Moving

Do you like moving? I don't, at least not any more or should I say certain aspect of moving. I'm sure the children of Israel probably didn't like it either when the were traveling in the wilderness for forty years waiting to go into the Promise Land. But moving is really a good thing, because it helps us to get where we need to be. It also helps us lighten your load along the way, at least most of the time. 

Looking back, I realize that with each move, including the ones with my parents, they brought me closer to where God wanted us. Through the process I was educated, got saved, met my wife and eventually met Sheldon. They also helped prepare me for being a son of God and for ministry. Yet with each move or step there was usually some difficulties, even for my parents. Sometimes we may have felt we were forced to move. But God has many ways of prodding us along. Whether they were financial, medical or social reason or maybe just chasing a dream. Whatever the reason or situation, God had His hand in it all. Sometimes God just tells us when it's time to move and where to go.

When I was living with my parents we moved ten times. After I moved out, and eventually got married, we moved seven more times. This will be my eighth one (the number eight is symbolic of a new beginning), yet with each move it seemed we collected more stuff despite moving and garage sales. Things we thought we might need or wanted at the time. That's why storage units have become a such big business. Thrift shops like Goodwill and the Salvation Army have reap the benefits of people's indulging, good deal purchases, and garage sale hunting. 

When I was younger moving wasn't so bad, in fact it was usually fun, because we were looking forward to new surroundings and new friends. But when you get to my age and all the cleaning, packing and hauling, it's no longer fun. Now, I'm just taking it one day at a time and remind myself that this too will be a thing of the past.

This Friday, we will be leaving the apartment where we have lived for three years and eight months; it has served its purpose. After we move all our things back into our old house, I will help my wife get settled in and fix a few things. Then I will head out on my new adventure about mid August. Everything I need will be with me in the van, including God, who is always with me.

I've come to learn that it's best to let go of many things, before they own you, even though there may be times we might miss them, but I will manage without them. Giving things away, I believe is one of the best ways to do it, after all isn't that how we got everything from God. The Father want His sons and daughters to prosper as well as be free, freedom in every way. As the apostle Paul said:

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." (Phip. 4:12 niv)

Note: I will miss my wife, family and friends, but not all the stuff. And whatever I might miss, will be more than compensate by the love an presence of our heavenly Father, His children and places I've never been before. I will continue to write articles on my laptop computer and post them whenever possible.

Glory Meeting

If you could ask God a question, any question, and He would answer it, what would that question be?  This was the question Sheldon David purposed to a small group of people who comes to his home for a Thursday Bible study. He asked us to think about it and then come to what he called a “glory meeting" on Friday night a week later and expect to hear an answer from God.

David has often prayed for and prophesied over people and has said things he personally didn’t know, but God did. When David is tapped into the anointing, God is able to reveal many things to him. God also wants others to know how much He really cares about their desires and/or needs. Plus, God also wants to share His heart.

The apostle Paul encouraged the Corinthians to prophesy. (First Corinthians 14:5) Speaking positive words and bring hope into people's lives has always been the heart of the Father. But this time, David is doing something just a little different and unique.

Anyway, I told my wife about the meeting and the question offered, because of her job she’s not usually able to come to the Bible studies. But she would be able to come to the “Glory Meeting.” So a few days later, I asked her if she had thought about her question, and she said, "Yes." She stated, that although there are many things she would like to know her real desire would be to hear what God thought was most important for her to know. I was surprised, and told her that it was exactly how I felt.

Although there are a number of questions I could ask, especially about going to Mexico and all the situations I might face. Yet, if it were all to boil down to just one question, it would have to be what God thinks is best for me to know at this time.

This was kind of like what God asked King Solomon, what he wanted, and Solomon asked for wisdom. I realize it’s not exactly the same, because we are asking God to reveal something, instead of receiving. Besides we already have everything in Christ at our disposal. So what would your question be if God asked you?

The “glory meeting" started at 6:30 with worship. We could already feel the presence of the Lord as we sat quietly waiting on Him. Before David prayed, he said Israel also has a prayer tonight, but he doesn’t know it yet. Then David said there was a spiritual vibration, a rippling going forth. Then the Lord said, “It’s meant to shake to reestablish order—words spoken tonight are not small, weak or unimportant. They are meant to affect the future, the world and people’s lives. Believe it will happen. They will bring down obstacles near and far. You will also get your answers tonight, and obstacles will fall away.” 

                                  

Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is LIBERTY!

Then I prophesied, “Be still and know that I am God. I am the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob…I’m not the God of Christianity, Muslim, the Hindus, or Judaism I am the Lord God creator of heaven and earth and I won’t share my glory with none other than My sons and daughters. You are my sons, my chosen ones sent to establish, to liberate and to call forth what is not seen as though it were. You hear my voice, and you have been prepared, and predestined to speak for me.“ Then I prayed, “We yield to your Glory. We yield to your Glory! Then the Lord continued to speak, “I’m kissing your hearts and souls alive. I want you to set people free, to restore lives and raise the dead, to bring forth the heart of the father to the fatherless. This world is hurting and hungry and I need you to speak for me, multiply bread to feed the poor and the hungry, to break bread for the world. You are my hand and feet and My voice. I need you, just as much as you need me —we are one! I hear your words, and your prayers are being answered even before you finishing speaking. Angels are attending, waiting to act on your behalf. Establish what Jesus said is finished, accomplished it on earth as it is in heaven!!!”

