May it be recorded in the heavens that in the year of 2009 we have praised the LORD. Though, at times, He was surely angry with us, His anger was turned away because of His great mercies; which are renewed with the dawn of each day.
May it be said that we proclaimed that God is our salvation; We trusted in Him and were not afraid: For the LORD Jehovah is our strength and our song. He has become our salvation. Therefore, with joy we will draw water out of the wells of salvation. We have been saved from circumstances and failures over the past year that we do not realize. Only in eternity will we begin to comprehend how much He loved, protected, gave and forgave us over this last year.
On this last day of 2009, a year we will never to be relived by us, and on each day of the coming year may we done and continue to proclaim ~
I will praise the LORD and call upon His Name. I will declare His doings among the people, whether they are saved or unsaved, whether believers or agnostics. May we make mention that His Name is exalted in all of the earth.
Sing unto the LORD for He has done great things for us! Make this known in all of the earth. Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion; for Great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee! ( Isaiah 12:1-6)
HAPPY NEW YEAR, ONE AND ALL!
jrpeacher
And you shall seek Me, and find Me, when ye shall search for Me with all of your heart! (Jeremiah 29:13) The LORD is good to those that wait for Him; to the soul that seeks Him. (Lamentations 3:25)
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
The Seed Of Woman
The Seed of Promise ©December 20, 2009 Asher Intrater
When Adam and Eve sinned and fell under the dominion of Satan, God promised to redeem the earth through one He called "the seed of the woman" (Genesis 3:15). Eve had two sons. Satan obviously thought that the promised seed was Abel. Thus he influenced Cain to kill him (Genesis 4). As long as Satan could seduce sinners and kill the righteous, he could maintain control over the earth.
Then God gave to Eve another son/seed to replace Abel. His name was Seth (Genesis 4:25). The battle to get the promised seed into the world had begun.
From among Seth's children came Abraham. God made a covenant with him that the promised seed would come through his descendants. This seed of Abraham would be given ownership over planet earth (Genesis 12:7, 13:15, 15:18, 17:8); and through him all the nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:3; 22:18).
This seed promise was passed on to Isaac and then Jacob - both for possessing the earth (Genesis 24:7; 26:3; 28:4; 28:14; 35:12) and for blessing the nations (Genesis 26:4; 28:14).
The redemption of the earth and of the human race were passed on to this seed by covenant. Thus Abraham and his descendants had to protect both the seed and the covenant. If not, planet earth and the human race would perish.
Abraham had to separate Ishmael from Isaac; not because Isaac was better than Ishmael, but because of the marriage covenant between Abraham and Sarah. God could bless Ishmael, but the covenant had to be maintained through Isaac.
Abraham and Isaac both made tragic mistakes in giving their wives to other men, which endangered both the seed and the covenant. God had to intervene miraculously to rescue the seed, even at the risk of killing an innocent tribe (Genesis 12:10-20; 20:1-9; 26:7-11).
Esau made the mistake of selling his birthright – including the right to bear the seed of promise (Genesis 25). From that moment on, God had to respect the covenant right of Jacob, even though Esau was the older brother.
When Jacob married Leah, the covenant passed to her sons, even though Jacob loved Rachel more, and even though Jacob was married to Leah through deceit. Leah's first son, Reuben, lost his right because of sexual immorality. Shimon and Levy, the second and third sons, lost their right because of violence. Thus the covenant passed to Judah, the fourth son, who confirmed it the moment he offered his life to save Benjamin (Genesis 44:33).
The covenant seed was threatened by Dinah's involvement with Hamor. This resulted in the tragic murder of the Shechem tribe, which was a great sin on the one hand, yet preserved the seed lineage on the other hand (Genesis 34).
Judah almost ruined the covenant seed by his marriage to Bat Shuah, the Canaanite. The plan of redemption was rescued by Tamar, even though she had to "play the harlot" to do so (Genesis 38:26). The seed then passed to Peretz, who broke through (paratz) over his twin brother Zerah to gain the position of first born.
By the time of Moses, the descendants of Abraham had become so large in number that Satan couldn't figure out whom to try to kill. So he came up with the strategy to throw all the Hebrew male children into the river (Exodus 1).
The same satanic tactic to murder the Jewish people can be seen in Haman's attempt to kill the Jews in the book of Esther, in the murder of the innocents by Herod (Matthew 2:16-17), in Hitler's genocide by the Nazis, and in the modern efforts of Islamic Jihad. There is a spiritual connection between Haman and Ahmadinejad, who both served as head of government in Iran (Persia).
The laws of marital purity in the book of Leviticus served to protect the seed of the coming Messiah. Circumcision was a sign of the covenant destiny to preserve the seed of promise.
The seed was almost destroyed by the adultery of the Moabite women through the instruction of Balaam (Numbers 25:1), yet was later saved by Ruth, a righteous Moabite woman. Ruth became the bearer of the seed through Boaz. From Boaz came Obed, Jesse, and David (Ruth 4:21-22).
David received the seed promise from God through covenant (II Samuel 7:14), yet almost ruined the promise by his adultery with Bat Sheva. The son of that adultery died (II Samuel 12). Yet David's repentance restored the covenant. Solomon, David's next son through Bat Sheva, became the heir of the seed promise.
The evil Athaliah killed almost all of the royal seed, but the godly Yehosheva managed to rescue the last remaining son, Joash, from her hands (II Kings 11:1-2).
Ezra fought to preserve the promised seed from immorality and intermarriage (Ezra 9:2; 9:8; Nehemiah 9:2).
Throughout biblical history, there were attacks of murder on one side and sexual immorality on the other. If the seed had been destroyed, then God's plan of redemption would have been foiled. At the heart of the new covenant is found the promise that the Jewish people must be preserved, lest the creation itself be destroyed (Jeremiah 31:31-36; 33:20-22).
The first chapter of the New Testament traces the preservation of the seed of promise from Abraham through David unto Yeshua (Jesus). Orthodox Jewish women today, still waiting for the coming of Messiah, desire to have as many male children as possible, in the hopes that one of them might be the Messiah.
In many ways, the hopes of all Jewish women were fulfilled two thousand years ago, when Miriam (Mary), a young virgin of the house of David, gave birth in a manger outside Bethlehem. While we don't know the exact date, and while the commercialization of Christmas has become an anathema, the birth of the Messiah should be one of the greatest of all Jewish holidays. On that day our people fulfilled our covenant destiny to preserve the seed of redemption on behalf of the human race.
