Thursday, December 25, 2008

A Child is Born!

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this." Isaiah 9:6-7


 

Merry Christmas! Christ was born in a manger, died on the cross, rose again, ascended into heaven, and will one day come back as King and Lord to reign on the earth. We know that the events recorded in Luke 2 are real and historic. However, like prophesy does in so many placed, there are at least two thousand years between the phrases "unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder." The government of the world is not yet given to him, however he does govern the church.


 

His name is "Wonderful" which denotes a marvelous thing that has happened. When looking at the events of his life, it is wonderful and a miracle! However not everyone will understand as most of the Jews for it is written, "But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." 1 Corinthians 2:14


 

He is also the "Counselor." He can give counsel through his Word, the Holy Ghost, and his servants. The question is, do we wait and follow his counsel? He is the Supreme Counselor, the one who is qualified to give counsel and advice to all created beings. Proverbs 3:5-6 gives good advise: "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." The Apostle Paul admonishes in Ephesians 5:17, "Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is."


 

He's the "Mighty God" or the conquering God. Many love to think about him as a baby in a manger because that is harmless and not threatening. They even like to think of him on the cross or when he was walking on the face of the earth because that is historic. But few care to consider that he is also the conqueror and judge. "And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day." 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10


 

He's the Everlasting Father," the Father of eternity; the Planner of the ages; and Father of all time. It does not mean that Jesus the Messiah is the one known as God, the Father, the first person of the Divine Trinity, for He is another person known in many places as The Ancient of Days.. He has been with the Father and always will be as the second Person of the trinity. "Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world." John 17:24 "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty." Revelation 1:8 God the Father is the Ancient of Days. "I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him." Daniel 7:13


 

He's also the Prince of Peace. While there is not peace on the earth nor shall there be until his reign, one can have peace in his heart with Him as ruler. Does he rule in your heart this Christmas or are you full of turmoil and regret? Let the Prince of Peace rule in your heart by asking him to come in and rule you and taking away your sins! That would be the best Christmas present you could ever get.


 


 


 


 


 

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Ye Are Bought With a Price

"For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." 1 Corinthians 6:20

We are facing judgment as a nation because the church did not take this scripture seriously, and if the church wouldn't take it seriously, how much more the rest of the country. I don't need to go into the string of sins that our nation is guilty: killing over 50 million babies, adultery and fornication, homosexuality, wholesale pornography, lovers of money, rebellious against God and his scriptures, and it goes on and on. The church hasn't been far behind. Adultery is rampant in the pulpit yet scripture is very clear about this. "A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;" 1 Timothy 3:2 The same goes for a deacon. "Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well." 1 Timothy 3:12 Adultery and fornication is practiced within the church without even a blink anymore. Many are living in this state in America. I do not know for sure what these should do if they truly become converted to Christ: Some say they should depart and others say not. That is between them and God. There isonly one thing to remember here, "Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge." Hebrews 13:4

Our teenagers know little or nothing about prayer and consecration but they do know how to "party for the Lord." They don't know scriptures but they can sing the latest Christian rock song that has little or no substance, if you can even understand all the words. Yet, the Muslims teach their children the Koran even from a language they don't understand and they can quote much of it. We are to be shamed as a church.

It is time to take God's Word seriously and quit trying to go around the scriptures. This is not the time to fool around on God. It's time for us to examine our lives and keep ourselves pure. It's time for us to pray for revival that must first begin within ourselves then spread to others around us. I don't think America as a whole will heed God's warnings even when things really begin to happen. They may respond in the form of political opposition and rally around those who believe the "conservative point of view." While I understand that in itself, it is not the thing that will move the hand of God. We are the ones that can do that as the body of Christ. Championing conservative causes is fine but we must also realize that without God's help, only a temporary healing will come, if any. We must realize that it is God that controls the destiny of nations as he showed Jeremiah when he went down to the potter's house.

The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying, Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words. Then I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels. And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it. Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the LORD. Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel. At what instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to pluck up, and to pull down, and to destroy it; If that nation, against whom I have pronounced, turn from their evil, I will repent of the evil that I thought to do unto them. And at what instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to build and to plant it; If it do evil in my sight, that it obey not my voice, then I will repent of the good, wherewith I said I would benefit them. Jeremiah 18:1-10

Those who God uses to judge our nation will go as far as God will let them, but no farther. "When I made the cloud the garment thereof, and thick darkness a swaddlingband for it, And brake up for it my decreed place, and set bars and doors, And said, Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further: and here shall thy proud waves be stayed?" Job 38:9-11 We must realize that we are looking for a better place and though it is our duty to pray for the peace of our nation and seek the peace thereof, we are looking at being with Christ forever. The wicked only have a short time to work as we read in Psalm 17:13-15. " Arise, O LORD, disappoint him, cast him down: deliver my soul from the wicked, which is thy sword: From men which are thy hand, O LORD, from men of the world, which have their portion in this life, and whose belly thou fillest with thy hid treasure: they are full of children, and leave the rest of their substance to their babes. As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.

Be and stay pure for your redemption draweth nigh! "And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. " Luke 21:28

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Come to the Water

"And in very deed for this cause have I raised thee up, for to shew in thee my power; and that my name may be declared throughout all the earth." Exodus 9:16

Judgment of America is eminent. I believe it's at the door. We have seen the results of what the American people have chosen. They have chosen a man to lead the country that will have unbridled power due to the vast majority his party in congress. His associations and ideals fit a man raised up by God to judge a nation that has wondered away from God. The majority of Americans care nothing about liberty or even about freedom of religion or speech so long as their bellies are full. This has been proven in the past but is now magnified. We are now in a post-Christian which will pave the way for God's judgment, not only on the United States, but the entire world which will culminate in the final battle of Armageddon.

