"A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a miraculous sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah." Jesus then left them and went away."
Matthew 16:4
27 “He answered, ‘Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my family, 28 for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.’
29 “Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.’
30 “‘No, father Abraham,’ he said, ‘but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’
31 “He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’”
Luke 16:27-31
But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be”
Matthew 24:37
"Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door.
Matthew 24:32-33
If the Lord returned at this moment would you be ready, or would it be a total surprise? I heard an astounding fact from my wife today - the number of earthquakes between 2000-2009 was an escalated number of roughly 2000 per year, but in 2010 there were 8,444 earthquakes!
Since The Ascension, people have asked the same questions that the disciples also asked: What will be the signs of your coming? How will we know and when can we expect you?
We are given the clues, the Bible is full of signposts, the Lord told us : Watch and Pray. We are in an extremely perverse and depraved generation. Just as in the days of Noah...when the scoffers and mockers laughed and made sport of a godly and obedient man and his family, while they labored for about 100 years! Were there not clues everywhere, were the people not warned repeatedly? God placed a huge signpost in their midst but the people were hardened, so the ability to understand spiritual and physical dynamics were cloaked from them.
Again, we are in the days like Noah! Earthquakes, wars, rumors of war, chaos abounding, love of many is waxing cold...the dark is getting very dark indeed. Night comes before the morning...as surely as the darkness approaches, the light is getting brighter. The spirit is impressing on me two things: (1) "Have my oil lamp full" - to keep my own eyes fixed on Him, my ear and heart inclined to hear the voice of my Lord and Bridegroom-to be ready as He will come as a thief in the night, (2) sound the trumpet- awaken the sleeping, share the Gospel with all who may listen, wherever they may be found.
Whenever the appointed time is, it is short- work for His Kingdom, manning your post, while there is day, and let us not love our own lives so selfishly that we are self-absorbed and useless. Use the gifts and talents that you are equipped with, do not bury them, He will require an accounting of what was done with them when we stand before Him. Remember, Jesus said,"whoever seeks to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it."
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Read The Label (Following Instructions)
Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame.
Song of Songs 8:6
"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Eph.2:10
"If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work."
2 Tim.2:21
"All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away...Yet you, lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand."
Isaiah64:6,8
I was at the gas station, and looking at the different labels, "PREMIUM ONLY" , "LOW SULFUR DIESEL ONLY", etc. and the Lord showed me an image of a huge holy gold chalice, shining and jewel encrusted. As I watched, a garbage truck backed up to it, brimming and reeking with the stench of trash and filth, and dumped all of this into, onto, and overflowing- the holy chalice. I could see the elements of the filth - adultery, pornography, immorality, lies, anger, unforgiveness, unbelief, idolatry ... It was totally covered up...the Lord showed me, " You and many of your brothers and sister were like this chalice, which I created for holiness ONLY, but you turned your back on me, chased the things of this world, filling yourself with filth until it overtook you, but by my lovingkindness I led you to repentance, and by my grace I delivered you. There are no secrets that can be hidden from me, do not be deceived, I will not be mocked. Pursue holiness, resist evil. Go and deliver this message to whomever has ears to hear."
Today I am a messenger...Friendship with the world is emnity with God. His plans for us are far better than any plans we might have for ourselves, apart from Him we can do nothing.
Song of Songs 8:6
"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Eph.2:10
"If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work."
2 Tim.2:21
"All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away...Yet you, lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand."
Isaiah64:6,8
I was at the gas station, and looking at the different labels, "PREMIUM ONLY" , "LOW SULFUR DIESEL ONLY", etc. and the Lord showed me an image of a huge holy gold chalice, shining and jewel encrusted. As I watched, a garbage truck backed up to it, brimming and reeking with the stench of trash and filth, and dumped all of this into, onto, and overflowing- the holy chalice. I could see the elements of the filth - adultery, pornography, immorality, lies, anger, unforgiveness, unbelief, idolatry ... It was totally covered up...the Lord showed me, " You and many of your brothers and sister were like this chalice, which I created for holiness ONLY, but you turned your back on me, chased the things of this world, filling yourself with filth until it overtook you, but by my lovingkindness I led you to repentance, and by my grace I delivered you. There are no secrets that can be hidden from me, do not be deceived, I will not be mocked. Pursue holiness, resist evil. Go and deliver this message to whomever has ears to hear."
Today I am a messenger...Friendship with the world is emnity with God. His plans for us are far better than any plans we might have for ourselves, apart from Him we can do nothing.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
The Deal
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls.
When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it."
Matthew 13:44-45
What can compare to the incomparable riches of what our Bridegroom/Master and the kingdom life promises us? The answer- nothing... No thing, no one...nothing.
Like the treasure in the field in this parable of Jesus, where people walked past it, over it, on it, never realizing that which was within their grasp, consumed by other concerns and interests- if only they could see and hear the Kol Dodi- the voice of the Beloved. Selling "all we have", walking away from what the world perceives as valuable, may seem crazy, foolish...Paul said "if I am out of my mind it is for God's sake". But it is the best deal we could ever make!
Nothing I desire or have owned or experience can compare with the majesty, holiness, awesomeness, glory, lovingkindness of my Father and His house, where I will spend eternity. For me, to live is Christ, to die is gain. I desire to decrease, so He can increase.
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls.
When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it."
Matthew 13:44-45
What can compare to the incomparable riches of what our Bridegroom/Master and the kingdom life promises us? The answer- nothing... No thing, no one...nothing.
Like the treasure in the field in this parable of Jesus, where people walked past it, over it, on it, never realizing that which was within their grasp, consumed by other concerns and interests- if only they could see and hear the Kol Dodi- the voice of the Beloved. Selling "all we have", walking away from what the world perceives as valuable, may seem crazy, foolish...Paul said "if I am out of my mind it is for God's sake". But it is the best deal we could ever make!
Nothing I desire or have owned or experience can compare with the majesty, holiness, awesomeness, glory, lovingkindness of my Father and His house, where I will spend eternity. For me, to live is Christ, to die is gain. I desire to decrease, so He can increase.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Not Sinking 259
My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less
By Edward Mote
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteous;
No merit of my own I claim
But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.
On Christ, the solid rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
When darkness veils his lovely face,
I rest on his unchanging grace;
In every high and story gale
My anchor holds within the veil.
On Christ, the solid rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
His oath, his covenant, his blood
Sustain me in the raging flood;
When all supports are washed away,
He then is all my hope and stay.
On Christ, the solid rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
When he shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh, may I then in him be found,
Clothed in his righteousness alone,
Redeemed to stand before the throne!
On Christ, the solid rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
Colossians 2:6-7
Jesus Christ, the Rock, is where I choose to put all my hope, faith, trust, and adoration.
He alone will anchor me, as everything that can be shaken shakes, as the perfect storm approaches.
