The Power of Intercessory Prayer, Written by Mel and Julie

The Power of Intercessory Prayer, Written by Mel and Julie

The Power of Intercessory Prayer, Written by Mel and Julie

Some of our favorite scriptures in the bible are Romans 8:26 and 34. It is difficult to put into words just how amazing these verses are (as well as others below based on this same theme). We see here how the three, which are one, work together on our behalf. Jesus himself prays for us with the aid of the Holy Spirit based on God's will for our lives. Who knows better the perfect will for our lives than the Almighty Creator of the Universe? No one.

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 in the mind of the Spirit, because He maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died , yea rather, that is risen again , who is even at the right hand of God , who also maketh intercession for us. Romans 8:26-28 & 34

Wherefore He is able to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them. For such a high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens. Hebrews 7:25-26

He shall see the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he will divide the spoil with the strong because he hath poured his soul until death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors. Isaiah 53:11-12 Consider this example from Luke 22:31-32. In verse 31, Jesus tells Peter, "Satan has desired to sift you as wheat." Satan wants Peter's soul for hell. In verse 32 Jesus goes on to tell Peter, "But I have prayed for thee that you fail not; and when thou art converted, [you will] strengthen thy brethren." Jesus desires our souls as well as longs for us to be strong in our faith and minister to others. With God on our side, we will win the war and devote our souls/lives to God for all eternity

Let us then follow the example of Jesus and practice interceding for those we love.

Has anyone ever said to you, "I had the strong urge to pray for you yesterday," and it was at the exact same moment you desperately needed those prayers? The truth is, we will never know this side of eternity how often the prayers uttered by someone else saved us from serious harm or even death. The same can be said in the reverse. When we get a sudden burden for someone out of the blue, God could be prompting us to pray for him or her. I (Julie) had two dreams a week apart of a childhood friend. In the first dream, this woman was asking for help and in the second, Mel and I were in a church praying for her. When I awoke from the second dream, I finally realized these were not random dreams my subconscious created, so I prayed for her before falling back to sleep. If you ever feel the need to pray for a specific person or need, please do not say you will do it later, because you will probably forget later. It is best to pray right then because you never know what that person may be facing. Even if turns out that person was perfectly safe at that moment, you never waste time praying for someone else. God knows our hearts and needs. There is no such thing as a simple prayer. When you call upon the power of heaven, there is nothing mundane about it! When you pray for someone, not only could you be calling on angels to save a life, but also for the person's conscience to be pricked. Your prayer could cause someone to remember the things of God and could stop an affair, suicide, and who knows what else.

Many people pray for their own desires or needs, but how many pray for the needs of others? When a person prays with a selfless heart, it moves the hand of God. There will be many people in heaven because of those who were willing to stand in the gap and intercede in prayer for them. The many prayers of parents, grandparents, friends, and acquaintances will lead to the salvation, as well as protection of many. There are times when a person will come strongly to my mind, and I will intercede in prayer for them. Later, I found out that they were sick, or in a dangerous situation. When I (Mel) have experienced tragedy in my own life, on several occasions God led a spirit- filled friend of mine to call me. Prayer works, when it is made on the behalf of another. Many churches or home groups have a system put in place known as a prayer chain. When a person is in need of prayer, a designated person will notify everyone on the chain to intercede in prayer for them. I have known of people in the hospital, who showed a marked improvement, after prayer, was made for them.

I Timothy 2:1-3 Teaches us that prayers, supplications, intercessions, and giving of thanks, should be made for all men. We are to pray for those who govern over us, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life. When prayer is made for even wicked leaders, the Lord may move upon them to make wise decisions. When a nation repents of their sin, God will heal their land. Nineveh is an example of a city who repented of their sin in sackcloth and ashes after Jonah warned them. Because of their sincere repentance, God spared that city from destruction. However, the Book of Revelation tells us that the nations of the world will not repent, but rather will curse God when the judgments come. The Lord knows the future, since he is not bound by our timeline. The Lord knows that America will not repent, because this nation has gone the way of Sodom and Gomorrah. However, we are to still intercede for this nation, as well as our leaders until the time of judgment comes.

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessors, and giving of thanks, be made for all men. For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savoir. Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the Truth. I Timothy 2:1-3  Many believers keep a list of prayer requests either in a bible, on the refrigerator, or in a prayer notebook. It is a good reminder to pray for specific needs whenever they see the list, and/or to remember who and what to intercede for during prayer time. Some people even record the results of the prayers as God answers them. If you have ever done this (writing this blog inspired us to start our own prayer book), I am certain you will see people's names on that list that always seem to have the same request. Maybe years have gone by and you are still praying for a specific situation to change. Do not be discouraged, or quit praying. Results are not your responsibility, but praying is. (Although we should help people in need as much as our resources will allow.) We do not know why God has not answered the petition. Some prayers cannot be answered while the person is living an ungodly lifestyle. Other times God may have different plans than what the person thinks he needs. On the other hand, maybe God will eventually grant the request, but not until His perfect timing says it is right. We may never understand the mind of God, but that does not mean we give up praying even for a situation that seems hopeless.  

Oh that one might plead for a man with God, as a man pleadeth for his neighbor. Job 16:21 Yes, God is capable of helping a soul in rebellion, but typically chooses not to, which is why it is so important for us to intercede for someone who will not pray for himself. Remember the story of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 18:20-19:30. In Genesis 18:20, the Lord decides to tell Abraham that He is about to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. Because Abraham's nephew Lot and Lot's family are living in Sodom, Abraham pled with the Lord to spare the city if even ten righteous are living there. The Lord does not become angry with Abraham and agrees, but there are not even ten people living for the Lord in the wicked cities. The bible never says that God spares Lot because of Lot's righteousness, but clearly states, "God remembered Abraham" and his cries for Lot. It does not say he sent angels to assist Lot based on Lot's prayers. This is a wonderful example of God's mercy as well as showing the importance of intercessory prayer. It reminds us to always be faithful in praying for the safety and salvation of those we love.

