Embracing the Wind

Three topics have been on my heart for the past few days. But when I came out here to begin placing them into words, I found myself completely “blocked” as it were, from starting any of them. Two are pressing, and one involves a pondring of a future event. Yet something is more urgent and it comes in the form of the following link:

TURN YOUR FACE INTO THE WIND (Five Peas In A Pod)

For the saints, we’re in a time of preparation,refining, and separating from the former things that we identified with. The link above recalls a prophetic word that came forth in June of 1987 but is even more urgent in this present hour. It discusses the wind of the Holy Spirit blowing through the land and removing anything that’s not founded upon the rock of Jesus Christ. (I’m paraphrasing) It tells how many saints will observe the seemingly disasterous fallout from this and unwittingly think that the enemy is causing the devastation. Many will not understand that it’s the Lords working as everything that’s not of him is being removed. We’re further called to place our complete confidence in the Lord and “face the wind.” The only things that will be removed are those things which are not of God.

Another thought came to mind as I was going over the prophecy. The wind of the Holy Spirit will also remove any dead weights that we’ve been carrying around. This may entail some unpleasant circumstances, but we should embrace that which the Lord is doing as it will bring us closer to him and prepare us for anything that lies ahead. The eternal benefits of this cleansing far outweigh any earthly unpleasentries. It’s imperative to have our “all” on the altar, our hearts completely upon Jesus, and remember that he will finish the good work that he has begun in us. (Philippians 1:6)

It must have been over two years ago when during one of his broadcasts,  Steve Quayle relayed the story of visiting a goldsmith who was refining some pieces. The goldsmith stated “you must get the right temperature. If you make it too hot, you’ll ruin the piece.” Steve asked him “how do you know when you have the right temperature?” The goldsmith replied “When you see your reflection in the piece, the temperature is right.” As with the piece of gold, so it is with us. The fiery trial will not ruin us. (although we may think that it’s too much)  It will be just enough to bring forth a greater reflection of Jesus. The priceless souls around us need to see this reflection of Jesus.

Well, I’ll be going for now. Please check out the prophecy and even make some copies for others. This isn’t a fearful event when we understand what’s taking place. Until next time, blessings always in Jesus name.

Hebrews 12:26-29 “Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also the heaven.
And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.
Therefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:
For our God is a consuming fire.”

A Very Short Work

It’s astonishing when the Lord calls your attention to a thing in an undeniable fashion. It becomes more astonishing when, just as one thinks they’ve gleaned the bulk of the pondering, he takes it to a new and unexpected level. Such was the case over the past few days as I found myself fixated on a portion of scripture. Before going into this, however, here’s the link to the June 2009 issue of the Last trumpet Newsletter entitled:

THE FALL of the UNITED STATES OF BABYLON 

Psalms Three and four were penned by King David; the third being written as he fled from his son Absolom. While both were the object of much visiting and cogitation over the past four days, two passages have really stuck out. The first one is:

Psalm 3:5-6 “I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.
I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.”

The peace of God in the midst of turmoil. It’s such confidence in the Lord that one can be compassed about by those who would seek to take them down, and yet they are able to rest soundly.  Throughout scripture, the saints are called to trust God and not be fearful of threatening manifestations in the physical realm. Psalm 46:10 admonishes us to “Be still and know that I am God” while Nahum 1:7 reminds us that “The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.” In the new testament, we know that Peter was able to walk on water, until the wind in his face and the horrendous noise made by the crashing of waves caused him to focus on the surroundings instead of Jesus. We should never be paralyzed by fear over what’s transpiring in the natural, but to place our complete confidence in the Lord Jesus Christ as unto a faithful Creator.

I know a number of professing saints who, whenever talk of end times events comes up, one can look into their eyes and see the uneasiness building up. Whenever we’re entertaining fear that’s not a godly fear, there are underlying issues that must be brought before the Lord. Issues that, if not resolved in the present season, could lead to compromise in the day of trying. The apostle Paul wrote “For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Anything less than a complete abandonment of the fixations of this world and a total surrendering to the Lord Jesus will leave one ill-prepared should they find themselves being called upon to testify of Jesus before kings and governors. This is why the book of Philippians is so fascinating; it highlights an attitude of complete confidence in Jesus and a total discarding of the former lusts.

The other passage that became a focal point is Psalm 4. In the first verse, Kind David is calling on God while calling into rememberance how he had delivered him when he was in distress. He then brings forth the following inquiry:

Psalm 4:2 “O ye sons of men, how long will ye turn my glory into shame? how long will ye love vanity, and seek after leasing?”

Loving vanity and seeking after that which is temporal. Although it’s talkiing of those who make no claim to have a relationship with the Lord, this verse conjured up thoughts of how many professing christians these days seem to be consumed by temporal matters. They carry the name “christian” but maintain a profound level of attachment to worldly lusts and merchandise. In time they will heap to themselves teachers who offer instruction on finaincial success and living their best life now. (If this temporal life is ones best, what kind of an eternity is one planning on?)  A smooth-talking prosperity preacher can bring in millions by presenting a tribulation-free gospel that focuses on the acquisition of wood hay and stubble. This teaching really grinds me because it causes babes who are unskilled in the word to become sidetracked into a never-ending pursuit of material gain (equating it to godliness) while neglecting the things that really matter.

