Are You Hungry Enough to Fast?

CONSECRATION

SANCTIFICATION

HOLINESS

These are the things God is requiring of us in these last days. So many Christians are falling under demonic attack. Satan is having a field day in our minds, our finances, our health... These things should not be so. Instead of standing up against adversity, we allow ourselves to be complacent, or we create excuses for the positions we're in. When will the people of God stand up and fight in the spirit realm according to the Word of God?

Religion will no longer sustain us. Tradition will no longer hide us in the day of danger. I am so tired of seeing God's people try to deliver others when there is so much bondage in our own lives. Why do we try to save the children of others when our own are on the way to hell? We counsel married couples, but can't speak to our own spouses. Have mercy, God. Of course, ministry is necessary and required. However, those of us who don't handle our own houses first, are worse than the unbeliever!

Human nature causes us to fight only when we get tired and frustrated. A level of frustration comes when one's hunger is not satisfied. So, are you hungry for God yet? Are you hungry for victory in the spirit and in the natural? Are you tired of being defeated on a daily basis. Are you hungry enough to fast?

All week long, I have struggled with battles in my mind. I've questioned God like never before about the adversity I've been facing, the problems I'm having and all the frustration that's built up inside. I've been praying about all the attacks I am seeing against the people of God. Even more, the fact that many of us are being spiritually slain by the attacks of the enemy. I asked Him, "Lord, why are your people struggling when those in the world seem to be thriving? Why are those who are trying to live holy having such a hard time?" Well, the obvious part of the answer is that Satan always attacks where God blesses. We know this to be true. Jesus was tempted, ridiculed and tormented, so we should expect this same. Not only that, but we should rejoice when men persecute us, according to the Scriptures. Nevertheless, the Lord showed me that He is calling His people to a new level of holiness. We must SEEK Him like never before. For many of us who are maturing in God, He is not "just showing up" like He did once before. Now, we must press in and seek God's presence. He wants to take us to a new level, but we must show Him that we want more of Him. We must consecrate ourselves. When we ministry to our Father, He will minister to us in return. Turn town the plate and get in your prayer closets. This is the true battlefield. This is true spiritual warfare. This is how we move into a new level in God. Only at this new level will we experience the power and deliverance He has for us.

Mat 17:18 And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour.

Mat 17:19 Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out?

Mat 17:20 And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.

Mat 17:21 Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.

My God. Our Father wants to bring us to a level where we can rebuke the devil and watch him flee, just as Jesus did when he healed the young lunatick in this Scripture passage. The key is that we must move from "saved" to "holy." As many have said, "Salvation is free, but the anointing will cost you something." The Father wants to use us to perform miracles. He wants to demonstrate His power upon the earth, but our vessels must be clean. We must be completely HOLY. The Lord told me to tell His people, "I want everything." God requires complete sacrifice from us. In this day, we must be completely SOLD OUT. No more excuses. No more slacking. No more messy salvation. No more "cute" ministry. THIS IS WAR. There is no time to be cute, no time to promote your own name, no time to worry about little band-aid wounds. There is a war at hand! God's people must be hungry enough to suffer for Him. We have been given the solution for more power - prayer and fasting. So, we must get in God's face and look to Him as never before.

Now, many of us say we fast regularly, but the Lord ministered to me about that as well. He wants a new level of sacrifice and most importantly, committment. If we are honest with ourselves, many of us have participated in all kinds of "man-defined" fasts and consecrations. Nevertheless, God wants us to break down our flesh and seek him on an individual basis, that our spirit man may be edified. He wants us to sacrifice for Him and ministry to Him without the recognition of men! My God! Yes, keep it to yourself. How many of us married women run and tell the whole church everytime we minister to our husbands in the bedroom? None, I hope. In the same manner, we must stop running our mouths every time we have an intimate moment with God. He wants a private relationship with each of us. He wants to glorify us, but will not do so if we glorify ourselves.

NEWS FLASH: Fasting is supposed to be uncomfortable!!! Saints of God, we need to understand that a dizzy spell, an occasional headache and stomach cramps are signs of victory. It's not a sign to break the fast or eat a cracker. That means you are fasting correctly! Your body is breaking donw, and that is the whole point! We must get away from these littly "patty cake" fasting plans that we do just to make us feel good on the outside, pleasing the flesh. That's the exact OPPOSITE of what fasting should do! Don't get me wrong. For some, partial, timed fasts are quite a sacrifice. But for most of us, they are truly a joke. No food from 8:00 AM to Noon...No bread or meat for 24 hours...No desserts after sundown... Where is the real sacrifice? Then, when we do fast completely, it does no good to skip all the meals but watch television and talk on the phone all day. DENY THE FLESH! FEED THE SPIRIT! FEAST ON THE WORD AND TALK TO GOD! This is the key! This is true sanctification and consecration.

Fasting and prayer. The Lord is nudging us into a new level. I feel God's hand in my back like never before. I desire to continue moving from glory to glory. A new level, a new level, a new level!

How bad do you want it? Are you hungry enough to fast?

Bless God!

Chasing a Word - Hmmm...

It truly sickens me to see so many false prophets operating in the church today. Even moreso, it bothers me to know that so many "Christians" run around seeking a prophetic word. I believe this is the fault of the church. We must get back to the Word and back to a realationship with God.

I distinctly remember a moment when I was younger - about 17 or 18. My younger brother is three years younger than myself. This particular day, my Daddy was VERY UPSET with my brother. The three of us were sitting in the living room, and my father was so heating that he looked and me and said, "Joy, tell your brother over there to pack his mess and get out of this house!" It's funny when I think about it now, but the implication there was very serious. My father was literally sitting amongst both his children. Yet, his wrath was so great that he could not speak directly to his son. Instead, he relayed the message to me and told me to pass it along, as if my brother couldn't hear him. My, my, my...

What's your point, Joy? I'm glad you asked!

In the Old Testament days, prophets were despised and hated. Why? Because they spoke forth the wrath and judgment of God. While a few positive prophecies were spoken, most of them were prophesies of correction and consequence. It amazes me how prophets were so feared and reverenced then, yet they seem to be celebrities today. In fact, I don't even feel the need to list scriptures here. Every true prophet of the Bible brought the fear and respect of God along with the Word in their bellies.

Last night, I was thinking on this and the Lord gave me understanding. Do you know that many times, when God sends a true prophet our way, it's because He's so upset and we're so disobedient that He can't talk to us. Just like my natural Father, He has to send another one of His children to speak to us, when He's right there in the room!!! And what do we do? We rejoice like that's a good thing! Saints of God, we've got to get ourselves together!

Today, the Holy Spirit dwells within the believer and bears witness to the Word of God. He also teaches us all things. These so-called prophets who come around prophelying...I mean, prophesying...houses and cars all the time are not of God. Now, don't get me wrong. The Lord does send some prophesies that carry good news. On the other hand, prophesy should be confirming, meaning that it verifies something the believer should have already received directly from God. If this is the case, why is it a "good" thing to always chase a Word. Where is the fear of God?

