Church of God News

COGwriter

The latest TW News & Prophecy has the following:

U.S. in drought and Britain’s flooded kingdom.

The United States is experiencing the worst drought in 50 years, and the United Kingdom had the wettest April to June on record, with July following the same pattern.

On July 11, the U.S. Department of Agriculture declared that more than 1,000 counties in 26 states (almost 2/3 of U.S. land) are now natural-disaster areas, making this the largest declaration in U.S. history (Business Week, July 16, 2012). The conditions are becoming even worse. “In the high-plains states of North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Nebraska, Colorado, and Kansas, the areas designated as being in moderate to exceptional drought rose to 84 percent as of July 10 from 74 percent a week earlier. In the Midwest, 63 percent of the region was in drought as of July 10, up from 53 percent on July 3” (ibid.).

While the United States lacks rain, the United Kingdom has received more than enough. “The wettest April to June on record, followed by more heavy rain so far this month, has caused widespread–and in some cases, repeated–flooding.” “The Met Office has warned that many areas are expected to see between 20mm and 30mm of rain, and that some parts could see up to 60mm–as much as might be expected to fall in a month–in just a few hours…. John Curtin, Head of Incident Management at the [Environment Agency], said: ‘We have experienced some severe weather in recent weeks and the risk of flooding remains high across England, but particularly across the Midlands and the East of the country'” (The Telegraph, July 14, 2012).

God clearly states that if we walk contrary to His way of life, He will make the heavens like bronze, the earth like iron, and the rain will be changed into dust powder (Deuteronomy 28:23-24). He also warns that He will cause it to rain on one city, but will withhold rain from another (Amos 4:7). Scripture indicates that the U.S. and Britain will suffer weather calamities because of their immorality. As these two nations turn their backs on God and promote clearly sinful behaviors and lifestyles, we should expect to see God set His hand against a rebellious people (1 Samuel 12:15).

Notice what is happening in Russia:

Drought ruining crops in Russia

MOSCOW, July 26 (UPI) — A drought in Russia is destroying the country’s 2012 grain harvest, the Russian Agricultural Ministry said Thursday.

In the Krasnodar territory, in southernmost Russia on the Black Sea, the first to report figures, the grain crop is about a third of last year’s totals, the ministry said.

“Such an unfavorable year has not been witnessed since the second world war,” said Yuri Tkachenko, head of the Krasnodar weather forecasting center.

The immediate effect of the lowered crop yield is a severe reduction in Russian exports of grain and corn, Russian news service ITAR-Tass reported Thursday.

http://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2012/07/26/Drought-ruining-crops-in-Russia/UPI-12651343333779/

And as I reported here a few weeks ago, Russia lost 150 people to flooding (USA Severe Weather; Flooding in Russia)–yet it is also losing crops to drought.

The sorrows and troubles are just beginning and will get much worse.

Jesus taught:

7…And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. (Matthew 24:7-8).

8 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be earthquakes in various places, and there will be famines and troubles. These are the beginnings of sorrows. (Mark 13:8)

Severe weather is consistent with the troubles that Jesus spoke of.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2012, 2013, or 2014? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?
Physical Preparation Scriptures for Christians. We all know the Bible prophecies famines. Should we do something?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Russia: Its Origins and Prophesied Future Russia in prophecy. Where do the Russians come from? What about those in the Ukraine? What is prophesied for Russia and its allies? What will they do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end?
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach?

COGwriter

The latest issue (#150, print date July 27, 2012) of The Journal just arrived here electronically. One of the lead articles has the following:

BIG SANDY, Texas—There are three things in life that Christians can know for sure, Whaid Rose said in a sermon here the Sabbath of June 16, 2012:

There are three things in life that Christians can know for sure, Whaid Rose said in a sermon here the Sabbath of June 16, 2012:
* God exists, and He is sovereign.
* God has a Son, and His name is Jesus.
* Objective truth exists, and it is to be found in God’s Word, the Bible.

Whaid Rose is president of CG7-Denver.  And I agree with the three statements above.

The following was reported about UCG:

Elders of the United Church of God can vote long distance by E-mail beginning with next year’s general conference of elders. The E-mail–ballot provision was one of several approved during the 18th general conference of elders meeting  in a Holiday Inn in Cincinnati, Ohio, May 5-7, 2012…

Council members whose terms were expiring were Scott Ashley, Bill Eddington, Roy Holladay and Melvin Rhodes. Mr. Holladay, of  Cleveland, Tenn., and Mr. Eddington, of Melbourne, Australia, chose not to run for reelection. Mr. Ashley and Mr. Rhodes were reelected.

The council currently consists of Carmelo Anastasi, Bergamo, Italy (one of three “international” council  members); Gary Antion, Batavia, Ohio; Scott Ashley, Arvada, Colo; Bob Berendt, Edmonton, Alta., Canada (international); Bill Bradford, Brisbane, Australia (international); John Elliott, Apache Junction, Ariz.; Darris McNeely, Cincinnati, Ohio; Mark Mickelson, Spokane, Wash.; Melvin Rhodes, Lansing, Mich.; Mario Seiglie, Garden Grove, Calif.; Donald Ward, Big Sandy, Texas; and Robin Webber, Romoland, Calif. Mr. Rhodes is chairman of the council. Dennis Luker of Cincinnati is church president.

BSA had a meeting:

Members of the Bible Sabbath Association (BSA) recently selected their directors for 2012, reports an article in the May-June issue of The Sabbath Sentinel (www.biblesabbath.org).  The board’s new configuration is Marsha Basner, Bryant Buck, Bryan Burrell (treasurer), Calvin Burrell (president), Lenny Cacchio (secretary), David Guerrero, Dusti Howell, Tom Justus, Bill Lussenheide (third vice president), Eric Moore (second vice president),
June Narber and Ken Ryland (first vice president).

Those wishing to know more about some of the claimed arguments against the Sabbath may wish to study the article Another Look at the Didache, Ignatius, and the Sabbath.

The Journal also had articles about the canon, Feast of Tabernacles, letters, and advertisements by those who claim COG affiliation.

