Romans 12:1-2 ... I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the
mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy,
acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not
conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your
mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect,
will of God.
Matthew 12:33-37 ... Either make the tree good, and his
fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for
the tree is known by his fruit. 34 O generation of vipers, how can ye,
being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the
mouth speaketh. 35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart
bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure
bringeth forth evil things. 36 But I say unto you, That every idle word
that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of
judgment. 37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words
thou shalt be condemned.
Proverbs 4:10-13 ... Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and
the years of thy life shall be many. 11 I have taught thee in the way of
wisdom; I have led thee in right paths. 12 When thou goest, thy steps
shall not be straitened; and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble.
13 Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is
thy life.
(Providing daily encouragement for the body of Christ by the Spirit of God to help the church in the end times.)
Monday, December 31, 2012
We are not of this world
Pam Padgett ... teacher
Hebrews 11:24 By faith Moses,
when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter;
25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy
the pleasures of sin for a season; 26 Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater
riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of
the reward. 27 By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the
king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.
As I considered Moses choosing to
suffer affliction with the children of God rather than continuing as the son of
Pharaoh's daughter, I thought of how we often suffer such things as
ridicule and hatred when we speak and do as led by the Holy Spirit instead of
seeking acceptance by those of the world.
Whereas we once lived as the world, God has chosen us to be His children, giving us the Holy
Spirit to teach and guide us according to His word in His ways. The love
and care God has for us is far greater treasure than being accepted by those of
the world.
John 15:19 If ye were of the
world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I
have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
And like Moses who had respect unto the recompence of the
reward,
we also have promises of reward when we endure reproach for doing the will of
God …
Luke 6:22 Blessed are ye, when
men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and
shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake.
23 Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great
in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets.
1 John 3:1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
1 John 3:1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
God's testimonies are very sure
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
Psalm 93:5... Thy testimonies are very sure: holiness becometh thine house, O LORD, for ever.
For several days, I've just looked at the above scripture and thought about it ...
Thy testimonies are very sure ...
We have the testimony of God in the Bible.
We also have the testimony of God when the Holy Spirit shows us something for the Holy Spirit searches the heart of God and reveals God's heart on the matter at hand to us. (I Cor. 2)
We have the testimony of God in dreams.
What has God told me?
For this is truth about the matter at hand and about the specific individual.
Focus on that.
Psalm 93:5... Thy testimonies are very sure: holiness becometh thine house, O LORD, for ever.
For several days, I've just looked at the above scripture and thought about it ...
Thy testimonies are very sure ...
We have the testimony of God in the Bible.
We also have the testimony of God when the Holy Spirit shows us something for the Holy Spirit searches the heart of God and reveals God's heart on the matter at hand to us. (I Cor. 2)
We have the testimony of God in dreams.
What has God told me?
For this is truth about the matter at hand and about the specific individual.
Focus on that.
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Psalm 25:4-5 ... Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths.
5 Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my
salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.
Psalm 37:16-17 ... A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked. 17 For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the Lord upholdeth the righteous.
Hebrews 11:6 ... But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Psalm 37:16-17 ... A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked. 17 For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the Lord upholdeth the righteous.
Hebrews 11:6 ... But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
God renews our minds as we turn to Him
Pam Padgett ... teacher
We encounter various things in the world which can provoke us if we try to deal with the matter by our own reasonings. In Psalm 73 we have an example of being envious of those doing evil as they appeared to prosper more than those who try to do what is right in the sight of God. ...
Psalm 73:1 Truly God is good to Israel, even to such as are of a clean heart. 2 But as for me, my feet were almost gone; my steps had well nigh slipped. 3 For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. 4 For there are no bands in their death: but their strength is firm. 5 They are not in trouble as other men; neither are they plagued like other men. 6 Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them as a garment. 7 Their eyes stand out with fatness: they have more than heart could wish. 8 They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning oppression: they speak loftily. 9 They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth. 10 Therefore his people return hither: and waters of a full cup are wrung out to them. 11 And they say, How doth God know? and is there knowledge in the most High? 12 Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches. 13 Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain, and washed my hands in innocency. 14 For all the day long have I been plagued, and chastened every morning. 15 If I say, I will speak thus; behold, I should offend against the generation of thy children. 16 When I thought to know this, it was too painful for me;
Although envious, when he turned to God, he was restored and strengthened in the ways of God by the truth God gave him in the matter ...
Psalm 73:17 Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end. 18 Surely thou didst set them in slippery places: thou castedst them down into destruction. 19 How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors. 20 As a dream when one awaketh; so, O Lord, when thou awakest, thou shalt despise their image.
Seeing God's view of the matter, he saw how foolish and ignorant his own thinking was. Even though he had previously considered these things foolishly, God helped him and gave him counsel to guide his thinking into what is true ...
Psalm 73:21 Thus my heart was grieved, and I was pricked in my reins. 22 So foolish was I, and ignorant: I was as a beast before thee. 23 Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand. 24 Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. 25 Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. 26 My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever. 27 For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee. 28 But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord God, that I may declare all thy works.
Most, if not all, of us have similarly considered by our own reasoning those things that trouble us. But as we turn to God about a matter, willing to sacrifice our own thinking in order to know and be conformed to God's truth, we are changed from the thinking of our flesh and the world to seeing the matter according to the will of God, our minds renewed to the word God gives us in the matter.
Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
We encounter various things in the world which can provoke us if we try to deal with the matter by our own reasonings. In Psalm 73 we have an example of being envious of those doing evil as they appeared to prosper more than those who try to do what is right in the sight of God. ...
Psalm 73:1 Truly God is good to Israel, even to such as are of a clean heart. 2 But as for me, my feet were almost gone; my steps had well nigh slipped. 3 For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. 4 For there are no bands in their death: but their strength is firm. 5 They are not in trouble as other men; neither are they plagued like other men. 6 Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them as a garment. 7 Their eyes stand out with fatness: they have more than heart could wish. 8 They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning oppression: they speak loftily. 9 They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth. 10 Therefore his people return hither: and waters of a full cup are wrung out to them. 11 And they say, How doth God know? and is there knowledge in the most High? 12 Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches. 13 Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain, and washed my hands in innocency. 14 For all the day long have I been plagued, and chastened every morning. 15 If I say, I will speak thus; behold, I should offend against the generation of thy children. 16 When I thought to know this, it was too painful for me;
Although envious, when he turned to God, he was restored and strengthened in the ways of God by the truth God gave him in the matter ...
Psalm 73:17 Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end. 18 Surely thou didst set them in slippery places: thou castedst them down into destruction. 19 How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors. 20 As a dream when one awaketh; so, O Lord, when thou awakest, thou shalt despise their image.
Seeing God's view of the matter, he saw how foolish and ignorant his own thinking was. Even though he had previously considered these things foolishly, God helped him and gave him counsel to guide his thinking into what is true ...
Psalm 73:21 Thus my heart was grieved, and I was pricked in my reins. 22 So foolish was I, and ignorant: I was as a beast before thee. 23 Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand. 24 Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. 25 Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. 26 My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever. 27 For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee. 28 But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord God, that I may declare all thy works.
Most, if not all, of us have similarly considered by our own reasoning those things that trouble us. But as we turn to God about a matter, willing to sacrifice our own thinking in order to know and be conformed to God's truth, we are changed from the thinking of our flesh and the world to seeing the matter according to the will of God, our minds renewed to the word God gives us in the matter.
Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Those who trouble you and keep you grieved
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
From time to time I've had individuals come to me who seemed so interested in things of God. But these people, usually women, would always be off a little and I would correct they and then they would talk again and again I would correct them. And always I grieved over them and over that which they wrote for it showed that they really had no understanding in spiritual matters.
Recently I came across the following scripture which showed God also grieved over these people.
Psalm 95...Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, and said, It is a people that do err in their heart, and they have not known my ways: 11Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into my rest.
