Why is the Church so weak today?
It's member's are not rooted in the Word, they have no foundation to stand upon when the storms of life come a blowing.
Without a root system, we become as a sagebrush in a dry land. When the strong wind blows we tumble along from one place to the other with no direction in our lives.
Many Christians today, never read one chapter in the Bible from one Sunday to the next.
Many Christians expect the Preacher to pray them out of their troubles.
The Preacher might pray you out of your troubles on Sunday, but what happens to you the rest of the week.
If you ate a meal only one day a week, would you survive to the next week.
If you did survive, you would be in a very weak condition, that's what has happen to most Christians and churches today.
We need to take God's Word and eat it, as if we were eating a meal.
Jesus said, Man does not live by bread alone, but by every Word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
To be healthy, and strong, we need to eat his word, read his word every day.
The Word is the "Sword of the Spirit", it's our offensive weapon we use to send satan running, instead of him sending us running.
Paul says, I wish I could feed you the "Meat of the Word", but you can not bear it, why, no foundation to digest it or understand it.
How can the spirit move mightily in our lives, if we have no foundation for the spirit to build upon?
We have to know the "logos" of the Word before the Holy Spirit can reveal to us the "Rhema", or Revelation of the Word.
Not by might, not by power, but by my spirit saith the Lord.
The Holy Spirit has to have the foundation of the Word in place before he can began building upon that foundation.
Without a foundation, without a good root system, nothing is going to grow or be built upon.
A weak foundation, makes a weak house.
Romans 12:2 says:
Be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.
How do we transform and renew our minds? By the reading of the Word, by meditating on the Word.
David says in Psalms 1:2 Blessed in the man that delights himself in the law of the Lord, he doth meditate on it day and night.
David knew how precious the Word was in his life.
If you want power in your life, start with the basics: Read the Word.
If you want Faith in your life, Read the Word.
So then Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.
If you want to know what your inheritance is: Read the Word of God.
If you want to know how much God loves you: Read the Word of God.
Thank God for the God Breathed, God inspired Word of God.
It's the foundation that all other learning is built upon.
Be empowered! Read God's Word.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Friday, February 11, 2011
Satan wishes to sift us as wheat
Lk 22:31 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:
Today, more than ever, we need to pray for our leaders in positions of authority.
This authority does not exclude our leadership in the church.
As a matter of fact, our prayers should begin with our pastors, deacons, sunday teachers, etc.
The standards set by the church, should be the standards adopted by the nation.
We are in the last of the last days. Satan has pretty much got the world, now he's focusing his direction on the church.
Why should we pray for our spiritual leaders in the church?
Because, satan desires to sift them as wheat.
If you take out the spiritual head, the body falls apart.
Satan knows this, that's why his focus is on the church.
No wonder the book of Revelation was written to the churches.
It was a warning to the churches to be on guard to the deceitful trickery of satan.
Just as Adam and Eve were deceived in the Garden of Eden, many of our pastors have fell under this same deceitful trickery.
How does the Body of Christ respond when one of our elite stumbles and falls.
Initially, we are stunned, hurt and disappointed; to ease that hurt we lash out.
We begin to throw stones to ease the pain and humiliation we feel ourselves.
Should there be a punishment for fallen pastors, evangelists, etc.
Yes, there should be a rebuke, a reproof, but there should also be a chance for restoration, especially when true remorse and repentance is genuine.
2Ti 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, EXHORT WITH ALL LONGSUFFERING and doctrine.
The Bible says it so well:
Lk 6:36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
Lk 6:37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: FORGIVE, and ye shall be forgiven:
What happened when satan sifted Peter as wheat? What did Jesus do?
Lk 22:31 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:
Lk 22:32 But I have PRAYED for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.
Jesus prayed for Peter, knowing he was going to stumble.
He even told Peter he was going to deny him, and even with the warning, Peter still failed.
Are we any better than our master, Jesus?
Jesus prayed for Peter, should we do any less for our fallen pastors.
Before you judge, criticize, and throw stones, remember the words of Jesus concerning a certain woman caught in the act of adultery.
"He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her". John 8:7
Remember those that give mercy, shall receive mercy.
A final footnote:
When we do wrong, we reap what we sow.
Sometimes we sow the wind, and reap the whirlwind.
Even though we ask for forgiveness, and are forgiven by God for sins we have committed, those seeds of sin have been planted, and those sins will bring a harvest, and a yield.
We do not get by with sin. God will judge us, nothing is hid before him.
Our pastors that stumble by the wayside should be rebuked and reproofed. There should be a period of repremand and punishment.
I'm not saying that wrong should be swept under the rug and forgotten. What I am saying is, we should pray for our pastors and leaders, show mercy, outline a designed plan of rebuke, reproof, but included in that plan, outline a plan of restoration.
Let us as Christians have compassion like Christians and not stone our own.
Today, more than ever, we need to pray for our leaders in positions of authority.
This authority does not exclude our leadership in the church.
As a matter of fact, our prayers should begin with our pastors, deacons, sunday teachers, etc.
The standards set by the church, should be the standards adopted by the nation.
We are in the last of the last days. Satan has pretty much got the world, now he's focusing his direction on the church.
Why should we pray for our spiritual leaders in the church?
Because, satan desires to sift them as wheat.
If you take out the spiritual head, the body falls apart.
Satan knows this, that's why his focus is on the church.
No wonder the book of Revelation was written to the churches.
It was a warning to the churches to be on guard to the deceitful trickery of satan.
Just as Adam and Eve were deceived in the Garden of Eden, many of our pastors have fell under this same deceitful trickery.
How does the Body of Christ respond when one of our elite stumbles and falls.
Initially, we are stunned, hurt and disappointed; to ease that hurt we lash out.
We begin to throw stones to ease the pain and humiliation we feel ourselves.
Should there be a punishment for fallen pastors, evangelists, etc.
Yes, there should be a rebuke, a reproof, but there should also be a chance for restoration, especially when true remorse and repentance is genuine.
2Ti 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, EXHORT WITH ALL LONGSUFFERING and doctrine.
The Bible says it so well:
Lk 6:36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
Lk 6:37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: FORGIVE, and ye shall be forgiven:
What happened when satan sifted Peter as wheat? What did Jesus do?
Lk 22:31 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:
Lk 22:32 But I have PRAYED for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.
Jesus prayed for Peter, knowing he was going to stumble.
He even told Peter he was going to deny him, and even with the warning, Peter still failed.
Are we any better than our master, Jesus?
Jesus prayed for Peter, should we do any less for our fallen pastors.
Before you judge, criticize, and throw stones, remember the words of Jesus concerning a certain woman caught in the act of adultery.
"He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her". John 8:7
Remember those that give mercy, shall receive mercy.
A final footnote:
When we do wrong, we reap what we sow.
Sometimes we sow the wind, and reap the whirlwind.
Even though we ask for forgiveness, and are forgiven by God for sins we have committed, those seeds of sin have been planted, and those sins will bring a harvest, and a yield.
We do not get by with sin. God will judge us, nothing is hid before him.
Our pastors that stumble by the wayside should be rebuked and reproofed. There should be a period of repremand and punishment.
I'm not saying that wrong should be swept under the rug and forgotten. What I am saying is, we should pray for our pastors and leaders, show mercy, outline a designed plan of rebuke, reproof, but included in that plan, outline a plan of restoration.
Let us as Christians have compassion like Christians and not stone our own.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Rejecting Christ
We've all heard the scripture,"he came unto his own, and his own received him not, but doesn't "his own" refer to more than just the jewish people. I quote some discerning words from the book, "Come ye Apart", by author J.R.Miller.
"But how is it with ourselves? Christ comes to us; he is continually coming. His hands are full of blessings; he has eternal life to bestow. Do we receive him? Is it not true of us that he comes unto his own, and his own receive him not? Do we really take from the hand of Christ all that he offers to us?
Do we not daily grieve him and rob ourselves of blessings by declining what he brings?
Especially do we reject Christ often when he comes to us in the garb of pain or sorrow. Many times the blesssings he brings to us then are the very richest and the most precious in all his store. But how many of us receive Christ as gladly, and take the gifts from his hand as cheerfully and gratefully, when he comes in grief or suffering, as when he comes in the garb of joy or worldly prosperity? Why should we not do so?
Can we not trust his love and wisdom? HE NEVER SENDS PAIN UNLESS PAIN IS BEST. HE NEVER CHASTENS UNLESS THERE IS A BLESSING IN CHASTENING", end quote.
These are the words of a man that lived in the last 1800's, under 1900's. Sounds like someone we need to listen to today, doesn't it?
Just something for you to think about.
"But how is it with ourselves? Christ comes to us; he is continually coming. His hands are full of blessings; he has eternal life to bestow. Do we receive him? Is it not true of us that he comes unto his own, and his own receive him not? Do we really take from the hand of Christ all that he offers to us?
Do we not daily grieve him and rob ourselves of blessings by declining what he brings?
Especially do we reject Christ often when he comes to us in the garb of pain or sorrow. Many times the blesssings he brings to us then are the very richest and the most precious in all his store. But how many of us receive Christ as gladly, and take the gifts from his hand as cheerfully and gratefully, when he comes in grief or suffering, as when he comes in the garb of joy or worldly prosperity? Why should we not do so?
Can we not trust his love and wisdom? HE NEVER SENDS PAIN UNLESS PAIN IS BEST. HE NEVER CHASTENS UNLESS THERE IS A BLESSING IN CHASTENING", end quote.
