It is said of the Prophet Daniel that he is greatly beloved of God. Jesus spoke of Daniel during His earthly ministry. What was it about Daniel that made him so great in stature and effective prayer? I think Chapter 9 gives a clue.
In this prayer Daniel identified with the Children of Israel living in captivity in Babylon. Even though he faithfully prayed facing Jerusalem three times a day, he still realized that it was only by the grace of God that he held the position he had in a foreign kingdom. He never forgot about the City of God and what it was supposed to represent on earth.
He identified with the fallen nature and sin of his people. Although he knew his prayers were heard and he had instant contact with the heavens, he still identified with those who were walking in darkness. His compassion for his brethern is astounding in context with his relationship with God.
Consider, Daniel had angels answer his questions. He spent an entire night in a dungeon entertained by hungry lions, and his three copatriots were thrown into and saved from a firey furnace. Christ Himself appeared and walked in the fire! If I knew God this well the last thing I would want to do is identify with anyone that was not in a proper relationship with God. But not Daniel. And Christ was not like this during His ministry. Jesus was accused of frequenting the company of drunkerds, tax collectors, and even a prostitute.
Consider Daniel's intercessory prayer where he identifies with the sins of his people, the reason for their captivity, and his pleading with God for forgiveness, restoration and the return of Israel to its proper place. In this context, we also can identify with the sins of our people, our friends and family members. We were the same way until the grace and mercies of God saw fit to rescue us.
Here is the prayer. It is amazing how it can fit into our daily prayers of intercession~
" And now, O Lord our God, that hast brought Thy people forth out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand, and hast gotten Thee renown, as at this day; we have sinned, we have done wickedly."
" O Lord, according to all Thy righteousness, I beseech Thee, let Thine anger and Thy fury be turned away from Thy city Jerusalem, Thy Holy mountain: because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and Thy people are become a reproach to all that are about us. Now, therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of Thy servant, and his supplications, and cause Thy face to shine upon Thy sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lord's sake."
" O my God, incline Thine ear, and hear; open Thine eyes, and behold our desolations, and the city which is called by Thy Name: for we do not present our supplications before Thee for our righteousness, but for Thy great mercies. O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, hearken and do; defer not, for Thine own sake, O my God: for Thy city and Thy people are called by Thy Name."
This mindset is appropriate for our day. You can almost hear the pathos and pity in Daniel's voice. Our nation, the United States of America is known around the world as being founded on the Judean - Christian values of the Bible. The founders always spoke of their total dependence upon God.
How the mighty have fallen! In my own life I have seen the evidence of unbelief, doubt, fear and defeat. What kind of witness is this for one who believes in God? Doubt is evidence of giving Satan a more powerful position that God! Fear is an admission that God is not powerful enough to rescue His people. It is no different that the 10 spies who turned against Moses and Aaron when it was time to go into the Land and overcome the enemies.
There is severe punishment for fear and doubt. Daniel did not fear a lion's den. The three Hebrew children in Babylon did not fear a firey furnace. Why do we doubt and fear? What kind of witness is that?
God forgive us! I identify with these things. I ask God's forgiveness daily in this regard. There are times when the enemy comes in like a lion and we are caught off guard and a momentary period of fear occurs. But we have been given strong promises and God has established enough massive deliverance in His Word that we can overcome these attacks. How? By His Word and reading and remembering His promises to us.
I can identify with what our nation, my neighbors and coworkers are going through. I am just a sinner saved by the grace of God. My prayers now contain a reminder to God that He saved me from an eternity without Him. I request that He forgive our nation's sins just as He has forgiven mine.
Prayer like Daniel's is effective and fervent prayer.
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)
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Thursday, January 26, 2012
He Brings Us Out!
There is a set time on God's clock to favor those that are His. We go through learning processes that seem unfair and out of control; but God is always in control. There has never been not will their ever be a time, since the creation of the universe, that He was out of control. For those that are His every situation we experience is for our benifit and His glory.
Psalm 66:12 says, " Thou hast caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water; but Thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place."
Even when it seems others are getting the better of us, abusing or taking advantage of us, the end result will always be God acting on our behalf to bring us into a wealthy place. We will increase in the wealth of our personnel knowledge of His faithfulness to us. We will increase in the wealth of our faith and assurance that He will never forsake us. Our wealth in our faith as we continue to become more than conquers through Him always working in us, no matter the difficulty or circumstance.
We are confident of this because of His promises to us; "For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the LORD; I will set him in safety from them that scoff at him." (Psalm 12:5)
After a season, at the appointed time, after we have ridden through fire and water if necessary, He will arise and have mercy on us; for the time to favor us has come. The set time has arrived! Never lose faith in His faithfulness.
Psalm 66:12 says, " Thou hast caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water; but Thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place."
Even when it seems others are getting the better of us, abusing or taking advantage of us, the end result will always be God acting on our behalf to bring us into a wealthy place. We will increase in the wealth of our personnel knowledge of His faithfulness to us. We will increase in the wealth of our faith and assurance that He will never forsake us. Our wealth in our faith as we continue to become more than conquers through Him always working in us, no matter the difficulty or circumstance.
We are confident of this because of His promises to us; "For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the LORD; I will set him in safety from them that scoff at him." (Psalm 12:5)
After a season, at the appointed time, after we have ridden through fire and water if necessary, He will arise and have mercy on us; for the time to favor us has come. The set time has arrived! Never lose faith in His faithfulness.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Patience Is A Process
A word I have always had a problem with! Patience.
Consider One who is greater than all having to wait. Hebrews 9, speaking of Christ says~
"But this Man (Christ) after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God - from now on expecting til His enemies be made His footstool- for by one offering He has perfected forever those that are sanctified (set apart)."
At the set time the expectation occurs. At the set time, our requests are answered. We are given great and precious promises by the Father. He is able to do exceeding, abundantly above all that we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20).
In 1 Timothy, Paul admonishs that we follow after these things; righteousness, godliness,faith, love, patience, meekness. (6:11)
We must keep His commandment without spot and unrebukeable until the appearing of our LORD Jesus Christ; who in His times He shall show who is the Blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords. (1 Timothy 6:14,15).
And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us; this is the LORD; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation! (Isaiah 25:9)
It is worth the wait! Even so, come quickly, Lord Jesus!
Consider One who is greater than all having to wait. Hebrews 9, speaking of Christ says~
"But this Man (Christ) after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God - from now on expecting til His enemies be made His footstool- for by one offering He has perfected forever those that are sanctified (set apart)."
At the set time the expectation occurs. At the set time, our requests are answered. We are given great and precious promises by the Father. He is able to do exceeding, abundantly above all that we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20).