And it came to pass, when God destroyed the cities of the plain, that God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow, when he overthrew the cities in which Lot dwelt. Genesis 19:29 Throughout the book of Exodus, we see God tell Moses on several different occasions that He is angry with the murmurings and sins of the Hebrews. God tells Moses He will destroy them all. However, each time Moses begs God to spare the lives of his people. He reminds God that their enemies will laugh at the death of the Hebrews if God smites them. Repeatedly, Moses' interceding saves the lives of his family and friends.



And the Lord said unto Moses, "I have seen this people, and behold, it is a stiff-necked people. Now therefore, let me alone, that my wrath may wax hot against them, and that I may consume them..." And Moses besought the Lord His God and said, "Lord why doth thy wrath wax hot against thy people, which thou has brought forth out of Egypt with great power, and with a mighty hand?" And the Lord relented which he had thought to do unto His people. Exodus 32:9-11 & 14  In Acts 12, King Herod had Peter arrested and thrown into prison. The church offered up constant prayer on his behalf and it moved the hand of God. The Lord’s angel caused the chains to fall off Peter, and Peter was escorted outside of the prison gates by the angel. This is a good example of the importance of intercessory prayer. I have known of several cases, where men came to the Lord in prison, and they were released early because prayer went up on their behalf. We must never stop praying for those who are sick, in prison, or in need of salvation.

Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church. And when Herod was about to bring him out, that night Peter was sleeping, bound with two chains between two soldiers; and the guards before the door were keeping the prison. Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up, saying, "Arise quickly!" And his chains fell off his hands. Acts 12:5-7   The above examples are just a few of the times one of God's servants intervened for a loved one. This shows God is tenderhearted, and very well may spare someone punishment or harm for the sake of sparing the believer pain. This does not mean God is insensitive to the offender deserving the rebuke, instead it shows how quick He is to show mercy. Sometimes all it takes is for someone to stand in the gap for another person in order for God to change His mind and forgo the chastisement. In other words, we need to ask for help in order to receive it.

And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. 　Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. John 16:23-24 Also consider the below scriptures:

Ephesians 6:18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints.

Philippians 1:3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy,

Philippians 1:19 For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,

James 5:16 Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.    

 



 

 

 

 





 

Upon This Rock, I Will Build my Church

 

Upon This Rock, I Will Build my Church

The world is a mission field, waiting to be harvested for the Kingdom of God. The Lord is looking for people with hearts filled with love that are willing to answer the call. Recently, I dreamed that there were two young men of different races who repented of their sins. The Lord was their judge, as well as their probation officer. One man had been delivered from drug addiction, the other from pornography. The Lord had them each write a letter of repentance to him. I placed my arms around both of them and prayed for them. I felt tremendous love and compassion for these young men. I felt the necessity to remind Christians not to look down upon those who are captives of sin, but to reach out to them with the love of Christ. You may be the only Christian in the life of someone, and you have the ability to throw a life preserver to a person drowning in his or her sin. I woke up from this dream to a song from Sandi Patti entitled: "Upon This Rock". The lyrics from this song have a powerful message to them. Basically, the song states that if you reflect Christ in your life, then you are a rock that God can build his kingdom upon. Christ told Peter that he was a rock to be built upon. Like Peter, we are to reflect the love and attributes of Christ in our lives.

 God desires for us to look beyond the fault and see the need in others. If Christians would learn to not be easily offended and realize that we all have faults, then they would reap a harvest of souls for God. There should not be any form of prejudice in the life of the believer. If we look down upon a person because of their race, economic status, dress, appearance, or sin in their life, then love has not been perfected in our heart. God looks upon the heart of an individual, not their outward appearance, and we should do likewise.

 The Lord called me to the street ministry at the age of sixteen. I spent many years sharing my faith on the streets of Little Rock, Kansas City, as well as New Orleans. In later years, I served the body of Christ as a pastor, as well as an evangelist. I heard the life stories of many people from many different backgrounds. I heard of tragedy, sickness, sorrow, depression, as well as joy, from ordinary people. The Lord gave me a heart of compassion for people because I asked for it. The Lord will also give you a heart for people if you ask him to.

The kingdom of heaven consists of ordinary people. God is not impressed with the successful, popular, or best-looking; he is looking for ordinary people who are willing to make him Lord of their lives. I have talked to many people who felt that they were beyond hope because of the wicked things that they have done. The truth is, God is willing to forgive us of all of our sins and give us a fresh start if we will confess our sins to him and turn away from them. Grace is not automatic, but there is grace for sins that are repented of, as well as committed in ignorance.  If a person backslides away from Christ and repents, there is restoration because of the atonement that Christ provided for upon the cross. If we fall, we should get back up, repent, dust ourselves off, and press forward in our relationship with Christ. Never give up, learn from your mistakes, and continue to grow in Christ, and produce good fruit. When the Devil reminds you of your past, remind him of his future. Your past is under the blood and is forgotten by God.

Consider the parable of the wedding feast. Christ taught that the kingdom of heaven is like a king who arranged a wedding feast in honor of his son. He sent out servants to invite people to come. Those invited made light of it and mistreated and killed his servants. The king sent out his armies and destroyed the murderers and burned their city. Then he sent his servants to go out into the highways and invite as many as they find, both good and bad, to the wedding. The wedding hall was filled, but the man who did not have on a wedding garment was cast into outer darkness, where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth. Christ said, “Many are called, but few are chosen.” If you belong to Christ, then you are commissioned, to go out into the world, and compel all to come to Christ. The churches are filled with both wheat and tares. It is the Lord who will do the separation in his timing. The tares will be removed and cast into the fire of destruction. This teaching of Christ should remind all of us to keep our spiritual garments clean for the wedding feast of the Lamb. Christ is returning for a bride without spot or wrinkle. God’s Word teaches us that if we continue in willful sins, then we deny both the Father and the Son. In order to be truly saved, a person must be born again, this means to become a new creation in Christ by allowing his Holy Spirit to separate us from the sinful lifestyle of the world.                        

 

Matt 22:1 And Jesus answered and spoke to them again by parables and said: 2 "The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son, 3 and sent out his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding; and they were not willing to come. 4 Again, he sent out other servants, saying, 'Tell those who are invited, "See, I have prepared my dinner; my oxen and fatted cattle are killed, and all things are ready. Come to the wedding." '5 But they made light of it and went their ways, one to his own farm, another to his business. 6  And the rest seized his servants, treated them spitefully, and killed them.