Let the heathen be wakened, and come up to the valley of Jehoshaphat: for there will I sit to judge all the heathen round about. Put ye in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe: come, get you down; for the press is full, the fats overflow; for their wickedness is great. Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the LORD is near in the valley of decision. Joel 3:12-14

Men's rebellion against Christ and the authority of his word has been brewing since the first sin in the Garden of Eden. The rulers of this world have no time of Christ and haven't for some time as we read in Psalm 2: 1-3. " Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying, Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us." But their rebellion will one day be culminated as we see God's reaction in verse 4-6. He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision. Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure. Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion." We must keep in mind the final outcome and take care we are on the right side, that is the winning side, which is the King of Kings' side who is the creator of the earth, the first and the last. "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last." Revelation 22:13

As God raised Pharaoh of Egypt, he has raised up Obama. Pharaoh's stubbornness to let the children of Israel go allowed God to send plagues on Egypt and judgment on their gods. "For I will pass through the land of Egypt this night, and will smite all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgment: I am the LORD." Exodus 12:12 So will God do to the United States to raise judgment against the lukewarm church who is drunk on the cares of this life and care nothing about the things of God. They care more about their Sunday afternoon ballgame than about preparing for the service Sunday night, if they even have a service. They are more concerned about planning the next eat and will turn out in the droves for a social occasion but will pray for only a minute or two at the end of the service, if they even do that. American churchgoers by and large have sold the children to the people who care nothing for God nor his Biblical standards, even with such basic institutions as the traditional family. I could go on and on! Is there any wonder why we're facing what we're facing? I've said this was coming for years and I'm not alone. Many others have said it as well….that judgment of America was coming. Now I'm afraid it is at the door, even the very door! I wish I could tell you something else but I can't.

I will tell you that after the results of this election I was devastated for awhile. My last blog shows it! I had fasted and prayed that it wouldn't turn out this way and so did others, I'm sure. But now that I've had some time to stand back, pray, and study the situation, I realize what has happened. God has done this. Look at Psalm 75: 5-7. "Lift not up your horn on high: speak not with a stiff neck. For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another."

But, Christ is still in control and if you are one of his followers you can still trust in him. If you are not, then it's time to fully trust in him and let him do a work in your life. Jesus said in Revelation 21:6, " And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely." Come to the water my friend and drink! The well is still flowing!

Thursday, November 06, 2008

False Prophet?

I recently received a comment regarding the blog I posted entitled Ester. The comment was this, "Looks like we have a false prophet here since McCain/Palin lost. Apparently she wasn't chosen to reign." Jeremy

First, let me mention that I was passing this on and wanted to give you something to think and pray about. Second: Maybe he is and maybe he isn't. You say, well McCain lost the election didn't he? Yes, but we must remember that sometimes God does things different than we do. The big thing is that, when you look at what he said, there is not a clear cut statement saying that they were to win the election, only that they should stand strong. Being an Ester can have many applications and can mean that she will be used later. So Jeremy, don't be so quick to label someone a false prophet until you look closely to what is said.

Also, I do not know the man so I have no reason to defend him except that I want to be fair to him. Personally, I'm of the current attitude that God has forsaken his people and that there is no hope. Now they have enough votes in congress to pass whatever bill they want and have a president more than willing to sign them. They will pass the Fairness Doctrine (don't be fooled by its name) and that will silence any conservative voice on talk radio, even the Christian voices in most cases. They will pass the Card-check bill which puts most workers into unions (I know that is simplified) and they no longer can vote secretly. Knowing the make-up of the unions I don't think I need to tell you how they will vote since Big Brother will be looking over their shoulder. They will also make Christian education illegal and possibly force the true church underground due to massive bureaucracies. They will hike taxes so there's little money left and prices will go up. Obama wants a civil army which will function as a tattle-tale army telling Big Brother if someone speaks out against him or his government. I'm not prophesying so if God is gracious enough to stop some of these things then well, but this is what I see now. There will be total control by a people who has no love for the truth or our traditional values. I'm afraid judgment is coming to America and very fast!

We are truly like the Jews in Ester's time, waiting for the slaughter. I'm not trusting in anyone here so don't get me wrong but if God can somehow raise up an Ester, so be it!

Friday, October 31, 2008

Quiet and Peaceable Life

"I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, 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 Saviour;" 1 Timothy 2:1-3


 

I've probably used this scripture before but it bears repeating in light of the coming election. Why do we want good rulers and what is their main responsibility? It is simply that we lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness, or that we have peace in our streets and are protected from our enemies. That is the main responsibility of government and anything beyond that is extra. Will our country go into anarchy or will we have peace in our streets and throughout our land? Will we be protected for the ever-looming terrorists or will they run freely throughout our country doing their will. Prayer will decide this more than you think. Pray! Pray! Pray!

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Esther?

Below is a copy of an email I recently received. I thought I'd pass it on. It's well worth the reading. Keep in mind that God can use someone even if they don't quite fit into our doctrinal system. This will give you something to think and pray about and maybe encourage you.

***********


 

Pastor Mark Arnold in Lebanon , Ohio wrote the below account. This account is true. He sent this out first to just a tiny handful of friends and relatives, never dreaming that, thanks to email, it would soon travel around the world.


 

As of 3:30 p.m. today, September 25, he's heard back from 49 states, 11 nations, several major Christian ministries and news networks and is receiving 70-100 emails an hour. He is refusing money from the news networks for the story even though he's a "tent-maker" pastor of a little church.

He works 50-hour weeks in addition to his church duties.


 

He was asked what he felt the value was in letting this story go public.He said he is seeing people moved and coming out of the "caves" they've been in, coming alive and realizing that they need to get back involved in the affairs of the nation and not sleep through this season like the church did when they allowed prayer to be removed from schools. "God asked me if I would obey and I did," he said. "I was a "Mordecai for her (Sarah Palin), I did my part. Now the church has to do their part."


 

So, dear praying friends, read the story below - be encouraged and get to work - on your knees, with your testimony and in the voting booth. And, whether you agree with the idea of this story going public to non-believers or not, it already has, so please pray for protection for him as well as for John McCain and Sarah Palin.

************************************************************

Note from Pastor Mark Arnold (PLEASE READ ENTIRE STORY BELOW) This past Tuesday, the McCain/Palin Bus came through a little town called, Lebanon, Ohio . The LORD allowed me to go to the Rally giving them a message that He wanted personally delivered.

Here's how it happened.


 

Sunday Night - a burden hit me that would only shake me to my knees – I prayed and wept for our Nation. Never has my heart been so broken before God. I literally interceded for these wonderful people who do not deserve all the hate against them. The GOD-Haters are going to try everything to

stop them, but they will not succeed! God is not pleased with the "bashing" in the News of this "Anointed" person. He has called her for this time! I promised God that I would pray and hold them up in prayer. I would "listen" and be mindful of where they were.


 

Monday - The following day is important in this time-line because I didn't even know until God spoke to me Monday and into Monday Night – the burden of prayer was so heavy that I was literally shaking and could not stop weeping.

I didn't know that they were coming to Ohio . I prayed and walked and wept and walked. I prayed and prayed and wept and prayed.


 

Tuesday at 2:00 A.M. - God spoke these words to me - "Go turn the Radio on!" Immediately the Reporter's Words were - "McCain & Palin Bus to be in Lebanon later this morning for a 10:00 A.M. Rally!" Immediately upon hearing that news, I heard God again. God said, "You are to go. You will meet

Them and give them a message for Me!"


