SEEK that You Might Live

“What are you seeking?,” asks the Father. “My people are seeking everything and everyone but Me. You seek knowledge of Me. You seek tales of Me, but who among longs to seek My face? Who among you is seeking Me, that you may live?”

“My word is true. Seek Me and you shall find Me. I am a jealous God, and you shall have no other gods before me. Yet, you seek so much and neglect Me. Seek Me, My people, that you might live.”


I found myself in a lot of prayer and meditation today. During the time I took to reflect on God and study His Word, the Lord spoke to me about how His people have lost fervency for Him. We have lost the focus of PERSONAL relationship with the Father. God even began to show me how our relationship amongst others is different from our personal experiences. He began to remind me of a time when I told my children, “Just wait until we get home.” They did something that I disapproved of, but because of my surroundings, I remained calm and loving in spite of. Strangely enough, by the time we got home, they still escaped the spanking, because I’d forgotten about the incident.

We are often doing the same with God. In our worship services and when we stand before others in ministry, we take time to praise God and we offer up worship. We pray with fervency and we wait on God, seeking and “experience.” While in the service, we say to ourselves that we will seek God more at home, prayer more, study the Word more, live a holy lifestyle… But by the time we get to our “secret places,” we have forgotten about the breeches in the relationship and continue living as if everything is alright. We fake a healthy relationship until we begin to believe it ourselves.

Saints of God, it’s time for us to know who our Daddy is. Too many times, we are really seeking the approval of men. We want others to think we’re holy. We want others to feel we know the Word. We want others to pat us on the back in ministry. Too often, this becomes the object of our SEEK rather than the Father.

Amos 5:1 HEAR THIS word which I take up concerning you in lamentation, O house of Israel:
Amos 5:2 The Virgin of Israel has fallen; she shall no more rise; she lies cast down {and} forsaken on her land; there is no one to raise her up.
Amos 5:3 For thus says the Lord God: The city that went forth a thousand shall have a hundred left, and that which went forth a hundred shall have ten left to the house of Israel.

The prophets of God should be lamenting in the season. There should be travail and an intercession that literally causes the flesh to weaken. God has been forsaken by His own people. We have followed after the gifts of God and the awards of ministry, forsaking our first love for the benefits of acquaintance.

Though Amos prophesied at a different time than ours, the Lord showed me the same season, in our time, taking place again. He showed me that just as Israel (referred to as the Virgin) fell, so has the Church today. There was a time and season of innocence in the Church, just like that of a virgin. Yet, that season has now left us. There is too much knowledge to be in ignorance and too much disobedience to be counted as innocent. There is no turning back, as we are accountable for what we have created. A season of judgment has come upon us, and only a remnant shall survive. Of the many who stand to represent our God, only a small percentage are actually accepted by Him. Only a handful of us who claim to know Him actually have a suitable relationship with the Father.

Amos 5:4 For thus says the Lord to the house of Israel: Seek Me [inquire for and of Me and require Me as you require food] and you shall live!

Does your life depend on Him? How much of your life is actually dependent on your RELATIONSHIP with God? I’m not talking about His position as God. If you could keep your house, keep your car and still have a wonderful family, without hearing from the Father, would you survive? If you could get a better job and make more money without praise, worship and prayer, would you survive? Our Father wants a people who need HIM, not just what He provides.

Too many in the Body of Christ have divorced God, but are still collecting alimony and child support in the spirit. Yes, you moved Him out of your house, yet He still provides for the mortgage payment and the food on the table. You no longer speak to Him as you go to work. You know longer take Him on walks or chat with Him in the evenings, yet He is providing. You no longer have intimate time with Him, yet you are still in charge of His business at the local church.

Amos 5:5 But seek not [the golden calf at] Bethel nor enter into [idolatrous] Gilgal, and pass not over to [the idols of] Beersheba; for Gilgal shall surely go into captivity {and} exile, and Bethel [house of God] shall become Beth-aven [house of vanity, emptiness, falsity, and futility] and come to nothing.

The Lord said that HIS HOUSE has become a house of emptiness and vanity. The physical church is no longer a refuge for those who truly desire to seek God. Worship has been hindered in the very houses we once dedicated to our Father. The enemy has been invited in, and idols now fill the buildings in which we praise. Hear the cry of our Father!

Amos 5:6 Seek the Lord [inquire for and of Him and require Him] and you shall live, lest He rush down like fire upon the house of Joseph [representing the ten tribes] and devour it, and there be none to quench it in Bethel [the center of their idol hopes].

The saints of God MUST SEEK THE FATHER. Even the chosen ones are being devoured. The judgment of God is upon many who once stood in His favor. Favor is found in His presence, in the secret place.

Amos 5:7 You who turn justice into [the bitterness of] wormwood and cast righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God) down to the ground,
Amos 5:8 Seek Him Who made the [cluster of stars called] Pleiades and [the constellation] Orion, Who turns the shadow of death {or} deep darkness into the morning and darkens the day into night, Who calls for the waters of the sea and pours them out upon the face of the earth--the Lord is His name—

So many have disregarded holiness and intimacy with the Father. God’s instruction is to seek Him like never before. One thing I learned about intimacy is that it is private. How many of us have true, private moments with God that no one else has to know about. No one else knows what God said, what He did, or what took place, but they can tell you have been with Him. In the secret place of the Most High (Psalm 91), the Father will share things with us, that we will be strengthened and encouraged on a spiritual level that surpasses the flesh or anything that can be described as words. Prophets, there should be a private prophecy behind every word you proclaim. Preachers, there should be an intimate word behind every word you preach. If everything we hear from God is shared with someone else, more seek needs to take place. The intimate chamber of God has not yet been entered. Intimacy has not been reached.

Amos 5:9 Who causes sudden destruction to flash forth upon the strong so that destruction comes upon the fortress.
Amos 5:10 They hate him who reproves in the [city] gate [holding him as an abomination and rejecting his rebuke], and they abhor him who speaks uprightly.
Amos 5:11 Therefore because you tread upon the poor and take from him exactions of wheat, you have built houses of hewn stone, but you shall not dwell in them; you have planted pleasant vineyards, but you shall not drink their wine.

The Lord said that we have hated the word of rebuke, and we have built houses of hewn stone. We have built temples and treasures of the very thing God commanded us to tear down. Yet, they will not provide shelter. They shall not provide protection in the season of God’s wrath. Even now, they will not hide the church from this season of judgment.

Amos 5:12 For I know how manifold are your transgressions and how mighty are your sins--you who afflict the [uncompromisingly] righteous, who take a bribe, and who turn aside the needy in the [court of the city] gate from their right.
Amos 5:13 Therefore he who is prudent will keep silence in such a time, for it is an evil time.

The Father has seen too many of us persecute those who are living holy as we celebrate those in sin. We have shut the mouth of the righteous prophet and encouraged the world’s representatives to speak – in the church! God said he is causing those who are upright to be silent in certain arenas, because the time is evil. I believe we will see more deaths of spiritual matriarchs and patriarchs very soon, because we have persecuted them. We focused on their minor statements and thoughts rather than their attempts to teach holiness. We focused on one doctrinal difference rather than their teachings on obedience to an Almighty God. We continue to do so with many spiritual leaders in our day.

