Congratulations!

[Valid RSS] This is a valid RSS feed.

Recommendations

This feed is valid, but interoperability with the widest range of feed readers could be improved by implementing the following recommendations.

Source: http://toddhampson.com/feed/

  1. <?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0"
  2. xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
  3. xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
  4. xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
  5. xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
  6. xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
  7. xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
  8. >
  9.  
  10. <channel>
  11. <title>Todd Hampson</title>
  12. <atom:link href="http://toddhampson.com/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
  13. <link>https://toddhampson.com</link>
  14. <description>Understand. Thrive.</description>
  15. <lastBuildDate>Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:29:37 +0000</lastBuildDate>
  16. <language>en-US</language>
  17. <sy:updatePeriod>
  18. hourly </sy:updatePeriod>
  19. <sy:updateFrequency>
  20. 1 </sy:updateFrequency>
  21. <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3</generator>
  22.  
  23. <image>
  24. <url>https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/cropped-favicon-60x60.png</url>
  25. <title>Todd Hampson</title>
  26. <link>https://toddhampson.com</link>
  27. <width>32</width>
  28. <height>32</height>
  29. </image>
  30. <item>
  31. <title>Abraham&#8217;s Question</title>
  32. <link>https://toddhampson.com/news/abraham-question/</link>
  33. <comments>https://toddhampson.com/news/abraham-question/#respond</comments>
  35. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Todd]]></dc:creator>
  36. <pubDate>Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:29:37 +0000</pubDate>
  37. <category><![CDATA[Devotional]]></category>
  38. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://toddhampson.com/?p=914</guid>
  39.  
  40. <description><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="576" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Copy-of-invitation-18-1024x576.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Copy-of-invitation-18-1024x576.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Copy-of-invitation-18-300x169.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Copy-of-invitation-18-768x432.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Copy-of-invitation-18.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p>At the beginning of each new month, look for a glimpse into my devotional journal where I use the S.O.A.P. method for Bible study. I trust it will be as encouraging for you as it is for me and if you haven&#8217;t already, give this method a try. SCRIPTURE Genesis 18:23b—Will you indeed wipe away [&#8230;]</p>
  41. <p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/abraham-question/">Abraham’s Question</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></description>
  42. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="576" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Copy-of-invitation-18-1024x576.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Copy-of-invitation-18-1024x576.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Copy-of-invitation-18-300x169.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Copy-of-invitation-18-768x432.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Copy-of-invitation-18.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p><em>At the beginning of each new month, look for a glimpse into my devotional journal where I use the S.O.A.P. method for Bible study. I trust it will be as encouraging for you as it is for me and if you haven&#8217;t already, give this method a try.</em></p>
  43. <p><strong>SCRIPTURE</strong><br />
  44. Genesis 18:23b—Will you indeed wipe away the righteous with the wicked?<br />
  45. Genesis 18:32b—For the sake of ten I will not destroy it. (See also Jonah 4:11)</p>
  46. <p><strong>OBSERVATIONS</strong><br />
  47. Abraham asked the question that many wonder. If a nation has become utterly evil, will God judge it even though there may be a remnant of people who still follow His ways? After Abraham&#8217;s question, he began to bargain with God and his request began with 50&#8230;then 45&#8230;then 40&#8230;then 30&#8230;then God lowered the number 20&#8230;then 10—and this is where God settled with Abraham. If only 10 people were righteous, He would stay His hand of judgment.</p>
  48. <p>But the only people on God&#8217;s righteous radar were Lot, his wife, and their two daughters. And as time passed Lot&#8217;s wife (who lingered and longed for Sodom on the way out) and daughters (see Genesis 19) would prove not to be righteous, so perhaps Lot was the only righteous person left in the city. Yet, in God&#8217;s mercy, Lot&#8217;s family went with him out of the city.</p>
  49. <p>The New Testament seems to agree that alone was righteous there. In 2 Peter 2:7 informs us that lot was &#8220;a righteous man&#8221; who was &#8220;distressed by the depraved conduct of the lawless.&#8221; He was the only true believer in Sodom—and God rescued him before His wrath destroyed the city (see 19:14).</p>
  50. <p>There must have been a decreed time for the judgment to fall, because there was a sense of urgency to get Lot and his family out. The angels literally grabbed lot (19:16) and his family to take them outside of the city.</p>
  51. <p><strong>APPLICATION</strong></p>
  52. <p>God informs the righteous with advance intel. In Genesis 18:17 The Lord said, &#8220;Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do?&#8221; We also read this in Amos 3:7, &#8220;Indeed the sovereign Lord never does anything until he reveals his plans to his servants the prophets.&#8221; Then we who study Scripture learn from the recorded words of the prophets.</p>
  53. <p>Grace and mercy toward the righteous take precedence over the judgment of the wicked (19:18), and God extends grace to the latest possible moment before judgment falls.</p>
  54. <p>We can take confidence that God knows our circumstances, sees the evil in the world, has his own specific time frame, and will rescue the righteous (as imperfect as we are) before His judgment falls on the earth in the future tribulation period.</p>
  55. <p>Culturally speaking we (the West/USA) have pushed Him away leading to instability and lawlessness like we have never seen before.</p>
  56. <p>But God sees the righteous, knows our distress (2 Peter 2:7), has given us advance intel, and will rescue us at just the right time.</p>
  57. <p><strong>PRAYER</strong><br />
  58. Lord, help us to trust your timing even though it feels like a delay. Supernaturally protect your own as we await our departure, and help us to live fully and finish strong if you do not return in our lifetime.</p><p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/abraham-question/">Abraham’s Question</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  60. <wfw:commentRss>https://toddhampson.com/news/abraham-question/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  61. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  64. </item>
  65. <item>
  66. <title>Combating Anxiety</title>
  67. <link>https://toddhampson.com/news/soap-combating-anxiety/</link>
  68. <comments>https://toddhampson.com/news/soap-combating-anxiety/#respond</comments>
  70. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Todd]]></dc:creator>
  71. <pubDate>Wed, 01 Nov 2023 16:26:16 +0000</pubDate>
  72. <category><![CDATA[Devotional]]></category>
  73. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://toddhampson.com/?p=911</guid>
  74.  
