As Christians we are followers of Jesus. We want to be like Him. We see His life in the Bible, reading about His teachings and the great works He did. But sometimes in our zeal to imitate Him we overlook the heart from which His words and actions proceed. Have you ever wondered why Jesus’ prayers were answered, and ours may or may not be heard? We believe that our prayers are answered according to our faith, but being like Jesus has more to do with faith than the usual attributes of faith, believing and confession.
Jesus’ prayers were heard by His Father because of His reverent submission to God (Heb 5:7). It was His attitude towards His Father which caused His heart to submit to suffering, learn obedience, and become our Savior (Heb 5:8-10). Jesus kept His eyes on God’s big plan for humanity. He didn’t ask God to become part of His little plan for Himself. And this is why His prayers were heard.
We might look at the suffering of Christ as something that was part of God’s plan for our salvation, and that it is not necessary for us to do the same. If we follow this line of reasoning and don’t want to imitate that part of Jesus’ life, but we want to do great things for God, then we might say “Let’s imitate Paul’s life.” After all, he did mighty things and God surely answered Paul’s prayers too. Yet Paul said that he wanted to “know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings, becoming like him in his death and so, somehow to attain to the resurrection from the dead.” (Phil 3:10-11). It sounds like Paul is saying that he wanted to become like Jesus, and to do so he must also suffer.
Human beings do not like to suffer. In fact, we look to Jesus to relieve us of our suffering. He mends broken hearts, heals afflictions, and sets the captives free of both spiritual and physical oppression. So how does a Christian look at suffering, and why is it a part of learning submission?
A child learns submission through correction, nurturing, and instruction. When good examples (nurturing) and instruction do not prevent a child from doing wrong nor inspire him to do right, the parent corrects the child. Since the nature of a child is based on self-interest and gratification of his desires, it is necessary for him to learn unselfishness by correcting the natural inclinations of his nature, which we call the “flesh”. Though children suffer by not having what they want, this correction is a process whereby they grow to become thoughtful and considerate adults.
As an adult, we also suffer correction for the desires and actions of our flesh. All correction brings suffering, yet by it we are molded into righteousness (Heb 12:11). We find that, though in the natural we would like to avoid the putting down or crucifying of our flesh, in the spiritual it is the only way to become like Jesus. And herein is true faith; the belief that as He was, we are on this earth (1 Jn 4:17). Becoming like Jesus is not a magical thing that happens at the end of our days on this earth, but a process we partake in, if we truly want to be Christians.
In Jesus’ days some followed Him for the loaves and fishes. They wanted to see the miracles, and the same is true today. Yet, our prayers for healing and other works of power will be better heard by our Father if we partake of Jesus’ nature and become a part of God’s bigger plan for humanity. Submission can best be seen in our willingness to empty ourselves of our own plans and desires and following after God’s plans. This submission is how we truly follow Christ, and we learn it by suffering. Though it is unpleasant, we become as Jesus was, and that is the true definition of being a Christian, and the highest calling of our faith. Amen.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Saturday, December 25, 2010
God's gift - freedom
Today I was busy deleting many old emails which, though I had intended to read them, I hadn’t. The Lord asked me why I felt bad cleaning up the emails. I confessed that I didn’t want to seem unteachable, as the emails contained lessons in them. What He said was very liberating; “I don’t want you to be held captive by accusations.”
Suddenly I saw a strong tower of accusations crumble, and the fresh Word of God was a stone tower that took its place. I felt God’s freedom and saw that what the Lord intended for us was the fresh word; fresh manna. Do we walk in the newness of God’s word to us every day? Or are we accused by the enemy of our soul of not learning past lessons?
The job of cleansing us by the Word of God may seem like it belongs to us. However, we read that Jesus prayed for the Father to wash us by His truth (Jn 17:17) and again in Ephesians (5:26). Though we want to be presentable to God so that we can come near Him, making us presentable is God’s job and not ours.
We are vulnerable, in the hands of One who has the power to save or condemn us. He sees our every thought, though we try to cover over those which seem offensive. Though our enemy accuses us of impurity, it is not his job to perfect us. Today, let us trust the Perfect One who gave us the gift of His word and Spirit, for He will accomplish that which He has set out to do in us. He will present us to His Father. But we need to leave satan’s accusations behind us and walk into trust of Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our souls. What a glorious gift to be reminded of on Christmas Day. Amen.
Suddenly I saw a strong tower of accusations crumble, and the fresh Word of God was a stone tower that took its place. I felt God’s freedom and saw that what the Lord intended for us was the fresh word; fresh manna. Do we walk in the newness of God’s word to us every day? Or are we accused by the enemy of our soul of not learning past lessons?
The job of cleansing us by the Word of God may seem like it belongs to us. However, we read that Jesus prayed for the Father to wash us by His truth (Jn 17:17) and again in Ephesians (5:26). Though we want to be presentable to God so that we can come near Him, making us presentable is God’s job and not ours.
We are vulnerable, in the hands of One who has the power to save or condemn us. He sees our every thought, though we try to cover over those which seem offensive. Though our enemy accuses us of impurity, it is not his job to perfect us. Today, let us trust the Perfect One who gave us the gift of His word and Spirit, for He will accomplish that which He has set out to do in us. He will present us to His Father. But we need to leave satan’s accusations behind us and walk into trust of Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our souls. What a glorious gift to be reminded of on Christmas Day. Amen.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Healing, and the goodness of God
I have often prayed for sick friends, some of whom have suffered long illnesses. Last night I was with a dear friend who felt that the Lord wanted her to embrace her illness, even though she was slowly dying from it. To her, the trial would bring her closer to Jesus and cleanse her from her many complaints and any unkind attitudes that came upon her. Though she would have loved to be healed, she was talking herself out of her faith for healing by telling me all that God was teaching her through her trial. As I drove home I asked the Lord how a person, such as my friend, could maintain faith in Him for healing during a long illness. We never seem to run out of things to be cleansed of, but as time goes on we lose faith for Him to end our trials. It just didn’t fit the picture of being more than a conqueror, nor of one working in God’s kingdom. Tonight He brought His answer to my question. Though we know that God doesn’t always bring healing, the lesson gives insight into how important it is to Him to be allowed to be good to us. Here is the lesson;
“It is not more important for Man to learn from his trials then it is for Me to do good. As men get closer to Me they feel their unworthiness. Though I walk with a man daily, cleansing and nurturing him, it is a temptation for him to make his walk with Me about cleansing. He looks at trials as if he deserves them and steels his mind against relief. The never-ending trial is this man’s flagellation, and he finds at the end of his life that he is no cleaner than before the trial began. Why is this, that a life of suffering wouldn’t work My nature in a man? Because suffering isn’t all that I am. It is knowing Me and My nature that causes a man to be formed into My image (Phil 3:10). A man may know Me in suffering, but he should also know Me in healing and blessing.
If a man would get to know Me he would want to know what is important to Me. My goodness is important to Me. All creation declares My goodness (Ps 33:5 KJV), yet some men have no faith for Me to be that very nature they need. Man needs to see goodness in his life. If the trials were the most important thing, I would not create an escape from them (1 Cor 10:13). But My ear is ever listening to My children. I do not seek after those who endure the longest trials, but those who seek to know Me in good and bad, sickness and in health, until death brings them to their heavenly home.” Amen.
“It is not more important for Man to learn from his trials then it is for Me to do good. As men get closer to Me they feel their unworthiness. Though I walk with a man daily, cleansing and nurturing him, it is a temptation for him to make his walk with Me about cleansing. He looks at trials as if he deserves them and steels his mind against relief. The never-ending trial is this man’s flagellation, and he finds at the end of his life that he is no cleaner than before the trial began. Why is this, that a life of suffering wouldn’t work My nature in a man? Because suffering isn’t all that I am. It is knowing Me and My nature that causes a man to be formed into My image (Phil 3:10). A man may know Me in suffering, but he should also know Me in healing and blessing.
If a man would get to know Me he would want to know what is important to Me. My goodness is important to Me. All creation declares My goodness (Ps 33:5 KJV), yet some men have no faith for Me to be that very nature they need. Man needs to see goodness in his life. If the trials were the most important thing, I would not create an escape from them (1 Cor 10:13). But My ear is ever listening to My children. I do not seek after those who endure the longest trials, but those who seek to know Me in good and bad, sickness and in health, until death brings them to their heavenly home.” Amen.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Dressed in White
The times we live in are truly a time of trouble for Christians and non-believers alike. This year has seen death steal young people from families. As well, a friend shared that her adult children have had divorce, insanity, poverty and other calamities enter into their lives. There is a spiritual climate around us that contains warfare, yet we do not see the forces that are at work to destroy lives, families, and the works we do for the Lord. These adverse events cause us to pray for our loved ones’ protection and God’s favor on our lives.
This morning the Lord had me read Ps 86:2; “Guard my life, for I am devoted to You. You are my God; save your servant who trusts in you.” On 11/21/10 I posted a lesson on devotion. It is a life-style that results in a close walk with the Lord. This morning the Lord spoke about that walk, and how it will bring protection into our lives.
In Rev 3:5-6 it is written that “He who overcomes will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot his name from the book of life, but will acknowledge his name before My Father and His angels.” In the spiritual war we are experiencing, we need the Father and His angels to take our protection as their cause. To have our name before them, or in front of their vision, we must walk with Jesus in white (see Rev 3:4).
We see another comment about the garments we wear in Jude :23. There we read that it is the corruption of our flesh that stains our garment. Yet, it is our Lord and Savior that has the ability to keep us from falling, and to present us “without fault” to God our Father. Our walk with the Lord will contain the process of on-going sanctification so that we will be presentable to the Father. Our sanctification cleanses our garment, making it white.
Jesus asks us to be dressed, and ready. In Luke 12 we read the parable about being God’s servant. Jesus asks His servants to be “dressed ready to serve and keep your lamps burning,” (Lk 12:35). He contrasts the faithful servant with the unfaithful, showing that the delay in His return brought out the worst in the second servant, who ate, got drunk, and beat the servants he was supposed to care for (vs 45). Because the servant grew tired of waiting, he doubted, and because of doubt, he went into a walk of the flesh. Doubt became the door-opener into a self-centered, self-serving life-style. Instead of living a life devoted to serving the Lord, the unfaithful servant served himself and was not “dressed ready to serve.”
Walking in our flesh hinders us from being prepared for Jesus. When we walk in our flesh we do not serve God, but we serve ourselves, and this stains our garment. Jesus asks us to “watch” by being clothed, and warns us that He will come as a thief, catching some unprepared. For those who have walked with Him in white and not fulfilled the desires of their flesh, He brings rewards. But for those who are caught with stains on their garments he will take from them and give to those who have been faithful, thus being a “thief” who takes what has once been given.
Jesus tells us that His coming will be like a thief, catching some naked, without any clothes on (Rev 16:15). If we are not walking with Him in white, we will be shamefully exposed. Yet, if we allow the sanctifying ministry of the Holy Spirit into our lives He will confess our names to the Father and His angels. Taking into consideration the times of spiritual warfare we are in, we need to ask ourselves if the desires of our flesh are worth losing God’s grace and protection over. Do we want to see God glorified in our lives, making a difference in our families and our communities? Then let us walk with Him in sanctification, allowing the troubles in our lives to cleanse our robes until they are white (Rev 7:14). Our walk of devotion will reach up into the heavens, bringing our name before the Father and His angels. Amen.
This morning the Lord had me read Ps 86:2; “Guard my life, for I am devoted to You. You are my God; save your servant who trusts in you.” On 11/21/10 I posted a lesson on devotion. It is a life-style that results in a close walk with the Lord. This morning the Lord spoke about that walk, and how it will bring protection into our lives.
In Rev 3:5-6 it is written that “He who overcomes will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot his name from the book of life, but will acknowledge his name before My Father and His angels.” In the spiritual war we are experiencing, we need the Father and His angels to take our protection as their cause. To have our name before them, or in front of their vision, we must walk with Jesus in white (see Rev 3:4).
We see another comment about the garments we wear in Jude :23. There we read that it is the corruption of our flesh that stains our garment. Yet, it is our Lord and Savior that has the ability to keep us from falling, and to present us “without fault” to God our Father. Our walk with the Lord will contain the process of on-going sanctification so that we will be presentable to the Father. Our sanctification cleanses our garment, making it white.
Jesus asks us to be dressed, and ready. In Luke 12 we read the parable about being God’s servant. Jesus asks His servants to be “dressed ready to serve and keep your lamps burning,” (Lk 12:35). He contrasts the faithful servant with the unfaithful, showing that the delay in His return brought out the worst in the second servant, who ate, got drunk, and beat the servants he was supposed to care for (vs 45). Because the servant grew tired of waiting, he doubted, and because of doubt, he went into a walk of the flesh. Doubt became the door-opener into a self-centered, self-serving life-style. Instead of living a life devoted to serving the Lord, the unfaithful servant served himself and was not “dressed ready to serve.”
Walking in our flesh hinders us from being prepared for Jesus. When we walk in our flesh we do not serve God, but we serve ourselves, and this stains our garment. Jesus asks us to “watch” by being clothed, and warns us that He will come as a thief, catching some unprepared. For those who have walked with Him in white and not fulfilled the desires of their flesh, He brings rewards. But for those who are caught with stains on their garments he will take from them and give to those who have been faithful, thus being a “thief” who takes what has once been given.
Jesus tells us that His coming will be like a thief, catching some naked, without any clothes on (Rev 16:15). If we are not walking with Him in white, we will be shamefully exposed. Yet, if we allow the sanctifying ministry of the Holy Spirit into our lives He will confess our names to the Father and His angels. Taking into consideration the times of spiritual warfare we are in, we need to ask ourselves if the desires of our flesh are worth losing God’s grace and protection over. Do we want to see God glorified in our lives, making a difference in our families and our communities? Then let us walk with Him in sanctification, allowing the troubles in our lives to cleanse our robes until they are white (Rev 7:14). Our walk of devotion will reach up into the heavens, bringing our name before the Father and His angels. Amen.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Firgiveness & intercession
God patiently waits over our failures and works to restore us to our place in Him. but the Bible tells us that one day, God will wait no longer (Rev 10:6). Today the Lord spoke of this time coming near, and what our role should be. Here is the prophecy;
A new time is coming on the earth. Because of the unbelief and evil of men they have tested God. Therefore He will not wait in mercy for men’s hearts to be converted, but He will bring His words to pass. His temperance will give way to the judgments recorded in Revelation, for men would not turn to Him. Though they see Him not, He will make His presence known.
The prayers of the saints are important. Wounding by man is an invitation to the throne room for the wounded one’s intercessory assignment. Those who choose to hate will not go there. Those who choose to love will abide there and be healed during their intercession for wrongdoers.
Therefore you are called “saviors” (Ob :21) for like your Savior, you intercede for those who have wounded you. God has no pleasure in the destruction of Man, yet men everywhere continue in evil, and I silently wait. I wait for My saviors to pray for and speak to them. I look for those helpers who stand in the gap and intercede, yet find few. For it is hard for men to forgive and to wish their enemies well. I do not want to come bearing judgment just because my own children could not forgive and stand in prayer on behalf of wrong-doers (see Isaiah 63:1-6). Yet men’s hearts are growing cold and love between brethren is tested daily on the altar of men’s lives. Who will love, and who will forgive? Because evil men think I do not care, or do not exist, I will come and make My displeasure of their ways known through judgments (Is 26:9-10). Pray that some will turn. Forgive, for their end is worse than yours. Amen.
A new time is coming on the earth. Because of the unbelief and evil of men they have tested God. Therefore He will not wait in mercy for men’s hearts to be converted, but He will bring His words to pass. His temperance will give way to the judgments recorded in Revelation, for men would not turn to Him. Though they see Him not, He will make His presence known.
The prayers of the saints are important. Wounding by man is an invitation to the throne room for the wounded one’s intercessory assignment. Those who choose to hate will not go there. Those who choose to love will abide there and be healed during their intercession for wrongdoers.
Therefore you are called “saviors” (Ob :21) for like your Savior, you intercede for those who have wounded you. God has no pleasure in the destruction of Man, yet men everywhere continue in evil, and I silently wait. I wait for My saviors to pray for and speak to them. I look for those helpers who stand in the gap and intercede, yet find few. For it is hard for men to forgive and to wish their enemies well. I do not want to come bearing judgment just because my own children could not forgive and stand in prayer on behalf of wrong-doers (see Isaiah 63:1-6). Yet men’s hearts are growing cold and love between brethren is tested daily on the altar of men’s lives. Who will love, and who will forgive? Because evil men think I do not care, or do not exist, I will come and make My displeasure of their ways known through judgments (Is 26:9-10). Pray that some will turn. Forgive, for their end is worse than yours. Amen.
Key to forgiveness
How many times do we forgive? 7 times 70? (Mt 18:22). And yet when unkind thoughts trigger the emotions of the past, we find that our memories are not full of forgiveness; they are unforgiving, and even requiring. All the injustices of the unkindness of others can come tumbling down to our heart in an instant once the memories are triggered by present circumstances.
Though God could control our present circumstances to protect us from re-living past unkindnesses, He doesn’t choose this way with His children. God would like us to have a heart like His; a heart full of compassion and mercy. If we complain that we, in reality, are people and He is God, and if we pursue this argument to justify our woundedness and pain, it is futile. Though God is God, He is still daily, hourly, even minute-by-minute making us into His image. And when we will lay down our justifications for unforgiveness, He will share His heart with us and bring deep and thorough healing there.