These are the words of a man that lived in the last 1800's, under 1900's. Sounds like someone we need to listen to today, doesn't it?
Just something for you to think about.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
One person can make a difference
Have you've ever felt like you were a very small fish in a great big ocean?, you're not alone. Can one person make a difference?, only if they believe they can.
You know, you never realize who is watching you until something happens that makes you realize, someone is watching me.
One church in a small town in Albany, Georgia, a small fish in a great big ocean decided to make a difference.
They had the idea they could make a movie and direct it toward a different genre. The direction was not to reap a profit, but to reap a harvest for men's souls.
The unusual thing about it, God has used a small fish, and that small fish has gained nation-wide notarity.
The actors, directors, producers, set designers, sound crew, lighting, and everthing else that goes into a movie were all people from the church. The ultimate use of Body Ministry.
At this time in their small history, they have made 4 movies.
Each movie expands a new genre to the movie audience, both Christian,and non-christian.
Christians need movies to go to on Friday night.
I believe main media Hollywood is realizing there is an audience for Christian movies.
In the last 2 movies, "Fireproof", and "Letters to God", famous actors, and actresses have come on board.
One person can make a difference.
I'm sure there was one person in this church that had a vision.
Speaking of movies, there is one playing now, April 17,2010, the name of it is "Letters to God".
The movie is about how "one boy" with cancer makes a difference in the life of his family, his neighborhood, his school, and community, and the world.
I highly recommend it for kids of all ages.
Remember this, no matter how small a fish you think you are in this big sea of life, you can make a difference.
You know, you never realize who is watching you until something happens that makes you realize, someone is watching me.
One church in a small town in Albany, Georgia, a small fish in a great big ocean decided to make a difference.
They had the idea they could make a movie and direct it toward a different genre. The direction was not to reap a profit, but to reap a harvest for men's souls.
The unusual thing about it, God has used a small fish, and that small fish has gained nation-wide notarity.
The actors, directors, producers, set designers, sound crew, lighting, and everthing else that goes into a movie were all people from the church. The ultimate use of Body Ministry.
At this time in their small history, they have made 4 movies.
Each movie expands a new genre to the movie audience, both Christian,and non-christian.
Christians need movies to go to on Friday night.
I believe main media Hollywood is realizing there is an audience for Christian movies.
In the last 2 movies, "Fireproof", and "Letters to God", famous actors, and actresses have come on board.
One person can make a difference.
I'm sure there was one person in this church that had a vision.
Speaking of movies, there is one playing now, April 17,2010, the name of it is "Letters to God".
The movie is about how "one boy" with cancer makes a difference in the life of his family, his neighborhood, his school, and community, and the world.
I highly recommend it for kids of all ages.
Remember this, no matter how small a fish you think you are in this big sea of life, you can make a difference.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
If my children would just do what they should, have much more I could bless them
This title is not taken verbaten from the scriptures, even though the message of the title is definitely taught in the word of God. In actuality this title came from my own thoughts this last week as I was thinking about my own children.
Don't get me wrong, I love my children but, sometimes I would like to wring their neck because of two things. Things they do not do, and secondly things they do do.
As these words came into my mind, "If my children would just do what they should, have much more I could bless them", the Holy Spirit spoke to me instantly in that sweet, calm, reassuring, revealing voice, and said, that's the same thoughts I feel toward you.
These words were very sobering; they were rebukeful. Sometimes God's word is bitter to the taste but as Proverbs describes, it is in our best interest to take instruction from our Father.
These words were like a cold splash of water in my face; it woke me up spiritually and made me think about my own life, what I was doing, and what I was not doing.
It caused me to examine my own life, to look for those things, those shortcomings, "those sins" that were keeping me from the best of God's blessings in my life.
I am reminded of the scripture that says, paraphrasing, Unless God build a house those that labor, labor in vain. Unless God bless whatever we put our hands to, we labor in vain. If our life is not what is suppose to be, we are tying the hands of God to bless us; God can not bless disobedience.
I think about Isaiah and his vision as he was taken before the throne of God. Isaiah felt so unworthy, why did he feel unworthy?, because when we stood before God, all things became naked before God; there was no hiding place, there was no excuses.
Isaiah did the right thing, he said woe is me is of unclean lips, unclean heart. As
Isaiah stood before the throne, his sins were transparent before the Lord. Isaiah immediately made a declaration of his sin before the Lord.
After this declaration was made, the cheriphim brought forth from the altar of God, tongs of coal and placed them on the lips of Isaiah. For what reason was this done? It was done to purge and purify Isaiah, to take away that which was needed to be taken away, and to give that which was needed to be given.
After this purging by fire, Isaiah was placed in a "Position of Blessing". At this point, Isaiah could truly say with confidence, Here am I Lord, send me!
As I was thinking about my own children, the Lord, my heavenly Father revealed to me, "his child", If you would just do what you should, how much more I could bless you.
Something for you to think about.
Don't get me wrong, I love my children but, sometimes I would like to wring their neck because of two things. Things they do not do, and secondly things they do do.
As these words came into my mind, "If my children would just do what they should, have much more I could bless them", the Holy Spirit spoke to me instantly in that sweet, calm, reassuring, revealing voice, and said, that's the same thoughts I feel toward you.
These words were very sobering; they were rebukeful. Sometimes God's word is bitter to the taste but as Proverbs describes, it is in our best interest to take instruction from our Father.
These words were like a cold splash of water in my face; it woke me up spiritually and made me think about my own life, what I was doing, and what I was not doing.
It caused me to examine my own life, to look for those things, those shortcomings, "those sins" that were keeping me from the best of God's blessings in my life.
I am reminded of the scripture that says, paraphrasing, Unless God build a house those that labor, labor in vain. Unless God bless whatever we put our hands to, we labor in vain. If our life is not what is suppose to be, we are tying the hands of God to bless us; God can not bless disobedience.
I think about Isaiah and his vision as he was taken before the throne of God. Isaiah felt so unworthy, why did he feel unworthy?, because when we stood before God, all things became naked before God; there was no hiding place, there was no excuses.
Isaiah did the right thing, he said woe is me is of unclean lips, unclean heart. As
Isaiah stood before the throne, his sins were transparent before the Lord. Isaiah immediately made a declaration of his sin before the Lord.
After this declaration was made, the cheriphim brought forth from the altar of God, tongs of coal and placed them on the lips of Isaiah. For what reason was this done? It was done to purge and purify Isaiah, to take away that which was needed to be taken away, and to give that which was needed to be given.
After this purging by fire, Isaiah was placed in a "Position of Blessing". At this point, Isaiah could truly say with confidence, Here am I Lord, send me!
As I was thinking about my own children, the Lord, my heavenly Father revealed to me, "his child", If you would just do what you should, how much more I could bless you.
Something for you to think about.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Seeking God's Presence, A Deeper Walk
In Acts 2:17 God said in the "Last Days" he would pour his spirit out on all flesh.
Ac 2:17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:
All flesh, what does that mean? It means all who are seeking his presence.
I believe there is a great falling away of people seeking God's presence,
Yes, even of Christians seeking God's presence.
Only a remnant, even in the church are seeking a deeper walk with God.
Yes, only a small piece of the Body of Christ.
No wonder the Body of Christ, has no power anymore, we are fragmented, we should be a complete Body.
We are not tightly fitted together to accomplish anything, because only a few are seeking a deeper walk with God.
We are hopping around on one foot, with one hand tied behind our back because we are a piece instead of a whole.
We need to be like Elisha; he wanted a doulble portion of what Elijah had. A single portion wasn't sufficient enough for Elisha, and because of this, Elisha seen many miracles as a result of deeper walk, a deeper presence of God's power.
The wise virgins took their lamps with oil in them. They also sought to take a extra portion, or a double portion so they would be sustained untill the midnight cry.
That oil is the presence of God, the Holy Ghost, the comforter, the counselor.
Do we have to feel something overwhelming or consuming before we can actually feel that God is near?
No, sometimes God says, Be still, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord.
Ex 14:13 And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will show to you today: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen today, ye shall see them again no more for ever
.
Nu 9:8 And Moses said unto them, Stand still, and I will hear what the LORD will command concerning you
.
Jos 3:8 And thou shalt command the priests that bear the ark of the covenant, saying, When ye are come to the brink of the water of Jordan, ye shall stand still in Jordan.
1Sa 12:7 Now therefore stand still, that I may reason with you before the LORD of all the righteous acts of the LORD, which he did to you and to your fathers.
Job 37:14 Hearken unto this, O Job: stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God.
Ps 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
The Lord is always near if we are in his Will, and obedient to his word.
I believe if we seek God, he will be found.
Don't wait for the feeling of God's presence to come to you before you worship.
Worship God so the presence of God will come to you.
We are not saved by our feelings; we are saved by Grace through Jesus Christ our Lord
Do we have to feel the wind to believe that is exist?
No, we can see the results of his movement.
We can see the trees move, and the leaves fall.
In these "last days" we need to seek God's presence, so we will not be deceived by satans lies, or strong delusion.
Seek treasures from above, where your treasure is, there is your heart also.
Matt. 6:21
Let your treasure be the "Presence of God"
Ac 2:17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:
All flesh, what does that mean? It means all who are seeking his presence.
I believe there is a great falling away of people seeking God's presence,
Yes, even of Christians seeking God's presence.