Some articles of related interest may include:

Is God’s Existence Logical? Some say it is not logical to believe in God. Is that true?
Is Evolution Probable or Impossible or Is God’s Existence Logical? Part II This short article clearly answers what ‘pseudo-scientists’ refuse to acknowledge.
Where Did God Come From? Any ideas? And how has God been able to exist? Who is God?
How is God Omnipotent, Omnipresent, and Omniscient? Here is a biblical article by Wallace Smith which answers what many really wonder about it.
Church of God, Seventh Day: History and Teachings Most COG’s I am aware of trace part of their history through this group. Whaid Rose is the president of the largest CG7 group (Denver). Do you know much about them?
Differences between the Living Church of God and United Church of God This article provides quotes information from the two largest groups which had their origins in WCG as well as commentary.
Polycarp, Herbert W. Armstrong, and Roderick C. Meredith on Church Government What form of governance did the early church have? Was it hierarchical? Which form of governance would one expect to have in the Philadelphia remnant? The people decide and/or committee forms, odd dictatorships, or the same type that the Philadelphia era itself had?
Is Revelation 1:10 talking about Sunday or the Day of the Lord? Most Protestant scholars say Sunday is the Lord’s Day, but is that what the Bible teaches?
The Sabbath in the Early Church and Abroad Was the seventh-day (Saturday) Sabbath observed by the apostolic and post-apostolic Church?
The Dramatic Story of Chinese Sabbathkeepers This reformatted Good News article from 1955 discusses Sabbath-keeping in China in the 1800s.
Is God Unreasonable? Some have suggested that if God requires Sabbath-keeping He is unreasonable. Is that true?
Another Look at the Didache, Ignatius, and the Sabbath Did Ignatius write against the Sabbath and for Sunday? What about the Didache? What does the actual Greek reveal?
The Old Testament Canon This article shows from Catholic accepted writings, that the Old Testament used by non-Roman Catholics and non-Orthodox churches is the correct version.
The New Testament Canon – From the Bible and History This article, shows from the Bible and supporting historical sources, why the early Church knew which books were part of the Bible and which ones were not.
The Feast of Tabernacles: A Time for Christians? Is this pilgrimage holy day still valid? Does it teach anything relevant for today’s Christians? What is the Last Great Day? What do these days teach?

COGwriter

In today’s LCG commentary, Davy Crockett has the following:

The Bears

The speaker at our business organization breakfast was a prominent attorney known for his service to the community. In his remarks, he commented on the pleasure he derived from working with the Boy Scouts of America program, especially the Cub Scouts.

He told of an experience with a group of Cub Scouts on an overnight camping trip. They had a great time tramping about the woods, hiking, swimming and enjoying other fun camp activities. After supper, and after talking around the campfire, it was time for the boys to go to bed.

It grew quiet as the boys snuggled down in their sleeping bags for the night, and the attorney and the other counselors were glad to have a respite from the busy activities of the day. But after a few minutes of silence, one boy spoke up with a tremor in his voice, to ask: “Counselor, aren’t we going to say our prayers?” The counselor replied quickly: “Well, sure, we can do that. You can go first!” At that, the boy crawled out of his sleeping bag. On his knees, with great fervency, he prayed out loud, “Lord! Save us from the bears!”

Until that moment, there had been no discussion or concern about bears, and no other apparent interest in prayer. But as the young camper finished his heartfelt petition to God, the other campers—now alerted to the perils of sleeping in the woods—each, in turn, crawled out of his sleeping bag and presented his sincere, urgent prayer for protection from the bears.

This humorous and heartwarming story reminded us that we are sometimes unaware of a problem, real or imagined, until someone points it out to us.

In the perilous times in which we live, we certainly need to be alert to danger and to potential problems. And yet, we should not overreact, nor should we be fearful. The Bible has much to say on this subject. Danger, difficulty, trials and tests are nothing new in human experience, and the One who inspired Scripture gives us valuable instruction and guidelines to meet the challenges of life with a calm spirit and with peace of mind.

For example, consider this pearl of wisdom: “A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself, But the simple pass on and are punished” (Proverbs 22:3). Those who are wise notice what is going on around them, and are prepared when an evil or harmful situation is about to occur. Being aware, they can react so as to prevent harm or loss. We should indeed stay alert in every circumstance to what is happening around us.

Sadly, some are overly cautious—even fearful—without any real justification. Consider what we read in Proverbs 26:13, “The lazy man says there is a lion in the road! A fierce lion is loose in the streets.” In this case the perceived danger is not real, but is only an excuse for avoiding action and failing to do what needs to be done.

In our present age, there is much to fear. The Bible, however, tells us that if we are first and foremost seeking the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, we should not be fearful (Matthew 6:33). Jesus Christ shared these comforting words with His disciples: “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” Later on, the Apostle John was inspired to write, “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18).

So, while we should always remain alert to the “bears” we may encounter in our lives, we should not be fearful, as long as we look daily to our Heavenly Father for protection and peace of mind while we do our part to live as He would have us live.

God wants us to love and obey Him and to love others as ourselves.  But troubles and sorrows are here, and Jesus told us about them and other issues to come (Matthew 24) so that His followers could do what they need to do.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

What is the Meaning of Life? Who does God say is happy? What is your ultimate destiny? Do you really know? Does God actually have a plan for YOU personally?
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2012, 2013, or 2014? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? Is this the time of the Gentiles? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? Who are the 144,000?
There is a Place of Safety for the Philadelphians. Why it May Be Petra This article discusses a biblical ‘place of safety’ and includes quotes from the Bible and Herbert W. Armstrong on this subject–thus, there is a biblically supported alternative to the rapture theory.
What Do You Mean — Repentance? Do you know what repentance is? Have you truly repented? Repented of what? Herbert W. Armstrong wrote this as a booklet on this important subject.
Are You Saved? Do You Love Jesus? What is a True Christian? What is the Gospel? Evangelist Richard Ames answers those important questions.
True vs. False Conversion Are you really converted or willing to be? What is true conversion? What is false conversion? What are the dangers of false conversion? Evangelist Roderick Meredith provides information on those important questions.
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church Did you know that? Do you even know what the gospel of the kingdom is all about?
The Ten Commandments Reflect Love, Breaking them is Evil Some feel that the ten commandments are a burden. Is that what Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, and John taught?

