THE WALK
PART 52

THE WALK OF VICTORY

Have you noticed the battle is intensifying? If you have not recognized the increasing darkness, maybe you are not fighting the good fight of faith! Do not become like the frog who sits in the pot of water that is on the stove. The water is “gradually” heated and the frog does not notice he is being boiled alive. “Fight the good fight of faith; lay hold of the eternal life to which you were summoned and (for which) you confessed the good confession (of faith) before many witnesses.” (I Timothy 6:12 AMP) There is such a thing as “earnestly contending for the faith” and that means to (strive in combat) and be active toward the cause of Christ. “Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that you should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.” (Jude 3) We talk and sing about victory but what are we being victorious over? We can be victorious over sin, ONLY when we become more pure and holy. This only happens when we are determined to resist temptation and sacrifice our flesh. The church wants to shout and dance about the rapture but very few want to talk about being a living sacrifice! Yes, Jesus is our victory but victory is never easy or cheap. On the battlegrounds of war, there are dead soldiers, fires burning and the landscape destroyed. As the survivors are wounded and changed forever, it would seem hard to describe “victory” without acknowledging the great price of blood. Likewise, the cost that Christ paid to give us the victory is not something we can casually say without realizing the COST of His suffering.

Are we enduring tribulation as a good soldier of Jesus Christ? Maybe you are not taking spiritual warfare seriously, but rather allowing yourself to be entangled with the affairs of this life that doesn’t please your Lord. Maybe? (II Timothy 2:3-4) There are two sides; the body of Christ of our Father God (I Corinthians 12:27; Mathew 6:9) and the body of Satan of the father of the devil (Revelation 2:9; John 8:44). If you do not choose God, by default you automatically get the devil! (Mathew 12:30; Acts 26:18). Brother Billy, I choose Jesus but why is it when I start reaching out for Him the battle increases? Because as you yield to the Lord, He opens the door wider for more of His Holy Spirit to flow through you. Moreover, the only reason resistance becomes more fierce is because you are moving in the right direction! Be encouraged – remember, victory is DEFINITE! “For God has not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (II Timothy 1:7). IF we keep putting our faith and works together in the authority of Christ, we will be fulfilled in the Kingdom that is to come! “But, thanks be to God, which gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Corinthians 15:57). Keep walking on the devil and know that he is defeated every day, (John 17:18; I John 3:8; Mathew 10:7-8). Do not stop confessing and taking the land! (Joshua 1:3; Luke 10:19) Everyday in your life make sure that Jesus gets everything He paid for with His blood! Warriors – CHARGE!

We see a very interesting and encouraging story found in II Kings chapter 6. Syria and Israel were at war and the king of Syria was troubled because whenever he attempted a military strategy he would discover that Israel was always one-step ahead of him. He had a meeting and asked his servants if they had any information about a traitor in their midst but they said they had heard about a prophet of God named Elisha that had the ability to see the future and help the king of Israel. Therefore, he sent a large company of soldiers and chariots by night and surrounded the city of Dothan to kidnap Elisha and thus eliminate the gifted spy. Very early the next morning the servant of Elisha noticed the entire city was about to be attacked at any moment. He asked Elisha, what could they do and he answered in verse 16; “Fear not: for they that are with us are more than they that are with them”. Now I am sure the servant was confused and wondering about this statement the same as we would act if we were in a crisis that looked hopeless. How many times have we faced a critical situation and used our human reasoning and logical thinking to find a practical solution to our problem? If we only look to what is available to us in our brain then we are destined for defeat because we do not wrestle with flesh and blood but our true warfare is in the spirit realm. In II Kings, chapter 6 and verse 17, Elisha prayed and asked God to allow the servant to have a glimpse into the next world. We talk about the eyes of our understanding being opened and ask the Lord to “open the eyes of our heart”, but what does that mean? The servant’s understanding of truth went from imagination to literal and this spiritual enlightenment allowed him to KNOW divine reality the way God sees it. “And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha”. Seeing the truth was much more thrilling and faith building than the veiled truth. Revelation transforms our “vision” into a tangible substance that is real to our spirit. It is a privilege to peek behind the curtain into the next dimension and see the mysteries of the spiritual realm. This is not to say that we should not believe in the things we cannot not see because faith KNOWS, “without seeing.” God is saying, that everything we take at face value and then later discover how much work and how many people were involved to produce the finished product, was all done according to His perfect plan. When we thought life was out of control we later realize that God had His steady hand on the wheel. The lesson that is being revealed here is for God’s people to understand there is another world at work all around us and to be sensitive of good and evil at all times. Behind the veil of mortality, there is another world of spiritual reality and since we are spiritual beings living in a natural realm, we must use discernment to live this higher wisdom. The encouraging news to us who straddle these two dimensions is that God has complete authority and control over “both” and He wants us to be aware of what is going on all the time.

We have a clear understanding that angels are fighting battles for us behind this “curtain” as demons have been assigned to destroy us. How many times have we avoided “accidents” and never realized we were in serious danger? When demonic creatures have pointed their arrows at us and swords have been drawn, how many times have angels intervened on our behalf and delivered us from certain defeat? Let us remember there are many more servants of God willing to help us on the other side than enemies who are against us. Moreover, walking in this holy knowledge gives us confidence in knowing that situations are not always the way they seem. The devil uses ignorance of God’s Word against the saints and “bluffs” them into surrender and defeat. Fear is one of our most devastating issues only because we have either never learned about the next dimension or we refuse to believe it is true. Let us who are children of the light praise and worship our Lord for providing our constant protection and security. Transformation and being renewed is all about opening the eyes of our heart. Selah.
“He that commits sin is of the devil; for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.”
(I John 3:8)

“They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.” (Revelation 12:1)