Only a remnant, even in the church are seeking a deeper walk with God.
Yes, only a small piece of the Body of Christ.
No wonder the Body of Christ, has no power anymore, we are fragmented, we should be a complete Body.
We are not tightly fitted together to accomplish anything, because only a few are seeking a deeper walk with God.
We are hopping around on one foot, with one hand tied behind our back because we are a piece instead of a whole.
We need to be like Elisha; he wanted a doulble portion of what Elijah had. A single portion wasn't sufficient enough for Elisha, and because of this, Elisha seen many miracles as a result of deeper walk, a deeper presence of God's power.
The wise virgins took their lamps with oil in them. They also sought to take a extra portion, or a double portion so they would be sustained untill the midnight cry.
That oil is the presence of God, the Holy Ghost, the comforter, the counselor.
Do we have to feel something overwhelming or consuming before we can actually feel that God is near?
No, sometimes God says, Be still, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord.
Ex 14:13 And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will show to you today: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen today, ye shall see them again no more for ever
.
Nu 9:8 And Moses said unto them, Stand still, and I will hear what the LORD will command concerning you
.
Jos 3:8 And thou shalt command the priests that bear the ark of the covenant, saying, When ye are come to the brink of the water of Jordan, ye shall stand still in Jordan.
1Sa 12:7 Now therefore stand still, that I may reason with you before the LORD of all the righteous acts of the LORD, which he did to you and to your fathers.
Job 37:14 Hearken unto this, O Job: stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God.
Ps 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
The Lord is always near if we are in his Will, and obedient to his word.
I believe if we seek God, he will be found.
Don't wait for the feeling of God's presence to come to you before you worship.
Worship God so the presence of God will come to you.
We are not saved by our feelings; we are saved by Grace through Jesus Christ our Lord
Do we have to feel the wind to believe that is exist?
No, we can see the results of his movement.
We can see the trees move, and the leaves fall.
In these "last days" we need to seek God's presence, so we will not be deceived by satans lies, or strong delusion.
Seek treasures from above, where your treasure is, there is your heart also.
Matt. 6:21
Let your treasure be the "Presence of God"
Saturday, June 27, 2009
How does God speak to us? When does God speak to us?
God speaks to us first and foremost in his Word.
Lk 8:10 And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand. Jn 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God
Ro 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
1Co 2:13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
God speaks to us through Nature.
How you ever looked at a flower and saw it's beauty, inhaled it's fragrance.
How you ever tasted an apple from a apple tree, a orange from a orange tree.
How your ever heard the bird's in the morning as they began their singing and praises to God.
God speaks to us in the Seasons of the Year, with every season having a purpose.
Ecc 3:1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
God speaks to us through trials and tribulations.
1Pe 1:6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:
1Pe 1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
Through trials and tribulations, God teaches us Patience, a word we dread to say.
Lk 8:15 But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.
Ro 5:3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;
Ro 5:4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:.
Ro 15:4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
Jas 1:3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
Jas 1:4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
God also speaks to us in dreams and visions:
Ac 2:17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:
On a personal note, I want to share with you, how and when God speaks to me.
God speaks to me:
As I study to prepare for my sunday school lesson.
When I search the scriptures to prepare for a message to give to the people.
Of course these are ways God speaks through his Word by the Holy Spirit.
And there are other times when God speaks to me by his Holy Spirit.
This might sound crazy, but I won't to share some times that God speaks to me that are a little unusual.
God speaks to me:
In a dimension when I am not fully awake, but in a dimension when I am not fully asleep.
It is a "Dimension of Stillness Before the Lord". It is a dimension, as in the cool of the evening when Jesus walked in the Garden of Eden.
It is a dimension when my spiritual subconscience, is listening for the Holy Spirit to speak.
This can occur at any time of the night, but most times, for me, it occurs just before dawn.
When I am given this Word, or Revelation, I have to awake from this dimension unto a dimension of conscienceness, and I immediately have to write down the revelation, or the devil will steal it from my memory. I cannot wait a hour later; I have to write it down then.
God speaks to me:
When I am under the water.
I don't mean when I am in a swimming pool under the water, I mean in the shower. I told you it might sound crazy, but that's how it happens.
I don't know what it is, but there is something about the "Water and the Word".
God has spoken to me many times as I bathe in the "Water of the Word"
First, your mind has to be on God for him to speak to you;
When you're in the shower under the water, it's like a spiritual baptism of God's Word is revealed, as the water covers you from head to toe.
Just as in the "Dimension of Stillness Before the Lord", I have to write down as soon as possible what God has revealed to me under the "Water of his Word"
God has given me many analagies and examples to share with his people to give them, and me, a clearer and fuller understanding of his word.
God's word is a mystery given only to those who seek and knock for the doors of mysteries to be revealed. There is always a blessing in the revealed mysteries of God.
As I close, I want to thank God for using a "Rose" to encourage me to keep sharing what God has laid on my heart to share with the people. I want to speak healing to those who are hurting physically and mentally, I want to encourage those who are discouraged, lift up those who are downtrodden, and want to give up. I won't to let you know there is hope and deliverance in the good news of God's Word.
God Bless you is my prayer.
Lk 8:10 And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand. Jn 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God
Ro 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
1Co 2:13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
God speaks to us through Nature.
How you ever looked at a flower and saw it's beauty, inhaled it's fragrance.
How you ever tasted an apple from a apple tree, a orange from a orange tree.
How your ever heard the bird's in the morning as they began their singing and praises to God.
God speaks to us in the Seasons of the Year, with every season having a purpose.
Ecc 3:1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
God speaks to us through trials and tribulations.
1Pe 1:6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:
1Pe 1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
Through trials and tribulations, God teaches us Patience, a word we dread to say.
Lk 8:15 But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.
Ro 5:3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;
Ro 5:4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:.
Ro 15:4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
Jas 1:3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
Jas 1:4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
God also speaks to us in dreams and visions:
Ac 2:17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:
On a personal note, I want to share with you, how and when God speaks to me.
God speaks to me:
As I study to prepare for my sunday school lesson.
When I search the scriptures to prepare for a message to give to the people.
Of course these are ways God speaks through his Word by the Holy Spirit.
And there are other times when God speaks to me by his Holy Spirit.
This might sound crazy, but I won't to share some times that God speaks to me that are a little unusual.
God speaks to me:
In a dimension when I am not fully awake, but in a dimension when I am not fully asleep.
It is a "Dimension of Stillness Before the Lord". It is a dimension, as in the cool of the evening when Jesus walked in the Garden of Eden.
It is a dimension when my spiritual subconscience, is listening for the Holy Spirit to speak.
This can occur at any time of the night, but most times, for me, it occurs just before dawn.
When I am given this Word, or Revelation, I have to awake from this dimension unto a dimension of conscienceness, and I immediately have to write down the revelation, or the devil will steal it from my memory. I cannot wait a hour later; I have to write it down then.
God speaks to me:
When I am under the water.
I don't mean when I am in a swimming pool under the water, I mean in the shower. I told you it might sound crazy, but that's how it happens.
I don't know what it is, but there is something about the "Water and the Word".
God has spoken to me many times as I bathe in the "Water of the Word"
First, your mind has to be on God for him to speak to you;
When you're in the shower under the water, it's like a spiritual baptism of God's Word is revealed, as the water covers you from head to toe.
Just as in the "Dimension of Stillness Before the Lord", I have to write down as soon as possible what God has revealed to me under the "Water of his Word"
God has given me many analagies and examples to share with his people to give them, and me, a clearer and fuller understanding of his word.
God's word is a mystery given only to those who seek and knock for the doors of mysteries to be revealed. There is always a blessing in the revealed mysteries of God.
As I close, I want to thank God for using a "Rose" to encourage me to keep sharing what God has laid on my heart to share with the people. I want to speak healing to those who are hurting physically and mentally, I want to encourage those who are discouraged, lift up those who are downtrodden, and want to give up. I won't to let you know there is hope and deliverance in the good news of God's Word.
God Bless you is my prayer.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Between the Years God's Calling by A.J. Russell
Between the Years
Our Lord and our God. We Joy in Thee. Without thy Help we could not face unafraid the year before us.
I stand between the years. The Light of My Presence is flung across the year to come--the radiance of the Sun of Righteousness.
Backward, over the past year, is My Shadow thrown, hiding trouble and sorrow and disappointment.
Dwell not on the past--only on the present. Only use the past as the trees use My Sunlight to absord it, to make from it in after days the warming fire-rays. So store only the blessings from Me, the Light of the World. Encourage yourselves by the thought of these.
Bury every fear of the future, of poverty for those dear to you, of suffering, of loss. Bury all thought of unkindness and bitterness, all your dislikes, resentments, your sense of failure, your disappointment in others and in yourselves, your gloom, your dispondency,and let us leave them all, buried, and go forward to a new and risen life.
Remember that you must not see as the world sees. I hold the year in My Hands--in Trust for you. But I shall guide you one day at a time.
Leave the Rest with Me. You must not anticipate the gift of fears or thoughts of the days ahead.
And for each day I shall supply the wisdom and the strength.
Our Lord and our God. We Joy in Thee. Without thy Help we could not face unafraid the year before us.
I stand between the years. The Light of My Presence is flung across the year to come--the radiance of the Sun of Righteousness.
Backward, over the past year, is My Shadow thrown, hiding trouble and sorrow and disappointment.