Just like the scenario with my Father and my brother, if I hear God the first time, why would I always be seeking a confirming word? On the other hand, as God revealed to me, He sometimes has to speak through the REAL prophets, because his child has been disobedient and refuses to hear His voice. My God!

Saints, the "word" we seek is often not of God. Why do we always look to men to comfort our flesh, but account it to the Spirit? There should be fear and trembling in the presence of a prophet if they carry the true Word of God. There should be fear and trembling in the presence of a prophet if the believer is truly born again. They should be thinking, "if I miss God, I pray it's not because I missed Him."

Why is this not the case? Is it because we don't hear and recognize the voice of God as Christians, or is it because we're chasing the word of false prophets? After all, if we get to a place where we can hear God ourselves, we won't always need to chase a Word. The Lord will be able to release more confirming and comforting words to us.

Hmmm...

A prophet of God is the mouthpiece of our Father, and deserves to be treated as such. Saints, we shouldn't be too comfortable around the living Word of God. In the same manner, thos of us who call ourselves prophets of God shouldn't be comfortable in every environment - around everything and amongs everybody. AMEN.

God is dealing... He is purging...

Get a REVELATION

Over the last week, God has really been dealing with me and challenging me to a new level in Him.

My prayer is always that I will receive a new "revelation" from God. I don't know about anyone else, but I am vexed by all the so-called ministers, pastors, prophets, teachers, etc. who proclaim they received a revelation, just because their message has a catchy title. Saints of God, when will we get back to the Word in the pulpit???!!!

It's a shame when the leaders of the Church are still preaching, hooping and hollering in the House of God, but saying absolutely NOTHING! Where is the growth? Where is the challenge? The Word of God has a purpose...

¹²For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and [the immortal] spirit, and of joints and marrow [of the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart (Hebrews 4:12, Amplified).

My God. When was the last time you gave or received a Word from the Lord that was sharp? A word that revealed your true character by showing it's separation from the Spirit? When was the last time something in your life was expsed and judged, challenging you to walk closer with God? What's making you UNCOMFORTABLE...???

Now, I thank God for these online groups and forums. There are many people of God who feel free to share the Word of the Lord, without holding back. It is a blessing. Nevertheless, we need this kind of preaching and teaching in the physical church! Have we allowed the enemy to kick the Spirit of God out of His own house!? Those who desire to preach the HEART OF GOD should not feel uncomfortable in the house of God.

Now my husband and I share a home where we are raising our children. It's called the "Allen" household, because the Allen family dwells here. It's OUR HOME. Now, if a strange woman walks in here, and my husband starts to call her his wife, do you really think I'd just sit back in a corner and say "Amen." O NO - THE DEVIL IS A LIAR. I would literally CUT SOMEBODY!!! Why? Because I will not be made to feel uncomfortable in MY OWN HOUSE! Because no "strange" woman can just walk up in here and claim what's mine! Because no stranger will get the glory for all the work, prayer and time I've put into my marriage! Because no strange woman is going to walk into my house and influence my children!

So, what's going on in the church? Why does the TRUE BRIDE OF CHRIST sit idly by while the "mistress of deception - the watered down, lying, half-gospel" gets in the pulpit Sunday after Sunday, and has intercourse with God's people, making empty and deceiving deposits into the children of God???!!! There is a "strange" gospel being preached, and the Spirit of God cannot rest in God's own house!!!

God is proclaiming that we must CRY LOUD AND SPARE NOT according to the Word of God. This is what God is saying. It will not be easy, but the altars of Baal MUST BE TORN DOWN. God is not pleased!

The church is not a place for prophesying houses and cars. God's house is not "Date-Finder Central." God's house is not a meeting place. It's not a storefront. It's not an auction block, nor a political arena. Don't get it twisted! We have tried to evict the Lord from His own house!

According to the Word, we are the temple of the Holy Spirit. Yet, God has set an order for the Body of Christ. We are instructed to assemble together and exhort one another (Hebrews 10:25). Then, those of us who are called to ministry have a charge to "perfect the saints for the work of the ministry" and "edify the Body of Christ" (Ephesians 4:12). In order to perfect anything, there has to be some correction. Saints, we have gotten too comfortable in the physical church. Where is the spirit of excellence? Where is the desire to be holy? Sadly, the mistress of deception is moving into our house, and the Bride of Christ is just letting her take over.

The people of God need REVELATION. The biblical term comes from the Greek Word, apokalupsis, which means "disclosure: - appearing, coming, lighten, manifestation, be revealed" (Strong's G602). The key is that THERE IS NO REVELATION WITHOUT RELATIONSHIP. We need to crucify RELIGION and build a RELATIONSHIP with the Father so He can reveal His heart to us. Then, and only then, will a REVELATION be received.

What do I mean by that? Well, my natural Father, Mr. Rollins, has a name and a career. Any stranger can write a great novel about him, with a catchy title, and make it a best seller. However, if they don't have a relationship with him, they'll never know his heart...how he thinks and feels. This means they can never have a "revelation" of who he truly is. On the other hand, I'm my father's daughter. I may know his birthday, his occupation...even his shoe size. Nevertheless, these things don't have too much importance beside our relationship as father and daughter. I know how he thinks, how he feels, what he likes... We have a solid relationship. So, I know his heart, and have a REVELATION of who he truly is. I feel his hurts and rejoice in his victories. I am concerned about him, as he is about me. We take time out to talk and we support one another.

So many "preachers" know the Word of God. I'm not impressed. Satan and his demons know it too! The question is, how well do they know God? We need more in leadership who know the HEART of God. That comes only be relationship and revelation! We must seek God. Any true relationship is not always comfortable and content. God has me in a place of ministry that is not comfortable. I can't receive mess just because it comes from a person with a title. In the same manner, I can't minister mess to the people of God. The Gospel has not changed. We MUST PREACH the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. We MUST PREACH HOLINESS to God's people. HOLINESS IS RIGHT! TOLERANCE IS NOT OF GOD! If sin doesn't make us sick - if evil spirits are comfortable in the church, something is wrong with us! Selah.

What in HELL Do You Want?

As a child, I was always taught to work for what I want and need. Like most of us, I still realize today that every action has a consequence. So, if I have goals to attain, I must DO SOMETHING in order to get what I want out of life. Even as Christians, though salvation is free, we have to DO SOMETHING in order to maintain a positive relationship with our Heavenly Father. There are commandments set in place which we must follow. After all, “obedience is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22).

A few years ago, God dealt with me about the presence of sin in my life. He basically said to me, “What in hell do you want?” Of course, my response was that I didn’t want anything hell had to offer. God’s response: “Then, you don’t believe my Word.” It didn’t take long to realize my Father’s point. We, as Christians, know the result of purposed sin – DEATH. Yet, many of us continue to consciously disobey God on a daily basis. So, which is it? Is there something in hell we want, or do we just not believe the Word of God? If we DO SOMETHING that displeases God, it must mean we want the consequences or simply don’t believe the consequences will come.

