We are taught to hallow God—especially when we pray. Recognizing God as Creator of all things will help us praise and glorify God when we speak to Him.
Dave Harris
Preaching the Gospel and Feeding the Flock
compiled by Dave Harris
“Will America Help Israel Against Iran?” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:
As Joe Biden visits Israel, hopes are high that a close relationship between America and Israel against Iran will be established and maintained. Lip services are clearly given to this effect, but how reliable is this “unshakable commitment”? Radical differences in approach have already been revealed. When push comes to shove, will America or any other nation help Israel, or will Israel be left in the cold?
A Tech Team Meeting was held on Sunday, July 10, 2022, and it was hosted by Eric Rank via Google Meets. Reports were presented covering options to You Tube for presenting our live services along with discussing our Ad campaigns and Feast plans.
“God Is… Our Destiny,” a new booklet written by Norbert Link, has been sent to graphic artist Shelly Bruno for finalization.
“Europas Aufstieg und Fall,” is the title of this Sabbath’s new German sermon, presented by Norbert Link. Title in English: “Europe’s Rise and Fall.”
“Der Reichtum der Verständigen,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath in Germany by Mike Richter, is now posted. Title in English: “The Wealth of the Wise.”
“The Second Amendment and Gun Laws—Comments on News and Prophecy, July 9, 2022,” the first message presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:
A Mass Shooting at a Fourth of July Parade; the assassination of Japan’s Shinzo Abe; and the call for tougher gun control. Why is this discussion oftentimes hypocritical, and what is overlooked when addressing the Second Amendment and the Law of God? We also speak about the mess in the UK; the confusion pertaining to the definition of “a woman”; and the reasons for the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah.
“Specks and Planks,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Michael Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:
We are admonished in Luke 6:41-42 to examine ourselves first before we point the finger at others. We want to avoid being hypocrites when judging others unrighteously, because we will also be judged by our actions.
Preaching the Gospel and Feeding the Flock
compiled by Dave Harris
“Boris Johnson Resigns and Leaves a Mess,” is the title of a new StandingWatch program presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:
Boris Johnson announced his resignation as Conservative Party leader, but wants to remain as a caretaker prime minister until a successor is found. This crisis comes at a terrible time for the Brits, and it has been said that the country looks like a shambles. Before his resignation, Johnson made the spectacular suggestion of recreating the ancient Roman Empire in Europe, which will indeed rise again, but the consequences for the UK will be disastrous. On top of that, it has been said that the UK is totally unprepared for a nuclear world war which could ultimately annihilate all of mankind.
“Boris Johnson hinterlässt einen Scherbenhaufen,” is the title of a new AufPostenStehen program, presented by Norbert Link. This program in German covers the topic presented above.
A new Member Letter (July 2022) has been written by Brian Gale. In his letter, Mr. Gale reflects on the worldwide chaos now occurring—a time very much like that of Noah’s day. He further encourages us to not “be caught unawares” when God decides to act to put a stop to all the evil.
“God Is… Our Destiny,” a new booklet written by Norbert Link, has entered final a final editing before sending it to graphic artist Shelly Bruno.
“Die Bedeutung von Gottes Heiligen Herbstfeiertagen,” the German translation of our English booklet, “The Meaning of God’s Fall Holy Days,” has reached the final review cycle.
“David und Absalom… schuldlos ist keiner!” is the title of this Sabbath’s German sermon, presented by Norbert Link. Title in English: “David and Absalom… None Without Fault!”
“Erfolgreiche Sündenüberwindung,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath in Germany by Andreas Raetz, is now posted. Title in English: “Successful Overcoming of Sins.”
“America No Longer a Great Nation—Comments on News and Prophecy, July 2, 2022,” the first message presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:
President Donald Trump said it well at a recent rally in Mendon, Illinois: “It is no longer a great nation. It is a nation in decline.” He then went on to explain as to why he came to that conclusion which is, sadly, very true. In this program, we also discuss the possibility of “legal civil war” in the USA, as well as the willingness of many American citizens to take up arms against the government “at one point soon.” Finally, we quote recent comments from Pope Francis which echo what Herbert Armstrong already said in 1945.
“Greatly Divided We Fall,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Kalon Mitchell, is now posted. Here is a summary:
In a world that is divided on all sides – where do we stand in regards to our relationship with God and with our fellow Christians? We have to be united or we will fall.
Preaching the Gospel and Feeding the Flock
compiled by Dave Harris
“And the Beast Is…” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:
Many have tried to figure out who the beast is—that very charismatic end-time personage mentioned in the Book of Revelation. But what does the BIBLE tell us about the beast? How else is the beast referred to, and what are the national origins and characteristics of the beast? Where will the beast arise, and where not? And will everybody be able to recognize the beast?