7 But when the king heard about it, he was furious. And he sent out his armies, destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. 8 Then he said to his servants, 'The wedding is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy. 9 Therefore go into the highways, and as many as you find, invite to the wedding.' 10 So those servants went out into the highways and gathered together all whom they found, both bad and good. And the wedding hall was filled with guests. 11 But when the king came in to see the guests, he saw a man there who did not have on a wedding garment. 12 So he said to him, 'Friend, how did you come in here without a wedding garment?' And he was speechless. 13 Then the king said to the servants, 'Bind him hand and foot, take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' 14 For many are called, but few are chosen."

 

 

Visions of the Burning of America and the War with China

 

I recently dreamed that I was standing in a city surrounded by large skyscraper buildings. I noticed that flames were coming from the top floors of one building, and began to spread to other buildings. Before long, every building in sight was on fire. I looked into the distance and every building, both small, or large, was on fire. The angel of the Lord said, “Terrorism.”

 The Lord has given me quite a few visions and dreams, about terrorism coming to America. The Lord said, that some of the attacks, will eclipse 911. The Lord also said, that he is removing his hand of protection from America, because America has removed him, from sight and sound. The Lord, is also allowing Islamic terrorists to come to our shores, because of the brutal war campaigns, waged against Iraq, Afghanistan, as well as other nations. America, has become like Sodom and Gomorrah. Gay marriage, trans-gender bathroom laws, abortion of the innocents, witchcraft, Satanism, new age religion, dead churches, etc. will bring judgment upon this land. Christianity without holiness, is a dead religion, and is no better than Islam. God is removing his Spirit, from the lukewarm churches who refuse to teach repentance, followed by sanctification (to be set apart from the sinful world).

Last night, I dreamed that I was riding in a military vehicle. A soldier, said to me that America and the UK will engage China this weekend. The Lord compares the end of this age, to the weekend, sundown, or 6PM, also known biblically as the twelfth hour. I was then ministering to a large group of refugees from America, who had fled to Canada to escape the Chinese occupation. The angel of the Lord said to me, that America, would be handed over to China, and occupied, in the same way that it occupied Afghanistan. I understood that it would be the wise ones, who flee to Canada. Last week, I shared a dream that both China and Russia, will go to war with America after a short time of pseudo-peace. I was shown, that President Trump will build more nuclear missiles, and it may be toward the end of his second term, the war will commence. The coming war will eventually become nuclear, and two thirds of the grass and trees will be burned, as recorded in the Book of Revelation.

In another dream, I saw nuclear bombs go off, and the result was that the sun produced scorching heat that burned the skin of people. People were trying to hide in caves, and holes in the ground, to escape the effects of the scorching heat. I saw a child of God, holding a shield of faith above his head, to reflect the sun, as he traveled to a place of refuge designated by the Lord.

 Rev 16:8 Then the fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, and power was given to him to scorch men with fire. 9 And men were scorched with great heat, and they blasphemed the name of God who has power over these plagues; and they did not repent and give Him glory. 

Rev 6:15 And the kings of the earth, the great men, the rich men, the commanders, the mighty men, every slave and every free man, hid themselves in the caves and in the rocks of the mountains, 16 and said to the mountains and rocks, "Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! 17 For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?"   

In another dream, I saw a group of people in a bomb shelter in Paris France. They thought that they would be safe there, and then I saw a large nuclear explosion go off behind the Eifel Tower. I understood that Paris was ground zero, and would be, completely destroyed. The good news is that God, will protect many of his children in remote wilderness areas, during the Great Tribulation. The wise will seek God for his direction, and will begin preparations ASAP.  



This section is a reposting from June 5, 2016, Entitled: Visions of America's War Campaign's

Nothing escapes the eyes of the Lord, he sees all of the wickedness of man, as well as the suffering of his creation. The Lord is very displeased with America over the unjust brutal wars it has waged under the false banner of freedom. The Lord has given me a number of dreams, as well as visions concerning the American military machine and the abominations it has committed against innocent nations. Many people are under the false impression that George W. Bush was a Christian man who was following God’s direction when he led America to war against Iraq and Afghanistan, the truth is quite the opposite.

Bush admitted that he had an vendetta against Saddam Hussein, because Hussein threatened the life of his father. The USA also had oil interests in Iraq that proved too irresistible to the Bush administration. This was all confirmed by members of Bush's staff who reported that Bush told them to find a way to sell an Iraq invasion to the American public. Secretary of State Collin Powell even resigned after his first term in office because of the illegal invasion of Iraq. Bush's advisor recommended that he use the word freedom to justify the invasion and the American public blindly for the most part accepted the lie.

I would also like to point out that horrible weapons were used against the peoples of Iraq and Afghanistan that are very inhumane, and some of them have now been banned by the Geneva convention. The American military used armor piercing munitions made from depleted uranium. These radioactive munitions set off Geiger counters, as well as caused cancers, and birth defects among the peoples of Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as our troops. To this day, many areas of these two nations still set off Geiger counters. White phosphorous gas was used to light up the skies for night warfare, this gas was known to burn the skin off of people. The MOAB bomb (mother of all bombs) was also used to cause severe damage. In all of it's arrogance, America used Iraq, as well as Afghanistan to show off it’s weapons of mass destruction to the world.

God will judge this nation for it’s brutality, because America has ceased to be a good nation. Since America has removed all mention of God from sight and sound, so God will remove this nation from his sight. Abominations such as gay marriage, abortion of the innocent etc. will not go unpunished. I will now share dreams, as well as visions that the Lord has given me.

Back in 2003, shortly after the invasion of Iraq, God gave me this dream. I saw a semi truck trailer that was about half filled with canned food. The food was dispersed throughout the truck to make it appear that the truck was full of food. There were hundreds of Iraqi people lined up for this insufficient amount of food. One lady was crying and grabbing for the food and people were fighting her, as well as others for this food. Then the scene changed to that of a conservative Christian dinner being hosted by John Hagee. The good Christians were seated at round tables with white table cloths on them. They were all fat and eating thick steaks. John Hagee then spoke and said that Bush was God’s anointed President and that God used him to free the peoples of  Iraq, as well as Afghanistan, then the people all applauded. Then I stood up and pointed my finger at John Hagee and began to prophesy, I said something like, woe to you who support this war, for the blood of the innocent is upon your hands. I then also pointed my finger at those seated at the tables and prophesied something similar. God saw the starvation that resulted from this war and his justice will prevail. Water treatment plants were also destroyed in the war and were not repaired for up to three years. Typhoid, as well as cholera were the result. Shortly after I had this dream, it was reported on the news that many food trucks had an insufficient amount of food in them.

