Hi

This is November, the turkey month. I thought I would talk about authoring a book. I know that some of you good folks have a story to tell and we are now ready to publish and distribute books in the worldwide market. We can help if you are ready. We can do recipe books, fiction, romance, Bible teaching, and many other types. However, they all must have a Christian theme.

I am a Christian. That comes before being an author or book publisher. If I leave God out of my daily routine, I end up being just another author among thousands that struggle for sales, recognition and fame.

The Secret To Authoring A Book

The secret to authoring a book and marketing it is to allow God to be your co-author. The Holy Spirit is given to all of God’s children. That means he is available to guide us into doing the will of our Heavenly Father. This applies to every aspect of our daily lives, even writing and publishing.

Guess what? It’s not all about you. It is about using your gifting as a writer to the glory of God and to accomplish his divine will. This mindset is essential to being a success. It will determine what you write about and how you relate to those that follow you.

The Christian Author & His Gifting

The Christian author uses his or her gifting as a ministry to be a blessing to others. We all want to make sales but ministry is more important. If we look for ways to invest into the lives of those around us, God will take care of the sales. That being said, let’s look at some ways to increase book sales and minister at the same time.

A “Tool Kit” of Ideas

I have established a, “Tool Kit” of ideas for my own use and am glad to share it now with you. If I missed any idea, feel free to drop me an eMail and I will add it to my list.

Here are ways that I have identified. I have not tried all of them. It is my list of opportunities.

1. Direct Mail: This requires buying a list, doing a graphic presentation, printing, using a mail house to mail your book offer. It is best used to promote multiple books.

2. eMail Blast: This can be accomplished through your efforts or purchasing a list.

3. Give-A-Ways: I like to give away some of my books. I see it as an investment into the lives of others. I always ask first if they will read my book if I give it to them.

4. Local Press Releases: I got on the phone and called every newspaper within a 50-mile radius and asked for the book review person, the feature article writer, and the product news release coordinator. I sought to get name and eMail with phone and extensions. This became my press/media list. Now, I send a press release or book review request every quarter.

5. Fundraising Promotions: I am in the 1st stages of seeking out churches that agree with my Christian viewpoint in hopes that I can offer them one or more books to use as a fundraiser for youth activities, or other ministry outreaches.

6. Seminars: I am planning a free seminar on the end of the world. I will promote it through fliers and press releases and hold it in a local library.

7. Table Top Presentations: Setting up a presentation table can be done most anywhere. Ask your pastor if you can set up a table for “Show & Tell” before and after the Sunday service. Check with the local library for a table in their lobby. Sometimes, a grocery stores will let you set up a table as well as at Walmart.

8. Telemarketing: You can get on the phone and call churches to see if they have a bookstore. If they do, send them a comp. copy of your book with a flier on other books and where to order.

9. Free eBook Promo: This is a great way to capture names and eMails for your on-going eMail efforts. You can offer it on all social media as well as your author’s page or website.

10. Newsletters: Newsletters are great to stay in touch with your friends, book buyers and family. I use it to share info on various topics related to my happenings as well as introducing new books and offers.

11. Blogs: A Blog is nothing more than an article. It expressed how you think and feel about a certain thing. It is perfect for ministering the gospel and sharing the message of redemption.

12. List Building: As an author, you will need to build various lists for p/r and sales promos. I am in the process of building a Christian Book Reader list, A Local Media list, An Independent Retail Bookstore List, A Church Bookstore List, Customer List and some others that I haven’t thought of as yet.

13. Bookmarks: Bookmarks are great for trade shows, tabletop displays and just individual pass along. I use them all the time everywhere I can.

14. Business Cards: A good 4/color glossy business card is a must. I give them to strangers I meet as well as others I know. It helps to build branding and added exposure.

15. T-Shirts: A good T-Shirt can draw attention to your books and you as an author. You can make up a few for you and close friends to wear around town.

16. Website: I use my website to push free eBook offers, all book titles that click through to where they can be purchased and general overall ministry. I have some podcast, poetry and other stuff that can minister.

17. Social Media: “Social Media” is the perfect choice for periotic promos that push list building. A free eBook offer is a great way to do that. Blogs are also good for publication on Facebook, Instagram and all the other platforms. Realize that it is not a focused list of book readers or buyers, but they are still people and could be open to following you and receiving the gospel through what you write. The best part is that it is free.

18. Holiday Promotions: Design your book offer around a special holiday and offer it as a gift for Father’s Day, Mother’s Day and all the other special days. You can tie your offer to a free eBook with the discounted rate for a paperback or hard cover.

19. Special Reports: Maybe you have a short report or Bible expose that can be offered with no strings attached. It is a good way to build branding and customer loyalty.

20. Logo Items: Another great branding effort is to purchase “Ad Specialty” logo items like pens, cups, key chains, tote bags and other items that display your logo and website. They even have logo watches. Some can be used for repeat customers and others are perfect for trade show hand-outs and general face to face marketing.

21. Radio/TV Interviews: These may be hard to get but one sure way of trying is to use CIPA’s media eBlast. You can also seek interviews with local media to appear on morning TV shows and newsworthy radio spots. It just takes time to call and find out how they work and how you may fit into their programing.