I won't trust in man, money, governments, or any other manmade thing.
Everything else is like sinking sand; it will not stand.
It has been said , "I never knew that Jesus was all I needed until He was all I had."
He is that lighthouse that shines when all else is stormy and dark, strength increasing when I am weak, His love is better than wine, when my self worth and esteem feels low, I realize He values me as priceless , so highly prized that I (we are) am His reward. He is with me, right now, always, and will be in the age to come.
Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so!
On Christ the solid Rock I stand...all else is sinking sand.
By Edward Mote
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteous;
No merit of my own I claim
But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.
On Christ, the solid rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
When darkness veils his lovely face,
I rest on his unchanging grace;
In every high and story gale
My anchor holds within the veil.
On Christ, the solid rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
His oath, his covenant, his blood
Sustain me in the raging flood;
When all supports are washed away,
He then is all my hope and stay.
On Christ, the solid rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
When he shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh, may I then in him be found,
Clothed in his righteousness alone,
Redeemed to stand before the throne!
On Christ, the solid rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
Colossians 2:6-7
Jesus Christ, the Rock, is where I choose to put all my hope, faith, trust, and adoration.
He alone will anchor me, as everything that can be shaken shakes, as the perfect storm approaches.
I won't trust in man, money, governments, or any other manmade thing.
Everything else is like sinking sand; it will not stand.
It has been said , "I never knew that Jesus was all I needed until He was all I had."
He is that lighthouse that shines when all else is stormy and dark, strength increasing when I am weak, His love is better than wine, when my self worth and esteem feels low, I realize He values me as priceless , so highly prized that I (we are) am His reward. He is with me, right now, always, and will be in the age to come.
Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so!
On Christ the solid Rock I stand...all else is sinking sand.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
War & Peace
I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.
Gal.5:16-18
" 21 So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, evil is right there with me. 22 For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; 23 but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. 24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? 25 Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!"
Romans 7:21-25
We are at war with ourselves! Two primary facets of who and what we are - body and spirit- are diametrically opposed, and no one is exempt from this ongoing battle. Even the Apostle Paul wrote about his dealings with this struggle. I am reminded today- a person cannot heap burning coals into his lap, and not be burned. The Word reads- Resist the devil and he will flee.
So resist today. Do not try to reason with darkness and rationalize evil. Walk in the spirit and not in the flesh. Christ crucified is the goal, He is our beacon in a dark world, and we are His reward.
Gal.5:16-18
" 21 So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, evil is right there with me. 22 For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; 23 but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. 24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? 25 Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!"
Romans 7:21-25
We are at war with ourselves! Two primary facets of who and what we are - body and spirit- are diametrically opposed, and no one is exempt from this ongoing battle. Even the Apostle Paul wrote about his dealings with this struggle. I am reminded today- a person cannot heap burning coals into his lap, and not be burned. The Word reads- Resist the devil and he will flee.
So resist today. Do not try to reason with darkness and rationalize evil. Walk in the spirit and not in the flesh. Christ crucified is the goal, He is our beacon in a dark world, and we are His reward.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Grateful 101
I am grateful.
I have been reflecting on my Father.
He is not a cruel Master, who metes out punishment mercilessly.
His mercy is endless- withholding punishment from me that I rightfully deserve.
His grace is more than abundant- giving me unmerited favor, covering and healing self inflicted wounds, and giving me blessings that I rightfully am not entitled to.
His lovingkindness endures forever- when I can't lift my head because of sin,
All I can croak out through my tears is "Lord, have mercy on me",
He lifts my head, and looks into my soul, and comforts me.
I am grateful.
I have been reflecting on my Father.
He is not a cruel Master, who metes out punishment mercilessly.
His mercy is endless- withholding punishment from me that I rightfully deserve.
His grace is more than abundant- giving me unmerited favor, covering and healing self inflicted wounds, and giving me blessings that I rightfully am not entitled to.
His lovingkindness endures forever- when I can't lift my head because of sin,
All I can croak out through my tears is "Lord, have mercy on me",
He lifts my head, and looks into my soul, and comforts me.
I am grateful.
Hands and Feet 145
“He makes my feet like hinds’ feet,
And sets me on my high places.
2 Samuel 22:34, Psalm 18:33
How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!"
Isaiah 52:7
"He trains my hands for battle;
my arms can bend a bow of bronze."
Psalm 18:34, 2 Samuel 22:35
"It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect."
Psalm 18:32
God is our enabler. When the Lord knocks on the door of our hearts and we invite Him in, He turns ordinary vessels into those that can be used for Holy purposes. He turns our weaknesses into His strength. He washes the dirt from our feet, making them beautiful as we are faithful to bring the good news of the Gospel, and sturdy enough to leap over the pits and snares that lay on our paths, and then stand in high places in His presence. The Lord is our navigation system- In Him we are never in the wrong place. He makes us battle ready-strengthened, armored, and more than conquerers. Today make the Lord your confidence, The eternal weight of His glory is being worked in you.
And sets me on my high places.
2 Samuel 22:34, Psalm 18:33
How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!"
Isaiah 52:7
"He trains my hands for battle;
my arms can bend a bow of bronze."
Psalm 18:34, 2 Samuel 22:35
"It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect."
Psalm 18:32
God is our enabler. When the Lord knocks on the door of our hearts and we invite Him in, He turns ordinary vessels into those that can be used for Holy purposes. He turns our weaknesses into His strength. He washes the dirt from our feet, making them beautiful as we are faithful to bring the good news of the Gospel, and sturdy enough to leap over the pits and snares that lay on our paths, and then stand in high places in His presence. The Lord is our navigation system- In Him we are never in the wrong place. He makes us battle ready-strengthened, armored, and more than conquerers. Today make the Lord your confidence, The eternal weight of His glory is being worked in you.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Listening and Doing
19 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. 21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.
22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.
James 1:19-25
We are called to listen more, speak less- and then do what we have heard. This principle escaped me for many years; hearing the word, the voice of the Master, but then doing nothing of what I had just heard!
In the natural world, we respond to those in authority over us, in the workplace, personal relationships, etc., but somehow we often choose to ignore the words of Life. There are blessings attached to this vital principle. V.25 reads "they will be blessed in what they do." We have all the tools we need, as the word tells us :"
for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ"(Eph.4:12). Step forward. God has given us the armor, tools & weapons, that we need to advance the kingdom, each of us where He has placed us.
There is one thing He hasn't given us: the spirit of fear.
22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.
James 1:19-25
We are called to listen more, speak less- and then do what we have heard. This principle escaped me for many years; hearing the word, the voice of the Master, but then doing nothing of what I had just heard!
