SALT & SONSHINE
By Pastor/Teacher James R. Paxton

As far as the journey of mankind is concerned it all began Cain slew Abel in the Garden of Eden.

Ever since it has been something inside man that draws him into battle. Whether it be nation against nation or tribe against tribe. Sometimes it is the right thing to do when we are besieged by an opponent who desires our hurt or our possessions or even our families. It becomes necessary and we have the right to protect ourselves.

But why the confrontation in the first place? We can attach labels such as greed, quest for power or jealousy. However, it goes deeper than that. It originates with sin. Sin is from Satan or the devil. When we are separated from God and His love somehow Satan finds a way to stir up hostilities and often blood flows. If we would live as God’s Word teaches us and walk in love and forgiveness and refuse to covet we would be surrounded by peace.

There are many battles and wars recorded in the Bible. Whether it was Israel against the Philistines or Judah or Babylon or the Egyptians or the Amorites the blood flowed. From civil wars, World War I, World War II to the halls of Congress, man wants to have his way and dominate.

God place the desire to have dominion inside man when He made him.

However, it was to have dominion over the earth and the creatures in it.

It was not to dominate other men or cultures. Personally, I don’t remember ever having seen such division and hostilities as is reported daily by our news media. The battles are Republican and Democrat instead of right and wrong. What difference does it make of who had the idea? If I needed open heart surgery I wouldn’t care if it was a white man, black man or a Japanese man. I wouldn’t care if it was a man or a woman. What would matter to me is that I would want the best most qualified person available.

When Jesus returns for His Church: there will be members suddenly missing from the Baptist, Methodist, Pentecostal and other denominations. There will also be many church members left behind.

What is important? Be ready to be in the number of those caught up to be with Him.

The Bible says there will be wars and rumors of wars. Whether it is China, Russia, North Korea or the United States in the news; whether it is battles being fought in Afghanistan, Syria, Chicago or Los Angeles; wherever man is enticed, tempted or drawn into the devil’s arena, sin will have dominion and blood will flow. There is only one answer; only one escape and that is through Jesus Christ. Pray for our nation and its leadership. Pray for your community and your family. 2Ch 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

Maranatha!