Day Thirteen

DISPLAY OF VITAL SIGNS, ETC.

1) Lean body mass: 112 lbs

2) Body fat: 5%

3) Pulse: 54

4) Body Temperature: 97.8. Several days ago my temp was 95.0; that is dangerously low. Well, after reading-up on hypothermia, I took some action. I turned the heat up in my apartment, put on some extra layers of clothing, put on more bed clothing, and that did the trick. My temperature this morning was hovering in the area of 97.3. I would have had to stop my prayer and fasting is it got below 95.0, because that is in a dangerous area.

5) Blood pressure: 118 over 70. My blood pressure has always been low ----120 over 80 is optimal: 160 over 100, is Grade 1 hypertension (mild), etc.

6) Body fluid’s pH display: 5.5, the same as it has been for some time, seems like it is going to remain this way, and without eating healthy food, I can’t do anything about it, but it still is extremely unhealthy. The reason for a very low pH is this: the two main ingredients needed to keep the body fluids alkaline are calcium and vitamin D. Calcium comes from calcium rich foods and supplementation, like coral calcium, and the main source of vitamin D comes from exposure to sunshine; a poor source is from synthetic supplements. It is literally impossible to get enough vitamin D from food sources, since the majority of natural foods are almost void of natural vitamin D. Acidic body fluids is one of the main reasons for much of the sickness and disease in the world today. So I can understand why my body fluids are so low; I haven’t had any calcium or vitamin D for twelve days. I am certain I will survive until the end of my time of prayer and fasting. My pH has always been from 7.0 to 7.5. ------ 7.0 is neutral; any digits below 7.0 is acidic; any digits above 7.0 is alkaline. Most healthy people, especially the young, will usually have readings in the alkaline range, while most older people will have readings in the acidic range--that spells trouble.

7) Weight: 118 lbs I have been losing just one pound per day. That is great.

8) Mental and emotional conditions: the same as it has been for the last few days, which means: my memory is at times a little foggy. My mental capacity is slipping a little. I have a difficult time working on the computer. My thinking has also slowed down. Most likely, the reason is that the brain uses more cholesterol (good fat) than any other organ in the body and my cholesterol has always been low, and therefore I am feeling its effects.

9) Spiritual experiences: I am still extremely optimistic. It seems impossible for God not to answer my prayers. Repeating, the reason for lack of strong faith in the world nowadays is because of our modern, sophisticated lifestyle. Faith in spiritual matters is not needed, since our present-day culture has made it just about obsolete. This world can give us almost everything we need. Will we have enough faith to overcome this enormous barrier? The only way that will be possible is if that power is given to us by God, and I am confident He will give it.

10) Physical condition: I laid down most of the day out of necessity and took an hour nap, and therefore conserve energy. I hate to admit this, but I can’t stand up for a long period of time; my legs get weak and I must sit or lay down. If and when I stand up or even sit up, I get dizzy, but only sometimes. It takes effort to move, which sometimes I don’t have. Then there are times I am energetic. I try to drink as much water as possible, but it is difficult. I know I have to drink as much as possible, but I have come to the point that I hate drinking water. My throat most often is parched and water does not relieve it.

11) Daily activities: Listen to the New Testament a few hours. Work on computer for an hour or so, to respond to emails and comments. Then I have to change these vital signs each day, which is trying for me. I was in bed for 11 hours, sleeping and praying.

How will all the above figures and attitudes continually change my life/our lives in the uncomfortable and extreme conditions of prayer and fasting? Physically, your guess is as good as mine, but spiritually I am extremely optimistic. In the next few weeks, hopefully, we will find out.

Day Twelve

DISPLAY OF VITAL SIGNS, ETC.

1) Lean body mass: 113 lbs

2) Body fat: 5%

3) Pulse: 49

4) Body Temperature: 97.3. Several days ago my temp was 95.0; that is dangerously low. Well, after reading up on hypothermia, I took some action. I turned the heat up in my apartment, put on some extra layers of clothing, put on more bed clothing, and that did the trick. My temperature this morning was hovering in the area of 97.3. I would have had to stop my prayer and fasting is it got below 95.00 because that is in a dangerous area.

5) Blood pressure: 112 over 70. My blood pressure has always been low ----120 over 80 is optimal: 160 over 100, is Grade 1 hypertension (mild), etc.

