Among the populations most frequently studied for longevity are Seventh-day Adventists, whose lifestyle has drawn global attention from researchers, including Sanjay Gupta, as well as epidemiologists and nutrition scientists worldwide. What is remarkable is not only that Adventists live longer, but that their practices—rooted in faith—closely mirror what modern science now identifies as the foundational pillars of health.

This article explores the intersection of plant-based nutrition, faith in God, social connection, and structured rest, showing how both scientific research and biblical principles converge to support a lifestyle that promotes longevity and well-being.

A Biblical Foundation for Health and Longevity

Long before modern science began exploring nutrition, stress, and longevity, Scripture presented a framework for human flourishing that remarkably aligns with today’s research. In Genesis 1:29, God provides humanity with an original diet consisting of seed-bearing plants and fruits—an ideal that closely resembles what modern science now recognizes as a health-promoting, plant-based diet. This design was not arbitrary but intentional, rooted in sustaining life and vitality.

The story of Daniel reinforces this principle in a practical setting. In Daniel 1, Daniel and his companions chose a simple diet of vegetables and water rather than the rich food of the Babylonian court. After a short period, they were visibly healthier and mentally sharper than their peers. While the account is spiritual in nature, it provides a compelling parallel to contemporary findings on the benefits of whole, plant-based nutrition.

Faith itself is also presented in Scripture as a contributor to health. In Proverbs 3:5–8, trust in God is linked directly to physical well-being, described as “health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.” Likewise, Isaiah 26:3 speaks of a deep, sustaining peace for those who place their trust in God. These passages suggest that spiritual alignment has tangible effects on the human body—an idea increasingly supported by research on stress reduction and mental health.

The principle of rest is also embedded at the foundation of creation. In Genesis 2:2–3, God rests on the seventh day, blessing and sanctifying it. This rhythm is later reaffirmed in Exodus 20:8–11, where humanity is instructed to remember the Sabbath. This is not merely a command to stop working, but an invitation into restoration—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Finally, Scripture highlights the importance of community and God’s protective care. In Ecclesiastes 4:9–10, we are reminded of the strength found in companionship, while Acts 2:42–47 describes a vibrant, connected community sharing life together. Alongside this, God declares in Exodus 15:26, “I am the Lord that healeth thee,” pointing to a divine desire for human health and wholeness. These principles form a foundation that modern science is only now beginning to fully appreciate.

The Adventist Lifestyle: A Holistic System, Not a Single Habit

The Seventh-day Adventist health message is often associated with vegetarianism, but it is far more comprehensive. It represents a holistic framework that integrates body, mind, and spirit into a unified approach to living.

Adventists typically follow diets rich in whole plant foods, avoid tobacco and alcohol, engage in regular activity, and participate in strong faith-based communities. Perhaps most distinctively, they observe a weekly Sabbath—a full day set aside for rest, worship, and relational connection.

What makes this particularly significant is that longevity research consistently shows that no single habit explains long life. Instead, it is the interaction of multiple reinforcing behaviors. Research into Blue Zones—including Loma Linda, California—confirms that Adventists live approximately seven to ten years longer than average, not because of one factor, but because of an entire ecosystem of habits working together.

Plant-Based Diets and Longevity: What the Science Shows

The strongest and most consistent scientific evidence supporting the Adventist lifestyle comes from research on diet—particularly plant-based nutrition.

Large-scale cohort studies, including the Adventist Health Studies and the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC), have found that plant-based diets are associated with lower mortality rates and reduced risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

From a biological perspective, the mechanisms are increasingly well understood. Plant-based diets tend to reduce systemic inflammation, improve cholesterol profiles, enhance insulin sensitivity, and support a healthier gut microbiome. Observational data also show that individuals following vegetarian diets often have lower body weight and improved metabolic health markers.

Blue Zones research reinforces these findings, showing that populations with the highest longevity consume diets composed of approximately 90 to 95 percent plant-based foods. This consistency across cultures and studies strengthens the case that diet is a foundational pillar of long-term health.

Faith, Purpose, and Health: Evidence Beyond Religion

While diet often receives the most attention, research increasingly shows that faith and purpose play equally critical roles in longevity.

Studies in psychology and public health have demonstrated that individuals with a strong sense of purpose tend to live longer and experience better overall health. For Seventh-day Adventists, this purpose is deeply rooted in faith in God, shaping daily decisions and providing a sense of meaning that extends beyond material success.

Importantly, the connection between spirituality and health is not limited to Christianity. Research across diverse cultures shows that individuals who engage in regular spiritual or reflective practices experience lower levels of anxiety, improved emotional regulation, and better long-term health outcomes.

Faith provides structure, hope, and resilience. It reduces stress, strengthens mental health, and contributes to a worldview that supports disciplined and healthy living.

Community and Social Connection: A Biological Necessity

Another key factor consistently identified in longevity research is the importance of community. Humans are inherently social, and strong relationships are essential for both emotional and physical well-being.

Adventist communities foster connection through regular gatherings, shared meals, and mutual support. These relationships provide accountability and encouragement, reinforcing healthy behaviors.

Scientific research confirms that social isolation increases mortality risk, while strong social ties improve immune function and reduce stress. In Blue Zones, individuals are deeply embedded in networks of family and friends, and Adventists reflect this same pattern of connected living.

The Science of Rest: Why a Weekly Day Matters

Perhaps one of the most distinctive and powerful aspects of the Adventist lifestyle is the emphasis on weekly rest.

Modern research into stress physiology shows that chronic stress is a major contributor to disease. Elevated cortisol levels over time are linked to heart disease, weakened immunity, and mental health disorders.

What is increasingly recognized is that regular, predictable cycles of rest are essential for long-term health. Blue Zones research highlights that each longevity region incorporates built-in stress reduction practices. For Adventists, this takes the form of the Sabbath—a weekly interruption of work and stress.