In 1 Timothy, Paul admonishs that we follow after these things; righteousness, godliness,faith, love, patience, meekness. (6:11)
We must keep His commandment without spot and unrebukeable until the appearing of our LORD Jesus Christ; who in His times He shall show who is the Blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords. (1 Timothy 6:14,15).
And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us; this is the LORD; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation! (Isaiah 25:9)
It is worth the wait! Even so, come quickly, Lord Jesus!
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Our Battle Ground
Psalm 144:1 says, "Blessed be the LORD my strength,
which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight."
This is a Psalm of King David. He saw many battles, many invasions and had many enemies in his life time. Today, Believers do not go to war with the armies of Israel (yet!) because the New Covenant Scriptures teach us that the weapons of our warfare are not carnal (in the flesh) but in the Spirit. Our enemies are the principalities and powers of darkess. It could be an ongoing battle we face in our fleshly lusts and desires. It surely is in our spirital relationship and effectiveness with God's calling and purpose in our life.
Our enemies are evil spiritual forces that war against anything that resists God. We are the battleground! Our fight is in the sphere of effective prayer and intercession. That is warfare. I feel the most difficult thing to do is actually break through in prayer; where we know with confidence that our prayers have been heard and answered in the Throne Room of God. You can feel a spiritual breakthrough when it happens.
Psalm 18:34 says the same thing; "He teacheth my hands to war, so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms." Prayer is spiritual exercise, a crucifiction of our flesh by taking time to interceed and hold others up in prayer and supplication.
When the Children of Israel entered the Promised Land God said that He was leaving five evil kings so the small children, the next generation, could learn how to fight and overcome (Judges 3:1,2).
Is it possible that He is doing the same thing with us? Leaving things that are a thorn in our side, strong enemies, and other issues in our lives so that we are driven to prayer? The older generation is passing on to their reward; who will take their place? If not us, then who?
When we do break through on an issue; whether health, healing or salvation for a loved one, or financial issues, we know that we have broken through after great effort and exercise in prayer.
When this happens, and it will if we persevere, we can boast in the LORD that "It is God that girds me with strength and makes my way perfect! He has given me the shield of salvation (our salvation,the most important victory we will ever achieve in this life!) and His right hand has held us up, and His gentleness has made me great." (Psalm 18)
He girds us with strength for the battle. He makes our feet like deer feet. We will mature in our battles and we will get to the place that we can hop and skip like deer running over the strong, tall mountains that in the natural look impossible to conquer. We will wound the necks of our enemies and they will not be able to rise; enemies such as unbelief, doubt, dispair; and salvation for loved ones that will finally come into the fold because of our preserverance in prayer.
Like Israel of old, it is God that avenges us against our strong enemies. We grow stronger during the battle. Stay confident that God is on our side, no matter the issue. If you are praying for a loved one, He is not willing that any should perish. If you are fighting a stronghold, we are seated with Christ in heavenly places and He has authority over even death and the grave! And He has given us great authority over principalities and powers in spirtual places.
Like my 90 year old spiritual father, Rev. Cooper says quite often, we are already winners! Our ticket is punched and we are ready to go! Fear not, for He is with us. Never, ever be dismayed for He is our God.
which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight."
This is a Psalm of King David. He saw many battles, many invasions and had many enemies in his life time. Today, Believers do not go to war with the armies of Israel (yet!) because the New Covenant Scriptures teach us that the weapons of our warfare are not carnal (in the flesh) but in the Spirit. Our enemies are the principalities and powers of darkess. It could be an ongoing battle we face in our fleshly lusts and desires. It surely is in our spirital relationship and effectiveness with God's calling and purpose in our life.
Our enemies are evil spiritual forces that war against anything that resists God. We are the battleground! Our fight is in the sphere of effective prayer and intercession. That is warfare. I feel the most difficult thing to do is actually break through in prayer; where we know with confidence that our prayers have been heard and answered in the Throne Room of God. You can feel a spiritual breakthrough when it happens.
Psalm 18:34 says the same thing; "He teacheth my hands to war, so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms." Prayer is spiritual exercise, a crucifiction of our flesh by taking time to interceed and hold others up in prayer and supplication.
When the Children of Israel entered the Promised Land God said that He was leaving five evil kings so the small children, the next generation, could learn how to fight and overcome (Judges 3:1,2).
Is it possible that He is doing the same thing with us? Leaving things that are a thorn in our side, strong enemies, and other issues in our lives so that we are driven to prayer? The older generation is passing on to their reward; who will take their place? If not us, then who?
When we do break through on an issue; whether health, healing or salvation for a loved one, or financial issues, we know that we have broken through after great effort and exercise in prayer.
When this happens, and it will if we persevere, we can boast in the LORD that "It is God that girds me with strength and makes my way perfect! He has given me the shield of salvation (our salvation,the most important victory we will ever achieve in this life!) and His right hand has held us up, and His gentleness has made me great." (Psalm 18)
He girds us with strength for the battle. He makes our feet like deer feet. We will mature in our battles and we will get to the place that we can hop and skip like deer running over the strong, tall mountains that in the natural look impossible to conquer. We will wound the necks of our enemies and they will not be able to rise; enemies such as unbelief, doubt, dispair; and salvation for loved ones that will finally come into the fold because of our preserverance in prayer.
Like Israel of old, it is God that avenges us against our strong enemies. We grow stronger during the battle. Stay confident that God is on our side, no matter the issue. If you are praying for a loved one, He is not willing that any should perish. If you are fighting a stronghold, we are seated with Christ in heavenly places and He has authority over even death and the grave! And He has given us great authority over principalities and powers in spirtual places.
Like my 90 year old spiritual father, Rev. Cooper says quite often, we are already winners! Our ticket is punched and we are ready to go! Fear not, for He is with us. Never, ever be dismayed for He is our God.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
HE WILL!
Psalm 91:14-16
"Because I have set my love upon God He will deliver me. He will set me upon high because I have known His Name."
"I will call upon Him and He will answer me-He will be with me during trouble; He will deliver me and honor me. With long life will He satisfy me, and show His salvation."
This Psalm is probably written by the sweet Psalmist of Israel; King David. A man, when we consider his life here on earth who went through more trials than we will ever experience. He numbered Israel, an act of pride which cost the lives of 70,000 of his citizens. He was a man who had an affair with a woman that was the wife of another man; and was responsible for her husbands death. He lost the child she bore unto him. A man who had a rebellious son who turned against him, Absolom, who attempted to overthrow David's kingdom. His beloved son's rebellion resulted in an untimely death.
This man David wrote this Psalm in spite of his failures. He knew that the mercies of God are renewed each and every morning; great is His faithfulness. So must we.
No matter what has happened or what may happen, never lose hope in God! He will deliver and honor us if we continue to call unto Him.