In a nutshell, the past four days have been filled with thoughts of trusting the Lord Jesus completely, loving not our lives in this world, and the dangers of entertaining worldly lusts. Just when it seemed that it couldn’t become more profound, last night something transpired that took it to a new level. I found myself casually going through the perpetual pile of mail, school papers, and what have you that sits on the kitchen counter next to the wall. (Mrs timbob is always reminding me to clean it up. I keep it down, but it never actually goes away) A particular letter grabbed my attention which had come from the Open Doors Ministry. I opened it and inside was a world map containing dots on fifty countries where persecution against the saints is the most severe. The accompanying letter, told of how the Iranian government has passed a law making the crime of a Muslim converting to christianity punishable by death. In reading the letter and looking at the numberd dots that blanketed the map, I was spoken to in a way that was undeniable.

“I’M DOING A SHORT WORK”

While we are busy in this country, building our earthly kingdoms and proclaiming how we shall never see trying times because we “are not appointed unto wrath” saints in North Korea, Iran, Yemen, Eritrea, and a host of other places are loving not their lives unto death. In that moment, the disconnect between those for whom professing faith in Jesus costs them everything and those of us who have no idea of what real persecution is came into full view. My discussion here is theological because I’ve never been through such trials. During the past four days, I was pondering Psalms three and four. While grilling burgers, I read them from the bible that I keep in the garage. In the kitchen I was using the small bible on the counter, next to the pile of mail. In the bedroom, I used my main bible. Monday evening, while talking to CR in the driveway, I grabbed the bible that sits on my truck seat, next to the lunch cooler which contains not only another bible, but also a compact concordance. Our house is filled with copies of Gods word while in churches across China those precious saints may hover around a single copy; understanding it’s preciousness on a level that we cannot fathom.

And yet, despite the availability of scripture, there is famine in this land. A bible in every house, and a church on every corner. Yet in many venues across the United States, the life changing gospel of Jesus christ is watered down, mingled with the teachings of men and cleverly marketed for widespread acceptance. Subsequently, many sincere but undiscerning saints are reduced to settling for a fleshy gospel that focuses more on entetainment and drawing a crowd than preparing the remnant for the days ahead. Days in which persecution and martyrdom may not only transpire in places like Mauritania, but could be a very present reality in Hometown USA.

Matthew 24:14 “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then the end shall come.”

Well I hope that this all doesn’t come across as being overly dramatic. I fear that none of us truly understand the lateness of the hour or the shortening of the days that’s transpiring. We need to draw closer to the Lord Jesus. Regardless of where we are spiritually, we need to become more so. Please check out the following post by Brother Malachi entitled:

DAYTON OHIO THE EPITOME OF COMMUNIST ROMANIA

Two other posts that seem needful involve not allowing fear to have dominion over us. Jesus warned us that in the last days mens hearts would fail them for fear and so both of these posts are timely.

FEAR RIDING ON MY SHOULDERS  by Rachel

TRUSTING GODS POWER by Marianne Lordi (This contains a very lively comment section)

I wish to all, a blessed day in Jesus.

Psalm 4:3-5 “But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him.
Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah
Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD”

Philippians 1:27-28 “Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;
And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.”

I Peter 4:19 “Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls unto him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.”

Steady and the Seasons

For the past several months, the element of change; primarily that which is ordered by God, has been something of much pondering. Everyone who traverses the valley of decisions goes through a sequence of seasons during the journey. Each one is perimetered by set of realities which converge and continue for a time; creating an essence that will become unique to that particular season. As time progresses, this formula will continuously be altered until finally, the season is forever gone; despite any future endeavor to reassemble the components. (Kind of like a class reunion. The pieces are there, but the ambience of that earlier season is beyond capture) Subsequently, a new set of realities emerge that present one with an array of unknown variables and questions as to how things will progress in these uncharted waters. There is something inherantly fascinating about entering a new season.

Oftentimes the change in seasons is desired and sought after, such as moving from the realm of acedemia to the workplace, getting married, or what have you. Much planning and expectation goes into such shifts and while one expects their life to take on a new direction, there are usually no monumental surprises. Other times, however, the change of seasons can be very unexpected such as when tragedy strikes or any number of conditions arise that forever change the course of events. When we learned that our oldest son was autistic, it added a variable that we previously hadn’t considered. On a more serious note, last week, while driving home at 3:00am, I fell asleep for a moment and awakened to find myself dangerously close to the path of an oncoming semi. After correcting my course, I began to think of how this household would have been affected had I not awakened.

Still other seasons are not so much drastic alterations in course, but rather gradual trends that in time transform into an era. These shifts come and go with little fanfare or observance until somewhere in the future people look back and realize that a profound alteration has transpired. In other words, day in and day out, one will not notice much in the way that a society is shifting. But when one compares the present to a day ten or twenty years previous, there will be distinct differences in a host of areas. One only has to look at this country today and compare it with forty years ago to know that the United States of today is not the country that most of us grew up in. This shifting is of a most serious nature, but was so slight that it went unnoticed from one day to the next.  

Yet despite the continuing sequence of seasons that one goes through; each one having an essence all its own, a lifetime is but a seemingly insignificant portion of years in comparison to the full embodiment of time. Even a lifetime that’s full of days is as a vapor that appears for a short time and then vanishes. A hundred years or so after one leaves this world, the memory of them will be largely forgotten, unless they reached a profound level of notoriety. (a factor which carries absolutely no weight in eternity) As if this isn’t difficult enough to fathom, time itself; that being the portion of existance which can be measured by seasons and paradigms, is merely an insignificant ripple on the everlasting ocean of eternity. In the grand panorama of all that is, a lifetime is all but invisible. Yet it is within that microscopic portion of time in which one passes through this world, that eternal destinations are settled and rewards secured.

Suddenly, the class reunion doesn’t seem very important.