Barack Obama Speaking on Telephone About the Massacre with Mayor of Aurora, Colorado

COGwriter

The latest LCG TW News & Prophecy has the following:

Theater terror in Denver.

Last Friday morning at the midnight opening of the latest Batman movie, a lone gunman burst into a packed theater in the Denver, Colorado suburb of Aurora, set off a smoke bomb and tear gas, and began firing his weapon into the crowd (Good Morning America , July 20, 2012). Survivors recalled the terrifying confusion and panic of those trapped inside the theater. Twelve people were killed and many more injured before the 24-year-old man ceased his rampage (ibid.). Authorities report the apparently deranged gunman claimed to be the villain in the Batman movie, and acted very oddly during his questioning and court appearance (Good Morning America , July 25, 2012).

In response to the shooting, “All over the nation, gun-sellers are reporting big increases in sales in the wake of the Colorado movie-theater shootings” (www.KHOU.com, July 25, 2012). People are buying weapons out of fear and a desire to protect themselves and their families.

This event in Aurora is tragic and heart-rending. True Christians should always view such tragedies with deep sadness and a greater desire for God’s Kingdom to come soon! God expects His people to “sigh and cry over all the abominations that are done within” the land (Ezekiel 9:4).

But we should also expect such events to occur with increasing frequency as the end of the age approaches. God warned ancient Israel and her modern descendants that “…I will even appoint terror over you, wasting disease and fever which shall consume the eyes and cause sorrow of heart,” because of their sins (Leviticus 26:14-16).

We live in a God-rejecting age when the ways that lead to peace, God’s laws, are no longer honored or obeyed. And as a result, we experience the consequences of rejecting Him. God speed the day when this powerful prophecy is fulfilled: “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4).

I quoted the following scriptures when I initially posted about this:

23 ‘Make a chain,
For the land is filled with crimes of blood,
And the city is full of violence.
24 Therefore I will bring the worst of the Gentiles,
And they will possess their houses;
I will cause the pomp of the strong to cease,
And their holy places shall be defiled.
25 Destruction comes;
They will seek peace, but there shall be none. (Ezekiel 7:23-25)

America will be consumed by violence, though the final amount will come from external, primarily Gentile, sources, as the above teaches. Abortion, frequent support of war, violent sports, etc. all identify the USA now.

A reader, and regular supplier of news items, sent the following, which I am posting in its entirety:

NOTE: Per the book “Switching Time“, which documented the woman with 17 demons, the victim has no memory of events when a demon takes over. The Colorado shooter now claims the same symptoms, indicating it may well have been a demon…

“Routinely, she “loses” parts of her day, finding herself in places she doesn’t remember going to or being told about conversations she doesn’t remember having.” http://www.switchingtime.com/?page_id=49

“When Karen Overhill entered psychiatrist Richard Baer’s office in 1989, she complained of memory loss, and physical pain and depression. There were whole parts of her day unaccounted for, and she’d often find herself in places she didn’t remember going.” http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Books/story?id=3707899&page=1

Colorado shooting: James Holmes claims he can’t remember killings

The 24-year-old repeatedly asked prison guards “Why am I here?” and said he had no recollection of the killings during a midnight premiere of the new Batman film, according to the New York Daily News.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/9430752/Colorado-shooting-James-Holmes-claims-he-cant-remember-killings.html

Now, while I will not declare that the woman who allegedly had 17 demons for sure had that many (or any at all), she very well may have.  And as I wrote earlier this week, the Colorado shooter was at least influenced by Satan, and may also have been demonically-possessed (see Was the Colorado Shooter Demonically-Influenced?).

The death and destruction were unnecessary and many lives were hurt by what the shooter did.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

What is the Meaning of Life? Who does God say is happy? What is your ultimate destiny? Do you really know? Does God actually have a plan for YOU personally?
Close Encounters of a ‘Spirit’ Kind discusses some experiences I believe were (demon) ‘spirit’  related.
Mardi Gras: The Devil’s Carnival?   Do you know that in Bolivia the carnival/Mardi Gras time is part of a celebration known as the Devil’s Carnival?    Did Jesus celebrate Carnaval? Where did it come from?
Christian Soldiers How are Christians to be like soldiers? How are they to be different?
What Do You Mean — Repentance? Do you know what repentance is? Have you truly repented? Repented of what? Herbert W. Armstrong wrote this as a booklet on this important subject.
Are You Saved? Do You Love Jesus? What is a True Christian? What is the Gospel? Evangelist Richard Ames answers those important questions.
True vs. False Conversion Are you really converted or willing to be? What is true conversion? What is false conversion? What are the dangers of false conversion? Evangelist Roderick Meredith provides information on those important questions.
Abortion, the Bible, and a Woman’s Right to Choose Do you know what the Bible teaches on this? Has the Roman Catholic Church allowed abortions? What about the real Church of God?
Military Service and the Churches of God: Do Real Christians Participate in Carnal Warfare? Here are current and historical perspectives on a matter which show the beliefs of the true church on military participation. Is war proper for Christians?
Is American Football Evil? Is the most popular spectator sport in the USA something that Christians should watch? What do the Bible and early writings show?
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2012 or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What is the “beginning of sorrows”? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Prophecies of Barack Obama? Eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. This article includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most complete article on this page on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West?
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church Did you know that? Do you even know what the gospel of the kingdom is all about?
The Ten Commandments Reflect Love, Breaking them is Evil Some feel that the ten commandments are a burden. Is that what Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, and John taught?

COGwriter

Russian is working on greatly expanding its international naval bases:

Russia seeks to set up naval bases abroad

Naval chief confirms talks with Cuba, Vietnam and the Seychelles about setting up overseas facilities for Russian ships

July 27, 2012

Russia is talking to Cuba, Vietnam and the Seychelles about housing Russian navy ships, its naval chief has said.

Vice-admiral Viktor Chirkov told the RIA Novosti state news agency Russia was in talks with the three countries about setting up maintenance and supply facilities but would not give further details.

Russia’s only existing naval base outside the former Soviet Union is located in the Syrian port of Tartus.  http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/jul/27/russia-seeks-naval-base-abroad

The above is likely subject to many interpretations.  Yet, Russia, now is publicly denying this:

Earlier, a news agency quoted Russia’s navy chief as saying that Cuba, Vietnam and the Seychelles were being considered as possible sites.