He will, He has already, and He will continue to show us His salvation. Call upon His Name; His ears will never grow heavy that He cannot hear or His arms grow short that He cannot save!
"Because I have set my love upon God He will deliver me. He will set me upon high because I have known His Name."
"I will call upon Him and He will answer me-He will be with me during trouble; He will deliver me and honor me. With long life will He satisfy me, and show His salvation."
This Psalm is probably written by the sweet Psalmist of Israel; King David. A man, when we consider his life here on earth who went through more trials than we will ever experience. He numbered Israel, an act of pride which cost the lives of 70,000 of his citizens. He was a man who had an affair with a woman that was the wife of another man; and was responsible for her husbands death. He lost the child she bore unto him. A man who had a rebellious son who turned against him, Absolom, who attempted to overthrow David's kingdom. His beloved son's rebellion resulted in an untimely death.
This man David wrote this Psalm in spite of his failures. He knew that the mercies of God are renewed each and every morning; great is His faithfulness. So must we.
No matter what has happened or what may happen, never lose hope in God! He will deliver and honor us if we continue to call unto Him.
He will, He has already, and He will continue to show us His salvation. Call upon His Name; His ears will never grow heavy that He cannot hear or His arms grow short that He cannot save!
Hope In God!
Psalm 33:18-22
"Behold, (pay attention!)
the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear Him,
upon them that hope in His mercy;"
"To deliver their soul from death,
and to keep them alive in famine."
"Our soul waits for the LORD:
He is our help and our shield.
For our heart shall rejoice in Him,
because we have trusted in His holy Name."
"Let Thy mercy, O LORD be upon us
according as we hope in Thee."
Who do we trust? The bank, the government, our employer, our own abilities? Or do we trust in God's Holy Name? Memorize His promises to us; they are the most steadfast source we have in this world. The universe runs upon His words; He can take care of every issue, no matter how small or insignificant.
He is our Father! We can go to Him with any burden. Trusting, believing is our duty. He will take care of you! You are His child!
"Behold, (pay attention!)
the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear Him,
upon them that hope in His mercy;"
"To deliver their soul from death,
and to keep them alive in famine."
"Our soul waits for the LORD:
He is our help and our shield.
For our heart shall rejoice in Him,
because we have trusted in His holy Name."
"Let Thy mercy, O LORD be upon us
according as we hope in Thee."
Who do we trust? The bank, the government, our employer, our own abilities? Or do we trust in God's Holy Name? Memorize His promises to us; they are the most steadfast source we have in this world. The universe runs upon His words; He can take care of every issue, no matter how small or insignificant.
He is our Father! We can go to Him with any burden. Trusting, believing is our duty. He will take care of you! You are His child!
Monday, January 16, 2012
Present Heaven-New Heaven and New Earth
I am reading a very interesting book entitled HEAVEN - by Randy Alcorn. One of the chapters reminds us that at the end of the Millenium God will create a new Heaven and a new Earth. What of the present heaven? This is the one to which we go for the time being; either immediately after death or rapture. Here are some interesting descriptions and opinions regarding our future, real home.
These are direct quotes from the book, HEAVEN -by Randy Alcorn, not my quotes or opinions ~
" We can learn a great deal about the present Heaven from three key verses in Revelation: "When the Lamb opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. They called out in a loud voice, 'How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until You judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?"
"Then each was given a white robe, and they were told to wail a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and brothers who were to be killed as they had been was completed." (6:9-11)
1. When these people died on Earth, they relocated to Heaven (vs.9)
2. These people in Heaven were the same ones killed for Christ while on Earth (vs. 9). This demonstrates direct continuity between our identity on Earth and our identity in Heaven. The martyrs' personal history extends directly back to their lives on Earth. Those in the present Heaven are not different people; they are the same people relocated-"righteous men made perfect" (Hebrews 12:23).
3. People in Heaven will be remembered for their lives on Earth. These were known and identified as ones slain "because of the testimony they had maintained. (vs. 9)
4. "They called out" (vs. 10) means they are able to express themselves audibly. This could suggest they exist in physical form, with vocal cords or other tangible means to express themselves.
5. People in the present Heaven can raise their voices (vs.10). This indicates that they are rational, communicative, and emotional-even passionate- beings, like people on Earth.
6. They called out in a loud voice, not loud voices. Individuals speaking with one voice indicate that Heaven is a place of unity and shared perspective.
7. The martyrs are fully conscious, rational, and aware of each other, God, and the situation on Earth.
8. They ask God to intervene on Earth and to act on their behalf; "How long...until You judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?" (vs. 10)
9. Those in Heaven are free to ask God questions, which means they have an audience with God. It also means they need to learn. In Heaven people desire understanding and pursue it.
10. People in the present Heaven know what is happening on Earth (vs.10). The martyrs know enough to realize that those who killed them have not yet been judged.
11. Heaven dwellers have a deep concern for justice and retribution (vs.10). When we go to Heaven, we won't adopt a passive disinterest in what happens on Earth. On the contrary, our concerns will be more passionate and our thirst for justice greater. Neither God nor we will be satisfied until His enemies are judged, our bodies raised, sin and Satan defeated, Earth restored, and Christ exalted over all.
12. The martyrs clearly remember their lives on Earth (vs. 10). They even remember they were murdered.
13. The martyrs in Heaven pray for judgement on their persecutors who are still at work hurting others. They are acting in solidarity with, and in effect interceding for, the suffering saints on Earth. This suggest saints in Heaven are both seeing and praying for saints on Earth.
14. Those in Heaven see God's attributes ("Sovereign...holy and true") in a way that makes His judgment of sin more understandable.
15. Those in Heaven are distinct individuals: "Then each of them was given a white robe" (vs.11). There isn't one merged identity that obliterates uniqueness, but a distinct "each of them."
16. The martyrs' wearing white robes suggests the possibility of actual physical forms, because disembodied spirits presumable don't wear robes. The robes may well have symbolic meaning, but it does not mean they could'nt also be physical. The martyrs appear to have physical forms that John could actually see.
17. God answers their questions (vs.11), indicating communication and process in Heaven. It also demonstrates that we won't know everything in Heaven-if we did we would have no questions. The martyrs knew more after God answered their question than before they asked it. There is a learning process in Heaven.
18. God promises to fulfill the martyrs' requests, but says they will have to "wait a little longer"(vs.11). Those in the present Heaven live in anticipation of the future fulfillment of God's promises. Unlike the eternal Heaven-where there will be no more sin, Curse, or suffering on the New Earth (Revelation 21:4)-the present Heaven coexists with and watches over an Earth under sin, the Curse, and suffering.