Without exception, when such people come across my path, I end up cutting them off from me. I tell them I will not read their emails because their words disturb me. (When I am distubed this way, I cannot go forward in the pure things of God so have have to take action to be able to do the work to which God has called me.)
Recently a woman did this. She was running from one preacher to another and then trying to share with everyone. It was very distorted and wrong. She did this over and over with me and I corrected her many times. Then she sent something that clearly showed me she was following another spirit. I knew then I must separate from this woman. (I've done this before with other women who worked by their own flesh and not by the Spirit of God.) I told her I would not read her emails and I counseled her to get quiet and stop sharing the words of other people.
I heard this concerning this woman: She is always learning but never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. This is a scripture: II Tim. 3
When you get entangled with someone who has to be corrected over and over as they are trying to speak religious things, you become "entangled" and cannot go forward. I just cut such a person out of my life so I can move forward in peace and do the things of God in peace, for they are truly ever learning but no matter what you do nor how many times you correct them they cannot come to the knowledge of the truth and you will be unable to go forward and you will be entangled in the strife of grief over them.
II Tim. 3 ... This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 6For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, 7Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
From time to time I've had individuals come to me who seemed so interested in things of God. But these people, usually women, would always be off a little and I would correct they and then they would talk again and again I would correct them. And always I grieved over them and over that which they wrote for it showed that they really had no understanding in spiritual matters.
Recently I came across the following scripture which showed God also grieved over these people.
Psalm 95...Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, and said, It is a people that do err in their heart, and they have not known my ways: 11Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into my rest.
Without exception, when such people come across my path, I end up cutting them off from me. I tell them I will not read their emails because their words disturb me. (When I am distubed this way, I cannot go forward in the pure things of God so have have to take action to be able to do the work to which God has called me.)
Recently a woman did this. She was running from one preacher to another and then trying to share with everyone. It was very distorted and wrong. She did this over and over with me and I corrected her many times. Then she sent something that clearly showed me she was following another spirit. I knew then I must separate from this woman. (I've done this before with other women who worked by their own flesh and not by the Spirit of God.) I told her I would not read her emails and I counseled her to get quiet and stop sharing the words of other people.
I heard this concerning this woman: She is always learning but never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. This is a scripture: II Tim. 3
When you get entangled with someone who has to be corrected over and over as they are trying to speak religious things, you become "entangled" and cannot go forward. I just cut such a person out of my life so I can move forward in peace and do the things of God in peace, for they are truly ever learning but no matter what you do nor how many times you correct them they cannot come to the knowledge of the truth and you will be unable to go forward and you will be entangled in the strife of grief over them.
II Tim. 3 ... This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 6For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, 7Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Psalm 105:5 ... Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;
Deuteronomy 30:11-14 ... For this commandment which I command thee this day, it is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off. 12 It is not in heaven, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go up for us to heaven, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it? 13 Neither is it beyond the sea, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it? 14 But the word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it.
Luke 16:13 ... No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
Deuteronomy 30:11-14 ... For this commandment which I command thee this day, it is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off. 12 It is not in heaven, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go up for us to heaven, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it? 13 Neither is it beyond the sea, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it? 14 But the word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it.
Luke 16:13 ... No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
When you suffer for the word you speak
Michael Naing ... pastor
Out of my mouth came the following to radio station manager: "George ... if I don't speak the message I believe to be from God then I don't have a message and I may as well be off the air."
And this statement from Holy Spirit defined the next 30+ years of my life.
And I suffered much because of that which I spoke which I believed to be from God. But if I don't speak the message I believe to be from God, then I don't have a message. I kept speaking that message and I still speak that message. I know what it is to be hated, despised, persecuted because of the message from God.
But I know WHOM I believe ... and am persuaded the messages are truth from the Spirit of God, God confirming such to me over and over as I ask HIM about the messages.
I
would like to share what God revealed me in my life to you is that the words of
Paul found in 2 Tim. 1:12 “ For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless, I am not
ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep
what I have committed to Him until that day”.
At night, on December 8, 2012, above mentioned Verse was uttered in my heart with echo upon echo.
Even though my life is full of difficulties, God never do wrong to me in my life, He loves me with unconditional love more than others. Since 2005, I have been preaching the Gospel and teaching His Word to students, no one sees it practically, I know what I do and did and going to do, I know WHOM I BELIEVE, WHO IS FAITHFUL TO ME,
My life is full of trials and difficulties. But I know Whom I have believed.
At night, on December 8, 2012, above mentioned Verse was uttered in my heart with echo upon echo.
Even though my life is full of difficulties, God never do wrong to me in my life, He loves me with unconditional love more than others. Since 2005, I have been preaching the Gospel and teaching His Word to students, no one sees it practically, I know what I do and did and going to do, I know WHOM I BELIEVE, WHO IS FAITHFUL TO ME,
My life is full of trials and difficulties. But I know Whom I have believed.
Comments by Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
I was born again in 1975 and in January, 1979, God gave me a dream which caused me to go on radio in USA, speaking Word of God.
When I did that, people around me told me I needed to take each message to our pastor to get him to approve the message before I spoke it on radio.
I prayed about this and I heard: I know WHOM I have believed.
(I never took any message to pastor for approval because I knew it was Spirit of God giving me the message. Later it turned out "our" pastor was extremely corrupt and perverted, though God had brought me out of this man's church before his corruption was revealed)
(I never took any message to pastor for approval because I knew it was Spirit of God giving me the message. Later it turned out "our" pastor was extremely corrupt and perverted, though God had brought me out of this man's church before his corruption was revealed)
A few years after this, a radio station manager in Seattle, Washington, USA tried to get me to alter my messages on radio. He said I must stop speaking about corruption in ministry. He said, "Joan, you have many other good messages. Just speak those messages."
But God had told me the time had come that judgment was to begin at house of God ... and I was speaking that which Spirit of God was giving me on this subject.
Out of my mouth came the following to radio station manager: "George ... if I don't speak the message I believe to be from God then I don't have a message and I may as well be off the air."
And this statement from Holy Spirit defined the next 30+ years of my life.
I knew the Holy Spirit was speaking to George through me. Lk. 21:14-15 ... Jesus said ... Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer: 15For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.
And I suffered much because of that which I spoke which I believed to be from God. But if I don't speak the message I believe to be from God, then I don't have a message. I kept speaking that message and I still speak that message. I know what it is to be hated, despised, persecuted because of the message from God.
Peter said ... Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: 13But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 14If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you... I Peter 4
My persecution comes from the people who call themselves Christians and from many who call themselves ministers of God.
But I know WHOM I believe ... and am persuaded the messages are truth from the Spirit of God, God confirming such to me over and over as I ask HIM about the messages.
This suffering is common to all. It is a partaking of Christ's suffering when we faithfully speak the Word given us by the Spirit of God and when we do that which we believe God wants us to do.
The suffering I endure is from individuals in the church groups and ministers. Many of you suffer because you spoke truth to your own households. We share in a common suffering and that is a suffering as a partaker of Christ's suffering, as Peter said.
Letter to Michael ... 12:28:12
Michael, I was not raised in a home where parents went to church group. Bible was never mentioned. But God chose me and revealed HIS truth to me moment by moment and I am continually recreated in HIS image as HE opens my eyes to see various truths.
I find most people reject what I say. If they really are of God they believe for God HIMSELF has already taught them so they recognize that I speak truth from God.
Jesus said "few" would find the way. Mt. 7
When Jesus spoke to Peter and Andrew, they dropped their fisher nets and following HIM immediately, giving up all to be with HIM. Mt. 4:18-22
They were called of God.
Several years ago, God gave me the following dream: We were in a war and it was difficult to recognize our army because everyone was dressed alike. We were given a password so when we spoke the password all on our side recognized us.
And so it is today. Many call themselves Christian but few can understand us when we speak things of God. In USA so many say they are Christian. But I find very few can understand what I say when I speak things of God and the pastors who do much evil never repent when they hear truth.
