Proverbs 21:23

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Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.

 

Many of us have lived and learned the truth of this verse.  It is truly a great gift to be able to restrain ourselves from speaking before we think … before we realize there is a strong possibility of painful consequences. It seems so easy to blurt out our opinions or spout off about something we think we have the facts about, but it is a foolish thing to do.  The wise man will more often use wisdom, forethought, and restraint before he speaks.

Signs of the Time

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You may have heard recently of the Pacific Ring of Fire.  Japan lies along this well known Ring of Fire.  A map of this area can be seen at

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Ring_of_Fire and

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-12710999

The recent earthquake in Japan happened on the “Japan Trench.” How does the recent earthquake affect the Ring of Fire?  Perhaps, we should take notice (i.e., WATCH!).  The floor of the Pacific Ocean is being pulled underneath Japan and towards Eurasia. Scientists speculate based on the size of the earthquake that the fault may have ruptured about 500 K.

 

We need to watch.   However, let us not be troubled or anxious. The Bible speaks of great earthquakes in different places.  These events are significant signs of our time.

 

Luke 21: 9-11 9But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by. 10Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: 11And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven.

 

Supermoon

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Did you see the Supermoon on Saturday night? This big, bright special moon occurs roughly about every 20 years or so.  Scientists tell us that it will look about 14% bigger and about one third brighter than usual.  This special moon occurs when the moon is closest to the earth.
According to NASA statistics, reported on their website, http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/planets/profile.cfm?Display=Facts&Object=Moon, the closest distance between the earth and the moon (called the perigee) is 225,623 miles. The farthest distance (called the apogee) is 252,088 miles.
What makes this moon so special tonight is that the perigee also corresponds with the full moon.  Some people believe there is evidence that the perigee relates to or causes natural disasters and possible supernatural events.
However, many scientists claim it only affects tides.  No matter how God’s people “look” at it, we have to realize the heavens really do declare God’s glory.  As we gaze at the heavens we can stand in awe at God’s infinite wisdom, power, and generosity to share so much with mankind.
Psalm 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.

A Bible Comment on Current Events

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While the world is so focused on the massive tragedies occurring in Japan, the rest of the world is showing significant signs of trouble, also.  We need to be closely watching and praying.  The Bible contains some very explicit verses that contain these directives! Here are a few: Mark 13:33, Mark 14:38, Luke 21:36, Ephesians 6:18, Colossians 4:2, 1 Peter 4:7.

So, what do we watch, and what do we pray about? In summary, we can say we need to “watch what’s going on!”  And, as for what to pray about, the list is possibly endless.  But, here is a great Bible instruction on where to start.

1 Timothy 2:1-6 1I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;2For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.3For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;4Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.5For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;6Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

God cares about everything that’s going on, and about everybody, even those who do not yet know Him.

 

Proverbs 17:9

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He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.

At times, we may think that sharing what we know about another person’s “transgression” might actually help the person, but, the truth is, we need to think again … seriously!  Both the Old and New Testaments emphasize that seeking love and expressing love for others involves a “covering.”

Proverbs 10:12 Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.

1 Peter 4:8 8And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.

We need special wisdom to know when to speak up about a transgression and when to “cover.”  And, even when we may decide that it is wise to speak, we still need a righteous motive, like “seeking love.”

Effects of Tragedies in Japan Are Far-Reaching!

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The world is reeling, experiencing various repercussions from the Japanese double/triple tragedies.

For example, a British website (www.telegraph.co.uk) reports radiation is already being detected many hundreds of miles away from the Japanese nuclear facility.  This same site also reported some experts “expect” radiation to reach Britain within 14 days (forthnight), albeit, at levels that are not expected to cause health problems.

Apparently, in Eastern Russia (near to Japan), frightened citizens are rushing to get iodine tablets, face masks, and equipment to measure radiation levels.

In the US, our President is attempting to keep our citizens calm, while numerous safety investigations begin and emergency contingency plans are examined.

Should God’s people (around the world, including in Japan) be concerned enough about numerous “fallout” (Ha! A play on words) possibilities to do anything drastic to protect themselves?  After all, we are citizens of this world and are being affected, along with everyone else, right?

I think it is good to ask this direct question so we can all examine our levels of awareness, our decisions/judgments based on Bible wisdom as well as everyday saavy, and our levels of trust in God’s protection.

While there are numerous Scriptures to help guide us as we ponder this question, one particular verse stands out for me today with regard to personal safety and God’s protection.  Psalm 91:7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.

How many of us can believe this verse and know we can claim it when we sense we are in mortal danger?

 

Is Another Disaster Looming for Japan?

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It is now six days since Japan experienced the massive earthquake and tsunami. Japanese officials (and many experts) are greatly concerned about the damaged nuclear reactor. Officials are seeking help from the International Atomic Energy Agency Director.   We need to seek help from the Almighty God who created the atom and knows how to use the wonders of the atom for the good of mankind.

As concerned citizens of the world community and especially as concerned disciples of Jesus Christ, let us beseech our powerful God to avert any further crises for Japan.  Let us pray for wisdom and right judgment.