19. There is time in the present Heaven (vs.10-11). The white-robed martyrs ask God a time-dependent question: "How long, Sovereign Lord...until You judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?" (vs 10). They are aware of time's passing and are eager for the coming day of the Lord's judgment. God answers that they must "wait a little longer" until certain events transpire on Earth. Waiting requires the passing of time.
20. The people of God in Heaven have a strong familial connection with those on Earth, who are called "fellow servants and brothers" (vs. 11). We share the same Father, "from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named" (Ephesians 3:15). There is not a wall of seperation within the bride of Christ. We are one family with those who've gone to Heaven ahead of us. After we go to Heaven, we'll still be one family with those yet on Earth. These verses demonstrate a vital connection between the events and people in Heaven and the events and people on Earth.
21. Our sovereign God knows down to the last detail all that is happening and will happen on Earth (vs.11), including every drop of blood shed and every bit of suffering undergone by His children. Voice of The Martyrs estimates that more than 150,000 people die for Christ each year, and average of more than 400 per day. God knows the name and story of each one. He knows exactly how many martyrs there will be, and He is prepared to return and set up His Kingdom when the final martyr dies.
These are direct quotes from the book, HEAVEN -by Randy Alcorn, not my quotes or opinions ~
" We can learn a great deal about the present Heaven from three key verses in Revelation: "When the Lamb opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. They called out in a loud voice, 'How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until You judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?"
"Then each was given a white robe, and they were told to wail a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and brothers who were to be killed as they had been was completed." (6:9-11)
1. When these people died on Earth, they relocated to Heaven (vs.9)
2. These people in Heaven were the same ones killed for Christ while on Earth (vs. 9). This demonstrates direct continuity between our identity on Earth and our identity in Heaven. The martyrs' personal history extends directly back to their lives on Earth. Those in the present Heaven are not different people; they are the same people relocated-"righteous men made perfect" (Hebrews 12:23).
3. People in Heaven will be remembered for their lives on Earth. These were known and identified as ones slain "because of the testimony they had maintained. (vs. 9)
4. "They called out" (vs. 10) means they are able to express themselves audibly. This could suggest they exist in physical form, with vocal cords or other tangible means to express themselves.
5. People in the present Heaven can raise their voices (vs.10). This indicates that they are rational, communicative, and emotional-even passionate- beings, like people on Earth.
6. They called out in a loud voice, not loud voices. Individuals speaking with one voice indicate that Heaven is a place of unity and shared perspective.
7. The martyrs are fully conscious, rational, and aware of each other, God, and the situation on Earth.
8. They ask God to intervene on Earth and to act on their behalf; "How long...until You judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?" (vs. 10)
9. Those in Heaven are free to ask God questions, which means they have an audience with God. It also means they need to learn. In Heaven people desire understanding and pursue it.
10. People in the present Heaven know what is happening on Earth (vs.10). The martyrs know enough to realize that those who killed them have not yet been judged.
11. Heaven dwellers have a deep concern for justice and retribution (vs.10). When we go to Heaven, we won't adopt a passive disinterest in what happens on Earth. On the contrary, our concerns will be more passionate and our thirst for justice greater. Neither God nor we will be satisfied until His enemies are judged, our bodies raised, sin and Satan defeated, Earth restored, and Christ exalted over all.
12. The martyrs clearly remember their lives on Earth (vs. 10). They even remember they were murdered.
13. The martyrs in Heaven pray for judgement on their persecutors who are still at work hurting others. They are acting in solidarity with, and in effect interceding for, the suffering saints on Earth. This suggest saints in Heaven are both seeing and praying for saints on Earth.
14. Those in Heaven see God's attributes ("Sovereign...holy and true") in a way that makes His judgment of sin more understandable.
15. Those in Heaven are distinct individuals: "Then each of them was given a white robe" (vs.11). There isn't one merged identity that obliterates uniqueness, but a distinct "each of them."
16. The martyrs' wearing white robes suggests the possibility of actual physical forms, because disembodied spirits presumable don't wear robes. The robes may well have symbolic meaning, but it does not mean they could'nt also be physical. The martyrs appear to have physical forms that John could actually see.
17. God answers their questions (vs.11), indicating communication and process in Heaven. It also demonstrates that we won't know everything in Heaven-if we did we would have no questions. The martyrs knew more after God answered their question than before they asked it. There is a learning process in Heaven.
18. God promises to fulfill the martyrs' requests, but says they will have to "wait a little longer"(vs.11). Those in the present Heaven live in anticipation of the future fulfillment of God's promises. Unlike the eternal Heaven-where there will be no more sin, Curse, or suffering on the New Earth (Revelation 21:4)-the present Heaven coexists with and watches over an Earth under sin, the Curse, and suffering.
19. There is time in the present Heaven (vs.10-11). The white-robed martyrs ask God a time-dependent question: "How long, Sovereign Lord...until You judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?" (vs 10). They are aware of time's passing and are eager for the coming day of the Lord's judgment. God answers that they must "wait a little longer" until certain events transpire on Earth. Waiting requires the passing of time.
20. The people of God in Heaven have a strong familial connection with those on Earth, who are called "fellow servants and brothers" (vs. 11). We share the same Father, "from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named" (Ephesians 3:15). There is not a wall of seperation within the bride of Christ. We are one family with those who've gone to Heaven ahead of us. After we go to Heaven, we'll still be one family with those yet on Earth. These verses demonstrate a vital connection between the events and people in Heaven and the events and people on Earth.
21. Our sovereign God knows down to the last detail all that is happening and will happen on Earth (vs.11), including every drop of blood shed and every bit of suffering undergone by His children. Voice of The Martyrs estimates that more than 150,000 people die for Christ each year, and average of more than 400 per day. God knows the name and story of each one. He knows exactly how many martyrs there will be, and He is prepared to return and set up His Kingdom when the final martyr dies.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Great And Dreadful
I wonder quite often if I have a correct concept of who God is. He is described many ways in scripture. I know that His mercies and compassions are renewed daily; with the rising of the sun to the setting of the same He never changes. I depend upon this revelation of Him.
But, while reading Daniel last evening I "stumbled" upon something Daniel said in his prayers that I have never seen before. In Daniel 9 he says, " O LORD, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love Him, and to them that keep His commandments;
Do we have a healthy fear of the dread of the LORD? I think most unbelievers do not; most are happy enough just to escape hell. There is much more to the character of God than we hear from the pulpit.
A dreadful God? If anyone in Scripture knew God, Daniel did. His prophecies and dreams were even mentioned by Christ Himself when He was here on earth the first time. Daniel is also mentioned by God as one of the three whose prayers would only save themselves should they intercede on behalf of a lost world when the time for judgment comes; the other two being Moses and Elijah. The word dreadful as used in the Hebrew means One who is terrible, One that is to be feared, is formidable and to make afraid.
