I need some quick, wise and biblical advice

[Jim Langston]

When I was a child we saw the movie "Left behind" in church. After church I asked God what the mark of the beast was. Immediately my brother drags me to the store which comes out to $6.66 and by that I understood it meant the mark of the beast was money, looked in the bible, "no man can buy, sell or trade without it". I was already into computer programming so realized for this to work every store would have to be connected to computers, they were still using cash and credit card imprints.

Years,later, the internet is here. All stores are now connected to banks for credit card usage. Oh, look, now you just have to put the card in, they have chip readers. In the future: oh look, we don't even need the cards, lets just put the chip under the skin in your hand. Oh, you lost your arms? We'll put it under the skin of your forehead. Oh, this is not the mark, really, no, it's fine. Do not accept this when it comes, even though men will try to convince you it's not the mark.

 

[Kobidobidog]

Hi,

I just joined this forum, and I hope that someone might be able to help me out. I need wise answers. I'm in a tough and weird situation. I live in Sweden, and since there aren't a lot of true Christians over here, I don't have anybody to talk to about this.

I just got a new part-time job, as a conductor for a train company. It seems like a great job. The company has good values and seem to treat both the staff and the passengers really well. I'm on day four of the training program, and next week I'll have to start working as a trainee.

This is the problem: The train is cashless, which makes a lot of sense, because of robberies, but the card I will have to use to login to the ticket machine has the number 666 on it, in my personal serial number. Also, when we practiced using the machine, the total sum of purchases after the first exercise was 6660 SEK (Swedish money). This freaks me out, which it should! Yet, I don't feel as alarmed as I think I should be.

God has previously used numbers to talk to me, and to warn me away from situations, especially when I was a new Christian. No numerology or anything, I don't touch anything occult. But He has, and it has always been biblical (like pointing me to the specific Bible verse in a specific circumstance). I know that He is in control of everything. This is obviously not a coincidence. Do you think that God wants me to quit? Or is He just warning me about something? I know I'm not accepting the mark of the beast if I use this card (I've studied Revelation and the old testament prophecies, so I'm not confused about what it means), but it feels waaaaay to close for comfort. I feel like I would be a part of the culture that is leading towards the beast system. And betraying God for money!

The number 42 appears everywhere at work too. I'm NOT looking for signs. And today, my teacher randomly said "train number 1317" right after I had wondered about Rev 13:17.

I became a Christian two years ago, and since, I've lost four jobs because of my faith, for different reasons. (This is NOT a Christian-friendly country). I've been unemployed for six months now, and I'm living off welfare. I get less then I need, and I'm in a lot of debt. If I quit my job or cause them to fire me, I will get no more welfare and no way to pay my bills, at all. I have no one to turn to for money...

I don't mind quitting another job for Christ, and I'm not afraid, not even if it meant I would end up homeless. It would be okay with me, even if it does feel irresponsible. But I don't feel convicted to leave. It might just be my survival instincts taking over, rationalizing, and somehow calming me, because I really need the money, or the enemy is trying to confuse me. I've been under a lot of oppression lately.

I really want to pay off my debts, because it's what the Bible says to do. So quitting a well-paid job seems like sinning. I always trust God will provide though. And it feels really wrong being paid for the days I've been there, without having worked at all.

There are other factors as well. I would indirectly be working for the Swedish government, which is probably one of the most anti-christian governments in the world. And I would have to work both late and early hours, which does go against Psalm 127:2 (I'm not legalistic, but it seems important somehow).
I would also have to wear a really fancy uniform, which I'm not sure is okay, and totally goes against my personality.
It seems really stressful, but I love stressful situations, because I have to rely on God so much (I absolutely cannot handle it on my own, but it always works out).

What should I do? I'm so stressed and confused right now, I've kind of stopped being able to think at all. I feel one thing, yet the signs say the opposite. I need a lot of help. And please pray for me.

Emelie

Don't worry about the numbers. They will not hurt you. Having the mind of Christ in us doing his good pleasure is what matters.

 

[expos4ever]

Do you think that God wants me to quit? Or is He just warning me about something?

Neither - I think you are taking this way too seriously. Sometimes the number 666 simply comes up, that's no surprise.

I politely suggest that you are indeed falling prey to "numerology" with these concerns. I think there is nothing "magical" about 666 - the author of Revelation simply used that number as a coded way to help his readers identify an evil character. The number has absolutely no other significance (or power) than this.

