Thoughts of Life and Time: Strategies for Living a Complete Life (Volume 2)

By Wyne Ince

The goal of this book is to highlight the eternal value of the soul that exists in our mortal bodies and, using mostly biblical precepts and snippets of touching stories, to help shed some light on the path that leads us to eternal life in Christ. To that extent, this material is evangelical in nature. I offer it to you with passion and the heartfelt desire to impart what God has taught me.
One Saturday in early May of 2014, it happened. I got up that morning and decided to relax by taking my familiar leisurely drive to reflect on life. However, God had other plans for that day, for as I walked into my bathroom, my walking was called to pause by a soft, breeze-like whisper in my ear. It said, “Start to write.” I held my position and slightly turned as if to hear more, but that was all I heard.
That occasion was the second of the two times I have audibly heard God’s voice. Those three words came as an energizing guidance and this book is the result of that divine prompt. The process was not initiated because I had made a conscious decision to write this book, but because I was supernaturally nudged to do so. I feel blessed to provide this information because I believe that ignorance is dangerous. As the Bible says, “my people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” This does not question one’s intelligence but extends an invitation to share what Jesus Christ wants to impart through me.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Wyne Ince
• Release date: Nov 12, 2019
• ISBN: 9780463251058

Wyne Ince

Wyne Ince doesn't consider himself a theologian, preacher, or even formally trained in delivering God's instructions. However, he believes that developing and maintaining a timely relationship with Jesus is the wisest engagement of a lifetime. Logically, Ince concludes that since God owns everything, humans can own nothing, so, as intelligent beings, why go to Hell for nothing? He also reckons that God loves everyone, including those in Hell. Therefore, we escape eternal destruction with God’s help but also with our involvement.He received his Bachelor of Computer Information Systems degree from the City University of New York (CUNY). He then pursued his Master of Telecommunication and Information Management degree from the Polytechnic Institute of New York University (NYU). He has been a follower of Jesus Christ for many years. To remain persistent and focused on the narrow road, he regularly practices praising, praying, fasting, and what is pleasing in the eyes of God.

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Preface

Thank you for your interest in this book. In your hands is a relevant, inspirational guide that I am confident will help us on our journey through life. You are embarking on a personal tour into a wellspring of knowledge that only God could have established.

Over the course of this journey, you will be motivated and possibly amazed at times by what you read, but much more so by what your mind will be asked to comprehend and embrace. Try not to criticize or condemn. Instead, pray about the messages and thoughts that might challenge any preconceived notions, false teachings, or, worse yet, any unwillingness you may have to accept these biblically supported truths.

Each chapter is designed to be self-contained so it can be read on its own. Because of this, you may notice some repetition of verses and points. Nevertheless, the goal here is to admonish and help prepare each person for their final, ultimate appointment with God beyond the veil of this Life, transcending the limits of Time.

Bear in mind, I am not a theologian, nor a preacher, or even someone who is academically trained in the delivery of God’s instructions and commands. I am a technologist and a former adjunct lecturer on computer information systems. However, I have been a follower of Jesus Christ for more than 30 years, and during that time I have gain some wisdom by reading the Bible — along with praising, praying, fasting, and trying to live a life that is pleasing in the sight of God.

Despite all of my striving toward a life of holiness, there were moments in which I failed quite miserably, hurting both the Comforter and my family. However, those were merely moments, and I can thankfully say that my life and my journey of discipleship is significantly better than it used to be.

Every day, our Deliverer whispers his instructions to us. Sadly, only a few can hear his voice through the hubbub of our hectic, hurried society, and even fewer pay attention.

This book began with one such whisper. In 2014, on a Saturday morning in early May, I got out of bed and decided to relax by taking a familiar, leisurely drive to reflect on life. But God had other plans for me that day. As I walked into the bathroom, a soft, breeze-like sound whispered into my ear, and I paused.

Jesus said, "Start to write."

I remained still, expecting to hear more, then turned slightly, but that was all I heard that morning. However, this inspirational resource is the result of that divine prompt.

The writing process wasn't initiated because I made a mindful decision to compose this book. Instead, this book of encouragement came about because I was supernaturally instructed to write.

I feel blessed to provide this information because I believe that ignorance is dangerous.

While each person may be an expert in their particular field of expertise for their job or hobby, very few people know or study to learn more about the life beyond this earthly visit. As the Bible says, My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. (Hosea 4:6)

This devotional guide is an attempt to share what the Lord has revealed to me, and it is my pleasure to do so.

Jesus loves you!

