I should begin this edition of Discerning the Times with a word of encouragement to pray for our nation. The attempt on former President Trump’s life last Saturday shocked the country. Unfortunately, tension will remain high until election day on November 5th.
 
In fact, if Mr. Trump wins the election, I suspect we will experience continued unrest with expressions of outright rebellion from various sectors of the nation unwilling to accept his return. By God’s grace through the struggle of it all we will see much of the woke ideology troubling our country pushed back. By God’s grace we will see freedom prevail over tyranny. Keep praying.
 
 
ECONOMY
 
The Bottom 20% Do Almost No Work, and You Pay for Them: How the Low-Income Bracket Drains Taxpayer Dollars
 
The headline above is the title of an article by Antonio Graceffo. Dr. Graceffo is an economist and national security analyst with a focus on China and Russia. He is a graduate of American Military University.
 
I am posting a link to his article because it is important to understand basic realities in play across our economy. The article is not suggesting changes in policy so much as it just sets the record straight on taxation.
 
Certainly, there is a place to care for the genuinely poor in our society (Cf. Exodus 22:25; 23:3, 6, 11; 30:15; Leviticus 19:10, 15; 23:22; 25:35; Deut. 15:7, 9, 11; Proverbs 14:21; 17:5; 19:17; 21:13; 22:9; 28:27; 29:7; Mark 10:21; Galatians 2:10).
 
However, keep in mind that it is unwise and unhealthy for a nation to incentivize dependency. To the contrary, we need to incentivize the work ethic. I encourage you to read this article.
 
 
AMERICANISM
 
Muslims Burn American Flags in NYC, Philly on Independence Day
 
Is it ok to burn American flags while chanting “death to America”? Free speech is one thing, but when is a citizen guilty of treason?
 
Admittedly this is difficult to discern, however, one thing is not difficult to discern. The spirit of Islam cannot support religious freedom which is the cornerstone of Americanism. In the interest of maintaining freedom this subject needs honest debate. Intimidation by enemies within our borders must not keep us silent. While the Spirit of Christ calls us to love our enemies such love does not grant them free course to tear down our government and enslave our people.
 
Check out the article from Todd Starnes here.
 
 
ISRAEL
 
Can you believe this headline:
 
Biden Admin Accuses Israel of Threatening Peace in the Middle East
 
Surrounded by enemies on all sides, Israel faces enemies sworn to her utter destruction and they are to blame for threatening peace in the Middle East?!  Check out the story in this short video from the Israel Guys and find out what Israel is doing that supposedly threatens peace in the Middle East.
 
 
PASTOR TO PARENT
 
One huge concern for parents these days is to guard children from the onslaught of gender confusion lurking all around them. Here is a brief story passed along by CCV (Center for Christian Virtue in Ohio). The article originated from the Colson Center for Christian Worldview:
 
Gender Transition and Suicide

John Stonestreet, Jared Hayden
Colson Center for Christian Worldview

 
A new study published in April found that those who undergo so-called “gender transition” surgery are far more likely to attempt suicide than those who do not: over 12 times more likely, in fact. The data surveys millions of patients over the course of 20 years, from 2003 to 2023.
 
The data exposes just how evil it is for counselors and activists to pressure parents into “affirming” their children’s dysphoria, especially with the manipulative question, “Would you rather have a live son or a dead daughter?”  
 
And yet, shockingly, the researchers concluded the results “underlin[ed] the necessity for comprehensive post-procedure psychiatric support.” Really? It doesn’t underscore that these surgeries should stop? Or at the very least, that there should be sufficient pre-procedure psychiatric support instead of fast-tracking people down this dangerous line? 
 
This study adds to a growing list of evidence that gender transition interventions, whether social, surgical, or chemical, are neither cure nor care for those—especially children—struggling with gender dysphoria.

 
I encourage you to check out the study here. This is a short report, but additional links provided at the bottom of the report are a help if you desire to explore more on this subject.
 