In the natural world, we respond to those in authority over us, in the workplace, personal relationships, etc., but somehow we often choose to ignore the words of Life. There are blessings attached to this vital principle. V.25 reads "they will be blessed in what they do." We have all the tools we need, as the word tells us :"
for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ"(Eph.4:12). Step forward. God has given us the armor, tools & weapons, that we need to advance the kingdom, each of us where He has placed us.
There is one thing He hasn't given us: the spirit of fear.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
My Foundation 258
"If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast,but do not have love, I gain nothing. 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. 11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. 12 For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love."
1 Corinthians 13
God is love.
I want to be affected, and affect others, by the principles of these verses.
I want to wear His light and easy yoke.
Sometimes it's easier said than actually accomplished.
A bit of selfishness here, a hard heart there, a spark of offense sneaks in, and a runaway train wreck can happen- if love is not applied generously.
So I make every effort to apply love thick enough to fill and cover any bomb cratered roads, and reconstruct blown out buildings that I machined-gunned into rubble with bullets of anger. Today Lord, make me a lover, and a legacy builder.
LORD, Cover our shortcomings, failures, and inadequacies,
as You use your love to help us cover and build up others.
13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love."
1 Corinthians 13
God is love.
I want to be affected, and affect others, by the principles of these verses.
I want to wear His light and easy yoke.
Sometimes it's easier said than actually accomplished.
A bit of selfishness here, a hard heart there, a spark of offense sneaks in, and a runaway train wreck can happen- if love is not applied generously.
So I make every effort to apply love thick enough to fill and cover any bomb cratered roads, and reconstruct blown out buildings that I machined-gunned into rubble with bullets of anger. Today Lord, make me a lover, and a legacy builder.
LORD, Cover our shortcomings, failures, and inadequacies,
as You use your love to help us cover and build up others.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Thirsty
1 As the deer pants for streams of water,
so my soul pants for you, my God.
2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
When can I go and meet with God?
3 My tears have been my food
day and night,
while people say to me all day long,
“Where is your God?”
4 These things I remember
as I pour out my soul:
how I used to go to the house of God
under the protection of the Mighty One[d]
with shouts of joy and praise
among the festive throng.
5 Why, my soul, are you downcast?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.
6 My soul is downcast within me;
therefore I will remember you
from the land of the Jordan,
the heights of Hermon—from Mount Mizar.
7 Deep calls to deep
in the roar of your waterfalls;
all your waves and breakers
have swept over me.
8 By day the LORD directs his love,
at night his song is with me—
a prayer to the God of my life.
9 I say to God my Rock,
“Why have you forgotten me?
Why must I go about mourning,
oppressed by the enemy?”
10 My bones suffer mortal agony
as my foes taunt me,
saying to me all day long,
“Where is your God?”
11 Why, my soul, are you downcast?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
My Savior and my God.
Psalm 42
I am thirsty. I find that in my life with my Father/Bridegroom/King that I am in one of two possible places. Either His waves and breakers are sweeping over me, totally enveloping me, or I am in the Sahara. There is no intermediate between the two, it is one or the other.
We harvest what we sow; we either sow into the Spirit or sow into the flesh, but we are always sowing to one or the other, whether realized or not. The thirsty times are painful, what I imagine withdrawal pain would be to a drug addict, the scriptures stating,"my bones suffer mortal agony". I have know this sensation, it truly is agonizing. The goal of my life: to hope in God, to pursue Him, to feast on His Word, to hear the whisper of His voice and the roar of His waterfalls, to have my heart not ache because of not being in His presence, but to ache because I am lovesick for Him, and I know that only He can satisfy the desires and longings of my heart and soul.
so my soul pants for you, my God.
2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
When can I go and meet with God?
3 My tears have been my food
day and night,
while people say to me all day long,
“Where is your God?”
4 These things I remember
as I pour out my soul:
how I used to go to the house of God
under the protection of the Mighty One[d]
with shouts of joy and praise
among the festive throng.
5 Why, my soul, are you downcast?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.
6 My soul is downcast within me;
therefore I will remember you
from the land of the Jordan,
the heights of Hermon—from Mount Mizar.
7 Deep calls to deep
in the roar of your waterfalls;
all your waves and breakers
have swept over me.
8 By day the LORD directs his love,
at night his song is with me—
a prayer to the God of my life.
9 I say to God my Rock,
“Why have you forgotten me?
Why must I go about mourning,
oppressed by the enemy?”
10 My bones suffer mortal agony
as my foes taunt me,
saying to me all day long,
“Where is your God?”
11 Why, my soul, are you downcast?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
My Savior and my God.
Psalm 42
I am thirsty. I find that in my life with my Father/Bridegroom/King that I am in one of two possible places. Either His waves and breakers are sweeping over me, totally enveloping me, or I am in the Sahara. There is no intermediate between the two, it is one or the other.
We harvest what we sow; we either sow into the Spirit or sow into the flesh, but we are always sowing to one or the other, whether realized or not. The thirsty times are painful, what I imagine withdrawal pain would be to a drug addict, the scriptures stating,"my bones suffer mortal agony". I have know this sensation, it truly is agonizing. The goal of my life: to hope in God, to pursue Him, to feast on His Word, to hear the whisper of His voice and the roar of His waterfalls, to have my heart not ache because of not being in His presence, but to ache because I am lovesick for Him, and I know that only He can satisfy the desires and longings of my heart and soul.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Times of Refreshing/Repentance
“For thus says the high and exalted One Who lives forever, whose name is Holy, I dwell in a high and holy place, And also with the contrite and lowly of spirit in order to revive the spirit of the lowly And to revive the heart of the contrite.” Isaiah 57:15
“Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.” Psalm 3:19
“Revive me according to Your loving kindness, So that I may keep the testimony of Your mouth.” Psalm 119:88
"We love because He first loved us"
1 John 4:19
Repentance...refreshing...revival...renewal...
Biblical Israel, God's Chosen people, were always in a state of flux througout their history, they would be in a great place of surrender, obedience, and enjoying peace and prosperity as they are blessed by the Lord. Over time, though, complacency and lukewarm attitudes crept in, along with idolatry, and all of the manifestations of backsliding. The people then paid a heavy price as the blessings and protection of the Father were removed, after which repentance would fall, revival would come, and the people restored.
Their history is a reflection of our personal histories.
We get up...we fall down...we get up. I once heard, "the difference between saints and sinners is that saints keep getting up. We are flawed, imperfect creatures, it is incumbent on us to fix our eyes on perfection- Jesus. He loved us first, and it's God's lovingkindness that brings us to repentance when we slip from a high and lofty place. Revival is never far away, as long as we are willing to turn from wickedness, confess our mess-ups, and fall back into the loving arms of our Father/Bridegroom/King.
“Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.” Psalm 3:19
“Revive me according to Your loving kindness, So that I may keep the testimony of Your mouth.” Psalm 119:88
"We love because He first loved us"
1 John 4:19
Repentance...refreshing...revival...renewal...