Even outside religious contexts, similar patterns are observed. Studies in occupational health show that individuals who maintain clear boundaries between work and rest experience lower burnout and better mental health. Cultural practices around the world—from rest days to digital detox periods—point to the same principle: humans require structured recovery.

The Adventist Sabbath formalizes this into a consistent rhythm, creating space for reflection, relationships, and renewal.

A Unified Model of Longevity

When all of these elements are brought together—plant-based nutrition, faith, purpose, community, and rest—a clear and compelling pattern emerges.

The Adventist lifestyle aligns closely with what is now known as lifestyle medicine, an approach that focuses on preventing disease through daily habits rather than relying solely on treatment.

Research suggests that genetics account for only a small portion of lifespan, while the majority is influenced by lifestyle and environment. This reinforces the idea that how we live each day has a profound impact on long-term health.

The Adventist model demonstrates that longevity is not achieved through extremes, but through consistent, balanced living over time.

A Lifestyle Validated by Time and Science

Long before modern science began to explore the links between diet, lifestyle, and longevity, the Seventh-day Adventist Church embraced principles that emphasized balance, discipline, and faith.

Today, those principles are being affirmed across multiple fields of research.

A diet centered on whole plant foods supports physical health. Faith provides purpose and emotional resilience. Community fosters connection and belonging. And regular, structured rest restores the body and reduces stress.

Together, these elements form a powerful and sustainable approach to longevity—one that is both deeply rooted in Scripture and strongly supported by science.

In a world searching for answers, the evidence increasingly points to something both simple and profound:

Live with purpose. Eat wisely. Rest regularly. Stay connected. Walk with God.

Sources

• Adventist Health Studies (Gary E. Fraser et al.)
• EPIC Study (European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition)
• Global Burden of Disease Study (diet and mortality)
• Blue Zones research by Dan Buettner
• Reporting by Sanjay Gupta on longevity and lifestyle
• Lifestyle medicine research on plant-based nutrition and chronic disease

The post Plant-Based Living, Faith, Rest, and Longevity: The Seventh-day Adventist Health Message Through the Lens of Science first appeared on The Balanced Life: Bible Study and Christian Bible Discussion.

Amid this crisis of modern relationships, a surprising truth is emerging: arranged marriages—when embraced voluntarily and guided by faith, family, and wisdom—often create a depth of stability, trust, and long-term satisfaction that modern dating struggles to match. Not because they are forced, oppressive, or outdated, but because they are built on foundations that reflect God’s own design for covenant relationships: alignment, commitment, community, and shared purpose.

Today, YouTube has many videos, bookstores have many books and friends have much advice about todays dating tips for the best success in marriage.  But we get a sense quickly a sense of frustration and fear, a tendency for dishonesty and posturing.  Often, there may be days, weeks or months of excitement, then the break-up.  This is not a call for coercion. It is not a rejection of personal choice or the beauty of falling in love. Instead, it is an invitation to reconsider a time-tested model that prioritizes trust over uncertainty, covenant over chaos, and lifelong unity over temporary emotional thrills.

The Crisis of Uncertainty in Modern Relationships

To understand why arranged marriages often flourish, we must first acknowledge what is breaking so many relationships today: chronic uncertainty. Modern dating is built on a foundation of instability. People swipe through hundreds of faces, develop quick emotional attachments, and experience a cycle of highs and lows that condition the heart toward fear rather than trust. The abundance of choice may seem empowering, but psychologically it creates doubt. If one relationship falters, a person may wonder whether someone “better” is just one swipe away. If things begin to feel difficult, some question whether they should press on or try again with someone new. The relationship is constantly subject to evaluation, comparison, and insecurity.

This creates a silent emotional toll. The mind becomes accustomed to uncertainty and the heart never fully rests. Many enter marriage already conditioned by a history of breakups, betrayals, ghosting, or emotional instability. They bring with them subconscious patterns of self-protection, skepticism, and fear of abandonment. Even in healthy relationships, modern couples sometimes struggle to fully trust because they’ve lived in a world that normalized uncertainty for so long.

These emotional wounds do not simply disappear. Psychologists now note a rise in anxiety, depression, attachment disorders, and deep feelings of worthlessness linked specifically to unstable romantic experiences. The repeated message of modern dating is: you are replaceable. When one connection ends, another appears instantly. When attraction fades, another person is waiting. The heart internalizes this as disposability, a lie that attacks self-worth and sabotages the ability to trust future partners.

The Dopamine Trap: Excitement Without Covenant

Modern dating operates like an emotional slot machine. Each notification, each flirtatious exchange, each new romantic possibility gives the brain a surge of dopamine—the same chemical that fuels addictive behavior. Dating apps, quick romances, and fleeting passions become a cycle of emotional highs followed by inevitable crashes.

This cycle is predictable:

• A person experiences the thrilling chase of attention.
• A spark of chemistry ignites.
• A burst of passion makes everything feel meaningful.
• Then, without warning, the connection weakens. Communication slows.
• Doubt appears.
• Confusion enters.
• The once-exhilarating relationship ends in silence, shame, or ambiguity.
• And then comes the loneliness, the regret, the aching sense of inadequacy.
• The cycle begins again.

Many people think they are searching for love, but often they are unknowingly chasing dopamine—momentary excitement masquerading as genuine connection. This leaves them emotionally depleted and spiritually exhausted. The heart was not designed for constant romantic instability. God created us for covenant, not consumption.

Why Arranged Marriages Offer Deep Emotional Security

Against this modern backdrop, arranged marriages—specifically those practiced with consent, discernment, and faith—offer something increasingly rare: certainty. They begin not with fleeting feelings but with alignment of values, shared expectations, family support, and long-term vision. Where modern dating begins with emotion and hopes for stability, arranged marriages begin with stability and allow emotion to grow naturally.