If worrying about numbers is your biggest concern, I politely suggest you thank God, forget about the whole "numbers have power" thing, and get on with your life.

 

[Odetta]

Honestly, I think this is actually Satan deceiving you into thinking you should quit what sounds to me to be a pretty darn good job for you, not the other way around. Keep your job, do your work as unto the Lord, and put aside this nonsense about numbers.

 

[Kit Sigmon]

Hi,

I just joined this forum, and I hope that someone might be able to help me out. I need wise answers. I'm in a tough and weird situation. I live in Sweden, and since there aren't a lot of true Christians over here, I don't have anybody to talk to about this.

I just got a new part-time job, as a conductor for a train company. It seems like a great job. The company has good values and seem to treat both the staff and the passengers really well. I'm on day four of the training program, and next week I'll have to start working as a trainee.

This is the problem: The train is cashless, which makes a lot of sense, because of robberies, but the card I will have to use to login to the ticket machine has the number 666 on it, in my personal serial number. Also, when we practiced using the machine, the total sum of purchases after the first exercise was 6660 SEK (Swedish money). This freaks me out, which it should! Yet, I don't feel as alarmed as I think I should be.
Why should the number flip you out? You a born again believer saved by Jesus...take courage, Jesus is with you!

God has previously used numbers to talk to me, and to warn me away from situations, especially when I was a new Christian. No numerology or anything, I don't touch anything occult. But He has, and it has always been biblical (like pointing me to the specific Bible verse in a specific circumstance). I know that He is in control of everything. This is obviously not a coincidence. Do you think that God wants me to quit? Or is He just warning me about something? I know I'm not accepting the mark of the beast if I use this card (I've studied Revelation and the old testament prophecies, so I'm not confused about what it means), but it feels waaaaay to close for comfort. I feel like I would be a part of the culture that is leading towards the beast system. And betraying God for money!
You say it's numerology but it is...your reactions speak loudly.
Jesus say we are to follow Him, so follow Him...when the Lord went toe to toe with the devil he used three verses of scripture out of Deuteronomy, he didn't quote or point out numbers, the Lord used God's Word to defeat the evil one.
You way too focused on numbers instead of focusing on the Lord and abiding in Him.

The number 42 appears everywhere at work too. I'm NOT looking for signs. And today, my teacher randomly said "train number 1317" right after I had wondered about Rev 13:17.
It maybe that something else is going on here....Are you struggling with OCD?

I became a Christian two years ago, and since, I've lost four jobs because of my faith, for different reasons. (This is NOT a Christian-friendly country). I've been unemployed for six months now, and I'm living off welfare. I get less then I need, and I'm in a lot of debt. If I quit my job or cause them to fire me, I will get no more welfare and no way to pay my bills, at all. I have no one to turn to for money...
I would encourage you to seek counselling, it could be you are struggling with some kind of mental illness?

I don't mind quitting another job for Christ, and I'm not afraid, not even if it meant I would end up homeless. It would be okay with me, even if it does feel irresponsible. But I don't feel convicted to leave. It might just be my survival instincts taking over, rationalizing, and somehow calming me, because I really need the money, or the enemy is trying to confuse me. I've been under a lot of oppression lately.
Truly it seems you overwhelming yourself with this number thing and assigning meanings to
what be going on around you... no wonder you struggling and feeling oppressed. Please look
into counselling for your mental health.


I really want to pay off my debts, because it's what the Bible says to do. So quitting a well-paid job seems like sinning. I always trust God will provide though. And it feels really wrong being paid for the days I've been there, without having worked at all.

There are other factors as well. I would indirectly be working for the Swedish government, which is probably one of the most anti-christian governments in the world. And I would have to work both late and early hours, which does go against Psalm 127:2 (I'm not legalistic, but it seems important somehow).
I would also have to wear a really fancy uniform, which I'm not sure is okay, and totally goes against my personality.
It seems really stressful, but I love stressful situations, because I have to rely on God so much (I absolutely cannot handle it on my own, but it always works out).

What should I do? I'm so stressed and confused right now, I've kind of stopped being able to think at all. I feel one thing, yet the signs say the opposite. I need a lot of help. And please pray for me.