  75. <description><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="576" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Copy-of-invitation-10-1024x576.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Copy-of-invitation-10-1024x576.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Copy-of-invitation-10-300x169.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Copy-of-invitation-10-768x432.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Copy-of-invitation-10.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p>At the beginning of each new month, look for a glimpse into my devotional journal where I use the S.O.A.P. method for Bible study. I trust it will be as encouraging for you as it is for me and if you haven&#8217;t already, give this method a try. SCRIPTURE Psalm 94:19—When my anxious thoughts multiply [&#8230;]</p>
  76. <p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/soap-combating-anxiety/">Combating Anxiety</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></description>
  77. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="576" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Copy-of-invitation-10-1024x576.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Copy-of-invitation-10-1024x576.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Copy-of-invitation-10-300x169.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Copy-of-invitation-10-768x432.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Copy-of-invitation-10.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p><em>At the beginning of each new month, look for a glimpse into my devotional journal where I use the S.O.A.P. method for Bible study. I trust it will be as encouraging for you as it is for me and if you haven&#8217;t already, give this method a try.</em></p>
  78. <p><strong>SCRIPTURE</strong><br />
  79. Psalm 94:19—When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your consolations delight my soul.</p>
  80. <p><strong>OBSERVATIONS</strong><br />
  81. &#8220;When&#8221; not &#8220;if&#8221;.<br />
  82. Anxious thoughts earn compound interest and have a snowball effect.<br />
  83. The definition of consolation is: comfort received after disappointment and loss.<br />
  84. When God shows up after the disappointment of anxiety or worry, it satisfies at the deepest level.</p>
  85. <p><strong>APPLICATION</strong><br />
  86. When anxiety and pressures attack, we need to shift our focus forward to God&#8217;s coming consolation. He will show up in our situation and will eventually bring ultimate consolation when He sets everything straight, judges evil, and rewards his own.</p>
  87. <p>But we can only connect with His consolation if we position ourselves to receive it. Comfort comes through His Word and His communication. In other words, through the daily disciplines of Bible study and prayer.</p>
  88. <p><strong>PRAYER</strong><br />
  89. Lord, help us position ourselves to receive your comfort whenever we are faced with anxiety and life pressures. And help us to fix our gaze on your future promises and our future destiny when all will be made right.</p>
  90. <p>&nbsp;</p><p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/soap-combating-anxiety/">Combating Anxiety</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  92. <wfw:commentRss>https://toddhampson.com/news/soap-combating-anxiety/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  93. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  96. </item>
  97. <item>
  98. <title>Two Powerful Verbs</title>
  99. <link>https://toddhampson.com/news/two-powerful-verbs/</link>
  100. <comments>https://toddhampson.com/news/two-powerful-verbs/#respond</comments>
  102. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Todd]]></dc:creator>
  103. <pubDate>Wed, 04 Oct 2023 14:50:04 +0000</pubDate>
  104. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  105. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://toddhampson.com/?p=906</guid>
  106.  