One of the greatest strengths of arranged marriages is that they eliminate the early guesswork. In many faith-based arranged settings, families play a role—not to control, but to ensure the couple shares a common worldview. They help identify partners who are aligned in faith, character, and life purpose. They inquire into values, integrity, maturity, and compatibility long before emotions blur discernment.

Because of this intentional process, arranged marriages often begin with a foundation that modern couples spend years trying to build. The couple enters marriage with a clear understanding of each other’s goals, beliefs, expectations, and family culture. There is less fear of hidden agendas, mismatched priorities, or sudden revelations that shake the relationship.

Moreover, arranged marriages encourage healthy dependency, the kind that Scripture describes as “two becoming one.” In this model, husband and wife lean on each other not out of insecurity but out of mutual commitment. They are not two independent lives running parallel until emotions fade—they are partners joined in covenant, supported by families who desire their success. This shared commitment creates an atmosphere of emotional safety that allows trust to flourish.

The Biblical Pattern: Covenant Over Chaos

Throughout Scripture, we find that marriage was rarely a result of modern-style courtship. Instead, it was guided by family, community, and spiritual discernment. These unions were formed not by the whims of emotion but by alignment in faith and purpose.

The marriage of Isaac and Rebekah in Genesis 24 is one of the clearest examples. Abraham sent his servant to find a wife for Isaac—a process driven by prayer, fasting, and God’s guidance. Rebekah agreed freely, demonstrating consent. The Scripture then says, “And Isaac loved her.” Love grew from covenant, not the other way around.

The story of Ruth and Boaz also reflects a structured approach. Naomi guided Ruth, Boaz acted with integrity, and the marriage was rooted in righteousness. Their union became part of the Messianic lineage.

Even Jacob’s marriages, though complicated by deception, reveal the enduring nature of covenant. Leah, though not Jacob’s first choice, demonstrated commitment, strength, and perseverance. Their marriage endured because covenant was not subject to emotion but to responsibility.

The common thread in these marriages is not perfection but purpose. Each marriage endured because it was anchored in something deeper than passion: faith, alignment, community, and covenantal responsibility.

Why Arranged Marriages Last—Despite Challenges

No marriage model is without challenges. Some arranged marriages begin with unfamiliarity or require time for emotional closeness to develop. But these challenges are typically met with commitment rather than abandonment. In arranged marriages, conflict is not viewed as a sign that the relationship is failing—it is viewed as part of the process of becoming one.

The reason arranged marriages last is not that they are easier, but that they are sturdier. They are built on promises instead of feelings, on alignment instead of chemistry, on community instead of isolation, and on covenant instead of convenience. When difficulties arise, the couple is surrounded by family and spiritual support rather than left to navigate alone.

Moreover, expectations are realistic. No one expects an arranged marriage to start with perfect romance. Instead, the expectation is that love will grow over time—slowly, steadily, and deeply. And when love grows from commitment rather than infatuation, it tends to be more rooted and enduring.

A Return to Covenant Thinking

As society drifts further into emotional instability and relational uncertainty, many are rediscovering the wisdom of faith-based arranged marriage. When practiced with consent, respect, and discernment, arranged marriages offer a powerful antidote to the loneliness, distrust, and psychological exhaustion that characterize modern romance.

They give what the human heart longs for most: certainty, belonging, trust, purpose, and covenant.

Marriage was never intended to be a cycle of heartbreak, temporary passion, and spiritual emptiness. It was meant to be a sacred union—guided by faith, strengthened by community, and rooted in lifelong commitment.

Perhaps it is time to embrace again the truth that our ancestors understood well:
love grows deepest where covenant is strongest.

The post Reclaiming Covenant: A Faith-Based Case for Arranged Marriage in a Modern World of Uncertainty first appeared on The Balanced Life: Bible Study and Christian Bible Discussion.

At the core of it, we are all tempted.  In many cases temptation can lead to bad decisions and bad decisions can lead to sin.  As Christians, we want to avoid sin and to do this, we allow Christ to live within us to strengthen us.  “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me…” Psa 28:7.

However, in many cases we work contrary to our own interests and contrary to the will of God.

Now, these points I am bringing out are simply to stimulate discussion and not to highlight a specific practice as sin.  Fair enough?  I want to present these thoughts in their entirety and then open to discussion.

I have always been a Trekkie.  I believe I have over the years watched every Star Trek movie and most of the episodes of every Star Trek series.  I believe I own every Star Trek movie that has every been released.  So, it was as a treat when I decided to take my kids to see the Star Trek movie “Into Darkness” in 3D.

The impact was profound.  My youngest became an instant Trekkie.  Not like me, but far beyond the norm.  Even attending a church BBQ, his conversations were only about Star Trek and explaining in detail about the ships.  Then the questions started about life on other planet and what that life would look like.  It was hard for him to understand that man has never traveled beyond the moon when he has seen men and women in ships travelling at warp speed throughout the Alpha Quadrant and beyond.  He was able to see inside the Starship and even admired the ships Vulcan first officer.

“Dad, what then is real?” he asked.

Recently, I had a long conversation with a close friend about pornography and his struggle keeping pornographic thoughts from his mind.  Often in the middle of his workday, sometimes in a meeting, thoughts would arise about videos he has watched.

So here are the basic discussion points that I would love to discuss today. Think about the media that we have access to.  Some of us consume hours of entertainment weekly.  It is almost crazy-talk to suggest avoiding the entertainment we love; the music and the music videos, the movies, the television shows including reality tv, even the commercials.

When you consider the sin we struggle with, strongholds that seem relentless in their temptation, how many of these sins do we witness happening repeatedly in the media we choose to consume.  I say consume because it reminds me that we are what we eat.   Or in context,” We are what we consume.” Swearing, smoking, lying, cheating, drunkenness.  In many cases the story-line lead us to cheer for the “bad guy” hoping they are successful in their sin.