The German AufPostenStehen program with the title, “Und das Tier ist…” covers the same topic.
“Warum bald nur sehr wenige überleben werden!” is the title of this Sabbath’s new German sermon, presented by Michael Link. Title in English: “Why only very few will survive soon.”
“Freut Euch!”, the sermonette presented last Sabbath in Germany by Manuel Giermann, is now posted. Title in English: “Rejoice!”
“It is Written,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Frank Bruno, is now posted. Here is a summary:
It is easy to take all the world’s literature for granted these days—there are many choices and many outlets from which we can read, learn, and enjoy great works. Scripture is different in that it was given to mankind to get to know God and draw closer when He calls us. It is so important that we utilize the gift of the written word contained in our Bible and understand that each word builds on another as God intended. In this Sermonette we will cover various Scriptures that help us use these words given by God for our spiritual growth.
“Why Change?”, the sermon presented last Sabbath by Eric Rank, is now posted. Here is a summary:
Sometimes it is important to change, and sometimes it is important to resist change. How can we discern the right things to commit to if we want to live a life that pleases God?
What should I do if my prayers aren’t being answered?
While there are certainly times when God does not immediately answer our prayers because He chooses to respond in a more important way for us (compare 2 Corinthians 12:7-10), the Bible also clearly reveals that sin will affect our prayers.
It is important to understand that God has promised to respond to His people, and we find this very fundamental but absolutely vital condition set forth in the Book of Zechariah:
“‘The LORD has been very angry with your fathers. Therefore say to them, “Thus says the LORD of hosts: ‘Return to Me,’ says the LORD of hosts, ‘and I will return to you,’ says the LORD of hosts. ‘Do not be like your fathers, to whom the former prophets preached, saying, “Thus says the LORD of hosts: ‘Turn now from your evil ways and your evil deeds.’” But they did not hear nor heed Me,’ says the LORD’” (Zechariah 1:2-4).
God is always abundantly ready to help us in our times of need, but by sinning we can cut ourselves off from God and from Him hearing or answering our prayers:
“Behold, the LORD’S hand is not shortened, That it cannot save; Nor His ear heavy, That it cannot hear. But your iniquities have separated you from your God; And your sins have hidden His face from you, So that He will not hear” (Isaiah 59:1-2).
An example of this is set forth in the parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector in Luke 18, verses 9-14. The Pharisee thought he was righteous and without blame before God (Verses 11-12); however, the Tax Collector openly and with heartfelt humility pleaded, saying, “‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’” (Verse 13).
The Bible has many other explicit examples of how sin separated individuals and nations from having contact with God—so that He would not and did not answer their prayers (compare John 9:31).
In examining our own relationship with God, a FIRST STEP is to STOP SINNING! That means we must turn from disobedience to obedience to have God answer our prayers:
“And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight” (1 John 3:22).
A SECOND STEP in having God answer our prayers is DON’T GIVE UP! Jesus taught us that we should be tenacious in our prayers to God:
“‘Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened’” (Matthew 7:7-8).
Just such an example of one who prayed with persistent determination is that of Hannah, the mother of Samuel the prophet, and her remarkable story is found in 1 Samuel, chapters 1 and 2. Hannah was childless for many years and was constantly chided by the other wife of her husband, Elkanah, who did have children. Finally, Hannah did conceive and bore Samuel as well as other children. Hannah did not give up, and God did answer her prayers.
The Bible tells of many others who were faithfully praying for years before God dramatically intervened in their lives:
“There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of what was called the Italian Regiment, a devout man and one who feared God with all his household, who gave alms generously to the people, and prayed to God always” (Acts 10:1-2).
This man, his family and friends, were chosen by God to be the first of the Gentiles to “‘hear the word of the gospel and believe’” (Acts 15:7). It is evident that Cornelius was steadfast and faithful in praying to God, and God answered him in ways far beyond what he might even have hoped—a fact that applies to those who don’t give up in praying to God.
Remember how willing God is to hear and answer His servants:
“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen” (Ephesians 3:20).
Also, note how God responded to King Solomon’s prayer:
“Then God said to him: ‘Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked long life for yourself, nor have asked riches for yourself, nor have asked the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern justice, behold, I have done according to your words; see, I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has not been anyone like you before you, nor shall any like you arise after you. And I have also given you what you have not asked: both riches and honor, so that there shall not be anyone like you among the kings all your days’” (1 Kings 3:11-13).