Back to Articles 2009Please PRAY for our ongoing ministry in Israel of indigenous evangelism, planting Messianic congregations, the discipleship training center, prophetic praise and prayer watches in Hebrew, and financial aid for the needy.
When Adam and Eve sinned and fell under the dominion of Satan, God promised to redeem the earth through one He called "the seed of the woman" (Genesis 3:15). Eve had two sons. Satan obviously thought that the promised seed was Abel. Thus he influenced Cain to kill him (Genesis 4). As long as Satan could seduce sinners and kill the righteous, he could maintain control over the earth.
Then God gave to Eve another son/seed to replace Abel. His name was Seth (Genesis 4:25). The battle to get the promised seed into the world had begun.
From among Seth's children came Abraham. God made a covenant with him that the promised seed would come through his descendants. This seed of Abraham would be given ownership over planet earth (Genesis 12:7, 13:15, 15:18, 17:8); and through him all the nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:3; 22:18).
This seed promise was passed on to Isaac and then Jacob - both for possessing the earth (Genesis 24:7; 26:3; 28:4; 28:14; 35:12) and for blessing the nations (Genesis 26:4; 28:14).
The redemption of the earth and of the human race were passed on to this seed by covenant. Thus Abraham and his descendants had to protect both the seed and the covenant. If not, planet earth and the human race would perish.
Abraham had to separate Ishmael from Isaac; not because Isaac was better than Ishmael, but because of the marriage covenant between Abraham and Sarah. God could bless Ishmael, but the covenant had to be maintained through Isaac.
Abraham and Isaac both made tragic mistakes in giving their wives to other men, which endangered both the seed and the covenant. God had to intervene miraculously to rescue the seed, even at the risk of killing an innocent tribe (Genesis 12:10-20; 20:1-9; 26:7-11).
Esau made the mistake of selling his birthright – including the right to bear the seed of promise (Genesis 25). From that moment on, God had to respect the covenant right of Jacob, even though Esau was the older brother.
When Jacob married Leah, the covenant passed to her sons, even though Jacob loved Rachel more, and even though Jacob was married to Leah through deceit. Leah's first son, Reuben, lost his right because of sexual immorality. Shimon and Levy, the second and third sons, lost their right because of violence. Thus the covenant passed to Judah, the fourth son, who confirmed it the moment he offered his life to save Benjamin (Genesis 44:33).
The covenant seed was threatened by Dinah's involvement with Hamor. This resulted in the tragic murder of the Shechem tribe, which was a great sin on the one hand, yet preserved the seed lineage on the other hand (Genesis 34).
Judah almost ruined the covenant seed by his marriage to Bat Shuah, the Canaanite. The plan of redemption was rescued by Tamar, even though she had to "play the harlot" to do so (Genesis 38:26). The seed then passed to Peretz, who broke through (paratz) over his twin brother Zerah to gain the position of first born.
By the time of Moses, the descendants of Abraham had become so large in number that Satan couldn't figure out whom to try to kill. So he came up with the strategy to throw all the Hebrew male children into the river (Exodus 1).
The same satanic tactic to murder the Jewish people can be seen in Haman's attempt to kill the Jews in the book of Esther, in the murder of the innocents by Herod (Matthew 2:16-17), in Hitler's genocide by the Nazis, and in the modern efforts of Islamic Jihad. There is a spiritual connection between Haman and Ahmadinejad, who both served as head of government in Iran (Persia).
The laws of marital purity in the book of Leviticus served to protect the seed of the coming Messiah. Circumcision was a sign of the covenant destiny to preserve the seed of promise.
The seed was almost destroyed by the adultery of the Moabite women through the instruction of Balaam (Numbers 25:1), yet was later saved by Ruth, a righteous Moabite woman. Ruth became the bearer of the seed through Boaz. From Boaz came Obed, Jesse, and David (Ruth 4:21-22).
David received the seed promise from God through covenant (II Samuel 7:14), yet almost ruined the promise by his adultery with Bat Sheva. The son of that adultery died (II Samuel 12). Yet David's repentance restored the covenant. Solomon, David's next son through Bat Sheva, became the heir of the seed promise.
The evil Athaliah killed almost all of the royal seed, but the godly Yehosheva managed to rescue the last remaining son, Joash, from her hands (II Kings 11:1-2).
Ezra fought to preserve the promised seed from immorality and intermarriage (Ezra 9:2; 9:8; Nehemiah 9:2).
Throughout biblical history, there were attacks of murder on one side and sexual immorality on the other. If the seed had been destroyed, then God's plan of redemption would have been foiled. At the heart of the new covenant is found the promise that the Jewish people must be preserved, lest the creation itself be destroyed (Jeremiah 31:31-36; 33:20-22).
The first chapter of the New Testament traces the preservation of the seed of promise from Abraham through David unto Yeshua (Jesus). Orthodox Jewish women today, still waiting for the coming of Messiah, desire to have as many male children as possible, in the hopes that one of them might be the Messiah.
In many ways, the hopes of all Jewish women were fulfilled two thousand years ago, when Miriam (Mary), a young virgin of the house of David, gave birth in a manger outside Bethlehem. While we don't know the exact date, and while the commercialization of Christmas has become an anathema, the birth of the Messiah should be one of the greatest of all Jewish holidays. On that day our people fulfilled our covenant destiny to preserve the seed of redemption on behalf of the human race.
Back to Articles 2009Please PRAY for our ongoing ministry in Israel of indigenous evangelism, planting Messianic congregations, the discipleship training center, prophetic praise and prayer watches in Hebrew, and financial aid for the needy.
Peace On Earth
Two thousand years ago an angel appeared and proclaimed peace on earth and goodwill to men. Another interpretation is peace on earth to men of goodwill. The birth of Christ was proclaimed in Jerusalem; all of this city inquired concerning the birth of this child of promise. king Herod asked the wise men to come back to him and report the child's whereabouts.
Consider the angel's proclamation in this context. Shortly thereafter, when the wise men were warned of God in a dream to not return to king Herod to report the child's birthplace, Herod had all male children murdered in an effort to kill the promised King of Israel.
Not a very peaceful prospect? What of the angel's words - peace on earth, goodwill to men? Quite a statement considering the events of the wicked king Herod! The Christ and both of His parents also had to flee to Egypt until king Herod had eventually died.
Is this not unlike our walk with Christ many times? Events contrary to the promises seem to happen. There are seasons when all seems to spin out of control in complete opposition to our prayers. This happens so that evil can be exposed. The exercise strengthens our faith and exposes all unbelief deeply hidden in our hearts. God gives His enemies ample time for repentance. All through this process our faith grows deeper. Just as a tree that has never been through a storm has shallow roots those that have been repeatedly buffeted through the years are the ones that were used for hundreds of years for ships built to cross over the oceans to settle the New World.