I had not watched JOKER, the movie, but heard that twisted as it is, the audience sympathized with the Joker and wanted to see him succeed.

“There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.  2 Timothy:3.  Consider that everything listed in this passage of Timothy can be found in a single movie or book. And the selection of such books and movies is vast.

Is there any wonder why sometimes it is difficult to break strongholds?

The enemy seeks to devour.  Is it possible that we are being devoured by what we devour.

About a year ago I saw a funny video on YouTube.  I thought my Christian friend would have found it funny.  Not because he was Christian but because he is from the Caribbean island that this video was about.  The shock was visible and immediate.  I was surprised at the reaction because I checked the boxes.  No swearing, no nudity, no violence, no drugs, and it was funny.  However, the sensual and sexual overtones were shocking to my friend.

I realized that he is peculiar!  In the world but certainly not of the world.  I was too far in the world to even notice how far I was.  Instead of a repulsion or even unease to these types of media, I enjoyed them and even shared them with others.

It is like any addiction.  It could be time for a cleanse or rehab.  Our minds are busy trying to process what we see and hear often presenting these things to our conscious minds when we least expect.

Ok, thanks for bearing with me on that..  Thoughts?

If you would like to try something different, even for a month, try these few changes to curb temptation:

1. Change your music.  Make yourself a mixed Christian CD, or playlist on your device and listen to only this music for one month.
2. Wake a half hour to an hour earlier and spend that time in prayer and study of the bible or a devotional.  If you are used to morning worship, wake a half hour earlier anyway and spend an additional 30 minutes in prayer and study.
3. Stop watching television in all its secular forms.  News, tv series, movies, documentaries, anything that is on television, stop watching.  Find your news source (CTV, BBC, CNN, whatever it is) online and use this only as your news source thereby avoiding commercials and the temptation to surf.
4. Stop watching secular movies.
5. Praise God.  Let’s face it.  We all recognize Gods awesome handy work as we observe beauty around us in nature.  We all can see God working in our lives and recognize His awesome goodness toward us individually.  Take time to thank God and give Him praise.
6. Get connected with the awesome shows on 3ABN television, Amazing Facts or Hope TV.  Listen to some of your favorite pastors on YouTube.  Watch an Amazing Discoveries series on Health and Diet.
7. Spend at least a half hour before bed in study and prayer.

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8

Even though a month is far too short, understanding that avoiding the appearance of evil should be a lifestyle, thirty days is long enough if done without compromise.  It should be just long enough to start getting your sensitivity back to the sin we’re in.  After thirty days you may start to realize that this new lifestyle is excellent and freeing.  You may gain a glimpse of the abundant life that God wants you to have here while we prepare to live with Him for eternity.

“Of all the lessons to be learned from our Lord’s first great temptation none is more important than that bearing upon the control of the appetites and passions. In all ages, temptations appealing to the physical nature have been most effectual in corrupting and degrading mankind. Through intemperance, Satan works to destroy the mental and moral powers that God gave to man as a priceless endowment. Thus it becomes impossible for men to appreciate things of eternal worth. Through sensual indulgence, Satan seeks to blot from the soul every trace of likeness to God.” The Desire Of Ages, Chapter 12.

The post Temptation first appeared on The Balanced Life: Bible Study and Christian Bible Discussion.

When putting this post together, I was binge-watching one of my favorite Netflix series.  I realized I needed to look no further for indicators of where society is socially and morally.

Anna Stewart made an interesting observation in her article “Television Reflects Modern Society“. “How many people haven’t had the urge to murder one or two bad guys. Sell some marijuana to make ends meet. Or behave like a bad boss. There’s a little Dexter Morgan, Nancy Botwin and Jack Donaghy in everybody. Today, couch vigilantes get their kicks out of watching shows like “Dexter,” “Weeds” and “30 Rock,” not to mention seven other WGA-nommed TV shows.”

What we watch and hear today is as full of rebellion as it was in 2009. It is part of our plot lines and placed into our entertainment to draw us back over and over. Rebellion from government, governments rebelling against its people, rebellion in marriage and children rebelling against their parents. Rebellion against employers and companies rebelling against the people they make products for or against the environment. I watch as people rebel against the nature around them. People in movies even rebelling against their own bodies.

And what we see in society is no different. All of these attitudes and rebellious behaviors are played out daily in our cities, countries and homes.

Elements in our societies seem self destructive. Some want anarchy even though if there was anarchy many would not survive. Without laws, the floodgates holding back unbridled rebellion would collapse and even the anarchist could loose what they have, daughters, sons, homes, wealth, wives, husbands, security and peace.

“And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.” Matthew 24:12.

Start of Rebellion

When will there be peace on earth?  Why is there such suffering, pain and rebellion in the world?

Things were not always like this. There was a time that there was no rebellion, a time when things were in harmony.

Let’s read about the first rebellion.  The Bible tells  about the first rebellion and that it didn’t start on earth.  The first rebellion was in heaven when an angel that protected the law of God rebelled. We learn about this in Ezekiel 28.

“You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone adorned you: carnelian, chrysolite and emerald, topaz, onyx and jasper, lapis lazuli, turquoise and beryl. Your settings and mountings were made of gold; on the day you were created they were prepared. You were anointed as a guardian cherub, for so I ordained you. You were on the holy mount of God; you walked among the fiery stones. You were blameless in your ways from the day you were created till wickedness was found in you. Through your widespread trade you were filled with violence, and you sinned. So I drove you in disgrace from the mount of God, and I expelled you, guardian cherub, from among the fiery stones. Your heart became proud on account of your beauty, and you corrupted your wisdom because of your splendor. So I threw you to the earth; I made a spectacle of you before kings.” Ezekiel 28:13-17.

