Don't Forget to Water the Plants

Have you ever cut a stem off a green plant and placed it in vase of water? It’s amazing how the stem will die if you simply cut it off, but grows brand new roots if you simply place it in water. An entire new plant will grow in just a matter of days. Even if all other elements are present (light, dirt, nutrients, carbon dioxide), that plant stem must have water in order to survive. There’s something about the water…

The people of God are the same way. Even if a disjointed (backslidden) Christian has light (the Word of God), nutrients (natural food and water) and carbon dioxide (fellowship), he or she cannot survive without water (the Holy Spirit). In John 7:38-39, the Word says:

He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet [given]; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)

The Bible clearly teaches us that water is representative of the Holy Spirit and His power in the Scriptures. Now, take a look at Psalm 1:1-3.

Blessed [is] the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight [is] in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

Isn’t that powerful?! The man who enjoys fellowship with the Word of God is like a tree, or a plant, rooted by the rivers of water. In other words, that person has continual, flowing access to the Holy Spirit and His power. Hallelujah! The Word goes on to say that this person will bring forth fruit in his season. The fruit of the Holy Spirit are described in Galatians 5:22-23, but I also believe this refers to the gifts and callings of God placed on individual believers. The leaf on a tree protects the fruit. Leaves that do not wither let me know that those things which support my ministry will not be weak – Finances, Time, Talents, People – they are present and strong, in Jesus’ name. They are needed to support and cover a ministry. Praise God! Now, God tops it all off and adds the icing to the cake with “whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”

What a mighty and awesome God we serve!

As I continued to meditate on this Word, I thought of all the times I’ve been discouraged in the ministry, or even as a Christian. “Lord, why can’t I get my finances straight?” “God, I know you called me, but I just don’t have enough time.” “Father, why doesn’t anyone believe in me.” God is telling me and other men and women of God, “When something isn’t right in your life, it’s because you haven’t exposed that area to the work and power of the Holy Spirit.” In other words, we haven’t allowed God to breathe on that particular area.

Now we all know that breath has a feeling and a scent. When someone breathes on you, you feel the warmth and you smell the breath, whether it be good or bad. Can you smell, or sense, the breath of God in those areas of your life that seem stagnant? My God! The Lord gave me the following scripture along with this revelation:

Job 14:7-9
For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof will not cease. Though the root thereof wax old in the earth, and the stock thereof die in the ground; [Yet] through the scent of water it will bud, and bring forth boughs like a plant.

Hallelujah! We, as Christians, are the tree. If we, or any part of our lives, are cut down (broken, discouraged, inefficient, backslidden), we can be revived again! Hallelujah! The tender branch, which is the heart toward God – that part of you that keeps seeking HIS face, will not cease. Though the root may get old (the doctrine, the habits, the works) and we may get tired and aged in our flesh, through the scent (the mere presence and sense of the Holy Spirit) of water, it will bud. New life shall come forth. That area of your life will be revived and bring forth NEW fruit, in Jesus’ name! O, praise God! I admonish you to get transparent before the Lord, and allow the Holy Spirit to lead you in those areas that are hindering you. Look for the barren areas in your life to GIVE BIRTH!!! In fact, your fruit will begin to root and bring forth fruit. Even when they are separated from you in the natural, they will birth into new plants in other areas! Hallelujah! Your children will prophesy and dream dreams. Your ministry will birth new ministries. Those who you lead to Christ will bring others into the family of God!

Hallelujah! Don’t forget to water the plants! Yield to the water of God – the Holy Spirit. Make sure His scent, His breath is present in every area of your life. If the Spirit of God is there, something HAS TO CHANGE. If God is in the midst, sickness cannot stay. Poverty cannot dwell. Frustration is not welcome! Not sure how to turn over every aspect of your life to God’s Spirit? PRAISE! The Bible says that He inhabits the praises of His people. If you’re having problems in your marriage, praise Him. If your finances are not adequate, praise Him. God will show up, and CHANGE MUST FOLLOW! Even in the natural, we must turn our lives over to God. PRAISE is a sacrifice. We praise God in song, in speech and in dance, but we must also praise Him through obedience, which is better than sacrifice. We must sweep our lives of sin, even in the small areas! Thank you, God! We must be completely SOLD OUT for Him! Sin is poison. No matter how much you water a plant, if it’s poisoned, it will die.

People of God, let’s get naked before our Father. Let Him breathe on every part of our lives. AMEN?!

Don’t forget to water the plants!

Happy Resurrection Day!

