BLACK AND WHITE pt. 2

Blessings to you and yours in Christ!

As we continue in our study there is one thing we need to understand, Gods word is infallible. Gods word is His nature and character. Who He Is.

Infallible - incapable of making mistakes or being wrong. never failing; always effective. Faultless, perfect, dependable, trustworthy, meticulous, reliable, sure, foolproof, unfailing, certain.

While we look at the above words and statements that define the word infallible, we can gain a little more understanding of Who God Is. If we put "God Is" before each word or statement, we will in fact be re-confirming Who He Is and rehearsing in our own hearing (faith comes by hearing) Who He Is to us in our lives.

Now as I had mentioned toward the end of our Study in "Black and White part 1", that when one speaks about law in general, there is no variance regarding breaking the law, either you did or didn't. You will never find a might or maybe. It's clear. It's black or white. The same is true about the laws of God or commandments. Either you obey or you don't. There will be consequences and rewards dependent upon your response to these laws.

Now once again, the Lord God gave the commandments to Moses in Exodus chapter 20.  Now let us keep in mind that these laws were delivered from a Holy and Righteous God to a very unholy and unrighteous people. I have heard it said this way: "The Law of God was given to Moses, to deliver to the people of Israel, to live by and adhere to. These laws were perfect and were given to an imperfect people, in order for them to realize that it is impossible for them, in and of themselves to keep any one of them. It was like a mirror that they would look into, and in this know, that they were not able to keep them." No matter how sincere their heart was. This would reveal to them just how Holy and Perfect the God they worshiped and served was indeed.

When any one of us look into the perfect law of God and know what particular sin or weakness we may have been struggling with and might be hidden away in our hearts, we also get a revelation of Who God Is and just how much we truly need His mercy and grace in our lives. By the prompting of the Holy Spirit, this should reveal to us just how Holy and Perfect the God we worship and serve is indeed.

Let's read what James and Matthew have to say:

"For the person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as a person who has broken all of God's laws."  James 2:10 (NLT)

"You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a women to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart."  Matthew 5:27-28 (BSB)

With the Law there is just no wiggle room at all. If you break one, you're guilty of breaking them all. Even if you have not done the act, the intent of your heart is more than enough to condemn you by the law. Wow! Oh how we need our Savior. Thank you Lord Jesus!

Okay, I think we understand and realize the difficulty of keeping the perfect Law of God without a Savior.

We find in the Book of Romans chapters 5 and 6, Paul explains to us how we are saved by Grace through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and His shed blood. Which is the vehicle in which we are pardoned. However, being pardoned as we are, it is not an opportunity to take the Lord's grace for granted.

Let's begin with Romans 5:12-20

   "Therefore as sin came into the world through one man and death through sin, so death has spread unto all men, because all have sinned. For until the law, sin was in the world. But sin is not counted when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who had not sinned in the likeness of Adam's sin, who was a type of Him who was to come. 
    But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if through the trespass of one man many died, then how much more has the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of the Man, Jesus Christ, abounded to many. The gift is not like the result that came through the one who sinned. For the judgement from one sin led to condemnation, but the free gift, which came after many trespasses, leads to justification.
    For if by one man's trespass death reigned through him, then how much more will those who receive abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness reign in life through One, Jesus Christ. Therefore just as through the trespass of one man came condemnation for all men, so through the righteous act of One came justification of life for all men.
    For just as through one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the obedience of One the many will be made righteous. But the law entered, so that sin might increase, where sin increased, grace abounded much more, so that just as sin reigned in death, grace might reign through righteousness unto eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 5:12-20 (MEV)

Now let's check out Romans chapter 6

   "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may increase? God forbid! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? Do you not know that we who were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him by baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised up from the dead by the the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 
    For if we have been united with Him in the likeness of His death, so shall we also be united with Him in the likeness of His resurrection, knowing the is, that our old man has been crucified with Him, so that the body of sin might be destroyed, and we should no longer be slaves to sin. For the one who has died is freed from sin.
    Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowing that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death has no further dominion over Him. For the death He died, He died to sin once for all, but the life He lives, He lives to God.
    Likewise, you also consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts. Do not yield your members to sin as instruments of unrighteousness, but yield yourselves to God, as those who are alive from the dead, and your bodies to God as instruments of righteousness. 
    For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under the law, but under grace. What then? Shall we sin because we are not under the law but under grace? God forbid! Do you not know that to whom you yield your yourselves as slaves to obey, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness? 
    But thanks be to God, for you were slaves of sin, but you have obeyed from the heart that form of teaching to which you were entrusted, and having been freed from sin, you became the slaves of righteousness.
    I speak in human terms because of the weakness of your flesh, for just as you have yielded your members as slaves to impurity and iniquity leading to more iniquity, even so now yield your members as slaves to righteousness unto holiness. For when you were the slaves of sin, you were free from righteousness.
    What fruit did you have then from the things of which you are now ashamed? The result of those things is death. But now, having been freed from sin and having become slaves of God, you have fruit unto holiness, and the end is eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6 (MEV)

I wanted to allow God's word to speak for itself. Paul gave us a wonderful explanation of sin and death, along with righteousness and life.

At this time I'd like to share how I apply Gods word to my life. You have probably heard a statement that goes something like this, "God said it, I believe it, and that settles it!"  Well, in a nut shell, that about wraps it up.  Now, I am still working out my own salvation with fear and trembling as stated in Philippians 2:12.

Gods word is the same today, yesterday and forever. Hebrews 13:8.  "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." Hebrews 13:8 (BSB) Jesus Christ is the Word of God: John 1:14.

As we continue to grow in the Lord, as we give ourselves over to the studying of His word, we gain more revealed truth, a deeper knowledge of Who He Is and what He expects of us. We develop a relationship with Him. While in prayer we may sense impressions of His desire for us or a Rhema word (a revealed truth) that we must apply to our situation as an answer to prayer or a direction from the Lord for a particular time.

The more we die to ourselves and the sinful nature (like we read above in Romans) the further we move away from the things of the world, and move toward the light and life in Christ Jesus. We may find ourselves in a position, where we once did certain things, but now we have no desire for them. Or maybe we used to feel a certain way about something and could've been quite passionate. But after giving your heart to the Lord, once again, you and others find that your view points have changed and are now more aligned with the Lords perspective and His word.

What I am describing above would be called "convictions." A great example of a conviction is; when our brother Peter Simon, who walked with the Lord, was going to be crucified, he wanted to be hung on the cross upside down. His explanation was that he felt he wasn't worthy to be crucified in the same position as his Lord and King had been.

Now, Peter was passionate about this. This was Peter's personal conviction. This does not mean that everyone after Christs' death on the cross, should've been hung in a different manner, and if you didn't you would be deemed irreverent. Not so.

To bring it a little closer to home for us today, I will use another example. "To drink wine or not to drink wine, that is the question?"  Okay, there may those of us BC (Before Christ) who may have at times drank while in the world, before we were regenerated from above. There may be some who had never drank an once in they're lives before asking the Lord into their hearts or after that fact.

Our Brother Paul reminds us to do all things, regardless of what it may be, with moderation. If you indulge yourself in anything too much, you have now become its slave.

If your conviction is to not drink at all, then praise God! If you have wine with dinner and on special occasions, praise God! I like the way John says it in 1 John 3:20-21. He makes a statement that says "as long as our hearts do not condemn us we have confidence before God." If we find that our confidence turns to guilt and or conviction (a sense of right or wrong) then it's something to take a deeper look at with the Father.  However, if your confidence is steadfast toward God, then to you it is not sin.

The most difficult thing to do is to not hold others accountable to our own personal convictions. If it is in the word of God, then share it, if so led. If there is a sense of urgency and the beloved brother or sister is definitely violating the word of God and can or is causing harm to themselves or others, then share with them in love as stated in Jude 1:23 "snatching others from the fire..."

However, on the other hand, if the Lord placed it upon your heart not to drink even a glass of wine with dinner "EVER!" That is only between you and the Father. There may be something specific He is working in your life, that He is not working the life of another at that time. We are not the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit is the One, Who in conjunction with, the will of God brings conviction and deliverance with it. What a blessing! Whereas if we try, we more times then none, will bring condemnation upon a brother or sister. Then we are violating the law of Liberty through Christ Jesus, and behaving more like a pharisee then one saved by grace ourselves. Then we may find ourselves in contempt when we look into the perfect law of love in Christ Jesus! Ouch! Stay prayerful and humble always, preferring others more than yourself. With this you can't go wrong.

