WALKING RIGHT SIDE UP III

October 28, 2014November 11, 2014Leave a comment

THE WALK
PART 42

“And this I say, lest any man should beguile (deceive) you with enticing words.” (Colossians 2:4)

To continue in the same pattern of thought as we left off in the last commentary, we are seeing the reversal of God’s truth because the masses are “walking” in the opposite direction. The war of words is intended to “sear” or burn a specific political worldview into the conscience of the carnal minded. Many of us are old enough to remember the time when those who had no regard for right and wrong made immoral decisions. And, why was it considered wrong? It was not wrong because it was “out of style” but rather because it was against God’s law. For example, 50 years ago, if a woman became pregnant that was not married; it was a shame and a disgrace to the family and the community. And why was that? Because it revealed a sexual encounter called “fornication” that was a spiritual SIN according to God’s Word. The masses that held God’s Word in the highest regard knew it was wrong and chose not to sugarcoat it within their own spiritual convictions. Promiscuity used to be recognized as irresponsible and rebellious but now is advertised as having the personal “right” to be an independent freethinker a.k.a. (unashamed sinner).

In today’s world, the act of having sex with anyone (that shows an interest) is so common, that it seems normal. In fact, unmarried mothers are viewed as heroes because of their brave “choice” (as opposed to the divorced or widowed) to have children without the long-term dependence of a man. Another example would be the act of married individuals having sex with someone other than their spouse. Having an “affair” is a modern term that took the place of ADULTERY. Hollywood has built an industry on the deception that “secret sexual sin” is exciting and stimulating. Entertainment plays on the carnal emotions of humans and leads them to destruction with the mirage of a “happy” promise land. In reality, a powerful LUST is blind to what is right and opens many doors that lead to curses that affect more people than those directly involved. The idea of destroying one marriage to build another comes from our own carnal fantasies and evil imaginations – not God’s perfect will.
When the painted facades of lies are torn away, the ugly sins of perversion and debauchery reveal God’s truth. There is only one power that has the ability to change a heart and give sight to the blind, and that is the Holy Spirit’s conviction that comes from the gospel of Jesus Christ. All the counseling and arguing over politics cannot take the place of delivering God’s Word at the appointed place and the appointed time! It is time to stop trying to fight against the darkness with our ability to debate and start operating in the spirit of prayer and love. We do NOT have a vision to change the world to fit our own political views but rather desire to see souls delivered and saved from the possession of Satan and the eternal destruction of hell. We are trying to illuminate God’s presence – not our own agenda!

Today’s tolerance movement is trying to eliminate absolute truth, teaching that good and bad depends on “individual” convictions and the ideas of a particular culture. This is the platform for our modern euphemism – “socially acceptable”. This carnal agenda is working fervently to tear down the old system of Christian morality that follows God and to replace it with “political correctness”. The “thought police” are not just on their way – they are already here! The strategy of Satan is to begin teaching our children his evil philosophies within the public education system and by the time students are ready to enter college, they have been exposed to the basics of the new world order of liberal politics and are ready to embrace and ACT on a stronger, carnal ideology. The doctrines of the Christian faith are laughed at and scorned as an ancient, legalistic mindset that is filled with prejudice and discrimination. This next commentary comes from a group of Christians that is trying to explain the hidden agenda of this dangerous strategy to teach evil propaganda that influence our children’s minds.

“Moral relativism is more easily understood in comparison to moral absolutism. Absolutism claims that morality relies on universal principles (natural law, conscience). Christian absolutists believe that God is the ultimate source of our common morality, and that it is, therefore, as unchanging as He is. Moral relativism asserts that morality is not based on any absolute standard. Rather, ethical “truths” depend on variables such as the situation, culture, one’s feelings, etc. Several things can be said of the arguments for moral relativism, which demonstrate their dubious nature. First, while many of the arguments used in the attempt to support relativism might sound good at first, there is a logical contradiction inherent in all of them because they all propose the “right” moral scheme—the one we all ought to follow. But this in itself is absolutism. Second, even so-called relativists reject relativism in most cases. They would not say that a murderer or rapist is free from guilt so long as he did not violate his own standards.

Relativists may argue that different values among different cultures show that morals are relative to different people. But this argument confuses the actions of individuals (what they do) with absolute standards (whether they should do it). If culture determines right and wrong, how could we have judged the Nazis? After all, they were only following their culture’s morality. Only if murder is universally wrong were the Nazis wrong. The fact that they had “their morality” does not change that. Further, although many people have different practices of morality, they still share a common morality. For instance, abortionists and anti-abortionists agree that murder is wrong, but they disagree on whether abortion is murder. So, even here, absolute universal morality is shown to be true. Some claim that changing situations make for changing morality—in different situations different acts are called for that might not be right in other situations. But there are three things by which we must judge an act: the situation, the act, and the intention. For example, we can convict someone of attempted murder (intent) even if they fail to (act). So situations are part of the moral decision, for they set the context for choosing the specific moral act (the application of universal principles).

The main argument relativists appeal to is that of tolerance. They claim that telling someone their morality is wrong is intolerant, and relativism tolerates all views. But this is misleading. First of all, evil should never be tolerated. Should we tolerate a rapist’s view that women are objects of gratification to be abused? Second, it is self-defeating because relativists do not tolerate intolerance or absolutism. Third, relativism cannot explain why anyone should be tolerant in the first place. The very fact that we should tolerate people (even when we disagree) is based on the absolute moral rule that we should always treat people fairly—but that is absolutism again! In fact, without universal moral principles there can be no goodness. The fact is that all people are born with a conscience, and we all instinctively know when we have been wronged or when we have wronged others. We act as though we expect others to recognize this as well. Even as children we knew the difference between “fair” and “unfair.”
Other examples of how the upside down kingdom is using code language to attack holiness and deceive the masses into accepting it. Alternative lifestyles offer an “alternative” to the Godly institution of man and woman marriage and family, Judeo-Christian morality, health and longevity or in other words; not something good! The sales pitch is that anyone can choose to do whatever they want and whatever feels good to them. Same-sex unions, is another euphemism for homosexual marriage, other wise known as state sanctioned perversion. We now have laws that endorse two people committing acts formerly called “unnatural” as being perfectly normal and even have the blessing of the legal system to raise children. In the past, the idea of a same sex couple adopting children would be a story from a land of fiction but is now – our neighbors next door. How are we as Christians to act toward them? We are pray for their spiritual condition because we have been given the LOVE of God for them and the burden for their souls. This is no different than all of the people that we are surrounded with everyday that need our compassion, intercession and spiritual intervention. The question is how far do we go in our acceptance of their SIN and where do we draw the line of tolerance and compromise. The answer is asking God for more wisdom and discernment and trusting Him to show us the way.

Cohabitation is the new catch phrase that sounds more socially acceptable than shacking up together, living in sin or long-term fornicators. This is the “breeding ground” for producing a world- view of immaturity and less responsibility. The nature of God is commitment and He wants to incorporate this character trait into us with everything we are involved with. Sexually active is decorated with nice ideas and the freedom of love and peace, besides who would want to say there is anything “wrong” with having multiple sex partners in the same week? What used to be referred to as trashy, slutty and licentious is now seen as healthy, adventurous and confident. Safe sex is the view that sex is perfectly good and correct as long as there is birth control. The thoughts of honor, virtue, decency and abstinence have all been thrown out because these ideas are connected to God’s nature. We could go on and on and I am sure you are aware of other areas of society that are being twisted from what is wrong into something that seems right. Jesus was not afraid to “associate” with society – but never compromised! He walked “right side up” with no apologies! The wicked of today hate the word “repent”! The wicked of the past wish they could hear it just once more…

WALKING RIGHT SIDE UP II

October 28, 2014November 11, 2014Leave a comment

THE WALK
PART 41

WALKING RIGHT SIDE UP II

The word of the Lord for us in this hour is “do not fear”. WE have a choice everyday as we “walk” with Jesus in this journey to either panic or pray! If we are to become what God is calling us to be, we must RELY on Him for everything. Those who have committed their life to Christ must come to the revelation of knowing that He will never fail them and that He will love them forever. We are reminded in the eighth chapter of Romans that God constantly watches over those whom He has foreknown, redeemed, predestined, called, justified and will glorify. It is our Lord and Savior that protects us, saves us, forgives us and fills our spirit with promises that cannot be broken. Verse 31 say’s, “What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against (defeat) us?” In addition, we have confidence in the promise found in verses 35-37, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation (troubles, difficulties), or distress (worry, anxiety, fear), or persecution (suffering as a martyr) or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, for thy sake we are killed all day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. No, in all things we are MORE THAN CONQUERORS through Him that loved us.” We can stand firm and believe with complete faith and trust, that no matter how dark the world becomes, we can be filled with His pure, holy light and be the reflection of HIS GLORY.

In II Chronicles, we see that a million-man army was attacking Asa but instead of relying on his fleshly ability to fight or run away in fear, he turned to God in fervent prayer. In a powerful and humble request, Asa confessed that he did not have the strength or resources to do battle against this enemy. As he cried out to God, he depended upon Him in faith and the awesome power of the Lord come to his rescue – and the enemy was defeated. I believe we can see the parallel between Asa and us as the children of God today. We stand in this hour observing the world as an environment of evil that has blinded the eyes of an endless multitude. The deceived are committed to fight for the kingdom of darkness and against the children of light. As we ponder the situation, we are trying to find the clear word of the Lord as to how involved He is calling us to be. We are listening to His voice and waiting to hear HIS specific instructions about what we are to do and say in the midst of this chaos. We do not want to waste our time arguing against this “upside down kingdom” with the carnal weapons of our flesh but rather desire to “walk” in divine wisdom and the anointing of God’s Holy Spirit because we know it is the only power that is effective. We desire to see God’s victory and to do His will, however we realize as Psalm 127:1 say’s, “Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman stands guard in vain”.

