DELIBERATELY PURSUING GOD
PART 42
WHO WILL BE ASHAMED?

There is such a powerful story told in Luke chapter 19 when Jesus used a simple act of riding a colt into Jerusalem to paint a spiritual picture of the one of the most important events in human history. His followers were excited with His teachings about the Kingdom of God and the supernatural manifestations they had witnessed. With this seemingly small event Jesus was being revealed as the Messiah, the Savior of the world and a type and shadow of His future return as the triumphant King of all Kings. Let us pick up the story in verse 32. “And they that were sent went their way, and found everything as He had said unto them. And as they were loosing the colt, the owners thereof said unto them, why do you loose the colt? And they said, the Lord has need of him. And they brought him to Jesus: and they put their garments upon the colt, and they set Jesus thereon. And as He went, they spread their clothes in the way.” Laying branches and their garments down on the ground as a path for Jesus would be the equivalent of rolling out the “red carpet” so to speak for the arrival of the King as he rode into the city. Verse 37 say’s, “And when He was come near, even now at the descent of the Mount of Olives, the WHOLE multitude of the disciples began to REJOICE and praise God with a LOUD voice for all the mighty works that they had seen;”

Can you picture the excitement, expectation and exuberance? They are cheering just like people at a basketball game when the score is tied and there’s 10 seconds left. I can see bright eyes and smiling faces because their King is coming and they are not ashamed to shout, jump, dance and release their enthusiasm. So why are the churches of today quiet and why do the people seem bored? Where is the anticipation and excitement about the coming King? In verse 38 we see what they were shouting; “Saying, blessed is the King that comes in the Name of the Lord: peace in heaven and glory in the highest.” What a perfect example of an amazing worship service! Psalm 118, verse 28 say’s, “Thou art my God, and I will praise thee: Thou art my God, I will exalt thee.” They were not ashamed to be identified with their Lord and Master. They did not care about who was watching, (neighbors, bosses, storekeepers, friends, family), they were uninhibited, fearless and overflowing with the kind of joy that all of us experienced when we first became born-again. But evidently the “wise” elders of the religious world were watching and talking negatively among themselves. Verse 39, “And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto him, Master, REBUKE your disciples.” Sadly they were insulted with the commotion and all the attention this gathering is causing over an independent, rebel bible teacher. Their pride is causing them to become very uncomfortable just like many church “leaders” feel today when someone gets too emotional in their worship. Have you ever noticed when someone becomes lost in their freedom in the spirit and does not care what anyone thinks about them, that many who are not focused on the Lord will stare and make critical judgments against them?

People who must have perfect organization and cannot depart from tradition will always have a difficult time when God steps in. Religion leans on the mental ability to create structured programs and legal agendas and no room for the unusual. These distinguished gentlemen thought more of their personal respect and integrity than to stop for a moment and ask God what was happening. They reasoned in their flesh this scenario was out of order and ruled this was not in compliance with how worship was to be “performed” (besides being jealous of the new kid on the block.) They did not perceive they were in the presence of the Alpha and Omega, the creator of the universe, the author of all things including the Bible whom they claimed to obey to the letter.

Have you ever thought how that Jesus could have played the role of a diplomat and responded to the Pharisees like this; “Yes you are right this is an excitable bunch of extremist and I do apologize for making such a parade. I agree that the laying down of clothes and palm branches is a little over the top and I do realize it must be a bit awkward to hear them connect me with all those Messianic prophesies. Let me see if I can calm them down from acting so silly.” But of course He does nothing of the sort. Jesus knew they were blind and that many did not comprehend but proceeded to make a point to declare a spiritual truth that touches me deeply every time I think about it. Instead of trying to control the excitement He affirms the crowd’s gestures of heartfelt respect and worship. This very interesting comment from Jesus should make a profound impression in everyone’s life that professes to be a follower of Christ! Verse 40 say’s, “And he (Jesus) answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.” All glory to His name forever! What an awesome vision of the power and majesty of The Almighty God who is worthy of all praise! This is such a perfect example of God’s unyielding sovereignty to ensure the gospel would be proclaimed throughout the entire world and explains our purpose in life to never cease exalting Him and revealing His Kingdom gospel through the obedience of our lives. How much clearer could it be that we are not to hold back our expression of love and adoration no matter what the world thinks or how the religious system criticizes us. May we never be influenced by pride and the fear of man’s criticism that would prevent us from expressing our joy for the God of our salvation! Let us SHOUT His glorious attributes from the housetops because we love him! He is worthy of all honor, allegiance, adoration and glory, as we will praise and worship Him for all eternity. Revelation chapter 7, verse 12, “Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honor, and power, and might, be unto our God forever and ever amen.”

Do people who will not reveal their joy in public, release their expressions in private? It seems many churches have adopted the idea that being quiet is the same as reverence? Many have been deceived in thinking that stuffy dignity is the same as keeping everything decent and in order! But the Christian life is not hiding in the shadows of an emotional comfort zone. “The Way” demands the flame within our heart to be a testimony so that all can see Jesus! We will be an unusual, “peculiar” people when we lay down our pride and become BOLD to stand for God no matter what it cost. When the believer chooses to lay down their embarrassment and become spiritual “salt” God can use them to represent and increase His Kingdom. Lord, may we never be ashamed of you but join in the awareness of your constant presence as the seas and earth and sky bow before you. The mighty rushing of the wind roars His Words of judgment, as the gentle breeze whispers His peace. The lightning flashes His awesome power and the thunder echoes His omnipotence. The trees raise their branches to the heavens as they praise Him and the waters like the voices of many choirs sing of His authority and holiness. The warmness of the sun reminds us of His eternal security and the moon like a lit candle, chases away the fear and darkness of the night.

DELIBERATELY PURSUING GOD
PART 41
THE EXPECTATION OF GOD’S GLORY

Would we act any differently if God appeared in church one day? Would we allow Him to testify during the offering or would we put our programs away and humbly turn the service over to Him? Why would we act any differently whether we literally see Him or not? Surely you don’t suggest that just because we cannot see Him with our mortal eyes – we “forget” He is there? Are we not as His ambassadors supposed to be walking and ministering in His Spirit as if He were there? If many of today’s modern churches are not aware of God’s presence and are not expecting Him to conduct the services, then it makes one wonder just who is leading the church.

I have always been labeled a dreamer because I believe in miracles. I am just naïve enough to believe that when I go to church and we are in His presence that maybe God will appear or maybe His angels will reveal themselves flying around the sanctuary. I believe when the healing waters are stirred and hands are laid on the sick and oppressed – with faith something wonderful is going to happen! If I did not believe in the supernatural power of God to change lives I would not bother to attend. If I did not expect in faith that I am going to see the manifestation of God’s glory every time I would not be excited enough to participate. Yes sometimes I am disappointed but other times I am awestruck and those times of joy unspeakable keeps the fire of my faith and enthusiasm burner on high.