The Key Is To Look Closely At Each One of the afore mentioned.

I am sure you can find more ways but these 21 will get you started. The key is to look closely at each one and if it fits, cost it out so you know how much to add to your overall budget.

Finally, if you have a yearn to write, know that God has given you this gift and wants you to rely on him to make it happen. He is your co-author, inspiration, guide, source of funding and the only one that has your best interest at heart.

Don’t worry about book sales. Be sensitive to God’s voice and do what he directs you to do. I gave away a book just the other day because I heard the Lord say, “That person could benefit from what your book focuses on.” It was better to give than receive.

John Marinelli, Indi-Author & Poet
[email protected]
www.marinellichristianbooks.com

Today’s Christian Life, in my opinion, has been reduced to a more secular perspective. I say this because of what I see all around me. Here’s some of what I have observed over the last 50-years.
1. God is blamed for things that go wrong.
2. Man has become a god unto himself.
3. Life is centered in the, “ME” revelation instead of the Divine revelation.
4. Miracles and Faith have been reduced to the rule of Fate.
5. There is a great falling away from the faith among churchgoers.
6. Christianity is on a down spiral in the USA.
7. Bible reading is just about a thing of the past,
8. People are buried in work, play and self-absorption.
9. Truth has become relative to one’s opinion.
10. Personal morality is almost non-existent.

Most of us live our lives based upon assumptions that may or may not be true. Some folks don’t even question the thought process that society says is the basis for living. There is no “Real Truth” anymore. It seems to be your truth or my truth but never “Absolute Truth.” I guess that is why so many folks are confused and have difficulty trying to figure out their existence. The truth seems to elude them.

I believe that “Absolute Truth” comes from God and is revealed in the Bible. In order to know God’s truth concerning our existence, we must ask ourselves three basic questions and look to the scriptures for the answers. Our conclusions will literally determine the way we live our lives here on earth and what our eternal destiny will be.

Is there a God? Does he love me? Will I ever see him face to face? Who am I? Why am I here at this time, in this age? Why do I feel so bad about life and the future? Why don’t I have real peace of mind?

All these questions and a hundred more plaque us every day, unless we know the truth. However, whose truth? Jesus said, “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:32 He also said, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No man comes to the Father, except by me” John 14:6

The truth of the matter, which is absolute, is…Jesus. He is the embodiment of truth and the only way to God, the father.

I guess it’s time to stop chasing rabbits and realize that we need a Savior. He will guide is into what is true and away from what is not. If you are anything like me, you’ve tried most everything else. Maybee it’s time to put your trust in Jesus and make him Lord over tour life. He won’t let you down. I did that over 70 years ago and am still amazed at what he has done in my life.

Until next time
John Marinelli, Author & Poet
www.marrinellichristianbooks.com

What happens when good people do nothing? When I listen to the news, I almost start crying. Did you know that California just recently passed a bill that allows the killing of babies up to 28 days A-F-T-E-R they are born. (After they are born?)

The transgender push is from less than 1% of the population but has overshadowed our schools, workplace and social platforms in an attempt to destroy our children and change our thinking towards their immorality.

The LGTB community has invaded our entertainment platforms in an effort to say that their immoral conduct, that is an abomination before God, is normal and just an alternate lifestyle. Romans 1:26-27 Sitcoms push gay life and commercial ads flaunt their Godless actions.

Human trafficking is now rampant in the US while authorities ignore the suffering of abducted children.

The Democratic party has shifted far to the left, supporting all sorts of immorality and even legislating evil as though it were good and now tries to tell America that which is good is really evil.

When we do nothing, evil invades our society and, if not stopped, will pull the world into another dark age of Godlessness and suffering. Listen to what the Bible says:

“The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God. Psalm 9:17”

What shall we say to these things? How about vote out these sickies and elect Christian and or moral folks that seek decency, honor and truth.

If we continue the way we are going, we will forfeit our freedom and end up at the mercy of the ungodly.

We could also turn our hearts back to God and trust him to save our nation from being dragged into hell. It’s just a thought to consider. Elections are next month. Choose wisely who you want to lead us. The existing leadership has not been righteous or even moral.

I don’t have all the answers, but I do have my personal ethics and resolve to stand up for what I believe and even though my little voice is like one crying in the wilderness, it will still cry out for righteousness.

God is watching and I am on his side. Where are you?

Until next time

John Marinelli, Author & Poet

www.marinellichristianbooks.com

 

 

Most of us live our lives based upon assumptions that may or may not be true. Some folks don’t even question the thought process that society says is the basis for living. There is no “Real Truth” anymore. It seems to be your truth or my truth but never Absolute Truth. I guess that is why so many folks are confused and have difficulty trying to figure out their existence. The truth seems to elude them.

I believe that “Absolute Truth” comes from God and is revealed in the Bible. In order to know God’s truth concerning our existence, we must ask ourselves three basic questions and look to the scriptures for the answers. Our conclusions will literally determine the way we live our lives here on earth and what our eternal destiny will be. They are also the basis for our everyday perspectives.