This morning the Lord awoke me after I had dreamt about 3 people who had injured me. Though I thought I had forgiven them, in the dream I didn’t do well. I was berating them, and not giving credit for the goodness they had done, nor the difficult circumstances from their own lives. In prayer I forgave them again. But the Lord is faithful to bring us to continuing deeper levels in our heart, and said to me, “You are having trouble with forgiveness, aren’t you?” Yes, how well the Lord knows me! It seemed I couldn’t make the forgiveness “stick”. Then He prayed this prayer through me;
“Lord, thank you for ________. She/he is your child and you love them. They have worth. Please show me your thoughts for them, and put blessings in my heart to pray for them. Thank you. Amen.”
I was given the realization that, until we can bless those who curse us, we cannot forgive (Mt 5:44). Until we can share God’s thoughts about those who wound us, we are left with our own, which grow sour over time. The key to forgiveness is to have God’s heart towards all people, whether they have wronged us a little, or a lot. And this is the beginning of walking in His resurrection power (Phil 3:10-11); prayer for those for whom we carry God’s heart. This gift of forgiveness that we give our brothers and sisters is rich, and enrichens us. How near it is, and available to us when we lay down our own mind about each matter. And how worth it to be shaped a little more into His image. Amen.
Though God could control our present circumstances to protect us from re-living past unkindnesses, He doesn’t choose this way with His children. God would like us to have a heart like His; a heart full of compassion and mercy. If we complain that we, in reality, are people and He is God, and if we pursue this argument to justify our woundedness and pain, it is futile. Though God is God, He is still daily, hourly, even minute-by-minute making us into His image. And when we will lay down our justifications for unforgiveness, He will share His heart with us and bring deep and thorough healing there.
This morning the Lord awoke me after I had dreamt about 3 people who had injured me. Though I thought I had forgiven them, in the dream I didn’t do well. I was berating them, and not giving credit for the goodness they had done, nor the difficult circumstances from their own lives. In prayer I forgave them again. But the Lord is faithful to bring us to continuing deeper levels in our heart, and said to me, “You are having trouble with forgiveness, aren’t you?” Yes, how well the Lord knows me! It seemed I couldn’t make the forgiveness “stick”. Then He prayed this prayer through me;
“Lord, thank you for ________. She/he is your child and you love them. They have worth. Please show me your thoughts for them, and put blessings in my heart to pray for them. Thank you. Amen.”
I was given the realization that, until we can bless those who curse us, we cannot forgive (Mt 5:44). Until we can share God’s thoughts about those who wound us, we are left with our own, which grow sour over time. The key to forgiveness is to have God’s heart towards all people, whether they have wronged us a little, or a lot. And this is the beginning of walking in His resurrection power (Phil 3:10-11); prayer for those for whom we carry God’s heart. This gift of forgiveness that we give our brothers and sisters is rich, and enrichens us. How near it is, and available to us when we lay down our own mind about each matter. And how worth it to be shaped a little more into His image. Amen.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
our thought-life
This morning I was thinking about a co-laborer in Christ. In my thoughts I was correcting this person for an error in a judgmental attitude, when the Lord broke in with “Helen, you know if you saw ______ you wouldn’t say these things.” He was right. I had seen her just last week and said nothing. The Lord brought another co-laborer to mind whom I had also felt was practicing in the same error, and yet I knew that I would not say anything to her as well. Though I have been raised to speak what is on my mind, I also value my relationships and see the good in these two people. Valuing them, and seeing their worth is what kept me from speaking what was on my mind and this became the basis of today’s lesson.
What is in our mind is not necessarily what is in our heart. In thinking about the 2 co-laborers I find that I didn’t have the “heart” to speak to them about what I considered offensive behavior. It hasn’t been a matter of right or wrong, but a matter of heart. This is what the Lord was pointing out when He said I wouldn’t actually say those things to the people whose behavior I found offensive. He then cautioned me to stop “practicing” those thoughts else they would enter my heart. Once my heart agreed to these thoughts it would be only a matter of time before I would find a way to speak them out. Though we are given a new heart when we follow Jesus, our mind needs to be “transformed” or it will pollute our heart from its input (Rm 12:2).
It is written that, as a man thinks in his heart, so is he (Prov 23:7 KJV). Our heart has a voice, generating thoughts to our mind. Jesus tells us that, “anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca’ is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.” (Matt 5:22). If we value our brothers and sisters in our hearts we will not label them as fools or worthless. This valuing of people protects our heart from receiving unkind thoughts towards them.
I have heard Christians say that, they might as well go ahead and commit the sin they are thinking in their minds because they are already judged by God as guilty. If this were so why would Paul ask us to capture our thoughts so that we could be obedient to Christ in our thinking? (2 Cor 10:5) Paul saw that there is a process whereby our thoughts can be stopped before they pollute our hearts. Because the thoughts in our mind can be from our enemy, satan, we often find ourselves at war with him in the battlefield of our minds.
In Genesis we read an account of God speaking to Cain about his thoughts. God noticed that Cain’s face was downcast when his sacrifice was rejected. Cain was also very angry (see Gen 4:5-7). His wrong thoughts were not just fleeting thoughts; they had entered into his heart where they could motivate Cain to action. God warned Cain that “if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at the door; it desires to have you, but you must master it.” God was giving Cain the same chance to change his mind, and to repent of what was in his heart, that He gives to us today. Had Cain “captured” his thoughts and made them be obedient to God, he wouldn’t have murdered his brother Abel.
We must guard what enters into our hearts, for it is from the heart that the issues of life come (Pr 4:23). It is from the heart that the mouth speaks proud, boastful and unkind thoughts (Mt 12:34). We are told that it is the spirit of a man that searches the thoughts out (1 Cor 2:10-12). When our spirit listens to God’s Spirit within us, we have the added bonus of His perspective. If we are soft to His touch, He will mold us by His Spirit through forsaking wrong thoughts so that we do no wrong actions. But if we are firm in the convictions of our wrong thoughts, we will eventually do them. For this reason God works with us continually to bring to the light the errors of our thinking and washes us daily by His Word so that we might become the righteousness of Christ. He reminds us of the value He puts in others so that we can share in His thoughts of good towards them. Today, let us affirm the goodness in others that will protect our hearts from devaluing them. Perhaps, if they are in error, the Lord will give us a kind word by which to encourage them. Amen.
What is in our mind is not necessarily what is in our heart. In thinking about the 2 co-laborers I find that I didn’t have the “heart” to speak to them about what I considered offensive behavior. It hasn’t been a matter of right or wrong, but a matter of heart. This is what the Lord was pointing out when He said I wouldn’t actually say those things to the people whose behavior I found offensive. He then cautioned me to stop “practicing” those thoughts else they would enter my heart. Once my heart agreed to these thoughts it would be only a matter of time before I would find a way to speak them out. Though we are given a new heart when we follow Jesus, our mind needs to be “transformed” or it will pollute our heart from its input (Rm 12:2).
It is written that, as a man thinks in his heart, so is he (Prov 23:7 KJV). Our heart has a voice, generating thoughts to our mind. Jesus tells us that, “anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca’ is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.” (Matt 5:22). If we value our brothers and sisters in our hearts we will not label them as fools or worthless. This valuing of people protects our heart from receiving unkind thoughts towards them.
I have heard Christians say that, they might as well go ahead and commit the sin they are thinking in their minds because they are already judged by God as guilty. If this were so why would Paul ask us to capture our thoughts so that we could be obedient to Christ in our thinking? (2 Cor 10:5) Paul saw that there is a process whereby our thoughts can be stopped before they pollute our hearts. Because the thoughts in our mind can be from our enemy, satan, we often find ourselves at war with him in the battlefield of our minds.
In Genesis we read an account of God speaking to Cain about his thoughts. God noticed that Cain’s face was downcast when his sacrifice was rejected. Cain was also very angry (see Gen 4:5-7). His wrong thoughts were not just fleeting thoughts; they had entered into his heart where they could motivate Cain to action. God warned Cain that “if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at the door; it desires to have you, but you must master it.” God was giving Cain the same chance to change his mind, and to repent of what was in his heart, that He gives to us today. Had Cain “captured” his thoughts and made them be obedient to God, he wouldn’t have murdered his brother Abel.
We must guard what enters into our hearts, for it is from the heart that the issues of life come (Pr 4:23). It is from the heart that the mouth speaks proud, boastful and unkind thoughts (Mt 12:34). We are told that it is the spirit of a man that searches the thoughts out (1 Cor 2:10-12). When our spirit listens to God’s Spirit within us, we have the added bonus of His perspective. If we are soft to His touch, He will mold us by His Spirit through forsaking wrong thoughts so that we do no wrong actions. But if we are firm in the convictions of our wrong thoughts, we will eventually do them. For this reason God works with us continually to bring to the light the errors of our thinking and washes us daily by His Word so that we might become the righteousness of Christ. He reminds us of the value He puts in others so that we can share in His thoughts of good towards them. Today, let us affirm the goodness in others that will protect our hearts from devaluing them. Perhaps, if they are in error, the Lord will give us a kind word by which to encourage them. Amen.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Eternal Love
It’s Thanksgiving Eve and I’m already listening to Christmas songs. I love to sing along and feel the Holy Spirit as rejoicing comes out of my heart. Today while singing the Lord began talking to me about my children’s generation. They are in their 30’s and have seen a lot of changes in their short lives. Many come from divorced homes and do not want to go through marriage because they feel it will end in pain and suffering. With these thoughts the Lord said “I have set the stage.” Here are the thoughts that followed;
“In a time of intense coldness the younger generation is looking for warm hearts. Though they are afraid to take the risk to love, they yearn after true love. Married couples, and couples with families are a testimony of this love. The younger generation are on the outside, looking in, and because it is so cold where they are, they want to be warm.
“True love is eternal and comes from God. Their relationships will work if they give their lives to Me. So I have set the stage for Christian families to tell the cold ones how to get warm . . . how to enter into a Life where love is eternal.”
While the Lord was speaking, a longing built up in me, breaking out through tears, sobbing, and wailing. I could hear and feel the suffering of those shut off from eternal Love. “They think it is a dream,” said the Lord. “It’s a dream that is real.”
Yes, this is a time when the hearts of men grow cold (Mt 24:12) and our enemy wars against relationships. But what our enemy meant for bad, God will use for good. Godly love, whether in a marriage, or in a friendship, is strong and endures. Love sends its roots down deeper as we press ourselves into God during the cold, dark nights. Day comes in the morning and refreshes us with light and warmth. The younger generation needs to see the resiliency of our relationships. They are looking for love, and we are its testimony. May you be encouraged this Thanksgiving to share, give, and receive love from the bountiful source, God our Father. Amen.
“In a time of intense coldness the younger generation is looking for warm hearts. Though they are afraid to take the risk to love, they yearn after true love. Married couples, and couples with families are a testimony of this love. The younger generation are on the outside, looking in, and because it is so cold where they are, they want to be warm.
“True love is eternal and comes from God. Their relationships will work if they give their lives to Me. So I have set the stage for Christian families to tell the cold ones how to get warm . . . how to enter into a Life where love is eternal.”
While the Lord was speaking, a longing built up in me, breaking out through tears, sobbing, and wailing. I could hear and feel the suffering of those shut off from eternal Love. “They think it is a dream,” said the Lord. “It’s a dream that is real.”
Yes, this is a time when the hearts of men grow cold (Mt 24:12) and our enemy wars against relationships. But what our enemy meant for bad, God will use for good. Godly love, whether in a marriage, or in a friendship, is strong and endures. Love sends its roots down deeper as we press ourselves into God during the cold, dark nights. Day comes in the morning and refreshes us with light and warmth. The younger generation needs to see the resiliency of our relationships. They are looking for love, and we are its testimony. May you be encouraged this Thanksgiving to share, give, and receive love from the bountiful source, God our Father. Amen.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Devotion
Sometimes we read about Christians whose lives display the favor of God. We pray for that to come into our lives as well so that we can enjoy God’s blessings and provisions for ourselves and our ministries. A few weeks ago I was reading about the great work done by Ezra. He was the leader in rebuilding God’s temple during a time of dispersement and severe trial for the Israelites. What made Ezra so successful during every step of this project was that the hand of the Lord, and His favor, was upon Ezra (Ez 7:6; 9 28; 8:18 and 8:31). We read that there was a reason God’s hand of favor was on Ezra; he had devoted himself to the study and observation of the law, and it was his practice to teach it (Ez 7:10). Today’s lesson is about devotion, and the interpretation of various meanings which are found in the Hebrew and Greek translations.
The word “devotion” is used to depict many aspects of behavior and thinking. King David was a man who knew the value of devoting himself to God. In Ps 86:2 we read that he sought God for protection on the basis of his devotion to Him. This use of the word refers to David’s holiness; godliness, piety, goodness, and being a saint. The descriptions that fit David’s use of “devotion” indicate a style of life and not a quick attitude of his mind and heart.
Ezra’s use of the word “devotion” is described as a preparation of his heart which would enable him to stand upright, or to establish. It indicates attention to the individual steps necessary to accomplish godliness in his life. We find a similar encouragement in the New Testament where Paul exhorts us to put on the armor of God. The word “preparation” is used as the method by which to add protection to our feet, symbolizing the out-working of living and teaching the Gospel. This use of the word “preparation” indicates that we should “make ready, provide for, or prepare” and is the same process by which a person becomes devoted to God and the life and works He calls us to.
In Paul’s letter to Timothy he asks that Timothy devote himself to the reading of scriptures, exhortation and doctrine. This use of devotion represents giving attendance to by holding something in one’s mind, adhering to it, and applying oneself to it. In the letter to Titus Paul encourages that Christians be devoted to good works. Here he is referring to an authoritative stance of practicing their works as people who are presiding over them. Just as we are servants who stand before God and are accountable to Him for our works (see parable of the Minas), so we are delegated authority by Him to do our works for His glory through our attention to and maintenance of our actions.
There are many more references to devotion in the scriptures that could add to this lesson. For we who are seeking God’s favor and blessing in our lives it is a worthy study, for it teaches us what kind of people we should be, and this will please God. The attitudes of the mind and heart are very important and become the basis of our character and the works we do. We see that we need to pay attention to what God says, and make plans with Him to accomplish it (the preparations of a man’s heart belong to God; Proverbs 16:1). Our plans will come from a place of familiarizing ourselves with God’s words (study), obedience (personal application), and teaching others (ministry). Our desire for a successfully finished project or work will cause us to take careful steps, in our preparation personally, and to preside over those works with the authority delegated to us by God. Being a person devoted to God will infiltrate our whole life . . . yet isn’t that what we want? I believe that is what God wants for us, and is the recipe for favor and blessing in our lives. Amen
The word “devotion” is used to depict many aspects of behavior and thinking. King David was a man who knew the value of devoting himself to God. In Ps 86:2 we read that he sought God for protection on the basis of his devotion to Him. This use of the word refers to David’s holiness; godliness, piety, goodness, and being a saint. The descriptions that fit David’s use of “devotion” indicate a style of life and not a quick attitude of his mind and heart.
Ezra’s use of the word “devotion” is described as a preparation of his heart which would enable him to stand upright, or to establish. It indicates attention to the individual steps necessary to accomplish godliness in his life. We find a similar encouragement in the New Testament where Paul exhorts us to put on the armor of God. The word “preparation” is used as the method by which to add protection to our feet, symbolizing the out-working of living and teaching the Gospel. This use of the word “preparation” indicates that we should “make ready, provide for, or prepare” and is the same process by which a person becomes devoted to God and the life and works He calls us to.
In Paul’s letter to Timothy he asks that Timothy devote himself to the reading of scriptures, exhortation and doctrine. This use of devotion represents giving attendance to by holding something in one’s mind, adhering to it, and applying oneself to it. In the letter to Titus Paul encourages that Christians be devoted to good works. Here he is referring to an authoritative stance of practicing their works as people who are presiding over them. Just as we are servants who stand before God and are accountable to Him for our works (see parable of the Minas), so we are delegated authority by Him to do our works for His glory through our attention to and maintenance of our actions.
There are many more references to devotion in the scriptures that could add to this lesson. For we who are seeking God’s favor and blessing in our lives it is a worthy study, for it teaches us what kind of people we should be, and this will please God. The attitudes of the mind and heart are very important and become the basis of our character and the works we do. We see that we need to pay attention to what God says, and make plans with Him to accomplish it (the preparations of a man’s heart belong to God; Proverbs 16:1). Our plans will come from a place of familiarizing ourselves with God’s words (study), obedience (personal application), and teaching others (ministry). Our desire for a successfully finished project or work will cause us to take careful steps, in our preparation personally, and to preside over those works with the authority delegated to us by God. Being a person devoted to God will infiltrate our whole life . . . yet isn’t that what we want? I believe that is what God wants for us, and is the recipe for favor and blessing in our lives. Amen
Monday, November 15, 2010
Showing the Father's nature
Have you ever read a prophecy that just sort of fell flat? When I find this “flat” feeling in me I tell the Lord I’m sorry, for I believe I should receive from all men and women what the Lord is speaking through them. Today the Lord posed a question to me about these prophecies; “Do you know why they disappoint you?” I had to admit I didn’t. His response was this; “Because they don’t reveal My nature.” Immediately I thought of the Bible and how the scriptures acquaint us with God. Here is the rest of what the Lord had to say on this subject;
“If a man does not get to know My nature his prophecies will not reveal it. He will only speak about what he does know, or what he believes. In the Old Testament and New the prophets were called ‘holy’. They were set apart to Me to get to know Me. Slowly, over time and through trials, chatenings, and overcoming obstacles, these men came to know Me and My nature, though none knew Me totally. They were dedicated to Me, unconcerned with their popularity or wealth. I was their portion and they were strongly bonded to My will. My voice thrilled them because by My voice they could know Me."