Psalm 90:12 “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.”

Proverbs 27:1 “Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.”

Just a thought on a post that has already wandered much. The day of judgment is not a moving target. It is a set moment in time that God has already established. 

This morning I was thinking about the aspect of giving our “all” to the Lord and holding nothing back. A large portion of giving the Lord Jesus our all is to be ready to move into a new season when it’s time to do so. For the saint, every season in the Son will have memories of battles won, lessons learned, moments of sweet fellowship, and what have you. Yet there’s a real danger in clinging to a season when the Lord is trying to move us on to the next theater of operation. Oftentimes at night I go outside to pray under the stars. In addition to always being an awesome time in the Lord, it also reminds me of when I first came to Jesus in 1983 when I would do the same thing under the same stars. I have fond memories of those early days as one who had just been born of the Spirit. And yet I have no desire to return to that season. I want to be where the Lord is working today.

The following passage comes from the account of Elijah and has been in my mind for months:

I Kings 17:3-6 “Get thee hence, and turn thee eastward, and hide thyself by the brook Cherith, that is before jordan.
And it shall be, that thou shalt drink of the brook; and I have commanded the ravens to feed thee there.”
So he went and did according unto the word of the LORD: for he went and dwelt by the brook Cherith, that is before Jordan.
And the ravens brought him bread and flesh in the morning, and bread and flesh in the evening; and he drank of the brook.

I Kings 17:7-9 “And it came to pass after a while, that the brook dried up, because there had been no rain in the lane.
And the word of the LORD came unto him saying,
Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which belongeth to Zidon, and dwell there: behold I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee.”  

The Lord was providing for Elijah in the midst of what becoming a grievous famine. As the ravens brought food twice a day, right on schedule, something else was beginning to transpire on the scene. The brook was beginning to wane and finally it dried up completely. God was moving Elijah to another season; one that would lead to the sustaining of a certain widow and her son until the day that the Lord sent rain upon the earth. There is something about when the Lord calls for an alteration of circumstances that is fascinating, and yet it’s far more profound that we can grasp.

What does all of this mean in May of 2009? We are in a season of preparedness and separation; one that may end with little warning. The saints are being drawn closer to Jesus and called to let go of any nostalgic enfatuation that might facilitate a retreat to that which is past. We must continue to let go of yesterday, lay up treasure in heaven and watch diligently. That our hearts would truly be in heavenly places and that we would remember that whatever season we may currently find ourselves, it won’t last very long.

Sorry for rambling so much. I wish to all a blessed weekend in Jesus.

John 12:25-26 “He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.
If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.”

In The Clearing

This past weekend, Ryan and I took part in his final cub scout spring camp as nine months from now, he will move up to the boy scouts if continuance prevails. The campout transpires annually on an outcropping of land on the east side of Lake Chapin. While the daytime is dominated by a flurry of activity, the overnight is so peaceful that one can find a profound and undisturbed closeness to the Lord. A walk out to the end of the pier at midnight, under a star-filled sky, with nothing but the sound of the waves, and suddenly the rest of the world is light years away. The gentle breeze blowing in from the lake reminds one that the Lord is doing a work; unseen by those who are fixated on this world, but very apparent to anyone who determines in their heart to “be still” and listen. It’s an incredible work; albeit a short one as the Lord is drawing closer, those who maintain the testimony of Jesus and issuing the “final boarding call” to those who continue to love their lives in this world. 

John 3:8 “The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.”

 Although it was only for a weekend, this might be as close as I’ll ever get to my “dream vacation” of being stranded alone on a deserted island for two weeks or so, with nothing but a bible and a notebook. (And perhaps a soccer ball named Wilson) As this age rushes toward it’s conclusion, a couple of things are needful for us all. Neither is an earth shattering revelation and neither is above the other insofar as importance. First is the admonition in Hebrews 3:13 to exhort one another daily. (I was reading here Friday as an incredible thunderstorm was passing over Lake Chapin in the overnight hours.) We’re in this together and we all need encouragement. I find much encouragement in the posts and comments of other saints who seem to be getting the same leadings from the Holy Ghost that I’m receiving. Which leads to the second admonition.

We need as much uninterrupted time before the Lord Jesus as can possibly be secured. More than just a few minutes here and there, or while driving to work. Such times are always beneficial and awesome, but there’s a need for extended time of just seeking, and abiding in, the presence of the Lord Jesus. Letting go of our itineraries, leaving behind anything that would announce the time, and allowing the Lord to do his perfect work in us. It’s such a sweet place and whenever I’m there I always find myself asking the same question.  “Lord Jesus, why do we allow ourselves to become overcharged with so many things that have no eternal significance?” When we come into the presence of the Lord, all of the trials in our lives seem as nothing while all of the treasures that the world so lusts after become as yesterdays debris. 

Our entire attitude is transformed as the Lord begins to open our eyes to a larger portion of the big picture. (Psalm 73:17) In the natural, we see a very limited portion of the whole, and that through a glass darkly. On top of this, all that we do see is of the temporal category and is destined to melt with a fervent heat.  (II Corinthians 4:18) We cannot even begin to imagine the volume of that which we don’t see, but we can be assured that it is beyond comprehension. I mean, I’m still fascinated with the fact that God has been in existance forever and never changes. This truth keeps getting more incredible by the day as we cannot even begin to explain how such a thing is possible. And yet Jesus stated “Before Abraham was, I am.” The first of the following passages has been quoted many times in the history of this blog, yet it explains exactly what we must do if we’re to truly “know our God” and be more understanding of the bigger picture that’s unfolding before us.

