Racism.

 Racism is colour coded. At this moment the Black Lives Matter [BLM] see it as a white privilege colour. At the same time those with a different skin colour can and often do view others’ colour with suspicion.

Two main factors feed into and feed upon Race Discrimination. One is the theory of Evolution. This relegates races from inferior to superior and is affected by [could I add, infected by] a judgement stemming from a person’s country and culture. This theory by the arch racist, Charles Darwin, has been responsible for unnumbered deaths.

The other contributing factor is found in the human heart. Within it is a twisted, self-seeking and unpleasant principle called Sin. Though all are infected, it will and does use the Racism issue for its own gain or revenge. That is so easily seen in the BLM inspired violence and burnings rather than pursuing justice.

There isn’t one Nation, nor one person immune from this poisonous attitude. How then can it be subdued and controlled? One, the theory of Evolution must be overturned. This is only possible by the teaching of the Judeo-Christian Bible. It declares in the beginning God created … Adam and Eve. From this couple came Humanity. We are one blood. What is happening when Racism runs riot, is actually ‘Family Abuse.’ That means the Creator of the human family will one day call the perpetrators to account. That will not be a good day or  result in a good outcome.

The other need is for an inner experience which can change and dominate the inner twisted sin nature. That requires the One with the authority and skill to perform such a life changing task. The Person appointed to do it, is Jesus Christ. His requirement is that you, individually, place your life in His care. This requires an act of trust.

Jesus, as Lord and Saviour, cleanses and forgives the person and implants a new life’s principle. It is the Grace and knowledge of God. It, is nurtured by reading the Bible and worship. There are many wonderful facets to this new inner principle, one being Love. It is an inner power to love God, love yourself and love others. This is the best and the only long-lasting answer to Racism.

For more details on Creation and the beginning of Humanity and how our different skin colour came to be, Google ‘Answers in Genesis’ [Ken Ham] and/or ‘Creation Research’ [John Mackay].

©Ray Hawkins September 2020

Happiness which Endures Tough Times

An old saying goes ‘There’s gold in them thar hills.’ Only trouble is you have to go and search for it.

It is a similar in regards to happiness. It isn’t found in the hills or valleys or in things although many can find enjoyment in such things. They can be likened to ‘fools gold’ for they look like the real thing but haven’t the value or lasting worth of real gold. Happiness is something that possesses the heart and mind. It proves its worth and lasting power in tough times.

Can people in Syria, Algeria, Hungary and any number of strife ridden countries know true and lasting happiness? If so, where can it be found? Strange though it may sound true and lasting happiness is founding a Person and His book. This person is Jesus Christ. His book is the Bible. The word we write as ‘happiness’ is translated ‘Blessed’ in this sacred book. In the closing letter called Revelation this term is used at least seven (7) times. That is strange when you think of it for the letter is one dealing with the future and warfare, judgement and conflict. Even the writer, John, when he penned this epistle was a prisoner of Caesar on the isle of Patmos. Yet he was happy! This is his opening words: ‘Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear and keep what is written in it; for the time is near.’ Revelation 1:3

The promise to the reader about experiencing happiness from this book is there for the receiving. Unfortunately, between the eye of the reader and the mind there can be many distractions or causes of ‘blindness.’

Happiness cannot be framed and put on the wall as a certificate of merit. To be blessed by God has its high moments of exhilaration and the quieter times of delight. Our defence against a loss of happiness is explained by John in: ‘… blessed are those who hear and keep what is written …’ It’s all in the word ‘keep’. In the NIV translation it says, ‘take it to heart’. The idea suggests a believer should be a watchman on a castle battlement keeping a lookout for enemy infiltration. Our telescope to spot danger is what is written. At the same time God’s word is a microscope. We turn it upon our soul’s attitudes and behaviour. Are we being true to what is written?

In Revelation John takes us through current and foretold events which threaten the happiness of God’s people. This explains why he joins happiness to keeping what is written. Revelation begins with the majesty of Christ and His ability to thrill the hearts of the faithful. Then it presents the judgements of Christ against all that corrupts, oppresses and denies godliness. The book concludes with the glories of Christ’s victory and the new heaven and earth. As we face uncertain times in a turbulent world, the Bible nourishes faith and strengthens hope. It also warns and informs us about coming events. As we read our understanding about God being in control grows. That’s happiness. From even a casual look around the globe there is more tears than laughter, more fear than cheer. How can any reasonable person experience the fruit of happiness which is peace, hope, love and a sense of eternal safety in the face of death? It comes from knowing that Jesus is Lord of your life and that nothing can separate you from Him. (Romans 8) Happiness is the confidence that Jesus Christ keeps His word and will share your trials and troubles and bring you ultimately into His presence. Happiness is the contentment which fills the heart knowing He has set aside a day when Justice will be meted out.

