

 

“Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.” Proverbs 25:19 (KJV) 

 

Have you ever chomped down on a fresh piece of peanut brittle only to have a tooth let you down?  How about trying to run across the yard and your ankle buckle in?  If you have, you’ve experienced the need for faithfulness.  Faithfulness in things like feet and teeth can be iffy at times, but there is one who is always faithful all the time.

 

“Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;” Deut. 7:9 (KJV) 

 

“My covenant will I not break, nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips.” Psalm 89:34 (KJV) 

 

All of us have experienced the disappointment of an unfaithful person or thing and it makes us angry, frustrated and seeking revenge.  Sometimes the revenge needs to be pointed directly at the one looking at you in the mirror.  All of us have failed at being faithful to some degree but God wants us to understand that through his power he can help us in this area.  He wants us to be faithful in the good things, not the bad so our tombstone can read someday, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”  Otherwise it may be our jail sentence.  Think on these things!  I have written a study entitled “Being Faithful” (real original) that will go further into this important character quality.  Hope to see you there!

 

Thanks for letting me into your week, I pray it will be blessed of the Lord. 

 

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture.

 

“A faithful man shall abound with blessings…” Proverbs 28:20 (KJV) 

Note: This applies to the ladies too!

 

Sincerely

 

Greg Wirths

 

Focus on Freedom

 

Tell a friend about the free weekly newsletter!

 

Storms Don’t Have to be the End of Your Life!

 

 

 

May 3, 1999 started out as an ordinary hot humid day across the Oklahoma region south of Oklahoma City.  Weather reports issued a slight risk for severe weather and all went about their daily lives with no fear of danger.  By late morning the weather report published an increasing chance of scattered severe storms.  By 3:oo P.M. it was evident that severe weather was imminent.  A short time later parts of Oklahoma and Kansas issued a “high risk” warning for sever thunderstorms and possible tornados.  Large super-cell thunderstorms developed by late afternoon and by evening time tornados began to break out.  Such is the case in this part of America and even though this same scenario had played itself out many times before this day would prove to be different.

 

The most significant tornado that night touched down just Southwest of Amber, Oklahoma and traveled over Tinker Air Force Base north of Oklahoma City and lifted at Midwest City near the intersection of Reno Avenue and Woodcrest Drive.  The damage done by this F5 tornado was over one billion dollars.  The highest recorded wind speed was 301 mph (484 km/h).    Thirty six people were killed and 8000 homes were destroyed or badly damaged.

 

This story is very similar to a parable taught in the Word of God, the Bible, about storms.  Jesus related the story of two men who built two different kinds of homes.  When the houses were finished a great storm arose and beat against them.  One was destroyed and the other stood the test of the  winds and waves. This is because one was anchored solid and the other had no foundation at all.  Can you imagine building a house without a foundation?  Sadly, many people do every day.  Jesus however was not so interested in physical houses as he was our spiritual house and taught us a fact of life, the storm will come.

 

“And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” Matthew 7:27 (KJV) 

 

“And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.” Matthew 7:25 (KJV) 

 

When the storm comes in your life will you be able to make it through?  What kind of foundation have you built your life upon?  The answer to these questions are found in this parable.  I have written a study about this entitled “The Parable of Two House Builders” that I would love to have you go through.  It gives us the recipe for a solid and secure life.  Jesus has given us the blueprint for building solid lives and once the house is built right it will guarantee freedom from the storms of life that will surely come.  Even though they will come they don’t have to be the end of your life.

 

Thanks for letting me into your week, I pray it has been blessed of the Lord. 

 

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture.  (Kind of long but really great!)

 

“Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; [6] Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. [7] A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee. [8] Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked. [9] Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; [10] There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.” Psalm 91:5-10 (KJV) 

 

Sincerely

 

Greg Wirths

 

Focus on Freedom

 

Living A “Win Win’ Life!