In another vision, God showed me the world, and the American flag was above it, and the flag became huge and enveloped the whole world. In another vision, God showed me America taking the rod to the nations that would not submit to it’s will. This was done in darkness according to the Lord. The Lord also showed me that he was not pleased that people were worshipping the American flag. I was given dozens of dreams, as well as visions about our nation but will not share them now. I will however share one more dream that the Lord gave me.

In a dream I was handed two scrolls. I unrolled the first and it contained God’s military offensive, which I believe to be evangelism. The second scroll contained a picture of a black mountain, as well as military plans and then I heard the radio go off, the voice sounded like an old radio broadcast from the 1940′s. It said, “Alert, Operation Stargazer, America’s military offensive continues”. I believe that this dream was indicating that America would continue it's offensive wars into future presidential administrations. The Lord is very displeased with the new Nazi like America that was birthed in 2001. Russia and China are not innocent by any means, they have been very brutal with their own people, as well as have persecuted Christians, and God will judge them also. But America is provoking both Russia and China militarily. America is having war games in very close proximity to their territories, as well as doing flyovers near their military bases. Our government uses the excuse that Russia is aggressive because of it's annexation of Crimea a couple of years ago. But the truth is that Crimea voted to leave the Ukraine and join the Russian Federation. Also, the missile defense system that the US is building in Romania and Poland is adding much fuel to the fire. Both Russia, as well as China are now buzzing our military aircraft and ships, and this could very easily lead to war. After conducting aggressive war campaigns in Serbia, Iraq, Afghanistan, as well as Libya, the USA is in no position to point the finger at other nations.

I would like to clarify that I love this nation and I pray for it consistently. This great nation was founded as a Judeo-Christian nation dedicated to liberty. This nation was a light to the entire world at one time and our constitution reflects God’s intention for mankind, as well as what I base my political beliefs from. But our nation has now turned it’s back on God and has gone the way of Sodom and Gomorrah.

The Good Samaritan

 

The Good Samaritan

Luke 10:29 But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" 30 Then Jesus answered and said: "A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.  31 Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.  32 Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side.  33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion.  34 So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, 'Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you.' 36 So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?" 37 And he said, "He who showed mercy on him." Then Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise."

God’s Word states that the greatest of all fruit is love. If you have Christ like love in your heart toward your fellow man, then you have fulfilled the law and the prophets. Gal 5:14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." It is quite often difficult to love people when they treat you bad, but through the help of God’s indwelling Spirit, this is possible. If it were not possible to love your enemies as yourself, then Christ would not have taught this. With God, all things are possible, and without love, our faith is in vain. Anger, hate, bitterness, jealousy, envy, as well as holding on to a grudge, will lead to spiritual backsliding, and eventually to spiritual death, if one does not repent of this. If you are struggling with anger or hate issues, I recommend that you spend time in prayer, and in study of God’s Word to overcome this.

In response to the question, “who is my neighbor?” Christ taught the parable of the Good Samaritan. Christ said that there was a man who went down from Jerusalem to Jericho and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and left him half-dead.  A priest and a Levite, passed by him on the other side of the road and would not help him. But, a certain Samaritan saw him and had compassion for him. The Samaritan bandaged his wounds, poured oil, and wine on them, and brought him to an inn. He paid the innkeeper to care for the man until he returned. Christ said that the true neighbor was the Samaritan, because he showed mercy to the man who fell among thieves. Christ also said to go and do likewise. Many people nowadays are very self-centered and the needs of others are of no importance. In a city that I once lived near, I was told of a man who died from a heart attack, while parked on the side of a road. The man was slumped over the steering wheel in broad daylight, on a very busy, well-traveled road, and no one stopped to check on him. The physician who examined the body said that the man would have probably lived if someone had helped him. This is an example of the selfishness that exists in our modern world. We need good Samaritans that are willing to take the time to help those in need. I have also heard many stories of good neighbors, who risked their lives to pull people out of burning cars or homes. I know of a non- believer who was willing to open up their home to a homeless family, when their Christian family members refused to. This non-believer displayed mercy for this family and proved to be a good Samaritan, while the Christian family members were willing to let their family go to a homeless shelter. God will bless those who show mercy to others. In our modern culture, we are taught that our money belongs to us and we have no responsibility to help the less fortunate. The truth is quite the opposite; God’s Word teaches that if we neglect the needy, we will not enter God’s kingdom. James taught that faith without works is dead. James states, that if you see your brother or sister naked, or hungry, and say to them, “be warm and filled,” but do not give him what he needs, then your faith is dead.

 James 2:14 What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? 17 Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.

I admire the good work of ministries like the Salvation Army, homeless shelters, and food banks. They show the love of Christ to the hungry and homeless, by living what they preach. My wife and I used to do volunteer work for a Salvation Army homeless shelter and it was very fruitful. A person is more likely to listen to your testimony, if you are showing loving kindness toward them, rather than begging for their money. If the church would learn to be givers, rather than takers, then we would see a large harvest of souls overnight. The wheat and the tares grow together in Christianity, but the day is coming when the tares will be removed, and cast into the fire. Consider Christ’s teaching on the separation of the sheep and the goats on judgment day. The sheep, who enter God’s kingdom, are those who have fed the hungry, gave water to the thirsty, gave shelter to the stranger, clothed the naked, visited the sick and prisoner. The goats that go into punishment are those who have NOT done these things for their fellow man. If we claim to know Christ, we should have love, accompanied by action, for our fellow man. I encourage you to be a good Samaritan and reach out with the love of Christ to a hurting world! 

  

  Matt 25:31 "When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats.  33 And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34 Then the King will say to those on His right hand, 'Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36 I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.'  37 Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38 When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39 Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?' 40 And the King will answer and say to them, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.' 41 Then He will also say to those on the left hand, 'Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire  prepared for the devil and his angels: 42 for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43 I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.' 44 Then they also will answer Him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?' 45 Then He will answer them, saying, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.' 46 And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."