But the ministry said that Vice Adm Viktor Chirkov had never made the alleged remarks.  http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-19022178

There are three comments related to Russia’ military I wish to make.

The first is that Russia probably has figured out if there is a regime change in Syria that it may lose its only warm weather naval base–hence it likely feels it needs other ports (if not bases).

The second is that Russia believes it can better project its military might by having its naval forces having access to ports around the world. Presuming it gets all three ports (whether or not they call them bases or not), and does not lose the one in Syria, Russia will have warm water ports in Asia, the Middle East, Indian ocean, and the Western Hemisphere (to a degree, it already has agreements for most of these).  As far as the Seychelles of the Indian ocean, China and the USA already have a presence there (see Chinese Naval Presence in Seychelles; US Drone Crashes in Seychelles; Indian Concerns).  The presence of China, and possibly Russia, in the  the Seychelles may facilitate the gathering together of Asian forces in Armageddon (Revelation 16:12-16).

The third is that, along with China, Russia will be a greater military distraction to the USA.  Russia has absolutely claimed that it plans to expand and modernize its military (and not just its navy).   The USA will likely conclude that Russia and China are its real international military threats (beyond Islamic-related terrorism and domestic concerns) and direct much of its military budget to deal with perceived Russian and Chinese military threats while overlooking the real threat which will further rise up in Europe.

So, what will the statements and actions by Russia and China really mean?

They mean that USA military leaders will tend to walk by sight and not by faith (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:7), and hence not see what really is happening in the world–US military planners will focus too much on Russia and China.  Thus, they will overlook the fact that the Bible shows that it will be a future European military leader that will takeover the land of the strongest fortresses, the USA (cf. Daniel 11:39).

Russia, China, and many of their allies are increasing military spending and cooperation. This is consistent with prophecies of both the Old and New Testament that suggest that a Russian-led Eastern force will ultimately help destroy Europe (a few years after Europe destroys the USA) per Jeremiah 50:41-43 and Isaiah 13:1-8.

Now, since the Europeans are perceiving both lack of US support for Europe and a growing Russian and Chinese military, these events will likely serve as a catalyst for Europe to develop its military technologies (and, to a degree, they already have). Enough so, that for a while at least, the world will marvel (cf. Revelation 13:1-4) as it currently does not act like Europe could possibly become a powerful military force.  But, for a time, it will (Revelation 13:4).

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Russia: Its Origins and Prophesied Future Where do the Russians come from? What is prophesied for Russia? What will it do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end?
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach?
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, and others of Asia? China in prophecy, where? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States?
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe?

COGwriter

The president of Chick-fil-A (apparently pronounced chick filet) is facing governmental pressure for his speaking of certain of his moral/religious views:

27 July 2012

Chick-fil-A president’s public criticism of gay marriage have sparked a firestorm that could cut into the fast-food chain’s profits. Boston’s mayor and a Chicago alderman have vowed to fight the opening of Chick-fil-A restaurants in their cities.

A week after Chick-fil-A President Dan Cathy’s comments on marriage created a firestorm, the Atlanta company finds itself grappling with a public relations snarl that some experts say could affect its bottom line.  Restaurant and branding experts say the chain could lose millions…http://www.csmonitor.com/Business/Latest-News-Wires/2012/0727/Chick-fil-A-dilemma-Uphold-principles-or-just-sell-chicken-video

While the Constitution of the USA is supposed to protect freedom of speech and freedom of religion, certain government officials have their own ways to try to intimidate those who hold to less popular views.  The above efforts to try to prevent the opening of businesses is a form of religious discrimination in my view.  But the politicians do as they wish as they advocate positions that even in the Clinton Administration were considered so normal that Bill Clinton signed what was called the Defense of Marriage Act–which held to positions not that different than the Chick-fil-A president holds.

What a difference a decade or two makes as the moral views of those in the USA have descended far enough away from that law (which the current US President Obama stopped enforcing and has worked to over turn, see Obama Announces He Wants to Repeal Defense of Marriage Act and Increase Debt) that certain US city leaders feel that they should discourage economic growth in these tough economic times.

There were other societies that have had their own issues of openly advocating sins that their residents seemed to view as acceptable. Notice what happened in a couple of such towns between three thousand and four thousand years ago:

24 Then the Lord rained brimstone and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah, from the Lord out of the heavens. 25 So He overthrew those cities, all the plain, all the inhabitants of the cities, and what grew on the ground. (Genesis 19:24-25)

And why did it happen?

7 as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them in a similar manner to these, having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. (Jude 7)

Why mention this in the 21st century? Because God turned:

6…the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, making them an example to those who afterward would live ungodly (2 Peter 2:6,
NKJV)

Thus, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah were to serve as an example to those who would live as they did. The USA, which has lots of Bibles, should know this–but refuses to wish to truly retain God in its knowledge.

Of course, not everyone in Sodom and Gomorrah were homosexuals as those that strictly practice that could not reproduce. Yet, notice that the destruction that hit their cities destroyed all that were there and notice that something like this is to happen again according to Jesus:

26 And as it was in the days of Noah, so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man: 27 They ate, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. 28 Likewise as it was also in the days of Lot: They ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built; 29 but on the day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven and destroyed them all. (Luke 17:26-29)

Political leaders can pretend that “same-sex marriage” is acceptable, but the Bible teaches otherwise.

The following passage, written nearly two thousand years ago, essentially predicts resurgences of amorality, plus explains why this happens:

18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man — and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.

24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.

26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.

28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; 29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, 30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; 32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them. (Romans 1:18-32)

Most of those in governmental positions in the West do not wish to retain the word of God in their knowledge and endorse evolution instead of creation as the origin of life, so it is little wonder that increasing societal acceptance of sin is occurring. Also notice that God warned that many would “also approve of those who practice” various forms of sin. This is what more and more government leaders are doing.

National repentance is the only real long-term hope for the USA (and it seems to be too late for that), the political leadership in the USA has largely ignored that approach–instead it is pushing the nation to go further away from the Bible.