Life’s Most Important Questions:

1. Where did I come from?
2. Why am I here?
3. What happens to me when I die?

We answer these questions based upon what truth we subscribe to. Our lives are built on what we believe. Our actions are determined by how we think. Here is a Bible verse that illustrates my point. Hear what Jesus said. 

“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” Matt. 7:24-27  

Knowing what God says is true and applying it will always keep us in times of trouble…so it is in this life. We must know the answers to life’s most important questions and apply them in order to be fulfilled as a person. To do otherwise is a self-deception that will steal our destiny and condemn us to a life of Hell.

The 1st question is, “Where Did We Come From?”

 Over the past 60 years, we have been deceived into thinking that we came into existence as a result of evolution. (God’s “Absolute Truth” was replaced by an ungodly theory.)

Evolution says there is no God and all that exist is a result of random selection. Some “Think-tanks” will acknowledge the existence of a god but will not ascribe any personality to it or active interaction with creation. It is true that various chemicals exist, however, that doesn’t mean they can evolve, on their own, into any kind of life. That’s like saying if I put the parts of a car in a garage and let them simmer for a million or billion years, they will evolve, on their own, into a fully operational vehicle.

Life is more than a mixture of chemicals. Random Selection cannot produce anything more than gobbledygook.

Man Is & Always Will Be A Special Creation  

The Bible tells us that God created man. That’s where we came from. Life does not make any sense unless we are God’s Special Creation. He chose to form man out of the dust of the ground and He breathed into him the breath of life, which was His own life force, His own Spirit. God’s life caused man to become alive, a living soul.

Here’s the supporting text.

“And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.” Genesis 2:7 

The very definition of life, from a Biblical perspective, is being joined spiritually with our creator. We must have his life in us to be a living soul. Those who do not have his “breath of life” in them are no more than the walking dead.

A Living Soul 

The human soul is a combination of Mind, Will and Emotion. This is where we reason, make decisions and feel. The wonder of it all is seen in the fact that man can operate within his soul separate from God. He can exist and control his own destiny.

The problem with that is…God never wanted man to exist separate from him. His plan was that they walk together in this life. He indwelled man and empowered him to live on a Godly plane of existence where he could be blessed and loved. True life is when man is indwelled with God’s Spirit. This connects God with man and man with God. Man does not really live without God. He may exist but not as a living soul.

Being A Special Creation

If we are honest with each other, we can admit that there are many times that we do not feel special and wonder why it is that God created us. What’s so special that we should marvel at our existence? 

The difference between man and the rest of creation is that man was made in the image of God.

 If we study the account of man’s creation and his sin against his creator, we immediately realize that Adam lost the image and likeness of God when he sinned. Instead, he took on the very nature of evil. Let me show you from the scriptures.  

“Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned—Romans 5:12 (This is a reference to Adam’s Original Sin), Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness leads to justification and life for all men. For as by the one man’s disobedience, the many were made sinners, so by the one man’s obedience, the many will be made righteous. Romans 5:12, 18 & 19 kjv

The above scriptures tell us that sin entered the world by and through the transgression of Adam, the first man. They also tell us that Adam’s descendants took on the nature of sin. The breath of life from God was taken from Adam. He spiritually died or was cut off from God.

Adam’s Transgression

When we transgress, we go beyond the limits imposed upon us by law, command or other statute. Speeding is going beyond the legal limit imposed by law. So, it was with Adam. He went beyond the command of God. The Bible calls it disobedience.

Adam decided to ignore God’s command and do his own thing. His rebellion led him into a realm void of God’s love and grace. He became the lord over his own life and crowned himself as his own god. This attitude became the basis of the “Sin Nature” that passed on to his descendants and is what rules our world today. It is a “Do Your Own Thing” philosophy.

In Genesis 2:17 God tells Adam regarding the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, “in the day that you eat from it you shall surely die.” The saying that Adam would die was a Spiritual death that occurred at the moment he ate from the tree. Adam physically died 930 years later.

God never wanted Adam to know evil. His plan for mankind was only good. We were created by God so we could do His thing, not our own.

God’s Thing

All the good, the blessings, the joys of life and our eternal destiny are wrapped up in “God’s Thing.” This proves out as seen in future Biblical accounts where Adam no longer walked continually in God’s Spirit. He instead encountered another nature in himself that was contrary to the will of God.

We can understand the sudden appearance of a new destructive nature in Adam by considering a pregnant girl that is a drug addict who has a baby while on drugs and discovers that her baby is also an addict. The addiction passed on to the child.

So, it is with the sin nature. It was passed on from Adam to his descendants down through the ages. Thus, all are infected. All have sinned. God’s special creation was cut off from its creator and God’s desire to fellowship on his level with man was lost. God lost the image of himself in the earth and man lost his Spiritual bond with God.

But the story doesn’t end here. There is more. It’s called, “The Gospel” or “ Goodnews”

 So, we, as the descendants of Adam, are a fallen race that is in need of redemption. However, God did not cast us off. He restored his image and likeness in man through the cross of Jesus Christ.

Jesus paid the penalty for our sins and lived the life we should have lived before God. That’s why he is our savior. That’s why he is the only way to God. No other man could qualify because they are all of a fallen nature and in need of a savior.