In heaven, there is a garden of God called Eden. Lucifer was in a position close to God, a guardian cherub,  and he rebelled.

“How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.” Isaiah 14:12-14.

Then Revelation 12:12. “Therefore rejoice, O heavens, and you who dwell in them! Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and the sea! For the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has a short time.”

Perfect Creation

When God created the Earth, He made a perfect planet, and there was harmony among all creation. “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.” Genesis 1:31.

Rebellion on Earth

Lucifer, whose name means “bearer of light”, or “Morning Star” was cast down. In his rebellion, he chose to be an “Adversary” or Satan.

“So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.” Revelation 12:9  And mankind, being tempted by the serpent, sinned.  This rebellion brought sin and death into what had been perfect and very good (Gen 3). From the time of rebellion until now, Satan has been causing rebellion, disharmony and unrest on Earth.

The two sides in the conflict.

“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.” Revelation 12:7-9.

Some believe that Michael is a created angel and others believe like Bible commentator Matthew Henry, that Michael is simply another of the many names for Jesus Himself. Although that is for a different study, we know that Michael is fighting with the faithful angels for God’s side and Satan and his angels fight on Satan’s side. And Satan lost. He and his angels were cast out.

We see two sides, and with only two sides, who will be the jury? Or the judge?

“Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?” 1 Corinthians 6:2-3.

We are created to judge the world and fallen angels. We were not made to perish. In fact, God never intended for anyone to be lost. In fact in Matthew 25:41 we understand that the “everlasting” fire is prepared for the devil and his angels. But Satan, understanding our important role in the great war that started in heaven, set out to taint the jury.

What does it take to be a juror in Canada or the USA. There are three basic requirements for jury duty. You must be a citizen of the country. You must be over 18 years and you must be a law abiding citizen. ( In the USA is says you cannot have been charged with a felony).

Satan, set out to destroy law abiding citizens in Eden. To make us law breakers makes us ineligible to be jurors. “And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” Rev 12:17.

The fall of man was unfortunate. It not only made mankind part of Satan’s rebellion, it removed our ability to fulfill our purpose. But Jesus made a way to restore mankind by taking the penalty of sin upon himself. Then He gave us power to become sons and daughters of God again. He gave us power to be law abiding citizens.

Today, the devil knows he has a short time and realized one principle that by beholding, we become changed. And in these last days, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” 1Peter 5:8.

Consider the entertainment we watch and listen to in the context of the great war. We are all part of this great controversy and we all have a work to do in it. Consider that the war is still between God’s side and Satan’s side and every one of us is on one side or the other. By beholding we become changed. What are we beholding? Do we spend most of our days beholding evil, or sin? Do we behold rebellion? Do we act out rebellion in our lives?

How much time do we spend beholding God and contemplating the life of Jesus; the significance of the cross in restoring us or reconciling us to Him. How important is that to us in our daily thinking? While we were yet rebellious, Jesus died for us!

God’s Commandments,  if you keep them, you are God’s. If you strive to keep them and fail from time to time, you have Jesus, your advocate with the Father. “If you love me, keep my commandments.” John 14:15.  He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” 1 John 2:4.

The first rebellion was over the Law of God in heaven. It has always been about the Law of God. Today we are told that the Law of God is done away with and we no longer need to keep it. This is a lie. Is this not Satan’s argument? Be not deceived. Your adversary is seeking whom he may destroy. He is making war with the remnant, those that keep the commandments of God. What better way to deceive the Christians than to turn them from God’s Law.

And what better way to turn people from God’s Law than to make rebellion attractive. Our entertainment today seeks to do just that. It aims to make stars idols. It takes God’s name in vain. It shows idol worship, whether that idol is money, or fame, or other God’s. There is no respect for God’s sabbath, in some cases claiming that God’s sabbath is on Sunday, the first day of the week and not the seventh day as God established. It glorifies disrespect for parents, often making parents seem out-of-touch, old fashioned or foolish. Entertainment glorifies killing and horror, adultery and riotous living. Entertainment shows elaborate schemes for stealing where the viewer is rooting for the thief. It also shows envy and covetousness.

Understand, as Christians, we are to turn away from the appearance of evil. Evil is sin and rebellion from God and His Law. Sin is the transgression of the Law. “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.” 1 John 3:4.

Things to do.

Realizing that breaking habits is hard, start making changes today. Here are a few suggestions that may help in your Christian walk.

1. Spend time beholding Jesus in His Word. Get to know the teaching s of Jesus.
2. Consider the cross and what it means. Meditate on it.
3. Reduce, then eliminate rebellious entertainment.
4. Do not follow the crowd in error. Study to show yourself approved unto God. Salvation is individual. save yourself.
5. The Bible says to wash your garments white in the blood of the Lamb. Revelation 22:14, “”Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city.” This is something we do for ourselves by the Grace of God.
6. Avoid rebellious people. Especially those living riotous lives.
7. As you move away from rebellious entertainment and people, surround yourself with people that seek first the kingdom of heaven and His righteousness.
8. Spend time every morning speaking to God. Thanking Him for His sacrifice. Thanking Him that He has shown you truth in His Word and gave you a mind to understand wisdom.

God bless you and protect you in your walk with Him.

The post Rebellion first appeared on The Balanced Life: Bible Study and Christian Bible Discussion.

I cannot speak for everyone, just to be clear.  With that said, if I am asked if swearing is acceptable to do in front of my children, my gut answer is “No!”

First of all, for those that have never read one of my posts before and may not know anything about me, I am a Christian and I believe that I am a pretty moderate guy.  I tend to get along with most people in most situations and truly love kids.  I was raised with a foundation of respect toward my parents.  In fact, I would say that most kids of my generation were raised with a general respect for all authority.  We recognized that parents were definitely the authority.