Matthew 28

1)	In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first [day] of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.
2)	And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.
3)	His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:
4)	And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead [men].
5)	And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
6)	He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.
7)	And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.
8)	And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.
9)	And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.
10)	Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.
11)	Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city, and shewed unto the chief priests all the things that were done.
12)	And when they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers,
13)	Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him [away] while we slept.
14)	And if this come to the governor's ears, we will persuade him, and secure you.
15)	So they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.
16)	Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.
17)	And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.
18)	And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
19)	Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
20)	Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.

Make Your Way Prosperous

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest.

Joshua 1:8-9



The Bible says that God spoke these words to Joshua after the death of Moses. God encouraged Joshua to meditate on his word and go forth in victory. In fact, this strengthened Joshua so much, that the very next verse declares “Then Joshua commanded…”

Wow! If you are anything like me, you have those days when you wonder, “Lord, what am I doing wrong? Why aren’t things working in my favor? Why is it that when I think I’m doing the right thing, my circumstances work against me?” Perhaps Joshua felt some of these things when Moses died. Perhaps he felt slightly alone or lost. He may have felt intimidated or afraid. Nevertheless, the LORD provided a solution to provide him confidence and set him mind at rest.

1) Listen to God when He speaks (Joshua 1:1)
2) Don’t forget the Word of God.
3) Study and meditate on the Scriptures.
4) Do all that is written and commanded by God.
5) Be strong and courageous.
6) Do not be afraid or discouraged.

Then what? You will be prosperous! You will have good success! Our Father will be with you wherever you go!

What an awesome reminder this is for us when we become discouraged on a daily basis. If we do these things, our faith must increase (Romans 10:17). As we believe on God, He will increase in our lives. My God, we can’t lose. It’s all about obedience and holiness. We must sanctify ourselves. We must be set apart and governed by the Word of God.

What a simple reminder, yet so powerful!

Guard Your Gates!

Years ago, I heard a minister preach about “Guarding Our Gates.” It is so imperative that the people of God learn to carefully select what we see and hear. The human body has many parts and senses, but our sight and ability to hear are very important to the spirit. The eyes and ears are the only physical gates by which the spirit can be directly influenced. My God! That’s powerful. The fact is that everything we see and hear is automatically registered in our spirits. For this reason, we must demand authority over our surroundings. If something sneaks in that is not of God, we must deal with it immediately. Every sight and sound we are exposed to produces a thought, or a series of thoughts. This can be referred to as imagination, which is part of the soul. Man is a three-part being: Spirit, Soul and Body. When the Body is exposed to an outside influence, a message is sent to the soul, where it is exposed to emotions and thought. At that point, we must decide whether or not we will subject the our spirit to the same. 2 Corinthians 10:5 “Casting down imaginations, and ever high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ…” Praise God. In this scripture, we are instructed to bring thoughts [imaginations and feelings] into the obedience of Christ, which also agrees with the Holy Spirit within us. We do this by “casting down” or rebuking those things that exalt themselves against the “knowledge of God” or the Word of God. This is certainly difficult to do. Nevertheless, every believer must learn to control his or her thoughts and seek God at a level where relationship with Him is able to purge those things that are not like Him. It is much easier, though, to simply avoid those things that are not like God – music, television, ungodly conversations, and anything else that do not agree with the Word of God. Not convinced? Take a look at Romans 10:17. So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Faith is a spiritual concept. Yet, it is built by “hearing” the Word of God. Faith grows when we expose our ear, or gate, to the thoughts and works of our Father. Hallelujah! If positive information can enter our flesh and produce a positive spiritual change, how much more can negative information enter through the flesh to produce a negative spiritual impact!

Are YOU the Weakest Link?

We have all the seen the British-based game show that swept our nation during the latter part of last year. The title was "The Weakest Link." The object of the game was for each team to answer the maximum number of questions correctly, creating a link of monetary winnings that grew exponentially with each correct answer. Whenever a question was answered incorrectly, the link was broken, and the team had to begin compounding money again. At the end of each round, the team voted off the "weakest link" until one player was declared the winner, or the strongest link. In the church, God has given us all a part of the ministry. We have specific gifts, ministries and callings that help us to serve the Body of Christ. Since we are all a vital part of the ministry work, there is no room for a "weak link." Take an assessment of the Body of Christ today. Would God be pleased? Are we saving souls as we should? Are we caring for the sick and hungry as we should? Are we upholding the law of the Lord as we should? If not, why? Are YOU the weakest link? ----- Are You the Weakest Link? Clichés worth pondering… A team is only as good as its leader. Two heads are better than one. There is power in numbers. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. THE BIBLE SAYS... Ecclesiastes 4:9 - Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. Ecclesiastes 4:12 - And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken. Amos 3:3 - Can two walk together, except they be agreed? Matthew 18:20 - For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Scriptural Texts: 1 Corinthians 1:10, 11, 13, 26-31 Supporting Texts: Romans 12:3-21 1 Corinthians 12 ----- 10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. 11 For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. 13 Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? 26 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: 27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; 28 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: 29 That no flesh should glory in his presence. 30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: 31 That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. ----- CHARACTERISTICS OF A STRONG LINK 1 Corinthians 12:2 2 Corinthians 13:1 James 4:10 Romans 8:14 James 4:6 1. Walk in unity 2. Speak the same things / agree in doctrine 3. Same mind and judgement 4. Joined by the mind of Christ 5. Called of God 6. Exalted by the hand of God 7. Spirit-led 8. Wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, redemption 9. Humility 10. Glory only in God ----- CHARACTERISTICS OF A WEAK LINK Proverbs 17:11 James 4:4 1. Division and strife / rebellion 2. Rumors and negative reports 3. Led by strengths of the flesh rather than strengths of the Spirit (i.e. worldly knowledge, wealth, fame, etc.) 4. Abased by God 5. Glory in fleshly things