Emelie

You purpose to honor God, just like Daniel did when he taken captive/enslaved to a pagan king. Daniel did his duties but Daniel wouldn't worship no idol. Daniel set his sights on honoring God and doing his courtly duties to the best of his abilities.
Daniel purposed to faithfully pray every day and to be a man of integrity...take time to carefully read through the book of Daniel.

 

[1213]

...

What should I do? I'm so stressed and confused right now, I've kind of stopped being able to think at all. I feel one thing, yet the signs say the opposite. I need a lot of help. And please pray for me.

I think the number 666 is not always bad. Crucial thing is what the number represents and what do you do. If you don’t reject God and if you don’t serve the “beast”, I think there is no problem.

 

[Emli]

I want to thank all of you for all the great answers. You've given me a lot of insight, and a lot of confirmation of the same thoughts that have came to my mind throughout the day today. Which I believe came from the Holy Spirit. I think that most of you are right, all at the same time. I've calmed down a lot, but I'm still stressing about it.

I want to clarify that I'm not superstitious. I don't believe that the number 666 in itself is dangerous or magical, or a bad omen. It's the significance of it that bothers me in this particular situation. The fact that I will not be able to sell without using a card with the number on it, that is not superstition, that's biblical! "And no one could buy or sell anything without that mark, which was either the name of the beast or the number representing his name." Rev 13:17.

I don't think that it came from Satan, but from God, and that it has a significance on the situation. I have been studying end times prophecies, and I have a pretty good grasp on it. I don't believe that the Antichrist will put 666 on peoples hands, because it would be way to obvious, and everyone would know that the Bible is true and would immediately turn to Christ and be saved. But there will be some sort of a economic system. That's why I'm freaking out. I know that this is a test, but I don't know what God wants me to do.

My conclusions right now are that God wants me to take the job, but keep focusing on Him. To be aware of what is happening in the world, keep waiting for Jesus to come, and not fall asleep. Be in the world, but not of the world. Seeing the number 666 everyday at work, being reminded of what it represents, and what is coming, will certainly keep me on my toes. I know that God won't abandon me if I make the wrong move, and I think that the worst thing I could do would be to give into fear, because that is never from God, so I will keep the job unless the Spirit really convicts me.

 

[Emli]

Emelie have you read the book of Daniel in the Old Testament he was living in Babylon and taken captive at the time. He went through these sorts of trials. Read this book to encourage yourself to act with integrity in a crooked world.

Philippians 2:14-15

Also remember when Paul was in prison and he had no choice he still praised God and learned to be content whatever the circumstances.

I will definitely read through Daniel, later tonight. It seems very important. My life has been full of trials for the last two years, and I have a feeling that there are many, many more up ahead.

 

[Emli]

If I were interpreting the situation in application to my self: you say you like stressful situations because you have to rely on God so much (which is brilliant, by the way)- that seems central to the situation. Now, you've fixed on a number that represents something to you, yet you feel no immediate need to evade the situation, though it has a parallel to prophecy in your immediate understanding of the occurrence.

Okay, so, putting it all together, I would interpret this as a precursor situation in which God is showing you the number, but not wishing you to avoid the situation, but to take on the responsibility and the stress that comes with it in order to strengthen your reliance on Him to keep you during the situation. Do you understand what I'm saying?

In other words, God wants you in the situation in order to increase your focus of reliance on Him; he is symbolizing a dangerous situation that He is leading you into, in order to have you be in the middle of the threatening situation, and to rely on Him to get you through it unscathed. Make sense?

Goodbook mentioned the book of Daniel, and if nothing is coincidence, that isn't either: the three children and the fiery furnace, and Daniel in the lion's den seem apt to the situation.

This makes a lot of sense, and I think I understand you. You seem to understand my reaction to the number. I've been thinking a lot in the same way since I managed to calm down and actually consider the situation. I don't believe in a pre-trib rapture, and lately, I've been terrified that I would actually take the mark if it comes in my lifetime, out of fear, which makes no sense at all, since I am 100% sure that the Bible is true and that Jesus is who He said He was. God has proven that to me so many times. I feel like I would happily die for Him, but that's what Peter said as well... my fears have made my trust in Christ a lot weaker lately. I need to get back to where I was before. Maybe this is His plan of getting me there.