Spiritual warfare has as much to do with discerning right from wrong as it does praying and confessing. If we are not aware that something is trying to deceive us – we will not sense the danger of being defeated. Selah. In addition, the amount we are aware of God’s absolute truth depends on the abandonment of our will and our level of serious determination to be “filled” with His Holy Spirit. Those who sit at the feet of Jesus and learn directly from Him will be the ones who are given the revelation of His mysteries and His keys to spiritual success. Today we find ourselves in the middle of a “War of the Worlds” except this is NOT just a fictional fantasy, but rather a literal spiritual assault against God and His Kingdom. Satan is using a deceptive strategy and when we stand back and see the big picture, we know his weapons are actually “words”. The foundation of all communication has always been words, as God’s Word has always been the supreme law that rules heaven, earth, the cosmos and under the earth. It is difficult to argue the weight of God’s statement in Proverbs 18:21 that “life and death is in the power of the tongue.” Therefore, I believe we must pray not only for self-control to prevent us from releasing carnal words of frustration but also for discernment and wisdom to know how to reply and when. Remember that Jesus was under the control of the Spirit when He went through the process of His crucifixion and only answered with humility and holy wisdom. If we agree that pure words from the Fathers heart accomplish His will, then we can also be sure the devil realizes how much influence words can have. Since he is the father of all lies (John: 44), we know that words of deception are his most powerful weapon just as much as God’s Words are His most valuable asset.

Words reveal the character of the one who spoke them and becomes the evidence of identification. Selah. God is perfect and His Words are perfect. In this light, we can also be sure that Satan’s strategy for distorting, reshaping, disguising, misusing, twisting and manipulating are for the purpose of conforming minds and gaining followers. The devil is the ultimate imposter and his words are an empty, devastating disappointment, however if he could somehow “infuse” words with secret meanings and hidden properties of emotional persuasion, he might well be able to lead whole populations in ways that appear to them to be good – but which are ultimately devastating. This upside down kingdom is using this dangerous “word game” to convince those who are NOT sensitive to God’s Holy Spirit. This is the reason why it is crucial to stay consumed with an attitude of prayer and focused with the awareness of God’s presence. Listening to His still small voice is the ONLY way we will discern the difference between absolute truth and a spray-painted illusion of humanistic logic that “appears” to be truth. We are reminded that God’s Word is the pure, genuine, absolute reality that will never fail and our guaranteed promise of everything He has spoken. “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My words shall not pass away.” (Mathew 24:35)
We like to think words are just symbols that correspond to meanings but they are so much more. Words misused are little psychological explosive devises and when skillfully assembled they can become weapons of mass destruction. Deception can destroy the consciences of individuals, nations and the entire world – not physically and not immediately, but their ultimate result is part of Satan’s vision of stealing, killing and destroying. This is how the accuser of the brethren has ruined most of the governments and nations of history. The world’s conflicting ideologies, philosophies and religions are rooted in rebellion against the divine reality of God and His law, but how did it happen? By the use of clever language, twisted concepts and penetrating suppositions that build a tangled structure that seems strong and valid. It must appear impressive by instilling feelings that it has superior knowledge and the power and control of authority. These words (weapons), cause the weak to doubt themselves and to become intimidated into an alternate reality similar to the altered state of mind that drugs can give. For example, as homosexuals once seen, as people who were possessed with evil and who needed deliverance, are now embraced as being “gay”. The upside down kingdom has turned around the idea of abomination into something happy, normal and respectable. The same is true with abortion, as it was seen in the “right side up” world as a destructive, premeditated form of murder that was a sinful act of shame, it is now a “pro choice” for anyone that wants to terminate a human being. Political correctness has hijacked our language and conformed what was “unacceptable” in the eyes of God to a new “socially acceptable” world order. Atheist whom the Bible refers to as “fools” are now called “Brights”, illegal aliens are now referred to as “undocumented immigrants”. Today, increasing numbers of the socially acceptable refer to pedophilia as “intergenerational sex” and child molesters are now called “minor –attracted persons”. Euphemisms are now being used to convert a negative association into a positive one. To avoid offending Islam and Muslims (as a religion of peace?), our country is replacing the word “terrorism” with the more friendly term, “man-caused disasters”. “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And, no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.” (II Corinthians 11:13–15) This passage contains perhaps the most important bit of information believers need to remember concerning the nature of Satan and his work. Paul tells us in this passage that the Devil “disguises” himself as an angel of light (verse 14).
Of course, Satan and his minions are often the direct source of much of the outright perversity and obvious evil that we see on this planet. However, since he is a coward and afraid of the light, the evil one would much rather approach us in the “guise” of something good and not something wicked. It is the old “wolf in sheep’s clothing idea”. If he came at us blatantly, he would be noticeable and easy to resist. The idea is the blind and spiritually unlearned are more likely to embrace his lies if he can somehow convince them (with the power of his words) that he is reliable. It is more easily understood in this sense, as to how the anti-christ will be able to convince the masses that what he can do is the healing solution to a suffering planet. Civilization has wondered just how Hitler and the other evil dictators of the past could persuade seemingly educated and “common sense” thinking people. These orators of hell were empowered with “weapons of communication” that could manipulate the human mind! We must pray constantly to have God’s view and for the protection of our thoughts from the dark arrows of words that are disguised as truth. As we recognize the imposter, we can not only focus our energy to God’s will but also help others to know His divine reality. How can we be led by God’s Spirit if we are agreeing with the wrong words?

WALKING RIGHT SIDE UP

October 28, 2014November 11, 2014Leave a comment

THE WALK
PART 40

WALKING RIGHT SIDE UP

As a work in progress, I am thankful for the constant “construction” and renovation that goes on in my life by His mercy and grace. I enjoy God’s revelations and His wonderful presence that comforts me when I am surrounded with worry and chaos. I have noticed in my walk with Him over the years that I must stay alert every minute because there are so many traps and ambushes that can hurt us in a blink of an eye. Just like driving while trying to dial a number on our phone, one split second can cause us to rear-end someone or run off the road (so to speak) with possible fatal consequences. It is time to study and show ourselves approved unto God. We must become “workmen” or working people that receives the truth from God and develops the confidence to not be ashamed. It is time to know what God is saying and with His wisdom, we will be called upon to give an answer. There are no more fence riding or compromising. The overcomers are anointed and empowered by The Holy Spirit to manifest Christ and stand for God’s will! Those who “walk” in God’s Spirit are not afraid of the cost because they realize the world is literally being turned upside down. They are the light containers and will not be shaken when the world implodes. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that gives to all men liberally and upbraids not; and it will be given to him. But, let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavers is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord.” (James 1:5-7) The wind of the sea in this case could be the words of the blind masses.

I believe that most of the time we do not realize or remember just how much the devil hates us. It is normal to at least hope that everyone enjoys who we are and what we do because it brings us self-esteem and makes us happy to know the world is at peace with us. It is normal to enjoy living with a clear conscience and to get along with everyone. This is fine in the natural realm while being “at one” with our emotions, but if we develop a keen awareness of our spiritual surroundings we will discern something far beyond our “fairy tale”, happy endings. I am not trying to be negative or promote fear but rather to sound an alarm of caution. I am sure you have noticed that the world is rapidly changing. It is literally being turned “upside down” and those who are grounded in God’s truth will not go along with this popular “polar shift”. This in turn will expose us as being unwilling to “evolve” and in the spotlight of accusations such as, ignorant, uneducated bigot, rebellious, imperialist, conservative hate mongers and religious radicals just to name a few. In the “old world” being a Christian was respectable and a good thing because at least someone was trying to be, well, good. In this new world, being a Christian is an example of someone “dangerous” and filled with social prejudice and hate. In the old world, the anointed gospel that spoke of sin and hell brought conviction upon those who lived outside of God’s holiness. In this new world, such talk is an insult to what is politically correct and socially acceptable. Therefore, I am warning all of us that plan to continue promoting Christ and His Word, to be prepared for more aggressive attacks that are on their way. The devil, his demons and all the earth dwellers that are deceived with his lies will not stop “enlarging” their agenda until they confront all who serve God, with the intention to persecute. There is coming a time if not already in progress, when many Christians will face rejection from their spouse and/or their children. It is difficult to do, but we must not be intimidated. Be prepared to face a choice to either follow our government or follow God. We must not compromise even if it cost us everything because when we bow down to Satan we serve him as Lord. It is the hour to examine our own heart and hold onto God’s hand tightly. Do not depend on anyone else in this world but your heavenly Father! There is no such thing as pretending to be one thing and really being another. It does not matter how many are deceived, we will not allow the demon possessed scoffers to lead us over the eternal abyss of hell!

When I arrived at work the other day, we had a heavy amount of freight to ship and the enemy was baiting me to confess what a bad day this is going to be. I jumped in and became absorbed in trying to triumph over the mountain instead of surrendering in defeat. At the very end of the day I was told my manager wanted to see me. I was feeling quite confident that I was going to get a “gold medal” for outstanding achievement as I had single handedly shipped out everything. When I stepped into the office he proceeded to explain that he wanted my input about how to improve the procedure of my job so that I would not come in every morning to a huge mess. Then out of the blue he made this aggressive comment, “do not stare at me like you think I am ignorant”. I immediately fired back that I had not said a word and that he did not know what I was thinking! We continued to exchange conversation pertaining to the business at hand and I departed. On the way home the enemy came to me and began to taunt me with accusations like, “they are using you and do not appreciate you” and “they will never respect you no matter how much you do or how long you are there”. With each mile I became angry and bitter to the point of completely losing spiritual focus on Christ. I stepped out of God’s presence and stepped into thoughts of unforgiveness and strife. I allowed these raging emotions to grow out of control as my peace flew out the window. My joy sprang a leak and by the time I arrived home I was depressed and miserable. How could an entire day of steady accomplishment be ruined in two minutes? Because the enemy knows our buttons and uses these surprise attacks as an effective strategy to “derail” the peace of our conscience. When we walk in the confidence that we are doing God’s will – we will not allow the blind to steal our joy. “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Looking diligently (watching carefully) lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, (snare trap) and thereby many be defiled (sin of unforgiveness).” (Hebrews 12:14-15)