Moses had such an incredible life, let us look at what happened after he broke the tables of stone but before the Lord wrote on them the second time. In Exodus chapter 33 we see an incredible verbal exchange as Moses was asking God to have mercy on him and the people. Then Moses asked a bold request in verse 18, “And he (Moses) said, I beseech thee, show me your glory. And He (God) said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee; and I will proclaim the name of the Lord before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy. And he (God) said, you cannot see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live. And the Lord said, behold, there is a place by me, and you must stand upon a rock: And it will come to pass, while my glory passes by, that I will put you in a cleft of the rock, and will cover you with my hand while I pass by: And I will take away my hand, and you will see my back parts: but my face will not be seen.” So what was Moses really asking when he wanted to see God’s glory and why did he make this request? And just exactly what are we asking today when we also want to see God? I believe it is all about love! I believe Moses was so consumed and passionate to be at one with his creator and master that he simply wanted to be as close to Him as possible. The same is true now with those of us who get lost in the wonders of His person, who thirst to know God deeper, who love to lay their head on His chest and wipe His feet with the perfumes from the alabaster jar of their being.

Isaiah, in chapter 6, verse one mentions that either he literally witnessed the Lord in person or he saw the Lord in a vision but whatever the case, it builds our faith to know that God does appear to His people. “In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and His train filled the temple. (The word train in the Wilson’s Old Testament word studies gives the meaning as the lower part or skirt of a garment and it may signify here the rays of glory issuing from His lofty throne) Above it stood the seraphim: each one had six wings; with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he did fly. And one cried to another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of His glory. And the post of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke.” (Verses 2-4) So, do you expect to see God and His glory when you go to church? What do you expect to experience? Do you really desire to see God’s glory? We sing the song, “Show us your glory” but I wonder how many really have an anticipation to embrace God’s presence like Moses did. It would be interesting to hear some of the answers to why people do attend but hopefully it is to connect with their Lord. Without going through books of theological debates about why the word Shekinah is not found in the bible let’s just say it was coined by post-biblical rabbinic scholars that discovered the meaning as a physical manifestation of God’s dwelling and presence. Some of the references that contribute meaning to this word are interpreted as a thick cloud or the appearance of fire from His majesty and awesome power. In Exodus 24:16-17, we notice God hovering on Mount Sinai in the cloud and fire as Moses goes up into God’s presence for 40 days to receive the Ten Commandments. We see in Exodus chapter 40:34-38, how God’s glory cloud at times filled the tabernacle of Moses and was seen during the day residing over it. And again in Numbers chapter 9:15-23, we see more references explaining how the glory cloud and fire of God’s presence determined the movement of the children of Israel in their journeys.

Remember in chapter 3 of Exodus we see Moses herding sheep and the Lord speaks to him out of a bush that is on fire but is not being burned. In verse 5 God tells Moses to not come any closer but to take off his shoes because the place where he is standing is holy ground. In church we make reference to this often because we associate God’s presence in the sanctuary with the reverential fear of His omniscience. In verse 6 it say’s, “Moreover He said, I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, and Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God.” We are not to be afraid to approach Him but to be aware of His majesty and adore Him in awe and wonder. Even in the times when humans have encountered angels they have fallen to the ground on their faces because of the extended radiance from God’s holiness.

When you come to church do you expect to enter into the holy of holies? I have mentioned before that I personally relate to praise and worship like I am entering into a spiritual “type and shadow” of the gates and courts of His tabernacle. I concentrate as I proceed to deeper levels on my journey to where God is waiting. I expect to reach my destination and I long to be with my Lord and soak in His presence. If we do not feel like going or do not believe we can go, then I can see why many people fail to be enthused. This is the difference between singing songs and worshipping Him. Religion is satisfied with a religious history lesson and learning about God from a distance. Church ceremonies and rituals are enough to satisfy those who are comfortable with knowing about doctrines and the legalism of a man made social club. But those who intimately know God personally will always desire to “see” and spend as much time with the one they love as they can. Nothing can prevent us from meditating about our Lord or quench our strong desire to know Him. He is the air we breathe, our eternal salvation, our redeemer, our peace, comfort, hope and joy. We want to touch His face, we dream of Him, we desire to please Him and tell Him how much we love Him. He is the reason we live! It is not enough to just hear about Him and it does not satisfy to just read letters from Him – we live to abide in His presence.

DELIBERATELY PURSUING GOD
PART 40
THE INTENTIONS OF THE HEART

At times we have tried to figure out why God’s Spirit does not move like we envision it should in the church. We have felt the coldness and the apathy and thought about why God’s presence was quenched and the Holy Spirit was hindered but are dead services always the result of God’s people not being prepared and not taking their Christian responsibility seriously? How many negative forces does it take to have a gloomy effect on a congregation? Does the level of God’s power in the service have anything to do with how anointed the leaders are? What causes heaviness in the atmosphere and a seemingly weary, sluggish attitude? Maybe the church is not worshipping God because they do not have a clear conscience. Could this be why those who are not used to worshipping God in private intimacy are uncomfortable being free in church? If the spirit man is thirsty and excited to worship God and pride will not allow him do it – then the flesh being in control is causing the individual (and possibly the church) to be distant and lukewarm.

It is true that we can worship and give honor to God by singing songs but we also must remember that all who sing worship songs are not always worshipping. The same goes for those who are used in the gifts because all who speak out loud are not necessarily always in the Spirit and can fall into religious acts that are done out of trying to help God or just wanting to be seen. Let’s look at a few examples; just because people can sing loud or in key does not mean they are spiritually connected with what they are singing or even thinking about God. It might just mean they are trying to perform. Or some might make a point to brag about how much money they give in the offering because they want the power, authority, recognition and favor. And just because people can teach or preach does not mean they are the best choice to use in church ministry – because their heart may only be focused on their own glory. What about those who strive to be a board member, elder or deacon – not because they want to serve God’s people but because they love to be in control. Here is a another one; the Bible mentions about people who love to pray long prayers in public because sometimes they are just putting on a show or how the ones who are fasting want to show everyone how spiritual they are. These words are from Jesus Himself found in Mathew 6: 1-5

“Take heed that you do not give offerings before men, to be seen of them: otherwise you have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when you give do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward. But when you give, let not your left hand know what your right hand is doing: That your alms may be in secret: and your Father which sees in secret himself shall reward you openly. And when you pray, you will not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward.” And verse 7; “But when you pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they will be heard for their much speaking.” It’s not who, what or how much – but why.

Unfortunately many church members limit their personal worship experience to singing a few songs in a corporate church service each week because they have come to visit God in His house. They have planned their days and set aside a couple of hours to associate themselves with others and attend a religious program that in their own mind has earned them another ribbon of righteousness. But if this is the extent of anyone’s personal spiritual life then obviously they have never really had the “revelation” of Him being the Lord of their life. We are not to completely plan our life and then squeeze Him into our schedule – but rather we submit to abiding in His Spirit which is a lifestyle! Serious Christians will prepare their heart with prayer before they enter the sanctuary as they connect with Christ and His unified body. “And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us not cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.” (Romans 13:11-12)

Sadly, I believe many people are wearing a mask in church. We learn at a very early stage in our life that – we can appear to be something we are not because no one really knows what we are thinking. We learn how to adapt and say the right things as a form of manipulation yet conceal our real thoughts and feelings. Why and how do little innocent children choose to lie? Because when they learn their actions will result in serious consequences their conscience has a “built in” escape hatch called – deception. No matter how many times we hear that God can see through our heart as clear as crystal we still convince ourselves that halfway clean is good enough. The “double deception” is that while people are playing head games with everyone else they fail to realize they have been deceived by the very same demonic spirit. Being deceived is believing you are a certain way but not knowing what you really are.