Some folks reject the sacrificial death of Christ for the sins of mankind saying that he was also a descendant of Adam and therefore equally guilty of sin. However, they forget that Jesus was born of a virgin. He escaped the sin nature that passed on to humanity through Adam. His unique birth qualified him to become the spotless Lamb of God.

We are forgiven because Jesus died in our stead, and we are accepted because Jesus never sinned. His righteousness is imputed into us and his blood cleanses us from all unrighteousness. It’s as though we had never sinned. Listen to what Jesus said as recorded by the apostle John.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” John 3:16

The Apostle John tells us, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” I John 1:9

Once the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin and we are saved by his life, we can rest assured that indeed, we are a Special Creation of God.

Here’s what the Apostle Paul said.

“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.  For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” (Romans 10:9-10)

Knowing this gives us self-worth, no matter who accuses us or tells us different. We are his creation and his beloved. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10

The 2nd question is Why Are We Here?

Some folks actually killed themselves because they could not figure out what Life Was All About. Suicide… says that there is “No Point To Life”, “That we have no value as an individual”, “That life has no meaning” Why Are We Here? Here are some Suicide statistics from the It is God’s Love for us that compels us to repent and be filled with his, “Breath of Life” in order to become a new Creature.

No more “Walking Dead.” American Foundation For Suicide Prevention

While this data is the most accurate, we have, we estimate the numbers to be higher. Stigma surrounding suicide leads to underreporting, and data collection methods critical to suicide prevention need to be improved.

Suicide he US by suicide…Additional Facts About Suicide in the US

 The annual age-adjusted suicide rate is 12.93 per 100,000 individuals.

 Men die by suicide 3.5x more often than women.

 On average, there are 117 suicides per day.

 White males accounted for 7 of 10 suicides in 2014.

 Firearms account for almost 50% of all suicides.

 The rate of suicide is highest in middle age — white men in particular.

 Over 20 veterans kill themselves every day.

 On average, 1 person commits suicide every 16- minutes.

 Untreated Depression is the number 1 cause of suicide.

 There are 2 times as many deaths due to suicide than AIDS.

For every suicide there are 25 attempted Suicides at a cost of $ 44 Billion annually.

Most adults are still searching for an identity, even into their senior years. They go through life holding on to titles as a way of explaining who they are. More than 7,500 seniors took their own lives in 2014.

The Used-To-Be Scenario

We live about 30 minutes north of The Villages, a huge retirement community. I know a lot of folks from that area. I hear some of them saying, “I used to be” or “I was” but rarely do I hear, “I AM”. Some folks seem to have lost their identity and, in the process, themselves. More than 7,500 seniors took their own lives in 2014.

We were created in the image and likeness of God. Genesis 1:27 records the event, “And God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.” Here’s what Jesus said about why he came to earth.

“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10

We can live an abundant life. This is a life that is full of blessings, love and forgiveness. It is what Jesus wanted for us and made available to all who trust in him. He wanted us to be happy.

A Purpose Driven Life

God had a purpose for us in his creation. We were not just a random selection without a reason to exist. It was to bear His image and likeness in the earth. God, being a Spirit, as the Bible tells us, says that the image and likeness of God is not a physical resemblance but rather Spiritual. He wanted us to be the embodiment of His character, which is … “Love, Peace, Joy, Longsuffering, Meekness, Gentleness, Self-Control, Goodness and Faith.” Galatians 5:22-23

Unfortunately, we see more anger, hate, murder, jealousy, and evil flowing from the hearts of our fellowman. When abortion is deemed a health issue instead of murder, we know that the image of God has been lost.

Over 50 million babies have been killed in the womb since the Rowe vs. Wade decision. This is not what God intended. We were not created to kill our unborn in the name of good health.

We were created by God to show forth his glory and to have fellowship with him. He is the only true and living God. What we do in life as to profession should not exclude God. We are, after all, His image and likeness. We can reflect God’s glory as workers, retirees, housewives, children or whatever we choose to do or be… as long as our light is shining bright with the Love of God. This is why we were placed upon this earth at this moment in time. This is the abundant life.

The 3rd question is Where Are We Going When We Die?

Do you remember the story when Jesus was telling his disciples that he was going away? (Referring to His death on the cross) Here’s the account.

Simon Peter said unto him, Lord, where goes thou? Jesus answered him, where I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards. Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake. John 13:36-37

Later he would tell Phillip, John 14:6 “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

All roads do not lead to Rome, nor do all religions lead us to eternal life. Paul said, “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:2

Do not think that you can get into heaven through a church, a religious leader, a set of rules and regulations, or a doctrine that is contrary to what the apostles taught.

Hear what the Scriptures say about that. “For if he that cometh preaches another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.” II Corinthians 11:4

 God is for us! He is not against us!

Note: To bear with him is to indulge or put up with or accept, which should not be done. The inference is that they should immediately be rejected as liars and false teachers) those that follow such teachers will also suffer the judgment ascribed to them by God.

Our Future Home

“In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:2-3

Jesus is the only way to God; the Father and he is even now engaged in the preparation of an eternal dwelling place for those who believe in him.