Daniel also understood God in this context. He had a deep revelation of His desires, His character and what pleases and displeases Him. It is good to pay attention to these matters! We need a healthy fear of God. Yes, He is full of compassion, His mercies endure forever, but when it comes time to pass judgement He does not change for individuals or for nations.
How can we get to know such a God? Psalm 25:14 says,
"The secret of the LORD is with those that fear Him..."
He speaks secretly to those who spend quality time with Him. It takes more than a casual acquaintenance or just to acknowledge that He is God. The secret of the LORD comes by becoming more intimate with Him. The only way we achieve this is by spending time in His presence; listening to Him, reading His written word to us. The secret means He will speak hidden truths to us as indiviuals and give us direction and counsel and counseltation.
There are things God reveals to me that even my spouse is not aware of. It comes from having intimacy with Him; loving Him with all of our soul and all of our might. It is worth the effort! He has rewards we are not even aware of.
Knowing Him removes all fear, doubt and unbelief. He is a rewarder of those who dilligently seek Him.
But, while reading Daniel last evening I "stumbled" upon something Daniel said in his prayers that I have never seen before. In Daniel 9 he says, " O LORD, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love Him, and to them that keep His commandments;
Do we have a healthy fear of the dread of the LORD? I think most unbelievers do not; most are happy enough just to escape hell. There is much more to the character of God than we hear from the pulpit.
A dreadful God? If anyone in Scripture knew God, Daniel did. His prophecies and dreams were even mentioned by Christ Himself when He was here on earth the first time. Daniel is also mentioned by God as one of the three whose prayers would only save themselves should they intercede on behalf of a lost world when the time for judgment comes; the other two being Moses and Elijah. The word dreadful as used in the Hebrew means One who is terrible, One that is to be feared, is formidable and to make afraid.
Daniel also understood God in this context. He had a deep revelation of His desires, His character and what pleases and displeases Him. It is good to pay attention to these matters! We need a healthy fear of God. Yes, He is full of compassion, His mercies endure forever, but when it comes time to pass judgement He does not change for individuals or for nations.
How can we get to know such a God? Psalm 25:14 says,
"The secret of the LORD is with those that fear Him..."
He speaks secretly to those who spend quality time with Him. It takes more than a casual acquaintenance or just to acknowledge that He is God. The secret of the LORD comes by becoming more intimate with Him. The only way we achieve this is by spending time in His presence; listening to Him, reading His written word to us. The secret means He will speak hidden truths to us as indiviuals and give us direction and counsel and counseltation.
There are things God reveals to me that even my spouse is not aware of. It comes from having intimacy with Him; loving Him with all of our soul and all of our might. It is worth the effort! He has rewards we are not even aware of.
Knowing Him removes all fear, doubt and unbelief. He is a rewarder of those who dilligently seek Him.
Saturday, January 14, 2012
PERSONALIZE PSALM 91
Claim this Psalm in the coming months; it is as steadfast and true as the sun coming up tomorrow morning and it applies to us as we take hold and believe what it says; every word, every phrase, every promise.
PSALM 91 ~
Those who dwell in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD that He is my refuge and my fortress; my God in whom I will trust.
Surely He shall deliver me from the snare of the fowler and from the noisesome pestilence. He will cover me with His feathers, and under His wings will I trust; His truth shall be my shield and buckler.
I will not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flies by day; nor for the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor for the destruction that wastes at noonday.
A thousand shall fall at my side and ten thousand at my right hand, but it shall not come near me. Only with my eyes will I behold and see the reward of the wicked.
Because I have made the LORD, who is my refuge, even the Most High my habitation; there shall no evil befall me neither shall any plague come near my dwelling
For He will give His angels charge over me, to keep me in all His ways. They shall bear me up in their hands lest I dash my foot against a stone. I will tread upon the lion and the adder; the young lion and dragon will I trample under my feet. (demonic powers)
Because I have set my love upon Him, He will deliver me. He will set me on high because He knows my name. I will call upon my God and He will answer me. He will be with me in trouble, and will deliver me, and honor me.
With long life will He satisfy me and show me His salvation.
PSALM 91 ~
Those who dwell in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD that He is my refuge and my fortress; my God in whom I will trust.
Surely He shall deliver me from the snare of the fowler and from the noisesome pestilence. He will cover me with His feathers, and under His wings will I trust; His truth shall be my shield and buckler.
I will not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flies by day; nor for the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor for the destruction that wastes at noonday.
A thousand shall fall at my side and ten thousand at my right hand, but it shall not come near me. Only with my eyes will I behold and see the reward of the wicked.
Because I have made the LORD, who is my refuge, even the Most High my habitation; there shall no evil befall me neither shall any plague come near my dwelling
For He will give His angels charge over me, to keep me in all His ways. They shall bear me up in their hands lest I dash my foot against a stone. I will tread upon the lion and the adder; the young lion and dragon will I trample under my feet. (demonic powers)
Because I have set my love upon Him, He will deliver me. He will set me on high because He knows my name. I will call upon my God and He will answer me. He will be with me in trouble, and will deliver me, and honor me.
With long life will He satisfy me and show me His salvation.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Our Trust Is Our Confidence!
Trust in the LORD at all times;
pour out your heart before Him-
He is a Refuge for us. (Psalm 62:8)
He shall cover you with His feathers,
and under His wings shall you trust-
His truth will be your shield (protection)
and buckler (stability). (Psalm 91:4)
What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee.(Psalm 56:3)
Every word of God is pure;
He is a shield to all that put their trust in Him. (Proverbs 30:5)
pour out your heart before Him-
He is a Refuge for us. (Psalm 62:8)
He shall cover you with His feathers,
and under His wings shall you trust-
His truth will be your shield (protection)
and buckler (stability). (Psalm 91:4)
What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee.(Psalm 56:3)
Every word of God is pure;
He is a shield to all that put their trust in Him. (Proverbs 30:5)
Saturday, January 7, 2012
ASHER INTRATER FROM ISRAEL
ASHER INTRATER - REVIVE ISRAEL - IN ISRAEL
Advocate or Accuser
I. Twisted Words
Satan is a word-twister. When he first approached Eve, he asked "Has God indeed said, 'You shall not eat of every tree in the garden?'" – Genesis 3:1. He was twisting God's words, using innuendos to cast doubt about God's character and intentions. This remains Satan's method today, in order to cause division. He twists words, which causes mistrust, which causes offense, which results in division.
The more we serve the Lord and become more like Yeshua, the more there will be attacks against us of miscommunication and twisted words. It will seem as if people are waiting to catch you in one word and blow it out of proportion in order to accuse you (Luke 20:20).