"I give the opportunity for all men to overcome, to open the door so that I and My Father might sup with him (Jn 14:23 & Rev 3:20). As often as we sup together, that much more will a man know My Father’s nature. I came to reveal the Father to Man (Jn 16:25). Therefore, let those who prophesy show forth the Father to this world through what they speak.” Amen. Let the prophets know the Lord.
“If a man does not get to know My nature his prophecies will not reveal it. He will only speak about what he does know, or what he believes. In the Old Testament and New the prophets were called ‘holy’. They were set apart to Me to get to know Me. Slowly, over time and through trials, chatenings, and overcoming obstacles, these men came to know Me and My nature, though none knew Me totally. They were dedicated to Me, unconcerned with their popularity or wealth. I was their portion and they were strongly bonded to My will. My voice thrilled them because by My voice they could know Me."
"I give the opportunity for all men to overcome, to open the door so that I and My Father might sup with him (Jn 14:23 & Rev 3:20). As often as we sup together, that much more will a man know My Father’s nature. I came to reveal the Father to Man (Jn 16:25). Therefore, let those who prophesy show forth the Father to this world through what they speak.” Amen. Let the prophets know the Lord.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Establishing God's kingdom around us
Today I will be continuing the lesson on establishing God’s kingdom. Yesterday I wrote about establishing the kingdom “within” us. The outward working of the kingdom comes as we partner with God’s plans for us. This morning I was led to read about Jehoash, the king of Israel (2 Kings 13:14-20). Johoash was king during the time of Elisha, and sought Elisha before the prophet’s death. During his visit, Elisha instructed the king to take up a bow and arrow and shoot out through his east window. Elisha placed his hands on the king’s hands and together they shot the arrow out the window. This prophetic action symbolized king Jehoash’s victory over his enemy, the Arameans.
Next Elisha instructed king Jehoash to strike the ground with arrows. The king struck three times, indicating three battle victories. Elisha lamented “You should have struck the ground five or six times; then you would have defeated Aram and completely destroyed it. But now you will defeat it only three times.” Total victory did not come until a later king, Jeroboam II. After the Jehoash’s visit, Elisha died.
This story is an example to us, as the Old Testament scriptures often are (Rom 15:4; 1 Cor 10:6 & 11). We face an unseen enemy, but our battles are real in this life. Just like king Johoash we have been given authority, and the Word of the Lord to us is that we will be more than conquerors (Rom 8:28-39). We may be facing hardship, perils, illnesses, or struggles against personal impurity. There are false brethren and false teachings . . . so many battles that, if we were to face them all at once, we might lose heart. Though there are many battles that make up a total victory, God gives us help in the times of our troubles (Ps 46:1).
For king Jehoash, Elisha was his help. Elisha’s hands upon the king’s hands symbolized God’s governance over the matters of the kingdom, directing Jehoash to victory for Israel. Just as the Lord gives us a Word of victory and guides us in our struggles, so the Lord gave Jehoash victory according to the king’s arrow strikes; three times the battles were won. However, there would be more than three battles to gain the total victory. The opportunity for further ground strikes was not given, and Elisha the prophet died.
When the Lord is with us in our times of trouble we feel secure, as if that is how it always will be. Surely since the Lord spoke victory over us we believe we will prevail against our enemies. Yet there are those days when it takes more enthusiasm, yes, genuine zeal to win our battles. I have met Christians that stopped drinking but continued smoking, and died of cancer. I have met Christians who have stopped looking at pornography yet still lusted with their eyes, and fell in adultery. Though God directs us towards victory, our heart has to be united in the efforts against the enemy. Perhaps that is what the Lord was looking for when Elisha asked the king to strike the arrows on the ground; a heart dedicated to winning each battle. If we find compromise in our hearts we need to set aside any secondary gain we might want from our enemy. The pleasures of this life will undermine the zeal with which we enter our battles, and we will lose.
When a man succeeds in winning his personal battles the Lord will join him with others in doing exploits for His kingdom (Dan 11:32b). It is God’s hope that we will win over the earth’s kingdoms for the Lord, and Jesus works in us for this purpose (1 Cor 15:24-25). During these battles we find ourselves facing huge issues in our churches, and in Christianity as a whole. If our hearts have not been tried and proven victorious in our personal battles, then we will fail in the corporate battles. We will betray our brethren for pre-eminence. We will intimidate and hinder those whom God would use so that we can be in control . . . and the list goes on.
Those who do not have the heart to win the personal battles appointed to them will cause the greater battles to be lost. The prophet Malachi speaks of a time of distinction appointed to God’s servants, where those who fear the Lord and honor His name will discern “between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not.” (Mal 3:17-18) On the heels of discernment comes healing and freedom. What follows is victory as God’s people “trample down the wicked.” (Mal 4:2-3).
The Apostle Paul speaks of this same victory when he writes that “The God of peace will soon crush satan under your feet.” (Rom 16:20) He is writing to the Romans about people who “are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naïve people.” (Rom 16:18). The distinction between those who served the Lord, and those who served themselves was made apparent by Paul’s letter to the Romans. The letter was like Elisha’s hands upon the king’s as he shot the arrow. Paul directed the saints in Rome towards victory, yet the battle was theirs to fight.
God promises us discernment because we will need it. He will not leave us during our battles, but without discernment we will fail to win victory. A heart intent on winning against corporate enemies of the Church will welcome God’s keen eye. But a man whose heart is intent on preservation of his life and its comforts will not lay himself down to the hard battles won only by the counsel of discernment. He will preserve destructive relationships for the promise of promotion and financial gain, and betray the faithful to secure his own position. When the Lord places us in the position of receiving discernment, He is directing us towards victory. Yet it is a solemn testing ground wherein we make the decision to serve God and leave our own agendas behind.
Many of the battles to establish God’s kingdom are lost because the inner kingdom’s battles have not yet been won in the hearts of His people. Today let us to be enthusiastic, yes, zealous for victory against our enemy. Then we will see the changes we are looking for around us as God’s kingdom’s victories work outward. Amen.
Next Elisha instructed king Jehoash to strike the ground with arrows. The king struck three times, indicating three battle victories. Elisha lamented “You should have struck the ground five or six times; then you would have defeated Aram and completely destroyed it. But now you will defeat it only three times.” Total victory did not come until a later king, Jeroboam II. After the Jehoash’s visit, Elisha died.
This story is an example to us, as the Old Testament scriptures often are (Rom 15:4; 1 Cor 10:6 & 11). We face an unseen enemy, but our battles are real in this life. Just like king Johoash we have been given authority, and the Word of the Lord to us is that we will be more than conquerors (Rom 8:28-39). We may be facing hardship, perils, illnesses, or struggles against personal impurity. There are false brethren and false teachings . . . so many battles that, if we were to face them all at once, we might lose heart. Though there are many battles that make up a total victory, God gives us help in the times of our troubles (Ps 46:1).
For king Jehoash, Elisha was his help. Elisha’s hands upon the king’s hands symbolized God’s governance over the matters of the kingdom, directing Jehoash to victory for Israel. Just as the Lord gives us a Word of victory and guides us in our struggles, so the Lord gave Jehoash victory according to the king’s arrow strikes; three times the battles were won. However, there would be more than three battles to gain the total victory. The opportunity for further ground strikes was not given, and Elisha the prophet died.
When the Lord is with us in our times of trouble we feel secure, as if that is how it always will be. Surely since the Lord spoke victory over us we believe we will prevail against our enemies. Yet there are those days when it takes more enthusiasm, yes, genuine zeal to win our battles. I have met Christians that stopped drinking but continued smoking, and died of cancer. I have met Christians who have stopped looking at pornography yet still lusted with their eyes, and fell in adultery. Though God directs us towards victory, our heart has to be united in the efforts against the enemy. Perhaps that is what the Lord was looking for when Elisha asked the king to strike the arrows on the ground; a heart dedicated to winning each battle. If we find compromise in our hearts we need to set aside any secondary gain we might want from our enemy. The pleasures of this life will undermine the zeal with which we enter our battles, and we will lose.
When a man succeeds in winning his personal battles the Lord will join him with others in doing exploits for His kingdom (Dan 11:32b). It is God’s hope that we will win over the earth’s kingdoms for the Lord, and Jesus works in us for this purpose (1 Cor 15:24-25). During these battles we find ourselves facing huge issues in our churches, and in Christianity as a whole. If our hearts have not been tried and proven victorious in our personal battles, then we will fail in the corporate battles. We will betray our brethren for pre-eminence. We will intimidate and hinder those whom God would use so that we can be in control . . . and the list goes on.
Those who do not have the heart to win the personal battles appointed to them will cause the greater battles to be lost. The prophet Malachi speaks of a time of distinction appointed to God’s servants, where those who fear the Lord and honor His name will discern “between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not.” (Mal 3:17-18) On the heels of discernment comes healing and freedom. What follows is victory as God’s people “trample down the wicked.” (Mal 4:2-3).
The Apostle Paul speaks of this same victory when he writes that “The God of peace will soon crush satan under your feet.” (Rom 16:20) He is writing to the Romans about people who “are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naïve people.” (Rom 16:18). The distinction between those who served the Lord, and those who served themselves was made apparent by Paul’s letter to the Romans. The letter was like Elisha’s hands upon the king’s as he shot the arrow. Paul directed the saints in Rome towards victory, yet the battle was theirs to fight.
God promises us discernment because we will need it. He will not leave us during our battles, but without discernment we will fail to win victory. A heart intent on winning against corporate enemies of the Church will welcome God’s keen eye. But a man whose heart is intent on preservation of his life and its comforts will not lay himself down to the hard battles won only by the counsel of discernment. He will preserve destructive relationships for the promise of promotion and financial gain, and betray the faithful to secure his own position. When the Lord places us in the position of receiving discernment, He is directing us towards victory. Yet it is a solemn testing ground wherein we make the decision to serve God and leave our own agendas behind.
Many of the battles to establish God’s kingdom are lost because the inner kingdom’s battles have not yet been won in the hearts of His people. Today let us to be enthusiastic, yes, zealous for victory against our enemy. Then we will see the changes we are looking for around us as God’s kingdom’s victories work outward. Amen.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Violent men take the kingdom of God
“From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it.” (Mt 11:12). An important part of this statement is “men” and this is what the Holy Spirit drew my attention to this morning. Many of us wonder when God will bring His kingdom down onto the earth, yet from this statement we see that we, men and women, have a very active, forceful part in establishing God’s kingdom.
Our enemy hinders us, and in Daniel 7 we read where satan was “waging war against the saints and defeating them, until the Ancient of Days came and pronounced judgment in favor of the saints of the Most High, and the time came when they possessed the kingdom.” (Dan 7:21-22) If we find ourselves embroiled in a fierce warfare with our enemy it may seem that waiting on God is the only option we have. How do we find the balance between these two verses that instruct us to be forceful, and yet place the victory squarely upon God’s actions?
Let us begin by looking at the “kingdom within.” Jesus told His disciples that the kingdom would not come with observation because it was within them (Lk 17:21). The Holy Spirit works in every believer to establish God’s kingdom inside first, and it is that outward working of the inner kingdom of God that takes over this world, establishing God’s kingdom outwardly. Satan may hinder what we do, but he does not have authority over who we are inside. What keeps us from being destroyed by our enemy before we can do any earthly good? Jesus prayed a prayer of protection over His disciples before He left this world, asking the Father to “protect them by the power of your name – the name you gave Me – so that they may be one as we are one.”(Jn 17:11) This appears to be a bid for the unity of the Body of Christ, which indeed we pray for. However, if each believer is to be one in the manner Jesus is speaking of, each member would be one with Jesus, just as Jesus is one with the Father. And this is what protects us; our unity with Jesus, His will and His purposes for our lives. This is difficult if we do not entirely surrender our lives over to Him, yet wanting to labor for Him in His kingdom.
When the Israelites were given the Promised Land, they did not wait for God to get it ready for them before they entered. God instructed them to go into the land and take it. The wars that ensued show us that the kingdom of Israel was taken forcefully from their enemies. God worked with the Israelites side-by-side in their battles until the realization of His promise. His words had not produced an intellectual exercise in them, whereby they found lessons to believe or people to listen to. His words produced faith, and true faith produced action . . . forceful action.
At times we are inactive because it is the action on God’s part that makes our faith come alive, and without His action we actually begin to doubt. When doubt is full-blown it renders us inactive. Yet even small actions on our part will kindle the flames of faith in our hearts, and after the trial of waiting, our stewardship will be proven to be faithful and God will bring His help. Prolonged inaction tends to cause us to be dull, forgetful of God’s promises, and prone to being side-lined by worldly comforts.
I would like to encourage you today to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit in your lives, setting up His kingdom all the more “within” and finding His works that will set up His kingdom around you. God bless, Helen
Our enemy hinders us, and in Daniel 7 we read where satan was “waging war against the saints and defeating them, until the Ancient of Days came and pronounced judgment in favor of the saints of the Most High, and the time came when they possessed the kingdom.” (Dan 7:21-22) If we find ourselves embroiled in a fierce warfare with our enemy it may seem that waiting on God is the only option we have. How do we find the balance between these two verses that instruct us to be forceful, and yet place the victory squarely upon God’s actions?
Let us begin by looking at the “kingdom within.” Jesus told His disciples that the kingdom would not come with observation because it was within them (Lk 17:21). The Holy Spirit works in every believer to establish God’s kingdom inside first, and it is that outward working of the inner kingdom of God that takes over this world, establishing God’s kingdom outwardly. Satan may hinder what we do, but he does not have authority over who we are inside. What keeps us from being destroyed by our enemy before we can do any earthly good? Jesus prayed a prayer of protection over His disciples before He left this world, asking the Father to “protect them by the power of your name – the name you gave Me – so that they may be one as we are one.”(Jn 17:11) This appears to be a bid for the unity of the Body of Christ, which indeed we pray for. However, if each believer is to be one in the manner Jesus is speaking of, each member would be one with Jesus, just as Jesus is one with the Father. And this is what protects us; our unity with Jesus, His will and His purposes for our lives. This is difficult if we do not entirely surrender our lives over to Him, yet wanting to labor for Him in His kingdom.
When the Israelites were given the Promised Land, they did not wait for God to get it ready for them before they entered. God instructed them to go into the land and take it. The wars that ensued show us that the kingdom of Israel was taken forcefully from their enemies. God worked with the Israelites side-by-side in their battles until the realization of His promise. His words had not produced an intellectual exercise in them, whereby they found lessons to believe or people to listen to. His words produced faith, and true faith produced action . . . forceful action.
At times we are inactive because it is the action on God’s part that makes our faith come alive, and without His action we actually begin to doubt. When doubt is full-blown it renders us inactive. Yet even small actions on our part will kindle the flames of faith in our hearts, and after the trial of waiting, our stewardship will be proven to be faithful and God will bring His help. Prolonged inaction tends to cause us to be dull, forgetful of God’s promises, and prone to being side-lined by worldly comforts.
I would like to encourage you today to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit in your lives, setting up His kingdom all the more “within” and finding His works that will set up His kingdom around you. God bless, Helen
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
The Power is in the Word
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” (Rom 1:16) In this hour of our lives when we are searching for the power of God, is it possible that we have over-looked the source of true power? The word of God holds true power to change lives. Jesus said that we are changed by God’s Word, and we know Him as the Sower of the seed; God’s Word. He looks for a harvest of fruit from the seed of God’s word sown in the hearts of men. This is not only our salvation, but the enduring fruit of those who abide in His vine.
Jesus said much to encourage His disciples to hear and obey God’s words. He also asked them to plant the seeds of His words in others. If a farmer tilled his soil and read up on the many different techniques of planting seed, however did not actually plant seed, he would not have a harvest. Even if he taught others how to plant seed, but did not have seed to plant, he himself would not have successfully been a part of changing one life. The power is in the seed, the Word of God.
Our enemy wants us to do everything except mention God’s word. He cajoles us into thinking if we are nice to someone, they will be impressed with our Christianity. He wants us to believe that our sacrificial giving will cause others to be reached for Christ. But it’s the words from God’s mouth that Jesus lived by, and it is this same Word that He passed on to us. Jesus was the Manna in the wilderness, and He is the hidden manna in Revelation (Rev 2:17), given to us who receive a new name, a new life in Him.
Perhaps we don’t realize that, when we come to Jesus and receive a new life in Him, He wants to talk to us. Jesus wants to speak into our lives, and through our lives to others. He wants to teach us about His Father, the One whose words Jesus lived by. There is a great richness that awaits us, if we will listen to Him. Through this richness we give the Word of God to others.
God made a covenant that reaches out to us. It is a covenant of richness in the Word and the Spirit. The Lord spoke these words to Jeremiah, the prophet; “But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people.
“And they shall teach no more every man his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.” (Jer 31:33-34)
God is telling us that He wants to write on our hearts. Let us come aside today and listen to what our wonderful God has to say. This will change us, and His word through us will change others. Amen.
Jesus said much to encourage His disciples to hear and obey God’s words. He also asked them to plant the seeds of His words in others. If a farmer tilled his soil and read up on the many different techniques of planting seed, however did not actually plant seed, he would not have a harvest. Even if he taught others how to plant seed, but did not have seed to plant, he himself would not have successfully been a part of changing one life. The power is in the seed, the Word of God.