When they didn't understand Jesus, He replied: Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word. 44Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. 45And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not. Jn. 8
God continues to encourage me to speak. And I do speak, sharing everything I have been given by the Spirit of God.
II Tim. 3:12 ... all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
Joan
Letter to Michael ... 12:28:12
Michael, I was not raised in a home where parents went to church group. Bible was never mentioned. But God chose me and revealed HIS truth to me moment by moment and I am continually recreated in HIS image as HE opens my eyes to see various truths.
I find most people reject what I say. If they really are of God they believe for God HIMSELF has already taught them so they recognize that I speak truth from God.
Jesus said "few" would find the way. Mt. 7
When Jesus spoke to Peter and Andrew, they dropped their fisher nets and following HIM immediately, giving up all to be with HIM. Mt. 4:18-22
They were called of God.
Several years ago, God gave me the following dream: We were in a war and it was difficult to recognize our army because everyone was dressed alike. We were given a password so when we spoke the password all on our side recognized us.
And so it is today. Many call themselves Christian but few can understand us when we speak things of God. In USA so many say they are Christian. But I find very few can understand what I say when I speak things of God and the pastors who do much evil never repent when they hear truth.
When they didn't understand Jesus, He replied: Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word. 44Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. 45And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not. Jn. 8
God continues to encourage me to speak. And I do speak, sharing everything I have been given by the Spirit of God.
II Tim. 3:12 ... all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
Joan
Grieved by the world
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
Yesterday I went to grocery store. When carry out person was helping me take groceries to car, he said, "Did you have a good Christmas?"
I was shocked. Even after Christmas the idol was raising it's head.
I replied, "Christmas is not something in the Bible. God did not set it up for us to do these things people do at Christmas. I don't participate in this."
I knew I appeared to be an old fool of some kind and I was grieved. I knew this "kid" could not understand. I suffered as a result.
It is very hurtful when these things happen to us but I was reminded of what Peter said ... I Peter 4 ... Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: 13But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 14If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
We understand because God chose us as HIS own and revealed these things to us and so when we speak we suffer because we appear foolish to the world or even evil. This is the same suffering Christ endured when HE spoke and did the Word of God. So we learn to "rejoice" in the suffering because by such suffering we know we are partakers of Christ.
We are not of the world and their ideas but we are of God. And we are hated and despised and misunderstood when we do good because we are of God and they are not of God. It hurts. But aren't we glad we are of God. We will never be like the world. And they will never understand as the world.
Yesterday I went to grocery store. When carry out person was helping me take groceries to car, he said, "Did you have a good Christmas?"
I was shocked. Even after Christmas the idol was raising it's head.
I replied, "Christmas is not something in the Bible. God did not set it up for us to do these things people do at Christmas. I don't participate in this."
I knew I appeared to be an old fool of some kind and I was grieved. I knew this "kid" could not understand. I suffered as a result.
It is very hurtful when these things happen to us but I was reminded of what Peter said ... I Peter 4 ... Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: 13But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 14If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
We understand because God chose us as HIS own and revealed these things to us and so when we speak we suffer because we appear foolish to the world or even evil. This is the same suffering Christ endured when HE spoke and did the Word of God. So we learn to "rejoice" in the suffering because by such suffering we know we are partakers of Christ.
We are not of the world and their ideas but we are of God. And we are hated and despised and misunderstood when we do good because we are of God and they are not of God. It hurts. But aren't we glad we are of God. We will never be like the world. And they will never understand as the world.
God does as HE wills
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
In 2001, I had a dream ... In the dream, I was building a house.
At that time, I had a house and was not planning to build another house.
But after my mother died, I decided to move to Lubbock, TX, USA. I made arrangements to build a house. We were well into construction when my contractor fired his bookkeeper. Later it developed that the construction expenses exceeded plans. I didn't know what would happen. But then God gave me a dream ... in that dream, I was standing in kitchen at new construction and was looking out the window. A meteor was outside my window. It looked like it would destroy the house. Then the meteor lifted into sky and went over the house and I was expecting to be blown away with the house. But nothing happened.
And I was given the following scripture:
Isaiah 55 ... And they shall build houses, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and eat the fruit of them. 22They shall not build, and another inhabit; they shall not plant, and another eat: for as the days of a tree are the days of my people, and mine elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands. 23They shall not labour in vain, nor bring forth for trouble; for they are the seed of the blessed of the LORD, and their offspring with them. 24And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.
The house was completed in 2004 and I am living in that house today. The house is totally paid for and I have no debt at all.
In 2001, I had a dream ... In the dream, I was building a house.
At that time, I had a house and was not planning to build another house.
But after my mother died, I decided to move to Lubbock, TX, USA. I made arrangements to build a house. We were well into construction when my contractor fired his bookkeeper. Later it developed that the construction expenses exceeded plans. I didn't know what would happen. But then God gave me a dream ... in that dream, I was standing in kitchen at new construction and was looking out the window. A meteor was outside my window. It looked like it would destroy the house. Then the meteor lifted into sky and went over the house and I was expecting to be blown away with the house. But nothing happened.
And I was given the following scripture:
Isaiah 55 ... And they shall build houses, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and eat the fruit of them. 22They shall not build, and another inhabit; they shall not plant, and another eat: for as the days of a tree are the days of my people, and mine elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands. 23They shall not labour in vain, nor bring forth for trouble; for they are the seed of the blessed of the LORD, and their offspring with them. 24And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.
The house was completed in 2004 and I am living in that house today. The house is totally paid for and I have no debt at all.
Friday, December 28, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Matthew 6:19-21 ... Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon
earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through
and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where
neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break
through nor steal: 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart
be also.
Proverbs 21:23 ... Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.
Proverbs 21:31 ... The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the Lord.
Proverbs 21:23 ... Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.
Proverbs 21:31 ... The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the Lord.
God performs all things for us
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
God performs amazing things for us, HIS chosen.
In 1990, I built a house in Clovis, NM, USA.
Upstairs I wanted 2 windows in a room on the south of the house so I asked the contractor if he would put the windows there. The contractor told me he couldn't do this. So I accepted it.
One day my mother and I were driving on the street on the south of the house and I looked from there at my house which was under construction. There were 2 windows exactly where I asked the contractor to put 2 windows.
When I saw the contractor I mentioned this and he said he didn't put the holes there. The wind blew those holes there. The holes were the exact size of the windows which were put in the lower floors of the house.
So I asked the contractor if he could put windows in the places where the 2 holes were. And he replied, "I guess I can."
Wind is from God and I knew God had done this for me.
God performs amazing things for us, HIS chosen.
In 1990, I built a house in Clovis, NM, USA.
Upstairs I wanted 2 windows in a room on the south of the house so I asked the contractor if he would put the windows there. The contractor told me he couldn't do this. So I accepted it.
One day my mother and I were driving on the street on the south of the house and I looked from there at my house which was under construction. There were 2 windows exactly where I asked the contractor to put 2 windows.
When I saw the contractor I mentioned this and he said he didn't put the holes there. The wind blew those holes there. The holes were the exact size of the windows which were put in the lower floors of the house.
So I asked the contractor if he could put windows in the places where the 2 holes were. And he replied, "I guess I can."
Wind is from God and I knew God had done this for me.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Psalm 73:24-26 ... Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel,
and afterward receive me to glory. 25 Whom have I in heaven but thee?
and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. 26 My flesh and
my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion
for ever.
1 Corinthians 4:5 ... Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.
1 John 5:3 ... For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
1 Corinthians 4:5 ... Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.
1 John 5:3 ... For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
Satisfied by God
Pam Padgett ... teacher
Proverbs 19:23 The fear of the Lord tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.
When we fear the Lord, we seek to know and do His will. Recently my attention has been drawn to how God satisfies us as we follow Him and obey His word, and how different this is from those who live after the ways of this world.