We continued to pray, asking God to break the spirit of addiction across our nation and the world. To set prostitutes free who are either bound in body, mind or spirit. To break the spirit of poverty, abuse, hate, fear, sickness and disease off people lives, and to restore eyes to see, ears to hear, minds and hearts to receive the Truth. We even prayed for the Lord to save the drug lords or cut them off, and to bring integrity back into the work place and the leaders of our nation.

Then David played some special worship music that lasted for about forty minutes. However, on the last song David asked for everyone to stand. And while we were standing I felt God asking me to do something else. I had brought my two-hand double edge sword to the meeting, but I didn’t know why. But, by the time the song was over I knew what I had to do. So I asked everyone to remain standing, and then picked up my sword and walked to the center of the room with it held in both hands.

There were sixteen people there, counting David, and I told them this sword represented the Sword of the Lord. And I am giving it to you to receive it, as from the Lord, and then I want you to give it to the person next to you. You can pull it out of its sheath, if you want to, but be very careful it is very, very sharp.

I told them the Sword of the Lord represent His power and authority that is given to you tonight. (It is also used to cut off those things that hinder or bind you or others.) Your words have power and authority. You speak for God, so be bold; God’s not a winnie. And while they passed the sword around, I got down on my knees, bowed and prayed this declaration: 

"Father...the United States of America bows before you and it yields its power and authority to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. The countries of Mexico, Latin America, South America and Canada all bow to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. The Far East, Asia and Japan bow to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Europe, the Middle East and the Nation of Israel all bow to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Australia and Africa also bow to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and every nation on earth bows to the Lordship. Every man, women and child bows before Jesus Christ, including every man-made god and idol. And we in this room here also bow to the Lordship of Jesus Christ, for You alone are God, King of kings and Lord of lords. All praise, glory and honor belong to You, and You alone."

Then David prayed another powerful prayer and then God spoke to each of us through David. Whatever the question on our minds that night God answered them and more. We didn’t even have to ask. When it came time for my turn, I had no idea what the Father would say, but this is what He said:  

“Israel, Wow, what you have become—a holy terror to the enemy. You can rejoice in that! Your coming to Vancouver will have a huge payoff. You will meet the Father, and be my prophet and a man of wisdom. Your name will not be cut off. It will be upon Joshua and many others, because you made wise choices. Don’t look so hard for it that you miss it. I’m revealing my heart to you, not in just one situation, but it will be a series of revelations. You will know the Father’s heart in sync for many years to come.”

Then the Father finished speaking to the others. There was one man there who was much older than me and God told him He wasn’t through with him. And his younger wife who is a quiet speaking oriental women, God saw her as a great warrior and scary to the enemy in her quietness. Her words went way out there, because she abides with Christ. God said He was putting her on a lamp stand to illuminate His house and be seen. And though she may not want that, the Father said, “I do and I win.” There was anther man there, about my age, who was worried about his unsaved sons, and God said to him, “I’ll take care of your children and you take care of mine, deal.”

It was an awesome night for everyone, one we would never forget, including my wife. She heard exactly what she needed to hear, that she was precious and a great women of great faith. God would meet her every need and desire. And He would send her a special (angelic?) friend to help see that her needs were met. And things would get easier for her.

Note: The reason I shared this “glory meeting” is because the words prophesied are for ALL of God's sons and daughters, and to give them some incite on God’s heart, of how He sees us, and that we should encourage others, because of how God see them. Our true identity is so important. I also want to encourage you to think and pray much bigger prayers. I know some people may think this is silly, but I don’t care. Elijah prayed and it stopped raining for three and a half years and then He prayed for rain. And if you think my prayers are too big, you should hear Sheldon’s prayers. They are mind-boggling and sometimes very long. These prayers may take a long for us to see them accomplish, but it’s still the kind God want to hear, there is no time or space with Him. We speak His heart and vision and the angelic forces will do the rest.

“Therefore I say to you, all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they will be granted you.” (Mark 11: 23-26) All of this is based on our faith and forgiveness.

 (A special thanks to my wife for taking notes during the meeting.)

Small Beginnings

I just finished reading a book by John Crowder called, Seven Spirits Burning. I thought it was a great book and I’m glad to see his message going out to a larger audience. Brother Crowder has a wonderful passion for the Truth. God is using him and the elect for many different reasons, and at different times. There are specific reasons for everything that God does even if we don't always understand them. His chosen ones, or "the elect" as the apostles Paul calls the believers in Christ, are bringing forth His truth, nature, power, wisdom and the knowledge of God in order to restore and establish God's plan. The Kingdom of God is coming to planet earth, whether people like it or not. God's timing is perfect and so is the way it is done. It will be accomplished by all of His sons and daughters taking steps of faith. 

Some people seem to blossom early in life while others are still waiting. I’m sure there are many readers who wonder why they have not experienced some things John Crowder talks about in his books, The New Mystics. Just as I do when I see and listen to Sheldon David. Yet, I believe all God's sons and daughter will experience something special as we continue to abide in Him. This is just the beginning of a new movement of God.

God does not ignore our hunger or our prayers, it's just a matter timing. There are also some who still have areas that need maturing. Yet, we all have a lot more to learn, and no one has all the answers, except God. The heavenly Father desires to reveal more of His nature and heart as we yield more of ourselves to Him. In the meantime we rest in His Shalom, and do whatever we can by taking steps of faith. 

Do you realize that the Father doesn't want us to act like His slaves, that only do things when they are told? Neither are we to act like puppets that only move when He does. We are His sons, friends and joint heirs to the Kingdom. As maturing sons and daughters, He wants us to start making decisions based on faith, and He will back us up. Now that's operating in true Sonship, and that's what God desires to see from all of us.