1

Special Points

You have the power to obtain…

To Parents : Teach children to be good managers of life and time because they will seamlessly become managers of their soul once they reach the age of accountability, the point when they can discern right from wrong and become capable of using their power to choose. So, who are the best managers in the world? Christians, faithful and consecrated followers of Jesus. Why? Managers and leaders are expected to administer, oversee, and utilize resources to generate high productivity and profit. The soul is the most valuable asset because its worth is measured in terms of the life of Christ.

In this world, the greatest resource is free will. A management style that relies on decision making not done to please God or conduct operations righteously is described by the Bible as foolishness, which is another name for sin or spiritual unprofitability.

However, the opposite of foolishness is wisdom. God wishes our management style to reflect that of the five wise virgins. These five wise souls always kept eternal life in view. They understood that the flesh (or the material world) profits meant nothing. Meanwhile, their foolish counterparts took their eyes off Jesus and frolicked in idleness and carnality.

And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness [or hell]: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.  (Matthew 25:30, KJV)"

Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out."  (Matthew 25:1-8, KJV)

During our time on Earth, as executives of our soul, we each are responsible for maintaining a connection with Heaven despite the vigorous and untiring pursuit of our flawed character to host that corrosive and unproductive agent known as sin, which can limit our communication and effectivity. Our souls must be kept productive using disinfecting solvents such as prayer, bible-reading, forgiveness, and repentance. We have to work against our natural tendencies to spiritually corrode, which stems from our volatile, sinful nature and, in the end, the Lord will compensate our efforts with the wages of eternal life, the gift He has promised to all efficient and effective managers.

Efficiency is doing things right; effectiveness is doing the right things.

Peter Drucker

Salvation: Seeking forgiveness and pursuing repentance are the bedrock of effective salvation. I use the word effective to indicate that one has to live for Christ through thoughts and deeds conscientiously. Nevertheless, salvation is not accomplished by works, lest anyone should boast. We are saved from the road to perdition by grace, not by our own effort. A sinner cannot save him or herself, as imperfection cannot produce perfection. We become perfected in Christ Jesus when we acknowledge Him as our Lord by living according to His standards.

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God, not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9, KJV)

Reading the Bible: Though audio technology is a modern marvel that conveniently enables voice recording and playback, the same convenient tools, such as an audio Bible, can be used by Satan to hinder us from reading the Bible to clean and strengthen our soul. We must remember, the Bible says that life and death are in the power of the tongue, so we must read the Good News with intention using a voice of authority. Still, I am not entirely discounting the value of listening to an audio version. Instead, I am promoting the efficacy of confessing and agreeing with the living word of God.

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof." (Proverbs 18:21, KJV)

2

My Area of the Canvas

I Am Accountable for My Deeds

Look around you and think for a moment. Are you effectively respectful of other canvas members?

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The omnipresence of God is the canvas He uses to project and animate His thoughts into myriads of life forms.

Who or what is the big picture? Well, from one viewpoint, you, your life, my life, and every human life is the big picture, which is sprawled out in God’s hands to unending proportions.

The picture is about the life and death of Christ and what it represents concerning keeping us spiritually alive now and in eternity. From another perspective, the picture is about God’s desire to enter an enduring relationship with each person, to reconcile the spiritually prodigal to Himself. Nonetheless, it’s the same picture, just from differing points of view.

I believe Luke 15:1-7 expresses the importance and the individuality in each of us. This chapter seeks to highlight the value of one: a single person, a single life. In a world of billions, the relevance of each person is easily masked and diminished by the overwhelming population count, by the ordinary and often unchecked drive to supersede others under the guise of progress or ambition, by cultural and religious boundaries, and by geographical isolation. 

"Then all the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him to hear Him. And the Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, ‘This Man receives sinners and eats with them.’ So, He spoke this parable to them, saying: ‘What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost! I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in Heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance." (Luke 15:1-7, NKJV)

As all books are from the Bible, various patterns in language and other forms of communications illustrate varying degrees of the simplicity God has fashioned for decisive interaction with His creation. Three prominent examples of the categorization that supports the demand for one to choose and maintain a resolute position are obedience or disobedience, truth or lie, and yes or no. Still, the relationship goes a bit further to include an impressive list of words that reverberate the essence of the statement: "One cannot serve two masters at the same time." To that end, I’ll highlight these observations: 

Opposite but not equal

I do not know to whom attribution must be made, but thanks for sharing with us. Doesn’t the list hint of God's desire for purposeful and unwavering loyalty? The pairs of words appear to be explaining to humanity that there is no middle ground, and all that is required is a change of heart to switch sides. The perfect resemblance to the number of letters almost seeks to convey that it takes the same desire or strength to affect change in any of the sixteen attributes. Depending on one's viewpoint, each word-pair precisely corresponds to the two sections on a number line, one side for negative and the other for positive.

