• Let's talk about it.
    “When looking at these four chapters in which Michael appears, we immediately notice that Michael is in conflict with Satan in each of these stories. Michael is the title used for Christ whenever He is at war with Satan. It is also the title connected to Him as the chief of the angels, or leader of the angels. Lucifer was next only to Christ, or Michael, among the angels. Christ’s title as Michael is a reminder that Lucifer rebelled against the chief of the angels and desired to be like God.

    In each case described in Scripture when Christ takes the title of Michael, He is victorious. The final victory occurs in Daniel 12: 1. At the end of the world, Michael stands up to deliver a faithful generation who have proven Satan’s charges false.

    Here in Revelation 12, Michael the archangel, or the chief angel, has a litany of angels on His side. The dragon, or Satan, has angels on his side. It is a polemical war that is fought over Satan’s lies against the government of God and Christ’s place in that government.

    In verse 8, we see that Satan and his angels did not prevail. There was no place in heaven for his lies and for the dissension he had created.”

    — Revelation: Practical Living in the Judgment Hour by Norman McNulty
    Let's talk about it. “When looking at these four chapters in which Michael appears, we immediately notice that Michael is in conflict with Satan in each of these stories. Michael is the title used for Christ whenever He is at war with Satan. It is also the title connected to Him as the chief of the angels, or leader of the angels. Lucifer was next only to Christ, or Michael, among the angels. Christ’s title as Michael is a reminder that Lucifer rebelled against the chief of the angels and desired to be like God. In each case described in Scripture when Christ takes the title of Michael, He is victorious. The final victory occurs in Daniel 12: 1. At the end of the world, Michael stands up to deliver a faithful generation who have proven Satan’s charges false. Here in Revelation 12, Michael the archangel, or the chief angel, has a litany of angels on His side. The dragon, or Satan, has angels on his side. It is a polemical war that is fought over Satan’s lies against the government of God and Christ’s place in that government. In verse 8, we see that Satan and his angels did not prevail. There was no place in heaven for his lies and for the dissension he had created.” — Revelation: Practical Living in the Judgment Hour by Norman McNulty
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  • Prayer Points
    Repeat these prayers with me in faith:
    • Father, I pick up my weapons of warfare, and I stand covered by the blood of Jesus Christ in this battle.
    • I release angels from Michael’s quarters to battle with me against forces of darkness and every demon of fear in the name of Jesus.
    • I dip my sword in the blood of Jesus to destroy every demon of fear in Jesus’ name.
    • Holy Spirit, make me invisible in the spirit realm as I stand against all spirits of fear in the name of Jesus.
    • I paralyze and break all the powers of fear over my life in Jesus’ name.
    • All demons of fear, be arrested by the fire of the Holy Spirit.
    • I rebuke and bind every astral-projecting witch that is trying to impart the spirit of fear into my life, in Jesus’ name.
    • I rebuke and bind every demon of worry that is trying to come against me in the name of Jesus.
    • I destroy and break off every demon of anxiety over my life in the name of Jesus.
    • I cut off every assignment of panic attacks. I destroy them in the name of Jesus.
    • By the power of the Holy Spirit, Father, cover me from head to toe in the blood of Jesus.
    • I call fire down upon the head of every demon of fear, anxiety, worry, depression and oppression, in the name of Jesus.
    • I declare and decree over my life Zechariah 2:15: “For I say the Lord, he will be a wall of fire all around her and I will be the glory in her midst.”
    Prayer Points Repeat these prayers with me in faith: • Father, I pick up my weapons of warfare, and I stand covered by the blood of Jesus Christ in this battle. • I release angels from Michael’s quarters to battle with me against forces of darkness and every demon of fear in the name of Jesus. • I dip my sword in the blood of Jesus to destroy every demon of fear in Jesus’ name. • Holy Spirit, make me invisible in the spirit realm as I stand against all spirits of fear in the name of Jesus. • I paralyze and break all the powers of fear over my life in Jesus’ name. • All demons of fear, be arrested by the fire of the Holy Spirit. • I rebuke and bind every astral-projecting witch that is trying to impart the spirit of fear into my life, in Jesus’ name. • I rebuke and bind every demon of worry that is trying to come against me in the name of Jesus. • I destroy and break off every demon of anxiety over my life in the name of Jesus. • I cut off every assignment of panic attacks. I destroy them in the name of Jesus. • By the power of the Holy Spirit, Father, cover me from head to toe in the blood of Jesus. • I call fire down upon the head of every demon of fear, anxiety, worry, depression and oppression, in the name of Jesus. • I declare and decree over my life Zechariah 2:15: “For I say the Lord, he will be a wall of fire all around her and I will be the glory in her midst.”
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  • The AS series focuses on the LoveNorthernRivers Festival artists for September beginning with River Movement, with NM by Valley Worship Aus, Darren Coggan and Toria Grace plus Justin Michael, Rebecca Willis, Phil Spence and Zoe Elliot.
    Now with 90 songs running over 5 hours, check out the AGR Artists New Music playlist on Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3tb3Nt3dbJewVzOWjnGF7O
    Vote for your favourite(s) below.
    #AussieGrown #CCM #AussieChristian #ChristianMusic
    The AS series focuses on the LoveNorthernRivers Festival artists for September beginning with River Movement, with NM by Valley Worship Aus, Darren Coggan and Toria Grace plus Justin Michael, Rebecca Willis, Phil Spence and Zoe Elliot. Now with 90 songs running over 5 hours, check out the AGR Artists New Music playlist on Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3tb3Nt3dbJewVzOWjnGF7O Vote for your favourite(s) below. #AussieGrown #CCM #AussieChristian #ChristianMusic
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  • Good morning to everyone. Grace and Peace be with you.