 

[Emli]

IMO, you are looking to God for things he has not promised. It is NOT his goal to get you to hear him so that you can be his robot. He wants you to use your knowledge of him to be more like him. Trying to get you to objectify signs from God is a scheme of Satan. Study the Bible and pray to know God better personally. You can ignore or reject everything that gets in the way of that as long as you do not sin. Whenever something like this happens, ask yourself how it affects your relationship with God in your heart. God is concerned with your relationship with him, not guiding you with minutiae. God can speak to you plainly if he wants to. In fact, he can transform you or speak to you without you even noticing you've been spoken to.

for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. (Philippians 2:13, 1984 NIV)

Please post again what you conclude from all this.

Thank you for the insight. I don't really know what you mean when you say "objectify signs from God". Some explanation would be appreciated.

I do believe that we are supposed to be led by the Holy Spirit, and always be in prayer, which I try to do, even when I'm doing mundane things. But I don't think that we are supposed to be like robots either. God always reminds me of this verse whenever I try to get Him to just tell me what to do: "Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you." Psalm 32:9

I always ask Him for knowledge, wisdom and guidance, and that is what I expect and what I usually get, one way or another (like from the Bible, from other people, from trials or situations, or from the Holy Spirit). He has also spoken audibly, a few times, usually when I'm not expecting it. I once "picked up" the Holy Spirit whispering "I love you, I love you, I love you!". That was amazing! My relationship with God is not simply based on signs. That would be witchcraft. But I do get signs as well. And sometimes I get false signs, and false voices from the enemy. I'm not entirely unaware.

Yes, but the OP didn't seem to me to be talking about that. We shouldn't be trusting the Lord to direct our steps by waiting for guidance by the Holy Spirit for us to lift our foot, move it forward, shift our weight, then lift the other foot, etc. What the OP is writing about is a hurtful perspective and focus that can arise (for example) from wanting to avoid being hurt by not doing something right and so looking to the Lord for guidance. It can take a long time and be difficult to be free of to the point that I want to just tell people that taken as a whole, the Lord doesn't communicate to us that way. When someone gets like this, common sense should become the rule to live by, not trying to hear from God.

Personally, I got free of it by leaning on the verse I quoted (Philippians 2:13). Through it I came to trust the Holy Spirit to guide me that way. Knowing that God is not "out to get you" helps. He loves us and we can count of him to meet us at our point of need—at a place we can understand that is sensible. (We aren't able to adjust to meet him at his level.)

Paul's general statement revealing a facet of God's nature was also part of what helped me:

For God is not a God of disorder but of peace. ... (1 Corinthians 14:33a, 1984 NIV)

The Lord doesn't cause us to be confused or disturbed. Those are consequences of sin. However, he does say and do things to give us peace and clarity of understanding.

This I understand. I have been terrified lately of doing something wrong, because I've felt that God would or had left me, or that I was never saved. That all came from a severe spiritual oppression that I went through last year, which totally messed with my mind, and went on for months. I had a bad childhood and because of it, I got difficult anxiety and panic disorders. It all went away when Christ came in to my life, but then came back again after a lot of drama last fall. The way the Holy Spirit works, at least within me, is through my thinking patterns, through logic and truth. I realized this quickly when I became a Christian. But when fear comes, logic goes out the door, and the brain starts spinning and scrambling for answers. Paranoia is a perfect word for it. So I think common sense is good advice.

My situation is so weird though, and there is so much going on, that I don't really know how to sort it all out right now...

 

[Emli]

First how wonderful to hear someone from Sweden who is seriously seeking the Lord and wanting to be Biblically right!

As for the 6660 number, well, I would just pray for protection. Our American money has some pretty occultic stuff on it, like a pagan all seeing eye on our dollar bill. But...I still use cash. If you can avoid pagan things, great. If not, again, just pray for protection.

As for other number concerns, honestly I think you are maybe over doing it. The Bible does tell us to not get into omens. Once again, pray for protection.

I will also speak on your being a Christian in a non Christian environemtn. I personally thiinnk you should not feel you have to make a big deal about your faith. I'm not saying hide it. if it comes up, answer honestly but maybe with brevity.

The Bible says to be discrete in evil times. These are evil times! Our Savior tells us to not cast our pearsl (like of spiritual truth) before the pigs lest they turn and trample you. Now, sometimes we are called to be martyrs. If the Holy Spirit, for sure, guides you in that area, okay. But usually that is not the case.