Our storms prepare us for the passage to our New World! We are citizens of another nation; an heavenly one. Regarding the words of this angel 2000 years ago, there is peace available for those who are in Jesus. It is our duty to appropriate this peace. We have to pursue it, desire it, seek after it.
The Word tells us to buy of Him gold purified in the fires. It is ours for the taking. This peace is not the stupor or the numb peace of the world but an inner knowing that God truly has everything under control. He is our Father. One day soon He will also accomplish His desire of the ages; the tabernacle of God will once and for all be with mankind in the New Jerusalem that comes down from heaven to rest on planet earth for the ages of eternity.
I cannot imagine such a thought! It is amazing enough to think of seeing Christ in our new glorified body like His, but to live in a city where the Father resides! What a Christmas thought for 2009. We are even now a new creation because of the God child taking to form of mankind; bearing our sin and iniquity on His holy body so that we could partake of His glory!
Jesus endured the pain of the cross for the joy that was set before Him. We must continue to do the same! It will be worth it all when we finally see Jesus!
Merry Christmas, may His peace reside in our hearts and minds right now, and for the entire new year of 2010! Look up, our redemption draws near!
Consider the angel's proclamation in this context. Shortly thereafter, when the wise men were warned of God in a dream to not return to king Herod to report the child's birthplace, Herod had all male children murdered in an effort to kill the promised King of Israel.
Not a very peaceful prospect? What of the angel's words - peace on earth, goodwill to men? Quite a statement considering the events of the wicked king Herod! The Christ and both of His parents also had to flee to Egypt until king Herod had eventually died.
Is this not unlike our walk with Christ many times? Events contrary to the promises seem to happen. There are seasons when all seems to spin out of control in complete opposition to our prayers. This happens so that evil can be exposed. The exercise strengthens our faith and exposes all unbelief deeply hidden in our hearts. God gives His enemies ample time for repentance. All through this process our faith grows deeper. Just as a tree that has never been through a storm has shallow roots those that have been repeatedly buffeted through the years are the ones that were used for hundreds of years for ships built to cross over the oceans to settle the New World.
Our storms prepare us for the passage to our New World! We are citizens of another nation; an heavenly one. Regarding the words of this angel 2000 years ago, there is peace available for those who are in Jesus. It is our duty to appropriate this peace. We have to pursue it, desire it, seek after it.
The Word tells us to buy of Him gold purified in the fires. It is ours for the taking. This peace is not the stupor or the numb peace of the world but an inner knowing that God truly has everything under control. He is our Father. One day soon He will also accomplish His desire of the ages; the tabernacle of God will once and for all be with mankind in the New Jerusalem that comes down from heaven to rest on planet earth for the ages of eternity.
I cannot imagine such a thought! It is amazing enough to think of seeing Christ in our new glorified body like His, but to live in a city where the Father resides! What a Christmas thought for 2009. We are even now a new creation because of the God child taking to form of mankind; bearing our sin and iniquity on His holy body so that we could partake of His glory!
Jesus endured the pain of the cross for the joy that was set before Him. We must continue to do the same! It will be worth it all when we finally see Jesus!
Merry Christmas, may His peace reside in our hearts and minds right now, and for the entire new year of 2010! Look up, our redemption draws near!
Monday, December 14, 2009
Pay Attention!
Psalm 92:5,6 ~
" O LORD, how great are Thy works! and Thy thoughts are very deep.
A brutish man knoweth not; neither doth a fool understand this."
I am realizing how important it is to pay attention to the way God does things. He does not change; He is the same from the beginning to the end. Yes, His mercies are renewed with the dawn of each day; much to our survival and benefit!
This Psalm speaks of those who do not know or pay attention as being brutish. The Hebrew interpretation of this word means to consume, to waste or burn, or to eat up. I have been guilty of this quite a few times in my life. The blessings of God to me are eaten up and consumed without my acknowledgement of where they came from. I must become much more sensitive to the works and ways of God. King David noticed, he paid attention to God's ways.
The verse also speaks of fools that do not recognize the works of God. This word means stupid silly people do not pay attention. Like the brutish, they consume and eat up what God gives and does, then they just wait for more and more. What a way to spend one's life; to be totally occupied with just eating up the works of the LORD, without acknowledging His ways; and then just waiting for more to consume!
Man is truly born in sin and selfishness! My prayer after examining these two verses is "LORD, make me sensitive to Thy works and Thy ways." God said that He would be found by those who search for Him with all of their heart. This absolutely excludes those who are brutish and foolish. There is no understanding of God in their actions or heart.
For example, this past week I did something I knew I should not have done. It was not gross sin but something not becoming of a Believer in Christ. Shortly thereafter, I lost the Presence that is with me most of the time. I knew that I grieved the LORD and He removed Himself for several days. I am not saying that I was lost for those days; I am saying that the close communion, the constant Presence that is available was distant and not so readily available. There was a sense in my spirit that I had done something that was not pleasing.
Although I repented with prayer, tears and crying, He stayed away for a season. For me, this is one of His ways. I must understand this and apply this fact the next time I feel a check in my spirit not to do something, ask for strength to resist the enemy, and battle through the circumstance. The season of feeling like I was "on my own" was brief. He was with me but we were not in close communion. I still praised Him in prayer and song, but I knew He was displeased. In His great, unmeasurable mercies He finally accepted my petitions, forgave, and returned in the measure of my repentance.
When we err, as we will, repent immediately. Do not get discouraged if He stays aloft for a season, a very short season, but it is very noticeable and very troublesome. Keep praying, praising and He will return in His fullness as only He can.
As the Psalmist says, " How great are Thy works (and His ways), Thy thoughts are very deep. " Do not be brutish and foolish concerning His works and His ways. Pay attention to what brings Him closer to our spirit and the things that cause a distance.
There is nothing more fearful and troublesome than for the Presence of God to be removed from one whose very life depends upon Him for their very survival; and we fall into that catagory. The battles will intensify as He prepares to return and set up His Kingdom. The enemy knows the time is short and he is pulling out all of the stops to try to make us fail and lose faith in our Saviour.
Do not lose heart! If we draw near to Him, He promised that He would draw near to us. Stay in His presence through song, prayer, repentance and praise.
" O LORD, how great are Thy works! and Thy thoughts are very deep.
A brutish man knoweth not; neither doth a fool understand this."