“For the Lord your God is going with you!
He will fight for you against your enemies, and he will give you victory!’” (Deuteronomy 20:4)

“Do not be afraid of them,” the Lord said to Joshua, “for I have given you victory over them. Not a single one of them will be able to stand up to you.” (Joshua 10:8)

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, for thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” (Romans 8:31-32)

“Yet amid all these things we are more than conquerors and gain a surpassing victory through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded beyond doubt (am sure) that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things impending and threatening nor things to come, nor powers, Nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord”
(Romans 8:37-39)

“Victory comes from you, O Lord. May you bless your people.”
(Psalm 3:8)

“For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.” (I John 5:4)

“My soul, give thanks to the Lord, all my being, bless His holy name. My soul, give thanks to the Lord and never forget all His blessings. It is He who forgives all our guilt, who heals every one of our ills, who redeems our life from the grave, who crowns us with love and compassion. He fills our life with good things, renewing our youth like an eagle’s.
The Lord does deeds of justice, gives judgment for all who are oppressed. He made known His ways to Moses and His deeds to Israel’s sons. The Lord is compassion and love, slow to anger and rich in mercy. His wrath will come to an end, He will not be angry forever. His Word will never fail.
Our Father does not treat us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our faults. For as the heavens are high above the earth so strong is His love for those who fear Him. As far as the east is from the west, so far does He remove our sins. As a father has compassion on his sons, the Lord has pity on those who fear Him. For He knows of what we are made, He remembers that we are dust.
As for man, his days are like grass, he flowers like the flower of the field; the wind blows and he is gone and his place never sees him again. Nevertheless, the love of the Lord is everlasting upon those who hold Him in fear; His justice reaches out to children’s children when they keep His covenant in truth, when they keep His will in their mind.
The Lord has set His sway in heaven, and His kingdom is ruling over all. He is the ultimate authority of all things and no one is more powerful than He is. Give thanks to the Lord, all His angels, mighty in power, fulfilling His Word, who heeds the voice of His instructions. Give thanks to the Lord, all His hosts, His servants who do His will. Give thanks to the Lord, all His works, in every place where He rules. My soul, give thanks to the Lord, and bless His Holy Name.” (Psalm 103)

THE WALK
PART 49

THE WALK OF PRACTICAL MINISTRY

“Abstain from evil (shrink from it and keep aloof from it) in whatever form or whatever kind it may be. And, may the God of peace Himself sanctify you through and through (separate you from profane things, make you pure and wholly consecrated to God); and may your spirit, soul and body be preserved sound and complete (and found) blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (The Messiah). Faithful is He who is calling you (to Himself) and utterly trustworthy, and He will also do it (fulfill His call by hallowing and keeping you).” (I Thess. 5:22-24 AMP)

At times, we need to share our thoughts because we have seasons when our perception becomes cloudy, while others may be able to see a more balanced view because they are observing from a different angle. I can say with conviction that it is very important to be careful whom you share your most intimate visions. Mockery and ridicule is becoming more rampant within the fabric of our culture which has bred sharper tongues with less sympathy and compassion – even in the church environment. We realize there are many weird ideas out there and unfortunately, there is much suspicion and doubt of the super-natural, which is always ready to chip away at faith and hope. Remember that God is ALWAYS working in the super-natural because HE IS super-natural, and walking in His Spirit includes visions and dreams. Only share with those who love you and care for your soul to speak into your life. Selah.

Discernment is crucial when making strong bonds of trust. It is sad but true that people you look up to are sometimes fleshly and not always concerned with your well-being. You would think that ministers and leaders would be more loving and have you on their minds – but do not be deceived. Anyone can be cordial in public to your face, yet have no substance in their personal relationship with Christ. If leaders are not red-hot in their prayer life then do not expect them to even think about you or remember your problems. Praying is a direct result of love and can be justly measured on the spiritual balances of genuine concern. If leaders do not seem to sincerely love you “just for who you are”, it is probably the best decision to be nice and just stay on the “surface” with them. You can only be as trusting with them in the ministry as they are intimate with Father and you are not obligated to remain under their authority if they are not submitting to Christ as the Lord of their life. These ministries are usually just trying to build their own legacy and will surround themselves with those who can help them.

We have heard the phrase, “people person” and we casually presume it means someone who has the “gift of gab” or charismatic charm when it comes to communicating, but I believe it is much more than that. My view of a genuine people person is a rare individual that actually listens “beyond” the words of others with a commitment to being sensitive to hear not only the cry of someone’s heart, but also what God has to say on their behalf. Sadly, many who love to communicate do not necessarily care about the lives of the ones that are pouring out their heart but are just using this time as an opportunity to take advantage of them. I have known some people that were convinced they were really good at connecting with everyone but in reality they were deceived. Have you ever shared your problem with someone that you knew was not really listening? What about the ones that try to come back with a story of their own that is even more traumatic or they just pat you on the back and say that it will all work out while looking at their cell phone? It is very common to find people who love to talk about how life is treating them and their world-views, but do not really care about how others are hurting. Only those who abide in God’s love have the desire, interest and wisdom to “hear” a soul in crisis and in the arena of spiritual ministry, this is vital for divine appointments. Ministry is not telling everyone what to do but it is being consumed with agape love – which always desires the best for others. Humility is becoming extinct because we live in a calloused society that continues to lure leaders away from being selfless and harden them into being selfish! Sadly, even many pastors have become so caught up with their own agenda – they have little concern to really listen or pray for anyone else. We all need true friends and strong respected leaders that we can trust for counseling and confide in because we “believe” they are walking with God. Sadly, it is alarming to realize that genuine followers of Christ’s character are rare. Proverbs 11:14 say’s, “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety”.