  107. <description><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="439" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/revelation-1-1024x439.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/revelation-1-1024x439.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/revelation-1-300x129.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/revelation-1-768x329.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/revelation-1-1536x658.png 1536w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/revelation-1-2048x878.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p>At the beginning of each new month, look for a glimpse into my devotional journal where I use the S.O.A.P. method for Bible study. I trust it will be as encouraging for you as it is for me and if you haven&#8217;t already, give this method a try. SCRIPTURE Ecclesiastes 5:19b—to enjoy your work and [&#8230;]</p>
  108. <p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/two-powerful-verbs/">Two Powerful Verbs</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></description>
  109. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="439" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/revelation-1-1024x439.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/revelation-1-1024x439.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/revelation-1-300x129.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/revelation-1-768x329.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/revelation-1-1536x658.png 1536w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/revelation-1-2048x878.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p><em>At the beginning of each new month, look for a glimpse into my devotional journal where I use the S.O.A.P. method for Bible study. I trust it will be as encouraging for you as it is for me and if you haven&#8217;t already, give this method a try.</em></p>
  110. <p><strong>SCRIPTURE</strong></p>
  111. <p>Ecclesiastes 5:19b—<em><strong>to enjoy your work and accept your lot in life—this is indeed a gift from God.</strong></em></p>
  112. <p><strong>OBSERVATIONS</strong></p>
  113. <p>Work is a gift from God.<br />
  114. Enjoy and accept are action words. Verbs. Most importantly, they are choices!<br />
  115. Joy is separate from circumstance. Happiness comes from happenings—things around you. Joy is different. It comes from a deeper place that we can tap into if we know the Lord.<br />
  116. As Nehemiah said (Nehemiah 8:10), the joy of the Lord is your strength.</p>
  117. <p><strong>APPLICATION</strong></p>
  118. <p>We need to choose joy if we know the Lord. He is our well of strength and the single factor that enables us to push through tough circumstances, hard work, or disappointing news.</p>
  119. <p>We need to accept and embrace where the Lord has us. We need to remember that He alone is sovereign. That means He is ultimately in control. He works the nightshift so we do not need to stay up!</p>
  120. <p>Even in a fallen world, the work that the Lord has given us to do is a gift from Him! If we submit it to him, it has eternal meaning. One day believers will be able to work for the Lord without the curse of sin. Our work will be our rest!</p>
  121. <p><strong>PRAYER</strong></p>
  122. <p>Lord, please give us this perspective today. Help us to see you in our lives and in our work. Help us to accept where you have us and choose joy no matter what is happening around us. You are our rock and our lives and future are in your hands!<br />
  123. Amen!</p><p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/two-powerful-verbs/">Two Powerful Verbs</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  125. <wfw:commentRss>https://toddhampson.com/news/two-powerful-verbs/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  126. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  129. </item>
  130. <item>
  131. <title>How to Join in God&#8217;s Activity</title>
  132. <link>https://toddhampson.com/news/how-to-join-in-gods-activity/</link>
  133. <comments>https://toddhampson.com/news/how-to-join-in-gods-activity/#respond</comments>
  135. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Todd]]></dc:creator>
  136. <pubDate>Tue, 01 Aug 2023 16:35:02 +0000</pubDate>
  137. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  138. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://toddhampson.com/?p=899</guid>
  139.  
  140. <description><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="576" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/isaiah-1024x576.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/isaiah-1024x576.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/isaiah-300x169.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/isaiah-768x432.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/isaiah.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p>At the beginning of each new month, look for a glimpse into my devotional journal where I use the S.O.A.P. method for Bible study. I trust it will be as encouraging for you as it is for me and if you haven&#8217;t already, give this method a try. SCRIPTURE Isaiah 6:8—Then I heard the voice [&#8230;]</p>
  141. <p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/how-to-join-in-gods-activity/">How to Join in God’s Activity</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></description>
  142. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="576" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/isaiah-1024x576.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/isaiah-1024x576.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/isaiah-300x169.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/isaiah-768x432.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/isaiah.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p><em>At the beginning of each new month, look for a glimpse into my devotional journal where I use the S.O.A.P. method for Bible study. I trust it will be as encouraging for you as it is for me and if you haven&#8217;t already, give this method a try.</em></p>
  143. <p><strong>SCRIPTURE</strong><br />
  144. <em><strong>Isaiah 6:8—Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, &#8220;Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?&#8221; And I said, &#8220;Here am I. Send me.&#8221;</strong></em></p>
  145. <p><strong>OBSERVATIONS</strong><br />
  146. After Isaiah saw his sin in the light of God&#8217;s blinding glory and purity—then he heard the voice of the Lord and the invitation to join God in His plans and activity.</p>
  147. <p>God invites us to join him. Jesus modeled this in John 5:17; 19-20:<br />
  148. 5:17: Jesus said to them, “&#8217;My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working.”<br />
  149. 19-20: Jesus gave them this answer: “Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does. Yes, and he will show him even greater works than these, so that you will be amazed.</p>
  150. <p><strong>APPLICATION</strong><br />
  151. I believe this gives us a model for approaching God to hear His voice so-to-speak. Like Daniel who spent time confessing his sins and the sins of his people—Isaiah also models this recognition and awareness of his sin and the sinful culture around him. Once humbled by our own sin—we more clearly see the holiness and glory of God.</p>
  152. <p>Once we see the contrast of the two and humbly recognize our state—we are ready to receive God&#8217;s instruction and direction. We must slow down long enough and honestly acknowledge our own sin (1 John 1:9; Psalm 66:18) before we are truly ready to hear from the Lord.</p>
  153. <p>It&#8217;s not that we will live perfectly or sinlessly. That won&#8217;t happen until we are with the Lord in our sinless, glorified, spiritual bodies fit for Heaven. But we can&#8217;t coddle sin or ignore it. We must confess it to the Lord and ask for His help. This is not a one-time decision. It is an ongoing battle and one worth the fight.</p>
  154. <p><strong>PRAYER</strong><br />
  155. Lord, as we confess our sins to you, please drag everything unhealthy out into the light of your blinding glory and cleanse us once again. Help us to position ourselves to hear from you. We want to join you in your work while we have the ability to do so. May we consistently say, &#8220;Here we are Lord. Send us!&#8221; There is no other winning team. We want to be part of what you are doing.</p><p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/how-to-join-in-gods-activity/">How to Join in God’s Activity</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  157. <wfw:commentRss>https://toddhampson.com/news/how-to-join-in-gods-activity/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  158. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  161. </item>
  162. <item>
  163. <title>Four Statements That Guide My Choices.</title>
  164. <link>https://toddhampson.com/news/four-statements/</link>
  165. <comments>https://toddhampson.com/news/four-statements/#respond</comments>
  167. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Todd]]></dc:creator>
  168. <pubDate>Tue, 18 Jul 2023 21:22:10 +0000</pubDate>
  169. <category><![CDATA[Devotional]]></category>
  170. <category><![CDATA[End TImes]]></category>
  171. <category><![CDATA[Eschatology]]></category>
  172. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://toddhampson.com/?p=884</guid>
  173.  