I watched them as they also interacted with their authority and by observing, I took my social queues.  When my father was pulled over for any infraction, the response to the officer was respectful and even jovial most times.  What was even more interesting and impactful for me was watching parents who were the authority for us deal with their parents and the respect they showed.

I came to understand this respect as the demonstration of love toward parents, our neighbor and authority.

Now, I could not imagine my father rolling out a few colorful metaphors to the officer that pulled him over.  But much more, I could not imagine him cursing at us.

Now did I cuss?  You Betcha.  Before I knew better, i swore with enthusiasm around my friends that were my age or slightly younger.   But there seemed to be this unwritten rule that I didn’t want to corrupt younger kids with vile talk and didn’t want to disrespect older folk through the use of such language, and if I did I knew it was wrong. (For the younger kids today, yes that was actually a thing!)

So for this reason, I was curious at what the experts said about swearing in front of kids or at kids.  I was shocked.  How could this be that some say it is good to do while others suggest it is good for children to hear.  In fact, just Google it and see what many of the posts on the first page of results say:

• It’s Okay To Swear Around Your Kids, Says Science – Scary Mommy
• Why swearing around kids isn’t as bad as you think | New York Post
• Go ahead, curse in front of your kids – LA Times
• Science: It’s Totally OK to Swear in Front of Your Kids | Inc.com
• The Right Way to Swear in Front of Your Kids — Science of Us – NYMag
• I Curse In Front of My Kids and I’m Not ******* Sorry – xoJane

What?  Can this be for real?  Psychology Today in an article titled: Will Swearing Harm Your Child said, “Swearing might indicate a lack of discipline, or it might just be related to a more open and free-speaking home environment..”  Open and free-speaking kinda sounds like a good environment, doesn’t it?

This is where I feel there is a disconnect.  Common sense has become common non-sense.  Wisdom seems to have been corrupted and disrespect is open and free-speaking.

Ephesians 4:29-30: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to the needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

Colossians 3:8, “But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.” 

James 3:10, “From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so. “

Ephesians 5:4, “Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. “

Matthew 12:36-37, “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” 

The Bible verses above helps to shed some light on why Christians shouldn’t swear in front of their children (or anyone else for that matter).  But what of non religious or non-Christian folk.  Does it have the potential to build better relationships between children and parents because nothing is held back.  Could the duplicitous life of living one way at home and another way when out with friends could be solved by a more open and free-speaking home?

Well, that is for each person to decide for themselves.   But I will make a few suggestions that may make sense if not “common” sense.

1.  Swearing is not inherently part of a language.  Sure people will say that cursing is as old as time, but truly the words we use to curse are usually words not necessary in a sentence.  They are sounds we use for emphasis when we cannot grasp the right language.  Children can learn to use their words leading to a better grasp of their language.
2. Words that tend to aggravate authority would not be words I want my child using.  Whether they find themselves in a stressed situation with another adult, another child, an employer, the police, a border guard or in in-law, when using a word will make situations worse because it is understood as profanity, this would not be the word I would want to be responsible for encouraging in my children.
3. Because a parent has lost respect for those around them, and maybe even themselves, should not give that parent licence to download that lack of respect to their children and encourage their children to treat others the way they learned to treat people.
4. Some say that humans are striving to become better in our technology, our societies  and our education.  This however does not square with the behavior to encourage our children to be worse in behavior toward  and with others than they could be.  If they could be better, why not encourage and teach them to embrace better and reject worse.

It is 2PM and you are sitting at the doctors office waiting for your name to be called.  The place is busy and there are several people ahead of you.  A child about 7 years old sits across from you with his parents and while they are speaking, the child is using the most common swear words as part of his conversation and the parents are cursing right back.  They are not angry and their conversation is playful.   I paint this scenario to avoid the cliche scenario of the loud kid screaming obscenities.  If overhearing this conversation makes you feel that the child is growing in a positive environment and his/her future is bright, then you have your answer.

However, I imagine that there is something in all of us that would find that just a bit odd.

5. It is disrespectful for a parent to swear at their child.  It is equally disrespectful for the child to swear in a conversation with their parent.  Because they do not have the skills to recognize it as an abuse of respect does not mean that we should celebrate their ignorance.

I would love to hear your thoughts on whether you feel it is ok to cuss to your kids and thoughts on this article.  Thanks for reading.

Ivan Sutton

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The post Swearing at kids – To Cuss or Not To Cuss first appeared on The Balanced Life: Bible Study and Christian Bible Discussion.

I love science.  Every time I see that we discover something new in medicine, or a distant galaxy, or a previously undiscovered animal,  I marvel at scientific ingenuity.  Science is awesome.  I think about the scientists that were great thinkers in their day that gave us much of what our scientific understandings are today and what it would have been like to make the ground-breaking discoveries that they did.  Some of them were pioneers in their field:

Nicholas Copernicus (1473-1543) who put forward the first mathematically based system of planets going around the sun.

Sir Francis Bacon (1561-1627) who is known for establishing the scientific method of inquiry based on experimentation and inductive reasoning.

Johannes Kepler (1571-1630) who was a brilliant mathematician and astronomer. He did early work on light, and established the laws of planetary motion about the sun.

Rene Descartes (1596-1650) who is known for his famous quote “I think therefore I am”, was a French mathematician, scientist and philosopher who has been called the father of modern philosophy.

Blaise Pascal (1623-1662)  who was a French mathematician, physicist, inventor, writer and theologian. In mathematics, he published a treatise on the subject of projective geometry and established the foundation for probability theory. Pascal invented a mechanical calculator, and established the principles of vacuums and the pressure of air.

Isaac Newton (1642-1727) In optics, mechanics, and mathematics, Newton was a figure of undisputed genius and innovation. In all his science (including chemistry) he saw mathematics and numbers as central.