Our enemy wants us to do everything except mention God’s word. He cajoles us into thinking if we are nice to someone, they will be impressed with our Christianity. He wants us to believe that our sacrificial giving will cause others to be reached for Christ. But it’s the words from God’s mouth that Jesus lived by, and it is this same Word that He passed on to us. Jesus was the Manna in the wilderness, and He is the hidden manna in Revelation (Rev 2:17), given to us who receive a new name, a new life in Him.
Perhaps we don’t realize that, when we come to Jesus and receive a new life in Him, He wants to talk to us. Jesus wants to speak into our lives, and through our lives to others. He wants to teach us about His Father, the One whose words Jesus lived by. There is a great richness that awaits us, if we will listen to Him. Through this richness we give the Word of God to others.
God made a covenant that reaches out to us. It is a covenant of richness in the Word and the Spirit. The Lord spoke these words to Jeremiah, the prophet; “But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people.
“And they shall teach no more every man his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.” (Jer 31:33-34)
God is telling us that He wants to write on our hearts. Let us come aside today and listen to what our wonderful God has to say. This will change us, and His word through us will change others. Amen.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Recording God's Word
As a prophet part of my time is spent recording God’s word, and then how it comes to pass. This is the example we have in both the Old and New Testament of the Bible. In reading what is recorded for us by others we learn from what God says and does . . . we learn about His nature. We see that King David used his psalms to proclaim God’s mighty works. In Psalm 22 we read that a seed will serve God, and they will tell future generations about God’s righteousness (vs 30-31). I have often wondered who in our generation is recording God’s words and works for the future generation.
Sea of Glass is a web site dedicated to the recording of God’s word through only one person; myself. If I went back through the annals of my life, I could record the coming to pass of many prophecies and what I learned about God’s nature. Though I have recorded these things, I wonder if others record the prophecies they see God bring to pass in their lives. And finally, I wonder how we will pass these words and acts of God on to future generations. How will we compile them, and pass them along as part of our faith?
Part of the problem with recording prophecy is the increasing unbelief in which it is received. There is an angst permeating Christianity concerning prophecy, and it comes at a time when the Spirit of Prophecy is moving amongst the believers. The distrust of prophecy and subsequent unbelief is a spiritual onslaught perpetrated by the enemy of our souls. The stirring up of prophecy by God’s Spirit is from Him and is for preparation of each person, and for His people as a whole.
We overcome the world by our faith (1 Jn 5:4), and faith comes by hearing the word of God (Rom 10:17). Overcoming and hearing God cannot be separated. We may read about what God has said, which is recorded for us by men moved by the Spirit of Prophecy, or we may “hear” what God is saying, by the same Spirit (1 Pet 1:21). Though we have trials, they are to work faith in us, which is most precious (1 Pet 1:7).
In Revelation 12 we read about a woman giving birth to a man-child. He and his fellow siblings all have the Testimony of Jesus, which is the Spirit of Prophecy (12:17). However, satan is poised in a position to devour the man-child, and then to pursue the siblings with war. This is a spiritual picture of the times we live in, and how satan hates and seeks to destroy those who have the Spirit of Prophecy. He positions himself in our brethren, amongst friends and family members to tear down faith and destroy the words God speaks. So in a time like this, it is all the more important to encourage each other in the rhemas word of God and watching for it to come to pass. If we can stand, we will see victory. And if we see victory, we will have much to tell the following generations.
God has fought mightily for me and my family. His great acts are not over. We live in an exciting time and serve and exciting God. I’d like to encourage you to share the testimonies of overcoming with each other, and to keep a written record of what God has done in your lives and the lives of those you’ve prayed for. One thing I invite you to join me in is prayer for a corporate written account of these acts so that we might pass them along to others, now, and in the times to come. Thank you, and God bless.
Sea of Glass is a web site dedicated to the recording of God’s word through only one person; myself. If I went back through the annals of my life, I could record the coming to pass of many prophecies and what I learned about God’s nature. Though I have recorded these things, I wonder if others record the prophecies they see God bring to pass in their lives. And finally, I wonder how we will pass these words and acts of God on to future generations. How will we compile them, and pass them along as part of our faith?
Part of the problem with recording prophecy is the increasing unbelief in which it is received. There is an angst permeating Christianity concerning prophecy, and it comes at a time when the Spirit of Prophecy is moving amongst the believers. The distrust of prophecy and subsequent unbelief is a spiritual onslaught perpetrated by the enemy of our souls. The stirring up of prophecy by God’s Spirit is from Him and is for preparation of each person, and for His people as a whole.
We overcome the world by our faith (1 Jn 5:4), and faith comes by hearing the word of God (Rom 10:17). Overcoming and hearing God cannot be separated. We may read about what God has said, which is recorded for us by men moved by the Spirit of Prophecy, or we may “hear” what God is saying, by the same Spirit (1 Pet 1:21). Though we have trials, they are to work faith in us, which is most precious (1 Pet 1:7).
In Revelation 12 we read about a woman giving birth to a man-child. He and his fellow siblings all have the Testimony of Jesus, which is the Spirit of Prophecy (12:17). However, satan is poised in a position to devour the man-child, and then to pursue the siblings with war. This is a spiritual picture of the times we live in, and how satan hates and seeks to destroy those who have the Spirit of Prophecy. He positions himself in our brethren, amongst friends and family members to tear down faith and destroy the words God speaks. So in a time like this, it is all the more important to encourage each other in the rhemas word of God and watching for it to come to pass. If we can stand, we will see victory. And if we see victory, we will have much to tell the following generations.
God has fought mightily for me and my family. His great acts are not over. We live in an exciting time and serve and exciting God. I’d like to encourage you to share the testimonies of overcoming with each other, and to keep a written record of what God has done in your lives and the lives of those you’ve prayed for. One thing I invite you to join me in is prayer for a corporate written account of these acts so that we might pass them along to others, now, and in the times to come. Thank you, and God bless.
Monday, November 1, 2010
What makes warfare difficult?
What makes war difficult? Or, better worded, what makes spiritual warfare hard? It is difficult because those who are our enemies, who hurt and wound us, are the same people we are supposed to love. Jesus said that a man’s enemies would be the members of his own household (Mt 10:36), and that the wounds He suffered were received in the “house of (His) friends.” (Zech13:6). In the face of emotional pain and suffering the command to love our enemies (Mt 5:44) can be paralyzing. When we put aside our offense and anger, and every negative emotion that rises up in us, it seems that love would be passive and let the one wronging us have his way.
October 30th I related 2 dreams. The one dream, from 12/24/08/ depicted a war scene in which good Christian men stood their ground ineffectively. They had on helmets but no other protection. In reading this dream over it is clear to see that the enemy was wounding and killing the faithful Christians by using already wounded or (spiritually) dead Christians against them. In other words, it was as Jesus said, that those who stood on the battle field found themselves pitted against friends from the house of the Lord. I wondered at this picture, how the soldiers seemingly had on the helmet of salvation but no other protection . . . and the Lord began speaking to me about our protection.
First, the Lord said that the church’s concept of loving their enemy wasn’t His concept of love. Love does not give a wrong-doer his way, nor remain silent when injustice is done. This isn’t fitting with God’s character. When we look at the Bible we see that loving our brother should cause us to “snatch others from the fire and save them,” hating the garment spotted by their corrupted flesh (Jude :23). We are asked to admonish, correct and even rebuke those who are straying. Yet when someone errs, wrongs us, and goes astray why is our first reaction that we need to forgive them, and turn the other way. This is where we lose the battles and become ineffective on the battlefield.
I’d like to suggest that forgiveness is an expression of God’s love which we bear inside, and is a very active part of calling a person back into relationship with God. As Christians we are little Christs. We are the expression of Jesus’ life here on the earth and proof that He lives on in the lives of His believers. We should have the wisdom, discernment, and governing ability that was given to the first Christians so that we can preserve the Faith whole and pure. The battlefield is where this is tested. When we cede our position to those who are abusive or in error, we lose the battle. Our protection is the discernment, wisdom, intelligence, and standard of excellence we walk in every day. If we require these things of ourselves, we will notice when our enemy is using others to come against God’s standards.
It takes exercise to remain fit, and it takes being exercised by obedience to God’s word to be fit for spiritual warfare. When we look at the character of God it is plain to see that He both loves us and holds us responsible for our behavior. We also can love a man and hold him responsible for his behavior. God’s wisdom works to preserve our soul, which often includes corrections and “time outs”. We also have the same wisdom and can do more to preserve a man’s soul through correction ministered in love than through smooth words of “it’s all right, we all do the same thing.” God tries us to see if we’re ready for promotion, not treating us all the same but giving to each a reward commensurate with his works (see the parable of the talents). We too should not promote someone just to show we are in support of them and what they are doing, but should have a standard for anyone entering ministry and a mentoring path for them to make sure they meet their goal.
I have mentioned examples of wisdom and of having godly standards, all being expressions of God’s love. Forgiveness is also an expression of God’s love, working actively with the wrong-doer to restore him to Christ. There may be many, many other components of protection that would help us to stand our ground effectively in God’s kingdom. But it is a sure thing that without God’s love being expressed through us in ways that preserve the faith and restore men to God, we will lose the battles appointed to us. Let us all encourage one another today as we see the battles at hand. Amen.
October 30th I related 2 dreams. The one dream, from 12/24/08/ depicted a war scene in which good Christian men stood their ground ineffectively. They had on helmets but no other protection. In reading this dream over it is clear to see that the enemy was wounding and killing the faithful Christians by using already wounded or (spiritually) dead Christians against them. In other words, it was as Jesus said, that those who stood on the battle field found themselves pitted against friends from the house of the Lord. I wondered at this picture, how the soldiers seemingly had on the helmet of salvation but no other protection . . . and the Lord began speaking to me about our protection.
First, the Lord said that the church’s concept of loving their enemy wasn’t His concept of love. Love does not give a wrong-doer his way, nor remain silent when injustice is done. This isn’t fitting with God’s character. When we look at the Bible we see that loving our brother should cause us to “snatch others from the fire and save them,” hating the garment spotted by their corrupted flesh (Jude :23). We are asked to admonish, correct and even rebuke those who are straying. Yet when someone errs, wrongs us, and goes astray why is our first reaction that we need to forgive them, and turn the other way. This is where we lose the battles and become ineffective on the battlefield.
I’d like to suggest that forgiveness is an expression of God’s love which we bear inside, and is a very active part of calling a person back into relationship with God. As Christians we are little Christs. We are the expression of Jesus’ life here on the earth and proof that He lives on in the lives of His believers. We should have the wisdom, discernment, and governing ability that was given to the first Christians so that we can preserve the Faith whole and pure. The battlefield is where this is tested. When we cede our position to those who are abusive or in error, we lose the battle. Our protection is the discernment, wisdom, intelligence, and standard of excellence we walk in every day. If we require these things of ourselves, we will notice when our enemy is using others to come against God’s standards.
It takes exercise to remain fit, and it takes being exercised by obedience to God’s word to be fit for spiritual warfare. When we look at the character of God it is plain to see that He both loves us and holds us responsible for our behavior. We also can love a man and hold him responsible for his behavior. God’s wisdom works to preserve our soul, which often includes corrections and “time outs”. We also have the same wisdom and can do more to preserve a man’s soul through correction ministered in love than through smooth words of “it’s all right, we all do the same thing.” God tries us to see if we’re ready for promotion, not treating us all the same but giving to each a reward commensurate with his works (see the parable of the talents). We too should not promote someone just to show we are in support of them and what they are doing, but should have a standard for anyone entering ministry and a mentoring path for them to make sure they meet their goal.
I have mentioned examples of wisdom and of having godly standards, all being expressions of God’s love. Forgiveness is also an expression of God’s love, working actively with the wrong-doer to restore him to Christ. There may be many, many other components of protection that would help us to stand our ground effectively in God’s kingdom. But it is a sure thing that without God’s love being expressed through us in ways that preserve the faith and restore men to God, we will lose the battles appointed to us. Let us all encourage one another today as we see the battles at hand. Amen.
prayer for victory
How do we pray when we are distressed? Psalm 18 has been a prayer that offers repeated help to me when in times of trouble. Today I want to break down the components of Psalm 18, for it has patterns we see in all the Psalms, though perhaps not in its entirety as we see here, and it offers guidelines for our own prayers for victory.
1. Relationship – (vs 1) “I love you”. Here is where we decide whether to love, or to blame God.
2. Who God is – (vs 1b-2) “strength, rock, fortress, deliverer, refuge, shield, salvation, & stronghold. Affirming God’s nature helps us to have faith in Who He is.
3. What God has done – (vs 3-6) “saved me from my enemies . . . death”. Remembering what He has done gives us motivation to press in to Him for more.
4. How God provided help – (vs 7-16) was motivated by His anger at abuse towards David, came down to settle the matter, protected His workings with a cloak of darkness, routed the enemy, and saved David. Note that in this section the Lord “laid bare” the foundations of the earth. God let His foundations, or His plans, be exposed concerning David. God’s plans were that David would be king. Recounting God’s works encourages us that He is more than able to do on our behalf what He has done in the past, and that we have a plan for our lives.
5. David’s problem – (vs 17-18) Enemies too powerful and strong for him. They also attacked him at a time of weakness. Being honest with God is a necessary part of our petition for help.
6. God’s help – (vs 18b-19) Support provided by God, David being brought into a better place. When God gets involved we end up better off, not just going through the trial, but afterwards.
7. Why God helped David – (vs 19b-24) “He delighted in me.” God dealt with David according to his faithfulness towards God and God’s expectations of him. We stand in God’s love of us (something imperative for us to believe during our troubles) and in the righteousness of Christ, with our obedience to the truth as we know it.
8. God’s character – (vs 25-27) He is faithful to the faithful, blameless to the blameless, pure to the pure, but to the crooked He is shrewd. God saves the humble but brings down the proud. God’s thoughts towards us are good and proceed from His holiness, but we will not see it that way if our heart is “crooked” and our mind is full of prideful thoughts.
9. The benefit to David – (vs 28-29) God turns his darkness into light (brings understanding, direction, discernment knowledge) and keeps his lamp burning. David can scale a wall and advance against a troop, going above and beyond what a normal man can do. The very weapons we need to defeat our enemies are provided to us by the Lord, and on top of that, supernatural strength to overcome.
10. More about God’s character and His benefit to David – (vs 30-36) Repeating these themes shows an on-going relationship between David and the Lord. God’s “way is perfect”, His “word is flawless”, He is a shield & a rock who arms David with strength and makes his way perfect (here we see that the process of knowing God and being helped by God transforms David’s ways from one who was being overcome to one who is perfect, overcoming his enemies). God enables him to stand on the heights (to see things from God’s vantage point) and is taught how to war successfully. God “stoops down to make me great,” and makes David’s stand a more secure place (our faith often wavers when we do not sense that God is with us in our troubles. This wavering gives us a sense of tottering on a narrow precipice, or insecurity). Relationship with the Lord develops through our dependence on Him and our willingness to lay aside our weakness for His strength.
11. Victory – (vs 37-38) Enemies were overtaken, destroyed, crushed, and bowed at David’s feet. The victories are permanent, and the relationship to our enemies forever changed.
12. Praises & acknowledgements of God’s enabling power – (vs 39-50) This shows God’s partnership with David. David uses “you” 5 times to mention what God did, and tells how the Lord subdued his enemies, causing them to be in submission to him. He praises God. The way to avoid pride is to give credit for the enabling power of God in our lives. This also shows how much we value the Lord and His help.
1. Relationship – (vs 1) “I love you”. Here is where we decide whether to love, or to blame God.
2. Who God is – (vs 1b-2) “strength, rock, fortress, deliverer, refuge, shield, salvation, & stronghold. Affirming God’s nature helps us to have faith in Who He is.
3. What God has done – (vs 3-6) “saved me from my enemies . . . death”. Remembering what He has done gives us motivation to press in to Him for more.
4. How God provided help – (vs 7-16) was motivated by His anger at abuse towards David, came down to settle the matter, protected His workings with a cloak of darkness, routed the enemy, and saved David. Note that in this section the Lord “laid bare” the foundations of the earth. God let His foundations, or His plans, be exposed concerning David. God’s plans were that David would be king. Recounting God’s works encourages us that He is more than able to do on our behalf what He has done in the past, and that we have a plan for our lives.
5. David’s problem – (vs 17-18) Enemies too powerful and strong for him. They also attacked him at a time of weakness. Being honest with God is a necessary part of our petition for help.
6. God’s help – (vs 18b-19) Support provided by God, David being brought into a better place. When God gets involved we end up better off, not just going through the trial, but afterwards.
7. Why God helped David – (vs 19b-24) “He delighted in me.” God dealt with David according to his faithfulness towards God and God’s expectations of him. We stand in God’s love of us (something imperative for us to believe during our troubles) and in the righteousness of Christ, with our obedience to the truth as we know it.
8. God’s character – (vs 25-27) He is faithful to the faithful, blameless to the blameless, pure to the pure, but to the crooked He is shrewd. God saves the humble but brings down the proud. God’s thoughts towards us are good and proceed from His holiness, but we will not see it that way if our heart is “crooked” and our mind is full of prideful thoughts.
9. The benefit to David – (vs 28-29) God turns his darkness into light (brings understanding, direction, discernment knowledge) and keeps his lamp burning. David can scale a wall and advance against a troop, going above and beyond what a normal man can do. The very weapons we need to defeat our enemies are provided to us by the Lord, and on top of that, supernatural strength to overcome.