When we operate in Law of love, the complete Law of God penned by Moses is fulfilled. The thing we must be aware of, is that there is a thin line that separates the perfect Law of love and the Law of the Pharisees.  We ourselves at any given moment are able to, out in the flesh allow the carnal man to rule, the fruits being unrighteousness and condemnation. Christ has come to set all men free and to liberate the captives from the Law of Sin and Death. Just as He has done for us, as believers in Him.


Blessings, blessings and more blessings to you and yours. In the Mighty name of Jesus!



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BLACK AND WHITE pt. 1

Blessings my Brothers and Sisters in Christ!  I pray you find your strength comes from our Lord!

Over the years there have been times in my walk with our Lord that it has been said of me, "You are just black and white." This statement was not made in defense or with ill will intended at all. It was made as insight of a very close friend of mine in whom I trust explicitly. While driving home a few weeks ago I found myself pondering this statement. Why?  I am glad you asked!

Yes, once again the statement had been made in regards to how I may view things in a black and white manner when it comes to my every day life, when looking through the lens of my understanding of Gods word and my conviction in Christ.

With that being said, I'd like to make mention that conviction is not legalism. We are saved by grace and that not of ourselves but through Christ who died for us.

Ephesians 2:8-9 "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; It is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." (BSB)

Conviction - a firmly held belief or opinion, a view, thought, persuasion, idea, position, belief.

Legalism - excessive adherence to a law or formula, dependence on moral law rather than on personal religious faith.

Again, legalism can be said to go through the motions with no change of heart or motives as discussed in an earlier topic: "The biggest "U" turn you will ever make."  

Whereas conviction has its roots in a particular belief, thought or persuasion. With proper understanding of Gods word, grace is weaved throughout our convictions. We will find in Gods word plenty of times where judgement should've taken place, yet grace and mercy were applied.

I must say that I am indeed fully persuaded that Gods word is true and that He is a Rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. I not only believe in faith, but have faith in what I believe.

If we have given our lives to the Lord then we are no longer under the Law of sin and death.  We have been liberated from the Lord above and are free men and women in Christ.

Romans 8:1-2  "Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.  For in Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life has set you free from the law of sin and death." (BSB)

I would like you to understand that there is a much higher law that supersedes any and all religious practices that are contrary to Gods word. Practices and religious ordinances that were created aside from the Spirit of God through Christ Jesus. This Law is the Spiritual Law of Love and Grace.

Galatians 2:21 "I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness comes through the law, Christ died for nothing."  (NKJV)

Jesus spoke of how this law was fulfilled in two commandments. Let's read in Matthew 22:35.

Matthew 22:35-41 "One of them (a Pharisee) tested Him with a question: "Teacher, which commandment is the greatest in the law?" Jesus declared, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." This is the first and greatest commandment. The second is like it: "Love your neighbor as yourself." All the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commandments." (BSB)

The Law of Love and Grace complete the Law of God. Which has its judgement against sin in the lives of those who have not received Christs sacrifice in repentance. It does not abolish the Law of God by any means in its authority. But as Jesus has said: "All the Law and Prophets depend on these two commandments." One translation says "Hinge on these two commandments."

First, I would like us to notice that Jesus states that the Law in and of itself was basically incomplete without these two commandments. Second, I would like us to note that Jesus calls these two statements that He made in His reply to the Pharisees, "Commandments."  He Himself was the only One Who was and Is the only One able to add to the Law of God, being God Himself in the flesh! Jesus shared with the religious leaders and all who heard, great wisdom in that statement. We can glean from it today as well. Bless God for His living word!

You see, if we love the Lord God with all that we are, and our neighbor as ourselves, we would fulfill the Law of God! If we love God we will not sin against Him, and if we love ourselves and treat ourselves good and in turn love our neighbors the same way, again we fulfill that law. Remember that our neighbor, as we ourselves, are made in the image of God, in whom we love and will not sin against. So, if we sin against our neighbors, we ultimately sin against not only ourselves but God.

I took a little time to elaborate regarding the Law in order to lay a small foundation. This will be helpful as we continue our study in part two. When one speaks about the Law it generally has no variance whatsoever. Laws are not created to bend or be broken.

Hence, this is where we can say it is "Black and White." When speaking about breaking a law, you would say: "Either you did or didn't."  Now when we look into the Law of the Lord aside from Christs work on the cross, we are condemned, and rightly so. We have been born into sin, via Adams foolishness. However, when we look into the Law of Liberty, love and grace, we find that we are redeemed by the Blood of Jesus Christ via His sacrifice on the cross.  Thank you Lord!

What the Law of Moses could not do, In Christ Jesus the Law of the Spirit of life has set us free from the Law of sin and death. Romans 8:2 (BSB)


Father God, I thank you for Your faithfulness to us. Thank you for making a way where there was no way to You because of sin. We thank you for Your mercy and loving-kindness toward us. Holy Spirit, I thank you for leading and guiding this study with revelation from the thrown room. Deliver many and encourage all that will receive the word of the Lord. To You alone Lord, we give honor and praise. In the precious and Holy name of Jesus our Savior and Redeemer. Amen.


Blessings and healing to you and yours as you continue your week in Him Who is able to save!


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A BLESSING TO SERVE

Blessings to you and yours, my Brothers and Sisters in Christ!

   I'd like to take a moment to talk to you on a more personal note. I would like to express my gratitude and thankfulness to the Lord and you! It is such an honor, blessing and privilege to serve and encourage you in the Lord via this blog. You are in our continued thoughts and prayers. It is a wonderful blessing being able to reach our world for Christ. From our little corner of the world to yours.

   We at Heart Treasure Ministries, endeavor to be a blessing to you and your family, by breaking the bread of the Lords word together. I thank the Lord for knitting our hearts together in Him. We are His body. Joined together by His Holy Spirit, with one heart in Christ Jesus! It's a wonderful blessing! Know and understand that as you have shared the words that have penned on this blog with others, it is with great humility and pleasure, that I would ask the Lord to hold it to your charge in thankfulness, rewarding you and your household with blessings and divine health.

The countries that we have found ourselves reaching out to are listed below:

United States, France, Germany, Kenya, Puerto Rico,Thailand,United Kingdom, Jamaica
Philippines, Russia,Ukraine, Austria, Latvia, Denmark, Norway, Poland, Ireland, New Zealand
Canada, Netherlands, Australia, Uganda, India, Portugal, Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong
South Africa, Japan, Vietnam, Costa Rica, Aruba, Kyrgyzstan, Brazil, Argentina, Kazakhstan
Peru, Saudi Arabia, Hungary, Dominican Republic, Bahamas, Sweden, Pakistan, Armenia, Iraq
Swaziland, Ghana, Israel, Malta, United Arab Emirates, Jersey

   I would like to ask you to keep each other in your prayers to the Father as we continue to run the race of faith, together in Christ, until He returns. The people of our world have suffered many different sufferings, tyrannies and situations. From freedoms taken away and hate crimes, to cultural discrimination on faith in Christ. We must not forget our brothers and sisters who have also endured brutal persecution and death for their faith. Martyred for their belief in Christ Jesus our Savior. The Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.

  Surely, we honor them for loving not their lives unto death for our Lord. Please pray earnestly that our faith in Christ would not fail in times of persecution, or in the face of death. Death being the last enemy to be destroyed.

                                                              MARANATHA 

"The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace."  Numbers 6:24-26 (NKJV)


May the Lord use us all mightily to touch the world for His glory!  

Thank you for making mention of us in your prayers. 


Thank you for sharing

ONE FLOOR UP

Blessings to you the Lord's Beloved!

Imagine for a moment with me, that you were in a building that has 34 floors. However, you are on the first floor with no way of getting to the second. Oddly enough there are no stairs, no elevator, and no fire escape. Aside from busting loose on all of the building code violations, you just have no way humanly possible to reach that second floor. Yet to your amazement the rest of the building seems to be buzzing with excitement and energy. Confused, you wander around the first floor, looking and simply wondering why you can not find the access way. The others have! Why can't I?