Jeremiah 33:3 “Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things which thou knowest not.”

Luke 24:45 “Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures.

Understanding that can only be found by abiding in the presence of the Lord and diligently searching the scriptures. These are days of incredible confusion and profound deception. It’s a dangerous situation for the saints, and a completely disasterous one for any who remain in the valley of decisions. An exhaustive evaluation of the days events; their causes and the effects that they have on the whole, will simply leave one “exhausted” while the conclusions so diligently sought after continue to mock them from afar. The storylines of this world all have their roots in the spiritual realm and trying to define them through logical means is simply not possible. (David Meyers phrases it perfectly: “the problem is global sinning” but this truth will never be discussed by the “experts” who routinely appear on CNN)  

In Christian circles, there’s also a tendancy, by many, to retreat to the comforts of our own understanding instead of seeking the Lord. We like to be able to see the supply line and feel as though we have some control over outcomes. We run around in circles; trying to make logical decisions concerning complex situations that are well beyond our understanding. When that doesn’t work, we may start heaping to ourselves teachers who seem to specialize in that which is perplexing us; sometimes to the point of unwittingly placing them above that which is written. A teacher who is perceived to specialize in the area of financial success will gather a following in a hurry. (Although there is a definate need for such teaching) Then, as a last resort, we come before the Lord Jesus who sees the end from the beginning, who knows every heart, and who distributes understanding, according to his purpose, to anyone who sincerely enquires.  

Philippians 4:6-7 “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
And the peace of God which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

The conclusion of this is the same admonition that has been the focus of several posts over the past few weeks; an exhortation to draw closer to the Lord Jesus and let go of every hinderance.  To let go of our lives in this world, and truly seek first the kingdom of God. If we’re truly seeking first the kingdom of God, our prayer life will reflect it. This is an area where I have growing to do as I get distracted way too easily. Well I have to be going for now. Thanks to all who kept Morgan in prayer. She’s staying with a friend in Three Rivers as of two days ago, but she really needs to know Jesus. Please keep CR in prayer as he is confronted by an important decision. The Lord is doing an awesome work in the CR household.

Blessings always in Jesus name.

Until Seven Weeks Have Passed Over

Tonight will be the final night of production at AAM Three Rivers as we are heading into a seven week shutdown to match the reduced production schedules of General Motors. While the official plan is to return by July 6, we know that the chariots of Egypt are not something that one should place confidence in. (If General Motors goes down, American Axle will go down also) The enemy has tried to plant seeds of anxiety as uncertainty lies ahead, but the peace of God continues to keep them from sprouting. I don’t know what the fallout will be in the physical realm, and I know that this may sound like grand-standing to some, but my heart has already departed the trappings of this world. It’s not the result of any ten-step program or counciling, but is a place that the Lord has brought me to. When we begin to truly encounter the sweetness of the Lord Jesus, we begin to grasp what he meant when he stated:

Matthew 6:34 “Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.”

When we reach a place where we can truly “believe God” and not focus on the “what if this happens” we’ll have peace that defies all of the experts and lets those around us know that our God is real. As for the “what if this happens”….well….what if?” What if the house goes into foreclosure? My heart isn’t in this temporal dwelling. What if the brook Cherith (or American Axle) dries up? It’s awesome to be still and see the Lord do a work elsewhere. What if the worst possible senario manifests? Would it alter scriptural truth or take away from treasures laid up in heaven? We know that it would not. Any situation in this world; regardless of how traumatic it may seem in the natural, is only for a “very short season.” So short is the season that it doesn’t even register on the calendar of eternity. There is an incredible rest for those who trusting completely in the Lord Jesus, instead of staying awake at night trying to figure it all out.

One change that looks to be taking place is that CR may well be departing the plant; even if we do return in July. The Lord appears to have opened a door in another venue which would truly be an incredible opportunity where he’ll be able to reach a lot of souls. While it will be sad to see CRs departure, it’s always a joy to see the Lord work in such a way that is undeniable. As for me, I’m looking forward to more time to spend in the streets, more time to camp out before the Lord in prayer, and more time to be about the things that have everlasting ramifications. I’m really looking forward to the next seven weeks of being away from AAM.

Well I’ll be going for now. I’ve only had about an hour of sleep and I have to get things around for the cub scout camp this weekend. Please keep Morgan in prayer. She’s in an abusive relationship that appears to have become physically abusive. Yet she keeps going back and the vicious cycle continues on. I’ve never understood why someone would stay in such a relationship, and yet we’ve all heard similar reports. (I have a neice who’s also in an abusive relationship) Morgan and Dustin are two priceless souls, hanging in the balance, while the enemy is striving to run out the clock. As of this moment, Morgan is not at the house where they have been living and nobody knows where she is.

May the Lord grant all of us a greater understanding of what’s really in play as the final moments of the age. We are in the middle of an unfathomable humanitarian crisis as souls are dropping into hell every second and the enemy is playing for keeps. He doesn’t get distracted like we do. Lord Jesus, please open our eyes to the seriousness of this.

I wish to all a blessed weekend in Jesus.

Unto All Holy Seekers and Loving Enquirers

It was another of those days where I felt as one living in two different worlds. (This has become commonplace) On the surface, it was a very enjoyable Mothers Day for my wife and everyone else in this household. We showered Mrs. timbob with the usual assortment of gifts and cards, Megan wrote her a poem, Ryan wrote a song and actually sang it to her, (Wow!) Morgan and Dustin were here, we grilled chicken in the afternoon, and in the evening, visited my inlaws in Three Rivers. It was, on the surface, a very normal looking day as we gave our moms some much deserved recognition for all that they do and let them know how much we love them. Every part of the day took place as one would expect with no surprises that would, in the years to come, cause this particular Mothers Day to stand out from all of the others.