Now, I have never eaten at a Chick-fil-A (nor do I believe that there are any near where I live), so I am making no comments about its food offerings.  But it is wrong to punish a business for trying to hold moral positions that seem to align with biblical ones.

Keeping the Ten Commandments reflects love. Breaking them and/or condoning those that do is evil. This should be clear to those who believe the God of the Bible.  But sadly, most leaders in the USA really do not.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

God’s Plan for Happy Marriage This is an LCG booklet by Dr. R. Meredith.
God Created Marriage Some falsely claim that God did not create marriage and that fornication is fine.  What does the Bible really teach?
LCG: Homosexuals Gaining Ground “Same-sex marriage” for “gays” and lesbians is becoming more acceptable to many. What does the Bible teach about homosexuality?  Can homosexuals change?
What Do You Mean — Repentance? Do you know what repentance is? Have you truly repented? Repented of what? Herbert W. Armstrong wrote this as a booklet on this important subject.
What Did Jesus Teach About the Ten Commandments? This article quotes what Jesus actually said about them (His words are in red).
The Ten Commandments Reflect Love, Breaking them is Evil Some feel that the ten commandments are a burden. Is that what Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, and John taught?
Was the Commandment to Love the Only Command? Some have stated that John’s writings teach this, but is that what the Bible really says?
The Ten Commandments and the Early Church Did Jesus and the Early Church keep the ten commandments? What order were they in? Here are quotes from the Bible and early writings.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
Prophecies of Barack Obama? This article has eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. It includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most complete article at the COGwriter website on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West?
What is the Meaning of Life? Who does God say is happy? What is your ultimate destiny? Do you really know? Does God actually have a plan for YOU personally?

Muslim Brotherhood
الإخوان المسلمون
Al-Ikhwān Al-Muslimūn

COGwriter

The Arabic Gulf oil states have concerns:

26 July 2012

‘Muslim Brothers plotting overthrow of Gulf states’

Dubai police chief warns of “international plot” against Gulf states, says Iran, Syria and MB must know Gulf is a red line.

Last week, UAE officials announced that authorities were investigating a foreign-linked group planning “crimes against the security of the state”.

“I had no idea that there is this large number of Muslim Brotherhood in the Gulf states. We have to be alert and on guard because the wider these groups become, the higher probability there is for trouble,” Khalfan said on Wednesday.

“We are aware that there are groups plotting to overthrow Gulf governments in the long term.”  http://www.jpost.com/MiddleEast/Article.aspx?id=278993

Based upon passages in Daniel 11:41-43, I have long suspected that some of the Arabic Gulf nations would mainly cooperate with, and not quite fully support, the final King of the South.  Historically, the Gulf states have been worried about Iranian/Shi’ite influence, but more and more they are now starting to have concerns about the primarily Sunni Muslim Brotherhood.   And it may well be that they will decide, for a while, that they need to make some type of deal with the Muslim Brotherhood.

Now, the concerns about Iran, however, still tend to be bigger.  And Saudi Arabia more and more is indicating that it wants nuclear weapons from Pakistan to help counter current and future Iranian influence.  The following news item also seems to confirm my view:

Saudis ‘mull buying nukes from Pakistan’

UPI – July 25, 2012

King Abdallah of Saudi Arabia met Pakistani Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf in Jeddah a few days ago as Riyadh began sending its Special Forces to Pakistan for training.

The Islamic countries, both dominated by the mainstream Sunni sect, have long had a particularly close relationship and these events heightened speculation Riyadh is trying to strike a secret deal with Islamabad to acquire nuclear weapons to counter Iran…“As Iran becomes more dangerous and the United States becomes more reluctant to engage in military missions overseas, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia may find that renewed military and nuclear cooperation is the best way to secure their interests,” observed Christopher Clary and Mara E. Karlin, former U.S. Defense Department policy advisers on South Asia and the Middle East…

Israel’s Debkafile Web site, considered close to Israeli intelligence and which sometimes posts reports considered to be disinformation, claimed in December 2010 that Pakistan has set aside two nuclear weapons for Saudi Arabia.

These, it said, are believed to be stored at Pakistan’s nuclear air base at Kamra in the north. http://www.upi.com/Top_News/Special/2012/07/25/Saudis-mull-buying-nukes-from-Pakistan/UPI-94601343239152/?spt=hs&or=tn

If the Saudis do get nuclear weapons, then the Arab world will likely feel that it has become a more significant military force in the world.  These type of weapons may be a factor in the King of the South feeling that he has enough strength to push at the King of the North (Daniel 11:40).

The Saudis, based upon the peoples listed in Daniel 11:40-43 and Ezekiel 30:1-8, seem to be among the people that will support (at least for a while) the coming King of the South.

And one of the leaders of the Muslim Brotherhood may well become the King of the South that the Bible foretells (Daniel 11:40-43)–and they may well get sufficient influence in the Gulf to affect those nations there.

Watch (Mark 13:37).

Some articles of related interest may include:

Is There A Future King of the South? Some no longer believe there needs to be. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? Might this King be called the Mahdi? What does the Bible say?
The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What about the Imam Mahdi? What lies ahead for Turkey, Iran, and the other non-Arabic Muslims?
Is There an Islamic Antichrist? Is Joel Richardson correct that the final Antichrist will be Islamic and not European? Find out.

COGwriter

A new poll came out on perceptions of Obama’s faith:

26 July February 2012

Nearly four years after he was sent to the White House, less than half of American voters know President Obama is Christian, a new poll has found.

A survey by the Pew Research Center found that only 49 percent of those polled knew Obama is Christian, while 17 percent thought he is Muslim and 31 percent said they don’t know.

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/election-2012/poll-finds-americans-confused-barack-obama-religion-article-1.1122660#ixzz21m8GAqTg

While the secular media believes that Barack Obama is Christian, because he claims he is, the biblical definition of a Christian is one who has God’s spirit. True Christians have the Holy Spirit of God:

9 But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His. 10 And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you (Romans 8:9-11).

True Christians have repented of their sins, accepted Christ, have been properly baptized, strive to live as Christ did, and possess God’s Holy Spirit (Acts 2:39; Romans 8:9-11).  Whle Barack Obama claims to have accepted Christ, his actions and policy statements appear to be in conflict with a variety of biblical principles.