The same is true for the Kingdom of Heaven. Sometimes it may seem as though we are walking around aimlessly wondering, how do I get there? You may say to yourself; "I've tried this, and I've tried that. That other thing I was doing for a while seemed to make me happy. But shortly there after I was just left with myself again knowing all of my weaknesses and failures. I knowingly was just running away from myself, my past, and the hurt. I was just trying to elude and deceive myself. Trying to fill the void and always coming up empty.

Dear Brave heart, if you at the very least have admitted to any one of these statements, (I am so sure there are many more that we can add) I'd like to applaud you! When you are courageous enough to get straight with yourself and not allow your heart to deceive you, you are on a very good path. The truth and nothing but the truth, so help you God! Amen and He will!

We are going to say that the first floor in our opening paragraph, is exactly that place where you've tried everything to no avail. I will ask you. Have you thought about Jesus? Have you ever thought that God may be the filler to your void? Now mind you, I'm not talking about religion. Religion has it's roots in outward appearances. Whereas relationship is a matter of the heart. Religion might change your mind, But only God can change your heart.

Let's read what Jesus has to say in the Twenty Third chapter of Matthew.

Matthew 23:27-28 "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, pretenders (hypocrites)!  For you are like tombs that have been whitewashed, which look beautiful on the outside but inside are full of dead men's bones and everything impure.  Just so, you also outwardly seem to people to be just and upright but inside your are full of pretense and lawlessness and iniquity."  (AMPC)

Jesus was pretty upset with these men to say the very least. He was upset because they seemed as though they were upholding the law when in fact they were continually breaking every one of them! You may ask: "Well how can this be? Why were they given a place of honor and servant-hood among the people? Let me answer that with a quick analogy. It's kind of like when you are washing your car. You are getting that sponge all sudsy and ready to slap on your vehicle. Now while you are going through the motions your mind may be thinking about one hundred other things. Yet mechanically as though it were, you are still getting your car sparkling clean.

In other words, You can go through the motions and your heart may never be in it. This is exactly why Jesus was calling them out! The Lord wanted a personal relationship with each and every one of them. But they were to busy deceiving and misleading the people with an impure heart. Their confidence was in their own works rather than in God by faith. They did not have a heart that was toward God and His perfect will, but rather man and his imperfect will.

Matthew 15:7-9  "You hypocrites!  Isaiah prophesied correctly: These people honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me.  They worship Me in vain; They teach as doctrine the precepts of men."

2 Timothy 3:5  "They having a form godliness but denying the power there of.  Turn away from such as these!"  (BSB)

But, we are not talking about them. We are talking about you and I. The difference is a sincere heart. In 2 Samuel 16:7 in the later part of the verse it states; "that man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks upon the heart."  

We can also read in Hebrews 10:22 "Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an (guilty) evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water."  (NIV)

The word sincere means - free from pretense or deceit; honest, proceeding from genuine feelings. Heartfelt, wholehearted, real, profound, deep, earnest.

The word conscious means - having the knowledge of something; aware; to be painfully aware of; sensitive to.  Also, in the late 16th century the term conscious in Latin was used as - being aware of wrongdoing;  a knowing with others or in oneself.

I love the scripture above Hebrews 10:22.  But lets look at the verse before.  Hebrews 10:21 "And since we have such a great and wonderful and noble priest Who rules over the House of God." 
Then the it goes on to say verse 22: "Let us draw near to God..." Now that Jesus Himself is our High Priest Who cannot be tempted or tainted by the sin that so easily entraps us. Hebrews 12:1.  It is much to our benefit to draw near indeed to God now. He is the filler of that void we spoke about earlier. He is our creator and understands more than any the human condition. He through Jesus was 100 percent God and 100 percent man.

Unlike the priests of old spoken about in the Book of Matthew who were called hypocrites by our Lord. Because their heart was not right with God. It was impossible to come to God in the state they were in. Unless they humbled themselves with an honest and earnest heart. But we however are able to approach God with a sincere and honest heart. Notice the definition never stated that the word sincere meant perfect.  Indeed there is none perfect but He!

In Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God."  We all have sinned. Because of this sin it caused us to be separated from God our Father. He is holy and cannot dwell in the presence of sin. Or shall I say that sin cannot dwell in His presence. Mighty that He is!  This is why He took upon Himself the transgressions and sins of the world in the man of Jesus. Now our sin and along with it, its judgement, is paid in full.

Now we are able to draw near to God through and by the Person of Jesus Christ His Son. We have been redeemed or ransomed by Him and for Him.

The word Redeem means - To save or vindicate. Gain or regain possession of something in exchange for payment. Retrieve, regain, repossess, recover, reclaim. To compensate for faults or bad aspects of something.

Let's read what the Book of Isaiah has to say.

Isaiah 44:22 "I have wiped out your transgressions like a thick cloud and your sins like a heavy mist. Return to Me, for I have redeemed you."

Thank you Lord!  I will ask you once again. Have you thought that Jesus is the answer to filling that void we spoke about earlier?  The Lord is inviting you up to the second floor right now with access to the other floors. He has made the way. Ask Him with a sincere and honest heart to forgive your sin known and unknown, and ask Jesus to come into your life and fill that void in your life once and for all.

Proverbs 18:24 "A man of too many friends comes to ruin, But there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother." (NASV)

Jesus is that friend that sticks closer than a brother.  If you prayed and asked Jesus into your life please let us know. We would like to welcome you to the family of God!

Father in the precious name of Jesus I bless these that have made a choice to look unto You to fill that empty void in their lives. By Your mercy fill them Lord with Your joy and peace. Touch their hearts by Your Holy Spirit to bring comfort, healing and guidance. Let their lives bring glory to Your name.  In the mighty name of Jesus our Savior.

If you may need additional prayer for yourself or a loved one, we would love to pray for you. Please forward an email to: hearttreasureministry@gmail.com.  It would be our privilege to pray for you and yours.

Blessings be manifested in your life today to the glory of God!



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AFFIRMING WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT

Greetings the Lord's Beloved!

An affirming word of encouragement to you. Keep looking up and run the race with patient endurance. The Lord is with you!

"By the Spirit of the Living God:  The Lord is positioning you and is bringing you into your exodus.  Yes, He has turned your face away from all earthly knowing and is now causing you to step into your promised land.  You will cross over through the sea.  The veil of His crimson blood and His water flowing so clean.  Pure will you be, pure will you be, Oh so pure will you be!  His Fire by night and His Spirit by day, will you be drawn into His purposes.  He will guide you all of the way.  Because you have made yourself willing, and so it has been granted to you.  Hold fast, hold fast to His glory and grace.  Do not rush or make haste.  REST in HIS POWER, in HIS POWER alone!  Heaven on earth bears witness to His thrown!  Come up and come out Rebekah and Jacob!  Your time is now!  RISE, RISE, and ARISE!  When your foot steps into your land; be vigilant, Oh watchman with sword in your hand.  It is the prayers of the righteous that move the Spirit of our God.  Armed with His Word and feet shod in peace.  Deliver many, deliver all - you are the repairer of the breach. Clothed in His righteousness, none can withstand.  It is His Resurrection Spirit that leads you into your land." 


Isaiah 33:10  "Now will I arise," says the LORD, "Now I will be exalted, Now I will be lifted up."


May your path be straight and all grace rest upon you.  In the Mighty and Matchless Name of our Savior Jesus Christ of Nazareth!






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LET HIS HOLY WIND BLOW

Blessings to you my Brothers and Sisters!

   Our Lord is visiting His people once again in a mighty way.  Miracles, signs and wonders are happening around the world. We are a part of it! When the Lord comes with His Holy presence to a people or particular place, we must keep in mind it is for a particular reason. Be ready and watch for Him. He has heard the cry of His righteous ones!

   The Lord God is not a court jester by any means. He does not manifest His presence for the mere thought of entertainment at all. God is sovereign. We as His called ones must recognize this with reverent fear and humility.

   There is one verse I like and quote often. It is found in "On the third day Joseph said to them, "Do this, and you will live. I, too, fear God." Genesis 42:18(GWT)

So, let us fear God and live. I'd like to say right here, that we are also called friends of God.

"No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing. But I have called you friends, because everything I have learned from My Father I have made known to you." John 15:15(BSB)

   The Lord withholds no good thing from us, that comes from above. We are His family.