What is less well known about these men is their devout Christianity.  Throughout their lives their faith guided their science and science guided their faith.

(For more on scientists that believed in God, please visit God and Science.org

It is a wonder that today when people talk about science, it is as if God and science are mutually exclusive and God is not the God of science.

I get asked often how I can believe in God when there is such compelling evidence for the current Big Bang Theory and a universe that is millions of years old.  My response is simple, kinda.  I reply, “How can you believe the theories that exist when there is certainly no consensus among secular scientists and using observational science.  There is significant evidence against the prevailing theories.  In many cases what we observe clearly confirms the Bible or at least that current macro-evolutionary theories need to be thrown out.  It all comes down to faith.   I do not have enough faith to buy that they world is millions of years old and we started with a huge explosion from nothing.”

I realized however, people like to be told what to think and will never look or investigate for themselves to see what makes sense and what the evidence is really saying.  Knowing this first that evidence is evidence.  It is our world view that guides how we interpret the evidence.

Let me get the obvious stuff out of the way.   If you want to know if God exists, ask Him.   Talk to others that know Him and ask them to explain why they believe and what proof they have.  When I read the Bible, everyone that gets to know God, one way or another are changed by it.  Their lives are impacted.

I read an interesting article in New Science Magazine.  The article is entitled, 13 Things that Do Not Make Sense by Michael Brooks.  It is interesting to me that when our calculations don’t add up because what we observe does not match our evolutionary or Big Ban theories, we make things up to fill the discrepancies.  For instance, Dark Matter is a made up theory to explain how the universe is held together and why the mass of everything we observe does not square with what we know about gravitational and centrifugal forces.  In other words, “Galactic matter orbits around a central point because its mutual gravitational attraction creates centripetal forces. But there is not enough mass in the galaxies to produce the observed spin.”  So in order to make things square, the difference between what the mass is of an object and what the mass should be to yield what we observe, we call Dark Matter.

Scientists claim that dark matter must be there even though we cannot test for it, or observe it in any scientific way, but because of the universal object mass discrepancy, then Dark Matter must exist.

2 Timothy 3:7, “Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.”

One other similar theory, and there are many, is the theory of Dark Energy.

Before the 1990’s, scientists theorized that the universe expanded rapidly after the Big Bang and would eventually slow down expansion as objects clustered and developed gravitational forces.  These gravitational forces would eventually slow universal expansion.  But the Hubble Telescope in the 90’s allowed scientists to observe the strangest thing.  The universe was speeding up expansion.  Well, that made absolutely no sense.  There was no way to explain what they observed based on their world view and previous theories.  They were so sure they had it right and taught generations of people this false theory and now, how could they explain what they couldn’t explain.  They made up a theory called Dark Energy.  Dark energy is the invisible force out there that causes the acceleration of universal expansion.

Since there is way more space than there is matter in the universe, they estimate that the universe is 68% Dark Energy, 27% Dark Matter and 5% Normal Matter.

To break this down and not get wrapped up into the weeds on this, what they are saying is that 5% of the universe is what we observe and that 5% we cannot explain without making up the other 95%.  But to sound like we know what we are talking about we make what we made up sound like fact.  The rationale is that dark matter and dark energy must be there because what we observe in the universe makes no sense without them if our original theory of a Big Bang is accurate.

Our schools teach one basic world view as fact shaping the world view of millions of people.  When new contradictory information is discovered that requires an adjustment of the shared world view, other world views based on the same facts are seldom encouraged. Imagine that all of the people that were taught false information before Hubble showed us how wrong we were.  This false information is guiding their decisions today and has falsely shaped their world view.  In fact, most people say they have tremendous faith in science and none or little in the Bible.

Sir Francis Bacon famously wrote, “It is true, that a little philosophy inclineth man’s mind to atheism, but depth in philosophy bringeth men’s minds about to religion; for while the mind of man looketh upon second causes scattered, it may sometimes rest in them, and go no further; but when it beholdeth the chain of them confederate, and linked together, it must needs fly to Providence and Deity.”

2 Timothy 4:3-4, “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”

Ephesians 4:18 “They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart.”

God has built into each person a knowledge of who He is.  What we observe cannot be explained and will perplex if God is removed from the equation.  Psalms 19:1-4, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.”

Romans 1:19-20 “For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.”

Know What You Believe

Theodore N. Tahmisian, a nuclear physicist with the Atomic Energy Commission, has said:

“Scientists who go about teaching that evolution is a fact of life are great con men, and the story they are telling may be the greatest hoax ever. In explaining evolution we do not have one iota of fact … It is a tangled mishmash of guessing games and figure jaggling … If evolution occurred at all, it was probably in a very different manner than the way it is now taught” (Fresno Bee, Aug. 20, 1959).

I recently started paying attention to the campaign against free thought in schools.  It seems that in our public school system, you can believe in anything, anything except God created the heavens and the earth.  Quite seriously, you can believe that we were brought here by aliens, we are descendants of apes or chimpanzees, we are not really humans with a head arms and legs,  but biological pods that have created a mental projection of ourselves and nothing you do or no-one you interact with is real.  These things are quite acceptable to discuss in school and create discussion groups for and invite people to join.  Many parents would be even be intrigued to hear about your involvement in these groups.

However, a group that discussed Jesus, the Bible, or God would lead to the school being sued, protests, and perhaps public shaming.

Of the people who believe in evolution, how many people know why and know the facts?  How many take time to understand why some scientists believe certain aspects of evolution and Big Bang theories while other secular scientists do not?

And why is there the perpetuation of the false notion that science is opposed to the Bible?  Why, when scientific findings that cannot be explained in the context of macro evolution or the Big Bang theories are encountered, are not all theories, including biblical creation explored?