There can never be too much emphasis on constantly walking in God’s Spirit and being alert every second. It does worry me that I can be thrown off balance that easy but it also makes me more determined to upgrade my internal “security system”. I must stand guard at every entrance and patrol the grounds of my conscience so to speak to make sure there are no breaches. It is my responsibility to examine my own “special” places where I am vulnerable, and then deal with these areas. Do you also have certain things that cause you to “lose it”? Have you noticed how you can be going along fine and in a second, you are twisted up in knots? It is embarrassing to acknowledge that I can become extremely upset so suddenly. Of course, I feel like an idiot later, but it would be much better if I could catch myself BEFORE I fly off the handle. If I do not install iron bars to the windows of my emotions and laser sensors to my hearts perimeter, the demons will continue to use the same old tricks to attack me because they have such a high percentage of effectiveness. I must learn and grow in wisdom so that I can be an overcomer in the time that is left before Jesus return. If I ignore my need to “improve” I will not advance but rather continue to be a sitting duck to be hindered no matter where, when or whom I am dealing with. If the safety is not on – it is easy to pull the trigger with temptations. Most of us have “hair triggers” or certain emotional buttons but the Lord is saying to beware of these carnal “land mines” because they have every intention to prevent our destiny. Our past is our current legacy but we can change who we are by changing how we react to circumstances. We have heard of preventative medicine but in the spiritual realm, the awareness of His presence will provide us with the prevention AND the cure. However, if we choose to remain the same in the future, by “default” our past will remain the same and identify our character. “Wherefore let him that thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. There has no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that you are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear it.” (I Corinthians 10:12-13)

I believe that one of the major weapons being used against us is fear. When we listen to sources that reveal tragedies and crisis, the anxiety tries to bind us with panic. Even if it is true about the world of Islam having the agenda to rule the world. Even if it is true that the anti-christ is a Syrian Muslim and that Islam will be the forced world religion, there is nothing we can do about diffusing it. Our prayers are to help us become what Jesus died for us to be and that we might fulfill our personal destiny for Him. Our prayers help us learn how to love and minister to those He brings to us through divine appointments so they may hear, see and feel the love of Jesus. Do we really think that stockpiling ammunition will be able to hold off the system of the world? Have we been called to shoot and kill everyone on earth that tries to capture and kill us? God says in (II Timothy 3:12) that, “Yes, and all that will live Godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” I thought being martyred for the sake of Christ was to be an honor and act of love, but isn’t it also possible that we can have faith that God will protect us and provide for us in the time of darkness? Whatever happened to the positive confessions of believing that God will be with us always and never forsake us especially when we need safety and provisions? It is time to let go and genuinely trust Him.

Father, help us control our emotions. Forgive us for our rebellion and pride. Forgive us for trying to fight our own battles without looking to you as our strength and victory. We repent for our bad attitudes and anger toward others. No matter what people do to us, may we have the grace to forgive. Give us your love and burden for all souls. Thank you for your mercy and for always being there for us, in the Name of Jesus we pray, amen.

THE WALK OF KNOWING

October 28, 2014November 11, 2014Leave a comment

THE WALK
PART 39

THE WALK OF KNOWING

Before we get started, I just wanted to share with you some minister opportunities the Lord has provided. After a series of events, I was asked if I would be interested in becoming the chaplain for the Jessamine County Fire District. After praying about it, I felt God’s peace to go in that direction. There had not been a chaplain in the district before so the vision was presented to the board of trustees by the chief and assistant chief of the department. I was unanimously approved a couple of weeks ago and I look forward to helping in any way I can. I believe there are endless possibilities to minister Christ to these men, their families and the community. In addition, I am in the process of becoming a member of the Kentucky Community Crisis Response Team. Along with my education in pastoral counseling, extensive crisis training will be provided so that I can help minister to not only those who are being directly affected from a disaster but also those who are assisting. As we know, the days ahead will become perilous and this could be a “field” for divine appointments. It is not “our ability” to know what to say or do in this life; it is ONLY the powerful anointing of God’s Word and Holy Spirit that has the power to save a soul. Thank you for your prayers as I plant the seed of the Gospel. “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believes; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” (Romans 1:16)

After several weeks of seeking God’s will about the direction of “The Walk”, I feel in my spirit to NOT spend the rest of the year writing about politics. The Lord has been giving these weekly messages to me for a while now, and the only reason they are even worth reading is that He anoints them. As I stay close to Him and listen to His heart, the words flow so smoothly and I sense His peace as I write. However, in the times that I have chased rabbits concerning things that I know little about, I have found that it is easy to become sidetracked. I have no doubt that all of us know very little about what really goes on behind the scenes of politics and I feel that if I invest large amounts of time and energy trying to express and expose political views, that I will hinder the anointing along with causing unnecessary division. Lately, I have been reading some very astounding material concerning the founding of our nation and the influences of our political leaders and have been very stressed out and discouraged. I was in tears the other night as I was reading about the dark shadows that have been present in the background of our nation’s authorities. It is these disturbing emotions of discord, hopelessness and being “cast down” that I sense to be coming from the enemy. I sense a danger of drowning in the flood of words that is being unleashed upon our conscience. Why should we subject our peace with God to the intrusion of filth and deception? It is nearly impossible to keep from discussing politics with people everyday but I have discovered that hashing the issues does NOT edify my spirit. Does this mean that I am weak and cannot handle being involved with the issues of truth? Not necessarily, because I can choose to become saturated with world events and board a “one way” flight to stress and anxiety just like many others. What I am saying is that my relationship with Christ is so precious and being sensitive is worth much more to me than focusing all of my attention on things that I cannot change.

Now brother, we are to have faith that our involvement in politics can make a difference for Christ. I am not saying that prayers of faith are useless in this society; I am saying that we should hear God’s voice FIRST, before we speak. It is imperative that we be grounded in God’s Word to know right from wrong but it is also just as important to know God’s TIMING about WHEN to say or do something! Prayer is not just a collection of nice phrases – prayer is coming into an agreement with what God desires and moving when He says to move. Father already knows what is going to happen in the future of this world because His omniscience gives Him the divine power of foreknowledge. It is not profitable to pray against what He has allowed or decided. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and this reverence for God’s ability to know how to handle everything is a result of “knowing” God. Selah. I believe we should vote and pray for our leaders but we also cannot deny (as the song says) that He has the “whole world” in His hands. For those who are walking with God and are discerning His truth, it is clear to see good and bad. If you and I are really walking in His Spirit, you do not need me to confirm what you already know! In addition, you do not need another avenue of communication to repeat the same knowledge that you can learn – if you choose to do so. If you desire to know the “real” history of the United States, nothing is stopping you from researching it. If you want to listen to political opinions there is talk radio, news magazines, editorial sections of the newspapers and numerous television programs that pour out political views, rumors and stories constantly. In this world of violence and desperation, we must find our secret place with God and run into Him like a strong tower where we can be safe.

Have you ever watched the news at night and with being bombarded with so much bad news that you felt your countenance drop? If I cannot sleep at night because I am so mentally tortured with the condition of the world, I must get a hold of myself and find the peace in Jesus that passes all understanding or I will begin to weaken. This is not something that God is going to MAKE us do, but it is our responsibility to maintain and “GUARD” our high level of spiritual love, fervency and hope. Prayer, worship and Bible study are NOT options in the overcomer’s life! They are mandatory “logs” that we need DAILY to keep the FIRE of the Holy Spirit burning red-hot! I know people that are so consumed with political issues that it is affecting their physical, mental and spiritual health. I do NOT want to become another messenger of fear and discouragement as I believe there are enough of them already. The point is, I feel that I have been called to bring strength and nourishment to those of you that are serious about living for God. Yes, I do challenge you along with myself because The Holy Spirit wants us to bring our “A game” in our everyday walk with Father. Believe me, I cannot tell you the times I have cried with conviction as I was writing. These messages keep me grounded and minister God’s grace to my spirit to which I am grateful. I realize that you do not agree with everything I write and I understand, but to share with you all of the political ideas that I personally endorse could end up being a disaster that causes more harm than good. Our modern politics are a train wreck and most all of it needs to be taken to the dump and buried! When we attach ourselves to the darkness of lies and deception, we become a representative of that carnal kingdom. We need to be “independently” connected to the King of Kings and His ETERNAL Kingdom of TRUTH and PEACE. “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks , be made for ALL men; For kings, and for ALL that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all Godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior.” (I Timothy 2:1-3)

Allow me to say this; we know these are the last days and if you are like me and some of the readers that contact me weekly, I know you also believe that major change is coming soon. In the Name of Christ Jesus, of all the things we can say or do for His Kingdom, staying close to Him MUST remain our highest priority! Just like with the political arena that is swirling all around us each day, its main purpose is to cause our guts to grind with anxiety and our spirit to be heavy with depression. I realize we are worried and concerned with this election, as it seems to be one of the most important in history. However, all the anger and pacing the floor is not going to help anything! It is PEACE with Father that will comfort us. It is being in His presence that reassures us that we are secure in His arms. We must channel our frustrations with our government into the spiritual sanctuary of abiding in His presence. Remember, it is God that places authorities in power even if they win the popular vote. Our calling to intercede for our leaders is a result of our spiritual maturity and wisdom. Our constant complaining is just making us all feel worse. Listen, please hear me this day, while the world chooses to jump into the “blender” of chaos, our heavenly Father is saying, come away from the confusion and get alone with Me in the secret place. The Bible mentions about the “overcomers” as I am sure you have read. I am also convinced that you along with myself hope be to be one of these remnant warriors. There are many things that I do not understand but I do know that we will never “WALK” as an overcomer without LIVING under the shadow of the Almighty! Yes, God desires to use us, even if we are here during the tribulation, but we must be “FILLED” with His Spirit. What does this mean? It means that we must abandon our love for this world and be filled with faith, love, mercy, vision, strength, power, courage, confidence, wisdom and the heart to stand in the face of fear and NOT BUDGE ONE INCH! I have sad but truthful news for you today; you and I are not going to change the direction of this nation or this world. Yes, we can have divine appointments and minister to those whom God brings across our path, but our ship has a large hole in the bottom and it will not be fixed. This is not being negative but rather aligning with the spiritual reality of God’s prophetic Word. I am not saying there are not good people here and there, but for the most part, we are surrounded with multitudes that are cold-hearted, blind and deceived. Our government is heavily influenced by Satan and most of the people’s conscience has been seared as with a hot iron. DO NOT BECOME DISTRACTED AND CAUGHT UP WITH FEAR! Our confidence BELIEVES that this world is perfectly on course with the destiny that God has known since the beginning of time. Selah. GOD IS IN CONTROL.