   This is a call to us all, the body of Christ universal. The Lord is not asking for our permission to show up and be spectacular and gracious to us. He is Sovereign. He is the Great I AM. The One Who Is able to become anything He wills, whenever He wills it! We must prepare our hearts to receive Him in His fullness, once again. Yes, I said, once again. On His terms and not ours.

   There has been a spirit of lethargy that has plagued the body of Christ for the past twelve years. We have been distracted in building our own kingdom in stead of the Lord's. Not all, but quit a great number. I do believe at times we have attempted to make God into our image.  Where He fits nicely into our agendas. Rather than allowing Him to be just Who He Is, The Lord God Almighty.

   The unfortunate part of all this is that as we, the Body of Christ as a whole, have turned our hearts and heads away from our brothers and sisters who have been fervently defending the faith, in a spiritual battle delivering souls, as the rest of us have become lukewarm or indifferent. This resulting in a falling away and disillusionment of the babes in Christ, as cynicism made its way into the church. Our love waxed cold.

By the precious Spirit of our God I cry! "Come back to HIM now, your FIRST LOVE!" With tender hearts rent in humility and heads bowed in repentant gratefulness, for what He has done for us in His mercy. Return, Oh Bride of the Most High. Return unto your Kings side. Rise from the ashes and cleanse yourself by turning from subtle sin that has crept in. Ready yourself for love and for battle. He is righteous and victorious! The earth claps and rejoices, for His day is drawing near! Holy Bride, bought with a price that none could pay. Except He who reigns on High! Glory to His name! 

   The Biblical meaning for the number twelve is considered to be a perfect number, it symbolizes God's power and authority, as well as serving as a perfect governmental foundation. It can also symbolize completeness or the nation of Israel as a whole.

"For another foundation can no man lay that is laid, which is Jesus Christ." 
I Corinthians 3:11(MEV)

   Yes, I believe the Lord has come with His manifested presence to once again awaken His bride from her slumber and to call those that would receive His holy impartation in and upon their lives. Allow our Lord to lay a strong foundation in your life and bring a completeness of faith, joy and peace by His Living Word, Jesus Christ. Allow Him to enter into the deepest part of your heart that you have reserved for no one.

   Let Him by His Holy Spirit bring that which is dead in your life, back to life once again. Your zeal, your hope, your faith, His call upon your life, new vision, new fire, a freshness of fervor, new insight, more love. Ask Him and receive with simple faith and a pure heart. Call unto Him now.

   As He breathes on you a fresh, allow Him to restore hope, and give you clear eyes to see Him for Who He really Is. Your Redeemer.  Allow His Love flood your soul with His peace and renewed joy. Let Him build and fortify a strong foundation in your heart and spirit. Allow your faith to be broadened by His Holy Spirit, through His word.

Believe to see, hear and receive! In the Majestic name of Jesus!

"Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste." Isaiah 28:16(KJV)


Blessings and may the Mighty presence of our Lord, Keep and establish you and yours in His power, love and peace!


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BE WISE AND PRUDENT

Greetings in the name of the Lord!

   Have you ever heard the statement "Time is of the essence?"  Well, there is a time that is upon us in which we will have to discern exactly what we see and believe. We live in a world where there are no absolutes. We do not have a set of complete and perfect rules to look on. One day the rules or law may say one thing, and then before you know it, that rule or law changes to nearly the exact opposite of what the original intent was.

   This is confusing. There is no wonder as to why we see so many people today who rebel against authorities and government. Plain and simply stated: "There is no security of any kind in this world or its system!"

   It is imperative that we spend time with the Lord in His word. "The Lord Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever." Hebrews 13:8. His laws are perfect. His ways are just. He is consistent. We are able to rely on, and trust Him.

   "For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed." 
                                                                                                                               Malachi 3:6 (KJV)

   There are very responsible, well meaning people in this world, doing their best to raise a family and contribute their time and energy in making the world around them a better place to live. Then much to this idealistic dream, the status quo changes and they find the rug pulled out from under them. To say the very least, this is disheartening. But take courage. There is a scripture verse I'd like to share.

   "A prudent man sees evil and hides himself, The naive proceed and pay the penalty."
                                                                                                                       Proverbs 27:12 (NASV)

The word evil in the original Hebrew means: perverse; foolish.

The word hides in the original Hebrew means: concealed; secret things; cover; undetected.

The word naive in the original Hebrew means: good sense; discretion; prudence; wisdom.

   We see in these definitions that we are not silly minded at all. In fact, those in Christ, are full of His wisdom. We are covered in Him, for Him and by Him. As we take a look at the verses above along with the explanation of the words, we see that in whatsoever state we find ourselves, our behavior and mindset is in Christ. This is what we manifest. This is our living hope. All to God's glory. It should not be any surprise to us just how the world behaves and reacts. Again, as we read the Bible we come to understand why exactly, the world thinks the way it does. It is in a fallen state. The world system operates under a different set of rules. We notice more and more the opposition to the things and people of God. If it doesn't like God, it won't like us. That's okay. Expect it and rise above it in Christ.

   Let me express that I am not talking about civil laws that are put in place to protect us. I am speaking about an agenda, that has its roots in the spiritual realm and opposes the things of God. Some un-knowingly and others knowingly agree with this dark influence and its intent. We must be discerning. The times are evil.

   Now is not the time for believers to be islands unto themselves. We must gather ourselves together to pray, fellowship, lift one another up, bear each others burdens. We must seek God and His divine will. Now is the time for us to extend His loving kindness and mercy to unbelievers. They also need a place to find comfort. This is why we are still here. The Lord desires for us to bring them, the lost sheep, into the fold. Now is the time.

   "He who dwells (lives) in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty [Whose power no foe can withstand]. I will say of the Lord, he is my Refuge and my Fortress, my God; on Him I lean and rely, and in Him I [confidently] trust!" Psalm 91:1-2 (AMPC)

And another verse states:

   "Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves." Matthew 10:16 (NKJV)

This word shrewd in the original Greek means: To reflect a personal mindset.

   The word innocent in the original Greek: implies righteous; what is in conformity with God's own being ( His will, standard of rightness) hence "upright."

   "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." John 16:33 (NASV)

We have hope in Christ. This hope is an anchor to our soul (mind).  With the help and guidance of the Holy Spirit we are able to manifest heaven on earth in every situation and circumstance.

   "Yet I am confident I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living!" 
                                                                                                                                  Psalm 27:13 (NLT)


Now to Him who is able to keep you and yours be all of the glory! Much love in Christ!




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PRAYER OF COMFORT

Blessings to you and yours the Lords beloved!

Today I would like to extend a blessing to you. I know there are hardships that you may be experiencing. There are concerns about health and family members. There are questions about what direction to take in life. Among many others. Let's go to our Father in prayer.

Oh Heavenly Father of great mercy, there is none like you in all the heavens or the earth. You alone are the One True God. Everything that was made and is created was fashioned by your hands. We thank you this day as we come into your holy presence, by the blood of Jesus Christ your son in whom we have been cleansed in faith, by his work upon the cross. The fact that He is raised from the dead proves that His sacrifice was acceptable to you.

Thank you for your love and kindness toward us. Father, we know you watch our every move, as a mother watches her children. We find comfort knowing that there is nothing that passes from your eyes that you have not seen. We thank you Lord for sealing our lives with Your Holy Spirit. Stir our hearts this day to seek you. Fill our hearts with a strong desire to know you more. Cause us to thirst for you like we never have before. Breath your Holy life into ours Lord. As you live let your life be manifested in and through us in the name of Jesus.

Father I bless all those that are and will read this prayer. This is for them. They have not stumbled unto this sight by happen stance. You are not a God of chance but of purpose. So on purpose they are here. Minister to their hearts and comfort them Lord by your Spirit.

Father there are those that are in transition right now, (I see a young man in Denmark or the Netherlands Lord, that area, he actually has a back pack on and he is ready to make the move.) They don't know where they should go. They are seeking options (I hear the word "options") in what they should do. Father I pray and ask that the way would be made clear. Your word states in Mark 4:22 "For nothing is hidden, except to be revealed; nor has anything been secret, but that it would come to light." (NAS) and so Father we thank you for making this evident to them. Thank you for divine direction.