Whether you are a Christian, or agnostic or atheist, you owe it to yourself to know why you believe what you believe.  Especially when the stakes are so high.

See also: Why are Youth Leaving the Church

The post Science and God – Are The Opposed? first appeared on The Balanced Life: Bible Study and Christian Bible Discussion.

“Several studies do seem to corroborate the conventional wisdom that kids raised with religion—any religion—are psychologically healthier than kids raised without it. The gap here is small but real: Some researchers link religious affiliation and regular church attendance with a mild boost in children’s mental health. That data is reported by parents, though, which presents an obvious problem: Religious parents might simply be more inclined than secular parents to view their kids through rose-colored stained glass. But teachers have also reported that kids who attend religious services have stronger self-control and react better to discipline.”  (Slate.com).

The post Sad Realities first appeared on The Balanced Life: Bible Study and Christian Bible Discussion.

Waking with a start, I realized that I slept in.  I was not even sure how that happened because I knew how important today was before I went to sleep last night.  I set three alarm times to make sure that I was awake and ready for the start of what I knew would be a very busy day.

That day was the launch of a client website that I had been working on for months.  It’s completion was delayed for unforeseen reasons but finally the day had arrived and I was thirty minutes late out of the gate.

When I saw my cellphone ringing I didn’t answer because I knew it was the client and my voice would betray my grogginess.  I bounced out of bed, quickly got dressed, crammed down a fast cereal breakfast, fired up my computer and got to work.

1 Corinthians 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

I read an article lately which outlined some Biblical secrets to business success.  It went through the standard list that all businesses should strive for:

• Treat staff fairly
• Provide great customer service
• Be honest
• Be humble
• Deal with integrity
• Learn from mistakes.

The article missed a very important point.  Whatever we do, including business, do all to the glory of God.  What does this mean?

There is a quote by John Bunyan that goes something like this, “He who neglects God in the morning will scarcely find Him the rest of the day.”

Another from the famous song goes like this, “Oh what peace we often forfeit, oh what needless pain we bare all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.”

The enemy, Satan will use business to separate you from spending time with God if he sees he will be successful.  Making you think that your success is in your hands is the lie that we easily accept.  So we jump out of bed and neglect spending time with God in morning worship, putting God second to the pressing work at hand.

For 50 – 100 years we will live here in this world, occupying until Jesus returns.  But there will be no website developing in heaven.   No – no auto repair, accounting, no truck drivers, or politicians, no retail sales people, no home builders or apartments to rent.  There will be no banks or stock trading, or pay-day loans in heaven.  So where should our priority be while we are here on this side of forever?

Sure we need to pay rent and eat.   Yes we need to feed or children and put gas in our cars.  Matthew 6:31-33, “Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Website development, or any occupation or hobby, no matter how much we love it, has to be second to God.  What we do for work here over 70 years is insignificant to the eternity we will spend with our creator.  Do not be deceived.  God is able to solve whatever issue you have in business or personally.  Just put Him first.

Start each day in praise and thanksgiving to God, our Father in heaven.   Commit your life to God each day and through prayer, give God permission to direct your life according to His will. Spend time in His Word in Bible study or even just reading a chapter each morning.  Spend time appreciating all that God has done for you lately and thanking Him for his goodness.  And ask God to forgive you for anything or any occurrence that you have sinned.  Starting your day with God has Biblical foundation.  Jesus often arose early in the morning and found a solitary place to pray, spending hours speaking to God, His strength.

The post There Are No Website Developers In Heaven first appeared on The Balanced Life: Bible Study and Christian Bible Discussion.

Bad Religion – Many Christians Endorse Heretical Beliefs Without Realizing It

Read more at http://www.prophecynewswatch.com/article.cfm?recent_news_id=752#pFKWkzuRTdV6xXh3.99

• More than half went on to indicate that Jesus is “the first and greatest being created by God,” a heresy known as Arianism, which the Council of Nicaea condemned in 325 A.D.
• Seventy percent of participants–who ranged across socioeconomic and racial backgrounds–agreed there’s only one true God. Yet sixty-four percent also thought this God accepts the worship of all religions, including those that believe in many gods.
• Two-thirds admitted that everyone sins a little bit, but still insisted that most people are good by nature, which directly contradicts scripture (“All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God,” and “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” Romans 3:23; Jeremiah 17:9).
• Over half said it’s fair for God to exercise His wrath against sin, but seemed to waffle about which sins deserved wrath (not theirs!). Seventy-four percent said the “smallest sins” don’t warrant eternal damnation, in contrast to Jesus’ half-brother, who when writing at the Holy Spirit’s inspiration taught that even one infraction of God’s law is enough to sink someone.
• A full 60 percent agreed that “everyone eventually goes to Heaven,” but half of those surveyed also checked the box saying that “only those who believe in Jesus will be saved.”

• Seven in ten evangelicals–more than the population at large–said that Jesus was the first being God created.
• Fifty-six percent agreed that “the Holy Spirit is a divine force but not a personal being.”
• A huge increase in evangelicals (28 percent, up from 9 percent) indicated that the Third Person of the Trinity is not equal with God the Father or Jesus, a direct contradiction of orthodox Christianity.
• By definition, evangelicals in this survey believed that “only those who trust in Jesus Christ alone as their Savior receive God’s free gift of eternal salvation.” Yet nearly half agreed that “God accepts the worship of all religions including Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.”
• Two-thirds of evangelicals–more than Americans in general–said Heaven is a place where all people will ultimately be reunited with their loved ones. Many of these folks evidently see no contradiction between their casual universalism and the evangelical creed that salvation comes through faith in Christ alone.
• Two out of five evangelicals say “worshipping alone or with family is a valid replacement for regularly attending church”.

The post Christian Dunces first appeared on The Balanced Life: Bible Study and Christian Bible Discussion.