Matthew 14:44-51
44 Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.
45 Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season?
46 Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.
47 Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.
48 But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming;
49 And shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken;
50 The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of,
51 And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.


We as the saints of God are truly living in the last and evil days upon this earth. Though many of us have heard this since our youth, the signs that Christ promised before His return are becoming more evident and frequent than ever before. Though we don’t know the time, we do know it’s closer now than ever before. Unfortunately, many Christians don’t believe the time is really drawing near. Most unfortunate, most “Christians” don’t have a TRUE RELATIONSHIP with God. In other words, most “Christians” are vocational believers. They claim Christ only because they believe they'll get something back – the hope of eternal life. Those with a relationship, however, do the will of God in order to please Him. Yes, an award awaits, but a relationship is essential in order to PLEASE the Father.

We know that only righteousness leads to eternal life. Sin leads to death, hell and the grave. Romans 6:23 tell us, “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ, our Lord.”

If we know this to be true, why do we continue to sin? Why are we not faithful servants over the gifts God has given us? Why are we not reaching out to souls? Why don’t we pray, fast and seek the face of God? Our Heavenly Father has given us a choice. Any sensible person, when given a choice, would choose the path that leads to his or her ultimate desire. In other words, if I choose Path A, it’s sensible to assume that I want Result A. If I choose Path B, it signifies that I desire Result B. Are you living a “spiritually sloppy” life? If so, I have only one question… What in HELL do you want? After all, only YOU can choose to go there!

Revelation 14:10-11
10 The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb:
11 And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.


Saints, we must face it. Hell is real! We must MAKE AN ACTIVE DECISION (Deuteronomy 30:19). Doing nothing, or being stagnant is a choice against the will of God. The lukewarm will be spewed out of His mouth, according to the Word of the Lord. Where are the saints who are willing to TAKE A STAND and BOLDLY PROCLAIM THE WORD OF GOD?

Revelation 21:7-8
7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

The God that Answers by FIRE

Elijah is one of my favorite biblical characters to study. His faith and power have always inspired me. Recently, the Lord laid it on my heart to begin studying the lives of Elijah and Elisha again. During this time, I have been meditating on this passage of Scripture, which happens to be one of my favorite stories.

To be honest, I'm at a time in my life when I literally need God to move as He did in the days of old. I need some public miracles, and I believe God still "answers by fire" according to our faith. This story really blessed me, because it speaks to some of the situations I am dealing with in life. I pray it will bless you as well.

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1 Kings 18: 16-40

16 So Obadiah went to meet Ahab, and told him: and Ahab went to meet Elijah.

17 And it came to pass, when Ahab saw Elijah, that Ahab said unto him, Art thou he that troubleth Israel?

This is one funny thing about the corrective Word of God. Many times, when rebuke comes, people get upset with us, the messengers. Ahab blamed Elijah for the rebuke he received from the Lord. In other words, he blamed the messenger for the message, instead of acknowledging the AUTHOR, who is the Lord.

I have learned to accept godly rebuke, realizing that those who give it in love are only fulfulling the call on their lives to help upbuild the Kingdom. Don't get mad, get delivered! AMEN.

18 And he answered, I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father's house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the LORD, and thou hast followed Baalim.

19 Now therefore send, and gather to me all Israel unto mount Carmel, and the prophets of Baal four hundred and fifty, and the prophets of the groves four hundred, which eat at Jezebel's table.

20 So Ahab sent unto all the children of Israel, and gathered the prophets together unto mount Carmel.

21 And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word.

It is so unfortunate, but many of us have Baals in our lives. People prophesy to us about them every day, and we even believe the lie. For example, every day people preach to me about how I need to depend on my job. They speak as if it's silly for me to proclaim God as my source rather than my vocation. There have been times, though, when I truly depended on my paycheck rather than living by faith. Whenever a job comes before God, it's an idol - just like Baal. We must stand for God. Anything can be idolized (clothing, money, family, etc.), but we must follow God. We cannot have any gods before Him. We cannot straddle the fence. We MUST KNOW who God is in our lives!

22 Then said Elijah unto the people, I, even I only, remain a prophet of the LORD; but Baal's prophets are four hundred and fifty men.

How many of us have had to stand alone in our faith? Even when everyone else turns from God, we must be bold and stand for the truth! Praise God!

23 Let them therefore give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under: and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under:

24 And call ye on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the LORD: and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God. And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken.

My God. I love this challenge set forth by Elijah. We can stand confident enough to make the same challenge against the Kingdom of darkness. We can proclaim to the world, gather all your money...your drugs...your adulterous relationships. Even in the church, gather your titles...your theological degrees...your nicest Sunday hat...everything you put before God. When the rubber hits the road, let's see what stands. The God that "answers by fire" or demonstration, let Him be God! Those "things" will never save us in adversity, but God will show up and consume the very situation that hinders us!

25 And Elijah said unto the prophets of Baal, Choose you one bullock for yourselves, and dress it first; for ye are many; and call on the name of your gods, but put no fire under.

26 And they took the bullock which was given them, and they dressed it, and called on the name of Baal from morning even until noon, saying, O Baal, hear us. But there was no voice, nor any that answered. And they leaped upon the altar which was made.

When we put idols before God, we always have to try and "help them out." That's a sure sign that the power is not in that object. I'm so glad we serve a God that really doesn't need our help!

27 And it came to pass at noon, that Elijah mocked them, and said, Cry aloud: for he is a god; either he is talking, or he is pursuing, or he is in a journey, or peradventure he sleepeth, and must be awaked.

This portion of the passage is awesome to me. Elijah mocks the false prophets by providing every possible excuse why their idols are not delivering the miracle they request. He's so confident that Jehovah-Jireh will come to the rescue, that he begins mocking, or picking on the false prophets. My God! I want this kind of faith in you. Instead, we sometimes do the opposite. When the millionaires have to declare bankruptcy, it scares us. Rather than saying, your "money" god couldn't deliver you, but my Almighty Father can, we think "Lord, I don't have as much as they do. If they parish, surely I will." Oh, the devil is a liar! Saints, we must cast down those imaginations - everything that exalts itself against the Word of God. God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind. AMEN!

28 And they cried aloud, and cut themselves after their manner with knives and lancets, till the blood gushed out upon them.

Now, this verse brings shame to the body of Christ. People of other religions, in many cases, will literally give their lives for what they believe. They will suffer pain, rejection and extreme poverty. Why do we, the children of the living God, turn our backs to the Father so readily when the smallest adversity comes our way? Help us, Lord!

29 And it came to pass, when midday was past, and they prophesied until the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that there was neither voice, nor any to answer, nor any that regarded.

30 And Elijah said unto all the people, Come near unto me. And all the people came near unto him. And he repaired the altar of the LORD that was broken down.