I am realizing how important it is to pay attention to the way God does things. He does not change; He is the same from the beginning to the end. Yes, His mercies are renewed with the dawn of each day; much to our survival and benefit!
This Psalm speaks of those who do not know or pay attention as being brutish. The Hebrew interpretation of this word means to consume, to waste or burn, or to eat up. I have been guilty of this quite a few times in my life. The blessings of God to me are eaten up and consumed without my acknowledgement of where they came from. I must become much more sensitive to the works and ways of God. King David noticed, he paid attention to God's ways.
The verse also speaks of fools that do not recognize the works of God. This word means stupid silly people do not pay attention. Like the brutish, they consume and eat up what God gives and does, then they just wait for more and more. What a way to spend one's life; to be totally occupied with just eating up the works of the LORD, without acknowledging His ways; and then just waiting for more to consume!
Man is truly born in sin and selfishness! My prayer after examining these two verses is "LORD, make me sensitive to Thy works and Thy ways." God said that He would be found by those who search for Him with all of their heart. This absolutely excludes those who are brutish and foolish. There is no understanding of God in their actions or heart.
For example, this past week I did something I knew I should not have done. It was not gross sin but something not becoming of a Believer in Christ. Shortly thereafter, I lost the Presence that is with me most of the time. I knew that I grieved the LORD and He removed Himself for several days. I am not saying that I was lost for those days; I am saying that the close communion, the constant Presence that is available was distant and not so readily available. There was a sense in my spirit that I had done something that was not pleasing.
Although I repented with prayer, tears and crying, He stayed away for a season. For me, this is one of His ways. I must understand this and apply this fact the next time I feel a check in my spirit not to do something, ask for strength to resist the enemy, and battle through the circumstance. The season of feeling like I was "on my own" was brief. He was with me but we were not in close communion. I still praised Him in prayer and song, but I knew He was displeased. In His great, unmeasurable mercies He finally accepted my petitions, forgave, and returned in the measure of my repentance.
When we err, as we will, repent immediately. Do not get discouraged if He stays aloft for a season, a very short season, but it is very noticeable and very troublesome. Keep praying, praising and He will return in His fullness as only He can.
As the Psalmist says, " How great are Thy works (and His ways), Thy thoughts are very deep. " Do not be brutish and foolish concerning His works and His ways. Pay attention to what brings Him closer to our spirit and the things that cause a distance.
There is nothing more fearful and troublesome than for the Presence of God to be removed from one whose very life depends upon Him for their very survival; and we fall into that catagory. The battles will intensify as He prepares to return and set up His Kingdom. The enemy knows the time is short and he is pulling out all of the stops to try to make us fail and lose faith in our Saviour.
Do not lose heart! If we draw near to Him, He promised that He would draw near to us. Stay in His presence through song, prayer, repentance and praise.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
4000 Years Of Blessings
According to Rabbinic tradition, if I am not mistaken, it has been approximately 4000 years since our spiritual father Abraham was favored by God because of his unwavering faith. While reading from my father's old Bible last evening, a Dake's Bible/Concordance, there were 48 blessings God promised to Abraham and his seed forever.
I base my thoughts today on Galatians 3:29 which were written by a man who called himself a Pharisee of the Pharisee's; the Apostle Paul. He said, " And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."
While reading over the list of promises and applying them to my life of 55 years, I am amazed at how they have come to fruition throughout my life. Each Believer can read down this list and apply the fulfilled promises to your life also.
Here are just a few:
* I will show you the land (Genesis 12:1)
I have seen the land. I went to Israel years ago and walked throughout the land from the border of Lebanon to Jerusalem and beyond. We each have seen the "land" wherever we may be. It is a land that had to be conquered with the help of the Almighty. Each of us have faced giants and enemies in our lives; the land has proven to be a fruitful land as we have each yielded and depended upon God to help us fight our battles. Some battles He has declared that the battle is His; He brought us through to victory.
* I will make of you a great nation (Genesis 12:2) - and in you all of the nations of the earth will be blessed (Genesis 12:3 - 22:18)
These promises apply to all who have given to missions either here or abroad. There are many nations that have been blessed through our support by hearing of the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (and our God!)
* I will make you fruitful Genesis 17:20
How much more fruitful can we be than to exhibit grace, forgiveness, mercy, salvation and the other attributes of the Spirit of God that lives in us? This is not only fruit to those we meet on a daily basis; it is eternal fruit that we will see only when we get to Heaven. God keeps track; He has good record keepers!
* Your seed ( us ) will be victors over their enemies (Genesis 22:17)
We all know who our ultimate enemy is; we fight with his forces daily. What the enemy means for harm throughout these struggles work out the graces of God and strengthen our spiritual muscle which follow us into eternity. There will be no spiritual midgets in heaven. We have victory over lust, debt, anger, faithlessness, and other issues through the price that Christ paid for us on the cross. Our victories are through Him.
* I will bring your seed out of bondage (Genesis 15: 14-16)
The bondage of sin and shame, guilt and unbelief have been conquered through our salvation and faith in Christ Jesus. We have been set free through the blood of the Lamb!
* I AM your shield (Genesis 15:1 - I AM your great reward (Genesis 15:1)
He who watches over Israel (both physical and spiritual) never slumbers or sleeps! (Psalm 121)
* I will make your name great ( Genesis Genesis 12:2)
What could possibly be greater than being a child of the living God!
* He will punish our oppressor's (Genesis 15:14) - He will curse those who curse us (Genesis 12:3)
This is where the teachings of Christ are applied in our lives. His graces working out in our everyday life. Do we intercede for those who oppress us? Do we love and pray "Father forgive them" as Christ did? This is true maturity in Christ. A daily battle; one of our enemies to fight and gain the victory over as we live on this planet growing darker in sin. As the days progress to His glorious coming, this will be a daily battle. The victory only come as we stay in Him.
* I will not destroy Sodom if I find 50,40,30,20 or 10 righteous ( Genesis 18:26-32)
We will not know until the day of judgment just how many have come into the Kingdom of God as a result of our prayers and intercession. Abraham was a man of intercession and so are we when we lift up the lost and dying. We have boldness to enter into the throne of grace to lift up our friends, relatives, coworkers and neighbors. Our prayers carry great weight as we pray through Christ for the lost. The effectual fervent prayers of a righteous person carries much weight with God, just as Abraham did.
* I will bless your seed with great material substance (Genesis 15:14)
Compared with most of the world, Believers in our nation are truly blessed. What do we do with this blessing? This is where the test comes; do we give to the poor, clothe the naked, visit the sick and those in jail. A jail can be an addiction, a broken home, a widow or child in distress. The nations are blessed by our giving of our blessings from God.