  174. <description><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="576" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Todds-mission-statement-1024x576.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Todds-mission-statement-1024x576.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Todds-mission-statement-300x169.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Todds-mission-statement-768x432.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Todds-mission-statement.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p>I’d like to share my personal mission statement with you. It is simple so I can remember it, but the concepts are powerful, and most importantly—biblical. These four simple statements guide my choices, outlook, plans, and focus. Perhaps they will encourage you as you read them. Follow God. Love people. Live fully. Finish Strong. Those [&#8230;]</p>
  175. <p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/four-statements/">Four Statements That Guide My Choices.</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></description>
  176. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="576" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Todds-mission-statement-1024x576.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Todds-mission-statement-1024x576.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Todds-mission-statement-300x169.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Todds-mission-statement-768x432.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Todds-mission-statement.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p>I’d like to share my personal mission statement with you. It is simple so I can remember it, but the concepts are powerful, and most importantly—biblical. These four simple statements guide my choices, outlook, plans, and focus. Perhaps they will encourage you as you read them.</p>
  177. <p>Follow God.<br />
  178. Love people.<br />
  179. Live fully.<br />
  180. Finish Strong.</p>
  181. <p>Those simple statements—in the context of biblical priorities and devotion to Christ—guide everything I do. I don’t do them perfectly or even consistently, but they guide me nonetheless. They are reminders of my calling and my growth. The guide my next steps as a disciple of Christ and they help keep me on track. Here’s why I share them. Do the first three phrases matter much if we neglect the fourth?</p>
  182. <p>Whatever you personal mission statement or guiding life verse might be—what does it matter if you don’t finish strong? How many ministries, marriages, careers, and relationships have you seen fail after appearing successful at the first three?</p>
  183. <p>What difference do the first three statements make if our legacy is ruined by moral compromise, worldly endeavors, or any other temporary thing? Or, as Jesus so aptly put it in Matthew 16:26, “What good will if be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?”</p>
  184. <p>In the context of finishing strong I might ask a similar question. What good will our life’s work be if we throw it all way for stupid temporary things? My fellow Christian, I know you are tired and weary at times. But, if there’s one thing we can learn from this chronological study of prophecy is that God is a promise-keeper. Every single thing that He has said our future will hold will come to pass exactly as God has promised you. Keep fighting. Keep putting your oxygen mask on. Keep giving others oxygen. Most importantly—finish strong! Jesus is coming soon and his reward is with him!</p>
  185. <p>Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.</p>
  186. <p>—Hebrews 12:1-3</p>
  187. <p><em>This post has been adapted from my book, <a href="https://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?event=AFF&amp;amp;p=1225060&amp;amp;item_no=983877">The Chronological Guide to Bible Prophecy</a>. </em></p><p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/four-statements/">Four Statements That Guide My Choices.</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  189. <wfw:commentRss>https://toddhampson.com/news/four-statements/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  190. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  193. </item>
  194. <item>
  195. <title>Giving Gospel Oxygen to Others</title>
  196. <link>https://toddhampson.com/news/giving-gospel-oxygen-to-others/</link>
  197. <comments>https://toddhampson.com/news/giving-gospel-oxygen-to-others/#respond</comments>
  199. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Todd]]></dc:creator>
  200. <pubDate>Wed, 12 Jul 2023 17:16:08 +0000</pubDate>
  201. <category><![CDATA[Devotional]]></category>
  202. <category><![CDATA[End TImes]]></category>
  203. <category><![CDATA[Eschatology]]></category>
  204. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://toddhampson.com/?p=878</guid>
  205.  
