I hear God saying, PROTECT YOUR MIND. My Father reminded me today that HE DOES CARE about my peace, my mind, my sanity...
The enemy often uses us to confuse and suppress ourselves. Many times we see, feel and hear things that are not really true. We allow ourselves to ponder over negative thoughts, and we then become discouraged, intimidated, frustrated and weary. One sign of maturity in the things of God is to be FULLY PERSUADED with a SOUND MIND toward the Father. God is tired of His people losing their minds, going crazy, being drowned in fear. Where is the persuasion? Why all the confusion WITHIN OURSELVES?
Maybe God called me, maybe He didn't... Maybe He sent me, perhaps He didn't... I think He spoke that word, but now that I hear something different...
We must make our salvation SURE, without wavering. God showed me that even when it comes to rebuke, many reject it because they are not mature and SURE of their position in God. Maturity in God = SOBRIETY (Romans 12:3). Yes, when we are mature, we know our position in God, including those things that need to be sharpened and corrected. We are also able to stand firm on that which we know God has spoken.
No matter what anybody says, there are some things we should be SURE of. In some things, we should be 100% convinced. Where is the conviction in the people of God? Is there a calling on your life that you know, without a doubt - an assignment or revelation of which you are so sure that NOBODY can convince you otherwise?
2Pe 1:10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:
Heb 10:23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
The Father is concerned with our spirits, but He is also concerned with our MINDS (the gateway to the soul, being thoughts, emotions, knowledge and intellect). Many in ministry have forgotten this. They have not been good stewards over their thoughts, and therefore have lost focus and literally driven themselves crazy. A practical and simple word for the people of God today - don't let everything and everybody get in your head.
God wants us to be good stewards over our thoughts and our minds, so much so that He will allow our own minds to destroy us if we fail to protect them.
Rom 1:28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;
Remember, you MUST HAVE PEACE to hear and obey the Father!
Isa 26:3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.
Phi 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Phi 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
2Co 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
2Ti 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Have You Amazed the World Today?
I have been in LOTS of prayer and meditation, because I'm tired of fighting with "church folk." I'm tired of trying to prove myself in God, or as my Pastor says, vindicate my anointing. Everything done for the Kingdom seems to be questioned. So many in the Body have lost the focus of ministry to the point they believe ridicule and discouragement is actually of God. We have come to a point where those trying to live for God are constantly attacked while sin continues to run rampant.
I need to encourage those who are under attack by the very ones they walk with. God is calling us to remember THE CALL and the PURPOSE for your life and ministry. We are called, first, to worship the Father - to walk in obedience to Him and follow ALL His commandments. As a Body, we are assigned to sharpen and edify one another. We are called to correct in love and strengthen one another. We are to encourage one another in unity and GET A WORK DONE. Many have forgotten the BIG PICTURE, the greater work and the GREAT COMMISSION.
Yes, we all have a specific call, but God wants to remind us of the unified call on all His people - the ministry of reconciliation. We are all summoned to follow that which Jesus taught.
The truth of the matter is this - signs and wonders have ceased, because we are too busy trying to impress one another and trying to prove ourselves in the Church. The greater challenge and the greater work has been abandoned, because the people of God do not walk in unity and power. We as Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors and Teachers are called to edify the Body of Christ and bring us into the unity of the knowledge of Christ. Why? - So that others will be drawn and also taught. When the church operates as it should, souls are added (Acts 2, 11) with TRUE repentace. The world is drawn AND CHANGED.
Matt 5:14 You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.
Matt 5:15 Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a peck measure, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house.
Matt 5:16 Let your light so shine before men that they may see your moral excellence {and} your praiseworthy, noble, {and} good deeds and recognize {and} honor {and} praise {and} glorify your Father Who is in heaven.
The church is a place of worship and training. Many who operate in ministry are called to the Body of Christ, but we are ALL called to be the light of the WORLD, not just our own churches or spheres of influence. Have we forgotten that this is how souls are drawn into the Kingdom? The Word tells us the men will glorify the Father when they see Him working in us through our "good works." The signs and wonders, the godly love, the longsuffering and character is needed to draw men into the Kingdom. We don't need the gimics and the compromise with the world - we need to demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit. We need to stand out in the world.
How many of us preach in service, but pick fights at the grocery store? How many shout during worship service, but curse out the person who parks in our spot at Wal-Mart? In worship, in the presence of God - this is the time to be naked and to deal with YOU. In the world, you are to be sent as an ambassador. In the world, the gifts of the Spirit should rise the more. Where is the patience? Where is the kindness and meekness? Where is the longsuffering? You're faithful to choir rehearsal, but what about the job? You give money to help pay the building fund, but refuse to pay the debt YOU OWE on the credit cards. Where is the integrity?
Just a nugget - God told me that bad credit indicates nothing more than robbery. OUCH! So often, we in the church fool ourselves into thinking that we can run up debt and not pay it because we are children of God. Not so. The God I serve is big enough to release me from debt WITHOUT ROBBING FROM SOMEONE ELSE. Can we just get real and get delivered???!!! Hmmm...
After we've argued in church... after we've fought our husbands and wives... after we've searched the Scriptures and given great dissertations... after we've convinced everyone in the church that we are right, who in the world has been astonished? Who in the world has been drawn?
Acts 8:9 But there was a man named Simon, who had formerly practiced magic arts in the city to the utter amazement of the Samaritan nation, claiming that he himself was an extraordinary {and} distinguished person.
Acts 8:10 They all paid earnest attention to him, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is that exhibition of the power of God which is called great (intense).
Acts 8:11 And they were attentive {and} made much of him, because for a long time he had amazed {and} bewildered {and} dazzled them with his skill in magic arts.
Acts 8:12 But when they believed the good news (the Gospel) about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ (the Messiah) as Philip preached it, they were baptized, both men and women.
Acts 8:13 Even Simon himself believed [he adhered to, trusted in, and relied on the teaching of Philip], and after being baptized, devoted himself constantly to him. And seeing signs {and} miracles of great power which were being performed, he was utterly amazed.
The world needs to see the signs and wonders of God's people. However, they will never come until we focus on the Father. The Father reminded me of something that happened to me two years ago. I was on a job and had to have a meeting with a psychic. When I met the woman, she recognized that I was a prophet, and was fearful. She began to confess her sins and admitted that she could "feel" God in me. Though she was not living a holy life, she paid respect to God's presence within me, and had godly fear. I remember leaving her home that day asking God how she could recognize something that many "saints" didn't see? How could her discernment be greater than that of others in ministry?
As I was reminded of that, I have been encouraged. Just as Simon did, the world (even when operating in power) should have a fear and reverence for the presence of God within us. WE SHOULD BE DIFFERENT. We should walk in enough power to draw the world's wonders to repentance. We should be able to stand beside a magician and do greater wonders. We should be able to heal more effectively than the witch doctors. Many are turning to New Age beliefs, occults and the occult because we, the Church, have not been salt of the earth. We have become the salt of our own churches, our own families and our own neighborhoods only. Why? Selfishness. We enjoy the pats on the back. We appreciate the accolades. It's so easy to please those in the church and argue with them, but it's a difficult thing to completely rely on God to show up. Faith in the midst of the enemy requires a greater faith than what's required in the midst of friends. Was this not the very point Satan tried to prove to God during his testing of Job?
Acts 8:18 However, when Simon saw that the [Holy] Spirit was imparted through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he brought money {and} offered it to them,
Acts 8:19 Saying, Grant me also this power {and} authority, in order that anyone on whom I place my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.
Acts 8:20 But Peter said to him, Destruction overtake your money and you, because you imagined you could obtain the [free] gift of God with money!
Acts 8:21 You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is all wrong in God's sight [it is not straightforward or right or true before God].
Acts 8:22 So repent of this depravity {and} wickedness of yours and pray to the Lord that, if possible, this contriving thought {and} purpose of your heart may be removed {and} disregarded {and} forgiven you.
Acts 8:23 For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in a bond forged by iniquity [to fetter souls].
Acts 8:24 And Simon answered, Pray for me [beseech the Lord, both of you], that nothing of what you have said may befall me!
Are we ready to get past preaching to the same people over and over again, and seeing false deliverance after false deliverance? I believe there are some still causing the world to say, "What must I do to be saved?" There should be some seeking to offer whatever it takes to have relationship with the God we serve. People should be seeking us for refuge. The Word of God is true, so if the world is not being drawn to the Father, we are not operating as the light of the world.
Perhaps too many of us look like the world to draw them... Perhaps we have abandoned the works God called us to do, so the world feels as comfortable in the church as they do outside... Where is the distinction? Where is the power?
Matt 10:6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
Matt 10:7 And as you go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand!
Matt 10:8 Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Freely (without pay) you have received, freely (without charge) give.
Even in ministering to the lost INSIDE GOD's HOUSE (lost sheep of Israel), signs and wonders are essential and COMMANDED of those in ministry.
So much word is going forth, but God's people are not being sharpened and edified. The growth is not coming forth. We must take inventory. Why are we not operating in authority and power? Why is "church service" not producing the fruit that it should? Why has the world lost reverence for people of God? Where has our power gone?
Have you shocked the world today? How many of us can think of a psychic that speaks more life than the prophets we know? How many of us can think of a tarot card reader that predicts with better accuracy? How many of us know soothsayers and witch doctors that have raised people from the dead, but don't know of a saint with the faith and power to do the same? How many of us know sinners that are more kind and benevolent than the church members? How many of us know people in the world who are more humble and willing to help someone in need?
Luke 4:33 Now in the synagogue there was a man who was possessed by the foul spirit of a demon; and he cried out with a loud (deep, terrible) cry,
Luke 4:34 Ah, {let us alone!} What have You to do with us [What have we in common], Jesus of Nazareth? Have You come to destroy us? I know Who You are--the Holy One of God!
Does the enemy know your name? Does the world have reverent fear of you? It's a blessing when those who don't agree with you, those who don't like you and even those who don't live holy still reverance the God in you.
Matt 5:13 You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste (its strength, its quality), how can its saltness be restored? It is not good for anything any longer but to be thrown out and trodden underfoot by men.
Matt 5:14 You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.
Matt 5:15 Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a peck measure, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house.
Matt 5:16 Let your light so shine before men that they may see your moral excellence {and} your praiseworthy, noble, {and} good deeds and recognize {and} honor {and} praise {and} glorify your Father Who is in heaven.
Yes, the world will hate us, but we are still their salt and light, and we should NOT be hidden. Who have you amazed in the world today?
I need to encourage those who are under attack by the very ones they walk with. God is calling us to remember THE CALL and the PURPOSE for your life and ministry. We are called, first, to worship the Father - to walk in obedience to Him and follow ALL His commandments. As a Body, we are assigned to sharpen and edify one another. We are called to correct in love and strengthen one another. We are to encourage one another in unity and GET A WORK DONE. Many have forgotten the BIG PICTURE, the greater work and the GREAT COMMISSION.
Yes, we all have a specific call, but God wants to remind us of the unified call on all His people - the ministry of reconciliation. We are all summoned to follow that which Jesus taught.
The truth of the matter is this - signs and wonders have ceased, because we are too busy trying to impress one another and trying to prove ourselves in the Church. The greater challenge and the greater work has been abandoned, because the people of God do not walk in unity and power. We as Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors and Teachers are called to edify the Body of Christ and bring us into the unity of the knowledge of Christ. Why? - So that others will be drawn and also taught. When the church operates as it should, souls are added (Acts 2, 11) with TRUE repentace. The world is drawn AND CHANGED.
Matt 5:14 You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.
Matt 5:15 Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a peck measure, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house.
Matt 5:16 Let your light so shine before men that they may see your moral excellence {and} your praiseworthy, noble, {and} good deeds and recognize {and} honor {and} praise {and} glorify your Father Who is in heaven.
The church is a place of worship and training. Many who operate in ministry are called to the Body of Christ, but we are ALL called to be the light of the WORLD, not just our own churches or spheres of influence. Have we forgotten that this is how souls are drawn into the Kingdom? The Word tells us the men will glorify the Father when they see Him working in us through our "good works." The signs and wonders, the godly love, the longsuffering and character is needed to draw men into the Kingdom. We don't need the gimics and the compromise with the world - we need to demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit. We need to stand out in the world.
How many of us preach in service, but pick fights at the grocery store? How many shout during worship service, but curse out the person who parks in our spot at Wal-Mart? In worship, in the presence of God - this is the time to be naked and to deal with YOU. In the world, you are to be sent as an ambassador. In the world, the gifts of the Spirit should rise the more. Where is the patience? Where is the kindness and meekness? Where is the longsuffering? You're faithful to choir rehearsal, but what about the job? You give money to help pay the building fund, but refuse to pay the debt YOU OWE on the credit cards. Where is the integrity?
Just a nugget - God told me that bad credit indicates nothing more than robbery. OUCH! So often, we in the church fool ourselves into thinking that we can run up debt and not pay it because we are children of God. Not so. The God I serve is big enough to release me from debt WITHOUT ROBBING FROM SOMEONE ELSE. Can we just get real and get delivered???!!! Hmmm...
After we've argued in church... after we've fought our husbands and wives... after we've searched the Scriptures and given great dissertations... after we've convinced everyone in the church that we are right, who in the world has been astonished? Who in the world has been drawn?
Acts 8:9 But there was a man named Simon, who had formerly practiced magic arts in the city to the utter amazement of the Samaritan nation, claiming that he himself was an extraordinary {and} distinguished person.
Acts 8:10 They all paid earnest attention to him, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is that exhibition of the power of God which is called great (intense).
Acts 8:11 And they were attentive {and} made much of him, because for a long time he had amazed {and} bewildered {and} dazzled them with his skill in magic arts.
Acts 8:12 But when they believed the good news (the Gospel) about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ (the Messiah) as Philip preached it, they were baptized, both men and women.
Acts 8:13 Even Simon himself believed [he adhered to, trusted in, and relied on the teaching of Philip], and after being baptized, devoted himself constantly to him. And seeing signs {and} miracles of great power which were being performed, he was utterly amazed.
The world needs to see the signs and wonders of God's people. However, they will never come until we focus on the Father. The Father reminded me of something that happened to me two years ago. I was on a job and had to have a meeting with a psychic. When I met the woman, she recognized that I was a prophet, and was fearful. She began to confess her sins and admitted that she could "feel" God in me. Though she was not living a holy life, she paid respect to God's presence within me, and had godly fear. I remember leaving her home that day asking God how she could recognize something that many "saints" didn't see? How could her discernment be greater than that of others in ministry?
As I was reminded of that, I have been encouraged. Just as Simon did, the world (even when operating in power) should have a fear and reverence for the presence of God within us. WE SHOULD BE DIFFERENT. We should walk in enough power to draw the world's wonders to repentance. We should be able to stand beside a magician and do greater wonders. We should be able to heal more effectively than the witch doctors. Many are turning to New Age beliefs, occults and the occult because we, the Church, have not been salt of the earth. We have become the salt of our own churches, our own families and our own neighborhoods only. Why? Selfishness. We enjoy the pats on the back. We appreciate the accolades. It's so easy to please those in the church and argue with them, but it's a difficult thing to completely rely on God to show up. Faith in the midst of the enemy requires a greater faith than what's required in the midst of friends. Was this not the very point Satan tried to prove to God during his testing of Job?
Acts 8:18 However, when Simon saw that the [Holy] Spirit was imparted through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he brought money {and} offered it to them,
Acts 8:19 Saying, Grant me also this power {and} authority, in order that anyone on whom I place my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.
Acts 8:20 But Peter said to him, Destruction overtake your money and you, because you imagined you could obtain the [free] gift of God with money!
Acts 8:21 You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is all wrong in God's sight [it is not straightforward or right or true before God].
Acts 8:22 So repent of this depravity {and} wickedness of yours and pray to the Lord that, if possible, this contriving thought {and} purpose of your heart may be removed {and} disregarded {and} forgiven you.
Acts 8:23 For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in a bond forged by iniquity [to fetter souls].
Acts 8:24 And Simon answered, Pray for me [beseech the Lord, both of you], that nothing of what you have said may befall me!
Are we ready to get past preaching to the same people over and over again, and seeing false deliverance after false deliverance? I believe there are some still causing the world to say, "What must I do to be saved?" There should be some seeking to offer whatever it takes to have relationship with the God we serve. People should be seeking us for refuge. The Word of God is true, so if the world is not being drawn to the Father, we are not operating as the light of the world.
Perhaps too many of us look like the world to draw them... Perhaps we have abandoned the works God called us to do, so the world feels as comfortable in the church as they do outside... Where is the distinction? Where is the power?
Matt 10:6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
Matt 10:7 And as you go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand!
Matt 10:8 Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Freely (without pay) you have received, freely (without charge) give.
Even in ministering to the lost INSIDE GOD's HOUSE (lost sheep of Israel), signs and wonders are essential and COMMANDED of those in ministry.
So much word is going forth, but God's people are not being sharpened and edified. The growth is not coming forth. We must take inventory. Why are we not operating in authority and power? Why is "church service" not producing the fruit that it should? Why has the world lost reverence for people of God? Where has our power gone?
Have you shocked the world today? How many of us can think of a psychic that speaks more life than the prophets we know? How many of us can think of a tarot card reader that predicts with better accuracy? How many of us know soothsayers and witch doctors that have raised people from the dead, but don't know of a saint with the faith and power to do the same? How many of us know sinners that are more kind and benevolent than the church members? How many of us know people in the world who are more humble and willing to help someone in need?
Luke 4:33 Now in the synagogue there was a man who was possessed by the foul spirit of a demon; and he cried out with a loud (deep, terrible) cry,
Luke 4:34 Ah, {let us alone!} What have You to do with us [What have we in common], Jesus of Nazareth? Have You come to destroy us? I know Who You are--the Holy One of God!
Does the enemy know your name? Does the world have reverent fear of you? It's a blessing when those who don't agree with you, those who don't like you and even those who don't live holy still reverance the God in you.
Matt 5:13 You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste (its strength, its quality), how can its saltness be restored? It is not good for anything any longer but to be thrown out and trodden underfoot by men.
Matt 5:14 You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.
Matt 5:15 Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a peck measure, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house.
Matt 5:16 Let your light so shine before men that they may see your moral excellence {and} your praiseworthy, noble, {and} good deeds and recognize {and} honor {and} praise {and} glorify your Father Who is in heaven.
Yes, the world will hate us, but we are still their salt and light, and we should NOT be hidden. Who have you amazed in the world today?
Monday, May 28, 2007
Beware of Nimrod - The Charasmatic Gift of Coercion
All week long, God has been speaking to me about Nimrod. Though the Bible does not say much about him specifically, we know from the Scriptures that he was the great-grandson of Noah, by way of Cush and Ham. The only detail the Bible stresses about this man is that he was a mighty hunter and established the kingdom of Babylon. He understood hard work and how to make his way prosperous in the earth (Genesis 10, 1 Chronicles 1). He also understood politics and how to persuade the crowd.
Again, Nimrod is credited as the founder of Babylon, also referred to as Babel.
Gen 11:1 And the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech.
Gen 11:2 And it came to pass, as they journeyed from the east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar; and they dwelt there.
Gen 11:3 And they said one to another, Go to, let us make brick, and burn them throughly. And they had brick for stone, and slime had they for morter.
Gen 11:4 And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth.
Gen 11:5 And the LORD came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded.
Gen 11:6 And the LORD said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do.
Gen 11:7 Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech.
Gen 11:8 So the LORD scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city.
Gen 11:9 Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because the LORD did there confound the language of all the earth: and from thence did the LORD scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth.
This is a very common account in the Word of God, yet we often miss the point of what God is saying through the story. The Bible warns that in the last days, there will be a great falling away, such that even the elect of God will be deceived (Matthew 24:24). Many in the Body of Christ are deceived by the very thing we are trying to accomplish - UNITY.
Just like Nimrod, there are many in our time that have a gift of influence. Some have a gift to convince others of anything they desire. For this reason, it is so important that the Saints of God understand the Word for themselves. It is crucial that stay in right-standing with the Father on a personal level. Without discernment, deceit is inevitable.
Many historians give Nimrod credit for the establishment of of many fraternal organizations, such as the Masons. He had a gift for uniting people for purpose and power. In his gift to unite people, he became a founder of one of history's most sinful cities. Why? Because people have a tendency to believe that unity implies the will of God. We tend to feel and believe that all disagreement is sinful and rebellious. This is a huge misconception in the Body of Christ. Throughout the Gospel, we are taught that disagreements will come, and that there is a godly way to handle them. Not every disagreement must grow into an argument, and not every question is representative of disdain or disrespect. Again, discernment is so important.
Intimidation is simply a tool of control and a form of witchcraft. Do not be intimidated by the crowd. Many of us will have to stand alone at some point or another. Are we fully persuaded by God, or easily persuaded by others?
Beware of those with the charisma of Nimrod and resist the temptation to gain and/or use it as well. Saints of God, do not be swayed by the "crowd". On the other hand, do not be threatened by questions. Disrespect is one thing, but questions are NOT our enemy. In fact, we are instructed to be ready for them (1 Peter 3:15). Even when questions do come as an attack, be sure of the faith that lies within you. Again, discernment is key.
Again, Nimrod is credited as the founder of Babylon, also referred to as Babel.
Gen 11:1 And the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech.
Gen 11:2 And it came to pass, as they journeyed from the east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar; and they dwelt there.
Gen 11:3 And they said one to another, Go to, let us make brick, and burn them throughly. And they had brick for stone, and slime had they for morter.
Gen 11:4 And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth.
Gen 11:5 And the LORD came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded.
Gen 11:6 And the LORD said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do.
Gen 11:7 Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech.
Gen 11:8 So the LORD scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city.
Gen 11:9 Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because the LORD did there confound the language of all the earth: and from thence did the LORD scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth.
This is a very common account in the Word of God, yet we often miss the point of what God is saying through the story. The Bible warns that in the last days, there will be a great falling away, such that even the elect of God will be deceived (Matthew 24:24). Many in the Body of Christ are deceived by the very thing we are trying to accomplish - UNITY.
Just like Nimrod, there are many in our time that have a gift of influence. Some have a gift to convince others of anything they desire. For this reason, it is so important that the Saints of God understand the Word for themselves. It is crucial that stay in right-standing with the Father on a personal level. Without discernment, deceit is inevitable.
Many historians give Nimrod credit for the establishment of of many fraternal organizations, such as the Masons. He had a gift for uniting people for purpose and power. In his gift to unite people, he became a founder of one of history's most sinful cities. Why? Because people have a tendency to believe that unity implies the will of God. We tend to feel and believe that all disagreement is sinful and rebellious. This is a huge misconception in the Body of Christ. Throughout the Gospel, we are taught that disagreements will come, and that there is a godly way to handle them. Not every disagreement must grow into an argument, and not every question is representative of disdain or disrespect. Again, discernment is so important.
Intimidation is simply a tool of control and a form of witchcraft. Do not be intimidated by the crowd. Many of us will have to stand alone at some point or another. Are we fully persuaded by God, or easily persuaded by others?
Beware of those with the charisma of Nimrod and resist the temptation to gain and/or use it as well. Saints of God, do not be swayed by the "crowd". On the other hand, do not be threatened by questions. Disrespect is one thing, but questions are NOT our enemy. In fact, we are instructed to be ready for them (1 Peter 3:15). Even when questions do come as an attack, be sure of the faith that lies within you. Again, discernment is key.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
It's Time to Take Inventory
Have we forgotten REPENTANCE? The Father is grieved, because His gifts and callings are without repentance. For this reason, sin is exposed. The prophetic word is going forth. The apostolic correction is taking place, yet the fruit of repentance has rotted in the people of God.
Often, in the church, it is so easy to see the sins and shortcomings of everyone else, yet we fail to take the word and the revelation and compare OURSELVES to that which has been exposed. IT IS TIME TO TAKE INVENTORY.
Oftentimes, we feel that we are "safe" and holy because God allows us to see things in others. Not so. We must first be accountable for ourselves and remember that our operating in gifts and anointing is no complete indication of "safety" in the spirit realm. We are called to minister to others, yes, but we are responsible for our own souls as well.
Jam 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
We must be so careful to carry out the prophetic word and adhere to it just as we do the written word of God. In so many arenas, it's easy to IGNORE what God speaks. We quickly say "Amen" and consider the matter to be closed. No - has the word been applied to your life? Saying AMEN does not fix the matter - only REPENTANCE does that. God often reminds me, if the word was sent to me, it should do something IN me. It's not sent my way just for me to agree, but to take an inventory. EVERY word must be weighed and judged (1 Cor 14:27-32).
One thing I love about David is that he understood repentance. Though he'd committed every sin under the law, he was still said to be a man after God's own heart. He understood Godly sorrow. He never looked upon the sins of others while allowing his own to go unchecked, but he was COMPLETELY HONEST AND NAKED BEFORE GOD. So should we be as the called of God.
Psa 51:2 Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
Psa 51:3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
Psa 51:4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.
Psa 51:5 Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.
Psa 51:6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.
Psa 51:7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
Psa 51:8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.
Psa 51:9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.
Psa 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
Psa 51:11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.
Psa 51:12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.
Psa 51:13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.
Psa 51:14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness.
Psa 51:15 O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.
Psa 51:16 For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering.
Psa 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
David allowed the judgment of God to bring correction. So often, we neglect to allow the word to CUT US, when it has the authority and power to do just that.
Heb 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
We live in a time when everyone has a word and everyone claims to have revelation. Yet, sin is still rampant. A broken and contrite spirit are hard to find. I am called to bring a word unto God's people, but I am FIRST CALLED to keep myself sharpened, corrected and in line with the Word of God.
Rom 14:12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.
Often, in the church, it is so easy to see the sins and shortcomings of everyone else, yet we fail to take the word and the revelation and compare OURSELVES to that which has been exposed. IT IS TIME TO TAKE INVENTORY.
Oftentimes, we feel that we are "safe" and holy because God allows us to see things in others. Not so. We must first be accountable for ourselves and remember that our operating in gifts and anointing is no complete indication of "safety" in the spirit realm. We are called to minister to others, yes, but we are responsible for our own souls as well.
Jam 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
We must be so careful to carry out the prophetic word and adhere to it just as we do the written word of God. In so many arenas, it's easy to IGNORE what God speaks. We quickly say "Amen" and consider the matter to be closed. No - has the word been applied to your life? Saying AMEN does not fix the matter - only REPENTANCE does that. God often reminds me, if the word was sent to me, it should do something IN me. It's not sent my way just for me to agree, but to take an inventory. EVERY word must be weighed and judged (1 Cor 14:27-32).
One thing I love about David is that he understood repentance. Though he'd committed every sin under the law, he was still said to be a man after God's own heart. He understood Godly sorrow. He never looked upon the sins of others while allowing his own to go unchecked, but he was COMPLETELY HONEST AND NAKED BEFORE GOD. So should we be as the called of God.
Psa 51:2 Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
Psa 51:3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
Psa 51:4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.
Psa 51:5 Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.
Psa 51:6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.
Psa 51:7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
Psa 51:8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.
Psa 51:9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.
Psa 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
Psa 51:11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.
Psa 51:12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.
Psa 51:13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.
Psa 51:14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness.
Psa 51:15 O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.
Psa 51:16 For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering.
Psa 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
David allowed the judgment of God to bring correction. So often, we neglect to allow the word to CUT US, when it has the authority and power to do just that.
Heb 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
We live in a time when everyone has a word and everyone claims to have revelation. Yet, sin is still rampant. A broken and contrite spirit are hard to find. I am called to bring a word unto God's people, but I am FIRST CALLED to keep myself sharpened, corrected and in line with the Word of God.
Rom 14:12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
You Can't Hear from God Without Knowing Who God Is!
God has been rebuking me very heavily about accepting prophecy, testimonies and instruction from those that lie by saying they know Him when they don’t. Of course, I am always reluctant to doubt a person knows God, but the Father rebuked me very heavily about even this.
“How can someone have a relationship with Me when they don’t even know who they’re speaking to?” Again, God took me back to the epidemic of worshipping an unknown God. He then reminded me that those who truly know Him also understand His nature, His personality and His plan.
In the natural, anyone who claims to have an intimate relationship with me would be expected to know basic things about me:
- Am I a man or a woman?
- What is my ethnicity?
- Am I married or single?
- What is my name?
People of God, the Father is tired of the lies, and this word must go forth. Please, look past your religion, your tradition and your flesh to hear the word of God! As a prophet, I am obligated to share the truth and speak what God is commanding me to speak. This is the hours and season to worship in spirit and in TRUTH. In order to get there, we must KNOW WHO WE ARE WORSHIPING!!! This is both a word of knowledge, based on the written Word of God and a word of prophecy, based on the very voice (spoken word) and revelation of the Father.
Too many are claiming to hear God and don’t even know His name. Too many are hearing from God and don’t even know His nature or His history. How many of us have been told that Jesus, the Father and the Holy Spirit are all one, literally? I’m not talking about one in unity, but one in existence. How many of have experienced prayers (or own or someone else’s) to Jesus and the Holy Spirit, while the Father was completely neglected? Do you really believe God is one in “three persons,” that Jesus, the Holy Spirit and the Father are all one in the same? How many of us have been taught and/or believe the Holy Spirit, the Son and the Father are all equal with the same purpose?
Not knowing and understanding each member of the Godhead is a crisis in the Body of Christ. Too many are professing to believe in the Trinity or Oneness or many other doctrines, none of which are described in the Word of God. Yet, who has had a true encounter? Who has searched the Scriptures? So many rely on what they’ve heard, been taught and acquired, but who has actually received revelation? Who did that revelation come from?
How dare we continue to prophecy, preach and teach when we don’t even know who God is!
There exists three separate and distinct persons in the Godhead, all divine, though separate. In addition to their being separate, they are unified, but have different purposes, different personalities and different levels of authority. All are to be reverenced, loved and adored, but worship is to done unto the Father.
God is the Father
The Father has ultimate authority, and is the only true GOD. Though powerful and divine, both Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are lead, instructed and commanded by God.
Jesus Christ is the Son of God, our Lord and Redeemer, sent by the Father
- Jesus is “begotten” of the Father, and therefore both created and accountable to Him (John 3:16).
- Jesus is sent by the Father (1 John 4:10).
- Christ is sent to redeem (Galatians 3:13). His purpose is to reconcile mankind back to the Father (Ephesians 2:16-18).
- Jesus did not come to do His own will, but that of the Father (John 6:38).
- Jesus prayed to the Father and instructs us to do the same, as we are enabled THROUGH Christ (Matthew 6:9; 26:53; John 14:16; John 16:26).
The Holy Spirit is the Comforter, sent by Christ to the Church (Believers)
- The Holy Spirit is SENT by the Father and the Son (John 14:26).
- The Holy Spirit teaches, sanctifies and recalls that which Christ taught (John 6:38; John 14:26).
- The Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf through prayer and gives gifts for the sake of the ministry. He is not to be prayed to, but is instrumental in our prayers to the Father (Romans 8:26; 1 Corinthians 12, 14).
To those who say that God’s nature is a mystery, please reconsider. We serve a God who wants us to know Him. We serve a Father who wants to be sought by His people. Why would a God who desires intimate relationship keep His very being a secret?
You cannot hear, recognize, obey and represent one whom you know not! Selah.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
SEEK that You Might Live
“What are you seeking?,” asks the Father. “My people are seeking everything and everyone but Me. You seek knowledge of Me. You seek tales of Me, but who among longs to seek My face? Who among you is seeking Me, that you may live?”
“My word is true. Seek Me and you shall find Me. I am a jealous God, and you shall have no other gods before me. Yet, you seek so much and neglect Me. Seek Me, My people, that you might live.”
I found myself in a lot of prayer and meditation today. During the time I took to reflect on God and study His Word, the Lord spoke to me about how His people have lost fervency for Him. We have lost the focus of PERSONAL relationship with the Father. God even began to show me how our relationship amongst others is different from our personal experiences. He began to remind me of a time when I told my children, “Just wait until we get home.” They did something that I disapproved of, but because of my surroundings, I remained calm and loving in spite of. Strangely enough, by the time we got home, they still escaped the spanking, because I’d forgotten about the incident.
We are often doing the same with God. In our worship services and when we stand before others in ministry, we take time to praise God and we offer up worship. We pray with fervency and we wait on God, seeking and “experience.” While in the service, we say to ourselves that we will seek God more at home, prayer more, study the Word more, live a holy lifestyle… But by the time we get to our “secret places,” we have forgotten about the breeches in the relationship and continue living as if everything is alright. We fake a healthy relationship until we begin to believe it ourselves.
Saints of God, it’s time for us to know who our Daddy is. Too many times, we are really seeking the approval of men. We want others to think we’re holy. We want others to feel we know the Word. We want others to pat us on the back in ministry. Too often, this becomes the object of our SEEK rather than the Father.
Amos 5:1 HEAR THIS word which I take up concerning you in lamentation, O house of Israel:
Amos 5:2 The Virgin of Israel has fallen; she shall no more rise; she lies cast down {and} forsaken on her land; there is no one to raise her up.
Amos 5:3 For thus says the Lord God: The city that went forth a thousand shall have a hundred left, and that which went forth a hundred shall have ten left to the house of Israel.
The prophets of God should be lamenting in the season. There should be travail and an intercession that literally causes the flesh to weaken. God has been forsaken by His own people. We have followed after the gifts of God and the awards of ministry, forsaking our first love for the benefits of acquaintance.
Though Amos prophesied at a different time than ours, the Lord showed me the same season, in our time, taking place again. He showed me that just as Israel (referred to as the Virgin) fell, so has the Church today. There was a time and season of innocence in the Church, just like that of a virgin. Yet, that season has now left us. There is too much knowledge to be in ignorance and too much disobedience to be counted as innocent. There is no turning back, as we are accountable for what we have created. A season of judgment has come upon us, and only a remnant shall survive. Of the many who stand to represent our God, only a small percentage are actually accepted by Him. Only a handful of us who claim to know Him actually have a suitable relationship with the Father.
Amos 5:4 For thus says the Lord to the house of Israel: Seek Me [inquire for and of Me and require Me as you require food] and you shall live!
Does your life depend on Him? How much of your life is actually dependent on your RELATIONSHIP with God? I’m not talking about His position as God. If you could keep your house, keep your car and still have a wonderful family, without hearing from the Father, would you survive? If you could get a better job and make more money without praise, worship and prayer, would you survive? Our Father wants a people who need HIM, not just what He provides.
Too many in the Body of Christ have divorced God, but are still collecting alimony and child support in the spirit. Yes, you moved Him out of your house, yet He still provides for the mortgage payment and the food on the table. You no longer speak to Him as you go to work. You know longer take Him on walks or chat with Him in the evenings, yet He is providing. You no longer have intimate time with Him, yet you are still in charge of His business at the local church.
Amos 5:5 But seek not [the golden calf at] Bethel nor enter into [idolatrous] Gilgal, and pass not over to [the idols of] Beersheba; for Gilgal shall surely go into captivity {and} exile, and Bethel [house of God] shall become Beth-aven [house of vanity, emptiness, falsity, and futility] and come to nothing.
The Lord said that HIS HOUSE has become a house of emptiness and vanity. The physical church is no longer a refuge for those who truly desire to seek God. Worship has been hindered in the very houses we once dedicated to our Father. The enemy has been invited in, and idols now fill the buildings in which we praise. Hear the cry of our Father!
Amos 5:6 Seek the Lord [inquire for and of Him and require Him] and you shall live, lest He rush down like fire upon the house of Joseph [representing the ten tribes] and devour it, and there be none to quench it in Bethel [the center of their idol hopes].
The saints of God MUST SEEK THE FATHER. Even the chosen ones are being devoured. The judgment of God is upon many who once stood in His favor. Favor is found in His presence, in the secret place.
Amos 5:7 You who turn justice into [the bitterness of] wormwood and cast righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God) down to the ground,
Amos 5:8 Seek Him Who made the [cluster of stars called] Pleiades and [the constellation] Orion, Who turns the shadow of death {or} deep darkness into the morning and darkens the day into night, Who calls for the waters of the sea and pours them out upon the face of the earth--the Lord is His name—
So many have disregarded holiness and intimacy with the Father. God’s instruction is to seek Him like never before. One thing I learned about intimacy is that it is private. How many of us have true, private moments with God that no one else has to know about. No one else knows what God said, what He did, or what took place, but they can tell you have been with Him. In the secret place of the Most High (Psalm 91), the Father will share things with us, that we will be strengthened and encouraged on a spiritual level that surpasses the flesh or anything that can be described as words. Prophets, there should be a private prophecy behind every word you proclaim. Preachers, there should be an intimate word behind every word you preach. If everything we hear from God is shared with someone else, more seek needs to take place. The intimate chamber of God has not yet been entered. Intimacy has not been reached.
Amos 5:9 Who causes sudden destruction to flash forth upon the strong so that destruction comes upon the fortress.
Amos 5:10 They hate him who reproves in the [city] gate [holding him as an abomination and rejecting his rebuke], and they abhor him who speaks uprightly.
Amos 5:11 Therefore because you tread upon the poor and take from him exactions of wheat, you have built houses of hewn stone, but you shall not dwell in them; you have planted pleasant vineyards, but you shall not drink their wine.
The Lord said that we have hated the word of rebuke, and we have built houses of hewn stone. We have built temples and treasures of the very thing God commanded us to tear down. Yet, they will not provide shelter. They shall not provide protection in the season of God’s wrath. Even now, they will not hide the church from this season of judgment.
Amos 5:12 For I know how manifold are your transgressions and how mighty are your sins--you who afflict the [uncompromisingly] righteous, who take a bribe, and who turn aside the needy in the [court of the city] gate from their right.
Amos 5:13 Therefore he who is prudent will keep silence in such a time, for it is an evil time.
The Father has seen too many of us persecute those who are living holy as we celebrate those in sin. We have shut the mouth of the righteous prophet and encouraged the world’s representatives to speak – in the church! God said he is causing those who are upright to be silent in certain arenas, because the time is evil. I believe we will see more deaths of spiritual matriarchs and patriarchs very soon, because we have persecuted them. We focused on their minor statements and thoughts rather than their attempts to teach holiness. We focused on one doctrinal difference rather than their teachings on obedience to an Almighty God. We continue to do so with many spiritual leaders in our day.
God said we should not expect to see any large and popular ministries emerging in this season. Those who know His heart and His will cannot be exposed to the world. They will not even be heard by many who claim to know Him. In this season, the pearls of the Gospel and the wisdom of the Spirit are being constricted by the Father, Himself. The only way to live is to seek Him on a personal level.
Amos 5:14 Seek (inquire for and require) good and not evil that you may live, and so the Lord, the God of hosts, will be with you, as you have said.
Amos 5:15 Hate the evil and love the good and establish justice in the [court of the city's] gate. It may be that the Lord, the God of hosts, will be gracious to the remnant of Joseph [the northern kingdom].
“Tolerance is not of Me,” says God. The Father has commanded us to HATE some things. Tolerance and political correctness have caused God’s people to forsake Him. When hatred returns to the Body of Christ, violent fervor shall return as well. The will to fight will be restored. Too many of us are simply not appalled by sin anymore. We are no longer offended and enraged when our God is disrespected.
A true SEEK will cause us to live. Not everyone can SEEK Him, because not everyone is drawn unto Him. The word of the Lord today is to seek that you MIGHT live.
Is 55:6 Seek, inquire for, {and} require the Lord while He may be found [claiming Him by necessity and by right]; call upon Him while He is near.
Is 55:7 Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to the Lord, and He will have love, pity, {and} mercy for him, and to our God, for He will multiply to him His abundant pardon.
Many of us have failed to seek Him in the season while He was near. Now, we must reach, search and touch Him…by any means necessary. Whatever it takes for you to make a connection with God, do it!
Selah.
“My word is true. Seek Me and you shall find Me. I am a jealous God, and you shall have no other gods before me. Yet, you seek so much and neglect Me. Seek Me, My people, that you might live.”
I found myself in a lot of prayer and meditation today. During the time I took to reflect on God and study His Word, the Lord spoke to me about how His people have lost fervency for Him. We have lost the focus of PERSONAL relationship with the Father. God even began to show me how our relationship amongst others is different from our personal experiences. He began to remind me of a time when I told my children, “Just wait until we get home.” They did something that I disapproved of, but because of my surroundings, I remained calm and loving in spite of. Strangely enough, by the time we got home, they still escaped the spanking, because I’d forgotten about the incident.
We are often doing the same with God. In our worship services and when we stand before others in ministry, we take time to praise God and we offer up worship. We pray with fervency and we wait on God, seeking and “experience.” While in the service, we say to ourselves that we will seek God more at home, prayer more, study the Word more, live a holy lifestyle… But by the time we get to our “secret places,” we have forgotten about the breeches in the relationship and continue living as if everything is alright. We fake a healthy relationship until we begin to believe it ourselves.
Saints of God, it’s time for us to know who our Daddy is. Too many times, we are really seeking the approval of men. We want others to think we’re holy. We want others to feel we know the Word. We want others to pat us on the back in ministry. Too often, this becomes the object of our SEEK rather than the Father.
Amos 5:1 HEAR THIS word which I take up concerning you in lamentation, O house of Israel:
Amos 5:2 The Virgin of Israel has fallen; she shall no more rise; she lies cast down {and} forsaken on her land; there is no one to raise her up.
Amos 5:3 For thus says the Lord God: The city that went forth a thousand shall have a hundred left, and that which went forth a hundred shall have ten left to the house of Israel.
The prophets of God should be lamenting in the season. There should be travail and an intercession that literally causes the flesh to weaken. God has been forsaken by His own people. We have followed after the gifts of God and the awards of ministry, forsaking our first love for the benefits of acquaintance.
Though Amos prophesied at a different time than ours, the Lord showed me the same season, in our time, taking place again. He showed me that just as Israel (referred to as the Virgin) fell, so has the Church today. There was a time and season of innocence in the Church, just like that of a virgin. Yet, that season has now left us. There is too much knowledge to be in ignorance and too much disobedience to be counted as innocent. There is no turning back, as we are accountable for what we have created. A season of judgment has come upon us, and only a remnant shall survive. Of the many who stand to represent our God, only a small percentage are actually accepted by Him. Only a handful of us who claim to know Him actually have a suitable relationship with the Father.
Amos 5:4 For thus says the Lord to the house of Israel: Seek Me [inquire for and of Me and require Me as you require food] and you shall live!
Does your life depend on Him? How much of your life is actually dependent on your RELATIONSHIP with God? I’m not talking about His position as God. If you could keep your house, keep your car and still have a wonderful family, without hearing from the Father, would you survive? If you could get a better job and make more money without praise, worship and prayer, would you survive? Our Father wants a people who need HIM, not just what He provides.
Too many in the Body of Christ have divorced God, but are still collecting alimony and child support in the spirit. Yes, you moved Him out of your house, yet He still provides for the mortgage payment and the food on the table. You no longer speak to Him as you go to work. You know longer take Him on walks or chat with Him in the evenings, yet He is providing. You no longer have intimate time with Him, yet you are still in charge of His business at the local church.
Amos 5:5 But seek not [the golden calf at] Bethel nor enter into [idolatrous] Gilgal, and pass not over to [the idols of] Beersheba; for Gilgal shall surely go into captivity {and} exile, and Bethel [house of God] shall become Beth-aven [house of vanity, emptiness, falsity, and futility] and come to nothing.
The Lord said that HIS HOUSE has become a house of emptiness and vanity. The physical church is no longer a refuge for those who truly desire to seek God. Worship has been hindered in the very houses we once dedicated to our Father. The enemy has been invited in, and idols now fill the buildings in which we praise. Hear the cry of our Father!
Amos 5:6 Seek the Lord [inquire for and of Him and require Him] and you shall live, lest He rush down like fire upon the house of Joseph [representing the ten tribes] and devour it, and there be none to quench it in Bethel [the center of their idol hopes].
The saints of God MUST SEEK THE FATHER. Even the chosen ones are being devoured. The judgment of God is upon many who once stood in His favor. Favor is found in His presence, in the secret place.
Amos 5:7 You who turn justice into [the bitterness of] wormwood and cast righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God) down to the ground,
Amos 5:8 Seek Him Who made the [cluster of stars called] Pleiades and [the constellation] Orion, Who turns the shadow of death {or} deep darkness into the morning and darkens the day into night, Who calls for the waters of the sea and pours them out upon the face of the earth--the Lord is His name—
So many have disregarded holiness and intimacy with the Father. God’s instruction is to seek Him like never before. One thing I learned about intimacy is that it is private. How many of us have true, private moments with God that no one else has to know about. No one else knows what God said, what He did, or what took place, but they can tell you have been with Him. In the secret place of the Most High (Psalm 91), the Father will share things with us, that we will be strengthened and encouraged on a spiritual level that surpasses the flesh or anything that can be described as words. Prophets, there should be a private prophecy behind every word you proclaim. Preachers, there should be an intimate word behind every word you preach. If everything we hear from God is shared with someone else, more seek needs to take place. The intimate chamber of God has not yet been entered. Intimacy has not been reached.
Amos 5:9 Who causes sudden destruction to flash forth upon the strong so that destruction comes upon the fortress.
Amos 5:10 They hate him who reproves in the [city] gate [holding him as an abomination and rejecting his rebuke], and they abhor him who speaks uprightly.
Amos 5:11 Therefore because you tread upon the poor and take from him exactions of wheat, you have built houses of hewn stone, but you shall not dwell in them; you have planted pleasant vineyards, but you shall not drink their wine.
The Lord said that we have hated the word of rebuke, and we have built houses of hewn stone. We have built temples and treasures of the very thing God commanded us to tear down. Yet, they will not provide shelter. They shall not provide protection in the season of God’s wrath. Even now, they will not hide the church from this season of judgment.
Amos 5:12 For I know how manifold are your transgressions and how mighty are your sins--you who afflict the [uncompromisingly] righteous, who take a bribe, and who turn aside the needy in the [court of the city] gate from their right.
Amos 5:13 Therefore he who is prudent will keep silence in such a time, for it is an evil time.
The Father has seen too many of us persecute those who are living holy as we celebrate those in sin. We have shut the mouth of the righteous prophet and encouraged the world’s representatives to speak – in the church! God said he is causing those who are upright to be silent in certain arenas, because the time is evil. I believe we will see more deaths of spiritual matriarchs and patriarchs very soon, because we have persecuted them. We focused on their minor statements and thoughts rather than their attempts to teach holiness. We focused on one doctrinal difference rather than their teachings on obedience to an Almighty God. We continue to do so with many spiritual leaders in our day.
God said we should not expect to see any large and popular ministries emerging in this season. Those who know His heart and His will cannot be exposed to the world. They will not even be heard by many who claim to know Him. In this season, the pearls of the Gospel and the wisdom of the Spirit are being constricted by the Father, Himself. The only way to live is to seek Him on a personal level.
Amos 5:14 Seek (inquire for and require) good and not evil that you may live, and so the Lord, the God of hosts, will be with you, as you have said.
Amos 5:15 Hate the evil and love the good and establish justice in the [court of the city's] gate. It may be that the Lord, the God of hosts, will be gracious to the remnant of Joseph [the northern kingdom].
“Tolerance is not of Me,” says God. The Father has commanded us to HATE some things. Tolerance and political correctness have caused God’s people to forsake Him. When hatred returns to the Body of Christ, violent fervor shall return as well. The will to fight will be restored. Too many of us are simply not appalled by sin anymore. We are no longer offended and enraged when our God is disrespected.
A true SEEK will cause us to live. Not everyone can SEEK Him, because not everyone is drawn unto Him. The word of the Lord today is to seek that you MIGHT live.
Is 55:6 Seek, inquire for, {and} require the Lord while He may be found [claiming Him by necessity and by right]; call upon Him while He is near.
Is 55:7 Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to the Lord, and He will have love, pity, {and} mercy for him, and to our God, for He will multiply to him His abundant pardon.
Many of us have failed to seek Him in the season while He was near. Now, we must reach, search and touch Him…by any means necessary. Whatever it takes for you to make a connection with God, do it!
Selah.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Worshiping an Unknown "god" (Continued)
I must add to this, because God is trying to bring us into some revelation and TRUTH! I am grieved at what I am seeing in the Church - people praising and attempting to worship amiss, based on tradition, superstition and religion. The biggest thing that stands out to me is the fact that so many claim to be called, gifted and sanctified when they don't even know the NATURE OF GOD. So many claim to hear from God, but there is no unity amongst those who "hear" about who God is.
Let me cut to the chase! I'm tired of the confusion, especially among the prophets. Some say we serve a God who is "three and one." Some say there are three separate beings in the Godhead, who are one in unity. Some say the Father, the Son and the Holy spirit are all God with no separation, equal in power and nature. Then, there are those who claim this is all a "mystery" not meant for us to understand.
I am baffled. There is no way that God would reveal Himself in so many different ways. SOMEBODY IS WRONG. SOMEBODY IS LYING. SOMEBODY HASN'T SOUGHT GOD AND HEARD DIRECTLY FROM HIM. This is a serious matter. My Bible tells me that God doesn't do anything without revealing the matter to His prophets. It also tells me that His sheep hear His voice, and will not respond to that of any other. This does not sound like a God that would keep a secret "mystery" from His people when it comes to His very identity.
God took me to Acts 17, because He gave me a very special experience and meeting with Him when I was a child, around 5 or 6 years old. Though it has been very difficult for me in the past, as well as others, I know God has truly revealed Himself to a remnant who must teach and proclaim His true nature in this hour. Look for more to come.
In the meantime, self-examination is a must! Do you really KNOW Him, or do you know OF HIM because of what Grandma and the church told you? Accountability... Discernment... Repentance. There are far more in the world, in ministry, on the internet, in your church that are worshiping a God they do not know nor understand than those with revelation of His nature, voice and personality. Where do you fit it?
Let me cut to the chase! I'm tired of the confusion, especially among the prophets. Some say we serve a God who is "three and one." Some say there are three separate beings in the Godhead, who are one in unity. Some say the Father, the Son and the Holy spirit are all God with no separation, equal in power and nature. Then, there are those who claim this is all a "mystery" not meant for us to understand.
I am baffled. There is no way that God would reveal Himself in so many different ways. SOMEBODY IS WRONG. SOMEBODY IS LYING. SOMEBODY HASN'T SOUGHT GOD AND HEARD DIRECTLY FROM HIM. This is a serious matter. My Bible tells me that God doesn't do anything without revealing the matter to His prophets. It also tells me that His sheep hear His voice, and will not respond to that of any other. This does not sound like a God that would keep a secret "mystery" from His people when it comes to His very identity.
God took me to Acts 17, because He gave me a very special experience and meeting with Him when I was a child, around 5 or 6 years old. Though it has been very difficult for me in the past, as well as others, I know God has truly revealed Himself to a remnant who must teach and proclaim His true nature in this hour. Look for more to come.
In the meantime, self-examination is a must! Do you really KNOW Him, or do you know OF HIM because of what Grandma and the church told you? Accountability... Discernment... Repentance. There are far more in the world, in ministry, on the internet, in your church that are worshiping a God they do not know nor understand than those with revelation of His nature, voice and personality. Where do you fit it?
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Worshiping an Unknown "god"
Acts 17:22b-24
I perceive in every way [on every hand and with every turn I make] that you are most religious or very reverent to demons. For as I passed along and carefully observed your objects of worship, I came also upon an altar with this inscription, "To the unknown god." Now what you are already worshiping as unknown, this I set forth to you. The God Who produced and formed the world and all things in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in handmade shrines.
So much error in reverence...so much ignorance in worship. God is speaking to the Church in this hour. There is an urgent cry for the remnant to step up in priesthood and seize the responsibility God has given. Yet, many are missing the mark.
The Father showed me a vision - the hearts of the people. They burned passionately for worship and thrived for ministry, yet had no direction. The hearts were full of excitement and passion, but had no discernment. They desired to be used, but had no assignment. Such is the Body of Christ in this hour.
So many are preaching the word, attending church services, serving and feeding the poor, yet have no relationship with the Father. God told me that His heart is grieved. "My people are attempting to worship Me without knowing Me." I felt the violation and disrespect of we have caused the Father.
The Father showed me weeks ago that many are being tormented by demonic forces because they are seeking a spiritual experience, rather than a godly one. Too many are moved by anything spiritual because there is a lack of discernment. Only those who have been intimate with God truly know His touch. Just as it was in the days of Paul, many are worshiping, going through the motions, yet don't know God. Their worship and sacrifice is to an "unknown god." Attending service Sunday after Sunday, but never felt a touch from God? Preaching revivals and conferences, but never heard a Word from the Father? Shouting and dancing in service, but crying yourself to sleep every night in the privacy of your own home?
My Daddy's sheep hear His voice and do not follow that of another. I dare the Church to stop settling for a mediocre "spiritual" experience. God is able to heal instantly without a need for weeks of prayer. Where are the healers who know their God? The Father is able to send a word with clarity and detail that will change, set free and deliver. Where are the prophets who know their God? Too many are doing "ministry" amiss. Too many are preaching without visiting the secret place of the Most High. Too many personal agendas are going forth with God's name stamped on them. Too many services are being held without God's counsel and instruction. God told me that when He calls forth a service, deliverance will take place - not just a fund-raiser.
Worshiping God by going through the motions is not worship to our Father. Why? Those who worship Him must do so in spirit and in truth. Have you had a worship experience without relationship with the Father? If so, you have entertained demons. In this season, be hot or cold. Find Him. Seek Him. Know Him.
I perceive in every way [on every hand and with every turn I make] that you are most religious or very reverent to demons. For as I passed along and carefully observed your objects of worship, I came also upon an altar with this inscription, "To the unknown god." Now what you are already worshiping as unknown, this I set forth to you. The God Who produced and formed the world and all things in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in handmade shrines.
So much error in reverence...so much ignorance in worship. God is speaking to the Church in this hour. There is an urgent cry for the remnant to step up in priesthood and seize the responsibility God has given. Yet, many are missing the mark.
The Father showed me a vision - the hearts of the people. They burned passionately for worship and thrived for ministry, yet had no direction. The hearts were full of excitement and passion, but had no discernment. They desired to be used, but had no assignment. Such is the Body of Christ in this hour.
So many are preaching the word, attending church services, serving and feeding the poor, yet have no relationship with the Father. God told me that His heart is grieved. "My people are attempting to worship Me without knowing Me." I felt the violation and disrespect of we have caused the Father.
The Father showed me weeks ago that many are being tormented by demonic forces because they are seeking a spiritual experience, rather than a godly one. Too many are moved by anything spiritual because there is a lack of discernment. Only those who have been intimate with God truly know His touch. Just as it was in the days of Paul, many are worshiping, going through the motions, yet don't know God. Their worship and sacrifice is to an "unknown god." Attending service Sunday after Sunday, but never felt a touch from God? Preaching revivals and conferences, but never heard a Word from the Father? Shouting and dancing in service, but crying yourself to sleep every night in the privacy of your own home?
My Daddy's sheep hear His voice and do not follow that of another. I dare the Church to stop settling for a mediocre "spiritual" experience. God is able to heal instantly without a need for weeks of prayer. Where are the healers who know their God? The Father is able to send a word with clarity and detail that will change, set free and deliver. Where are the prophets who know their God? Too many are doing "ministry" amiss. Too many are preaching without visiting the secret place of the Most High. Too many personal agendas are going forth with God's name stamped on them. Too many services are being held without God's counsel and instruction. God told me that when He calls forth a service, deliverance will take place - not just a fund-raiser.
Worshiping God by going through the motions is not worship to our Father. Why? Those who worship Him must do so in spirit and in truth. Have you had a worship experience without relationship with the Father? If so, you have entertained demons. In this season, be hot or cold. Find Him. Seek Him. Know Him.
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