Going through the motions of religion has never impressed God. “Because you say, I am rich and increased with goods and have need of nothing; but you do not see that you are actually wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel you to buy of me gold tried in the fire so you may be rich; and white raiment that you might be clothed and that the shame of your nakedness will not appear; and anoint your eyes with eye medicine, that you may see.” Revelation 3:17-18

Worshipping God is all about recognizing His holiness and those who are His followers will not just pretend to be holy. And, can I ask another question with all sincerity; what is happening to sanctification? Somehow the idea, (that it does not matter what the condition of our heart is when we worship The Lord) has leaked into our religious world views and philosophies. The enemy has quietly crept into our field at night and sown tares of false security into our thinking. He knows the more we flood our senses with the voices and images of the spirit of this age the more we can argue and justify the way we live within our conscience. Minds and hearts filled with lust, anger, lying, perversion, resentment, envy, hate and witchcraft cannot find harmony and the peace of God which is the foundation of spiritual worship. This “new age” church culture is turning more to entertainment and the feel good experience that soothes the troubled conscience but is resisting holiness. The chaos and confusion of a heart influenced by demonic suggestion and the carnal desires of undisciplined emotions cannot worship God in spirit and truth. The church must not tolerate blatant sin if it is to preserve its integrity. It is true – it is God’s church and He can take care of it but do we not have the responsibility to discern the impure intentions and counterfeit spirits of darkness? “I am not enough for many of my people anymore! I no longer meet their thirst, nor do I satisfy them now. They have rejected Me as their source; they thirst for another water! They have turned to the lusts of the flesh and the eye and no longer yearn after me.” (David Wilkerson prophecy)

DELIBERATELY PURSUING GOD
PART 39
THE BATTLE TO STAY FOCUSED

It never ceases to amaze me how many people never consider the Christian life as a full blown spiritual war. Some come in and out of church all their lives and never grasp the reality of spiritual resistance or the responsibility of intercessory prayer. If anyone does not sense or understand the difference between going to church and going to the movies they may need to double check Ephesians chapter six and make sure they personally know God. What does this have to do with worship? We will not move into the deeper glories of God’s presence without understanding spiritual warfare. Advancing in our knowledge of kingdom realities brings us closer to Christ.

Anyone that has ever led worship, been a part of a worship team, a pastor, preacher or has ministered from the pulpit knows exactly what I’m talking about when it comes to spiritual resistance. It is the same spiritual opposition that is felt when we become determined to increase our prayers, bible study, our giving or serving others. Unfortunately the devil sees our weaknesses and has learned how to push our “buttons” that can get us off track. It is no secret that he hates God and God’s people and works constantly to make everything as difficult as possible or stop it completely. So why is it important for our adversary to prevent God’s presence from manifesting? Because Satan knows very well that God’s presence is the highest power in all of heaven and earth. He realizes that people cannot change one another – only God can bring revelation and transform a spirit. He knows that in God’s presence, people’s hearts break and melt, the conscience becomes exposed, spirit ears are opened, conviction overwhelms the senses, blinders are removed from minds and eyes and lives are restored. He knows the more people that are touched by God’s presence the more witnesses there will be to tell the good news. The more deliverance and salvation – the more the world will change.

So, if we just stumble around in God’s Kingdom and allow our lives to be hindered and stay “beat up” all the time, how do we advance God’s Kingdom? Will we ever become the overcomer God wants us to be if we do not battle against this resistance? If Satan can keep worship to a few powerless songs he can keep God’s presence “top secret.” And if the enemy can bring intimidation to pastors that preach an uncompromising word, the devil can cause spiritual stagnation in the church which in turn breeds religious lethargy. The advancement of God’s Kingdom is at stake because the captives need to be set free and God’s people desperately need to be filled with the Holy Ghost, transformed in their mind, delivered from sin, healed in their bodies and empowered with faith. “Thy Kingdom come” will not come easy because every demonic imagination of spiritual darkness in the universe is equipped and ready to fight against God. That is why we must turn away from our “busywork” distractions and go to war with fervent prayer.

Many gripe and complain about all that happens in the church and yet never consider how much the leadership is fighting the forces of evil that desire to hinder and quench God’s desires. If the church is having problems it may not be the failure of those who are working hard in their ministry but maybe it comes from those who would rather whine than support. Instead of constant stabbing and murmuring behind the backs of those who are in the trenches doing hand to hand combat against Satan, maybe the arm chair quarterbacks should get on their knees and pray for the warriors. Friendly fire among brethren is what keeps God’s church bound up and powerless and is a shame to the Name of Christ. We are not at war with each other! Even if someone is doing something weird they are being influenced by confusing thoughts and us talking bad about them is not going to help because we need to use that energy to stand in the gap for them. Are we prayer warriors or pansy gossipers? “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds; Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” II Corinthians 10:3-5

It is elementary to say this, but it is crucial to be prepared. Preparation gives confidence – not in your flesh but in knowing that you have spent time with God and have heard His voice for what He wants to minister to the people. I make notes each day when something comes to me about a scripture or when listening to worship music and I use them to connect the dots until I can see an outline of God’s thinking. I try to listen as I read, pray and confess God’s word because I need to have an internal confidence that I am on the right track. I need to have a sense of relief that I have searched, obeyed, cried out, practiced and done all I can do before I step on stage which gives me courage to be a vessel for Him to use. If I did not depend on God’s strength, and know His anointing is being projected through me I could not even dream of opening my mouth. On the nights before I lead worship I already have some of the building blocks in place and as I sleep, the words of the songs and the direction of what I sense the Lord is saying will “play” in my spirit while my eyes and body rest. On Sunday mornings I wake up early and I am still listening for instructions as I try to find peace with the final details. After the process of seeking and finding, I can begin to extend my faith and confidence in that God has given the prescribed spiritual “medication” for the people and is going to empower me and the team to minister His word for that specific hour. This is the only way that I would ever have the courage to step on the stage to challenge, provoke and encourage the people to concentrate on the beauty of His presence and the promises of His unfailing word.

I have learned over the years to not only prepare to minister but to prepare my heart for distraction. I must meditate, focus and pray in the spirit before I enter into the spiritual arena. From the moment I walk in the door until the music begins to rumble I must stay calm with everything from equipment failures that can bring frustration, team members that are having personal problems (with me or with each other), to my own fatigue, and the congregations apathy. I also believe when someone new takes over in any leadership position the existing members will try to “test the waters” to find how serious they are with trying to establish order. In practice or just before service is probably not the best time to approach any leader with a disagreement about the music or a church member. Leaders prepare all week and extend their faith to follow through with what they believe is God’s vision. Pastors do the same thing as they are focused on their message and do not want to become heavily engaged with confrontations that may worry or upset them. I am concerned with everyone’s problems but it would be better to talk with me in private about it so I can focus my attention carefully before I respond. Trying to make correct decisions on the spot is difficult as I desire to do God’s will and not act on my emotions. True leaders that want to accomplish God’s perfect will must find the balance of having a direction and yet be open to what the Holy Spirit is saying – all at the same time.