  206. <description><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="576" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2-1024x576.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2-1024x576.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2-300x169.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2-768x432.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p>In my last post, I shared how you can ensure your oxygen mask is on securely so you can better help others during these trying times. Today, I want to share how you can give life-saving oxygen to others. In golf terms, God has teed it up for us to preach the Gospel with a [&#8230;]</p>
  207. <p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/giving-gospel-oxygen-to-others/">Giving Gospel Oxygen to Others</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></description>
  208. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="576" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2-1024x576.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2-1024x576.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2-300x169.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2-768x432.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p>In my <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/are-you-okay-heres-your-oxygen-mask/">last post</a>, I shared how you can ensure your oxygen mask is on securely so you can better help others during these trying times.</p>
  209. <p>Today, I want to share how you can give life-saving oxygen to others.</p>
  210. <p>In golf terms, God has teed it up for us to preach the Gospel with a sense of urgency and intentionality. You may not have a pulpit, but you still preach. You preach by how you live your life. You preach by how you build relationships and tell what Jesus has done in your life. You preach by how you respond on social media. You preach by how you trust God in the middle of the storm. You preach by how you serve others calmly while the world is going nuts. You preach.</p>
  211. <p>You may not fill stadiums and present the Gospel, but you can ask God to send you people whom he wants to reach. I dare you to pray that and see what God does next? Often, we assume no one will listen. We don’t have to go out on a street corner with a bullhorn and a sandwich board, but we can ask God to show us who to reach. We can ask God to send those to us who need to hear the Gospel. And we can ask God to guide us as how to point them to our Savior.</p>
  212. <p>Perhaps God will lead you to give one of my books to someone. Perhaps you are that someone who received one of these books as a gift.</p>
  213. <p>If that is the case, I want to make sure you do not put this book down until you have heard about how to be saved through the sacrificial death of Christ. You can’t earn it. None of us are good enough to obtain it. It is a gift. Jesus paid it all. We need only to receive the gift and put our trust in Jesus alone for salvation. Here is a simple way to understand it. I use this in all of my books. It is so simple a child can understand it. It is so profound that it can change the direction of your life and your eternal destination.</p>
  214. <p>One does not become a Christian by following a formula, but I’ve found that what I’m about to share is an effective way to explain what it means to receive Christ and become a true Christian. We often make it complex, but it’s so simple a child can understand it. It’s as simple as A, B, C.</p>
  215. <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">A</span>dmit</strong> that you are a sinner. None of us are perfect. We all fall short. Romans 3:23: “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 6:23: “The wages [payment] of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”</p>
  216. <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">B</span>elieve</strong> that Jesus is God’s Son and that he died on the cross with your sins on him. Romans 5:8: “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”</p>
  217. <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">C</span>onfess</strong> him as your Lord. This doesn’t mean you will never mess up again. Rather, it means you will serve him and learn his ways as you grow spiritually. Romans 10:9: “If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”</p>
  218. <p>Here’s a simple prayer you can pray. These words aren’t magic. Again, this is not a formula. But if these words accurately reflect the motives of your heart, then when you pray this prayer you will become a Christian. You will have placed your faith in Christ and will have had your sins forgiven. You will look forward to an eternity with Jesus in heaven, and you will avoid the terrible time of tribulation that will soon come to the world. Pray this prayer now.</p>
  219. <p><strong><em>“Lord Jesus, I admit that I am a sinner. I have sinned against you, and sin separates me from you. I thank you that you died on the cross for me. You took my sins upon you and paid my penalty at the cross. I believe you are who you say you are—God in the flesh. I believe you died for my sins. I want to accept your gift of salvation and, at this moment, I ask you to be my Savior. I thank you for this great forgiveness. I now have new life. I now claim you as my Savior and my Lord. In Jesus’s name, amen.”</em></strong></p>
  220. <p>If you just prayed that prayer, you are a new creation. The Bible tells us that heaven is celebrating right now because of your decision. The Holy Spirit now indwells you and will guide you and keep you.</p>
  221. <p>You won’t be perfect, but you are forgiven, and he will never leave you. His work in you has just begun. You are an adopted co-heir with Christ. You will one day live and reign with him in the millennial kingdom and forever in eternity.</p>
  222. <p>Welcome to the family of God!</p>
  223. <p><em>This post has been adapted from my book, <a href="https://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?event=AFF&amp;amp;p=1225060&amp;amp;item_no=983877">The Chronological Guide to Bible Prophecy</a>. </em></p><p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/giving-gospel-oxygen-to-others/">Giving Gospel Oxygen to Others</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  225. <wfw:commentRss>https://toddhampson.com/news/giving-gospel-oxygen-to-others/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  226. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  229. </item>
  230. <item>
  231. <title>Are You Okay? Here&#8217;s Your Oxygen Mask</title>
  232. <link>https://toddhampson.com/news/are-you-okay-heres-your-oxygen-mask/</link>
  233. <comments>https://toddhampson.com/news/are-you-okay-heres-your-oxygen-mask/#respond</comments>
  235. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Todd]]></dc:creator>
  236. <pubDate>Thu, 06 Jul 2023 16:51:16 +0000</pubDate>
  237. <category><![CDATA[Devotional]]></category>
  238. <category><![CDATA[End TImes]]></category>
  239. <category><![CDATA[Eschatology]]></category>
  240. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://toddhampson.com/?p=875</guid>
  241.  