Speaking of studies here is another important one for parents to be aware of. In a recent blog Ken Ham of AIG starts with this headline:
 
LGBTQ Stories—They Influence Children!
 
The study involved children 5-6 and 9-10. The results illustrate how the LGBTQ crowd seeks to influence children and are successfully doing it! Read this short blog here. I must say it repeatedly: parents simply must keep children away from the influence of the ungodly lest they learn their ways (Cf. Dueteronomy 18:9; Jeremiah 10:2).
 
 
CREATION CONNECTION
 
The foundation of all truth is the simple declaration of Genesis 1:1: “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.” The Biblical doctrine of special creation is foundational to the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. In fact, our Savior is the great Creator/Redeemer.
 
Every believer needs to embrace a strong, Biblical worldview. Such a worldview begins with God’s word, NOT man’s word. Furthermore, it begins with an uncompromising acceptance of the straight-forward revelation of God’s creative activity as detailed in Genesis 1:1-2:1.
 
To strengthen your understanding of the Biblical doctrine of special creation I am adding this feature to Discerning the Times. I am going to connect you to a series of links spotlighting clear teaching on this vital subject.
 
Here is a good article to get you started:  Seven Things We Should Know from Genesis 1:1-2:3
 
 
PASTOR APPROVED
 
I want to introduce another new feature to this newsletter called Pastor Approved. This feature gives me the opportunity to recommend resources, events, and good entertainment for your consideration.
 
By no means am I aware of all the useful resources in the marketplace. However, I consume good books, etc. and I can pass those recommendations along to you. Also, as I become aware of wonderful events or wholesome entertainment for families I want to call attention to those things.
 
So, let us get to it. I want you to be aware of a coming event Labor Day weekend across the country. Let me explain. The well-known Sight and Sound theater in Pennsylvania is currently presenting DANIEL. If you have ever attended a Sight and Sound production in person you know they do a fantastic job.
 
For the first time they are presenting a “live” stream of this fabulous production in theaters across the nation on August 30, September 1, and September 2. View the trailer for this event here.
 
This presentation is coming to Sandusky at Cinemark behind the Sandusky Mall on August 30 at 7pm, and Sept 1, 2, and 3 at 2pm. Personally, I hope to attend on Friday, August 30th. Currently, plenty of tickets are available. This promises to be a great family event that communicates Bible truth in a unique way. I certainly recommend it.
 
 
GROWING IN CHRIST
 
As promised, as I close this newsletter/blog each week I want to say a word about spiritual growth. 1 Peter 2:2 exhorts us to “desire the sincere milk of the word” to grow thereby. It is God’s will for each believer to go on to spiritual maturity.
 
Last week I encouraged you to practice the confession of sin to the Lord. This should be your daily practice with the assurance the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all unrighteousness (sin). Mark and memorize 1 John 1:5-2:2.
 
With that said, let me say we always need to maintain the right attitude toward sin. Hebrews 12:1 says, “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.”
 
Every believer should fear sin. Sin will rob you of joy, assurance, peace, and usefulness to God. Hate sin. Battle sin. Do not coddle sin. Quickly judge sin taking God’s side against it. Confess it and in the heart forsake it. Remember always as a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ you are a servant of righteousness (Romans 6:1-23). Make it your business to bear his name well. Put away sin and strive to live in such a way you bring glory to God.
 
 
VISIT MY WEBSITE FOR SERMON NOTES AND MORE
 
The sermon notes from my last message on “The Ministry of John the Baptist Part One” based on Luke 3:1-9 are available on my site for free download as usual. Also, all the other message notes in my current verse-by-verse series through the gospel of Luke are available on my site.
 
In addition, if you would like to view the sermon on the ministry of John the Baptist part one you can find it on my site.
 