The Promise of God To The “Whosevers” In This World “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

I decided long ago that I was one of those, “Whosevers” and I did what Jesus said in John 3:16, …

 I believed in Jesus as the only begotten Son of God.

 I believed that Jesus was indeed the only way to God the Father, who created me.

 I believed that Jesus came to earth to die for my sins so I could have victory over death, hell and the grave.

 I believed that Jesus rose from the dead on the 3rd day as the scriptures declare.

 I believed that He prepared a place for me with Him in heaven.

I am spending my senior years looking for my Savior to return and take me to my new home.

I am doing just fine, but… what about you? I want to invite you, “All of You” that read this book, to come into a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. If you are not filled with the image and likeness of God, your creator, you need to be. He will wash away your sin and recreate you into a new creation that reflects His love and grace. You just need to repent and ask Him to save you.

You can know the joy of being saved, of walking with God in this life and being assured of life after death when your time comes. Hebrews 9:27 says, “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.”

Please join me in being the “Whosoever” of John 3:16 and discovering the joy of being saved. He will never let you down.

Where Are You Going When You Die?

There is only one true answer that brings abundant life here on earth and happiness in eternity. That answer is…we will be with Jesus. See it for yourself in the scriptures.

“For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house, which is from heaven: If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked. For we that are in

this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.

Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit. 6 Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) 8 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” 2-Corinthians 5:1-8

Receive Him today and His Holy Spirit will fill you with the image and likeness of God. You will be happy for all of eternity.

Until Next Time

John Marinelli, Author & Poet

www.marineellicchristianbbooks.com

 

 

 

 

 

Who do You Want To Be?

 As I go through life, I have observed lots of folks and their search for the meaning of life. I see the up and coming “Want-A-Be’s,” The “Has-Bens,” the “Use-To-Be’s” and the “Could-A-Should-A folks.” They all fight for identity and strive for acceptance and recognition among their friends and the public at large.

The “Want-A-Be’s” are still dreaming of being somebody while the “Has Ben’s” feel left out and alone. Their contribution or lack of it has already passed them by. The time they had to accomplish and be someone is now over. The twilight years are upon them.

The “Could-A-Should-A’s are still complaining about their mis-fortunes in life. They could have been if…this or that didn’t happen…or they complain about how they should have but didn’t for whatever reason.

Life is not fair. Some of us do better than others. Life is hard for some and easy for others. How has your life been so far? Are you satisfied with the path you are on? Where will it lead you?

Jesus said, Broad is the road that leads unto destruction and narrow is the way that takes you into eternal life. Which road are you on? Jesus said most folks are on the broad road. There is plenty of room for the masses.

The narrow path is for those that seriously want to be with Jesus. They know that he is the “Way” the “Truth’ and the “Life.” They also know that no one can come to God, the Father, except through him.

If you are a “Truth Seeker” and are looking for the way to heaven, eternity and fellowship with God, the Father, this narrow road is for you.

Here are some Bible scriptures that will guide you into the loving arms of Jesus: Most pastors call it the Roman’s Road.

The first verse on the Romans Road to salvation is Romans 3:23,

“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” We have all sinned. We have all done things that are displeasing to God. There is no one who is innocent. Romans 3:10-18 gives a detailed picture of what sin looks like in our lives.

The second Scripture on the Romans Road to salvation, Romans 6:23b, teaches us about the consequences of sin:

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” The punishment that we have earned for our sins is death. Not just physical death, but eternal death!

The third verse on the Romans Road to salvation picks up in the middle of Romans 6:23:

“But the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 5:8 declares, “But God demonstrates his own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Jesus Christ died for us! Jesus’ death paid for the price of our sins. Jesus’ resurrection proves that God accepted Jesus’ death as the payment for our sins.

The fourth stop on the Romans Road to salvation is Romans 10:9,

“That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” Because of Jesus’ death on our behalf, all we have to do is believe in Him, trusting His death as the payment for our sins – and we will be saved!

Romans 10:13 says it again, “for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Jesus died to pay the penalty for our sins and rescue us from eternal death. Salvation, the forgiveness of sins, is available to anyone who will trust in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

The final aspect of the Romans Road to salvation is the results of salvation. Romans 5:1 has this wonderful message:

“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Through Jesus Christ we can have a relationship of peace with God.

Romans 8:1 says, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Because of Jesus’ death on our behalf, we will never be condemned for our sins.

Finally, we have this precious promise of God from Romans 8:38-39:

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Years ago, I read a pamphlet about the four spiritual laws. I thought I’d share them with you. I found them on www.gotquestions.com.

The first of the Four Spiritual Laws is, “God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life.” John 3:16 tells us,

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 10:10 gives us the reason that Jesus came,

“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” What is blocking us from God’s love? What is preventing us from having an abundant life?

The second of the Four Spiritual Laws is, “Humanity is tainted by sin and is therefore separated from God. As a result, we cannot know God’s wonderful plan for our lives.”

Romans 3:23 affirms this information, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

Romans 6:23 gives us the consequences of sin, “the wages of sin is death.” God created us to have fellowship with him.