 

 

 

All of us in some sense of the word want to be winners in life.  However, we know that winning at anything takes more than just wishing it to happen, it takes planning and hard work.  Part of the hard work includes doing things we don’t want to simply because they are right.  Doing the right thing will always set us on a path of blessings and help us to be winners.  We know that being successful in business is not easy, if it was, everyone would be doing it.  Becoming a CEO is not easy or certainly everyone would be doing it.  How about becoming a millionaire?  You guessed it, if it was easy everyone would be one by now.  Getting along with others would be a nice daily experience but when we look around we sometimes catch ourselves thinking, “If it was easy everyone would be doing it.”  Right?  Well, it may not be easy but it is possible, at least to a certain degree.  One of the ways we can improve our daily relationships is through the avenue of forgiveness.  While not easy it is very effective and ultimately becomes a “win win” situation.

 

The story is told of a man who owed his creditor $16,240,00.  This debt was the result of many years of careless living and foolish spending.  He became accustomed to this kind of lifestyle and disregarded the day he had to pay it back.  Doesn’t that sound like America’s politicians today?  Eventually the money came due and the man had nothing to pay.  The sentence came down, everything was to be confiscated and sold to pay the debt.  He decided to ask for mercy and fell on his face and asked his creditor to please have patience and he would find a way to pay him back.  The creditor, a righteous man, felt sorry for the foolish man and simply forgave him of the debt!  Oh happy day!   No more debt, no more worry and stress, he was a free man!  On his way home from the ordeal he bumped into a fellow worker who owed him $15.  Probably this small time debtor was short on gas for his commute to work and back and the note had simply, momentarily slipped his mind.  Demanding his money, the forgiven man became angry and rough with his co-worker and took him to court even though he too fell before him and asked for time to pay the debt.  (Which by the way, he probably could have done.)

 

Here we see a classic story of a “lose lose” life played out in these two characters.  This man and his co-worker were losers because both of them ended up in prison for their debts.  It didn’t have to be that way.  Forgiveness was the answer to freedom for both of them.  How many times have we learned this lesson the hard way?  Isn’t it better to forgive and be free rather than harbor anger and resentment and stay in bondage?  It may not be the convenient way but it will always be the right way.

“To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.” Lewis B. Smedes

Why not start forgiving today and experience the “win win” life?   I have written a study entitled “A Parable On Forgiveness” which goes deeper into this very important subject.  If you know someone who would benefit from it let them know.   I hope to see you there soon.

 

Our newsletter subscription is growing.  Let a friend know about us, its free and easy to sign up.  We are now sending the newsletter to approximately eight different countries and multiple places in the US.  Thanks for letting me into your week, I pray it will be blessed of the Lord. 

 

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture. 

 

“Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” Col. 3:13 (KJV) 

 

Sincerely

 

Greg Wirths

 

Focus on Freedom

 

Just Simply Ask

 

 

 

Proper communication is very important to the point that when it is lacking much confusion and frustration will take place.  Consider for a moment a grade school teacher and one of her students.  The teacher was attempting to help a little toddler put his boots on at the end of the day.  She wrestled the boots and the boy till she finally accomplished her task.  They seemed a very awkward fit and this was confirmed when the boy said, “They’re on the wrong feet.”  Embarrassed, she pulled them off and struggled again to get them on right.  They still seemed to fit poorly she thought when the boy spoke up again and said, “These aren’t my boots.”  Beginning to get frustrated now the teacher pulled them off again only to hear the boy say, “They are my brothers boots.”  Once again the ordeal played itself out between herself and the lad as her blood pressure began to rise.  Relieved that she was done, she put his coat on him and said, “Where are your gloves?”  The boy replied, “I stuffed them in the toes of my boots.”

 

It would have been much better for the teacher to ask the right questions first rather than go through such a terrible time of frustration.  In reality if we are not careful, you and I can do the very same thing.  How many times have we taken something for granted only to find out it wasn’t at all the way we perceived it?  Communication involves asking.  Asking the right questions.  When it comes to God and his Word, there are many places  that he tells us the very same thing.

 

“If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?”  Matthew 7:11 (KJV) 

 

Many other scriptures say the very same thing because God knows what we need and is very pleased when we ask him in faith for them.  In fact Jesus said it was his good pleasure to do this for us.  Asking involves being specific.  Sometimes we don’t ask because we think God isn’t interested in the little areas of our lives.  Of course the opposite of this is true.  He wants to be our heavenly father in a close relationship of love and blessings.