 
THE LAST WORD
 
I must say we enjoyed a wonderful service with the Lore Family this past Sunday evening. We are sharing music from the concert on CBM Today. Well, if you missed that event mark your calendar for August 11th when CBM welcomes Tammy Jones Robinette for another wonderful evening of gospel music.
 
Feel welcome to share feedback with me at [email protected] and may the Lord bless you is my prayer.
 
Pastor Rusty Yost
 
P.S. You can access past issues of Discerning the Times by visiting the blog page on my website. Once on the blog page simply scroll down the page and past issues become visible. Tell others to check this information out. For the most part, the content in these past blogs remains relevant today.

15 Great Speeches to Remind America what Independence is About
 
We love the great ideas that define America and grant us the freedoms we cherish. July 4th quickly comes and goes, but this month is a good time to refresh your mind as to why America is worth fighting for.
 
Here is an article from Hillsdale College containing 15 great speeches from famous Americans detailing what American Independence is all about. Hillsdale College remains one of the foremost voices working to preserve the great American ideas that define us as a nation. This article contains excerpts from these great speeches with links to the full text of those speeches. Here is the link to get started.
 
 
DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE STRUGGLING TO FEED THEIR FAMILY?
 
Below is an article from the Gateway Pundit. The information is telling. Many are struggling along these days. I encourage you to keep an eye open for widows or families with children who might need help with food. I know as good stewards we must be careful to help those truly in need. However, as you can see below many are struggling. Be ready to minister to the truly needy as the Lord makes you aware of such situations. Here is the article entitled:
 
Bidenomics: 27% of Americans Say They Skip Meals Due to Rising Cost of Food
By Jim Hoft
 
27% of Americans say they skip meals due to the rising cost of food. 39% say they skip meals to make house payments. 39% of Americans say they’ve skipped meals to make housing payments, per Clever Real Estate survey. And among millennials, that figure rose to 44%. Among Baby Boomers, it was 20%.
 
Meanwhile, Housing affordability in the US is near all-time-lows, per $GS.
 
In November, nationwide, households need six-figure incomes to comfortably afford the typical home for sale, according to a report by Redfin.
 
Last month, the nation’s home buyers needed to make about $107,000 annually, up from about $74,000 a year earlier, to afford a median-priced home, according to Redfin. That’s an increase of nearly 46%.
 
In the Philadelphia metropolitan area, the annual income needed to afford a home at the median sales price of $260,000 was about $70,000 last month, up from about $50,600 in October 2021. That’s a 38% increase.
 
No wonder some families are skipping meals so they can make a house payment! If you would like to see the chart associated with this article you can find it here.
 
 
KEY PASSAGES OF SCRIPTURE DEFINING THE FUTURE OF ISRAEL
 
Before I get to the scriptures on my mind, let me say if you want to hear some good teaching/preaching on the subject of Israel here is a recent sermon from Amir Tsarfati entitled, The Hope of Israel.
 
You will be blessed as I was when I listened to this timely message. Just a heads up, Amir makes a very interesting statement about more American troops now heading to the Mideast. Why aren’t we hearing about that?? Here is the link to the sermon.
 
I do trust you read your Bible as often as possible, daily preferred. One of the central teachings of the Bible is God’s plan for the nation of Israel. Prophecy constitutes a large portion of the Bible with much of it speaking about the future of Israel. All the major prophets including Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel have much to say about the future restoration of Israel with our Lord reigning from Jerusalem over the entire world. Wow!
 
Here are a few passages I suggest you read again just to get started on the subject:
Daniel 9; Isaiah 11:1-12; Micah 4:1-2, 7; Jeremiah 23:3-6; 33:14-17; Ezekiel 36:24-27; Zechariah 12:10-14; 13:1, 2, 6; Matthew 24.
 
I am currently leading a topical study of these passages on CBM Today. Tune in daily as we pray for Israel and discuss these important passages of scripture.
 