However, humanity brought sin into the world, and is therefore separated from God. We have ruined the relationship with him that God intended us to have. What is the solution?

The third of the Four Spiritual Laws is, “Jesus Christ is God’s only provision for our sin. Through Jesus Christ, we can have our sins forgiven and restore a right relationship with God.” Romans 5:8 tells us, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

” 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 informs us of what we need to know and believe in order to be saved, “…that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures…” Jesus himself declares that he is the only way of salvation in John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” How can I receive this wonderful gift of salvation?

The Fourth of the Four Spiritual Laws is, “We must place our faith in Jesus Christ as Savior in order to receive the gift of salvation and know God’s wonderful plan for our lives.”

John 1:12 describes this for us, “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” Acts 16:31 says it very clearly, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved!”

We can be saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Jesus Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9).

If you want to trust in Jesus Christ as your Savior, say the following words to God. Saying these words will not save you, but trusting in Christ will! This prayer is simply a way to express to God your faith in him and thank him for providing for your salvation.

“God, I know that I have sinned against you and deserve punishment. But Jesus Christ took the punishment that I deserve so that through faith in him I could be forgiven. I place my trust in you for salvation. Thank you for your wonderful grace and forgiveness – the gift of eternal life! Amen!”

This month we celebrate Easter. This blog is all about why there is a reason to celebrate. Be sure you follow the Roman road to salvation and read again the four spiritual laws. Then receive Jesus as your personal Savior and let him be the Lord over your life. Now you can celebrate with confidence knowing you are accepted by the Lord.

Until Next Time

John Marinelli, Author & Poet

www.marinellichristianbooks.com

Did you know that God speaks to mankind through the Bible. Listen to what he says in the Psalms.

“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10

Being “Still” is to quietly ponder and “To Know” is to realize. Now hear what this scripture says…”Ponder or Meditate” on this one thought….that we are to “Realize” that God is God and we are not.

We are not “In Control”, he is. We are not “All Powerful”, he is. We are not “Totally Aware”, he is. When we seek to be in control of everything, as though we know it all, we infringe on the divine. We fall into the satanic trap of trying to be like God.

We are not God or even a little god. We are instead, his creation. The only way we can be like God is to reveal his likeness and his image as a reflection upon the earth.

This is accomplished by walking in the Spirit and living in the Fruit of his Spirit as Galatians chapter five teaches.

Let us not try to be God. Instead, let God be God in us. Amen!

Until Next Time

John Marinelli, Author & Poet
MarinelliChristianBookss.com
[email protected]

Does Hell Really Exist?

Hell is a literal place, just like Heaven. They both play a big part in man’s future. For the redeemed, heaven is waiting, for the lost or unsaved, hell is their final destination.

According to Gallup research, 94% of U.S. adults believe in God or a universal spirit; 84% believe Jesus Christ is God or the Son of God; and 53% believe in a literal hell. A Newsweek poll found that 94% of Americans believe in God; 77% believe in a heaven; 76% think they have a good or excellent chance of getting there. 58% of those surveyed believe in hell.

According to church historian Martin Marty, hell began to disappear from man’s thinking in the 19th century, and no one seemed to notice. In rejecting heaven and hell, one also rejects the awesome seriousness of moral and immoral behavior. But for those who take God seriously, human freedom means the capacity to make moral decisions, which have radical and enduring consequences.

In general, more adults in the U.S. believe in hell now than they did 40 years ago. The concept was losing ground as recently as 1980 when just over half of those surveyed said they believed in hell. By 1990 the percentage had risen to 60%. One 2011 survey reported only 52% believed in hell.

Mathew 7:13-14 records Jesus saying, “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” (KJV)

There are only two roads in life, one leads to Hell, characterized by destruction and the other road leads to life or heaven. The masses, all the religions that do not accept Jesus as the only way, walk down the broad road. It is wide enough for all to fit. But the road to life is narrow…One Way…Jesus, the Christ of God.

Hell is a reality; a real place for real people. It is so bad that Jesus told the crowd in one of his sermons, “Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offends thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire”. (Mathew 18:8-9),

Here are some other references concerning the reality of hell.

Mathew 10:28 “And fear not them which kill the body but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” (KJV)

Rev. 20:10 “And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.” (KJV)

Mathew 25:46 “And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.” KJV)

Mathew 25:41, “Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:” (KJV)

In our modern vernacular, hell signifies a place of fire and punishment and this is indeed taught in the scriptures.

Hell is mentioned in the Bible (KJV) 54 times. Hell appears 31 times in the Old Testament and 23 in the New Testament. In the OT, hell is translated from the Hebrew word “Sheol.” In the NT, hell was translated from three words, Tartaroo, Hades and Gehenna. All words express some or all of these characteristics: an eternal separation from God, a place of darkness, suffering, pain and torment. It is not a place where you want to visit or move to.

In my earlier days, we used to say, flippantly, that we’d probably end up in hell, having a party with all our friends. I have since come to my senses, realizing that hell is a place of isolation. Those that go there will be alone forever. Can you imagine being in total darkness, all alone with just your suffering and pain to keep you company? Don’t think that your punishment will be administered by demons or the Devil. They will be cast into the lake of fire. There are no jailors to talk to or to call out to…just you, all alone, suffering forever. You don’t want to go there.