THE WALK OF REALITY

October 28, 2014November 11, 2014Leave a comment

THE WALK
PART 38

THE WALK OF REALITY

Does it matter what we believe or does God give us “credit” for believing whatever we “think” is right? Some religious philosophies teach that even if we are wrong in our knowledge and activate our faith in error, that God will still count it as valid because He judges our sincerity and forgives mistakes. I do not believe that one god is as good as another or that all roads lead to heaven. The truth is that God “Almighty” is very strict when it comes to accepting offerings and honors understanding, faith and obedience according to how they are related to His truth. It is not popular but He does NOT accept acts of faith in the name of a false idol. Those who worship false gods and incorrect spiritual teachings are not given an award for spiritual achievement. There are many civilizations, societies and cultures that have been sincere and have lived true to the laws of that particular sect, but this has only proved that we can be sincerely wrong. The intentions behind our actions reveal how we are spiritually “graded” however, the more we know, the more we are responsible for. Those who embraced the respect of all religions have become satisfied with the conclusion that everyone is connected to the “higher power” and this divine “attachment” is called universal salvation. This popular and fast spreading view believes the supreme being of the cosmos works through many deities, priests, prophets and religious philosophies to accomplish the “universal” heavenly agenda of spiritual enlightenment. This non-offensive idea is convinced that we should respect and accept all religions, thus unifying our love for each other along with enhancing our spiritual harmony. This view also considers any type of rejection toward this concept to be prejudiced, conceited, ignorant and narrow minded. While I do believe that we should love one another as Christ loved the world, I cannot fathom the idea of God accepting strange and offensive offerings of worship. We as Christians are to welcome all people into our gatherings for the purpose of uniting them with Christ; however, we are commanded to resist accepting doctrines that teach heresy.

As we study the tabernacle of Moses, it is amazing to observe the definite order and exact calculations that God demanded. This divine order of perfection is a solid component of Fathers character and a witness of the reputation of His holiness. In the Old Testament, we see that He did NOT honor all religions and the false gods and teachings of today are no different. In fact, He considered all other religions an enemy against His kingdom and made war against them. It does not matter how sincere the intention, there is a devastating cost to deception. “You will have no other gods before me. (No other religious representatives, idols, ideas, concepts or entities) You shall not make any engraved image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or in the water under the earth: thou shall not bow down thyself unto them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a JEALOUS God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.” (Exodus 20: 3- 6) Does this sound as if it makes a difference whom we worship?

Many today ask why the world suffers, especially the children in countries where there is spiritual error. We can understand the legitimate reasons, as this verse reveals that God brings judgment as a result of rebellion. The Lord may even use Satan to punish the people but whatever the method or messenger, the fact remains that error brings consequences. The world began with a small group of people who believed in God and worshipped Him, but it did not take long before many different spiritual alternatives sprouted and presented new alternatives to the original ideas of serving THE God of the universe. This is one reason why the earth groans in agony. Division creates chaos and the liberation of independence can definitely have a dark side. The result of careless free-will to believe whatever one desires is actually causing the world to crumble upon itself and will pronounce its own death. For example, we have heard the story of Lot and how his two daughters sexually seduced him in the cave, after they fled Sodom and Gomorrah. Instead of trusting God and following His perfect way, the girls trusted their own understanding and committed unnecessary incest, which produced two cursed pregnancies. The result of following the desires of the flesh will always cause a chain reaction of sin and destruction. In this particular case, the two male children became the leaders of Moabites and the Amorites, two heathen nations that waged war with Israel and killed many of God’s people through the years. When societies drift away from God’s Word, they immediately fall into a downward spiral of spiritual depravity and this is where we find this nation today. Our government failed to follow Christ!

“Take heed unto yourselves, unless you forget the covenant of the Lord your God, which he made with you, and you create a graven image, or the likeness of any thing, which the Lord thy God hath forbidden thee. For the Lord thy God is a CONSUMING FIRE, even a jealous God. I call heaven and earth to witness against you this day, that you shall SOON UTTERLY PERISH from off the land where you go over Jordan to possess it; you shall NOT PROLONG YOUR DAYS upon it, (continue to live in), but SHALL UTTERLY BE DESTROYED. And the Lord will scatter you among the nations, and you shall be left few in number among the heathen, as the Lord shall lead you.” (Deuteronomy 4:23-26) Having “wrong” faith (having faith in knowledge that is not true) comes from believing the wrong things. Our worldviews and spiritual convictions must be based on God’s truth or it is not divine reality. God does not honor or respect our opinions but only his Word, which is His will. God operates in a perfect system of required ingredients. Discerning truth comes from spending time meditating on Him and His Word through the Holy Spirit, and our faith is the key to starting the engine of supernatural miracle power. Without faith in the revelation of His Word, we are adrift on the information ocean without compass, provisions or paddle. Faith is knowing who He is, what He has and trusting that He will make it happen!

Believing the wrong knowledge comes from absorbing the wrong information. Selah. If we will pray to the Holy Spirit to guide us into Divine Truth – He will do it. Moreover, even if we are taught error, we can discern through God’s Spirit how to judge truth from false ideas. As we pray to become sharper in our sensitivity, we will grow stronger in our ability to detect deception and the tenderness to hear His voice. With the Holy Spirit helping us, along with our mind being renewed, we can work together as a powerful “filtration barrier” to catch erroneous, misleading and counterfeit intelligence. Living in the deception of error is a result of being conformed to the world’s way of thinking and not allowing the transformation process to evolve within our mind. When we are spiritually born-again, we are not necessarily “automatically” mentally transformed or enlightened to all truth. Studying and meditating in God’s Word comes into the mind and clears out the old thinking and replaces it with God’s way of thinking. The fact of being saved is the security of being spiritually rescued while the concept of mind renewal is to slowly change the way we think and act. We are a triune being and God wants to transform “ALL” of us. As a caterpillar becomes a butterfly so should we become completely different in every area of our life.

If we are truly saved, our spiritual identification is changed but we cannot be an overcomer without being transformed mentally from the inside out. People love the idea of accepting a free ticket to the joys and pleasures of eternal life but are not really interested in doing His will. For example, church members will dance in the aisles while someone is preaching about heaven or being raptured before the tribulation but it becomes very quiet when someone teaches about suffering persecution. Why is that? It is simple; Christians are just like everyone else in that they love pleasure and dread pain. They love potluck dinners and have wall-to-wall audiences for special entertainment but four people will show up on a weeknight scheduled for street witnessing. Most churches have a decent crowd on Sunday morning but only a handful for Wednesday night prayer service. Why is this happening? That’s easy! Because only a handful of people actually pray at all which means they are very uncomfortable praying together. Many church members claim to be Christians but actually do not know much about what that means. Sadly, most people in the church would rather be a spectator than a participator because spiritually they are on the “outside” looking in. The ninety percent have always been perfectly willing to allow the ten percent to do all the sacrifice and work. Many have never realized that the heart of being saved is an intimate relationship with God and His call to a personal obedience – NOT just to attend a corporate service at a certain time and location.

I was talking to God the other day praying and asking Him to please help me. It seemed immediately after I made the request that I heard a voice in my spirit that said, “I also really need you to help me! It hit me hard and I meditated on this for a long time. How often do we just bring petitions without asking Him what He wants from us? I passed a man holding a sign a couple of weeks ago in front of the courthouse that said, “Pray for rain”. I’m not saying that we cannot or should not ask God for His blessings but maybe there is a reason it is not raining! What about making a sign that said, “Repent from your sins”. It is time to stop using Christianity for just a “bless me club” and comprehend the reality of God’s holiness! He is angry at this nation and His judgments are being prepared because of the attitude of the people. Selah. Most of this nation has rejected God and turned their back on Him. They have discarded His Word and have railed against Him like the crowd who cried against Jesus when Pilot offered to release Him. Eyes have been blinded and hearts are calloused against God’s mercy. Our country is in a mess because most do not want God to tell them what to do and have chosen to live according to their own system of “feel good” psychology. The devil has easily blinded the eyes of the masses as they willingly worship their desires.

I am generally a peaceful person. I do not particularly enjoy conflict or confrontation. I have recently come in contact with some powerful information and it has inspired me to think more seriously about OUR part that we should do in these last hours. Those of us who are holding on to the garment of Jesus are feeling a sense of urgency. We are feeling that change is on the horizon and that it will be connected with the Middle East and our failing economy. I personally do not believe that anyone can reverse the course of this nation. It will take more than a president, senate or congress to save our country. I am not endorsing for us to stop praying, but rather to be led by The Holy Spirit about HOW to pray. There are many things to pray for but let us not pray amiss. We cannot pray against prophecy that God has already seen and verified as “coming to pass”. This world is filled with evil people and the blinded nations will gather against Israel in the last hour. I am not sure where America will be when this happens.

My question to you this day is; how far should we go to voice our convictions to society? Should we keep our spiritual knowledge to ourselves and wait for a Divine appointment? On the other hand, should we shout our views that are founded on God’s Word from the rooftop? Should we be vocal at work about our spiritual/political views and be willing to debate for what we believe? Should we study and show ourselves approved unto God about “politics” along with our knowledge of His Word? Should we publicly take a stand for what we believe to be true and become informed about what the enemy is teaching our children and then revolt against it? Are we to be quiet and just spend our time worshipping and living a peaceable life or should we be fighting against the New World Order until Jesus comes or until we are beheaded? Where do you personally stand at this time? If you have not noticed lately, the world is becoming more aggressive, more vocal, more confident and more intimidating. Are we to back off and let them have this world or are we to present our case in the Name of Jesus so that He can open their eyes? Where do you stand?