One example that stood out to me not long ago ... wisdom of this world is that it is important to have activities lined up and plans made for when one retires. But when I retired, because of the instruction ... In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:6) ... I didn't try to plan out what to do, but committed what to do to God. It has been wonderful to see how God has led (and continues to lead) in a way that is perfect for me, far better than what I could plan and try to provide for myself. I am very thankful to God and satisfied.
God knows what is best for us and leads us according to His purpose for our lives. We are satisfied ... contented, fulfilled, and pleased ... when God leads us for He knows exactly what we need.
Psalm 36:7 How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings. 8 They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.
The fear of the Lord, obeying His word, is the way that leads to life for us. And we are satisfied as we go in this way. I'm reminded that Jesus told us the following ...
John 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Proverbs 19:23 The fear of the Lord tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.
When we fear the Lord, we seek to know and do His will. Recently my attention has been drawn to how God satisfies us as we follow Him and obey His word, and how different this is from those who live after the ways of this world.
One example that stood out to me not long ago ... wisdom of this world is that it is important to have activities lined up and plans made for when one retires. But when I retired, because of the instruction ... In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:6) ... I didn't try to plan out what to do, but committed what to do to God. It has been wonderful to see how God has led (and continues to lead) in a way that is perfect for me, far better than what I could plan and try to provide for myself. I am very thankful to God and satisfied.
God knows what is best for us and leads us according to His purpose for our lives. We are satisfied ... contented, fulfilled, and pleased ... when God leads us for He knows exactly what we need.
Psalm 36:7 How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings. 8 They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.
The fear of the Lord, obeying His word, is the way that leads to life for us. And we are satisfied as we go in this way. I'm reminded that Jesus told us the following ...
John 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Vessels of the house of the LORD
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
II Chron. 36:18 ... And all the vessels of the house of God, great and small, and the treasures of the house of the LORD, and the treasures of the king, and of his princes; all these he brought to Babylon.
Today we do not have any "vessels" of the house of God.
The New Covenant is so much better than before.
Today we are the house of God, and we are the vessel of the house of God. The Holy Spirit in us is everything. And no man can remove the Holy Spirit for it is a Spirit and not something seen with natural eye.
Jesus explained ... But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. Jn. 4
There are people today who think they have to go to a physical building to pray. They call that physical building "the church".
But the church today is not a building made with hands.
The church are the people who belong to God. We are the church. We are the bride of Christ. The church is not a building of man. The church is built by the Spirit of God through those who belong to God. And it is the Spirit of God in us that is of God.
Jesus says: For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Mt. 18:20
Since everything is the Spirit of God, when it pertains to God, it cannot be destroyed by an enemy for you cannot destroy a "spirit" neither can you remove a "spirit".
I receive emails from persons in countries where Christians are persecuted by other religions and where their own governments try to stop them and even kill them for being Christian.
But no one can kill the Spirit of God. No one can keep God from speaking by HIS Spirit. For HIS Spirit speaks to us today in the form of a thought. No man, no government of men can stop this.
So Christianity will never be in danger of being removed for no man can stop the Spirit of God from speaking to us. This is part of the New Covenant.
II Chron. 36:18 ... And all the vessels of the house of God, great and small, and the treasures of the house of the LORD, and the treasures of the king, and of his princes; all these he brought to Babylon.
Today we do not have any "vessels" of the house of God.
The New Covenant is so much better than before.
Today we are the house of God, and we are the vessel of the house of God. The Holy Spirit in us is everything. And no man can remove the Holy Spirit for it is a Spirit and not something seen with natural eye.
Jesus explained ... But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. Jn. 4
There are people today who think they have to go to a physical building to pray. They call that physical building "the church".
But the church today is not a building made with hands.
The church are the people who belong to God. We are the church. We are the bride of Christ. The church is not a building of man. The church is built by the Spirit of God through those who belong to God. And it is the Spirit of God in us that is of God.
Jesus says: For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Mt. 18:20
Since everything is the Spirit of God, when it pertains to God, it cannot be destroyed by an enemy for you cannot destroy a "spirit" neither can you remove a "spirit".
I receive emails from persons in countries where Christians are persecuted by other religions and where their own governments try to stop them and even kill them for being Christian.
But no one can kill the Spirit of God. No one can keep God from speaking by HIS Spirit. For HIS Spirit speaks to us today in the form of a thought. No man, no government of men can stop this.
So Christianity will never be in danger of being removed for no man can stop the Spirit of God from speaking to us. This is part of the New Covenant.
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
1 Peter 2:9 ... But ye are a chosen generation, a royal
priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth
the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his
marvellous light:
Psalm 71:9, 12 ... Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth. ... 12 O God, be not far from me: O my God, make haste for my help.
Psalm 121:1-8 ... I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. 2 My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. 3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. 4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand. 6 The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. 8 The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.
Psalm 71:9, 12 ... Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth. ... 12 O God, be not far from me: O my God, make haste for my help.
Psalm 121:1-8 ... I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. 2 My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. 3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. 4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand. 6 The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. 8 The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.
Lay down our life to receive what God has prepared for us
Pam Padgett ... teacher
When one of those eating with Jesus said that he that eats in the kingdom of God is blessed, Jesus told a parable about many who were invited to a great supper, but wouldn't come ...
Luke 14:15 And when one of them that sat at meat with him heard these things, he said unto him, Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God. 16 Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great supper, and bade many: 17 And sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready. 18 And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused. 19 And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray thee have me excused. 20 And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.
Though invited to a great supper prepared for them, those who were first invited would not leave their own plans, works, and way of life to partake of it. So others were invited to take their places ...
Luke 14:21 So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind. 22 And the servant said, Lord, it is done as thou hast commanded, and yet there is room. 23 And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. 24 For I say unto you, That none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper.
Jesus taught about the cost of being His disciples. We must lay down our lives on this earth in order to follow Him, loving God and the word of God above all and submitting ourselves to His will ...
Luke 14:25 And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them, 26 If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. 27 And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. 28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? 29 Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, 30 Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. 31 Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? 32 Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace. 33 So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.
Matthew 10:38 And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. 39 He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.
As we lay down our life in order to follow the word of God we find our life, the way God has prepared for us. And that which God gives to us is far better, both in this world and in that which is to come ...
Luke 18:28 Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee. 29 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, 30 Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting.
When one of those eating with Jesus said that he that eats in the kingdom of God is blessed, Jesus told a parable about many who were invited to a great supper, but wouldn't come ...
Luke 14:15 And when one of them that sat at meat with him heard these things, he said unto him, Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God. 16 Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great supper, and bade many: 17 And sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready. 18 And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused. 19 And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray thee have me excused. 20 And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.
Though invited to a great supper prepared for them, those who were first invited would not leave their own plans, works, and way of life to partake of it. So others were invited to take their places ...
Luke 14:21 So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind. 22 And the servant said, Lord, it is done as thou hast commanded, and yet there is room. 23 And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. 24 For I say unto you, That none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper.
Jesus taught about the cost of being His disciples. We must lay down our lives on this earth in order to follow Him, loving God and the word of God above all and submitting ourselves to His will ...
Luke 14:25 And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them, 26 If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. 27 And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. 28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? 29 Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, 30 Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. 31 Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? 32 Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace. 33 So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.
Matthew 10:38 And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. 39 He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.
As we lay down our life in order to follow the word of God we find our life, the way God has prepared for us. And that which God gives to us is far better, both in this world and in that which is to come ...
Luke 18:28 Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee. 29 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, 30 Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting.
When you suffer loss due to another person
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
Sometimes a person will do something which causes us to suffer loss. There may be thoughts of trying to make them pay for that loss when this happens. You may find yourself in strife over the situation.
Recently this happened to me. Due to hail damage, the insurance company paid to have a new roof put on my house. The roofers accidentally removed a very expensive pure copper gutter and threw it away.
It sounds strange to have a gutter where the materials costs thousands of dollars but when I was building the house, my contractor had this copper gutter left over from his previous construction job and he put it on my house. It was an art work. Now it has been thrown away by the roofers.