God said we should not expect to see any large and popular ministries emerging in this season. Those who know His heart and His will cannot be exposed to the world. They will not even be heard by many who claim to know Him. In this season, the pearls of the Gospel and the wisdom of the Spirit are being constricted by the Father, Himself. The only way to live is to seek Him on a personal level.

Amos 5:14 Seek (inquire for and require) good and not evil that you may live, and so the Lord, the God of hosts, will be with you, as you have said.
Amos 5:15 Hate the evil and love the good and establish justice in the [court of the city's] gate. It may be that the Lord, the God of hosts, will be gracious to the remnant of Joseph [the northern kingdom].

“Tolerance is not of Me,” says God. The Father has commanded us to HATE some things. Tolerance and political correctness have caused God’s people to forsake Him. When hatred returns to the Body of Christ, violent fervor shall return as well. The will to fight will be restored. Too many of us are simply not appalled by sin anymore. We are no longer offended and enraged when our God is disrespected.

A true SEEK will cause us to live. Not everyone can SEEK Him, because not everyone is drawn unto Him. The word of the Lord today is to seek that you MIGHT live.

Is 55:6 Seek, inquire for, {and} require the Lord while He may be found [claiming Him by necessity and by right]; call upon Him while He is near.
Is 55:7 Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to the Lord, and He will have love, pity, {and} mercy for him, and to our God, for He will multiply to him His abundant pardon.

Many of us have failed to seek Him in the season while He was near. Now, we must reach, search and touch Him…by any means necessary. Whatever it takes for you to make a connection with God, do it!

Selah.

Worshiping an Unknown "god" (Continued)

I must add to this, because God is trying to bring us into some revelation and TRUTH! I am grieved at what I am seeing in the Church - people praising and attempting to worship amiss, based on tradition, superstition and religion. The biggest thing that stands out to me is the fact that so many claim to be called, gifted and sanctified when they don't even know the NATURE OF GOD. So many claim to hear from God, but there is no unity amongst those who "hear" about who God is.

Let me cut to the chase! I'm tired of the confusion, especially among the prophets. Some say we serve a God who is "three and one." Some say there are three separate beings in the Godhead, who are one in unity. Some say the Father, the Son and the Holy spirit are all God with no separation, equal in power and nature. Then, there are those who claim this is all a "mystery" not meant for us to understand.

I am baffled. There is no way that God would reveal Himself in so many different ways. SOMEBODY IS WRONG. SOMEBODY IS LYING. SOMEBODY HASN'T SOUGHT GOD AND HEARD DIRECTLY FROM HIM. This is a serious matter. My Bible tells me that God doesn't do anything without revealing the matter to His prophets. It also tells me that His sheep hear His voice, and will not respond to that of any other. This does not sound like a God that would keep a secret "mystery" from His people when it comes to His very identity.

God took me to Acts 17, because He gave me a very special experience and meeting with Him when I was a child, around 5 or 6 years old. Though it has been very difficult for me in the past, as well as others, I know God has truly revealed Himself to a remnant who must teach and proclaim His true nature in this hour. Look for more to come.

In the meantime, self-examination is a must! Do you really KNOW Him, or do you know OF HIM because of what Grandma and the church told you? Accountability... Discernment... Repentance. There are far more in the world, in ministry, on the internet, in your church that are worshiping a God they do not know nor understand than those with revelation of His nature, voice and personality. Where do you fit it?

Worshiping an Unknown "god"

Acts 17:22b-24
I perceive in every way [on every hand and with every turn I make] that you are most religious or very reverent to demons. For as I passed along and carefully observed your objects of worship, I came also upon an altar with this inscription, "To the unknown god." Now what you are already worshiping as unknown, this I set forth to you. The God Who produced and formed the world and all things in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in handmade shrines.


So much error in reverence...so much ignorance in worship. God is speaking to the Church in this hour. There is an urgent cry for the remnant to step up in priesthood and seize the responsibility God has given. Yet, many are missing the mark.

The Father showed me a vision - the hearts of the people. They burned passionately for worship and thrived for ministry, yet had no direction. The hearts were full of excitement and passion, but had no discernment. They desired to be used, but had no assignment. Such is the Body of Christ in this hour.

So many are preaching the word, attending church services, serving and feeding the poor, yet have no relationship with the Father. God told me that His heart is grieved. "My people are attempting to worship Me without knowing Me." I felt the violation and disrespect of we have caused the Father.

The Father showed me weeks ago that many are being tormented by demonic forces because they are seeking a spiritual experience, rather than a godly one. Too many are moved by anything spiritual because there is a lack of discernment. Only those who have been intimate with God truly know His touch. Just as it was in the days of Paul, many are worshiping, going through the motions, yet don't know God. Their worship and sacrifice is to an "unknown god." Attending service Sunday after Sunday, but never felt a touch from God? Preaching revivals and conferences, but never heard a Word from the Father? Shouting and dancing in service, but crying yourself to sleep every night in the privacy of your own home?

My Daddy's sheep hear His voice and do not follow that of another. I dare the Church to stop settling for a mediocre "spiritual" experience. God is able to heal instantly without a need for weeks of prayer. Where are the healers who know their God? The Father is able to send a word with clarity and detail that will change, set free and deliver. Where are the prophets who know their God? Too many are doing "ministry" amiss. Too many are preaching without visiting the secret place of the Most High. Too many personal agendas are going forth with God's name stamped on them. Too many services are being held without God's counsel and instruction. God told me that when He calls forth a service, deliverance will take place - not just a fund-raiser.

Worshiping God by going through the motions is not worship to our Father. Why? Those who worship Him must do so in spirit and in truth. Have you had a worship experience without relationship with the Father? If so, you have entertained demons. In this season, be hot or cold. Find Him. Seek Him. Know Him.

No More Gossip and Trickery Disguised as Rebuke

I must preface this post with a short disclaimer:

• I am operating as teacher and prophet in this post, because God is showing me a controlling spirit that must be exposed;
• This post contains a warning for some, and teaching for others that will act as future protection from a trick of the enemy.

I know that some of what I will share in this message may contradict what many have been taught or told. Even as God began to redirect me through the Scriptures, I saw where I had operated in a false sense of order rather than simply following the protocol set forth in the Word of God. Let’s just say, it’s time to get free! Amen?

I must deal with rebuke and correction. Too many of God’s people are being held in bondage and disrespected all in the name of order and rebuke. Many weeks ago, the Father began taking me back to the Scriptures to reinstruct me in order, according to His word. I am one who has been held captive and bound because of a false order defined by the church. I’m praying this will help others in the same situation to get free and understand the true order of God.

First, I must say that any true man or woman of God will welcome GODLY rebuke and correction. The Father corrects those He loves, and as men of women of God, we should also love one another enough to correct our brothers and sisters when in error. In fact, God’s people should LOVE correction (Proverbs 12:1; 25:12; 27:5).

Revelation 3:19 says, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.”