   

 

 

Will you answer the call? Written by my wife.

Will you answer the call? Written by my wife.

How many of us pray, "Here I am, Lord, use me?"  Now really be honest; how many mean it?  If God said, "Wonderful, now go serve Me in homeless shelters and retirement homes," would you do it?  If God asked you to go overseas on a mission, would you quickly pack your bags?  Not so easy to literally answer the call, is it?  The harvest being "truly great" means the whole world is our mission field.  Schools, work places, grocery stores, and the Internet are all places we can witness to people.  But what about spending time with the homeless, incarcerated, and mentally ill?  What about telling the homosexuals their lifestyles are wrong, but God loves them and wants to see them repent, change their sinful ways, and come to His Kingdom?  Are we willing to be bold for Christ and go against the popular opinion?  Would you travel to Africa and risk your life to witness to the starving people whose lives are terrorized by war?  Here's the truth: God will not call you to a place you are unwilling to go.  What He will do is soften your heart and gently try to encourage you to go where He needs you to serve.  God is a gentleman, He will not make you go anywhere you feel uncomfortable.  If you really have zero desire to go overseas, chances are that is not where God wants you to go.  We are not all called to be missionaries in foreign countries.  We can and should minister right where we live.  I am very shy.  Therefore, it is not likely God will call me to street ministry or to lead a bible study.  However, I can write for the few that read my blogs as well as serve dinners for the homeless and work with children.  I can show the love of Christ to co-workers and even strangers.  At the moment, I am not able to bless others monetarily, but I would if I could.  However, If God did call me to a more outspoken ministry, I am certain He would gift me with boldness.  My husband has been involved in street ministries in New Orleans during Marti Gras as well as ministering on the streets of Kansas City, MO and Little Rock, AR.  He is also a gifted pastor and preaches bold sermons.

 

Therefore said He unto them, "The harvest is truly great, but the laborers are few: pray ye the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth laborers into His harvest."  Luke 10:2

There are many examples in the bible where God called His children, and they answered the call.  I am not using myself as an example to follow, but these Godly saints.  Here are just a few:

When Mary was called to be the mother of Jesus Christ, it is easy to assume she was terrified.  Yet, she said, "Behold the handmaiden of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word."  Luke 1:38  She had perhaps the greatest responsibility in the world, and yet she said was willing to serve.  She did not question to reality of a virgin becoming pregnant with the Son of God.  Her faith was truly great to quickly be willing to serve God.

In Mark 1:16-20, Jesus meets Simon (Peter) and Andrew, and asks them to follow him.  Verse 18 says, "straightaway they forsook their nets, and followed Him."  Then Jesus meets James and John.  When Jesus asks them to join, verse 20 says, "they left their father... and went after Him."  In Mark 2:13-14, Jesus calls Levi (Matthew) who, when Jesus asked Him to follow, Matthew "arose and followed Him."  Notice there was no hesitation in these first five disciples that were called. 

In Exodus 3, God dramatically calls to Moses from a bush that is on fire but does not burn.  When God says, "Moses, Moses," he says, "Here am I," but then argues with God that he is not worthy to serve God due to being poor of speech.  Perhaps he was shy or stuttered, we don't know.  What we do know is that although God was angry with Moses' impertinence, He agrees to send Moses' brother Aaron as his mouthpiece.  God chose Moses ( as He chose all before and after) because God sees a broken vessel willing to be used by and for God.  God would not take no for an answer, and reminded Moses that He would be with His servant and Moses would be more capable than he could ever imagine.   God knew Moses was the right man for the job not just to go before Pharaoh to demand he free the Hebrew slaves, but also to be the leader of those he helped escape from Egypt.

Also consider the prophets that were willing to prophecy even after being badly mistreated: Elijah, Elisha, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, (etc.) as well as Paul, Silas, Peter, and Barnabas.  They were willing to answer the call even though they did not all see their predictions come to fruition in their lifetime.

There are so many others I could name that willingly said, "Here I am Lord, use me," such as Samuel, David, and John the Baptist, (etc.) in some form or another, but perhaps I will save that for another blog.

God does not demand perfection.  What He expects is one who is willing to be obedient not only to what he/she is called to do, but to follow the laws of Jesus Christ.  No matter how willing you may be to serve, God wants vessels that are clean inside and out. 

And the Lord said unto them, "Now do ye make clean the outside of the cup and the platter, but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness?  Ye fools, did not He make that which is without make that which is within also?"  Luke 11:39-40

In other words, wearing a three-piece suit and sporting an expensive haircut are not requirements for serving the Lord.  Having the lifestyle to backup the words you want to preach is much more important.  I have many flaws, but if I try to tell you not to cheat on your spouse while lusting after a man not my husband (which I would never, ever do), I am merely a hypocrite and have no place writing a blog.  Why do you think the false "grace for everything without repentance" message is so popular? Sadly, it is because so many that stand behind the pulpit are into pornography and other habitual sins they of which they do not want to let go.  We must clean up our act before serving the Lord.  And not just by our moral actions, but by our attitude.  Don't walk into a homeless shelter and sit at a table with them and witness about the love of Christ than walk outside and insult the people inside.  Most of us are all one or two paychecks away from being in the same situation, so please do not judge them for losing their homes.  Do not go into the inner cities if you cannot love your fellow man no matter what color his skin is. 

Don't minister with a condemning heart, but with a heart of compassion and a goal as  a healer, not a criticizer.  I see my job as attempting to lead people down paths of repentance while striving for righteousness based on the teachings of Jesus, not based in the teachings of Julie.  I want people to endure to the end of their lives so they do not fall away and wind up in Hell.  I want to see my fellow man in heaven worshipping at the feet of their Maker, not tormented by flames. 