This month will be my third year writing articles on this Blog sites. And to be honest with you, I thought like maybe some of you, that certain things would have progress much faster than what I have seen or experienced. Sometimes, I felt like the preacher who keeps talking about the impending "Rapture" that never happens.

However, almost two years ago the Lord did tell Sheldon and I that we were born for such a time as this, and that we were not to despise small beginnings. And so we have had to adjust our thinking and trust in His timing. Things are dramatically changing in the spiritual realm even though we may not realize it. But, everyday that passes we are building (establishing) something special, either through our actions, words, or our prayers, our trust and especially our relationship with the Father. And that relationship is by far the most important thing, not His gifts or anointing that many have desired more. (I have had to reevaluate my own thoughts and motives many times.) 

Nearly every major event in history started from small beginnings and this next movement of God is proving to be no different. Just look at what we saw happen in the Arab Nations and other countries last year that started with small beginnings. The United States will also see major changes, including the political system in this next election. Everything will change and this movement of God, the Visitation of the Father, will come to pass. There will be many signs, wonders and miracles that will come through true Sonship that is being established by the Heavenly Father.

"For all creation, gazing eagerly as if with outstretched neck, is waiting and longing to see the manifestation of the sons of God." (Romans 8:19)

Note: I enjoy writing and expressing God’s heart. The article on forgiveness was especially challenging for me and it needed better editing. (Sorry about that, I'll try to do better.) I fixed them and clarified some things. Anyway there is more I would like to say on that subject as well as on our identity in Christ in future articles. Also, thank you again for your patients and for your continued support. May God always bless you abundantly in every way.

Dreams and Visions

“You and I share the same dream. We share the same vision, house, body and linage. I gave you a vision that you take one step and I take another and together we get there. It’s important to know who you are, and how the Father see you. I brought you into my Kingdom. You are not outsiders here. I’ve also given you the keys to the Kingdom. Whatever you bind is bound and what you release is released. I know this sounds like speaking in tongues to some people when they hear you talk about the Kingdom of God. Yet, I’m revealing Me. All that I am, all that have and all that I reveal myself to be—I’m seeking to bring to earth.

As Israel said, there are millions of colors in the Kingdom of God, because I add you, as well as others. The Kingdom of God is not fully come to the earth. But, the goal of the Father is for true sonship and that is occurring in a multi-membered man. A new order is also being brought to earth. Everything you've seen in visions needs to be brought to earth—everything.” 

 (notes taken from a prophecy spoken by Sheldon David on May 13, 2011)

It’s important for us to have visions. In fact God wants us to have visions and dreams. They help us to better understand God, His ways and who we are. They give insight to prepare us for what we need to do or for others. There are also things that need to be established here on earth. Yet, we can’t make these type of revelations happen, but we can prepare our hearts and minds to be ready when they do occur. However, some people have had visions before they were even saved, like John Crowder. Either ways it's still God's choice as to when they come.

  

“I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh and your sons and daughter will prophesy and your old men shall dream dreams and the young men shall see visions.” (Joel 2:28)

I was over forty years old when I started having spiritual dreams and visions. Yet, I would still like to have more, and I’m expecting that in this next adventure with God.

God gives us dreams and visions to help us accomplish what He would desire to see accomplished on earth—in us and through us. Sometimes we need to ask God what we are to do with what we have seen and other times you know what to do. They are sometimes meant to be shared with the Body of Christ. This was true for the apostle Paul, and with John the Revelator. John was in his nineties when he saw the visions of the Lord, the New Jerusalem and many other things. Then He wrote the book of Revelation. (Goes to show we're never to old to be used by God.) There were other prophets in the Old Testament who had visions and dreams, such as Daniel and Ezekiel. Then there were simple men like Abraham whom God gave dreams and visions. And as his spiritual sons we too should have them.

However, you may have never had a spiritual dreams or visions so far, but I believe you will. Let me asks you this, where do you see yourself spiritually 5 or 10 years from now? Do you know that those desires are the foundations upon which dreams and visions are built upon. They were planted by God long before you and I were even born. Some of those desires may come later in life for a specific time or season like it was for apostle John. He was always seeking to know the Lord's heart. We to should seek to know more of God's heart, and then wait patiently. After all doesn’t the Bible say, you have not, because you ask not. (Mat. 7:7) When they occur, it will usually be when you least expect them, but you will never forget them once you do.

Most of you know I will be traveling soon, and I've had some ideas on which countries. But I though it would be nice to know for sure before heading out on a trip like this. But then that’s what faith is all about, just taking one step at a time.

About three months ago, I was in my room resting on my bed. I had just closed my eyes for just a moment when all of a sudden, I saw a map of Mexico in front of me. I could see the whole out line of the country just below the southern areas of United States, and then the vision was gone. I opened my eyes and realized I was still awake and I just had a vision. I closed my eyes again and fell into a deep sleep. This time I dreamed I was holding the map and was studying a section of highways near the Pacific coast of central Mexico. I was trying to decided which route to take as I headed further south. Then the dream was over. It was nice to have this kind of conformation from the Lord.

The next day, I told Sheldon about the vision. Then a couple weeks later we went to Barns and Nobles, and I was able to purchase a map of Mexico. They had only one and it was just like the one I saw in my vision. While I was there, I also purchased a map of South America and one of the Western United States.