WALKING IN REVERENTIAL FEAR

October 28, 2014November 11, 2014Leave a comment

THE WALK
PART 37

WALKING IN REVERENTIAL FEAR

I had every intention last week to begin a new series of articles about politics but I feel led to share another message relating to abandonment. I work in a busy environment of freight shipping that involves the constant incoming and outgoing of truck drivers that pull eighteen-wheelers. I see regular drivers that come in every day and pass through on their way to other states. This past week a Louisville driver came in and while he was out in the yard, he felt a little dizzy and out of breath. He came in and sat down and one of our managers (a longtime friend of his) offered to run him down to the clinic and just check it out. He told him that his arms were feeling tingly but he was feeling better and needed to get his load delivered. He left and later that evening had a massive heart attack and passed away. He was 54 years old and was planning to retire next year with 30 years service. A young man in every sense of the word and now his family must try to pick up the pieces of what could have been. I was thinking today about our existence on this planet and how our spiritual sensitivity should always be our priority. Of course, we are to prepare for everyday living in the secret chambers of our intimate prayers and worship with Father; however, it is crucial to actually “use” this anointing to touch others. The idea is to abide within His Spirit and be ready to say or do whatever He is “leading” us to do. This is being AWARE of His presence and our calling to obey is the heart of being a follower of Christ.

We are faced every day with people we know and those we have never met, but it is the moment of “contact” that God can use to accomplish His intentions. It is very common for me to chat with these drivers, listen to their stories and even eat lunch with them. However, in this particular case, here was a man that many people were in contact with throughout that day, yet did anyone hear God’s still small voice to warn him, or witness to him? I personally believe we are so caught up in our own “world” of what we are going to do and what we need to do, that we drown out the tender instructions of The Holy Spirit. I do not know if this man was saved and I certainly pray that he was, but if he was not, he is lost for all eternity. This bothers me a great deal and I am very sad to think that I or someone else could have discerned God’s directions to minister to him. I realize we cannot literally save anyone but we can be a communication “vessel” within the network that God has placed us in. We are not living in contact with those around us on accident – but rather on purpose. Selah. How many people are we walking past everyday and how many divine appointments has God been trying to connect with us that we are unaware of? We have not been called to focus all of our attention on OUR success and enjoyment. We have been called to become so close to God that we can hear Him when He whispers. When we sing about God opening the eyes of our heart, it means that we are pleading to be used and then by faith we are expecting to be used. If we are not looking for divine opportunities then no wonder we are walking right past them! What good are we to God’s Kingdom if we are investing our thoughts and deeds on ourselves? How can God use us as His last day remnant warriors if we are sleeping on the bed of selfishness? Let us not forget; we are NOT earthly people trying to be spiritual, but we are spiritual people trying to live on earth. This is not our eternal home and we need to stop investing everything we have into it! We are only using this body as a temporary shell and this earth as temporary housing, so that we can do “heavenly” labor. The reason why God said the highest attribute of all eternity is LOVE, is that until we develop an agape love for Him and His people, we will not know Him.
I do not apologize for repeating myself, as I cannot escape the urgency I feel for the remnant to be enlightened with the divine understanding of their spiritual sensitivity. At the core of our personal relationship with the Lord and Master of all things, there must be a solid foundation of the reverential fear of who God is and what we have been called to be. The reason why many Christians are not “living their knowledge” is that they have never received the revelation of being aware of God’s constant presence. It is this awareness that will control our thoughts and our intentions. This in turn will “lead” and guide our words and deeds as a direct connection from the Father to those we come in contact with. Our confidence to obey Him even in the tiny things is a part of the big picture of the gospel. Our sincere kindness, compassion, patience and generosity can open the door to introduce Jesus as the loving Savior of souls. “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle and cover it under a container, but they put it on a candlestick; as it gives LIGHT unto all that are in the house.” (Mathew 5:14-15) His remnant will NOT live in a mediocre, “middle of the road” identification. Selah. “And Jesus said unto him, follow Me”. (Mark 2:14)

THE WALK OF ABANDONMENT V

October 28, 2014June 22, 2018Leave a comment

THE WALK
PART 36

THE WALK OF ABANDONMENT V

In this weeks message, I am sharing with you a vision that a dear saint sent to me a couple of weeks ago. I could relate to this simple picture of us abandoning our life and embracing His. As you read and meditate on this carefully, I pray it encourages and strengthens you in your personal relationship with Jesus. In the days ahead, God’s remnant will become like sheep that must listen to and depend on Him completely. We are NOT our own shepherd! When will we truly begin to follow Him?

For 2 nights in a row, I have had a recurring vision. I had forgotten about it until I laid down on the second night and had it again. Therefore, I got up to write down all that I saw and all that the Lord said to me in it: In the vision, I am walking on a green grassed hilltop, I notice that there is such beauty all around me as the summer sunshine brings everything to life. I am walking along the edge of the hill and I look down the side and see Jesus sitting on the hillside below. I climb down to Him and He is seated with his knees up and his arms wrapped around his legs watching something below in the valley. I follow His eyes to where He is looking, and I see many sheep grazing and walking around in the valley below. They are content and peaceful as they meander in the shaded areas. Jesus was watching them and He seemed to be lost in thought. I sat down next to Him and quietly began to watch the sheep with Him.

I do not know how much time went by, but I noticed that it began to rain off in the distance from us, but where we were, it was still dry. The clouds brought rain to the neighboring area and after awhile the rain began to pool up into puddles and little streams. The rainwater began to run towards the sheep where they were all grazing and standing. When the rain pooled together, the sheep noticed the water coming up around their feet. They did not like the water rising so they began to move around nervously and started to back up to try to avoid the invading rain puddles. Eventually the rain caused the puddles to flow together into the valley and the grass became saturated, even in their area right below us. The sheep were bleating and were annoyed at the inconvenience of getting their feet wet. Some began to climb up the mountain until they found the dry hillside and they stayed on the slope out of the reach of the rain. Others began to walk in the puddles or run through the soggy grass trying to find another part of the valley that was not wet. The rain clouds did not move into the area where we were, only the waters from the neighboring rains continued to flow their way. Then the rains stopped, the clouds left, and the sun dried everything up and the sheep went back into the valley floor and grazed as before.

The Lord did not say anything, but He did look up and down the valley surveying everything as he did. He smiled and seemed content. He leaned back some and reclined along the hillside and put His hands behind his head to look down at the sheep. I also leaned back slightly and watched the sheep too. After a few minutes, I saw a different looking cloud system come on the horizon. It looked like it was top heavy and smaller on the bottom. It was dark and foreboding, and the cloud system moved closer to the valley this time, and it eventually blocked out the sunshine. When it did, the sheep looked up and looked around. The cloud cover had gotten their attention. The temperature in the air dropped and a cooler breeze began to blow. The sheep began to stir and to group together nervously. Then a loud thunder shot out of the cloud and the sheep broke out and ran in all directions. Rain began to fall furiously and the sheep were crying out in fear and were looking for anywhere to hide. There was no place to go, as the trees in the valley were not mature or big enough to offer much shade yet. The sheep also tried to rub up against rocks for some shelter, but the rocks were not big enough to offer much cover. Some sheep ran away, and I did not see where they went. Others began to huddle together as they miserably were soaked. The lightning and thunder made them cry out and they frequently bolted and ran and then huddled as they found each other again.

From where I was sitting, I could see the storm clouds dropping the rain below us. I wondered why the sheep did not come up higher where it was sunny and dry. The noise of the thunder seemed to disorient them and it paralyzed them with fear. I thought about calling out to them, but I realized that they would not hear me anyway. The Lord did not do anything but watch. I also sat there and watched. I only saw one or two sheep eventually attempt to climb the hillside. The majority of them just wore themselves out until they were exhausted, and some even laid down in defeat. I felt sorry for them. Then the rain quit and the clouds dissipated and the sun came out again. The sheep seemed to revive and gather back together from their various positions. They dried out and then began to graze again. It then seemed like it was just as before. I looked over at the Lord and He was watching me. I was surprised, but He said nothing. He smiled and I felt reassured, and He again gestured toward the valley. My gaze followed His hands. I looked and the valley was peaceful as before.

Suddenly, I felt a rumbling coming from under the ground. The ground vibrated with a rumble that seemed like horses were running close by. I looked for the horses, but there were none. I waited. Soon, off to the distance, I could see something approaching along the valley floor. It was moving fast and it was driven by wind. I looked, and then I saw that it was a wall of water coming towards the valley, moving along the valley floor, like a flash flood would move after a very heavy downpour. I looked towards the sheep where they were grazing and I realized they did not know the raging water was coming towards them. The sheep had looked up and around when the ground rumbled, but they did not seem to be agitated in any way. Most went back to grazing, but some looked around as they stood there. The flood came closer and the wind picked up, and I saw that the sheep now sensed that something was coming. They began to gather together and to bleat nervously as they milled all around. However, they still could not see the flood coming yet. I thought about yelling down to them, but again, I knew they would not hear me above the winds. I waited to see what the sheep would do. The raging waters came within sight now and the sheep started to move anxiously and looked everywhere for a way out. They began to jump over one another as they tried to decide what direction they were going to run in. Soon the waters came right behind them as they were running, but the waters were faster than they were. The water hit them with a hard force and they were swept off their feet, tossing in the force of the floodwaters.

Some were crying and trying to swim towards the edge of the hill. They got their feet on the edge and tried to climb out of the waters, but only a few made it. Most of the sheep were carried downstream by the waters, crying out woefully as they went. I saw many drown. I was alarmed as I watched and dismayed as I saw their plight. Jesus did not move or do anything but watch. I looked back to the sheep again, and I noticed that the ones that were smart enough to make for the sides were faring better. The ones that had gotten a foothold were beginning to climb up the side of the hill away from the floods. The winds picked up even more now and the level of the water rose. All of the ones that were swept away in the waters had floated downstream in the deepening waters because it was too deep and fierce to stand in or navigate. I would guess that only about 1/3rd had climbed. Of the 1/3rd that did make it, I noticed that most of them also stopped just above the flood level line because they were tired and they felt safe. Many laid there on the hillside and rested as best they could in the winds and in the noise of the storm. A few kept climbing higher as they were too afraid to stop, they just ran very fast up the hill till they reached high ground above the storm. Then they fell down and rested on the hillside and bleated in exhaustion and huddled together shaking until they eventually dried off. They were too tired to run anymore even though the storm was noisy below them, they seemed to know they were safe from where they were above. I looked to see where the ones that stopped just above the water’s edge were, and how they had fared. I could see that most had stayed there on the side of the hill shaking and crying in the rain. I also noticed that the water level was still rising, and I knew that these sheep were not safe where they were. I do not think they realized their impending plight. More thunder and lightning flashed and sounded which caused these sidelined sheep to jump and to cry out, but not many moved from their place even though the winds blew the rain on them even more.