DELIBERATELY PURSUING GOD
PART 38
TRADING DIAMONDS FOR GLASS

Anyone that has read the writings of the Christian reformers and the pioneers of the faith realize there is an identical theme that runs in their ministries; a hearts cry of loyalty, purity and commitment to Christ and His church. The fearlessness and sacrifice of these disciples are more than just tales of courage but are examples for us to learn what a real Christian should be. They practiced what they preached by choosing to grit their teeth with suffering persecution and resisting temptations no matter the cost. They all stood for purity and were aware of the reverential fear of God’s holiness and gave their lives trying to teach others about these revelations. Their obedience to God’s word and determination to stand against sin brought stability to the church by being a true witness to the world and proclaiming that God’s people were sanctified for God’s glory.

Of course sin has always been a huge problem in the church and the leaders had to constantly deal with the effects of corruption. We must praise God for their determination to not compromise because if they had relaxed and allowed the leaven to mix with God’s word, the church would have suffered more shame and embarrassment than it did. Sadly to say the church of today is facing it’s most challenging hour and in many places has turned away from the Holy Spirits fire of truth which has left many assemblies cold and lifeless. Pastors are feeling the pressure to compromise with sin because so many in the congregations live like the world and act like the world and do not want to hear correction. Pastors are becoming more afraid to speak out against the passions, lifestyles and attitudes of carnality. What does all this have to do with worship? Allowing the unrepentant mind set of sin to boldly come into God’s church and accepting it as a seeker sensitive religious idea is quenching the glory and power of God’s presence.

The Lord will not bless a religious game and He knows when His churches are filled with hypocrisy and deception. The sobering fact is that much of what is being offered as worship is unacceptable to Him because without the infusion of the Holy Spirit there can be no true worship. He will not mingle or pour out His glory with perversion and hard hearted people that believe they can live their own lives of daily pre-meditated sin. Worshipping “in Spirit and truth” is not just a clever saying but rather a solemn demand concerning spiritual reality. Jesus rebuked the religious world because they were putting their trust in a legal ceremony as they thought that going to church somehow could keep them in God’s favor. No one can embrace sin and allow their mind and heart to be filled with the darkness of the world and still seriously consider their soul to be secure.

Those who practice sin and participate in church with a confidence that everything is alright are blind, hard hearted and dangerously deceived. Why is it so important to lead and minister worship in the sensitivity and holiness of reverential fear? Because the Lord will only manifest His glory where there is brokenness, repentance, holiness, humility and the sincere desire to be transformed into the character of Christ. Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is near unto them that are of a broken heart; and saves such as be of a contrite spirit.” (The word contrite means repentant, sorrowful or sorry for sin, to confess sin, a sincere sense of guilt and the realization of the need to be restored and healed). When the congregation can come in laughing and talking about how much they enjoy dirty movies, music, television shows or other worldly distractions we have lost the respect and reverence of God’s presence. If we feel no difference between Gods house of prayer and going to the grocery something is very wrong. Either reverential fear is not being taught or a terrorist called “compromise” has put on a disguise and has sneaked in through the back door.

Where are the called full gospel preachers that are God’s fearless mouthpieces? Where are the warriors that give themselves to prayer and fasting so the power of God’s word can come forth with such anointing that all who listen are stirred and convicted by the Holy Spirit? Where are the sermons that reveal God’s anger against sin and the consequences for not yielding our will? The church should be so saturated with prayer from those who walk humbly before God that everyone who steps in the sanctuary are either broken in tears of conviction or shouting with joy. Let us not mold our religious traditions (as much as we believe they are right) into an idol that we put more faith in than God Himself. Let us not become so comfortable with our programs and styles that we put all of our expectation, excitement and confidence in them instead of the still small voice of God. We are not to be “seeker sensitive” in that we completely change the clarity of the gospel for the sake of worldly success. We are not to change the way God wants to lead His church just because we want to draw more people into our church. We should not be trying to make the sinner more comfortable in our sanctuaries but should be falling on our faces crying out in repentance for the mercy of God. Let us not be giving the impression that God does not care how we act which in turn gives the unlearned a false sense of security. If the unsaved is relaxed in our churches we will be held responsible for investing our life into a religious ceremony just like the Pharisees whom Jesus accused of being delusional.

It is no secret that children of God should not have attitudes and philosophies like the world but not much is said anymore about how they are not to “look” like the world. People will say, now brother, God looks on the heart and He does not care what the outside looks like. Well, if He is not concerned with how we present ourselves to others then why did Paul in first Timothy talk about modest apparel? I will tell you why: because modesty brings humility and reduces the urge to reveal the pride and glory of the flesh. Allow me to say this; it is true that our body is the shell (or temple – structure) that provides housing for our spirit but we are not trying to attract all the attention to the exterior. Actually we are to lose the prideful identity of our old nature so that Christ can be more easily seen in us. God’s idea is the less of me there is to see – the more people can notice the love and character of Jesus. The opposite would be to see how much flesh we can show with being provocative and sensual. Things we did to our bodies before we were saved are forgiven just like our other sinful habits and practices but after we are saved we are a new creature with a new pure way of thinking.

Tolerance is flooding into the Christian world and I can clearly see how sanctification is giving way to rebellion. I know that people do not like to be corrected or even counseled about their personal life but what about the next generation being heavily influenced by what they are seeing and how the church world is living? God’s word is stern and is being avoided because it is perceived as outdated and too conservative. People want the freedom to live the way they want and they desire to hear about the blessings and benefits of unlimited provision – just don’t mess with their life! Those who are excessive with trying to capture everyone’s attention with the beauty of their body and an “all about me” personality are (as chapter 4:1-2 describes) being led by the imaginations of their carnality. “Now in Spirit speaks expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron.” I have come to the conclusion that people who “remodel” their body and reveal as much of it as they can, desire for everyone to “glory” in their flesh. Whether noticeable body art, piercings, bizarre hair styles, clothing, make-up or any physical modification, the reason is always the same; it is the craving for attention. It does not take a bible scholar to see this is completely carnal and is as far as the east is from the west from spiritual humility and sanctification.

Body builders love to get on stage and pose for the world to see the glory of their hard work. Adult dancers, models, movie stars and rock stars love to absorb the attention from the world and devote their life for others to see their glory. We must resist the temptations that try to lure us into pride because God will not associate with those who love vanity. His word is very loving toward our spirit but also very strict against our flesh as we read in James 4:4-8. “You adulterers and adulteresses, do you not know that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. Do you think the scripture says in vain, The Spirit that dwells in us follows our desires to the point of envy to envy? But he gives more grace, as he said God does resist 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.” (This was directed to the born again church members).