* I will make you exceedingly fruitful (Genesis 17:6 ) - I will be a God to you and your seed (Genesis 17:7) - I will multiply you exceedingly (Genesis 17:2 and Genesis 22:17)
Abraham's seed has truly been multiplied. God has been faithful to His promises for 4000 years. His fruitfulness has multiplied until the number has truly become as the stars of the heavens (Genesis 15:5 and Genesis 22:7) and the sand of the sea (Genesis 22:17)
God has truly made a covenant with each of us, Abraham's seed, for eternity! (Genesis 17:7)
We can truly cry ~
" Now unto the King eternal,
immortal, invisible,
the only wise God,
be honor and glory
forever and ever.
AMEN!
(I Timothy 1:17)
I base my thoughts today on Galatians 3:29 which were written by a man who called himself a Pharisee of the Pharisee's; the Apostle Paul. He said, " And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."
While reading over the list of promises and applying them to my life of 55 years, I am amazed at how they have come to fruition throughout my life. Each Believer can read down this list and apply the fulfilled promises to your life also.
Here are just a few:
* I will show you the land (Genesis 12:1)
I have seen the land. I went to Israel years ago and walked throughout the land from the border of Lebanon to Jerusalem and beyond. We each have seen the "land" wherever we may be. It is a land that had to be conquered with the help of the Almighty. Each of us have faced giants and enemies in our lives; the land has proven to be a fruitful land as we have each yielded and depended upon God to help us fight our battles. Some battles He has declared that the battle is His; He brought us through to victory.
* I will make of you a great nation (Genesis 12:2) - and in you all of the nations of the earth will be blessed (Genesis 12:3 - 22:18)
These promises apply to all who have given to missions either here or abroad. There are many nations that have been blessed through our support by hearing of the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (and our God!)
* I will make you fruitful Genesis 17:20
How much more fruitful can we be than to exhibit grace, forgiveness, mercy, salvation and the other attributes of the Spirit of God that lives in us? This is not only fruit to those we meet on a daily basis; it is eternal fruit that we will see only when we get to Heaven. God keeps track; He has good record keepers!
* Your seed ( us ) will be victors over their enemies (Genesis 22:17)
We all know who our ultimate enemy is; we fight with his forces daily. What the enemy means for harm throughout these struggles work out the graces of God and strengthen our spiritual muscle which follow us into eternity. There will be no spiritual midgets in heaven. We have victory over lust, debt, anger, faithlessness, and other issues through the price that Christ paid for us on the cross. Our victories are through Him.
* I will bring your seed out of bondage (Genesis 15: 14-16)
The bondage of sin and shame, guilt and unbelief have been conquered through our salvation and faith in Christ Jesus. We have been set free through the blood of the Lamb!
* I AM your shield (Genesis 15:1 - I AM your great reward (Genesis 15:1)
He who watches over Israel (both physical and spiritual) never slumbers or sleeps! (Psalm 121)
* I will make your name great ( Genesis Genesis 12:2)
What could possibly be greater than being a child of the living God!
* He will punish our oppressor's (Genesis 15:14) - He will curse those who curse us (Genesis 12:3)
This is where the teachings of Christ are applied in our lives. His graces working out in our everyday life. Do we intercede for those who oppress us? Do we love and pray "Father forgive them" as Christ did? This is true maturity in Christ. A daily battle; one of our enemies to fight and gain the victory over as we live on this planet growing darker in sin. As the days progress to His glorious coming, this will be a daily battle. The victory only come as we stay in Him.
* I will not destroy Sodom if I find 50,40,30,20 or 10 righteous ( Genesis 18:26-32)
We will not know until the day of judgment just how many have come into the Kingdom of God as a result of our prayers and intercession. Abraham was a man of intercession and so are we when we lift up the lost and dying. We have boldness to enter into the throne of grace to lift up our friends, relatives, coworkers and neighbors. Our prayers carry great weight as we pray through Christ for the lost. The effectual fervent prayers of a righteous person carries much weight with God, just as Abraham did.
* I will bless your seed with great material substance (Genesis 15:14)
Compared with most of the world, Believers in our nation are truly blessed. What do we do with this blessing? This is where the test comes; do we give to the poor, clothe the naked, visit the sick and those in jail. A jail can be an addiction, a broken home, a widow or child in distress. The nations are blessed by our giving of our blessings from God.
* I will make you exceedingly fruitful (Genesis 17:6 ) - I will be a God to you and your seed (Genesis 17:7) - I will multiply you exceedingly (Genesis 17:2 and Genesis 22:17)
Abraham's seed has truly been multiplied. God has been faithful to His promises for 4000 years. His fruitfulness has multiplied until the number has truly become as the stars of the heavens (Genesis 15:5 and Genesis 22:7) and the sand of the sea (Genesis 22:17)
God has truly made a covenant with each of us, Abraham's seed, for eternity! (Genesis 17:7)
We can truly cry ~
" Now unto the King eternal,
immortal, invisible,
the only wise God,
be honor and glory
forever and ever.
AMEN!
(I Timothy 1:17)
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Spirit of Job
We know the trials and tribulation of Job. I think the background of his three "comforters" is of interest. Their names as given were Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar. The root meaning of the names may give a picture of all supposed comforters in our hour of great trial; whether the trial or testing be from God or a frontal assault from an enemy.
The root meaning of Eliphaz is "god of gold". This implies this person worshipped the god of success, wealth and material things. These three told Job nothing bad would have happened unless there was some sin in his past. Eliphaz was also a descendant of Esau, whom God hated.
Bildad means to bow down; to sink into a pit or ditch. This fellow must have had a very negative outlook on life. The last of Job's comforters mentioned was Zophar. This name means to skip about, to depart early. It infers this type person stays until the going gets rough. They skip about to whatever new is happening.
What did God think of these three comforters? Job 38:1,2 God says "WHO IS THIS that darkens counsel by words without knowledge"? All three men, whose name means ones who worship the god of wealth, those who depress or have a negative outlook and those who stick around until the going gets difficult were guilty of speaking about God in an improper manner.
These three are blessed that they had a friend in Job. A man of integrity, mercy and forgiveness. Job willingly admitted his failure to God in understanding his trial. If not for Job, his three friends may not have survived their encounter with the Almighty. God told the three in Job 42: 7-9 that His wrath was kindled against them~ they spoke things and give opinions that were incorrect.