Regarding Israel and the Mideast, here is the most recent update from Amir Tsarfati. The wickedness of Hamas and the way they treat the people of Palestine is outrageous. You need to see the video footage in this report. As well, this update is packed with information you will find interesting. Click to the update here.
 
 
PASTOR TO PARENT
 
A big issue facing parents raising children these days is the use of a smart phone and interaction with social media. Unfortunately, trouble is lurking for young people left to themselves with a smart phone (the general gateway to social media). So, what is a parent to do?
 
For starters just don’t buy them a smart phone. Wait until your child can work and buy their own phone. Even at that point parents may op not to allow the use of the phone until they are driving. Why am I raising concern about this issue? Check out the stories below for information you need to digest. This information is helpful for any parent weighing a decision about smart phones and the potential dangers of social media.
 
SOCIAL MEDIA EXPOSES KIDS TO PRESSURE, PORNOGRAPHY, AND PREDATORS: ‘WE BETTER DO SOMETHING,’ EXPERT WARNS
 
OUR CHILDREN’S WELL-BEING IS AT STAKE: SURGEON GENERAL’S SMART CALL FOR SOCIAL MEDIA WARNING LABELS
 
AMERICANS ARE DITCHING SMARTPHONES FOR ‘DUMB’ DEVICES THAT ONLY CALL AND TEXT TO AVOID ‘ZOMBIE MODE’
 
 
GROWING IN CHRIST
 
Review is helpful. In my first brief devotional on Growing in Christ I encouraged you to read Romans 12:1-2. Remember: as disciples of Christ, we are NOT to conform to this world. Always allow scripture to correct your behavior. Allow the truth of scripture to renew your mind and conform you to Christ.
 
Next, last week I touched upon desiring the “sincere milk of the word that you might grow thereby.” To grow in Christ, it is essential to have a church life and to read the Bible. I encourage you to faithfully do BOTH.
 
Another part of growing in Christ is to pray. Since we don’t know how to pray the Lord Jesus gave us a very clear template for our prayer life. We call it the Lord’s prayer (the model prayer) and it is found in Matthew 6:9-13.
 
Starting your prayer time by praying this prayer word for word is a wonderful way to approach the Lord. He taught us to pray this way. What you will discover along the way is the habit of stopping at each point in the prayer and talking at length about things related to that part of the prayer.
 
For example, when you pray “forgive us our debts (trespasses)” it is good to stop and talk to the Lord about any known sin in your life. Confess the sin and ask forgiveness. Talk to the Lord about it until you are satisfied you have dealt with the sin. I suggest you memorize 1 John 1:5-2:2, or have it marked so you can refer to it as you confess sin.
 
Get started building a prayer life or strengthening your prayer life. Prayer is a vital part of our walk with the Lord.
 
 
VISIT MY WEBSITE FOR SERMON NOTES AND MORE
 
The sermon notes from my last message on “The Childhood of Jesus” based on Luke 2:39-52 are available on my site for free download as usual. Also, all the other message notes in my current verse-by-verse series through the gospel of Luke are available on my site.
 
In addition, if you would like to view the sermon on the childhood of Jesus you can find on my site.
 
One quick note: it is interesting that Answers News (from Answers in Genesis) covered a story on supposed information on the childhood of Jesus from an ancient manuscript. This story was in the news recently and they do a great job talking about it. Check it out here.
 
Also, remember to join us for our live broadcast on WGGN TV and Radio, WLLA, WLRD, and WJKW at 10:30 am as you are able. As well we are streaming this live service on ROKU and other platforms. Visit www.cbmtoday.org for more information on the streaming options we have available for viewing.
 
Let me remind you one final time of a special event coming up this Sunday at our CBM studio/sanctuary at 6pm. We are pleased to welcome the Lore Family (well-known Southern Gospel group) for a wonderful evening of ministry. Make plans to be here this Sunday evening. Our building is located at 3809 Maple Ave Castalia, Ohio.
 