6) Body fluid’s pH display: 5.5, the same as it has been for some time, seems like it is going to remain this way, and without eating healthy food, I can’t do anything about it, but it still is extremely unhealthy. The reason for a very low pH is this: the two main ingredients needed to keep the body fluids alkaline are calcium and vitamin D. Calcium comes from calcium rich foods and supplementation, like coral calcium, and the main source of vitamin D comes from exposure to sunshine; a poor source is from synthetic supplements. It is literally impossible to get enough vitamin D from food sources, since the majority of natural foods are almost void of natural vitamin D. Acidic body fluids is one of the main reasons for much of the sickness and disease in the world today. So I can understand why my body fluids are so low; I haven’t has any calcium or vitamin D for ten days. I am certain, I will survive until the end of my time of prayer and fasting. My pH has always been from 7.0 to 7.5. ------ 7.0 is neutral; any digits below 7.0 is acidic; any digits above 7.0 is alkaline. Most healthy people, especially the young, will usually have readings in the alkaline range, while most older people will have readings in the acidic range--that spells trouble.

7) Weight: 119 lbs I have been losing just one pound per day. That is great.

8) Mental and emotional conditions: my memory is at times a little foggy. My mental capacity is slipping a little. I have a difficult time working on the computer. My thinking has also slowed down. Most likely, the reason is that the brain uses more cholesterol (good fat) than any other organ in the body, and my cholesterol has always been low, and therefore I am feeling its effect.

9) Spiritual experiences: I did much valuable praying last night in bed when there was no sleep in me. I am still extremely optimistic. Repeating, the reason for lack of strong faith in the world nowadays is because of our modern, sophisticated lifestyle. Faith in spiritual matters is not needed, since our present-day culture has made it just about obsolete. This world can give us almost everything we need. Will we have enough faith to overcome this enormous barrier? The only way that will be possible is if that power is given to us by God.

10) Physical condition: I decided again, to just lie around and therefore conserve energy. I get a little tipsy at times, and feel lightheaded occasionally. There are times I am energetic and times that I can hardly stand up, but I guess that is expected, since I haven’t eaten for 12 days. I try to drink as much water as possible, but it is difficult. I tried warming the water a bit and sip it as if I was drinking juice or coffee. That seemed to work better.

11) Daily activities: Listen to the New Testament 2.5 for hours. Drove the car to the bank to have a bunch of bank statements shredded. Did more house cleaning. Worked on the computer for an hour or so, to respond to a long comment left on "Day One’ post.

How will all the above figures and attitudes continually change my life/our lives in the uncomfortable and extreme conditions of prayer and fasting? Physically, your guess is as good as mine, but spiritually I am extremely optimistic. In the next few weeks, hopefully, we will find out.

Day Eleven

DISPLAY OF VITAL SIGNS, ETC.

1) Lean body mass: Still a little less than 113 lbs

2) Body fat: Still about than 6%

3) Pulse: 66

4) Body Temperature: 98.1. Yesterday my temp was 95.0; that is dangerously low. Well, after reading up on hypothermia, I took some action. I turned the heat up in my apartment, put on some extra layers of clothing, put on more bed clothing, and that did the trick. My temperature this morning was hovering in the area of 98.00. I would have had to stop my prayer and fasting is it got below 95.00 because that is in a dangerous area. I bought a new thermometer today, and the readings were the same as my old one. That means my readings are accurate.

5) Blood pressure: 104 over 68----120 over 80 is optimal: 160 over 100, is Grade 1 hypertension (mild), etc.

6) Body fluid’s pH display: 5.5. the same as the last week, but is still extremely unhealthy. The reason for a very low pH is this: the two main ingredients needed to keep the body fluids alkaline are calcium and vitamin D. Calcium comes from calcium rich foods and supplementation, like coral calcium, and the main source of vitamin D comes from exposure to sunshine; a poor source is from synthetic supplements. It is literally impossible to get enough vitamin D from food sources, since the majority of natural foods are almost void of natural vitamin D. Acidic body fluids is one of the main reasons for much of the sickness and disease in the world today. So I can understand why my body fluids are so low; I haven’t had any calcium or vitamin D for eight days. I am certain I will survive until the end of my time of prayer and fasting. My pH has always been from 7.0 to 7.5. ------ 7.0 is neutral; any digits below 7.0 is acidic; any digits above 7.0 is alkaline. Most healthy people, especially the young, will usually have readings in the alkaline range, while most older people will have readings in the acidic range--that spells trouble.

7) Weight: 120 lbs I have been losing just one pound per day. That is great.

8) Mental and emotional conditions: my memory is at times a little foggy. My mental capacity is slipping a little. My thinking has also slowed down. Most likely, the reason is that the brain uses more cholesterol than any other organ in the body, and my cholesterol has always been low, and therefore I am feeling its effect.

9) Spiritual experiences: I have been doing a lot of repetitive praying. That seems to make my faith strong. I am extremely optimistic. Repeating, the reason for lack strong faith in the world nowadays is because of our modern, sophisticated lifestyle. Faith in spiritual matters is not needed, since our present-day culture has made it just about obsolete. This world can give us just about everything we need. Will we have enough faith to overcome this enormous barrier? The only way that will be possible is if that power is given to us by God.