On the other hand, we must be careful to rebuke in order. Too many in the church are correcting others outside of God’s plan, and calling it order or respect due to their position or relationship within ministry. As a result, a yoke of bondage has been created over many true men and women of God. I know and understand this, because I have fought and continue to fight this oppression. In prayer, the Father spoke and said that I must bring this error to light, because many are operating in error unknowingly. Also, many are operating in gossip and trickery, but disguising it as the order of the “church.” Exposure must come, that judgment may follow in this case.

The order or protocol for rebuke and correction is made VERY CLEAR in the Bible. In Matthew 18:6-20, Jesus teaches His disciples about correction and how to handle offense. One of the first things highlighted in the passage is the instruction to go to the brother that commits an offense. The first order of rebuke and correction is to approach the person who is in error (v. 15). That person should be approached DIRECTLY. Rebuke by way of another is simply gossip with a motive to divide. If this is not accepted by the one who has offended, then witnesses should be brought to the person in an attempt to help them understand their error (v. 16). If the person still cannot be corrected in the company of witnesses, the matter should be brought to the entire church (v. 17). At that point, the body should consider putting the person away if repentance does not take place (v. 17-20). In nutshell, this is the proper order for personal rebuke.

Now, before I go on, I must address that rebuke to an entire body of people may take on a different protocol, according to the Scriptures. Even in this scenario, however, God has order. Those who are appointed in positions of leadership are called to correct and rebuke “bodies” or groups of people. We see many examples of this in the prophets of old. We also see the rebuke Paul gives to the churches through the many letters and epistles he wrote. In this case, however, I am addressing the correction of individuals.

Throughout the word of God, we are instructed to approach the one who has offended us or the Father and deal with them directly. The church has taught us that rebuke is okay through channels, and I must disagree. This is a warning that MUST go forth.

It is NOT the will of God for people to call pastors and leaders with rebuke for those in their body. This is outside of God’s order on MANY levels. Allow me to explain:

• First, God has set leadership over individuals and the pastors are appointed as sheep over the flock. If the church operates in correct order, rebuke for an individual will be sent through that body of believers. Again, we have numerous examples from Paul himself, who walked in Apostolic order and authority. It was the leaders who called Paul, after rebuking the individuals in the churches to no avail. However, those appointed to leadership in the LOCAL churches had the responsibility and authority to correct their following.
• If a person operates out of order and a brother or sister notices, it is their responsibility to go to that individual first – not their pastor, their husband, their mother (not talking about minors, here) or anyone else. This is where God has shown me a breach in the order He established.

I have been victim far too long and others have as well. For years and years, I have always had people approach my pastors for things they felt was wrong on my part. 99% of the time, these same individuals knew my name, email address and sometimes even my phone number. However, rather than contacting me, they contacted my leaders, my parents or someone else they knew to have authority in my life. OUT OF ORDER!

The church has taught that when it’s never out of order to approach a person’s leader about their error. This is not what the Scriptures say. In many cases, if these individuals had approached me, they would have understood from our conversation why things were as they appeared. Not only that, but they would have realized that they did not understand my motives, as they thought. They would have realized that one who doesn’t walk with me must be careful before attempting to pass judgment. Not only that, but they also would have learned that such matters don’t need to weigh down my leaders when they are so minute, and in many cases, simply non-existent. Now, had order been followed and I refused to see the error, it would THEN be in order to speak with my leaders and develop witness to convince me of my wrong. At that point, my leaders should be called to intervene and decide whether or not I have been in error. However, to completely avoid the one in whom you believe there is offense is nothing more than GOSSIP toward my leaders. It causes confusion, and God has already exposed the attempt to create discord and disconnection. That weapon will NOT prosper!

I see so many falling into this trap. Many of us are offended by our leaders, so instead of going to them directly, we talk with other leaders. Before you know it, the problem has grown into a monstrous situation that could have been resolved with one direct conversation with the one who offended. In most cases, it would have been found to be a misunderstanding. The enemy is using DISTRACTIONS to thwart the work of God’s people.

I see many leaders turning on those who follow them because other leaders are making accusations and painting pictures of rebellion that simply do not exist. Those on the outside looking in rarely have a clear glimpse of truth. I do believe God speaks to prophets, but a prophet NEVER speaks correction without the guilty party being present.

Let’s begin to practice and welcome GODLY rebuke and correction, according to the Word of God, that we may all GROW UP in Him unto all things…(Eph 4:15).

On a personal note, I must serve a direct warning. NO MORE EMAILS – NO MORE PHONE CALLS to others about so-called rebukes for Prophetess Allen. I believe in the order of God as opposed to man’s instruction for the church. I am also a person who understands how to accept rebuke and correction. If God has spoken to you about me, contact me. If you are truly called to set order, be mature enough to walk in order. If and only if I am rebellious and cannot accept correction should my pastors and leaders receive soliloquies of my disobedience and error. This goes for all others as well. Respect God’s people enough to walk in order rather than gossip, trickery and manipulation. AMEN.

Are You Operating in Prophecy or Witchcraft?

Prophet or Witch?

Unfortunately, it's difficult to distinguish one from the other in the church of today. While sitting at my desk this morning, God spoke so clearly as I was reading about Joshua and walls of Jericho. He reminded me of all the "formulated" actions we use to conjure up the blessings of old. Nothing more than witchcraft!

Our problem is that we have put too much faith in formulas and lost focus on the true and living God. A spiritual "formula" is nothing more than a spell. A spell is a form of sorcery. Sorcery is a practice of WITCHCRAFT. God is tired!

He is tired of His people reading the word of God, and copying the actions of the great men and women before us, looking for the same results. This is not the purpose of His word. The purpose is to draw us closer to HIM. We are to seek God for NEW instructions. We are to move based on His command, not simply an example that has already taken place.

Too many of God's people are walking around buildings, just as Joshua did, declaring God will grant it. Did He say so, or is it simply a spirited act of sorcery? Too many of God's people are buying, selling and giving away prayer clothes and bottles of oil, looking for miracles and healing. Did God tell you to do it, or is it simply a spirited act of sorcery? It worked in Paul's ministry, but has God instructed you to do the same? We are more obedient in doing the things God never commanded us to do than we are in keeping the commandments He did give us.

Isa 43:18 Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.
Isa 43:19 Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.

Where are the prophets with NEW instruction? Yes, our God is the same yesterday, today and forever, but can we not sit in His presence long enough to get some NEW revelation and NEW instruction?

Joe 2:28 And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:
Joe 2:29 And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit.

God said His spirit would be poured on His people. This is that season. God is speaking and wants His voice to be heard. He is not interested in pleasing the spellbound in this season. Laying hands on a car does not mean your loan will be approved. Spitting in your grandmother's eyes does not mean her glaucoma will be healed. No more calculated expectations of blessings! This is witchcraft. The tarot card readers, the wiccans and the magicians follow this practice - not true prophets of God. It is a cursed thing to tap into the spirit realm as a result of PRACTICE rather than RELATIONSHIP. No more formulas, but revelation! No more witchcraft, but true prophecy!