Scrutinize the consequence of each word-pair regarding eternity. To be specific, consider LYING and HATE. Their pursuits will continue pushing the host along the line of negative infinity, thereby obstructing the soul's usefulness to Christ, and until a complete turnaround occurs, the outcome is an eternal loss. 

Nevertheless, God’s mission is still about drawing back each lost sheep to the pen and the flock (Luke 15:1-7). He wants to reunite each person back into His family and His body and to create a bigger, more uniform image. The picture presented in this text is about illuminating dark areas of life, zones of existence that have been primarily shrouded in lies and half-truths that disguise themselves as complete truths, even as the gospel truth. This book is written to be an eye-opener by magnifying what man often trivializes but what God hates, namely, sin in all its colors.  

Another aspect of the big picture is what I will refer to as the big responsibility. What is it? The term I will use to describe this obligation is Life Steward. More than anything one can pursue; this duty is chief amongst them because it represents God's life in us and not the existence we associate with physical growth. Here, I try to distinguish between life as an asset belonging to God versus life as a personal activity that counts down in 24-hour allotments. Let it be known that our most significant duty is to take care of the Life that has been entrusted to us, what He has placed in our physical body. Our stewardship is what we are each graded on in the end—did we take care of it and use it appropriately enough to yield an expected profit, or did we squander it? We are administrators of God’s life in us and will give an account to Him sometime in the future, at a point where all verbal defenses are ignored.

I believe ignorance is the obstructing agent that somehow conspires and often successfully prevents many from realizing and accepting their responsibility of stewardship. I suppose potential victims would respond to God's calling if they knew better, and I hope this guide will provide a bridge, connecting people to this truth. The Creator of Heaven and Earth did not place us here to be busybodies, idling away the ticks of His clock. Perhaps this is surprising, but we each can end up in the underworld for not completing the assignment for which we entered this terrestrial ball called Earth. Such a revelation should not be inconceivable, for it is for similar reasons that payment may not be released for incompleteness, or for not scoring an ‘A’ because time ran out, leaving unfinished questions during an examination. The longer a person waits to be reconciled to Christ, even after becoming a Christian, the greater the chance of failing to reach the finish line. In 2 Timothy 4:5-8, the apostle Paul encourages us to finish our race, as he did his. If you are a punctual person, for example, reflect upon whose image you were created in, and then consider the prospects, even the certainty, of spiritual heredity. 

"But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing." (2 Timothy 4:5-8, NKJV)

Though there are more, I will provide two actions to help strengthen our walk with God: abstain from watching television and become a peacemaker (Matthew 5:9 and Matthew 6:22). Actively pursuing these steps will build a stronger defense against the influence of evil. Perhaps some may find them too restricting and sacrificial at first, but these measures are practicable. God's strength and one's willingness to leave the spiritual desert are more than enough to mount a successful resistance.

"Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God." (Matthew 5:9, KJV)

"The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light." (Matthew 6:22, NKJV)

Let's examine the peacemaker topic first. Matthew 5:9 counsels that a peacemaker, either in the role of a mediator, potential victim or otherwise, receives God's approval and shall be called a child of God. Of the words in that verse, children is pivotal. Duhaime's Law Dictionary offers this definition of a child: A young individual who is under the legal age of majority, or who is the natural offspring of another. I like this perspective because it hints that we are all children, as we are in the eyes of God, and Matthew 18:1-3 makes this point rather glowing.

"At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, who then is greatest in the kingdom of Heaven? Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of Heaven."  (Matthew 18:1-3, NKJV)

There is a more pointed and spiritually profound aspect of seeking peace. When we endeavor peace, in the spirit of the Prince of Peace, who are we helping? One may charge the air with this electrifying response: Me! or Me and the other person! Now, though the reply is correct, there is another point, and it relates to ownership and stewardship. There are selfish reasons for pursuing peace, but I am referring to sacrificial peace; when we deny ourselves and energetically strive to please God. Remember, we live in the person of God because His Spirit is broader than the Earth, and it is His spirit in us that gives life (Job 11:7-9, NKJV).

"Can you search out the deep things of God? Can you find out the limits of the Almighty? They are higher than Heaven—what can you do? Deeper than Sheol—what can you know? Their measure is longer than the Earth and broader than the sea." (Job 11:7-9, NKJV)

Therefore, since the essence of our being is His Breath-of-Life in us, I reckon it to be understandable that under the influence of the Human Processing Unit (HPU or soul) and free will, a troublemaker or instigator is trying to pit the Spirit of God against itself. This action, intentionally or not, is forging a partnership with Satan to cause disunity and mutiny. With this understanding, one can see why a conniver, troublemaker or warmonger cannot be called a child of God because a kingdom divided against itself cannot endure (Mark 3:24). The adverse impacts of some television features are not well-known. Often, it’s what we cannot see that is most harmful to us. Overall, there are more questions than answers, but all things are naked to the eyes of the omnipresent God.