Biblical Israel, God's Chosen people, were always in a state of flux througout their history, they would be in a great place of surrender, obedience, and enjoying peace and prosperity as they are blessed by the Lord. Over time, though, complacency and lukewarm attitudes crept in, along with idolatry, and all of the manifestations of backsliding. The people then paid a heavy price as the blessings and protection of the Father were removed, after which repentance would fall, revival would come, and the people restored.
Their history is a reflection of our personal histories.
We get up...we fall down...we get up. I once heard, "the difference between saints and sinners is that saints keep getting up. We are flawed, imperfect creatures, it is incumbent on us to fix our eyes on perfection- Jesus. He loved us first, and it's God's lovingkindness that brings us to repentance when we slip from a high and lofty place. Revival is never far away, as long as we are willing to turn from wickedness, confess our mess-ups, and fall back into the loving arms of our Father/Bridegroom/King.
Friday, March 18, 2011
In Our Midst 148
"They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'
Matthew 25:44
Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.
Hebrews 13:2
Angels are among us! Angelic visitations have never stopped, but in most cases we are simply unaware that we are in their presence. They are multi-purpose; guardians, warriors, messengers, sometimes they are sent to test us. We talk the talk, but when we are faced with a stranger who may have needs- hungry, sick, broke, cold, lonely- how do we respond? On the Day that the veils are pulled away, and we are allowed to see the whole picture, we will see just how many times angels were injected into our life situations.
I am reminded of a former pastor of ours who shared the anecdote of buying a fast food meal for a man who seemed destitute. The stranger thanked him, stepped out into a busy street, a work van going 30 mph passed between their line of sight, and when it passed a split second later, the stranger had vanished.
There are many such accounts, and while they are so interesting, beloved, we need to treat the least of these, every opportunity, with love because this is what love is. We are called to do all things as unto Jesus Himself. The Lord doesn't need to send angels- He is omniscient and omnipotent- He knows and sees everything.
Food for thought...
Matthew 25:44
Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.
Hebrews 13:2
Angels are among us! Angelic visitations have never stopped, but in most cases we are simply unaware that we are in their presence. They are multi-purpose; guardians, warriors, messengers, sometimes they are sent to test us. We talk the talk, but when we are faced with a stranger who may have needs- hungry, sick, broke, cold, lonely- how do we respond? On the Day that the veils are pulled away, and we are allowed to see the whole picture, we will see just how many times angels were injected into our life situations.
I am reminded of a former pastor of ours who shared the anecdote of buying a fast food meal for a man who seemed destitute. The stranger thanked him, stepped out into a busy street, a work van going 30 mph passed between their line of sight, and when it passed a split second later, the stranger had vanished.
There are many such accounts, and while they are so interesting, beloved, we need to treat the least of these, every opportunity, with love because this is what love is. We are called to do all things as unto Jesus Himself. The Lord doesn't need to send angels- He is omniscient and omnipotent- He knows and sees everything.
Food for thought...
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Majestic 260
Oh LORD, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory
in the heavens.
2 Through the praise of children and infants
you have established a stronghold against your enemies,
to silence the foe and the avenger.
3 When I consider your heavens,
the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars,
which you have set in place,
4 what is mankind that you are mindful of them,
human beings that you care for them?
5 You have made them a little lower than the angels
and crowned them with glory and honor.
6 You made them rulers over the works of your hands;
you put everything under their feet:
7 all flocks and herds,
and the animals of the wild,
8 the birds in the sky,
and the fish in the sea,
all that swim the paths of the seas.
9 LORD, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!
Familiarity with the names of the Master/Creator God sometimes can cause me to lose sight and take for granted the obvious: God's, and the sheer awesomeness of who He is, and how He thinks of us. We are surrounded by his handiwork; beautiful sunrises and sunsets, incredible sculpturing of mountains and landscapes. Even though this world has been corrupted by the Fall, we are living in an immense art gallery. God has given us administration over His creation- "handed us the keys"-
We are always on His mind and highly prized by Him.
We are loved with a jealous and everlasting love, and He has given good gifts to us.
Slow down a bit, beloved take a look around, and Praise Him -today and everyday.
how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory
in the heavens.
2 Through the praise of children and infants
you have established a stronghold against your enemies,
to silence the foe and the avenger.
3 When I consider your heavens,
the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars,
which you have set in place,
4 what is mankind that you are mindful of them,
human beings that you care for them?
5 You have made them a little lower than the angels
and crowned them with glory and honor.
6 You made them rulers over the works of your hands;
you put everything under their feet:
7 all flocks and herds,
and the animals of the wild,
8 the birds in the sky,
and the fish in the sea,
all that swim the paths of the seas.
9 LORD, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!
Familiarity with the names of the Master/Creator God sometimes can cause me to lose sight and take for granted the obvious: God's, and the sheer awesomeness of who He is, and how He thinks of us. We are surrounded by his handiwork; beautiful sunrises and sunsets, incredible sculpturing of mountains and landscapes. Even though this world has been corrupted by the Fall, we are living in an immense art gallery. God has given us administration over His creation- "handed us the keys"-
We are always on His mind and highly prized by Him.
We are loved with a jealous and everlasting love, and He has given good gifts to us.
Slow down a bit, beloved take a look around, and Praise Him -today and everyday.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Holy 149
"On that day holy to the Lord will be inscribed on the bells of the horses, and the cooking pots in the Lord's house will be like the sacred bowls in front of the altar. Every pot in Jerusalem and Judah will be holy to the Lord Almighty, and all who come to sacrifice will take some of the pots and cook in them. And on that day there will no longer be a Canaanite in the house of the lord Almighty."
Zechariah. 14:20-21
This scripture has personal profound significance to me- even common cooking pots will be like sacred bowls - and so labeled - HOLY TO THE LORD- this is the seal the Lord instructed me to tattoo onto the inside of my right forearm. If any of you have ever had a tattoo, you may know that the inside of the forearm is one of the most sensitive and painful areas to tattoo- the Lord showed me that this pain was necessary- endurance and perseverance, even with pain, will at times be required in our lives, stepping out of our comfort zone.
We are these vessels- common pots being remade for uncommon and holy purposes.
Do not say, "I have no gifts, no skills, I am broken and worthless - how and why would the Lord use me?"
We are entering the season where God desires to use all of us, He is searching the whole earth looking for those who are willing; He is inscribing his labeling and making us HOLY. The requirement: total surrender.
Zechariah. 14:20-21
This scripture has personal profound significance to me- even common cooking pots will be like sacred bowls - and so labeled - HOLY TO THE LORD- this is the seal the Lord instructed me to tattoo onto the inside of my right forearm. If any of you have ever had a tattoo, you may know that the inside of the forearm is one of the most sensitive and painful areas to tattoo- the Lord showed me that this pain was necessary- endurance and perseverance, even with pain, will at times be required in our lives, stepping out of our comfort zone.