Dwell not on the past--only on the present. Only use the past as the trees use My Sunlight to absord it, to make from it in after days the warming fire-rays. So store only the blessings from Me, the Light of the World. Encourage yourselves by the thought of these.
Bury every fear of the future, of poverty for those dear to you, of suffering, of loss. Bury all thought of unkindness and bitterness, all your dislikes, resentments, your sense of failure, your disappointment in others and in yourselves, your gloom, your dispondency,and let us leave them all, buried, and go forward to a new and risen life.
Remember that you must not see as the world sees. I hold the year in My Hands--in Trust for you. But I shall guide you one day at a time.
Leave the Rest with Me. You must not anticipate the gift of fears or thoughts of the days ahead.
And for each day I shall supply the wisdom and the strength.
Friday, January 2, 2009
No one really knows us, but God.
If our day to day life here on earth, we think we know our closest friends; we think we know our family; we think we know our husband, or our wife; we think we know ourselves, but in fact, we really don't know anyone, and No one really knows us, but God.
I was talking to a friend of mine the other day, and this person confided in me something that had happened after many years of marriage. This person went on to say that their spouse was not satisfied with the relationship they had shared for many years. This person went on to say, their spouse said, I am leaving.
My friend was stunned by these actions. How can you live with someone 10 years, 20 years,or even longer, and not really know them.
In our relationships today with our closest friends, family, and spouses, Do we really know them? Evidently we don't. If we did situations like this would never happen; we would do something to prevent someone from hurting us.
No one really knows us, but God, and yet he still loves us. It's hard for me to understand God's love, I don't understand God's love. How can a creator that made us, breathed into us life, knows us for what we really are, and yet still loves us?
God knows the secret demons that we hide in our closets.
Many people write their autobiographies, but they always hold some things back. They never share those deep dark sins, those thoughts and imaginations that No one knows about, but Jesus.
No one cometh to the Father, but by me. Why is that? Because Jesus is our kinsman redeemer; he's our debt payer.
Jesus is the one we need to confess to, he knows our sins, all of them. His "blood" was the debt paid for the forgiveness of sins. The Bible says, that Jesus' blood was "precious blood", and it's the only way to be reconciled back to the Father, and it's the only sacrifice that "God the Father" will accept.
No, we really don't know one another. Sometimes we don't know ourselves.
No one really knows us, but God!
But Thank God they don't!
I was talking to a friend of mine the other day, and this person confided in me something that had happened after many years of marriage. This person went on to say that their spouse was not satisfied with the relationship they had shared for many years. This person went on to say, their spouse said, I am leaving.
My friend was stunned by these actions. How can you live with someone 10 years, 20 years,or even longer, and not really know them.
In our relationships today with our closest friends, family, and spouses, Do we really know them? Evidently we don't. If we did situations like this would never happen; we would do something to prevent someone from hurting us.
No one really knows us, but God, and yet he still loves us. It's hard for me to understand God's love, I don't understand God's love. How can a creator that made us, breathed into us life, knows us for what we really are, and yet still loves us?
God knows the secret demons that we hide in our closets.
Many people write their autobiographies, but they always hold some things back. They never share those deep dark sins, those thoughts and imaginations that No one knows about, but Jesus.
No one cometh to the Father, but by me. Why is that? Because Jesus is our kinsman redeemer; he's our debt payer.
Jesus is the one we need to confess to, he knows our sins, all of them. His "blood" was the debt paid for the forgiveness of sins. The Bible says, that Jesus' blood was "precious blood", and it's the only way to be reconciled back to the Father, and it's the only sacrifice that "God the Father" will accept.
No, we really don't know one another. Sometimes we don't know ourselves.
No one really knows us, but God!
But Thank God they don't!
Sunday, July 6, 2008
A Poem to share with you
Just thought I would share something special with you that my pastor shared with us the other day. It's a poem that a very dear friend of his shared with him. It was a favorite poem of a man who spent most of his life in rest homes, and nursing centers. The man had MS all of his life, and as he got older, it got even worse. For many years he could not speak. Three weeks before he died,the Lord opened up his vocal chords that had been destroyed by MS, God opened them up for his glory. This poem was Timmy Oliver’s favorite. It’s called “The Cross in my Pocket”.
THE CROSS IN MY POCKET
I carry a cross in my pocket
A simple reminder to me
Of the fact that I am a Christian
No matter where I may be.
The little cross is not magic
Nor is it a good luck charm
It isn’t meant to protect me
From every physical harm
It’s not for identification
For all the world to see
It’s simply an understanding
Between my Saviour and me.
When I put my hand in my pocket
To bring out a coin or key
The cross is there to remind me
Of the price He paid for me.
It reminds me too, to be thankful
For my blessing day by day
And to strive to serve Him better
In all that I do and say.
It’s also a daily reminder
Of the peace and comfort I share
With all who know my Master
And give themselves to His care.
So, I carry a cross in my pocket
Reminding no one but me
That Jesus Christ is Lord of my life
If only I’ll let him be.
THE CROSS IN MY POCKET
I carry a cross in my pocket
A simple reminder to me
Of the fact that I am a Christian
No matter where I may be.
The little cross is not magic
Nor is it a good luck charm
It isn’t meant to protect me
From every physical harm
It’s not for identification
For all the world to see
It’s simply an understanding
Between my Saviour and me.
When I put my hand in my pocket
To bring out a coin or key
The cross is there to remind me
Of the price He paid for me.
It reminds me too, to be thankful
For my blessing day by day
And to strive to serve Him better
In all that I do and say.
It’s also a daily reminder
Of the peace and comfort I share
With all who know my Master
And give themselves to His care.
So, I carry a cross in my pocket
Reminding no one but me
That Jesus Christ is Lord of my life
If only I’ll let him be.
What is Faith?
The definition of "Faith" according to the Bible, is the substance of things hoped, the evidence of things not seen. Sometimes in our life we face valleys and disappointments and we ask God questions, like where are you God?, can't you hear me?, do you really exist?, why did you allow this to happen to me? It is in these times and situations that the word "Faith" takes on a new meaning.
The word "FAITH" becomes an action on our part and not just a word sitting on a page,dormant and non-moving. Faith without works is dead. What are the works? The works are the act of believing in God when we can't see him, hear him,or feel him. There are going to be times in our life when we are not going to see God, hear God, or feel God.
If you would close your eyes for a moment; imagine with me that when you open your eyes you will not be able to see, hear, or feel. Open your eyes, still imagine you can't see, hear, or feel. You know you exist because you are here. Sometimes in our Christian walk, we can't see God, we can't hear God, and we can't. feel God, but we know he exists, that's "Faith".
God's word says we are to walk by Faith, and not by sight. Faith in God is better than being sighted in this world's standards.
Ro 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God
Ro 1:17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.
Heb 11:3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
Heb 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Jas 2:26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
Jas 5:15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.
Let's take the noun "faith", and turn it into the verb "faith", a word of Action.
The word "FAITH" becomes an action on our part and not just a word sitting on a page,dormant and non-moving. Faith without works is dead. What are the works? The works are the act of believing in God when we can't see him, hear him,or feel him. There are going to be times in our life when we are not going to see God, hear God, or feel God.
If you would close your eyes for a moment; imagine with me that when you open your eyes you will not be able to see, hear, or feel. Open your eyes, still imagine you can't see, hear, or feel. You know you exist because you are here. Sometimes in our Christian walk, we can't see God, we can't hear God, and we can't. feel God, but we know he exists, that's "Faith".
God's word says we are to walk by Faith, and not by sight. Faith in God is better than being sighted in this world's standards.
Ro 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God
Ro 1:17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.
Heb 11:3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
Heb 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Jas 2:26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
Jas 5:15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.
Let's take the noun "faith", and turn it into the verb "faith", a word of Action.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Focus on the "Message", not the messenger.
Sometimes we get caught up in new waves of God's movement. In these last days we need to be careful of the messenger that is drawing attention to himself or herself, more than the message of him who has already came and gave us the message of the Bible.
God's word says,in Mt 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
Today, especially our young people, are seeking a new wave, a new trend, a new way of worshipping and serving God.
A warning to this, the Bible says, we are to worship God in spirit and in truth. It didn't say we were to worship God in the flesh. Sometimes we get ourselves in a fix, when we let our fleshly man get in the way.
Solomon said it very well: Ecc 1:9 The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.
Sometimes in seeking God and his fullness, satan will push us pass a balance that God intends for us to have.
In all things, there should be a balance. There should not be confusion.
Above all, our focus should be on the message, the message of repentance, and loving one another as God loves us.
In these last days, we are not to be man followers, we are to be God followers. He is our example. He is the image that we need to comform too.
Ro 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
Sometimes we ge caught up in serving the creature, more than the creator.
Ro 1:25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
The Bible says, all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. I want to worship someone who has the power to overcome sin.
I want to put my trust, my effort, my money into someone who is proclaiming Christ and him crucified, and risen. Jesus Christ is the only answer for this world. Accept him, trust in him, and he will not let you down.
2Sa 22:31 As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him.
Ps 4:5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD.
Ps 5:11 But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.
Ps 9:10 And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.
Ps 17:7 Show thy marvellous lovingkindness, O thou that savest by thy right hand them which put their trust in thee from those that rise up against them.
Ps 18:30 As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.
Ps 34:22 The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate.
Ps 37:3 Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.
Ps 37:40 And the LORD shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.
Ps 56:3 What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee
Ps 118:8 It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.