There will be a flood of words coming out of the mouth of the devil to overwhelm you with rejection and accusation. "The serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away" – Revelation 12:15. The Hebrew word Alehom means "a widespread attack of criticism and defamation on a certain person or body." By the cross we can rise above the flood of evil (Isaiah 59:19).
II. Accuser or Advocate
When there is mistrust, even our prayers may turn negative: bombarding the throne of God with criticism and complaints of our brothers and sisters. Or we bring the criticism and complaints to others for "counsel," thus creating evil rumors and discussions behind one another's back.
There are two ways to come before the throne of God: as accuser or advocate. Revelation 12:10 – The accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down.
I John 2:1 – If anyone sins, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, the righteous. The accuser is Satan; the advocate is Yeshua. Which side are we on? Someone already has the position of accuser; and someone as advocate. Which role are we fulfilling? Let us ask ourselves: "Am I among those defending my brothers and sisters, or defaming them? Am I an accuser of the brethren or an advocate?"
III. Covenant and Cross
How can we become an advocate when we feel we have been wronged? There are two options: 1) covenantal dialogue and 2) conforming to the cross. If we know that we have hurt someone, it is our duty to go to them to be reconciled. This takes priority over worship, the Lord's Supper, tithing, and religious ritual. "If you bring your gift to the altar, and remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift… First be reconciled to your brother, and then come offer your gift" – Matthew 5:23-24.
If someone has hurt us, it is also our duty to go to them. "If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother" - Matthew 18:15. Who goes first? If he hurts you – you go. If you hurt him – you go. In either case, we have the moral obligation. The purpose here is not to prove that the other is wrong, but to be reconciled, to heal the relationship, to win our brother's heart.
This passage that speaks of covenant dialogue, speaks also of unilateral, abundant, repeated forgiveness. When Peter asked how often he must forgive his brother who sinned against him, Yeshua answered, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven" – Matthew 18:22. This attitude of gracious forgiveness is the attitude of the cross.
Yeshua forgave us even though we don't deserve to be forgiven. The attitude of the cross precedes covenant dialogue. No amount of dialogue can bring reconciliation if we are not filled with the spirit of unilateral forgiveness from the cross. We forgive one another as He forgave us (Colossians 3:13). It hurts. It takes all we've got. It is the only way to bring reconciliation and preserve unity.
Advocate or Accuser
I. Twisted Words
Satan is a word-twister. When he first approached Eve, he asked "Has God indeed said, 'You shall not eat of every tree in the garden?'" – Genesis 3:1. He was twisting God's words, using innuendos to cast doubt about God's character and intentions. This remains Satan's method today, in order to cause division. He twists words, which causes mistrust, which causes offense, which results in division.
The more we serve the Lord and become more like Yeshua, the more there will be attacks against us of miscommunication and twisted words. It will seem as if people are waiting to catch you in one word and blow it out of proportion in order to accuse you (Luke 20:20).
There will be a flood of words coming out of the mouth of the devil to overwhelm you with rejection and accusation. "The serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away" – Revelation 12:15. The Hebrew word Alehom means "a widespread attack of criticism and defamation on a certain person or body." By the cross we can rise above the flood of evil (Isaiah 59:19).
II. Accuser or Advocate
When there is mistrust, even our prayers may turn negative: bombarding the throne of God with criticism and complaints of our brothers and sisters. Or we bring the criticism and complaints to others for "counsel," thus creating evil rumors and discussions behind one another's back.
There are two ways to come before the throne of God: as accuser or advocate. Revelation 12:10 – The accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down.
I John 2:1 – If anyone sins, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, the righteous. The accuser is Satan; the advocate is Yeshua. Which side are we on? Someone already has the position of accuser; and someone as advocate. Which role are we fulfilling? Let us ask ourselves: "Am I among those defending my brothers and sisters, or defaming them? Am I an accuser of the brethren or an advocate?"
III. Covenant and Cross
How can we become an advocate when we feel we have been wronged? There are two options: 1) covenantal dialogue and 2) conforming to the cross. If we know that we have hurt someone, it is our duty to go to them to be reconciled. This takes priority over worship, the Lord's Supper, tithing, and religious ritual. "If you bring your gift to the altar, and remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift… First be reconciled to your brother, and then come offer your gift" – Matthew 5:23-24.
If someone has hurt us, it is also our duty to go to them. "If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother" - Matthew 18:15. Who goes first? If he hurts you – you go. If you hurt him – you go. In either case, we have the moral obligation. The purpose here is not to prove that the other is wrong, but to be reconciled, to heal the relationship, to win our brother's heart.
This passage that speaks of covenant dialogue, speaks also of unilateral, abundant, repeated forgiveness. When Peter asked how often he must forgive his brother who sinned against him, Yeshua answered, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven" – Matthew 18:22. This attitude of gracious forgiveness is the attitude of the cross.
Yeshua forgave us even though we don't deserve to be forgiven. The attitude of the cross precedes covenant dialogue. No amount of dialogue can bring reconciliation if we are not filled with the spirit of unilateral forgiveness from the cross. We forgive one another as He forgave us (Colossians 3:13). It hurts. It takes all we've got. It is the only way to bring reconciliation and preserve unity.
He Is Our God
Why write? Why speak of God continually?
" Whosoever offers praise glorifies Me;
and to him that orders his conversation aright will I show the salvation of the LORD!" (Psalm 50:23)
That is reason enough for us to speak of God often, and if we like to write, write! I do not have a church, nor a theological degree, nor did I attend a Bible College or Seminary; but I can speak of God who has been faithful to me all of my years, even years living in rebellion and despair. It is probably good that I did not attend Seminary; Brother Leonard Ravenhill calls them Cemeteries; they kill more preacher's than they produce!
God has always been my Refuge and Strength, a very present help in trouble. I believe He has allowed many troubles in my life just so He could prove Himself faithful, and to see if I really believed by my actions to the circumstances, or if I was just a mouthpiece for Him who had never seen difficulty.
By everything I read in the secular press and by some "think tanks", 2012 is going to be a year of great turmoil and trouble; both for the world and for the United States. Yet, we are still here; the Rapture has not happened! We must prepare for what could take place. The preparation must be spiritual first and foremost! Get to know God. Get intimate with Him and know Him on a first Name basis. Be confident He is with you and will answer you. This confidence comes because whatever may occur, you know He is always there because you are always talking to Him.
Memorize His promises. I have them underlined in my Bible and read, examine and think of them on a daily basis. Psalm 46 says that even if the earth is moved or utterly removed we are not to fear. Though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea we must not fear. Have you tried to imagine some of these things happening? It is an awesome thought. I remember several months ago when there was an earthquake here in the Washington, D.C. area early one afternoon. I was standing in my dining room getting ready to leave for work and my wife was standing in the living room. The light in the dining room started swaying, there was an underground noise coming through our woods, and the water in our swimming pool was dancing about. The house was shaking! And that was a mild quake. Can you imagine the earth itself moving and mountains falling into the sea? We are still not to fear.