We are these vessels- common pots being remade for uncommon and holy purposes.
Do not say, "I have no gifts, no skills, I am broken and worthless - how and why would the Lord use me?"
We are entering the season where God desires to use all of us, He is searching the whole earth looking for those who are willing; He is inscribing his labeling and making us HOLY. The requirement: total surrender.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Signs 150
Over and over the words are ringing in my spirit: When you see these things, look up, look up, look up, for your redemption draws nigh. Yes, the winds of Armageddon are beginning to blow. Jesus described our day when saying that "as the days of Noah were, so shall the coming of the Son of Man be … And they knew not until the flood came and took them all away." (Matthew 24:37, 39)
-Reprinted from Jerusalem Prayer Team, Dr. Mike Evans, 3/15/2011
Earthquakes and tsunamis, wars, and rumors of more wars, the love of many waxing cold and falling away, famines- these are the signs of the soon return of Yeshua ben David- Jesus son of David. The words of the Scriptures, Dr.Evans' message, and also from Dr.John Hagee just yesterday, reflect and confirm what I feel in my spirit. He is coming- people get ready. When? I don't know, but this I do know. I want to be found faithful, a bride made ready, pure and spotless, when the Bridegroom comes. I will cling to Jesus, He is my Rock, the Author and Perfector of my faith. While everything that can be shaken (sometimes literally) is being shaken, and the Refiner's Fire does its work, we are to hold fast, be ready, rejoice, and look up. Do not hesitate to share the Gospel wherever opportunity is, we are to plant and harvest, so everyday ask God to put those in your path. Let's do God work while there is yet daylight. Get ready.
-Reprinted from Jerusalem Prayer Team, Dr. Mike Evans, 3/15/2011
Earthquakes and tsunamis, wars, and rumors of more wars, the love of many waxing cold and falling away, famines- these are the signs of the soon return of Yeshua ben David- Jesus son of David. The words of the Scriptures, Dr.Evans' message, and also from Dr.John Hagee just yesterday, reflect and confirm what I feel in my spirit. He is coming- people get ready. When? I don't know, but this I do know. I want to be found faithful, a bride made ready, pure and spotless, when the Bridegroom comes. I will cling to Jesus, He is my Rock, the Author and Perfector of my faith. While everything that can be shaken (sometimes literally) is being shaken, and the Refiner's Fire does its work, we are to hold fast, be ready, rejoice, and look up. Do not hesitate to share the Gospel wherever opportunity is, we are to plant and harvest, so everyday ask God to put those in your path. Let's do God work while there is yet daylight. Get ready.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Easy 151
28“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30
Lord, there is nothing more I desire than to take your light and easy yoke. Yokes are generally devices that shackle, burden, and enslave, but your yoke actually buoys me up, pulling me out of the filth and pollution this world bathes me in, and sometimes, what I wade into. I desire the rest for my soul that only you can give, I long to sit at your feet and absorb everything that you are. Revive me Lord, nothing I desire compares to you. Your Love is better than wine; only you can satisfy.
Matthew 11:28-30
Lord, there is nothing more I desire than to take your light and easy yoke. Yokes are generally devices that shackle, burden, and enslave, but your yoke actually buoys me up, pulling me out of the filth and pollution this world bathes me in, and sometimes, what I wade into. I desire the rest for my soul that only you can give, I long to sit at your feet and absorb everything that you are. Revive me Lord, nothing I desire compares to you. Your Love is better than wine; only you can satisfy.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Haves and Have Nots 152
"What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you? You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions. You adulterous people![c] Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. Or do you suppose it is to no purpose that the Scripture says, "He yearns jealously over the spirit that he has made to dwell in us"? But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble." Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom.Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you."
James 4:1-10
This morning I am reminded here of what causes strife and discord...we do!
The enemy wants us to be self-absorbed, instead of Jesus-absorbed.
Our natural fleshly desires are self seeking and without submission to God,
quarrels and discord are inevitable.
But, oh the changes that are wrought when our hearts are thrown wide open and the "God shaped vacuum is filled with the Holy Spirit! Really the difference between night and day. The Word says that God is jealous, and one of His names is Jealousy.
Let that sink in!
He is jealous for us. He wants us-every fiber of what and who we are.
When we are totally surrendered to Him we submit ourselves totally, not half-heartedly, we are not thinking of ourselves. What happens when our hearts, minds, bodies, spirits, and souls are submitted to our Master? He meets us right where we are.
The Word says that "God will not leave the righteous forsaken, or begging bread".
If He feeds the birds of the air and clothes the flowers of the field then He will be faithful to take care of us, so we do not need to strive, covet, quarrel, or steal.
Trust in God alone, whose lovingkindness endures for ever.
Do not trust in things or world systems which will fail.
Today beloved seek the Lord while He may yet be found!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Shaken and Stirred 153
1 Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion,
which cannot be shaken but endures forever.
2 As the mountains surround Jerusalem,
so the LORD surrounds his people
both now and forevermore.
Psalm 125:-2
"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us."
Romans 8:18
"31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33 Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34 Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written:
“For your sake we face death all day long;
we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”[j]
37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[k] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Yesterday, March 11, 2011, one of the worst earthquakes in recorded history demolished Japan, followed by a massive tsunami, the loss in property and human life yet unknown, political upheaval, wars and rumors of wars, chaos abounding, and this morning we heard that our brother, Jim Maher, who headed up IHOP's Israel Mandate went to be with the Lord yesterday, taken in a motorcycle accident. These are difficult days.
But Beloved, we who trust in the Lord should have no fear though, except the fear of the Lord. We are unshaken, because He is the Rock that is higher than we are. We don't know the reasons because we are just the clay in the Potter's hands. I choose to remain surrendered to Him, to keep my heart soft and pliable, watered and washed in His Word, so I don't become hardened, and I encourage you to do likewise. The Word says, " Unless the Lord be on my side, I would've despaired" ...The Lord, who is Mighty, and who there is none like Him, sits high above the circle of the earth, and laughs at the His enemies. The Lord God is my defense, therefore I will not be moved.
Today, do not despair, instead, run to Him who is our ever-present Help and Strong Tower.
Remember that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever- FAITHFUL.
which cannot be shaken but endures forever.
2 As the mountains surround Jerusalem,
so the LORD surrounds his people
both now and forevermore.
Psalm 125:-2
"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us."
Romans 8:18
"31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33 Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34 Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written:
“For your sake we face death all day long;
we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”[j]
37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[k] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Yesterday, March 11, 2011, one of the worst earthquakes in recorded history demolished Japan, followed by a massive tsunami, the loss in property and human life yet unknown, political upheaval, wars and rumors of wars, chaos abounding, and this morning we heard that our brother, Jim Maher, who headed up IHOP's Israel Mandate went to be with the Lord yesterday, taken in a motorcycle accident. These are difficult days.