At first, I was shocked when I discovered this. Then dismayed. But when I settled down that night, I turned to God. And HE brought me to a state of peace. And I believe HE showed me to just let it go and not to try to replace it. All these material objects are only temporary anyway.
So even though the roofing company planned to get another pure copper gutter for the house, I told them not to do this. I would just eliminate gutters from this house. (It hardly ever rains here anyway and really we do not need gutters here.) And inwardly I knew they would never be able to replace that which had been thrown away. It was very unusual. Better not to try to replace it and just make complete change.
As I was working through this, I remembered the following scripture.
I Cor. 6 ... Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unjust, and not before the saints? 2Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? 3Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life? 4If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church. 5I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren? 6But brother goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers. 7Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded? 8Nay, ye do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren.
Although they were not trying to defraud me, I knew in this case it was better to "take the wrong done" and not try to replace the item.
Another things called to my attention is this: "The Lord will repay."
Sometimes it is going to cause less grief to you and to others if you agree to just take the wrong done and rest in the truth that the Lord will repay.
The world doesn't operate in this kind of thinking but we who are spiritual know we are just "passing through" this world and the world and everything here are just temporary. We came into this world naked and we will leave this world naked and we will not be able to take anything with us when we leave.
Focus on that which is eternal which is the Word of God and try to find out what God wants us to do in specific issues that come to us in life and do what we believe HE shows us. By living that way, we store up treasure in heaven where there is no loss.
Sometimes a person will do something which causes us to suffer loss. There may be thoughts of trying to make them pay for that loss when this happens. You may find yourself in strife over the situation.
Recently this happened to me. Due to hail damage, the insurance company paid to have a new roof put on my house. The roofers accidentally removed a very expensive pure copper gutter and threw it away.
It sounds strange to have a gutter where the materials costs thousands of dollars but when I was building the house, my contractor had this copper gutter left over from his previous construction job and he put it on my house. It was an art work. Now it has been thrown away by the roofers.
At first, I was shocked when I discovered this. Then dismayed. But when I settled down that night, I turned to God. And HE brought me to a state of peace. And I believe HE showed me to just let it go and not to try to replace it. All these material objects are only temporary anyway.
So even though the roofing company planned to get another pure copper gutter for the house, I told them not to do this. I would just eliminate gutters from this house. (It hardly ever rains here anyway and really we do not need gutters here.) And inwardly I knew they would never be able to replace that which had been thrown away. It was very unusual. Better not to try to replace it and just make complete change.
As I was working through this, I remembered the following scripture.
I Cor. 6 ... Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unjust, and not before the saints? 2Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? 3Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life? 4If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church. 5I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren? 6But brother goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers. 7Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded? 8Nay, ye do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren.
Although they were not trying to defraud me, I knew in this case it was better to "take the wrong done" and not try to replace the item.
Another things called to my attention is this: "The Lord will repay."
Sometimes it is going to cause less grief to you and to others if you agree to just take the wrong done and rest in the truth that the Lord will repay.
The world doesn't operate in this kind of thinking but we who are spiritual know we are just "passing through" this world and the world and everything here are just temporary. We came into this world naked and we will leave this world naked and we will not be able to take anything with us when we leave.
Focus on that which is eternal which is the Word of God and try to find out what God wants us to do in specific issues that come to us in life and do what we believe HE shows us. By living that way, we store up treasure in heaven where there is no loss.
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
John 14:1-4 ... Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God,
believe also in me. 2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it
were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive
you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. 4 And whither I
go ye know, and the way ye know.
Psalm 100:4 ... Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
1 Corinthians 15:58 ... 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.
Isaiah 32:17-18 ... And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever. 18 And my people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places;
Psalm 100:4 ... Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
1 Corinthians 15:58 ... 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.
Isaiah 32:17-18 ... And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever. 18 And my people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places;
More than conquerors through God
Pam Padgett ... teacher
Psalm 56:9 When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me.
We face many enemies as we live on this earth. The devil brings thoughts and other people bring words that cause fears, or would tear down our faith, or work to turn us from truth from God and the ways of God and to ways of destruction, or harm us in some other way. Our own flesh tries to pull us in ways not of God, lusting after things of this world and trying to exalt itself.
But in all things, we cry out to God and HE shows us how to overcome ... for God is for us.
For those who love God and are called by Him, Paul told of God working in all things for good, conforming us to His image, the Holy Spirit and Jesus interceding for us. Nothing and no one is more powerful. ...If God be for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31) ....
Romans 8:26 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. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. 29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? 32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? 33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. 34 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.
Rather than being overcome by our enemies, we are well able to conquer in all things according to His will as we turn to God and overcome by the word of God and strength He gives us, for He loves us ...
Romans 8:35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Psalm 56:9 When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me.
We face many enemies as we live on this earth. The devil brings thoughts and other people bring words that cause fears, or would tear down our faith, or work to turn us from truth from God and the ways of God and to ways of destruction, or harm us in some other way. Our own flesh tries to pull us in ways not of God, lusting after things of this world and trying to exalt itself.
But in all things, we cry out to God and HE shows us how to overcome ... for God is for us.
For those who love God and are called by Him, Paul told of God working in all things for good, conforming us to His image, the Holy Spirit and Jesus interceding for us. Nothing and no one is more powerful. ...If God be for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31) ....
Romans 8:26 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. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. 29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? 32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? 33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. 34 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.
Rather than being overcome by our enemies, we are well able to conquer in all things according to His will as we turn to God and overcome by the word of God and strength He gives us, for He loves us ...
Romans 8:35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Paul has been dead 2000 years
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
The apostle Paul has been dead 2000+ years and yet Paul said the time of the return of Jesus was near. The apostle John has been dead 2000+ years and he also thought the return of Jesus was to be soon.
What is going on?
Here is the answer:
Psalm 90:4 ... For a thousand years in Thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past
So while we as humans view the time since Paul's death as being 2000+ years, in the sight of God it was only 2 days ago that Paul died!
Peter explains it in II Peter 3 ... This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: 2That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour:
3Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, 4And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.
5For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: 6Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: 7But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
8But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.
9The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
10But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
11Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? 13Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
14Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 15And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;
Though it has been 2000 human years (2 days in sight of God) since Paul died, the day of the Lord will come ...
It will begin with signs in the sky ... the sun will go dark ... the stars will fall from heaven ... the moon will not give light ... the powers of heaven will be shaken.
Jesus explains: Mt. 24 ... Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: 30And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 31And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
There will be "believers" alive on this earth at the time this happens.
Paul explains: I Cor. 15 ... Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep (die), but we shall all be changed, 52In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
Those who are on this earth when the sky turns dark, will be changed in form. These bodies we have now will be changed immediately. If you blink your eyes, that is how fast the change will happen.
The dead in Christ will arise first to meet the Lord in the air at that time. Then those who are alive on earth at that time will be changed into another form and arise to meet the Lord in the air.
I Thess. 4 ... But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep (them that have died), that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.
14For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus (those who belong to God but have already died) will God bring with him.
15For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent (precede) them which are asleep (dead).
16For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
The apostle Paul has been dead 2000+ years and yet Paul said the time of the return of Jesus was near. The apostle John has been dead 2000+ years and he also thought the return of Jesus was to be soon.
What is going on?
Here is the answer:
Psalm 90:4 ... For a thousand years in Thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past
So while we as humans view the time since Paul's death as being 2000+ years, in the sight of God it was only 2 days ago that Paul died!
Peter explains it in II Peter 3 ... This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: 2That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour:
3Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, 4And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.
5For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: 6Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: 7But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
8But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.
9The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
10But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
11Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? 13Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
14Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 15And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;
Though it has been 2000 human years (2 days in sight of God) since Paul died, the day of the Lord will come ...
It will begin with signs in the sky ... the sun will go dark ... the stars will fall from heaven ... the moon will not give light ... the powers of heaven will be shaken.
