Closer To Heaven
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El presidente de la Asociación General, Ted Wilson, abordó tres puntos importantes en relación con la Agencia Adventista de Desarrollo y Recursos Asistenciales (ADRA) durante la reunión de primavera del Comité Ejecutivo de la Asociación General (EXCOM). En primer lugar, se dio una cordial despedida al anterior presidente de ADRA, Michael Kruger. Aunque Kruger se […] Source: https://atoday.org/los-rumores-sobre-adra-fueron-discutidos-en-reunion-del-comite-ejecutivo-de-la-asociacion-general/
Maranatha y AdventHealth, ambas conocidas por sus esfuerzos filantrópicos, se asociaron a finales de febrero para prestar servicios médicos en regiones remotas de la República Dominicana. Con base en Santo Domingo, el equipo clínico atendió a más de 1.000 pacientes durante su viaje. Aunque la región es activa, carece de asistencia médica accesible en las […] Source: https://atoday.org/maranatha-y-adventhealth-organizaron-clinicas-en-la-republica-dominicana/
Lesson 5: The Nations, Part 2………………………………………………………………….
IntroductionAmid wars, revolutions, and technological marvels, the prophecy of Daniel reminds us that every earthly kingdom is fleeting. Daniel 2 gives us a sweeping overview of human history—from golden empires to a fractured world of iron and clay. Despite all human ambition, one truth remains: in the end it will not be a human kingdom that triumphs, but God’s eternal reign.
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Bible Study
Question 1: What key lessons can we draw from Daniel 2:31–35?
The statue of mixed precious metals symbolizes the decline of human rule. Gold gives way to silver, then bronze, iron, and finally a brittle mixture of iron and clay. Human history isn’t a story of moral or spiritual ascent, but of decay. Yet at the critical moment a stone—struck not by human hands—shatters the statue and establishes an everlasting kingdom. This prophecy assures us that despite all human failings, God remains sovereign.
Question 2: How can we draw comfort from Jesus’ warnings?
Jesus never promised an earthly paradise prior to His return. He spoke of wars, earthquakes, and famines—not to discourage us, but to prepare us. Knowing these events fit into a larger divine plan gives us hope: we are not lost in senseless chaos, but led toward redemption.
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Spiritual PrinciplesHuman empires pass away, but God’s kingdom endures.
True progress is spiritual, not merely technological.
God’s prophetic word gives us hope amid crises.
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Daily ApplicationDo not place your trust in political systems or economic stability—they come and go.
Read prophecy not as fearmongering but as an invitation to ready your heart.
Learn to recognize the signs of the times without giving way to fear—hope is our anchor.
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ConclusionDaniel 2 opens our eyes to history’s true trajectory: not toward a human utopia, but toward God’s ultimate victory. The stone that crushes all earthly kingdoms reminds us: the future belongs not to the rulers of this world—but to Christ.
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Thought of the DayThose who invest in God’s kingdom build on eternal ground. Everything else is dust in the wind.
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Illustration – “The Boy at the Lincoln Memorial”Location: Washington D.C., USA, 2024
It was a gray afternoon when Elijah, 17, climbed the broad marble steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Rain dripped from his hoodie. In his pocket was a well-worn Bible—a gift from his grandmother.
His heart felt heavy. Headlines about wars in Europe, famines in Africa, and political unrest in America flooded his phone daily. It seemed as if the world were falling apart.
He stood before the statue of Abraham Lincoln and read the engraved words of the Gettysburg Address:
“… that this nation under God shall have a new birth of freedom.”
“A new birth…” Elijah whispered.
His gaze lifted to the sky, where dark clouds rumbled.
In that moment he recalled the stone in Daniel 2—the stone “cut out, not by human hands,” that struck the statue and obliterated all those kingdoms. Elijah realized: his hope need not rest on presidents, laws, or global treaties.
His true home was not here.
His kingdom was yet to come.
He grabbed his phone, deleted the news apps—for at least one day—and instead opened his Bible to Daniel 2.
As he descended the steps, his heart felt lighter.
The world would shake, yes. But God’s plan would prevail.
And he, Elijah, wanted to be among those waiting for the stone.
April 28, 2025
DAILY BIBLE READING
Genesis 12: Abram’s Calling and First Steps of Faith══════════════════════════════════════════════
Bible Text – Genesis 12 (KJV)1 Now the Lord had said unto Abram, “Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will show thee.”
2 “And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing.”
3 “And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.”4 So Abram departed, as the Lord had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran.
5 And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother’s son, and all their substance that they had gathered, and the souls that they had gotten in Haran; and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan; and into the land of Canaan they came.