31 And Elijah took twelve stones, according to the number of the tribes of the sons of Jacob, unto whom the word of the LORD came, saying, Israel shall be thy name:

32 And with the stones he built an altar in the name of the LORD: and he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two measures of seed.

33 And he put the wood in order, and cut the bullock in pieces, and laid him on the wood, and said, Fill four barrels with water, and pour it on the burnt sacrifice, and on the wood.

34 And he said, Do it the second time. And they did it the second time. And he said, Do it the third time. And they did it the third time.

35 And the water ran round about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water.

It truly blesses me that Elijah believed God for the HARD THING. Not only did he believe God would answer by fire, but he made it more difficult for the sacrifice to be consumed by dousing the altar with water and building a moat around it. I pray that God will teach us to stretch our faith and to believe Him for the thing that seems "hard." We can believe him to heal a bloody nose, but not HIV. We can believe him for a word, but can we truly believe him to save a lost family member? Even in supplying our needs, why is it that we can believe him to pay a $20 light bill, but don't believe him to pay off the mortgage. I've even believed him to help me pay for a pair of glasses, but never thought to ask him to restore my eyesight. God, increase our faith!

36 And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy word.

37 Hear me, O LORD, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the LORD God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again.

38 Then the fire of the LORD fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench.

39 And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The LORD, he is the God; the LORD, he is the God.

God showed up and the people believed. Elijah's faith was at a level I want to always have. He believed God so much, that he talked about what He would do with confidence. Out of the abundance of his heart, his mouth spoke. Praise God! Father, help us not to speak doubt, but only complete confidence that you will show up!

40 And Elijah said unto them, Take the prophets of Baal; let not one of them escape. And they took them: and Elijah brought them down to the brook Kishon, and slew them there.

The Foundation of Christ

Hebrews 6

1 THEREFORE LET us go on and get past the elementary stage in the teachings and doctrine of Christ (the Messiah), advancing steadily toward the completeness and perfection that belong to spiritual maturity. Let us not again be laying the foundation of repentance and abandonment of dead works (dead formalism) and of the faith [by which you turned] to God,

2 With teachings about purifying, the laying on of hands, the resurrection from the dead, and eternal judgment and punishment. [These are all matters of which you should have been fully aware long, long ago.]

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Oftentimes, I am asked about my Statement of Faith. What is it that you believe, I am often asked. In essence, I believe EVERY believer should focus on the Doctrines of Christ, according to the Scriptures. Sure, there are other things we believe. If it's in the Word of God, it is so! Nevertheless, there is a foundation that must be upheld by every believer. That foundation consists of six basic beliefs...

1) Repentance from dead works (we are saved by grace, rather than works of the law)
2) Faith toward God (without faith, it is impossible to please God)
3) Baptisms (water baptism and the baptism of the Holy Spirit)
4) Laying on of hands (the laying on of hands for healing, deliverance and ordination)
5) Resurrection of the dead (the dead in Christ shall rise, just as Jesus did)
6) Eternal judgment (we all face eternity, either with our Father in Heaven, or in eternal damnation - hell)

So, let's be sure we COVER THE BASICS! Amen?!

CLOSE the Revolving Door

Matthew 12:43-45 (Amplified Bible)

43 But when the unclean spirit has gone out of a man, it roams through dry [arid] places in search of rest, but it does not find any.

44 Then it says, I will go back to my house from which I came out. And when it arrives, it finds the place unoccupied, swept, put in order, and decorated.

45 Then it goes and brings with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and make their home there. And the last condition of that man becomes worse than the first. So also shall it be with this wicked generation.


This Word has been marinating in my Spirit. God is not pleased. The saddest part is that His wrath is against those in the Church…those in leadership…those in the ministry. God is saying, “Close the revolving doors in your life!”

Saints of God, we have taken advantage of God’s grace far too long. Where is the holiness? Where is the sanctification? Where is the RELATIONSHIP with our Heavenly Father? So many are professing His name, but God says many of us have a form of godliness, denying the power thereof. Many of us are playing with God, because we don’t really believe He will spread His wrath. We don’t believe God truly has the power to wipe us out or expose us before the church and NATIONS!

Many are sitting on the pedestals of ministry – national and international fame. From the most famous down to the smallest of churches, there are people claiming a part in the ministry that need to SIT DOWN. "Stop thinking that success is measured by the size of your ministry, the type of car you drive or the size of your house. Are you saving souls? Are you saved yourself??!! Can you hear my voice? Do you walk in my will? I am not impressed with physical things. I want your heart. I am moved by your faith! Repent, Repent, Repent!!! Stop returning to your vomit, as the dogs do!" Stop living in sin. Stop apologizing just to return and do the same thing again. Unclean habits MUST CEASE. Where is your victory in Christ??!!

Addictions must cease. “Choose ye, this day, whom you will serve,” says God. Give up the fornication, and DON’T TURN BACK. Give up the nicotine, and DON’T TURN BACK. Give up the lying, cursing and backbiting, and DON’T TURN BACK. My God! Stop the witchcraft and divination, and DON'T TURN BACK. “I am shutting the revolving doors,” says God. A day is coming where the people of God will choose sin over the Heavenly Father, and will not be able to return again. As the Word says, those demons will return with many more to inhabit the same space. There will be no escape. God will turn them over to a reprobate mind!

Obedience is better than sacrifice!!! Be obedient. Repent, and do the work of the Lord. Sanctify yourselves. Seek God like never before. Fast, pray and study the Word. Fight in the Spirit. Fortify yourselves, for a mighty battle is at hand! Take on the full armor of God! Close the revolving doors in your life…or God, in His wrath, will do it on your behalf.

Praise God. Saints, I beg you... If this Word is for you, take heed and be obedient. Be blessed!

Who Do You Think You Are?

God is looking to use us, but we must have hearts of humility. We must understand that without Christ, we are nothing! It's very funny to me how so many "people of God" get "big-headed" and lose focus when God begins to bless them. Pride comes before the fall, so we must be VERY CAREFUL to stay focused on the Lord. HE, alone, will exalt us in due season.

At the same time, we must not focus on our faults to the point that we become disobedient. Often times, we try so hard to be humble that we simply get frightened away from what God tells us. We focus so much on staying in the background and avoiding offense, that we quench the Spirit, and thereby shut the mouth of God.

My God! Who do you think you are? We can't think more of ourselves than we ought, but we can't think too little of ourselves either. The key is CHRIST. We are who He says we are, and we must do what He says to do. We are nothing, but the anointing is everything!!! The Holy Spirit knows all things and will direct us right into God's perfect will for our lives.

Galatians 6 . . .

1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

2 Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.


Isn't it funny how we put down one another when there is a fault? The word of God clearly says that we must restore, or help that person with a spirit of meekness. What does that mean? We must humbly strengthen our brothers and sisters. We must pray for them and support them until they are restored in the spirit of God. Love is the attitude we must have. The Word says we should consider ourselves, as we can be tempted just as our brothers and sisters are. We must be sober minded and careful not to judge the other individual. It could just as easily be us in the same position.