I realize this may sound elementary, but make certain before you move out in a ministry that you have heard the Fathers distinct voice telling you NOW. Just because you know HIS direction, also make sure you are moving in HIS timing. For example, many missionaries have moved out too fast and failed, not because they were not called, but because they were not prepared. God is never late, he is always on time! He has planned our lives for thousands of years with careful planning and charts out a unique course for each of his elect. This is not to say that all things are carved in stone before they happen but some things are destined according to the Fathers sovereignty. It is true that our limited free-will can help or hinder God’s plans, which is why the importance of walking in the Spirit is mentioned so many times throughout scripture. Step out in faith – but just make sure it is HIS time! “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching for those things that are before. I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus”. (Philippians 3:14)

If you feel led to delay or alter your course, maybe there are loose ends that need to be tied up before you leave. Sometimes there are business and financial situations that need to be settled, so that your integrity is preserved. Also, if you are married there must be an agreement that you both have heard from the Lord in the decision. When a couple has confirmation they are in God’s perfect will, there is nothing more exciting but if a spouse is not completely convinced about the change, there is nothing more miserable and the move is probably destined to have problems. Also, if you are blessed with children you will need to direct your attention to some special issues that would pertain directly to how this change will affect them. You must have God’s peace in your spirit about these sensitive “behind the scenes” areas or you will not be as effective as you could be on the frontline. Do not be offended if you are not “blessed” with encouragement from family and friends. Sad but true, many times you are not quite as loved or respected as you thought you were. It is a difficult lesson but unfortunately people are not as appreciative of your labor as you would have thought. Do not be discouraged but settle the issue within your own heart by telling the Lord that all of your work was for Him and His glory. “For I say, through the grace given unto, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” (Romans 12:3)

You are a minister of God in EVERY area of life – ALL the time!
It is important to minister love and life to everyone in your network including the eyes and ears of strangers. It is crucial that you NOT be a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hide, because this will hinder your anointing and without God’s power to live holy, your attempt to labor for Him will be powerless and ineffective. Make a list for the purpose of forgiving each person that has failed, discouraged, offended or betrayed you and make sure you are clean of all resentment and “hard feelings”. If you sense it is necessary – speak a kind yet firm declaration to those who have hurt you, that you forgive them and are following the Lord’s call and that you would appreciate their prayers. (This releases you from a root of bitterness and gives humility a chance to develop in your life.) How they choose to react is between them and God. Maybe The Lord will reveal to them an important lesson about their lack of spiritual concern and through conviction of the Holy Spirit their eyes may be opened to a revelation that can change their attitude. If people think your ideas are foolish and out in left field, then do not even ask or expect their intercession, support or encouragement. Sometimes you might discover that people just do not respect you because you do not believe like them. Life is filled with politics from the tip to the toe, yes even in the “religious” arena and who knows all the reasons why people act the way they do. If you are not received, dust your feet off and keep going. Father has plans for you each minute of the day and it is exciting to see what is just around the next corner. It is true that you and the Lord can accomplish anything but He uses other people as links in a chain, to form a support system that can open the doors we need to accomplish HIS perfect will.

Where are all the resources going to come from? Three things; Prayer – Prayer and more Prayer! Praying is not only to change things “around” us – it changes US into His image! The battle to overcome our carnal flesh is a serious sacrifice that is OUR responsibility. Couch blessings are a fantasy! There is much LABOR to do for Him and that involves OUR faith! He is calling for His children to fall on their knees (and roll up their sleeves) to become what Jesus died for them to be. We pray, believe and know that where He guides – He provides. Selah. Seek His specific will night and day, so you will KNOW when and where to act. Be instant in season and out of season and be ready to show the “doorkeepers” your ideas so they can see the vision God has spoken to you. Preparation is the most important work you can do because, IF YOU ARE NOT READY – YOU WILL MISS YOUR DIVINE APPOINTMENT. He is not working within our plans – we are following Him! Are you moving in His dreams and visions? Are you waiting for Him, or Is He waiting for you?

THE WALK
PART 48
THE WALK OF SALVATION III

3. Representing God’s Kingdom

I was invited a while back to play some live music at a country store that sells Christian and primitive crafts. I noticed several plaques and pictures that said, “You may be the only Bible some people ever read”. I was reminded about how I had been convicted lately of dropping my guard in front of those I work with and how easy it is to “blend in” with people that are not children of the light. I realize that Jesus associated with the everyday Joe, but He did it all – without sinning. There are no legitimate reasons for allowing ourselves to become a hypocrite. Our determination is measured by the burden we have for other people’s souls. It is all about love and if we can allow love to be developed within our heart, I believe everything else will fall into place. I know it is strong language but I must face it head-on and not hide behind the long list of excuses that we love to whine about. When we meet someone for the first time it is easy to raise our standard to the top because they have only seen our best effort to portray an image. The problem comes when we see someone everyday and it becomes apparent that we cannot keep up the stress and labor of walking the tight rope of perfection. This “stress” comes from us not being spiritually filled-up enough or prayed-up enough, to relax and allow Jesus to do the ministering “through” us.

The best example of familiarity that all married couples can understand is how well behaved we are when we are trying to capture someone’s heart when dating. Then after the wedding we begin to pull off the mask and be more honest with our mate. We become relaxed and comfortable and tend to let go a little more each day until many times we become nothing like the image we were trying so hard to be. The same is true with the people we work with when we let down our guard and become too relaxed. It might start with laughing at a crude joke or agreeing with someone when they are backstabbing another person. Then someone might have a picture of pornography and you willingly lean in to see. After awhile your team begins to look at you in a different light that is less pure and less respectful than before. A strong Christian emits a type of conviction which establishes a standard that people are aware of. God uses this to remind the lost they are hopeless in their own strength and they need to reach up to Him. When Christians backslide, the higher standard they have been called to falls down to the lower level of the unredeemed and unfortunately they begin to feel comfortable and justified with the current state of their lifestyle. Without the conviction from the so-called Christian, the sinner grows more confident and will actually end up lashing out at the backslider with mockery and hate. We as Christians must hold the bar high for the sake of obedience to God and the love for lost souls. So how can we stay strong and not fall prey to becoming lukewarm and overly familiar with friends and family? Here are seven simple points to remember as we pray and ask God to help us be salt and light to the world and especially to those who “know” us.