Many people are uncomfortable, to say the least, with the idea of an eternal hell. This discomfort, though, is often the result of an incomplete understanding of three things: the nature of God, the nature of man, and the nature of sin. As fallen, sinful human beings, the nature of God is a difficult concept for us to grasp. We tend to see God as a kind, merciful being whose love for us overrides and overshadows all his other attributes. Of course, God is loving, kind, and merciful, but he is first and foremost a holy and righteous God. So holy is he that he cannot tolerate sin. He is a God whose anger burns against the wicked and disobedient (Isaiah 5:25; Hosea 8:5; Zechariah 10:3). He is not only a loving God—He is love itself!

But the Bible also tells us that he hates all manner of sin (Proverbs 6:16-19). And while he is merciful, he still administers justice in accordance to his own will. “Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the evil man his thoughts. Let him turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy on him, and to our God, for he will freely pardon” (Isaiah 55:6-7).

Humanity is corrupted by sin, and that sin is always directly against God. When David sinned by committing adultery with Bathsheba and having Uriah murdered, he responded with an interesting prayer: “Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight…” (Psalm 51:4). Since David had sinned against Bathsheba and Uriah, how could he claim to have only sinned against God? David understood that all sin is ultimately against God. God is an eternal and infinite Being (Psalm 90:2). As a result, all sin requires an eternal punishment. God’s holy, perfect, and infinite character has been offended by our sin. Although to our finite minds our sin is limited in time, to God—who is outside of time—the sin he hates goes on and on. Our sin is eternally before him and must be eternally punished in order to satisfy his holy justice.

No one understands this better than someone in hell. A perfect example is the story of the rich man and Lazarus. Both died, and the rich man went to hell while Lazarus went to paradise (Luke 16). Of course, the rich man was aware that his sins were only committed during his lifetime. But, interestingly, he never says, “How did I end up here?” That question is never asked in hell. He does not say, “Did I really deserve this? don’t you think this is a little extreme? A little over the top?” He only asks that someone go to his brothers who are still alive and warn them against his fate.

Like the rich man, every sinner in hell has a full realization that he deserves to be there. Each sinner has a fully informed, acutely aware, sensitive conscience which, in hell, becomes his own tormenter. This is the experience of torture in hell—a person fully aware of his or her sin with a relentlessly accusing conscience, without relief for even one moment. The guilt of sin will produce shame and everlasting self-hatred. The rich man knew that eternal punishment for a lifetime of sin is justified and deserved. That is why he never protested or questioned being in hell.

The realities of eternal damnation, eternal hell, and eternal punishment are frightening and disturbing. But it is good that we might, indeed, be terrified. While this may sound grim, there is good news. God loves us (John 3:16) and wants us to be saved from hell (2 Peter 3:9). But because God is also just and righteous, he cannot allow our sin to go unpunished. Someone has to pay for it. In his great mercy and love, God provided his own payment for our sin. He sent his Son Jesus Christ to pay the penalty for our sins by dying on the cross for us. Jesus’ death was an infinite death because he is the infinite God/man, paying our infinite sin debt, so that we would not have to pay it in hell for eternity (2 Corinthians 5:21). If we confess our sin and place our faith in Christ, asking for God’s forgiveness based on Christ’s sacrifice, we are saved, forgiven, cleansed, and promised an eternal home in heaven. God loved us so much that he provided the means for our salvation, but if we reject his gift of eternal life, we will face the eternal consequences of that decision.

Many people struggle with the justice of that. They question how it is just for God to punish a person for eternity in response to only a human lifetime of 70, 80, 90, or even 100 years of sin. How does a sinner’s finite lifespan merit an infinitely long punishment?

There are two Biblical principles that clearly declare eternity in hell to be the just punishment for sin, no matter how long one’s earthly life lasted.

First, the Bible declares that all sin is ultimately against God (Psalm 51:4). The extent of the punishment depends, in part, on the target of the crime. In a human court of law, a physical assault against an individual will usually result in a fine and possibly some time in jail. In contrast, a physical assault against the president or prime minister of a country will likely result in a lifetime in prison. And this is the case despite the fact that the crime was a one-time offense, not a continual, ongoing action. God is infinitely higher and greater than any human being. How much more are our crimes worthy of a great punishment in light of the fact that our sins are against God (Romans 6:23)?

Second, the idea that we cease sinning after death is not taught in the Bible. Are those who go to hell suddenly sinless and perfect? No. Those who go into eternity without Christ will be confirmed in their wickedness. The hard-hearted will be eternally hard-hearted. There will be “weeping and gnashing of teeth” in hell (Matthew 25:30), but no repentance. Sinners in hell will be given over to their own nature; they will be sin-infected, evil, immoral, and depraved beings for all of eternity, forever unredeemed and unregenerate. The lake of fire will be a place of eternal rebellion against God—even as that rebellion is judged (Revelation 20:14–15; cf. Revelation 16:9, 11). Unsaved people do not only sin for 70, 80, 90, or 100 years. They sin for eternity.