 

“Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”  Luke 12:32 (KJV) 

 

One of the greatest things he desires to give us is his Spirit.  In a recent series of meetings at our church five precious people received the Spirit of God just like the Bible promises.  The all had one thing in common.  They asked.  Others could have been blessed too but some didn’t take the time to make their petition.

 

“And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?”  Luke 11:9,13 (KJV) 

 

What need do you have?  Have you asked God specifically for it in a sincere prayer of faith?  If you haven’t you may be living a life of frustration trying to get your boots on when all you need to do is ask the right questions.  How do your relationships fit with you?  

 

I have written a study entitled “What Does It Mean to Receive The Holy Ghost ?”  This lesson is the most popular on our site Focus On Freedom.  It goes further into the scriptures on the subject of the baptism of the Holy Ghost.  I hope you will look at it.  Another lesson which deals with  communication is entitled “Communication The Foundation of Relationships”  I hope it will be a blessing to you or a friend as well.  Maybe your boots will fit better!

 

Our newsletter subscription is growing.  Let a friend know about us, its free and easy to sign up.  We are now sending the newsletter to approximately eight different countries and multiple places in the US.  Thanks for letting me into your week, I pray it will be blessed of the Lord. 

 

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture. 

 

“Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.”  James 4:2 (KJV)  (My emphasis)

 

Sincerely

 

Greg Wirths

 

Focus on Freedom

 

Free Currency Every Day!

 

 

 

Have you ever ran out of time to do the things you need to do?  I’m sure the answer across the board is a resounding yes.  Sometimes it is because we have our priorities turned the wrong way and focus on the unimportant and leave the important to suffer.  A good example is the two car garage filled with stuff while the $25,000 car is parked outside.  What about time spent with your wife or husband?  Is it also parked outside while your time is spent on the computer playing games or worse, watching mindless shows on television?  How about the kids?  Studies show that parents spend as little as a few minutes a day with them.  Why?  “Don’t have time”, while there is plenty for the big game on T.V. or a favorite video game that devours precious hours.  What kind of message does that send about our priorities?

 

The Word of God does have something to say about time and our attitude toward it.  It (the Word of God) reveals that time is heavens currency which is given to each of us to spend every day.  We can be wise stewards of it and be greatly blessed or we can squander this precious commodity and suffer great lack.  The choice is ours.  The wise man Solomon wrote, there is “A time to be born, and a time to die…” Eccles. 3:2 (KJV) yet the most important part of time is the in-between part.  The space between birth and death.  This space called life is the sum of every moment of every day.  So in reality, what we do today is very important.  Each tick of the clock writes another letter in the book called your life and it will be the story read in the last day. 

 

“And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.”  Rev. 20:12 (KJV) 

 

Why not stop for a moment and look at the things you do each day.  Maybe write it down and at the end of the week you may find that some currency has been wasted. I have written a study entitled “Time Management” which I would love for you to read.  If you have a friend who needs help in this area, send this to them and maybe they can get on the road to a more productive and happy life.

 

Our newsletter subscription is growing.  Let a friend know about us, its free and easy to sign up.  Thanks for letting me into your week, I pray today will be blessed of the Lord. 

 

Here is the weekly inspirational scripture. 

 

 “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.” Col. 4:5 (KJV) 

Redeeming: to rescue from loss

 

Sincerely

 

Greg Wirths

 

Focus on Freedom

 

A Bailout Or A Breakout?

 

 

 

The word bailout sounds more like the need to get water out of a sinking ship than it does the road to financial freedom and solvency.  Imagine if you took in $4000 per month and the payments on your debt added to $5000 per month.  In pondering what to do several things could come to mind not the least of which would be spend less, consolidate, sell some items to pay off a portion of the debt or reducing the size of your life by eliminating some things.  Would you think of going to the bank to borrow more?  Maybe for a consolidation loan but would you include in the new borrowing extra money for play items or new toys?  Some might.  Most would not.  The reason being it would not make good fiscal sense to do such a thing.  This is because debt is never a good thing. 