Is Your Clothing Out of Style?

Many Christians have problems with changes that need to take place in their lives. We don’t like change because it is uncomfortable and unfamiliar. Unfortunately, the attitudes we carry…the disobedience in which we live…the excuses we make…the traditions we place before God…they are all OUT OF STYLE!

When it comes to the Saints of God, especially those in leadership, God is getting tired of mess. He is tired of seeing us wear old clothes as we try to function according to old things. God is doing a new thing in the Kingdom of God, and we must get BRAND NEW for Him. People of God, it’s time to change our spiritual clothes! Hypocrisy must cease. We must walk in TRUE HOLINESS and seek God like never before. We need to “dress to impress” in the spirit realm.


What Authority Do You Represent?

In our society, we are able to recognize people in authority by their appearance. We are able, for instance, to identify someone in the armed forces by the camouflage they wear. We recognize a police officer because of the uniform he wears. These outfits symbolize something for us. They define the authority and the purpose that person has been called to fulfill.

In the same way, the Bible tells us that we should be known by our fruit. The move of the Holy Spirit in our lives will cause others to recognize the power, authority and purpose that has been placed in us by God. The problem in Christian leadership is that many of us are perpetrating an officer, and that’s a crime! We are dressing ourselves with titles, dead works and responsibilities that God never called us to. In Matthew 21:18-19, we read about Jesus and a fig tree. The Bible says the Lord was hungry, and saw a fig tree with leaves on it, signifying that fruit should have been present as well. When He saw that no fruit was blooming on the tree, He cursed it. Many of us today are just like that tree. We act like we’re sanctified, and we talk like we’re holy, but we fail to produce. We call ourselves prophets, but we never prophesy the word of the Lord. Instead we profess our own ideas and ideologies. We call ourselves preachers, but we preach politics and economics, rather than the word of God. Leaders, this puts the people of God in bondage. We cannot be found guilty and false prophesies. God’s judgment begins at the house of God, so many of us need to repent!

In the 11th chapter of John, Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. In Jewish tradition, the dead were wrapped in a shroud, or a grave cloth before they were buried or placed in a tomb. When Jesus tells Lazarus, “come forth,” he realizes that he is bound by this clothing. The Bible says, in verse 44, that Lazarus came forth “bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound with a napkin.” Jesus told the people surrounding him, “Loose him, and let him go.” If Lazarus had stayed in those grave clothes, he would not have been able to function normally. He couldn’t see. He could barely walk. More than likely, he was unable to breathe freely as well. Many of us, as Christian leaders, are wrapped in a shroud called TRADITION. God has called us into ministry, but we are bound by the things we have been taught by the church. We can’t see clearly. We can’t walk freely, and we can’t speak as the Lord leads us. Well, the devil is a liar! He who the Son sets free is free indeed! Some of us need to stop being bound by titles. We need to take off our binding clothes and walk in new life. If you’re called, you’re just called. “Come forth,” as Jesus said to Lazarus. You may walk in the office of an Evangelist, but if the Lord tells you to prophesy, PROPHESY. You may walk in the office of a teacher, but if God tells you to preach, PREACH THE WORD! At some point, we have to stop worrying about what people will think. We may have to forget some of the traditions we were taught. We MUST do as God says. He is speaking in these last days, and we MUST BE OBEDIENT!

Last, but not least, we must begin to see ourselves as God sees us. Many times, we quench the Holy Spirit because of fear. We must get to a place where we realize that God gets all the glory! Therefore, fear has no place in ministry! We must be bold and walk in power according to Acts 1:8. The Lord had plans for us before we were formed in our mother’s wombs (Jeremiah 1:5). We must walk in our destinies. We must realize who we are in Christ Jesus and live according to the power that is in us. We should be able to pray for the sick and see them healed. We should have the power to raise the dead! It’s only a matter of faith. God isn’t falling short, so it must be us. Amen?