    Have you ever noticed that certain songs stick with you for like, forever? For example, the first few notes of the Jaws theme and you are right back in the movie theater. Bonnie Tyler’s ‘Holding Out for a Hero '”, Michael Jackson’s ‘Beat It’; just to name a few. I realize that I just dated myself with these music choices, but that is okay. I don’t mind. For me, I have a couple of songs that I will stop in my tracks for … one is The Dance by Garth Brooks; we were married to it and here recently is a song by Josh Wilson, “How Loved You Are”.

    This song came up in my social media feed with the caption, “I cried when I made this.” The video was of several people in a variety of social statuses. All were standing in front of a mirror, singing the song or lip-syncing. This particular video of this song really puts a light and a heart around the song. I mean, the song itself is wonderful and if you listen to the lyrics- I mean, really listen- you will see yourself in the song … at some point in your life. I went for a walk yesterday with only that song playing, and it created a pace of focus for me, as my time on the walk was brisk. This morning, I woke up to that song in my head. It has been a minute since I woke up to music bouncing around my brain, but I am guessing God really wants me to (hear) the lyrics.

    As we walk different streets in our lives- storms, victories, daily normalcy- if things do not go ‘perfectly’ we start to pull and pick at the imperfections and look down at ourselves, feel poorly about ourselves, and think that we are not worthy or important enough for God. That our imperfections were more than Jesus could cover with his blood. That we are not … not enough.

    It is okay to find and see the errors of the day so that you can improve and grow; however, it is not okay to think that Jesus could not possibly care for you. That your errors or sins were too great for His blood to cover. That, my friends, is the enemy attacking you and trying to convince you to turn away and turn to him. Those thoughts are the minions of hell picking away at your armor and attempting to persuade you to change sides. Or, if you don’t change sides, he will use those target areas to steal your peace and joy. He knows if you walk around defeated, your presence in that form will help him steal another soul who you might have helped or been able to help … if you could see yourself from His eyes.

    We are all sinners. WE all fall short of the glory of God. We all have those days when we are just down and trying to figure it out. That is normal life. It is how we rebound from those bad days that is the true testament to how beautiful and powerful His love for us is. That is what draws more souls to Him. How we deal with difficulties and trying times. How we recover from loss. How we handle sudden changes and shocks. How we handle the enemy’s attempts to steal our peace … that is what shows the world that Jesus is truly our Lord and is in control.

    This song, How Loved You Are, is a powerful reminder of just that. It demonstrates His love for all his children and reminds us that he died for us; He was willing to leave the 99 for us, that his love for us is unconditional. I encourage you today to look for that video and listen with an open heart and mind. Let the love of Christ fill you today on this beautiful Lord’s Day morning.

    Be blessed.