10) Physical condition : I decided again, to just lay around, and therefore conserve energy. I took an hour nap. I get a little tipsy at times, and feel lightheaded occasionally. I am much weaker then ever, but I guess that is expected, since I haven’t eaten for 9 days. I try to drink as much water as possible, but it is difficult. I tried warming the water a bit and sip it as if I was drinking juice or coffee. That seemed to work better.

11) Daily activities: I lost tract of how long I listened to the new Testament. Drove the car to Wal-Mart and bought a thermometer, paid my bill and bought a few nonperishable items. Cleaned house to get rid of stuff I may never need.

How will all the above figures and attitudes continually change my life/our lives in the uncomfortable and extreme conditions of prayer and fasting? Physically, your guess is as good as mine, but spiritually I am extremely optimistic. In the next few weeks, hopefully, we will find out.

Day Ten

DISPLAY OF VITAL SIGNS, ETC.

1) Lean body mass: Still about 113 lbs

2) Body fat: Still about 6 %

3) Pulse: 55

4) Body Temperature: 95.1. If my temp gets lower than 95.0, I would be in the area of hypothermia, I would have to stop my fast, because that is in a dangerous area. I will get a new thermometer tomorrow to make sure my readings are accurate.

5) Blood pressure: 109 over 65----120 over 80 is optimal: 160 over 100, is Grade 1 hypertension (mild), etc.

6) Body fluid’s pH display: 5.5. the same as yesterday, but is still extremely unhealthy. The reason for a very low pH is this: the two main ingredients needed to keep the body fluids alkaline are calcium and vitamin D. Calcium comes from calcium rich foods and supplementation, like coral calcium, and the main source of vitamin D comes from exposure to sunshine; a poor source is from synthetic supplements. It is literally impossible to get enough vitamin D from food sources, since the majority of natural foods are almost void of natural vitamin D. Acidic body fluids is one of the main reasons for much of the sickness and disease in the world today. So I can understand why my body fluids are so low; I haven’t had any calcium or vitamin D for eight days. I am certain I will survive until the end of my time of prayer and fasting. My pH has always been from 7.0 to 7.5. ------ 7.0 is neutral; any digits below 7.0 is acidic; any digits above 7.0 is alkaline. Most healthy people, especially the young, will usually have readings in the alkaline range, while most older people will have readings in the acidic range--that spells trouble.

7) Weight: 121 lbs. Again, that’s great, I lost just one pound in 24 hours.

8) Mental and emotional conditions: my memory is at times a little foggy. My mental capacity is also slipping a little. Most likely, the reason is that the brain uses more cholesterol than any other organ in the body, and my cholesterol has always been low, and therefore I am feeling its effect.

9) Spiritual experiences: Again, I did a lot of praying today, and my faith is getting much stronger. Repeating, the reason for lack strong faith in the world nowadays is because of our modern, sophisticated lifestyle. Faith in spiritual matters is not needed, since our present-day culture has made it just about obsolete. Therefore, will we have enough faith to overcome this enormous barrier? The only way that will be possible is if that power is given to us by God.

10) Physical condition : I decided again, to just lay around, and therefore conserve energy. I get a little tipsy at times, and feel lightheaded occasionally.

11) Daily activities: Listened to the New Testament, 2.50 hours. I took the longest nap that I have ever taken in my life: one hour and 45 minutes. Drove the car to the bank. Worked on Christian forums.

How will all the above figures and attitudes continually change my life/our lives in the uncomfortable and extreme conditions of prayer and fasting? Physically, your guess is as good as mine, but spiritually I am extremely optimistic. In the next few weeks, hopefully, we will find out.

Day Nine

DISPLAY OF VITAL SIGNS, ETC.

1) Lean body mass: About 114 lbs

2) Body fat: Less than 6%

3) Pulse: 54

4) Body Temperature: 95.5

5) Blood pressure: 113 over 66----120 over 80 is optimal: 160 over 100, is Grade 1 hypertension (mild), etc.

6) Body fluid’s pH display: 5.5. A little better than yesterday but is still extremely unhealthy. The reason for a very low pH is this: the two main ingredients needed to keep the body fluids alkaline are calcium and vitamin D. Calcium comes from calcium rich foods and supplementation, like coral calcium, and the main source of vitamin D comes from exposure to sunshine; a poor source is from synthetic supplements. It is literally impossible to get enough vitamin D from food sources, since the majority of natural foods are almost void of natural vitamin D. Acidic body fluids is one of the main reasons for much of the sickness and disease in the world today. So I can understand why my body fluids are so low; I haven’t had any calcium or vitamin D for 9 days. I am certain I will survive until the end of my time of prayer and fasting. My pH has always been from 7.0 to 7.5. ------ 7.0 is neutral; any digits below 7.0 is acidic; any digits above 7.0 is alkaline. Most healthy people, especially the young, will usually have readings in the alkaline range, while most older people will have readings in the acidic range--that spells trouble.