May the Lord bless you is my prayer.
 
Pastor Rusty Yost
 

​HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!
 
I know you are a freedom loving American! We should give thanks daily for the great Republic of the United States of America. We are a republic (not a democracy). This means we are a nation under the rule of Law, not the rule of the latest mob to come along.
 
Thank God for the gift of a Constitutional Republic. As you celebrate the 4th take out a copy of the Constitution and read it again. And of course, read the Declaration of Independence which is the birth certificate of the nation. Always prize the liberty possessed in your homeland and don’t be afraid to stand up against those who attempt to destroy our liberties.
 
Remember: we are stewards of the Republican form of government entrusted to us by our Founders. In our case, if we “render unto Caesar the things that our Caesar’s” we must be good citizens who vote and hold public officials accountable. Furthermore, we must stay involved by praying, in some cases running for office, and otherwise influencing public policy to reflect righteousness.
 
Celebrate with joy and never lose sight of the great truth that freedom is worth fighting for!  Below are a few stories in the news that might encourage you as we celebrate the 4th.
 
 
TRACTOR SUPPLY WILL NO LONGER SPONSOR PRIDE PARADES
 
I hope you noticed during June this year that companies pulled back from heavy promotion of “pride month.” One big announcement came from the Tractor Supply Company (TSC). Their change of mind is the result of many Americans pushing back on the company’s promotion of pride parades. Check out this story from Todd Starnes and be encouraged. Taking a stand for righteousness MATTERS!
 
 
SUPREME COURT DELIVERS MASSIVE VICTORY FOR J6 POLITICAL PRISONERS AND A CRUSHING BLOW TO REGIME’S LAWFARE
 
I trust you are aware of the horrible mistreatment of patriotic Americans held in prison since January 6, 2021. While some misbehavior occurred at the very large rally held in Washington, D.C. on January 6, 2021, innocent Americans who did no wrong have suffered in prison under false accusations. This mistreatment is a slap in the face of all freedom loving Americans.
 
If you are not up on the story this lengthy article distributed by the news site Revolver will get you caught up as they report on a recent major ruling by the Supreme Court. Hopefully the J6 prisoners will soon be released. Here is a link to the story.
 
 
RECOMMENDED RESOURCE WILL HELP YOU DISCERN WHAT IS HAPPENING IN AMERICA
 
This past Sunday we distributed a booklet to our congregation entitled, “The Progressive Threat to the American Republic.” This publication is written by Joe Vitagliano of the American Family Association. I encourage you to secure a copy as the content of this booklet helps us discern the influence of progressive thinking in America over the last 100 years.
 
It is important every American understand where the ideological onslaught against our Republic is coming from. This booklet will help you stand more firmly in defense of the America we love. If you would like a free copy simply drop a request to my email [email protected] with your address and we will send you a copy. Otherwise, visit AFA at this link.
 
 
NOT ALL IS WELL WITH THE ECONOMY THIS 4TH OF JULY
 
To say there is a tsunami of stress building in our economy is quite an understatement! We are all feeling the effects of inflation with more to come unfortunately. Maybe you should view this report on Friday, so it doesn’t mess up your 4th of July celebration!
 
However, we cannot deny the reality facing millions in America today. Many people are struggling in this economy.  Check out this report entitled, “15 Signs That The US Economy Is In Far Worse Shape Than Most People Think.”
 
 
A NEW DANGER FOR ISRAEL
 
Israel is in a constant struggle for existence. The current war spawned by the barbaric attack of Hamas on October 7, 2023, is the latest example. We must pray for Israel as the nation fights for its survival. Antisemitism is a horrible evil. There is no justification for the persecution of the Jewish people. In fact, left unchecked the perpetrators of this evil will come for Christians next and anyone else who fails to bow to their false god.
 