Your best wittness will alaays be how you live your life. People may listen to your words, but mostly they will be watching your actions. Praying for you...

There aren't really a lot of us in Sweden. I haven't even found a Biblical church yet in my home town, even after two years... most of the "Christians" here seem to focus on anything but Jesus.

I try not to provoke people with my faith, like some people do, because it is a bad idea with bad results, and I don't think that it's what God wants us to do. I also don't testify to people when they haven't asked for it. I do wear a small cross around my neck, and I make sure to tell people about my faith if they ask. But I do get into all kinds of troubles, because of the way I act, or rather do not act. Since I don't go out and get drunk every weekend or flirt with everyone and have pre-marital sex, and I refuse to steal, lie, gossip, seek revenge etc. people don't trust me... they either act like they accept me and then spread lies about me, or just mock me to my face. Sometimes I meet people who are genuinely inspired by the way I live, and then I can witness. But mostly it's just trouble. My so-called best friend for the past twelve years, who grew up in a true Christian home, stopped talking to me when I became Christian myself, because I no longer wanted to party and drink with her. That's generally how people are over here...

I don't want to just stick to myself and be all alone, because I would be useless to Christ, and He is always leading me to be more brave and more open and reach out to other people. Any more tips on how to live this life would be really helpful. I feel like I don't really know what I'm doing most of the time.

 

[musicalpilgrim]

I don't want to just stick to myself and be all alone, because I would be useless to Christ, and He is always leading me to be more brave and more open and reach out to other people. Any more tips on how to live this life would be really helpful. I feel like I don't really know what I'm doing most of the time.

I pray to the Father for you, that he will lead Christian friends to you.
As you pray and read the Bible, may he strengthen you and give you that wonderful joy that comes from being in his presence! in Jesus precious name

 

[1stcenturylady]

I want to thank all of you for all the great answers. You've given me a lot of insight, and a lot of confirmation of the same thoughts that have came to my mind throughout the day today. Which I believe came from the Holy Spirit. I think that most of you are right, all at the same time. I've calmed down a lot, but I'm still stressing about it.

I want to clarify that I'm not superstitious. I don't believe that the number 666 in itself is dangerous or magical, or a bad omen. It's the significance of it that bothers me in this particular situation. The fact that I will not be able to sell without using a card with the number on it, that is not superstition, that's biblical! "And no one could buy or sell anything without that mark, which was either the name of the beast or the number representing his name." Rev 13:17.

I don't think that it came from Satan, but from God, and that it has a significance on the situation. I have been studying end times prophecies, and I have a pretty good grasp on it. I don't believe that the Antichrist will put 666 on peoples hands, because it would be way to obvious, and everyone would know that the Bible is true and would immediately turn to Christ and be saved. But there will be some sort of a economic system. That's why I'm freaking out. I know that this is a test, but I don't know what God wants me to do.

My conclusions right now are that God wants me to take the job, but keep focusing on Him. To be aware of what is happening in the world, keep waiting for Jesus to come, and not fall asleep. Be in the world, but not of the world. Seeing the number 666 everyday at work, being reminded of what it represents, and what is coming, will certainly keep me on my toes. I know that God won't abandon me if I make the wrong move, and I think that the worst thing I could do would be to give into fear, because that is never from God, so I will keep the job unless the Spirit really convicts me.

Numbers are used all throughout the Bible. Some Christians eyes are not open to signs, but your's are. I would stay where you are, and pray that if God wants you to leave, He will provide the way.

Something similar happened to me in that I wondered if I should leave a job. I opened my Bible and read these words:

Depart! Depart! Go out from there,
Touch no unclean thing;
Go out from the midst of her,
Be clean,
You who bear the vessels of the Lord.
12 For you shall not go out with haste,
Nor go by flight;
For the Lord will go before you,
And the God of Israel will be your rear guard.

So take courage and be anxious for nothing. You can stay as long as God wants you there.

 

[Greg J.]

Thank you for the insight. I don't really know what you mean when you say "objectify signs from God". Some explanation would be appreciated.

I'm not addressing what you are doing, I'm trying to address something I am seeing through you words, something that has displaced what God wants for you. Objectification is when something has been elevated in importance and becomes one's focus for his own good or enjoyment. Women are objectified by men when their appearance or what they can do for them become too much of a focus (rather than the women themselves as people, made in God's image and due honor and respect as the man desires it for himself). The normal solution is to believe in how God sees things. But Satan is insidious with this and can even cause people to objectify God—such as through elevating the importance of worship or pleasing God, or in this case, looking to be led by God for details in life. Expect from God the kind of guidance you would get from a (good) human father.