And yet it was not a normal day as I found myself continually pondering things that have been on my heart for the past three or four years; that being the makeup of the end times church, the lateness of the hour, the seperation between the sheep and the goats, and the attributes of those who will still be standing after the great falling away has claimed its final casualty. The reasons for this are twofold. For one, it’s an issue that’s never far from my personal embodiment of cogitations. (?)  Secondly, during the previous sleepless night, I was surfing  the blogosphere and visiting a few places that I’m normally unable to get to as often as I would like. I came across a prophecy that was originally given by Jane Leade in 1679, re-introduced by a man named Charles Price in the early part of the twentieth century, and last August placed into a post by DJ on the blog site “Girl Apprehended.” The first link below is to DJs posting. The second is to a site featuring an extensive collection of Jane Leade prophecies.

1679 PROPHECY TO THE SONS OF GOD by CHARLES PRICE

 JANE LEADE 17th CENTURY PROPHETESS

Although such considerations are profitable for any generation, I believe they hold special significance for us as we are witnessing the fulfilment of scripture before our eyes. As such we should be understanding of what it means to hold fast the profession of our faith steadfast unto the end and the characteristics of those who are a part of what Jane Leade refers to as the “virgin church.”  This is not something that is on the minds of many these days as issues of eternal significance are oftentimes placed on the back burner in favor of social issues. It’s commonplace today for churches to have marriage seminars, (this has a place) financial seminars, (ours is currently going through a Dave Ramsey series on Wednesday evenings) and teachings on a host of other like topics. But one will be hard pressed to find a seminar on “LETTING GO OF EVERYTHING THAT THIS WORLD HOLDS IN HIGH ESTEEM AND SUBMITTING OURSELVES FULLY TO THE LORDSHIP OF JESUS CHRIST.”

“Letting go” is a complete trusting in the Lord and placing no confidence in our own inventions or reasonings. It’s a willingness to do anything the Lord asked of us without trying to map out our means of sustainance before deciding whether or not to believe that it’s possible. When one determines to live within these perimeters, there will be trial and the flesh will become quite uncomfortable. And yet this “absolute abandonment of all, that we may win Christ” is essential if we’re to not be caught up in the great falling away or the events coming to pass upon the earth. I was about to write out Revelation 12:11, however, the following familiar passage came to me while typing the previous sentance.

Matthew 10:18-20 ” And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles.
But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.
For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.”

This passage is far deeper than I’m going to get into, (the entire tenth chapter of Matthew is a good place to read about loving not our lives in this world) but it does reveal two primary attributes of a saint who is positioned to endure unto the end. First is an abandonment of earthly standing. They have, from their heart, let go of every attachment that would cause them to “reconsider” their profession and have made Jesus Christ their absolute first love. Secondly is a complete confidence in the Lord; knowing that he is with us always and will empower us to endure anything that comes in our direction. In times of peace and safety, seeds of doubt or an attachment to a particular idol can remain for years. In times of great trying however, when the forces of hell are striving to stamp out the testimony of Jesus, such seeds will quickly sprout into compromise and result in one becoming a spiritual casulalty.

Something else is needful to mention. The above senario may sound gloomy and cause many to be uneasy. Indeed Jesus warned us that the days prior to his return would be more perilous than any other time in history. But for those who are in Christ and have made him their refuge; they will also be days of indescribable peace and incredible fellowship. A closeness to Jesus and a bond with those who have remained faithful when it would have been much easier to succumb to the falsehoods of smooth preachers or the logical presentations of those who have swallowed the big lie. A time when the joy of the Lord surpasses anything that must be endured in the natural.

II Corinthians 7:4 Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.”

I John 2:13-14 “I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you little children, becuse ye have known the Father.
I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you., and ye have overcome the wicked one.”

The overcomers. Those who, from their heart, have placed their “all” on the altar and count all that was previously amassed in this world as “debris” that they may win Christ. Those who are not enticed by the worlds allurements, or the empty promises of stability in the theater of atoms. Those who rejuse to  identify with the titles and traditions of this fallen worlds system, but make their boast in the Lord Jesus Christ  They have backed out of all unholy alliances and have determined to follow the Lamb withersoever he goeth. Their conversation testifies to one having an intimate relationship with the only begotten Son of God; by whom the worlds were created, and before whom every person will one day stand.

My desire in writing this afternoon, is that everyone who professes Jesus Christ as Savior will do an examination of priorities and enquire of the Lord to reveal any trouble spots. (Philippians 3:15) That each of us would let go of the weights, sins, petty disputings, contrary attitudes, imaginations that seek self-promotion or recognition; “anything” that stands between us and the Lord. That we would, from our hearts, pray the words found in the end of Revelation, “EVEN SO, COME, LORD JESUS!”  

Blessings always in Jesus name.

Romans 8:18 “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”

I Peter 4:1 “Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.”

Psalm 42;5-8 “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.
O my God, my soulis cast down within me: therefore will I remember thee from the land of Jordan, and of the hermonites, from the hill Mizar.
Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts: all thy waves and thy billows are gone over me.
Yet the LORD will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life.”