Ps 118:9 It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes.
Pr 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Pr 3:6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, trust in him, worship and glorify him, and he shall direct thy paths.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, that is the "MESSAGE".
God's word says,in Mt 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
Today, especially our young people, are seeking a new wave, a new trend, a new way of worshipping and serving God.
A warning to this, the Bible says, we are to worship God in spirit and in truth. It didn't say we were to worship God in the flesh. Sometimes we get ourselves in a fix, when we let our fleshly man get in the way.
Solomon said it very well: Ecc 1:9 The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.
Sometimes in seeking God and his fullness, satan will push us pass a balance that God intends for us to have.
In all things, there should be a balance. There should not be confusion.
Above all, our focus should be on the message, the message of repentance, and loving one another as God loves us.
In these last days, we are not to be man followers, we are to be God followers. He is our example. He is the image that we need to comform too.
Ro 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
Sometimes we ge caught up in serving the creature, more than the creator.
Ro 1:25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
The Bible says, all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. I want to worship someone who has the power to overcome sin.
I want to put my trust, my effort, my money into someone who is proclaiming Christ and him crucified, and risen. Jesus Christ is the only answer for this world. Accept him, trust in him, and he will not let you down.
2Sa 22:31 As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him.
Ps 4:5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD.
Ps 5:11 But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.
Ps 9:10 And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.
Ps 17:7 Show thy marvellous lovingkindness, O thou that savest by thy right hand them which put their trust in thee from those that rise up against them.
Ps 18:30 As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.
Ps 34:22 The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate.
Ps 37:3 Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.
Ps 37:40 And the LORD shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.
Ps 56:3 What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee
Ps 118:8 It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.
Ps 118:9 It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes.
Pr 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Pr 3:6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, trust in him, worship and glorify him, and he shall direct thy paths.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, that is the "MESSAGE".
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Once the "Hail" starts, it's too late to do anything about it.
I was thinking about the earlier storm we had a few days prior,it was about 11:30 at night,when the thunderings and the lightenings ensued; the rain began coming down in sheets, then the hail started. As I thought about this, the Lord spoke to my spirit with this proverb; Once the "Hail" starts, it's too late to do anything about it.
The word "Hail", meaning small pellets of ice, sometimes associated with thunderstorms, also took on a double meaning as in, hell. Once the "Hell" starts, it's too late to do anything about it.
A homonym is a term for words that sound exactly alike, but have different meanings.
In this particular situation, the words sound exactly alike, and in this case, they have a similiar message.
When the storm came up the other night, it came up quickly. There were some warning signs before it started. First, there was thunder, then lightening, then the rain began coming down, then without any warning, the hail came plummeting down.
My wife and I were already in the bed, the hail had started, it sounded like "all hell was breaking loose", I thought it was going to burst the windows out of the house. I thought about Beth's car,it was too late to pull the car into the garage; it was too late to cover the car with blankets so the hail wouldn't beat the car with dents. It was too late to do anything, but suffer the consequences of not being prepared for the storm.
There is a day coming when the son of God is coming to take his bride away. The signs of his coming are evident. They have been prophecied in scripture, and we have seen most of them come to past.
Mk 13:4 Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled?
Mk 13:5 And Jesus answering them began to say, Take heed lest any man deceive you:
Mk 13:6 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
Mk 13:7 And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet.
Mk 13:8 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows.
Some will heed the prophetic thunderings and lightenings of God's warnings, and will be prepared, some will not. Jesus taries,even now, wanting noone to parish, sends down the rain, giving the people their last warning before it is too late; still some ignore the warning. Some will say, it's just raining, I still have tommorrow to get ready.
When the midnight cry comes, and the ones that have heeded the warnings, and have prepared themselves shall be caught up in a twinkling of an eye to meet Jesus in the air.
And there are the others, who have not prepared; they have not heeded the warnings of the Word of God. The "HELL" has started for them, it's too late, and once the "Hell" has started, it's too late to do anything about it.
God gave me this proverb for a reason. Rev 22:12 says "And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be".
The time is short; don't wait until it's too late. Do something about it now! Today, tonight, now is the day of salvation.
Don't worry about becoming good enough to repent, God will except you as you are. Are you sorry for your sins? Do you want to change? Simply ask God, by faith, God forgive me of my sins, I accept you. I believe you died on the cross for me; I believe you arose on the third day. Jesus save me now!
I hope you've made that decision, it's the most important decision you'll ever make in your life. Your eternity is based on that decision, make the right one, make it today.
The word "Hail", meaning small pellets of ice, sometimes associated with thunderstorms, also took on a double meaning as in, hell. Once the "Hell" starts, it's too late to do anything about it.
A homonym is a term for words that sound exactly alike, but have different meanings.
In this particular situation, the words sound exactly alike, and in this case, they have a similiar message.
When the storm came up the other night, it came up quickly. There were some warning signs before it started. First, there was thunder, then lightening, then the rain began coming down, then without any warning, the hail came plummeting down.
My wife and I were already in the bed, the hail had started, it sounded like "all hell was breaking loose", I thought it was going to burst the windows out of the house. I thought about Beth's car,it was too late to pull the car into the garage; it was too late to cover the car with blankets so the hail wouldn't beat the car with dents. It was too late to do anything, but suffer the consequences of not being prepared for the storm.
There is a day coming when the son of God is coming to take his bride away. The signs of his coming are evident. They have been prophecied in scripture, and we have seen most of them come to past.
Mk 13:4 Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled?
Mk 13:5 And Jesus answering them began to say, Take heed lest any man deceive you:
Mk 13:6 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
Mk 13:7 And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet.
Mk 13:8 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows.
Some will heed the prophetic thunderings and lightenings of God's warnings, and will be prepared, some will not. Jesus taries,even now, wanting noone to parish, sends down the rain, giving the people their last warning before it is too late; still some ignore the warning. Some will say, it's just raining, I still have tommorrow to get ready.
When the midnight cry comes, and the ones that have heeded the warnings, and have prepared themselves shall be caught up in a twinkling of an eye to meet Jesus in the air.
And there are the others, who have not prepared; they have not heeded the warnings of the Word of God. The "HELL" has started for them, it's too late, and once the "Hell" has started, it's too late to do anything about it.
God gave me this proverb for a reason. Rev 22:12 says "And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be".
The time is short; don't wait until it's too late. Do something about it now! Today, tonight, now is the day of salvation.
Don't worry about becoming good enough to repent, God will except you as you are. Are you sorry for your sins? Do you want to change? Simply ask God, by faith, God forgive me of my sins, I accept you. I believe you died on the cross for me; I believe you arose on the third day. Jesus save me now!
I hope you've made that decision, it's the most important decision you'll ever make in your life. Your eternity is based on that decision, make the right one, make it today.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Happy Mother's Day, God Bless you on your special day.
I want to wish a Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers especially at Glen Raven Baptist Church.
Being a mother is a special calling, especially when you are a Godly mother.
I want to honor my mother this Mother's Day, May 11, 2008. Even though my mother has gone on to be with the Lord, she is still with me in spirit, more now, than when she was alive.
Her words of instruction used to aggravate me; I knew she was right when she said them, but somehow, I just couldn't live up to them. Sometimes as children, it's hard to live up to what our parents want us and expect us to be. I wisk I could have had a better relationship with my mother. Partly it was my fault, and partly it was what life had dealt my mother from an early age. I tried to understand my mother and what she was trying to say to me, even though sometimes she didn't know how to say it herself.
What I remember the most about my mother, she always taught us about the Lord. She always took us to church, whether we wanted to go or not. She was the spiritual head of the household. It was not her choice to be, she was the only one in our house to fill that role. My mother was weak in her body for many years, but she was a Samson in their Lord.
I remember her happiest times were when she was preaching at a little mission building down on Elmire St. She was a good preacher. My mother didn't have much of a formal education, but she was a PhD when it came to the scriptures, the word of God.
She never did get her GED down here, but thank God there's a day coming when she's going to be presented Magna Cumlada at the Judgment Seat of Christ. There she will be presented all of her rewards, among them the Five Crowns for faithful service.
I miss my mother. I still talk to her. Most of the time it's when I want something, easn't that just like a child. The only difference these days, I'm asking her to pray to the Father for me, maybe she'll have a little more pull than I do.
I wrote this poem last year for Mother's Day. I share it to honor my mother,but most of all to honor the God she taught me about.
What is a Mother?
A mother is the love of God
Embodied in a female frame
A mother is a nurturer,
Always loving, always caring
A mother is someone that doctors our hurts,
Holds us when we are in pain
At night, she sings to us the lullabies of comfort
A mother is someone who hums the hymns of praise,
As she prepares the evening meal
A mother is someone who prays continually,
She prays when things are going good,
She prays harder when things are going bad
She prays mostly for her children,
Then her husband, then her friends,
Lastly, she prays for herself
A mother is someone who loves unconditionally,
No matter how many times we break her heart
A mother is someone,
Whose children call themselves blessed
What is a Mother?
A mother is a person, who loves us, cares for us, provides for our every need,
Someone that heals us, holds us, sings us the psalms of comfort,
Someone that prays for us, loves us unconditionally,
Yes, this is what a mother is, but doesn't it sound a lot like our Heavenly Father.
Being a mother is a special calling, especially when you are a Godly mother.
I want to honor my mother this Mother's Day, May 11, 2008. Even though my mother has gone on to be with the Lord, she is still with me in spirit, more now, than when she was alive.