Here are some reasons that thinking, biblically-oriented Catholics and Protestants, may conclude Barack Obama is not a real Christian:

1. He stopped regularly attending outside church services after becoming elected President of the United States (except for some public events; cf. Matthew 23:6-7)–so his sincerity is doubted.
2. He has pushed the homosexual agenda. “Though President Obama opposed gay marriage during the 2008 election” (http://www.theatlanticwire.com/national/2012/02/five-best-tuesday-columns/48958/) he now supports and advocates it (see also Obama Announces He Wants to Repeal Defense of Marriage Act and Increase Debt).
3. One of his first acts after taking office was to increase international funding for abortions. He makes various public statements supporting abortion (notice, for example, Obama’s Latest Defense of Abortion).
4. On an international trip, he referred to the Muslim book as “the Holy Quran.” Real Christians do not consider the Quran as holy.
5. While in office, he attended the first “feeding” for Ramadan at least one year. Christians are not supposed to observe holy days of other religions.
6. He has been found to carry a Hindu monkey god (see Barack Obama Carries Hindu Monkey God). No Christian intentionally carries around pagan idols.
7. His initial, fairly clear sounding support, for the “ground-zero” mosque.
8. His two US Supreme Court appointees are both believed to be supporters of on-demand abortion.
9. He seems to support “freedom of worship” as opposed to “freedom of religion” (Obama Administration Changing Freedom of Religion?). This has carried forward in his stance on forcing the paying for various forms of contraception, including abortive pills, as he seems to feel that his form of morality should trump those who have religious beliefs to the contrary. And even though the beliefs of those in the genuine Church of God on family planning are closer to those held by the Eastern Orthodox, than Roman, Catholics, I believe that the President has often crossed a line that should concern all who profess Christ.
10. He seems to claim that political forms of covetousness are consistent with his “Christian Faith” values (see Obama Claims His Economic Policies are Linked to His ‘Christian Faith’).
11. He seems to advocate class warfare (see Obama: ‘You Can Call this Class Warfare‘).
12. He has increased the regulatory burden on some Americans excessively (cf. Jesus’ warnings Matthew 23:4-5).

We in the real Church of God could add many other items to the above list, but the dozen reasons above should give all concerns about Barack Obama’s faith.

It is basically because Barack Obama’s own statements and practices that have caused many to think he not a real Christian. Furthermore, his relatively close relationships with Muslims (having a Muslim father/grandfather and growing up in predominantly Muslim Indonesia) in his early years, his statements in Cairo and elsewhere, and his distancing himself from the State of Israel have had some wonder if he had remained a Muslim despite public denials.

Those who are not biblically-oriented, those who do not believe that they have to live their lives by what the Bible says, etc. seem confused, that many doubt the President’s claimed faith.

What religion is Barack Obama?

Barack Obama seems to be a supporter of a Protestant-type Constantinian religion (comes out of the Greco-Roman tradition, not the Church of God) which claims Christ. Yet, he does not seem to be highly involved with it. Whether he makes the public appearances in religious settings to give the impression he is Christian or if this is what he truly believes is not clear to me.

Barack Obama has made public gestures supportive of Islam (like participating in Ramadan-related activities) and the Hindu faith (he carries and monkey-god charm and in November 2010 danced at a Diwali celebration). This suggests that he is neither Muslim or Christian as one true to either of those faiths would not carry a pagan deity as a good-luck charm.

Those of us who do take the Bible literally do not understand how one can support abortion on demand, carry idols, etc. then expect others to believe that they are Christian.

I have never believed that Barack Obama was a real Christian and still do not.

Mitt Romney (Gage Skidmore, 2011)

What about Barack Obama’s main expected political opponent, Mitt Romney?  Notice the following which also just came out:

26 July 2012

Most of America doesn’t relate to Mitt Romney’s religion but that may not matter in his race against President Barack Obama.

Those are the findings of a new Pew Research Center poll released Thursday, about a month before Republican Romney is set to become the first Mormon presidential nominee of a major political party.

Misgivings about the Mormon faith are widespread and persistent. Nearly two-thirds of non-Mormons said they see Romney’s faith as very different from their own while just half consider it a Christian faith…white evangelicals (42 percent) were most likely to say the Mormon faith is not a Christian one. http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/07/26/poll-few-think-romney-faith-resembles-their-own/#ixzz21mDgpYgC

Mitt Romney claims to be part of the LDS (Mormon).  Of course, most who are devout as Protestant, Catholic, or Church of God would not accept those that accept the Book of Mormon are true Christians, while acknowledging that they claim belief in Christ.

That being said, most of the LDS I know at least try to live their faith.

But Mitt Romney?

He seems to have some issues of LDS concern.  As governor of the relatively “liberal” state of Massachusetts, Mitt Romney supported abortion rights, now have changed his position.  While I applaud all who change to a more biblical view of this topic, because of other policy position changes, I question aspects of the sincerity of Mitt Romney’s faith.

Anyway, I do not believe that either Barack Obama nor Mitt Romney are true Christians, and both give me reasons to question the depth and sincerity of their pubic religious positions.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Should a Christian Vote? This article gives some of the Biblical rationale on this subject. Would Jesus vote for president/prime minister? Is voting in the Bible? This is a subject Christians need to understand.
Barack Obama Carries Hindu Monkey God Unlike some of the odd stories about Barack Obama, this one is apparently true.
What Did the Early Church Teach About Idols and Icons? Did Catholic and Orthodox “saints” endorse or condemn idols and icons for Christians?
Prophecies of Barack Obama? This article has eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. It includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most complete article at the COGwriter website on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States Some claim that Barack Obama is the prophesied “son of Kenya”. Might Bible prophecy be fulfilled since he is to be the USA president?
COGwriter Position on Other Churches and Religions What is the fate of those who do not know Christ? What about those who profess Christ outside the Church of God?
Do You Practice Mithraism? Many practices and doctrines that mainstream so-called Christian groups have are the same or similar to those of the sun-god Mithras. Do you follow Mithraism combined with the Bible or original Christianity?
Hope of Salvation: How the Genuine Church of God differ from most Protestants How the real Church of God differs from mainstream/traditional Protestants, is perhaps the question I am asked most by those without a Church of God background.
LCG: Homosexuals Gaining Ground “Same-sex marriage” for “gays” and lesbians is becoming more acceptable to many. What does the Bible teach about homosexuality? Can homosexuals change?
Abortion, the Bible, and a Woman’s Right to Choose Do you know what the Bible teaches on this?
Some Dissimilarities Between The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (LDS) and the Real Church of God The genuine Church of God is not related to the Mormons and this article explains some differences and a couple of similarities. Also, might certain LDS prophecies apply to Mitt Romney.

Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Iran

COGwriter

Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak who claimed that the world would be better off with a preemptive strike by Israel against Iran than Iran getting nuclear weapons (see Israel Declares Another “Red Line” That Would Cause it to Take Military Action Against Syria) also made other statements of interest:

26 July 2012

Barak Warns Israel Ready to Go It Alone on Iran

Have Israeli leaders gotten tired of waiting for Obama on Iran?…Barak said “having to deal with the challenge” of an Iran possessing nuclear bombs “would be many times more complex, dangerous and costly, both in terms of human life and in terms of resources, than a preemptive strike.”He termed Iran’s nuclear program “a unique challenge” to Israel “with the potential to develop into an existential threat.”

Barak said Israel would remain responsible for its own security, rather than depending on other states, such as the United States.  http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/158306

If Israel attacks Iran it likely will also have to be engaged with Syria as the following suggests:

Iran says it’s ready to give ‘experience and capabilities’ to Syria

TEHRAN, Iran – A high-ranking Iranian official says his country is ready to share “experience and capabilities” with the Tehran-backed regime of President Bashar al-Assad in Syria.

In a report published late on Wednesday by official news agency IRNA, Iran’s vice president in charge of international affairs, Ali Saeedlou, described the two countries as powerful nations able to influence regional and global stability.

“Tehran is ready to give its experience and capabilities to its friend and brother nation of Syria,” he said, after meeting with Syria’s deputy prime minister, Omar Ibrahim Ghalawanji. He did not elaborate. http://www.foxnews.com/world/2012/07/26/iran-says-it-ready-to-give-experience-and-capabilities-to-syria/#ixzz21iMT37bW?test=latestnews

Iran and Syria need to have changes before certain biblical prophecies (e.g. Daniel 11:40) get fulfilled.  And this may mean that destruction will happen in Syria (Isaiah 17:1), there will be regime changes, economic sanctions will help bankrupt them, and/or they will be substantially affected by internal and/or regional conflict.

But that does not mean that Israel will get away with little or no cost.

The reality is that the cost to Israel (and likely the USA) for a regional war involving Iran and/or Syria will be higher than many in the USA or Israel believe. Between terrorist acts, sustained resistance, chemical weapons, biological weapons, emp-type bombs, and/or even disruptions of the internet, Iran and/or Syria can inflict significant damage to their enemies. Yet, the USA and the tiny of nation of Israel would not be “eliminated” by that–it will come later, by the King of the North (cf. Daniel 11:39) before he takes on the King of the South (Daniel 11:40).  But since Iran will not be the King of the South and Syria apparently will support that King, the situation in those countries will change–and this certainly could happen from an attack involving Israel.

Watch! (Mark 13:37)

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

The Arab World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What does Islam teach about the Imam Mahdi?
Is There A Future King of the South? Some no longer believe there needs to be. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? Is he the Imam Mahdi? What does the Bible say?
End of Mayan Calendar 2012–Might 2012 Mean Something? Are there Mayan calendar predictions for change in 2012? Changes were centuries ago predicted by the Hopi Native Americans. Do Mayan/Hindu/Hopi/Buddhist/New Age/Nostradamus prophecies have any value here? Why might Satan have inspired this date? Does the Dresden codex show destruction of the earth by flood? Can the great tribulation start in 2012? How might Barack Obama be involved in 2012?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States?

COGwriter

In his booklet, The Seven Laws of Success, the late Herbert W. Armstrong wrote the following related to the third law of success:

The Basic Third Law

The all-important law coming next in time order is GOOD HEALTH.

We are physical beings. The mind and the body form the most wonderful physical mechanism we know. But man is made of matter. He is basically 16 elements of organic, chemically functioning existence.

He lives by the breath of air—which is the breath of LIFE itself. If the bellows we call lungs do not keep inhaling and exhaling the oxygen-containing air, man won’t live to achieve any goal. You are only one heartbeat away from death! As the lungs pump air in and out, so the heart pumps blood through and intricate system of veins and arteries. These must be supported by food and water.

And so man IS just what he eats. Some of the most famous physicians and surgeons have said that 90% to 95% of all sickness and disease comes from faulty diet!

Most people are in utter ignorance of the fact that it does make a difference what we eat! Most people, and the customs of society, have followed a regimen of eating whatever tastes good to the palate.

Adults are babies grown up. Observe a nine-month-old baby. Everything that comes into his hands goes to his mouth!

My youngest brother may not like to read this in print, but I remember when he was about nine months old, and had managed to creep into the basement coal bin. We found him trying to eat little chunks of coal—his mouth and face well blackened!

You may laugh at babies trying to eat silver cups and chunks of coal. Or at people who dip small mice into a sauce, and, holding them by their tails, drop them as a delicious delicacy into their mouths.

If you do, they will laugh back at you. They will tell you that mice eat clean grain and clean foods, while you dip slimy, slithery oysters and other scavenger seafoods into cocktail sauces, and consider them a delicacy!

You think adults have actually LEARNED any better than nine-month-olds babies? Go to your fancy grocer’s and you’ll find on his shelves canned eel and canned rattlesnake.

WHY? As I said, humans know nothing at birth! We have to learn! But most of us do not know that! And, again, what we don’t know, we don’t know that we don’t know! And somehow, ever since babyhood, most humans seem to have grown up putting everything into the mouth. Most have grown up eating just whatever seemed to taste good—and whatever they saw others eating. There has been little education or even study about WHAT we ought—or ought NOT—to eat.

Most degenerative diseases are modern diseases—penalties for eating foods that have been demineralized in food factories—usually an excess of starch, sugar (the carbohydrates) and fats. Others are caused by a type of malnutrition—lack of needed minerals and vitamins in foods. Then people try to put the “vitamins” back into their systems by buying pills at the drugstore!