Remember, we must never give up in praying to God (compare Luke 18:1-8)—even if we don’t get the answer right away. Trust God completely to answer you in the way that is best.
A THIRD STEP in having God answer our prayers is to BELIEVE GOD! Sometimes, perhaps, we simply need to re-examine the fact that God requires that we believe Him.
“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6).
Jesus taught about how to have our prayers answered:
“‘Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them’” (Mark 11:24).
James writes of how we should pray, using the example of requesting “wisdom”:
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways” (James 1:5-8).
Jesus was asked to heal a centurion’s servant, and He agreed to do so:
“And Jesus said to him, ‘I will come and heal him.’ The centurion answered and said, ‘Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof. But only speak a word, and my servant will be healed. For I also am a man under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to this one, “Go,” and he goes; and to another, “Come,” and he comes; and to my servant, ‘”Do this,” and he does it.’ When Jesus heard it, He marveled, and said to those who followed, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!’… Then Jesus said to the centurion, ‘Go your way; and as you have believed, so let it be done for you.’ And his servant was healed that same hour” (Matthew 8:7-10, 13).
We can have great faith and truly believe God if, when we pray, we are doing the following:
“Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14).
Finally, we have the supreme help of Jesus Christ in having our prayers answered:
“Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:14-16).
Lead Writer: Dave Harris
Preaching the Gospel and Feeding the Flock
compiled by Dave Harris
“We Are in a Recession Now!” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:
We are experiencing terrible economic times, and we are told that things will get worse. The “solutions” offered by our government, if any, are failing miserably. Is there hope to see an end to this total misery and disaster?
“Will Israel Attack Iran?” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:
The possibility of an Israeli military strike against Iran exists. Why do we say this? And what would be the consequences for Israel?
“Wird Israel den Iran angreifen?” is the title of a new AufPostenStehen program presented by Norbert Link. This program covers the same topic in German as described above in English.
“HABEN WIR EINE UNSTERBLICHE SEELE?”, a new German booklet translated from our English version, “Do We Have an Immortal Soul?”, has been sent to Germany for printing.
“Warum der Prediger Salomo missverstanden wird” is the title of this Sabbath’s new German sermon, presented by Norbert Link. Title in English: “Why the Book of Ecclesiastes Is Misunderstood.”
“Die Grundfesten Gottes,” the sermon presented last Sabbath in Germany by Thilo Hanstein, is now posted. Title in English: “The Foundations of God.”
“Himmel und Hölle für immer?”, the sermonette presented last Sabbath in Germany by Tahir Coban, is now posted. Title in English: “Heaven and Hell forever?”
“The Silver Suitcase,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Brian Gale, is now posted. Here is a summary:
This message shows how a mistake that was made can be turned into a very good learning experience in not taking the truth for granted.
“Rumors, Fake News and the Truth,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:
All of us are potential victims of fake news, false reports and rumors. We are confronted with them everywhere—including and especially in regard to the teachings of the Bible, but we also find them in the worldly mass media and the propaganda of the lying press. Why do so many believe rumors and false reports so quickly? And how can we distinguish between what is true and what is false?
Preaching the Gospel and Feeding the Flock
compiled by Dave Harris
A Tech Team meeting was conducted via Google Meet on Sunday, June 12, 2022. Hosted by Eric Rank, we discussed our advertising campaigns, video publishing and possible alternatives to You Tube for live services as future needs arise.
“Die Quelle der Kraft,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath in Germany by Christian Mrosek, is now posted. Title in English: “The Source of Power.”
“America’s Sexual Confusion and Its Unethical House Committee—Comments on News and Prophecy, June 11, 2022,” the first message presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:
America is today plagued by sexual confusion; an incredible economic crisis; an incompetent leadership; and unethical proceedings by a sham-and farce committee. In addition, Russia keeps threatening Europe; Europe shows its true colors of conquest towards the USA; and the woman riding the beast is back. Are we prepared for the next major event?
“God’s Spirit of Mercy,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:
In this world, we do not find much mercy. Rather, we see a lack of love; a thirst for revenge; and unmerciful conduct. But God shows us that we must be merciful in order to obtain His mercy. In many cases, self-righteousness prevents people from being merciful, as they may think that they are so much better than others; that they could never do what others have done; and that it is therefore necessary to dig up what has been buried. Such an attitude will never give us inward peace.
Preaching the Gospel and Feeding the Flock
compiled by Dave Harris
“Civil War, Violence and Misery in the USA” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:
Is the United States going to experience another Civil War in our days? Alarming signs point at that possibility. This program explores the reasons for these frightening developments, and points at illuminating passages from the Bible.