• GO TO THE DRAWING TABLE: This is another way of saying we are going to make the willing decision to become a living sacrifice upon God’s alter. Maturity is a process that progresses and advances. When we are convicted to move up to a higher level with God, it is good to lay our cards on the table and evaluate where we are and where God wants us to be. Obviously our flesh does not want anything to do with the hot burning coals of as sacrificial furnace because it spells death but that is exactly what we must endure to become transformed into his image. Gold is purified with heat for the purpose of refining and removing the impurities. We protect our secrets and our will but these are the very things we must “hand over” to him. Without this kind of serious commitment we will continue on the frustrating merry-go-round of religious depression, failure and frustration. When someone wants a new “custom” house built they first go to the architect. God is our author and the finisher of our faith and if we are going to become a new structure then we must go to him first and allow him to design us and build us “his way”. We have developed habits that are so hard to break that it leaves us depressed because we realize we are a hypocrite. We try to hide behind the mask of “I’m ok” but it leaves us with a sad, empty feeling inside. We must admit that we cannot change on our own and openly confess that we desperately need him. We say we know and understand there are two realms; one that is lived in the spirit and one that is carnal but just knowing it is not enough. We claim to love God and desire to walk in his spirit but somehow we cannot seem to control ourselves; the truth is – we cannot.

• PRAY FOR AWARENESS: I know we seem to enjoy playing games but God is really not amused and does not think we are funny or cute. He does have patience with us as we are trying to learn but there comes a point where we must begin to grow. I believe that Father wants to reveal the way we are and is hoping that we will come to our senses and see ourselves the way we really are. The Word of God is intended to be a mirror that exposes our own condition which in turn should develop humility. Worship is bowing before God and giving honor and adoration to Him that is Omnipotent, omniscient and Omnipresent. Pride is being self-deceived and is one of the most common and dangerous problems between Father and mankind. If we are ready to stop living in denial then our eyes need to be opened to the “reality” of our problems and the “revelation” of what he is saying. We first need to realize that we need to change – then let us ask God to show us our own attitude and to make us aware of the way He wants us to be. If we are really serious about changing into His image, we will fervently pray for Him to do a deep work in us. If we are satisfied with being religious and do not believe we need transformation then our odds for failure increases drastically. Many people have all of God they want and do not desire any more. They are not praying for awareness because they are uncomfortable with the truth. Selah.

• NO SUBSTITUTE FOR OBEDIENCE: Whether we want to admit it or not we will all be judged in the light of our obedience. We are constantly bombarded by someone trying to help us become a better person and steps to help us become happier. The truth is these self-help methods and ideas will never bring us spiritual peace unless they include obeying God and his word. We want to volunteer and serve in charitable organizations and we might even work within the structures of ministry but cringe when faced with personal obedience. We want to create our own life filled with our own ideas but once again God is not impressed. The Christian life is not just a philosophical arrangement of morals and values it is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. This is based on us hearing his voice and responding to his voice. The hay, wood and stubble of our works and deeds will be burned up in the final judgment because they were either not God inspired or were in direct opposition of what he was trying to tell us.

• KEEP A PRAYER JOURNAL: This may sound simple and really it is, but it has the practical potential to cause a personal revolution in our spiritual life and that is our goal. We all say we know that agape love is what being a Christian is all about but do we really practice it? What I mean is; do we really take the time to think about the needs of others and say a specific prayer for them? Get into the routine of keeping a journal and include within the pages the names of those that you know who need a touch from the Father. This will also cause a stirring that will lead to self-examination and repentance because we must become pure and holy before we go to the throne of his alter. This spiritual habit is very powerful and will bring us closer to him, fill us with his spirit and help us to walk more sensitive in his presence. As we begin to actually care more for others we will begin to reflect his image and character more than ever before. This is real Christianity! Let me also add that moving into the direction of serious prayer produces the power that shakes the foundations of the universe. We must prepare for intense spiritual warfare because the enemy pays more attention to fervent prayer than most anything we can do for the kingdom. It is exciting to record the victories and celebrations of what God has done. Maybe the reason why saints do not have prayer journals is because they do not pray. We focus and spend time with what we are interested in. Of all the things we can do – there is nothing more important than prayer. Prayer is the holy fruit of spiritual love.

• A BURDEN FOR SOULS: It is no secret that we as Christians spend most of our communication time with God asking for “things” that will bring pleasure and what we think will satisfy our flesh. What most people never realize is that our petitions usually are thin when it comes to concentrating and focusing on others. Let us take the time to write out a brand new prayer list and change our way of thinking not for any other reason than agape love. Selfish request are for the young Christian but as we grow into maturity we should begin to see deeper than just the shallow “feelings” of our flesh. What if we made a list of request that was devoted exclusively for our spirit and had nothing on it for our flesh? Try asking God for more spiritual things like, having a burden for lost souls, more wisdom, more love, to be a generous giver and so on. God is filled with love and has a burden for souls twenty four hours a day but we are so concerned with our life that we have become calloused. If we are not filled with his spirit then we will not see people the way he sees them. Ask God to make you less sensitive of the world’s temptations and more aware of peoples needs. Selah. May we be filled with his discernment and grow to love and care about souls enough to pray for their salvation.