 

Can you imagine yourself being debt free?  Can you imagine the prosperity we would have if every state and the country as a whole were completely debt free and stayed that way?  It can become a reality in your home, your state or our country.  The way to do this is spend less, downsize, say no to some things are desired and pay on the debt until it is retired.

 

I am not speaking politically but realistically, when I say we don’t need a bailout, we need a breakout!  What many today need is a breakout from the old way of doing things and a new way of thinking and living.  This new way, by the way, is God’s way.  Did that make sense?  I hope so because when we look in the Word of God we can see that Jesus spoke more of money than he did heaven or hell.  The reason being is the way in which we view money will ultimately guide our steps in most other areas of our lives for the good or the bad.  Do you or someone you know need help in the area of finances?  I have written a few studies on this very subject to help you get started down the road to financial freedom.  I hope you will consider them and get started today focusing on financial freedom because for sure it can become a reality!  God Bless!

 

“Financial Freedom”

“Borrowing Money”

“The Vanity of Riches”

 

Thanks for letting me into your day, I pray it will be blessed of the Lord. 

 

Here is the weekly inspirational scriptures. 

 

“The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.” Proverbs 22:7 (KJV) 

 

“Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.” Romans 13:8 (KJV) 

 

Sincerely

 

Greg Wirths

 

Focus on Freedom

 

The Lord Our Protector

2Thessalonians 3:3 But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one

We are definitely facing difficult times in our world and nation.   These difficulties try to steal the truth that we are protected and secure in the hands of our mighty God!  The tribulations that seem to be everywhere try to make one feel helpless and weak.  Quite the contrary, we are not weak or helpless but according to the word of God we have more for us than are against us.

In the now famous eighties, President Ronald Reagan went to Russia with a team of negotiators to deal with the Russians on the subject of nuclear weapons.  Because of the nature of the talks and the distrust that existed between the two countries the American team took with them a structure called, at that time, “The Bubble”.  The bubble was a clear bubble that allowed our team to go inside and talk freely without the possibility of any of the Russians hearing them even with their advanced listening devices.  Once inside they were free to make plans without the enemy knowing anything about it.  Reagan was successful and America once again stayed ahead of her enemies.

As born again Christians we have some awesome promises that let us know that we too are in a “Bubble” of sorts.  When the enemy comes in like a flood the Spirit of the Lord raises up a stronghold or place of refuge where we have the privilege of entering into safety.

As an example, one of the greatest Kings of Israel, King David, faced difficulties but came through them victorious in his God.  He faced multiple assassination attempts from the King, he faced death at the hand of his own son, he was banished from his home and chased like a wild animal.  David made it through by leaning on the only security he could find in his troubles.  The faithfulness and love of almighty God.  Listen to his words.

2Samuel 22:3-4 my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge, my savior; you save me from violence. 4 I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies.

Wow!  What a man of faith!  His inspiration should pass to us as well.  We face difficulties and some are extreme.  Yet, when we lean on God we are secure and safe.  I have been given some scriptures that David wrote in the Psalms to back this up.  Listen as you read.

Psalm 46:1   God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Psalm 91:1-3   He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.  I will say to the LORD, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”  For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence.

Psalm 138:7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and your right hand delivers me.

This is so powerful that it takes away the fear and replaces it with faith and hope.  If you are dealing with fear and have lost your hope, there is a place that you can go to find security.  Jesus Christ is the answer for this world.  Politics will never figure out a way to peace because there is only one way for it to come about.  When the heart is changed from fear to faith and the spirit of man is changed from hopelessness to great hope for his future then and only then will we see peace.  Real peace comes when Jesus fills us with his presence and calms our fears and imparts hope. He gave us this truth in the Gospel of John.

John 10:27-30 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 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. I and my Father are one.

Awesome?  It sure is!  I have two more scriptures to share and I’m done.

Isaiah 41:10  fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

1John 5:18  We know that everyone who has been born of God does not keep on sinning, but he who was born of God protects him, and the evil one does not touch him.

May God bless you richly and I hope you have received the truth that will make you free!  Feel free to comment and see you next month! If you would like to become a subscriber just click on the link.  Shalom!