A new member letter for June has been written. It is being printed and has been posted on our Website. In the letter, Paul Niehoff describes God’s love, concern and compassion for His people.
The new German booklet (“Haben wir eine unsterbliche Seele?”) translated from our English booklet, “Do We Have an Immortal Soul,” has been sent to graphic artist Shelly Bruno in preparation for printing.
The draft of a new booklet about the nature of God and our destiny by Norbert Link has entered the first round of editorial reviews.
“Warum Gott die Abtreibung verbietet!” is the title for this Sabbath’s German sermon, presented by Norbert Link. Title in English: “Why God Prohibits Abortion!”
“Der Heilige Geist IN uns!” the sermonette presented last Sabbath in Germany by Robert Muhr, is now posted. Title in English: “The Holy Spirit IN Us!”
“Our Corrupt Political and Legal System—Comments on News and Prophecy, June 4, 2022,” a message presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:
To ban or not to ban assault rifles; victory for Dr. Oz in Pennsylvania; acquittal of Clinton lawyer Michael Sussmann; military control of Hollywood productions; and the controversial arrest of Peter Navarro—what do all these events have in common? Do they show by example the incredible corruption in our political and legal systems? If so, what is a true Christian supposed to do? Is it too far-fetched to say that our eternal salvation may be at stake?
“Mental Stability for the People of God,” the first split-sermon presented last Sabbath by Kalon Mitchell, is now posted. Here is a summary:
Mental stability for God’s people is paramount. It is not something that we often talk about but it is very important for us to realize that each of us have issues with staying in a mentally healthy place. When we need it most God is there to help us when we turn to Him and allow Him to help us. He is waiting for us to take the power and the strength that He offers. Even in the midst of fear, anxiety and hard stresses, which we ALL face, there is no place for shame.
“Honor To Be Honored,” the second split-sermon presented last Sabbath by Michael Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:
By obeying God and keeping His commandments, we honor Him and in return, He will honor us. At the same time, we are shown in the Bible how we are to honor others and how we will be honored in return.
“Offenbarung Jesu Christi,” the Offertory for Pentecost presented by Manuel Mueller, is now posted. Title in English: “Revelation of Jesus Christ.”
“The Right Attitude,” the Offertory for Pentecost presented by Paul Niehoff, is now posted. Here is a summary:
What attitude does God have concerning His offering of His Son for us, and with that as an example, what attitude should we have when we bring an offering to God?
“The Gift of God Which Is in You,” the sermon for Pentecost presented by Dave Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:
Christians are given exceedingly great and precious promises to be partakers of the divine nature and to be among the firstfruits of salvation. To that end, God has given us the gift of His Holy Spirit. Are we faithful with what God has given to us?
Pentecost: The Gift of God Which Is in You
Christians are given exceedingly great and precious promises to be partakers of the divine nature and to be among the firstfruits of salvation. To that end, God has given us the gift of His Holy Spirit. Are we faithful with what God has given to us?
Preaching the Gospel and Feeding the Flock
compiled by Dave Harris
“Theocratic Abortion—a God-Given Right in Many Religions” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:
Why do many religions believe and teach that abortion is a religious right under some or even all circumstances? Why do many Jews believe this; why do many Muslims believe this… and why do many who claim to be Christians believe this as well? And even those who don’t believe this may sometimes take a very hypocritical approach in the matter. The Guardian published a telling article on June 2 about theocratic abortion rights, given or bestowed on us by immediate divine guidance. But is that the Truth?
“Gerüchte, Fake News und die Wahrheit,” is the title of this Sabbath’s German sermon, presented by Norbert Link. Title in English: “Rumors, Fake News and the Truth.”
“Gottes Geist der Barmherzigkeit (Pfingsten 2022),” is the title of the German sermon for Pentecost, presented by Norbert Link. Title in English: “God’s Spirit of Mercy (Pentecost 2022)”
“In aller Liebe,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath in Germany by Robert Indlekofer, is now posted. Title in English: “With All Love.”
“You’re Better Than That!”, the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Dave Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:
Sometimes we meet with disapproval by our actions when we make mistakes we shouldn’t have made. In fact, the Word of God challenges us to become better. Do we have eyes to see and ears to hear God’s correction?
“When Satan Messes with You,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Eric Rank, is now posted. Here is a summary:
As unpopular as it is to say, Satan is the ruler in this current age. He never ceases to find our weaknesses and exploit them so that we turn away from God. How can we tell when Satan is attacking us and what can we do to overcome his influence, taunts, and temptations?