“KEEP THY HEART with ALL DILIGENCE”

The message was given nineteen years and two months ago, but it’s content is every bit as relevant, if not more so, in the year 2009. This message from David Wilkerson begins with a discussion on the practicioners of craft slipping into many churches and bringing about chaos. He offers up a particular tragic example of a church that was destroyed as infidelity, mental breakdowns, and even suicides began to transpire. But this is not the reason that I’m compelled to link to the message. It goes on to discuss something even more dangerous because it enters in so subtly and is embedded in the different law working in our members.

We all remember the words of the prophet Samuel, who told King Saul that rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft. (I Samuel 15:23) As this message progresses, it goes into explicit detail on the roots of rebellion such as bitterness, envy, a need to be noticed, and what have you. These agents of the enemy quietly slip in through the spiritual back door while we are straining at the obvious and, before we know it, incredible spiritual decay has set in. This message is so important in our time that I would recommend copying it and prayerfully studying the passages of scripture that David Wilkerson mentions. This is something that every one of us should be ever watchful for. Here’s the link:

WITCHCRAFT IN THE CHURCH

Proverbs 4:23 reminds us to “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” May we all be watchful and take heed that we don’t allow these things to take up residence. I originally found a link to this meassage at the END TIMES PROPHETIC WORDS site and I appreciate the author bringing this message to the forefront. If there’s a single “blanket admonition” that I could give to every saint, it’s to seek an ever-increasing closeness to Jesus. If one finds coldness in their heart, ask the Lord for a deliverance. If one is walking really close to him now, seek a closer relationship. When a person gets really close to Jesus; to a place where their hearts desire is only unto him, all of the struggles with carnality, pride, envy, worldliness, and what have you, will lose their grip over that person.

Switching gears for a moment; I found a site that’s linked to on LA Marzullis blog entitled WARN RADIO which I’m planning to check out in greater detail when (if) time permits. It’s imperative to be understanding as to the lateness of the hour, which makes the message from David Wilkerson all the more urgent. Well, I’ll close out for now. Please read the message and most importantly, seek a closer relationship with Jesus. It’s of the utmost urgency. Blessings in Jesus name.

Galatians 5:19-26 “Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strift, seditions, heresies,
Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and the like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.”

As one reads the message in the link, it will become clear as to why I extended this passage all the way to verse 26.

Hebrews 3:12-13 “Take heed brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God.
But exhort one another daily, while it is called Today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.”

The Word I’m Looking For (episode IV)

It’s been a while since the last installment of this series on words that have a single appearance in the King James bible. I was thinking of letting it go, adding to the pile of unfinished series that are buried in the archives, and starting a series on the lives of Elijah and Elisha. (this is really on my heart) But I need to see this through; although after three previous entries, I’m still going through the letter “A.” We know that all scripture is profitable and a lot of the words of this description fall in some very significant passages. So here it goes beginning with:

“ALLEGORY”

Galatians 4:22-24 “For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a free woman.
But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.
Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sanai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar.” 

This single paragraph can hardly do justice to the incredible truth found here. The setting is a church in Galatia where many of the saints, after being born of the Spirit, had begun trying to observe the statutes contained in the law. In this passage, Paul is telling how Ishmael and Isaac represent the two covenants. Indeed the law was a schoolmaster and all things therein point to Christ. But when Jesus was on the cross and said “it is finished,”  the vail in the temple was “rent in twain.”  The sin debt of the world was paid, once and for all. Yet it seems understandable that saints who came from a pagan background could easily be persuaded to begin practices that were associated with Judaism. 

Galatians 4:19 “My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you.”

“ALLOWED”

I Thessalonians 2:4 “But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.” 

Another verse containing a number of points.  It’s a serious thing to proclaim the words of truth as every word will be given account of. One thing that seems rampant these days is a lack of godly fear by many when it comes to contending for the faith once delivered to the saints. This lack of godly fear manifests in one of two ways. The first is adherance to doctrine for doctrines sake; that is adopting a position and then building a framework of scriptures around it for support. I fear that we all have this tendancy to one degree or another. The second is a retreating to a comfortable and widely accepted message that doesn’t ruffle any feathers. When we set out to proclaim the strait and narrow way, we are going to be called “narrowminded.” This is unavoidable.

This seems needful to bring up. CR recently heard one who embraced the homosexual lifestyle. This persons response to Romans chapter one was an unconcerned “I don’t think that’s what verses 26 and 27 mean.” There is an astonishing absence of godly reverance in many circles these days and oftentimes this can lead to the embracing of incredible wickedness. The second part of the above passage let’s us know who we are to please and that our actions will reveal who we are serving. Incidentally, the idea for this entire series was launched one day when I was searching for the exact location of the verse that is found in Leviticus 18:22 and discovered that the word “womankind” only appears once in scripture. But what a profound appearance.

“ALLOWETH”

Romans 14:22-23 “Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. happy is he that condemneth not himself in the thing which he alloweth.
And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.”

One really needs to back up a few verses to get the “full” of this. In short, there are things that we may have peace about, but they may cause problems for a younger saint. As such we should be mindful of this and strive not to engage in anything that would trip them up. Likewise, we should strive to avoid contentions that have nothing to do with sound doctrine. We’ve all heard the analogy of churches dividing over the “color of the new carpeting” so to speak. The danger of division and scattering is ever present. The enemy will always seek out opportunities to “divide and conquor”  and he’s always seeking whom he may devour. It was important to include verse 23 because it reminds us that it is sin when we doubt God in any capacity. “Lord help our unbelief.”

Romans 14:17 “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.”

The next word actually appears twice (it also appears in Hosea 2:14) but this next passage is so pressing that it needs to be added.

“ALLURE”

II Peter 2:17-18 “These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever. For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean excaped from them who live in error.”