I thank you Lord for a healing touch in someone's physical body. There is a woman with a great stomach tumor I see. Father now by the power of your Holy Spirit, I speak to that tumor and tell it to stop growing and deteriorate and begin to break down completely in the name of Jesus.  I thank you Lord that the pressure this thing has caused has made it hard for her to breathe. So again Father, I thank you for restored breathing, I thank you that her lungs will be able to fully inflate once again. Lord I thank you that as she takes breath in fully, that by Your Holy Spirit her muscles will ease slowly and without much discomfort, her breathing will be successful. All to Your glory Lord. In Jesus' name.

There are those who long to know that You hear from Your heavens Lord and see them right where they are (I see a young lady from the South China Sea area Islands). The Lord wants you to know that He does see you and He knows exactly where you are. He says to you in Isaiah 43 verses 1 and 4. "But now, this is what the Lord, your creator says, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel, "Do not fear, for I have redeemed you (from captivity); I have called you by name; you are Mine!" and  "Because you are precious in My sight, You are honored and I love you, I will give other men in return for you and other peoples in exchange for your life." (AMP) Father I pray for this sweet sister of mine. I know that you love her along with all of the others that look to You for guidance and love.

I would like to speak the Fathers peace over you my sweet heart. He loves you greatly and will never take that love back. He was there the day you were conceived. I know you believe that in your heart. He has called you with a special purpose in Him. You will lead many to the freedom He has awaiting them in Christ. Be encouraged. Yes, He has heard your cry from His heavens and He has delivered you! He is making your path straight and removing every obstacle out of your way. Yes, you will walk in freedom! You say,"How can this be?" He says, "Trust, watch and believe."

Father, I thank you for hearing my prayer. I ask your blessings and guidance upon all who seek you and those that will. Let them be encouraged this day. I thank you that your light is greater than the darkness that tries to hold them captive. I pray a hedge of protection around all those that are yours. I plead the blood of Christ over all that are not able to protect themselves from ruthless enemies. May your Word of Truth and Power expose the strategies of the enemy. Lord God Almighty as You live, may Your Holy prayer warriors rise to defeat the plans of the enemy in the lives of your children and those that are lost. I thank you for enabling us, through Christ, to walk before your thrown and worship you in your holy presence.


"Now to Him Who is able to so far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us. To God our Father be all of the glory, now and forever."

HIS ARMS OF LOVE

Peace be unto you and yours, my Brothers and Sisters!

   After a hard days work, have you ever wanted to climb into your most comfortable easy chair? Allowing it to embrace you as you wedge yourself into its cushions. Finding the chair has kept the mold to your body perfectly from days gone by. Finally, you take a deep breath, then exhale and allow the fullness of the day to melt away even just for a moment while you find yourself again.

   Life is very demanding and challenging. The boss wants what he wants. The children want what they want. We are an "on demand society."  Although we may be trying our very best to pursue the great dream of success. If we do not keep our perspective on meaningful priorities, we will be swallowed up by a big fish.

   What I mean by meaningful priorities is at the end of the day what is it that anchors your soul to find rest, peace, security and comfort?  Think about that for a moment. In all of your peaceful meditation, I do not think that pictures of your boss were floating past your minds eye. No, it was more like your family, your humble abode where you hang your hat at the end of the day, friends, parents, your garden in the yard, or Saturdays sporting event that's up and coming. This list may go on and on.

   What brings us pleasure and peace is of Gods doing. You see, He has created life that we may enjoy it and all of the wonders it holds. However, His intent was not that we should enjoy it without Him. There is a story in the Bible about Adam and Eve, the first man and woman that God created. The story goes on to say that every evening in the cool of the day, the Lord God would come and visit Adam and Eve in the garden where they lived.

   I am sure they talked about the happenings of the day together and just enjoyed each others company. If Adam found things frustrating I am sure he spoke to the Lord, and the Lord God in His great wisdom, gave Adam understanding and peace in how to resolve the matter. In that, Adam would find rest, peace of mind and comfort to put that situation aside until the next day.

   The Bible says in Matthew 6:34 "So never worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (NIV)

   There is nothing we are able to change about today. It has now become the past. We can learn about how we may be able to do things differently for our tomorrow, in order to have the outcome we desired. The challenge is that, we are not always in control of the circumstances around us. The Lord in His infinite wisdom and patience is still working this out in my own life. However, we must remember that we serve a God who sees everything from its beginning to its end. It is of Him that we must take a moment and ask, "Father you see this situation and you know me and my heart. You see the beginning and end of the matter. Please teach me Your ways. I thank you for Your grace and wisdom.

   In Ecclesiastes 7:8 we read: "The end of a matter is better than its beginning; Patience of spirit is better than haughtiness of spirit."

   So, at the end of your day when you try to find your way to that easy chair, looking forward to its embrace, why not allow the Lord to embrace you. Take a moment to visit with Father God at the end of your day just as Adam and Eve did. As you begin to exhale and relax, allowing the fullness of the day to melt away, and you come back to yourself. Thank Him for everything He's given to you and for the wisdom and knowledge, to keep things in proper perspective. His perspective. Let Him wrap His loving arms around you and lend you comfort like only He is able.

   Jesus said in the book of Matthew 11:28-30 "Come unto me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."


His blessings, peace and comfort be unto you and yours. In the matchless name of Jesus!


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A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT

Blessings my Brothers and Sisters in the Mighty name of Jesus!

     The Lord has put it upon my heart to encourage you today.

     The Lord wants you to know that you are not alone. He is as close as the mere mention of His name. He sees you dear heart as you feel abandoned and alone, left out in the cold, no where to turn. He is your light of warmth as His presence fills that place. His breath upon you, sense His mercy and grace.

     For child alone you will not long be. My family I assigned you, will lead you to Me. Your heart will be filled with joy you've never known. Yes, this place you will come to, will surely be your home. With your eyes opened wide and heart full of faith. Keep looking up for soon you will part take. Let love rule in your heart. Do not choose the other way. Bitterness is the distraction that tries to draw your heart away.

     Cleave to My Spirit of Truth with your whole heart. Rest assured you will be blessed. For you are My precious work of art. None can snatch you from My hand, Sayeth Your Lord who reigns on high. Look for Me, watch for Me, your Redeemer draweth nigh. 

     I thank you Father God for seeing those that the world chooses not to see. I thank you for Your wisdom that instructs us and teaches us Your ways. Father make it clear to us, just how Your mercy never ends. We love You Lord, we adore You Lord, thank you for being our friend.

     May His Blessings and peace keep you and yours, in the precious name of Jesus!

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WHY TRUST GOD IN THIS DAY AND AGE - MY TESTIMONY

Blessings to you in the matchless name of Jesus!

   With all that we see going on in the world around us, we must stop and ask ourselves, "Who can I trust? Where can my family and I go to be safe?" These questions may only be the tip of the iceberg. But, I think you get the idea. It is very difficult to raise a family with some type of morals in a society that has muddied a moral standard. When we choose to not have any kind of standard to live by ie... civil laws. Then we in turn actually jeopardize the safety and well-being ourselves and others. Just to be clear, I do not agree with a dictatorship of any sort. But, a democracy in which people come together and have a meeting of the minds, and establish, (with liberty as the fruit for well being), what is best for the whole. We do not see very much of this today. Our freedoms are being sacrificed to a culture that has no regard for their own families, let alone their neighbors. Where do we turn?

   Religion has had an impact and role since the very beginning of recorded history. In every society, in every corner of our world, people for generations have practiced some form of religion. Even today we can take notice of different cultures emerging with different methodologies, philosophies and religious practices. Because the world system itself can not fill this void or answer these questions. I suppose in some way or another, it is a quest to find "The Answer." The question being: "Why are we here?" Religion will give you practices and guidelines. It may lend some comfort for a season. However, if it is just mechanical practices in a man made culture and there are no moral standards you have to answer for, there is no accountability to someone as well as others for your behavior, and your heart is not involved and changed. Then at the end of the day you come up empty again and your religion has not served you well.

   In 1985, I thought I had life wrapped around my finger. I was in control of my destiny. No one was going to stop me from doing whatever I was thinking I would do. The truth is, I was running after something, working two full time jobs and on top of the world, so I thought. When in reality I was doing nothing less then chasing my own tail around, getting in my own way! Until, one night while watching T.V. I came across a preacher. I listened for a while and what he was talking about made sense. It's true, we all need somebody. But more than just anybody, we need someone who knows our thoughts and plans, our pains and griefs, our heart of hearts without question, and still loves us in spite of ourselves.