• WHO WILL COMMITT? Billy Sunday once said,” Many people have just enough religion to make them miserable”. We talk, talk, and talk all day and all night about things we really do not understand because we have refused to sacrifice the quiet time necessary to know God. It is so much easier to talk about the holy alter of sacrifice than to actually crawl upon it and be refined by God. This is exactly why prayer is the most “talked” about Christian duty yet the least practiced. We have become a “ME” society that has grown more concentrated on self. Our pride causes us to judge others according to our opinions without even considering what God might say. This negative attitude has a direct influence on how much we choose to help others who are in need. Devoting any of our time for the purpose of expressing true love toward others or to God himself is a labor worthy of our sacrifice. We are servants OF Christ and TO Christ. We will never come into the fullness of God’s will or become the useful vessel he has called us to be without becoming a lump of “willing” clay in the hands of the Potter.

• DISCIPLINE IS PAINFUL: In sports, discipline is widely known as the key to becoming the best you can be. Those who are disciplined are not just more likely to succeed but also gain the respect from all who know them. Discipline is an outward sign of someone who is serious, focused and determined. Those who are not disciplined are labeled as lazy, uncaring, and not dependable. Therefore, if we apply these same conditions in a spiritual light we begin to see how the Lord moves within the hearts of His people within the boundaries of their passion to love Him. Of course, it is not easy to adjust our words and actions so that we can gain more humility, but it is worth it if we desire for God to have more confidence in us. This in turn will create a chain reaction that will be noticed in our character. The question must be asked, “Just how much desire do I have to change into the image of Jesus?” Discipline does not fall from the sky but comes from the hearts of those who want it more than anything. Selah. As a man thinks in his heart so is he, which leaves no doubt, as to who we really are. Amen.

THE WALK
PART 47

THE WALK OF SALVATION II

Dangerous Attitudes of Wealth

I have been involved with Charismatic teachings over the years and have some insight about the doctrines of wealth and prosperity. One of the main themes in this particular sect is the emphasis on material wealth and how God has included this blessing within His covenant. Learning is a never-ending quest for knowledge and yet the more I learn – the less I know. This article is not intended to be a money “basher” because I believe that money can be a blessing and I do believe that prosperity is included in the New Covenant. I believe that wealth is NOT evil in itself – but rather it is the “effect” that wealth has on the carnal conscience. Finances used in the right way according to God’s will can do many good deeds and bring glory to God.

As much as we desire money and believe it is a good thing, when it comes to the meaning of life and what is truly important in this world, I am beginning to understand that money falls to the bottom of the list of spiritual priorities. We are ready to pounce on those who speak in a negative way about materialism because we feel it is much better to be rich than to be poor, but in reality, money does NOT make us happy. Money cannot bring us contentment or deep personal satisfaction because it is only a “tool” that can help us accomplish something. If it is used to do God’s will, then it has the anointing and blessing upon it to bring Glory to His Name. If money is used with carnal motives and fleshly desires, it is wasted and becomes an instrument of darkness.

Why does the Bible say it is better to give than receive? Because our deeds are recorded and our obedience will be rewarded in this life and the next. The nature of God is to give as He “gave” His only Son to die for our sins, as He has also given us the beautiful earth to live in and the blessings of health and the opportunity to be saved and walk with Him in this life. So, does being wealthy inspire a person to give generously or does it cause a person to actually become more selfish? Being wealthy does not automatically produce a giving attitude. Selah. Remember the character of “Scrooge” that became possessed with piling up every penny he could make. He even seemed to suffer from his own greed by not allowing himself to enjoy the benefits of his wealth. Hoarding is the opposite of having the spirit of generosity and is in direct contrast to the Spirit of God.

I personally do not believe a person has to be rich to be a “lover” of money. There is no doubt many people who live in poverty are possessed with the love of money. The sobering thought here is how dangerous it is to become snared in this trap as the Bible say’s the love of money IS the root of ALL evil. On the other side of the fence, can a person be wealthy and not be in love with their wealth? I believe it is possible. Wealth is very sneaky and must be taken seriously for it has the potential power to control it’s owner or in other words, money can blind those who brag on their ability to see clearly – while actually possessing those who believe they are in control. It is true that God uses money to do His works, but many times money is used for carnal, selfish ideas and satisfaction – and in some cases in Jesus Name. I believe there are many ministers who are trying to build a legacy for themselves on the back of a profitable ministry. They desire to leave a “monument” in their name for the entire world to see, as one who dedicated their life to a cause so everyone can have respect and admiration.

We are reminded of Solomon’s depression while being one of the wealthiest men in the world. He had everything any person could have and in his sadness said, it is all “vanity”. Let us look deeper into why he might have felt this way. I do believe that the New Covenant of Christ is filled with spiritual and natural benefits, which are intended for enhancing our lives, but I am learning that these opportunities are based upon what God has planned for us since our birth – not entirely directed by our own ideas of personal pleasure. This earthly life was never intended for us to be self-sufficient without God but rather a school of learning about how to grow our spirit into a “master” over our carnality. The three parts of man (spirit, mind, body) must function in divine order or an imbalance occurs within the structure of our life. When this imbalance is not corrected, the results are devastating to the individual and to anyone who is connected with them. One of the very first important facts to remember in life is that all the wealth in the world is the Lord’s and all we can ever be is a good steward over it. Life is a test to see how well we can handle the illusion of wealth in order to prepare us for the spiritual reality of true eternal treasure. Selah.