6 And Abram passed through the land unto the place of Shechem, unto the plain of Moreh. And the Canaanite was then in the land.7 And the Lord appeared unto Abram, and said, “Unto thy seed will I give this land”: and there builded he an altar unto the Lord, who appeared unto him.
8 And he removed from thence unto a mountain on the east of Bethel, and pitched his tent, having Bethel on the west, and Hai on the east: and there he builded an altar unto the Lord, and called upon the name of the Lord.
9 And Abram journeyed, going on still toward the south.10 And there was a famine in the land: and Abram went down into Egypt to sojourn there; for the famine was grievous in the land.
11 And it came to pass, when he was come near to enter into Egypt, that he said unto Sarai his wife, “Behold now, I know that thou art a fair woman to look upon:
12 Therefore it shall come to pass, when the Egyptians shall see thee, that they shall say, ‘This is his wife’: and they will kill me, but they will save thee alive.
13 Say, I pray thee, thou art my sister: that it may be well with me for thy sake; and my soul shall live because of thee.”14 And it came to pass, that, when Abram was come into Egypt, the Egyptians beheld the woman that she was very fair.
15 The princes also of Pharaoh saw her, and commended her before Pharaoh: and the woman was taken into Pharaoh’s house.
16 And he entreated Abram well for her sake: and he had sheep, and oxen, and he asses, and menservants, and maidservants, and she asses, and camels.
17 And the Lord plagued Pharaoh and his house with great plagues because of Sarai Abram’s wife.18 And Pharaoh called Abram and said, “What is this that thou hast done unto me? why didst thou not tell me that she was thy wife?
19 Why saidst thou, ‘She is my sister’? so I might have taken her to me to wife: now therefore behold thy wife, take her, and go thy way.”
20 And Pharaoh commanded his men concerning him: and they sent him away, and his wife, and all that he had.
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Explanation & Context══════════════════════════════════════════════
IntroductionGenesis 12 marks a new chapter in human history: God calls Abram and promises him a great future. Abram’s response—his departure and his faith—shapes the story of God’s people to this day. Yet human weaknesses emerge, teaching us that God remains faithful even when we fail.
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Commentary
1. God’s Call and Blessing (vv. 1–3)
God summons Abram to leave his country, kin, and father’s house.
He promises him descendants, a great name, and blessing for all nations through him.
Abram’s obedience becomes the archetype of faith for all believers.
2. Abram’s Obedience and First Steps of Faith (vv. 4–9)
At age 75, Abram sets out without knowing his destination.
He reaches Canaan; God reaffirms the land promise.
Abram’s first response is worship—he builds altars.
3. Flight to Egypt and Human Weakness (vv. 10–20)
A famine drives Abram to leave Canaan—an act of human precaution.
In fear, he passes off his wife Sarai as his sister.
God intervenes, protects Sarai, and brings Abram safely back.
God’s plan endures despite Abram’s mistakes.
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SummaryGenesis 12 begins Abram’s faith journey—he later becomes Abraham. He obeys God’s call even into uncertainty. This chapter shows God at work in Abram’s life despite human weakness and fear. God’s promises stand firm because they rest on His character, not on Abram’s perfection.
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Application for Today
What does Genesis 12 teach us?
God’s call often involves stepping into the unknown.
Obedience is rewarded by God, even when our path is imperfect.
God safeguards His promises and His people, even when they stumble.
Trusting in God’s faithfulness is more vital than our own perfection.
“And I will bless thee… and thou shalt be a blessing.” (Genesis 12:2)
Today, God still calls people to follow Him in faith—and through their lives to become blessings to others.
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April 27 – May 3, 2025 WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING Ellen G. White │ Patriarchs and Prophets – Chapter 2 The Creation Read online here
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IntroductionChapter 2 unfolds the wonder of Creation in all its beauty:
The earth was formed in perfect harmony, and humanity is God’s crowning work—created in the image of the Creator.
This chapter not only describes the origin of the earth and of Adam and Eve, but also emphasizes the special blessing of the Sabbath and God’s institution of marriage.
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Commentary 1. The Beauty of the Created World
The earth came from God’s hand without swamps, deserts, or jagged mountains.
Every plant, animal, and landscape reflected God’s love and wisdom in harmonious unity.
2. Humanity as the Crown of Creation
Adam and Eve were made in God’s image, endowed with high intelligence, free will, and noble character.
There was no process of evolution—humanity sprang directly from God’s creative act.
Humans were appointed stewards of creation, embodying God’s glory in both form and function.
3. The Institution of Marriage
Eve was given to Adam as an equal helper—not subordinate, but a partner of equal worth.