If your goals have anything to do with fame or money, then shame on you!  Serving God is all about bringing glory to God.  We should want to decrease so God can increase.  When I pray each day that God would empty me of me and fill me with Him, I am sincere in my prayers.  I do not want to shed the light on what I have done, but on the Love of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, who are One.  Obviously, if you are behind a pulpit you will receive a lot of attention.  If you publish books or end up on the radio, or television you may get some semblance of fame.  As long as you use your notartity for God's kingdom and do not heap riches on yoursleves as the television evangelists do, God very well may bless your life with wealth.  But keep the focus off yourself and keep your ego in check.  Give glory where glory is due.  It is difficult for me to put it into words so this paragraph makes sense, but I think it's pretty obvious there are lines that can be crossed when we preach, write, or serve just to get attention and make ourselves look holy. 

If you are willing to answer the call to be a servant of Christ, serve God with a pure heart, pure motivations, and pure lifestyle.  Whatever your motivation is to serve, God knows your heart, always keep that in  mind. 

See also my husband's excellent blog "The Lord of the Harvest":  http://swordofthespirit77.blogspot.com/2016/04/the-lord-of-harvest.html

Why do the Righteous Suffer?

 

Why do the Righteous Suffer?

Many people ask the question, why me? Why do bad things, happen to good people? We live in a fallen world, where two kingdoms are at war over the souls of men, the righteous are tried, through the hard knocks of life. We should never judge someone, because they are sick, or unemployed, or have experienced much loss in their life. I have known some Christians, as well as pastors, who believe that God is punishing those, who experience tragedy or loss. They are quick to reprove those, whom they are convinced are living in sin.

 Job is a good example of a righteous man, who was blameless before God, but was condemned, by his friends, because of his severe trials. Job lost seven sons and three daughters, as well as, all his servants, and livestock on the same day. It appeared to his friends that God was punishing Job, because of his sins. But, it was because of Job’s righteousness, that Satan accused him before God in heaven. Satan claimed that the only reason Job served God, was that God blessed and protected him. God allowed Satan to take everything away from Job with the exception of his life. Job naturally complained about the harsh trial that he was experiencing, but in the end, he remained faithful to the Lord. Because Job remained faithful to the Lord, God blessed Job with new sons and daughters, as well as more wealth than he had previously. Job was also, blessed to live one hundred forty years after his fiery trial.

 We are all tested and tried in many different ways; our hardships are normally not the result of wickedness. However, in some cases, sicknesses, as well as, tragedy, are the result of sin. Jesus told some of the people that he healed, to go and sin no more, so that nothing worse would overtake them. Habitual sins known as bondages, as well as un-forgiveness, will block people from being healed, or blessed. God’s Word teaches that if there are any sick among you, to have the elders anoint them with oil, and pray for their healing. James 5:14 Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. There are gifts of healings that God grants to many of his children. However, not everyone is healed, God grants healings, according to his will, and timing.     

 Jesus passed by a man who was blind from birth and his disciples asked him who sinned that this man was born blind. Jesus told them that no one sinned; he was born blind so that the works of God, should be revealed in him. This passage shows that sickness, or deformity, is not normally the result of personal sin, but is the result of living in a fallen world. John 9:1 Now as Jesus passed by, He saw a man who was blind from birth. 2 And His disciples asked Him, saying, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" 3 Jesus answered, "Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him. The prophet Elisha died from an illness when he was old, also Jacob’s wife Rachel died in childbirth, and their deaths were not the result of sin or punishment.               

1Peter 3:6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials,  7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,  8 whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory,  9 receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.

In the same way, that gold is purified in the fire, so our faith is also refined in the fiery trials of this life. The goal of these trials is that our lives may bring praise, honor, and glory, to our Lord when he returns. The trials of life may bring about bitterness or backslidings if we allow them to. We all have the choice to become hard or bitter, or to allow these trials to build character, as well as strengthen our faith. I am well acquainted with suffering. I have experienced the deaths of both of my parents, my brother (my only sibling), my nephew, as well as my wife of fourteen years. I was bitter toward God, for a period of time, and I had to learn to forgive him. When I forgave God, he granted me visions of the afterlife, as well as, explained things to me that brought me great comfort. The Lord has also blessed me with a wonderful new wife, and she is my perfect match. I have made the choice to reach out to others who are suffering the loss of loved ones, and use my pain, to help others get through their dark time. When you help others get through life’s hard times, the Lord will strengthen, as well as, bring healing to you.

 

Romans 5:3 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

2 Peter1:5 But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, 6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, 7 to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.

 

Job 1:1 There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was blameless and upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil. 2 And seven sons and three daughters were born to him. 3 Also, his possessions were seven thousand sheep, three thousand camels, five hundred yoke of oxen, five hundred female donkeys, and a very large household, so that this man was the greatest of all the people of the East. 4 And his sons would go and feast in their houses, each on his appointed day, and would send and invite their three sisters to eat and drink with them. 5 So it was, when the days of feasting had run their course, that Job would send and sanctify them, and he would rise early in the morning and offer burnt offerings according to the number of them all. For Job said, "It may be that my sons have sinned and cursed God in their hearts." Thus Job did regularly. 6 Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan also came among them.

7 And the Lord said to Satan, "From where do you come?" So Satan answered the Lord and said, "From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking back and forth on it." 8 Then the Lord said to Satan, "Have you considered My servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, one who fears God and shuns evil?" 9 So Satan answered the Lord and said, "Does Job fear God for nothing? 10 Have You not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. 11 But now, stretch out Your hand and touch all that he has, and he will surely curse You to Your face!" 12 And the Lord said to Satan, "Behold, all that he has is in your power; only do not lay a hand on his person." So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord. 13 Now there was a day when his sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother's house;

14 and a messenger came to Job and said, "The oxen were plowing and the donkeys feeding beside them, 15 when the Sabeans raided them and took them away--indeed they have killed the servants with the edge of the sword; and I alone have escaped to tell you!" 16 While he was still speaking, another also came and said, "The fire of God fell from heaven and burned up the sheep and the servants, and consumed them; and I alone have escaped to tell you!" 17 While he was still speaking, another also came and said, "The Chaldeans formed three bands, raided the camels and took them away, yes, and killed the servants with the edge of the sword; and I alone have escaped to tell you!" 18 While he was still speaking, another also came and said, "Your sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother's house, 19 and suddenly a great wind came from across the wilderness and struck the four corners of the house, and it fell on the young people, and they are dead; and I alone have escaped to tell you!"