What it comes down to is this—if a person wants to be separated from God for eternity, God will grant that desire. Believers are those who say to God, “Your will be done.” Unbelievers are those to whom God says, “Your will be done.” The will of the unsaved is to reject salvation through Jesus Christ and remain in sin; God will honor that decision, and its consequences, for eternity.

Why would God do this to me? you might say… because you rejected the only way to him, Jesus. He made the way possible by sending Jesus to die for your sins so you could be free to worship him. He allowed you to live this long and has constantly called you to Himself in a variety of ways, all with no response.

You sidestepped His invitation ignored his call and refused to accept his destiny for you. However, God does not send anyone to hell. They chose not to be with him and Hell is the only other place. The rich man lifted up his eyes in hell, in torment when he died and so will you if you reject so great a salvation. Luke 16:23

Have I scared you? I hope so because it is no laughing matter. Your eternal destiny is at stake and I want you to know the reality of hell and hopefully keep you from going there…so, here’s what you do… “And they said, believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved” (Acts 16:31).

Until Next Time
Rev. John Marinelli Author & Poet
www.marinellichristianbooks.com

Do You Have A Vision?

“Where There Is No Vision, The People Perish” Proverbs 29:18

We must have a reason to exist and live. That’s why God gives us our own personal vision. Without it, we would perish…so says the Bible text.

Do You Have A Vision? Webster defines the word “Vision” in these ways:

1. The act or power of seeing.
2. Unusual foresight.
3. Something seen in or as if in a dream or trance.
4. A vivid imaginative conception.
5. Something of extraordinary beauty.

Now, let me ask you another question…what is your vision? It’s only natural that we, who are children of God, should be the type of people that possess the act or power of seeing, or have unusual foresight, or be able to concept or fashion the future through a vivid imagination.
Everybody Has A Vision

I was told many years ago by an evangelist that every Christian has or should have a vision. He also said that you should never share your vision with small-minded individuals that do not walk in faith because their minds cannot contain what God has spoken into your life. (God speaks those things that are not, as though they were) Hebrews 4:17

If you really think about the reality of Hebrews 4:17, God has been doing that very thing ever since we gave our hearts to him. Why not make a list of things that God has spoken to you before they actually came true. You may be surprised at the depth of his love over you. It actually does abound.
My Vision

God gave me a vision years ago in the form of a dream. I saw myself standing in a high tower…actually a “Top of the World” restaurant, preaching to a group of people who were terribly frightened because of a violent tornado that was about to crash into the all-glass building.
Opposition

When I sought to share this vision… that the tornado was the judgment of God upon the world and that I was standing in the gap, just before its destruction, as a messenger, calling back the lost and fearful to God, people just laughed and said I must have been mistaken or that it was a nightmare, not a vision from God. My vision was too big for their little minds. They could not see with the eyes of faith.

I remember also when God put on my heart to form a ministry using poetry called, the Fellowship of Christian Poets. Many around me said, why do you want to do that? Poetry doesn’t sell. They could not see the ministerial value of the gifting that I possessed. My wife, Marilyn, was the only one who supported me and joined me in the effort to live out the vision that replayed over and over in my spirit.

I have indeed heard from God through his Holy Spirit and have dedicated my life, my future, my wealth and gifting to its fulfillment. It is this vision that kept me going and always striving to be all that I can be, to the glory of Jesus. When tough times come knocking at my door…when trials and tribulations fling their fiery darts…when people around me laugh, it is the vision that God laid upon my heart that keeps me hanging on and going on unto victory.

The Fellowship of Christian Poets was like that…people of like mind, with the same vision…to see their gifting used of God to bless others. The Fellowship had more than 50 categories of poetry and quickly became the largest Christian Poetry library in the world…until it crashed 10 years ago. We registered over one million visitors. God moved me on to other things and other visions.

Different Visions

I believe we all have different visions that actually shape our destinies. I also believe that many of us have the same vision. That’s why you see some churches that focus more on evangelism than do others…and others that excel in Biblical teaching, more so than some others. Look at all the different ministries: Elderly, Youth, Evangelism, Counseling, Unwed mothers, Prison, and on and on. They are people with the same vision doing the same thing as a group. This is of the Lord, and it is marvelous.

Your Vision

Again, I ask…Do you have a vision? What is it? What have you done to capture the vision and live it out? Have you ever written it down and shared it with others? Remember, faith without works is dead. Living out your vision is being a doer of the Word and not just a hearer.
Living Out the Vision

It’s time to acknowledge what God has dropped into your spirit. It’s time to live out the vision in this life, thereby bringing into existence what God said that has not yet happened but will in due time. This is the Word made flesh…the Word becoming alive in you as you grasp it and take hold of it by faith.
Let us all seek the Lord for revelation so we can see the vision and make it happen in our everyday lives.

Note: Be sure that your vision dos does not conflict with the written word of God. He will never give you a vision that goes against his own will. I had a friend once that told me that God had revealed to him that he was to have sex with another man’s wife. He forgot to check the vision against what God said. “God Said” always wins out.

Until next time
Rev John Marinelli,
[email protected]