3 For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.

4 But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.


God is not pleased with a spirit of pride. If we think we're "all that," we are simply deceived. We have believed a lie! The word says we must PROVE our own work. We can't get high and mighty over a title or accomplishment. Instead, we prove the spirit by the spirit. Where is the faith? Where is the love? Where is the OBEDIENCE? That's how we prove our work. Dead works are not the will of God. Only what we do for Him will last!

5 For every man shall bear his own burden.

6 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.

7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.


My God! Why do we think we can live messy lives, then preach the Word of God? Why do we think we can lie, steal and cheat, but still profess the name of Jesus? God does not lie! He will judge every action, thought and idle word. Why do we believe the people of God won't be blessed? Why do we not believe that our tithes and giving will bring forth increase. On the reciprocal, if you are living a holy and sanctified life, YOU WILL SEE RESULTS! That seed WILL bud, according to the Word of God.

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.

9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.


The true test of the child of God is perseverance. When we have faith, we are able to endure. Faith does not operate in time, just as God doesn't operate in time. If you truly believe something to be true, time is not a factor. If you're blessed, you're just blessed! When a seed is planted, the season, rather than the time, determines the harvest. Whether winter is 3 months or 6 months, the plants will not yield fruit until Spring. My God! Hallelujah! The seasons are changes, saints. Can you feel the shift? God's people are moving into a new realm in Him!!!

10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.


When we really know who we are, we can treat people right. The largest motivation for the maltreatment of another individual is insecurity. Even if a person drags your name through the mud and slaps you in the mouth, if you know the rumors are not true and you're convinced you didn't deserve the slap, you can still walk with your head high. If we know who we are in Christ and remain sober minded, what can man do to us? We should be able to treat everybody right - with LOVE, especially those who are the children of God.

11 Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand.

12 As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ.

13 For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh.

14 But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.


Yes, yes, yes! We only glory is Christ. Without Him, we have not victory. But through Him, nothing can harm us. No backbiting, no rumors, no witches...NOTHING!

15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.


O God, we come against the spirit of RELIGION. Saints, it doesn't matter what we do or how "saved" we appear to be. Are you transformed? Are you born again? Have you been made new? Jesus!!! We do so much for the sake of religion, but are our hearts right? That's the only thing that will avail.

16 And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.

17 From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus.

18 Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.


This scripture expounds on so much! I am just meditating on it. A sermon could literally be preaced from every single verse. Ahhh. Who do you think you are?

Spiritual Paternity Test

THE PATERNITY TESTS ARE IN!
IS HE YOUR REAL FATHER?

DNA Tests Reveal the Truth

Are You My Real Father?

We've all seen topics like this floating across the screen on all the current talk shows. The proof of paternity seems to have become a very popular topic since the increased use of DNA testing. In times past, the mere resemblance of a child to his supposed father was proof enough to establish the fact. Nevertheless, knowledge has increased and our society has become well aware that appearance can be very deceiving. Whenever one of these talk shows hits the air, I often wonder if I bare the resemblance of my Heavenly Father in every possible aspect of my life. What does the world see when they look at me? Do I look like the family of God or do I look like them? More specifically, do I carry the "spiritual genes" to prove that I am a child of God? What if Ricki Lake hosted a show for the Church? How many of us would pass the spiritual DNA test?

In order to understand how DNA validates familial history, let's revisit our middle school biology and remember that DNA is merely an acronym for deoxyribonucleic acid. This chemical compound contains descriptive pairs of adenine, thymine, guanine, and cytosine, which determine the characteristic genes that become apparent in an individual. This genetic material is what causes a child to look and act like his or her parents. However, it must be noted that from time to time, a resemblance may exist between two people, though they do not share the same genetic material or have familial ties. There are also three other important facts about the presentation of DNA and genetics that we must keep in mind: (1) Genes cannot blend; (2) Some genes are dominant; (3) Genetics don't always explain behavior.

For the sake of argument, let’s assume that for a Christian, DNA stands for "Devil, No Authority!" Our spiritual DNA, or the lack of Satan's power in a particular area of our lives, permeates throughout our spirits, souls and bodies. Since we know that light and darkness cannot dwell in the same place at the same time, we can assume that God rules in those areas of our lives where spiritual DNA dwells. On the other hand, whenever we allow Satan to creep in, his "genes" begin to show forth in us. Each word, action or thought will resemble the father, or originator of that thing in our lives. Many of us have obtained victory over certain issues, and bear the resemblance of our Heavenly Father, but every once in a while, Satan sneaks in and causes our face to change.

There are also children of darkness who have learned to look like children of God, even when acting on behalf of Satan, the father of this world (John 8:44). Keep in mind that some resemblance may exist between two people, even if they do not share the same genetic material. In fact, the only way we can know who is fathering our lives, thoughts or actions, is to run a continuous paternity test each day we live. Let's consider the following DNA parameters in our day to day living:

1. Genes don't blend.

No man can serve two masters, and light and darkness do not mix (Matt 6:24; 2 Cor 6:14). Every word that comes forth from our mouths, every thought and every action has a motive. It originates from God or from the devil. We must always test our actions and reactions to see if we are speaking or acting in such a way that is pleasing to God. Though a difficult concept to swallow, it remains true that everything is of good or evil, and even our idle words will be judged (Matt 12:36). Therefore, we must always be careful to bring every thought and imagination under the subjection of the Holy Spirit, "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" (2 Cor 10:5).

2. Some genes are dominant.

The Holy Spirit that dwells in us is much greater than the demonic forces that tempt us and sometimes lead us into turmoil. "Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world" (1 John 4:4). This explains why we are able to live righteous lives, even when sin is with us. We are able to overcome the wiles of Satan by our faith (1 John 5:4), and no weapon that is formed against us shall prosper if we live as children of God (Isa 54:17), consistently dying to our flesh and confessing our faith.

3. Genetics don't always explain behavior.

The children of God are born in iniquity and live in a world saturated with sin and deception. When we sacrifice our lives to God (Rom 12:1-2), we become new creatures (2 Cor 5:17), but we still make mistakes. Our mistakes don't divorce us from the family of God. His grace is sufficient for us (Lam 3:22-23; 2 Cor 12:9), and we are able to confess our sins, receive forgiveness, and continue to be comforted in the bosom of God (1 John 1:9). In other words, just because someone does bad things does not indicate that the individual is of the devil, just as a person who performs good deeds does not necessarily belong to the family of the living God. We are saved by grace rather than any works we have done (Eph 2:8-9).

Now we have established the genetic test categories that reveal the spiritual paternity of our lives. These spiritual genes are expressed daily in our spirits, souls and bodies, and make a testimony of our true relationship (or lack thereof) with God. I challenge each of us to take the "Devil, No Authority" test and apply it to each of our lives, every day that we live. Fortunately, our Heavenly Father has provided, in his Word, a detailed description of how we must live in order to become children of God. We then reserve the right to an ultimate choice: Whose family will we join and live with throughout eternity? Through the blood of Jesus Christ, we are able to accept salvation and claim lineage as the children of God through the spirit of adoption (Rom 8:15) or we may serve the god of this world (John 8:44) and accept the devil as father.