    **For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. – Ephesians 2:10
    Good morning to everyone. Grace and Peace be with you. Have you ever noticed that certain songs stick with you for like, forever? For example, the first few notes of the Jaws theme and you are right back in the movie theater. Bonnie Tyler’s ‘Holding Out for a Hero '”, Michael Jackson’s ‘Beat It’; just to name a few. I realize that I just dated myself with these music choices, but that is okay. I don’t mind. For me, I have a couple of songs that I will stop in my tracks for … one is The Dance by Garth Brooks; we were married to it and here recently is a song by Josh Wilson, “How Loved You Are”. This song came up in my social media feed with the caption, “I cried when I made this.” The video was of several people in a variety of social statuses. All were standing in front of a mirror, singing the song or lip-syncing. This particular video of this song really puts a light and a heart around the song. I mean, the song itself is wonderful and if you listen to the lyrics- I mean, really listen- you will see yourself in the song … at some point in your life. I went for a walk yesterday with only that song playing, and it created a pace of focus for me, as my time on the walk was brisk. This morning, I woke up to that song in my head. It has been a minute since I woke up to music bouncing around my brain, but I am guessing God really wants me to (hear) the lyrics. As we walk different streets in our lives- storms, victories, daily normalcy- if things do not go ‘perfectly’ we start to pull and pick at the imperfections and look down at ourselves, feel poorly about ourselves, and think that we are not worthy or important enough for God. That our imperfections were more than Jesus could cover with his blood. That we are not … not enough. It is okay to find and see the errors of the day so that you can improve and grow; however, it is not okay to think that Jesus could not possibly care for you. That your errors or sins were too great for His blood to cover. That, my friends, is the enemy attacking you and trying to convince you to turn away and turn to him. Those thoughts are the minions of hell picking away at your armor and attempting to persuade you to change sides. Or, if you don’t change sides, he will use those target areas to steal your peace and joy. He knows if you walk around defeated, your presence in that form will help him steal another soul who you might have helped or been able to help … if you could see yourself from His eyes. We are all sinners. WE all fall short of the glory of God. We all have those days when we are just down and trying to figure it out. That is normal life. It is how we rebound from those bad days that is the true testament to how beautiful and powerful His love for us is. That is what draws more souls to Him. How we deal with difficulties and trying times. How we recover from loss. How we handle sudden changes and shocks. How we handle the enemy’s attempts to steal our peace … that is what shows the world that Jesus is truly our Lord and is in control. This song, How Loved You Are, is a powerful reminder of just that. It demonstrates His love for all his children and reminds us that he died for us; He was willing to leave the 99 for us, that his love for us is unconditional. I encourage you today to look for that video and listen with an open heart and mind. Let the love of Christ fill you today on this beautiful Lord’s Day morning. Be blessed. **For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. – Ephesians 2:10
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  • THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST 2026

    IGNITE YOUTH DEVOTIONAL

    Topic: Don't Spend Money Just to Look Rich

    Bible Reference

    One who has no sense shakes hands in pledge and puts up security for a neighbour.
    Proverbs 17:18 (NIV)

    A Short Story

    Michael had recently started working, and for the first time in his life, he had a regular income. He was excited because he could finally afford some things he had wanted for a long time. However, he soon became more interested in looking successful than in becoming financially stable.

    Whenever he saw his friends buying expensive phones, clothes, shoes, and watches, he felt uncomfortable using the things he already had. He wanted people to see that he was also doing well. One weekend, he spent almost half of his salary on a new phone because he wanted to take better pictures and appear more successful on social media.

    A few weeks later, his friends invited him to an expensive outing. Michael did not have enough money, but he did not want to admit it. He borrowed money from someone and joined them. After that, he borrowed again to buy clothes for another event. Before long, a large part of his monthly income was going into things he did not really need.

    One evening, Michael needed money for an important personal expense, but his account was almost empty. He looked around his room and realised that he had many expensive things but very little savings. His phone was new, his clothes were impressive, and his pictures looked good online, but financially, he was struggling.

    That experience made him realise something important. He had been spending money to convince other people that he was doing well instead of actually building a stable life.

    Michael decided to change. He began budgeting his income, reducing unnecessary spending, saving regularly, and buying things because he needed them rather than because he wanted people to notice him. It took time, but he eventually became more financially responsible.

    Today's Message

    Money is an important part of life. Whether you are a student, employee, business owner, apprentice, minister, or young professional, you will have to make decisions about money. How you handle money today can affect your future.