The Spirit of HANANIAH Must be Destroyed

There is a stirring in my Spirit for the Body of Christ. I have been meditating on a particular portion of Scripture for almost two weeks, and God has commanded me to share it at this time. This is a word of warning and instruction for the people of God. The Father told me the spirit of Hananiah shall be destroyed in the Body of Christ. However, that spirit is to first be exposed by His prophets, as in the days of Jeremiah.

Jer 28:1 And it came to pass the same year, in the beginning of the reign of Zedekiah king of Judah, in the fourth year, and in the fifth month, that Hananiah the son of Azur the prophet, which was of Gibeon, spake unto me in the house of the LORD, in the presence of the priests and of all the people, saying,

Jer 28:2 Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, saying, I have broken the yoke of the king of Babylon.

As God began to deal with me about Hananiah and who he was, I first learned that his name means “Jehovah has given.” Now, there is more than one “Hananiah” mentioned in the Scriptures. However, God showed me in this case that he had given Hananiah a gift of prophecy. Thus, he was known as a prophet amongst the people, including Jeremiah who also acknowledged him as such. As he began to speak, the entire congregation of people was attentive to his words. He spoke in the presence of God’s chosen priests and leaders. He was also the son of a known prophet, and therefore carried an added sense of credibility. The spirit of Hananiah is evident in those prophets who are known – those whose voices are accepted among the elect and the powerful in the “church.”

Jer 28:3 Within two full years will I bring again into this place all the vessels of the LORD'S house, that Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon took away from this place, and carried them to Babylon:

Jer 28:4 And I will bring again to this place Jeconiah the son of Jehoiakim king of Judah, with all the captives of Judah, that went into Babylon, saith the LORD: for I will break the yoke of the king of Babylon.

Hananiah preached a message of hope, prosperity and restoration. His willingness to place a time stamp on his message also instilled hope and belief in his audience. He did not hesitate to proclaim “thus saith the LORD.”

Jer 28:5 Then the prophet Jeremiah said unto the prophet Hananiah in the presence of the priests, and in the presence of all the people that stood in the house of the LORD,

Jer 28:6 Even the prophet Jeremiah said, Amen: the LORD do so: the LORD perform thy words which thou hast prophesied, to bring again the vessels of the LORD'S house, and all that is carried away captive, from Babylon into this place.

In the midst of the people, Jeremiah gave an “Amen” to the words that were spoken forth. He knew it would be a good thing for Hananiah’s words to come to pass. Jeremiah, while also recognized as a prophet in the Scriptures, did not have the popularity amongst the people as Hananiah did.

Jer 28:7 Nevertheless hear thou now this word that I speak in thine ears, and in the ears of all the people;

Jer 28:8 The prophets that have been before me and before thee of old prophesied both against many countries, and against great kingdoms, of war, and of evil, and of pestilence.

Jer 28:9 The prophet which prophesieth of peace, when the word of the prophet shall come to pass, then shall the prophet be known, that the LORD hath truly sent him.

Jeremiah’s statements here are awesome to me, because they exhibit so much order and respect. God reminded me of the New Testament church and the instructions Paul gave concerning prophecy in the house of God. EVERY word of prophecy is to be judged and weighed by other prophets. Jeremiah did not pass judgment on the prophecy, because he had not heard from God to do so (yet). However, he did highlight the fact that it was not the custom of prophets before him to prophesy of peace and prosperity. In fact, he noted that a prophet who preaches such will not be proven a true prophet of God until the word comes to pass.

The Father is not pleased with the TRUE prophets of today. As the Word of God foretold, even many of the very elect are being deceived. We entertain false prophets without ever giving them warning. 99% of us have had prophecies given by those with only words of encouragement and wealth, yet we have failed to warn them. We allow the false prophets to minister in the house of God and we even support the ministries they lead. God asked me a difficult question that I now pose to you – Of all the prosperity prophesies you have received, how many have come to pass? ISN’T IT FUNNY HOW WE JUDGE THE PROPHETS WHO COME WITH WARNING, BUT AUTOMATICALLY ACCEPT THOSE WHO PREACH BLESSINGS? We’ve got this thing backwards! Do we not understand that those who fail to share the warnings of the Father, yet prophesy wealth and restoration, are not proven prophets until the promise come to pass? This is not the “norm” for a prophet of God. We must read the Word, and learn the nature of our Father. We must worship Him and communicate with Him to understand the concern of His heart and learn to hear His voice.

Jer 28:10 Then Hananiah the prophet took the yoke from off the prophet Jeremiah's neck, and brake it.

Jer 28:11 And Hananiah spake in the presence of all the people, saying, Thus saith the LORD; Even so will I break the yoke of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon from the neck of all nations within the space of two full years. And the prophet Jeremiah went his way.

Hananiah, in the eyes of the people, sealed the prophetic word with a natural sign. My God! Have we not seen this over and over? “Turn around three times and tell your neighbor…” “Jump up and grab your blessing!” “Walk out the door and tell the devil you’re coming out!” God said I must remind His people, “Not every sign and wonder is of Me.” We have allowed magic and witchcraft in the house of God, and the Father is allowing it so we can see our weaknesses and shortcomings. Signs were never meant to move God’s people, but to convince the unbeliever. Signs and wonders should be EXPECTED by God’s people anyway. The heart and voice of the Father should move His people. Despite the entertainment of a prophetic word, we must be able to DISCERN whether it be from our Father.

Jer 28:12 Then the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah the prophet, after that Hananiah the prophet had broken the yoke from off the neck of the prophet Jeremiah, saying,

Jer 28:13 Go and tell Hananiah, saying, Thus saith the LORD; Thou hast broken the yokes of wood; but thou shalt make for them yokes of iron.

After some time, God gave Jeremiah instruction to prophesy to the false prophet. Due to the belief of the priests, the scribes and the others in the temple, along with the false word given by Hananiah, God allowed the false prophesy to cause GREATER BONDAGE than before. The Father showed me that many are in bondage today because those of us who knew better allowed ourselves to receive a lie in the name of prophecy, all because we desired to prosper in this world. Of course, the false prophets tell us the enemy is just attacking because he doesn’t want us to be blessed. The false prophets tell us we will receive a Lexus, but when the loan is rejected and three years have passed, they say, “If it were going to be easy, God wouldn’t have been in it.” We are told the bills will be paid, but when the court date comes, the “prophet” says, “You didn’t have enough faith.” Oh, STOP THE GIMMICKS. The word of the true prophet will come to pass – PERIOD! A true healer will heal the sick, despite the sick man’s level of faith. Have we forgotten the ministry of the prophets of old? Have we forgotten the ministry of Jesus Christ, our Lord. The Word of God WILL ACCOMPLISH what it is set out to do.

False prophets, SHUT UP! Stop making excuses for why your false promises are not coming to pass. Saints of God, WISE UP! Stop allowing false prophecy to go forth in the house of God. YOU are accountable, and allowing the false prophecy will cause your situation to decline – not improve! PROPHETS, do not stoop so low that you accept a word that YOU KNOW NOT TO BE FROM YOUR FATHER. This is an insult to HIM and a blemish on your relationship with Him.

Jer 28:14 For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; I have put a yoke of iron upon the neck of all these nations, that they may serve Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon; and they shall serve him: and I have given him the beasts of the field also.