The paternity tests are in. Is HE your real Daddy? Don't wait for the talk show to air. Just think about it…

----

Joy Uvette Rollins

for THE MESSENGER, UFCC

22 May 2000. All rights reserved.

What's Love Got to Do With It?

NOTE: This is a message for my single brothers and sisters. God gave me this message before I was married, and I was reading back through it, I felt lead to share it with you.

What’s Love Got to Do With It?

The True Meaning of Love in Ordained Relationships

Lord, is he the one? When will it be my turn? God, you said that it is not good for a man to be alone. I’ve been faithful to you, Father. You said that if I’d seek first the kingdom of God, all other things would be added. Then, you’d reward me by granting the desires of my heart.

As a single Christian woman, I often find myself having these sort of conversations with God. Sitting under the instruction of the Word along with the society in which we live, it is almost impossible to believe that anyone wants to be alone. Atop of this obvious obstacle, there lies a grand ordeal set before every single Christian – do I settle for what I want, or do I wait to see what God gives me?

The problem that tends to bombard church-going singles is that of impatience. Within our spirits, we know that God must choose, but when He doesn’t move within our rendition of a reasonable time frame, we become anxious and decide to ‘help’ Him by searching for our own mates and using the standards of the world to do so. Such actions result from our failure to remember that “It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man” (Psalm 118:8). One of my favorite evangelists is the Bishop Noel Jones. While preaching at a Bishop T.D. Jakes Singles’ Conference, he drew a conclusion on the subject by stating something like the following:

God already knows what we need, and he knows what ‘turns us on.’ That’s why Adam was asleep when God made Eve. When he woke up, he was pleased. God already knew what Adam desired. God works the same way now as he did then.

Prophetess Juanita Bynum touched on the same subject while in the same conference and added the following:

Our problem is that we tend to choose what we want NOW. What turns us on NOW. That’s why God has to choose. He will provide someone who can accommodate where you’re going, so that five years down the road, you won’t be saying, ”Well, we just grew apart...”

With these preliminary thoughts on the table, the subject of love, which is (or should be) the foundation of all relationships, should be studied and analyzed from God’s point of view. Perhaps after this is done, we will be able to determine what characteristics and priorities are important to God as opposed to those that are important to the flesh.

It’s obvious that born-again believers are not to be “unequally yoked together with unbelievers” 2 Corinthians 6:14-18). After all, “Can two walk together, except they be agreed” (Amos 3:3)? Though the principle is well known, it is not sufficiently understood. We are supposed to love everyone with the love of God, so why is our Father concerned about those we are bound with? After all, if he loves me...

In order to address this issue, one must “rightly divide the Word of truth” by defining love as it appears in the eyes of God. Consider the following passage from 1 John 4: 7, 8:

“...for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.”

According to John, God is exclusively and inclusively the concept and being of love. In other words, He is the very definition of love. So, in order to act in or express true love, one must know something about it, which means that one must know, or have a relationship with our heavenly Father. This conclusion is deductively simple to accept, but John takes the subject a step further by pointing out that anyone who loves “is born of God, and knoweth God.” In essence, the Bible states that no one is able to love unless he knows God. How do we know when a person loves God? They follow His commandments. They seek His face and hear His voice. In doing so, the person receives the favor, or grace of God which leads to salvation. So, that unsaved lady or gentleman who sends flowers and writes lovely poetry cannot truthfully state feelings of love for a child of God if they are not living for Christ. “Be not deceived. Evil communications corrupt good manners” (1 Corinthians 15:33). From this we may plainly state our first conclusion – No man can love unless he knows God.

The second premise we should explore is the fact that love, in a sense, is relative. In other words, the love we have for someone else relates directly to the love we have for ourselves, which is dependent on the love we have for God. Any Christian who has walked with God for a reasonable period of time realizes that we are saved by grace. Salvation is not a concept that can be earned or bought into reality. Based on that fact, children of God resume to “dying daily” which is a silent acknowledgment that Christ in us is the only reason for living. Without Him, we are simply a walking pile of sinful dung, worthy of no reward. With that said, it is safe to assume that we are able to love and take pride in ourselves only if there is a stable qualification or rationalism in doing so. In this case, that prerequisite is filled in knowing that we are children of God. Once we have developed a love for God, and therefore a love for ourselves, we are able to love others. Jesus proclaimed that one of the greatest commandments is to “love others as you love yourselves.” Well, it’s obvious that we must first love ourselves in order to love others at the same level or with the same quality. Now we have more than sufficient proof to accept a second concept – One must have love for him or herself before having the ability to effectively love someone else.

Since we have determined the definition of love and the means by which it is accomplished, we must now tackle the qualities of love. Before delving into the issue, we must first acknowledge the most difficult aspect to grasp for most Christians – Love is not earned. It is ordained.

It has been determined that God is the author and finisher of love in and of itself. The only question left to be addressed is His method in demonstrating His being. Romans 5:8 states that “God shows His love for us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” While this is a straight-forward scripture, a much deeper meaning lies within. Fundamentally, this passage expresses that God did not love us based on our qualifications or our good deeds. “While we were yet sinners” He loved us and sent His Son. While we were worth nothing, disobedient and dirty, He still loved us beyond belief. 1 John 4:10 states that we didn’t even return His love, yet He continued to express it toward us. In other words, God loved us because we are His creation. He loved us for our ordained purpose rather than our practical purpose. Consider the following situations...

You’re walking down a crowded street and see an old lady pushing a shopping cart full of old blankets and paper bags. You can tell that she is homeless and you say to yourself, “What a shame. I would never let my own mother suffer as she is suffering.” The old lady hears the words you’ve muttered and asks, “Why don’t you just take me home and love my as you love your mother?”

You have a friend whom you have know for a number of years. You have just secured a new job and find yourself living very well above your means. This good friend decides that he or she would like to pursue a college education, but does not have the finances to do so. Willing to help your friend, you call the perspective university and you’re told that only parents may sponsor students at their institution. Well, since you are a Christian and cannot lie to help your friend, he turns and asks, “why don’t you just make me your child? Then everything will work out.”

These scenarios seem strange and unlikely, but they do demonstrate a strong point. No one can direct love haphazardly or manually. It is developed and divinely directed. We love our mothers (natural or adoptive) as mothers because God put them in that place. “He sets the solitary in families.” We run across women everyday who may be prettier, more intelligent or wealthier than our own mothers, but these factors do not cause or allow us to redirect the ‘instinctive’ feelings we have already established. Though time enables us to acquire ‘developmental’ love in some cases, there is a depth that cannot be reached unless God ordains it to be so. True love cannot be earned or bought. Lust, infatuation and flattery are easily influenced, but love in eternal and constant. After all, our God still loves us. This is a mystery all together.