If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. (Mark 3:24, NKJV)

I would like to make another point here that does not directly relate to peacemaking; it's about being a child unto God, and it pertains to how we are dressed. To many of us, Christianity is more about what indwells our hearts and far less about anything physical. I believe it's both. God perfectly created all three parts (body, soul, and spirit), so we are responsible for each aspect. It is not my intention to challenge anyone with the do's and don'ts about how to dress, but Deuteronomy 22:5 and 1 Timothy 2:8-10 offer excellent direction.

"The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman's garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the LORD thy God." (Deuteronomy 22:5, KJV)

I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. (1 Timothy 2:8-10, KJV)

Though the images above feature people from distinct professions engaging in different activities, each example distinctively exhibits a dress code that is undoubtedly respectful. It is puzzling and disconcerting to see Christians attend services dressed as if they were going to a casual outing or party. Some pastors even take part by standing at the pulpit wearing untucked shirts and denim jeans. I believe this shift is rooted in education and the expressed orientation of one’s heart, but both can be adjusted. I always recommend maintaining a modest dress code throughout one’s Life and Time. God is constantly watching, and He likes order and respect.

Now, I would like to pose a few questions to you and allow you to mull them over and answer them at your convenience. If you agree that we are all children in God's sight, can you imagine God clothing you in the outfit you are presently wearing? Would He clothe you in an outfit that you typically wear to school, work, or church? Do you think He would dress you suggestively? Do you believe He would even consider dressing you in an attire unsuitable for a job interview? Altogether, I believe one's outward adornment should reflect Christ and the value of His temple.

"In like manner also, that women [and men] adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works." (1 Timothy 2:9-10, KJV)

Let your light [glow - appearance] so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven.  (Matthew 5:16, KJV)

In other words, if you were to be invited to meet Jesus somewhere, how would you dress for the occasion? Please don't say that it is different because He is standing right beside you at this very moment.

The other point relates to television. In August 2015, for Independent.co.uk, Jonathan Owen wrote about the potential dangers of television in this rather lengthy titled article: An 18-year Study of 86,000 People Has Found That the More You Watch, the Greater the Risk of Suffering a Pulmonary Embolism.

People who spend hours bingeing on television shows run the risk of suffering a fatal pulmonary embolism, according to a major new study of more than 86,000 people tracked over 18 years.

Before Jonathan's report, and also for the same online operation, Jeremy Laurance in August of 2011 unveiled How Six hours of TV a day takes years off your life:

"Television kills – or at least it shortens your life by 22 minutes for every hour you spend glued to the screen.

...

Researchers who studied television viewing habits in Australia calculated that people who watch for an average of six hours a day shorten their life expectancy by almost five years. Television watching is a sedentary activity which is known to be harmful to health and is distinct from getting too little exercise. But a new study suggests its damaging effects may even rank alongside those from smoking and obesity."

Both reports are addressing the physical impact of being glued to an addictive activity that may reduce one's time with families, friends and from the service God might have appointed. Nonetheless, I am about to offer a spiritual viewpoint. When I was prodded by the Holy Spirit to discontinue watching TV, I resorted to watching my then favorite network, CNN, on my laptop, but that, too, was a no-no. Today, and for years now, except for an occasional, cursory glance at the local news, watching the tube is no longer a pastime. Nonetheless, I am advocating abstinence from anything produced by Hollywood and the like, and I am not prescribing any measure that is foreign to me. Instead, I, too, am a patient of each prescription in this book, so we are developing together.

The reason I offer for committed abstinence from television is due to the unseen powers of darkness. Do you believe in the power of prayer? Would you relish the prospect or invitation of having someone pray with you concerning a significant matter in your life? Needless to answer, I can imagine your warm smile. Well, comparable to how God-believing people would seek His blessings, there is a set of individuals, in groups throughout nations, who are quite fervent about satanic worshiping.

In fact, they would unite and issue diabolic incantations over products and services such as music, games, movies, and foods—all the need to pray for protection. Please be careful about what you allow your Human Processing Unit (HPU or soul) to process. Protect your eyes, ears, and mind. Always remember garbage in, garbage out. Under normal conditions, I don't imagine anyone would intentionally drink poison, and most of it is precisely that. The intentions of these underworld societies are not the playful fairy tales from childhood; I don't suggest reading