Jesus explains: Mt. 24 ... Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: 30And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 31And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
There will be "believers" alive on this earth at the time this happens.
Paul explains: I Cor. 15 ... Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep (die), but we shall all be changed, 52In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
Those who are on this earth when the sky turns dark, will be changed in form. These bodies we have now will be changed immediately. If you blink your eyes, that is how fast the change will happen.
The dead in Christ will arise first to meet the Lord in the air at that time. Then those who are alive on earth at that time will be changed into another form and arise to meet the Lord in the air.
I Thess. 4 ... But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep (them that have died), that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.
14For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus (those who belong to God but have already died) will God bring with him.
15For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent (precede) them which are asleep (dead).
16For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
Monday, December 24, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Psalm 97:10 ... Ye that love the Lord, hate evil: he preserveth
the souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of the hand of the
wicked.
John 7:37-39 ... In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. 38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. 39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
Lamentations 3:22-26 ... It is of the Lord 's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23 They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. 24 The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. 25 The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. 26 It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.
Philippians 4:19 ... But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
John 7:37-39 ... In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. 38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. 39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
Lamentations 3:22-26 ... It is of the Lord 's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23 They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. 24 The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. 25 The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. 26 It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.
Philippians 4:19 ... But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Great gain
Pam Padgett ... teacher
Almost a year ago I retired from FedEx after working there for many years. There were things that troubled me greatly during the last year at my job, and I had prayed asking God what to do. After praying for several months, one day the following strongly stood out to me and I thought it may have to do with my job ... Arise ye, and depart; for this is not your rest: because it is polluted, it shall destroy you, even with a sore destruction. (Micah 2:10) After asking God to confirm if He was showing me to leave my job and believing it was confirmed to me, I retired. My life has been so much more peaceful since retiring, and I frequently thank God for this and for His mercy in showing me to leave and not be destroyed, as well as for abundantly providing everything I need.
Recently two people told me that FedEx announced a program in which employees may voluntarily quit or retire and are given a generous severance package. When I first heard this I was so grateful to not be there as they sort through who would leave and how to cover all the work. But thoughts also came telling me that I had retired "too soon" and missed out on the severance package. This was also mentioned by one of the people who told me about the program. Turning to God with these thoughts, I was reminded of
Matthew 16:26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
No amount of money would be worth being destroyed.
To natural eyes it might look like I retired "too soon", but God knew the best time for me to retire and how to keep me safe, and I believe He led me to retire several months before this program was offered.
Great gain is not in money and things of this world, but in godliness with contentment ...
1 Timothy 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. 9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
Word and thoughts come to us trying to steal joy and peace God gives to us as He leads us, provides for us, and protects us. But as we turn to God and think on those things brought to us by the Holy Spirit, He restores us.
Almost a year ago I retired from FedEx after working there for many years. There were things that troubled me greatly during the last year at my job, and I had prayed asking God what to do. After praying for several months, one day the following strongly stood out to me and I thought it may have to do with my job ... Arise ye, and depart; for this is not your rest: because it is polluted, it shall destroy you, even with a sore destruction. (Micah 2:10) After asking God to confirm if He was showing me to leave my job and believing it was confirmed to me, I retired. My life has been so much more peaceful since retiring, and I frequently thank God for this and for His mercy in showing me to leave and not be destroyed, as well as for abundantly providing everything I need.
Recently two people told me that FedEx announced a program in which employees may voluntarily quit or retire and are given a generous severance package. When I first heard this I was so grateful to not be there as they sort through who would leave and how to cover all the work. But thoughts also came telling me that I had retired "too soon" and missed out on the severance package. This was also mentioned by one of the people who told me about the program. Turning to God with these thoughts, I was reminded of
Matthew 16:26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
No amount of money would be worth being destroyed.
To natural eyes it might look like I retired "too soon", but God knew the best time for me to retire and how to keep me safe, and I believe He led me to retire several months before this program was offered.
Great gain is not in money and things of this world, but in godliness with contentment ...
1 Timothy 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. 9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
Word and thoughts come to us trying to steal joy and peace God gives to us as He leads us, provides for us, and protects us. But as we turn to God and think on those things brought to us by the Holy Spirit, He restores us.
Anchor for our soul
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
One day, a few weeks ago, the Holy Spirit spoke the following word to me: The only thing you have to believe is the Bible and that word which comes from the Holy Spirit.
Several times since hearing that, I have returned to that concept.
What is truth in the matter at hand?
The Bible is truth and that which the Holy Spirit speaks to us is truth. The world speaks many things. But to go by their "sayings" will put us into a form of bondage which is unnecessary and it will needlessly trouble us.
What does the Bible say about the issue at hand? What has God spoken to me by HIS Spirit. This is truth and is the only thing needful for us.
One day, a few weeks ago, the Holy Spirit spoke the following word to me: The only thing you have to believe is the Bible and that word which comes from the Holy Spirit.
Several times since hearing that, I have returned to that concept.
What is truth in the matter at hand?
The Bible is truth and that which the Holy Spirit speaks to us is truth. The world speaks many things. But to go by their "sayings" will put us into a form of bondage which is unnecessary and it will needlessly trouble us.
What does the Bible say about the issue at hand? What has God spoken to me by HIS Spirit. This is truth and is the only thing needful for us.
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Isaiah 26:3 ... Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.
John 21:15-19 ... So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. 16 He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. 17 He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep. 18 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. 19 This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me.
Proverbs 15:16 ... Better is little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble therewith.
John 21:15-19 ... So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. 16 He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. 17 He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep. 18 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. 19 This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me.
Proverbs 15:16 ... Better is little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble therewith.
A man after God's own heart
Pam Padgett ... teacher
God said of King David that he was a man after God's own heart and who fulfilled the will of God ...
Acts 13:22 And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.
I was reminded of this as I read Psalm 63.
Although a king, his great desire was to seek God, to hear and to do the will of God and to depend on Him ...
Psalm 63:1 O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;
It wasn't his own power and glory that he wanted, but to see the power and glory of God...
Psalm 63:2 To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.
He considered the lovingkindness of God to be better than life on this earth ...
Psalm 63:3 Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. 4 Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name. 5 My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips:
And he kept his mind on God ...
Psalm 63:6 When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.
His trust was in God, not man, to help him ...
Psalm 63:7 Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice. 8 My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me. 9 But those that seek my soul, to destroy it, shall go into the lower parts of the earth. 10 They shall fall by the sword: they shall be a portion for foxes.
And he rejoiced in God, not things of this earth ...
Psalm 63:11 But the king shall rejoice in God; every one that sweareth by him shall glory: but the mouth of them that speak lies shall be stopped.
God said of King David that he was a man after God's own heart and who fulfilled the will of God ...
Acts 13:22 And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.
I was reminded of this as I read Psalm 63.
Although a king, his great desire was to seek God, to hear and to do the will of God and to depend on Him ...
Psalm 63:1 O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;
It wasn't his own power and glory that he wanted, but to see the power and glory of God...
Psalm 63:2 To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.
He considered the lovingkindness of God to be better than life on this earth ...
Psalm 63:3 Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. 4 Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name. 5 My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips:
And he kept his mind on God ...
Psalm 63:6 When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.
His trust was in God, not man, to help him ...
Psalm 63:7 Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice. 8 My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me. 9 But those that seek my soul, to destroy it, shall go into the lower parts of the earth. 10 They shall fall by the sword: they shall be a portion for foxes.
And he rejoiced in God, not things of this earth ...
Psalm 63:11 But the king shall rejoice in God; every one that sweareth by him shall glory: but the mouth of them that speak lies shall be stopped.
When tragedy strikes, man is futile
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
There is no hope anywhere or in anything other than God. And those of us who belong to God will turn to HIM at all times and be helped because our trust is in HIM.
I
didn't hear of those killings in that elementary school in Connecticut earlier this month until about 6 pm on the day of the shootings ... I turned on TV news and found the news report to be basically unwatchable.