This is an ominous warning that relays the dangers of loving this world. While typing this, I found myself thinking about these huge ministry kingdoms that consistantly preach a prosperity gospel. There seems to be a focusing on the acquisition of stuff instead of an exhortation to “forsake all and follow Jesus.” This also fits in with II Thessalonians 2:4 mentioned previously. Whenever an intentional utilization of the three lusts is in play; those being the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, there’s trouble brewing. A message  may seem scripturally solid, but will inevitably cause those lacking in discernment to place “things” at the top of their list.  It should be noted that the Holy Spirit will always draw us closer to Jesus. If we’re listening, he will also let us know when we’re beginning to drift.  

“ALMSDEEDS”

Acts 9:36-37 “Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.
And it came to pass in those days that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber.”

Truly faith without works is dead and Tabitha was a lady with a full embodiment of good works, done  in Jesus name. She became ill and this resulted in a physical death. As we read down to verse 40, we learn that Peter prayed over her and the Lord brought her back to life. This miracle resulted in many throughout Joppa believing on the Lord Jesus. It should be noted that this lady had a reputation of “almsdeeds” that was widely known and that she would be greatly missed. Because of this godly reputation many people knew of the situation and this, in turn, resulted in many believing on the Lord Jesus Christ, when she was raised from the dead. Folks who have now been in the presence of the Lord for two thousand years.

This is a side note, but my understanding is that during the ministry of Smith Wigglesworth, 21 people were raised from the dead. Indeed “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, today, and forever.”

Well I have to go for now. These posts are a lot of fun and they force ponderings that otherwise wouldn’t have come about. “AND WE’RE STILL ON THE LETTER “A!” One could almost devote a blog entirely to this process. (hmm) Until the next time, I wish to all, a blessed day in Jesus.

Psalm 119:36-37 “Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness.
Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way.

 

Building Up Yourselves On Your Most Holy Faith

It’s always fascinating when the Lord does something that forces us to think outside the confines of our “brand of chritianity” so to speak. While such events should not cause us to compromise scriptural truths, they do remind us that none of us have managed to place the Creator of all that is in a box and that he alone knows the heart of every person. As such, the following passage offers us a needful reminder.

I Samuel 16:6-7 “And it came to pass, when they were come, that he looked on Eliab, and said, Surely the LORD”S anointed is before him.
But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.”

The following link may challenge the thinking of some for a number of reasons, however, I found it to be very encouraging. There are people receiving the baptism of the Holy Ghost in a setting where we traditionally wouldn’t expect the embracing of this promise. This in turn forces us to step outside the perimeters that we so love to establish; not to consider any teachings which don’t have a scriptural basis, but rather to consider that the true body of Christ is not one-dimentional.  Here’s the link:

IN AWE OF THE SUPERNATURAL

The gift of the Holy Ghost, with the evidence of speaking in other tongues, is a promise to every generation until the return of Jesus. When it happens in venues that most of us wouldn’t expect, it kind of gives one an idea of how Peter must have felt when the Gentiles received the Holy Ghost. He was just obediantly delivering the gospel to the house of Cornelius when the Lord gave the increase; thereby forever settling the issue as to whether or not salvation was also granted unto the Gentiles. Today, two thousand years later, the Lord is continuing to give the increase to whosoever will receive it. “For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call”  As we approach the end of the age, it’s  imperative to not only receive the baptism of the Holy Ghost, but to be continuously filled with the Spirit if we’re to withstand the trials ahead. Our own strength or understanding will simply not suffice.

This post has been on my mind for almost a year without so much as a rough draft. After reading Shirleys post, it seemed needful to finally get it out. It’s not an exhaustive study (I simply don’t have that kind of time) but rather a listing of three things that are the result of being filled with the Spirit. My prayer is that everyone who professes Jesus Christ as Savior will both desire and seek to be empowered from on high. One cannot emphasize enough, the need for each of us to prayerfully search the scriptures for ourselves. In these days, discernment is a must and we must always be mindful of the fine line between embracing sound doctrine (undeniable scriptural truths) and becoming soundly indoctrinated (adopting a teaching and then continuously arranging scripture verses so that they support that teaching.) The differences can be ever so subtle and, if we’re not atuned, all but impossible to detect.

Acts 1:8 “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”

This is the first item. Power from on high to live, and be witnesses for, the Lord Jesus Christ in a hostile landscape. Today in the western nations many have become so secure in their physical situation that a form of godliness, has replaced the filling of the Spirit and education has replaced the leading of the Spirit. This may hold up for a while and in todays church there seems to be an incredible lack of discernment. In times of continuance, almost anyone can quickly learn a few christian catch phrases and appear to be spiritual. However, a form of godliness  will not serve one at 2:00AM when two black military style vehicles have parked in front of the house and we have five minutes to gather some personal effects before being taken away. (It can happen here. Plans are already being drawn up that will label the gospel as “hate speech” and christians as potential terrorists.) We must be close to the Lord Jesus and filled with the Spirit; there’s no other way to endure this.

Romans 8:26-27 “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities; for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.”

A second reason for being filled with the Spirit is prayer. When we pray in the Spirit, it’s perfect prayer that’s void of our own agenda or lusts. When I go before the Lord, look over my ever lengthening prayer list, consider the battles around me, and the unknown elements of tomorrow, it’s like “Lord where do I start?” We cannot possibly address such issues using our own limited understanding; let alone keep our own desires from getting in the way. But praying in the Spirit; just coming before the Lord and yielding will always result in praying according to the will of God. My own prayer life is much different than it was even two years ago. Much of it is in the Spirit and most of this is with singing. It’s beyond description; I only wish that everyone would find this place. Such total contentment and peace that, despite many attempts to describe it, there are no adequate words in our vocabulary.