  242. <description><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="512" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Copy-of-gabriel-1024x512.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Copy-of-gabriel-1024x512.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Copy-of-gabriel-300x150.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Copy-of-gabriel-768x384.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Copy-of-gabriel-1536x768.png 1536w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Copy-of-gabriel-2048x1024.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p>If you have ever flown on a plane, you’ll recall the instructions given &#8220;in the event that the cabin loses pressure, oxygen masks will drop from the ceiling. Put your mask on first before helping others.” First of all, it always seems a bit strange to me how nonchalant those instructions sound. What they are [&#8230;]</p>
  243. <p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/are-you-okay-heres-your-oxygen-mask/">Are You Okay? Here’s Your Oxygen Mask</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></description>
  244. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="512" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Copy-of-gabriel-1024x512.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Copy-of-gabriel-1024x512.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Copy-of-gabriel-300x150.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Copy-of-gabriel-768x384.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Copy-of-gabriel-1536x768.png 1536w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Copy-of-gabriel-2048x1024.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p>If you have ever flown on a plane, you’ll recall the instructions given &#8220;in the event that the cabin loses pressure, oxygen masks will drop from the ceiling. Put your mask on first before helping others.”</p>
  245. <p>First of all, it always seems a bit strange to me how nonchalant those instructions sound. What they are really saying is, “If something breaks a hole into this plane and all of the air gets sucked out, we hope that the thin plastic oxygen masks will still work. If so, put yours on first so you don’t pass out before you can strap this life-saving gadget onto your face.”</p>
  246. <p>The reason I use that analogy is because in a life or death situation, you are of no help to anyone else if you are not ok. So I ask you. Are you ok? These are trying times. First, we need to make sure we are spiritually and emotionally healthy. Otherwise, we’re no good to anyone else. That’s not being selfish—it’s being realistic.</p>
  247. <p>The prophet Elijah hit the wall of depression after a huge victory and the Lord told him to rest and eat (1 Kings 19:7-8). Over and over again in the Psalms David cried out to the Lord in his depression and despair. Job poured his heart out to God and was as raw and real as you can get.</p>
  248. <p>So how do we stay positive, sane, and laser-focused on our calling during such disruptive times? By turning to God’s prophetic Word.</p>
  249. <p>Here is a small checklist of prophetic reminders of God’s faithful promises that you can review daily—or anytime you need to reboot your perspective after hearing the daily news.</p>
  250. <ul>
  251. <li>God will never leave you. (Hebrews 13:5)</li>
  252. <li>What can mortals do to you? (Hebrews 13:6)</li>
  253. <li>If God is for you, who can be against you? (Romans 8:31)</li>
  254. <li>Jesus is with us to the very end of the age. (Matthew 28:20)</li>
  255. <li>We were put here at this time by God (Psalm 139:13)</li>
  256. <li>Every day of our lives is sovereignly directed by the Lord. (Psalm 139:16)</li>
  257. <li>God gives us what we need when we need it. (Philippians 4:19)</li>
  258. <li>Every struggle will be worth it. (2 Corinthians 4:17)</li>
  259. <li>The joy of the Lord is our strength as we work. (Nehemiah 8:10)</li>
  260. <li>Keep the main thing the main thing. (Matthew 28:19)</li>
  261. <li>God will lead us through unfamiliar territory. (Isaiah 42:16)</li>
  262. <li>Jesus is with us in the storm. (Matthew 14:25; Mark 4:38)</li>
  263. <li>Jesus is coming soon and his reward is with him! (Revelation 22:12)</li>
  264. <li>God is still on the throne. (Psalms 11:4)</li>
  265. </ul>
  266. <p>I know it is overwhelming at times to watch the conditions of the world, but it is also an extreme privilege!</p>
  267. <p>Check out this passage from 1 Peter that highlights the fact that we are a privileged generation.</p>
  268. <p><em>Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of the Messiah and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things. —1 Peter 1:10-12</em></p>
  269. <p>I want you to notice a few things.</p>
  270. <p>First, that prophets who wrote much of the Old Testament desperately wanted to understand the timing and the signs (time and circumstances) of the coming of the Messiah.</p>
  271. <p>Second, they specifically wanted to understand the prophecies related to both the sufferings (the cross) and the glories that would follow (the kingdom age).</p>
  272. <p>Third, even angels long to look into these things!</p>
  273. <p>So, when you find yourself feeling overwhelmed with the news of the day, remind yourself that God is still on the throne, that we are a privileged generation, and that even the prophets and angels longed to see what is right in front of us!</p>
  274. <p><em>This post has been adapted from my book, <a href="https://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?event=AFF&amp;amp;p=1225060&amp;amp;item_no=983877">The Chronological Guide to Bible Prophecy</a>. </em></p><p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/are-you-okay-heres-your-oxygen-mask/">Are You Okay? Here’s Your Oxygen Mask</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  276. <wfw:commentRss>https://toddhampson.com/news/are-you-okay-heres-your-oxygen-mask/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  277. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  280. </item>
  281. <item>
  282. <title>How Do Angels Interact With Humans?</title>
  283. <link>https://toddhampson.com/news/how-do-angels-interact-with-humans/</link>
  284. <comments>https://toddhampson.com/news/how-do-angels-interact-with-humans/#respond</comments>
  286. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Todd]]></dc:creator>
  287. <pubDate>Wed, 28 Jun 2023 15:59:53 +0000</pubDate>
  288. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  289. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://toddhampson.com/?p=870</guid>
  290.  