It does not take a scholar to realize that money creates a false sense of security and nearly eliminates the need for faith and prayer. Our spiritual nature is being needy and obedient, with a humble understanding of our helplessness and a loving passion of His glorious presence. If we were rich, what would we need to have faith for that we could not buy? Moreover, what would we pray for, if we owned everything that could be bought? Why would we have to depend on God if we could just write a check for it? When we are frantic in a crisis there is desperation, but when we are at ease with our surroundings and we have everything we desire there is a shallow sense of dependence and security. This false sense of protection is not the genuine Godly contentment of inner peace and joy, but rather the emotional, generic feeling of not having a need for God. As followers of Christ, we have not been called to life an indulgent life of luxury because it dulls our senses to the sobering reality of a lost and eternally doomed world. Thousands of people each day go to an eternal destination of darkness and torment and our holy love for them should be of greater importance than compiling a legacy of personal achievements and treasures.

Jesus mentioned several times about giving away the objects that would cause distraction from His voice and give us a DIVIDED heart. The idea of taking up the cross is symbolic of selling out our lives our plans and desires, and exchanging them for a life dedicated to the cause of Christ. The world has promoted the idea within its system that climbing upward on the ladder of success is the way to become more accomplished. The natural man can only see the temporal world and to him this is the ultimate dream of life. He or she cannot see true reality because their spiritual eyes have not been opened. Only when we are born-again can we perceive the sick condition of our soul and the eternal remedy. The Romans are one example that clearly teaches us the negative effects of an empire that became so “drunk” with prosperity and pleasure that it became the very cause of their ruin. Unfortunately, we are following the same path of being a prideful civilization that is mesmerized with instant gratification and unlimited indulgence.

Let us turn our attention to the recorded conversation between Jesus and a wealthy young man in Mark, chapter ten. The rich young ruler is a very interesting true story because the fact of him being very wealthy is being mentioned intentionally for the benefit of the lesson being taught. One very important side we see is that rich people are never satisfied with riches, as he comes seeking Jesus to fulfill an emptiness in his life even though he is in need of nothing materialistic. The young man has everything this life has to offer and now desires to obtain everything God offers in the eternal life. He has realized the void in his soul, which is a very necessary part of the conviction process and has boldly come forward to learn what he must do to reserve a place of prominence at the heavenly banquet table. Jesus tells him to obey all of the commandments and he quickly replies that he has been aware of them and has kept them diligently, (which leads us to believe that he has knowledge of religion). Then we notice, that Jesus, looking at him – “loved him” and I am sure it is a reminder that he also loves us even when we do not comprehend his reasoning. Jesus as the Son of God and deity in the flesh, can discern this young man’s conscience, then says, “One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.” The young man I presume was stunned at the request as it is recorded that he became sad and walked away grieved because he had great riches. I want to add a very important note here and that is; I am not saying that wealthy individuals do not desire and have a very fulfilling walk with Christ but I believe scripture is trying to reveal that it is extremely difficult. How many people who profess to love God would respond joyously without reservation at a command such as this? It would also be interesting to see the reaction from those who are poor and have very little worldly possessions. Let us continue with verse twenty-three. “And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, how hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answered again and said unto them, Children, how difficult is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.” Jesus goes on to explain that it is NOT impossible for those with great riches to be saved but confirms the spiritual reality that it would only be possible through the divine power of God. It is naturally impossible for a huge beast to pass through the eye of a needle; however, Christ was painting a word picture, which would illustrate the awesomeness of God’s ability and glory. I am also convinced that as, (the eye of the needle could represent a low gate in which a camel would have to crawl on its knees to get through), any person who intends to keep a sharp focus on God’s vision for their life – must stay in an attitude of humility and prayer. A very sobering question arises out of this teaching – Is God asking every born again believer to sell everything they have and literally follow him? Many would argue that it is only a figure of speech or is this a smoothed over excuse to live a double life? How powerful and effective would the church be if every member was walking in God’s Spirit and totally focused on accomplishing His will – without always holding on to their desires? Was this a special mission for the twelve disciples only or did humankind rush in to “modify” this teaching of pure spirituality into a more manageable, “realistic” religion? Maybe after the disciples were martyred and the intensity of persecution against the first Christians was observed in fear and discouragement, the entire biblical idea was scrapped and a humanistic interpretation was carefully constructed. Thus, we have the modern day representative of what is supposed to be the nature and character of Christ. Sadly, the powerful waves of the Hollywood and their worldly influence has tempted the body of Christ and the average Christian has allowed the destructive influence of carefree lust to corrupt their mind and program their thinking from the innocence of sacred light to the perversion of darkness. The pure message of sacrifice is slowly being replaced with the normal lifestyle of carnal satisfaction.

Let us observe another important passage that exposes the confusion and carnality of those whose knowledge has not become a revelation. Jesus is addressing a congregation with a literal message of disappointment. These individuals are no doubt another example of what happens when wealth is converted into personal pleasure. One manifestation that occurs is a fact that eating tremendous amounts of rich delicacies causes not only health problems but also mental apathy, lack of energy, being tired and sleepy, laziness, depression, weakness, cloudy thinking, a lack of discernment and so on. In other words human flesh becomes stagnant and calloused when flooded with physical pleasure, and like a zombie, we lose our enthusiasm and excitement about everything – most importantly our spiritual responsibility and reason for living. No doubt, the enemy of our soul has learned over the years how the weapons of this life can be used against us to stop the advancement of what God is going to do. Let us be reminded that God does not necessarily have to have us to accomplish his will but does use man as his agents of change. God is in control and every word and prophecy will happen exactly as God has spoken it. So we clearly see how when the flesh becomes intoxicated to the point of being numb with the idea that “I do not need anything”, these tendencies present a very dangerous and ineffective state of being that is a definite hindrance to the healthy advancement of the kingdom of light. Revelation chapter 3 and verse 15 – 17 gives us a perfect example, “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou were cold or hot. So then, because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, “I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind and naked:” These church people were wealthy and had allowed their prosperity to contaminate their attitude. They were calloused with pride and arrogance to the point of spiritual blindness. They were bragging about their abundance but had slid into a coma of selfish carnality that had become so sickening to God that he makes the vivid description of vomiting them out of his mouth, which must be a type and shadow of eternal outer darkness and separation from Him. I believe wealth that is inspired and given from God can be a blessing and a testimony to God’s grace. May we remember to give God thanks all year and not just at thanksgiving. He is worthy to be praised for all of the good things He gives for us to enjoy. He deserves our gratitude and in turn, we should develop the attitude of generosity toward others. The dangerous influence of wealth is too powerful for a weak mind and a weak spirit. Our spirit works with the Holy Spirit to control our conscience in the triune realm of man. Our challenge is when we become “determined” to obey God by allowing prayer and sacrifice to be who we are.