Finally, 1 Corinthians 13 outlines a host of characteristics demonstrated by true love. Love is patient and kind. It’s not jealous or envious. Love is not proud, nor is it rude. It’s forgiving and not easily angered. Love rejoices in truth and despises evil. It protects. It trusts. It perseveres.

How many people have uttered those three magic words, but failed to pray and fast by your side in the time of need? How many have been jealous of your accomplishments and assets? How often were they stubborn about mistakes you’ve made while always wanting your blessing in their own lives? How many times were you asked or forced into making sacrifices to fulfill their happiness? Even more importantly, how many ‘loves’ have experienced such events after you’ve proclaimed your love to them?

In conclusion, the Body of Christ, whether married or single must understand that we have been called to a sanctified life. Our bodies must be presented as a living sacrifice, which means that we belong to God NOW. Therefore, we cannot allow ourselves to be boggled down through relationships with those who are lost. In addition, we must leave ordination up to God. We must show the love of God to all, but only our Father knows where to strategically place the people in our lives. God knows, sanctifies and ordains us before we are formed in our mother’s wombs (Jeremiah 1:5). Callings are placed on our lives and gifts in our Spirit before we are conceived. Surely, he is able to divinely position mates, who ultimately act as lifetime partners in the ministries we are called to serve. After all, ministry is the foremost purpose of marriage. God’s benefit should be our primary concern when choosing a mate rather than our own desires of the flesh. “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice” (James 3:16). Perhaps we should all learn a lesson from Adam in respect to this issue. Just do what you know to do and go to sleep. When you wake up from all that praying, fasting and trusting God, there will be someone waiting who was specially ordained, specifically designed, fearfully and wonderfully made just for you!

He Must Needs Go Through!

Many times we attempt to hide our past mistakes – not only from others, but even from God. Instead of believing that God can use us in ministry, we continuously beat ourselves over the head for past sins. When those feelings fester, we lose confidence in ourselves and the fact that God can use us. Many times, we even pass this off as humility, but it is actually DISOBEDIENCE and a direct LACK OF FAITH in God!

Last week, God gave me a Word about faith. God is saying, as I heard a woman of God say in a sermon, “You are not what you did!” Oh, glory to God! I am so thankful we serve a forgiving God. Nevertheless, we have not yet learned to move past those things for which God has already forgiven us. When we waddle in past mistakes and allow the enemy to speak condemnation as opposed to simply receiving conviction, we hinder the purpose of God on our lives.

Well, God is exposing our sin for this very reason. Frankly, He wants us to GET OVER IT! For every area in your life where you tell others, “Don’t go there,” God is saying, “I must needs go there!” Allow me to share this revelation with you from a very familiar story – the woman at the well.

John 4 (King James Version)

1When therefore the LORD knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John,
2(Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,)
3He left Judaea, and departed again into Galilee.
4And he must needs go through Samaria.
5Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph.

This introduction to the story is very significant, because Jesus originally instructed his disciples NOT to go into Samaria or any other land of the Samarians (Matthew 10:5). Because of the tensions and religious differences between Jews and Gentiles, this would have been extremely dangerous, and by the view of many, a lost cause. So, it is strange that Jesus decided to take this route through a “forbidden” land. Not only that, but going this way would have added almost three days to the journey back into Galilee.

Now, Samaria is an allegory in Scripture which symbolizes sin. Isn’t it interesting that Jesus originally instructed his disciples, “Go not into the way,” but now feels “he must needs go through?” It was necessary for him to go into the place of sin in order to reconcile the lost back to God.

Hmmm. There have been places in our lives where we did not allow the presence of God – hidden places and sinful activities where we had strongholds. Our Father is going back into those places so that He can heal and reconcile those barren areas back unto Him.

Pregnancy outside of marriage…Abusive relationships…Debt…Ungodly habits – sins of your past that held a stronghold in your life must be exposed! After all, if we are still holding on the guilt of things for which we have been forgiven, the stronghold is still in place! We must be delivered and set free to do the work of the Lord! God must deal with the abuse in order to heal the marriage. He must expose the debt in order to add prosperity. He must expose the pregnancy in order to bless the seed! Glory to His name!

Saints, it’s time to get REAL with God, and allow him into the “forbidden” place. He has a work to do…through you!

6Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with his journey, sat thus on the well: and it was about the sixth hour.
7There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink.
8(For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.)
9Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.

My God! The word says that Jesus found Jacob’s well and rested there. He found a familiar place – a place that agreed with Him in the midst of sinful atmosphere, and He took a seat! Glory to God!

Despite your past, or even your present struggles, if you have the heart of God, the Lord can seek that place and take a seat in the midst of your mess! Jesus is the “anointed one.” Hallelujah! The anointing will minister from that place in you that is like Him, and change the sin that surrounds. My, my, my! When the spirit of God takes a seat, the room must change!!!

Isn’t it interesting that Jesus found a familiar place, took a seat, then asked for a sacrifice from the sin? Hallelujah!!! When I first received Christ, the anointing did just that! He took a seat in my heart, despite my sin and trespasses. Then, one by one, he required me to sacrifice by giving up sinful habits, cutting off ungodly relationships, and sowing into the Kingdom. Initially, my reaction was just like that of the woman at the well.

“Lord, why would you require anything of me? Why would you even speak to me, God? I’m too dirty. I’ve done this and that. I’ve disappointed you. What can you do with me? What could I possibly do for you?”

Over time, I would learn not to argue with God. Simply accept the calling on your life, and BE OBEDIENT! After all, “It’s not you,” says the Father, “but me working through you!”

Hallelujah! After all, the more mess you have, the better. Why? Because the more unlikely you are to succeed, the more glory God gets from your success!!!

10Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.
11The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water?
12Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle?
13Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again:
14But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.
15The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.

When we question God about our assignments, it simply says that we don’t trust him. In this portion of scripture, Jesus rebukes the woman, telling her that she should be asking Him for a drink. Even then, she still questions his authority rather than simply believing what He says.

Doesn’t this sound familiar? God says, “You’re healed.” We say we believe it, but deep down we’re thinking, “God are you bigger than the doctor’s report?” God says, “I supply all your needs.” We say, “Lord, are you able to stop my lights from being cut off? Are you really greater than this termination notice or that foreclosure hearing?”

Just as he replied to the woman, the Lord is telling us, “What you have here is temporary, but I can give you life, and that more abundantly. Even more, I can supply such that you will never need for anything.” All we have to do is ask and receive! Then, He can use us for His glory!

Why is this so hard for us to do? The answer is easy – because we feel we don’t deserve it. Well, that’s true! We don’t deserve it. Nevertheless, we have a charge to believe God’s Word, despite what we’ve done.

This is by no means an open door to sin and still expect the blessings of God. However, with a repentant heart, we live under grace and are not punished by the Law.

16Jesus saith unto her, Go, call thy husband, and come hither.
17The woman answered and said, I have no husband. Jesus said unto her, Thou hast well said, I have no husband:
18For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly.
19The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet.