 

I prayed as an intercessor and went to a place in prayer that I don't think I've ever been because the LORD had just visited me and I knew I was on a " Mission ." I had now been up since Sunday Night and now it's Tuesday and I've got to go on the "WORD of the LORD." He sure became My Strength as

This unfolds. I didn't stop praying until I drove over to the town and parked the car. The News would later report they were expecting 5,000 people and the actual head-count of those who had been scanned was more than 10,000 people.


 

I simply obeyed and God actually told me where to stand, who to talk to and when to be on the move. I had learned on the Mission Field, when God wants to open a door, He will do it at the appropriate time. He always has someone to assist and even those standing beside you may just be an Angel.

I struck up a conversation with an agent on the ground - he simply said, "I can't allow you to stand here!" This is where the bus was going to actually pull up. They had to make a much larger perimeter, so the entire area was now being moved back several blocks. The only other thing he told me to

Do was to go through the metal detector zone and just watch from the back. So, that's what I did.


 

Due to sensitivity of the Internet, I can't share much of the story, as to what happened next, but it was definitely a GOD THING ALL THE WAY. Looking over the shoulders and backs and heads of all the people, I knew it would take a miracle for what GOD told me to do. As I was standing there, two Boy Scouts came running up my back-literally, they almost knocked me to the ground because they were running so fast

behind me up my back and over to the right. These Boy Scouts were about Junior High Age. Their Scout Leader and several others were behind them, but as the two out front were trying to push through the crowd, saying they were late. The

smaller scouts were left in their dust. The Scout Leader, who was with a McCain Rep from the State, grabbed me and told me bring the other Scouts up front as they tried to keep up with the first two that just came through. I just became the leader of the rest of the Scouts to lead them right up

front and center. As the Rep was shouting back at me to bring the Scouts forward, the people parted just like God parted the Red Sea . I marched those boys right up front and to the right of the stage as one was looking from the back. When I got there I was fifteen feet from the podium. GOD said, "Stand

here, and don't move from this spot."


 

Within five minutes, the bus pulled up and around the other side McCain, Sarah Palin and her husband Todd stepped up and the speeches took off. I was where God placed me. And even Sarah Palin and Todd were standing on my side

of the stage. I made eye contact, I gave them thumbs up gestures and I knew they were just happy to see me standing there. Ha Ha! When they came around the podium and started on the other side, I knew they were coming right toward me, a little lady who stood by me, reached up

and told the Rep that they had promised a Picture with her because she was the one who had lost a son in Iraq, recently. The Rep confirmed she would get a picture with them and they would talk to her. When McCain came to hug the lady, he immediately shook my hand and following his moment with her, I shook his hand as he grabbed my hand, now for the

second time, and I said, "God wants you to know that I'm praying for you, Sir!" He thanked me and kept smiling. I repeated that phrase to him five times. He grabbed my hands and looked right into my eyes and said, "I won't make it without prayer. Sir, thank you for praying for me, and don't let

one day go by that you don't pray for me. I need all the prayers that I can get. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!" As he moved to my right, Sarah Palin came over to my left side, standing over the crowd, and then looking at the

little lady who had lost the son. It took a moment for her to shake some hands and people were pushing in all around. Sarah came and got on her hands and knees on that side of the stage and hugged that little Mom, telling her, "It was not in vain." She promised her support. It was at this moment that Sarah Palin reached out for me to help her up and as I was assisting her to stand I was now face to face with her and GOD said, "Open up your Mouth and I will fill it."

Here is what came out... "God wants you to know that you are a present day Esther! [She immediately began to cry]!

God wants to tell you that you are Chosen for such a time as this! You are called, and chosen to be a leader. Don't lose heart and don't fear man. The news and naysayers and criticizers are going to be very hateful toward you and in the days ahead they are going to turn up the heat...but do

Not fear. You are a present day Esther. You are an Esther. You are an Esther! Keep your eyes on GOD and know that He has chosen you to Reign! Stay strong. Be strong. Don't tire. Don't be weary in well-doing. Be strong." Her husband Todd came over and I told him what I told her. He began to

cry. "I emphasized the fact that he was to guard her at this time and know that she is GOD-CALLED and GOD-ANOINTED." This is a GOD-THING and your wife

is a Present day Esther. She is for God to use at this time. She is an Esther. She is an Esther. She is an Esther. You will be hated, but stand strong. GOD has called both of you to stand!" We are praying and I am praying for you!


 

At this moment, McCain came right to where I was finishing talking to Todd and I told Mr. McCain exactly what I told to Sarah and Todd Palin. "Mr. McCain, they are called of God and she is an Esther. Don't lose hope and don't lose heart. We are praying for all of you!" He shook my hand and with a deep look of understanding of what I had just said, he said, "Thank

you for your prayers and support. I really do mean that!"

And he turned and shook more hands and I watched them as they went through the crowd. When I got to my car, I sat there for quite a long time...knowing the GOD of the Universe had just used me to deliver a message confirming to Sarah and Todd to realize they are truly chosen vessels of God. I wept.

I have not stopped praying and crying. My heart is full knowing they had all the staging, and all the hype, and all the crowd, but the GOD of Heaven and Earth wanted to give them a Divine-God-Appointment!

To God be all the GLORY and HONOR.


 

Pastor Mark Arnold

MEA31975@aol.com

LIFE COVENANT CHURCH

Monroe , Ohio

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Urgent Times

"Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish." Esther 4:16


 

This is going to be short but I'll try to write another one later. In the time of Esther the Jews were praying for their very lives. It was urgent times. My friends, this is an URGENT TIME! It is time to get VERY SERIOUS with God. I challenge you to push back the plate within the next few days before election day and do the following:

Pray for the sins of America

Pray that God will give mercy to America

Pray that God will allow those who stand most on Biblical principles be elected, from President on down.


 

You who are sensitive to God's spirit will read and understand. The rest will not. This is a wake up call for the church and if she doesn't rise now, judgment is at the door.

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Thou Art Mine

"But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee." Isaiah 43:1-2

God knows his people and who are his. Not everyone that is of the church are really in the church as was Israel as the Apostle Paul points out in Romans 9:6, "Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel:" Many frequent the house of God but are not his. They will not obey his Word and cast it behind their backs. They sit and close their ears to what scripture is being given and leave the same way they came, in fact in worse case because their hearts are being more hardened each time they refuse to receive instruction or wisdom from his Word. "He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy." Proverbs 29:1 To them, church is an "experience" or a social gathering where they can meet others in the community to advance whatever cause they may deem important.