    One of the biggest financial mistakes young people make is spending money to impress other people. You buy clothes you cannot afford because you want people to notice you. You buy an expensive phone because you do not want anyone to think you are struggling. You spend heavily at parties because you want your friends to see you as generous. You take loans for things you do not need simply because you want to maintain a certain lifestyle.

    There is nothing wrong with looking good or enjoying the good things you can genuinely afford. The problem begins when appearance becomes more important than wisdom.

    You do not have to look rich to be successful.

    Some people have expensive phones but no savings. Some drive good cars but are deeply in debt. Some wear expensive clothes but cannot handle an unexpected financial problem. Social media can make people feel pressured to look successful even when they are struggling privately.

    Do not build your life around people's opinions.

    Proverbs 21:20 says, The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down. Wisdom includes knowing how to keep some of what you earn instead of spending everything immediately.

    If you earn money, learn to budget. Know what comes in and what goes out. Separate your needs from your wants. Save something, even if it is small. Learn a skill that can increase your income. Avoid unnecessary debt. Be careful about borrowing money simply to maintain an appearance.

    You also need to understand that your value does not come from what you own.

    Your phone does not determine your worth. Your clothes do not determine your importance. The car you drive does not determine your future. The number of people who like your pictures does not determine your success.

    You are valuable because God created you and gave your life purpose.

    There is nothing shameful about starting small. If you cannot afford something, you do not need to pretend that you can. If you are still building your career, be honest about your season. If your business is still growing, do not spend all your profit trying to look successful.

    Build quietly.

    Learn.

    Save.

    Invest in yourself.

    Grow your income.

    Support your family wisely.

    Give to God faithfully.

    Prepare for the future.

    One day, you may be able to afford the things you desire without destroying your financial stability to get them.

    Remember that financial maturity is not simply about earning more money. It is also about knowing what to do with the money you already have.

    Do not let pressure from friends, social media, relationships, or society push you into financial decisions you will regret later.

    It is better to live within your means today and build a stronger future than to impress people today and struggle tomorrow.

    What To Do Today

    1. Look at your spending from the past week and identify one unnecessary expense you can reduce.

    2. Create a simple budget for the money you currently receive.

    3. Start saving something regularly, even if the amount is small.

    4. Before buying something expensive, ask yourself whether you need it, can afford it, and whether it will help your future.

    Prayer

    Lord, give me wisdom to handle money responsibly. Deliver me from the desire to impress people with things I cannot afford. Teach me discipline, contentment, patience, and good financial habits. Help me to use the resources You give me wisely, to prepare for the future, to help others, and to honour You with my finances. Give me the wisdom to build a stable life instead of living for appearances. In Jesus' name, Amen.

    Daily Challenge

    Before spending money today, ask yourself three questions: Do I need it? Can I afford it? Will this decision help or hurt my future?

    Do not spend to impress people. Build a life that is genuinely strong, not merely one that looks successful.