7) Weight: 122 lbs. Again, that’s great, I lost just one pound in 24 hours.

8) Mental and emotional conditions: my memory is at times a little foggy. My mental capacity is also slipping a little. Most likely, the reason is that the brain uses more cholesterol than any other organ in the body, and my cholesterol has always been low, and therefore I am feeling its effect.

9) Spiritual experiences: I did a lot of praying today and feel better than yesterday. Repeating, the reason for lack strong faith in the world nowadays is because of our modern, sophisticated lifestyle. Faith in spiritual matters is not needed, since our present-day culture has made it just about obsolete. Will we have enough faith to overcome this enormous barrier? The only way that will be possible is if that power is given to us by God.

10) Physical condition: I decided again, to just lie around, and conserve energy. Today has been my best day since the first day.

11) Daily activities: Listened to the New Testament, 5.0 hours. Rested almost as much as yesterday.

How will all the above figures and attitudes continually change my life/our lives in the uncomfortable and extreme conditions of prayer and fasting? Physically, your guess is as good as mine, but spiritually I am extremely optimistic. In the next few weeks, hopefully, we will find out.

Day Eight

DISPLAY OF VITAL SIGNS, ETC.

1) Lean body mass: A little over 115 lbs

2) Body fat: A little less than 6 %

3) Pulse: 52

4) Body Temperature: 96.0

5) Blood pressure: 113 over 68----120 over 80 is optimal: 160 over 100, is Grade 1 hypertension (mild), etc.

6) Body fluid’s pH display: 5.0 This level of acidity is extremely unhealthy. The reason for a very low pH is this: the two main ingredients needed to keep the body fluids alkaline are calcium and vitamin D. Calcium comes from calcium rich foods and supplementation, like coral calcium, and the main source of vitamin D comes from exposure to sunshine; a poor source is from synthetic supplements. It is literally impossible to get enough vitamin D from food sources, since the majority of natural foods are almost void of natural vitamin D. Acidic body fluids is one of the main reasons for much of the sickness and disease in the world today. So I can understand why my body fluids are so low; I haven’t had any calcium or vitamin D for eight days. I am certain I will survive until the end of my time of prayer and fasting. My pH has always been from 7.0 to 7.5. ------ 7.0 is neutral; any digits below 7.0 is acidic; any digits above 7.0 is alkaline. Most healthy people, especially the young, will usually have readings in the alkaline range, while most older people will have readings in the acidic range--that spells trouble.

7) Weight: 123 lbs. Again, that’s great, I lost just one pound in 24 hours.

8) Mental and emotional conditions: my memory is at times a little foggy. My mental capacity is also slipping a little. Most likely, the reason is that the brain uses more cholesterol than any other organ in the body, and my cholesterol has always been low, and therefore I am feeling its effects.

9) Spiritual experiences: The reason for such little strong faith in the world nowadays is because of our modern, sophisticated lifestyle. Faith in spiritual matters is not needed, since our present-day culture has made it just about obsolete. Therefore, will we have enough faith to overcome this enormous barrier? The only way that will be possible is if that power is given to us by God.

10) Physical condition : I decided to just lay around today, and conserve energy. It feels good to lie down; actually it makes me feel normal.

11) Daily activities: Listened to the New Testament, 5.25 hours. Rest all day, something I have never been able to do before.

How will all the above figures and attitudes continually change my life/our lives in the uncomfortable and extreme conditions of prayer and fasting? Physically, your guess is as good as mine, but spiritually I am extremely optimistic. In the next few weeks, hopefully, we will find out.

Day Seven

DISPLAY OF VITAL SIGNS, ETC.

1) Lean body mass: A little over 117 lbs

2) Body fat: A little less than 6 %

3) Pulse: 56

4) Body Temperature: 95.2

5) Blood pressure: 109 over 67----120 over 80 is optimal: 160 over 100, is Grade 1 hypertension (mild), etc.

6) Body fluid’s pH display: same as the last three days, 5.5 This level of acidity is extremely unhealthy------ 7.0 is neutral; any digits below 7.0 is acidic; any digits above 7.0 is alkaline. Most healthy people, especially the young, will usually have reading in the alkaline range, while most older people will have readings in the acidic range--that spells trouble.

7) Weight: 124 lbs. Again, that’s great, I lost just one pound in 24 hours.

8) Mental and emotional conditions; same as yesterday. I guess my mental condition goes along with my physical condition. I felt much better physically, so I felt much better mentally.

9) Spiritual experiences: I felt upbeat today, because I asked God, "What can I do to do more for Him?" Answer: just wait. Also, I asked, "What can I do to get closer to You?" Answer: have faith.

10) Physical condition: Again I woke up with some energy. I really perked up when company came to visit me. Published post # 235.