But Christ knows who are his. He knows his sheep. "I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine." John 10:14 "Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity." 2 Timothy 2:19 They are hungry for God's Word and for communing with the Master. They are those who yearn when their prayer lives are being invaded by whatever Satan would chose to invade them with. They are those who will stand against adversity and do it with courage but yet love for the adversary which can only be done through God's grace. "44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;" Matthew 5:44 And while the above verses in Isaiah pertains directly to Israel and their future trials with the coming kingdoms including Babylon, Mede-Persia, Greece, and finally Rome, it is also looking at the church. God will keep his own. He will keep his people in troubled times and will not cause his elect to go astray if they hold on to Him. The saints will be briefly overcome during the tribulation by the anti-Christ as we read in Revelation 13:7 "And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations." But again remember friends, that is during the tribulation. That will last for only a short time for "These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful." Revelation 17:14. Christ will overcome the super church and the anti-Christ. He knows his people. Remember what Jesus said. "And except that the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect's sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the days." Mark 13:20 Remember that God "calls the shots." He is still in control and will have his way. Since the believer knows that, we should rest in him. If you are a true follower of Christ, rest in Psalm 91. Read it, memorize it, meditate it! Notice the promises in it as well as the conditions for these promises!

1 ¶ He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

2 I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.

4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;

6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.

7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.

8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.

9 ¶ Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;

10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.

11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.

13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.

14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.

15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.


 

Friday, October 10, 2008

The Lip of Truth

"The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment." Pr 12:19

God's word is truth. It's the only book that you can rely on that speaks perfect truth. Because the church has strayed away from it and turned to other things, it has become non-potent in this last day. But God will have a people! He always has and always will. Are you one of them? We are in the time of a national election and we wonder who is telling the truth. We have a chance to vote for a president and their word should depend on our decision. Are they speaking truth about themselves or are they lying. Many have lied their way into public office but after their time of glory are swept aside by history. Remember, the devil is a liar and the father of lies.

It is time for us to pray seriously for our country…to even set aside a day of fasting and repentance for America for her sins. We know that America is set for the judgment of God as the whole world is but we don't know the timeline. When we read of the financial panic throughout the world and talk of world leaders of "a new world order," we must realize that the end may be near. We must know in whom we believe in and have our faith grounded on the Rock! Is your faith rooted and grounded in Him? Should the rapture take place, would you go? I hope so. Politicians may not tell the truth, but God will always speak truth!

Saturday, September 06, 2008

Pray Church, Pray!

"I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, 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 Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth." 1 Timothy 2:1-4


 

Those in the church must pray! We must pray as we've not prayed before. It is no longer time for a short prayer when you get up and a "Now I lay me down to sleep" prayer when you go to bed. That' won't make it…it just isn't enough. It's not enough for you or I to lead a fruit bearing Christian life much less to change the world around us. I know we are living in the last days and that Christ's return could be any time. I also know that our country will no doubt face judgment. But when one knows that a storm could be heading his way, does he just fold his arms and say, "whatever will be will be."


 

Pray for our President. That's a commandment. Pray for our leaders, and pray for the elections that are coming upon us. We will decide if we will live under socialism and a Marxist society or one that is free. Why should we pray, "that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty." So we can worship without harassment: So we can send our children to the school of our choice: So we can have the freedom to chose whatever career is best for us: So we can continue to travel safely from one place to another, and the list goes on and on.


 

Not only is it enough to pray for the elections coming up, but we must have revival. Revival will not come in the ballot box but it starts in the heart. What is real revival? Real revival is when men forsake their sins and realize that this world is not their home. It is when they truly understand that all things here are only temporary and that eternal things are more important. It's when they understand that being true to Christ is more important than anything. "So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple." Luke 14:33 Our young men and women go off to a distant country to fight for America and sometimes never return. They are heroes! Yet, it is hard for many to frequent the house of God much less to take up the cross.


 

The church must pray. It is our only hope! God alone has the power to change lives and to move on our nation! "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." Ephesians 6:12 PRAY CHURCH PRAY!

Saturday, July 19, 2008

Pray

"Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way:" 1 Samuel 12:23

Are you praying for America? If you're a Christian, you should be. You should be praying for her daily. Our country is heading for judgment and I've said that before and still believe it, however God is still prompting many to pray for America and if God is doing the prompting then we must do it. If you hear of a severe storm or hurricane coming your way do you just throw up your hands and say, "Well, let's just sit here and let it run its course. If we live, we live, and if we die, we die." No! If you are a praying Christian you pray that the storm may be diverted or dissolved and you also make preparations for its arrival if it becomes more apparent of is landing.

I know that, in order to fit in the prophetic picture, our country will not be a major player so must be brought down, but that doesn't mean that God can't help us in the process. The above scripture comes from a time in Israel when they had rejected God as reigning over them and wanted a king. They wanted a king like all the other nations because they could no longer trust God, and the judge that he would raise up, to protect them. We could say that it was for security reasons. Samuel the prophet showed them their sin by bringing rain in the time of wheat harvest but even after that, he spoke the above scripture. He would not sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for them. So, those of us who claim to be Christians should not sin in ceasing to pray for America even though we know she is in trouble. There are several things to consider and here are just a few.

Judgment may be held back some: This is always a possibility in that the time frame can be held back although we do not have God's clock. We are looking for Christ's return and as far as I'm concerned, the sooner the better but we don't have any time frame except the coming of the seven year tribulation period.

God may help ease the judgment somewhat: If you have never read the horrible judgment that was placed on Judah in the time of the Babylonian conquest, just read the book of Lamentations. Mothers became so famished that they even ate their own children! Anything that can ease the judgment would be of great help.

God could help the true believers in the time of judgment Even though there may be judgment, God can help his people through it if we pray. He can supply each need and give joy even in the midst of turmoil. Read Psalm 91 and I challenge you to memorize it as it can become a great comfort.

God can help the true believers reach the lost: In this day of prosperity and pride, most don't want to hear the true word of Christ – discipleship, the cross, holy living, spiritual warfare, and not being polluted by the worldly system. They're more interested in the amenities that the church can offer and what will please and pamper the flesh. But in the time of judgment and hard times, many will realize there is more to the Christian religion than a cup of coffee at church, a supper, a ball game, or constant entertainment and songs that make one feel good. They may seek out those true believers who really know and study the Word of God and do their best to live it. They may seek those who are filled with the Holy Ghost and know how to pray in the spirit for deliverance. Will you be one of those?