God demanded of the three to take bullocks and rams, go to Job and offer up for themselves a burnt offering. If Job prayed for them, He would forgive them. If Job would not in infers that God would deal with the three according to their folly.
Job's friends did as they were told. The grace of Job saved them. Verse 10 says " the LORD turned the captivity of Job when he prayed for his friends." The LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before the calamities struck.
Do we have the spirit of Job? When friends bring comfort, advice, or opinion to our table that may not be correct do we intercede on their behalf, no matter what they say? Do we have the fruit of the Spirit, " The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance...? (Galatians 5:22)
If these gifts are absent do I still claim to have the Spirit of God operating freely in my life? How can this be? Am I quick to judge and condemn? If Job were of such a spirit his friends would have probably been removed from the earth for their error. His intercession on their behalf resulted in their being saved and it brought Job great blessing.
King David said the LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. (Psalm 103:8) Am I? If not I need to examine what spirit controls my actions. Perhaps, If God does not bring many to me it is because He knows what spirit I am of? God trusted Job. He had confidence of the end result of Job's great trial. Does He have confidence in me?
I could possibly excuse myself from these requirements of grace by saying I live in the last of days - the spirit of darkness is growing - I am surrounded by wickedness on every side - so I am excused. No, never excused!
No one was more beaten, persecuted, tormented or under more stress than the Apostle Paul. In his writings to the church at Corinth he says, "I, Paul, myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ...." (2 Corinthians 10).
Paul living in meekness and gentleness. Job going through trials the likes of which none of us will ever see, yet, interceding for his friends who were in error. Christ being perfect and without sin, yet, dying for the sins of the world. What Spirit am I of? I must examine myself daily.
Time is short. Multitudes are in the valley of decision. Their decision may be a direct result of how I live, witness, intercede and pray. Walk humbly before God. May the fruit of the Spirit of Christ, and no other spirit, rule and reign in our hearts and minds, daily.
The root meaning of Eliphaz is "god of gold". This implies this person worshipped the god of success, wealth and material things. These three told Job nothing bad would have happened unless there was some sin in his past. Eliphaz was also a descendant of Esau, whom God hated.
Bildad means to bow down; to sink into a pit or ditch. This fellow must have had a very negative outlook on life. The last of Job's comforters mentioned was Zophar. This name means to skip about, to depart early. It infers this type person stays until the going gets rough. They skip about to whatever new is happening.
What did God think of these three comforters? Job 38:1,2 God says "WHO IS THIS that darkens counsel by words without knowledge"? All three men, whose name means ones who worship the god of wealth, those who depress or have a negative outlook and those who stick around until the going gets difficult were guilty of speaking about God in an improper manner.
These three are blessed that they had a friend in Job. A man of integrity, mercy and forgiveness. Job willingly admitted his failure to God in understanding his trial. If not for Job, his three friends may not have survived their encounter with the Almighty. God told the three in Job 42: 7-9 that His wrath was kindled against them~ they spoke things and give opinions that were incorrect.
God demanded of the three to take bullocks and rams, go to Job and offer up for themselves a burnt offering. If Job prayed for them, He would forgive them. If Job would not in infers that God would deal with the three according to their folly.
Job's friends did as they were told. The grace of Job saved them. Verse 10 says " the LORD turned the captivity of Job when he prayed for his friends." The LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before the calamities struck.
Do we have the spirit of Job? When friends bring comfort, advice, or opinion to our table that may not be correct do we intercede on their behalf, no matter what they say? Do we have the fruit of the Spirit, " The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance...? (Galatians 5:22)
If these gifts are absent do I still claim to have the Spirit of God operating freely in my life? How can this be? Am I quick to judge and condemn? If Job were of such a spirit his friends would have probably been removed from the earth for their error. His intercession on their behalf resulted in their being saved and it brought Job great blessing.
King David said the LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. (Psalm 103:8) Am I? If not I need to examine what spirit controls my actions. Perhaps, If God does not bring many to me it is because He knows what spirit I am of? God trusted Job. He had confidence of the end result of Job's great trial. Does He have confidence in me?
I could possibly excuse myself from these requirements of grace by saying I live in the last of days - the spirit of darkness is growing - I am surrounded by wickedness on every side - so I am excused. No, never excused!
No one was more beaten, persecuted, tormented or under more stress than the Apostle Paul. In his writings to the church at Corinth he says, "I, Paul, myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ...." (2 Corinthians 10).
Paul living in meekness and gentleness. Job going through trials the likes of which none of us will ever see, yet, interceding for his friends who were in error. Christ being perfect and without sin, yet, dying for the sins of the world. What Spirit am I of? I must examine myself daily.
Time is short. Multitudes are in the valley of decision. Their decision may be a direct result of how I live, witness, intercede and pray. Walk humbly before God. May the fruit of the Spirit of Christ, and no other spirit, rule and reign in our hearts and minds, daily.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Prepare Ourselves
Preparing the Church for the Second Coming
©November 29, 2009 Asher Intrater
Over the past couple of years the Holy Spirit has been impressing on my heart this mandate: "Prepare the Church for the Second Coming of Yeshua (Jesus)." This impression has come particularly in the context of using international media to teach on the issues of Israel, the Church, and the End Times.
[By the "Church" here I do not refer to any Christian religious institution; but to the grass roots, international community of true born again, Spirit-filled believers. This group is referred to as the "Body of Messiah" and as the "Bride of Messiah."]
Revelation 19:7-8 – The marriage of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready.
Luke 1:17 – …go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah… to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.
Because Yeshua will come back to Jerusalem, there will be ever increasing spiritual conflict in the end times concerning Israel. So this mandate could also be phrased, "Prepare the Church to stand with Israel in the end times." Just as with Queen Esther, the Church will be tested to stand with the Jewish people against Jihad and anti-Semitism. She will "come to the kingdom for such a time as this (Esther 4:14)."
What spiritual qualities does the Church need to be ready for the Second Coming?
Purity – Since Yeshua is coming for a pure and spotless bride, the people of God must walk in holiness and hold uncompromisingly to the truth of the word of God.
Glory – As we experience intimacy with God through Yeshua the Messiah, His eternal glory and power will flow into us and through us more and more.
Spiritual Warfare – Since there will be great wars and tribulations leading up to the 2nd Coming, the body of Messiah must be ready to do our part in prayer and prophecy, as well as practical measures, and be sealed with the protection of the Holy Spirit (Revelation 7:3).
Covenant – Biblical faith is not academic or philosophical alone. It is covenantal. Covenant is a two-way eternal divine contract between God and man that demands us to walk in integrity and loyalty.