Though waters roar and are troubled, and when mountains start to shake; still, fear not. There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the Most High. We must tap into that river daily; even when we do not fell like it. That river never runs dry. Do not be condemned when we do not feel like it; this is the enemy resisting us and then condemning us; his favorite past time, do not fall for that old trick. If you do not feel like reading get an old song book and look at and sing some of your favorite songs. The spirit of praise and worship will come; often accompanied with tears of thanksgiving to God for His faithfulness. Doing this daily has a Biblical beginning; just like the Children of Israel in their Wilderness journey, they got a fresh supply of manna falling from heaven daily. It was never stale. If they thought they could store up on the manna for a few days, like living all week on a Sunday Morning service, it rotted within a day! We must have a daily, fresh supply to remain calm in the coming months.
The heathen are going to rage, they already are. Kingdoms are being moved; God utters His voice and the earth melts. That same God who created all things is now and will always be in control. The LORD of Hosts (armies) is, and will always be with us. The God of Jacob is our place of refuge. He is our strong and mighty tower into which we can run the days of adversity.
Psalm 46:8 says, "Come, behold the works of the LORD, what desolations He has made in the earth." He is behind the desolations; not satan. These things must be before He establishes His Kingdom on planet earth. We are as a Body of Believers citizens of that Kingdom. We are safe and secure. To doubt this is to doubt God!
Be still and know that He is God. He will be exalted among the heathen and will be exalted in all of the earth. The LORD of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our Refuge.
We can look upon the things occurring on the earth and say with the song and Psalm written by the sons of Korah in Psalm 48:14,"For this is our God for ever and ever; He will be our Guide even unto death. "
This is the same thing the three Hebrew children said in the Book of Daniel; "you can throw us into the fiery furnace, our God is able to deliver us; and even if He does not, we are still not going to bow down and worship your image!" This God is our God; we know Him and are well acquainted with Him because we were just speaking with Him.
" Whosoever offers praise glorifies Me;
and to him that orders his conversation aright will I show the salvation of the LORD!" (Psalm 50:23)
That is reason enough for us to speak of God often, and if we like to write, write! I do not have a church, nor a theological degree, nor did I attend a Bible College or Seminary; but I can speak of God who has been faithful to me all of my years, even years living in rebellion and despair. It is probably good that I did not attend Seminary; Brother Leonard Ravenhill calls them Cemeteries; they kill more preacher's than they produce!
God has always been my Refuge and Strength, a very present help in trouble. I believe He has allowed many troubles in my life just so He could prove Himself faithful, and to see if I really believed by my actions to the circumstances, or if I was just a mouthpiece for Him who had never seen difficulty.
By everything I read in the secular press and by some "think tanks", 2012 is going to be a year of great turmoil and trouble; both for the world and for the United States. Yet, we are still here; the Rapture has not happened! We must prepare for what could take place. The preparation must be spiritual first and foremost! Get to know God. Get intimate with Him and know Him on a first Name basis. Be confident He is with you and will answer you. This confidence comes because whatever may occur, you know He is always there because you are always talking to Him.
Memorize His promises. I have them underlined in my Bible and read, examine and think of them on a daily basis. Psalm 46 says that even if the earth is moved or utterly removed we are not to fear. Though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea we must not fear. Have you tried to imagine some of these things happening? It is an awesome thought. I remember several months ago when there was an earthquake here in the Washington, D.C. area early one afternoon. I was standing in my dining room getting ready to leave for work and my wife was standing in the living room. The light in the dining room started swaying, there was an underground noise coming through our woods, and the water in our swimming pool was dancing about. The house was shaking! And that was a mild quake. Can you imagine the earth itself moving and mountains falling into the sea? We are still not to fear.
Though waters roar and are troubled, and when mountains start to shake; still, fear not. There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the Most High. We must tap into that river daily; even when we do not fell like it. That river never runs dry. Do not be condemned when we do not feel like it; this is the enemy resisting us and then condemning us; his favorite past time, do not fall for that old trick. If you do not feel like reading get an old song book and look at and sing some of your favorite songs. The spirit of praise and worship will come; often accompanied with tears of thanksgiving to God for His faithfulness. Doing this daily has a Biblical beginning; just like the Children of Israel in their Wilderness journey, they got a fresh supply of manna falling from heaven daily. It was never stale. If they thought they could store up on the manna for a few days, like living all week on a Sunday Morning service, it rotted within a day! We must have a daily, fresh supply to remain calm in the coming months.
The heathen are going to rage, they already are. Kingdoms are being moved; God utters His voice and the earth melts. That same God who created all things is now and will always be in control. The LORD of Hosts (armies) is, and will always be with us. The God of Jacob is our place of refuge. He is our strong and mighty tower into which we can run the days of adversity.
Psalm 46:8 says, "Come, behold the works of the LORD, what desolations He has made in the earth." He is behind the desolations; not satan. These things must be before He establishes His Kingdom on planet earth. We are as a Body of Believers citizens of that Kingdom. We are safe and secure. To doubt this is to doubt God!
Be still and know that He is God. He will be exalted among the heathen and will be exalted in all of the earth. The LORD of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our Refuge.
We can look upon the things occurring on the earth and say with the song and Psalm written by the sons of Korah in Psalm 48:14,"For this is our God for ever and ever; He will be our Guide even unto death. "
This is the same thing the three Hebrew children said in the Book of Daniel; "you can throw us into the fiery furnace, our God is able to deliver us; and even if He does not, we are still not going to bow down and worship your image!" This God is our God; we know Him and are well acquainted with Him because we were just speaking with Him.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
His Garden
One of the most unexplained, least read Books of the Bible has to be the Song of Solomon. If taken from a spiritual prospective, the love and feelings between the Bridegoom for His Bride, the Bride for Him and the difficulty the Bride has with her surroundings without the Presence of the Groom, it is an excellent picture of our walk with Christ.
I was reading in Song of Solomon chapter 4:15,16 and chapter 6:2,3. The picture is of the Groom going into His garden to examine His flowers, plants and trees. Taken in context with the earth being a fruitful field, to be reaped at the Last Day, this is interesting. The soil of any beautiful garden needs to be broken up, tilled and cared for properly. The beautiful spices do not come out unless they are broken or crushed between the fingers.
In that context, I just spoke with another Minister friend of mine I met on one of my stays in the hospital and he has been having kidney issues and is trusting God to heal him; I know God will. I have had three days of total misery with a stomach flu unlike anything I have ever experienced. In the middle of this broken and crushed condition, he and I had prayer for each other, reminded each other of God's faithfulness and quoted many of the promises of God to His children.