10. More about God’s character and His benefit to David – (vs 30-36) Repeating these themes shows an on-going relationship between David and the Lord. God’s “way is perfect”, His “word is flawless”, He is a shield & a rock who arms David with strength and makes his way perfect (here we see that the process of knowing God and being helped by God transforms David’s ways from one who was being overcome to one who is perfect, overcoming his enemies). God enables him to stand on the heights (to see things from God’s vantage point) and is taught how to war successfully. God “stoops down to make me great,” and makes David’s stand a more secure place (our faith often wavers when we do not sense that God is with us in our troubles. This wavering gives us a sense of tottering on a narrow precipice, or insecurity). Relationship with the Lord develops through our dependence on Him and our willingness to lay aside our weakness for His strength.
11. Victory – (vs 37-38) Enemies were overtaken, destroyed, crushed, and bowed at David’s feet. The victories are permanent, and the relationship to our enemies forever changed.
12. Praises & acknowledgements of God’s enabling power – (vs 39-50) This shows God’s partnership with David. David uses “you” 5 times to mention what God did, and tells how the Lord subdued his enemies, causing them to be in submission to him. He praises God. The way to avoid pride is to give credit for the enabling power of God in our lives. This also shows how much we value the Lord and His help.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
War
This morning I had 2 significant dreams. In the first dream an angel encouraged me and my husband Dave, giving us the house of our destiny. In the second dream a diabolical plot was discovered. I would like to share the second dream with you and its significance to the battle Christians are embroiled in at this time. Here is the dream;
I was a spectator in the house of our destiny. I saw a boy, about 10 – 12 years old. He was being ensnared by an evil man who intended to kidnap him. There was knowledge that the news had sent out an alert that there also was a small baby boy that had been kidnapped and people were looking for him. Suddenly the young boy’s mother came in the front door where the boy and wicked man were. She had rigged the door so that, when it opened, a gun would shoot a bullet, aimed to the left. She looked like Barbara Billingsly, with white gloves on. And so it happened as she had planned, that coming in the door, the bullet was fired and went into the evil man.
“Nice going Mom!” her son said. “You just killed Jerome, the man who was ‘helping’ us. He was perpetrating the evil on me which he intended I would perpetrate on others.”
The focus shifted to Jerome, who hadn’t died. We realized that he was one of satan’s agents. He had a baby in a bassinet next to him, whom he had kidnapped. We knew he would raise the baby to perpetrate evil. Though the 10-12 year old boy was safe, we wondered if we could rescue the baby. End of dream.
Interpretation – Barbara Billingsly represents the perfect wife, God’s perfected church or Bride. She has all the wisdom and skill needed to defeat satan, catching him in his own snares.
White gloves – pure works
Young son – the first movement of the Lord in our generation. Satan tried to “kidnap” this movement by cruelly wounding Christians, who in turn would wound others
Baby – God’s current movement. Innocent and unwounded so far
Jerome – In real life he was a saint who had been subject to the sin of pedophilia. In this dream he represents defilement through spiritual abuse.
After having received this dream the Lord brought me to the realization that some of this important material was given in a dream I had 12/24/08. Though this makes for long reading, it will bring more insight into the times we are now living, and is as follows;
There was a fierce war going on, but our group of about 50 people were gathered off to themselves, having not entered the battle. A few times I saw scenes of the battle, as if I were there. The field was full of dead bodies, old and new, stacked high on top of each other and covering the entire field. There were only a hand full of men standing. They had WWI style helmets on and just stood like statues, easy prey for what the enemy dropped on them. The enemy was shooting dead bodies, which landed on the field and on the soldiers. There was no shelter, and there was no plan. It was night time.
Our group had a discussion that I was not part of. A man who looked like one of the prominent pastors in our area gave a stirring pep talk and convinced the others that it was time to go to the battlefield. The group began a march up the road to the battle field. It was day-time. My husband Dave and I were last, and lingered behind. Our belief was that a plan would come to us that would better equip us to win, if we weren’t hasty to get there. I stopped along the road to get a drink from a drinking fountain.
This dream showed the same concept of wounded or slain men being used as weapons against those faithfully holding their ground in Christ. We saw the need for people to be equipped and mentored or we will not endure to give God the glory.
An evangelist’s efforts are often called a “campaign”, and so are military moves. The local pastor’s campaign was initiated from his personal motivation and did not include God’s strategy. God’s plan is to have a people who stand in victory against the devil, satan. Yet, if wounded people are used by satan to wound others, we will become weapons in the enemy’s hands instead of Jesus’ hands. When an enemy cannot defeat a people from without he will cunningly use those within to bring defeat.
What should we do, then? We cannot remove ourselves from the evil of this life. But we can love, and pray for grace to endure our hardships. One great thing we can do is to let God use us for the encouragement and equipping of each other. We need to have confidence to use those gifts given to us by God, for there is no security in doing what great leaders tell us to do. But there is every confidence that the Lord will equip and train us, sharing His plan for victory with those who wait on Him. Amen.
I was a spectator in the house of our destiny. I saw a boy, about 10 – 12 years old. He was being ensnared by an evil man who intended to kidnap him. There was knowledge that the news had sent out an alert that there also was a small baby boy that had been kidnapped and people were looking for him. Suddenly the young boy’s mother came in the front door where the boy and wicked man were. She had rigged the door so that, when it opened, a gun would shoot a bullet, aimed to the left. She looked like Barbara Billingsly, with white gloves on. And so it happened as she had planned, that coming in the door, the bullet was fired and went into the evil man.
“Nice going Mom!” her son said. “You just killed Jerome, the man who was ‘helping’ us. He was perpetrating the evil on me which he intended I would perpetrate on others.”
The focus shifted to Jerome, who hadn’t died. We realized that he was one of satan’s agents. He had a baby in a bassinet next to him, whom he had kidnapped. We knew he would raise the baby to perpetrate evil. Though the 10-12 year old boy was safe, we wondered if we could rescue the baby. End of dream.
Interpretation – Barbara Billingsly represents the perfect wife, God’s perfected church or Bride. She has all the wisdom and skill needed to defeat satan, catching him in his own snares.
White gloves – pure works
Young son – the first movement of the Lord in our generation. Satan tried to “kidnap” this movement by cruelly wounding Christians, who in turn would wound others
Baby – God’s current movement. Innocent and unwounded so far
Jerome – In real life he was a saint who had been subject to the sin of pedophilia. In this dream he represents defilement through spiritual abuse.
After having received this dream the Lord brought me to the realization that some of this important material was given in a dream I had 12/24/08. Though this makes for long reading, it will bring more insight into the times we are now living, and is as follows;
There was a fierce war going on, but our group of about 50 people were gathered off to themselves, having not entered the battle. A few times I saw scenes of the battle, as if I were there. The field was full of dead bodies, old and new, stacked high on top of each other and covering the entire field. There were only a hand full of men standing. They had WWI style helmets on and just stood like statues, easy prey for what the enemy dropped on them. The enemy was shooting dead bodies, which landed on the field and on the soldiers. There was no shelter, and there was no plan. It was night time.
Our group had a discussion that I was not part of. A man who looked like one of the prominent pastors in our area gave a stirring pep talk and convinced the others that it was time to go to the battlefield. The group began a march up the road to the battle field. It was day-time. My husband Dave and I were last, and lingered behind. Our belief was that a plan would come to us that would better equip us to win, if we weren’t hasty to get there. I stopped along the road to get a drink from a drinking fountain.
This dream showed the same concept of wounded or slain men being used as weapons against those faithfully holding their ground in Christ. We saw the need for people to be equipped and mentored or we will not endure to give God the glory.
An evangelist’s efforts are often called a “campaign”, and so are military moves. The local pastor’s campaign was initiated from his personal motivation and did not include God’s strategy. God’s plan is to have a people who stand in victory against the devil, satan. Yet, if wounded people are used by satan to wound others, we will become weapons in the enemy’s hands instead of Jesus’ hands. When an enemy cannot defeat a people from without he will cunningly use those within to bring defeat.
What should we do, then? We cannot remove ourselves from the evil of this life. But we can love, and pray for grace to endure our hardships. One great thing we can do is to let God use us for the encouragement and equipping of each other. We need to have confidence to use those gifts given to us by God, for there is no security in doing what great leaders tell us to do. But there is every confidence that the Lord will equip and train us, sharing His plan for victory with those who wait on Him. Amen.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Mexican laborers; the dream
After seeking godly counsel I feel that I was wrong to post the interpretation of my dream earlier and not post the dream also. This dream is about the Mexicans in our land, and is as follows;
My husband Dave and I were in our garage, which was extra large. Instead of there being a pantry, which Dave had built, it was a bare concrete floor. About 3 Mexicans were working in the middle and towards the large garage door. They were to build an addition upward, out of bricks. One solemn Mexican worker became the focus as he straightened out a metal leg that had been bent inward. It was on a short 4-legged platform on which all the bricks had been stacked. It had been stacked very high and I wondered if the platform had buckled under the load, or whether they should re-use it since it had been damaged.
Then I remembered having read on the news that 12 Mexicans had been killed when a tower of bricks fell over on them. Alarmed I shared this with my husband Dave and asked if this had happened to our workers. He didn’t know. We could see the 3 workers cleaning up the floor, but there were not any bricks.
The door to our back yard was open and there was a festive reception there. A blond well-nourished gay male waiter walked into the garage. I knew he spoke Spanish so asked him if he would ask the Mexicans if 12 men had died there. He said he could, adding that his Spanish wasn’t that good. He was busy, indifferent, and walked back out to tend to the party guests.
I walked outside to where the party was, realizing that the waiter probably wasn’t going to come back into the garage, and we wouldn’t have our answer. End of dream
Interpretation of symbolism;
our garage = part of “home”. Functional part, where maintenance and shelter take place
No pantry – no provision
Addition – needed so as to house more people
Mexican workers – the Mexicans have been doing labor in the south Western states, and elsewhere in our nation. They are part of our internal structure, providing labor for agriculture and other industries.
12 – government. The Mexican’s right to representation. This collapsed on them without even leaving a brick left to re-build their lives with.
Platform- people’s issues are represented on a platform. Theirs was unsupported, and therefore could not hold the pressures of the weight. The Mexican laborers often have poor pay & working conditions. Sometimes they are taken advantage of. And often they are treated like second-class citizens.
Language barrier – Spanish is taught as ESL, or English as a second language. This represents the Mexicans second-class treatment and is common to how other minorities have been treated. They have a similar “language” and we who have not been second class citizens would not understand them.
Gay waiter – a minority group. He should have understood the language of being treated as a second class person, but didn’t speak it well.
Party outside – people were interested in themselves, representing special interest groups. They would speak for their rights and interests, yet did not speak for others’.
End of interpretation
Aliens sojourned into Israel, just as the Israelites sojourned across the wilderness until they came to their promised destination. God asked the Israelites to treat them kindly, and Ezekiel 47:22-23 He instructs His people to give the aliens part of the inheritance and let them settle in the land among the tribes. I believe that the Lord gave this dream to show His heart towards the Mexicans in our nation. They travel here and live amongst us, yet do not have a fair life. Now their legal status is suffering an assault and they have no voice to speak of their own needs (or this is what will occur shortly). Rather than kicking the Mexicans out so that there is more to go around for those remaining (self-interested people), we should pray that the Mexicans can have their portion in our country.
My husband Dave and I were in our garage, which was extra large. Instead of there being a pantry, which Dave had built, it was a bare concrete floor. About 3 Mexicans were working in the middle and towards the large garage door. They were to build an addition upward, out of bricks. One solemn Mexican worker became the focus as he straightened out a metal leg that had been bent inward. It was on a short 4-legged platform on which all the bricks had been stacked. It had been stacked very high and I wondered if the platform had buckled under the load, or whether they should re-use it since it had been damaged.
Then I remembered having read on the news that 12 Mexicans had been killed when a tower of bricks fell over on them. Alarmed I shared this with my husband Dave and asked if this had happened to our workers. He didn’t know. We could see the 3 workers cleaning up the floor, but there were not any bricks.
The door to our back yard was open and there was a festive reception there. A blond well-nourished gay male waiter walked into the garage. I knew he spoke Spanish so asked him if he would ask the Mexicans if 12 men had died there. He said he could, adding that his Spanish wasn’t that good. He was busy, indifferent, and walked back out to tend to the party guests.
I walked outside to where the party was, realizing that the waiter probably wasn’t going to come back into the garage, and we wouldn’t have our answer. End of dream
Interpretation of symbolism;
our garage = part of “home”. Functional part, where maintenance and shelter take place
No pantry – no provision
Addition – needed so as to house more people
Mexican workers – the Mexicans have been doing labor in the south Western states, and elsewhere in our nation. They are part of our internal structure, providing labor for agriculture and other industries.
12 – government. The Mexican’s right to representation. This collapsed on them without even leaving a brick left to re-build their lives with.
Platform- people’s issues are represented on a platform. Theirs was unsupported, and therefore could not hold the pressures of the weight. The Mexican laborers often have poor pay & working conditions. Sometimes they are taken advantage of. And often they are treated like second-class citizens.
Language barrier – Spanish is taught as ESL, or English as a second language. This represents the Mexicans second-class treatment and is common to how other minorities have been treated. They have a similar “language” and we who have not been second class citizens would not understand them.
Gay waiter – a minority group. He should have understood the language of being treated as a second class person, but didn’t speak it well.
Party outside – people were interested in themselves, representing special interest groups. They would speak for their rights and interests, yet did not speak for others’.
End of interpretation
Aliens sojourned into Israel, just as the Israelites sojourned across the wilderness until they came to their promised destination. God asked the Israelites to treat them kindly, and Ezekiel 47:22-23 He instructs His people to give the aliens part of the inheritance and let them settle in the land among the tribes. I believe that the Lord gave this dream to show His heart towards the Mexicans in our nation. They travel here and live amongst us, yet do not have a fair life. Now their legal status is suffering an assault and they have no voice to speak of their own needs (or this is what will occur shortly). Rather than kicking the Mexicans out so that there is more to go around for those remaining (self-interested people), we should pray that the Mexicans can have their portion in our country.
The Stages of Love
A few days ago the Lord led me to read Phil 1:9-11. A dear friend came over and told me the Lord had her read the same verses. Coincidences like this get my attention! I had to take another look into these verses to see what treasure lay there. Here is a lesson from my quiet time this morning.
“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ – to the glory and praise of God.” (Phil 1:9-11)
We find that these verses are describing the development of love, with three components highlighted; knowledge, depth of insight, and discernment of what is best. When we let our affections grow into love our interest in the other person grows and we want to spend more time with them. Knowledge about the other person becomes important and as the relationship develops it leads to a deeper “knowing” called intimacy.
Insight about a person comes when we take responsibility for our knowledge about them. If we let knowledge train us to be thoughtful then insight about how this affects the other person, our relationship, and other parts of our lives will follow. Insight is a broad revelatory gift that goes through ever-deepening levels in our heart, perfecting us in love.
Discernment develops as we deepen in insight. It is the gatekeeper of our heart, letting good in and keeping bad out. Discernment ultimately protects love and the love relationship because it determines what is best. If a person settles for “good enough” or “fair” they are not meeting the standards of discernment to find what is best for the relationship and the person being loved. Usually the person who lacks discernment in a relationship has been slipping in taking responsibility for the knowledge they have grown in and the discipline of putting the other person first. When the slipping backwards occurs insight and discernment are lost and the relationship becomes vulnerable to decay.
A force that works against love is offense. Offense causes us to forget what we know about the other person. Left long enough, offense will create false knowledge and deceitful depths of insight due to unforgiveness. This is the reason good friends or neighbors can become brutal enemies, like the Tutus and the Hitites. Instead of remembering the good times of living side-by-side in harmony they let offence come. Forgetting knowledge caused the eventual collapse of all discernment and they began murdering those who were once their friends.
Though we don’t murder our spouses and friends, Jesus said if we hate our brother we are guilty of murder (Mt 5:22). To follow love, and then be stopped by offense is a sad journey of forgetfulness and unsound thinking. To continue in love and become pure and blameless is to become like Jesus.
Today when we follow after love let us realize that we have choices all along the way. We can forgive and put aside offenses, or we can retain the offenses. Our love-relationships may hold the greatest challenges we face, yet with them, the steps to be molded into Jesus’ image. He is at work in our lives to work love deep down into every part of our hearts. Though following after love may bring pain, it will also allow Jesus to work His righteousness in us. I’d like to encourage you to choose love for its reward is great. Amen.
“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ – to the glory and praise of God.” (Phil 1:9-11)
We find that these verses are describing the development of love, with three components highlighted; knowledge, depth of insight, and discernment of what is best. When we let our affections grow into love our interest in the other person grows and we want to spend more time with them. Knowledge about the other person becomes important and as the relationship develops it leads to a deeper “knowing” called intimacy.
Insight about a person comes when we take responsibility for our knowledge about them. If we let knowledge train us to be thoughtful then insight about how this affects the other person, our relationship, and other parts of our lives will follow. Insight is a broad revelatory gift that goes through ever-deepening levels in our heart, perfecting us in love.
Discernment develops as we deepen in insight. It is the gatekeeper of our heart, letting good in and keeping bad out. Discernment ultimately protects love and the love relationship because it determines what is best. If a person settles for “good enough” or “fair” they are not meeting the standards of discernment to find what is best for the relationship and the person being loved. Usually the person who lacks discernment in a relationship has been slipping in taking responsibility for the knowledge they have grown in and the discipline of putting the other person first. When the slipping backwards occurs insight and discernment are lost and the relationship becomes vulnerable to decay.