   I grew up with a religious background. However, religion made it easy for me to do whatever I wanted, with little accountability and demand for a heart change and growth in my personal life. I was still lost! The road I found myself traveling down, just wasn't a good one at all. I quit school and ran away from home at Fifteen years old. I came back home and was out of the house for good at seventeen years old. I experimented with drugs, alcohol and gambling. I was just trouble waiting to happen. Finally, by the age of twenty-one my life began to settle down a little. At that time, I had stopped doing drugs, drinking and gambling. However, I still had a chip on my shoulder and a rebel in side.

   At this time, two guys at work approached me and asked if I believed in Jesus Christ. I said: "Of course I do."  My religious background was in the christian faith.They gave me a New Testament Bible and asked if I had one. I told them no. I had never read the Bible. They then instructed me to begin to read the Bible and if I had any questions just ask. I said, fair enough. Even though I had thought that I was't good enough for God to glance my way. I knew my short comings and sins. I felt after I cleaned my act up, then I would be good enough for God. Shortly after this I had been transferred to a different department in the company. Once there, I met another christian brother, who was also being transferred to the same department.

   After orientation we received our new units we had to report to. I reported to mine, and lo and behold, I met another christian gentleman. He was to train me in my new job. Shortly thereafter, he shared what had taken place in his life about seven months before I arrived. He told me he had been an alcoholic, a heavy gambler and that he would practice cheating on his wife often with other women. But, he had given his life to the Lord and everything had changed. He said the desire for drinking, gambling and other women had been taken away. His marriage had been restored and Jesus had forgiven him and gave his life back to him in a beautiful way.

   I remember this gentleman would always sing songs to the Lord while he worked. I took notice of the peace he had. He was humble and would walk away from rude behavior and coarse jesting. He didn't buckle under peer pressure by his co-workers. One day while at work the other workers told me that he had really changed for the better. He wasn't the same. I could tell that they really respected him. Although they would tease him from time to time regarding his new life in Christ. He'd just shake his head and walk away with an affectionate smile and pray for them. He loved those guys. He was very instrumental in my walk with the Lord.

   It isn't hard to see that the Lord was kinda making sure that where ever life was taking me (I know He was orchestrating the whole thing!), the road would lead to Him. As my Christian co-workers reached out to me, I began to see "That I didn't have to wait and clean myself up for God." It was impossible for me to do that anyway. Only Christ can do that. He is the only one able. In Psalm 46:1 It says that: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in time of trouble."  I figured I wasn't doing a really good job of this thing called life on my own. I had nothing to loose and all to gain. Besides it was Gods' reputation on the line, not mine. He is the promise maker and keeper. I just had to trust Him and watch what He would do in and through my life, like He said He would in His word, the Bible. I did ask the Lord into my heart and gave my life to Him. I knew with other believers around me they would help me understand what the Lords will was for my life through His word. Like our Brother in Christ earlier, I began to have that same peace in my life as well. I also had more joy and hope, which previously had not been there.

   Again, it was no coincidence how the Lord was moving situations and people around in my life, in order to get my attention and move me closer to Him. I will tell you that I have never for one moment ever regretted the decision I made that night to follow Him. He is Beautiful, Full of Grace,Wonderful, Patient, Faithful, Trust Worthy, All Powerful, Magnificent, Full of Wisdom, Gracious and Merciful, Kind and Deliberate with His Love. He is a Friend that sticketh closer than a brother, Protector, Mighty, Awesome and He is Father.

   May I say at this point that, while religion may have its roots in some belief system that may make you feel good, sooner or later the feeling, because it is limited by human emotion which always changes, falters, and is not constant, will leave you empty once again. Because we are left with ourselves, knowing our own weaknesses and faults. We will let ourselves down. It's inevitable.

   However, if we put our trust in a Living God who has created and fashioned us. We would soon realize that, if He sees our ugly weaknesses and yet, it does not deter Him from loving us. We will begin to find that we are truly loved. And this love will bring us joy that is beyond our human nature, and with this joy that the Lord gives, brings eternal hope with it.  What more can we ask for?  Can you use a little in your life?  Have you reached the end of yourself yet? When we reach the end of ourselves and human ambitions we find our Lord.  He knew us before we were even a thought. He even knew us before we were in our mothers womb! It is not about religion. It is all about a personal relationship. I say personal, because there is not a one of us that is identical with life choices and experiences. We are all individual and called by His name for a particular purpose in Christ.

Psalm 139:13-14 "For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mothers womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well."  (NKJV)

   A personal relationship with the One Who has called you by name. He is our safe haven. Though the world around us may change and things may seem to get scary at times. We can trust in God, The One Who holds the world in His hands. He is the God that never changes. He is always the same yesterday, today and for ever. Hebrews 13:8. He is our God and Creator. He knows us more than we know ourselves. He IS worthy of our trust.

Isaiah 43:1 But now, thus says the Lord, your Creator, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel, "Do Not fear, for I have redeemed you: I have called you by name; you are Mine!"  (NASV)

   I do not believe in luck or chances. I serve a God of purpose. So, I will say, that it is not by chance that you have read a little of my story. I believe the Lord is seeking you out as He sought me out. Isn't it wonderful to think that you are just that important to God Almighty? That He would actually go through any trouble at all just to find you!

   If your heart is stirred by His presence and you sense He is drawing you closer to Him, then answer that call and say "Here I am Lord Jesus come into my life and lead me in Your ways. Forgive me for trying to do things my way. I give my heart to You. Thank you Lord for Your faithfulness to me."

Welcome to the family of God! I would like to pray for you as well.

Father God, I thank you for these that have given their lives to You this day. You have drawn them by Your Holy Spirit to do so. I thank You Lord that their hearts are softened to receive all that You have for them. Keep them safe by Your power and might. Guide them by Your Holy Spirit to a church of believers that will help them in their walk with You, as You did for me. Provide all they need this day. Cloth them with Your heavenly presence Father and fill their hearts with Your peace and joy. I thank you for lifting burdens and cares that have seemed to overwhelm them. I pray for those that have difficulties sleeping at night and pray for Your perfect peace to fill them and bind every fear that would try to steal from them in Jesus' name. Help them to give those things into Your hands where they can be better taken care of. Holy Spirit of my God, I thank you for building such a trust and bond in their lives with the Lord God, that every voice that would rise up and try to cause doubt, would be shut up and put to shame. I thank you for healing and restoring those that need a healing touch in their physical bodies this day. Father, I thank you that You are concerned with what concerns us. We mean that much to you. We love You Lord. In the amazing name of Jesus!

May His grace abound more and more toward you and yours. Blessings in Christ Jesus!


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YOUR HEAVENLY CALL pt. 12: The Gifts of Pastor and Teacher

Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ!

We have been studying the gifts that Jesus Christ gave to His body, the church or ekklesia - the called out. I enjoy meditating on the fact that Jesus Himself, felt the need to hand pick those that would serve His body in such a way, that these gifts would bring us into a unity of faith in Christ, and bring about a perfecting and maturing of the saints. All to the glory of Father God. Yes, we are just that important to Him! I love what Jesus said to the Lord God in John chapter 17.

John 17:20-23  "Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent me. And the glory which Thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and Thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved me. (KJV)

In these verses we read that it was the desire of Jesus' heart that we, His body of believers would be one in Him, and one in them, meaning; God the Father and God the Son. It was very important that Jesus expressed the reality of being one with the Lord God. Jesus would do nothing aside from the Father. As we His body can do nothing aside from Son. Let us read Romans chapter 12.

Romans 12:5-6 "So in Christ we who are many are one body, and each member belongs to one another. We have different gifts according to the grace given us. (BSB)

We also read in Colossians chapter 1.

Colossians 1:18 "And He (Christ) is the head of the body, church; He is the beginning and firstborn from among the dead, so that in all things He may have the preeminence." (BSB)

Let us begin with our foundation verse:

Ephesians 4:11-14 
"And His gifts were (varied; He Himself appointed and gave men to us) some to be apostles (special messengers), some prophets (inspired preachers and expounders), some evangelists (preachers of the Gospel, traveling missionaries), some pastors (shepherds of His flock) and teachers. (AMPC)

Pastors - protect the flock. They are also called shepherds or overseers.