Friday, June 27, 2008

Are They Brethren?

“And said, I pray you, brethren, do not so wickedly.” Genesis 19:7
The above verse is from a very familiar story in the Bible, the story of Sodom and Gomorrah. You can read it in Genesis chapter 19 and if you haven’t done so, you’ll find it a very interesting read. Lot was Abraham’s nephew and they once traveled together but parted ways when there was contention between Abraham’s herdsman and Lot’s. The result was Abraham (or Abram than) choosing to dwell in the land of Canaan and Lot choosing to dwell in the plains of Jordan, (Genesis 13:5-12. But in Genesis 13:13 Moses writes the following: “But the men of Sodom were wicked and sinners before the LORD exceedingly.” We learn later of their sin when two men, who were angels, came to Lot after Abraham intercedes for the city in chapter 18. This brings us to the verse first mentioned above. Them men gather around the door and say the following: “Where are the men which came in to thee this night? bring them out unto us, that we may know them.” Genesis 19:5b Now the word “know” can be defined as having knowledge or knowing someone carnally, and there are more meanings so one could argue that they were only wanting to get to know them in the form of greeting or handshake. But when we continue the story and see Lot’s resistance, other things are definitely in mind and not just a handshake. Lot refuses to let the two men come out and even offers his two virgin daughters in their place. This did not satisfy the men and they tried to break the door down to get Lot and the two men. They were smitten with blindness by the two men or angels so the attack was stayed. These men saw some new flesh and lusted after them to commit fornication or homosexual acts. The disturbing thing is that Lot calls them “brethren.” Lot had gotten so deep in the city that, even though he didn’t commit such acts himself, he became sympatric and felt in league with those who did.
This is where we are going as a nation and much of the church is going down this road too. We need to tell the homosexual, whether they are gay or lesbian, that it is sin but with love so they may be delivered and their souls saved from eternal damnation. The following passage sets this pretty clear.
See Romans 1:21-32
“21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,
23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.
24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:
25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:
27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.
28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;
29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,
30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,
31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:
32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
I don’t see how this can be any clearer. While we do not hate the homosexual, we must tell them that they will surely be lost unless they are delivered. It is our duty as a church. Revelation 21:8 says the following: “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” The word “whoremongers” can have several meanings but Strongs provides three which are the following: 1) a man who prostitutes his body to another’s lust for hire 2) a male prostitute 3) a man who indulges in unlawful sexual intercourse, a fornicator. In the Old Testament, the following appears: Deuteronomy 23:17-18 “There shall be no whore of the daughters of Israel, nor a sodomite of the sons of Israel. 18 Thou shalt not bring the hire of a whore, or the price of a dog, into the house of the LORD thy God for any vow: for even both these are abomination unto the LORD thy God.” That was God’s attitude towards those who lusted for their own sex then and it is still his now as we read in Revelation 21:8, and Romans 1:24-32.
Here are more scriptures to prove the God does not approve this conduct today.
“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,” t1 Corinthians 6:9
“Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.” Jude 1:7
There are more but this is enough. God is a God of mercy and love and yet he is also a God of judgment. Excusing conduct of someone just because he/she is a loved one is also unfair to them as they will never repent if favor for their actions are shown. But there is good news. There can be deliverance. After all of this Paul says the following: “And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” 1 Corinthians 6:11 This includes the homosexual, he/she can be delivered from homosexuality and set free from sin and have eternal life in heaven by God’s power. May God work his power!

Sunday, June 15, 2008

Fathers

" If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14


 

This is a promise for revival if a country backslides into corruption and turns away from God. If God's people will humble themselves and pray, seek his face and turn from the evil, he will forgive their sins and heal the land. In short, he will bring revival. The church is not doing this. Much of what is going on in America in the way of "church" is nothing but a joke. There is no conviction of sin, no separation, no consecration, and no repentance. If a convert is won, there is no real change as they are simply told to be baptized and then they are in. They fail to grow, than fail to bring forth fruit, wither and die. "Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit." John 15:2 They go on in their same bondages, sins and lusts and there is no change because, while they may have really had some experience with God, they were never encouraged to grow in grace. They never again felt the Holy Ghost and the soon were won back by the world, and then they are lost.


 

Where are the men who will take time for Christ? Where are those who will spend time with him in fasting and prayer? Where are those who will preach the word of god with unction and the authority of the Holy Ghost? There are some, but few in this adulterous land that is waiting for God's judgment. Men today are the subject of ridicule in commercials, the media, and in all around society. As a whole, the man has left his spiritual place in the family and woman and filled their place. The woman's liberation movement would not have been as profound if men would have been in their rightful place in the family as the spiritual head. But now woman have come to the front and many are now rocking the cradle alone. This is not God's will but is what we have reaped. This is a land that is ripe for judgment. Read Isaiah 3 but especially verse 12. "As for my people, children are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O my people, they which lead thee cause thee to err, and destroy the way of thy paths." Men are to love their wives and to treat them as the weaker vessel. Gone are the days when the fathers put their family before them. Gone are the days when the man was expected to be, not only the head of the home but also the lead provider. Gone are the days when men make it a priority to teach their children and wife the scripture. Yet, there are still a few good men. May I be one of them and may you stive to be so also.

Sunday, June 08, 2008

Follow Peace and Holiness


 

"Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:" Hebrews 12:14


 

Everyone wants peace. Americans spend millions of dollars to get it, but it really never comes Christians don't have peace, but they should. Why, because there is no holiness. Isaiah had the answer when he said, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:" Isaiah 26:3-4 While it is impossible for us to totally have our minds on Christ and his Word all the time, he can be in the back of our minds which can provide peace. But the mind can't be stayed on him when it's involved in everything that is displeasing to him and when it is constantly thinking of thoughts of wrath, strife, sedition, sensuality, coveting, envy, and anything else contrary to God's Word. With all of this going on in the mind, Christ is crowded out and there is no more room for him. He will eventually leave you!


 

We should have peace with all men as much as lies within us is which is coupled with holiness. Holiness means sanctification which basically means "set apart." The church should be set apart from the world. It should not look like the world, act like the world, or even feel like the world. However, the modern church has tried so hard to be like the world that there is no difference. There is no holiness and there is no peace. God means what he says, without it, we can't see the Lord and make heaven. This means separation from fornication and all things that may cause it, including dressing immodestly to show much of the body. Do you know that to reveal the thigh is considered a shame to God! Isaiah 47:1-3 says the following: "Come down, and sit in the dust, O virgin daughter of Babylon, sit on the ground: there is no throne, O daughter of the Chaldeans: for thou shalt no more be called tender and delicate. Take the millstones, and grind meal: uncover thy locks, make bare the leg, uncover the thigh, pass over the rivers. Thy nakedness shall be uncovered, yea, thy shame shall be seen: I will take vengeance, and I will not meet thee as a man." Yes, I know he was talking about Babylon but he was comparing Babylon to a whorish woman who had uncovered the thigh. Has God changed?????????