I should save this for the last point, but when we come into the place described above, the sweetness is so overwhelming that the lusts and itineraries of this world just drop to the ground like yesterdays newspaper. Things that may have once caused distraction simply fall away as our foremost desire is to the Lord Jesus. The reason that so many professing christians live a lukewarm lifestyle is that they haven’t entered into this secret place with the Lord Jesus. As such, my standing prayer for all professing saints is that the Lord would draw them so close and grant them such a revelation of himself that they would be forever ruined to find any type of pleasure in a carnal lifestyle. When we truly “taste and see that the Lord is good” nothing of this world will ever again be able to pacify us. (Philippians 3:8)

Jude 20-21 “But ye beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,
Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.”

The third item is that our faith is built up and unbelief is kept in check. I can remember wrestling with a lot of carnality and unbelief in the summer of 1984. That is until August, the month that I received the baptism of the Holy Ghost. Suddenly, a number of wrestlings were no longer a struggle and I had a closeness to the Lord Jesus on a level that hadn’t been there before. I had a lot of incredible times with the Lord prior to this, but when I received the baptism of the Holy Ghost, everything was amplified multiple times. (This is not to suggest that “I had arrived” spiritually. We must continue to die daily to ourselves; right up to our final moment.) Twenty five years later, the Lord continues to become more incredible with each passing day under the sun. Again I find myself trying to describe things that reside beyond the limits of earthly terminologies.  

Well I have to go for now. This topic is really deserving of a comprehensive study. Phil McAlmond had a series of posts on the baptism of the Holy Ghost and the gifts of the Spirit. Unfortunately, he deleted his blog several months ago. Then again, one must wonder how long we should engage in this venue. I guess until the president shuts it down; since he is soon to have the authority to do so during times of national emergency. One of those strange goings on that get practically no media attention. Oops….getting off topic a little. Well, I’ll be going for now. I wish to all, a blessed day in Jesus.

John 7:37-39 “In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come to me and drink.
He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
(But this spake he of the Spirit which they that believe on hime should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because Jesus was not yet glorified.)

John 14:26 “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring to rememberance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”

“REFUGE”

This is an unusual time to be posting as I just arrived home from work and it’s approaching 4:30am. Throughout the evening, the peace of God was incredibly profound and was like a gentle reminder that, regardless of the events taking place in the ambience or the events soon to break forth upon the earth, the Lord is our refuge. He inhabits eternity, sees the end from the beginning, and is a very present help in trouble. We know that Jesus has promised to be with us always; even unto the end of the world, and that we should not be fearful of the events that have so many on edge these days. Uncertainty fills the air, but Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. While this truth is understood by nearly all who are born of the Spirit, it seemed needful to bring it up again and ensure that it’s not just theological understanding but is firmly planted in our hearts.

While none of us enjoy circumsances that, in the natural seem to have no solution, the truth is that we occasionally need them. They reveal to us whether or not we are truly believing the word of God and they draw us closer to Jesus. Last week, while working, I was pondering the approaching layoff and the effect that it would have on this family. The Lord quietly dropped in my spirit that a new season was at hand; one that would bring me closer to him and less trusting in the things of this world. It’s like an understanding granted that’s without definable words.

On the way home, a preacher on the radio was discussing a number of issues such as the swine flu outbreak, the recent situation of Air force One (or an alternate Air Force One; whichever) flying over ground zero, and the fact that today is mayday; a prominent day in the occult realm. These are indeed strange times and for some reason, the incident with Air Force One strikes me as being really bizarre; almost surreal. While it’s certain to quickly pass from the collective memory, it remains an occurance that simply seems void of any logical reasoning. It could well be that there’s nothing to the story, but in these times of accelerating prophetic fulfilment, one can only wonder “is there something significant here?” It’s not that we expect a conspiracy unfolding behind every tree; it’s just that a number of events lately have had a very strange sensation to them (for lack of a better way to explain it)

Next week will be our last week before the extended layoff. In another strange story, it was announced this week that the American Axle plant in Detroit  is being shut down and the work is going to mexico. This following the employees agreeing to what amounts to a 50% wage reduction last year. The Detroit facility is AAMs largest plant and with it’s closing, the plant in Three Rivers will be the only one of the original five plants still in operation. When I began working at the Three Rivers plant in 2002, we had a solid 1000 employees and there was continuous activity on all shifts. Now our numbers are below 400. Although more work is scheculed to be brought in, this hinges directly on the prospects of General motors. ( Psalm 37:25 remains true)  I’m looking forward to the layoff as it will allow for more time to get into the streets with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Well I must go for now. We all need to get REALLY CLOSE TO THE LORD JESUS AND HEAR WHAT THE SPIRIT SAITH UNTO THE CHURCHES as events are moving at an incredible pace. We need to be in our place of refuge; that being the Lords perfect will. I pray that we all would seek out extended periods of quiet time before the Lord and be atuned to his leading. In the past, Code has mentioned the bishop who would rent a hotel room for a few days, close the door and spend the time in prayer and fasting. Away from the noise, apart from the ideas of others, just alone with Jesus. We all must be in a place where we can hear his voice or we’ll be woefully unprepared when chaos stretches to the horizon in every direction. I guess this is why I was compelled to post this morning; to encourage every saint to fervently seek the Lord Jesus.

Blessings in Jesus name.