Just as in 9/11, I was stricken with how helpless people are and how helpless those in authority are on this earth. They are like a giant neanderthal stumbling about.
And they grasp in all the wrong places for answers and understanding.
There is no hope anywhere or in anything other than God. And those of us who belong to God will turn to HIM at all times and be helped because our trust is in HIM.
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
John 11:21-26 ... Then said Martha
unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. 22
But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will
give it thee. 23 Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. 24
Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the
resurrection at the last day. 25 Jesus said unto her, I am the
resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were
dead, yet shall he live: 26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me
shall never die. Believest thou this?
Psalm 65:4 ... Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and causest to approach unto thee, that he may dwell in thy courts: we shall be satisfied with the goodness of thy house, even of thy holy temple.
Romans 8:26-27 ... Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Psalm 65:4 ... Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and causest to approach unto thee, that he may dwell in thy courts: we shall be satisfied with the goodness of thy house, even of thy holy temple.
Romans 8:26-27 ... Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
When a man thinks himself to be powerful
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
There are two very famous athletes who often appear on TV commercials. Both of them come into a room showing such great pride in themselves. I cannot stand looking at either of them. Often I close my eyes when they appear on screen.
Recently, I was reminded of following:
Psalm 90 ... they are like grass which groweth up. 6In the morning it flourisheth, and groweth up; in the evening it is cut down, and withereth.
It is only a matter of time until they are finished in their own strength and in their own wisdom.
Another scripture showing this same thing is Psalm 92:6-7 ...A brutish man knoweth not; neither doth a fool understand this.
7When the wicked spring as the grass, and when all the workers of iniquity do flourish; it is that they shall be destroyed for ever:
Also Psalm 37 says a similar thing ... Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. 2For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.
Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. 4Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. 5Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. 6And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday.
Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. 8Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. 9For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth. 10For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be. 11But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.
There are two very famous athletes who often appear on TV commercials. Both of them come into a room showing such great pride in themselves. I cannot stand looking at either of them. Often I close my eyes when they appear on screen.
Recently, I was reminded of following:
Psalm 90 ... they are like grass which groweth up. 6In the morning it flourisheth, and groweth up; in the evening it is cut down, and withereth.
It is only a matter of time until they are finished in their own strength and in their own wisdom.
Another scripture showing this same thing is Psalm 92:6-7 ...A brutish man knoweth not; neither doth a fool understand this.
7When the wicked spring as the grass, and when all the workers of iniquity do flourish; it is that they shall be destroyed for ever:
Also Psalm 37 says a similar thing ... Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. 2For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.
Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. 4Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. 5Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. 6And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday.
Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. 8Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. 9For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth. 10For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be. 11But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.
Compassion of God
Pam Padgett ... teacher
When a ruler of the synagogue, Jairus, fell down at Jesus' feet and asked Him to go to his house and help his daughter who was dying, Jesus went....
Luke 8:41 And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue: and he fell down at Jesus 'feet, and besought him that he would come into his house: 42 For he had one only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she lay a dying. But as he went the people thronged him.
But as He went, Jesus realized that someone had touched Him ....
Luke 8:43 And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any, 44 Came behind him, and touched the border of his garment: and immediately her issue of blood stanched. 45 And Jesus said, Who touched me? When all denied, Peter and they that were with him said, Master, the multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? 46 And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me.
The woman who had an issue of blood for twelve years and had spent all her money to pay doctors but they could not heal her, had been healed when she touched the border of Jesus' garment. She came trembling and falling down before Jesus, telling why she had touched His garment and that she had been immediately healed. And Jesus told her to be of good comfort and go in peace ....
Luke 8:47 And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately. 48 And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.
Even though word came that Jarius' daughter had died, Jesus proceeded to his house, telling Jarius to not fear, but to believe ...
Luke 8:49 While he yet spake, there cometh one from the ruler of the synagogue's house, saying to him, Thy daughter is dead; trouble not the Master. 50 But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.
When Jesus took the daughter by the hand and told her to rise, her spirit returned and she rose. And Jesus directed that she be given meat.
Luke 8:51 And when he came into the house, he suffered no man to go in, save Peter, and James, and John, and the father and the mother of the maiden. 52 And all wept, and bewailed her: but he said, Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth. 53 And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead. 54 And he put them all out, and took her by the hand, and called, saying, Maid, arise. 55 And her spirit came again, and she arose straightway: and he commanded to give her meat.
While reading the account of both Jarius and the woman who was healed, the compassion of Jesus toward those who turned to Him for help stood out to me. Jarius was concerned for his daughter and Jesus went with him. When news that his daughter had died came, Jesus strengthened Jarius by telling him not to fear and to believe. In addition to restoring the daughter's life, Jesus also knew that she needed to eat, and instructed that she be fed.
Likewise, when the woman who had been ill for so long came trembling and confessed that she had touched His garment and been healed, Jesus showed compassion as He spoke kindly to her telling her to be of good comfort and go in peace.
As we live on this earth we are flesh and face many problems and afflictions in the flesh. It is comforting to consider these examples of compassion and help. God cares for His children, knows what is best for us, and provides what we need to be helped as we turn to Him. I was reminded of the following ...
Psalm 103:13 Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. 14 For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.
When a ruler of the synagogue, Jairus, fell down at Jesus' feet and asked Him to go to his house and help his daughter who was dying, Jesus went....
Luke 8:41 And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue: and he fell down at Jesus 'feet, and besought him that he would come into his house: 42 For he had one only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she lay a dying. But as he went the people thronged him.
But as He went, Jesus realized that someone had touched Him ....
Luke 8:43 And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any, 44 Came behind him, and touched the border of his garment: and immediately her issue of blood stanched. 45 And Jesus said, Who touched me? When all denied, Peter and they that were with him said, Master, the multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? 46 And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me.
The woman who had an issue of blood for twelve years and had spent all her money to pay doctors but they could not heal her, had been healed when she touched the border of Jesus' garment. She came trembling and falling down before Jesus, telling why she had touched His garment and that she had been immediately healed. And Jesus told her to be of good comfort and go in peace ....
Luke 8:47 And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately. 48 And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.
Even though word came that Jarius' daughter had died, Jesus proceeded to his house, telling Jarius to not fear, but to believe ...
Luke 8:49 While he yet spake, there cometh one from the ruler of the synagogue's house, saying to him, Thy daughter is dead; trouble not the Master. 50 But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.
When Jesus took the daughter by the hand and told her to rise, her spirit returned and she rose. And Jesus directed that she be given meat.
Luke 8:51 And when he came into the house, he suffered no man to go in, save Peter, and James, and John, and the father and the mother of the maiden. 52 And all wept, and bewailed her: but he said, Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth. 53 And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead. 54 And he put them all out, and took her by the hand, and called, saying, Maid, arise. 55 And her spirit came again, and she arose straightway: and he commanded to give her meat.
While reading the account of both Jarius and the woman who was healed, the compassion of Jesus toward those who turned to Him for help stood out to me. Jarius was concerned for his daughter and Jesus went with him. When news that his daughter had died came, Jesus strengthened Jarius by telling him not to fear and to believe. In addition to restoring the daughter's life, Jesus also knew that she needed to eat, and instructed that she be fed.
Likewise, when the woman who had been ill for so long came trembling and confessed that she had touched His garment and been healed, Jesus showed compassion as He spoke kindly to her telling her to be of good comfort and go in peace.
As we live on this earth we are flesh and face many problems and afflictions in the flesh. It is comforting to consider these examples of compassion and help. God cares for His children, knows what is best for us, and provides what we need to be helped as we turn to Him. I was reminded of the following ...
Psalm 103:13 Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. 14 For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.