IF YOU’VE BEEN EXPOSED, PREPARE TO BE BLESSED TO BLESS!

My God, at this point Jesus asks the woman a question, which gives her an opportunity to confess her sin. Instead, she attempts to cover some of it, so Jesus calls her out.

A word of advice – CONFESS YOUR MESS! If we get open and real with God, He can deal with us without revealing our “stuff” in the open. Don’t allow God to call out your mess – just confess it and BE FREE.

The Word of God tells us to “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another…” in John 5:16. Personally, I used to have a problem with the concept of telling my faults to others, until I got this revelation – If you put your own mess out there, no one else can bring it up or hold it over your head! If you testify about how God brought you out of adultery, nobody can say, “She used to be an adulterer,” when God exalts you in the ministry. If you don’t lie about your wedding date now, nobody can figure out that you got pregnant outside of wedlock when the Lord gives you a church. Praise God!

A close friend of mine always says, “If you can confess it, you can address it!” Amen. CONFESS YOUR MESS AND GET OVER IT! Never allow the enemy to hinder your progress by bringing up your past! If you don’t call out your mess and move on, God just might reveal it just so He can prove to you and others just who He is in your life!

Confess ALL your sins to God. He already knows anyway. Then, confess your faults to men. This is your testimony.

20Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.
21Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.
22Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews.
23But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.
24God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

Isn’t it funny that if people can’t attack your character and your past, they move to your church or your place of worship? Many times, we concentrate more on a person's denomination or place of worship than their relationship with the Father. Glory to God! Now, this woman wants to discuss places of worship with Jesus. What does He say?

“True worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth.” Saints, we MUST know how to worship God despite the atmosphere. We need RELATIONSHIP with Him. We must know how to tap into the spirit without four church walls and an organ in the key of B-flat! It grieves my heart to know so many “ministers” of God who don’t worship Him outside of the regular Sunday service. Where is the relationship? When will we get past tradition, and learn to move in the season of God?

Saints, we MUST talk to Him. There is no relationship without conversation. Prayer is essential! We must learn to TALK and LISTEN to the Father. Hallelujah!

25The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things.
26Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.
My God, when we build a relationship with the Father, we will recognize Him. His sheep hear His voice. Why are so many of us still relying on someone to tell us what God is saying? Don’t misunderstand – there is a place for the prophet/prophetess in the church, but why are so many running after a Word? Just ask God yourself! The Word of prophesy is for confirmation!!!
27And upon this came his disciples, and marvelled that he talked with the woman: yet no man said, What seekest thou? or, Why talkest thou with her?

In verse 8, we notice that the disciples were absent during the majority of Jesus’ conversation with the woman at the well. Here, they reappear only to question (within themselves) why Jesus is talking to her. How many times have others looked on your situation and said within themselves, “Why would God call her?” People will doubt you. So, when God is exalting you in the midst of your mess, get rid of the haters! Surround yourself with exhorters and remove yourself from people who feed the spirit of doubt and condemnation. Don’t allow everyone to speak into your life! Let God be true, and every man a liar! Praise God!

28The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men,
29Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?
30Then they went out of the city, and came unto him.

After all that took place during this encounter, these few verses emphasize the purpose of it all – a testimony! Glory to God! This woman was compelled to go and tell about her experience with the Savior, knowing that she would be ridiculed, and possibly punished. Nevertheless, no one could deny what she personally witnessed. Their curiosity was peaked. As a result, they sought Jesus for themselves.

We are called to evangelize a be a witness to the lost. Even when the lost seem to be offended or uninterested, we never know which ones go back looking for Jesus after we’d shared our testimony! Open your mouth! Jesus will draw them in thereafter…

39And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did.
40So when the Samaritans were come unto him, they besought him that he would tarry with them: and he abode there two days.
41And many more believed because of his own word;
42And said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.

Oh, look at God! Now, those same people who heard the woman’s testimony have met Jesus and believed on Him for themselves. Hallelujah! It’s not all in vain!
The point here is this…

Have faith to know you can be used of God, despite your past, your circumstances and your struggles. Allow your trials, failures and embarrassments to bring glory to God. There is power in your testimony. You can't have a testimony without a test, and there is no deliverance without bondage! Don’t be concerned about what you’ve been through…

“He must needs go through” your mess that others will “know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.”

Hallelujah! Be encouraged, my sisters, and do the work of the ministry in godly faith and confidence!

Don't Worry - Build Your FAITH!

Responsibility without power leads to frustration. Unanswered frustration causes worry. Isn’t it funny how we worry about all the things we can’t change, yet neglect the things we can? Isn’t also strange that we always expect the worst, neglecting faith in God to work things out for the best?

Luke 12: 22-31
22) And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.
23) The life is more than meat, and the body [is more] than raiment.
24) Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?
25) And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit?
26) If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest?
27) Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
28) If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more [will he clothe] you, O ye of little faith?
29) And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind.
30) For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.
31) But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Jesus instructed His disciples not to worry about what they should wear or eat. Essentially, God knows what we need and has taken the responsibility to provide us these needs. Since God has the responsibility, we also recognize that only He has the power. Our Father is our source. The only thing we can do is follow His commandment to seek the Kingdom of God FIRST. Then, the Lord is obligated to provide all our needs!

My God! That is so powerful. God MUST fulfill His word. He cannot lie! So, why are our needs not met? Why do we still get frustrated? It must be because we’re not covering our end of the deal.

If we have any lack in our lives, it’s because we are not fully seeking God and His Kingdom. What does that mean? Prayer, fasting, Christian fellowship, Bible Study, obedience to the Word of God – these are all ways we seek Him. It seems so simple, yet it’s so difficult for us. Perhaps we lack the main ingredient in these areas – FAITH. Without faith, it’s impossible to please God! How can we truly seek His presence if we don’t please Him? Many of us attend church services faithfully. We pray regularly, study the Word, and even fast continuously. Yet, if these things are not done in FAITH, they are not pleasing to our Father. In the same manner, if we are seeking him in FAITH, doubt will not creep in. We won’t have anything to worry about, and frustration will not have a stronghold in our lives.

Glory to God! He has given us the solution. We must condition ourselves to have FAITH in God, or have the faith of God! Then, we will be at peace. As the Word of God says, “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” Praise the Lord!

I admonish us today to work on pleasing God. We must build our faith. In order to build our faith, we seek His Kingdom. As recorded in the book of Romans, “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.” Seeking the Kingdom requires prayer, fasting, fellowship and studying the Scriptures. In the same manner, these things increase our faith because they expose us to the Word. The result is increased faith, which pleases the Father. It’s a huge spiritual cycle, and we must jump on board!

I am guilty of stressing over things I cannot change. I am guilty of trying to take responsibility for things over which I have no power. Today, I am reminded that I must seek God on a different level. I must build my faith through the Word of God. Won’t you join me?

All Dressed Up With No Place to Go (Part 2)

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All Dressed Up With No Place to Go

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