Her words of instruction used to aggravate me; I knew she was right when she said them, but somehow, I just couldn't live up to them. Sometimes as children, it's hard to live up to what our parents want us and expect us to be. I wisk I could have had a better relationship with my mother. Partly it was my fault, and partly it was what life had dealt my mother from an early age. I tried to understand my mother and what she was trying to say to me, even though sometimes she didn't know how to say it herself.
What I remember the most about my mother, she always taught us about the Lord. She always took us to church, whether we wanted to go or not. She was the spiritual head of the household. It was not her choice to be, she was the only one in our house to fill that role. My mother was weak in her body for many years, but she was a Samson in their Lord.
I remember her happiest times were when she was preaching at a little mission building down on Elmire St. She was a good preacher. My mother didn't have much of a formal education, but she was a PhD when it came to the scriptures, the word of God.
She never did get her GED down here, but thank God there's a day coming when she's going to be presented Magna Cumlada at the Judgment Seat of Christ. There she will be presented all of her rewards, among them the Five Crowns for faithful service.
I miss my mother. I still talk to her. Most of the time it's when I want something, easn't that just like a child. The only difference these days, I'm asking her to pray to the Father for me, maybe she'll have a little more pull than I do.
I wrote this poem last year for Mother's Day. I share it to honor my mother,but most of all to honor the God she taught me about.
What is a Mother?
A mother is the love of God
Embodied in a female frame
A mother is a nurturer,
Always loving, always caring
A mother is someone that doctors our hurts,
Holds us when we are in pain
At night, she sings to us the lullabies of comfort
A mother is someone who hums the hymns of praise,
As she prepares the evening meal
A mother is someone who prays continually,
She prays when things are going good,
She prays harder when things are going bad
She prays mostly for her children,
Then her husband, then her friends,
Lastly, she prays for herself
A mother is someone who loves unconditionally,
No matter how many times we break her heart
A mother is someone,
Whose children call themselves blessed
What is a Mother?
A mother is a person, who loves us, cares for us, provides for our every need,
Someone that heals us, holds us, sings us the psalms of comfort,
Someone that prays for us, loves us unconditionally,
Yes, this is what a mother is, but doesn't it sound a lot like our Heavenly Father.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
How faithful is my faith?
Have you prayed for something for years and years, but never seen the answer to your pray.
I ask myself this question, How faithful is my faith? In a world of fast pace, fast on your feet thinking, fast food eating, I'll have to admit, I discourage easy when it comes to long-term faith.
I know God has a time table, and I know we are suppose to be patient, but where does patience end before discouragement begins. In this modern, computer age we live in, instance results are achieved by road-runner pace. My problem seems to be, I have faith that it can happen, but I don't have the patience to wait for it to happen, therefore my faith doesn't last for the long haul, therefore God doesn't answer because of my short-term faith.
The Bible says we grow from faith to faith, I know that the flaw is within me, but Lord could you encourage me a little bit from time to time. Well, the Lord has answered my prayer.
There are two answers to pray that I want to tell you about because I want to help strenghten your faith before it becomes discouragement.
Our church just recently lost one of the most sweet, beautiful, prayer warriors we have ever had, her name is Addie. She cared about people first, and she cared about herself second; she was an unselfish, Godly woman, and she is very much missed.
With the passing of Miss Addie, as we all called her, there was a need to regroup and rekindle the flame that Miss Addie had kept going for so long. She reminds me of the Olympic Athlete that runs up the incline and lites the flame for the Olympic Games. Let the Prayer begin, Miss Addie was our keeper of the flame.
Our pastor, realizing that something needed to be done, ask each person in the congregation to sign up if they were willing to pray for the needs of the people, and for the needs of the church.
The pastors goal was to sign up a 120 committed christians, it only took a 120 only the day of pentecost, and look what God done through those 120.
The reason I am telling you all this is, is sometimes we need to pray as a body of Christ, I believe our prayers would be answered before our long-term faith gave out.
Two examples of answered prayer since the flame was rekindled by the body of Christ.
There is a lady in our church, who has been going there for years. She has been praying for the salvation of her husband for 30 plus years. A few weeks ago he surrendered his life to Jesus Christ. That increased my faith. As an evidence of his new rebirth, this gentlemen was impressed by the Holy Spirit to write a poem. The poem is called LIFE.
LIFE
If life was a thing that money could buy,
the rich would live and the poor would die.
But God, in his mercy, didn't make it that way,
the rich must die same as you or I.
And when God comes back, what a sight to behold!
Then, all of his children will walk the streets of Gold.
And this old life of misery and pain,
when we see his face, well have not been in vain.
So, do what you can to tell your fellowman,
that Jesus is the only way to hold God's hand.
I've tried everything this old world has to give,
but following Jesus, is the only way to live.
The second example I want to share is about a man who had lived in group homes, or rest homes the most of his adult life. He could not control the muscles in his body, and had been in a wheel chair for most of his life. For the last 20 plus years, he has not been able to speak; he uses a pencil and pad to communicate with others. Our church has been praying for him, his body growing weaker, hospice was called in. A gentleman from our church, JW went to visit him on a Tuesday. JW greeted him as he walked into the room, How are you doing Timmy?, Timmy who had not responded verbally in 20 plus years, spoke saying, I'm doing fine.
JW didn't know how to react, he wanted to shout, he wanted to run and tell someone else of the good news, he wanted to tell someone of the miracle that God had allowed him to witness in Timmy's life. God wanted to increase JW's faith, he wanted to increase my faith. I want to increase your faith.
Thank you God for taking us from faith to faith. Thank you God that as the body of Christ tightly fitted together praying and believing, you move and answer pray before our faith gives out. Thank you God for the little things that encourage us from day to day to hold on to your unshakeable hand. Thank you God for the faith you give us through your word, and thank you God for increasing our faith by answering our prayers.
I ask myself this question, How faithful is my faith? In a world of fast pace, fast on your feet thinking, fast food eating, I'll have to admit, I discourage easy when it comes to long-term faith.
I know God has a time table, and I know we are suppose to be patient, but where does patience end before discouragement begins. In this modern, computer age we live in, instance results are achieved by road-runner pace. My problem seems to be, I have faith that it can happen, but I don't have the patience to wait for it to happen, therefore my faith doesn't last for the long haul, therefore God doesn't answer because of my short-term faith.
The Bible says we grow from faith to faith, I know that the flaw is within me, but Lord could you encourage me a little bit from time to time. Well, the Lord has answered my prayer.
There are two answers to pray that I want to tell you about because I want to help strenghten your faith before it becomes discouragement.
Our church just recently lost one of the most sweet, beautiful, prayer warriors we have ever had, her name is Addie. She cared about people first, and she cared about herself second; she was an unselfish, Godly woman, and she is very much missed.
With the passing of Miss Addie, as we all called her, there was a need to regroup and rekindle the flame that Miss Addie had kept going for so long. She reminds me of the Olympic Athlete that runs up the incline and lites the flame for the Olympic Games. Let the Prayer begin, Miss Addie was our keeper of the flame.
Our pastor, realizing that something needed to be done, ask each person in the congregation to sign up if they were willing to pray for the needs of the people, and for the needs of the church.
The pastors goal was to sign up a 120 committed christians, it only took a 120 only the day of pentecost, and look what God done through those 120.
The reason I am telling you all this is, is sometimes we need to pray as a body of Christ, I believe our prayers would be answered before our long-term faith gave out.
Two examples of answered prayer since the flame was rekindled by the body of Christ.
There is a lady in our church, who has been going there for years. She has been praying for the salvation of her husband for 30 plus years. A few weeks ago he surrendered his life to Jesus Christ. That increased my faith. As an evidence of his new rebirth, this gentlemen was impressed by the Holy Spirit to write a poem. The poem is called LIFE.
LIFE
If life was a thing that money could buy,
the rich would live and the poor would die.
But God, in his mercy, didn't make it that way,
the rich must die same as you or I.
And when God comes back, what a sight to behold!
Then, all of his children will walk the streets of Gold.
And this old life of misery and pain,
when we see his face, well have not been in vain.
So, do what you can to tell your fellowman,
that Jesus is the only way to hold God's hand.
I've tried everything this old world has to give,
but following Jesus, is the only way to live.
The second example I want to share is about a man who had lived in group homes, or rest homes the most of his adult life. He could not control the muscles in his body, and had been in a wheel chair for most of his life. For the last 20 plus years, he has not been able to speak; he uses a pencil and pad to communicate with others. Our church has been praying for him, his body growing weaker, hospice was called in. A gentleman from our church, JW went to visit him on a Tuesday. JW greeted him as he walked into the room, How are you doing Timmy?, Timmy who had not responded verbally in 20 plus years, spoke saying, I'm doing fine.
JW didn't know how to react, he wanted to shout, he wanted to run and tell someone else of the good news, he wanted to tell someone of the miracle that God had allowed him to witness in Timmy's life. God wanted to increase JW's faith, he wanted to increase my faith. I want to increase your faith.
Thank you God for taking us from faith to faith. Thank you God that as the body of Christ tightly fitted together praying and believing, you move and answer pray before our faith gives out. Thank you God for the little things that encourage us from day to day to hold on to your unshakeable hand. Thank you God for the faith you give us through your word, and thank you God for increasing our faith by answering our prayers.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Thank God for the Health I have today!