20 Then Job arose, tore his robe, and shaved his head; and he fell to the ground and worshiped. 21 And he said: "Naked I came from my mother's womb, And naked shall I return there. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord." 22 In all this Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong.   

The Parables of the Lost Sheep and the Prodigal Son

 

The Parables of the Lost Sheep and the Prodigal Son

 Luke 15:1 Then all the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him to hear Him. 2 And the Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, "This Man receives sinners and eats with them." 3 So He spoke this parable to them, saying: 4 "What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? 5 And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!' 7 I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety- nine just persons who need no repentance. 8 "Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she has found it, she calls her friends and neighbors together, saying, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found the piece which I lost!' 10 Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."

11 Then He said: "A certain man had two sons. 12 And the younger of them said to his father, 'Father, give me the portion of goods that falls to me.' So he divided to them his livelihood. 13 And not many days after, the younger son gathered all together, journeyed to a far country, and there wasted his possessions with prodigal living. 14 But when he had spent all, there arose a severe famine in that land, and he began to be in want. 15 Then he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country, and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. 16 And he would gladly have filled his stomach with the pods that the swine ate, and no one gave him anything. 17 But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! 18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, 19 and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants." ' 20 And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. 21 And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.' 22 But the father said to his servants, 'Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. 23 And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; 24 for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' And they began to be merry. 25 Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 So he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. 27 And he said to him, 'Your brother has come, and because he has received him safe and sound, your father has killed the fatted calf.' 28 But he was angry and would not go in. Therefore his father came out and pleaded with him. 29 So he answered and said to his father, 'Lo, these many years I have been serving you; I never transgressed your commandment at any time; and yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might make merry with my friends. 30 But as soon as this son of yours came, who has devoured your livelihood with harlots, you killed the fatted calf for him.' 31 And he said to him, 'Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours. 32 It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.' "

 

I love the parables of the lost sheep, and the prodigal son, because they show the love that the Father has for us. The self-righteous Scribes and Pharisees were berating Christ, because he received tax collectors and sinners, as well as ate with them. Therefore, Christ told them several parables, that reflect how much he cares for every single soul. Christ said, Luke 15:4 "What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? 5 And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!' We all know John 3:16, that the Father so loved the world that he sent Christ so that we might have everlasting life. God left his throne in glory, and became a man, and humbled himself to the death upon the cross, so that we may be saved. Christ’s sacrifice of his own life for us, reflects how much worth each person has to God. Christ is willing to leave the ninety- nine sheep in the wilderness to search for the lost one. The same is true today, Christ will do everything it takes to restore a backslidden Christian through repentance. God’s Holy Spirit will convict a person of their sins, and the Lord will even use tragedy, as well as blessings, to teach us his ways. This brief life on earth is a school of hard knocks. We are exposed to both the kingdoms of God and Satan, therefore, it is up to us to choose good, over evil, in many of life’s difficult situations.

 The parable of the prodigal son relates to most of us. The prodigal demanded his inheritance from his father and wasted it on rebellious living. Then a severe famine came upon the land and he considered eating the pods, that were fed to swine. Then he remembered that his father’s hired servants had plenty of bread, therefore, he decided to return home, to work for his father. There is no lasting peace in rebellious living, for the wages of sin is death. God will supply all of our needs, if we will live in obedience to him. True peace and fulfillment, comes by making Christ our Lord, through keeping his commandments. Believing in Christ, or saying an acceptance prayer, as well as being baptized, will not save your soul, unless you are truly born again. To be born again, is to become a new creation in Christ, by allowing his Holy Spirit to set you apart from the sinful world. We are all called, to bear much fruit for the kingdom of God. When the prodigal son returned home, and was still a great distance from home, his father saw him and ran to him, and kissed him. The repentant son said, “'Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.” 22 But the father said to his servants, 'Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. 23 And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; 24 for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' And they began to be merry.

  This parable reflects how each of us would respond to our wayward children returning home. I love how the father ran to kiss his repentant son, and immediately put a robe and sandals on him, as well as, a ring upon his hand. The ring was a token of family membership; and reflects how our heavenly Father is willing to forgive and restore, his repentant children. There is grace, for sins that are repented of. When a person is truly sorry for their sinful lifestyle, God will blot out all of their sins, and give them a fresh start. Christ’s atonement upon the cross, applies to all sins, that are repented of, as well as sins that are committed in ignorance. Willful, habitual sins, are known as bondages, and they will lead to spiritual death, if there is no repentance. Those who keep the faith, and endure unto the end, shall inherit eternal life.

We should display the love of Christ toward those who are currently living the prodigal lifestyle. I have witnessed, self-righteous Christians, who like the Scribes and Pharisees, looked down upon those who are in a rebellious lifestyle. These modern day Pharisees, also despise those who attempt to befriend and reach out, to those who are lost, or backslidden.  We should all have the same attitude as Christ, and be willing to reach out in love, to restore those who have fallen away. If you will humble yourself before the Lord, he may send you out to recover that lost sheep. I have said many times, that we should look beyond the fault and see the need. God does not look at the outward appearance but on the heart, and we should do the same.

 It does not matter, if a person is poor, rich, or dressed in rags, we should display the love of Christ for all of mankind. We should not judge a person, based upon their race, the length of their hair, or what kind of job, or home, they may have. I greatly admire the late pastor David Wilkerson, who founded the Times Square Church in New York City. Pastor Wilkerson reached out to people of every race, and economic status, and created a truly diverse congregation that reflects his multi-cultural city. It is very beautiful, to see people of different races, and cultures, come together in unity to worship their Lord. If Christians, will get rid of their prejudices and learn to love one another, then they may see a true revival.

What is Your Foundation?

 

What is Your Foundation?

Matt 7:24 "Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall."  

It is easy to say that Jesus is your foundation, but how many can say that they are obedient to his commandments. In Matthew 7, Christ said, “whoever hears these sayings of Mine and does them, I will liken to a wise man who built his house upon a rock.” Christ continues to say, that when the rain fell, and floods came, and the winds beat against the house, it did not fall because it was built upon a rock. Christ also said,” that those who hear these sayings of mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house upon the sand.” When the rain, floods, and winds came, his house fell, because it was built, on an unsecure foundation. I have heard many sermons on how Jesus is the rock of my salvation; but Christ was saying that, those who keep his sayings, are the wise ones, whose house will survive the storm. If you love Christ, and wish to abide in His love, then you will keep His commandments.  John 15:10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. God desires obedience more than sacrifice.