I do believe that we are supposed to be led by the Holy Spirit, and always be in prayer, which I try to do, even when I'm doing mundane things.

God is not making robots means he is making children who can live in ways pleasing to God without his guidance. He is working you toward being able to be your partner. Behavior consistent with that is to not seek the Lord for help in things he has enabled you to do yourself. He gave us other people to help us with things at that level or where constant care is needed.

But I don't think that we are supposed to be like robots either. God always reminds me of this verse whenever I try to get Him to just tell me what to do: "Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you." Psalm 32:9

That's a misinterpretation of the Psalm. Horses and mules need to be controlled by bit and bridle because they have no understanding. In fact, it is a command that because you do have understanding you should not let yourself be like them (who are controlled by the bit and bridle).

 

[Winken]

Here is what she wrote:

"My conclusions right now are that God wants me to take the job, but keep focusing on Him. To be aware of what is happening in the world, keep waiting for Jesus to come, and not fall asleep. Be in the world, but not of the world."

Why keep offering solutions / explanations when she has arrived at this conclusion? Let it be!!

 

[HenryM]

Hi,

I just joined this forum, and I hope that someone might be able to help me out. I need wise answers. I'm in a tough and weird situation. I live in Sweden, and since there aren't a lot of true Christians over here, I don't have anybody to talk to about this.

I just got a new part-time job, as a conductor for a train company. It seems like a great job. The company has good values and seem to treat both the staff and the passengers really well. I'm on day four of the training program, and next week I'll have to start working as a trainee.

This is the problem: The train is cashless, which makes a lot of sense, because of robberies, but the card I will have to use to login to the ticket machine has the number 666 on it, in my personal serial number. Also, when we practiced using the machine, the total sum of purchases after the first exercise was 6660 SEK (Swedish money). This freaks me out, which it should! Yet, I don't feel as alarmed as I think I should be.

God has previously used numbers to talk to me, and to warn me away from situations, especially when I was a new Christian. No numerology or anything, I don't touch anything occult. But He has, and it has always been biblical (like pointing me to the specific Bible verse in a specific circumstance). I know that He is in control of everything. This is obviously not a coincidence. Do you think that God wants me to quit? Or is He just warning me about something? I know I'm not accepting the mark of the beast if I use this card (I've studied Revelation and the old testament prophecies, so I'm not confused about what it means), but it feels waaaaay to close for comfort. I feel like I would be a part of the culture that is leading towards the beast system. And betraying God for money!

The number 42 appears everywhere at work too. I'm NOT looking for signs. And today, my teacher randomly said "train number 1317" right after I had wondered about Rev 13:17.

I became a Christian two years ago, and since, I've lost four jobs because of my faith, for different reasons. (This is NOT a Christian-friendly country). I've been unemployed for six months now, and I'm living off welfare. I get less then I need, and I'm in a lot of debt. If I quit my job or cause them to fire me, I will get no more welfare and no way to pay my bills, at all. I have no one to turn to for money...

I don't mind quitting another job for Christ, and I'm not afraid, not even if it meant I would end up homeless. It would be okay with me, even if it does feel irresponsible. But I don't feel convicted to leave. It might just be my survival instincts taking over, rationalizing, and somehow calming me, because I really need the money, or the enemy is trying to confuse me. I've been under a lot of oppression lately.

I really want to pay off my debts, because it's what the Bible says to do. So quitting a well-paid job seems like sinning. I always trust God will provide though. And it feels really wrong being paid for the days I've been there, without having worked at all.

There are other factors as well. I would indirectly be working for the Swedish government, which is probably one of the most anti-christian governments in the world. And I would have to work both late and early hours, which does go against Psalm 127:2 (I'm not legalistic, but it seems important somehow).
I would also have to wear a really fancy uniform, which I'm not sure is okay, and totally goes against my personality.
It seems really stressful, but I love stressful situations, because I have to rely on God so much (I absolutely cannot handle it on my own, but it always works out).

What should I do? I'm so stressed and confused right now, I've kind of stopped being able to think at all. I feel one thing, yet the signs say the opposite. I need a lot of help. And please pray for me.