Jer 28:15 Then said the prophet Jeremiah unto Hananiah the prophet, Hear now, Hananiah; The LORD hath not sent thee; but thou makest this people to trust in a lie.

Can we be real? God is saying that true prophets must begin to expose those who are false. For too long, the “church” has commanded us to honor and respect every demon that carries a title. God is not pleased. Jeremiah operated in correction, but still exercised order. God’s people today should do the same. THIS IS A SEASON OF EXPOSURE. The spirit of Hananiah will be destroyed by THIS GENERATION.

Jer 28:16 Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will cast thee from off the face of the earth: this year thou shalt die, because thou hast taught rebellion against the LORD.

Jer 28:17 So Hananiah the prophet died the same year in the seventh month.

Be careful. Those who are true saints of God and true prophets of the Father will have to pronounce death to some ministries and some people as well. Our Father is a jealous God, and He will begin drawing some back to the truth through this exposure. PROPHETS ARE JUDGES ON THE EARTH, AND THAT JUDGMENT MUST BE SPOKEN IN THE MIDST OF WITNESSES.

Why Are Christians Being Tormented by Satan?

TUNE IN

The Prophetic Word

Christians and Demons

Why are Christians being tormented by Satan?

Hosted By

Prophetess Joy Allen

Joy of the LORD Ministries

Cry Aloud, Spare Not! Radio Ministry

Listen Now

Never Esteem Your Ministry Above Your Priesthood

As I drove home from work today, the Father spoke a word so clearly to me. For me, it was profound, and really dealt with some things that have been on my mind. While I don't claim this to be "word for word" what God said in my car, it's as close as I can get without adding my own thoughts to it. I pray this blesses you and speaks to you as the Father spoke it to me:

You and my Church - you have esteemed what you call ministry above your priesthood. Remember that you are priests first. I have called the singers, the dancers and the musicians. Yet, they are called to be priests first.

Remember – the singers and dancers minister only in the outer courts. They are not allowed behind the veil. Only the priests may stand in my presence. Only the priests may minister to me. You have esteemed what you call ministry more than your priestly assignment.

Your ministry is only a portion of who you are. I am not moved by the outer court. What you do outside my chamber is to usher my people into My presence. What you do outside my chamber is an offering I may choose not to receive. I open the door when I am drawn to your praise. Then, you are able to dwell in my presence where worship takes place. Do not lose focus. Do not compromise your priesthood for a gift. Never esteem your ministry above the priesthood.

The Fruit that Remains...

How many of us have produced fruit after our Lord, Jesus Christ? How many of us have allowed that fruit to reproduce? Are we really multiplying this fruit in others?

Joh 15:16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.

So many in the Body of Christ lack fruit in this season. The Holy Spirit has been quenched, and an epidemic in the Church is the result. Jesus said that He chose some of the many who were called. Those of us who claim to be chosen are commanded to bear fruit, as a result of the Holy Spirit living within us.

Gal 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
Gal 5:23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
Gal 5:24 And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
Gal 5:25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

We are not speaking of gifts here, but the fruit of the Holy Spirit, sent after Jesus Christ as a teacher and Comforter for the saints. God is grieved that so many of us are speaking in tongues, yet cannot love our brothers and sisters. The Father is sickened that prophecy is going forth, yet signs and wonders cease to exist due to our lack of faith. He is disappointed that pride has taken the place of meekness and impatience that of patience. Where are the fruits of the Spirit?

What happened to the crucifixion of the flesh? I have been in so much prayer today, first for myself, then for the entire Body concerning this topic. Who is willing to lay down gifts for the fruit?

Fruit are proof of one's nature. Have we really renewed our minds? Are we really NEW creatures in Christ? If so, where is the fruit. The gifts have become deceiving, but the fruit cannot be counterfeited.

Does your fruit remain? If so, what is it?

Selah.

Prophets are SENT, so Stop Waiting to be Invited!

God reminded me of a very simple concept, though something I’d never really thought of. He reminded me, “Jesus was never invited to speak. Yet, He was sent with a message from Me, and proclaimed it everywhere He went.” As I meditated on what God said, I realized that no, Jesus never received an invitation to preach in the temple. He was only summoned by believers to heal, set free and deliver. Then, the question arose. “You are a prophet. Why wait to be invited before you open your mouth? I am sending you to proclaim my word!”

This is a short word of encouragement for the PROPHETS. You are commanded to GO, PROCLAIM and TEACH. There is a thin line between promoting one’s name and sending out the Word. Many of you have remained silent, because God sent avenues by which your voice could be heard. However, you allowed others to tell you that you were only trying to promote your own name and build your own ministry. For some of you, this was not the case as it is with many in ministry. For some of you, God wants you to launch out and seize every opportunity to proclaim His word. God has given us many tools to proclaim truth. Especially in this day of the internet, there is no excuse for the prophet to be silent. There is no excuse for the prophetic realm to be held back and dried up.

When we are invited, however, just as with the ministry of Jesus, miracles should take place! Hmmm… I’ll leave that alone for now…

Speak the word. Cry aloud, and spare not! THE SUCCESS OF YOUR MINISTRY DOES NOT DEPEND ON HOW MANY APPOINTMENTS YOU GET. Jesus was NEVER invited to preach the Word. Instead, he carried the word, and the people were drawn unto him. For those who feel your ministry is inactive and insignificant, know this… Some of the most powerful and profound revelations are lying with those whose calendars are BLANK.

Be encouraged. Speak in this season, and remember – PROPHETS ARE NOT CALLED TO BE SILENT. THEY DO NOT WAIT TO BE INVITED, BUT ARE SENT BY GOD. Who have you bombarded with a word lately?

The Unsanctified Sanctuary

Hag 1:7 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways.

Hag 1:8 Go up to the mountain, and bring wood, and build the house; and I will take pleasure in it, and I will be glorified, saith the LORD.

Hag 1:9 Ye looked for much, and, lo, it came to little; and when ye brought it home, I did blow upon it. Why? saith the LORD of hosts. Because of mine house that is waste, and ye run every man unto his own house.

God has been speaking, or more like yelling, to me about the defilement of His house. We understand that we are the temple of the Holy Spirit, who dwells in us. Yet, we also build and dedicate temples, or churches, to our Father for the purpose of fellowship, praise and worship. Too often, however, God’s people are defiling His house in order to build up their own. The motives behind ministry and service are tainted and unacceptable to our Father.

In the Old Testament and the New Testament church, we see numerous examples of temples and homes being dedicated to the Father as sanctuaries. These places, even when part of a private house, were set aside for fellowship, teaching and worship. They were NOT intended to be used by the “church folk” as a platform for political popularity, power or advertisement. God is angry with the egoistic monuments we are building. How dare we say they are dedicated to our God when 90% of what takes place on the grounds is not of the Father? God wants a home in which He can dwell – not a place where He is invited for 20-30 minutes once a week!

Mat 21:11 And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.

Mat 21:12 And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves,

Mat 21:13 And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.

Mat 21:14 And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple; and he healed them.