    Anthony Ijere
    Christian Author and Revivalist
    THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST 2026 IGNITE YOUTH DEVOTIONAL Topic: Don't Spend Money Just to Look Rich Bible Reference One who has no sense shakes hands in pledge and puts up security for a neighbour. Proverbs 17:18 (NIV) A Short Story Michael had recently started working, and for the first time in his life, he had a regular income. He was excited because he could finally afford some things he had wanted for a long time. However, he soon became more interested in looking successful than in becoming financially stable. Whenever he saw his friends buying expensive phones, clothes, shoes, and watches, he felt uncomfortable using the things he already had. He wanted people to see that he was also doing well. One weekend, he spent almost half of his salary on a new phone because he wanted to take better pictures and appear more successful on social media. A few weeks later, his friends invited him to an expensive outing. Michael did not have enough money, but he did not want to admit it. He borrowed money from someone and joined them. After that, he borrowed again to buy clothes for another event. Before long, a large part of his monthly income was going into things he did not really need. One evening, Michael needed money for an important personal expense, but his account was almost empty. He looked around his room and realised that he had many expensive things but very little savings. His phone was new, his clothes were impressive, and his pictures looked good online, but financially, he was struggling. That experience made him realise something important. He had been spending money to convince other people that he was doing well instead of actually building a stable life. Michael decided to change. He began budgeting his income, reducing unnecessary spending, saving regularly, and buying things because he needed them rather than because he wanted people to notice him. It took time, but he eventually became more financially responsible. Today's Message Money is an important part of life. Whether you are a student, employee, business owner, apprentice, minister, or young professional, you will have to make decisions about money. How you handle money today can affect your future. One of the biggest financial mistakes young people make is spending money to impress other people. You buy clothes you cannot afford because you want people to notice you. You buy an expensive phone because you do not want anyone to think you are struggling. You spend heavily at parties because you want your friends to see you as generous. You take loans for things you do not need simply because you want to maintain a certain lifestyle. There is nothing wrong with looking good or enjoying the good things you can genuinely afford. The problem begins when appearance becomes more important than wisdom. You do not have to look rich to be successful. Some people have expensive phones but no savings. Some drive good cars but are deeply in debt. Some wear expensive clothes but cannot handle an unexpected financial problem. Social media can make people feel pressured to look successful even when they are struggling privately. Do not build your life around people's opinions. Proverbs 21:20 says, The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down. Wisdom includes knowing how to keep some of what you earn instead of spending everything immediately. If you earn money, learn to budget. Know what comes in and what goes out. Separate your needs from your wants. Save something, even if it is small. Learn a skill that can increase your income. Avoid unnecessary debt. Be careful about borrowing money simply to maintain an appearance. You also need to understand that your value does not come from what you own. Your phone does not determine your worth. Your clothes do not determine your importance. The car you drive does not determine your future. The number of people who like your pictures does not determine your success. You are valuable because God created you and gave your life purpose. There is nothing shameful about starting small. If you cannot afford something, you do not need to pretend that you can. If you are still building your career, be honest about your season. If your business is still growing, do not spend all your profit trying to look successful. Build quietly. Learn. Save. Invest in yourself. Grow your income. Support your family wisely. Give to God faithfully. Prepare for the future. One day, you may be able to afford the things you desire without destroying your financial stability to get them. Remember that financial maturity is not simply about earning more money. It is also about knowing what to do with the money you already have. Do not let pressure from friends, social media, relationships, or society push you into financial decisions you will regret later. It is better to live within your means today and build a stronger future than to impress people today and struggle tomorrow. What To Do Today 1. Look at your spending from the past week and identify one unnecessary expense you can reduce. 2. Create a simple budget for the money you currently receive. 3. Start saving something regularly, even if the amount is small. 4. Before buying something expensive, ask yourself whether you need it, can afford it, and whether it will help your future. Prayer Lord, give me wisdom to handle money responsibly. Deliver me from the desire to impress people with things I cannot afford. Teach me discipline, contentment, patience, and good financial habits. Help me to use the resources You give me wisely, to prepare for the future, to help others, and to honour You with my finances. Give me the wisdom to build a stable life instead of living for appearances. In Jesus' name, Amen. Daily Challenge Before spending money today, ask yourself three questions: Do I need it? Can I afford it? Will this decision help or hurt my future? Do not spend to impress people. Build a life that is genuinely strong, not merely one that looks successful. ©️ Anthony Ijere Christian Author and Revivalist
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  • If you don’t feel “fed” at church, it could be that your pulpit is serving up tasteless morsels of low-cal cliches. But it could also be that you’re a picky eater who’s been spoiled with junk food and lost a taste for real spiritual meat.

    Dr. Michael Svigel
    If you don’t feel “fed” at church, it could be that your pulpit is serving up tasteless morsels of low-cal cliches. But it could also be that you’re a picky eater who’s been spoiled with junk food and lost a taste for real spiritual meat. Dr. Michael Svigel
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  • Holy words long preserved
    for our walk in this world,
    They resound with God's own heart
    Oh, let the Ancient words impart.

    Words of Life, words of Hope
    Give us strength, help us cope
    In this world, where e'er we roam
    Ancient words will guide us Home.

    Ancient words ever true
    Changing me, and changing you.
    We have come with open hearts
    Oh let the ancient words impart.

    Holy words of our Faith
    Handed down to this age.
    Came to us through sacrifice
    Oh heed the faithful words of Christ.

    Holy words long preserved
    For our walk in this world.
    They resound with God's own heart
    Oh let the ancient words impart.

    Ancient words ever true
    Changing me, and changing you.
    We have come with open hearts
    Oh let the ancient words impart.

    Ancient words ever true
    Changing me, and changing you.
    We have come with open hearts
    Oh let the ancient words impart.