 

We have taken many things so common place in our wicked society that we no longer think about them. That is due to the backslidden church in America who will not cry out against them nor speak of separation, faith, the power of God, and the certain judgment of America and of the world as well as the promises to the overcomer in Christ. Christ is coming soon. Let us be ready!

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Sunday, June 01, 2008

The Light

"But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God." John 3:21

If you wonder why so many refuse to come to the knowledge of the truth and truly trust Christ as Savior and follow him, the above scripture is the answer. Jesus is the light of the world and in turn his followers are commanded to be lights in this dark world.


 

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. John 1:1-4


 

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Mat 5:14-16


 

Much of the known church has lost its light today, no more having the true authority of the Holy Ghost to teach or preach the gospel. They are like the Pharisees. This is the difference between who are His and who are not. "And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. Matthew 7:28-29 So as today, the church is doing everything to keep its people what having the true anointing of the Holy Ghost. It has lost its authority even in our American culture. No more does it have a large voice in the political arena as it did. No more does it have the ability to keep the wave of wickedness and darkness that is rolling across our country. No more can it stop the epidemic of family breakups and crumbling of the home. No more can it stop the "abusers of themselves with mankind" or homosexuals from gaining control. No more can it stop the certain judgment that is to befall America.


 

Yes, we have big churches. Yes, we have large congregations. Yes, we have well-delivered sermons. So did the Pharisees. Yes, there are church bodies doing good. Yes, there are people that know the scripture. So did the Pharisees. But the true hunger for God is not there…to dwell in his presence…abide in the vine….to partake of his word and let it become a pare. Jesus said to those who believed on him, "….Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day." John 6:53-54 The Jews tried to take this literally but they should have known what he meant, not in a literal sense but that his teachings should dwell in them and be a part of them. To simply partake of the Lord's Supper each Sunday morning is not what he intended although this can be commendable at times so long as it is taken with reverence. (See 1 Corinthians 11 verse 17 and on for more information). In order to be a part of him, we must truly be his children and have his anointing abiding in us. It must be in us and stay. His desires must be our desires and his wishes ours. That's not always easy, I agree but we must strive to be in his presence and let his Word abide in us. If we do, we will have that authority we need. The results may not always bring in the thousands in this evil time, but you will surely have the peace to know that you're name is written down in heaven and that you will be rewarded for your works. "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord." 1 Corinthians 15:58

Wednesday, May 07, 2008

Commit Your Spirit Unto God

"Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth." Psalm 31:5


 

What a wonderful thing it is to be able to commit your spirit unto the Lord. You are made of three elements; the body, soul, and spirit. The body is your flesh, the soul is the seat of your appetites, while your spirit is your intellect but can also be linked some to your desires. It is sometimes difficult to differentiate between the soul and the spirit. To commit your spirit unto the Lord you must know what he is saying and the only way you can do that is through reading and understanding his Word. You'll never understand it all and the treasures in it are so many that you can read a chapter over and over again and still gain something out of it. Too many today claim Christ but know little about his Word nor do they spend time in it. It is the most important piece of literature you can read, even more important than that newspaper or textbook. Yes, there are other things important as well, but not like the Bible that doesn't change and is your roadmap to eternal life. These other things are temporal and must be attended to but they are second place compared to the Bible.


 

You also must be willing to spend time with him in prayer. The church as a whole really don't know what prayer is anymore. True soul travailing prayer is hardly ever heard and spiritual warfare is not even mentioned. In order to tear down the strong holds of Satan, one must be able to pray in the spirit and be yielded to Christ else not much will happen. We are losing great battles in our nation because people are no longer doing this. Need I point out some? I five minute prayer in the morning doesn't cut it friends. You may think it does but it only makes you feel a little religious. A little short devotional in the morning won't do it. Oh it will sooth the conscience but that's all, nothing more. Many who think God is answering their prayers are really only having things fall as they would and they are duped into thinking that he is honoring them. I challenge you to study some of the lives of those who have gone on before us and sparked great revivals, even going back fifty or sixty years to those in your denomination if you have one that is centered around God's Word.


 

I know I'm sounding a little tart here but I must tell the truth. Let me also say that I am more and more aware of my shortcomings and that I must continue to strive as well. I realize that I've let God have second place at times when he needed and demands first. I also know that if we must do everything in love or it will avail nothing. I must continue to examine myself as I know that Satan walks about as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. Our nation is in trouble. The church is in trouble and much of it will fall into the one world church of the false prophet written about in Revelation but God will always have a remnant. Are you a part of his remnant? I hope so. We must "Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are." (Luke 13:23-24) Let's strive together so we'll be ready when the Master comes!

Sunday, April 20, 2008

Self Righteousness

"Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?" Proverbs 20:6

Finding someone who is faithful is hard to find. In the days of "doing our own thing" and no absolutes faithfulness to almost anything but self indulgence is thrown out the window. Faithfulness is no longer a big part in the work ethic, in family, and especially to God. And while we, as Christians, must be aware that we are required to be faithful to God and his Word, we must continue to examine ourselves to that extent. Are we really being faithful?

There is a real temptation to become as the Pharisee in Luke 18:9-14 who, no doubt was a pretty good fellow but yet despised that poor publican who was standing by him.

And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. Luke 18:9-14

First the Pharisee listed all the things he wasn't than all the things he did. But we must understand that, like the Pharisee, we can easily become hardened to sin and God's Holy Spirit wooing. First of all, understand this: without Christ, we are evil. Yes, we may seem like pretty good folk but in God's eyes that is not the case. Remember that we have all sinned and come short of the glory of God and that there is none righteous, no not one. See Romans 3:10, 23. Only through bowing to Christ as Lord can we become what he wants us to be, and it doesn't just stop at conversion but continues on until death or the rapture. Proverbs 20:9 says, "Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin?" God knows our motives from the very beginning as pointed out in the eleventh verse. "Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right." God knows why we do the things we do and he can reveal it to us if we want to listen. He can do it through his Word, the preaching, the Holy Ghost, through a friend, or just a still small voice. "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?" Jeremiah 17:9 Much more can be written about motives and you are invited to read 1 Corinthians 3:11-15 for more information.