Author Thomas Carlyle tells how, when he was a boy, a beggar came to the door. His parents were out and he was alone in the house. On a boyish impulse, he broke into his savings bank and gave the beggar all that was in it, and he tells us that never before or since did he know such sheer happiness as came to him in that moment. There is indeed joy in giving.

Dear Father, we thank you for all that you give. The air that we breathe, the beautiful sky and the gentle breeze. The restful sleep, the pain free days and the blessings of having enough are gracious gifts from your hand. Help us to let go of “things” and hold tightly to your hand. You are Jehovah Jireh, our provider. Whether in abundance or in lack, we look to you as our source for all things. We love you with all our heart. Amen.

THE WALK
PART 44

THE WALK OF A CLEAR MIND

As Satan goes about trying to “rewire” our conscience, anyone that is walking with God can see that in the last 50 years our Christian standards have become anemic. “And be not CONFORMED to this world: (Satan’s idea of independence) but be ye TRANSFORMED by the renewing of your mind, (surrendering your will) that you may prove what that good, and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2) Depression has become very widespread with the common diagnosis generally considered an imbalance of our hormones and chemicals, and in many cases, I am persuaded to agree. This intricate matrix of electrical codes is considered one of the most highly complex grids of intelligent design. When it is functioning correctly, it should be regarded as one of God’s greatest miracle of creation, however when there is system failure, it will effect the entire “machine”. No doubt, our diets have most likely contributed to the depletion of many important nutrients and minerals intended to sustain a higher degree of overall health and with increased physical exhaustion along with an elevated emotional stress level, our overloaded central nervous system causes the body to become like a candle that is burning at both ends. As our “temple” labors to release the constant, perfect chemical mixture of a mini laboratory including a complex, immunity security system, it would seem likely that when the body works overtime with very little rest, there will be neurological malfunctions and breakdowns. Our lack of “rest” as a preventative maintenance in the physical, mental and spiritual areas of our bodies has been proven a deciding factor in most cases. For instance, many believe the Sabbath was created as a day of spiritual, mental and physical REST for allowing triune man to relax our mind, rebuild energy and increase our spiritual sense of inner peace. Fasting not only sharpens and increases our spiritual sensitivity; it gives our tremendously overworked digestive system a time to shut down and be still along with a “time-out” for our exhausted mind. The Sabbath is established for being thankful, meditating, praying, worshipping, listening and clearing our conscience because Father knew we would need it to maintain the perfect balance of work, enjoyment, clarity, contentment and peace. As keeping low miles on our vehicles helps them last longer – our quiet rest is God’s idea for practical preventative maintenance.

I want to say that it is not my intention to oversimplify or disallow legitimate malfunctions of glands and organs that cause infirmities. Nevertheless, the probability of our mental and spiritual influence on our physical bodies is very real and this is adding or possibly causing many of the health problems we experience. There are consequences to our actions! This principal law of nature needs to be incorporated into our health education instead of handing out prescriptions of “serotonin reuptake inhibitors” like candy. Of course, the rulers of this world have designed effective “devices” and snare traps to keep “spiritual heart disease” and the variety of mental disorders that are associated with sin – a secret. Satan is successfully implementing the idea through secular psychology that taking medications to help us cope with living is normal. God’s Word demands that people examine their heart in the light of God’s Word, but society has thrown His standard of living out the window. Our culture does not believe in sin, which means they do not have to deal with it or feel guilty about it. Carnal man knows that God’s Word exposes the darkness of his heart and since he was unwilling to repent, he just discarded holiness as ancient legalism. So now with a brand new philosophy that promotes freedom to do whatever feels good, he spends all his time concentrating on how to generate “guiltless” pleasure.

Many are held prisoner in their own mind with lies that directly effect how they feel about themselves, society and God Himself. I have completed the courses and training in the principals of theophostic counseling and psychological first aid and have seen first hand how effective this ministry can be. When people become truly connected to God and begin to understand the revelation of who they are in the spiritual realm, they will experience a positive mental and physical change. Unfortunately the masses of western culture have been misled into the idea that every problem has a quick fix with nothing more involved that swallowing a pill filled with a synthetic pharmaceutical. When those who DESIRE TO SEEK man’s methods of healing choose to step back and see a more complete picture of spiritual warfare, they will find covenant mysteries that will lead to a greater revelation of God’s power.