In Job 14:13-15, Job asks that God hide him in the grave until his wrath passes. This is exactly where some of us have been. We have been hiding behind religious traditions and false doctrines of the church, using them to make excuses for why we are not fulfilling the callings on our lives. Well, God is saying that our change has come! It is now time to walk in life and liberty, through the Spirit of God.

Be encouraged, saints of God! The Lord wants to use us in these last days, but we must be strong, willing and obedient. We must be in uniform, compliant with the Word of God. People will see our clothing, in the Spirit, and glorify our Father in Heaven. Is your clothing out of style?


Is Your Clothing Out of Style?

Our clothes say so much about us. Our style communicates our occupation, our self-esteem, our purpose, our artistic ability, and so much more. Clothing is a visible display of one’s culture, society, conscious and economic status. Our character, words and works do the same in the spirit realm. They reveal the status of our spiritual walk and relationship with God. Is your clothing out of style? Is it deceiving? Is it too binding? The Lord is calling us change clothes – to represent who we really are in Him on a day to day basis. We must get real before the Lord. For some of us, that may mean standing completely naked before Him.

Is Your Clothing Out of Style? If your walk doesn’t line up with your calling, change your clothes. If your title doesn’t match your calling, change your clothes!


Final thoughts to ponder…

Take off sin and put on holiness (Romans 13:11-14).
11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.
12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.
13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.
14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

Learn to distinguish between vain tradition and the Word of God (Matthew 15:9).
9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.

Live an honest and transparent life. God’s people must have integrity (Romans 2:20-24).
20 An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, which hast the form of knowledge and of the truth in the law.
21 Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal?
22 Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege?
23 Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God?
24 For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written.

Let’s watch our mouths. Only GOSSIP THE GOSPEL! We must allow God to touch our lips (Isaiah 6:5-7).
5 Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.
6 Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar:
7 And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged.

Are You Worthy to be Considered?

I attended a conference this weekend that completely blew my mind. I was blessed with the opportunity to meet some powerful women of God, who are building ministries and bringing the lost into the Kingdom of God. I learned so much over a brief two days, and had an experience like no other. Yet, one thing that was said sticks out in my mind.

"Are you worthy to be considered?"

This question was asked by one of the women who ministered. When God and the devil had their conversation and made an agreement at the beginning of the Book of Job, satan did not suggest that Job be the subject of temptation. Neither did Job volunteer. In fact, it was God who said, "Have you considered my servant, Job?"

Job walked upright before God, and was such a holy man that he immediately came to God's mind when satan attempted to challenge God. Not only did God put faith in Job to accept and conquer the challenge, but He also protected him. He limited what satan could do, and even restored all that was lost in the battle.

"Are you worthy to be considered?"

My God, that is such a loaded question. I want to be worthy of consideration. I want God to be able to trust me. I want my Father to have confidence in me. I want to be so precious to Him, that He will stand up and call me by name when satan comes, knowing that I will not bow to temptation. The best thing about our Father is that He already does all this and more. I have not been as holy as Job was, yet the Lord still called me. I would probably lose my mind if I lost my entire family and all my belongings in one single day. Yet, He has promised that no weapon formed against me shall prosper. Isn't God good! Hallelujah!

One thing is for sure. I praise God for the blood of Jesus. His blood means that God doesn't require a resume in order to serve me or allow me to serve. Nevertheless, I want to add a few credentials, just in case He takes a peak. I want to add to the Kingdom of God and grow on a daily basis. I want to know that God can depend on me, and that I can stand in the day of adversity. After all, to whom much is given, much is required.

AMEN

Every Believer Has a Ministry

^{2 Corinthians 5:17 – 6:10}

¹⁷ Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. ¹⁸ And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; ¹⁹ To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. ²⁰ Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. ²¹ For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

¹ We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. ² (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) ³ Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed: ⁴ But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, ⁵ In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; ⁶ By pureness, by knowledge, by long suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, ⁷ By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, ⁸ By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; ⁹ As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; ¹⁰ As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

What is a minister? How does one know that he or she is called into the ministry? I have been meditation on these very questions over the last few days. I must say that I am in awe at how complicated we sometimes try to make Kingdom business. The bottom line is that EVERY believer is called into the ministry. Each of us have a responsibility, which is to bring souls to the Body of Christ.

Now, Ephesians 4:11-12 outlines the five-fold ministry. In other words, these are ministry categories, if you will. Many of us are called into these positions or have ministries that fall into one of these categories. Nevertheless, every saint of God is called into the Ministry of Reconciliation!

Jesus has given us the ministry of reconciliation. This means that we are to reconcile sinners to Him. Each one must reach one, at least! We are not saved to keep this good news to ourselves. If this were the case, God could simply take up every person as soon as they sacrifice their lives to Him. Instead, He has constructed a plan by which His love and the Gospel can be shared throughout the world – through us. What a privilege and an honor. What a responsibility!!!