Tragically, Israel faces another danger coming from the professing Christian church. So called “replacement theology” displaces Israel’s primary role in history. This faulty thinking says God is done with Israel and the church has replaced Israel altogether. I encourage you to simply read the Word of God and accept what God says about his plans for the future of Israel. How could anyone honestly read the Scriptures and conclude God is done with Israel??
 
To the contrary, our Savior the Lord Jesus Christ is destined to rule over a global kingdom from the city of Jerusalem. In the coming kingdom of Christ Israel shall rule the world! Ministers who preach the Word understand exactly what I’m saying here.
 
Thankfully there are many faithful men of God preaching the truth of Scripture. Let me connect you to a very interesting interview conducted by CBN news featuring Pastor Robert Stearns. I agree with his position on Israel and since this interview is so timely I pass it along to you. Here is the link to the interview.
 
Note: I am pleased to inform you about the various programs airing on WGGN TV 52 that proclaim the truth about Israel. Programs like Jewish Voice, Jerusalem Dateline, Our Jewish Roots, the Rosenburg Report, Stakelbeck Tonight, the 700 Club, CBM Today, CBM Worship, John Ankerberg, and others. VISIT CBMTODAY.ORG TO DOWNLOAD A COMPLETE PROGRAM SCHEDULE FOR TV 52.
 
One more note on Israel. If you would like a thorough update on things as they stand right now in Israel, then you will enjoy this update from Amir Tsarfati.
 
 
PASTOR TO PARENT
 
MAKE SURE YOUR FAMILY INTERACTS WITH GODLY INFLUENCERS
 
A basic parenting principle is to keep children away from evil and train them in what is good. The wise parent brings their children under the godly influence of those who fear and serve the Lord.
 
With that in mind, I want you to read the testimony of a guest who visited the Ark Encounter, a ministry of Answers in Genesis. AIG is an example of a godly influence you can bring to bear on your family. Of course, it is just one example. My point is simply that you watch for ways to introduce godly influences upon your children whether it be in entertainment, reading, friendships, and so on. Here is the link to the testimony.
 
 
GROWING IN CHRIST
 
May I ask you a few questions? Are you a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ? Do you confess Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Are you trusting the Lord Jesus as your only hope of heaven?
 
If you are a sincere believer, then desire the “sincere milk of the word that you might grow thereby” (1 Peter 2:2). You must feed upon the Word of God in two primary ways: personal reading and attending the house of God.
 
Do you understand the primary function of a pastor is to “feed the flock of God” whom they are called to serve (1 Peter 5:1-3; 2 Timothy 4:1-4)? Then why do believers neglect the house of God? Be careful my friend. You need to read the Word of God and you need to interact with a godly pastor committed to feeding you the Word of God.
 
I don’t know your personal habits, but I encourage you to hunger and thirst after the things of God! Always have a hungry heart ready to hear and obey the Lord and you will keep growing in Christ.
 
 
The sermon notes from my last message on “The Progressive Threat to the American Republic” are now posted for free download as desired. Also, all the other message notes in my current verse-by-verse series through the gospel of Luke are available on my site.
 
In addition, if you would like to view the sermon on America preached this past Sunday, you can view it on my site.
 
I am returning to our series through the book of St. Luke this Sunday morning. Join us for our live broadcast on WGGN TV and Radio, WLLA, WLRD, and WJKW at 10:30 am as you are able. As well we are streaming this live service on ROKU and other platforms. Visit www.cbmtoday.org for more information on the streaming options we have available for viewing.
 
Let me remind you again of a special event coming up at CBM on July 14th at 6pm. We are pleased to welcome the Lore Family (well-known Southern Gospel group) for a wonderful evening of ministry. Make plans to come!
 
I appreciate your prayers and encouragement. One way you can encourage me is to let others know about Firelands Christian Academy. We are accepting new students K-12 at FCA. Interested families can call 419-684-8642 for information.
 
May the Lord bless you is my prayer.
 
Pastor Rusty Yost