This was just a simple vision, but it meant a lot to me at this time.It also gave me more confidence as I shared the vision and dream with my wife. Then this morning, before I woke-up, I also had another dream regarding my future. In this dream, I saw a sign and it read, "Go to the poor in the Kingdom of Mexico." Wow, that was cool. It's interesting how God had planned it so I could included it with this article. Isn't Abba Father sooooo good.

This is just the beginning of a wonderful adventure and I can’t wait to be on the road. Problems and circumstances are already bowing and everything is working out according to His plan as I place my trust in His timing not mine. I also realize that God has some awesome dreams and visions planned for you too and for all His sons and daughters. Some may be even much bigger, better and possibly crazier than mine. However, nothings really crazy when you're doing it with God.

Forgiving From The Heart

We often hear or read a lot about forgiveness. There are a number of TV programs like Dr. Phil, Oprah, plus many televangelist, ministers, Christian authors and others who encourage people to forgive one another. There are movies that have dealt with the subject of forgiveness, including the original Spider-man III in theaters which ended with this powerful statement, "The greatest power in the world, is the power to forgive." Yet with all the movies, books, lectures, and sermons on the subject, including many fiction novels; the ability to truly forgive is still missing in many peoples lives. Why? Is there a false sense of power or security that makes them feel better? But that will need to change, if they really want to find true peace and happiness in this lifetime.

Forgiveness is a huge subject that I have put off for over a year. In fact it's one of the two themes in the Bible the other is love, God's love. It's the message of the cross. But this message of forgiveness seems to be ignored or at least not taken serious enough. It seems many people are not willing to totally forgive. Peter even asked Jesus, how many times must he forgive his brother? Jesus replied, that he must forgive "seventy times seven," in other words every time. Then Jesus told the disciples a parable about an unforgiving steward and how the Kingdom of Heaven views the subject of forgiveness. (Matthew 18:23-35)

In this parable, The Unforgiving Steward, there was a slave (steward) who owed the king a large sum of money, but he was unable to pay. So the servant prostrated himself before his lord, but he never really asked for forgiveness, just for a little more time. Understanding the servant's predicament his lord had compassion on him and forgave all his debt. Yet, soon after the servant left he came to one of his fellow servants who owed him a much smaller amount and demanded full payment. But the poor servant was unable to pay. So the mean servant had the man put in prison even though he pleaded for patience also. When word got back to the lord as to what had happened, the lord summoned the mean servant and said to him, "You wicked servant, I forgave you all that debt, because you pleaded with me. Should you not also have had mercy on your fellow servant, in the same way that I had mercy on you?" (Mt. 18:33)

When Jesus was on earth, He never asked for an apology or held a grudge against anyone. Jesus forgave everyone, just as we should be willing to do when anyone hurts us or betrays our trust. God expects His children to do the same, or there can be very serious consequences, dire consequences in fact. Let's go back to what the lord demanded of the unforgiving servant? "The lord was move with anger and handed him over to the torturers until he should repay all that was owed him," Wow! Then Jesus goes on to say, "My heavenly Father will also do the same to you, if each of you does not forgive his brother from your heart." (Matthew 18:34-35) Jesus gives a very serious warning here and uses some pretty strong words. A very good incentive to forgive, don't you think? Yet, many people still seem to disregard His warnings, or have forgotten or maybe they even think God wouldn't really do that. Notice, the lord even viewed the man as "wicked."

The word torturer is also another word that seems to be forgotten. As you can see, there are some very serious consequences for unforgiveness. Have you ever heard someone compare the aches and pains in their body as to being tortured? I have, but have they ever really gone to God, and asked Him why, and been willing to listen and accept His answer. I'm not saying that every ache and pain is because of unforgiveness, there are other reasons too such as poor eating habits, curses or covenant violations.

Many of these people who suffer really love God and believe they have forgiven others. However, true forgiveness is not just lip service, it must come from the heart. If you watch and listen to them talk about certain people, you can tell there are still issues that have not been dealt with.

Now back to this parable, notice it does not say that the lord would cast the mean servant into hell or outer darkness. The servant was given a second chance to get things right and it seems that pain would be the motivator. Why pain? Because I believe that's how the Father feels when He sees His children unwilling to forgive others as He has done for them. Emotional pain is no different, it's painful too and it really, really grieves God.

God is not trying to be mean, and He doesn't want to punish anyone, that's not His nature. However, He is a God of justice, and we are the ones who are ultimately responsible for our actions, and to forgive each other, even if we feel our actions may be justified. It all boils down to being mean spirited, selfish and stubborn, just like the wicked steward in the parable.
 
Unforegivness opens the door for the torturers to come in. Who are these torturers and what do they do? It's satan and is demons, and they will inflict pain and suffering on those who don't forgive from their heart. Lip service won't cut it, because good parent won't accept it and our heavenly Father is no different. As the old saying goes, "Spare the rod, spoil the child." And in Proverbs it says:

"Do not withhold correction from a child, for if you beat him with a rod, he will not die. You shall beat him with a rod, and deliver his soul from hell."

This also applies when people get older too. King David experienced discipline when he sinned with Bathsheba and when he took a census of Israel's army. However, he chose to have the rod in the hand of the Lord rather than in the hand of his enemy, either way the lesson would be painful. Those disciplines for David's sin may seem harsh to us, but it also show how serious God really views sin. God has given us a free choice, and we must choose to forgive from the heart. The Lord has always demonstrated more grace than we deserve, and that's the difference between who's holding the rod.