11) Daily activities: Listened to the New Testament, 3.75 hours. This weekends post just needed some proofreading, and then published it. I rested the most of the day; the best thing I can do.

How will all the above figures and attitudes continually change my life/our lives in the uncomfortable and extreme conditions of prayer and fasting? Physically, your guess is as good as mine, but spiritually I am extremely optimistic. In the next few weeks, hopefully, we will find out.

# 235: The World

Why does the New Testament (NT) speak so harshly when it comes to ‘the world’? That is what this post will explore. The word ‘world’ is mentioned approximately 200 times in the NT. The vast majority of the time, it is referring to the people in the world. 1st John 2:17. “The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.” And just a few times it refers to the earth itself, like when it says in Matthew 25:34. “. . . the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.” Even with all the violent weather, which causes floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, erupting of volcanoes, etc. the earth is not a bad place to live in, since it is the only planet we intimately know, which is habitable.

When the Bible writers speak severely, according to the words of Christ, about the world, they are referring to the people who live by the standards of this world, and do not live as God and Jesus Christ commands. What is it that this large group of worldly people does or doesn't do which are classified by Christ as a scorned humanity? Actually, they can be classified into two groups. The first are people who don’t believe in God or Christ, and the second are people who say they believe in God and Christ but don’t live as God requires.

Many in both groups are upright, decent, honest, loving, etc. people. But there is one thing both lack: to have a great, noble and holy cause in life that dominates and controls their lives with a passionate intensity; without that type of cause (advancing the gospel) which Christ gives, all life is of trivial and fleeting value. For example, with all their good moral traits, they are ungodly, since God is not included in their lives, except maybe on Sunday for an hour.

Let’s name just a few of the activities which they engage in that classified them as ungodly people of the world. Their most common natural attribute which separates them from God is their main interest is in the welfare of themselves, family and love-ones. That doesn’t seem right or fair to call that ungodly, but it is true. Here’s the reason why: Matthew 10;37. “Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worth of me.” Luke uses tougher words on the same subject in Luke 14:26.

The first and greatest concern in the lives of Christ’s disciples is to love our God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. And the second is to love our neighbor as yourself. The only way these commands can be obeyed is not with holy words but with the way we lives. These two most important commands are the ones that are the foundation of all faith, love, obedience and holiness; and it is a crying shame, they are the most neglected in all Christianity. What it means is there can be no Christianity without observing/obeying these two commands, regardless how loving and wonderful people may seem, even people who call themselves Christians. In God’s view, they are people of the world.

If and when we love God with our all and our neighbor as ourselves, that would automatically put family in second place. How many people put love for God and neighbor before family? That is a tough question which most would rather not think about.

Above and beyond the aforementioned commands, let’s get to the nitty gritty of what worldly desires are. The most dominate of all ungodly practices is greed. Of course, very few is any call it greed, we have given that nasty word many honorable euphuisms, such as material prosperous, worldly wealthy, go-getters, fortunate, financially rich, educated, [I wouldn't associate education or being educated with being greedy] shrewd, a smart business person, born wealthy, lucky and many more. Then there is another group of greedy people: those who are not any of the above, but are ordinary people who are stingy and wouldn’t let go of a penny for any reason, as it were.

Another worldly habit is to be lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God. Such as engaging in entertainment and having fun. This category covers hundreds if not thousands of ways we can be lovers of pleasure, like TV, movies, music from all forms of high-tech gadgets. The more sensual and unusual/provocative they are, the more popular they become. Another is: Vacation type travel, just for the sake of getting away from the dog-eat-dog reality this world offers.

To put it another way, the more enticing anything is to our animal nature, the more desirable they become. Actually, the best way of describing worldly attitudes is anything in which God is not included. This last sentence covers all things, habits, and attitudes that make them worldly.

Some will say, “If that’s what worldly attitudes are, this author is absolutely crazy.” I agree, I am crazy in love with Christ. But when “christians” don’t make Jesus Christ their role-model, that is crazy in the eyes of God. To end this sensitive discussion, a better way to describe worldliness is to ask ourselves this question: would Jesus Christ engage himself in what we’re doing? In fact, that is the best test to see if the NT is pointing its finger at us when this phrase is used ‘the people of this world’.

I am certain, these could be the most unpopular and hated words to come from a spiritual person. You see, when church leaders are loved and admired by the world, you can bet your bottom dollar they are clever, having an upright appearance, while using pleasant sounding words to please the ears of the naivete. You can be sure, the majority are counterfeit Christians. In the complete NT, it becomes evident that God’s truth is not looking for popularity. In fact, the truth will never be popular, at least in this world, especially to fake Christians.

What’s funny is the things and attitudes this world offers are the very things humans naturally go after. Why is that? Answer: because without Jesus Christ being our boss (Lord), we are nothing but intelligent, conniving animals looking for what pleases our sinful nature. Of course, most of us attempt to do that in a dignified manner.