They seemed to be paralyzed in their fear. I saw a couple of smaller sheep suddenly bolt forth in fear and they too ran up the hillside further in their panic. They ran until they also found the sunshine above the storm line. The two little sheep fell down in relief and shook nervously for a while as they huddled together trying to get their bearings. The others below watched the two little ones climb, but they did not get up and make a move towards where we were sitting. I think they either gave up, or they thought the waters would not come up any higher. Suddenly a huge surge moved through the flood waters, like a giant wake of water would move, and the other sheep below were swept off of the lower levels of the hillside and they have also swept away. I could hear their cries as they were swept away. I did not see where they went to. I looked to where the sheep were that had climbed the hillside, and Jesus was now over with them and He was petting them comfortingly. I didn’t even realize that the Lord had risen from His place next to me to go to them. I jumped up and went to where they were standing by the Lord on the hillside. He was stroking their fur lovingly and they were nuzzling Him. He laughed and bent down and hugged some of them. They began to relax and to bend down and to graze again on the hillside. Jesus smiled at them and seemed satisfied. He turned and looked at me. He waited for a moment and then He said, “The winds have begun to blow in this season, and the new rains have begun, and yet most of the people think this is still like any other day. The waters of adversity and the storms of life will rise in the earth. But where are those who discern and who are wise? Who is it that truly hears My Voice, and who is it that changes his ways, and who is it that will climb higher while it is still calm? It is a time to awaken from your slumber, and from your old thinking that things will remain the same. I am at work in the earth, and I am searching every heart and mind, and the trials I allow will reveal what is within them, to them. But few see that the spiritual weather is changing around them, and few are climbing towards Me. Most think they have time and can stay where they are comfortable with and think they can still do the things they know to do, and that they like to do. However, the floods I bring will force everyone to move. You must move towards Me in this season and begin to move towards My Mountain – toward My House, in order to stand in My Peace and to be anchored safely in My Rest.

The Storms are a test. I showed you this illustration in this manner because I want My People to understand where they are in their relationship with Me. Most of My Children are content in the valley eating of the world and wanting to remain in things as they are.” “I allow the storms to test your devotion to Me, and your obedience to Me, and to show you also the areas where you are weak, and where you are still lacking, and also where you have fallen into sin in. These things will hinder you and will be the cause of your being swept away in the trials and the floods of fear and stress that are coming on the whole world if you do not deal with them now. When I bring the various tests to you, even in this picture of the rains, most of you are irritated and frustrated and complain in your trials, just like the sheep that their feet get wet. Many do not like their lives disturbed by tests or inconveniences, or by life’s pressures. Nevertheless, I allow these things to come, so that you can be stretched and be broken out of your perimeters and into My liberty for you. However, many will refuse to submit, and they will be swept away by the bigger trials that will come with the winds of adversity, the thunder and lightning of persecution, and the sweeping rains of change. Some will climb and make it through to either rest just above the storm line, or go to the very top unto Me. Of the ones that remain just above the rain line, like the sheep below, they will think they have done enough to just get by, and this will be their downfall. I do not accept a partial obedience or a half-hearted devotion to Me. Either they will fully follow Me and obey Me or they too, will be lulled to complacency on the hillside, and the rising tides will trap them, and they will also be swept away in the days ahead.”

“The two small sheep that did break through on that level made it to the top. These are a picture of those who learn to trust Me even in the rising tides and are those who break forth away from their fears and doubts and insecurities and they realize that Mine are better. Know that I am bringing all of My Children to the end of themselves in order that they will tap into Me and live. I am the only Way, the only Truth, and the only Life, in this life. There is no other security in this life but Mine, and there is no other Peace in this life but in Me, and by Me. You must put all of your trust, all of your faith, and all of your life in Me. You must each learn to graze upon My Mountain, on Me, and not in the valleys of men, or of the world. When you graze in the fields of men, then you will become as them, and be content to remain among them, and you will lose your discernment and your sensitivity to Me. You will be lulled into a lazy attitude of independence from Me. My People must look up unto Me, and seek Me upon the heights, and move with Me in the Spirit now. Seek Me, and I will guide you, and I will show you what to do. I will reveal My Will for you, and I will bring you into the place I have for each of you. You shall feed upon Me richly and you will be satisfied. As you each climb, others will follow that are watching you. I am watching and waiting for you.”

“Because you have guarded and kept My word of patient endurance [have held fast the lesson of My patience with the expectant endurance that I give you], I also will keep you [safe] from the hour of trial (testing) which is coming on the whole world to try those who dwell upon the earth.” (Rev 3:10)

THE WALK OF ABANDONMENT IV

October 28, 2014Leave a comment

THE WALK
PART 35

THE WALK OF ABANDONMENT IV

I am willing to be completely honest and share my most intimate thoughts with you as a way of testifying, so that you can relate and feel that you are not alone. I am not going through a time of anxiety or depression but rather as Cheryl used this word the other night; we seem to be “disillusioned” with life. I thought about this word and looked up the definition; it means to “become awakened to reality”. An illusion is like a vivid dream, a mirage or believing in a fairy tail that is – untrue, even though it seems to be real. The “dis” means NOT (like in not connected) so in this context, to be “dis – illusioned” with life means that we are NO longer deceived by a fantasy but have been given insight to divine truth. To receive a revelation of something, we are allowed by God’s grace to see it spiritually “illuminated” and are forever enlightened with understanding. Evidently, it seems we were convinced that life was going to be happily ever after, that people were a certain way, work, church, retirement, our health, our wealth, our happiness, our respect, our nation, the world, family, friends and all that we “dreamed” would all turn out perfect. Nevertheless, unfortunately, not all the imaginations of our expectations to give us peace and contentment have turned out as we planned. Isn’t it amazing that what seemed important 20 years ago is now not a priority at all. Things that we believed would make us ecstatic with joy have been disappointing to say the least. Maybe we believed a “personal vision” because that was the way we wanted it to be, and if that is true then we are guilty of creating our own virtual reality. Can we agree that many people live in a matrix world of fiction because it is an environment that gives them SECURITY and the much-needed “comfort” that helps them maintain and survive? At times, people drift away on daydreams along with those “snuggly” expectations that everything is going to be all right. However, while the goose bumps might make us feel good, these carnal fantasies can actually become walls that hinder our spiritual growth process.

As we continue to think about how important it is to be on the same page as God, we must comprehend that our awareness of His presence is the way to be one with Him. The masses are sleep walking as they scratch and fight their way through life, like chickens pecking at the dirt but soon they will be rudely awakened when the anti-christ becomes president of the world. Will they have time to consider the consequences of taking the mark of the beast? Will they have the desire to repent of their sin and abandon their old nature? Will they have time to learn about forgiveness, faith, love and obedience? I believe world-changing events will happen quickly and many will be found in a lost condition, angry, defiant, rebellious, afraid, desperate, dazed, spiritually weak, in shock and confused. “For when they shall say, peace and safety; then sudden destruction will come upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” (I Thessalonians 5: 3,6) I believe God will use His children to reach out and help many in the days ahead. His remnant is being purified by the trying of fire right now so they will be ready to demonstrate their faith. An important part of this preparation is submitting to abandonment because as we let go, we lose the distractions that hinder our progress. We can only grow as strong as we are determined to be like Him.

Do we actually realize how powerful the mainstream media is to our senses? We listen and read about the daily events that happen all around us and in our response; we internalize and process the information into understanding. However, what most Christians are not considering is how much of the content is propaganda designed to deceive us! I am reminded of the early days of radio where people would gather around and be captivated by the words that were spoken. Likewise, I believe many will pay heed to the philosophy of the New World Order in the coming days that will sear the conscience and lead many astray. This global propaganda “beast” system will be the voice of its father – the devil. The saints must discern this satanic influence in their lives, and receive their truth and instructions directly from the leading of the Holy Spirit. How many remnant saints will choose to travel the wilderness path of abandonment that requires them to take up their cross and follow Christ? Who will surrender their lives so they can go wherever He would lead, even if it means traveling through barren places where trials and tests are common? The hour is near at hand when the called out ones who know His truth must decide if they are going or staying. Father has graciously prepared forerunners to encourage the saints, and to help guide them on their way but tragically, most Christians will be unwilling to leave the broad (normal, ordinary) path they have been on. Even when everything is crashing and grinding to a halt all around them, the broad path will appear more appealing to them than to venture off alone down a narrow path that they are unsure of. There will be some like the main character of Hannah Hurnard’s allegory “Hinds Feet on High Places”. They will be Much Afraid, but Jesus the Great Shepard will guide them with much tenderness and reassurance if they will only trust Him. He does not desire to lose any of those sheep whom His Father has given to Him. Are you spiritually prepared for what is coming? Now is the hour to allow Him to create in us a clean heart and a holy sensitivity that can only come from intimate prayer and worship. The overcomers are the ones that were not afraid to resist the mainstream’s call to worship the beast. Far away from what is politically correct and socially acceptable, you will find a remnant of saints that walk the narrow way that leads to life – and few there be that find it. “And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, who are these which are arrayed in white robes and, where did they come from? And I said unto him, sir, you know. And he said to me, these are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the lamb. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple: and He that sits on the throne shall dwell among them.” I sense the Holy Spirit as I relay this scripture at this moment. I feel as if I have been on a long journey and I am homesick. The love of this world has no place in my heart for I can see the future in my spirit and my divine reality is in heaven, around God’s throne, saturated in His glory and the splendor of His presence. Listen to the rest of this passage, “They shall hunger no more; neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes”. He is the purpose and reason for every heartbeat and breath. He is the reason we live, the focus of our love and worship now and forever, amen.