In the work of the ministry, many leaders and ministers often get caught up on the politics of ministry and outreach. It often becomes a business rather than a service. My question to myself and others is this: If God were to call you home today, and ask how many sinners you have brought to salvation, what would your answer be? For too many people, that answer is 0. The truth of the matter is that most churches are packed with broken believers. Most people who don’t believe the Gospel WILL NOT BE IN CHURCH! This means we have to go out and get them, Saints of God. We must go out, as sheep among wolves, and win souls over to Christ! To win a soul, we have to have substance. We need to know that Word of God. We need to have holy boldness. We need to live lives of prayer and fasting. The time is now – NOW is the day of salvation. We can no longer procrastinate. These are the last days, and we must work quickly. Souls are at hand. Eternal life is on the line. AMEN?

Then, we must prove ourselves through the ministry. A ministry is not proven by the amount of money it takes in, nor the type of car driven by the minister, nor the amount of members that show up each Sunday. Instead, according to the Word, our ministry is judged by our patience, our pureness, our knowledge and our love.

How does your ministry measure up? How many lost souls have you rescued from an eternal hell? My prayer is that everyone reading this post will make a new commitment to the Lord. Father, we will seek the lost and bring them back to You, as your Word commands. We die to ourselves, and seek your face. We will be obedient and operate in the ministry of reconciliation. This is a responsibility, but also a privilege given to us by the blood of Jesus Christ. Father, allow your Holy Spirit to teach and strengthen us as we go forth and do your well. Make ready the hearts of those who need you. The harvest is plenteous, and the laborers are few, but Lord, I will go. Send me, in Jesus’ name. AMEN.

Product Recall

The following post is a popular email notification that has been circulating for quite some time. Yet, it blesses me every time I read it. The original author is unknown, but I received it again and wanted to share...

Regardless of make or year, all units known as "human beings" are being recalled by the Manufacturer. This is due to a malfunction in the original prototype units code named "Adam" and "Eve" resulting in the reproduction of the same defect in all subsequent units.

This defect is technically termed, "Serious Internal Non-Morality," but more commonly known as "SIN."

Some of the symptoms of the SIN defect:

[a] Loss of direction
[b] Lack of peace and joy
[c] Depression
[d] Foul vocal emissions
[e] Selfishness
[f] Ingratitude
[g] Fearfulness
[h] Rebellion
[i] Jealousy

The Manufacturer is providing factory authorized repair service free of charge to correct the SIN defect. The Repair Technician, Jesus Christ, has most generously offered to bear the entire burden of the staggering cost of these repairs.

To repeat, there is no fee required. The number to call for repair in all areas is:

P-R-A-Y-E-R

Once connected please upload the burden of SIN through the REPENTANCE procedure. Next, download ATONEMENT from the Repair Technician, Christ, into the heart component of the human unit.

No matter how big or small the SIN defect is, Christ will replace it with:

[a] Love
[b] Joy
[c] Peace
[d] Kindness
[e] Goodness
[f] Faithfulness
[g] Gentleness
[h] Patience
[I] Self-control

Please see the operating manual, HOLY BIBLE, for further details on the use of these fixes.

As an added upgrade, the Manufacturer has made available to all repaired units a facility enabling direct monitoring and assistance from the resident Maintenance Technician, the Holy Spirit. Repaired units need only make Him welcome and He will take up residence on the premises.

WARNING: Continuing to operate a human being unit without corrections voids the Manufacturer's warranty, exposing the unit to dangers and problems too numerous to list, and will ultimately result in the human unit being incinerated.

Thank you for your attention.

Hell Bent but Heaven Bound

Praise the Lord! I have a burden on my heart to encourage the saints of God who are dealing with disappointments and frustrations. This is a time when many of God's people are literally going through hell in their lives. Oftentimes, believers feel they are being punished or forsaken because they have problems. We often become discouraged and concerned when things are not perfect, fearing that we are somehow cursed or not pleasing God. Well, I believe God would have His people encouraged in 2005. While it is true that we reap what we sow, the mere presence of failures and frustrations in one's life are not at all indicative of a failed or strained relationship with God. We all have good days and bad ones. People of God, we are often "Hell Bent," but praise God that we are still Heaven Bound!