A force that works against love is offense. Offense causes us to forget what we know about the other person. Left long enough, offense will create false knowledge and deceitful depths of insight due to unforgiveness. This is the reason good friends or neighbors can become brutal enemies, like the Tutus and the Hitites. Instead of remembering the good times of living side-by-side in harmony they let offence come. Forgetting knowledge caused the eventual collapse of all discernment and they began murdering those who were once their friends.
Though we don’t murder our spouses and friends, Jesus said if we hate our brother we are guilty of murder (Mt 5:22). To follow love, and then be stopped by offense is a sad journey of forgetfulness and unsound thinking. To continue in love and become pure and blameless is to become like Jesus.
Today when we follow after love let us realize that we have choices all along the way. We can forgive and put aside offenses, or we can retain the offenses. Our love-relationships may hold the greatest challenges we face, yet with them, the steps to be molded into Jesus’ image. He is at work in our lives to work love deep down into every part of our hearts. Though following after love may bring pain, it will also allow Jesus to work His righteousness in us. I’d like to encourage you to choose love for its reward is great. Amen.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Mexican laborers
Sometimes we are tempted to think that there are not resources to go around, and so someone should leave. Last week the Lord gave me a dream in which the plight of the Mexican laborer was detailed. Realize that I hold no malice towards any minority group and believe that, in the Lord, we should look out for each other's interests and well-being.
Aliens sojourned into Israel, just as the Israelites sojourned across the wilderness until they came to their promised destination. God asked the Israelites to treat them kindly, and Ezekiel 47:22-23 He instructs His people to give the aliens part of the inheritance and let them settle in the land among the tribes. I believe that the Lord gave this dream to show His heart towards the Mexicans in our nation. They travel here and live amongst us, yet do not have a fair life. Now their legal status is suffering an assault and they have no voice to speak of their own needs (or this is what will occur shortly). Rather than kicking the Mexicans out so that there is more to go around for those remaining we should pray that the Mexicans can have their portion in our country. Amen
Aliens sojourned into Israel, just as the Israelites sojourned across the wilderness until they came to their promised destination. God asked the Israelites to treat them kindly, and Ezekiel 47:22-23 He instructs His people to give the aliens part of the inheritance and let them settle in the land among the tribes. I believe that the Lord gave this dream to show His heart towards the Mexicans in our nation. They travel here and live amongst us, yet do not have a fair life. Now their legal status is suffering an assault and they have no voice to speak of their own needs (or this is what will occur shortly). Rather than kicking the Mexicans out so that there is more to go around for those remaining we should pray that the Mexicans can have their portion in our country. Amen
Thursday, October 21, 2010
discernment #2
Have you ever had trouble knowing “who” is talking to you? In the spirit realm we hear God’s spirit, and we hear satan’s. There are good angels that bring us messages from the Lord, and bad angels that bring messages from their lord. When we have God’s word written on our hearts, scripture enters our minds, and after we have watched a movie, the dialogue of the actors comes to our minds. We also hear our own thoughts. Altogether, there are 100s of 1000s of thoughts that enter our minds on a daily basis, making it difficult to determine the origin of any one thought, or “who” is talking to us.
In John’s first epistle we read that those spirits that are not from God will not confess Jesus has come in the flesh, yet the Lord’s Spirit will (1 Jn 4:2-3). Experience shows us that, if we challenge the source of our thoughts, the Lord’s Spirit is gentle and confirming, yet evil spirits do not like to be questioned. We can ask for the source of our thoughts and gain discernment this way. As we grow in determining which thoughts come from God we also grow in the ability to follow Him. And, as we mature, we walk like Jesus, becoming more like Him. The more we follow and do what the Lord shares with us, the more He continues to share with us.
This week I had a conversation with a fellow-believer on the subject of testing the spirits. I’d like to share the following story with you and what became apparent afterwards. I had just met my son at a restaurant, and after dinner, was driving home. On my way home I pass by the area where my sister lives, and the thought came to stop by and visit her. Since my friend and I had just been talking about testing the spirits, I asked where this thought to visit came from, but there was no reply. However, as I drove pass her street I felt grief in my heart. Pausing to listen, I heard the Lord say, “You are going to miss an opportunity to love your sister.” Puzzled, I asked the Lord why He didn’t confirm the original thought to stop and visit, since that must have been what He wanted. He answered “I don’t want to command you to give love. Love comes from your heart and is yours to give, voluntarily. You have this treasure in earthen vessels.” (see 2 Cor 4:7)
The Lord sees our thoughts of love as valuable. Paul wrote that we should “follow after love” (1 Cor 14:1), and that our works of faith express themselves through love (Gal 5:6). The truth is, we often do follow after love, yet without seeking to identify its source. We don’t question being lovingly affectionate to our children or spouse, and our family lives are knit together with love. Even our fellowship times are filled with thoughts of kindness and concern, definite fruits of loving one another. Though our ministry may be based on loving God (2 Cor 5:14), it is incomplete without loving people.
Paul also writes that discernment is based in love, for when we follow love we learn what is best, (Phil 1:9-11). We become pure and blameless, bearing the fruits of righteousness. Without practicing love, we do not learn how to be like God on this earth. Perhaps that is why we sometimes lose our direction as Christians; we are expecting to be told what to do. Though God often shares His thoughts and plans with us, He also wants us to choose on our own to love. We cannot chose to love if we reject thoughts arising from our hearts, where God’s treasure lives. You see, our own thoughts of love are evidence that we have this treasure in our hearts.
I drove around the block and pulled up to my sister’s house, and she was very happy to see me.
In John’s first epistle we read that those spirits that are not from God will not confess Jesus has come in the flesh, yet the Lord’s Spirit will (1 Jn 4:2-3). Experience shows us that, if we challenge the source of our thoughts, the Lord’s Spirit is gentle and confirming, yet evil spirits do not like to be questioned. We can ask for the source of our thoughts and gain discernment this way. As we grow in determining which thoughts come from God we also grow in the ability to follow Him. And, as we mature, we walk like Jesus, becoming more like Him. The more we follow and do what the Lord shares with us, the more He continues to share with us.
This week I had a conversation with a fellow-believer on the subject of testing the spirits. I’d like to share the following story with you and what became apparent afterwards. I had just met my son at a restaurant, and after dinner, was driving home. On my way home I pass by the area where my sister lives, and the thought came to stop by and visit her. Since my friend and I had just been talking about testing the spirits, I asked where this thought to visit came from, but there was no reply. However, as I drove pass her street I felt grief in my heart. Pausing to listen, I heard the Lord say, “You are going to miss an opportunity to love your sister.” Puzzled, I asked the Lord why He didn’t confirm the original thought to stop and visit, since that must have been what He wanted. He answered “I don’t want to command you to give love. Love comes from your heart and is yours to give, voluntarily. You have this treasure in earthen vessels.” (see 2 Cor 4:7)
The Lord sees our thoughts of love as valuable. Paul wrote that we should “follow after love” (1 Cor 14:1), and that our works of faith express themselves through love (Gal 5:6). The truth is, we often do follow after love, yet without seeking to identify its source. We don’t question being lovingly affectionate to our children or spouse, and our family lives are knit together with love. Even our fellowship times are filled with thoughts of kindness and concern, definite fruits of loving one another. Though our ministry may be based on loving God (2 Cor 5:14), it is incomplete without loving people.
Paul also writes that discernment is based in love, for when we follow love we learn what is best, (Phil 1:9-11). We become pure and blameless, bearing the fruits of righteousness. Without practicing love, we do not learn how to be like God on this earth. Perhaps that is why we sometimes lose our direction as Christians; we are expecting to be told what to do. Though God often shares His thoughts and plans with us, He also wants us to choose on our own to love. We cannot chose to love if we reject thoughts arising from our hearts, where God’s treasure lives. You see, our own thoughts of love are evidence that we have this treasure in our hearts.
I drove around the block and pulled up to my sister’s house, and she was very happy to see me.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
God's rest
Yesterday I was tired. It had been a long, hard and busy week and I wondered if I had made a difference in God’s kingdom. I prayed “Lord, am I serving You?” His answer follows;
“You are not supposed to serve Me all the time. That is why I gave Man a Day of Rest. Those that push themselves beyond reasonable limits in ministry have missed the essence of Christianity; a relationship with Me. If what you do does not proceed from knowing Me, you may be just doing busy-work.
A wife will serve her husband, but that is not all of their relationship. They will also have time together, spent enjoying each other’s company. He will also show genuine interest in development of her talents, her well-being, and provide for her needs. The husband will let his wife know that he cherishes her. This is a parallel to My relationship with My own Bride. If she is always busy she will not have time to enjoy Me and get to know how I think about her.
This is the Rest (Heb 4:9-10) I ask men to enter into; a rest filled with fellowship and enjoyment (Mt 25:21). My focus is not always on a man’s labor. In fact, a man cannot sustain his inner being against the onslaught of his enemy unless he knows that I love and cherish him. If a man’s sense of reward comes from his works, his enemy will accuse him of not doing enough so as to wear him out (Dan 7:25). So men and women must come aside from their labors, entering into My rest for them, that they can be filled with and strengthened by My joy. Those who remain in their works will find that their weariness is soon followed by bitterness and separation from the One whom they labor for.”
Perhaps it is our nature to reflect on all we do at the end of the day and feel the reward of our accomplishments. This is not unlike God’s initial pleasure after His 6 days of creation (Gen 1:31 & 2:3). Yet the Lord hallowed a day to rest and to enjoy what He did, and He extends an invitation to enter into that joy with Him. He wants to talk with us, as a husband does with his bride, and share His thoughts. The Lord will sustain us with His joy after we enter into the rest He has created. This will happen as we set aside the reward of our labors for the greater reward of our relationship with the Beloved, our Lord. Amen.
“You are not supposed to serve Me all the time. That is why I gave Man a Day of Rest. Those that push themselves beyond reasonable limits in ministry have missed the essence of Christianity; a relationship with Me. If what you do does not proceed from knowing Me, you may be just doing busy-work.
A wife will serve her husband, but that is not all of their relationship. They will also have time together, spent enjoying each other’s company. He will also show genuine interest in development of her talents, her well-being, and provide for her needs. The husband will let his wife know that he cherishes her. This is a parallel to My relationship with My own Bride. If she is always busy she will not have time to enjoy Me and get to know how I think about her.
This is the Rest (Heb 4:9-10) I ask men to enter into; a rest filled with fellowship and enjoyment (Mt 25:21). My focus is not always on a man’s labor. In fact, a man cannot sustain his inner being against the onslaught of his enemy unless he knows that I love and cherish him. If a man’s sense of reward comes from his works, his enemy will accuse him of not doing enough so as to wear him out (Dan 7:25). So men and women must come aside from their labors, entering into My rest for them, that they can be filled with and strengthened by My joy. Those who remain in their works will find that their weariness is soon followed by bitterness and separation from the One whom they labor for.”
Perhaps it is our nature to reflect on all we do at the end of the day and feel the reward of our accomplishments. This is not unlike God’s initial pleasure after His 6 days of creation (Gen 1:31 & 2:3). Yet the Lord hallowed a day to rest and to enjoy what He did, and He extends an invitation to enter into that joy with Him. He wants to talk with us, as a husband does with his bride, and share His thoughts. The Lord will sustain us with His joy after we enter into the rest He has created. This will happen as we set aside the reward of our labors for the greater reward of our relationship with the Beloved, our Lord. Amen.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Crucifixion of the Flesh
Yesterday I wrote of dieing to our desire to be angry. This lesson is about dieing to the temptation to hate.
Crucifixion of the flesh; we consent to this process (sometimes reluctantly) when it makes sense, such as letting anger go. But what about when it seems senseless? If the good we do seems to suffer, can we still submit to letting go of rectifying wrong situations our own way? I faced this with a friend recently. Repeated disappointments were mounting up. I remembered how to ask God for grace in exchange for my anger . . . but one day I was facing hatred. “How do I handle this?” I quietly asked the Lord. I knew I had a choice, and that Jesus would not have chosen to hate. But the repeated wrong-doing . . . well it just seemed like I couldn’t live with it anymore.
The Lord broke into my thoughts with this; “I chose Judas, knowing what he would do. It cost Me a lot, his betrayal. It ended My ministry when I could have healed more people. Do you think I could have gone to My Father, thinking I knew better than He . . . and told Him that I didn’t want Judas? I was able to die on the cross because I was crucified before I got there.”
My thoughts changed direction immediately. I wondered how far I could walk with a wayward and abusive friend, and still call them “friend” from the heart. Though I felt ashamed of my weakness and almost-hatred, Jesus had taken the time to wash me with His words. I realize now that the crucifixion that comes to us when we are innocent, yet sinned against, occurs at God’s appointment. For Jesus, it meant physical death on a cross, with a new Life awaiting on the other side. And we partake of the benefit of that new life. When our own flesh is feeling the pains of crucifixion should we question our Father’s motives? Or should we wait for the new life that is waiting on the other side of our painful experience? I’m coming to believe that our gardens of disappointments and betrayals are where our flesh is finally crucified so that new life in Christ will follow. It is a life only the committed with find, for it requires a fellowship with Jesus’ sufferings, yet also a knowing of the power of His resurrection (Phil 3:10-11).
Crucifixion of the flesh; we consent to this process (sometimes reluctantly) when it makes sense, such as letting anger go. But what about when it seems senseless? If the good we do seems to suffer, can we still submit to letting go of rectifying wrong situations our own way? I faced this with a friend recently. Repeated disappointments were mounting up. I remembered how to ask God for grace in exchange for my anger . . . but one day I was facing hatred. “How do I handle this?” I quietly asked the Lord. I knew I had a choice, and that Jesus would not have chosen to hate. But the repeated wrong-doing . . . well it just seemed like I couldn’t live with it anymore.
The Lord broke into my thoughts with this; “I chose Judas, knowing what he would do. It cost Me a lot, his betrayal. It ended My ministry when I could have healed more people. Do you think I could have gone to My Father, thinking I knew better than He . . . and told Him that I didn’t want Judas? I was able to die on the cross because I was crucified before I got there.”
My thoughts changed direction immediately. I wondered how far I could walk with a wayward and abusive friend, and still call them “friend” from the heart. Though I felt ashamed of my weakness and almost-hatred, Jesus had taken the time to wash me with His words. I realize now that the crucifixion that comes to us when we are innocent, yet sinned against, occurs at God’s appointment. For Jesus, it meant physical death on a cross, with a new Life awaiting on the other side. And we partake of the benefit of that new life. When our own flesh is feeling the pains of crucifixion should we question our Father’s motives? Or should we wait for the new life that is waiting on the other side of our painful experience? I’m coming to believe that our gardens of disappointments and betrayals are where our flesh is finally crucified so that new life in Christ will follow. It is a life only the committed with find, for it requires a fellowship with Jesus’ sufferings, yet also a knowing of the power of His resurrection (Phil 3:10-11).
Sunday, October 10, 2010
The anger of Man
“The anger of man worketh not the righteousness of God (Jms 1:20).” I remember reading this verse when I was a new Christian and thinking “Um . . . aren’t Christians not supposed to get angry?” The verse made sense, and I tried to steer clear of any anger issues. However, as life would have it, my adulthood was spent with not-so-pleasant people at times, and in not-so-lovely circumstances. I would be surprised at the emotions that stirred their way up to my mind in the form of . . . yes, it was anger.
I also became familiar with Paul’s admonition to “be angry and sin not . . . don’t let the sun go down on your anger,” (Eph 4:26). Since I had found occasions in which I was angry, this verse seemed to be telling me to talk it out with the other person involved. I am pretty sure you have all experienced the time when talking does not correct anything, and in fact, it can make things worse. At the end of these talking sessions I would come away seeking God for an answer. I didn’t want to disobey Him by going to bed angry. And that is why I am writing this lesson; He gave me one of those it’s-going-to-be-hard . . . but-if-you-do-what-I tell-you-it-will-change-your-life lessons.
One day when I was telling the Lord how wrong a situation was, He asked me how I felt about it. God cares, and so He asks . . . not because He doesn’t know how we feel, but because we often don’t know all of what we feel. At that time I told the Lord I was angry, and that I couldn’t get past my anger. I asked for His help, and He said, “Helen, would you like My grace? I will give you grace if you don’t want to be angry. It’s your choice.” The anger had been tormenting me, so I chose His grace. Grace is different than peace. I wasn’t in a fuzzy warm glowing state of mind. But, I had clearness of thought, and I could pray objectively for the situation, and then from my heart for the other person involved.
After I had chosen grace a few times I thought that was my new M.O. I truly believed anger would not dominate my thoughts ever again. However, I began realizing that some situations were worse than others. They bothered me more. When the Lord asked me how I felt, it wasn’t so easy to exchange my anger for His grace. I’d find myself returning to the former thought-life of anger, and thinking I knew best how to “fix” the situation. During one of these thought sessions the Lord interrupted and said, “I will only give you grace if you truly want it.” Though I had forgotten this important lesson, the Lord was still extending His invitation to walk like Him, in His grace.
Shamed, I repented of thinking I knew better, and I gave up my anger for His grace. It changed me over time to repeatedly give up my right to anger, and to changing things my own way. In fact, it crucified me. I would see people do wrong things, or say awful things, and not be able to rectify the situation. But what began happening is that the Lord would drop His thoughts into my mind. Wisdom, understanding, insight and prophecy . . . even revelations would come. He prepared me to be effective in situations that formerly I had failed in, because of anger. Once I kept my commitment to abandon my flesh and anger along with it, I was able to walk in the Spirit, despite adverse circumstances. God trusted me with His heart in each situation.