But Beloved, we who trust in the Lord should have no fear though, except the fear of the Lord. We are unshaken, because He is the Rock that is higher than we are. We don't know the reasons because we are just the clay in the Potter's hands. I choose to remain surrendered to Him, to keep my heart soft and pliable, watered and washed in His Word, so I don't become hardened, and I encourage you to do likewise. The Word says, " Unless the Lord be on my side, I would've despaired" ...The Lord, who is Mighty, and who there is none like Him, sits high above the circle of the earth, and laughs at the His enemies. The Lord God is my defense, therefore I will not be moved.
Today, do not despair, instead, run to Him who is our ever-present Help and Strong Tower.
Remember that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever- FAITHFUL.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Temptation & Deliverance 154
"For I do not want you to be ignorant of the fact, brothers, that our forefathers were all under the cloud and that they all passed through the sea. They were all baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. They all ate the same spiritual food and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ.
Nevertheless, God was not pleased with most of them; their bodies were scattered over the desert.
Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did. Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written: “The people sat down to eat and drink and got up to indulge in pagan revelry.” We should not commit sexual immorality, as some of them did—and in one day twenty-three thousand of them died. We should not test the Lord, as some of them did—and were killed by snakes. And do not grumble, as some of them did—and were killed by the destroying angel. These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the fulfillment of the ages has come. So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man.
And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.
But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."
1Cor.10:1-13
The children of Israel, having been delivered and passed through the parted Red Sea, having witnessed so many miracles and benefitted from them must've been elated and praised the Lord! Nonetheless, over time these same people fell to a variety of temptations- idolatry, sexual immorality, testing the Lord, grumbling; and their bones were scattered across the desert.
Our lives here, our journey, can be like that, crossing the desert towards our promised land - eternity with the Lord. We must be on guard and remain really careful. As Paul writes here, just when we think we are really standing firm and in a great place is when we are actually most in danger of succumbing.
Temptations swirl around, and I cast myself at my Abba's mercy and care.
I know He will not despise my weak love, and I am never too strong, too able, too resolute.
But my God is more than able, and promises to provide an escape route so that I can stand up under it.
Nevertheless, God was not pleased with most of them; their bodies were scattered over the desert.
Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did. Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written: “The people sat down to eat and drink and got up to indulge in pagan revelry.” We should not commit sexual immorality, as some of them did—and in one day twenty-three thousand of them died. We should not test the Lord, as some of them did—and were killed by snakes. And do not grumble, as some of them did—and were killed by the destroying angel. These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the fulfillment of the ages has come. So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man.
And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.
But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."
1Cor.10:1-13
The children of Israel, having been delivered and passed through the parted Red Sea, having witnessed so many miracles and benefitted from them must've been elated and praised the Lord! Nonetheless, over time these same people fell to a variety of temptations- idolatry, sexual immorality, testing the Lord, grumbling; and their bones were scattered across the desert.
Our lives here, our journey, can be like that, crossing the desert towards our promised land - eternity with the Lord. We must be on guard and remain really careful. As Paul writes here, just when we think we are really standing firm and in a great place is when we are actually most in danger of succumbing.
Temptations swirl around, and I cast myself at my Abba's mercy and care.
I know He will not despise my weak love, and I am never too strong, too able, too resolute.
But my God is more than able, and promises to provide an escape route so that I can stand up under it.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Spirit Empowered 155
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
Ephesians 4:29-32
When the kind of love that Jesus has is operating in us, the instructions for Christian conduct quoted in Ephesians happen automatically. Holy Spirit writes it on the tablets of our hearts. When we are empowered by this love (Jesus said, "Greater things than these shall you do") there will not be found in us- gossip, slander, coarse and rude joke telling, rage, anger, or the host of other ills . Love covers and heals, and drowns bitterness, etc., like the Red Sea drowned Pharaoh's army.
This empowerment is the direct benefit of being taken over by Holy Spirit, who sweeps into us when we surrender to our true Master, The Lord Jesus. We are always either sowing to the spirit or sowing to the flesh, we're always sowing to one or the other all the time.
Which would you rather reap a harvest from?
If love is not what is overflowing in you, and you are desperate for it, ask Jesus for it now.
"Behold, I stand at the door and knock.
Whoever answers and open the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with me."
Ephesians 4:29-32
When the kind of love that Jesus has is operating in us, the instructions for Christian conduct quoted in Ephesians happen automatically. Holy Spirit writes it on the tablets of our hearts. When we are empowered by this love (Jesus said, "Greater things than these shall you do") there will not be found in us- gossip, slander, coarse and rude joke telling, rage, anger, or the host of other ills . Love covers and heals, and drowns bitterness, etc., like the Red Sea drowned Pharaoh's army.
This empowerment is the direct benefit of being taken over by Holy Spirit, who sweeps into us when we surrender to our true Master, The Lord Jesus. We are always either sowing to the spirit or sowing to the flesh, we're always sowing to one or the other all the time.
Which would you rather reap a harvest from?
If love is not what is overflowing in you, and you are desperate for it, ask Jesus for it now.
"Behold, I stand at the door and knock.
Whoever answers and open the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with me."
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Rescued 123
"As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh[a] and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. 4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Ephesians 2:1-10
He made me alive, while I was dead!
Careful, my heart, that I do not forget, that no wisp of pride, arrogance, nor selfishness creep in. That the business of living does not minimize the facts: for it is by grace that I am saved, because of His great love and mercy...an amazing gift from my Father/Bridegroom/Master. He rescued me while I deserved death and punishment. It is by His grace alone that I am in this place, my feet plucked from quicksands of sin and death, making my feet like hinds' feet able to tread on high and holy places.
He made me alive-to live for Holy purposes- when I was a dead man walking.
Ransomed ...redeemed...rescued ...how then do we conduct ourselves? Live for what you are created for - holiness.
Ephesians 2:1-10
He made me alive, while I was dead!
Careful, my heart, that I do not forget, that no wisp of pride, arrogance, nor selfishness creep in. That the business of living does not minimize the facts: for it is by grace that I am saved, because of His great love and mercy...an amazing gift from my Father/Bridegroom/Master. He rescued me while I deserved death and punishment. It is by His grace alone that I am in this place, my feet plucked from quicksands of sin and death, making my feet like hinds' feet able to tread on high and holy places.
He made me alive-to live for Holy purposes- when I was a dead man walking.
Ransomed ...redeemed...rescued ...how then do we conduct ourselves? Live for what you are created for - holiness.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Wisdom 104
"Buy the truth and do not sell it— wisdom, instruction and insight as well."
Prov.23:23
"1 My son, if you accept my words
and store up my commands within you,
2 turning your ear to wisdom
and applying your heart to understanding—
3 indeed, if you call out for insight
and cry aloud for understanding,
4 and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,
5 then you will understand the fear of the LORD
and find the knowledge of God.