  291. <description><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="512" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/gabriel-1024x512.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/gabriel-1024x512.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/gabriel-300x150.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/gabriel-768x384.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/gabriel-1536x768.png 1536w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/gabriel-2048x1024.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p>Q: How do angels interact with humans?  A: I answer this question in my book, The Non-Prophet&#8217;s Guide to Spiritual Warfare. Here is an excerpt: We discover in other portions of Scripture that angels can enter—and interact with—our physical realm. We find them eating meals with humans (Genesis 18:7-8), fighting (2 Kings 19:35), and grabbing [&#8230;]</p>
  292. <p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/how-do-angels-interact-with-humans/">How Do Angels Interact With Humans?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></description>
  293. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="512" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/gabriel-1024x512.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/gabriel-1024x512.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/gabriel-300x150.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/gabriel-768x384.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/gabriel-1536x768.png 1536w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/gabriel-2048x1024.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p><strong>Q: How do angels interact with humans? </strong></p>
  294. <p>A: I answer this question in my book, <em><a href="https://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?event=AFF&amp;amp;p=1225060&amp;amp;item_no=977951">The Non-Prophet&#8217;s Guide to Spiritual Warfare.</a></em></p>
  295. <p>Here is an excerpt:</p>
  296. <p>We discover in other portions of Scripture that angels can enter—and interact with—our physical realm. We find them eating meals with humans (Genesis 18:7-8), fighting (2 Kings 19:35), and grabbing humans by the hand (Genesis 19:16). Hebrews 13:2 even states that some people have interacted with angels without even realizing they were not human. [Verse: Hebrews 13:2—Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.]</p>
  297. <p>The Bible does indicate that believers in Christ (and/or possibly small children) have guardian angels (Matthew 18:10). We don’t know whether this system of protection is set up as a man-to-man or zone defense, but verses such as Hebrews 1:14 also seems to support the notion. We read that verse in a previous chapter but it is worth reading again. The verse reads, “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” It is humbling to think that just beyond the veil—and possibly in our physical reality—angels are tasked with protecting and ministering to those know Christ as Savior.</p>
  298. <p>While angels are tasked with serving God and carrying out his redemptive plans for mankind, fallen angels attempt to thwart God’s plans and they submit to the direction of Satan, the highest ranking fallen angel (as discussed above). The fallen beings in the unseen realm are called fallen angels, demons, or unclean spirits.</p>
  299. <p>A demon/unclean spirit can influence or even inhabit people who are not born-again believers in Christ. When someone accepts Christ as Savior, they are indwelled (and sealed) by the Holy Spirit. A demon cannot occupy the person who is sealed and protected by the presence of the Holy Spirit. Some theologians assert that demons and fallen angels are different types of evil beings. I talk more about that in my book, <a href="https://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?event=AFF&amp;amp;p=1225060&amp;amp;item_no=977951">The Non-Prophet&#8217;s Guide to Spiritual Warfare. </a></p><p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/how-do-angels-interact-with-humans/">How Do Angels Interact With Humans?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  301. <wfw:commentRss>https://toddhampson.com/news/how-do-angels-interact-with-humans/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  302. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  305. </item>
  306. <item>
  307. <title>Questions About the Mark of the Beast</title>
  308. <link>https://toddhampson.com/news/questions-about-the-mark-of-the-beast/</link>
  309. <comments>https://toddhampson.com/news/questions-about-the-mark-of-the-beast/#respond</comments>
  311. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Todd]]></dc:creator>
  312. <pubDate>Wed, 07 Jun 2023 13:38:43 +0000</pubDate>
  313. <category><![CDATA[Devotional]]></category>
  314. <category><![CDATA[End TImes]]></category>
  315. <category><![CDATA[Eschatology]]></category>
  316. <category><![CDATA[Prophecy]]></category>
  317. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://toddhampson.com/?p=865</guid>
  318.  
  319. <description><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="576" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/3-1024x576.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/3-1024x576.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/3-300x169.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/3-768x432.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/3.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p>Our Prophecy Q/A Series continues with these questions from a Prophecy Pros podcast listener. Q: Are the mark of the beast and the number 666 the same thing? Doesn&#8217;t Revelation 13 say it&#8217;s the number of the 2nd beast? A: Revelation 13:17 tells us that the mark is either the name of the future antichrist [&#8230;]</p>
  320. <p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/questions-about-the-mark-of-the-beast/">Questions About the Mark of the Beast</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></description>
  321. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="576" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/3-1024x576.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/3-1024x576.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/3-300x169.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/3-768x432.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/3.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p><em>Our Prophecy Q/A Series continues with these questions from a Prophecy Pros podcast listener.</em></p>
  322. <p><strong>Q: Are the mark of the beast and the number 666 the same thing? Doesn&#8217;t Revelation 13 say it&#8217;s the number of the 2nd beast?</strong></p>
  323. <p><strong>A:</strong> Revelation 13:17 tells us that the mark is either the name of the future antichrist or the number of his name (presumably using Gematria where a numerical value is assigned to each letter) which will total 666.</p>
  324. <p>So, I believe those taking the mark will be able to essentially choose from 2 insignia tattoos&#8230;either antichrist&#8217;s name or 666. It will be a visible insignia ON (vs. under) the skin (based on the Greek term used). It will be a visible sign of allegiance similar to what Roman soldiers used to do for their commanding officers.</p>
  325. <p>I do believe it will be a digital tattoo of some sort because global buying/selling will be attached to the mark somehow (presumably with some sort of digital currency as we see emerging now).</p>
  326. <p><strong>Q: &#8211; How have people tried to &#8220;calculate&#8221;/identify this figure in church history and how should we view these figures in the bigger picture of Revelation 13?</strong></p>
  327. <p><strong>A:</strong> People have used Gematria to calculate various world leaders&#8217; names, but Scripture is clear that we will not know who the antichrist is until after the Church has been raptured (see 2 Thessalonians 2:7-8). Also, Scripture indicates he will come out of obscurity (Daniel 7:8 calls him the little horn that will arise after a 10-leader confederacy is in place) and will appear as a savior-like man of peace at first.</p>
  328. <p>So any attempts to play pin-the-tail on the antichrist prior to the rapture will not be accurate. Although we do see the spirit of antichrist prevalent in our day (see 1 John 4:3), there seems to be a candidate in each generation since Satan does not know the exact timing of the rapture. Hitler for example, was very antichrist-like and was probably the enemy&#8217;s attempt to jump start the end-times. Satan can&#8217;t wait until it is time for antichrist to rise to power, but God has a particular order and His own timing.</p>
  329. <p>The context of Revelation 13 is pretty clear that the number is related to antichrist, not the false prophet. The false prophet is basically the antichrist&#8217;s hype man and minister of propaganda. He (through his religious network/system) will help enforce the mark and point people to worship antichrist.</p><p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/questions-about-the-mark-of-the-beast/">Questions About the Mark of the Beast</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  331. <wfw:commentRss>https://toddhampson.com/news/questions-about-the-mark-of-the-beast/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  332. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  335. </item>
  336. <item>
  337. <title>Will People Who Reject Christ and Miss the Rapture Have a Second Chance?</title>
  338. <link>https://toddhampson.com/news/will-people-who-reject-christ-and-miss-the-rapture-have-a-second-chance/</link>
  339. <comments>https://toddhampson.com/news/will-people-who-reject-christ-and-miss-the-rapture-have-a-second-chance/#respond</comments>
  341. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Todd]]></dc:creator>
  342. <pubDate>Tue, 11 Apr 2023 01:38:26 +0000</pubDate>
  343. <category><![CDATA[Devotional]]></category>
  344. <category><![CDATA[End TImes]]></category>
  345. <category><![CDATA[Eschatology]]></category>
  346. <category><![CDATA[Prophecy]]></category>
  347. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://toddhampson.com/?p=854</guid>
  348.  