When I was young I grew my hair long, had an earring, wore clothes that caused people to stare and drove a very flashy car for one reason; I wanted everyone to notice me. I wanted attention and loved the feeling of shocking people and making them take notice. I am not proud of the way I acted in fact I am now embarrassed to think of how I used to be but it reminds me of our corrupt human nature. I’m sure we all like to be noticed but we should keep a careful check on the reasons why we desire attention and talk with the Lord about not only how we should act but how we should look. It should be our highest priority to reflect on the outside what is happening on the inside. Newscasters are clean cut and dressed modestly because their appearance produces the respect and trust they need for people to listen and take their words seriously. Selah.

DELIBERATELY PURSUING GOD
PART 37
THE PSALMIST

There are many different ideas and interpretations of musical gifts of prophecy, song writing and spiritual mantles of leading worship. In our modern world of organized church assemblies there are levels of understanding that are directly connected with a pastor’s theology concerning the manifestation of musical gifts. This in turn has a serious impact on the extent God is able to become involved with “His” ministry in the corporate service. Pastor’s who are open to the gifts of the Holy Spirit and who are hungry for the supernatural signs, wonders and miracles will provide a more welcoming atmosphere for the Lord to manifest His glory. This will provide a safe haven and favorable environment for those that flow in the gifts of the Spirit. Every laborer who works in the Kingdom needs encouragement and an open invitation to develop and mature in what God has given to them. Just like every other gift the purpose of musical prophecy is simply to edify and build up the body and to bring glory and honor to the name of Jesus Christ.

The different musical styles of churches fall anywhere between not having instruments at all or only singing hymns, to complete orchestras and full contemporary prophetic worship bands. Some traditional churches may only have an organ or piano but hopefully all do respect music as not only a “vehicle” to receiving the promises and commands from God but also for all saints to release praise and thanksgiving back to God. Assemblies that do not recognize the prophetic ministries are missing a very important aspect of the spiritual communication between God and His people as a vital link to how the Lord desires to touch and minister in the hearts of His children.

Let us look at the gift of being a Psalmist. A Psalmist moves in the prophetic music realm and is a gifted person with sensitivity, discernment and creative talent to receive and relay revelation from God to the listener. They play an instrument and are given songs from the Lord that flow with their instrument and their vocal style. They are not practicing, training or trying to learn how to be a psalmist – they are selected by The Father to be one. They have been chosen and given the anointing to be used as a unique prophetic “channel” for God to flow through just like a preacher, pastor, teacher, writer or counselor.

Separating songwriting into categories is difficult to explain because most people never think much about it but one thing everyone can agree; music moves the soul. Most Christians refer to songs that are not about God or His Kingdom as secular, worldly, carnal, fleshly, sensual, heathen, humanistic or corrupt but it can be dogmatic to believe that all music outside of church is bad. Some songs are light and innocent and can actually cause the emotions to be uplifted with happiness and a sense of well being. Other songs can be serious and intense as they passionately tell true stories like a seamstress at her spinning wheel yet without necessarily being evil. Of course we all know that Satan has influenced millions of people around the world with certain brands of his dark musical poison that he has intentionally perverted into a destructive weapon. He realizes the power of music and will always deceive the masses with mirages that sparkle and promise satisfaction only to be revealed as illusions of death and ruin. The bottom line is that music contains a spiritual power that was created before the world was formed and can stir the emotions to violence and self destruction or “soothe” the conscience of the savage beast.

The psalmists were (and are) writers of musical messages that contain spiritual illumination. These biblical songs of knowledge and wisdom challenge and provoke the hearer to listen deeply with the spiritual “ear” of the heart because hidden within the music are the mysteries that reveal the person of God. The Bible say’s in Revelation 3:22, “He that hath an ear (who is sensitive and in tune with the Holy Spirit) let him hear what the SPIRIT (Holy Spirit) has to say to the churches.” The key to hearing is discovering 3D knowledge about the spirit realm with the simple act of desiring to hear, disciplining our flesh and delighting ourselves with His presence. It is common for the psalmist to minister songs that are written in first person as if God is speaking and the songs may come spontaneously without any effort. I personally have walked in this gift and many times found scrap pieces of paper to scribble down the entire song all at once. The melody would be in my spirit and when I came home I have literally picked up my guitar and sang the entire song. I know this is a gift from heaven and I was thrilled with these manifestations but I can also say they are not without the soul searching and self examination of having to walk through them personally. I was given a powerful prophecy in 1985, that I would not only be a Chenaniah or “leader of songs” but I would also write the “new song” of the Lord. God said that I would not just produce lyrics but I would – walk out the words of the songs I would write. Many songs were about commitment, holiness, purity, sacrifice and surrendering our will and I can confirm that word – it has been some hard walking. I have ministered in many churches and small groups over the years and thought that people would enjoy the musical messages only to realize God’s word is razor sharp and were piercing the comfort zones and secret places that people did not want to deal with. For a long time I was confused and felt rejected but now I can see how the conviction of God’s word brings frustration, silence, rebellion, guilt, anger and sorrow.

Psalmist will always write the down their musical messages and relay them back to God in the secret place of meditation. A psalmist plays and sings in tears as they serenade their love to an audience of one. Many times they feel isolated and feel that only a few can understand or relate to their world of spiritual thoughts, dreams and visions. This mantle is more than natural talent of skill and cleverness because their ability to minister in the anointing is from the Spirit. Psalmists also feel protective of what they have received as they take what they have been given very seriously and consider it holy. They long to share it with those who desire to hear the mysteries of God’s word and who are sensitive to listen and connect with the mind and presence of God. Non- Christians and saints who live in the outer courts will avoid the ministry of the psalmist (run the other way) because they sense God trying to intervene and knock on their door and of course no one really likes the idea of a burning alter and God calling them to lay down on it.

One of the most widely known and respected Psalmist of all time was King David. Many studies have been done on his life and all clearly reveal that he was a child of destiny. He had a strong anointing on him as a young lad and was as fearless as he was gifted. He was a man after God’s own heart and God loved him and walked with him in his greatest victories and through his failures. Along with several Old Testament books that reveal much of David’s life as a warrior and King, the book of Psalms highlight him as a gifted musician and Spirit led song writer of at least 74 of the 150 Psalms. The book of Psalms also reveals several other highly skilled musicians, singers and anointed psalmists such as Asaph, Jeduthun, Neginoth, Muthlabben, The Son’s of Korah, Solomon, Ethan and Moses.

DELIBERATELY PURSUING GOD
PART 36
SPONTANEOUS SONG OF THE LORD

The spontaneous Song of the Lord is a beautiful, special gift of musical prophecy that should be a precious asset in our corporate meetings but unfortunately has nearly become extinct. We hear an occasional tongue and interpretation and maybe (every now and then) a word of knowledge or a word of wisdom but many have never heard the spontaneous song of the Lord manifest. It is delivered in the same manner of the other vocal utterances as a “thus sayeth the Lord” type of message except it has a musical melody. It is more likely to see this spiritual phenomenon within the environment of the Charismatics and Pentecostals because they highly regard praise and worship in their services and are more free and open to all forms of musical expression. Unfortunately many traditional churches intentionally do not make room for the gifted to be used as called messengers of the divine. Man-made religious programs establish rules that limit “how” the style and personality of the church should be when it comes to the congregation speaking to God and allowing Him the opportunity to speak and minister back to the people through His Spirit.