In conclusion, the only thing to consider is that worldly pleasures, as nice and necessary as they seem, cannot be compared with the pleasures, peace and joy God through Christ gives to His faithful followers. This last sentence has to be experienced in order to believe its validity and truthfulness. You see, God offers everyone the best He has which has lasting value, while this world give what seems to satisfy temporarily, but leaves people with a wanton desire for more. It's a vicious never ending cycle. The worldly ways are easy; the other comes with dedication to living as God requires, which is not so easy.

Even as we separate ourselves from the ways of this world, it is important to know that we still, out of necessity, will have to mingle with people of this world, otherwise we would have to leave this world. But, at the same time, we must not associate with any people who call themselves Christians but are sexually immoral, greedy, idolaters, slanderers, drunkards or swindlers. With such people do not even eat. Paraphrased from 1st Corinthians 5: 9-11. The apostle Paul extends this list of no, no’s in 1st Corinthians 6:9-10.

And then, one’s place of employment or the people one deals with in business may have nothing to do with God. That cannot be helped; again it is a necessity to associate with them. Nevertheless, it is imperative to let those we associate with know and see our true colors, without badgering them.

Day Six

DISPLAY OF VITAL SIGNS, ETC.

1) Lean body mass: Not available

2) Body fat: Not available

3) Pulse: 62

4) Body Temperature: 96.2

5) Blood pressure: 120 over 71----120 over 80 is optimal: 160 over 100, is Grade 1 hypertension (mild), etc.

6) Body fluid’s pH display: same as the last two days, 5.5 This level of acidity is extremely unhealthy------ 7.0 is neutral; any digits below 7.0 is acidic; any digits above 7.0 is alkaline. Most healthy people, especially the young, will usually have reading in the alkaline range, while most older people will have readings in the acidic range--that spells trouble.

7) Weight: 125 pounds. That’s great, I lost just one pound in 24 hours.

8) Mental and emotional conditions; I guess my mental condition goes along with my physical condition. I felt much better physically, so I felt much better mentally.

9) Spiritual experiences: I felt upbeat today, because I prayed in ways I never prayed before.

10) Physical condition: This is the first day I woke-up with some energy. Although by evening I was feeling my oats.

11) Daily activities: Listened to the New Testament, 2.5 hours. No nap today. Added several paragraph to this weekends post; it just needs proofreading. I drove my car to do a little job, and did some house cleaning.

How will all the above figures and attitudes continually change my life/our lives in the uncomfortable and extreme conditions of prayer and fasting? Physically, your guess is as good as mine, but spiritually I am extremely optimistic. In the next few weeks, hopefully, we will find out.

Day Five

DISPLAY OF VITAL SIGNS, ETC.

1) Lean body mass: About 118 lbs

2) Body fat: Less than 6.5 %

3) Pulse: 52

4) Body Temperature: 95.8

5) Blood pressure: 120 over 70----120 over 80 is optimal: 160 over 100, is Grade 1 hypertension (mild), etc.

6) Body fluid’s pH display: same as yesterday, 5.5 This level of acidity is extremely unhealthy------ 7.0 is neutral; any digits below 7.0 is acidic; any digits above 7.0 is alkaline. Most healthy people, especially the young, will usually have reading in the alkaline range, while most older people will have readings in the acidic range--that spells trouble.

7) Weight: 126 pounds.

8) Mental and emotional conditions: I am a bit discouraged mentally today because of my physical condition.

9) Spiritual experiences: because of my discomfort, weakness and pain, it makes my spiritual situation a bit difficult to concentrate on prayer and spiritual matters. I hope somehow to overcome these barriers.

10) Physical condition: I am extremely weak. It is difficult to do anything. I just don’t want to move. I am even having a difficult time working on the computer. I wonder if it is my age why this fast is affecting me so harshly. I must not forget, I asked for it.

11) Daily activities: Listened to the New Testament, almost 2.5 hours. Took a long nap. Continued working on the post for this weekend; it just needs proofreading. I did not leave my apartment for three days.

How will all the above figures and attitudes continually change my life/our lives in the uncomfortable and extreme conditions of prayer and fasting? Physically, your guess is as good as mine, but spiritually I am extremely optimistic. In the next few weeks, hopefully, we will find out.

Day Four

DISPLAY OF VITAL SIGNS, ETC.

1) Lean body mass: About 120 lbs

2) Body fat: A little less than 6.5 %

3) Pulse: 56

4) Body Temperature: 96.4

5) Blood pressure: 120 over 65----120 over 80 is optimal: 160 over 100, is Grade 1 hypertension (mild), etc.