6 For the LORD gives wisdom;
from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
7 He holds success in store for the upright,
he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,
8 for he guards the course of the just
and protects the way of his faithful ones."
Prov. 2:1-8
We live in perilous times...world leaders say," peace, peace"... but there is no peace. The words of the politically correct, and others who are haters of those of us who are believers, real disciples of the Lord Jesus, use Orwellian double speak, lulling the undiscerning masses to sleep. These are times for wisdom. Why do God's enemies use every tool possible to keep people from wisdom & understanding? Because revelation comes with wisdom and understanding, when applied properly to our hearts...the revelation of the knowledge of God, and when that happens,the lies that have been crafted by the devil are incinerated by the Light. This is why so many people, once they receive Jesus, have they entire belief systems realigned. When I got saved in 1987 I had a total change- world view, life-style, everything- paradigm shift. Everything the world and university taught me was the opposite of GOD'S wisdom.
Battles lines are being drawn... Choose God's wisdom
Prov.23:23
"1 My son, if you accept my words
and store up my commands within you,
2 turning your ear to wisdom
and applying your heart to understanding—
3 indeed, if you call out for insight
and cry aloud for understanding,
4 and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,
5 then you will understand the fear of the LORD
and find the knowledge of God.
6 For the LORD gives wisdom;
from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
7 He holds success in store for the upright,
he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,
8 for he guards the course of the just
and protects the way of his faithful ones."
Prov. 2:1-8
We live in perilous times...world leaders say," peace, peace"... but there is no peace. The words of the politically correct, and others who are haters of those of us who are believers, real disciples of the Lord Jesus, use Orwellian double speak, lulling the undiscerning masses to sleep. These are times for wisdom. Why do God's enemies use every tool possible to keep people from wisdom & understanding? Because revelation comes with wisdom and understanding, when applied properly to our hearts...the revelation of the knowledge of God, and when that happens,the lies that have been crafted by the devil are incinerated by the Light. This is why so many people, once they receive Jesus, have they entire belief systems realigned. When I got saved in 1987 I had a total change- world view, life-style, everything- paradigm shift. Everything the world and university taught me was the opposite of GOD'S wisdom.
Battles lines are being drawn... Choose God's wisdom
Monday, March 7, 2011
Power 270
"For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."
Hebrews 4:12
After many years of being a believer, I'm always amazed how the power of God's Holy Scriptures, and how the impact and meaning of the Word, can affect one so differently depending on the situation and timing. "It judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart...it is as if the divine word somehow in a supernatural mechanism that our natural minds cannot begin to fathom, has a way of discerning what is in our hearts. My born-again-again experience, and the brokenness that caused it was a direct result of my Father's voice speaking through His Word, knowing exactly what was required at that moment. I don't know understand this divine mechanism, but I am grateful. Although I do read some other books, I am a one-book man, I only need the Bible, and I never ceased to be amazed by the breathtaking power that is contained in its pages.
Hebrews 4:12
After many years of being a believer, I'm always amazed how the power of God's Holy Scriptures, and how the impact and meaning of the Word, can affect one so differently depending on the situation and timing. "It judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart...it is as if the divine word somehow in a supernatural mechanism that our natural minds cannot begin to fathom, has a way of discerning what is in our hearts. My born-again-again experience, and the brokenness that caused it was a direct result of my Father's voice speaking through His Word, knowing exactly what was required at that moment. I don't know understand this divine mechanism, but I am grateful. Although I do read some other books, I am a one-book man, I only need the Bible, and I never ceased to be amazed by the breathtaking power that is contained in its pages.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
The Politics of Never
If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must master it."
Genesis 4:7
Above all, my brothers, do not swear--not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Let your "Yes" be yes, and your "No," no, or you will be condemned.
James 5:12
Have you ever said, " Well, I'll never do this, or I'll never do that?"
It is my experience that whenever I have said that I will "never" something, the Lord will allow that challenge to be brought right to my "doorstep". The strength of the resolve will be tried and tested, because this is a type of oath, and I usually end up eating my rash proclamations. Except for God's grace and mercy I would not be spared from my own words, and except through His power, I can do nothing. Day by day I call on the Name of Jesus, because he is life and my Light. My promises are frail, but my Abba's promises are reliable and trustworthy.
Genesis 4:7
Above all, my brothers, do not swear--not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Let your "Yes" be yes, and your "No," no, or you will be condemned.
James 5:12
Have you ever said, " Well, I'll never do this, or I'll never do that?"
It is my experience that whenever I have said that I will "never" something, the Lord will allow that challenge to be brought right to my "doorstep". The strength of the resolve will be tried and tested, because this is a type of oath, and I usually end up eating my rash proclamations. Except for God's grace and mercy I would not be spared from my own words, and except through His power, I can do nothing. Day by day I call on the Name of Jesus, because he is life and my Light. My promises are frail, but my Abba's promises are reliable and trustworthy.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Seventy Seven 271
"Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”
Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times."
Matthew 18:21-22
There are situations that arise in relationships where trespass, hurt, and offense happens.
A close friend or even a family member betrays or uncovers us, says or does something (either knowingly or not) hurtful, with a variety of injuries resulting, and when the dust settles we are left with the one thing that we have to do: forgive them .
Why does the Lord place such a high priority on us forgiving each other?
Why are we not supposed to, even allowed to, have unforgiveness when the other party might have deserved it totally? Love and unforgiveness cannot live in the same heart. Broken hearts are mended by love, we were created to love and be loved, but unforgiveness requires costly emotional maintenance, and that spirit has to be fed, and then it becomes a bitter root, then it becomes like a cancer. Unforgiveness kills love, joy, peace, and the rest of the fruits of the Spirit, leaving only misery, sadness, pain, anger, hatred, even resulting in physical illnesses - the opposites of the fruits of the Spirit. These are all manifestations in our natural lives, but there is another reason, even more important... Jesus tells us that unless we forgive, that our Heavenly Father will not forgive us.(Matthew 6:14-15)
We have been forgiven so much by the Lord, Jesus showed us how to forgive, even as He hung suffering on the Cross. Forgiveness unshackles us, and releases us to live life as Jesus promised us - abundantly.
Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times."
Matthew 18:21-22
There are situations that arise in relationships where trespass, hurt, and offense happens.
A close friend or even a family member betrays or uncovers us, says or does something (either knowingly or not) hurtful, with a variety of injuries resulting, and when the dust settles we are left with the one thing that we have to do: forgive them .
Why does the Lord place such a high priority on us forgiving each other?