We are the sheep of His pasture; He is a faithful Shepherd. His ears have not grown hard that He cannot hear or His ears grown heavy that He cannot hear.
In our sicknesses, trials, difficulties and troubles, which we will have because we are in a sin sick world, in the midst of this, our faith, prayers, belief and statements in support of the promises of God are the fragrance, the spice, the fruit in His garden.
" Awake, O north wind; and come, thou south;
blow upon my garden, that the spices may flow out.
Let my Beloved come into His garden and eat His pleasant fruits."
" My Beloved is gone into His garden, to the beds of spices,
to feed in the gardens and to gather lilies.
I am my Beloved's and my Beloved is mine:
He feedeth among the lillies."
The crushing that occurs at times serve a purpose, not necessarily our purpose, but His. The perfect sacrifice to God is a broken and contrite heart; He will not refuse their prayers. There are days of great victory and days when He walks through His garden to gather
the fruit it is producing. Do not lose heart; everything serves a purpose. He is a faithful Gardener and will do no more than is necessary to bring for a pleasant fragrance.
I was reading in Song of Solomon chapter 4:15,16 and chapter 6:2,3. The picture is of the Groom going into His garden to examine His flowers, plants and trees. Taken in context with the earth being a fruitful field, to be reaped at the Last Day, this is interesting. The soil of any beautiful garden needs to be broken up, tilled and cared for properly. The beautiful spices do not come out unless they are broken or crushed between the fingers.
In that context, I just spoke with another Minister friend of mine I met on one of my stays in the hospital and he has been having kidney issues and is trusting God to heal him; I know God will. I have had three days of total misery with a stomach flu unlike anything I have ever experienced. In the middle of this broken and crushed condition, he and I had prayer for each other, reminded each other of God's faithfulness and quoted many of the promises of God to His children.
We are the sheep of His pasture; He is a faithful Shepherd. His ears have not grown hard that He cannot hear or His ears grown heavy that He cannot hear.
In our sicknesses, trials, difficulties and troubles, which we will have because we are in a sin sick world, in the midst of this, our faith, prayers, belief and statements in support of the promises of God are the fragrance, the spice, the fruit in His garden.
" Awake, O north wind; and come, thou south;
blow upon my garden, that the spices may flow out.
Let my Beloved come into His garden and eat His pleasant fruits."
" My Beloved is gone into His garden, to the beds of spices,
to feed in the gardens and to gather lilies.
I am my Beloved's and my Beloved is mine:
He feedeth among the lillies."
The crushing that occurs at times serve a purpose, not necessarily our purpose, but His. The perfect sacrifice to God is a broken and contrite heart; He will not refuse their prayers. There are days of great victory and days when He walks through His garden to gather
the fruit it is producing. Do not lose heart; everything serves a purpose. He is a faithful Gardener and will do no more than is necessary to bring for a pleasant fragrance.
Monday, January 2, 2012
He Is Coming!
Glory and honor are in His Presence; strength and gladness are in His place. Give unto the LORD, ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength. (1 Chronicles 16)
2012 will be a year that further gives crediance that the days of rebellion against God are coming to a close. There will be untold crisis in weather, earthquake and war. These things must be; they are a harbinger of the One that is coming soon to sit up His Kingdom of righteousness and peace. Christ said nation would rise against nation, an increase in earthquakes and distress, and war and rumor of war. The birth pangs of a new age have to happen before He returns.
Most hear of the last days and great fear comes. It should not be this way for Believers. It is an excellent opportunity to witness to our friends and relatives why we do not fear. Christ instructed us to lift up our heads and realize that our redemption is drawing near. In His Kingdom there will be no more war, no rebellion, no murder or other scourges that afflict mankind now. We should do everything we can do to hasten the coming of the LORD; not fear what has to happen before He arrives.
Sin and rebellion are even now being exposed for what it is; evil. It ultimately leads to eternal seperation from God. We are children of the Light and we should conduct ourselves as such. We must not fear as the world does when these birth pangs increase in frequency.
Christ has made great and precious promises to His children; I will never leave you or forsake you. I will guard your going in and your coming out, every move we make is under His watchful eye.
We must worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness; fear before Him, all the earth. We will be stable and not moved. As this happens on a daily and personal basis the heavens will be glad and the earth will rejoice. All of nature itself is awaiting the revelation of the children of God!
Do not fear; no matter how bad it looks, or is, the LORD sits above the circle of the earth and He observes the comings and goings of the children of men. As His coming draws near the fields will begin to rejoice, and all that is in them. The trees of the woods will sing out at the presence of the LORD, because He comes to judge the earth.
Oh give thanks unto the LORD, for He is good; for His mercy endures forever. He is our salvation and He will deliver us from the heathen. We will give thanks to His holy Name and glory in His praise. Blessed be the LORD God of Israel forever and ever. (1 Chronicles 16)
2012 will be a year that further gives crediance that the days of rebellion against God are coming to a close. There will be untold crisis in weather, earthquake and war. These things must be; they are a harbinger of the One that is coming soon to sit up His Kingdom of righteousness and peace. Christ said nation would rise against nation, an increase in earthquakes and distress, and war and rumor of war. The birth pangs of a new age have to happen before He returns.
Most hear of the last days and great fear comes. It should not be this way for Believers. It is an excellent opportunity to witness to our friends and relatives why we do not fear. Christ instructed us to lift up our heads and realize that our redemption is drawing near. In His Kingdom there will be no more war, no rebellion, no murder or other scourges that afflict mankind now. We should do everything we can do to hasten the coming of the LORD; not fear what has to happen before He arrives.
Sin and rebellion are even now being exposed for what it is; evil. It ultimately leads to eternal seperation from God. We are children of the Light and we should conduct ourselves as such. We must not fear as the world does when these birth pangs increase in frequency.
Christ has made great and precious promises to His children; I will never leave you or forsake you. I will guard your going in and your coming out, every move we make is under His watchful eye.
We must worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness; fear before Him, all the earth. We will be stable and not moved. As this happens on a daily and personal basis the heavens will be glad and the earth will rejoice. All of nature itself is awaiting the revelation of the children of God!
Do not fear; no matter how bad it looks, or is, the LORD sits above the circle of the earth and He observes the comings and goings of the children of men. As His coming draws near the fields will begin to rejoice, and all that is in them. The trees of the woods will sing out at the presence of the LORD, because He comes to judge the earth.
Oh give thanks unto the LORD, for He is good; for His mercy endures forever. He is our salvation and He will deliver us from the heathen. We will give thanks to His holy Name and glory in His praise. Blessed be the LORD God of Israel forever and ever. (1 Chronicles 16)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)