Job 1:6-12
In this passage of Scripture, God refers to Job as a perfect and upright man. However, Satan challenges Him, accusing Job of living a righteous life only because of the blessings he receives from God. Satan cannot do anything to Job, or any of us, without God's permission, so the Father grants him the opportunity to tempt Job. Nevertheless, even the devil has restrictions. God forbids him to touch Job's life. The point here is that Job was upright in the eyes of God, yet he lost everything he had. Later in the book of Job, though, we learn that his loss is only for a season. In fact, he is restored everything he lost, plus more. Isn't that just like our God? People of God, if Satan is tempting you and you have lost some things in the battle, look for God to restore, in Jesus' name! Temptations and disappointments may have you "Hell Bent," but through His mercy, you are still Heaven Bound!

2 Corinthians 4:8-18
Hallelujah! The Word of God proclaims that we are broken, but never destroyed. Amen! Hell comes in our lives, but it doesn't contain us. We go through, but we will be victorious on the other side. Hallelujah! People of God, we will endure afflictions in this lifetime, but our glory in heaven will far exceed anything we experience in this life. "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers us out of them all."

James 1:13-15
It is so important to remember that while God allows us to be tempted of Satan, much like Job, our Father is not the one who tempts us. Instead, we are tempted by our own fleshly desires. Nevertheless, we are called to endure this temptation. When we do, the Bible says that we will be awarded the crown of life. Only temptation that is fulfilled leads to sin. Think it not strange when you are tempted, but flee all appearance of evil! You are a victor through Christ!

Psalm 34:19
Many [are] the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.

1 Corinthians 10:13
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God [is] faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear [it].

1 Peter 5:8
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

Isaiah 54:17
No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue [that] shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This [is] the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness [is] of me, saith the LORD.

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In Psalm 23, David says, "though I walk through the shadow of death, I will fear no evil." I submit to you that David was in a dark place with a stench. Everything around him symbolized death and the loss of hope. Perhaps things in your life appear dead right now - your marriage, your finances, your prayer life, your self esteem. Nevertheless, God allowed him to acknowledge a shadow. Saints of God, a shadow cannot exist without life. Even in the valley, God shines a light on His people. No matter how bad things get, if you can see a shadow, God is present! If you can just say a word to that husband or that wife, you can see a shadow. You may not be able to pay the entire light bill, but if you can still buy bread to eat, there is a shadow. You may not feel that you're reaching heaven, but if you can just open the Word of God, there is a shadow. Perhaps you're not happy with your weight. Skip the elevator and take the stairs, in Jesus' name. There is a shadow! Do not be weary in well doing. In due season, we will reap, if we faint not (Galatians 6:9)! Due season is nigh. Count it all joy when you fall into divers temptations (James 1:2-12). God is just working patience in you. He is perfecting you. Endure, and you will receive the crown of life!

Be encouraged. God has said through his prophets that 2005 will be a year of increase for His people. Find the source of the shadow in your situation. Locate that one speck of light, and grab it. Expect great and mighty things. Your expectancy shapes your faith, and God moves based on your faith! Take heed, and seek the Lord while He may be found. Take inventory your life and be certain that your relationship with God is strong. Nevertheless, don't allow Satan's devices to discourage you. You are who God said you are, and what He has for you - it is for you, in Jesus' name!

Praise God, you are Hell Bent, but Heaven Bound, in Jesus' name. Rejoice and prepare your testimony!

Please click here to play an important audio message about being "Hell Bent, but Heaven Bound!"

Are You Hiring?

Resumé

Jesus Christ

Address: Ephesians 1:20
Phone: Romans 10:13
Website: The Bible. Keywords: Christ, Lord, Savior and Jesus

Hello. My name is Jesus -The Christ. Many call me Lord! I've sent you my resume because I'm seeking the top management position in your heart. Please consider my accomplishments as set forth in my resume.

Qualifications

· Founded the earth and established the heavens, (See Proverbs 3:19)

· Formed man from the dust of the ground, (See Genesis 2:7)

· Breathed into man the breath of life, (See Genesis 2:7)

· Redeemed man from the curse of the law, (See Galatians 3:13)

· Blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant come through me, (See Galatians 3:14)

Occupational Background

· Employed, eternally, by only One, (See Luke 2:49).

· Never been tardy, absent, disobedient, slothful or disrespectful.

· My employer has nothing but rave reviews for me, (See Matthew 3:15-17)

Skills & Work Experience

· Skills and work experiences include: empowering the poor to be poor no more, healing the brokenhearted, setting the captives free, healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind and setting at liberty them that are bruised, (See Luke 4:18).

· I am a Wonderful Counselor, (See Isaiah 9:6). People who listen to me shall dwell safely and shall not fear evil, (See Proverbs 1:33).

· Most importantly, I have the authority, ability and power to cleanse you of your sins, (See I John 1:7-9)

Educational Background

· I encompass the entire breadth and length of knowledge, wisdom and understanding, (See Proverbs 2:6).

· In me are hid all of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, (See Colossians 2:3).