There is one blessing in this life that no amount of money can buy, no amount of success can earn, that is the blessing of good health.
As I get older , I realize how fragile life really is, and how short of a time we have on this earth. Many of my friends I went to school with are no longer around. I go to more and more funerals as I get a year older.
As we survey the blessings of this life, we sometimes overlook the blessing of health.
James says we take life for granted, we plan for tomorrow, we buy,sell, and get gain, not thinking about what tommorrow might bring. Sometimes our tommorrows bring us unexpected sorrows.
Jas 4:13 Go to now, ye that say, Today or tomorrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:
Jas 4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
Jas 4:15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.
God holds our life in his hand; he holds our very breath in his hands. Let us not forget to thank him him for the blessing of health in our life.
There's an old song we used to sing years ago; the chorus goes something like this:
Count your blessings, count them one by one
Count your blessings, see what God has done
Count - --- your --blessings, count --them-- one- by- one
Count your many blessings see what God has done.
There is also another blessing that we cannot buy, it's a gift of God, you can't earn it, you just simply have to accept it by faith, that gift is the Gift of Salvation.
Maybe you say, sir, I don't have good health, what do I have to be thankful for? You might say I'm young, I haven't even begun to live my life, and now I am stricken with this dreaded disease, what do I have to be thankful for?
You might be out there, trying to drown your sorrow and grief with the pleasures of this world. Those pleasures are just temporary, the hurt, the sorrow, and the grief will be there in the morning.
There is someone who wants to bare that burden for you, there is someone who will make the hard journey a little bit sweeter, that someone is Jesus Christ.
1Pe 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Don't blame God for your circumstance, your condition. God's word says "draw nigh to God, he will draw nigh to you.
Jas 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Jas 4:8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
You might be facing death, in the next few days, or the next few months, don't face death alone.
Surrender it all to Jesus, put your life in his hands, he will take away the fear, and sting of death.
Embrace life from the life giver; don't fear death, Jesus has conquered death, hell, and the grave.
If you are a child of God, you need not fear death; If you are not a child of God, you should be shaking in your boots. The Bible says, today is the day of salvation.
This life is a vapour, the only thing that matters in this short life is what you do with Jesus. We are put on this earth to glorify him, and him along.
Are you willing to take a chance with your soul, reject God, and spend eternity in a literal burning place called Hell.
Do you think you are going to get by with your sins?
Mt 16:26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
Are you willing to exchange your soul for a few nights of pleasure and wickedness, trying to bury your sorrow and grief in sin for a season.
Eternity is forever, don't listen to the lies of Satan, surrender your life to God. Prepare your life for the life to come, this world is not our home, we are just traveling through.
God's word says this about Heaven:
1Co 2:9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
There is a Hell to shun, and a Heaven to gain, choose life, choose Jesus Christ.
If you have read this and it has softened your heart, and you want Jesus to help you bare the heavy load you are carrying, all you need to do is surrender your life to him.
Say, Jesus I know I need you, I can't do this on my own. Forgive me Jesus of my sins, come into my heart, be my burden barer. Jesus, I believe you dead on the cross for my sins; I believe you arose on the third day, thank you Jesus for saving me now.
If you have prayed that pray, please contact us at our website: http://www.glenravenbaptist.com/
God bless you and keep you in the hollow of his hand.
As I get older , I realize how fragile life really is, and how short of a time we have on this earth. Many of my friends I went to school with are no longer around. I go to more and more funerals as I get a year older.
As we survey the blessings of this life, we sometimes overlook the blessing of health.
James says we take life for granted, we plan for tomorrow, we buy,sell, and get gain, not thinking about what tommorrow might bring. Sometimes our tommorrows bring us unexpected sorrows.
Jas 4:13 Go to now, ye that say, Today or tomorrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:
Jas 4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
Jas 4:15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.
God holds our life in his hand; he holds our very breath in his hands. Let us not forget to thank him him for the blessing of health in our life.
There's an old song we used to sing years ago; the chorus goes something like this:
Count your blessings, count them one by one
Count your blessings, see what God has done
Count - --- your --blessings, count --them-- one- by- one
Count your many blessings see what God has done.
There is also another blessing that we cannot buy, it's a gift of God, you can't earn it, you just simply have to accept it by faith, that gift is the Gift of Salvation.
Maybe you say, sir, I don't have good health, what do I have to be thankful for? You might say I'm young, I haven't even begun to live my life, and now I am stricken with this dreaded disease, what do I have to be thankful for?
You might be out there, trying to drown your sorrow and grief with the pleasures of this world. Those pleasures are just temporary, the hurt, the sorrow, and the grief will be there in the morning.
There is someone who wants to bare that burden for you, there is someone who will make the hard journey a little bit sweeter, that someone is Jesus Christ.
1Pe 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Don't blame God for your circumstance, your condition. God's word says "draw nigh to God, he will draw nigh to you.
Jas 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Jas 4:8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
You might be facing death, in the next few days, or the next few months, don't face death alone.
Surrender it all to Jesus, put your life in his hands, he will take away the fear, and sting of death.
Embrace life from the life giver; don't fear death, Jesus has conquered death, hell, and the grave.
If you are a child of God, you need not fear death; If you are not a child of God, you should be shaking in your boots. The Bible says, today is the day of salvation.
This life is a vapour, the only thing that matters in this short life is what you do with Jesus. We are put on this earth to glorify him, and him along.
Are you willing to take a chance with your soul, reject God, and spend eternity in a literal burning place called Hell.
Do you think you are going to get by with your sins?
Mt 16:26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
Are you willing to exchange your soul for a few nights of pleasure and wickedness, trying to bury your sorrow and grief in sin for a season.
Eternity is forever, don't listen to the lies of Satan, surrender your life to God. Prepare your life for the life to come, this world is not our home, we are just traveling through.
God's word says this about Heaven:
1Co 2:9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
There is a Hell to shun, and a Heaven to gain, choose life, choose Jesus Christ.
If you have read this and it has softened your heart, and you want Jesus to help you bare the heavy load you are carrying, all you need to do is surrender your life to him.
Say, Jesus I know I need you, I can't do this on my own. Forgive me Jesus of my sins, come into my heart, be my burden barer. Jesus, I believe you dead on the cross for my sins; I believe you arose on the third day, thank you Jesus for saving me now.
If you have prayed that pray, please contact us at our website: http://www.glenravenbaptist.com/
God bless you and keep you in the hollow of his hand.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
You can make a difference, simply by the words you speak
I heard a excellent analogy the other day about someone having a pillow fight with a feather-filled pillow. As the pillow fight ensued the feathers began flying out of the loosen bindings of the pillow. After the fight was over, there was an attempt to put all of the feathers back into the pillow, but no matter how hard they tried, it was impossible to get all the feathers back into the pillow.
It's the same way with our words, once we speak them, the words have been loosened from our tongue. If the words are harmful, we can say we are sorry and maybe get some of the feathers back into the pillow so to speak, but what about the harmful words that people will always remember. Saying I'm sorry might help, but it doesn't take away the harm that has already been done, that we can't ever take back.
My wife shared with me a pod-cast that was emailed to her by a friend at school. It got me thinking about what the Bible says about the power of our words.
Dt 30:19 I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:
Pr 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.
Jas 3:8 But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.
Jas 3:9 Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.
Jas 3:10 Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.
We can make a difference, in someone's life, just by the words we speak. It doesn't cost of anything to say a kind word to someone. We speak life when we speak a kind word, our words can uplift, or tear down. Let us speak blessing with our mouth, that we and our seed both shall live.
I want to give you the LINK to the pod-cast my wife shared with me earlier today. It will make you think about the words you say. It will move you and make you realize that words can trully give life, and make a difference.
LINK: http://www.blueribbonmovie.com/
It's the same way with our words, once we speak them, the words have been loosened from our tongue. If the words are harmful, we can say we are sorry and maybe get some of the feathers back into the pillow so to speak, but what about the harmful words that people will always remember. Saying I'm sorry might help, but it doesn't take away the harm that has already been done, that we can't ever take back.
My wife shared with me a pod-cast that was emailed to her by a friend at school. It got me thinking about what the Bible says about the power of our words.
Dt 30:19 I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:
Pr 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.
Jas 3:8 But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.
Jas 3:9 Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.
Jas 3:10 Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.
We can make a difference, in someone's life, just by the words we speak. It doesn't cost of anything to say a kind word to someone. We speak life when we speak a kind word, our words can uplift, or tear down. Let us speak blessing with our mouth, that we and our seed both shall live.
I want to give you the LINK to the pod-cast my wife shared with me earlier today. It will make you think about the words you say. It will move you and make you realize that words can trully give life, and make a difference.
LINK: http://www.blueribbonmovie.com/
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Our Father which Art in Heaven, Hallowed be thy Name
Our church is having a 24 hour prayer time, this Friday, April 4, in which someone from our church is praying at our church every hour on the hour for 24 hours straight. I was so proud of my son this morning as he stood up before the congregation and challenged the church to sign up for at least an hour to praise God, and honor him, and to pray for the needs of the body of Christ. My son challenged the congregation with this analogy of when Jesus was just before being arrested and taken before Pilot to be tried. Jesus goes to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. My son gave a brief description of the story of the Garden. Below, are the scriptures I give you, as a point of reference.
Mt 26:36 Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder.
Mt 26:37 And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy.
Mt 26:38 Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.
Mt 26:39 And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.
Mt 26:40 And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour?
Mt 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
Mt 26:42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.