How can we be sure?


more about happiness as promised
by Christ
in my latest devotional.



Read the letter of Revelation and realise this has been given by the risen Lord Jesus to guard us, guide us and bless us. If we face life’s madness and people’s cruelties without Him and His word we have no foundation for happiness, now or in eternity. However st the end of the book promise’s ‘Behold, I am coming soon! Blessed (happy) is he who keeps the words of the prophecy in this book.’ (Revelation 22:7)

Boundary Breakers of the Law

The book of Proverbs has great sayings about life and relationships. The one in chapter 29:16 is so apt for our world today. A look down history’s ‘corridor’ verifies its truth. ‘When the wicked are in authority, transgression increases …’

What do we mean by ‘transgression?’ It means crossing the boundary into unlawful territory. When the sign says ‘keep out’ and you don’t. Why would such conditions prevail under the rule of the wicked? Usually such reigns are cruel and oppressive. The standard set is what the unprincipled, the oppressed and the unrighteous will follow. If all that they can expect is defined by this life then the saying ‘let us eat, drink and be merry for tomorrow we die’ rings true.’ Perhaps we could rearrange the saying a little. ‘Let us cheat, lie and be violent for tomorrow we die.’

When religion overtly or covertly endorses such attitudes what was meant to erect boundaries actually destroys them. The treatment of women of all ages, as ‘things’, is in the news as they are used and abused by violent men! From Papua New Guinea to Pakistan, from the Western to Eastern cultures men crash the barriers of respect and restraint. The tragedy of child abuse and slavery has destroyed so many lives. So true is Proverbs 29:2b ‘When the wicked rule, the people groan.’ In Australia a Royal Commission is being set up to investigate corruption in the Union movement. There are numerous areas around the world which also needs such a Commission.

When the wicked smash the boundaries ‘Hell’s horror’ stalks the land. However who defined the boundaries? 1 John 3:4 ‘Sin is lawlessness.’ The word for sin means a falling short of a standard. Which standard? Mohammed’s! He was a mere man who fell short of the standard. Buddha? Offered fine words for selfish living but also missed the standard. The standard must be set by the Lord God of Hosts, the Creator. He has recorded these in the Bible. No other book can measure up to its standard. No other book can endure the scrutiny it has endured. No other book spells out the benefits for staying within the boundaries. No other book reveals dire consequences for breaking through the moral and spiritual boundaries God has set. No other book reveals the way to restore the broken boundaries and lives. No other book points the person to the One, Jesus Christ, who can give you a clean heart and a new beginning. He also gives the power and wisdom to live within the boundaries.

If you took the time to look at society you will notice some interesting facts. It is the Law of the Lord Jesus which is attacked by the nice and not so nice lawless ones. As one ‘T’ shirt worn by a young women put it ‘No god, No shame.’ Such an attitude leads to ‘No shame, no blame’ and ultimately they hope ‘no consequences and no condemnation.’ In every case the ‘T’ shirts will be wrong. However in the meantime that personal view will spill over and dominate politics, morality and the treatment of the unborn, the aged, infirm and the needy around the world. It is such lawless people, views and behaviour the Lord Jesus declared His people must resist. Indeed Jesus calls upon us to be boundary riders preserving righteousness, truth and caring for the poor and despised. It is by such men and women of faith Proverbs 29:2 speaks about ‘When the righteous are authority the people rejoice.’

Jesus made a promise. To walk with Him will prevent you from walking in the darkness of the lawless. To walk with Jesus is to walk in His light of righteousness, truth and grace. It will be a blessing to some. Others will be offended, guilt-ridden and curse you. However as you live within the boundaries He has set, you will know a hope, peace, health and meaning no lawless participant will ever experience. By the power of our risen Lord Jesus, He will keep us safe. By His grace we will measure up to His standard.

Bullying's Antidote

Bullying has taken on new dimensions through Social Media. Some of the results have been deadly especially to the young and vulnerable. Reports indicate that this attitude has increased substantially in recent years. At the moment Governments are establishing commissions and committees to see why it is increasing and what can be done.

However in the context of global conflicts and the loss of a moral compass about what is right and what is wrong, should we be surprised? With young and old captured by the electronic world of violent games why be surprised by similar behaviour. When children are spectators to their mother being assaulted by her husband what lessons are being taught? Even those who have a religious tendency don’t seem immune from perpetrating acts of violence, deceit and oppression.

In Australia the Islamists appear on the news insisting their religion is one of peace. With the backdrop of Syria and a host of other countries such words are a sad and unfunny joke. Some like the Buddhists try and sidestep violence by renouncing desire. The problem is passion and pain are on the ‘doorstep’ when they come out of yoga or meditation. Christians cannot claim any moral high ground. Church history can be a record of Denominational blood letting. Is there any hope for our world of violence?