Unforgivessness is a sin. Now, there are many different kinds of sins (Gal. 5:19), some more serious than others, yet God doesn't want to see sin of unforgiveness in any of His children. A far as discipline goes, the apostle Paul also wrote to the church of Corinth and told them what to do about a man who continued to have sex with his stepmother. "You must throw this man out and hand him over to Satan so that his sinful nature will be destroyed and he himself will be saved on the day the Lord returns." (1 Corinthians 5:5) You see, Paul was acting as a spiritual father in this situation also. So why would we think God, our heavenly Father, would be any different regarding these kinds of sins?

Today, the church is so far from what God had originally planned, yet God's view on sin and unforgiveness has not changed. Neither has His love, yet God will do whatever is necessary to restore His Kingdom. Many things that are thought as acts of nature, accidents, or health issues, are really a forms of discipline. When satan comes to steal, kill and destroy, it is because God has allowed it in order to display His sovereignty, just as He did with Job. However, satan is on a short leash, and he can only do what God allows. The Lord is still in control of every situation regardless how painful it may seem.

Some of these disciplines come in the form of storms, car wrecks, theft, falling down, sickness, health issues, back problems and many other things that are not only painful to our body but often to our checkbooks as well. There is no such things as an accident. And that is why these kind of things happen in our world and to individuals. It's because of Adan's sin and people are careless or choose to neglect or disregard God's Word. These harmful and painful things will continue to happen as long as evil is in this world. Satan, the deceiver and torturer, disguising his actions and punishments to make people think that there are other reasons for their problems, aches and pains in order to shift responsibility from themselves to something or someone else. And the world system will support those reasons or excuses.

All pain and suffering are still the result of sin. Yet many people still choose to go to the medical system, rather than let God. Anything a doctor can fix, God can too. I hear people sing, "Jesus you are my healer," and then they continue to go to doctors. I just don't get it. Are they spiritually blind or deaf in certain areas and just don't realize it? This is why we need to always pray that God open our minds, eyes and ears. (I still have much to learn.) We need to completely trust God in every area of our life and be patient as He is patient with us.
 
When Jesus Christ died on the cross everything changed, and when we receive Him into our heart we no longer needed to view God as our judge, but as our loving heavenly Father. We are a new creation and we should want to do what is right, because that is our new nature. We are no longer under religious laws, obligations or the world systems and so we choose to forgive. We are also kings and priest who have been given His authority over everything, including satan. We shouldn't fear punishment, because that was dealt with on the cross. So when we see a problem we look to Christ for the answers, and then do what He says, which may require some repentance. God doesn't expect us to be perfect, he sees that in Christ. But He does expect us to love and forgive one another.

Unforgiveness hinders our relationship with others, our brothers and sisters in Christ and most of all our Father. Jesus said, "For if you forgive others their transgression, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive others then your Father will not for give you." (Matthew 6:14-15) How can anyone have an intimate relationship with the Father if there is unforgiveness in their heart? It's just not possible.

Note: The Father's intentions with any form of disciplines is to draw us back into His loving arms of grace and mercy, just as any good parent would want. The heavenly Father is always about restoration. But more than anything, forgiving demonstrates true love, and that always pleases Abba Father.

(to be continues)

Choices

We all make choices every day. From the time we wake-up and hit the snooze alarm again until the time we go back to bed at night, often much later than planned. We make hundreds of choices everyday. Some may seem major and others minor, we don't always know which they are at the time. Most of us have the freedom to choose, and that alone is something to be grateful about.
 
These choices are controlled by our moral ethics or beliefs. Many of them will have little significance in a week or two, however, every choice will have an effect or impact on ones life, other's lives and especially our family, whether immediately or corporately over time. Every choice is essentially a spiritual decision regardless of whether one recognizes it or not. It is either based in ones faith in God, our desire to know Him and to hear and obey His Word or voice or choose to ignore Him. God has given each of us the gift of free choice, but not the ability to choose the consequences of those choices. 

Some choices obviously have greater consequences overall. In society and in religions there are laws that have been created to control people’s behavior because of their poor choices. As true sons and daughters of God we are free to choose in every situation. The heavenly Father doesn’t make us do anything. We are free to reflect His love, His kindness, His honesty, His generosity, and His forgivingness rather than bitterness, resentment, or jealousy. We chose to live by His nature, because we love Him and want to express Him, rather than our fleshly or selfish desires and feelings. He also gives us the choice to take up our cross and follow Jesus Christ, and say, "Yes Lord, here am I, send me." He is inviting us to participate in 'His'story, in His Kingdom, and in His Will being done.
 
Unfortunately, many of these decisions will be made by people who don't chose to ask God first what He would have them do. Yet, somehow God has a way of using all these choices, good or bad, to get people to where they need to be, this especially true for His sons and daughters. Some of these choices will involve pain, grief or even extreme hardship as the result of those decisions, regardless of whether they were good or bad. Still there are rewards for those who chose to be faithful, persevere and overcome.
 
In my life I have made a lot of bad choices and some very good ones and I could have never imagine that I would end up where I am today. (I'm sure you feel the same way too.) I can truly say it has all been covered by the grace and love of our heavenly Father. He has called and chosen me and I have chosen to follow Him, even though there were times I probably could have done things differently or better, but God has been gracious and patient with me as He is with all His children.
 
I recently learned that a pretty young girl that we knew at the little church is now pregnant. She's just sixteen years old. I know she loves God, but she made some bad choices. (Many lessons in life are learned the hard way. My personal testimony is proof of that.) However, I know God will use this to mold her into the wonderful mother and woman of God that I believe she will be.
 