The spontaneous song “of” the Lord is different from “singing in the spirit” which is also spontaneous but is simply expressing our feelings “to” the Lord and worshipping Him in our own words without preparing ahead. Singing in the spirit is an outward, holy connection with our spirit to God’s Spirit and is a beautiful accompaniment to our written worship songs but again must be given the time and space to evolve and come forth. The worship team must prepare the way with times of instrumental interludes that create the environment for the spontaneous. If no room is given, it is insulting to the Holy Spirit and quenches the intensity of God’s intervention. The same is true when learning to pause and wait on the Lord for the manifestation of the other vocal gifts. Worship that is technically “cut and dried” leaves no window for adding or extending the songs that can drift into more spiritual liberty and opportunity. The only thing needed to open the door to this heavenly sound is for the musicians to softly repeat a few chords and for the people to clear their mind of this world’s distractions and focus on the Lord Himself. When worship has brought us to the entrance to the Holy of Holies and God’s presence is heavy in the atmosphere it is crucial to proceed with extreme sensitivity. There must be an awareness to pause that gives the Lord an opportunity to speak. If the service is cut off because of mans need to continue with his agenda God will step back and not intrude. The Lord is always knocking but will not force Himself where He is not welcome.

The spontaneous song of the Lord ventures into the prophetic realm of messages to God’s people that includes warnings, corrections, edifications, promises, exposing secrets, giving directions, confirmations, encouragement, hope, comfort, and declaring visions of spiritual symbolism. This “new song” will usually arise from the stillness and tranquility in worship but can manifest wherever saints are meditating in God’s presence and thirsty to hear from the Lord. It does not need music to manifest and can effectively be released acappella into the atmosphere when the divine appointment appears. God knows the perfect place and time for all of His gifts to be released and it is up to all of us to walk close to Him so that we might be ready when He calls. The manifestation of prophecy with music or without is a sign and wonder that builds confidence through obedience in the one that releases it and encouragement through faith in those who has an ear to hear it.

Worship is a journey that begins at the gates of thanksgiving and proceeds through a series of life changing experiences. Each section of the tabernacle of Moses and each piece of furniture is filled with powerful symbolism that reveals how much God loves us and what He has done for us. Our entire Christian journey is seen through this holy blueprint that exposes the levels of our commitment, dedication and love for Him along with His requirements and expectations from us. Our spiritual understanding is beautifully laid out in this type and shadow as it continues all the way to the mercy seat where we stand face to face in the glory of His presence. When worship has brought us to the entrance to the Holy of Holies and God’s aura has flooded the atmosphere it is crucial to proceed with extreme sensitivity. Let us prepare our heart to release God’s revelations and prophecies. May we dream to step out into His anointing and go beyond the written lyrics, notes and arrangements with joy and excitement. Sing in the Spirit and learn how to tell Him in your own words the way you feel about Him with a song that has never been sung before and let us begin to imagine what it will be like to worship Him for eternity.
I believe it is very possible that Mary sang the Magnificat as a spontaneous song of the Lord. Individuals that have the “blessing” of being used in any type of prophetic vocal gift, operate under the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Just as the words of wisdom and knowledge, tongues and interpretations are used to communicate God’s instructions to the body, the musical prophet is included in the “family” of vocal prophecy gifts. The heavenly melodies and the arrangement of words and rhythms are used by the Spirit to pierce the conscience and bring healing, edification, correction and deliverance to the souls of those who have an ear to hear. This is far beyond the natural senses of emotion but rather from the omniscience of an all knowing, all seeing divine deity that understands each individual heart and what they need to hear at that moment. It is a Rhema word that is used as a confirmation of the spoken word and a supernatural manifestation that will build faith and strength. Spiritual music connects God with his creation and builds the bridge of intimate fellowship between them.

The devil knows all about “spiritual” music because as Lucifer he led worship in heaven and is evidently quite gifted and experienced. Since he is an expert musician and singer he has learned much about human nature and how to manipulate music style to fit the desires of the generations. He understands how arrogance and pride can ruin a person’s heart. He comprehends how music is connected with our lust and desire for power and how subtle music can influence the soul. We have heard of “familiar” spirits and this is one way Satan can “relate” to and control human emotion. The dark side of music can bring depression and establish defeat by compelling the listener to confess negativity and dwell on emptiness. Our words create our destiny and the deception is to get people to sing along with the declaration of death and failure. Worldly music is naturally filled with lies, lust and hopelessness because it is coming from a doomed kingdom whose agenda is to kill, steal and destroy. When we allow our senses to drink in the poison of humanism and carnality, these seeds begin to grow and we begin to evolve into what we are thinking. We must guard our ears and eyes to prevent us being transformed by the relentless pollution of our mind and realize that worldly music is not harmless entertainment but a spiritual danger.

Many times the spontaneous song of the Lord will arise from the stillness and tranquility of worship. It does not need music to manifest and can be released into the atmosphere when the divine appointment appears. God knows the perfect place and time for all gifts and it is up to all of us to walk close to Him so that we might be ready when He calls. The manifestation of prophecy with music or without is a sign and wonder that builds obedience in the giver and faith in the hearer. Years ago I remember going to a worship symposium and witnessed the flow of the prophetic songs of the Holy Spirit be birthed within the worship. In this scenario the worship team must prepare the way with times of instrumental interludes that create the environment for the spontaneous. If no room is given it is difficult to find any room for the gift. If there is no desire for the gift or a decision to not allow the gift there is little hope for the manifestation. The same is true when learning to pause and wait on the Lord for the manifestation of the other vocal gifts. Worship is a journey that begins at the gates of thanksgiving and proceeds through the tabernacle, the furniture and should continue all the way to the mercy seat. When worship has come to the Holy of Holies and God’s presence is heavy in the atmosphere it is crucial to proceed with extreme sensitivity. There must be times of pause or “windows” to give the Lord an opportunity to speak. If the service is cut off because of mans need to continue with his agenda God will step back and not force His Himself where He is not welcome.

There is a huge difference between a song leader and those who are worship leaders because one is only thinking about the song while the other is listening and waiting for prophecy. Of course this is directly connected to theology and the churches spiritual views. Just because someone has the natural ability to lead worship does not mean they are a called worship leader. The same is true with someone who enjoys singing and someone that is called to sing. The worship leader will usually have the anointing to weave God’s word within the music. They can exhort the people with whatever God gives them to say in the form of spoken words or spontaneous song. The beauty of free worship is also used very effectively when the words are allowed to come and be incorporated into a series of chord patterns. Sometimes a song can continue with just the chords being played which opens the door for new words. Worship should be a conversation with God and as free and sincere as our prayers.