    Song by Michael W. Smith
    Holy words long preserved for our walk in this world, They resound with God's own heart Oh, let the Ancient words impart. Words of Life, words of Hope Give us strength, help us cope In this world, where e'er we roam Ancient words will guide us Home. Ancient words ever true Changing me, and changing you. We have come with open hearts Oh let the ancient words impart. Holy words of our Faith Handed down to this age. Came to us through sacrifice Oh heed the faithful words of Christ. Holy words long preserved For our walk in this world. They resound with God's own heart Oh let the ancient words impart. Ancient words ever true Changing me, and changing you. We have come with open hearts Oh let the ancient words impart. Ancient words ever true Changing me, and changing you. We have come with open hearts Oh let the ancient words impart. Song by Michael W. Smith
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  • Let's talk about it.
    Deceiver Unmasked

    Why was Sin Permitted? Why did God not destroy the first evildoer, satan, even though He knew how he would harm countless innocent angels and humans?

    Revelation 12:7-9, 12
    And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, and prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.
    Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.

    God permitted satan to carry forward his work until the spirit of disaffection ripened into active revolt. It was necessary for his plans to be fully developed, that their true nature and tendency might be seen by all. Lucifer, as the anointed cherub, had been highly exalted; he was greatly loved by the heavenly beings, and his influence over them was strong. God's government included not only the inhabitants of heaven, but of all the worlds that He had created; and Lucifer had concluded that if he could carry the angels of heaven with him in rebellion, he could carry also all the worlds. He had artfully presented his side of the question, employing sophistry and fraud to secure his objects. His power to deceive was very great. By disguising himself in a cloak of falsehood, he had gained an advantage. All his acts were so clothed with mystery that it was difficult to disclose to the angels the true nature of his work. Until fully developed, it could not be made to appear the evil thing it was; his disaffection would not be seen to be rebellion. Even the loyal angels could not fully discern his character or see to what his work was leading.

    God could employ Only such means as were consistent with Truth and Righteousness. Satan could use what God could not— flattery and deceit. He had sought to falsify the word of God and had misrepresented His plan of government, claiming that God was not just in imposing laws upon the angels; that in requiring submission and obedience from His creatures, He was seeking merely the exaltation of Himself. It was therefore necessary to demonstrate before the inhabitants of heaven, and of all the worlds, that God's government is just, His law perfect. satan had made it appear that he himself was seeking to promote the good of the universe. The true character of the usurper and his real object must be understood by all. He must have time to manifest himself by his wicked works.

    The discord which his own course had caused in heaven, Satan charged upon the government of God. All evil he declared to be the result of the divine administration. He claimed that it was his own object to improve upon the statutes of Jehovah. Therefore God permitted him to demonstrate the nature of his claims, to show the working out of his proposed changes in the divine law. His own work must condemn him. Satan had claimed from the first that he was not in rebellion. The whole universe must see the deceiver unmasked.

    Even when he was cast out of heaven, Infinite Wisdom did not destroy Satan. Since only the service of love can be acceptable to God, the allegiance of His creatures must rest upon a conviction of His justice and benevolence. The inhabitants of heaven and of the worlds, being unprepared to comprehend the nature or consequences of sin, could not then have seen the justice of God in the destruction of Satan. Had he been immediately blotted out of existence, some would have served God from fear rather than from love. The influence of the deceiver would not have been fully destroyed, nor would the spirit of rebellion have been utterly eradicated. For the good of the entire universe through ceaseless ages, he must more fully develop his principles, that his charges against the divine government might be seen in their true light by all created beings, and that the justice and mercy of God and the immutability of His law might be forever placed beyond all question.

    Satan's rebellion was to be a lesson to the universe through all coming ages—a perpetual testimony to the nature of sin and its [p. 43] terrible results. The working out of Satan's rule, its effects upon both men and angels, would show what must be the fruit of setting aside the divine authority. It would testify that with the existence of God's government is bound up the well-being of all the creatures He has made. Thus the history of this terrible experiment of rebellion was to be a perpetual safeguard to all holy beings, to prevent them from being deceived as to the nature of transgression, to save them from committing sin, and suffering its penalty.