Taking the Land – Yeshua is coming back to reclaim the earth and to throw the devil off the planet. As the people of Israel conquered the land of Israel in the time of Joshua, so will the international Church take possession of planet earth at the 2nd Coming of Jesus.
Government – Those who rise in the first resurrection will rule and reign with Yeshua for a thousand years. Now is the time for us to be developing the character qualities of judgment, authority, discernment, and government so that we will be able to rule with Him.
Unified in love – As we love Him more, we will love all those whom He loves. Love leads us to reconciliation; reconciliation to relationship; relationship to cooperation; cooperation to world evangelism and revival.
©November 29, 2009 Asher Intrater
Over the past couple of years the Holy Spirit has been impressing on my heart this mandate: "Prepare the Church for the Second Coming of Yeshua (Jesus)." This impression has come particularly in the context of using international media to teach on the issues of Israel, the Church, and the End Times.
[By the "Church" here I do not refer to any Christian religious institution; but to the grass roots, international community of true born again, Spirit-filled believers. This group is referred to as the "Body of Messiah" and as the "Bride of Messiah."]
Revelation 19:7-8 – The marriage of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready.
Luke 1:17 – …go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah… to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.
Because Yeshua will come back to Jerusalem, there will be ever increasing spiritual conflict in the end times concerning Israel. So this mandate could also be phrased, "Prepare the Church to stand with Israel in the end times." Just as with Queen Esther, the Church will be tested to stand with the Jewish people against Jihad and anti-Semitism. She will "come to the kingdom for such a time as this (Esther 4:14)."
What spiritual qualities does the Church need to be ready for the Second Coming?
Purity – Since Yeshua is coming for a pure and spotless bride, the people of God must walk in holiness and hold uncompromisingly to the truth of the word of God.
Glory – As we experience intimacy with God through Yeshua the Messiah, His eternal glory and power will flow into us and through us more and more.
Spiritual Warfare – Since there will be great wars and tribulations leading up to the 2nd Coming, the body of Messiah must be ready to do our part in prayer and prophecy, as well as practical measures, and be sealed with the protection of the Holy Spirit (Revelation 7:3).
Covenant – Biblical faith is not academic or philosophical alone. It is covenantal. Covenant is a two-way eternal divine contract between God and man that demands us to walk in integrity and loyalty.
Taking the Land – Yeshua is coming back to reclaim the earth and to throw the devil off the planet. As the people of Israel conquered the land of Israel in the time of Joshua, so will the international Church take possession of planet earth at the 2nd Coming of Jesus.
Government – Those who rise in the first resurrection will rule and reign with Yeshua for a thousand years. Now is the time for us to be developing the character qualities of judgment, authority, discernment, and government so that we will be able to rule with Him.
Unified in love – As we love Him more, we will love all those whom He loves. Love leads us to reconciliation; reconciliation to relationship; relationship to cooperation; cooperation to world evangelism and revival.
Nearness Of God-Francis Frangipane Ministry
In the 73rd Psalm, the psalmist Asaph expressed a struggle we all might feel at times. He questioned why the wicked seem to prosper while the righteous are chastened. The whole idea was troublesome until he entered the sanctuary of God. Once in the presence of God, Asaph realized his error. As he compared himself to the unbeliever, he saw that, apart from the influence of God, he had nothing in which to boast. He said, "When my heart was embittered and I was pierced with-in, then I was senseless and ignorant; I was like a beast be-fore You" (vv. 21-22).
Finally, his soul brightened as he considered that God alone was his salvation, and his relationship with God was his strength. He wrote, "Nevertheless I am continually with You … You will guide me, and afterward receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but You? And besides You, I desire nothing on earth … God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever" (vv. 23-26).
The summary thought of Asaph's revelation, and the point of this chapter, is in verse 28. He wrote, "But as for me, the nearness of God is my good."
Let's settle this truth once and for all: It is the nearness of God that produces our good. Christianity was never designed by God to be sustained by nice people trying to appear good. We're not that good. We're not that clever. And we're not that nice. The only thing that can sustain true Christianity is true union with Jesus Christ. It is nearness to Him in all things that produces our spiritual fruit.
If we are honest, we will admit that, apart from the influence and work of God, there is nothing morally superior or remarkably virtuous about our lives. Our flesh has the same carnal passions as do people in the world; our soul carries within it the same insecurities and fears. Thus, apart from the influence of Christ in us, there's no difference between Christians and non-Christians (except that Christians, when living separate from God's presence, can be more obnoxious). It's only our relationship with the Lord that keeps us from fulfilling the lusts and desires of the flesh, for apart from Him we can do nothing ( John 15:5).
Therefore, the strength of our walk does not originate from within ourselves; rather it comes from our relationship with Christ. Our virtue, if it can be defined as such, is that we have learned to prioritize seeking God; our character is the offspring of our oneness with Jesus. By this I mean, Jesus is not only first on our list of priorities; His influence rules over all our priorities. He inspires love in our relationships; His voice becomes the conviction in our integrity. God has made "Christ Jesus" to be to us "wisdom … and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption" (1 Cor. 1:30).
Thus, the God-seeker desires to find the Lord's pleasure drawn to every aspect of his soul. He also knows that, should an area of his heart exist in isolation from God, he will remain vulnerable to manipulation by the enemy in that area. So let me underscore the psalmist's truth, and let us say with our own voice of conviction: it is the nearness of our God that is our good.
Oh God, You are the lover of my soul. Faithfully, have You extended Your hands toward me. Yet, I have been, at times, a drifter and distant. Master, this day I acknowledge my most wonderful times are those spent close to You. When my heart is near to You, I am partaking of the nectar of life.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
His Ambassador's
Christ said that His Kingdom is not of this world. He will come one day soon to set up His Kingdom on earth, centered in Jerusalem, but for now we are His ambassador representing His heavenly kingdom.
As such, what are our attributes; how are we identified as being His representatives? Matthew 5 through 7 give an all encompassing picture.
We must be poor in spirit; not consumed with ourselves, arrogant, heady or head strong. Even though we mourn at times, we know we will be comforted. We are blessed when we are meek, not proud. Although we are poor in heart we are confident that we will see God in the near future.
As peacemakers we are called children of God. We do not seek confrontation, arguments, or turmoil; we live in a kingdom where He gives peace. Not the peace of the world which is temporal, but eternal peace that is available to us now. When reviled, persecuted and spoken evil of for Christ's sake, and we will be, we obtain the kingdom of heaven; even now.