6) Body fluid’s pH display: same as yesterday, 6.0 which is bad------ 7.0 is neutral; any digits below 7.0 is acidic; any digits above 7.0 is alkaline. Most healthy people, especially the young, will usually have reading in the alkaline range, while most older people will have readings in the acidic range--that spells trouble.

7) Weight: 128.5 pounds.

8) Mental and emotional conditions: the same as yesterday. To my surprise, still slight lose of memory and slight slowing of cognitive function.

9) Spiritual experiences: Still up beat. While not being able to sleep last night, no more than 3 hours, therefore, I did much praying; more than ever before, while in bed.

10) Physical condition: I still feel weak. Pain in the small of the back is not as bad as yesterday. Today, every movement I made, took a conscious effort. I had more pain in my stomach today then yesterday. I had a poor nights sleep. I think I was wrong when I said that the third day would be the worse.

11) Daily activities: Listened to the New Testament, about 4.0 hours. Took 2 long naps. Continued working on the post for this weekend; almost finished. I did not leave my apartment for two days.

How will all the above figures and attitudes continually change my life/our lives in the uncomfortable and extreme conditions of prayer and fasting? Physically, your guess is as good as mine, but spiritually I am extremely optimistic. In the next few weeks, hopefully, we will find out.

Day Three

DISPLAY OF VITAL SIGNS, ETC.

1) Lean body mass: About 121 lbs

2) Body fat: A little less than 7 %

3) Pulse: 57

4) Body Temperature: 97.0

5) Blood pressure: 133 over 68----120 over 80 is optimal: 160 over 100, is Grade 1 hypertension (mild), etc.

6) Body fluid’s pH display: 6.0------ 7.0 is neutral; any digits below 7.0 is acidic; any digits above 7.0 is alkaline. Most healthy people, especially the young, will usually have reading in the alkaline range, while most older people will have readings in the acidic range--that spells trouble.

7) Weight: 130 pounds.

8) Mental and emotional conditions: To my surprise, slight lose of memory and slight slowing of cognitive function.

9) Spiritual experiences: Up beat. I did much more praying than the previous day.

10) Physical condition: I am very weak. Pain in the small of the back was severe, but only at times. The third day is usually the toughest day. After today, the body will start to acclimate itself to receiving no food , and then there will not be so much discomfort, hopefully.

11) Daily activities: Listened to New Testament about 4.5 hours. Took a nap. Washed clothes. Continued working on the post for this weekend. My favorite activity is to sit down or to lie down

How will all the above figures and attitudes continually change my life/our lives in the uncomfortable and extreme conditions of prayer and fasting? Physically, your guess is as good as mine, but spiritually I am extremely optimistic. In the next few weeks, hopefully, we will find out.

Day Two

DISPLAY OF VITAL SIGNS, ETC.

1) Lean body mass: About 124 lbs

2) Body fat: A little less than 7 %

3) Pulse: 53

4) Body Temperature: 96.3

5) Blood pressure: 122 over 53----120 over 80 is optimal: 160 over 100, is Grade 1 hypertension (mild), etc.

6) Body fluid’s pH display: 7.0------ 7.0 is neutral; any digits below 7.0 is acidic; any digits above 7.0 is alkaline. Most healthy people, especially the young, will usually have reading in the alkaline range, while most older people will have readings in the acidic range--that spells trouble.

7) Weight: 134 pounds.

8) Mental and emotional conditions: Normal

9) Spiritual experiences: Up beat. I need to pray more.

10) Physical condition: A little weak. My back started to ache in the evening; it seemed like my stomach is reaching for my spine.

11) Daily activities: Listened to New Testament about 3 hours. Did some repairs for friends. Fixed my rug shampooer and gave it a good cleaning. Took an hour nap. I was not as Thirsty as yesterday. Started working on post for this weekend.

How will all the above figures and attitudes continually change my life/our lives in the uncomfortable and extreme conditions of prayer and fasting? Physically, your guess is as good as mine, but spiritually I am extremely optimistic. In the next few weeks, hopefully, we will find out.

Day One

DISPLAY OF VITAL SIGNS, ETC.

1) Lean body mass: About 126.5 lbs

2) Body fat: About 7 %

3) Pulse: 58

4) Body Temperature: 98.4

5) Blood pressure: 114 over 70----120 over 80 is optimal: 160 over 100, is Grade 1 hypertension (mild), etc.

6) Body fluid’s pH display: 6.0------ 7.0 is neutral; any digits below 7.0 is acidic; any digits above 7.0 is alkaline. Most healthy people, especially the young, will usually have reading in the alkaline range, while most older people will have readings in the acidic range--that spells trouble.

7) Weight: 136 pounds.

8) Mental and emotional conditions: Normal

9) Spiritual experiences: Up beat. Praying on and off all day.

10) Physical condition: Normal

11) Daily activities: Listened to New Testament about 3 hours. Gave my frig. a good cleaning, since there was no perishable food in it. Helped friends prepare their house for moving in; about 2 hours. Going to go to bed a little earlier than usual. Drank a lot of water; I was thirsty all day.