Pastors are called to care for the Lord's body, His church. A pastors call of grace is to serve the body of Christ in a number of ways as needs will vary in a community of believers. The Holy Spirit has gifted these great men and women with abilities to not only care for the body of Christ, but an anointing that will lead, guide, guard and direct the body into a place where they will receive the revelation of God's grace in Christ Jesus.

They bring the Word of God to the people in such a way, that all may glean and gain understanding of what the will of God is and how the love of God will work in our every day lives. They break down the Word of God in a way that is palatable. They give themselves over to the Lord in prayer and study of the Word of God, in order to bring the message the Lord desires for His people. They feed the Lord's sheep. They are typically married to the flock.

We can read in John 21:15-17. Jesus asked Simon Peter if he loved Him three times. We see Jesus replied first to Peter saying: "Feed my lambs.", His second reply was: "Tend my sheep." and Jesus' third reply was: "Feed my sheep."  We can see that we as Christians are first tender lambs that need to learn the sincere Word of God to grow and become mature sheep. In our learning and growth periods there will be times that we may seemingly stumble or walk through difficulties in life that may overwhelm us. Times like these we would need to be tended to in the Lord by our shepherd.

As we grow into a mature man or woman in Christ we may not need as much tending to. However, this would be the time that we would begin to serve with hands on experience and become productive in the things of the Lord. Looking to our pastors who have served well, we glean from them and continue the work of the ministry to lighten their burden. Our pastors would reap in joy as they see us plugging in and serving. As our spiritual fathers they would begin rejoicing to see the faithfulness of God working in and through His body.

Keep these faithful men and women in prayer. Day in and day out they serve us as unto the Lord. It is a selfless task to make yourself available to others when you need rest yourself. But still they continue on, all to the glory of God. Bless them real big Lord!

Finally, we will never outgrow the need to be "fed." We will always need the Word of God in our lives. We will always need to fellowship and to be accountable to our brothers and sisters in Christ. We will never "arrive."  We will know all things when we pass into glory from this life. Until then we will continue to renew our minds daily by the Word of God. We will never run out of revelation or exhaust the Word of God. Who can hold the Wind in his hands?  There is none that are able.

I have placed the gift of Pastor and Teacher in the same study. Because the two gifts more often then not, go hand-in-hand as a ministry gift. Again, one gift may be the stronger and we would call this our motivational gift. However, the other gift would follow closely behind. Although there are Pastor-Teachers who lead the church in the ways of the Lord. There are also Teachers that are not pastors in the sense of serving a congregation. I have the blessing and pleasure of knowing a few of these great servants of the Lord. I am truly humbled and grateful for the gift they are and the knowledge they impart to Christs body.

Teacher - They instruct and break the Word of God down into bite size portions. We can see the similarities in the teaching techniques. Both teacher and pastor break the scriptures down, so the hearers will better understand what the Lord is saying to His people, and they would not be left ignorant. They bring us information in a practical common sense manner regarding the things of God. They enjoy digging deep into the Word of God to find its hidden treasures. They give us teachings from the Lord, that are like building blocks of insight and understanding. They may be called to travel and minister to the Body of Christ, bringing forth all of the nuggets they've retrieved, from the countless hours of searching out the deep things of the Lord in His word. Truly, they are as important a foundational gift as the others.

We are blessed to have such diversities of gifts in the Body of Christ. It is like a many faceted jewel that brings forth different dimensions when held in the light.

I am believing that the Lord has opened your eyes and stirred heart to give you a sense of where you and your gifts fit into the Body of Christ. These gifts are not only to be used in the church setting. They are to be useful wherever and whenever the Lord by His Holy Spirit desires. We can read in
Matthew 5:13 "You are a light to the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid."

Again, we have listed different links that you can find useful in your studies of the gifts that will bring more insight to you. As we have just skimmed the surface with an short overview.  Remember, all of the gifts work together to benefit the whole that none would lack.

"Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you unblemished in His glorious presence, with great joy, to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority through Christ Jesus our Lord, before all time, and now, and for all eternity. Amen." 
Jude 1:24-25 (BSB)


May our Lord and King richly bless you and yours in the name of Jesus!


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YOUR HEAVENLY CALL pt. 11: The Gift of Evangelist

Blessings my Brothers and Sisters!

I hope the spiritual gift survey was helpful in giving you direction and assisting you in discovering your spiritual gift the Lord has blessed you with. All of these gifts work through the power and anointing of the Holy Spirit, with the love of God in Christ Jesus. We will continue our study by looking at the evangelist.

Evangelist - One who announces or heralds the good news.

I Corinthians 12:28 "And God has appointed in the church, first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations and various kinds of tongues." (NAS)

I would like to begin our study by reading how Paul had admonished Timothy, who was like his son, with great authority and urgency. We find Paul delivering a high command and charge. He made Timothy aware that these words were not mere words of comfort, but were given before the thrown of Almighty God in the presence of Jesus Christ, who is and will judge the living and the dead, along with His kingdom bearing witness.

2 Timothy 4:1-5  "I charge you in the presence of God and Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of His appearing and His kingdom: preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke and encourage with every form of patient instruction. For the time will come when men will not tolerate sound doctrine, but with itching ears they will gather around themselves teachers to suit their own desires. So they will turn their ears away from truth and turn aside to myths. But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of the evangelist, fulfill your ministry." (BSB)

What I would like us to notice is that, in verse 5, Paul tells Timothy:

• Preach the Word,
• Be prepared in season and out of season,
• Reprove, rebuke and encourage with every form of patient instruction,
• Be sober,
• Endure hardship,
• Do the work of the evangelist,
• Fulfill your ministry.

I really believe we have found the nuts and bolts of ministry basics right here. Now Timothy was apostolic in his call, however he served in a pastoral role to aid in the establishment of the early church in different regions. Timothy along side Paul was the over seer of the church of Ephesus for about four years. He continued there under the instruction and leadership of Paul. However, I think it interesting in this passage of scripture how Paul gave instructions to Timothy to "do the work of evangelist." 

It is safe to say that though we may differ in motivational gifts, we may have gifts that do indeed over lap when the need presents itself. Remember we read in  
I Corinthians 12:11 "All these are empowered by the one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as He wills."  He is the Lord and with the establishment of the early church we will find that many who raised the dead during the day, and waited tables at night were full of the Holy Spirit, wisdom and power!

Evangelists are traveling ministers or missionaries who bring the Word of God through preaching passionately with an anointing and urgency that leads people to recognize their need for Christ. Their preaching many times is accompanied by miracles and healings. There is a unique anointing that rests upon the evangelist. With compassion and charismata of the Holy Spirit, the word they preach stirs the hearts of men, women and children alike in such a manner, that many are moved to repent, and have a desire to drink the living water the Lord offers to them, by restoring their souls in God, through Christ Jesus. With fire and grace they explain to few or masses of individuals alike, how great a love the Lord has lavished upon them through the man of Jesus, and how this love can bring them peace of mind and heart, if they would only believe and receive Him in their hearts.

The evangelist expounds on the pending judgement of sin that will take place. How the repercussion of an unrepentant heart will suffer the consequence of eternal damnation and separation from Christ. They speak with personal conviction as if it were their last breath to others. They think it nothing to pour out their hearts until they find themselves spent for the gospel of Christ. They take their heavenly call very seriously. As should all of the gifts. They take it very personally. They are on a quest to "save the world, for the sake of Christ, before He returns." We are not promised tomorrow.

Being that they travel often and to different regions of the world, it is not uncommon for them to suffer much hardship and for go creature comforts where the Lord takes them. They do not stay long where they minister. This alone would give them reason to pour their heart out with all that they can in their preaching, to make sure they have given the message and they did not leave their hearers ignorant to receive Christ.

It is almost as if their moto is "NOW IS THE DAY OF SALVATION. IF YOU HEAR HIS VOICE, HARDEN NOT YOUR HEARTS!" 