Some might only see the purpose of abandonment as a way of establishing a simplistic life or using poverty as a discipline to bring humility. These may be useful “side-effects” but let me say there is every reason to believe that if we can learn how to walk with God “HIS WAY” He might trust us with even more resources than ever. He is not opposed for His people to receive His miracles and then give them away. He owns everything and we must learn that we are His distributors! The things we do hold on to, we are actually just borrowing for we will not take any material possession out. We do not really own anything in this fleeting world because be are spiritual beings and our TRUE possessions are the spiritual, eternal realities of His Word. “The grass withers, the flower fades, because the Spirit (breath) of the Lord blows upon it: surely the people are grass. The grass withers, the flower fades: but the Word of our God shall stand forever.” (Isaiah 40: 7-8) If our heart and hands become willing to allow His blessings to flow through us, there is no limit as to how God will use us. It is when we begin to build barns to hoard and vaults to protect our treasures, that God’s flowing river becomes a stagnant lake of selfishness. Abandonment must become a state of mind where we filter all of our thoughts with a yielded, submitted will. We will never submit to abandonment until we understand the revelation of self-denial and repentance. Those who do not walk in the reverence and holiness of God’s presence will never desire the concept of abandonment. The opposite of abandonment is to cherish, maintain, embrace, uphold, support, occupy and retain. What are we holding on to? Simply put – it is our will to sin! It is exactly what Father is waiting for us all to let go of. Selah.

The late David Wilkerson had some very good insights about the deeper personal relationship with Christ and I believe it relates to the abandonment of our will. “Repentance means more than saying, “Lord, I am wrong.” It also means saying, “Lord, You are right! Repentance means facing the truth about your sin — the truth that it must end NOW! It is a crisis moment of truth, a place of recognition where you admit, “I cannot continue in my sin and have the Holy Ghost living in me. If I do, I will lose everything. Lord, you are right about sin bringing death upon me. I see that if I continue in it, it is going to destroy me and my family. God, I make no more excuses.” Simply put, repentance is a serious confrontation with your sin. The battle is fought before you get to the cross — it takes place as the Holy Spirit deals with you. The same is true of self-denial. In short, self-denial is a confrontation that says, “Sin ends now — at this point! Contrary to what many “comfort preachers” say, self-denial is not some heartache you have to bear, or some infirmity of your flesh. When Paul said, “I die daily,” he meant simply, “I have to deny that I can continue in sin and still have Christ’s favor. I do not have a special dispensation from God to hold on to a pet sin just because I do good works. No! I agree with the Word of God and I deny all my rights to continue in sin.” The glorious truth of the gospel is that if we die with Jesus, we also come into the glory of His resurrection and into newness of life. His cross is our cross, His death is our death, and His resurrection is our resurrection, through our identification and union with Him. That is the real cross we bear. Yet this is the cross that many so-called ministers of the gospel have done away with. The real cross is not about lovely words describing our Savior’s suffering and bleeding on Calvary. No, the true meaning of the cross is that Jesus bled and died to bring our sin-sick souls into glorious liberty and freedom — to break every chain of sin that binds us.” His blood gives us the grace and freedom to abandon our will to sin – so that we can live His will.

The real last move of God does not need a man to lead it, doesn’t need a band to hype it, doesn’t need a cathedral to harness it, doesn’t need a billboard to promote it and it doesn’t need to depend on intercessors to pray it in. God does not need more TV preachers that promise prosperity and happiness or Christian satellite networks filled with religious “fluff”. When will churches stop begging for millions to build huge luxury palaces that have sanctuaries like entertainment arenas? Sadly, the religious world will continue going in the same old dead direction of pleasing the flesh, but the bride will have the “ears to hear” the bridegroom. Again, we can hear Wilkerson’s heart, “The genuine, last hour move of God has already begun in the secret places of people’s hearts, those who rarely even know one another. They are called loners, misfits, rejects, and rebels, the independent disciples that have “hidden out” in Jesus, who are being quietly, super-naturally shaped into a mighty army of glorified saints. A few here and there are being knitted together in love and when these vessels of light cross paths, the holy presence of the Father multiplies into a holy furnace of passion, inspiration and determination to stand in faith. It is the light of commitment to follow God no matter the cost. The overcomers radiate God’s nature, His presence exposes the darkness and causes turmoil everywhere they go – unspoken, but spoken against; loving, but hated by the world; merciful, but treated unmercifully; strong but broken; powerful in weakness; mighty men of valor without guile or malice; obedient and powerful in the Lord without gender.” These have abandoned their love for this world and laid down their old will as they respond to the call of a heavenly destiny. The eyes of their heart have been opened to the divine realities of eternal truth. They have seen the revelation of Christ in their spirit and have known Him in the green pastures of peace and along the holy, still waters of trusting Him. They are ready to stand on the front-line through the tribulation, to humbly pay the price and “walk” God’s way.

THE WALK OF ABANDONMENT III

October 28, 2014November 11, 2014Leave a comment

THE WALK
PART 34

THE WALK OF ABANDONMENT III

My Father was known to be a neat and organized person and I guess that I inherited the same trait. He kept a manicured yard, well landscaped and beautiful. When he was healthy, he would raise a vegetable garden that had rows so straight that it looked like a postcard. There were never any weeds in the garden and likewise his cars were always clean because he would hand wash them often. His profession was building houses, so to say the least, there was not much he could not repair or create when it came to maintaining a home. My mother, as the other half of the “orderly duo” was a clean-aholic and kept the inside of the house immaculate. I thought about my parent’s character traits this afternoon, (as I was down on my knees in the baking sun pulling crab grass from around my landscape edging) and wondering, “Why in the world am I doing this”? My yard (when it is in top form) reminds me of a state park and I also have my weird quirks about other certain things being orderly, but I must admit that it makes me stop and ponder about what is really important in life. How you might ask? Well, it seems that even though we do not think about it, we are going to be held accountable for our decisions – including how we invest our time. Hardly anyone even sees my backyard because it is barricaded with a tall privacy fence, and when people do come over, most of the time they do not even go back there. So, why does it bother me about getting rid of the weeds and why do I have the “need” to keep everything so perfect? Maybe it is some kind of excessive compulsion syndrome or some other mental hang-up, but couldn’t my time be directed toward something more worthwhile? I look around and most other people never think about weeds – they just mow it and forget about it. What makes the difference between people who care about odd things and others who do not? I believe there are several reasons with everything from just being too busy with higher priorities to those who are just not concerned. Does this make the “neat” people better – of course not! There are just different personality traits that include things like decorating style, music taste, spiritual convictions, political views or value systems. Am I caring “too much” about things that are meaningless? Am I wasting precious time on the menial and not investing enough time in things of eternal significance? Is it normal to run out of the house before you go to bed and dig up a stray dandelion that pops up out of nowhere? Well, a certain amount of pride might be all right because it is a reflection of being responsible but I believe it could be carried too far. Pride in a good way could be used as a way to reach people because they respect the dedication of order. For example, people will respond with more respect toward someone that is wearing a business suit than someone that looks like they have been living under a bridge. This may not be the right thing to do but those who have daughters must admit that first impressions have a strong impact. All of us are vulnerable to first impressions because most of the time we judge according to what we hear and see. On the other hand, pride can be a bad thing, if our motive of being orderly is to give the impression that we deserve to be praised. What if we prayed and talked to God while we pulled weeds, then we could use our neatness as an invitation for divine appointments. Maybe this is an example of how important it is to have constant communion with God no matter what we are doing. It would seem this is the idea of walking in His Spirit, being ready to respond to His voice at work, at the store, driving, pumping gas (or pulling weeds). All of this may sound silly and actually boring to some people but allow me to go a little deeper into trying to realize what is really important in this life and why we think and act the way we do.

I remember an elderly couple a few years ago that lived down the street and how the man was so meticulous with his lawn. He was constantly working on it and I presume he was retired and enjoyed working around his home as a hobby. One day we learned through some other neighbors that he had died suddenly. His wife could not maintain the yard and hired a yard service to do the work but it could not be compared to how her husband could do it. I thought about all the things that he might be remembered for, as I did not know him personally but I could definitely testify that he kept a beautiful yard. It seems we sum people up by what they “do” or have “done” (good or bad) instead of who they are many times. I was at a funeral the other day and it was said the deceased, “really knew how to enjoy life”. Stop and think for a moment about the people you know and how you would comment about them if they were to pass away today. Let’s go a step further; what do you think people would say about you if you were to pass away? It is strange but true that we can remember very easily the negative things, the failures, shortcomings, bad character traits, the nasty attitudes, temper tantrums, the times when others were insensitive and wrong and all their mistakes. Why? Because this is the how the human brain is wired! We need more forgiveness, compassion and understanding instead of holding on to negative resentment and unforgiving attitudes. Carnality means “flesh” and there is never any good that can come out of it because it pertains to not only how others remember what we do or say but also how we perceive and discern others. Selah. The carnal mind stores memories and has its own built-in justice system that sorts out all the evidence and packages it up with judgments and conclusions. This system does exist in all of us and even when we become Christians, we must remember that this way of thinking is NOT a “renewed” mind. We can be spiritually saved and still operate under the old system for a while but eventually the Lord will convict us until we submit under the pressure from the Holy Spirit or we will become hardened with the sin of resisting His discipline and rebelling against His will. Walking in His Spirit is realizing that people are heavy laden with sin and are very weak to fight against it. Having His mind is seeing people with His sorrow and having a burden for them to be set free from the bondage of deception. How can we be strong in the Lord and help others if we also become bogged down with sin and discouragement? It is a dangerous place to become so spiritually dry like the young plants that bake and die in the sun as is told in the parable of the sower and the seed. Selah. Let us go further as we continue to search for the reasons we are the way we are. Do you really desire to know the truth about yourself or do you believe that all is well? Self-exams are like taking a flashlight into the basement to see what is causing those strange noises. It is not uncommon with humans to avoid these “investigations” and just turn the television up louder.