Mt 26:43 And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy.
Mt 26:44 And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words.
Mt 26:45 Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.
My son went on to say that Peter, James, and, John let Jesus down, they couldn't give Jesus one hour of their time when Jesus needed them the most.
My son also instructed the congregation, how they should pray, and he took the Biblical principle from God's word in Matthew 6:7-13. Below, I give you the scriptures for a reference.
Mt 6:7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
Mt 6:8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
Mt 6:9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
Mt 6:10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Mt 6:11 Give us this day our daily bread.
Mt 6:12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
Mt 6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
My son expounded even further to say ,we should not pray for ourselves, but we should praise and honor God for who he is, our Creator, and Savior. When we pray we should hallow his name, not ours. He should be honored. He should always come first. Matt 6:33 Seek ye first the kingdom of God,etc...
I will add this in closing, it is also taken from the Lord's Prayer; we should ask each day for his instruction from the Word of God, our daily bread. We should repent every day for our sins, and shortcomings, and we should forgive those who have wronged us, our debtors. We should pray for the Lord to strengthen us so we can overcome temptation, and evil. We should praise and honor him with our prayers, for it is his kingdom, it's his power that keeps us, and it's all for his glory, we were created, to glorify him.
I was very proud of my son today, because he brought to my attention some important Biblical truths, and principles. Surely, we can give God an hour of our time, to praise him, honor him, and not ask for anything for ourselves. Let it be an unselfish time to give glory only to him. Pray like Jesus instructed us to pray, so we don't pray amiss. If we will follow these Biblical instructions, and honor God according to his word, he will honor us with his favor, and with his blessings.
Mt 26:36 Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder.
Mt 26:37 And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy.
Mt 26:38 Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.
Mt 26:39 And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.
Mt 26:40 And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour?
Mt 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
Mt 26:42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.
Mt 26:43 And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy.
Mt 26:44 And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words.
Mt 26:45 Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.
My son went on to say that Peter, James, and, John let Jesus down, they couldn't give Jesus one hour of their time when Jesus needed them the most.
My son also instructed the congregation, how they should pray, and he took the Biblical principle from God's word in Matthew 6:7-13. Below, I give you the scriptures for a reference.
Mt 6:7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
Mt 6:8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
Mt 6:9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
Mt 6:10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Mt 6:11 Give us this day our daily bread.
Mt 6:12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
Mt 6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
My son expounded even further to say ,we should not pray for ourselves, but we should praise and honor God for who he is, our Creator, and Savior. When we pray we should hallow his name, not ours. He should be honored. He should always come first. Matt 6:33 Seek ye first the kingdom of God,etc...
I will add this in closing, it is also taken from the Lord's Prayer; we should ask each day for his instruction from the Word of God, our daily bread. We should repent every day for our sins, and shortcomings, and we should forgive those who have wronged us, our debtors. We should pray for the Lord to strengthen us so we can overcome temptation, and evil. We should praise and honor him with our prayers, for it is his kingdom, it's his power that keeps us, and it's all for his glory, we were created, to glorify him.
I was very proud of my son today, because he brought to my attention some important Biblical truths, and principles. Surely, we can give God an hour of our time, to praise him, honor him, and not ask for anything for ourselves. Let it be an unselfish time to give glory only to him. Pray like Jesus instructed us to pray, so we don't pray amiss. If we will follow these Biblical instructions, and honor God according to his word, he will honor us with his favor, and with his blessings.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
A Beautiful Prayer of Honor to God
A friend of mine at church came across this prayer that a friend had e-mailed her. It is so powerful, I just had to share it with all of you. The prayer is written by John Paul Jackson.
A Prayer of John P. Jackson
I am the light of the world because the light of the world dwells in me. I will bear your light this day, O God, and that light will change everyone I come in contact with. Your will be done in this earth from me, from the dust of this earth, as it is in heaven. No one will meet me and not be changed, because no one can meet you and not be changed. I will become increasingly aware of the light that I carry, and I will grow in you and that light will grow in me.
I will believe in the unbelievable. What is not yet, I will become, because you speak into me the things that are not, as though they were, and those things surely shall be. Your purpose will come to pass in my life. I will come to understand where I am in you and I will see my future more clearly than ever before. I will believe in your ability to get me there, more than my ability to fail at getting there.
The gifts you have given me will begin to flourish as I understand your ways. Nothing will prosper that comes against me because I will live a repentant life before you. And this day I repent of my sins. I will live that dependant life and because of that you will answer my prayer.
I will become what you have called me to become. I have been placed here at this moment for such a time as this. I live where I live because you put me here. I am not here by accident; I am here by divine appointment.
My neighbors will prosper because of you in me. Those I touch will prosper because of you in me. It is impossible for me to pray for anyone who is not touched at some level because you flow through me. It makes little difference whether I recognize it or not, you will touch them. You will touch others more at times than you do other times.
I will not judge my relationship with you based on what they feel. I will relate to you because of who you are in me. Not because of others. Not because of what they think I am. Not because of my emotions. Not because I feel saved. Not because I have ascended to greatness. Not because of my intellect. I will do this because of what you have done in me, great and marvelous things.
I live because you take your next breath. I am procreated. I am regenerated. I am born anew. Your seed has entered me and I am a child of light. My spirit is alive and quickened because your breath is in me. I will become quickened to you, fine-tuned to your spirit. Not doing what you're not doing, and doing what you are doing. I will become a witness for you because your light proves that you exist. With your help, when people see me they will see you.
Soon, there will be a apparent distinction about me to both those who know you and those who don't know you. People will come to see me and know that I am a follower of Jesus and a bearer of the light of the world. For your glory this will happen...taken the foolish things, which I am, to comfound the wise. Thank you for finding me and choosing me to be an agent of change in this earth for your glory.
A Prayer of John P. Jackson
I am the light of the world because the light of the world dwells in me. I will bear your light this day, O God, and that light will change everyone I come in contact with. Your will be done in this earth from me, from the dust of this earth, as it is in heaven. No one will meet me and not be changed, because no one can meet you and not be changed. I will become increasingly aware of the light that I carry, and I will grow in you and that light will grow in me.
I will believe in the unbelievable. What is not yet, I will become, because you speak into me the things that are not, as though they were, and those things surely shall be. Your purpose will come to pass in my life. I will come to understand where I am in you and I will see my future more clearly than ever before. I will believe in your ability to get me there, more than my ability to fail at getting there.
The gifts you have given me will begin to flourish as I understand your ways. Nothing will prosper that comes against me because I will live a repentant life before you. And this day I repent of my sins. I will live that dependant life and because of that you will answer my prayer.
I will become what you have called me to become. I have been placed here at this moment for such a time as this. I live where I live because you put me here. I am not here by accident; I am here by divine appointment.
My neighbors will prosper because of you in me. Those I touch will prosper because of you in me. It is impossible for me to pray for anyone who is not touched at some level because you flow through me. It makes little difference whether I recognize it or not, you will touch them. You will touch others more at times than you do other times.
I will not judge my relationship with you based on what they feel. I will relate to you because of who you are in me. Not because of others. Not because of what they think I am. Not because of my emotions. Not because I feel saved. Not because I have ascended to greatness. Not because of my intellect. I will do this because of what you have done in me, great and marvelous things.
I live because you take your next breath. I am procreated. I am regenerated. I am born anew. Your seed has entered me and I am a child of light. My spirit is alive and quickened because your breath is in me. I will become quickened to you, fine-tuned to your spirit. Not doing what you're not doing, and doing what you are doing. I will become a witness for you because your light proves that you exist. With your help, when people see me they will see you.
Soon, there will be a apparent distinction about me to both those who know you and those who don't know you. People will come to see me and know that I am a follower of Jesus and a bearer of the light of the world. For your glory this will happen...taken the foolish things, which I am, to comfound the wise. Thank you for finding me and choosing me to be an agent of change in this earth for your glory.
Friday, March 7, 2008
The Miracle of Birth
The miracle of birth is truly one of God's most wonderful gifts. No wonder God loves us so much, he created us from nothing and breathed life into us from his own breath. My wife and I celebrated the birth of our first grandaughter, Peyton Emma Nall. She was born at 11:16 A.M., she weighed 7lbs. 13oz., and she was 19 inches in length; she has long piano fingers and some big feet. She is precious. Mother, Dad, and Baby Peyton are doing fine.
As I was thinking today how precious the moment was when I first saw my grandaughter, I was quickened in my spirit to how God reacts each time he allows life to be given to us through the birth of a child. I'm sure God says, this is one of my creations; I knew you before your mother knew you; I knew you before you were conceived in your mother's womb. I have great expectations for you. You were ordained from the foundation of the world, I love you. All that I ask of you, is that you love me back. How do you love me back?, by accepting my Son as Lord, and Savior. By being born a second time, this time by my son's blood, and by my spirit, the Holy Spirit, this is your true birth, being born again.
As I was thinking today how precious the moment was when I first saw my grandaughter, I was quickened in my spirit to how God reacts each time he allows life to be given to us through the birth of a child. I'm sure God says, this is one of my creations; I knew you before your mother knew you; I knew you before you were conceived in your mother's womb. I have great expectations for you. You were ordained from the foundation of the world, I love you. All that I ask of you, is that you love me back. How do you love me back?, by accepting my Son as Lord, and Savior. By being born a second time, this time by my son's blood, and by my spirit, the Holy Spirit, this is your true birth, being born again.
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