DELIBERATELY PURSUING GOD
PART 35
KNOWING YOUR ANOINTING

All of us in our spiritual journey have thought about our personal calling in God’s Kingdom ministry and wondered if we are working in our predestined field. Through trial and error we learn how God has called us to “flow” in certain areas and this effectiveness is a sign that we are anointed to that particular labor. In first John the second chapter he states that we have an ability to know our calling. “But you have an unction from the Holy One, and you know all things. I have not written to you because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and that no lie is of the truth.” If you are willing to do what God calls you to do, He will not only create in you the desire to do HIS will, but He will also furnish the anointing to get HIS job done. “And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another comforter, that he may abide with you forever; even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it sees him not, neither knows him: but you know him; for he dwells with you, and will be in you.” John 14:16-17.

As we have said before everyone is not called to be a pastor, teacher, prophet, apostle etc… but everyone is called (and anointed) to a specific spiritual responsibility. The worship team is a perfect example where the gifts, talents and abilities for music are evident to prove the calling for this particular ministry. It is true that talent is not needed for a person to worship God! The ability to skillfully play an instrument or to sing melodies and harmonies in perfect key is not required to exalt and glorify the Almighty. You can lay on your face all day in intimate worship to Him and you can put on the garment of praise and dance before Him until you become so exhausted you collapse without ANY musical gifts. But this is not the same as being called and “anointed” to LEAD others into worship. It is obvious and disappointing to witness someone trying to force their desire to labor in a field they are not anointed to work in. We purchase and listen to our favorite singers, preachers and worship groups not just because they have good intentions – but because they are highly skilled and anointed to produce the ministry that applies “oil” to our soul. The ministry is not a place where anyone can do “whatever they like” in their flesh, but it is a divine puzzle that fits together perfectly only when each piece finds its designated place.

Let us stop for a minute and examine the anointing more closely. Unction is another term used for anointing that refers to being rubbed down, covered and insulated that renders the individual holy, separating them to God. There are several different verbs in the Greek that describe the word anointing. One is ALEIPHO which is a general term used to describe an application of refreshing oil to the head and feet after washing or to apply ointment to the sick or to apply spices to the dead.

The Greek noun CHRIO is confined to sacred holy oil with a spiritual symbolical anointing; a synonym of the person of the Holy Spirit, of the oil of gladness, and the literal confirming ceremony that applies oil to kings, priest and prophets. The declaration of being filled with the Holy Spirit applied to believers and of course the title of Christ as the Anointed One. This word also reveals how the gift of the Holy Spirit is the all- efficient means of enabling believers to possess knowledge of the truth of God’s word through illumination and revelation.

Learn to “draw” from the anointing that abides in you and you will not be deceived or confused about your decisions or direction. We do not walk exclusively from our head wisdom but we must learn to see and feel with our spirit man. Learn to lean from the Holy Spirit by confessing daily that you have the wisdom of God and that you know the difference between what is of God and what is from the world and human nature. Pray that you can become more aware of the Holy Spirit every minute so that He can guide you even in the small things. That is how we DEVELOP SENSITIVITY to our anointing and a “perception” for direction. When facing times when you must make crucial decisions just stop and ask yourself, “What is it that I really feel deep down in my spirit?” James 1:5 say’s, “If any one of you lacks wisdom, let him ask…” Jesus said in John 16:24 “…ask and you will receive…” And in John 2:27 it say’s, “…the same anointing teaches you of all things…” If you are sold out to God and are willing to trust the anointing, many times the desire you have in your heart IS the wisdom of God. We miss the beauty and blessings of God’s provision when we think manifestations of the Spirit and anointings are “only” available concerning spiritual matters of ministry. We have been given the anointing to know God’s direction for ALL choices, thoughts, ideas and decisions in our everyday life. “A man’s heart devises his way: but the Lord directs his steps.” Proverbs16:9. Jesus said in John 14: 26, “But the comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you ALL things, and bring ALL things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said to you.”

First Corinthians 12:14-25 is a wonderful passage that reveals how God anoints people for “one of a kind” purposes with unique and different ministries. Many have become entangled with frustration because they have drifted from their calling to try and be like someone else. Some may listen to teachers and singers and dream of being like them and practice imitating them only to discover the “well” is dry. We cannot minister without God’s anointing and He will not bless our agenda or our program just because we built it. It is not our life, our ministry or our destiny! We are chosen, created, purchased and given a pre-determined mission to accomplish called: “God’s perfect “personal” will for our life.” It is not divine order for God to bless our plans but rather it is for us to seek His face and find HIS will, then to work hard to obey, accomplish and fulfill HIS vision for us. In Psalm 37:4, David said “Delight yourself also in the Lord; and He will give you the desires of your heart.” The Lord is saying that if you will place HIS WILL as the highest priority in your life, His word will CREATE the desires of your heart. And your love and energy will be directed by the Holy Spirit rather than by your own imaginations.

I also believe many step out into their ministry before the Lord has given them the green light. They may have sensed the anointing and others may comment or give words of encouragement but there is also a time table with the Lord’s perspective of maturity and divine appointments. It is also very important to remember humility with our anointing and to not think more highly of our abilities than we ought to think. If we know our calling and operate in that anointing, others will be aware of it and we will not need to advertise. On the other hand if we are laboring in the wrong field without the anointing it will be just as obvious to everyone who has spiritual discernment.

“Now we have received, NOT the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God…he that is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who has known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 2-12, 15-16

DELIBERATELY PURSUING GOD
PART 34
THERMOMETERS, SWITCHES AND ELEVATORS

There are two kinds of spiritual conditions; HOT – and everything else in between. Just like the two different sizes of spiritual roads (broad and narrow), the two different attitudes of the heart is what IDENTIFIES each person and each church. A spiritually strong church is filled with people that have embraced the revelation of letting go of the love of this world. They have been presented with the spiritual realities of being mentally transformed and have made the commitment to stay in the operating room until the work is done. I am not even going to ask what this has to do with worship because once again, our thirst to worship God reveals the temperature on our relationship “thermometer” with Him. Worship is our outward expression to God – that unveils our internal love for Him.

Christians that listen to the word of God will always find themselves standing in a crossroad that presents the choices of taking the detour to “carnal parkway” or to just stay straight on the “holiness interstate”. Those who are filled with God’s spirit and know what is right are constantly faced with the convictions of being a doer. When a person sells out of this world’s system and the control of their own life and desires to follow God completely, then the steel plates can be taken down that once protected the “switch” of their conscience. When the follower of Christ has allowed the switch to be flipped, they will never be the same again. That is exactly what happened to Peter, Andrew, James and John in Mathew chapter four.