How will all the above figures and attitudes continually change my life/our lives in the uncomfortable and extreme conditions of prayer and fasting? Physically, your guess is as good as mine, but spiritually I am extremely optimistic. In the next few weeks, hopefully, we will find out.

# 234: Who are God's Worst Enemies?

In the US, statistics say that we have approximately 280 million people who "profess" some sort of religion (including Christianity), and about 20 million who are atheists or agnostics. Those figures seem to indicate that America is mostly a religious/Christian country.

Now, looking at it from God’s vantage point—if that is even possible—what would God say on the spiritual condition of our great country? First, I must say this: According to the New Testament (NT)—the book through which God and Christ speak—those who say they are Christians, and at the same time, do not live according to what is taught therein, are religious hypocrites.

I am not sure how many readers are aware of how Christ feels and treats people who claim to be Christians but whose lives are centered on self-promotion. Well, though He loves them by desiring the best for them, He treats them with disdain. Please check Matthew, Chapter 23 to see what kind of language He uses to describe religious hypocrites.

And yet, throughout the complete NT, Christ has not one bad word to say against the Roman Empire or its people, who, most likely, were all atheists. Why was that? First, they did not blaspheme our God, His Name or purpose by their ungodly lives since they didn’t acknowledge Him as God or Lord (boss). Yet, Christ did not approve of their ungodly conduct. What He did was to ignore them, as if they were not His business, at least during the three years of His worldly ministry.

What does this tell us about how God regards the people in the US? The 20 million nonbelievers, although they don’t believe much, if anything, which is written in Scripture, are condemned to spend eternity in a place of torment. Again, since they don’t believe that, it doesn’t bother them one bit. They say, "This life is it. Religion and God are only fairytales meant for those who can’t stand up on their own two feet, and therefore need an invisible crutch to take them through this dog-eat-dog world."

Now, concerning the other 280 million, they mostly are the ones who have devastated and continue to devastate God. Some will ask, "How so?" The reason being, the vast majority who profess Christ as their Lord do not obey His instructions as the way to eternal life. By the lives they live, they disgrace the name of God and Christ. In other words, hypocrites shame Him. And even worse than that, because of their ungodly lives, atheists feel religion is a scam, thus keeping them from becoming disciples of Christ. That is where the real atrocities of hypocrisy come into play.

Therefore, hypocrisy is worse than atheism. Unknowingly, hypocrites are destroying the chances of millions of atheists and their children from becoming genuine Christians. You see, atheist or not, their ungodly lives are keeping others from becoming Christians to any great degree. Fake Christians are keeping atheists from joining forces with God. Therefore, Christian hypocrites are the active enemies of God, more so than atheists.

To accuse people who go to church and live decent lives of being hypocrites is accusing them of an egregious blasphemy, like calling them traitors, bastards, whores and dozens of other shameful and disgraceful names. That may be the reason the word “hypocrite” is not used in Christian circles to any great degree. It could be said that it is a fighting word.

How could anyone come to the conclusion that they themselves are hypocrites? The way conditions are in Christianity nowadays, it might be one of the most difficult conclusions to come to, since we love to put our best face forward in our religious devotion. As intelligent as humans are, it is a crying shame we can’t see the truth when it is right before our eyes.

I do know this: If a person was really sincere in finding out the answer, if they spent a little time in reading the New Testament every day in conjunction with this blog, they would quickly know the correct answer. To do something about it is where the difficulty would come in. The only possible way would be if they were inspired by the Holy Spirit. And to get the Spirit to inspire anyone would take honesty of heart. Then, it still would be difficult to change their ways when it comes to religion. Believe it or not, I am still changing, seems like every day. We never get to a point where God can’t teach us some new principles which will better our relationship with Him.

The reason it will be difficult is because, all our lives we have been controlled by our human nature, and what our human nature desires is contrary to what God’s Spirit desires. Remember, it feels good to do what naturally comes easy, while doing what God’s Spirit wants, most often, will be a challenge. I write about that principle quite often in this blog. Then, if some can’t—or better yet, don't want—to change because of the high price—not monetary—it would be better to leave their lives of hypocrisy and enjoy themselves in this world than to be cheated of the "good" things this world offers and the good life in the hereafter. At least this way they won’t bring any more shame and disgrace to God and Christ and their religion: Christianity.

In closing, I am certain that this topic of hypocrisy in the Christian church isn’t a pleasant topic to read or discuss, because many may be affected. Of course, if some are not aware of what is expected of them once they accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, all the above words will sound like hogwash. All I can say is, don’t prejudge this post. I guarantee with my life that what is written is in accordance with Godly logic and the NT. Test me. Leave me a comment if what is written is not in sync with Scripture.