I have always had a good relationship with my Mother-in-law as we had the love of the gospel in common. She lived on her own, was relatively independent, and was constantly reading the Bible and watching religious television broadcasting. She had an aggressive personality and at times was difficult to get along with but overall, is a good person and well liked. This spring she had a stroke out of the clear blue and it has left her a “shell” of who she was. We read stories about those who have suffered devastating problems and we probably know someone that has or is facing a serious storm in their life. We feel helpless because we do not know what to do except pray and help with the practical things that need attention. I do not mean to sound negative but if you have ever known a person that has had a stroke you realize very soon that unless God performs a literal miracle like the ones Jesus did in the New Testament, this person is going to face a very serious uphill battle to just survive – let alone recover. Mary had a beautiful home and it was filled with the treasures she had collected and loved. She loved her independence, had an awesome green thumb with gardens and flowers and was an incredible cook. She is now paralyzed on one side, which has left her unable to walk, go to the bathroom, take a shower on her own etc… She also has trouble with her speech and it is apparent she has trouble thinking clearly. She also experienced some unexpected problems as for example, the tendons in one leg began to draw and pull her toe and foot muscles backward involuntarily which brings excruciating pain. After a while it was obvious that she was not going to be able to live independently again (unless she received the miracle) and plans were made to sell her house and all the contents so that funds could be available to pay for her medical expenses. A lifetime of memories, treasures, keepsakes and experiences all gone in a matter of weeks. I realize this is not uncommon but it does not lessen the sadness. Now she is in a nursing home and shares a small room with another elderly woman. I admit – I am an emotional person and I definitely prefer happy endings rather than sad ones but as we have heard many times – life is what you make it and being happy is a choice. Is she discouraged? Of course, any of us would be, but she had a good life and was blessed in many ways. There are many reasons why things happen. She had faith but was ambushed by the unexpected. What if there is a major crisis in our future, how will we react? I speak positive confessions and I pray for the positive but have I learned when to be content in God’s will and when to fight against the devil – and how to know the difference? Maintaining Christ in our heart is the most important thing whether we are lost at sea, in prison, bankrupt or in the hospital. I am simply trying to learn more about whom God is and what He wants to do in us. Have you ever been involved with an overwhelming situation and struggled with trying to win the victory over it? There may be libraries of textbooks about how to deal with problems but there is a difference between just watching a war and actually being in a war. A crucial part of abandonment is learning that we are not fighting our OWN war. Christians are called to lay down their old carnal plans and embrace a new set of spiritual blueprints. We are abandoning our old ship and boarding His glorious vessel! He bought us and is living in us for the purpose of doing HIS will through us. All glory to God.

THE WALK OF ABANDONMENT II

October 28, 2014November 11, 2014Leave a comment

THE WALK
PART 33

THE WALK OF ABANDONMENT II

The Christian life is NOT a fight to those who abide by the world’s system of flesh. Spiritual warfare is meaningless to those who do NOT desire to abandon the love of the world or their determination to live their own life. Religious people will not hesitate to refer to praying or their expectation of heaven but our level of abandonment unto God is the real spiritual thermometer that “tempers” our love and prayers. I attended a funeral one time where the minister tried to tiptoe around a difficult situation and in the process delivered an immune message that I am not sure, anyone really understood. I admit that some funerals are tough and this one was, but if the celebration of a life lived for God is not there, the message of salvation should be presented to those who still have a chance to repent and give their heart to Jesus. There was never mentioned the plan of salvation, the blood of Jesus, or the desperate need to be born again. The funeral home was standing room only and no doubt, many needed to hear an anointed message of spiritual reality but instead it seemed he was trying to reassure everyone that we are all just a bunch of good ole boys and girls that will be having field parties in heaven forever. What ever happened to the fire and passion about how much God demands holiness or what personal intimacy within a spiritual relationship with Jesus is all about.

The ministry is a calling to those who will abandon their fears to speak the truth. Whatever happened to the responsibility of speaking GOD’S words and not selling out to pleasing men? Anyone that disobeys God in word or deed is guilty of sin and will stand before God for not being faithful. I know that all of us have blown opportunities to witness for Christ and we need to repent and ask God to help us do better next time. But, how many pastors are intimidated by their members and do not care about what The Holy Spirit is saying because they are afraid that obeying God will cause them to lose their jobs? Everyone wants to hear that all people go to heaven no matter if they were saved or not but doesn’t this just make us more comfortable in our own deceptions? There is soon coming a day when every Christian will be forced to take a stand for their convictions and it will NOT be a time to compromise. Selah.

The modern day prosperity movement is an example of devising a plan to present God’s Word as a “money machine” in order to attract enthusiastic crowds. Deceptive teachers use the truth about blood covenant and obedience and then distort it into a “give and get” doctrine. One ministry is called, “enjoying everyday life” but how can this be when the real message of the cross is the “abandonment” of this life. It is not that God will not bless us with abundance but it is intended as a way to GIVE unto others. If we live the way God has commanded us to live, I see His Word warning us of a lot of suffering, sacrifice and persecution – not a constant party. “YEA, AND ALL THAT WILL LIVE GODLY IN CHRIST JESUS – SHALL SUFFER PERSECUTION.” (II Timothy 3:12) Those who spend all their time enjoying their everyday life of pleasures can hardly relate to practicing the presence of God. The flesh is ENMITY toward God or in other words an “enemy” against the Spirit of God. “For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God (opposed): for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.” (Romans 8:5-8) Unfortunately, these “artificial” doctrines are taught as planting seeds and reaping a harvest so that we might fill our bank accounts and indulge ourselves with the pleasures of the flesh. This is a spiritual principal but is not intended to be twisted into a carnal slot machine. No wonder these churches and stadiums are filled! The religious seekers support and are drawn to those who say things their flesh loves. Remember when Pontius Pilate stood before the angry crowd with Jesus and Barabbas, he had the authority to do what was right but crumbled under the pressure of pleasing the people. However, those who speak the truth and who trust God even unto death, will lead a lonely life of rejection and betrayal. Why? Because very few want to hear about the need to abandon their carnality. “You adulterers and adulteresses, do you not understand that the friendship of the world is ENMITY to God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world – is the enemy of God.” (James 4:4)

I noticed a picture in the paper the other day of a gay rights activist holding a sign that said, “It’s ok to be gay”. I am not necessarily picking on the gay movement because actually it is more like the sign was saying, “It’s ok to sin”! What kind of world are we now living? How are we as Christians supposed to react to a crowd of people holding signs that declare that any abomination, perversion or type of darkness and wickedness is acceptable? Are we to just ignore the freedoms and rights of individuals? Are we to tolerate their sin and not worry about what people do in their own personal lives? Are we to get involved with politics and fight against sin and create laws against debauchery? I know we are to pray against the darkness and I know we are to stand for God’s truth even if our own family hates us. Nevertheless, my question is – who has the power or wisdom to declare that sin is acceptable? First, a person would have to disregard the Bible as the absolute truth of heaven and earth and that God the Father of all things – wrote it! So, if you sweep that little problem under the rug, I presume you can proceed with creating your own spiritual, legal and moral system within a brand new world order. BREAKING NEWS! This is exactly what is happening! The now generation has thrown God’s Word out the window, which gives them a brand new platform with a new clean slate. Since they do not believe that God’s Word is socially valid, our arguments against their world are not considered legally conclusive, which is the reason why watered down religion alone can never persuade the spiritually blind. This is the highest pride in the universe and compares with Lucifer’s mentality when he was still working in heaven. He said in a paraphrase that, I am smarter than God, more popular, more beautiful and can do a better job of ruling all things. And now, many are possessed with this same twisted spirit of arrogance. They are born of the dark side and pledge allegiance to the lies of darkness. Only the blind and foolish would declare that man’s limited, mortal and corrupted intelligence is the “right” way to live. For humans that do not consider God’s Word to be true, this statement takes away the absolutes and opens the door for the tolerance of all chaos, confusion and lies. In the minds of those who believe in the philosophy of doing whatever feels good, the idea of living holy unto the Lord of all Kings does not matter. Whenever man does not acknowledge sin as an opposition against the maker of heaven and earth, there is a rebellious disregard for HIS absolute truth. God has mercy on all those who shake their fist in His face and shout that they know more and better than He does – but for how long? The system of the world serves the flesh and is becoming more aggressive with their hatred for God and His Word. There is an old saying, that what is in the well, will come up in the bucket. This perfectly explains how the condition of the heart cannot be ignored nor hidden from the conscious mind. The direction of our lives and the motives behind our actions are driven by the convictions of our conscience and spirit. In addition, for that matter all who call themselves a Christian should have the discernment to realize that the one who knows every thought and who hears every whisper is weighing our intentions.

If we are walking with God, we are filled with His Spirit and His power will renew our mind and ultimately control us. If we are distant from Him, we only have traces of His presence, which leaves us lukewarm and carnally driven. Of course, those who have never been redeemed are cold and indifferent to His presence, are spiritually blind and cannot comprehend His truth. Allow me to pause for a moment and ask you where you are this moment in the levels of spiritual intimacy with Christ. We know when we sense His Holy Spirit and we know when we are living in a state of emptiness. The consequences to being lazy in our praying and worship are a “cooling off” within our spirit, which in turn causes a heaviness that blankets our joy and peace. We all go through times when we become tired of fighting the battle and the daily grind of functioning in a negative world can cause stress that wears us down. Being in a state of “blah” can be denied for a long time but that does not mean we do not know its there. We KNOW when we are sliding backward and we KNOW when things are not right within our conscience. If you feel right now that you have drifted away from being “red hot” but, you are still wearing your, “everything’s ok mask”, just stop for a minute and talk to Him. He is ready to empower us to live for Him and give us the strength to pull away from the temptation to compromise.

Father, I abandon myself into your hands;
do with me what you will.
Whatever you may do, I thank you.
I am ready for all; I accept all.

Let only your will be done in me,
and in all your creatures –
I can pray no more than this, O Lord.

Into your hands I commend my soul:
I offer it to you with all the love of my heart,
for I love you, Lord, and so need to give myself,
to surrender myself into your hands without reserve,
and with boundless confidence, for you are my Father.

Charles de Foucauld

BILLY HOLLAND MINISTRIES

CONVICTIONS and CONSIDERATIONS

Category: The Walk

WALKING RIGHT SIDE UP III

WALKING RIGHT SIDE UP II

WALKING RIGHT SIDE UP

THE WALK OF KNOWING

THE WALK OF REALITY

WALKING IN REVERENTIAL FEAR

THE WALK OF ABANDONMENT V

THE WALK OF ABANDONMENT IV

THE WALK OF ABANDONMENT III

THE WALK OF ABANDONMENT II

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this: