To GOD be the glory!
My soul has been grieved, as I have been in prayer over the last few days. I am interceding for God's people, particularly those in ministry and leadership. So many are "going through" different trials, tribulations and turmoils. In fact, many are dealing with secret sins, addictions and habits. I simply asked God to shed light on the situation.
We know that God tempts no man. He allows temptation, but He does not tempt us with evil, entices us to sin (James 1:13-15). However, the Word of God tells us that we are tempted by our own lusts, which are driven by the soul (mind, emotions, thoughts), then manifested in the flesh through sin. So, why are God's people struggling? Why are so many fighting?
We are simply living the word of God...
Gal 6:7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.
Gal 6:8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
Gal 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
Gal 6:10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.
The Body of Christ is reaping what has been sown. Too many have sown into the flesh, but are seeking spiritual elevation. There is a problem when God's people are struggling with the same sins over and over. This is an epidemic! We must get serious about doing the will of God.
God is calling for TRUE HOLINESS AND SANCTIFICATION. We must be holy as our Father is holy. There is a standard that MUST be met for those who call themselves the elect of God. There is no excuse! The sin must cease. Holiness is NOT an option. Giving up and giving in is NOT an option.
As saints of God, we are to be in the world, but not OF the world. To be sanctified means to be separated unto God for His use. In order to be separate people, led of the Holy Spirit rather than our flesh, we must sow into the Spirit. Instead, many spend their time investing in the flesh - television, radio, gossip, ungodly internet usage - the list goes on and on. Where is the holiness and separation? The people of God must return to sowing in the spirit realm - fasting, prayer, meditation, fellowship, worship and praise...
If you are experiencing consistent struggles in your life around a particular sin or habit, where and how are you spending the majority of your time? The Word has spoken - God is not mocked! You will continue to reap what you sow.
To GOD be the glory!
Friday, September 28, 2007
Thursday, September 20, 2007
A Word of Testimony
To GOD be the glory!
This morning, I just want to share some recent events in order to encourage someone else. I am not one who seeks God to necessarily "give" me things and "do" extraordinary things for me, yet He still sees fit to bless and prosper those who serve Him.
Not many months ago, I was referred to a surgeon for what appeared to be some type of hole in my chest cavity. After some examinations, the surgeon decided that I had a hiatal hernia, which would require surgery. During my consultation, the surgeon, another doctor and a nurse all felt the hole. In fact, the surgeon put his fist in the hole and felt the same pressure I had been experiencing for almost three years. According to routine, they sent me to have some further tests and take a barium swallow, which would reveal the opening in an x-ray and/or ultrasound. Of course, I revisited the surgeon after that was done, only for him to close the door and sit before me in astonishment. The whole had disappeared! I know this was God! The surgeon is a believer, and jokingly asked me if I'd sue him. Of course not! We both serve the same God, and he knew why the hole had disappeared just as much as I did. Before I could rejoice to my heart's content, my doctor was made aware of another situation in my body...
Basically, I had been suffering for many months from bloating and speratic weight gain. Many signs of lupus had begun to emerge, and my doctor had been running tests since the beginning of this year. Amidst all this, I began to suffer a variety of "female" issues as well. Tests and more tests were run, but the problem would not correct itself. Finally, I was sent to another specialist, who gave me medication in an effort to correct the problem. Now, I must say that during my younger years in ministry, God used me heavily in the healing ministry. He reminded me of this and said that He is restoring it. With that, I was also instructed by God NOT to take the medication. I was relieved, because the possible side effects were very serious. In fact, I was guaranteed to miss at least 10 days of work. Can I just tell you that God healed that condition as well? Many had been praying for me, but He was waiting only on my obedience to Him IN FAITH.
In addition to that, I am no longer having problems with the swelling. Blood tests that once had me in the "danger zone" for a lupus diagnosis have begun to show normal results again. The inexplicable weight gain has ceased, and I've lost 15 pounds in just 3 weeks. God is still able and willing to bless His people in TANGIBLE ways.
Even on my job, God reminded me that HE IS NOT MOCKED. We will certainly reap what we sow. I have worked diligently and faithfully in both ministry and on my job. Even in my family, I have served and worked as unto God. My marriage has taken a complete 180 degree turn in the last 3 months. My husband has transformed into a man of God that I didn't even think I'd ever see just 6 or 7 months ago. My children learn and speak daily of the Father. They know the Word of God and they know how to pray. In the last twelve months, God has increased my salary on the job by over 50%.
I am not saying that we should seek God for things. What I am saying is that He is able and willing to supply our needs. I still have problems and still have struggles, but I am so free right now. I love God and have served Him through pain, disappointment and confusion. He is truly a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.
I have spent my last dime to travel and preach where God has instructed me to go. I have even gone with a word without any money in my pocket, yet God blesses every time. I was instructed never to sell the word He has given me and never to require an honorarium. Yet, the offerings that people have given into my bosom have been more than enough. God has blessed me and He has funded the ministry He has called me to. He has supplied the need. God is faithful, and He cannot lie.
Be encouraged today. I don't often share my personal experiences in this way, but I am rejoicing. I feel so free. God is moving in such a way as I've never seen before. In the last 30 days, I have seen deliverance take place like never before. I have literally felt my spirit yield completely to the Father in such a way that I knew I was only being used as a vessel. None of my words and thoughts came forth. What an honor to be used of God! Ministry requires service and labor. Ministry requires a heart to PLEASE GOD.
To those of you who are seeking Him and pressing your way, BE ENCOURAGED. Please be reminded, as the Father reminded me, that someone else needs to hear your testimony every now and then.
To GOD be the glory! Hallelujah!
This morning, I just want to share some recent events in order to encourage someone else. I am not one who seeks God to necessarily "give" me things and "do" extraordinary things for me, yet He still sees fit to bless and prosper those who serve Him.
Not many months ago, I was referred to a surgeon for what appeared to be some type of hole in my chest cavity. After some examinations, the surgeon decided that I had a hiatal hernia, which would require surgery. During my consultation, the surgeon, another doctor and a nurse all felt the hole. In fact, the surgeon put his fist in the hole and felt the same pressure I had been experiencing for almost three years. According to routine, they sent me to have some further tests and take a barium swallow, which would reveal the opening in an x-ray and/or ultrasound. Of course, I revisited the surgeon after that was done, only for him to close the door and sit before me in astonishment. The whole had disappeared! I know this was God! The surgeon is a believer, and jokingly asked me if I'd sue him. Of course not! We both serve the same God, and he knew why the hole had disappeared just as much as I did. Before I could rejoice to my heart's content, my doctor was made aware of another situation in my body...
Basically, I had been suffering for many months from bloating and speratic weight gain. Many signs of lupus had begun to emerge, and my doctor had been running tests since the beginning of this year. Amidst all this, I began to suffer a variety of "female" issues as well. Tests and more tests were run, but the problem would not correct itself. Finally, I was sent to another specialist, who gave me medication in an effort to correct the problem. Now, I must say that during my younger years in ministry, God used me heavily in the healing ministry. He reminded me of this and said that He is restoring it. With that, I was also instructed by God NOT to take the medication. I was relieved, because the possible side effects were very serious. In fact, I was guaranteed to miss at least 10 days of work. Can I just tell you that God healed that condition as well? Many had been praying for me, but He was waiting only on my obedience to Him IN FAITH.
In addition to that, I am no longer having problems with the swelling. Blood tests that once had me in the "danger zone" for a lupus diagnosis have begun to show normal results again. The inexplicable weight gain has ceased, and I've lost 15 pounds in just 3 weeks. God is still able and willing to bless His people in TANGIBLE ways.
Even on my job, God reminded me that HE IS NOT MOCKED. We will certainly reap what we sow. I have worked diligently and faithfully in both ministry and on my job. Even in my family, I have served and worked as unto God. My marriage has taken a complete 180 degree turn in the last 3 months. My husband has transformed into a man of God that I didn't even think I'd ever see just 6 or 7 months ago. My children learn and speak daily of the Father. They know the Word of God and they know how to pray. In the last twelve months, God has increased my salary on the job by over 50%.
I am not saying that we should seek God for things. What I am saying is that He is able and willing to supply our needs. I still have problems and still have struggles, but I am so free right now. I love God and have served Him through pain, disappointment and confusion. He is truly a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.
I have spent my last dime to travel and preach where God has instructed me to go. I have even gone with a word without any money in my pocket, yet God blesses every time. I was instructed never to sell the word He has given me and never to require an honorarium. Yet, the offerings that people have given into my bosom have been more than enough. God has blessed me and He has funded the ministry He has called me to. He has supplied the need. God is faithful, and He cannot lie.
Be encouraged today. I don't often share my personal experiences in this way, but I am rejoicing. I feel so free. God is moving in such a way as I've never seen before. In the last 30 days, I have seen deliverance take place like never before. I have literally felt my spirit yield completely to the Father in such a way that I knew I was only being used as a vessel. None of my words and thoughts came forth. What an honor to be used of God! Ministry requires service and labor. Ministry requires a heart to PLEASE GOD.
To those of you who are seeking Him and pressing your way, BE ENCOURAGED. Please be reminded, as the Father reminded me, that someone else needs to hear your testimony every now and then.
To GOD be the glory! Hallelujah!
Thursday, September 13, 2007
The Curse of Ungodly Alliance
2 Chr 19:2 Jehu son of Hanani, the seer, went out to meet him and said to Jehoshaphat, Should you help the ungodly and love those who hate the Lord? Because of this, wrath has gone out against you from the Lord.
God has been speaking about ungodly counsel and sinful alliances. Just a few weeks ago, He proclaimed that many are cursed because Achan is among them. Still, God has really been speaking about unequally yoked relationships tainting the Body of Christ.
I have been in a "silent" mode for about two weeks, and I thank God for the silence. I have heard Him so clearly in many ways, and been privileged to intercede on behalf of the Body of Christ. Even more, God is teaching me again how to TRAVAIL as He shows me those things that grieve His heart concerning His people.
In the Word of God, Jehoshaphat is described as a blessed king who understood service and worship. He was raised amongst priests and served other leaders called and ordained by God. However, he caught a glimpse of God's wrath when he entered into a covenant with an ungodly man, Ahab.
The seer was sent to Jehoshaphat to warn him and "teach him a lesson." He was challenged because he'd entered a covenant - a contract - with a man who was against God. He hated God and willfully disobeyed Him.
How many times have we entered covenants with those who hate God? How often do we support those who live in disobedience? We yoke together with those who fight against the Word of God.
God has really been speaking to me about politics this week. I began to think on all the things we "fight" in the name of human and "equal rights." Yet, we shy away when it's time to fight for God's will to be done in our homes, in our neighborhoods, in our schools, on our jobs, and in the country as a whole. We donate to politicians if we believe they can lower gas prices, but we don't consider their vote in favor of abortion. We will even pray for their victory, in many cases, and allow them to campaign in God's house! It's a disgrace to our Father.
God is calling forth the army - an army of God that is willing to attack the spirit of anti-christ in every form. THIS IS THE SEASON OF THE MARTYR. This means some relationships need to be cut off. There are some covenants that must be forsaken, because they are bringing curses upon God's people, as in the case of Jehoshaphat when he joined forces with Ahab. God has shown me another "radical" movement of His people - those who refuse to bow down to the ways, thoughts and doctrines of this world.
I thank God for the boldness that is returning to many who have been hurt in the Body of Christ. There are many who have settled, because even the "church folk" bucked against them and their fight for holiness. Yet, there are some that are just called to a different level. There are some, a remnant, who understand true holiness. Now is the time for those to step to the front line. This is the season when true battles must be faced in the spirit. Be warned - those spiritual battles with be manifested in the natural. There will be casualties of the flesh. Sacrifice is required. Who is ready to count the losses as gain for Christ?
What alliances and covenants have we made? Do we attend churches with those who preach a "just do the best you can" message rather than holiness? Do we work for companies that have a blatant stand against the word of God? Do we welcome family members into our homes that do not respect the word of God? Do we send our children to schools that teach them tolerance for sin? At what level are we willing to sacrifice? Many say they would die for Christ and for the sake of the Gospel. Yet, we are not even willing to be UNCOMFORTABLE for Christ and the Gospel. Where are the martyrs? Where are the believers who are willing and prepared to lose spouses, jobs, children and even "church" friends for the sake of the Gospel?