  349. <description><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="827" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/flushleft-1024x827.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/flushleft-1024x827.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/flushleft-300x242.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/flushleft-768x620.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/flushleft-1536x1240.png 1536w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/flushleft.png 1756w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p>Our Prophecy Q/A Series continues with this question from a Prophecy Pros podcast listener. Q: Do you think there will be a lot of others besides Jewish people that will come to Jesus during the tribulation? Will people who reject Christ and miss the rapture have a second chance? A: Yes, I believe the biggest [&#8230;]</p>
  350. <p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/will-people-who-reject-christ-and-miss-the-rapture-have-a-second-chance/">Will People Who Reject Christ and Miss the Rapture Have a Second Chance?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></description>
  351. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1024" height="827" src="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/flushleft-1024x827.png" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/flushleft-1024x827.png 1024w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/flushleft-300x242.png 300w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/flushleft-768x620.png 768w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/flushleft-1536x1240.png 1536w, https://toddhampson.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/flushleft.png 1756w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p><em>Our Prophecy Q/A Series continues with this question from a Prophecy Pros podcast listener.</em></p>
  352. <p><strong>Q:</strong> Do you think there will be a lot of others besides Jewish people that will come to Jesus during the tribulation? Will people who reject Christ and miss the rapture have a second chance?</p>
  353. <p><strong>A:</strong> Yes, I believe the biggest revival ever will occur after the rapture due to the ministry of the 144k protected Jewish witnesses, the 2 witnesses in Jerusalem, resources left behind, and because many who heard their &#8220;crazy&#8221; Christian friends and relatives talk about the rapture will realize what happened and finally turn to Christ. By the 5th seal in the first set of judgments (Revelation 6:9) we find that there are many post-rapture believers who will have been killed for their faith early on in the tribulation period.</p>
  354. <p>There will be great delusion, but this is progressive. Like Pharaoh who first hardened his own heart before the Lord hardened it, people in the tribulation period are given every chance to receive Christ. In Revelation 14 there is even an earth-circling angel preaching the Gospel to make sure every single person has heard the Gospel (actually 3 angels w/ different messages in Rev. 14:6-10).</p>
  355. <p>A careful reading of Revelation shows that in the midst of God&#8217;s wrath on earth, his grace is present. Revelation details the process whereby post-rapture people either move closer to the Lord or farther away. They are redeemable up until they take the mark of the beast at the midpoint of the tribulation period. After that, they are lost forever.</p>
  356. <p>And yes, the primary focus of the tribulation is to reach the Jewish people, but God&#8217;s grace is broader than that. Anywhere people respond to Him, grace is available. The tough part is that most who become Christians in the tribulation period will lose their lives via martyrdom&#8230;but God will have a special reward for them.</p><p>The post <a href="https://toddhampson.com/news/will-people-who-reject-christ-and-miss-the-rapture-have-a-second-chance/">Will People Who Reject Christ and Miss the Rapture Have a Second Chance?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://toddhampson.com">Todd Hampson</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  358. <wfw:commentRss>https://toddhampson.com/news/will-people-who-reject-christ-and-miss-the-rapture-have-a-second-chance/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  359. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  362. </item>
  363. </channel>
  364. </rss>
  365.  

If you would like to create a banner that links to this page (i.e. this validation result), do the following:

  1. Download the "valid RSS" banner.

  2. Upload the image to your own server. (This step is important. Please do not link directly to the image on this server.)

  3. Add this HTML to your page (change the image src attribute if necessary):

If you would like to create a text link instead, here is the URL you can use:

http://www.feedvalidator.org/check.cgi?url=http%3A//toddhampson.com/feed/

Home · About · News · Docs · Terms

 
Copyright © 2002-9 Sam Ruby, Mark Pilgrim, Joseph Walton, and Phil Ringnalda