    He that ruleth in the heavens is the one who sees the end from the beginning—the one before whom the mysteries of the past and the future are alike outspread, and who, beyond the woe and darkness and ruin that sin has wrought, beholds the accomplishment of His own purposes of love and blessing. Though "clouds and darkness are round about Him: righteousness and judgment are the foundation of His throne." Psalm 97:2, R.V. And this the inhabitants of the universe, both loyal and disloyal, will one day understand. "His work is perfect: for all His ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He." Deuteronomy 32:4.
    Let's talk about it. Deceiver Unmasked Why was Sin Permitted? Why did God not destroy the first evildoer, satan, even though He knew how he would harm countless innocent angels and humans? Revelation 12:7-9, 12 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, and prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time. God permitted satan to carry forward his work until the spirit of disaffection ripened into active revolt. It was necessary for his plans to be fully developed, that their true nature and tendency might be seen by all. Lucifer, as the anointed cherub, had been highly exalted; he was greatly loved by the heavenly beings, and his influence over them was strong. God's government included not only the inhabitants of heaven, but of all the worlds that He had created; and Lucifer had concluded that if he could carry the angels of heaven with him in rebellion, he could carry also all the worlds. He had artfully presented his side of the question, employing sophistry and fraud to secure his objects. His power to deceive was very great. By disguising himself in a cloak of falsehood, he had gained an advantage. All his acts were so clothed with mystery that it was difficult to disclose to the angels the true nature of his work. Until fully developed, it could not be made to appear the evil thing it was; his disaffection would not be seen to be rebellion. Even the loyal angels could not fully discern his character or see to what his work was leading. God could employ Only such means as were consistent with Truth and Righteousness. Satan could use what God could not— flattery and deceit. He had sought to falsify the word of God and had misrepresented His plan of government, claiming that God was not just in imposing laws upon the angels; that in requiring submission and obedience from His creatures, He was seeking merely the exaltation of Himself. It was therefore necessary to demonstrate before the inhabitants of heaven, and of all the worlds, that God's government is just, His law perfect. satan had made it appear that he himself was seeking to promote the good of the universe. The true character of the usurper and his real object must be understood by all. He must have time to manifest himself by his wicked works. The discord which his own course had caused in heaven, Satan charged upon the government of God. All evil he declared to be the result of the divine administration. He claimed that it was his own object to improve upon the statutes of Jehovah. Therefore God permitted him to demonstrate the nature of his claims, to show the working out of his proposed changes in the divine law. His own work must condemn him. Satan had claimed from the first that he was not in rebellion. The whole universe must see the deceiver unmasked. Even when he was cast out of heaven, Infinite Wisdom did not destroy Satan. Since only the service of love can be acceptable to God, the allegiance of His creatures must rest upon a conviction of His justice and benevolence. The inhabitants of heaven and of the worlds, being unprepared to comprehend the nature or consequences of sin, could not then have seen the justice of God in the destruction of Satan. Had he been immediately blotted out of existence, some would have served God from fear rather than from love. The influence of the deceiver would not have been fully destroyed, nor would the spirit of rebellion have been utterly eradicated. For the good of the entire universe through ceaseless ages, he must more fully develop his principles, that his charges against the divine government might be seen in their true light by all created beings, and that the justice and mercy of God and the immutability of His law might be forever placed beyond all question. Satan's rebellion was to be a lesson to the universe through all coming ages—a perpetual testimony to the nature of sin and its [p. 43] terrible results. The working out of Satan's rule, its effects upon both men and angels, would show what must be the fruit of setting aside the divine authority. It would testify that with the existence of God's government is bound up the well-being of all the creatures He has made. Thus the history of this terrible experiment of rebellion was to be a perpetual safeguard to all holy beings, to prevent them from being deceived as to the nature of transgression, to save them from committing sin, and suffering its penalty. He that ruleth in the heavens is the one who sees the end from the beginning—the one before whom the mysteries of the past and the future are alike outspread, and who, beyond the woe and darkness and ruin that sin has wrought, beholds the accomplishment of His own purposes of love and blessing. Though "clouds and darkness are round about Him: righteousness and judgment are the foundation of His throne." Psalm 97:2, R.V. And this the inhabitants of the universe, both loyal and disloyal, will one day understand. "His work is perfect: for all His ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He." Deuteronomy 32:4.
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  • Amazing Facts
    Daily Devotionals

    If the righteous dead do not go directly to heaven, then how was it that Moses and Elijah appeared with Christ on the Mount of Transfiguration?
    August 21, 2026
    Read Time: 2 min

    It’s interesting that the very last thing the Old Testament says is, “Remember the Law of Moses, My servant,” and, “Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet” (Malachi 4:4, 5). Then in Matthew 17:3, we find these two Bible heroes appearing with Jesus and three of His disciples on a mountaintop. This is an important story!