I also saw my daughter this last weekend. She just turned 31, and they are building their second home. They lost their first house five years ago because of bad choices. Her husband is now a lieutenant in the sheriff’s department, and they are all excited and looking forward to moving into their new home in a couple more months with a bedroom for each of their four kids. God is gracious.
 
When it came time for me to leave, my daughter returned a fold-up mattress that she had borrowed. It will be my bed for the next few years (unless people invite me into their homes). She was talking about having to buy beds for all the kids and I told her I didn't want to hear anyone's complaints about their beds while I’m gone. She said, “We all have a choice, dad.” I agreed. It later started me thinking about choices in general, mine and theirs, and I’m glad and excited about the ones I have made.
 
After I left her, I wondered what choices they would be making ten, twenty or thirty years from now. We never know what the Lord has planned for us or our families. I don't even know all that He has for me in the future. Anything is possible when we choose to follow Christ with all our hearts, even the impossible. Choose wisely.

Mount Carmel's Superstar

Today we read and hear a lot about superstars. Men and women who have made the mark in history, their rise to fame and often their downfalls. Some have a star on Hollywood Boulevard, others an Oscar in hand, or their face on Times Magazine, or some other trophy to prove their stats for society. But, God doesn't take much notice of such carnal things as man does. However, the Lord does notice those who follow Him with a pure heart like Abraham, Esther or David, as well as prophets like Samuel and Elijah, or other sons and daughters, who are exalted in God's eyes.

Now some of you may think this is article would be about the "test of fire" or taunting the prophets of baal, but it's not. Neither is it about killing false prophets. What I would like to talk about is the heart of Elijah, not what he did that made him famous, or a superstar to some. Especially after his high noon confrontation with the prophets of baal, and the double-minded children of Israel. 

Elijah was a Tishbite, we wasn't even a Jew and he probably knew very little of the Mosaic laws. Yet he did know Yahweh, and that was the most important thing. How ironic that God chose a man from outside this clan, the children of Abraham, to be His spokesman and probably one of greatest prophets in the Old Testament. We know very little of Elijah's past or his clan other than he came from Gilead, a lush wooded area east of the Jordan River. The same place where the tribes of Reuben and Gad wanted to live rather than the Promise Land. (Numbers 32:1) There was also a city there by the same name, Jobesh-Gilead located between two rivers. This land was referred to as a healing balm; (Jer. 8:22) prophetically speaking of God's restoring power. We have to assume that Elijah also loved God and had a intimate relationship with Him, else why would God have call him to do the things he did that made him known throughout the land, just like King David was.

Elijah comes on the scene in the seventeenth chapter of I Kings. He tells King Ahab, "As the Lord, the God of Israel, before whom I stand, surely there shall be neither dew nor rain these years, except by my word." Wow, talk about a declaration of faith. Anyway, up until now King Ahab had probably had never seen or heard of this man that stood before him dressed in camel's skins, and now Elijah was telling him there would be no rain according to his word, not the king's. Who did Elijah think he was, and so the king dismissed the crazy man along with his words, that is until things started getting dry and crops were failing.

Meanwhile the Lord told Elijah to head east and hide himself by the brook Cherith, east of the Jordan. A place where He had commanded the ravens to provide bread and meat every morning and evening and he could drink from the brook. Can you imagine eating what ravens (part of the crow family) would bring. They were called unclean fowls according to the Mosaic law. And now Elijah was eating what ravens brought to him. Maybe he cook the meat before eating it. Then after the brook dried up God sent Elijah to a starving widow's home to provide for him. (The training and sacrifices of a prophet will never be the envy of people.)

Even after Elijah moment of fame, he was still not content. In his heart he wanted more, much more of God, and the Lord knew that. One evening, Elijah was so depressed that he even begged God to take his life. Maybe because of his fears or that life on earth was just wasn't worth living anymore. Whatever it was, Elijah saw himself as alone and the only prophet left and no better than his fathers, and then he fell asleep.

However, God was not through with Elijah and He also wanted to change his negative thinking. So when Elijah awoke he saw that an angel had fixed him a meal to eat. A breakfast for champions (bread and water, plus some divine vitamins add) it give him the strength to walk for forty days and nights until he reach Mt. Horeb, the mountain of God. There on the mountain Elijah had a close encounter with the Creator that changed is life forever. He also had some other things God wanted done, before the Lord would take Him for a ride he would never forget, and neither would Elisha, who was next in line to pick-up the mantle of a prophet.

Elijah never sought to be a superstar, all he wanted was to be a simple man who loved and obeyed God. He had other great moments and miracles, including raising the dead. But, nothing compared to knowing God and seeing Him face to face even in a whisper. It is that same spirit that was on Elijah that God wants to pass on to others, like John the Baptist and even other sons of God for this generation. This should be a lesson for all of us. All the exploits one could do under the anointing of God will never compare to knowing the heavenly Father. Amen!

Identity Crisis - Part II

I needed to get back to this subject I started last month. Knowing who we are is so very important, in fact it is life changing. The more we understand the facts (or truths) they will help us gain more confidants to move forward into Sonship, our true identity and authority in Christ. Jesus wasn't only the Son of God, He the King and the Prophet as well. He's also the High Priest in the order of Melchizedek, the king of Salem (peace). (Hebrews 5-7) Jesus is the Prince of Peace too, therefore Melchizedek was a type and shadow of the heavenly Father who bestowed this blessing on one of His other sons, Abraham. We are also sons in Christ, just as Abraham was. We are also priests in the order of Melchizedek, and we are to bless and intercede for people. There is no completion in the Kingdom of God, neither is there any time of space. That is why our prayers should extend beyond our generation and families.