Mat 21:15 And when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David; they were sore displeased,

Mat 21:16 And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?

Mat 21:17 And he left them, and went out of the city into Bethany; and he lodged there.

Mar 11:15 And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves;

Mar 11:16 And would not suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the temple.

Mar 11:17 And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.

Mar 11:18 And the scribes and chief priests heard it, and sought how they might destroy him: for they feared him, because all the people was astonished at his doctrine.

I was convicted when the Father took me back to these Scriptures. Personally, I don’t believe in having fish fries and raffles to raise money for the church. The Bible says that tithes and offerings shall keep meat in the storehouse. Still, God showed me more. He dealt with me even about the vendor’s tables, the church anniversaries, the choir concerts, the birthday parties – everything that takes place for which He is not the center focus.

Let me be very real. The SANCTUARY SHOULD BE SANCTIFIED. That means it must be “set apart for a specific, reverent purpose.” When I was younger, children used be punished for stepping into the pulpit. It was considered to be holy ground, so we reverenced it as such. God is saying that His sanctuary is no longer reverenced. We allow everyone access to that which we dedicate to the Father, then we wonder why He refuses to dwell.

God began to remind me of all the things we allow to enter His sanctuary – concerts, fundraisers, choir contests, political speeches, fashion shows – so many things that are not of the Father. Have we really dedicated the sanctuary to our Father, or are we simply building entertainment halls for the church?

In the temple of God, only priests were able to enter into the Holy of Holies. The temple was sectioned off, and everyone knew they level of clearance. Most understood they could not enter beyond the outer courts, because of the reverence that was required. God began to show me that much of what we build as churches, does not glorify Him. Too many people are given access to the sanctuary. Too many worldly activities are carried out on what should be holy ground.

It was hard to swallow, but God showed me some things I really had to think about. He asked me, “How does a Pastor’s birthday party glorify me?” That one hit me like a brick. I told God, we honor our leaders because they are men and women of God. The Father explained to me that while such honor is valid, even that does not belong in a sanctuary dedicated to Him. Why? Nothing belongs on holy ground that does not have the Father as the primary focus and motive. God even showed me weddings where those carrying evil spirits are allowed to walk on ground that should be holy.

Of course, I thought this word was somewhat extreme at first, but God asked me again, “What are you willing to sacrifice? Is there one who would minister to Me?”

Lev 19:30 Ye shall keep my sabbaths, and reverence my sanctuary: I am the LORD.

Have we forgotten the Word of God? Why honor the Sabbath, but dishonor the “house of God?” Many of us allow things in churches we won’t even allow in our own homes. So many mega-churches are being built with basketball courts and meeting rooms, yet they STILL allow sin in the sanctuary – that part of the building that should be dedicated to the worship of our Father by holy and sanctified people.

This is a prophetic word, particularly to those Pastors and Apostles who oversee churches and physical places of worship…

Num 3:31 And their charge shall be the ark, and the table, and the candlestick, and the altars, and the vessels of the santuary wherewith they minister, and the hanging, and all the service thereof.

Num 3:32 And Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest shall be chief over the chief of the Levites, and have the oversight of them that keep the charge of the sanctuary.

Are you keeping charge of the sanctuary? Is the holy place set aside for the Father to dwell as He pleases? The Lord said He is overthrowing the tables of the money changers. No more selling books in the pulpit. No more vendor’s tables and sold dinners in the same place set aside for worship. No more fashion shows and concerts. They do NOT glorify the Father. They entertain the people. They stroke the flesh, and they bring in money and notoriety – not for the Father, but for YOU and YOUR MINISTRY. We are doing too many things that do not glorify God. We like to say they do, but the Father is calling us to a sober reality.

How do choir contests glorify the Father? They don’t. How can one dare use “praise and worship” to compete for a prize and say they are bringing honor to God? Choir members, if honoring God is the true motive, why all the fancy steps of the world? Why all the vocal runs and “You betta sang, girl!” comments. It’s time to get real. We do so many things that our Father has no interest in.

How do pastoral anniversaries please the Father? The service is called just commemorate a worldly event. Then, we try to force God to show up. I’m not saying birthday and anniversaries are bad, but the Bible says the day of a man’s death is better than the day of His birth. It’s a worldly celebration. God is not the focus. We often make him a by product rather than the source!

God is challenging us to a new level. Dig deep, dig deep! Is the sanctuary truly sanctified? How much do we honor our physical houses of worship? Does it really look and operate like a temple in which our Father would want to dwell? Selah.

1Ch 22:19 Now set your heart and your soul to seek the LORD your God; arise therefore, and build ye the sanctuary of the LORD God, to bring the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and the holy vessels of God, into the house that is to be built to the name of the LORD.

Would You Allow Me to Die at the Enemy's Hand?

Am I my brother's keeper?

Of course we are. The problem is that we have been deceived in our definition of "brother." Yes, the Body of Christ has been fooled into thinking that everyone who attends church and sits on a pew beside us is our brother or sister. God has really been dealing with me about this. Where is the discernment in this hour? Many of us are walking in agreement with one who would literally allow us to die at the enemy's hand, thinking they are equipped enough to battle alongside of us.

Joyce Meyer said something that is so simple, yet so true. She said, "Just because people sit in church all day, we believe they are Christians. If I sit in a garage all day, does that make me a car?" Ahhh... Who are you walking with? Do you really know those who labor among you, or are you making assumptions based on your atmosphere?

Do you really know your brothers and your sisters? Can you really identify those who belong to the Father?

CORRECTION is something that needs to come from family. Why? If correction comes from one outside the family of God, there must be an ungodly motive. Therefore, when that correction comes, the spirit man is weakened. Boldness is lost. Plus, the person receiving is hardened and therefore unable to take correction from those who mean them well.

When correction comes from a true brother or sister in Christ, however, operating as instructed by the Father, it brings growth. It brings increase. I am disturbed because BASTARD CHILDREN in the "church" have hurt the true saints to the point that the real brothers and sisters are afraid to sow into their lives. Boldness has been sacrificed. Those who do not really have God as their Father have a voice that is entirely too strong.

REAL MEN AND WOMEN OF GOD, it's time for us to stand up. We should see what God sees, hear what He hears, and feel the way He feels. THEN, IT MUST BE SPOKEN. When we withhold correction, blood is on our hands. I told God that I'm tired of having the blood on my hands of those I don't even like. In some cases, I barely even know them. Yet, the blood is there because I'm constantly calling those "brothers and sisters" who are bastards in the church. True salvation, true holiness, consecration - all gone out the window, because we try to make people feel as though they belong, knowing that they don't. God never said we should adopt nor trust sin! NO MORE!

I want to be a TRUE sister in Christ, one who will not allow my brother or sister to die at the hands of the enemy. I must step up and warn those who are in sin. I must walk in boldness and speak a word of correction when it is necessary. I'm realizing that it's better for me to kill the sin in another than to have the enemy kill their spirit.

In the same manner, I want this from the Body. Are you truly my brother or my sister? If so, kill the flesh when you see it rise in me. YOU rebuke me before the enemy attacks and claims a victory.