 Many churches, are failing to teach their flocks, to be obedient  to Christ’s teachings. Faith in Christ alone, will save no one, a person must be born again. Christ said, that any tree that does not bear fruit, will be cut down, and thrown into the fire. To be truly born again, is to live a transformed life, by putting to death the sinful nature, and being set apart from the sinful world, by God’s Holy Spirit. The end time apostasy is the grace for everything message, that is shutting people out of the Kingdom of God. There is grace for sins that are repented of, but grace is not automatic. Habitual sins, are known as bondages, and if they are not repented of, they will lead to spiritual death. God is removing His Spirit from many churches today, because they refuse to preach holiness anymore; instead, they give their flocks a license to sin. The gifts of God’s Holy Spirit, are being replaced by demonic manifestations in a large number of churches worldwide.

 God is still the Ancient of Days, and he does not conform to our so-called progressive society or theology. God expects us to conform to his standards, by being obedient to His Word. The Lord has commanded me, to tell His children that they must put off the sinful old nature and return to him through holiness. The Lord has also instructed me to inform his children that the glory is departing from the churches. The modern day Scribes and Pharisees are doing the work of Satan by twisting scriptures to please men. God refers to the Christian denominations of men, as Babylon, which is a biblical term for wickedness.

1 Cor 3:11 For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13 each one's work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one's work, of what sort it is. 14 If anyone's work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone's work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.

If Jesus Christ is truly your foundation then your works should bring glory to his name. 1 Cor 3:11-15 Paul teaches us to be careful in how we build upon our foundation, because our works will be tested by fire. The many fires or trials of life, will prove what your works are made of. Paul said, that If anyone's work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. Our good, enduring works for Christ, are compared to gold, silver, and precious stones. A pastor, or teacher, of God’s Word, is held to a high level of accountability, therefore it is very important to teach sound doctrine. Teaching the strong meat of God’s Word, is building wisely upon your foundation, and it will be rewarded. Whatever you do for Christ, make sure it lines up with God’s Word, and do it to the best of your ability. If you are not sure if your works are pleasing to God, I suggest that you pray, as well as fast, for an answer. Paul compares our vain works, to wood, hay, and straw, and he said If anyone's work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire. Bad works, consists of more than just bad doctrine, because God looks upon the motive of the heart.

 When I was a young man, I was involved in the street ministry. Our ministry team, worked with other street teams, and at times, I worked under different leaders. At least three of the leaders, were very arrogant, as well as, were on a power trip. These men cared nothing about the people they were ministering to; in fact, they looked down upon them. Their only interest was to maintain control of their groups. They loved the praise of their church leaders, and despised the poor and homeless. These men were an example of fruitless ministry. The Lord will judge each man’s works according to sound doctrine, as well as, the motive of their hearts. If your motive for ministry is love, compassion, and genuine concern for your fellow man, then you, will be rewarded. If your motive is power, position, or selfish ambition, then your works will be fuel for the fire.          

 

Abiding in the Vine

 

Abiding in the Vine

John 15:1-8  “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. ² Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. ³ You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. ⁴ Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. ⁵ “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. ⁶ If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. ⁷ If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. ⁸ By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.

Christ said that he is the true vine and his Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Christ that does not bear fruit the Father takes away. If you have owned fruit trees, then you know that they have to be periodically pruned. You need to trim the good branches, so that the fruit will have adequate room to grow, as well as produce more fruit. You also need to cut off the fruitless branches, so that the good branches will be able to produce healthy fruit.  The same is true with the body of Christ; the Father must remove the bad fruitless branches, so that the true branches will not die out. The Christians who produce good fruit in their spiritual lives, the Father will prune, so that they may produce more fruit. Christ said that he is the vine and those who abide in him will produce much fruit. Apart from Christ, you cannot bear good fruit. Christ also said, if anyone does not abide in him, he is cast out and is withered. The bad branches, will be gathered together and cast into the fire of destruction.

This is a warning from Christ that we must remain in him to inherit eternal life. A Christian must remain faithful to the Lord until the end, to inherit the Kingdom of God. The bad branches were also in Christ for a period of time, but they did not bear fruit, so the Father removed them. This parable teaches that a person can lose their salvation if they do not bear good fruit in their lives. Luke 3: 9 "And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire." The parable of the wise and foolish virgins also teaches this same lesson. The foolish virgins were also in Christ for a period of time, but they became empty vessels, and let their lamps grow dark. The wise virgins, who kept sufficient oil for their lamps, entered the wedding feast of the Lamb, and the door was shut. The foolish virgins knocked on the door and begged to enter, but were denied.

Christ said, that some will bear thirty fold fruit, others sixty, and some one hundred fold. Matt 13:23 But he who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.” We enter the Christian life as babies, who need to learn to walk spiritually. We take baby steps at first, and the Lord is patient with us, as we grow from milk to strong meat. But the time will come when the Lord expects us to produce the good fruit of the Spirit, and not the bad fruit of the carnal nature.

Galatians 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness,   20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies,   21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.   22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,   23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.   24 And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.   25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.   26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.

The most important fruit of the Spirit to have is love. Christ said that if you keep his commandments then you will abide in his love. He also said, this is my commandment that you love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love has no man than this that he should lay down his life for his friends. God’s Word also tells us, that the Law and the Prophets are fulfilled, in that we love the Lord our God with all of our heart, mind, body, and soul, and love our neighbor as our self. God’s Word is clear that without love our faith is worthless. One way that we show the love of Christ is by meeting the physical needs of those who are suffering. God is commanding us to be doers of the Word and not hearers only. James tells us that when we see our brethren naked, or destitute without food, and do nothing to help them, then our faith is dead. We show the world our faith in Christ when we display love for our fellow man. 

 John 15:9-14 “As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. ¹⁰ If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. ¹¹ “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. ¹² This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. ¹³ Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. ¹⁴ You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. 

James 2:14 What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him?   15 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food,   16 and one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit?   17 Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.   18 But someone will say, "You have faith, and I have works." Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.   19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe -- and tremble!   20 But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?