Many would find it hard to believe but it is most likely that our modern society is being drugged for reasons the masses have not considered. One sobering reality for us to never forget is the objective of our spiritual enemy to shut down the ability of our temple to receive communication from God and our intimate relationship with Him. Satan’s mission has always been to break our heavenly connection to our Heavenly Father by filling our lives with distractions, pleasures and worries. As our neurological stability continues to erode we are finding increasing amounts of adults and children being herded into a fog of nothing less than a drug-induced form of mind control. From a military perspective what better strategy to subdue your enemy than to disable your opponent from the inside out, by taking away their ability to think and discern? Could this be a part of the strong “delusion” that was spoken of in second Thessalonians 2:11? The importance of having a strong spirit life is that it acts as a “defense system” against the spiritual attacks that we face. Without this protection our mind is left vulnerable to be sabotaged with a deep sense of hopelessness and heaviness. Many just want to attack people with their Bible but are not defending their own conscience! Selah.

Secular psychology has always thought they could “fix” the human conscience and not be dependent on the creator of all things. Many humanists that labor in the field of modern science and mental health have become filled with pride and blind to the reality of absolute truth. Like those who tried to build the tower of Babel with dreams of power and control, they work night and day in their precious laboratories and classrooms trying to figure out how to bi-pass God and discover the secrets to the perfect world. How many are racing to find another trillion-dollar SSRI antidepressant? Think for a moment about who would desire for the masses to walk around as a numb, desensitized zombie? Could it be possible that a higher spiritual entity has influenced man to become the great healer and savior of his own destiny with pharmaceuticals and humanistic psychology? The masses still cannot perceive who is in charge of building the hype and false promises of a better life all the while denying the existence of intelligent design. How could anyone not see a deceiving conspiracy that offers an improved personality, happiness and balanced emotions without mentioning a spiritual transformation? Nothing would please the kingdom of darkness anymore than to possess a world of robots because the events that are coming in the near future will be so bizarre that the majority of the world would have to be in a partial coma to accept them.

The Christian’s conscience and spirit is the command center for meditation, prayer, understanding, sound judgments and wisdom, so obviously we do not have to wonder why it is also the target of attack. Those who comprehend the workings of the spirit realm know if the enemy can control the mind, he has won the war without firing a shot. It is a fact, the personal battle against evil as well as the decision to dedicate our lives to Christ is made in the deepest places of our consciousness. This is also where our internal true self resides and functions, where we fellowship with God, receive His instructions, meditate, grow and mature in His word. Christ was crucified on a hill called Golgotha which means “the place of the skull” and that is exactly where we must surrender our nature and will, so that our spirit can accomplish God’s desire. If this secret place of refuge is disrupted, our spirit life will fall into a very serious and dangerous condition. Staying sensitive and focused on this higher realm will allow us to stay tuned to His voice while at the same time separating us from the “pull” of this worlds system. Our lack of respect and understanding for this spiritual reality has led to the downfall of nations, kingdoms, empires and the eternal futures of countless individuals. It is not judging to say that hell is filled with millions of souls and that millions more are waiting to join them – it is a fact! Satan’s influence is not a “powder puff” hindrance but rather a deadly plan of attack that has been studied, discussed and tested since the creation of Adam and Eve. What will it take for us to realize the kingdom of darkness is trying to destroy us so that we will never finish the race that God has called us to run? The answer is in the gathering of perfect truth and more importantly the revelation of that knowledge. We need to not just know about Jesus but we must “abandon” the chains of carnality and sin so that we might know him personally. An individual must become a seeker of spiritual truth and desire to discover the mysteries of the highest reality, which in turn requires the discipline of serious study and prayer. Selah. Unfortunately, we conclude that very few people really care about life after death or growing their spirit to be the strongest of the three parts of their being. People generally do not want to sacrifice this life to inherit the next life – but YOU are different! You have been called out of this worlds system. You are faced with a very strong “resistance” because of the power of the light within you. Resist the confusion of this life and invest your energy into helping others know Christ. Protect your mentality at all cost because every thought and image is recorded and stored for either good or bad. Do not allow the media to overwhelm you with the negative flood of lies, deception, fear, despair, discouragement, sadness and disappointment. Satan wants to fight us and defeat us in the battlefield of the mind and he has an arsenal of mental and spiritual weapons of “mass destruction” to use. Alarmingly most people do not even realize they are already captured as a prisoner of war waiting to be executed. Selah.

The mind and the eyes are fragile and tender. Be careful what you look at and what you hear. More medicine is not always the best answer because medicine cannot heal the spiritual reasons for spiritual problems. To mask our emotions, our past hurts and pains, our doubts, fears, unforgiveness, resentment and pride without dealing with the “root” cause, would be like wrapping an ace bandage around gangrene. Man cannot save us or heal our soul – they can only hold our hand and agree in faith with us in prayer. Jesus the great physician does not desire to dull or mask our pain but rather He is interested in going to the reasons why we are suffering. He is the balm of Gilead and desires to do a COMPLETE work in us but we must allow him to have His way. In many cases pharmaceuticals are the enemy’s way of “preventing” us from dealing with the real sickness in our spirit and sadly most people would rather take a mind-altering drug so they can continue living a self-absorbed lifestyle. The popularity of any type of addiction that leads us into a dream state is for the purpose of running away and escaping the absolute truth of God’s divine reality. This is exactly what popularizes alcoholism and other sinful addictions where people choose to “hide” from the responsibilities of holiness that are known within the recesses of their conscience.

The Lord created the spirit to be in charge of our mind and body as it states, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (II Timothy 1:7). We are seeing the inability to discern right from wrong because the enemy has infected the mind with lies and polluted the heart with the fruits of carnality. We as Christians cannot become distracted with the pleasures of this world because souls are dying without Christ! How can someone truly believe and not be a fanatic that warns others of certain danger and spiritual judgment? If a deadly plague broke out and you had 500 gallons of antidote would you help others or pull a blanket over it and act like you didn’t know where it was? What is the difference between that and knowing the truth and keeping it a secret? There is a time to speak and a time to be silent but there is never a time to fear speaking the truth in the spirit of love.