Jdg 9:53 And a certain woman cast a piece of a millstone upon Abimelech's head, and all to brake his skull.
Jdg 9:54 Then he called hastily unto the young man his armourbearer, and said unto him, Draw thy sword, and slay me, that men say not of me, A woman slew him. And his young man thrust him through, and he died.

1Sa 31:3 And the battle went sore against Saul, and the archers hit him; and he was sore wounded of the archers.
1Sa 31:4 Then said Saul unto his armourbearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith; lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and abuse me. But his armourbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul took a sword, and fell upon it.
1Sa 31:5 And when his armourbearer saw that Saul was dead, he fell likewise upon his sword, and died with him.

I noticed a key thing in these Scriptures. In both cases, the men would rather have been killed by those that walked with them than to have the enemy claim the victory. Hmmm.... There are some things in me that must die. I'd rather those who walk with me (as true children of God) kill them, than allowing the enemy to bring death because of my weakness. In like manner, I believe it's my duty and responsibility to do the same for those I follow and fellowship with. No matter what the cost, I don't want anyone to die at the enemy's hand while on my watch. I'd rather help you die daily, as Paul did, than watch you die one painful defeat at the hand of satan.

God chastises those He loves. What about his children? Do you really love those with whom you fellowship? When was the last time you gave or received godly, encouraging correction? Selah.

The "Sinner's Prayer" Does NOT Bring Salvation

God has been dealing with me about attacking religion. I do not have an assignment to attack people, but spirits of tradition and religion (Colossians 2:8) that keep people from developing a solid relationship with the Father. Though difficult for me, I must attack the root of "false conversion" for many. I need to step into some prophetic teaching to break the bondage of our lack of knowledge - not because we have not received it, but because we have rejected the truth.

I literally become nauseous when I hear the song, and squirm in my seat when altar calls are made at churches for people to "get saved." God said I need to attack a spirit of false confidence and complacency. God said I had to remind the people that this practice of a "Sinner's Prayer," though popular, is not biblical nor effective. We who are in ministry must begin to teach TRUTH and stop telling people who are hell-bound that they have a home in heaven.

Rom 10:8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;
Rom 10:9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
Rom 10:10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
Rom 10:11 For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

First and foremost, this Scripture was written by the Apostle Paul to the Church, or the Body of EXISTING believers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It was addressed to the CHURCH (body of believers) at Rome. Why is this relevant?

Too often, we are quoting this Scripture to sinners (unbelievers) as if it were direction on how to become "saved" or accept Jesus Christ as one's personal savior. NOT SO! This Scripture does not pertain to those who are not part of the family of God. It was never intended for an unbeliever.

Still, even more problems arise with using this Scripture to introduce salvation. First, Paul addresses the word that is "nigh thee, even in they mouth, and in thy heart." How can someone who was just in sin an hour ago have the word of God in their mouth and heart just because you preached a sermon? I am sounding the alarm today, straight from the mouth of God. We are sending people to HELL in the name of Jesus. We are preaching a false hope and teaching a false salvation. SHAME ON THE CHURCH!

The word says confession is MADE unto salvation. That implies a process. One sole confession of Christ and his resurrection does not bring salvation in and of itself. If it did, Lucifer would have a seat in heaven. Oh, can I tell the truth? I'm sick. I'm disgusted that we have spit in God's face and made a lie of His Gospel. We have insulted Christ and crucified him many time over. When will it stop?

No more pansy prayers! No more punk salvations! No more senseless altar calls! The Word of God says that it's out of the abundance of the heart that a man speaks. How in the world can I have someone repeat a prayer after me, and tell them they are saved??? How can I tell another person what to speak, when it should come from their heart? Ahhhh!!! No more. Let God be true and every man a liar. Traditions founded upon lies MUST be torn down.

I don't care who you are. If your entire salvation relies on a prayer that you repeated after someone at the altar, you are still on your way to HELL. If you have not received the Holy Spirit and do not have RELATIONSHIP, hell is your home! If you are in sin, now is the time to seek the REAL message of salvation. If you are leading others, NOW is the time to change your message. We must stop telling the blind they can see. Quickly, they are stumbling!

What did the sinners hear in the Word of God? Look at Peter's message...

Act 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Act 2:39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.

REPENT. Yes, that is the first message, but we're not preaching it like we should. Why? No one wants to attack SIN anymore. NEWS FLASH: Belief means NOTHING without repentance. CHANGE is required before a person can even approach the Father. No more of this "come as you are" preaching. It's NOT the Word of God. Change comes forth in the presence of God. Change is REQUIRED when standing before a holy God. NO MORE FALSE HOPE. NO MORE WATERED DOWN GOSPEL. NO MORE PROPHELYING. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!!

God dealt with me very heavily today. So often, I told people that I write as inspired by Habakkuk. I thought I was writing the vision and making it plain. Today, God changed my assignment. He said my purpose in this hour is to SOUND THE ALARM. WARNING is my assignment and my call. This warning is that the Church is dying in sin. Too much compromise. Too many lies. Too much tolerance. Where is the holiness? Where is the sacrifice?

God has warned. Will you take heed?

Of What Value Is Your Gain?

Just a few weeks ago, the Father asked me a difficult question. "What if I told you to take your name off everything you do and everything you have done? Would you still move forward in ministry? Would you still serve with the same fervency? Would you still lead people to me and speak my praises?" Honestly, my first response was "Of course I would." Yet, I answered without truly pondering over the question God asked. I didn't really meditate on how difficult that would be. I would feel so disappointed and unappreciated. I'd feel used and alone. I'd, in a sense, feel like a failure. Eventually, my response turned into a prayer. I had to ask God to show me myself. What are my real motives? How much value do I put on PERSONAL GAIN in ministry?

Of course I also began to think about the Body of Christ as a whole. We can't help but gain something by worshiping God, but how much emphasis do we place on the notoriety, the prestige and the honor? How much do we long for the networking, the encouragement and the popularity? How much do we seek the stuff, the money and the gifts? What about the service and the praise? When we think about it, how many of claim to worship God just so we can gain stuff from the world?

Yes, it is happening. Think of all the worldly artists whose careers have taken a dive. Where do they run? The Gospel industry. Why? Less competition and lots of consumers. Easy reception. Natalie Cole, Patti Labelle, Whitney Houston, RUN DMC, MC Hammer, Tony Terry, R. Kelly, Smokey Robinson, Al Green, Michelle Williams – and so many more. These are all examples of people who never truly converted, yet reap the benefits of a minister, or one who carries the Gospel. The worst part is that it’s our fault! The CHURCH has put so much emphasis on personal gain that we’ve forgotten about true worship. Ministry has become a business. Why do we buy the music and movies from those who are literally making a mockery of the Gospel? Why do we praise those who prostitute salvation? We do it because we have weighed personal gain more than God’s glory. Yes, we will buy a CD, lie and say that we are worshipping God though the song is written and PERFORMED by an unholy vessel, and then complain to God when He doesn’t move. How long will we care about a nice beat and a cute tune more than we care about God’s glory? When will return to the point when our integrity is more important than our personal entertainment?

What is the value of your gain?