In essence the problem is personal. When there isn’t any inner peace there will always be relational turmoil. In the bible book of James is the following quote. ‘Those conflicts and disputes among you, where do they come from? Do they not come from your cravings that are at war within you? You want something and do not have it; so you commit murder. And you covet something and cannot obtain it; so you engage in disputes and conflicts.’ (James 4:1–2) Multiply this by what ever number add into the mix national vested interests and racial divides and we soon enter various ‘war zones.’

There isn’t any doubt individuals and nations want peace. However they want it their way. The Lord has given Governments authority to rule according to law. Unfortunately the human heart is devious and seeks to circumvent or overthrow such well intentioned laws. The bible says there will be peace talks and calls for peace, but sudden destruction always crashes the ‘peace party.’ Because the human heart is so devious and corrupt before peace can reign the heart must experience a great big makeover. How can this take place. In reality there are two options. One is highlighted by Islam, especially by the extreme expressions of Islam such as Hezbollah. Imposing Sharia law, restricting the rights of women and adhering to the teachings of Imans from the Koran is their solution. All right if you are a male without any emotional capacity for the well being and education of your wife and daughters.

The other option is promoted by the Christian Faith. It seeks to work from within the mind and heart of a person. The teachings of Jesus Christ are designed to dominate the human nature with His love, grace and mercy. Jesus is the Prince of Peace and offers this quality of life to His disciples. Notice, Jesus is not a pacifist! His peace comes at the point of the sword, not to the body but to the heart. His sword is actually the cut and thrust of His teaching which aims to cut away ungodliness and replace it with righteousness. It is when a person is at peace with God through yielding to His Son, Jesus, that the person is able to control his or her tendencies for bullying and abuse.



The bible is God's directory to peace.



For inner peace to penetrate a believer’s realm of influence the Lord has supplied His Holy Spirit and the holy scriptures. Neglect these and peace is squashed by selfish obsessions. Walk in step with Christ’s gifts and you will bless others with peace. There is much, much more on this subject from Christ’s perspective. Secure a bible and a concordance and go on a journey of discovering the peace which passes all our understanding.

The Darkside of God #2.

The Dark Side of God #2

What God Hates

Hatred is so corrosive to the human heart.

The first murder stemmed from Cain’s anger over his brother’s sacrifice being accepted whilst his was rejected. Anger festered into hatred. Hatred killed. (Genesis ch.4)

Why then does the Bible tell us that there are things within the human heart and experience He hates? Could I suggest there isn’t any comparison between the heart of God and our hearts. He is Holy, we are corrupt. He has no cause to feel threatened by anyone or thing. Our hatred usually stems from  some selfish motive, perceived or real hurt, fear or greed.

The Lord does not hate certain things because they are a threat to Him. Rather it is because of what such hatred does to His people, His creation and His beauty within a person. Consider the following passages in the light of how serious the Lord God of Hosts views the pernicious matters raised.

In our previous blog we saw how idolatry was an abomination to God. This is reinforced in Deuteronomy 12:31: ‘you must not do the same (as the nations do) because every abhorrent thing that the Lord hates they have done for their gods.’

The Psalmist asserts that the God he knows has a hatred for evildoers and lovers of violence. Stop for a moment. He hates those who do such things and yet! An yet it was for just such people (and all others) His Son, Jesus, died for on the cross.  Therefore while God hates the actions and their results He has done all in His power to deliver people from out of the promised judgement.

In Proverbs 6:16-19 are listed another six we considered in  the previous blog. In chapter 8:13 the author records four more attitudes of the heart offensive to the character of God. Pride, arrogance, the way of evil and perverted speech make up issues we would all wrestle with from time to time.

Over and over there is a theme in the prophets of how God loathes meaningless, faithless and corrupt worship. People with hearts far from God yet put on a show for onlookers are scorned by the One they profess to worship. We must always remember that the Lord sees the heart, weighs the motives, not how precise the ritual is performed. Amos 5:21: ‘I hate, I despise your festivals, and I take no delight in your solemn assemblies.’ In verse 24 He called for the priests and people to cause a flood of justice and righteousness to fill the land. A cry I think can still be heard today.

In the climactic book of the Bible, Revelation we are confronted with what must sum up the cause of God’s hatred. In chapter 2:6 and 15 we read of Christ’s hatred for the works of the lawless and their teachings. How do these two bundle up all those listed above, and more? Because the corrupt human heart rejects the righteous and holy Law of God and replaces it with their own views, prejudices, ways of worship and morality!

The hatred the Lord God holds towards such motives and actions is only overcome by His grace. He has provided forgiveness and cleansing from such self destructive and eternally damning residents in the soul. That is the wonder, the power, the thrill for us about the cross of Christ. God loved us so much He has dealt with the things He hated within each of us. However to make His love effective personally requires a personal handing over of your life to Him through faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.

Ray (no longer hated) Hawkins