A famous director of a “Physical Fitness” program, lecturing at Ambassador College, reminded us that the medical profession has made great strides toward eliminating communicable diseases, yet is having little success coping with the increase of the non-communicable diseases,–such as cancer, heart diseases, diabetes, kidney diseases. These latter are affected by faulty diet.

Of course there are other laws of health—sufficient sleep, exercise, plenty of fresh air, cleanliness and proper elimination, right thinking, clean living.

Right now “jogging” has become the physical fitness fad. Even men in their late forties read a book by a self-professing “expert,” and suddenly are straining their hearts running two miles every day. “More and more exercise!” cry the faddists.

Why do humans tend to go to extremes? Exercise is good—it profits a little—but like most things, it can be carried past the law of diminishing returns. You can get an overdose that can cause harm. We are prone to forget the admonition of TEMPERANCE in all things.

What is the value of this excessive exertion in running two miles a day? It induces blood circulation. It gets circulation even to the extremities. And that is good. Stimulating blood circulation is good. Stimulating blood circulation is important. But we can also DESTROY HEALTH by going to unwise extremes. There is as much danger in overdoing exercise as in neglecting it.

Circulation can be induced without over-exertion or danger. I have never forgotten a lecture I heard as a young man in the days of the Chautauqua. The lecturer had been physical trainer to President Howard Taft. Immediately following the close of the Taft administration, this physical trainer managed to secure a list of all—or nearly all—of the centenarians in the United States. He personally visited every one. He asked to what they attributed their long life. One never used tobacco, and gave that as the reason. But another used tobacco all his life and still lived past a hundred years. One “tee-totaled”—but another drank beer and brandy all his life. And so it went. When he had interviewed them all, he analyzed his notes and was surprised to learn that ONLY ONE THING was common to them all. Yet not one gave it credit for his long life. Every one had taken a vigorous daily rub-down. Some with a bath towel, following a daily bath. Some with a brush But in one way or another, each had stimulated blood circulation even to the extremities of toes and fingers by daily rubbing or massaging.

Many ask how I (now in my nineties) keep up the energy, vigor and drive. I’m sure there is more than one reason—but I do not “jog” or go in for fads. I WALK—the best exercise for one of my age. But ever since I heard that lecture, perhaps 60 or more years ago, I have taken a daily RUB-DOWN. Method? A generous-size bath towel, following a daily shower. I try to get enough sleep. I watch elimination (very important). I try to be careful about my diet. And I have a tremendous INCENTIVE—a driving PURPOSE in life, because I have learned what is life’s PURPOSE. That spurs to action! I have a mission to accomplish that is more important than my life. There’s not much time left—and it MUST and WILL BE ACCOMPLISHED! Besides all this I draw on a greater and higher Power. I think that gives the answer.

The average person has never stopped to realize that it is not natural to be sick. Sickness and disease come only from violation of nature’s laws of body and mine—the physical LAWS of health. Most people have not learned that there are any such laws! They suppose that occasional illness or disease is natural in the course of life. Nothing could be farther from the truth.

Sickness should not be taken for granted. Some authorities go so far as to say that we do not catch a cold—we eat our colds and fevers! They explain that a cold or fever is merely the unnatural and rapid elimination of toxins and poisons stored up in the glands, resulting from improper diet.

Now what about the great and the near-great of the world? They usually do not know all there is to know about the laws of good, vigorous health with clear, alert minds. But, compared to the average of the population, they know a great deal. They have, as a rule, enjoyed, shall we say, comparatively good health!

As an example, the President of the United States always has a White House physician who is constantly watchful over the President’s physical condition. A President is virtually required to get in certain exercise. President Eisenhower played golf frequently. President Kennedy took a daily swim. President Taft had a physical trainer who watched the overweight President daily.

Yet, there are many things that even these important people do not know about the causes of sickness, disease, debility.

One factor I think has worked universally in favor of such men. Mental attitude does have considerable influence on physical condition. Most “successful” men—as the world evaluates success—do think constructively, positively, in a mental attitude of confidence. They do not allow themselves to think negatively or assume an attitude of fear, worry, or discouragement. They do not allow themselves to get into uncontrolled moods of griping, complaining. They enforce on themselves emotional balance. And, mindful of the responsibilities on their shoulders, they probably put more restraint on dissipation than most people.

Without health one is direly handicapped, if not totally cut off from achievement. The fourth Law of Success is largely dependent on good health.

Many factors, including genetics and environment, affect health.  But so do choices.  (BTW, the fourth Law of Success in The Seven Laws of Success is “drive”).

Over a decade ago, I wrote a book related to natural health (which is still available) titled Combining Old and New : Naturopathy for the 21st Century.  In addition to going over various views of health, causes of illness, and naturopathic modalities, it includes basically two chapters written by the late Herbert W. Armstrong (which were public domain and hence usable in a commercial book) on aspects of health.

People can influence and improve their health by making better choices.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Does God Heal Today? This is a booklet by Roderick C. Meredith on healing.
Spiritual Benefits of Fasting Jesus said, “But by Prayer and Fasting” and this article by Dr. Meredith focuses on fasting and provides his physical and spiritual fasting tips. Does fasting help prevent heart disease?
Health Benefits for Circumcision Various studies show health benefits for male circumcision. Have Christians observed circumcision throughout history?
Is Smoking a Sin? What does the Bible teach? What have COG leaders written? Can smokers change?
Obesity and Prophecy Does the Bible warn about the consequences of being obese? Is overeating dangerous?
The New Testament Church and Unclean Meats Are foods considered to have been unclean in the Old Testament considered to be food in the New Testament? This article discusses this from the perspective of the New Testament. It also has a list of clean and unclean animals. It also answers the question, is pork healthy or is pork dangerous?
Who Was Herbert W. Armstrong? How is He Viewed Today? Includes quotes from the 1973 edition of The Autobiography of Herbert W. Armstrong and explains who he was and how he should be viewed today.
The Seven Laws of Success Booklet by Herbert W. Armstrong that can help people become successful.
Combining Old and New : Naturopathy for the 21st Century.  A book written by Dr. Thiel on natural health principles and modalities.