· My Word is so powerful; it has been described as being a lamp unto your feet and a lamp unto your path, (See Psalms 119:105).

· I can even tell you all of the secrets of your heart, (See Psalms 44:21).

Major Accomplishments

· I was an active participant in the greatest Summit Meeting of all times, (See Genesis 1:26).

· I laid down my life so that you may live, (See II Corinthians 5:15).

· I defeated the archenemy of God and mankind and made a show of them openly, (See Colossians 2:15).

· I've miraculously fed the poor, healed the sick and raised the dead!

· There are many more major accomplishments, too many to mention here. You can read them on my website, which is located at: www dot - the BIBLE. You don't need an Internet connection or computer to access my website.

References

Believers and followers worldwide will testify to my divine healings, salvation, deliverance, miracles, restoration and supernatural guidance.

In Summation
Now that you've read my resume, I'm confident that I'm the only candidate uniquely qualified to fill this vital position in your heart. In summation, I will properly direct your paths, (See Proverbs 3:5-6), and lead you into everlasting life, (See John 6:47). When can I start? Time is of the essence, (See Hebrews 3:15).

What Does Your Barcode Say?

Praise God! As we all know, barcodes are used to identify items in an electronic manner. This keeps us from mixing the identities of products, and provides them a permanent and distinctive identity. Well, I work in the telecommunications industry, where barcodes are essential. They help us, not only to distinguish one product from another, but to determine the activity of whereabouts of each piece involved.

On my job, we recently encountered a problem with some boards. Our barcode scanners were entering some of the serial numbers into our system with a space in front of them. Needless to say, this caused some confusion. We soon began noticing that some serial numbers were duplicated in the system. One serial number would register with a space in the front, while another number, with the exact same digits, also existed in the system with no spaces. Well, the managerial team first concluded that the scanners were erroneously reading the barcodes on the cards, and therefore causing these numerous errors. Then, after more research, we discovered that the scanners were not making errors, but reading exactly what was on the barcodes. That's right. There were actually spaces coded into some of the barcodes.

Many of us have empty spaces in our lives as well. We think we are whole, but we have not allowed God to touch every part of our lives. Our Father is just like that laser in a barcode scanner. He sees exactly what is hard-coded in our lives. The normal eye cannot always see our weak points and our struggles, but God sees us exactly as we are. God speaks through His word and lets us know that we must be whole in order to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

Have you ever been to a grocery store and watched the cashier scan your items? Sometimes, it's necessary for them to scan the item more than once, so that the laser sees the entire barcode all at once. The laser recognizes the label, but only registers the information when it is exposed to the entire code all at once. This is just like God. If we are the barcodes, and He is the laser, God sees our lives and every secret thing. However, we must allow God's Spirit - His laser, if you will - to cover our entire life before we can be registered into the Lamb's Book of Life. Praise God!

If you have "holes" in your life today, God sees them. He can heal and set you free! Just remember, God scans our lives and He knows exactly what's there. When we expose our entire life, or barcode, to Him, we are then registered as His children through the blood of Jesus Christ!

A True Heart of Revival

My heart's desire is for the people of God to grow closer to our Heavenly Father. God desires a pure heart and a genuine desire to do His will. Personal revival is needed in this day and age. In fact, my prayer is that God be pleased with ME. I need to talk with Him more, listen to Him more and sacrifice my will for His whenever they differ. I thank God for David's example of a pure heart desiring more of Him.

David broke most of the commandments during his day, yet God refers to him as a man after His own heart. What a blessing! What a glorious thing to know that we can be reconciled to our Father despite our daily trangressions and disobedience. He simply desires that we seek His face, repent and spread His Word.

Look at this God we serve!!! There is none like Him, and He alone is worthy of the praise!!! Hallelujah!!!

Psalm 51
1 Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. 4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest. 5 Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me. 6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom. 7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. 8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice. 9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. 10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. 11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. 12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. 13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee. 14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness. 15 O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise. 16 For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering. 17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise. 18 Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou the walls of Jerusalem. 19 Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of righteousness, with burnt offering and whole burnt offering: then shall they offer bullocks upon thine altar.

Because of the Lord's Mercies...

Praise the Lord! I am so excited to serve such an awesome God! This morning, I was able to wake up, spend time with my family, take a warm shower, put on a nice suit, get into my car, and go to the house of worship to praise my God. My Pastor preached an awesome message. I praised God in the dance and in song. What an awesome experience I had.

Now, I think about all those who were not able to enjoy half the things I so often take for granted. How many people did not wake up this morning? How many wanted to spend time with family, but can't make a phone call or pay a visit? How many don't have running water? How many women don't have clothes for themselves nor their children. How many Christians in this world cannot go to a public place of worship for fear of their own lives? My God, you are so merciful towards us. We are so blessed for every opportunity to live life and serve our Father!