Emelie

All the best Emelie.

As I see, devoted Christians have a hard time in most countries. That's how it is in this day. There could only be differences in way hardship falls.

You seem to have good answers yourself, so good for that. Maybe writing it out helps, so good for that too.

Remember what Jesus says:

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

 

[LoricaLady]

I will put in my 2 cents about the "mark of the beast." First, everyone is just guessing about what it is. Some say this. Some say that. Most of all, everyone in our Western culture seems to just assume it will be from our Western culture. No, I don't think so. My best guess, personally...

We have all been western centric while looking at who Mystery Babylon is. The Bible is middle eastern centric and, of course, particularly Israel centric. All the enemy countries of Israel in the Bible are now Islamic! In Revelation we see that believers' heads are being chopped off. Does Rome do that? Does New York? We see that the 'harlot/False Religion of Mystery Babylon is located on 7 hills in a desert by the sea. That's Mecca folks, the biggest purveyor of the harlot/false religion, in the world.
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We see that Mecca, described correctly as fabulously wealthy, is destroyed by the beasts/10 nations she rides upon, and that merchants on the sea watch and throw dust on their heads. (Iran and other Islamic countries hate Mecca because her nation sells oil to the west and, some Iranians in particular, have publicly said they will destroy her.) Muslims grieve that way.
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We are told in Revelation that the last beast/empire gets its head (leadership) cut off and later comes back to life. The great Islamic Empire was destroyed in WW1. But it's rebuilding right now. I'm not saying the RCC will not play a role, however.
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I didn't think up all these things on my own, folks. See this vid and have your eyes majorly opened with Bible verses that suddenly come alive and seem obvious when, before, they were mystifying. They get into the number 666. Very comprehensive vid.

 

[PeterCOH]

You don't need to worry about that number. That number is the sign of Islam (bismah allah..) and not some random number that means you are aligned with Satan.. it represents the mulititude who come in the name of Mohamed-and is not a number as we know it. It is the symbol worn on the headbands and armbands of Islamic warriors-today. I've been researching this stuff my entire life. Just type "666 and Islam" in google search then click images. Do the same in YouTube-you will see the research and truth of what it is. Enjoy your job, spread Christ's love and don't be a weirdo by complaining about your badge number-that would be silly (but well intentioned). Peace.

 

[throughfiierytrial]

Hi,

I just joined this forum, and I hope that someone might be able to help me out. I need wise answers. I'm in a tough and weird situation. I live in Sweden, and since there aren't a lot of true Christians over here, I don't have anybody to talk to about this.

I just got a new part-time job, as a conductor for a train company. It seems like a great job. The company has good values and seem to treat both the staff and the passengers really well. I'm on day four of the training program, and next week I'll have to start working as a trainee.

This is the problem: The train is cashless, which makes a lot of sense, because of robberies, but the card I will have to use to login to the ticket machine has the number 666 on it, in my personal serial number. Also, when we practiced using the machine, the total sum of purchases after the first exercise was 6660 SEK (Swedish money). This freaks me out, which it should! Yet, I don't feel as alarmed as I think I should be.

God has previously used numbers to talk to me, and to warn me away from situations, especially when I was a new Christian. No numerology or anything, I don't touch anything occult. But He has, and it has always been biblical (like pointing me to the specific Bible verse in a specific circumstance). I know that He is in control of everything. This is obviously not a coincidence. Do you think that God wants me to quit? Or is He just warning me about something? I know I'm not accepting the mark of the beast if I use this card (I've studied Revelation and the old testament prophecies, so I'm not confused about what it means), but it feels waaaaay to close for comfort. I feel like I would be a part of the culture that is leading towards the beast system. And betraying God for money!

The number 42 appears everywhere at work too. I'm NOT looking for signs. And today, my teacher randomly said "train number 1317" right after I had wondered about Rev 13:17.

I became a Christian two years ago, and since, I've lost four jobs because of my faith, for different reasons. (This is NOT a Christian-friendly country). I've been unemployed for six months now, and I'm living off welfare. I get less then I need, and I'm in a lot of debt. If I quit my job or cause them to fire me, I will get no more welfare and no way to pay my bills, at all. I have no one to turn to for money...