The Bible says that we go from glory to glory (2 Cor 3:18). God’s intention is to transform our minds by sharing His thoughts with us. Yet we have to be trustworthy to receive His heart. He does not want an angry child of His wielding His words hurtfully at others. Rather, He intends on capturing others into His grace when we abide there as His messenger. God’s rewards to us are great, if we will exchange our anger for His grace. The first step is to go to Him in honesty, sharing our heart with Him and giving up our own way. What follows is a walk with our Lord, sharing His heart and His ways with us. God’s way is better. Amen
I also became familiar with Paul’s admonition to “be angry and sin not . . . don’t let the sun go down on your anger,” (Eph 4:26). Since I had found occasions in which I was angry, this verse seemed to be telling me to talk it out with the other person involved. I am pretty sure you have all experienced the time when talking does not correct anything, and in fact, it can make things worse. At the end of these talking sessions I would come away seeking God for an answer. I didn’t want to disobey Him by going to bed angry. And that is why I am writing this lesson; He gave me one of those it’s-going-to-be-hard . . . but-if-you-do-what-I tell-you-it-will-change-your-life lessons.
One day when I was telling the Lord how wrong a situation was, He asked me how I felt about it. God cares, and so He asks . . . not because He doesn’t know how we feel, but because we often don’t know all of what we feel. At that time I told the Lord I was angry, and that I couldn’t get past my anger. I asked for His help, and He said, “Helen, would you like My grace? I will give you grace if you don’t want to be angry. It’s your choice.” The anger had been tormenting me, so I chose His grace. Grace is different than peace. I wasn’t in a fuzzy warm glowing state of mind. But, I had clearness of thought, and I could pray objectively for the situation, and then from my heart for the other person involved.
After I had chosen grace a few times I thought that was my new M.O. I truly believed anger would not dominate my thoughts ever again. However, I began realizing that some situations were worse than others. They bothered me more. When the Lord asked me how I felt, it wasn’t so easy to exchange my anger for His grace. I’d find myself returning to the former thought-life of anger, and thinking I knew best how to “fix” the situation. During one of these thought sessions the Lord interrupted and said, “I will only give you grace if you truly want it.” Though I had forgotten this important lesson, the Lord was still extending His invitation to walk like Him, in His grace.
Shamed, I repented of thinking I knew better, and I gave up my anger for His grace. It changed me over time to repeatedly give up my right to anger, and to changing things my own way. In fact, it crucified me. I would see people do wrong things, or say awful things, and not be able to rectify the situation. But what began happening is that the Lord would drop His thoughts into my mind. Wisdom, understanding, insight and prophecy . . . even revelations would come. He prepared me to be effective in situations that formerly I had failed in, because of anger. Once I kept my commitment to abandon my flesh and anger along with it, I was able to walk in the Spirit, despite adverse circumstances. God trusted me with His heart in each situation.
The Bible says that we go from glory to glory (2 Cor 3:18). God’s intention is to transform our minds by sharing His thoughts with us. Yet we have to be trustworthy to receive His heart. He does not want an angry child of His wielding His words hurtfully at others. Rather, He intends on capturing others into His grace when we abide there as His messenger. God’s rewards to us are great, if we will exchange our anger for His grace. The first step is to go to Him in honesty, sharing our heart with Him and giving up our own way. What follows is a walk with our Lord, sharing His heart and His ways with us. God’s way is better. Amen
Sunday, October 3, 2010
lamp stands
God puts gifts in people for the benefit of others. As He works through those people they are like lively stones, built up into a Holy temple (1 Pet 4:5). We are to become a spiritual house as well as a holy priesthood in our service of God, and this is a picture of what the Church should be. Just as, personally, our bodies are the temple of the Lord (1 Cor 6:19), so we as the Body of Christ are built up into a temple. The process of the building up of God’s Body in the Church is taught in Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. The gifts specifically mentioned for the purpose of building up the people are the 5-fold ministry (Eph 4:11 – 13). We are to be “built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” The 5-fold ministry prepares the people for works of service so that they can participate in this growth, until the full measure of Christ is attained.
We all want to attain to the full stature of Christ in our churches, and often look at God’s presence in our congregations as His approval of how we are running our ministry. God’s manifest presence in the temple of the Old Testament showed He was with His people, so it is a natural conclusion that God’s presence amongst us would mean that we have His favor.
If we look at the powerful things God did in the 1st century Church there is a common theme; God was present with them. Yet, we see in the book of Revelation that many of the churches displeased the Lord, and needed to repent. There is a warning to the same church that God gave instructions to on how to build up His Body (Ephesus) that the Lord was about to remove their lamp stand (Rev 2:5). In my life, twice I have seen a church lose their lamp stand. Though He had set His presence and authority in faithful men, over time they competed with the Lord for lordship over their flock. And His presence left. God’s presence isn’t a seal of approval over a man’s ministry; it is just the beginning of a deeper relationship with the ministry.
Just as a man will date a woman he intends on having a relationship with, so God courts His Church for a deeper relationship with her. When He sees that the church or ministry is serious about His affections, the Lord shares on a deeper basis with her so that she can fully get to know His nature. He looks deeply into the eyes of His churches for that seriousness that comes with deep, committed love. His presence grows more intense and He purposes to continue the relationship on ever-deepening levels. He tests the ministries of men to see if He can trust His heart to them, and to their ministers.
If a man’s ministry is dedicated to the purposes in Jesus’ heart for His Church, he will be dedicated to molding people in Christ’s image so that the Spirit of Jesus will reside in their personal temple. That same minister will encourage the members of his ministry to grow in the use of their gifts so that the Church can be built up as a temple for the Holy Spirit to reside in; a Church in the image of Christ, with an enduring relationship of trust with Him. If a man’s ministry strays because of self-ambition, desire for personal lordship, wealth, or favor with men, Jesus will remove the lamp stand and that relationship will lose its vitality.
A minister who is self-ambitious will not raise up the members of his congregation or church in their gifts. If fact, the ministers who lost their lamp stands had competed with gifted members of their congregation, undercutting the authority Christ had given them. Ultimately, a minister who undermines the movement of the Holy Spirit in others is undermining the authority of Christ and competing with Him for His rightful authority in his Church. It is the Lord Himself Who gives the gifts to men for His purposes, and He entrusts those in authority to mentor and encourage those gifts.
Christ is gazing into the eyes of His Church for the seriousness to go deeper in our relationship with Him. We must commit to serve the purposes that are in His heart, and leave behind our own purposes for ministry. If we will trust Jesus and follow His Spirit He will accomplish the fullness of the Holy Spirit in us, and in our ministries. Amen.
We all want to attain to the full stature of Christ in our churches, and often look at God’s presence in our congregations as His approval of how we are running our ministry. God’s manifest presence in the temple of the Old Testament showed He was with His people, so it is a natural conclusion that God’s presence amongst us would mean that we have His favor.
If we look at the powerful things God did in the 1st century Church there is a common theme; God was present with them. Yet, we see in the book of Revelation that many of the churches displeased the Lord, and needed to repent. There is a warning to the same church that God gave instructions to on how to build up His Body (Ephesus) that the Lord was about to remove their lamp stand (Rev 2:5). In my life, twice I have seen a church lose their lamp stand. Though He had set His presence and authority in faithful men, over time they competed with the Lord for lordship over their flock. And His presence left. God’s presence isn’t a seal of approval over a man’s ministry; it is just the beginning of a deeper relationship with the ministry.
Just as a man will date a woman he intends on having a relationship with, so God courts His Church for a deeper relationship with her. When He sees that the church or ministry is serious about His affections, the Lord shares on a deeper basis with her so that she can fully get to know His nature. He looks deeply into the eyes of His churches for that seriousness that comes with deep, committed love. His presence grows more intense and He purposes to continue the relationship on ever-deepening levels. He tests the ministries of men to see if He can trust His heart to them, and to their ministers.
If a man’s ministry is dedicated to the purposes in Jesus’ heart for His Church, he will be dedicated to molding people in Christ’s image so that the Spirit of Jesus will reside in their personal temple. That same minister will encourage the members of his ministry to grow in the use of their gifts so that the Church can be built up as a temple for the Holy Spirit to reside in; a Church in the image of Christ, with an enduring relationship of trust with Him. If a man’s ministry strays because of self-ambition, desire for personal lordship, wealth, or favor with men, Jesus will remove the lamp stand and that relationship will lose its vitality.
A minister who is self-ambitious will not raise up the members of his congregation or church in their gifts. If fact, the ministers who lost their lamp stands had competed with gifted members of their congregation, undercutting the authority Christ had given them. Ultimately, a minister who undermines the movement of the Holy Spirit in others is undermining the authority of Christ and competing with Him for His rightful authority in his Church. It is the Lord Himself Who gives the gifts to men for His purposes, and He entrusts those in authority to mentor and encourage those gifts.
Christ is gazing into the eyes of His Church for the seriousness to go deeper in our relationship with Him. We must commit to serve the purposes that are in His heart, and leave behind our own purposes for ministry. If we will trust Jesus and follow His Spirit He will accomplish the fullness of the Holy Spirit in us, and in our ministries. Amen.
Friday, September 24, 2010
hardship
This morning I awoke after having a dream where I observed extreme hardship. In the dream my husband and I passed an open field which lay in a lower elevation than the road we were walking on. In this field were people and families who lived there, having lost their homes. They all had bunk beds, and a few belongings with them. Though the times were hard, the weather was temperate, and I was happy that the conditions were not too harsh. In fact, the people who had lost their homes were singing and talking pleasantly together, as if they were on a journey to another land. I remembered that, in earlier times, mid-westerners left their homes and came to California because a drought had caused their land to become a dust bowl. The people in my dream had a hope in what lay ahead of them, and they took no thought for what they left behind.
After awaking I heard the Lord say that it is important that we see Him in our circumstances, for hardship goes hand-in-hand with being a son of God. The 12th chapter of Hebrews tells us it is sent from God as discipline so that we can partake of His nature; holiness. Though hardship, like all discipline, is unpleasant, it will bear good fruit in us.
There are times when we discipline our own children, seeing the good that lies ahead and setting boundaries around their behavior so they won’t go the wrong way. As these children grow up they come to a place in their lives when we release them and our children will either accept or reject the ways we have taught them. The same principle holds true with us, as children of God. We can either believe that God has good for us when we suffer hardship, or we can become bitter and spiritually lame (Heb 12:14-15).
In the Old Testament there was a time of great hardship for the Jewish nation when God’s people were dispersed and no longer resided in the territory we know as Israel. Out of this hardship came a time of rebuilding and restoration under the guidance of Nehemiah and Ezra. God had disciplined Israel for her sins, and was leading her into the good He had always had in mind for her. Malachi was a contemporary of Nehemiah and in his prophecy we see the Lord dealing with two types of people; those who received God’s discipline, and those who, out of bitterness, rejected it.
Those people who did not receive God as good when times were harsh said harsh things about Him (Mal 3:13-14). They thought repentance and observation of God’s law was futile. In fact, they admired the prosperity of sinners. These people did not see God in their circumstances, and focused on their lack in comparison with the well-being of others.
The second type of people honored God and walked in the fear of the Lord. They did not focus on their lack, but on God’s good nature. When they fellowshipped together their words were so uplifting that God recorded them, and He accepted these people as His children (Mal 3:16-17). Though all the people of Israel had suffered the same circumstances, some people were formed into the image of holiness, and others were not.
Like God’s children of old, we too will receive hardships which mold our character. God will be “like a refiner’s fire or a launderer’s soap,” (Mal 3:2) to us so that we might partake of His nature, and as legitimate children, partake of our inheritance. Though we feel enclosed by our circumstances there comes a time when those who revere God “will go out and leap like calves released from the stall,” (Mal 4:2). At times it is hard to see God in our circumstances. However, let us fellowship together like the people in my dream, affirming His goodness. God is holy and is working in our lives to bring us into His nature. Amen.
After awaking I heard the Lord say that it is important that we see Him in our circumstances, for hardship goes hand-in-hand with being a son of God. The 12th chapter of Hebrews tells us it is sent from God as discipline so that we can partake of His nature; holiness. Though hardship, like all discipline, is unpleasant, it will bear good fruit in us.
There are times when we discipline our own children, seeing the good that lies ahead and setting boundaries around their behavior so they won’t go the wrong way. As these children grow up they come to a place in their lives when we release them and our children will either accept or reject the ways we have taught them. The same principle holds true with us, as children of God. We can either believe that God has good for us when we suffer hardship, or we can become bitter and spiritually lame (Heb 12:14-15).
In the Old Testament there was a time of great hardship for the Jewish nation when God’s people were dispersed and no longer resided in the territory we know as Israel. Out of this hardship came a time of rebuilding and restoration under the guidance of Nehemiah and Ezra. God had disciplined Israel for her sins, and was leading her into the good He had always had in mind for her. Malachi was a contemporary of Nehemiah and in his prophecy we see the Lord dealing with two types of people; those who received God’s discipline, and those who, out of bitterness, rejected it.
Those people who did not receive God as good when times were harsh said harsh things about Him (Mal 3:13-14). They thought repentance and observation of God’s law was futile. In fact, they admired the prosperity of sinners. These people did not see God in their circumstances, and focused on their lack in comparison with the well-being of others.
The second type of people honored God and walked in the fear of the Lord. They did not focus on their lack, but on God’s good nature. When they fellowshipped together their words were so uplifting that God recorded them, and He accepted these people as His children (Mal 3:16-17). Though all the people of Israel had suffered the same circumstances, some people were formed into the image of holiness, and others were not.
Like God’s children of old, we too will receive hardships which mold our character. God will be “like a refiner’s fire or a launderer’s soap,” (Mal 3:2) to us so that we might partake of His nature, and as legitimate children, partake of our inheritance. Though we feel enclosed by our circumstances there comes a time when those who revere God “will go out and leap like calves released from the stall,” (Mal 4:2). At times it is hard to see God in our circumstances. However, let us fellowship together like the people in my dream, affirming His goodness. God is holy and is working in our lives to bring us into His nature. Amen.
Monday, September 20, 2010
The Ravens
On Sept 12th I had a prophetic dream. In this dream I stood at the edge of the sea and wondered if there was something evil in it. Just then 3 very large black birds stood up near the shore, walking towards the north. They were ravens, unusually large (about 3 ft tall). When they had stood from the water their faces were also facing north. End of dream.
In my dream ravens represent the cult-spirit, such as Jim Jone’s cult. North symbolizes spiritual, and the sea all the peoples on the earth. In Rev 13:1 we see that the beast comes out of the sea. My dream is about the spiritual warfare coming on the earth from satan, trying to deceive people to follow lies. There were 3 evil spirits symbolized by ravens just the same as the 3 demons which come out of the mouth of the dragon, the beast and the false prophet in Rev 16:13.
A few days after receiving this dream I was led to pray about leadership. The Lord gave me 10 points that we should look for in a leader, and display when we are leading. This is not a complete list, but in looking at the items one should be able to spot when a person in authority is leading his people astray, as in a cult. Here are the points;
1. War only in the Lord. David would not harm or slander Saul, but only warred as the Lord led him. We must not take things into our own hands, even if a word of prophecy indicates that things are not as they should be.
a. Love our enemies and do them good
2. Let your own reputation seem contemptible in your eyes. King David danced before the ark without regard to “looking good” before the people.
a. Honor the Lord with all your heart
b. Do not be concerned with pleasing men
3. Know the limits of your role, and know your dependence on others is necessary. David was not the gate-keeper of the temple but delegated this to another. He also appointed others to lead worship though he was well-suited to do this himself. In regard to war, David depended on his mighty men and until they gathered around him he could not do the work of the Lord, to rid Israel of her enemies.
4. Find value in others.
a. Honor those under your authority by finding their purpose and setting them in place in your ministry, or by helping them start their own ministry.
b. A true leader will help find those who will surpass themselves, and mentor their growth so that the mentee’s works exceed the leader’s works
5. Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit
a. Recognize when the Lord is speaking through others
b. Know that the Lord will speak through others, and not to you alone
6. Have a sound mind. Know and recognize the ways of the Lord.
a. Have discernment
b. Doesn’t confuse the need for faith with the dare from satan to prove yourself, or to have others prove themselves
1. don’t test the Lord
7. Would rather correct a wrong-doer than lose him
a. do not despise the weaknesses of others but seek to put them in a place to become strong
8. Love the flock more than yourself
a. Seek other’s successes at the cost of your own.
b. Let the needs of other interfere with the upward movement of your ministry’s success
9. Swear to your own hurt and change not (Ps 15:4b). Do not let keeping your word depend on the convenience of doing so.
10. Develop an eye for the enemy
a. do not become the comforter of the flock by offering false peace.
b. If you are not a watchman, find one in your ministry or church and raise them up.
In my dream ravens represent the cult-spirit, such as Jim Jone’s cult. North symbolizes spiritual, and the sea all the peoples on the earth. In Rev 13:1 we see that the beast comes out of the sea. My dream is about the spiritual warfare coming on the earth from satan, trying to deceive people to follow lies. There were 3 evil spirits symbolized by ravens just the same as the 3 demons which come out of the mouth of the dragon, the beast and the false prophet in Rev 16:13.