    First, the Bible teaches that Elijah never died and was taken in a fiery chariot to heaven (2 Kings 2:11). There are a few instances in the Bible when God takes people directly to Himself (see Genesis 5:24). But that is obviously not the case for the majority of Earth’s inhabitants. The Scriptures teach that even David did not ascend to heaven at death but is in the grave (Acts 2:34).

    So, if Moses died, as is stated in Deuteronomy 34:5, then how could he appear on the Mount of Transfiguration with Elijah and Jesus? There is a reference in Jude 9 that gives us a window into what happened to Moses after his death. “Michael the archangel, in contending with the devil, when he disputed about the body of Moses, dared not bring against him a reviling accusation, but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’ ” (Jude 9).

    Michael, which is one of the names for Christ (see Daniel 10:31; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; and Revelation 12:7), was a ruler over the angels and resurrected Moses. (See page 109.) Even Jewish tradition states that three days after Moses died, the Lord came and raised him up.

    There is another example of a “special” resurrection; it occurred after Jesus died on the cross. “And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised; and coming out of the graves after His resurrection, they went into the holy city and appeared to many” (Matthew 27:52, 53). This was an unusual occurrence, obviously. Most of us will be raised when the Lord comes the second time.

    Key Bible Texts
    And there appeared unto them Elias with Moses: and they were talking with Jesus. (Mark 9:4 KJV)
    Amazing Facts Daily Devotionals If the righteous dead do not go directly to heaven, then how was it that Moses and Elijah appeared with Christ on the Mount of Transfiguration? August 21, 2026 Read Time: 2 min It’s interesting that the very last thing the Old Testament says is, “Remember the Law of Moses, My servant,” and, “Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet” (Malachi 4:4, 5). Then in Matthew 17:3, we find these two Bible heroes appearing with Jesus and three of His disciples on a mountaintop. This is an important story! First, the Bible teaches that Elijah never died and was taken in a fiery chariot to heaven (2 Kings 2:11). There are a few instances in the Bible when God takes people directly to Himself (see Genesis 5:24). But that is obviously not the case for the majority of Earth’s inhabitants. The Scriptures teach that even David did not ascend to heaven at death but is in the grave (Acts 2:34). So, if Moses died, as is stated in Deuteronomy 34:5, then how could he appear on the Mount of Transfiguration with Elijah and Jesus? There is a reference in Jude 9 that gives us a window into what happened to Moses after his death. “Michael the archangel, in contending with the devil, when he disputed about the body of Moses, dared not bring against him a reviling accusation, but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’ ” (Jude 9). Michael, which is one of the names for Christ (see Daniel 10:31; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; and Revelation 12:7), was a ruler over the angels and resurrected Moses. (See page 109.) Even Jewish tradition states that three days after Moses died, the Lord came and raised him up. There is another example of a “special” resurrection; it occurred after Jesus died on the cross. “And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised; and coming out of the graves after His resurrection, they went into the holy city and appeared to many” (Matthew 27:52, 53). This was an unusual occurrence, obviously. Most of us will be raised when the Lord comes the second time. Key Bible Texts And there appeared unto them Elias with Moses: and they were talking with Jesus. (Mark 9:4 KJV)
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  • https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/jesus-saves/id1511326202?i=1000782997845

    In this episode, Pastor Joseph and Rev. Michael discuss the spiritual danger of feeding Christians only the comfortable and popular portions of Scripture. They explore the responsibility of preachers to proclaim the whole Word of God—including the hard teachings that challenge our beliefs, confront our sin, and may even disturb us—and why the flock needs truth, not merely what it wants to hear.
    https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/jesus-saves/id1511326202?i=1000782997845 In this episode, Pastor Joseph and Rev. Michael discuss the spiritual danger of feeding Christians only the comfortable and popular portions of Scripture. They explore the responsibility of preachers to proclaim the whole Word of God—including the hard teachings that challenge our beliefs, confront our sin, and may even disturb us—and why the flock needs truth, not merely what it wants to hear.
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