We find these referenced in:

2 Corinthians 6:2 "For He says in the time of favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you." Behold, now is the time of favor; now is the day of salvation! (BSB)

Hebrews 3:15 "As it has been said: "Today if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts, as you did in the rebellion." (BSB)

Referencing the above scripture verse in 2 Timothy we gain insight into the fervor Apostle Paul spoke to Timothy with. It was urgent. Time is of the essence. Paul was preparing to be poured out a drink offering unto the Lord, with his life. This was his last breadth and message that he was speaking with to Timothy. He knew his time was short. He delivered his message with authority and conviction. His last words of wisdom, exhortation, warning, command and love. All in the magnificent presence of the Lord God and Jesus, with all heaven bearing witness. Paul was a father in the faith and a spiritual father to Timothy. I appreciate how he put Timothy in remembrance of the great commission to reach the utter most parts of the world. "Do the works of the evangelist, fulfill your call."  

Acts 6:6 They presented these seven to the Apostles, who prayed and laid their hands upon them. (NIV)

I Timothy 4:14 "Do not neglect your gift, which was given to you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you. (NIV)

Whether we prophecy or work at the local food mart, whether we teach children in school or raise the dead, we must always do the works of the evangelist in some regard to reach the lost for Christ. After all, we were once dead in our trespasses and sin, separated from God, until we heard the good news as well. Thank God for that brother or sister who took the call of God seriously enough to step out in faith and act upon His word and share the love of Christ. Glory to God!


In His magnificent name and immeasurable love in Christ, God bless you and yours!

YOUR HEAVENLY CALL pt.10: Our Spiritual Gifts Inventory

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

  To better equip us for what we have been called or appointed to do with our lives, we have been looking into the Gifts of the Holy Spirit we have received from the Lord. Through these teachings we have gained a better understanding as to where we fit in the body of Christ.

  I am excited about this study. I am even more excited to assist you to get you where you belong in the body of Christ! There is no better feeling or sense of destiny we experience in the Lord until we are right where we are supposed to be, doing what we are called to do. I heard it put this way with humor from a preacher who remarked: "When the Lord puts something in your heart, you get an unction to function!"  I can't wait to hear testimonies of what you have been called to, and how the Lord is using your gift to be a blessing to others.

  Today I have enclosed a link for you to look at. It is a gift inventory test to help you get an idea of the gifts and talents you possess and will help narrow down the direction of what the Lord is placing in your heart to do.

  The Spiritual Gifts Inventory will help you discover what it is that inspires you, along with an idea of how you are wired in Christ. You may find it answers a lot of questions for you. Examples: Why do I think this way?  Or I always knew I loved children!  Or why do I feel the need to tell everyone about Jesus a little more passionately then others? Or Why do I find myself praying for others all of the time? And why do I love the Word of God so much and love to share it with everyone? Be encouraged the answers are on the way!

  Have a blessed time filling out your gift assessment test. It is free and of no charge at all. Once filled out you can print it to keep a copy on hand to better understand different seasons you walk through, and the "whys" of what gift may be used or added to you as your knowledge increases in Christ "Severally as He wills." I Corinthians 12:11.

  Here is the link from the "Gifted to Serve website: Finding your place in ministry, your spiritual gifts inventory." Just copy and paste in search bar.  http://buildingchurch.net/g2s-i.htm

Once you have completed your "Gifted to Serve" assessment please let us know what you have found out about yourself, your gifts and talents, and where you believe the Lord is leading you to use them! We'd love to hear from you and encourage you to grow in the place the Lord wants you to be!


Now to Him is who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21. (NAS)


Blessings to you and yours in the wonderful name of Jesus!



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YOUR HEAVENLY CALL pt.9: No member greater than the other

Greetings Beloved of the Lord God Almighty!


   We have been looking into the the Gifts of the Holy Spirit in this series. We began our study by identifying the Fruit of the Spirit and then moved onto the diversities of gifts that we as individuals may hold, along with our strengths and weaknesses. Remember, we are a work in progress and haven't as of yet arrived unto full perfection. This will happen when we are with our Lord in glory rejoicing with Him.

   The intention of his study is to assist us in locating and fine tune what we are created for. If any of the gifts we have spoken about makes a light go off or sparks something inside of you to say "That's it!" Then our joy is made full.  For the most part you may find that you have already been walking in your gifting. You will find it just comes naturally to you. It's who you are and how you are wired.

   As we continue to break down the remaining Foundational Gifts, or the 5 Fold Ministry Gifts is another term used, the apostle, the prophet, the evangelist, the pastor and teacher. We will also be looking at the ministry of helps. This ministry in mentioned in I Corinthians 12:28  "And God has appointed in the church, first apostles, second prophets, third  teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, and various kinds of tongues." (NAS)

   The Lord is wise with all of the different personalities have given to us as individuals as well as the accompanying gifts that go right along with who we are and how He has wired us! Then to boot, He places us in a corporate body with others who also have gifts and callings. This is His master plan. That we with all of our diversities and gifts, should all come together as one in Christ. This is exciting! What is even more exciting is that He has called us to be a part of it!

   In the ministry of helps we find in various areas that the gifts may overlap with other gifts. There are seasons that one gift may seem to be more prevalent than the others. However, these gifts work together to meet the needs of the whole body at those times, as the Lord wills. All of the gifts though spiritually given meet the practical needs of the whole body as well. We may find the ministry of helps and administrations do exactly that.

   We find in the book of Acts 6:2-4 that the disciples were increasing and so were the people they were ministering to. Not only did they teach and minister to them, they also fed them as well. But because the crowds grew some were getting neglected. This was concerning for the disciples. They needed to devote themselves to prayer and the Word of God. So they chose seven men of good report, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom to head this task up.

   The disciples could not fulfill their calling without others fulfilling theirs. The pieces fit just like a puzzle. No matter how dynamic a gift may be, in and of itself, by itself, it is limited. Now, God is not limited, just the gift. We all need each other in order to fulfill the Great Commission of God.

   In I Corinthians 12:18 it states "But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased Him."

We read further about unity and diversity in the body of Christ.

I Corinthians 12:12-26 (KJV)
12-14 For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body--whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free-- and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. For in fact the body is not one member but many.

15-19 If the foot should say, "Because I am not a hand, I am not of the body," is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear should say, "Because I am not an eye, I am not of the body," is it therefore not the body? If the whole body were an eye, where would be the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where would be the smelling? But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. And if they were all one member, where would the body be?

20-26 But now indeed there are many members, yet one body. And the eye cannot say to the hand, "I have no need of you"; nor again the head to the feet, "I have no need of you." No, much rather, those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. And those members of the body which we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor; and our unpresentable parts have greater modesty, but our presentable parts parts have no need. But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it, that there should be no schism (division) in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.

   We see that the Lord in His great wisdom indeed has provided every member of His body with gifts and talents, along with strengths and weaknesses, that no part would boast of itself, giving implication of its lack of need for the other. We are all equal in the body of Christ. There is none ordained to be the head, except Christ, in His infinite glory and wisdom.

   This is a beautiful example of the Lords unconditional love and lack of partiality. He does not discriminate or put at odds, one against the other. He promotes unity and oneness. As we should.

   So, whatever it is that the Lord has placed upon your heart and in yours hands, do to the glory of the Lord. You have been given liberty in Christ Jesus. God is our Creator and He has imparted His creative abilities into our lives by His Holy Spirit. Be excited, be encouraged, and be blessed!

    Get your note book and begin to write down things that you may be impressed to do, or ideas that may be brought to your mind. Then prayerfully consider them with the Lord and ask Him to build on them. Ask Him to help you become more sensitive to others and to open your eyes to the needs around you. To bring more to light, to give you His eyes to see what He sees, and to give you greater understanding and direction toward those things. Ask and you shall receive.

   We are called to be servants one to another. These are some ways that we may be able to help or serve others by lifting their burden just a little. We are equipped to meet practical needs as well as spiritual.

   Remember, when we extend a hand in the natural to meet the needs of others, the Lord will surely open the eyes of our understanding and reveal the spiritual needs of others as well. Whether it be healing, physical or emotional.

   We have been anointed with Gods wisdom and the Holy Spirit. In Matthew 25:40 Jesus said "when you have done it to the least of these my brethren, you have done it unto me."

Below is a list of some examples but not limited to:

Ministering to the homeless
Helping the Elderly
Hospitality ministry at church
Home Bible studies
Preaching/Pastor/Teacher
After school care for children
Mowing the neighbors lawn
Tutoring school aged children
Volunteer in community activities


May our Lord continue to richly bless and keep you and yours until the day of Christs coming!


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