We always hunger and thirst after righteousness (our desire is to do what is right). We tend to be merciful because we know that mercy has been shown to us by Him. As His ambassadors we are lights shining in great darkness; a city on a hill that cannot be overthrown. We are the salt of the earth; preserving what remains of righteousness. The enemy cannot ruin our savor as we stay continually in Him.
All of our good works bring glory to the Father. Regarding the Law, our Saviour met all of the requirements of the Law on our behalf. Therefore, no matter what the enemy says to our mind, there IS NO condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus. That is the key-stay in Christ Jesus.
As we display His kingdom attributes others will follow; they see Christ in us. As we lead, instruct and pray for those drawn to Him through our witness we become great in the Kingdom of God. One lost soul won for God, in His eyes, is worth the weight of the entire world. Do not get discouraged if only one comes; in God's eyes this is of great, eternal value.
We strive to treat others with kindness and gentleness; for so did Christ when He was here among us. This can only happen as we yield to the Spirit of Christ working in us. Do not hold grudges. Have a clean pure heart. As the priests in the time of the Temple worship in the days of old, we must cleanse ourselves daily through the washing of the Word, prayer and praise. The LORD inhabits the praise of His people. Need more of Him? Praise Him more!
Psalm 50:23 " Who so offereth praise glorifieth Me; and to Him that ordereth his conversation aright will I show the salvation of God."
Psalm 100:4 " Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise; be thankful unto Him, and bless his name."
Do I want to know God as well as King David did? Look at what David wrote ~
Psalm 119:164 " Seven times a day do I praise Thee because of Thy righteous judgments." And Psalm 35:28 " My tongue shall speak of Thy righteousness and of Thy praise all the day long!"
As such, what are our attributes; how are we identified as being His representatives? Matthew 5 through 7 give an all encompassing picture.
We must be poor in spirit; not consumed with ourselves, arrogant, heady or head strong. Even though we mourn at times, we know we will be comforted. We are blessed when we are meek, not proud. Although we are poor in heart we are confident that we will see God in the near future.
As peacemakers we are called children of God. We do not seek confrontation, arguments, or turmoil; we live in a kingdom where He gives peace. Not the peace of the world which is temporal, but eternal peace that is available to us now. When reviled, persecuted and spoken evil of for Christ's sake, and we will be, we obtain the kingdom of heaven; even now.
We always hunger and thirst after righteousness (our desire is to do what is right). We tend to be merciful because we know that mercy has been shown to us by Him. As His ambassadors we are lights shining in great darkness; a city on a hill that cannot be overthrown. We are the salt of the earth; preserving what remains of righteousness. The enemy cannot ruin our savor as we stay continually in Him.
All of our good works bring glory to the Father. Regarding the Law, our Saviour met all of the requirements of the Law on our behalf. Therefore, no matter what the enemy says to our mind, there IS NO condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus. That is the key-stay in Christ Jesus.
As we display His kingdom attributes others will follow; they see Christ in us. As we lead, instruct and pray for those drawn to Him through our witness we become great in the Kingdom of God. One lost soul won for God, in His eyes, is worth the weight of the entire world. Do not get discouraged if only one comes; in God's eyes this is of great, eternal value.
We strive to treat others with kindness and gentleness; for so did Christ when He was here among us. This can only happen as we yield to the Spirit of Christ working in us. Do not hold grudges. Have a clean pure heart. As the priests in the time of the Temple worship in the days of old, we must cleanse ourselves daily through the washing of the Word, prayer and praise. The LORD inhabits the praise of His people. Need more of Him? Praise Him more!
Psalm 50:23 " Who so offereth praise glorifieth Me; and to Him that ordereth his conversation aright will I show the salvation of God."
Psalm 100:4 " Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise; be thankful unto Him, and bless his name."
Do I want to know God as well as King David did? Look at what David wrote ~
Psalm 119:164 " Seven times a day do I praise Thee because of Thy righteous judgments." And Psalm 35:28 " My tongue shall speak of Thy righteousness and of Thy praise all the day long!"
Sure signs of His ambassador's are their willingness to pray for their enemies. They give willingly expecting nothing in return. They do good to those who hate them. Thus, we truly belong to our Father in Heaven. Christ is our example. Even God sends His good rain on both the just and unjust.
Do not give to be seen by others; give where there is need without thought of repayment. Our reward is in the heavens. Have a place of prayer, a closet, a room, a place in park or wood; Jesus disappeared often to be alone with the Father. And Jesus was God!
Pray as Christ instructed; Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done. Not only to come at some future date, but Thy Kingdom come now! The phrase in the Greek for Thy Kingdom come means to appear, to enter, NOW. Thy will be done, NOW, in my actions and in my situation.
We forgive freely, as we have been forgiven. We show mercy to others and will be shown mercy in the same degree by our Father. We lay up treasure in Heaven. Where our treasure is, so is our heart. We keep our eye single, clear, focused. Like a horse with blinders on, we are not distracted by our surroundings. We keep our eyes on Christ.
Do not fret over our life. We are in His hands. He holds our very breath in His hand. Do not fret over food, shelter or clothing. The One who feeds the little birds and clothes the grasses and flowers knows how to feed, shelter and cloth His children.
Seek the Kingdom of God first and foremost. The Father knows what we need today, tomorrow and ten years from now if Jesus tarries a little while longer. Tomorrow will take care of itself. He controls all things; stay in Him.
The Kingdom of Heaven is within you! (Luke 17:21) It is in the here an now! Christ's Kingdom is not of this world, yet, His spiritual Kingdom is here and now in us. There is great authority available to us, in the now. Mountains of deceit, unbelief and sickness have to be moved. Satan has to flee as we speak in the name and authority of the One we represent. The measure we have of Christ is in the measure which we yield to Him and His Spirit.
He promises, Ask, and it shall be given unto you. Everyone that asks, receives. Every one that seeks, finds. Obeying and living by these commands is a straight gate. It is not wide and broad. But ours is a gate of great reward and great effect to advancing His Kingdom. Bare good fruit. When He trims and prunes the unfruitful branches, and there will be some, yield to His pruning. It is for our own good. We are known by the fruit we bare.
In closing, when I was traveling with the government in a previous job, we stayed in constant contact with our points of contact in Washington DC. Every event, every stop, every question was communicated between the two parties. Although thousands of miles away, we were always in touch to receive instruction. Prayer works the same way. Our line of communication with the Kingdom of God is through prayer and His word.
Keep the lines of communication clear and open. Just as I was not a citizen of the nation's in which I was traveling, we are not citizens of this world but of a Kingdom above. Do not lose touch!
Keep the line of communication clear and open.
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