We are one with the Father just as Jesus and the Father are one, or Christ and His Bride are one. I know this may sound a bit complicated or super spiritual, but it's still true. Its just been hidden from the church for such a time as this. And the scriptures bears witness to all this. But it's still a matter of faith. When we fully understanding this truth, our identity becomes more clear and so does everything else that comes with it.

We are also one with the Word and have the same power and authority as Christ does. Satan doesn't want us to know this and has tried to keep the church from accepting this truth. But, satan is the liar and his deceptions are being exposed. He has no power and he was defeated two thousands years ago. When Jesus said, "It is finish!" (everything was accomplished and completed, but that's another article.)

This mystery identity of ours is now being revealed through the Word of God and through divine revelation from God's prophets. In the Bible, we read one of the most astounding statements Jesus ever made. It was that final night, after the Passover meal, when Jesus prayed for His disciples:

"...I ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf of those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one; even as you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.

 The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become completely one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. Father, I desire that those also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory, which you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world.

 ‘Righteous Father, the world does not know you, but I know you; and these know that you have sent me. I made your name known to them, and I will make it known, so that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them." (John 15:20-26)

Just this portion of Jesus prayer speaks volumes. These disciples of Jesus were called "apostle" and they became the spiritual fathers and part of the foundation of the church. Yet there are still many churches that do not believe in prophets and fewer believe in apostles. The role of a pastor has been elevated to a position it was never intended and the church became a building. And so again, God will reestablish His church on the teaching of His apostles and prophets as it was meant to be—not on man-made concepts. God gave apostle and prophets to serve, to lift up others and to instruct and to speak for Him. They are also often used as door-mats.

"Then those who gladly received his (Peter) word were baptized. There were added that day about three thousand souls. They continued steadfastly in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and prayer. Fear came on every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles."(Acts 2:41-43)

"Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself." (Ephesians 2:20) 

Many books could be written on Jesus' high priestly prayer alone. Yet, most Christians have not really grasped what Jesus was really saying here. We are not to be like Jesus or even Christ-like, (satan wanted to be like God or act like Him, that's what religion tries to do.) As followers and sons of God, what we do or say is because that's who we are, and that includes our flaws and mistake of the past. Look at the early church; they were a mess, but they love each other and God. They didn't try to pretend to be perfect, but they were in God's eye. 

Christ's life (spirit) is living in and through us. We take up our cross and die to our self-life (the flesh) just as Jesus did. The more we die to our self-life and carnal thinking the more room we make for Him to expand in our life and work through us. And his is just the beginning of Sonship.

To live in the Holy of Holies continuously we must leave the Outer Court of the temple permanently.

Then Jesus was led by the Spirit, just as we should be. And in Christ, we became a new creation and whatever Jesus Christ is and has is available to us. This process starts from the inside, not the other way around. The most important thing to remember is that the heavenly Father loves us just as much as He loves Jesus. Wow. I mean double wow!!

So how do we live all out. It comes by hearing and then by confessing it with our mouth. Believe it with your whole heart, and then take one step at a time by faith to become who you are, God will do the rest. We also need to have a vision of how God see us and what we are to do, and then live accordion to that.

A number of years ago when I was reading the red letters from my Bible. I asked God, "Can I say that?" He said, "Yes, anything Jesus said and did you can say and do also." Wow! God was giving me a revelation that many people have rejected as even possible. Yet, Jesus told His disciples that they would do even greater things. So whats the problem? It all boils down to learning how to abide and waiting on Him and His timing. We are His disciples too, if we do what He says. Jesus also told us, that when you pray and ask, believe that you receive them, and it will be granted. (Mark 11:23-24) And yet some many Christians will say, you can't do that. Well, according to my Bible and what Jesus said and prayed, we can. But when you ask God you must know that it is according to His will, not your carnal desires.

Listen to this; that same night Philip, asked Jesus to show them the father. And Jesus said, "Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not come to know Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the father."  When people look at you, who do they see? Is it Jesus Christ the Eternal Father? (Isaiah 9:6) There should be no difference as Jesus stated, "If anyone loves me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come and make Our abode with him." (John 14:23) The Father house is the New Jerusalem. We don't have a mansion in heaven; Jesus Christ is our mansion, the Promise Land."In my father house there are many dwelling places." (John 14:2)  And His bride is the holy city coming out of heaven and being established on earth continuously. (Revelation 21:2) He is our dwelling place (abode). In Him, Jesus Christ, we have and are everything He is. Too many Bible theologian try to interpret the Bible carnally and within time dimension and that's not how God sees or does thing.

  I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in this body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

(to be continues)

Obstacles

"God will make a way when there is no way."

God told Moses that He would lead His children out of Egypt to a beautiful land flowing with milk and honey. A Promise Land that seemed to be too good to be true, but it was. However, the question on everyone's mind was, how? For over four hundred years the descendants of Abraham had been held in captivity and dependent upon the hand of Pharaoh. They faced many obstacles of hardship, pain and suffering during those years, and they had been taught that no ones was more powerful than Pharaoh. But now the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob wanted to set them straight and free. So they needed to learn some things about Him. Mainly, that His deliverance would come in His time and His way. And they were to submit to the unseen God, rather than Pharaoh or any other man-made idol.

However, Pharaoh was a stubborn ruler and he would not let the Hebrews slaves go when he was asked by Moses. So God sent awful plagues, one after another for months and still the sons of Israel had gone nowhere except back and forth to the mud pits. Some had begun to wonder if they would ever leave Egypt. Yet, during these delays and false promises from Pharaoh many others chose to trust and obey the one true God and His servant Moses.