Why are we not supposed to, even allowed to, have unforgiveness when the other party might have deserved it totally? Love and unforgiveness cannot live in the same heart. Broken hearts are mended by love, we were created to love and be loved, but unforgiveness requires costly emotional maintenance, and that spirit has to be fed, and then it becomes a bitter root, then it becomes like a cancer. Unforgiveness kills love, joy, peace, and the rest of the fruits of the Spirit, leaving only misery, sadness, pain, anger, hatred, even resulting in physical illnesses - the opposites of the fruits of the Spirit. These are all manifestations in our natural lives, but there is another reason, even more important... Jesus tells us that unless we forgive, that our Heavenly Father will not forgive us.(Matthew 6:14-15)
We have been forgiven so much by the Lord, Jesus showed us how to forgive, even as He hung suffering on the Cross. Forgiveness unshackles us, and releases us to live life as Jesus promised us - abundantly.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Caught Up
13 Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. 14 For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 15 According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words."
1 Thess. 4:13-18
We will be with the Lord forever! How exciting, how can we not be filled with joy, at the prospect and promise of being with our Lord/Bridegroom/King/Father for eternity? I am filled with gladness and peace because I know with all certainty that whether I go to "sleep" or my body is still alive on the earth when the Lord returns that I will be with Him. In light of this, why should we fear death? I do not, we should not.. It's a homecoming, so look forward and upward to the moment we cross the finish line in this marathon we call life. Our real lives are ahead of us, after our time in our temporary homes, our bodies, is through, and it will be glorious. So when you have a difficult day, or are going through hard things, look ahead. You are one day closer to home.
1 Thess. 4:13-18
We will be with the Lord forever! How exciting, how can we not be filled with joy, at the prospect and promise of being with our Lord/Bridegroom/King/Father for eternity? I am filled with gladness and peace because I know with all certainty that whether I go to "sleep" or my body is still alive on the earth when the Lord returns that I will be with Him. In light of this, why should we fear death? I do not, we should not.. It's a homecoming, so look forward and upward to the moment we cross the finish line in this marathon we call life. Our real lives are ahead of us, after our time in our temporary homes, our bodies, is through, and it will be glorious. So when you have a difficult day, or are going through hard things, look ahead. You are one day closer to home.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Promises
" Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
23 They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness."
Lamentations 3:22-23
Today (and every day) as the storms swirl about us and we are tried, tested, and stretched, we can take great comfort here. His love, compassion, mercy, and His faithfulness renew us...uphold us...strengthen us. His promises are true, and one of them states that "He will never leave us or forsake us. He is the Rock that is higher than we are, and this revelation gives us joy, and the Word states that , "THE JOY OF THE LORD IS OUR STRENGTH"
So...rejoice in the Lord today...and always.
for his compassions never fail.
23 They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness."
Lamentations 3:22-23
Today (and every day) as the storms swirl about us and we are tried, tested, and stretched, we can take great comfort here. His love, compassion, mercy, and His faithfulness renew us...uphold us...strengthen us. His promises are true, and one of them states that "He will never leave us or forsake us. He is the Rock that is higher than we are, and this revelation gives us joy, and the Word states that , "THE JOY OF THE LORD IS OUR STRENGTH"
So...rejoice in the Lord today...and always.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
The Lesson of Marriage/Toleration
22 Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. 24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.
25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her 26 to make her holy, cleansing[a] her by the washing with water through the word, 27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. 28 In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church— 30 for we are members of his body. 31 “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.”[b] 32 This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. 33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.
Ephesians 5:22-33
In this often quoted passage, we are given instructions on how to relate to our spouses. Wives to submit (often abused and misunderstood by many men), and husbands to love their wives( often misunderstood by everyone). Marriage vows made as two people gaze into each other's eyes at the alter are easy to declare but at times difficult to live out. Individuals have their own needs, desires, dreams, fears, weaknesses...and the process of learning to live together, united as "one flesh" has its trials and stormy moments. We are told that the keys to a successful marriage are grounded in how the Bridegroom deals with us, his Bride. What "submission" really is , what "love" is really all about, is revealed as we keep our eyes locked on the Author and Perfector of our Faith.
Everyday that we live and love our spouses - and others- our boundaries are being stretched, as we are called to put others before ourselves. This is an integral part of our walk, love is the engine that drives us down the narrow path.
The next time you find yourself irritated, annoyed, or inconvenienced remember how much the Lord loves us, makes good plans for us, and always has each of us on his mind, never considering us an imposition, but desiring to bless us.
Go and do likewise.
25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her 26 to make her holy, cleansing[a] her by the washing with water through the word, 27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. 28 In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church— 30 for we are members of his body. 31 “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.”[b] 32 This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. 33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.
Ephesians 5:22-33
In this often quoted passage, we are given instructions on how to relate to our spouses. Wives to submit (often abused and misunderstood by many men), and husbands to love their wives( often misunderstood by everyone). Marriage vows made as two people gaze into each other's eyes at the alter are easy to declare but at times difficult to live out. Individuals have their own needs, desires, dreams, fears, weaknesses...and the process of learning to live together, united as "one flesh" has its trials and stormy moments. We are told that the keys to a successful marriage are grounded in how the Bridegroom deals with us, his Bride. What "submission" really is , what "love" is really all about, is revealed as we keep our eyes locked on the Author and Perfector of our Faith.
Everyday that we live and love our spouses - and others- our boundaries are being stretched, as we are called to put others before ourselves. This is an integral part of our walk, love is the engine that drives us down the narrow path.
The next time you find yourself irritated, annoyed, or inconvenienced remember how much the Lord loves us, makes good plans for us, and always has each of us on his mind, never considering us an imposition, but desiring to bless us.
Go and do likewise.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Holding Firmly 135
"Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."
Hebrews 4:14-16
Jesus, our great high priest, has many names...strong tower, ever present help in times of trouble, healer, counselor, co-heir, Son of God, Guardian, Savior...Alpha & Omega- Today, as the challenge of living in the natural world that we are passing through, beats on us and can wear us thin, my mind centers on this thought: He is our lifeline, our carrier, a very strong tower. I am reminded today - not to grow weary. We can approach the Throne of God in confidence, without a doubt. I am rescued not because I am worthy, but because of His great love and the fact that He is worthy, and He keeps His Promises.
Today we receive His great mercy and grace, as we keep on "reaching and moving".
Hebrews 4:14-16
Jesus, our great high priest, has many names...strong tower, ever present help in times of trouble, healer, counselor, co-heir, Son of God, Guardian, Savior...Alpha & Omega- Today, as the challenge of living in the natural world that we are passing through, beats on us and can wear us thin, my mind centers on this thought: He is our lifeline, our carrier, a very strong tower. I am reminded today - not to grow weary. We can approach the Throne of God in confidence, without a doubt. I am rescued not because I am worthy, but because of His great love and the fact that He is worthy, and He keeps His Promises.
Today we receive His great mercy and grace, as we keep on "reaching and moving".
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