Marriage was instituted by God Himself as a sacred, lifelong union.
4. The Garden of Eden
Eden was a specially prepared dwelling place—a glorious natural sanctuary.
At its center stood the Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.
5. The Institution of the Sabbath
After six days of creation, God rested on the seventh day, blessing and sanctifying it.
The Sabbath was given to humanity as an eternal memorial of Creation.
This day of rest was meant for reflecting on God’s work and renewing our relationship with Him.
6. Humanity as a Moral Being
God tested Adam and Eve’s loyalty with the command regarding the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.
Obedience was to be voluntary and motivated by love, not compulsion.
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SummaryChapter 2 reveals how perfect and beautiful God’s original creation was:
Adam and Eve lived in a world without death, pain, or suffering, surrounded by divine abundance.
The Sabbath and marriage were instituted as special gifts for humanity.
God sought a voluntary, loving relationship with His creatures, founded on trust, obedience, and shared delight in His work.
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Application for Today What can we learn from Chapter 2 for our lives?
Stewardship of Creation: The world around us testifies to God’s love—we are called to preserve it.
Our Identity in God: We are not accidents; we are intentionally created and deeply loved by our Maker.
Value of Work and Community: Labor, marriage, and Sabbath rest are divine gifts intended for our well-being.
Freedom through Obedience: True life and joy are found in willingly following God’s good commands.
“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” (Exodus 20:8)
Today God invites us to marvel at His works, honor His wisdom, and find true fulfillment in communion with Him.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/28-04-2025-genesis-chapter-12-believe-his-prophets/
Jesus meets us in our weakness. He doesn’t ask us to pretend we’re okay—He invites us to bring our brokenness to Him. That’s grace. That’s hope. That’s Jesus. Save this reel to remember you don’t have to be strong on your own. He is enough. Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=icfCHyCvav0
Comments of the Week April 21-27 “NOOOOOOOO!!! We’re will I get my Big Frank’s and Tender Bits???!!!!!! Ugh.“ –Robert Thomas on Loma Linda Foods Filling for Bankruptcy Comments on Viral Reddit Post, Satire pieces, ATSS, ICE Raids Threatening Andrews University, Loma Linda Foods Declares Bankruptcy, On Pope Francis, and Aunt Sevvy SATIRE: 9 Signs We […] Source: https://atoday.org/comments-of-the-week-apr21-27/
COLUMBIA, Md. – In a move that has raised eyebrows and lowered vaccination rates, the North American Division (NAD) of Seventh-day Adventists has unveiled the creation of the “PureBlood Union Conference,” a new administrative body dedicated exclusively to members who proudly reject vaccines in favor of “natural immunity and essential oils.” The announcement, made during […] Source: https://atoday.org/satire-new-union-created-for-anti-vaxxers-nad-announces-pureblood-union-conference/
Daily Lesson for Monday 28th of April 2025
It was during the Babylonian captivity, through the prophet Daniel, that God presented the most compelling descriptions we have of the relationship between His people and the kingdoms of this world. His people were no longer autonomous; they would now be reaping the consequences of their choices. (And, perhaps, learning from them?)
Image © Phil McKay at Goodsalt.com
At the end of the nineteenth century, many people were exuding a new confidence in human progress. The Paris Exposition (1900), for example, was a remarkable showcase of optimism about the future. Surely, with all of our technological and scientific advances, many of humanity’s worst problems would be at an end! As humanity entered the twentieth century, among many thinkers there was this great optimism that Enlightenment ideals—such as human perfectibility and the power of reason—would usher in a wonderful new era for humanity.
World War I, however, quickly shattered those dreams, and by the end of the twentieth century, we had lost more than 200 million people to warfare. We may have advanced in a technological sense, but certainly not in a moral one. To paraphrase Martin Luther King Jr., we have guided missiles but misguided men. And that’s a very scary combination.
Many students of prophecy have noticed that the metals in Daniel 2:1-49 move from most valuable to least valuable: gold devalues to silver, silver devalues to brass, and brass to iron, until we end up with only iron and clay.
Charles Darwin, Karl Marx, and other nineteenth-century thinkers attempted to convince us that humanity is somehow tracking upward—that we are evolving biologically and socially. And though in some ways human existence has improved (at least at a physical level), who actually looks ahead to the future of this world, as it is now ruled and governed, with much optimism about peace, security, and prosperity?
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Jesus warned, “ ‘And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. . . . For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places’ ” (Matthew 24:6-7, NKJV). Despite these warnings, how can we draw comfort from knowing that we have been warned beforehand about them? |
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