God hardened Pharaoh's heart so that he would not relent until the last plague; the angel of death. After that tragic and eventful Passover night they all knew, including Pharaoh, that the God of Moses was more powerful than him or any other god. Pharaoh finally relinquished and he let the slaves go to serve their God. There was singing, dancing and praises as nearly two million people left the devastated land of Egypt taking with them all its plunder.

During their new found freedom, they were lead by the cloud of the Lord. However, after a few days they found themselves facing another obstacle, the Red Sea. So they camped for the night not knowing what else to do. Then someone noticed Pharaoh's army and chariots closing in on them and they began to panic. Some were ready to surrender to the whip of slavery again. But, God was not about to let that happen or have His plans changed by the pride of a sore loser. So God placed a pillar of fire between their two camps until His trap was ready.

Moses was new at being a leader and a spiritual influence. So he told the crowd to trust the Lord and the Egyptians army would be no more. "For the Lord will fight for you while you keep silent." Then Moses cried out to God.

Now prayer is very important, but there comes a time when the actions of faith are more important than talk or prayer. Remember, God had given Moses a rod, a symbol of His authority, then told him what to do with it. All he had to do was raise his rod and stretch out his hands over the sea and God would do the rest. Wow, just that simple. The winds came and the Red Sea parted that night leaving dry ground for them all to walk across.

As they gather safely on the other side, the sons of Israel saw the hand of the Lord move over the sea again and then the pursuing army that had followed them was gone forever. God told Moses, by this all men would know that I am the Lord, and I am honored by Pharaoh. Wow! God is honored even when judgement is served. The children of  Israel saw the awesome power of God, they feared the Lord and gave Him praise. Now they believe God and in His servant Moses.

However, as time passed their attitude quickly changed, because this would not be the last obstacle they would face. How quickly they forgot God's power and faithfulness that was demonstrated for them. Little did they realize that within a matter of months they would also try to replace Him with a 'god of gold.' Their journey had just begun and the Lord still had many things to teach them. But it would take them a lot longer to learn than they could have ever imagined, before they entered the Promise Land. 

The promise to Moses and His people was fulfilled, but not everyone got to see or experience it. Many rebelled, grumbled and complained along the way and in their hearts most didn't really trust God. Their flesh craved many things, and they became discontent. Yet what they really needed was an intimate relationship with Jehovah, just as Moses had. They could have had that, but when they heard His voice they became afraid and ended up asking Moses to speak for Him. From this story in the Bible we see that it was not the big obstacles that kept many Israelites from reaching the Promise Land, but their own carnal desires and lack of faith.

Do you see that many of God's people today is really not that much different than in Moses' time. God has also made a promise to lead us to the Promise Land, Jesus Christ. We must be ready to enter a new age of God's grace, and enter into His rest. Yet, we often act like children, preferring others to speak for Him. But, as God's sons and daughters we should learn to know His voice. We also have been set free and given His power and authority. Yet we still too often struggle to put our complete trust in Him when trials or obstacles come across our path, and I not exempt. I'm still learning also. 

In this lifetime there will always be problems and circumstances of some kind. But know for certain, they will all bow, (even satan) to the will of God regardless of their number or sizes when we're willing to take steps of faith. Just like the Israelite priest did when it was time for them to cross the Jordan River at flood stage to enter the Promise Land. So too, we as sons and priests must step forward in His will. But, it is also most important to remember that God will do whatever He can to help us reach the other side as we place our trust in Him.

The biggest obstacles in ones life will not be the Pharaohs or the Red Seas, but our own fleshly desires and our lack of trust in God.

gods of gold

The gods of these world are gold plated, they look good from the outside and make lots of promises, but the only genuine article is Jesus Christ. He's real, solid and pure all the way through.

OUT OF ORDER

Out of Order 

Don't you just hate it when you go to a vending machine to get something, or to a fax, or copy machine and there's a sign posted; "OUT OF ORDER" taped to it. You had your expectation ruined and time was also wasted. Now you have to find another machine. Aren't you glad God is not a machine. Yet, I wonder how many times the Lord has come to us or tried to get our attention, and found us "out of order." Is it really any surprise that so many marriages, families, businesses and many other things failing or struggling, because they are "Out of Order." Unless our relationships with Jesus Christ is fully restored and in working order, there can still be problems. And until the church is unified in Christ, everything else in the world will have little value and be out of order.

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Here is some thought provoking questions. 

Do you find contentment is your walk with the Lord?
Have you heard what on His heart lately?
If, you are married, do you treat you spouse the same as Jesus?

Has your passion and intimacy for your spouse or the Lord changed from the time when you first got married or saved?

If so, why?

Are there areas of past hurts or differences that interfere with those relationships?

If so, why? 
Do you want to see them restored? 
Can you totally forgive?

Is there anything that you blame God for that may be hurting your relationship with Him?

God wants to restore all things However, the spiritual things in our lives are a priority with Him. He's done everything He can to make that possible. When we understand God's heart, we'll have everything we need and everything else will eventually come into its proper order.

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The Lord says, "I AM the great physician, I'm restoring the hearts. I'm restoring the minds and I Am restoring the whole Body of Christ. I AM the great restorer. I'm also bringing my sons and daughters out of the caves and out of the forest and into the light, and into My House. I am restoring them and I am restoring all things. I hear your prayers, and I'm answering them."