“Elevate” means; (to raise or lift to a higher level; to improve one’s moral or intellectual awareness; to improve one’s spirit) and as we elevate with Christ, the intensity of our light will increase as we go to higher voltage. The deeper we go into God the more our eyes will be opened to see how much more there is to enjoy. It is the same concept of how the more we learn the more we realize we do not know. The problem is there are multitudes of lighthouses but very few that are “turned on.” Worship is not an EVENT – it is a lifestyle! It is not that people are not connected and plugged into the power source – it is the refusal to “let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Mathew 5:16) It is not that Christians do not have knowledge and the understanding of what they should do, but they will work overtime trying to avoid the most important “command” to crawl onto the alter and be consumed. God desires to take us from glory to glory, higher and deeper but has given each person the free will to make their own decisions. You see we can have ALL of God we want. There is nothing (except our own decision) that is stopping any of us from worshipping, praying, studying and seeking His face every day, every night and every moment. The problem is that we go to God like we shop at Krogers. We push our basket around, take what we want and leave. When we have all of God we want, we will not develop or progress any further with Him. Unfortunately most of the church world already has all they want. Selah – –

There is an epidemic of lukewarmness. This attitude does not care about quality or excellence and never gets anything accomplished that is worth anything. It is a “barely get by” mentality that is poison to a company, an organization AND a church. Since it does not really care about anything and has no deep love or commitment it will not blink an eye to backstab and criticize. If people do not believe the cause is worth the cost – they will not support it or pour their heart and soul into it. The simple truth; if people do not value a soul they will not pray or have a burden to witness. If they do not value the church they will not give or serve. If a person does not love God with all of their heart, they will not surrender their will to Him and if people do not love to worship, they will hinder the atmosphere.
Maybe the reason why some do not worship the Lord is because they know the bible stories about Jesus but have never personally experienced Him. (I see the pictures of presidents on my money everyday, but I never knew them personally.) Maybe they already worship so many other idols there is no room left for God. Maybe some are living in a lethargic coma. Or maybe the reason why people are not concerned with worshipping God is because; they have never deeply fallen in love with Him.

I want to share a word from the Lord that pierced my heart with conviction. This was written on a scrap piece of paper and handed to me by Michelle at church on June the 27th. “You cannot be “in like” with me; you must be “in love” with me. “In like” will only take you to the gate, but “in love” will take you all the way into where I am. “In like” will not crucify your will; “in love” will make you say, not my will but your will be done, no matter where it takes me or what it cost me.”

DELIBERATELY PURSUING GOD
PART 33
WHAT IS AT STAKE?

Awareness is a very important part of our Christian walk. We have no problem being aware of ourselves because much of the time that IS the only person we are considering. We might be able to stretch out a little and be aware of others if it includes us being curious or if it might help us somehow. But it cannot be said enough that what we all need to be aware of – all through our day and night; is the presence of Jesus Christ. Our sensitivity to the Holy Spirit will make the difference between how effective we are in our personal spiritual “success” when it comes to being used in moment by moment divine appointments. And what does all of this have to do with worship? Keep reading. Of course the first thing people will think of is the responsibility of the senior pastor to teach the word of God for that particular hour. Or for the worship pastor to be “led” by God to minister the carefully selected songs or someone who might give a tongue or correct interpretation. But the general congregation may not understand how THEIR responsibility is equally crucial as a working member that is jointly fitted and called to minister life to each other.

Allow me to begin with saying that most of us to not have a clue to how we are being watched constantly. The more we progress in our Christian development the more we are held to a higher standard. Our words are a very simple but powerful act we do that reveals so much about us. Let’s just focus on our time in church with one another and look at something very common yet extremely important. It is just as devastating to say the wrong thing – than to not say the right thing. For example; if we have an opportunity to give encouragement to someone and just shrug it off, then that person can go out the door without the much needed word of hope and strength they may have desperately needed. Maybe they were going through a marital crisis or had been to the doctor and are waiting for test results. God could have arranged a divine appointment for us and we denied the manifestation of the blessing. Could we be sitting next to someone that has been considering suicide because they cannot deal with the pain and disappointment of their life? Could this service be their last hour of hope?

Here’s another example. What if a woman was not sensitive to the clothes she wore to church and was willing to reveal more than her good personality? This may sound silly to some but it is a perfect illustration of the importance of awareness. It is common knowledge that men are sexually stimulated with what they see, where women tend to lean toward the emotional realm. And the world is filled with the “merry-go-round” of women being used to tempt men with every imagination. But the church is a place that should be off limits to this type of scenario. If a man comes to church and is trying to find God and the hope of being born again and then becomes distracted by a woman that is exposing too much flesh, it could ruin his intended spiritual experience with God that day and actually lure him into deeper lust. What if since he allowed those thoughts to possess him during that church service, he walked away because his flesh won the battle and he died that afternoon? What if us being critical to someone or rude caused them to turn away from the church and be defeated because they became offended? What if God told us to give someone some money and we chose not to because we thought it did not matter and they went to bed hungry that night? What if we spend more time watching television that we do thinking about how we can help be a blessing to others? What if the church grew cold because we failed to fast and pray for revival? James 4:17 say’s, “Therefore to him that knows to do good, and does not do it, to him it is sin.” Isn’t that the sin of omission? How many souls are depending on people like us to be obedient to God? Who will care enough to consider what is at stake?

I want to tell a true story that just happened a few weeks ago. A friend of mine pastors a small church in a nearby town and is blessed to have a lady that is faithful in attendance. Her husband would come every now and then but seemed to keep his distance. My friend had visited the man and he confessed that he had drifted far away from God in his life but had become hard and calloused over the years. He was now 74 years old and was just floating along in his own world. On this particular Sunday, he and his wife came in together like they had done several times before and nothing seemed unusual. The congregation was nice to them and I’m sure some had been praying for the man. The worship team selected the songs and ministered them and then my friend preached the message. He gave an alter call and all of the sudden the man raced down the aisle and fell on his knees and began to cry out. People were amazed but very happy and relieved to see someone like this break before God. They all prayed with him and spent some time with him after the service. My friend said he seemed to glow and there was a sparkle in his eyes. The very next day he had a severe stroke while driving to a café for breakfast and wrecked his vehicle. His brain was so damaged by the stroke it could not support his organ function and as they removed the life support he quietly passed away.

Many different thoughts come to mind when I think of this story. Was it something that someone may have said? Maybe someone told him they had been praying for him and with tears in their eyes maybe he felt the convicting power of agape love. Maybe it was the prayers that someone had taken into their closet and had been interceding and standing in the gap that brought a stirring to his heart? Was it a certain song that the Holy Ghost used to pierce his soul or was it the life changing power of God’s word that exposed his desperate need for a Lord and Savior? Whatever it was, “someone was used” and we all can agree there is no greater miracle. God so longs to use us as His instruments because He has so much He would love to do. He sees the future and knows each minute what is going to happen which makes how we “walk” in His spirit have so many possibilities. Imagine how much more God could do if we were “tuned on” 24 hours a day and “tuned in” to His frequency instead of all the other things we watch and listen to.

Like Jesus, we all need to walk and think about the Fathers business, always discerning, always sensitive to the needs of others. Some may say that God will accomplish everything He wants to do whether I participate or not, but that may not be the case. If we do not “believe” God enough to become sensitive to His voice then how can we be used? If we do not “believe” God enough to be a “doer” of His word how will it get done? In Mathew chapter 13 we have a disturbing true story of how much work God wants to do and how the lack of faith and obedience can prevent change. Jesus came into his hometown trying to teach, but the people allowed their familiarity with him to offend them. Verse 58 say’s, “And he (Jesus) did NOT many mighty works there because of their unbelief.” We all are making a difference in many peoples lives everyday but the question is; are we having a positive or negative effect? Are we being aware of our accountability in what is at stake?