But we live in a time when everyone blames on their shortcomings on someone else. "I got it from my dad." "She rubbed off on me." I could go on and on but the end is that we are responsible for our own actions and god holds us so. Know another thing: God searches the hearts. Read what King David told his son Solomon when he was about to take the throne. "And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever." 1 Chronicles 28:9 See what he told the church in Thyatira about a prophetess named Jezebel. "And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works." Revelation 2:23

The third point is that we must measure up to God's standard. It's one thing for us to proclaim our on goodness but it avails nothing if we are not right before God. Our hearts can easily become hardened without our recognizing it. "Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. 13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin." Hebrews 3:12 We must humble ourselves before God and sometimes even in fasting and let him examine us.

Sunday, April 13, 2008

Where Have All The Families Gone?

Where Have All The Families Gone?

Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. Genesis 2:24

The family is the oldest establishment ordained by God. It was established before any nation or government system, even before man had sinned and fallen from God's perfect fellowship. While it has continued several thousand years, the institution which is the glue that holds a civilization and country together is crumbling in America and has been under attack for several years. Recently we were all shocked by learning that 11 third grade students had plotted to kill their teacher. They were so organized that each had an assignment, even one to clean the floor after the ordeal. It's not certain what types of homes these children are from so we can't pass judgment on specifics, but when we hear of appalling incidents such as this occurring in our schools and homes, we have to wonder what's happening to our families and nation. According to the U. S. Census Bureau in 2000 the American family which consists of two parents and one or more children under 18 represented only 23.5% of all American households, down from 45% in 1960. Families maintained by women with no husband present increased by 21% while married-couple families only increased by 7%. Also, it is a well-known fact that at least half of the marriages are ending in divorce. Of course we must take into consideration that Americans are living longer therefore there are more homes with one person, but that doesn't account for all. What's happening?

First, immorality in our nation is a serious problem. For example 41% of American women ages 15-44 have cohabited or lived with an unmarried different-sex partner at some point. According to the U. S. Census Bureau the number of unmarried couples living together increased 72% between 1990 and 2000. Holy matrimony is less regarded and sex outside of marriage unfortunately is basically the norm. Secondly, the persistent love for money, pleasure, and things are also killing us as a nation. With both man and wife pursuing full time careers and the children being steeped in all kinds of activities, there is rarely a time when they all can sit down to a meal together, so much of the time even "normal" families just cohabitate. Thirdly, Hollywood has little regard for the family and what scraps are thrown our way is only to satisfy and keep some of the audience. The divisiveness of pornography and dating services on the Internet have done their part to divide and put asunder many homes. The fourth and most important is the liberalizing of the church to fit into this current society. This is the main factor and reason for our country's downhill slide. Because of compromise, the power of God is lost. The Bible is not preached as the authoritative Word of God and there is less and less regard for it as a rule for everyday living. It has been replaced by a type of Christian humanism which is humanism with a "Christian" slant.

What is the solution? The male should be the spiritual leader in the home. This is ordained by God and the man should love his wife and children like Christ loved the church, which is a sacrificial love. If he isn't the spiritual leader, it's left to the woman but this is not God's real plan. Much has been placed on our ladies today that God did not intend. Finally, both husband and wife have the responsibility to teach the children right from wrong and the principles of Scripture. This is God's simple plan and one that works when applied, This is the reason Satan is fighting it so hard. He knows that strong families make strong churches, and strong churches can make a strong nation.

We must recognize that there are many single parents that have become that way not always by choice. They need encouragement and moral support. Our seniors have a great deal of wisdom and can be an example to the younger and teach the young women to love their husbands as scripture calls for. But Jesus Christ must be the head of all no matter what type of household, and without him we will not stand in this life or in the judgment. No matter if you are alone or have a large family, please surrender your heart to Jesus Christ and ask him to become your savior. If you have not been on speaking terms with him, re-open the relationship before it's too late. He's waiting for you.

Saturday, April 05, 2008

Supper with the Lord

"Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." Revelation 3:20

This is the call of our Lord, Jesus Christ today. He said this in the context of talking to a lukewarm church who thought that they were "rich and had need of nothing." But yet, they were and are "wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked". Revelation 3:17 It's a church as we have today. One man described this type of church perfectly several years ago and it fits directly with today.

Ye are neither heathens nor Christians-neither good nor evil-neither led away by false doctrine, nor thoroughly addicted to that which is true. In a word, they were listless and indifferent, and seemed to care little whether heathenism or Christianity prevailed. Though they felt little zeal either for the salvation of their own souls or that of others, yet they had such a general conviction of the truth and importance of Christianity, that they could not readily give it up. I would thou wert cold or hot¥ That is, ye should be decided; adopt some part or other, and be in earnest in your attachment to it. If ever the words of Mr. Erskine, in his Gospel Sonnets, were true, they were true of this Church:— 'To good and evil equal bent, I'm both a devil and a saint." They were too good to go to hell, too bad to go to heaven. Like Ephraim and Judah, Hosea 6:4: O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it passeth away. They had good dispositions which were captivated by evil ones, and they had evil dispositions which in their turn yielded to those that were good; and the Divine justice and mercy seem puzzled to know what to do to or with them. Adam Clark

This is why many works start out well but end in confusion while others start in a sense of confusion but seem to end up well. We are caught in this cycle and live in a day of lukewarmness. This is the reason that Jesus is now looking at individuals specifically and not to whole bodies of believers as he has before. Oh yes, I know salvation is an individual experience and always has been, but through the history of the church, God has raised up movements to accomplish his purposes. Now in these very last days, he is looking straight at us, you and I. This does not mean that we should stay out of the church as we know it. Definitely not! When studying the life of Christ, he always followed the protocol of that day so long as it did not involve sin. An example is when he healed the ten lepers and told them to "Go shew yourselves unto the priests." Luke 17:13 While he was the one that did the healing, he told them to go show themselves to the priest so the priest could give them their certificate of healing which allowed them to again circulate among society. See Luke 17:13-19 and Leviticus 13:2-3. But we can't look to the ills in the church and claim that as an excuse for not living for Christ or having fellowship with him or those in the church. However, God has many people and we are not the only ones. Be thankful for that. I will say that if the Bible is not being preached consistently in the church you are in, than you should go where it is preached and lived.