Friday, December 21, 2012
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
Joshua 21:43-45 ... And the Lord gave unto Israel all the land which he
sware to give unto their fathers; and they possessed it, and dwelt
therein. 44 And the Lord gave them rest round about, according to all
that he sware unto their fathers: and there stood not a man of all their
enemies before them; the Lord delivered all their enemies into their
hand. 45 There failed not ought of any good thing which the Lord had
spoken unto the house of Israel; all came to pass.
Matthew 6:31-34 ... Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
John 10:27-30 ... My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. 30 I and my Father are one.
2 Timothy 3:13-17 ... But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. 14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; 15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
Matthew 6:31-34 ... Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
John 10:27-30 ... My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. 30 I and my Father are one.
2 Timothy 3:13-17 ... But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. 14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; 15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
Obedience testifies that God is just
Pam Padgett ... teacher
John the Baptist speaking the word given to him by God, preached baptism of repentance and to bring forth fruits worthy of repentance, preparing the way of the Lord ...
Luke 3:1 Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, 2 Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. 3 And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; 4 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; 6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.
7 Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. 9 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
After John the Baptist sent messengers to Jesus, Jesus spoke about John, saying ...
Luke 7:24 And when the messengers of John were departed, he began to speak unto the people concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness for to see? A reed shaken with the wind? 25 But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously apparelled, and live delicately, are in kings 'courts. 26 But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet. 27 This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 28 For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.
29 And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John. 30 But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.
It stood out to me that those who were baptized with the baptism of John justified God. By believing and submitting themselves to the word of God given to John, they testified that God is just. Unlike the Pharisees and lawyers who rejected the word of God, they upheld His word as being right and true.
When we submit ourselves to God by obeying His word we also justify God, testifying that God is just and His word right and true.
John the Baptist speaking the word given to him by God, preached baptism of repentance and to bring forth fruits worthy of repentance, preparing the way of the Lord ...
Luke 3:1 Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, 2 Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. 3 And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; 4 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; 6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.
7 Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. 9 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
After John the Baptist sent messengers to Jesus, Jesus spoke about John, saying ...
Luke 7:24 And when the messengers of John were departed, he began to speak unto the people concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness for to see? A reed shaken with the wind? 25 But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously apparelled, and live delicately, are in kings 'courts. 26 But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet. 27 This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 28 For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.
29 And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John. 30 But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.
It stood out to me that those who were baptized with the baptism of John justified God. By believing and submitting themselves to the word of God given to John, they testified that God is just. Unlike the Pharisees and lawyers who rejected the word of God, they upheld His word as being right and true.
When we submit ourselves to God by obeying His word we also justify God, testifying that God is just and His word right and true.
Death / What it means
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
The following is a letter I wrote recently to a young man who has ALS. He has reached the stage in the disease where he cannot feed himself.
The following letter is about death.
============
(Death is like it is when we fall asleep at night. When we awake we are sometimes shocked that all that time passed while we were asleep. And this is the way death is. We are "suspended" in time like in our natural sleep.)
Death is not the problem for a person who really belongs to God.
Life is the problem for us.
But in life, in everything, we overcome even that by turning to God in prayer and HE helps us and gets us through the issue before us.
I Thess. 4 ... But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep (concerning those who die), that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.
14For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus (those who belong to Christ and die) will God bring with him.
15For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. (Those who die in Christ will rise ahead of those who remain alive.)
16For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
17Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
The following is a letter I wrote recently to a young man who has ALS. He has reached the stage in the disease where he cannot feed himself.
The following letter is about death.
============
Hi again David:
I
left you a phone message and I wanted to follow up in writing ... I
started to write a letter but then felt it might be difficult for you to
manipulate pages of writing and perhaps email would be easier for you.
-------------
This concerns the subject of death.
Sounds grim but to me it is great joy for I greatly look forward to leaving this earth since I know I belong to God.
And
I also know that which awaits us with God after death is far greater
than anything we can ever experience on this present earth.
How do I know?
I
know because in 1975, just after I was born again, I was transported
into heaven in the night while I slept. I was with God, and with Jesus,
and with the Holy Spirit and at that time I was "merged into the body
of Jesus." (My experience was similar to that which Paul spoke about in II Cor. 12:1-4)
It was wonderful.
A few days later, this
happened to me again ... exact same way ... in the night while I slept I
was transported into heaven and I was with God, with Jesus and with the
Holy Spirit and was again "merged into the body of Jesus".
At
that time, I wanted to marry more than any other thing. But this
experience showed me that what awaits us in heaven is even greater than
the greatest marriage on this earth. It is greater than everything.
And
later I came to believe what happened to me was done for the work God
had called me to do in caring for the church. The ministry offices of
apostle/prophet.
(Apostles
work with Biblical legal matters and try to keep order in the church
according to that which is set forth in the Bible and we deal with
various strange doctrines that humans set up in churches.
Prophets are used by God to help people to get free from various traps and to help people stay free.)
============
Back to subject of death ...
Death is simply a falling asleep. We have these examples in Bible.
John
11 ... Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town
of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 (It was that Mary which anointed the
Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother
Lazarus was sick.) 3Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord,
behold, he whom thou lovest is sick. 4When Jesus heard that, he said,
This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son
of God might be glorified thereby. 5Now Jesus loved Martha, and her
sister, and Lazarus. 6When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he
abode two days still in the same place where he was. 7Then after that
saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judaea again. 8His disciples
say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest
thou thither again? 9Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the
day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the
light of this world. 10But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth,
because there is no light in him.
These things said he: and after that
he saith unto them, Our friend
Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep. 12Then
said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well. 13Howbeit Jesus
spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of
rest in sleep. 14Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead.
Death
in Bible is related to "sleeping" for it is simply falling asleep.
In the case of Lazarus, Jesus was going to raise Lazarus from the dead. And Jesus will raise us from the dead after we die when we belong to HIM.
In the case of Lazarus, Jesus was going to raise Lazarus from the dead. And Jesus will raise us from the dead after we die when we belong to HIM.
(Death is like it is when we fall asleep at night. When we awake we are sometimes shocked that all that time passed while we were asleep. And this is the way death is. We are "suspended" in time like in our natural sleep.)
Remember that dream I had about you on golf course.
You were going ahead of us and you were so happy. You were jumping up
and down you were so happy and you kept turning to us and gesturing with
your hand for us to
come on where you were.
I
felt that showed me that you are all right spiritually. I felt you
would be leaving earth ahead of us but you were showing us to come on
and join you, it was great!
I find it difficult to
take death too seriously when a person belongs to God for that is what matters.
And
having that experience in heaven changed me so much that when I was
driving to work and passed a building where they were obviously having a
funeral I was so happy and I was saying, "Oh how wonderful. A funeral." To me it was a joyous event because I had just been in heaven with God, with Jesus, and with the Holy Spirit.
Nothing on this earth can equal that which awaits us in heaven when we belong to God.
Love, Joan
===========
Some will say, "But where are we after we fall asleep between the time we die and are resurrected?"
It is the same as natural sleep. "Where are we between the time we fall asleep in bed and the time we awake the next morning?" We don't know. Time just passes and we awake.
This is one reason the Bible relates death to being asleep.
Death is not the problem for a person who really belongs to God.
Life is the problem for us.
But in life, in everything, we overcome even that by turning to God in prayer and HE helps us and gets us through the issue before us.
I Thess. 4 ... But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep (concerning those who die), that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.
14For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus (those who belong to Christ and die) will God bring with him.
15For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. (Those who die in Christ will rise ahead of those who remain alive.)
16For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
17Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
So some will die and be asleep ... others will be alive on this earth when Jesus returns ... but those who are alive on this earth will be changed.
Paul says ... I Cor. 15 ... Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep (die), but we shall all be changed, 52In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
Those who are alive on this earth at return of Jesus will be changed out of these current human bodies. And it will happen in a blink of an eye, that fast.
Paul says ... I Cor. 15 ... Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep (die), but we shall all be changed, 52In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
Those who are alive on this earth at return of Jesus will be changed out of these current human bodies. And it will happen in a blink of an eye, that fast.
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