A few days after receiving this dream I was led to pray about leadership. The Lord gave me 10 points that we should look for in a leader, and display when we are leading. This is not a complete list, but in looking at the items one should be able to spot when a person in authority is leading his people astray, as in a cult. Here are the points;
1. War only in the Lord. David would not harm or slander Saul, but only warred as the Lord led him. We must not take things into our own hands, even if a word of prophecy indicates that things are not as they should be.
a. Love our enemies and do them good
2. Let your own reputation seem contemptible in your eyes. King David danced before the ark without regard to “looking good” before the people.
a. Honor the Lord with all your heart
b. Do not be concerned with pleasing men
3. Know the limits of your role, and know your dependence on others is necessary. David was not the gate-keeper of the temple but delegated this to another. He also appointed others to lead worship though he was well-suited to do this himself. In regard to war, David depended on his mighty men and until they gathered around him he could not do the work of the Lord, to rid Israel of her enemies.
4. Find value in others.
a. Honor those under your authority by finding their purpose and setting them in place in your ministry, or by helping them start their own ministry.
b. A true leader will help find those who will surpass themselves, and mentor their growth so that the mentee’s works exceed the leader’s works
5. Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit
a. Recognize when the Lord is speaking through others
b. Know that the Lord will speak through others, and not to you alone
6. Have a sound mind. Know and recognize the ways of the Lord.
a. Have discernment
b. Doesn’t confuse the need for faith with the dare from satan to prove yourself, or to have others prove themselves
1. don’t test the Lord
7. Would rather correct a wrong-doer than lose him
a. do not despise the weaknesses of others but seek to put them in a place to become strong
8. Love the flock more than yourself
a. Seek other’s successes at the cost of your own.
b. Let the needs of other interfere with the upward movement of your ministry’s success
9. Swear to your own hurt and change not (Ps 15:4b). Do not let keeping your word depend on the convenience of doing so.
10. Develop an eye for the enemy
a. do not become the comforter of the flock by offering false peace.
b. If you are not a watchman, find one in your ministry or church and raise them up.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
How long will you wait?
My life has been fraught with difficulties, closed doors, illnesses and accidents . . . so much so that I’ve asked the Lord if I truly belong to Him, at times. Even blessed ministry opportunities have abruptly stopped in seemingly dead-end streets. If it hadn’t been for the gift of prophecy in my dreams, I wouldn’t have known how to look at these adverse life events. Yet God carefully foretold each one, pointing to the cause of failure particular to each up-coming situation. And some sure losses were avoided. This is the gifting of a prophet; to know the enemy and the events close to God’s heart at the time. By walking through my life the last 39 years with me the Lord has been equipping me, training my hands to war (Ps 18:34).
God intends for His people to have victory. Yet we often have to fight for it through prayer and by standing our ground, not giving up. One night, March 24, 2006, the Lord showed a man from heaven in my dream. He stood in the clouds and thunder pealed in between each word, as he said “How long will you wait?” There were a total of seven thunders. The man from heaven was quoting Joshua’s speech to the tribes of Israel who had not yet taken their lands of inheritance (Joshua 18:3). In this dream God was putting a challenge to the Church as He did in the Old Testament through Joshua; will you put action to your faith and take what I promised you? What could this mean in our modern-day Christianity?
Our lives often have trials in them for which we lack the discernment of why they come. Well-meaning Christians tell us God is teaching us patience and working on our character. But as the years of our lives unfold we see ourselves enslaved by illnesses and poverty, and sometimes shunned by the leaders in our churches. If we truly are to live in our promised land, are we? Joshua told the tribes that did not fight their enemies that there would come a time when God would stop fighting for them. If they co-habited with their enemies “then you may be sure that the Lord your God will no longer drive out these nations before you. Instead, they will become snares and traps for you, whips on your backs and thorns in your eyes until you perish from this good land, which the Lord your God has given you,” (Josh 23:13). If this seems like a description of your life, then you and I need to take action, not be patient.
We look at sin as the main reason we have troubles in our lives, for it opens the door to our enemy. However, this reasoning leads us to conclude that only a sin-free person can walk in victory over his enemies. Are we sin-free? Though we lie if we say we have not sinned, we can discontinue known sin and walk in freedom (1 Jn 5:18). Yet, our enemy still hounds us to defeat us. And this is where the Lord stepped in and took my eyes off myself and began teaching me about the scope of our fight with the enemy; it spans generations of time.
This week the Lord gave me a prophetic dream about generational inheritances. It began with a woman giving my son and I papers to pick up an item already purchased for us. We traveled upward in a pod-like craft inside a tall building. We passed many stories, and each ceiling was made of billowing white cloth. When we got to our destination we got out on the floor of a furniture store. Each item was made from rough-hewn wood. This was the area where men had used their God-given talents according to the faith God had imparted to them, for the benefit of others. I had an uncle who was near death and thought this was where I was to receive our inheritance.
I walked up to a woman dressed as if it were the 1950s. Everyone there was dressed in that time period. She seemed like she worked there so I gave her my papers. Taking them, she looked them over and said, “These have no meaning.” She and another woman laughed together as they walked away, and then they slept. I found the supervisor of the two women and told her I wanted my papers back. She replied that she couldn’t do anything about it.
I then woke up from my dream, realizing that I had seen backwards into my parent’s generation. Though my parents and their family had a godly upbringing, a few of my aunts and uncles had become atheists, going after the wealth and worldly entertainment denied them in their upbringing. It had been difficult later in their lives to restore them to their faith, and some I had not been in touch with so didn’t know their standing with the Lord when they passed away. Perhaps they were the women who laughed when I presented the papers, for they foolishly did not realize the value of the spiritual inheritance they were to honor. Since they themselves forsook their faith, they could not see their own part in preparing for another generation’s spiritual inheritance.
Some of our parents have stood in a long line of faithful servants of the Lord. Others have been redeemed from a lineage of rebellious souls who did not serve the Lord. We all alike are invited to an inheritance, incorruptible. Yet there remains a fight to some, more than others to receive the inheritance appointed to our lives. In my grandparent’s generation were pastors and many godly men. Yet their children, our own parents, did not see the works of their parents as valuable.
Instead of blaming my parent’s generation I began to think of the temptations in their lives. The 2nd world war had ended and our country was the most powerful and prosperous in the world. They thought to make their lives better according to a worldly standard, and so began co-habiting with the worldly and shunning the standard of faith they were raised with. After seeing their temptations I began to think about our own children and our children’s children . . . what sort of spiritual inheritance are we leaving them if we do not rid our generation of compromise, self-serving ambition, and sin?
I believe the dream was given because now is the time that God is turning the hearts of the fathers to the children and the hearts of the children to the fathers lest we see our land of inheritance cursed (Mal 4:6). The tribes of Israel that did not rid their lands of the tribes that dwelled there before them reaped the curse described by Joshua. When our lives seem hard, we need to make life better according to God’s standard, for our generation and for the next. God would not have spoken through the seven thunders if we could not redeem the neglect done, even in past generations, and walk in victory today. Let us live, pray, and stand in the promises of God, undeterred by sin or compromise with the world. We have a great inheritance to obtain. Amen.
God intends for His people to have victory. Yet we often have to fight for it through prayer and by standing our ground, not giving up. One night, March 24, 2006, the Lord showed a man from heaven in my dream. He stood in the clouds and thunder pealed in between each word, as he said “How long will you wait?” There were a total of seven thunders. The man from heaven was quoting Joshua’s speech to the tribes of Israel who had not yet taken their lands of inheritance (Joshua 18:3). In this dream God was putting a challenge to the Church as He did in the Old Testament through Joshua; will you put action to your faith and take what I promised you? What could this mean in our modern-day Christianity?
Our lives often have trials in them for which we lack the discernment of why they come. Well-meaning Christians tell us God is teaching us patience and working on our character. But as the years of our lives unfold we see ourselves enslaved by illnesses and poverty, and sometimes shunned by the leaders in our churches. If we truly are to live in our promised land, are we? Joshua told the tribes that did not fight their enemies that there would come a time when God would stop fighting for them. If they co-habited with their enemies “then you may be sure that the Lord your God will no longer drive out these nations before you. Instead, they will become snares and traps for you, whips on your backs and thorns in your eyes until you perish from this good land, which the Lord your God has given you,” (Josh 23:13). If this seems like a description of your life, then you and I need to take action, not be patient.
We look at sin as the main reason we have troubles in our lives, for it opens the door to our enemy. However, this reasoning leads us to conclude that only a sin-free person can walk in victory over his enemies. Are we sin-free? Though we lie if we say we have not sinned, we can discontinue known sin and walk in freedom (1 Jn 5:18). Yet, our enemy still hounds us to defeat us. And this is where the Lord stepped in and took my eyes off myself and began teaching me about the scope of our fight with the enemy; it spans generations of time.
This week the Lord gave me a prophetic dream about generational inheritances. It began with a woman giving my son and I papers to pick up an item already purchased for us. We traveled upward in a pod-like craft inside a tall building. We passed many stories, and each ceiling was made of billowing white cloth. When we got to our destination we got out on the floor of a furniture store. Each item was made from rough-hewn wood. This was the area where men had used their God-given talents according to the faith God had imparted to them, for the benefit of others. I had an uncle who was near death and thought this was where I was to receive our inheritance.
I walked up to a woman dressed as if it were the 1950s. Everyone there was dressed in that time period. She seemed like she worked there so I gave her my papers. Taking them, she looked them over and said, “These have no meaning.” She and another woman laughed together as they walked away, and then they slept. I found the supervisor of the two women and told her I wanted my papers back. She replied that she couldn’t do anything about it.
I then woke up from my dream, realizing that I had seen backwards into my parent’s generation. Though my parents and their family had a godly upbringing, a few of my aunts and uncles had become atheists, going after the wealth and worldly entertainment denied them in their upbringing. It had been difficult later in their lives to restore them to their faith, and some I had not been in touch with so didn’t know their standing with the Lord when they passed away. Perhaps they were the women who laughed when I presented the papers, for they foolishly did not realize the value of the spiritual inheritance they were to honor. Since they themselves forsook their faith, they could not see their own part in preparing for another generation’s spiritual inheritance.
Some of our parents have stood in a long line of faithful servants of the Lord. Others have been redeemed from a lineage of rebellious souls who did not serve the Lord. We all alike are invited to an inheritance, incorruptible. Yet there remains a fight to some, more than others to receive the inheritance appointed to our lives. In my grandparent’s generation were pastors and many godly men. Yet their children, our own parents, did not see the works of their parents as valuable.
Instead of blaming my parent’s generation I began to think of the temptations in their lives. The 2nd world war had ended and our country was the most powerful and prosperous in the world. They thought to make their lives better according to a worldly standard, and so began co-habiting with the worldly and shunning the standard of faith they were raised with. After seeing their temptations I began to think about our own children and our children’s children . . . what sort of spiritual inheritance are we leaving them if we do not rid our generation of compromise, self-serving ambition, and sin?
I believe the dream was given because now is the time that God is turning the hearts of the fathers to the children and the hearts of the children to the fathers lest we see our land of inheritance cursed (Mal 4:6). The tribes of Israel that did not rid their lands of the tribes that dwelled there before them reaped the curse described by Joshua. When our lives seem hard, we need to make life better according to God’s standard, for our generation and for the next. God would not have spoken through the seven thunders if we could not redeem the neglect done, even in past generations, and walk in victory today. Let us live, pray, and stand in the promises of God, undeterred by sin or compromise with the world. We have a great inheritance to obtain. Amen.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Fear of the Lord
My husband Dave has been telling me there is a similarity between what God required of His priests in the Old Testament and what He requires of us as His priests in the New Testament. God requires integrity (honesty) in the inner parts of our temple, our human bodies. This honesty will display true honor and comes from having a fear of the Lord. Dave points out that Aaron’s sons were slain because they were not holy, and did not take their priestly duties seriously (Lev 10:1-3). Moses was forbidden to enter the Promised Land because he did not honor God as holy in the site of the Israelites (Nu 20:12; 32:51). In the days when Samuel was a little boy, Eli’s sons Hophni and Phinehas displeased the Lord and they dishonored the Lord with their sins. Therefore they also died (See 1 Sam 2:12-36). Following each of these examples, service to the Lord took on a greater integrity on the part of those who served, for the fear of the Lord brought the fruit of honor from their lives.
We think of the severity of untimely deaths as being a display of the “Old Testament” God, however, God hasn’t changed. Dave points out that the evidence lies in what happened to Ananias and Sapphira. Ananais sold land and was dishonest about the amount he sold it for. This dishonesty was agreed upon between him and his wife Sapphira. So when they made an offering to the Lord, they lied about the amount they sold the property for, each separately from the other. Peter was present when the offering was made, and asked how they could lie to and tempt the Lord (Acts 5:1-11). They each fell dead after Peter asked them about their deceit. The result was that fear of the Lord spread through the rest of the Christians.
God established that He was to be honored, and not lied to in the first century church. This behavior, honor, is a fruit of the fear of the Lord. What followed was that the first century church had the power of God validating their words (Mk 16:20; Acts 5:12). The question is, do we want what they had, at the price they paid? Do we want to hear the Holy Spirit inside our hearts and honor Him with our obedience, even if our honesty costs us what we want in this life? Or are we half-listening and half-obeying so that we can keep our lives nice and running smoothly?
One of the sad things that is happening in churches today is that there is not much credence given to the word of the Lord. It was through prophetic revelation that the first church received the knowledge about how God wanted His people to meet, and what they should do (Eph 3:5). They could not waver about what was received and still find agreement in implementing the structure that we find in the New Testament Church. However, most prophesies and revelations today are barely received. If there is a weighty revelation it is set aside to see if it comes to pass, with total disregard to any wisdom that could be obtained were the word received in faith. And this points to a second ingredient missing from our churches: wisdom. God intended to display His wisdom through His churches (Eph 3:10), not only to unbelievers but to the wicked spirits in high places. God wants to beat His chest with pride through us and our words, if we would believe He speaks through us. Yet we have fallen into a tepid belief that prophecies are at best nice words to make us feel better, and anything else must be false.
If we really want the kingdom of God to dwell on the earth we need to honor God and welcome His word. In Revelation we read about the angel with the eternal gospel who says to fear God, give Him glory, and to worship Him (Rev 14:7). God wants us to return to the clean, pure fear of God that lived in the men and women that first built the Church for Him. God’s word has power to save, build, and deliver. We cannot construct a kingdom without His input. His word is an ark that carries us during the trials that flood our lives, and His word validates that our lives have purpose when we find ourselves stranded in the desert. His word is a strong tower that the enemy cannot tear down, and a helmet upon our heads to keep the evil one out of our thoughts. If the fear of the Lord brings wisdom, then the first fruits are faith in God’s spoken word. Without a word spoken, there is no wisdom. We cannot share the vision without God’s word, and therefore people fail.
The work God intends us to do is locked up and awaits the key of faith in Him and trust in His revealed word to open up. Do we fear revelation? Do we fear what God might ask of us? Then we should not pretend to be following Christ. Yet, if we follow Him, let us believe the words He speaks through others and honor God by implementing with wisdom what He reveals to us. This we have within our authority to do.
We think of the severity of untimely deaths as being a display of the “Old Testament” God, however, God hasn’t changed. Dave points out that the evidence lies in what happened to Ananias and Sapphira. Ananais sold land and was dishonest about the amount he sold it for. This dishonesty was agreed upon between him and his wife Sapphira. So when they made an offering to the Lord, they lied about the amount they sold the property for, each separately from the other. Peter was present when the offering was made, and asked how they could lie to and tempt the Lord (Acts 5:1-11). They each fell dead after Peter asked them about their deceit. The result was that fear of the Lord spread through the rest of the Christians.
God established that He was to be honored, and not lied to in the first century church. This behavior, honor, is a fruit of the fear of the Lord. What followed was that the first century church had the power of God validating their words (Mk 16:20; Acts 5:12). The question is, do we want what they had, at the price they paid? Do we want to hear the Holy Spirit inside our hearts and honor Him with our obedience, even if our honesty costs us what we want in this life? Or are we half-listening and half-obeying so that we can keep our lives nice and running smoothly?
One of the sad things that is happening in churches today is that there is not much credence given to the word of the Lord. It was through prophetic revelation that the first church received the knowledge about how God wanted His people to meet, and what they should do (Eph 3:5). They could not waver about what was received and still find agreement in implementing the structure that we find in the New Testament Church. However, most prophesies and revelations today are barely received. If there is a weighty revelation it is set aside to see if it comes to pass, with total disregard to any wisdom that could be obtained were the word received in faith. And this points to a second ingredient missing from our churches: wisdom. God intended to display His wisdom through His churches (Eph 3:10), not only to unbelievers but to the wicked spirits in high places. God wants to beat His chest with pride through us and our words, if we would believe He speaks through us. Yet we have fallen into a tepid belief that prophecies are at best nice words to make us feel better, and anything else must be false.
If we really want the kingdom of God to dwell on the earth we need to honor God and welcome His word. In Revelation we read about the angel with the eternal gospel who says to fear God, give Him glory, and to worship Him (Rev 14:7). God wants us to return to the clean, pure fear of God that lived in the men and women that first built the Church for Him. God’s word has power to save, build, and deliver. We cannot construct a kingdom without His input. His word is an ark that carries us during the trials that flood our lives, and His word validates that our lives have purpose when we find ourselves stranded in the desert. His word is a strong tower that the enemy cannot tear down, and a helmet upon our heads to keep the evil one out of our thoughts. If the fear of the Lord brings wisdom, then the first fruits are faith in God’s spoken word. Without a word spoken, there is no wisdom. We cannot share the vision without God’s word, and therefore people fail.
The work God intends us to do is locked up and awaits the key of faith in Him and trust in His revealed word to open up. Do we fear revelation? Do we fear what God might ask of us? Then we should not pretend to be following Christ. Yet, if we follow Him, let us believe the words He speaks through others and honor God by implementing with wisdom what He reveals to us. This we have within our authority to do.
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