Phil 3:7 But whatever former things I had that might have been gains to me, I have come to consider as [one combined] loss for Christ's sake.

God really had to purge me of many things. In fact, each time I ascend to a new level in Him, there are things in my life that must be shed. There are parts of me that must be forsaken. There are gains that I must count as losses.

God spoke to me many years ago and explained that He’s not moved by the success stories that many feel should afford them a special spot in “ministry.” The education, the money, the acquaintances – they don’t mean a thing if God does not receive the glory! Too often, believers rely on their worldly accomplishments more than their spiritual relationship with the Father. The anointing cannot be bought. Many are called, and few chosen. Thank God that his role book is not based on credentials.

On the other hand, God is also tired of being limited and confined by our pocketbooks or lack of education. How many times have we disobeyed God because we were moved by our lack of resources more than His command? I am guilty!!! “Father, I can’t correct her. She has a doctorate degree… Lord, I can’t go there and preach. I don’t have gas money… Father, I don’t feel right telling her to fast. She is diabetic.” Yes, we all do it.

God said to count it all as a loss. In other words, consider it be insignificant.

Phil 3:8 Yes, furthermore, I count everything as loss compared to the possession of the priceless privilege (the overwhelming preciousness, the surpassing worth, and supreme advantage) of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord {and} of progressively becoming more deeply {and} intimately acquainted with Him [of perceiving and recognizing and understanding Him more fully and clearly]. For His sake I have lost everything and consider it all to be mere rubbish (refuse, dregs), in order that I may win (gain) Christ (the Anointed One),

I must be free as I deal with this next segment of Scripture. Paul said that he counted all as loss for CHRIST’s sake, not his own. I am sick and tired of hearing Christians use their own failures as a pulpit commercial to make them look and seem holy and deep. Let’s just be real! Believers have made a habit of preaching the “Woe is me” testimony, and God is not pleased. It does not glorify the Father. The motive is wrong. So many times, I have been approached even by prophets who have nothing to impart other than a sad testimony. The worse part is that this is often their only claim to holiness. Too many have been taught that loss equals holiness. No – it’s SACRIFICE that leads to holiness. Loss and sacrifice are two different things.

If I lose my home because I didn’t pay the mortgage, that’s a loss. If I give up my home at God’s instruction, that’s a sacrifice. If I lose my children because I’m a poor mother to them, that’s a loss. If God instructs me to release my children to another country for missions work, that’s a sacrifice.

Yes, we want to blame God for OUR OWN FAILURES, then use it as a selling point when trying to convince others that we are holy. God is not pleased! True SACRIFICE is voluntary. True SACRIFICE is active, not passive.

Phil 3:9 And that I may [actually] be found {and} known as in Him, not having any [self-achieved] righteousness that can be called my own, based on my obedience to the Law's demands (ritualistic uprightness and supposed right standing with God thus acquired), but possessing that [genuine righteousness] which comes through faith in Christ (the Anointed One), the [truly] right standing with God, which comes from God by [saving] faith.

Oh, I pray that our desire will begin to line up with that of Paul’s. He did not desire anyone to think him righteous because of his own doing. That’s a very serious desire. He didn’t want to be recognized because of his obedience to God, nor his possessions or even his faith. Truly, Paul expressed a desire to be NOTHING accept a conduit of God’s grace and exaltation.

Phil 3:10 [For my determined purpose is] that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly], and that I may in that same way come to know the power outflowing from His resurrection [which it exerts over believers], and that I may so share His sufferings as to be continually transformed [in spirit into His likeness even] to His death, [in the hope]

Oh, what is our PURPOSE in ministry? The Father showed me some things about my own motives that disturbed me. He showed me some things about the Body of Christ that made me cry, weep and travail in prayer. Our purpose in ministry should be simply to be intimate with the Father. Our purpose and motive should be that we want to share with Christ.

When was the last time you truly suffered and gave God praise for it? Shouldn’t suffering be something we seek in ministry? We are to share the suffering and the death of Christ in order to please our Father. When was the last time someone was offended by a message you preached? When was the last time someone “uninvited” you to a conference in fear that you would shrink the crowd of attendees? Shouldn’t this be our purpose in ministry? When was the last time someone forgot your name when you were about to share the Word of God? Shouldn’t this be a reason to rejoice in ministry?

FLESH DIES in the presence of true ministry. Only God is seen. Only the Father is heard. Intimacy is multiplied.

Phil 3:11 That if possible I may attain to the [spiritual and moral] resurrection [that lifts me] out from among the dead [even while in the body].
Phil 3:12 Not that I have now attained [this ideal], or have already been made perfect, but I press on to lay hold of (grasp) {and} make my own, that for which Christ Jesus (the Messiah) has laid hold of me {and} made me His own.
Phil 3:13 I do not consider, brethren, that I have captured {and} made it my own [yet]; but one thing I do [it is my one aspiration]: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,
Phil 3:14 I press on toward the goal to win the [supreme and heavenly] prize to which God in Christ Jesus is calling us upward.

Even in all he was willing to sacrifice, Paul recognized one thing we so often forget – HE HAD NOT YET ARRIVED! Despite all the sacrifice, Paul still had a hope. He still realized that the God he served was bigger than anything he could ever give. There was still a godly fear and reverence for him to be accepted by God. He still CONFESSED THE PRESS! Ahhhhh…

Many of us don’t CONFESS THE PRESS because our form of ministry is too easy. It’s filled with large honorariums, shoes, purses and suits. It comes with glamour, notoriety and popularity. THERE’S NO PRESS IN MESS. Oh, it’s easy to do the thing that brings comfort to the flesh and ignores the spirit.

Where are the saints who are suffering for the Lord’s sake, but are still able to bridle their tongue? Yes, I believe there are some who suffer, but truly count it a loss. No one has to hear the sob story, because God received the glory and the soul was content. Hallelujah! I pray more of us grow to this point.

Where are the ones who are broke, but still give God glory? Where are the ministers who literally carry pain in their bodies because of the prayers they put forth on behalf of the people? Jesus produced sweat of blood in his prayers. When was the last time you got up from prayer with sore knees, stomach cramps, or even a dry mouth because of the spiritual warfare? PRESS… God is calling us to PRESS IN.

In conclusion…

Is 61:3 To grant [consolation and joy] to those who mourn in Zion--to give them an ornament (a garland or diadem) of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, the garment [expressive] of praise instead of a heavy, burdened, {and} failing spirit--that they may be called oaks of righteousness [lofty, strong, and magnificent, distinguished for uprightness, justice, and right standing with God], the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.

For many years, this Scripture has inspired and encouraged me. Realize today that ashes must often come before God will grant beauty. Beautifying oneself while trying to hide the ashes does not bring glory to the Father. Sometimes a heavy and burdened spirit must exist before God can transform it into a spirit of praise. “Faking it until you make it” doesn’t bring Him glory. Every now and then, mourning must come before God sends joy. Denial will not bring Him glory.

What is the value of your gain today? When will we realize that God doesn’t get the glory in that which we do in our own strength and intellect. Is there not a motive when we rely on our selves to do “good works.” Count it a loss, and watch God move!