But after this, we must then look to the Lamb of God who wants to "sup" with us. The word "sup" means to have supper and when you partake of the evening meal with someone, you enjoy the tasty meal as well as conversation. When the meal is completed at the end of the day, if the meal was good and the company pleasant, you arise from your chair refreshed and uplifted. That is the communication that is needed with Christ. It is health for our body and soul. Unfortunately, most families now days don't even take the time to sit down in the evening to enjoy a meal and conversation together, much less take time with the Master. If you claim to be a believer, he wants your fellowship and your attention. You and I need his as well. Abide with him and he'll abide with you.

Sunday, March 23, 2008

He Has Risen!

"And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments: And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again." Luke 24:3-7

He has risen, or should we say, he arose from the dead. Jesus Christ, who the Jews rejected as their Messiah and Savior arose from the dead. Yet, many still didn't believe. When the rich man was in hell, he prayed that Abraham send Lazarus to his five brothers who were yet alive as they would believe if someone rose from the dead.

"Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house: For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment. Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead." Luke 16:27-31

Abraham referred to Moses and the prophets or what we know is the Old Testament for is source but today we also have the New Covenant which is Christ as he shed his blood on the cross four our sins because "without shedding of blood is no remission." Hebrews 9:22 "For the life of the flesh is in the blood:" Leviticus 17:11a, and without a perfect sacrifice there could be no permanent forgiveness. Christ was perfect and sinless, the only one born of a woman to be so. "For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Hebrews 4:15

Why did it have to be so? Why couldn't man find his way to God some other way? There is no way but through Christ as he said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." John 14:6b The Jews were very religious, somuch so that they let the Son of God pass right under their noses and did not recognize him. Men today are also religious, either having a form of religion outside what we consider the Christian faith, or being what they consider inside the Christian church. Yet, if they are unable to humble themselves and depend on a living savior, than they are lost. Many try to live good lives and do good works. This is commendable but to no avail in eternity without Christ. If you are one of these "good people" humble yourself and bow to the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ who is able to cleanse you from all sins. You say you've never sinned? "All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" Romans 3:23 These can only be blotted out by the blood of Christ applied to your heart.

You can ask him into your heart and depend upon him as Savior and Lord. "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." Revelation 3:20 Ask him into your heart and let him be your best friend. But I'll tell you that he is a perfect gentleman and will not come into your life unless you ask. In closing here is the final scripture for your consideration.

""Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble." James 4:5-6

Friday, February 15, 2008

Eye On The Word

"Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way:" 1 Samuel 12:23

We're living in a presidential election year which means the air is sometimes charged with political tension. The pendants are making their predictions which are sometimes correct, and sometimes not. This has truly ben a political year that has been amazing to say the least and I don't think anyone expected to see things shaping up like they are. But let's get right to it.

Should you vote? Yes. Should you vote if either candidate is truly a Biblical conservative? Yes. I'll explain. First of all, I believe that it is every Christian's duty to vote whenever they can as elections come up. God has placed us in a country where we have a choice and therefore we should exercise that choice. But should be not vote if either choice really fits our basic doctrine of belief? Yes.

Let's take the right to life issue – protecting the unborn. I believe that abortion is wrong and that a soul is born at conception, even though all of the body parts are not there. I also feel scripture bears this out. "And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:" Luke 1:41 "For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb." Luke 1:15 "Did not he that made me in the womb make him? and did not one fashion us in the womb?" Job 31:15 I believe we, as a nation, will fall into judgment for the babies that we've slaughtered so far. However, if neither candidate is for protecting the unborn, the issue, as far as a choice between them, is not on the table. It may be for electing other candidates in various offices where there are differences, but not for president. Do I like this? No, but if both are the same on an issue, there is no choice.

So then we look at other issues and where they are different and make our choices on those grounds. By staying home, you're giving approval for the more liberal candidate by simply doing nothing.

But above all, as I mentioned in another blog, we must pray. We must continue to pray for our nation for I fear we are heading into serious trouble. When a candidate can simply gather followers by charisma and empowerment, we're living in an age where the anti-Christ can easily gain control. (No, I don't think any of these are the anti-Christ.) "And in his estate shall stand up a vile person, to whom they shall not give the honour of the kingdom: but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain the kingdom by flatteries." Daniel 11:21 Christians who pray and study their Bibles need not be fooled. I don't think we have an answer in any of those running for president. We just have to pick the "lesser of two evils" as they say. We need to understand that the government doesn't hold the key to prosperity and peace, but God does and it is his will we have it. "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, 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 Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth." 1 Timothy 2:1-4 So keep your heart with Christ and your eye on the word! "And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits." Daniel 11:32

Thursday, January 31, 2008

Revival in the Land

"14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14

I've used this scripture before, I know but I'm going to use it again. It's about revival in the land. It seems that the past few weeks, especially days, the message has been coming through clear through God's spirit and men that we need revival. I knew that and most of you do too but now I sense there is more of an urgency. I was working and had stopped to get a bite to eat and while I was waiting for my food, a brother from Mexico called. He voiced his concern about the need for revival in America and told me that God had kept him up much of the night praying. The other day a brother came through and said that many of the Russian churches here in America are praying for revival in America.

We ere in an urgent state. The climate is being charged by politics and it doesn't look good. It's coming down to the fact that whoever wins----we're heading for trouble in America. America's judgment is near, even at the door. Why? We've slaughtered over 40 million babies in the past 35 years. We've allow our educational system to degenerate into a mockery of God and most of the pulpits are manned by humanists preaching a prosperity and ear tickling gospel. What used to be unthinkable to mention in our groups as teenagers years ago are now main play on our televisions and radios, not to mention the trash that travels through the Internet.

Revival is not a series of meetings, but marks a change in living, a repentance and complete change of direction. Study the great revivals in the past and you will find that in many, who communities and societies changed. God sent waves of revival throughout the years in America and he can do it again, but it will take prayer, and lots of it. We need God to help us and while the priest stepped in Jordon to take the ark across, it took the power of God to move the waters so they could continue.

The brother today expressed concern that he doesn't hear anyone talk about the need for revival. America is in the Laodicean church age: "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:". Revelation 3:17 We really don't feel the need for revival because we have our pockets full and we can solve our own problems, we think. Yet Jesus said we were "wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked." When someone is in a wretched condition, they are serving God but it id a drudgery to them. They are doing it for conscience sake but they have no pleasure in it. The "poor" here does not mean someone who doesn't have a lot of money, but on the contrary means someone who lacks faith, any faith. Someone who is "blind" means one who can't see the condition he is in. And the "naked" are those who have no defense against Satan and are also unholy.

Jesus is coming. Will he find faith on the earth?

America, America, God shed his grace on thee.