I don't mind quitting another job for Christ, and I'm not afraid, not even if it meant I would end up homeless. It would be okay with me, even if it does feel irresponsible. But I don't feel convicted to leave. It might just be my survival instincts taking over, rationalizing, and somehow calming me, because I really need the money, or the enemy is trying to confuse me. I've been under a lot of oppression lately.

I really want to pay off my debts, because it's what the Bible says to do. So quitting a well-paid job seems like sinning. I always trust God will provide though. And it feels really wrong being paid for the days I've been there, without having worked at all.

There are other factors as well. I would indirectly be working for the Swedish government, which is probably one of the most anti-christian governments in the world. And I would have to work both late and early hours, which does go against Psalm 127:2 (I'm not legalistic, but it seems important somehow).
I would also have to wear a really fancy uniform, which I'm not sure is okay, and totally goes against my personality.
It seems really stressful, but I love stressful situations, because I have to rely on God so much (I absolutely cannot handle it on my own, but it always works out).

What should I do? I'm so stressed and confused right now, I've kind of stopped being able to think at all. I feel one thing, yet the signs say the opposite. I need a lot of help. And please pray for me.

Emelie

Hello Emili,
Nice to "meet" someone from abroad. You are too worried though. How to untangle you????
First, Revelation uses riddles...that is why it says it takes a mind of wisdom to understand the number of the beast...it is not literal. It is the number of talents of gold Solomon received annually and is found in I Kings 10:14...666. Solomon was the King who started his reign asking God for wisdom and God rewarded Solomon for asking for wisdom over any earthly provision. Perhaps you need to ask God for wisdom and a right spirit and calm. Read the Word, practice it and Trust Him. Remember the passage to Trust the Lord with all your heart, with all your mind and all your soul and lean not unto thine own understanding. Trust Him.
You may well be within a heathen nation, but we are called to love all people and if you do love them you will be interested in leading people to Christ...at least by your godly character. You will have to ignore some of these amazing coincidences throughout the work day and perhaps run them through your mind a little at home...as little as possible for awhile because you are stressed and may be at risk psychologically. You seem to see too much evil. Romans says overcome evil with good.
It is certainly ok to wear that fancy uniform even though we are to dress modestly. It is a type of enslavement for Christ...you must do it, it is not that you want to do it. Lydia in the book of Acts was a seller of purple cloth...a sign of wealth...she became a convert and had Paul into her home...there were other women of high standing who converted. As long as others see you as your normal self at home they will realize that you are compelled to dress up for work. I know it's hard and it may seem to you that I am trying to get you to compromise your faith...I am not and in the end conscience dictates, but you must grow up in the faith by reading your Bible prayerfully so you are not tossed to and fro by every wind of teaching as Peter says. Also new Christians or unread or not read enough Christians tend to be weak and fragile in the faith (seeing everything as sin). Read I Corinthians and see how strong Paul says we should be.
This is a lot of advise giving from me and I'm not so sure I'm comfortable giving it. You must learn to think solemnly and in a very sober-minded way.
It's ok to be amidst unbelievers, too. Remember God is with you...even to the end of the world! He may love you dearly for your fear and trembling as you work out your salvation, but I John says the one who fears has not yet been made perfect in love. Perhaps, practice more love toward all your heathen coworkers in any way possible...toward your believing friends as well...and I hope you do have them.
Here's St John's advice for us whenever our hearts condemn us...
Dear children let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. This then is how we know we belong to the Truth, and how we set our hearts at rest in His presence whenever our hearts condemn us. For God is greater than our hearts and He knows everything.
Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God and receive from Him anything we ask, because we obey His commands and do what pleases Him. And this is His command: to believe in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as He commanded us. --I John3:18-23
But re-read all the surrounding passages.
Lots of Love Emili and yes, I'll be praying for you! You seem a kindred spirit! Godspeed!

 

[Fredric777]

Mathew 5:14-16
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

God desires us to pursue holiness at all costs, because without holiness we cannot see the Lord Hebrews 12:14.Living a righteous and a holy life means allowing your relationship with God to shine everywhere you enter, that can greatly impact the work environment…. avoiding sin.

Most importantly, does this work environment cause you to sin? If not, then let nothing distract and take your eyes off the LORD ALMIGHTY.

The righteous will never be shaken….Proverbs 10:30 since they are in those hands that made the heavens and the earth, support all in being, and hold the reins of nations.

Matthew 5:8
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.