God has dealt with me. I have seen some weaknesses where I thought I was strong. God has shown me the nicks and crannies where I have allowed compromise to creep in. I have seen areas where my boldness has waivered - where I allowed variance rather than strict adherence to the word of God. Father, I repent! I realize that I am called to a higher level of holiness and a greater responsibility - a higher call, no matter what others say. No longer will I be complacent when I miss perfection, just because someone says, "God knows your heart - He knows you did your best." No - God's way, all the way, or no way! I will no longer stand in agreement, making alliance with those who settle for less than what God requires. There are others that must realize the same. It's not vain or conceited to recognize that God has called some to a greater level than others.
With that said, this is a season to strengthen our alliance with the Father, realizing that others will be weakened and many will crumble! Is anybody ready to die today?
God has been speaking about ungodly counsel and sinful alliances. Just a few weeks ago, He proclaimed that many are cursed because Achan is among them. Still, God has really been speaking about unequally yoked relationships tainting the Body of Christ.
I have been in a "silent" mode for about two weeks, and I thank God for the silence. I have heard Him so clearly in many ways, and been privileged to intercede on behalf of the Body of Christ. Even more, God is teaching me again how to TRAVAIL as He shows me those things that grieve His heart concerning His people.
In the Word of God, Jehoshaphat is described as a blessed king who understood service and worship. He was raised amongst priests and served other leaders called and ordained by God. However, he caught a glimpse of God's wrath when he entered into a covenant with an ungodly man, Ahab.
The seer was sent to Jehoshaphat to warn him and "teach him a lesson." He was challenged because he'd entered a covenant - a contract - with a man who was against God. He hated God and willfully disobeyed Him.
How many times have we entered covenants with those who hate God? How often do we support those who live in disobedience? We yoke together with those who fight against the Word of God.
God has really been speaking to me about politics this week. I began to think on all the things we "fight" in the name of human and "equal rights." Yet, we shy away when it's time to fight for God's will to be done in our homes, in our neighborhoods, in our schools, on our jobs, and in the country as a whole. We donate to politicians if we believe they can lower gas prices, but we don't consider their vote in favor of abortion. We will even pray for their victory, in many cases, and allow them to campaign in God's house! It's a disgrace to our Father.
God is calling forth the army - an army of God that is willing to attack the spirit of anti-christ in every form. THIS IS THE SEASON OF THE MARTYR. This means some relationships need to be cut off. There are some covenants that must be forsaken, because they are bringing curses upon God's people, as in the case of Jehoshaphat when he joined forces with Ahab. God has shown me another "radical" movement of His people - those who refuse to bow down to the ways, thoughts and doctrines of this world.
I thank God for the boldness that is returning to many who have been hurt in the Body of Christ. There are many who have settled, because even the "church folk" bucked against them and their fight for holiness. Yet, there are some that are just called to a different level. There are some, a remnant, who understand true holiness. Now is the time for those to step to the front line. This is the season when true battles must be faced in the spirit. Be warned - those spiritual battles with be manifested in the natural. There will be casualties of the flesh. Sacrifice is required. Who is ready to count the losses as gain for Christ?
What alliances and covenants have we made? Do we attend churches with those who preach a "just do the best you can" message rather than holiness? Do we work for companies that have a blatant stand against the word of God? Do we welcome family members into our homes that do not respect the word of God? Do we send our children to schools that teach them tolerance for sin? At what level are we willing to sacrifice? Many say they would die for Christ and for the sake of the Gospel. Yet, we are not even willing to be UNCOMFORTABLE for Christ and the Gospel. Where are the martyrs? Where are the believers who are willing and prepared to lose spouses, jobs, children and even "church" friends for the sake of the Gospel?
God has dealt with me. I have seen some weaknesses where I thought I was strong. God has shown me the nicks and crannies where I have allowed compromise to creep in. I have seen areas where my boldness has waivered - where I allowed variance rather than strict adherence to the word of God. Father, I repent! I realize that I am called to a higher level of holiness and a greater responsibility - a higher call, no matter what others say. No longer will I be complacent when I miss perfection, just because someone says, "God knows your heart - He knows you did your best." No - God's way, all the way, or no way! I will no longer stand in agreement, making alliance with those who settle for less than what God requires. There are others that must realize the same. It's not vain or conceited to recognize that God has called some to a greater level than others.
With that said, this is a season to strengthen our alliance with the Father, realizing that others will be weakened and many will crumble! Is anybody ready to die today?
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