Lamentations 3:21-23
21. This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope.
22. It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.
23. They are new every morning: great is they faithfulness.

God, I thank you for your mercies. Each day, you allow us to start anew - a new opportunity to experience your goodness and give you praise. Lord, let us not forget all that you've done, all that you are doing, all that you will do, in Jesus' name. Great is your faithfulness, O God!

In this life, it is so easy to get bored with the mundane or discouraged with the disappointments we sometimes experience. Nevertheless, we must remember that God will not put more on us that we can bear (1 Cor 10:13). When we experience these feelings, we must recall, or remind ourselves of God's daily mercies. Saints of God, we cannot afford to take God's goodness for granted. Neither can we afford to waste our lives as we stand by broke, busted and disgusted! It is only because of God's grace, because of his mercies, that we are not consumed. Our sins, our feelings, our pasts, bad habits and lustful thoughts could easily destroy us, BUT GOD! Our Father sees fit to supply us with new mercies for each new day. Jesus Christ has already paid the price for all of us. His death on the cross was enough to cover our sins and heal our diseases. If He never does another thing, He's already done enough! Isn't it good to know that even after that, we have a daily dose of mercy with each new morning? Hallelujah!

Whenever you feel down or discouraged, recall or remember, what God has done and is doing in your life. Meditate on His goodness, His kindness, His mercy. Suddenly, life won't seem so boring. Suddenly, you won't feel so depressed. Suddenly, you will have HOPE. He is truly worthy of your praise. Hallelujah!

Calling All Women of God

Jeremiah 29
12 Who is the wise man, that may understand this? and who is he to whom the mouth of the LORD hath spoken, that he may declare it, for what the land perisheth and is burned up like a wilderness, that none passeth through?
13 And the LORD saith, Because they have forsaken my law which I set before them, and have not obeyed my voice, neither walked therein;
14 But have walked after the imagination of their own heart, and after Baalim, which their fathers taught them:
15 Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will feed them, even this people, with wormwood, and give them water of gall to drink.
16 I will scatter them also among the heathen, whom neither they nor their fathers have known: and I will send a sword after them, till I have consumed them.
17 Thus saith the LORD of hosts, Consider ye, and call for the mourning women, that they may come; and send for cunning women, that they may come:
18 And let them make haste, and take up a wailing for us, that our eyes may run down with tears, and our eyelids gush out with waters.
19 For a voice of wailing is heard out of Zion, How are we spoiled! we are greatly confounded, because we have forsaken the land, because our dwellings have cast us out.
20 Yet hear the word of the LORD, O ye women, and let your ear receive the word of his mouth, and teach your daughters wailing, and every one her neighbour lamentation.
21 For death is come up into our windows, and is entered into our palaces, to cut off the children from without, and the young men from the streets.
22 Speak, Thus saith the LORD, Even the carcases of men shall fall as dung upon the open field, and as the handful after the harvestman, and none shall gather them.
23 Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches:
24 But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.

Praise the Lord, women of God. This Scripture has been speaking in my Spirit since the Tsunamis hit Asia on December 26, 2004. Just a few weeks ago, an earthquake in the middle of the ocean simply wiped hundreds of thousands of people off the earth. Thirteen nations were impacted, and disease is still expected to kill more. As we pray for the survivors and the families of those lost, I believe God would have His people warned. He is still on the throne and judgment is coming!

We are living in a time and a nation (here in the USA) where the people of God are living "sloppy" lives. We need desperately, to patch up our relationships with God. Jesus is soon to come, and judgment begins at the house of God. Nevertheless, I believe God is calling the women in America to a season of intercession. Women are natural nurturers. We are emotional and carry the burdens of many on a day to day basis. I believe our Father wants us to do this natural thing on a spiritual level. We need to carry the burdens of sinners to God, especially those who are backslidden.

We also need to pray for the nations. Thousands of children have been orphaned by the recent tsunami. Widows are in abundance. They, too, need intercession on their behalf. We must cry out to God for those who can't cry themselves. We must seek Him for those who don't know how or where to look.

In the spirit, a tsunami has hit the church! My God! People are falling and dying by the hundreds of thousands. They cannot be found. They are unaccounted for. They are leaving orphans and widows in the church. Women attend church without their husbands. Husbands pray without their wives. Children worship without their parents. Unity must be brought back to the homes of believers. Then, it will go forth in the physical church and house of God.

Women of God, begin wailing for those who are spiritually dead! Pray for those spiritual survivors who are seeking family members and loved ones! A shaking has taken place, and God is calling us to intercede. Be fervent in prayer. The level of sin and disobedience should cause us to cry and to wail. Let's seek God for revival and renewed life, in Jesus' name.

AMEN